Patrick Stewart is a living legend, an icon of stage and screen, and a master storyteller. In his long-awaited memoir, “Making It So”, he shares his remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Yorkshire, England (where my older brother still lives), to his acclaimed triumphs in the Royal Shakespeare Company, to his iconic roles in the Star Trek and X-Men franchises. Narrated by the author himself, the audiobook is a captivating and intimate portrait of an artist who has shaped our culture and entertained millions of fans around the world.
The audiobook is divided into four parts, each covering a different phase of Stewart’s life and career. The first part, “The Boy from Mirfield”, recounts his childhood and adolescence in post-war Britain, where he faced poverty, domestic violence, and bullying (something I can relate to growing up and attending schools full of bullies in the late 60’s and 70’s in England). He also discovered his passion for acting and literature, and joined a local theatre group that opened new horizons for him. The second part, “The Bard’s Apprentice”, chronicles his early years as a professional actor, where he honed his craft and learned from some of the greatest names in theatre history, such as Laurence Olivier, Peter O’Toole, and Ian McKellen. He also reveals his personal struggles with marriage, fatherhood, and depression, and how he overcame them with courage and resilience.
The third part, “The Captain’s Chair”, focuses on his breakthrough role as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in “Star Trek: The Next Generation”, which catapulted him to global fame and changed his life forever. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of the show’s production, its cast and crew, and its loyal fanbase. He also reflects on the impact of the role on his identity, his career choices, and his social activism. The fourth part, “The Professor’s Legacy”, covers his later years as a Hollywood star, where he reprised his role as Picard in several Star Trek films and spin-offs, and played Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films. He also explores his diverse projects in theatre, film, television, voice acting, and social media, and how he continues to challenge himself and inspire others.
The audiobook is a delight to listen to, as Stewart’s voice is rich, warm, and expressive. He infuses his narration with humor, emotion, and wisdom, making the listener feel as if they are having a conversation with him. He also performs excerpts from some of his favorite works of literature and poetry, such as Shakespeare’s sonnets, Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”, and Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot.” These performances showcase his range and versatility as an actor, and add depth and beauty to his memoir.
“Making It So” is a must-listen for anyone who admires Patrick Stewart as an actor or as a person. It is a rare opportunity to get to know him better, to learn from his experiences and insights, and to celebrate his achievements and contributions. It is a memoir that is honest, engaging, and inspiring. It is a memoir that makes it so.
“Rewire Your Anxious Brain” by Catherine Pittman is a self-help book that aims to provide a scientifically based approach to help individuals overcome anxiety. The book explains how anxiety arises in the brain and offers practical strategies to help individuals retrain their brains to manage anxiety better.
The book starts by explaining the science behind anxiety and how it is related to the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions. The author explains how the amygdala can become overactive, leading to an increased sense of anxiety. The author then goes on to explain how to identify the triggers that cause anxiety and how to change the thought patterns that lead to anxiety.
The book offers several practical strategies that individuals can use to manage anxiety. One of the key strategies is mindfulness meditation, which involves paying attention to the present moment and being aware of one's thoughts and feelings without judgment. The author also suggests breathing exercises, physical exercise, and relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation.
Another important strategy discussed in the book is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT involves identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with positive ones. The author provides several examples of negative thought patterns and suggests ways to replace them with positive ones.
The author also provides a helpful section on lifestyle changes that can help manage anxiety, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and reducing alcohol and caffeine intake. Additionally, the book includes a chapter on medication for anxiety and provides an overview of the different types of medication available and their potential side effects.
One of the strengths of the book is its focus on practical strategies that individuals can use to manage anxiety. The author provides step-by-step instructions for each technique and offers many helpful tips and examples. The book also includes worksheets and exercises that readers can use to apply the strategies to their own lives.
Another strength of the book is its scientific approach. The author uses research to support her claims and provides a clear explanation of the science behind anxiety. This makes the book a helpful resource for individuals who want to understand the biology of anxiety and how it affects their lives.
However, there are some weaknesses to the book. One potential weakness is that the strategies suggested in the book may not work for everyone. Anxiety is a complex condition, and what works for one person may not work for another. Additionally, the book focuses primarily on managing anxiety, and it may not be as helpful for individuals who have more severe anxiety or other mental health conditions.
Overall, “Rewire Your Anxious Brain” is a helpful resource for individuals who are looking for practical strategies to manage anxiety. The book provides a scientifically based approach to understanding and managing anxiety and offers many helpful tips and exercises. However, it is important to remember that anxiety is a complex condition, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you are struggling with anxiety, it is always best to seek professional help from a qualified mental health provider.
Another great Casca, The Immortal, adventure. This is Book #2 in the series (with a total of 53, including ones written by Tony Roberts, after the original author Barry Sadler died).
This adventure takes Casca to the land of the Teotec. After he is captured, he is captured the priests try to sacrifice Casca to the Gods. But, since Casca cannot die, he rises from the altar stone to proclaim himself Casca, God of Death.
"Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is the fourth book in the Casca series. The book follows the adventures of Casca Rufio Longinus, a Roman soldier who is cursed to live forever as a punishment for piercing the side of Jesus Christ with his spear. In this installment, Casca finds himself fighting for the German army during World War II.
The book begins with Casca in North Africa, where he is serving as a mercenary for the French Foreign Legion. He is recruited by a German officer named von Kassel, who recognizes Casca's fighting abilities and offers him a position in the German army. Casca accepts the offer, as he sees it as an opportunity to continue his never-ending quest for battle and redemption.
Casca is sent to the Eastern Front, where he becomes a Panzer soldier, operating one of the deadly tanks that the German army used in their invasion of the Soviet Union. The book provides a vivid and detailed description of the battles fought by the Germans on the Eastern Front, including the brutal winter conditions that the soldiers had to endure.
One of the interesting aspects of the book is the portrayal of the German soldiers as human beings, rather than simply evil Nazis. Casca interacts with his fellow soldiers, and the book provides a glimpse into the camaraderie and bonds that developed among them. However, the brutality of war is never far away, and the book does not shy away from depicting the horrors of the battlefield.
The plot of the book is driven by Casca's quest for redemption. He sees his service in the German army as a way of atoning for his sins and finding a purpose in his eternal life. However, as the war progresses and the atrocities committed by the Germans become increasingly apparent, Casca begins to question the morality of his actions. He becomes torn between his loyalty to his comrades and his sense of right and wrong.
Overall, "Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is an engaging and well-written book. Sadler does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the world of World War II, and his descriptions of the battles are both vivid and realistic. The character of Casca is intriguing, and his struggle with his own morality adds depth to the story. The book is not without flaws, however. Some readers may find the portrayal of the Germans to be too sympathetic, and the ending of the book feels somewhat rushed. Nonetheless, for fans of the Casca series or World War II fiction in general, "Casca: The Panzer Soldier" is a worthwhile read.
"Casca 5: The Barbarian" is the fifth book in the "Casca" series. The book continues the story of Casca Rufio Longinus, a Roman soldier who was cursed by Jesus Christ to live forever as a wandering mercenary. In this installment, Casca finds himself in the midst of a power struggle between two warring factions in 1st century Britain.
The book opens with Casca being hired by a British king to help him defeat a rival tribe. However, Casca soon realizes that the king is a treacherous and cruel man, and he decides to switch sides and help the rival tribe instead. This decision sets Casca on a dangerous path, as he finds himself caught in the middle of a bitter feud between two powerful and ruthless factions.
One of the strengths of the book is its vivid descriptions of life in ancient Britain. Sadler does an excellent job of bringing the setting to life, with detailed descriptions of the landscape, culture, and customs of the various tribes. The book also delves into the political and social dynamics of the time, as the various tribes struggle for power and control.
Another highlight of the book is its action-packed battle scenes. Sadler is a skilled writer when it comes to depicting combat, and the battles in "The Barbarian" are no exception. The fights are fast-paced and intense, with plenty of gore and violence for readers who enjoy that sort of thing.
However, the book is not without its flaws. One of the main issues is the character development. While Casca is a well-established character by this point in the series, many of the supporting characters feel flat and one-dimensional. They are often little more than caricatures, with little depth or nuance.
Another issue is the predictability of the plot. While the book has its share of surprises and twists, much of the story feels familiar and formulaic. Readers who are looking for a fresh and original story may find themselves disappointed by the book's reliance on well-worn tropes and clichés.
Overall, "Casca 5: The Barbarian" is a solid addition to the series, and will likely appeal to fans of historical fiction and action/adventure novels. While it may not be the most groundbreaking or innovative book in its genre, it offers plenty of excitement and entertainment for readers who enjoy a fast-paced, action-packed story. The book's vivid setting and well-written battle scenes make it a good choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a strong focus on action and adventure. However, those looking for more nuanced characters and a more original plot may want to look elsewhere.
Casca 3: The War Lord is the third book in a series of adventure novels by Barry Sadler. The series follows the exploits of Casca Rufio Longinus, a Roman soldier who was cursed by Jesus Christ to wander the earth until his second coming. In this installment, Casca finds himself embroiled in the politics and warfare of 16th-century Japan.
The novel opens with Casca working as a mercenary in Italy, where he is hired to fight for the Duke of Milan. During a fierce battle, Casca is betrayed by his own men and left for dead. However, his immortality saves him once again, and he wakes up to find himself in Japan, where he is rescued by a group of samurai.
Casca soon learns that Japan is in the midst of a power struggle between various feudal lords, each vying for control of the country. He becomes embroiled in this conflict, initially fighting for a lord named Oda Nobunaga. However, Casca quickly realizes that Nobunaga is a cruel and ruthless man who cares little for the lives of his soldiers or his enemies. Casca eventually switches sides and fights for another lord named Takeda Shingen, who is more honorable and just.
As Casca becomes more deeply involved in the politics of Japan, he also becomes romantically involved with a young Japanese woman named Chiaki. Their relationship is complicated by their cultural differences, as well as the fact that Casca is immortal and will never age while Chiaki will grow old and die.
One of the strengths of the novel is the way in which Sadler brings the world of 16th-century Japan to life. He clearly did his research, and his descriptions of the culture, politics, and warfare of the time are vivid and engaging. The battles in particular are well-written, with detailed descriptions of the weapons and tactics used by the samurai.
Another strength of the novel is the character of Casca himself. He is a complex and conflicted character, grappling with the weight of his immortality and the guilt he feels for the sins he has committed over the centuries. Sadler does a good job of showing Casca's internal struggles while also keeping the plot moving forward.
However, the novel also has its weaknesses. One of the main issues is the pacing. The novel is over 400 pages long, and at times it feels like it drags on. There are several sections where the plot seems to stall, and the action doesn't pick up again until much later. Additionally, the romance between Casca and Chiaki feels somewhat forced and underdeveloped. It's clear that Sadler wanted to include a romantic subplot, but it doesn't quite work within the larger context of the novel.
Overall, Casca 3: The War Lord is a decent adventure novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and action. While it has its flaws, the strengths of the novel - the detailed descriptions of Japan and the complex character of Casca - make it worth reading.
“Casca 6: The Persian” is the sixth book in the Casca series written by Barry Sadler. The book is a historical fiction that takes place during the Persian Empire. The story follows the adventures of Casca, an immortal soldier who has been cursed by Jesus Christ to live forever as punishment for being the Roman soldier who pierced his side with a spear during the crucifixion.
The book opens with Casca living as a merchant in Persia. However, his peaceful life is soon interrupted by the arrival of a new emperor, Darius III. The emperor is determined to conquer the world and Casca finds himself caught up in the conflict. He joins the Persian army and sets out to conquer Greece.
The first thing that strikes the reader is Sadler's attention to detail. The author does a great job of describing the historical setting, including the geography, culture, and politics of the Persian Empire. This makes the story come alive and helps the reader understand the context in which the events are taking place.
Another strong point of the book is its action sequences. The battles are described in vivid detail, with plenty of blood and gore to satisfy fans of the genre. Sadler also does a great job of conveying the chaos and confusion of the battlefield, as well as the strategic thinking required to win a battle.
However, the book also has its weaknesses. One of the biggest issues is the lack of character development. Casca is a one-dimensional character who is only interested in fighting and survival. He has no emotional depth or complexity, which makes it hard for the reader to empathize with him. The other characters in the book are also fairly two-dimensional, and it's hard to care about them.
Another weakness is the plot. While the story is engaging and action-packed, it is also predictable. The reader can see the twists and turns coming, which takes away from the suspense of the story. Additionally, the ending is unsatisfying and leaves many loose ends, which may frustrate some readers.
In conclusion, “Casca 6: The Persian” is an enjoyable read for fans of historical fiction and action-packed stories. The author's attention to detail and ability to describe battle scenes are both strong points of the book. However, the lack of character development and predictable plot may turn off some readers. Overall, while not a masterpiece, it's a solid entry in the Casca series that delivers on its promises.
"Stuff Matters" by Mark Miodownik is a fascinating book that delves into the science behind the materials that make up the world around us. From the concrete in our buildings to the glass in our windows, Miodownik explains how each material has a unique history and a specific set of properties that make it useful for certain applications.
The book is divided into chapters, each one focused on a different material. Miodownik starts with steel, the most important material of the modern age, and explains its properties, history, and uses. He then moves on to explore other materials such as concrete, paper, chocolate, and even diamonds. Each chapter is filled with interesting anecdotes and stories about the materials, making it easy to become engrossed in the subject matter.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is the way Miodownik weaves in personal experiences and stories. For example, he recounts a childhood memory of being stabbed with a pencil and how that led him to become fascinated with the properties of materials. He also shares stories of his travels to visit the factories and workshops where the materials are made, giving readers a firsthand look at the processes involved in creating the materials we use every day.
Another strength of the book is the way Miodownik connects the science of materials to broader historical and cultural trends. For example, he explains how the invention of the Bessemer converter revolutionized the production of steel and helped to fuel the Industrial Revolution. He also explores how the properties of glass have influenced the design of buildings and how the development of plastic has transformed modern life.
Overall, "Stuff Matters" is an engaging and informative book that offers a unique perspective on the materials that surround us. Miodownik's writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy for readers of all backgrounds to understand the science behind the materials. The stories and personal anecdotes help to bring the subject matter to life, while the broader historical and cultural context provides a deeper understanding of the materials and their impact on our world. If you're interested in science, engineering, or simply curious about the materials that make up the world around us, "Stuff Matters" is definitely worth a read.
The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most widely read and revered texts of Hinduism, and is considered a spiritual guide for many people around the world. Stephen Mitchell's translation of the Bhagavad Gita is a beautiful and insightful rendering of this timeless classic.
Mitchell's translation is smooth and accessible, making the text easy to understand for modern readers. He uses simple language and avoids overly technical or academic terminology, which makes the book a great introduction to the text for those who are new to it.
One of the strengths of Mitchell's translation is his ability to capture the essence of the Gita's teachings in a way that is both concise and profound. He manages to convey the complexity and depth of the original text in a way that is easily digestible for modern readers.
Mitchell's commentary on the text is also insightful and thought-provoking. He provides context and background information that helps readers understand the cultural and historical context in which the Gita was written, and he also offers his own interpretations of the text based on his extensive knowledge of Hinduism and other spiritual traditions.
One of the most compelling aspects of Mitchell's translation is his emphasis on the practical applications of the Gita's teachings. He does not shy away from the text's more esoteric concepts, but he always brings them back to the real-world implications for our lives. He emphasizes that the Gita is not just a theoretical treatise, but a practical guide for living a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Another strength of Mitchell's translation is his attention to the poetic beauty of the original text. He captures the lyrical quality of the Sanskrit verses in his English translation, and his use of language is both elegant and evocative.
While Mitchell's translation is excellent overall, there are a few potential drawbacks to be aware of. For one, some readers may find his commentary a bit too interpretive at times. Mitchell offers his own opinions and perspectives on the text, which may not always align with the reader's own understanding or beliefs.
Additionally, while Mitchell's translation is accessible and easy to read, some readers may prefer a more literal translation that adheres more closely to the original Sanskrit. Mitchell's translation sacrifices some of the literal accuracy in favor of readability and poetic quality, which may not be to everyone's taste.
Overall, Stephen Mitchell's translation of the Bhagavad Gita is an excellent introduction to this classic text. His smooth and accessible language, insightful commentary, and emphasis on practical applications make this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking spiritual guidance or interested in the rich traditions of Hinduism.
"Entangled Life" by Merlin Sheldrake is a fascinating exploration of the world of fungi and their importance to the natural world. The book challenges the traditional view of fungi as mere decomposers and instead presents a much more complex and interconnected picture of their role in the ecosystem.
Sheldrake's writing is engaging and often poetic, weaving together science, philosophy, and personal anecdotes to create a captivating narrative. He begins by introducing readers to the basics of fungal biology, explaining the unique features that make fungi so essential to life on earth. From there, he delves into the fascinating world of mycorrhizal fungi, which form symbiotic relationships with plant roots and help them absorb nutrients from the soil.
One of the most interesting aspects of "Entangled Life" is the way it highlights the interconnectedness of all living things. Sheldrake explains how fungi not only form partnerships with plants, but also play important roles in the diets of animals and humans. He explores the way that fungi have been used throughout history for everything from food and medicine to spiritual practices and psychedelic experiences.
Throughout the book, Sheldrake also touches on some of the darker aspects of human interaction with fungi, such as the devastation wrought by diseases like Dutch elm disease and chestnut blight. He discusses the importance of understanding and protecting fungal diversity, particularly in light of the threats posed by climate change and habitat destruction.
Perhaps the most intriguing section of the book is Sheldrake's exploration of the "wood wide web," the intricate network of mycorrhizal fungi that connects trees and other plants in a forest. He explains how these networks allow trees to communicate with one another, sharing nutrients and even warning one another of threats like insect infestations. Sheldrake also touches on the growing field of research into the potential uses of fungi in bioremediation, mycoremediation, and other forms of environmental cleanup.
Overall, "Entangled Life" is a beautifully written and thoroughly researched book that offers a fresh perspective on the natural world. Sheldrake's passion for fungi is infectious, and his writing is accessible enough to appeal to a wide range of readers. Anyone with an interest in biology, ecology, or the environment will find much to enjoy in this thought-provoking and insightful book.
