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Backyard Politics
A Psychological Understanding of Today's Political and Social Divide
Craig Wiener
2025 Honorable Mention
316 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Backyard Politics: A Psychological Understanding of Today's Political and Social Divide by Craig B. Wiener is an analytical exploration of contemporary society's ideological rifts. Through the lens of two archetypal perspectives—the "Protectors," who prioritize systemic change and external remediation, and the "Promoters," who champion individual accountability and internal growth—Wiener constructs a compelling framework to understand the roots of social and political conflict. This dualistic analysis is central to the book, providing readers with a meaningful way to engage with complex societal issues. Readers are invited to reflect on political ideologies, their developmental journeys, and how these inform their worldviews.
Craig B. Wiener argues that the seeds of ideological divergence are often sown within family relationships, where early experiences of protection or independence shape our lifelong approaches to resolving conflict. This connection between personal upbringing and public ideology is fascinating and makes the book relatable to many audiences. Wiener excels in his effort to remain fair. While he clearly outlines the strengths and weaknesses of both the Protector and Promoter ideologies, his tone is never judgmental or dismissive. Instead, he highlights the sincere attempts of both sides to promote societal welfare, although they use different approaches. This approach makes the book an insightful read during polarized times. Backyard Politics is a call to empathy and understanding. It challenges readers to examine their assumptions critically, engage with opposing viewpoints, and seek common ground in pursuing a more harmonious society. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the interplay between ideology, personal experience, and collective progress. It will leave a lasting impression on those who approach it open-mindedly. I highly recommend it.
Backyard Politics: A Psychological Understanding of Today's Political and Social Divide by Craig B. Wiener is an analytical exploration of contemporary society's ideological rifts. Through the lens of two archetypal perspectives—the "Protectors," who prioritize systemic change and external remediation, and the "Promoters," who champion individual accountability and internal growth—Wiener constructs a compelling framework to understand the roots of social and political conflict. This dualistic analysis is central to the book, providing readers with a meaningful way to engage with complex societal issues. Readers are invited to reflect on political ideologies, their developmental journeys, and how these inform their worldviews.
Craig B. Wiener argues that the seeds of ideological divergence are often sown within family relationships, where early experiences of protection or independence shape our lifelong approaches to resolving conflict. This connection between personal upbringing and public ideology is fascinating and makes the book relatable to many audiences. Wiener excels in his effort to remain fair. While he clearly outlines the strengths and weaknesses of both the Protector and Promoter ideologies, his tone is never judgmental or dismissive. Instead, he highlights the sincere attempts of both sides to promote societal welfare, although they use different approaches. This approach makes the book an insightful read during polarized times. Backyard Politics is a call to empathy and understanding. It challenges readers to examine their assumptions critically, engage with opposing viewpoints, and seek common ground in pursuing a more harmonious society. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the interplay between ideology, personal experience, and collective progress. It will leave a lasting impression on those who approach it open-mindedly. I highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Reformer’s Dilemma
Ricardo Rosselló Nevares
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Reformer’s Dilemma is penned by author Ricardo Rosselló Nevares in the memoir, political consciousness, and sociocultural writing genres. This interesting personal account addresses the challenges of enacting meaningful reform in a polarized political landscape. Drawing from his experiences as a scientist, entrepreneur, and former governor, Nevares explores why society demands rapid change but often encounters standstills. He shares insights from significant events like Hurricane Maria and his time with President Trump. The book outlines three paths forward: understanding the Reformer’s Dilemma, creating a framework for effective reform, and empowering the moderate majority to become a political force. Nevares urges the silent majority to raise their voices and help depolarize societies.
Author Ricardo Rosselló Nevares puts heart and soul into the development of this interesting perspective on society, crafting a read that is both enlightening and inspiring. Nevares's firsthand accounts of handling crises, such as Hurricane Maria and managing a fiscal-economic crisis, provide a stark look into the complexities of leadership and reform with a strong yet friendly narrative tone that was deeply inviting. His critical analysis of the challenges faced in enacting change highlights the paradox reformers encounter: a demand for rapid change versus the inherent resistance to it. This concept is addressed in easy-to-understand terms that build and grow into a bigger picture as the work progresses. The proposed framework for reform is practical and insightful, offering valuable guidelines for policymakers and citizens alike. The concept of the ‘Radical Middle’ particularly resonated with me, emphasizing the potential power of the moderate majority in driving meaningful change, and Nevares’s call to action for this silent majority to step forward and engage in the political process is timely and motivating. Overall, The Reformer’s Dilemma is a compelling read that empowers readers to be active participants in shaping a more balanced and effective democratic society whilst also offering an engaging personal history to enjoy.
The Reformer’s Dilemma is penned by author Ricardo Rosselló Nevares in the memoir, political consciousness, and sociocultural writing genres. This interesting personal account addresses the challenges of enacting meaningful reform in a polarized political landscape. Drawing from his experiences as a scientist, entrepreneur, and former governor, Nevares explores why society demands rapid change but often encounters standstills. He shares insights from significant events like Hurricane Maria and his time with President Trump. The book outlines three paths forward: understanding the Reformer’s Dilemma, creating a framework for effective reform, and empowering the moderate majority to become a political force. Nevares urges the silent majority to raise their voices and help depolarize societies.
Author Ricardo Rosselló Nevares puts heart and soul into the development of this interesting perspective on society, crafting a read that is both enlightening and inspiring. Nevares's firsthand accounts of handling crises, such as Hurricane Maria and managing a fiscal-economic crisis, provide a stark look into the complexities of leadership and reform with a strong yet friendly narrative tone that was deeply inviting. His critical analysis of the challenges faced in enacting change highlights the paradox reformers encounter: a demand for rapid change versus the inherent resistance to it. This concept is addressed in easy-to-understand terms that build and grow into a bigger picture as the work progresses. The proposed framework for reform is practical and insightful, offering valuable guidelines for policymakers and citizens alike. The concept of the ‘Radical Middle’ particularly resonated with me, emphasizing the potential power of the moderate majority in driving meaningful change, and Nevares’s call to action for this silent majority to step forward and engage in the political process is timely and motivating. Overall, The Reformer’s Dilemma is a compelling read that empowers readers to be active participants in shaping a more balanced and effective democratic society whilst also offering an engaging personal history to enjoy.
Recommend this book:
Covid Wars
America's Struggle Over Public Health and Personal Freedom
Ronald Gruner
2025 Gold Medal
394 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Covid Wars: America's Struggle Over Public Health and Personal Freedom by Ronald Gruner discusses the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning with historical precedents like the 1918 Spanish Flu and President Bush's pandemic preparedness efforts in the 2000s. Gruner traces the evolution of virology, from the discovery of viruses by Ivanovsky and Beijerinck to the rapid spread of COVID-19. He details President Trump’s handling of the crisis, Operation Warp Speed, and the mixed messaging that fueled division. People like Dr. Scott W. Atlas, Gavin Newsom, and Dr. Deborah Birx are central to debates over lockdowns and public health mandates. Gruner also talks about vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and conspiracy theories, and speaks on how state policies, such as those in South Dakota and Vermont, led to varying death rates. Gruner examines the broader social and economic impacts, including unemployment, education disruption, and partisan divides in managing public health measures.
Ronald Gruner’s Covid Wars is a sharp, persuasive analysis of America’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing all that shaped the course of the crisis. Gruner’s writing is authoritative and accessible, and he's able to break some pretty complex topics down so they are straightforward and succinct. For me, given that my wife had a first cousin who died at the age of 22, not from COVID-19, but in a fatal car accident during lockdown, I was most impacted by his look at the phenomenon of "deaths of despair," which is primarily about COVID deaths caused by drug overdoses and suicides, but also vehicular casualties. I thought his critiques of the governmental failures at both the federal and state levels, especially the contrast between Republican states focused on personal freedom and Democratic states prioritizing public health measures, are the most insightful I have come across so far. Overall, Gruner's book is a solid, eye-opening reflection on how the pandemic exposed many of America’s deepest fractures, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the long-lasting impacts of the crisis. Very highly recommended.
Covid Wars: America's Struggle Over Public Health and Personal Freedom by Ronald Gruner discusses the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning with historical precedents like the 1918 Spanish Flu and President Bush's pandemic preparedness efforts in the 2000s. Gruner traces the evolution of virology, from the discovery of viruses by Ivanovsky and Beijerinck to the rapid spread of COVID-19. He details President Trump’s handling of the crisis, Operation Warp Speed, and the mixed messaging that fueled division. People like Dr. Scott W. Atlas, Gavin Newsom, and Dr. Deborah Birx are central to debates over lockdowns and public health mandates. Gruner also talks about vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and conspiracy theories, and speaks on how state policies, such as those in South Dakota and Vermont, led to varying death rates. Gruner examines the broader social and economic impacts, including unemployment, education disruption, and partisan divides in managing public health measures.
Ronald Gruner’s Covid Wars is a sharp, persuasive analysis of America’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing all that shaped the course of the crisis. Gruner’s writing is authoritative and accessible, and he's able to break some pretty complex topics down so they are straightforward and succinct. For me, given that my wife had a first cousin who died at the age of 22, not from COVID-19, but in a fatal car accident during lockdown, I was most impacted by his look at the phenomenon of "deaths of despair," which is primarily about COVID deaths caused by drug overdoses and suicides, but also vehicular casualties. I thought his critiques of the governmental failures at both the federal and state levels, especially the contrast between Republican states focused on personal freedom and Democratic states prioritizing public health measures, are the most insightful I have come across so far. Overall, Gruner's book is a solid, eye-opening reflection on how the pandemic exposed many of America’s deepest fractures, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the long-lasting impacts of the crisis. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
, many philosophical and ideological concepts ar...){kind=link}
Left Imperialism
From Cardinal Richelieu to Klaus Schwab
Gary Gindler
2024 Finalist
288 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
In a world where ideologies and stances on the political spectrum can quickly unite as well as alienate people, it is dangerous to pick a side without having a better understanding of what you choose to stand for. This is especially because of how, in our current generation (the twenty-first century), many philosophical and ideological concepts are viewed through a loose and flexible lens, blurring the lines defining their essence. This paints the political arena in shades of gray, triggering questions that beg to discern the fundamental values and beliefs of various political factions and instruments of power. Distinguishing political concepts such as Conservatism, Liberalism, Fascism, Marxism, and Anarchism, among others, Gary Gindler tracks the evolution of the “left” from the sixteenth century to the present, unveiling their true agenda masterfully masked behind their multiple manifestations in Left Imperialism: From Cardinal Richelieu to Klaus Schwab.
Gary Gindler’s Left Imperialism: From Cardinal Richelieu to Klaus Schwab is a must-read for lovers of political and philosophical works. With succinct and sophisticated prose, Gindler approaches the crux of the discourse open-mindedly, maintaining a sharp intellectual edge. I found the research and historical facts, alongside Gindler’s insight and a rich library of political and scientific knowledge, extensively enlightening. While the left masquerades as the saviors of the marginalized, they are totalitarians at heart and seek total power as their ultimate goal. It is interesting how they are deeply entrenched in a destructive dance of imperialism, holding the constitution and economy of the West hostage. Gindler is undisputedly a gifted author with a great understanding of philosophy and the intricate art of politics. This book will change your perspective on many aspects of the US and world politics.
In a world where ideologies and stances on the political spectrum can quickly unite as well as alienate people, it is dangerous to pick a side without having a better understanding of what you choose to stand for. This is especially because of how, in our current generation (the twenty-first century), many philosophical and ideological concepts are viewed through a loose and flexible lens, blurring the lines defining their essence. This paints the political arena in shades of gray, triggering questions that beg to discern the fundamental values and beliefs of various political factions and instruments of power. Distinguishing political concepts such as Conservatism, Liberalism, Fascism, Marxism, and Anarchism, among others, Gary Gindler tracks the evolution of the “left” from the sixteenth century to the present, unveiling their true agenda masterfully masked behind their multiple manifestations in Left Imperialism: From Cardinal Richelieu to Klaus Schwab.
Gary Gindler’s Left Imperialism: From Cardinal Richelieu to Klaus Schwab is a must-read for lovers of political and philosophical works. With succinct and sophisticated prose, Gindler approaches the crux of the discourse open-mindedly, maintaining a sharp intellectual edge. I found the research and historical facts, alongside Gindler’s insight and a rich library of political and scientific knowledge, extensively enlightening. While the left masquerades as the saviors of the marginalized, they are totalitarians at heart and seek total power as their ultimate goal. It is interesting how they are deeply entrenched in a destructive dance of imperialism, holding the constitution and economy of the West hostage. Gindler is undisputedly a gifted author with a great understanding of philosophy and the intricate art of politics. This book will change your perspective on many aspects of the US and world politics.
Recommend this book:
Psychosocial Political Dysfunction of the Republican Party
Dr. Daniel Brubaker
2024 Honorable Mention
306 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Constance Stadler for Readers' Favorite
Set apart from a host of contemporary political critiques, Psychosocial Political Dysfunction Disorder of the Republican Party employs a mode of analysis through the lens of widespread neuropathology. Daniel Brubaker’s approach is more persuasive than many texts grounded in political history, which detail institutionalized corruption from an alternative perspective. The well-documented contention that a powerful political faction is composed of leaders who innately disregard facts and evince a mindset that mars the healthy growth of toddlers alone is a clarion call. The book cogently presents the consequences of extensive anti-social behaviors in Republican representatives, supported by a wealth of evidence and case studies. The difference between promoting the greatest good and party fidelity as the polar opposite is particularly telling. In explaining the retention of followers through various means, the promotion of mass delusions, and deliberately minimizing individualism, the harm is evident.
One of the most compelling themes of the book is the evolution of the Party of Lincoln into what currently exists. The observation that President Trump is not a symptom of the Republican Party but rather its epitome—the standard of measure for Congressional Republicans—is a strong point. Daniel Brubaker effectively indicates the importance of that distinction, which explains how the past administration successfully disregarded the COVID pandemic, resulting in unnecessary loss of life. In addition to an extensive critique, ethical Republicans such as Romney and McCain are profiled. Democrats are not exempt from recommendations for improvement, such as their need to distinguish their support for social democracy, which embraces capitalism, to counter Republican attacks. In its comprehensive, balanced approach, extensive evidential support, and unique vantage point, Psychosocial Political Dysfunction Disorder of the Republican Party is highly recommended for Americans of every political persuasion.
Set apart from a host of contemporary political critiques, Psychosocial Political Dysfunction Disorder of the Republican Party employs a mode of analysis through the lens of widespread neuropathology. Daniel Brubaker’s approach is more persuasive than many texts grounded in political history, which detail institutionalized corruption from an alternative perspective. The well-documented contention that a powerful political faction is composed of leaders who innately disregard facts and evince a mindset that mars the healthy growth of toddlers alone is a clarion call. The book cogently presents the consequences of extensive anti-social behaviors in Republican representatives, supported by a wealth of evidence and case studies. The difference between promoting the greatest good and party fidelity as the polar opposite is particularly telling. In explaining the retention of followers through various means, the promotion of mass delusions, and deliberately minimizing individualism, the harm is evident.
One of the most compelling themes of the book is the evolution of the Party of Lincoln into what currently exists. The observation that President Trump is not a symptom of the Republican Party but rather its epitome—the standard of measure for Congressional Republicans—is a strong point. Daniel Brubaker effectively indicates the importance of that distinction, which explains how the past administration successfully disregarded the COVID pandemic, resulting in unnecessary loss of life. In addition to an extensive critique, ethical Republicans such as Romney and McCain are profiled. Democrats are not exempt from recommendations for improvement, such as their need to distinguish their support for social democracy, which embraces capitalism, to counter Republican attacks. In its comprehensive, balanced approach, extensive evidential support, and unique vantage point, Psychosocial Political Dysfunction Disorder of the Republican Party is highly recommended for Americans of every political persuasion.
Recommend this book:
So You Want To Be An Oligarch
A Go-Getting Guide For The Purposeful Plutocrat
C.T. Jackson
2024 Bronze Medal
200 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
So You Want To Be An Oligarch is C.T. Jackson's satirical examination of oligarchy and the atrocities of capitalism. Jackson's profound exploration of oligarchy enables us to understand how different oligarchs in both historical and present times have succeeded in creating their wealth, whether it's tech billionaires who earn much more than their employees or the richest rulers in history who use force and violence to stay in power. The book calls attention to how money has become the major tool used to determine our worth as humans and the sad repercussions of this, including human trafficking and what is referred to as 'the world's oldest profession.' We also see how various companies employ some questionable practices to keep their profits up, such as commercializing water and other natural resources, industrial espionage, lobbying, and more.
I found myself laughing and shaking my head wearily as I read C.T. Jackson's book. Though his words are dripping with sarcastic and stinging humor, his views are rooted in logic and a profound examination of historical powers, including leaders from ancient Africa, Asia, and Europe. Readers who love to think outside the box and ponder uncomfortable truths will love the pertinent, critical messages, such as the irony of becoming rich to give it back to the poor when death comes knocking. The book covers a wide range of topics and themes, including politics, corruption, environmental exploitation, wealth disparity, and Covid-19. Jackson's special gift, So You Want To Be An Oligarch, is a call to all readers to look deep into what makes us human. Its examination of oligarchy is a timely paradigm shifter that mirrors the rate at which our rights and freedoms are sold to the rich few.
So You Want To Be An Oligarch is C.T. Jackson's satirical examination of oligarchy and the atrocities of capitalism. Jackson's profound exploration of oligarchy enables us to understand how different oligarchs in both historical and present times have succeeded in creating their wealth, whether it's tech billionaires who earn much more than their employees or the richest rulers in history who use force and violence to stay in power. The book calls attention to how money has become the major tool used to determine our worth as humans and the sad repercussions of this, including human trafficking and what is referred to as 'the world's oldest profession.' We also see how various companies employ some questionable practices to keep their profits up, such as commercializing water and other natural resources, industrial espionage, lobbying, and more.
I found myself laughing and shaking my head wearily as I read C.T. Jackson's book. Though his words are dripping with sarcastic and stinging humor, his views are rooted in logic and a profound examination of historical powers, including leaders from ancient Africa, Asia, and Europe. Readers who love to think outside the box and ponder uncomfortable truths will love the pertinent, critical messages, such as the irony of becoming rich to give it back to the poor when death comes knocking. The book covers a wide range of topics and themes, including politics, corruption, environmental exploitation, wealth disparity, and Covid-19. Jackson's special gift, So You Want To Be An Oligarch, is a call to all readers to look deep into what makes us human. Its examination of oligarchy is a timely paradigm shifter that mirrors the rate at which our rights and freedoms are sold to the rich few.
Recommend this book:
Undermining the U.S. Constitution
Diane S. Vann
2024 Silver Medal
188 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
The rest of the world sees the United States of America as the home of the brave, the land of the free, and a bastion of democracy. This mirage might appear to be the case when you look at the headlines of the news dailies, but sadly, the truth is far from it. An insidious presence has slowly crept into our psyche as a nation, eating into our morals, changing our way of life from the inside, and turning our beloved home into something it is not. That cancer is communism, and it is more widespread than any of you can imagine. Diane S. Vann has watched the signs and compiled a ton of evidence to bolster this disturbing trend that we must end before it is too late. She reveals all in Undermining The US Constitution.
With the help of facts and a comprehensive explanation of Karl Marx's teachings regarding communism, Diane S. Vann strikes down all our once-sacrosanct assumptions about the kind of democracy that our government upholds. In addition to fascinating observations that readers will undoubtedly want to delve into -- to form their own independent opinions on why she sincerely believes the Democratic Party's past proves that they may not have the interests of American citizens at heart in the long run -- there are some insightful pictures of her experiences visiting West Berlin in the wake of the Second World War. What remains consistent is Vann's remarkable level of research effort and the clarity of her explanations. I may not agree with everything she says, but I must admit there is more than enough evidence for readers to take a closer look at Undermining The US Constitution.
The rest of the world sees the United States of America as the home of the brave, the land of the free, and a bastion of democracy. This mirage might appear to be the case when you look at the headlines of the news dailies, but sadly, the truth is far from it. An insidious presence has slowly crept into our psyche as a nation, eating into our morals, changing our way of life from the inside, and turning our beloved home into something it is not. That cancer is communism, and it is more widespread than any of you can imagine. Diane S. Vann has watched the signs and compiled a ton of evidence to bolster this disturbing trend that we must end before it is too late. She reveals all in Undermining The US Constitution.
With the help of facts and a comprehensive explanation of Karl Marx's teachings regarding communism, Diane S. Vann strikes down all our once-sacrosanct assumptions about the kind of democracy that our government upholds. In addition to fascinating observations that readers will undoubtedly want to delve into -- to form their own independent opinions on why she sincerely believes the Democratic Party's past proves that they may not have the interests of American citizens at heart in the long run -- there are some insightful pictures of her experiences visiting West Berlin in the wake of the Second World War. What remains consistent is Vann's remarkable level of research effort and the clarity of her explanations. I may not agree with everything she says, but I must admit there is more than enough evidence for readers to take a closer look at Undermining The US Constitution.
Recommend this book:
Infectious Injustice
The True Story of Survival and Loss against Corruption, the COVID-19 Disaster inside of San Quentin, and the Dumpster Fire that is Known as Mass Incarceration
Justin Cook
2024 Gold Medal
898 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Infectious Injustice is an autobiography that details ‘The True Story of Survival and Loss against Corruption, the COVID-19 Disaster inside of San Quentin, and the Dumpster Fire that is Known as Mass Incarceration’. It is best suited to mature readers owing to explicit content and adult references throughout. Penned by author Justin Cook, the work is a powerful, firsthand account of life inside San Quentin, one of the most notorious prisons in the United States. Through his gripping narrative, Cook takes readers on an intense and often harrowing journey, providing a unique perspective on the flaws and injustices of the American prison system.
Author Justin Cook’s honest and powerful work serves as a shocking exposé of the issues within San Quentin and the larger problem of mass incarceration whilst also telling a tale of resilience, endurance, and keeping one’s dignity despite injustice. What I really admired about the tone of the narrative was the fact that Cook doesn't hold back, addressing the corruption, oppression, racism, and fear that are prevalent in the prison environment. He combines a dry and often dark humor with an impressive sense of stoicism to paint a vivid picture of the inmates' daily struggles, including hunger strikes, malnutrition, and the threat of COVID-19. I found the resilience and camaraderie among the inmates particularly touching, especially when they are faced with adversity and often have nobody but one another to turn to. Cook's tale is a testament to the human spirit's endurance, loyalty, and quest for dignity in a system that often treats prisoners as less than human. Overall, Infectious Injustice is not just a well-penned story of survival but also a call to action, challenging the preconceived notions about the incarcerated and the flawed approach to rehabilitation within the prison system. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Infectious Injustice is an autobiography that details ‘The True Story of Survival and Loss against Corruption, the COVID-19 Disaster inside of San Quentin, and the Dumpster Fire that is Known as Mass Incarceration’. It is best suited to mature readers owing to explicit content and adult references throughout. Penned by author Justin Cook, the work is a powerful, firsthand account of life inside San Quentin, one of the most notorious prisons in the United States. Through his gripping narrative, Cook takes readers on an intense and often harrowing journey, providing a unique perspective on the flaws and injustices of the American prison system.
Author Justin Cook’s honest and powerful work serves as a shocking exposé of the issues within San Quentin and the larger problem of mass incarceration whilst also telling a tale of resilience, endurance, and keeping one’s dignity despite injustice. What I really admired about the tone of the narrative was the fact that Cook doesn't hold back, addressing the corruption, oppression, racism, and fear that are prevalent in the prison environment. He combines a dry and often dark humor with an impressive sense of stoicism to paint a vivid picture of the inmates' daily struggles, including hunger strikes, malnutrition, and the threat of COVID-19. I found the resilience and camaraderie among the inmates particularly touching, especially when they are faced with adversity and often have nobody but one another to turn to. Cook's tale is a testament to the human spirit's endurance, loyalty, and quest for dignity in a system that often treats prisoners as less than human. Overall, Infectious Injustice is not just a well-penned story of survival but also a call to action, challenging the preconceived notions about the incarcerated and the flawed approach to rehabilitation within the prison system. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Recommend this book:
American Grit
From a Japanese American Concentration Camp Rises an American War Hero
John Suzuki
2023 Finalist
194 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite
Japanese-American Shiro Kashino was one of the thousands of people captured and held at Minidoka, a former United States concentration camp. Ten camps were created after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when America declared Japanese Americans on the West Coast to be “resident aliens.” It became everyone’s job to make Minidoka comfortable and livable, and it was here that Shiro met his future wife, Louise Kashino. Shiro joined the United States Army with 6000 men as they needed Japanese-American volunteers to serve and fight in World War II, going to war for the same government that imprisoned him. He would later be regarded as one of the most gallant soldiers of the 442nd Division. The Lost Battalion of the Alamo Regiment was saved by the Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team in a victory that would become recognized as one of the greatest battles in American history. Thanks to author John Suzuki, the rest of the world will learn what American Grit is.
I commend John Suzuki for his dedication and commitment to completing this historical, educational story and including the most beautiful photos. John has fulfilled Kashino’s wish that the experience of Japanese Americans and the valor of the 442nd RCT during World War II never be forgotten. Readers will appreciate the time and effort it must have taken John to complete his research, travel to various towns, and compile all the information he gathered along the way. John has also included original documents and references for further reading. American Grit is well-written, smooth flowing, and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended to people of all ages.
Japanese-American Shiro Kashino was one of the thousands of people captured and held at Minidoka, a former United States concentration camp. Ten camps were created after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when America declared Japanese Americans on the West Coast to be “resident aliens.” It became everyone’s job to make Minidoka comfortable and livable, and it was here that Shiro met his future wife, Louise Kashino. Shiro joined the United States Army with 6000 men as they needed Japanese-American volunteers to serve and fight in World War II, going to war for the same government that imprisoned him. He would later be regarded as one of the most gallant soldiers of the 442nd Division. The Lost Battalion of the Alamo Regiment was saved by the Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team in a victory that would become recognized as one of the greatest battles in American history. Thanks to author John Suzuki, the rest of the world will learn what American Grit is.
I commend John Suzuki for his dedication and commitment to completing this historical, educational story and including the most beautiful photos. John has fulfilled Kashino’s wish that the experience of Japanese Americans and the valor of the 442nd RCT during World War II never be forgotten. Readers will appreciate the time and effort it must have taken John to complete his research, travel to various towns, and compile all the information he gathered along the way. John has also included original documents and references for further reading. American Grit is well-written, smooth flowing, and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended to people of all ages.
Recommend this book:
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley
A Story of Love, Loss and Courage
Farhana Qazi
2023 Honorable Mention
176 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
Reviewed by Munir Muhammad for Readers' Favorite
In Secrets of the Kashmir Valley by American scholar Farhana Qazi, the author tells an unforgettable true story. It is about the women of the Kashmir Valley as peaceful protestors, political activists, and the prime victims of a brutal war. It is a place of great beauty and immense tragedy. It is also described as Paradise on Earth. But in this land of magic and myth, some madmen and militaries trample on Kashmir’s beauty. Kashmir is in the midst of an active conflict, unsettling and unpredictable. It is not about the politics of war, but the people living inside it. It shares the true, emotional, personal stories of women who struggle, sacrifice and survive against all odds. Every day, someone dies, someone is detained or someone disappears. After seven decades of war, Kashmiris go on living. They go to school. They fall in love. They get married. Many have children. They do what seems normal, despite the protests, politics, and paranoia of living in a place that is not free.
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley is a brilliant book that describes the author’s unique personal observations with a deep knowledge of the region, its people, and its culture to describe Kashmir. The author's bravery, open-mindedness, intelligence, and tenacity take her into danger, real lives, and raw emotions during her journey. It is a very daring story and the style of writing creates ample awareness of what is happening in Kashmir. It gives one the ability to sense other people's emotions and imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. Farhana Qazi's writing style is profound and provides insights into the veil of Kashmir. It gives a heart-breaking reminder that military occupation must end to allow the Kashmiri people to be free. It is so compelling that readers will end up reading the entire book in one sitting. This is a story that must be read by those who wish to understand the role of women in one of Asia’s longest-running wars, almost seven decades, and the motivations, lives, and thoughts of the women in Kashmir.
In Secrets of the Kashmir Valley by American scholar Farhana Qazi, the author tells an unforgettable true story. It is about the women of the Kashmir Valley as peaceful protestors, political activists, and the prime victims of a brutal war. It is a place of great beauty and immense tragedy. It is also described as Paradise on Earth. But in this land of magic and myth, some madmen and militaries trample on Kashmir’s beauty. Kashmir is in the midst of an active conflict, unsettling and unpredictable. It is not about the politics of war, but the people living inside it. It shares the true, emotional, personal stories of women who struggle, sacrifice and survive against all odds. Every day, someone dies, someone is detained or someone disappears. After seven decades of war, Kashmiris go on living. They go to school. They fall in love. They get married. Many have children. They do what seems normal, despite the protests, politics, and paranoia of living in a place that is not free.
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley is a brilliant book that describes the author’s unique personal observations with a deep knowledge of the region, its people, and its culture to describe Kashmir. The author's bravery, open-mindedness, intelligence, and tenacity take her into danger, real lives, and raw emotions during her journey. It is a very daring story and the style of writing creates ample awareness of what is happening in Kashmir. It gives one the ability to sense other people's emotions and imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. Farhana Qazi's writing style is profound and provides insights into the veil of Kashmir. It gives a heart-breaking reminder that military occupation must end to allow the Kashmiri people to be free. It is so compelling that readers will end up reading the entire book in one sitting. This is a story that must be read by those who wish to understand the role of women in one of Asia’s longest-running wars, almost seven decades, and the motivations, lives, and thoughts of the women in Kashmir.
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