Fiction Review

Thursdays with Death
By Scott Knutson
ISBN-10: 1430318481
Review by Heather Froeschl


Loss is the key to finding. Without losing control, how do know you need to find it again? Without losing love, how do you know it is worth seeking out? In Scott Knutson’s book, “Thursdays with Death,” readers will take a spiritual journey unlike any other, and they may find an understanding about life that they hadn’t realized they were missing.

Looking for answers, as we all are, Lanny Stone invited a spiritual guide into his life. He was surprised to find that his teacher was Death. In a game of poker, he places a bet and come up in debt. Debts must be paid and Lanny signs a contract. Now, Lanny Stone has a standing appointment with The Grim Reaper, on Thursdays, at 9am. During these appointments it is learned that Death adores Krispy Kreme donuts, as well as other interesting things about past lives, present plans, and future opportunities. Other realities are now in view and Lanny is learning to be open to them. As far as spiritual lessons go, he is getting the Cliffs Notes version in a hurry. Surprisingly though, this doesn’t all seem like new material to him. He begins to understand life, and death, as well as his teacher, Death himself. It does come as a bit of a surprise, at least to the reader, when Lanny learns that there isn’t just one being known as Death. He wonders what The Grim Reaper is getting out of these visits, and this contract, besides all the donuts he can inhale. What could Death possibly want from Lanny Stone?

This entertaining, fast paced, deceivingly simple read is actually a lot deeper than you might first think. The humor involved (and dealing with death with humor is much better than dealing with it with sorrow) lightens the impact of spiritual lessons. The hope and promise of better things, the non-permanence of death, the lighter look at a sometimes terrifying icon, is a testament to the author’s spirituality. The writing style is modern and fun; the plot one that is fresh and deliciously twisted. I simply adored reading “Thursdays with Death” and hope to see more from this author soon.

Non-Fiction Review

The Way from Science to Soul
by Casey Blood PH.D.
ISBN: 978-0-9797888-8-8
Review by Heather Froeschl

Using quantum physics to illuminate the spiritual journey? The author does just this in the book, “The Way from Science to Soul: Integrating Physics, the Brain, and the Spiritual Journey,” by Casey Blood, PH.D. But, why would you do such a thing? Why mix science and soul, quantum mechanics with spirituality? Dr. Casey Blood is a Professor Emeritus at Rutgers University, so if he wants to do this, I suppose he is qualified to. I'm not a scientist, so what do I know? A little something about spirituality at least.

Physics is the study of the physical universe, and one wouldn’t expect to learn about the spiritual side of life, or the nonphysical universe when reading about it. However, Dr. Blood begins our education on this matter with an in-depth coverage of physics and quantum mechanics, the brain (including the synapse), and how these all pull together so that we can either see the spiritual side, or choose not to. The point of it is that there are several versions of reality to perceive while we choose to only see one; the existence of the soul can not be disproved, nor proven by science. So how does the nonphysical soul interact with the physical world? The soul can perceive the physical brain and through this, perceive the world. But, the physical world is not the only plane to be aware of. The soul can exist on many planes, the physical, the angelic plane, which is closest to the source of all, and the “jinn” plane, which is where our souls can communicate with other souls. Dr. Blood explains that our soul’s journey is much longer than that of our earthly existence, and that we have time to spend on each plane.

Dr. Blood describes spiritual practices which help us to remember that we are a nonphysical soul that has a physical body. These practices include meditation, yoga, focus on breathing, using retreats and finding teachers to help us. These practices though, are not the end goal. Our personality and contribution to society is important too. Dr. Blood states that we need to develop certain qualities like insight, compassion, friendship and wisdom and gives guidance on how to do so.

I was a little worried when I was asked to review this book. However, Dr. Blood takes a very complex topic and relates it to the average reader in a carefully chosen tone of support. The interest in spirituality is growing in leaps and bounds so that this connection to quantum physics will surely have a target audience, but, is still something of interest to the masses. The book is not an easy read, but it is worthwhile to wrap your physical mind around it for a time. Your spiritual mind will thank you.

Non-Fiction/Spirituality Review

Gifts of the Spirit
by Cate Cavanagh
ISBN-10: 1592868762
Review by Heather Froeschl

What is Spirituality? Does it mean one is religious? Does it mean that a person believes only in spirits? No and no. As a spiritualist, I have been asked the definition of spirituality and at times I have been hard pressed to give understanding to the questioner. I know what I believe in, what truths have revealed themselves to me, but I cannot begin to, nor would I presume to tell you where to find your truths. In "Gifts of the Spirit", the author shares how she has followed her own spiritual path, what she has learned along the way, and how she has come to be a Spiritualist.

Without preaching or proselytizing, Cate Cavanagh shares her own exploration of Buddhism, Native American beliefs, Wicca and Spiritualism. She gives the reader a glimpse into these belief systems, like a spoonful of icing in anticipation of a birthday cake. It is up to the reader to further their own studies. She reveals some painful lessons that she has learned and the good that came from the process. In this way, the reader connects and understands and hopefully comes away having a bit of knowledge that will undoubtedly make their life better.

Going deeper into what the gifts of the spirit are exactly, Cate explains the power of our souls, the value of our spirit guides and the tools that are available to those who embrace them. We have powers within us that are just in need of a remembrance to utilize them. Cate shows you how to be open to them and other gifts as well. She offers methods of spiritual cleansing, personal growth, and guidance for those who seek their own truths.

If you've ever wondered if there really is a witch just down the road, (don't be surprised, because there likely is) this book will give you insight into who that person may really be. Nothing to be frightened of, indeed, you should be in awe and filled with admiration. Chances are that she holds some of these same beliefs and morals as your own. If you've ever wanted advice from a spiritualist, but have been afraid to ask, open this book and be thankful the spirits moved Cate to write it all down for you.