A Book A Week

As a mother, you’ll do anything to protect your child. Even as an adult, I know my mom is only a phone call away if I need her. It’s a sacred bond, an unshakable connection we instinctively trust. We’re conditioned to see the mother-child relationship as one of love and protection, especially when a child is sick. But what happens when the mother is the reason the child is sick?

In The Mother Next Door, authors Andrea Dunlop and Mike Webber delve into the disturbing reality of Munchausen by proxy (MBP), exposing its devastating impact on families and the extraordinary lengths required to bring justice. Through their gripping investigations, they shed light on a crime that thrives in secrecy, challenging our perceptions of maternal devotion and the systems meant to safeguard children.

Dunlop and Webber bring deeply personal and professional perspectives to The Mother Next Door. Dunlop’s own family was shattered by MBP, leaving lasting wounds that continue to haunt her. At the same time, Webber has dedicated his career to investigating medical child abuse, handling more cases than any other detective in the nation. Together, they unravel the harrowing experiences of three families impacted by MBP, weaving firsthand accounts from loved ones, medical professionals, and government officials. Their reporting exposes the shocking depths of these crimes and the nearly insurmountable challenges of seeking justice for the children caught in the web of deception.

I went into The Mother Next Door with little understanding of MBP and was completely unprepared for just how shocking and devastating its impact can be. It’s almost impossible to fathom what would drive someone to deliberately harm a person they claim to love—let alone their own child.

Music has been a cornerstone of my life for as long as I can remember. Some of my earliest memories involve tinkering with the antique upright piano in our living room. My mom, who had played as a child, encouraged me to explore the instrument, while my dad had his own collection of guitars tucked away, remnants of his younger days playing music. Despite their early connections to music, both of my parents had long since set their instruments aside by the time I came along, leaving them as relics of their pasts.

But for me, those instruments were anything but forgotten. I was captivated when I pressed a piano key and heard the hammer strike the string. That initial curiosity evolved into a lifelong passion. I went on to master the piano, majoring in music in college, and eventually earned advanced degrees in music composition. Even now, my obsession with the craft remains as strong as ever. Music didn’t just shape my life—it transformed it entirely.

When I came across the title of Richard Schoch’s book, How Sondheim Can Change Your Life, I was immediately intrigued. By his passing in late 2021, the legendary Broadway composer had witnessed a remarkable resurgence in the popularity of his works, with critics and audiences lauding his musicals as masterpieces of the art form. Having enjoyed many of Sondheim’s creations myself, I could see precisely what Schoch was getting at. Sondheim’s musicals are rich with life lessons and thoughtful reflections, making the idea of a book delving into those themes all the more compelling.

In How Sondheim Can Change Your Life, Richard Schoch delves into the legendary composer’s body of work, unpacking the themes behind his music and lyrics while weaving in behind-the-scenes anecdotes that reveal the inspiration and meticulous craft behind each musical. Each chapter focuses on a different production, offering a closer look at Sondheim's creative process. What struck me most was the sheer intentionality with which he approached his art. Every note and lyric served the story for Sondheim, and he wasn’t precious about any of it. He was open to altering lines, composing entirely new sections, and embracing debates with collaborators, all in the name of improving the work.

Sondheim’s career wasn’t without its challenges. While many of his shows are now considered masterpieces, he experienced his share of failures. Merrily We Roll Along, for example, closed after just 16 performances and was met with critical and commercial rejection. Yet, as Schoch highlights, even Sondheim’s perceived missteps were often ahead of their time, with Merrily later reevaluated and celebrated in a successful revival just this year.

Schoch argues that each of Sondheim’s musicals is unified by a central theme, offering the audience a life lesson woven into the production’s heart. Reading this book compelled me to pause, revisit the music discussed, and uncover new layers of meaning in familiar works. It deepened my appreciation for Sondheim and reminded me of the transformative power of art.

At a time when art and its creators are too often dismissed, How Sondheim Can Change Your Life is a passionate defense of artistic expression and its vital role in shaping and enriching our lives. It’s a powerful reminder of why new art should be created and shared with audiences eager to connect with it.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 93)

Some moments in life serve as powerful reminders of humanity's inherent goodness. Ironically, these instances often emerge from darkness or adversity. In my lifetime, I recall the sense of unity that followed the tragic events of 9/11, the solidarity in communities after natural disasters, and the simple acts of kindness during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Melissa Blake exemplifies this transformative power, turning adversity into a beacon of light that illuminates our capacity for compassion and acceptance. Blake authored an op-ed for CNN in the summer of 2019, critiquing then-President Donald Trump. In response, internet trolls subjected her to vicious attacks, including demeaning comments about her appearance due to Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome, a genetic condition affecting her bones and muscles. 

Rather than succumbing to negativity, Blake responded with grace and resilience. She posted several selfies to social media, defiantly reclaiming her narrative. The post went viral, catapulting Blake, a longtime writer and disability advocate, into the spotlight. In Beautiful People, a book generously shared with me by her publisher, Blake crafts a compelling manifesto. Here, she recounts her personal journey, educates readers about living with disabilities, and emphasizes our shared humanity. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and collaboration, urging us all to embrace our differences and strive for a more inclusive society.

Beautiful People is an expansive exploration that blends personal narrative with Blake's inherent humor,  offering education and entertainment. She eloquently discusses the impact of language and how unintentional ignorance about disability often leads to ableism and microaggressions. Blake candidly exposes societal barriers, illustrating how, even with legislation like the ADA, infrastructure fails to accommodate disabled people, perpetuating their invisibility.

Blake shares her own journey of grappling with self-image and acceptance, exacerbated by the absence of representation in mainstream media and the persistent presence of bullies and online trolls. Her willingness to confront her doubts deeply struck a chord with me, fostering a stronger connection to her narrative. Life's challenges aren't always uplifting, yet we can draw strength from these darker moments. This collection of thoughts culminates in Blake's assertion that disabled individuals, despite diverse medical needs, share fundamental human desires: to love, be loved, find joy, and live fully. Through Beautiful People, Melissa Blake shares her story and advocates for broader acceptance and inclusion, nudging society closer to embracing all individuals, regardless of differences.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 49)

I don't typically make New Year's resolutions. The passage of time naturally ushers in changes, so I haven't felt the need for sweeping goals at the start of the year. Reflecting on it, I realize that I've only committed to one resolution that endured. In 2012, I set out to read one book per week, which altered my future for the better. Today, my blog is a lasting accomplishment and a continual source of joy. Despite this, I don't excessively pressure myself to meet specific goals. While I read more books last year than ever before, I'm not striving to surpass that achievement this year. Instead, I aim to embrace the potential of each day, accepting both its positive and challenging aspects. 

The concept of a self-help book imparting meaningful wisdom has always been something I've scoffed at, considering them more a clever way to sell books than a tool that could genuinely help me. However, with the start of this new year, I was curious enough to try one. Glennon Doyle's Untamed was recommended as a book that shares a valuable mindset for healthy living through its mix of memoir and lifestyle advice. It seemed like an intriguing combination with potential value. When I found a copy of the book at my library's bargain book sale, it felt like fate had intervened. I decided to dive in and explore what it was all about.

Doyle's quick wit and compelling story immediately captivated me. She commenced her journey as a devoted Christian wife and mother, primarily focusing on caring for her family. However, somewhere along the way, she realized that her desire to create the best life for those around her came at the expense of her true self. Doyle began to understand that her authentic role in life was to live it to the fullest, stay true to herself, and demonstrate to her children the kind of life that embracing one's true self could bring. What ensued is a narrative of navigating divorce, forming a new blended family, and realizing that the strength or fragility of a family is not determined by its structure but by the unique value that each individual brings to the combined whole. 

After reading Untamed, my skepticism about self-help books has considerably diminished. Doyle's journey of self-discovery resonated deeply with me, especially as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Many aspects of her story mirrored parts of my own experience, and her complex relationship with religion particularly aligned with my views on the subject. Her narrative can undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for embracing the parts of oneself that may be feared or kept in the shadows. This process, as Doyle demonstrates, brings a sense of liberation, and I hope readers draw this empowering message from the book. While some of her recollections may feel more authentic than others, and a few instances seem somewhat fictionalized to fit the narrative, each story emanates from a place of positivity, aiming to inspire contemplation and self-reflection. Although I personally don't feel the need for a book to prompt this kind of introspection, I recognize its ability to benefit those who may need a little push of inspiration in their own lives.

"On the Trail of the Lost, you may not find what you’re searching for, but you will find more than you seek."

The legendary Pacific Crest Trail stretches across the western US for 2,650 miles, from California's southern tip to Washington's northern edge. This trail, revered by hiking enthusiasts, intentionally avoids civilization, permitting only minor stops in remote areas. Thru-hiking its entirety is daunting, often requiring a lifetime of preparation. With a mere 14% completion rate, the trail poses an elusive and hazardous challenge. Cheryl Strayed's 2012 memoir Wild catapulted the trail's popularity, yet the trail's true essence harbors a darker reality than that uplifting narrative suggests. In her latest book, Trail of the Lost, Andrea Lankford delves into the enigmatic nature of this renowned path.

Andrea Lankford's expertise in navigating treacherous terrains began during her tenure as a National Parks Ranger. That job saw her leading search and rescue operations in some of America's most stunning yet hazardous locations. After twelve years, frustrations with bureaucratic complexities prompted her departure from the force. Transitioning careers, she dedicated the ensuing two decades to healthcare, working as a nurse. Believing her days of daring rescue missions were over, Lankford's trajectory shifted unexpectedly upon learning of the disappearances of three men along the Pacific Crest Trail. Fueled to provide closure to grieving families, Lankford joined forces with a group of determined freelance investigators, embarking on a seemingly insurmountable search.

"An unsolved case is a loose end that begs us to snip it."

Trail of the Lost sees Andrea Lankford chronicle her unwavering determination to uncover the fate of three men who ventured onto the Pacific Crest Trail. Intrigued by the mystery of their disappearance, I became as resolute as Lankford in seeking answers. Along the journey, we encounter a diverse group of amateur investigators, each more unlikely than the last. United by their shared purpose of bringing hope to grieving families, these characters drive Lankford's narrative. She candidly confronts the challenges of the Pacific Crest Trail, revealing both anticipated dangers and unexpected twists. While answers prove scarce, this mirrors the real frustrations those involved in such investigations face. The immense investment of resources, time, and emotional energy often yields little, yet the glimmer of a single revelation propels their relentless pursuit. Ultimately, this very essence motivated me to keep flipping through the pages of this enlightening book.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 54) 

I've always thought that my reading mood changes with the season, and that's certainly been true this month. I've mostly put down my usual thrillers in favor of more non-fiction titles. The latest to catch my eye is Con/Artist by notorious art forger Tony Tetro and his co-author Giampiero Ambrosi. Tetro's publisher was kind enough to send me a review copy of the book just ahead of its publication today. I was instantly intrigued by the idea of learning about the dark underworld of the art world. I was surprised to learn just how much crime permeated that field. 

No one sets out to be a criminal. Certainly, the idea never crossed young Tony's mind. He grew up in small-town New York, the kind of place that's heyday was way behind it. He had an affinity for art, honing his skills through school and practice. Still, he never saw art as a viable career option. Real life came at Tony fast. By the age of 16, he was a father. He married soon after and was ready to try to make something out of his life. This yearning saw him move to the west coast. Tony did odd jobs like selling furniture, but this just wasn't enough to support his young family. 

It started innocently enough, the mere spark of an idea that would go on to shape the rest of Tony's life. He turned to his art, crafting a small sketch modeled in the style of a lesser-known artistic master. Armed with this simple drawing and a story about cleaning out his late grandfather's attic, Tony sold the sketch to an art dealer. From that moment on, Tony's life would never be the same. He would go on to meticulously forge are in the style of some of the best-known artists to ever touch paint to canvas. Along the way, he would become filthy rich and have to grapple with all the nefarious implications of criminally obtained wealth. 

Con/Artist reads like a classic gangster movie. Think Goodfellas mixed with Oceans Eleven. Tony Tetro writes with a matter of fact prose that reads like you're listening to an old friend recall his wild story. He doesn't hold back. With the money comes fast cars, lavish vacations, and plenty of drugs. What really struck me was Tetro's reverence for those artists his painting emulated. The thing that set him apart from other forgers was his attention to detail. He meticulously crafted each painting through hours of study and experimentation. Tetro admits that the scientific advancements of today would immediately reveal his works to be fake, but his run in the 70s and 80s is remarkable to learn about. This non-fiction reads like something straight out of the movies, making it an insightful and ceaselessly entertaining read. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 53)

When I think of authors who have helped sustain my weekly reading goal across the last decade, the first to come to mind is James Patterson. I was first introduced to his books when my Mom gave me her secondhand copy of Mary, Mary. From the very first page, I was hooked. As a typical high school student, I wasn't necessarily excited to read, but Patterson's book changed everything. This book was fun. I tore through his signature quick chapters, breathlessly needing to see what happened next. With the turn of the final page, I felt a sense of accomplishment at having read a book for pleasure and a yearning to read even more. 

Nearly 20 years later, I still get excited by Patterson's writing. I think it's safe to say that I'm also still excited about reading. One of the perks of reviewing as many books as I do has been the connections I've made with other readers and publishers. My bookstagram buddy Katie (@niftyreads) alerted me to Patterson's self-titled memoir and recommended I listen to the audio. The folks at Little Brown, Patterson's long-time publisher, provided me with a copy of the book, so I eagerly consumed the work by reading and listening. Given my history of reading Patterson's stories, it seems rather fitting that his memoir be book number 52 for the 10th year of A Book A Week. 

In James Patterson: The Stories of My Life, the bestselling author reflects on his life thus far through intimate stories that span the breadth of his storied career. While each chapter mostly follows the chronology of his life, Patterson maintains his signature quick pace by having each chapter serve as a short, conversational recollection. The topics are as varied as they are interesting. He writes about his days in advertising, his initial struggles to get published, and even sets the record straight about his controversial use of co-authors. I found his candor to be refreshing. Patterson narrates the audiobook, so listening to it really does feel like you're having a conversation with an old friend. James Patterson continues to hook readers with each new work, and this memoir is no exception. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 52)

Looking out upon the night sky, it is easy to get lost in view of the stars. Throughout history, humans have been fascinated by the stars yearning to know the unknowable. As much as we know about this giant blue orb we call home, there is still so much to discover. That's where people like Neil deGrasse Tyson come in. Dr. Tyson is an acclaimed astrophysicist who has dedicated much of his career to sharing his vast knowledge with the public at large. His latest book Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization sees the scientist attempt to make sense of many of the issues that currently divide us. He views these issues such as politics, religion, gender, etc. through the macro lens of the universe.

The problems that seem to plague civilization are nothing new. At least, they aren't new from the perspective of centuries of history and scientific study. From the start of the book, Tyson posits that the issues we face as a society today can be better understood by both understanding the historical perspective of those issues and by allowing the factual scientific consensus on many topics to help inform our thinking and actions on them. Through this thorough dissection of each issue, Tyson hopes that we will be able to think differently about the topic and maybe even come to a better understanding as to why different viewpoints may exist. 

I was instantly drawn to the idea of gaining different perspectives on hot-button topics, so I was pleased to accept a copy of Starry Messenger from Tyson's publisher. Tyson has a way of distilling complex subjects down to their core, making even the most sophisticated themes digestible to average readers. At under 300 pages, the book packs a lot of content into a light package. I found myself reading through a topic each day, taking time in between to ruminate on what I had discovered. Tyson's views aren't perfect, and even he admits that sometimes his words and thoughts don't accurately describe the nuances of the thing he is trying to speak to. Just look at some of his more controversial tweets as an example. Despite his clear mastery of the science behind many things, Tyson never pretends to have all the answers. Rather, he uses Starry Messenger as a means of getting readers to think more deeply and critically about multifaceted subjects. Only through this kind of reflection can we gain a higher understanding of our universe and the issues that we face. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 48)

With the multitude of streaming services each vying for our attention through various content, it seems that the days of a smash box office hit driven by a Hollywood superstar are beyond us. Yes, the Marvel movies still make a ton of cash and capture the cultural zeitgeist, but I'd argue the draw of those films stem more from our connections to the characters and stories than being drawn to seeing a particular actor or actress. It wasn't too long ago that audiences rushed to their local cinema to see the latest movie to feature a specific star. Nobody in recent history put "butts in seats" like actor and musician Will Smith. In his self-titled memoir, Will looks back on his humble beginning, extraordinary rise to fame, and the family he's built through it all. 

At a young age, Will learned the power of hard work and perseverance. While most kids his age would spend their spare time playing with friends and goofing around, Will and his brother were tasked with work around the house. Specifically, their father had them build a brick wall, a job that took months to complete. Finishing the monumental task taught them the value of committing to doing something the right way and seeing it through. This lesson would stick with will as he began his career in hip-hop, starred in a hit sitcom, and set out to become the biggest movie star in the world. 

Smith achieved his goals through grit, determination, natural charisma, and a bit of good luck. He recalls an impromptu audition for the starring role of The Fresh Prince of Bellaire that took place at the home of legendary producer Quincy Jones during one of his star-studded parties. In front of other Hollywood heavyweights including Stephen Spielberg, Will successfully completed the audition that would make him a household name for the rest of his life. From there, he strategically crafted a career based upon acting in the kinds of films he knew would make him a star. Along with his trusted advisors and confidants, he achieved everything he set out to. 

There's no denying the professional achievements of Will Smith. He will go down in history as one of the most bankable stars to ever grace the screen. His memoir has no shortage of stories about how he achieved such great heights. Even the most casual Will Smith fan will connect to his anecdotes of finding his fame. What sets Will apart, however, is the vulnerability with which he approaches looking back on his personal life. He lays everything out for us to see here. Will was drawn to providing a perfect life for his wife and children, a task made only more complex amongst his high-profile career. He celebrates the successes but is equally introspective about all of the times he got it wrong.  Despite the pride he takes in the family that he's built, I got the sense that he's haunted by his personal missteps. 

The cover for Will is one of the most eye-catching pieces of art that I've ever seen. Despite my desire to own a hardcover copy, I opted to listen to the author narrate his book via audiobook. It plays like a full-on production that features recordings of his music and clips from his acting career. Normally I listen to audiobooks at a 1.7x speed, but I absorbed this one at the intended pace, savoring each moment. Smith's affability combines with his skills as a seasoned storyteller into a work that is as entertaining as it is moving. It works as a retrospective on an extraordinary first chapter in Will's career. With a Best Actor Oscar nomination again this year, Smith is proving that he's only getting started. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 8)

Where do you get your news? Like most of my fellow millennials, I mostly consume news from social media and on my phone. I'm grateful to have access to so many different sources, but filtering through all of the noise can be quite the task. My earliest recollections of being aware of the news stem from watching my grandfather consume the morning newspaper and completing the daily crossword puzzle. For decades, the local newspaper was the best way to learn what was going on in your community. Acclaimed journalist Carl Bernstein is no stranger to the allure of the news. In fact, his landmark reporting on the Watergate Scandal marked the beginning of the end for Richard Nixon's presidency. In his new book Chasing History: A Kid in the Newsroom, Bernstein recalls his early years as a young man looking to make his mark on history. 

At just sixteen years old, Carl Bernstein landed a job as a copy boy at Washington's Evening Star. Using his knowledge of the town he grew up in, he quickly ingratiated himself with the more tenured newspaper men. A career in journalism, however, seemed far away for the young man who was struggling to pass even the most rudimentary of high school courses. It isn't that Bernstein wasn't smart. In fact, in his early days with the Evening Star, he was already showing the potential to become an observant and nuanced reporter. Still, he would have to graduate from school if he ever dreamed of making a career out of the news. 

Bernstein's beginning in the business couldn't have come at a more noteworthy time. Some of his first assignments centered around attending campaign events for the young presidential hopeful John F. Kennedy, crime sprees in the city, and the growing movement for civil rights. Unlike other reporters, both up and coming and tenured, Bernstein had a knack for connecting with the people involved in the stories he told. His connection to the city and the people gave him an advantage that saw him become a reporter for the publication at only nineteen years old. 

Chasing History is a time capsule of sorts. The time and place that Bernstein tells about is one that I've only read about in history books or seen in old newsreels. Bernstein transports the reader to this era through his vivid descriptions, candid recollections, and quick wit. Just as the country was on the cusp of great changes, so was this young man growing into adulthood. Bernstein's personal life is intertwined with news-making history. He's grappling with the injustices of racism as he struggles to graduate from high school. He sees the nation mourn the death of a young president as he brims with the hope of growing personal romance. Bernstein's willingness to give the reader unbridled access to his life during this time helps to ground the larger historical moments in a reality that every reader can relate to. Chasing History succeeds as a memoir, origin story of an incredible career, and chronicle of history. 

For more information visit the author's website and Goodreads. 

At the start of this year, I resolved to diversify my reading. 2020 was a historic year for many reasons, but the call to action around the racial inequities that have plagued our country from the very beginning really moved me. I felt called to do more, share more, and learn more. An act as simple as seeking out work by a more diverse set of authors seemed like the least I could do. In the ensuing months, I've read so many incredible works that have challenged me, educated me, and moved me, each providing a perspective that I would not have normally been exposed to. When Grand Central Publishing sent me Say Their Names, a collection of essays chronicling the history and impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, I jumped at the opportunity to read it and share it here. 

The book opens with Curtis Bunn's essay Why Black Lives Matter Matters. Bunn sets straight the misinformation surrounding the movement. You see, for a lot of white Americans, the Black Lives Matter movement began when officer Derek Chauvin murdered George Floyd. The horrific abuse of power was filmed and shared across traditional and social media, rousing many Americans to call for justice. Likewise, for many of those same Americans, the entire matter was put to rest with cities and states issuing sweeping memorandums and reforms for their police departments and Chauvin being found guilty for murdering Floyd. If only it was that easy! Bunn traces the origins of BLM back to 2014 when young Travon Martin was killed by George Zimmerman. The roots of the movement, though, run deeply intertwined with the civil rights movement of the 1960s. More importantly, the continued injustice in policing, wealth, education, and so much more has continued to plague the Black community far beyond the tragedy with George Floyd. 

I was particularly moved by another essay by Bunn titled Black Women Stand Tall. It highlights the importance that Black women have held in recent developments within the cause, especially considering that the movement has historically been headed by men, specifically religious leaders. Bunn points to women like Stacy Abrams who turned her personal political loss in Georgia, into a stirring resolve to register voters, educate them, and help them to elect leaders who would truly fight for them. All of this, of course, resulted in the state voting in two Democrats in their Senate election, an upset for the status quo that in a large part caused Abrams to be defeated in the first place. With the likes of Kamala Harris elected to the second-highest office in the land, and countless mayors leading their cities to reform long-held, racist policies, Bunn recognized the importance of women helping to lead the cause forward. 

Whether you are just beginning to read more about the Black Lives Matter movement or are looking for a way to expand your knowledge on the subject, Say Their Names is well worth the read. I found the collection to not only contain a ton of history and context but also provide a more rounded perspective from the authors and the people featured in their writing. The authors do a fair job touting the successes of the movement while equalling calling for changes in areas that they see as lacking. For example, by having a movement with no central leader, there is sometimes the need for more transparency in how money is being collected and who is deciding how to fund things. The authors also point out the need for more diversification within the movement itself, particularly the need for more women and LGBTQ+ representation. Say Their Names is a fantastic overview of the history, people, and actions taken and needed within the movement for racial justice. I'm thankful that books like this continue to be published and read, and I hope that we all continue to do our part to make a more equitable world. 

For more information visit Amazon and Goodreads. 

(2021, 44)

"I would not have you descend into your own dream. I would have you be a conscious citizen of this terrible and beautiful world."

I've always attempted to keep my reading and reviewing somewhat separate from my own political beliefs. My love of reading started as a means to escape into the fictitious worlds that authors conjured, and veering into the real world threatened to dismantle that sense of escapism. Recently, however, the real world has resembled something more akin to the dystopian fantasy of fiction than what I ever imagined the real world could be. Over the past several years, I've explored more non-fiction, reading about the world we live in and gaining perspective from different voices. As I watched the violent events at the US Capitol unfold, I happened to be reading Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates. Now more than ever, I feel the need to continue to read books like this one and share them with everyone who reads my reviews. 

What does it mean to be a black man in America? How does one come to the terms with racial inequity, especially when that inequity directly affects you and your family? These are the topics that Coates muses upon in this letter/essay to his teenage son. He writes with a raw honesty that is as riveting as it is heartbreaking. There is little hope in these words. Coates is clearly jaded by the reality of his lived experience. He writes of the fear he felt when he first realized that other people felt dominion over his very being, the power to take his life on a whim. That sense of dread only grew when he witnessed his son coming to the same realizations. 

Coates writes of his experience attending Howard University and finally finding a place where his free thought could be encouraged and respected. The HBCU became his "mecca", the safe place for him to explore the best parts of humanity. This is the place he discovered his ability to learn and love. Even in this place of solace, the original sin of our country invaded. Coates writes of a friend who was murdered by the police, a reminder that there is no escaping the horrors of racism. 

Between the World and Me is a stunning portrait of one man's lived experience. Ta-Nehisi Coates writes with a startling urgency, a plea to his son to understand how the world views and treats people who look like them. Coates writes of the despair that befell his son as he realized the scope of racial inequities. This burden should not be one a child has to bear, but every BIPOC must come to terms with it. As difficult as it is to read of this reality, it is vitally important to understand it. Coates seems resigned to the inevitability of racism. How can he not be when his entire life has proven this correct? Watching the siege on Washington DC unfold, I couldn't help but see the double standard glaring across my TV screen. The lack of urgency and violence in the response to these domestic terrorists, especially compared to the response to peaceful BLM protestors, is too obvious to ignore. Works like this one are vital in revealing these realities to those who do not live them. Only then can we truly begin to change things. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2021, 3)

This year marks the ninth in which I plan to read and review a book a week. Over the years, I've been fortunate to read so many great books, meet other book lovers, and learn about the community at large. A new year also gives me the opportunity to reflect on my past and plan for my future. 2020 was a historic year for many reasons, but one thing that is undeniable is that for many this was the beginning of a national reckoning with the ugly truth of systemic racism and police brutality. The horrific murders of Geroge Floyd and Breonna Taylor, to name just a few, sparked much-needed conversations and calls to action. When a co-worker recommended I read Robin DiAngelo's White Fragility, a book meant to help white people come to terms with their place in a system built upon racial inequity, I knew it would be a valuable resource in continuing my own journey toward becoming a more effective ally. I read the book last year but decided a re-read would be an appropriate way to begin this new year of blogging and reviewing.  

Before reading this book, I considered myself to be fairly in touch with the imbalance built into our country. I've noticed the times when I was afforded opportunities that were only available to me as a white man. I've had open conversations with friends and co-workers about how their experiences differ from mine, and those conversations helped me to see a perspective that I was blind to. DiAngelo, a white woman herself, presented topics that further dismantled my existing perceptions around race and helped me to see things in a more well-rounded way. Here's the thing, even as someone conscious of the differences in society for people of different ethnicities, I was still complicit in perpetuating those same systems that I recognized as wrong. It is difficult for anyone to admit that they have perpetuated systemic racism, but it is undeniable that I've been complicit in this very system. 

In terms of my own reading, I was shocked to realize how inequitable the entire publishing industry truly is. As someone who publishes a review of a book each week, I feel that I bear a responsibility to consume and present reviews of diverse stories from diverse storytellers. I read 52 books in 2020, and only 4 of those were written by a BIPOC author. Simply put, that is not good enough. White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo asks us to not only recognize our place in systemic racism but to actively take action to fight against it. However small my impact in the larger book community may be, I feel moved to do more, share more, and continue learning more. Each month this year, I will resolve to read and review at least one book by a BIPOC author. This small goal on top of my annual reading goal will serve to broaden my perspective while sharing a wider variety of authors and stories. I may not be able to change the publishing industry as a whole, but I can certainly impact the kind of books that I choose to read and share here on A Book A Week. Happy New Year and happy reading!

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2021, 1)

With the United States Election day only days away, I went into reading Bob Woodward's latest book Rage with a pretty clear idea of what to expect. I read Woodward's 2018 book Fear in which he documented President Trump's tumultuous election and first year in the White House. To say the things uncovered in that book were disturbing would be an understatement. Woodward gained prominence as one of the two journalists who broke Nixon's Watergate scandal. His previous work covering Donald Trump was meticulously reported and backed by verified sources, public interviews, and cross-referenced records. Still, Trump reverted to his usual tactic of calling any unfavorable reporting on him "fake news". To be fair, Woodward was never granted an interview with President Trump, but all of that has changed in this latest book. Donald Trump granted Woodward 18 recorded interviews over the course of several months. Buckle up, folks. This is a wild ride. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has been at the forefront of most American's lives since we were first told to quarantine in mid-March. Despite various attempts to re-open states and get back to a sense of normalcy, our country hasn't been able to effectively lower the number of positive cases. In fact, this week saw us hit a record number of reported positive cases for a single day. Naturally, much of the political debate surrounding this year's presidential election has focused on the government response to the health pandemic. The bombshell of Woodward's reporting in Rage centers upon what Donald Trump knew about the virus, when did he know it, and what was his response. Woodward reveals that the President was warned about the severity of the virus in January. His strategy has been recorded and quoted word for word by Woodward. "I wanted to always play it down. I still like playing it down, because I don't want to create panic."

Beyond the obvious mishandlings of the health pandemic, Rage provides some exclusive insights into the President's strange approach to foreign affairs. Despite warnings from both his Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense, Donald Trump began a bizarre relationship with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. Woodward obtained letter correspondence between the two leaders. In the letters, both men gush about the brilliance of the other and their combined competence in forging an unprecedented relationship between their respective governments. It was widely reported that General Mattis resigned from his position after Trump took military action that was counter to Mattis's recommendations. While it ultimately seems like the worst ramifications of some of these actions have been avoided, it is the President's continued disregard for the informed advice of his advisers that continues to be one of the most disturbing parts of his presidency. 

If Fear was a stunning portrait of dysfunction within America's highest governing office, then Bob Woodward's Rage is the first-hand confirmation of those assertions. As Donald Trump's first tumultuous term as President of the United States comes to a close, it is one that will be more remembered for scandal than any legislative achievement. What I always find striking about books like this is that there really aren't any new revelations. Anyone paying attention is already aware of everything that this book confirms. As always, it is the direct quotes from the mouth of the President that are the most striking. Through the wide-ranging interviews that Woodward conducted, we see a man who is completely over his head in leading the country. Woodward says it best, "Trump is the wrong man for the job." It has been said time and again, but I'll say it one more time. Vote!

For more information visit the author's website and Goodreads. 

(2020, 45)

"The truth is inconvenient. The truth could be painful. This is a game people love. But as a society, we evolve."

Football has become almost as American as the Statue of Liberty or the Fourth of July. I mean, think about it for a moment. My time in the high school band revolved around supporting our football team every Friday night. Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without "the big game" playing on the TV. Even colleges, places that are supposed to be dedicated to higher learning, feature massive football stadiums looming over the rest of campus. American's love the game, but as author Reid Forgrave explores in his new book Love, Zac, our love affair with the sport may be doing more harm than good.

Zac Easter was the quintessential all-American high school athlete. What he lacked in size he made up for in toughness. Football and grit seemed to run in his family. Zac's dad was the assistant coach at his rural midwestern high school. His older brother was a high school football star player. Playing the sport was not only a rite of passage for the Easter men, but it was also an expectation. If you don't play football, how will you become a proper man?

Every game, Zac put forth all of his efforts, willing his body to push the limits of what it was capable of. Each play saw the young man violently collide with other players. It even earned him the coveted "big hammer" title from his coach. There were plenty of plays that left Zac raddled, dizzy, or even knocked out, but he always got up and returned to the field. Somewhere along the way, playing through the pain became the rule, not the exception. Finally, a catastrophic impact during his senior year took Zac out of the game for good. His football career was over, but the lifelong impact of his time playing the game was only beginning.

"Spread the word of mental illness and concussions, and over time, please spread my story. Great things can still happen from this event."

I don't often include trigger warnings in reviews, but I feel it is appropriate to do so with this book. Love, Zac is a gut-wrenching look at one person's struggle with injury, mental illness, and eventually suicide. This isn't normally the kind of book I would pick up to read, but Forgrave treats the subject with respect and transparency. After reading it, I'm happy that the publisher saw fit to send me a copy to review. The book doesn't just bash the sport. Forgrave even admits to being a fan of Football himself. Instead, it paints an intimate portrait of one young man's struggle with the aftereffects of traumatic hits to the head. As his headaches became a permanent symptom of years of physical trauma, Zac began to keep a journal. In reading the passages from it, we see his mental and physical anguish play out in real-time. Forgrave also interviews coaches, athletic trainers, doctors, and family members, filling in the gaps of Zac's writing and providing a complete picture of this one case. Football is ingrained into our culture, a part of our national identity. Love, Zac is never an argument against the game. Rather it is a sobering reminder of the price of this obsession.

For more information visit Amazon and Goodreads.
Zac's family has set up an organization in his honor. Learn more about CTE Hope here.
(2020, 41)

"In the end, the courage of women can't be stamped out. And stories--the big ones, the true ones--can be caught but never killed."

Ronan Farrow's article in the New Yorker caused quite the stir when it was published in 2017. He was writing about the sexual misconduct of Harvey Weinstein, one of the most powerful producers in Hollywood. The ramifications of the allegations highlighted in his writing would go on to spur the Me Too movement, a call to arms against sexual harassment and abuse by powerful men. Of course, the road to getting that article published was far from easy. Someone like Weinstein had the motivation and means to keep his skeletons tightly packed away in his closet. In his book Catch and Kill, Farrow writes about his investigation into sexual transgressions of some of the world's most prominent men and the systems that protect them.

If I didn't know that everything Farrow writes about in this book actually happened, I'd probably have mistaken it for fiction. There's so much to Weinstein's attempts at a cover-up that seems like something directly out of an espionage thriller. As Farrow meticulously worked to vet sources, interview women, and piece together the decades of abuse and retaliation he faced roadblocks at every step. I was shocked to learn that Weinstein hired an Israeli counter-intelligence service to investigate Farrow and even follow him around New York. Would an innocent man go to such lengths to stop a story from happening?

Beyond covering Weinstein's heinous crimes, Farrow spends a good deal of the book describing the systems of power and big corporations that have prevented stories like his from surfacing. He experienced the attempts at censorship firsthand. At the time that he began investigating Weinstein, Farrow was a correspondent for NBC. He took the story to their news division and began the process of taping interviews with women. Andy Lack, head of the news division at the time, was wary of the story from the start, even claiming that there was not a story there when the evidence was overwhelming. Farrow had multiple women agree to tell their story on camera and one the record, but the higher-ups at NBC refused to bring the story to air. Eventually, he was allowed to shop the story elsewhere, and it landed at The New Yorker.

With the outing of NBC's Matt Lauer as another perpetrator of sexual misconduct in the workplace, it seems the company would have benefited from keeping the microscope of this kind of story quiet. Farrow writes a detailed account of a rape committed by Lauer that NBC was made aware of back in 2014. It is worth noting that Lauer was not fired from his role as anchor of the network's juggernaut morning program until 2017. It is easy to imagine that his tenure with the company would have continued to be protected if Farrow's article and the Me Too movement had not begun.

Catch and Kill is a thorough and riveting look into Ronan Farrow's investigation into Harvey Weinstein and the events that followed. Farrow is extremely candid about his own history with sexual misconduct (his sister Dylan has long spoken about the abuse she suffered under her adoptive father Woody Allen) and his dedication to being a voice for the countless women who have faced this all too common treatment. His book finds the perfect balance of keeping a journalistic approach to the facts of the events while interspersing a few personal anecdotes. Some of the most powerful parts are those where Farrow quotes the women and Weinstein verbatim. We see the harrowing toll that the sexual abuse has taken on the victims and the disgusting entitlement with which these powerful men felt they could keep things quiet. Three years after his initial article was published, Farrow continues to shed light on more and more stories like this one, and the number of prominent men that have perpetrated this abhorrent behavior continues to grow. Catch and Kill is a powerful look at some of the events that helped spark a movement. It is an uncomfortable but extremely necessary read.

For more information visit Amazon and Goodreads.
(2019, 42)

"When you reminisce about the good ole' days, you naturally see it through rose-tinted spectacles. In my case in particular I think it's forgivable because I was probably literally wearing rose-tinted spectacles at the time."

With Pride month now in full swing, I'm happy to showcase a few books that either feature LGBTQ+ characters or are written by LGBTQ+ authors. Elton John's autobiography Me certainly fits the bill. John has been out and proud for the majority of his decades-long career. The film Rocketman showcased his life story albeit with a tendency to lean more toward the side of fantasy than reality.  Taron Egerton, who played John in the film, narrated the audiobook version that I listened to. Me finds the famed singer at his most candid, reflecting on his remarkable life, career, and the things to come.

Born Reginald Dwight, Elton John started from very humble beginnings. He was a quiet and shy child who easily faded into the background, a far cry from the flamboyant superstar he would one day become. He took to the piano at a young age, naturally picking out tunes by ear. Eventually, his family allowed him to begin lessons, and he proved to be a natural. He jokingly blames his short, stubby fingers for being the reason he couldn't have a career as a classical musician, but his own stint at London's Royal Academy of Music would beg to differ. John's musical passions were with the up and coming rock and roll music that he could hear on the streets. He joined bands and found moderate success playing and touring. It wasn't until a rejection from a music label that he found his big break. As part of the rejection, the music executive gifted John an envelope of lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. This fateful act would inspire the fruitful collaboration that would soon skyrocket Elton John to superstardom.

Once Elton John comes into his place of fame and fortune, the story gets really wild. He holds no bars in describing the years of literal sex, drugs, and rock and roll. John candidly describes his struggle with addiction and the impact it had on his personal and professional life. He reminisces about his drug-fueled tantrums and benders that left him near death on multiple occasions. John also reflects on the struggle of coming to terms with his homosexuality, a battle that even saw him in an unhappy marriage to a woman for some time. Ultimately, dealing with his drug addiction and accepting his sexuality were the keys to bringing Elton John to the place he is today, happily married, and a father to two young children. In the end, this book, he writes, is meant to be a record for those kids, a kind of definitive resource to cut through all the gossip and celebrity surrounding his life.

I've always had a fondness for Elton John and his music. I've played piano for most of my life and spent many nights playing his tunes at piano bars during my college years. Yes, John emits a larger than life persona and has his fair share of demons, but he has always been willing to own up to them. As a result, Me is a pretty thorough and forthright autobiography. It reads more like stories shared between old friends at a party than a traditional memoir. This conversational style gives the book a lightness that makes for easy reading, especially when John touches on the darker points in his life.  At the heart of this life story is the journey of a man facing his demons and rockstar sense of entitlement.  In the end, he has transformed his life into one of giving back and really trying to make a difference in the world. John's early and continued support of AIDS research and treatment,  both through raising awareness and financial support, has been a large part of his latest act. As he ends his touring career (yes, he says this is really the end) and settles into being a more hands-on father, I look forward to seeing where his life will take him next.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2019, 41)

"Because we do not know how to talk to strangers, what do we do when things go awry with strangers? We blame the stranger."

This has been a strange week for me. I go back to work today after 10 weeks of working from home. I'm excited to finally return and be able to interact with my co-workers from beyond just video conferencing, but I'm also a little anxious about living in this new version of normal. All things considered, it should have been no surprise that I had trouble focussing on reading. In fact, I started reading no less than four other books before settling on this week's read. I just couldn't find a groove with the books I thought that I wanted to read. I ended up veering a bit outside of my normal reading habits to read Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell. This was a Christmas gift from my boss, so it had been sitting on my shelf for a few months. Something about Gladwell's matter-of-fact explanations of a complex subject really worked for me. Before I knew it, I was 100 pages in, thoroughly invested, and finally able to focus on reading.

Talking to someone you don't know, someone who maybe does not have the shared experiences you do, the same political leanings, or maybe even someone who does not speak the same language as you can be inherently challenging. Gladwell presents the challenge of talking with strangers through a case study of the infamous traffic stop of Sandra Bland. If you're not familiar with this tragic story, I'll give a brief rundown now. Bland was an African-American student who was pulled over for what should have played out as a routine traffic stop. She was annoyed at the stop, and the officer reacted in a way that led to the arrest of Bland. She committed suicide in her jail cell. Gladwell posits that this scenario was the result of the officer failing to properly respond to various verbal and non-verbal cues, ultimately culminating in the unnecessary death of an innocent woman. On a larger scale, he believes this points to a general failure of society to carry to proper tools to effectively communicate with strangers.

From this, Gladwell then explores three main ideas through other anecdotal evidence. The first is the idea that people generally default to the truth when speaking to people they don't know. We are essentially wired to believe anything that can't be easily contradicted. The second is related to the idea of transparency, the idea that we rely on non-verbal hints as much as what the person says. Gladwell specifically mentions how culture can change the way body language and facial expression matches with the intent of words. Finally, Gladwell delves into the idea of coupling. This is the idea that the context of a person's life directly impacts their behavior in specific circumstances. He combines these three examples to help make sense of the Sandra Bland story and to provide us with ways to be aware of how we interact with strangers in our own lives.

Frankly, I wasn't expecting Talking to Strangers to be as compulsively readable as it was. Gladwell has the unique ability to distill complex concepts and situations down to be understandable without betraying the innate intricacies that each of them holds. I found his writing to be fairly balanced toward both sides of his examples, even when my own emotional response leaned more toward one truth than the counter perspectives he provided. Examples of rape and pedophilia in specific were difficult for me to see both sides of. In the end, I'm not sure Gladwell presented any revelatory advice beyond what I already knew. If anything, his examples have simply made me more aware of the ways I interact with people I do not know. And maybe that is the most we can hope for from a book like this. In a time when people seem more divided than ever, Talking With Strangers is the kind of tool that gives us the perspective to try to better interact with the stranger that we encounter in our own lives.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2020, 23)

The history of LGBTQ+ people is one that is rich, but frankly, the masses are simply unaware of most of it. Sure, milestones like the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell and the legalization of same-sex marriage in the US are known. There is some general knowledge of the AIDS crisis and terrible hate crimes like the murder of Matthew Shepard.  That being said, there is a more intricate tapestry of progress that mostly goes unacknowledged. I think that is just the nature of oppression. The stories of the oppressed are brushed over in the broader narrative of human history. In their new book The Gay Agenda, power couple Ashley Molesso and Chess Needham attempt to shine a light on the LGBTQ+ community, spreading a story of love, life, and progress.

I received a copy of the new book from the publisher, and I was immediately drawn to the bright cover and illustrations. The authors are a real-life couple who run a stationery company called ASH + CHESS. "They create greeting cards and art prints that are bold with retro color palettes, often using their artwork to make a political statement." With this book, they attempt to take a phrase often used to stoke fear and turn it into a celebration. The Gay Agenda is a bright and fairly comprehensive overview of the history of a remarkable group of people.

The book is divided into two sections, history and informational. The majority of the work is comprised of the history section, a historical timeline that spans from around 600 B.C.E to the present day. The timeline features brief snapshots of influential people, works, places, and events. We see authors like James Baldwin and Radclyffe Hall, activists like Emma Goldman and Miss Major Griffin-Gracey, and important vends like the formation of the Human Rights Campaign and the Stonewall Riots. While each entry is quite brief, I felt that the authors did a great job in highlighting some of the people and events that normally are whitewashed out of history. Specifically, there is a wonderful representation of Bi, Lesbian, Non-binary, and Trans members of the community.

The second portion of the book is described by the authors as "informational". Think of this as a queer glossary of sorts, a kind of introduction to the community to those who may not be familiar with it. As someone who identifies as a member of the gay community, I found The Gay Agenda to be a wonderful starting point in exploring this side of our family. What a wonderful tool this could be to people who simply don't understand what being LGBTQ+ is like. Even I was being exposed to topics and history that I simply was unaware of. I applaud the authors for using their platform to spotlight such an important group of people. This is the kind of conversation starter that serves to spread facts and promote empathy and understanding. Despite what naysayers and political extremists will have you believe, that is truly what The Gay Agenda is all about.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2020, 18)