Back on Track

New reviews coming soon! I'll be importing my work from the past two years, but in the meantime,
I'm reclaiming my small place on the web.

Tuesday, November 30, 2004

Poetry Review

Tortoise Dances
by Dennis Goza
ISBN-10: 1411612493
Review by Heather Froeschl

"Tortoise Dances" is a unique book of poetry that found its inspiration in the ancient I Ching, or "Book of Changes." The poem's messages do not necessarily portray the I Ching, however, the format of the poems is reflective of the 64 hexagrams.

This author is quite the artist in his poetry. Each work is a six line poem that is broken into the patterns of the I Ching, meaning that for each solid line of the hexagrams there are nine syllables in that line of text, and so on. Each poem is titled for a hexagram and the author offers some of the translations, both literal and figurative, for the reader to ponder.

The poems are thought provoking for what they are alone, on topics varying from a soldier's march to a woman trying to control nature's growth, from the breaking of bread to the dance of the maypole. The poetry also provokes thought on the I Ching. The author professes that this was not the intention but I feel it is a happy result. The study of the I Ching is a great and rewarding endeavor.

Dennis Goza offers an interesting collection of poetry that is both entertaining and inspiring.

Monday, November 29, 2004

Historic Novel Review

MY TRUTH LIES IN THE RUINS
by DEBORAH RICHMOND FOULKES
ISBN-10: 1418412880
Review by Heather Froeschl

Never before have I been so deeply immersed in history. Like many modern girls I grew up with the fantasy image of a great white knight who would some day come for me. But this fantasy was built on true stories, one of which is exquisitely relayed in "My Truth Lies in the Ruins."

Having been a great fan of the movie "Braveheart" and the like I was thrilled to be able to review this epic tale of Scottish history. William Le Hardi Douglas, a Scottish Patriot and knight, healer and husband joined the forces of William Wallace for Scottish Independence. The book is not just a historic accounting of those times of war though; it is a story of love and life, adventure and murder.

I so appreciate thorough research and I dare say I have never before read a book so very well prepared. Deborah Foulkes has brought history to life and what's more, she has brought life to history. This is not your average novel of love, adventure and genealogy; it is a book that will immerse you in true historical fact, creating a very real experience.

The rear of the book includes a glossary of common terms as well as a "who's who" of historical figures that relate to the story. The text runs smoothly and the dialogue is natural. My only problem was in the lack of indentation when dialogue is used. However, this minor thing is far outweighed by the positive attributes of the book including the abundance of photographs that grace the text.

I look forward to reading the next installment, "In the Shadow of My Truth." Deborah Richmond Foulkes, led by Spirit, offers history lessons that will not soon be forgotten.

YA Fiction Review

Merlin's Kin
by Everett Coles
ASIN: B000G9TLQE
Review by Heather Froeschl


What greater legend to pay homage to than that of Merlin? Everett Coles has made tribute to the story that has inspired the world to hold onto the magic for just a bit longer. What if there were still descendants of the great Merlin out in the populace among us? What would happen if Merlin called to them from his soul's resting place? Would anyone answer the call?

In "Merlin's Kin," five young people do hear the call, and answer it, though they are not aware of their guided actions until they have traveled too far to turn back. One of them holds the key to the Seventh Way of travel, and together they must do Merlin's bidding, before it is too late.

There is an evil-minded ruler in power in the land of Greensward. Francis, Curtis, Zoe, Alison and Jude appear as visitors and are given refuge with a caravan of sorts. Before they can be delivered to the evil Calupsis though, they escape into the wilds that surround the town of Meander. They soon find friends who are willing to help them and devise a plan to find the Key Holder who can help them to return home. However, they were called to Greensward for a purpose, which is revealed to them through their dreams by the powers of Merlin himself.

This adventurous tale is a delight, full of twists and turns, surprises and wonderful creatures. Sure enough there are unicorns to be gazed upon but what is more magical is the legend of Merlin wound into a young adult story and the bond of friendship that grows among the characters. Various mystical creatures become integral parts of the plot and remnants of the Knights of the Round Table are brought into the light to be remembered.

Written for the young adult audience, this is a book that can be enjoyed by those aged 10 and up, adults included, boys and girls alike. Everett Coles has created a world you will long to revisit and a circle of friends who you will not soon forget.

Friday, November 26, 2004

Inspirational Review

Many Faces to Many Places
by Judy, Azar LeBlanc
ISBN-10: 1594678669
Review by Heather Froeschl

Every soul must follow its own path. In Many Faces to Many Places it is a path that allows for the freedom of happiness, the hard lessons of life and the reward of growth and understanding. It is our purpose to learn life's lessons and allow our souls to grow.

In a story that is full of beautifully descriptive moments, the reader is led through one soul's journey and is allowed to witness its transitions. "Many Faces" communicates with nature and her surrounding elements, she is guided by faith and truth, and eventually comes to find herself.

Judy Azar LeBlanc has written a memorable book that is inspirational and timeless. Her creativity abounds and her ability to impart words of wisdom through her characters is uniquely executed. You won't soon forget the journey in this tale and may be inspired to take a closer look at your own.

Tuesday, November 23, 2004

Non-Fiction/Self Help Review

Dare To Prepare..... 2nd Edition
by Holly Drennan Deyo
ISBN-10: 0908477066
Review by: Heather Froeschl

Emergency situations arise every day and, quite often, we are not prepared for them. From earthquakes to terrorist attacks, tornadoes to blizzards, we all could use some guidance in how to be prepared. You may recall laughing at your neighbors when in December of 1999 they went out and bought a generator in preparation for Y2K, or you may have been one of those mindful folks who emptied the shelves of home improvement depots of their generators. Whichever the case may be, there are things you could be doing to be prepared for any kind of threat, hyped up or not.

My great grandmother always had a basement stocked with canned goods. She lived through the depression and never forgot what it felt like to have empty cupboards. My grandmother always made sure her heating oil tank was topped off in November in preparation for the winter. We all know folks who seem to be prepared for anything that comes their way and we also know people who always seem to have to rush out to the grocery store when a storm is predicted.

Holly Drennan Deyo reminds us of all of the possible emergencies we might encounter, from flood warnings to nuclear war. She gives a guide for every situation and what you can do for yourself, your family and even your pets to stay safe. A lot of research has gone into this guide and Holly shares it all with us. Here you will find lists of items to pack in emergency kits of all kinds, tips on purifying water, heating your shelter, and building underground supply cellars. There are lists of how long you can store emergency supplies and when they expire, lists of handyman items that should be stored for use, lists of how to decipher codes on packaged foods and so much more.

Deyo has not left a single situation out of her guide to being prepared for disasters of all sorts. This is truly the modern person's resource for being prepared, whether we think the neighbors will laugh at us or not. If perchance you have a household member who is resistant to stocking up on food, water and supplies and storing them away, this book might just be the tool to sway them into thinking twice.

The text is introduced in a friendly, straightforward voice. The book is a must have for every mindful family. My only problem with it is the occasional suggestion that the Bible be in the emergency tool kit. Religion shouldn't be involved with this practical guide to survival, as it is purely a personal choice. Mention of prayer and dedication to her god only detracts from the guide that should be intended for folks of every religion. However it is a minor thing when compared to the abundance of good advice within the pages of the book.

Monday, November 15, 2004

Non-Fiction Review

Dare to Prepare
by Holly Drennan Deyo
ISBN-10: 0908477066
Review by Heather Froeschl

Emergency situations arise every day and, quite often, we are not prepared for them. From earthquakes to terrorist attacks, tornadoes to blizzards, we all could use some guidance in how to be prepared. You may recall laughing at your neighbors when in December of 1999 they went out and bought a generator in preparation for Y2K, or you may have been one of those mindful folks who emptied the shelves of home improvement depots of their generators. Whichever the case may be, there are things you could be doing to be prepared for any kind of threat, hyped up or not.

My great grandmother always had a basement stocked with canned goods. She lived through the depression and never forgot what it felt like to have empty cupboards. My grandmother always made sure her heating oil tank was topped off in November in preparation for the winter. We all know folks who seem to be prepared for anything that comes their way and we also know people who always seem to have to rush out to the grocery store when a storm is predicted.

Holly Drennan Deyo reminds us of all of the possible emergencies we might encounter, from flood warnings to nuclear war. She gives a guide for every situation and what you can do for yourself, your family and even your pets to stay safe. A lot of research has gone into this guide and Holly shares it all with us. Here you will find lists of items to pack in emergency kits of all kinds, tips on purifying water, heating your shelter, and building underground supply cellars. There are lists of how long you can store emergency supplies and when they expire, lists of handyman items that should be stored for use, lists of how to decipher codes on packaged foods and so much more.

Deyo has not left a single situation out of her guide to being prepared for disasters of all sorts. This is truly the modern person's resource for being prepared, whether we think the neighbors will laugh at us or not. If perchance you have a household member who is resistant to stocking up on food, water and supplies and storing them away, this book might just be the tool to sway them into thinking twice.

The text is introduced in a friendly, straightforward voice. The book is a must have for every mindful family. My only problem with it is the occasional suggestion that the Bible be in the emergency tool kit. Religion shouldn't be involved with this practical guide to survival, as it is purely a personal choice. Mention of prayer and dedication to her god only detracts from the guide that should be intended for folks of every religion. However it is a minor thing when compared to the abundance of good advice within the pages of the book.

Saturday, November 13, 2004

Business Review

The Benefits Performance Process
by Matthew T. Sears
ISBN-10: 0972200614
Review by Heather Froeschl

Every Human Resources Manager, CEO and CFO needs to read "The Benefits Performance Process" and implement the plans outlined within it. Without doing so, they are simply throwing away money and valuable employees. Every company that offers benefits to its employees will want to be sure that they are doing the best that they can when it comes to providing a competitive package while getting their money's worth. Matthew Sears offers the plan to do just that. Whether your company employs 50 or 3,550, you can benefit from this book.

By "Maximizing the Performance of Your Employee Benefit Plan" you will be learning how to assemble a benefits team, analyze current plans and problems, develop concrete objectives and plan for your company's long-term success. Through self-analysis and workshop exercises your team will develop guidelines to follow. From there you will have a plan to follow that will see you through staff changes, acquisitions, and changing regulations. "The Benefits Performance Process" is a workshop to go; it is a plan to help you develop a plan that will eventually benefit your company and your employees.

Matthew T. Sears is an Executive Vice President of Athens Benefits Insurance Services and a Fellow of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefits Specialists. You couldn't ask for a more qualified guru in the benefits performance process. Yet his book is an easy to read, understand and implement guide to improving your benefits plans. Sears is straightforward and concise, while being upbeat and friendly in his text. You likely won't find another business guide like this one and why would you want to? When it comes to improving your current plans, this is the guide to follow.

Don't put off thinking about your benefits plan until the day before your renewal is due. Don't wait until the premiums are upped once again to do something about it. Don't fear the CFO telling you to cut costs by 30%. You can be prepared. If you're not, you may lose the loyal employees you have to another company who has followed "The Benefits Performance Process."

Tuesday, November 9, 2004

True Story Review

In Contempt Of Fate
by Beatrice Fernando
ISBN-10: 0975945904
Review by Heather Froeschl

A young Sri Lankan woman leaves her son with her parents in order to fulfill an obligation of two years as a house servant in Lebanon. What was hoped to be an answer to monetary need becomes a living hell as young Ranga is beaten and starved, locked in her "employer's" home and eventually forced to make a decision that could have ended her life and most certainly changed it forever.

Growing up the youngest of thirteen children was not an easy life. Ranga and her family moved often, as they couldn't always pay the rent. Her parents tried to keep up appearances so that the family would not suffer from bad reputations. Ranga felt deprived of love in her early years and went looking for it in the hearts of boys...something that was terribly frowned upon, innocent as a friendship was. Later on, her divorce from her baby's father did not improve her reputation and this reflected upon her family. Leaving for a chance at monetary stability seemed to be the perfect answer.

This is the true story of one very brave and determined woman. The tale is told in her own voice and readers will come to love and adore Ranga, crying along with her and cheering for her success. While the plot is of real life events the book reads like a suspenseful and romantic novel that you will never forget. A bit of history lesson gives depth to a lesson learned in societal differences around the world. American readers will be shocked and intrigued by the cultural contrasts of their Sri Lankan counterparts. That this portion of a life story was lived while I happily led a carefree existence attending high school reminded me of how blessed I am.

The realization of mother's love is a universal lesson that we can shed a thankful tear for. The example of Ranga's determination to give that love is a hero's story that in "In Contempt of Fate" is eloquently and passionately told.

Friday, November 5, 2004

Children's Book Review

Buster Boppington & His Talking Dog: The Case of the Impossible Bank Robbery
by Bruce Caplan
ISBN-10: 0964461005
Review by Heather Froeschl

In the real world, kids deal with life's challenges in many ways. Some kids are able to make a real difference in their family's problems and Buster Boppington does just that. When his father is fired from his job, accused of stealing $100,000.00 from the bank's vault, Buster knows he has to do something to prove his father's innocence.

Even though he passes a lie detector test at the police department, Mr. Boppington is still under scrutiny and cannot get his job back. Times are hard and the family is quickly running out of money. For his tenth birthday his parents give Buster a French poodle. Napoleon, or Nappy for short, quickly becomes Buster's best friend. An experiment with a chemistry set inadvertently adds to that friendship and just might help to clear Buster's dad of wrongdoing.

Taking a normal everyday problem of a father being out of work and adding the mystery of a bank robbery along with the fantasy of a talking dog adds up to a successful story that children will be sure to enjoy. The plot is well developed and the story flows nicely. The characters are quite likable and conversations are natural, even those involving the dog! Readers can easily imagine Buster conversing with his pet, standing up to a congressman and waking up late for school. A bit of adventure, a bit of politics and a bit of good overcoming evil certainly make for an entertaining and enjoyable read. Kids aged 7 - 12 will surely have fun with this book.

Thursday, November 4, 2004

Children's Book Review

A Year of Jewish Stories: 52 Tales for Young Children and Their Families
by Grace Maisel
ISBN-10: 0807408956
Review by Heather Froeschl

This beautifully illustrated collection of stories is a must have for every Jewish home and would be highly recommended for any home with inquisitive children who wish to understand Jewish heritage.

The tales included draw from Jewish traditions and folklore while keeping today's modern child in mind. Stories borrowed from the Bible, Talmud and traditional teachings are freshened up, sprinkled with humor and kept company by a number of original writings. Virtuous tales abound as well as folklore of the holidays, Shabbat and Biblical characters. Children will delight in hearing entertaining stories and parents will be glad to be passing down traditions that might otherwise be forgotten in today's busy world.

Taking time to read even one story a week from this book will be an educating and heritage embracing experience. However, it is doubtful that children will be willing to hear just one story a week. The authors may need to publish a second collection!

The rich illustrations compliment the text with honor to the stories. The book will be hard to put down for a combination of its beauty, its messages and its very meaningful value. This well made, sturdy book will become a cherished addition to any library.