Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Definitive Israel-Palestine Reader by BD Publishing is a comprehensive anthology that spans the history, politics, and cultural dynamics of one of the world’s most enduring conflicts. This meticulously compiled work is a historical and educational resource, offering a balanced presentation of the multifaceted issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The anthology is organized into structured sections that cover various periods and themes, ranging from early Zionist movements to contemporary debates on statehood and sovereignty. It includes a variety of perspectives, featuring writings from influential figures, pivotal historical documents, and insightful analyses, which collectively trace the evolution of the region’s political landscape.

One of the standout qualities of this book is its impartiality. BD Publishing has gone to great lengths to include diverse voices, featuring Israeli and Palestinian writers alongside international commentators, ensuring readers grasp the complexities of the conflict without bias. This approach enhances readers’ understanding and underscores the importance of dialogue in tackling such deeply rooted issues. The anthology doesn’t shy away from the conflict’s contentious and often painful realities. It presents a candid examination of the violent upheavals, the diplomatic struggles, and the human costs involved. However, it also emphasizes instances of cooperation and continuous efforts toward peace, providing a ray of hope in the frequently grim narrative. Educators, students, and anyone interested in Middle Eastern politics will find The Definitive Israel-Palestine Reader an invaluable resource. Its exhaustive scope makes it an essential scholarly reference for understanding the past and present of this complex conflict. It is a reminder of the multifaceted nature of historical narratives. Whether used as an academic resource or a personal study guide, this anthology represents the enduring search for peace in a region marked by turmoil.

Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

Our modern world was shaped by the Industrial Revolution, a phenomenon that emerged during the late 18th century. Productivity increased due to the use of machinery and the investment of capital, holding the promise of a better life for all. Dr. Peter Brews examines the events that followed in detail in Lead, Follow, or Fail. The listed subtitle summarizes the subject matter perfectly, and the book broadly divides the analysis into three periods: pre-Industrial Revolution (before 1800), the industrial era (1800 to 1950), and post-Industrial Revolution (after 1950). Previously, the feudal system had prevailed, characterized by disease, serfdom, slavery, short life expectancy, colonization, and corruption. The churches, royalty, landlords, and rich merchants dominated it. The Dark Ages showed almost no growth in production. Living standards remained largely unchanged, but the post-Renaissance period provided new hope. The early leaders were Britain, Western Europe, and North America, which built infrastructure such as factories, power generation, roads, and railways. Peasant farmers moved from subsistence agriculture to find paid work in the factories of the growing cities. The role of agriculture diminished, machines eventually replaced labor, and a service-based economy emerged. Nation-building took place, leading to stability and higher living standards. Politics and business became uneasy bedfellows. A new age had dawned, but with it came new challenges.

Lead, Follow, or Fail records how a few countries pioneered economic development through industrialization. These were followed by emerging economies, notably in the east and more recently in the southern hemisphere. The followers could learn from the leaders. The rest remained in the failure category. The role of entrepreneurs like Christopher Columbus, Henry Ford, and Bill Gates is reviewed and reveals a sharp divergence in motivation and style. The unequal spread of global production is stark, and the distribution of income among individuals is more so. Growth declines as an economy matures. Sustaining the struggle for increased productivity is difficult, and there is a growing gap. Threats are outlined and vary from meteor strikes to climate change, energy use and pollution, increasingly scarce resources, a rise in national debt, dollar weakness, rising labor costs, changing demographics, to the challenge posed by robots or AI taking over jobs. It is becoming harder to predict the future, and recent political developments in America have added uncertainty. Dr. Peter Brews is a noted academic who has conducted detailed and insightful research into this defining period, which is presented with statistical data from selected countries to illustrate his analysis. He highlights trends and asks searching questions. Are the majority of humans better off now, as half of the world’s population still lives in a pre-industrial world? This incisive look into economic history will be a textbook for students and provide a wider understanding to a broader audience. I enjoyed the book and its insights.

Reviewed by C.R. Hurst for Readers' Favorite

Nikola Tesla is perhaps best known as an inventor, having created many of the technologies that have helped make the modern world, such as the alternating current power system, the Tesla coil, and many other inventions in radio, fluorescent lights, and wireless communication. However, author Barbara Daddino’s Tesla’s Cottage takes a decidedly more personal approach to the inventor. In it, she shows readers an intimate perspective of the great Serbian known as “The Wizard” by combining research about his time on Long Island Sound with her acquisition of a cottage that he reportedly owned during the early 20th century. Part biography, part personal narrative, and part investigative journalism, Tesla’s Cottage offers an engaging and affecting look at one of history’s most misunderstood geniuses.

What I appreciated the most about the book is Barbara Daddino’s ability to recreate America’s Gilded Age and its preoccupation with wealth, with which Tesla, a man of science, often finds himself at odds, despite his need to acquire funds from robber barons such as J.P. Morgan. I also loved the descriptions of the Wardenclyffe retreat, where Tesla and other prominent intellectuals (women’s suffrage leader, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, for one) spent summers. There, Tesla hoped to establish a community of like-minded progressives and to create a laboratory where he could develop his radio communication system. In Tesla’s Cottage, Daddino herself creates a wonderful profile of a complex man in a magical place where he still inspires others with his intelligence, integrity, and creative energy. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Captain Kidd by Samuel Marquis takes a fresh look at the man behind the legend, showing that William Kidd wasn’t just some ruthless pirate—he was actually a respected privateer who got tangled up in political games that ruined his life. Marquis dives deep into Kidd’s world, exploring his impressive naval career, his powerful connections, and how he went from being a hero to a scapegoat. With many details and great storytelling, this book challenges the myths and makes you see Kidd as a real person stuck in the chaos of 17th-century politics, trying to do the right thing but being crushed by forces beyond his control.

Samuel Marquis makes history feel like a thrilling drama rather than a dry textbook lesson, and it completely changed how I see William Kidd. His research digs up fresh details that make you question everything you thought you knew about this so-called pirate. The writing pulls you in, making you feel like you’re right there on a creaky old ship or in a smoky colonial office where powerful people are making shady deals. Marquis mixes historical records, court documents, and firsthand accounts to tell a bigger story about justice, reputation, and how history is often shaped by the people in power. It’s packed with fascinating details but never feels overwhelming or slow. The way the author shows how a political spin can turn someone into a villain feels surprisingly relevant today. Overall, Captain Kidd is a great read for anyone who loves history, adventure, or just a great true story about how easily someone’s legacy can be rewritten, and I would certainly recommend it.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Beyond the Border: A Korean’s Journey between North and South is a heart-rending and horrific, yet ultimately triumphant tale of one man’s struggle to leave North Korea, seek education, and begin a new life in the democratic and free South. This is the personal memoir of Tae-hyok Kim transcribed by his granddaughter Nicole Kim Rogers based on journals, notes, and personal memories. The memoir spans from his early days on his family farm in North Korea to his daring trips across the 38th parallel, always at risk from North Korean border guards, to his years in the Republic of Korean Army (South) in the “forgotten war”, the United Nations action to stop the spread of communism on the Korean peninsula and ultimately the rest of Asia, to his attempts to seek an education at South Korea’s top universities, and ultimately his emigration to the United States and his attainment of his dream of an education and a new, free, democratic life. Tae-hyok Kim was just fifteen years old when he first made the perilous journey across the 38th parallel to seek work and education in the South Korean city of Seoul. Little did he realize, at the time, that eventually the 38th parallel and later the Demilitarized Zone would become an impassable barrier that would separate him from his parents and siblings forever. This story chronicles the amazing life and struggles of a young man seeking nothing more than freedom and the right to learn and grow without interference from ideologies and politics.

Beyond the Border is a uniquely personal story that chronicles the day-to-day struggles, dreams, and aspirations of an entire nation. Author Nicole Kim Rogers has done an amazingly empathetic and relatable job of bringing her grandfather’s fascinating and heroic story to life. So much of Tae-hyok Kim’s story evokes amazement at his courage, perseverance, indomitable spirit, and sheer determination to succeed against all the odds thrown at him. What came through in this incredible story is the disbelief of ordinary Korean people that a civilization that had lived on the peninsula unbroken for over two thousand years--the same people, culture, language, and shared history--could be split asunder by power-hungry rulers and political ideologies. I appreciated the early school days under Japanese rule when Tae-hyok Kim began to show glimpses of the determination and common sense that would serve him so well in future years, especially during his time in the South Korean Army. The portions that focused on the war years demonstrated the horrors of war, especially a war that pitted brother fighting against brother. That he was able to not only survive the privations, dangers, and horrors of this conflict plus his ensuing health issues and still retain his optimism and humanity are a real testimony to his character and his attitude. His meeting and subsequent marriage to Miss Lee was a sweet and innocent portion of what is a tough, uncompromising story and softened the narrative beautifully. Few stories have made such a deep impact on me. It has not only greatly expanded my understanding and knowledge of the history of the North vs South Korean conflict and the political machinations that led to the divide but it has filled me with understanding and hope, reminding me that all humanity is the same, with the same aspirations and dreams. This is a truly wonderful story that I cannot recommend highly enough.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club by Bainy Cyrus shares the vibrant history of the Women’s Club of Norfolk at the Martin Mansion. The Martin played host to The Woman’s Club for decades before it fell into bankruptcy and decline. There was a time when the club was the center of much activity. From hosting tea parties to wedding receptions, The Woman’s Club is full of history and stories of residents who spent a lifetime there and worked hard to restore the club to its glory days.

Author Bainy Cyrus takes readers back in time and on a journey into The Woman’s Club at the Martin Mansion. The moment I read the description of this book, I knew I would love it. The narrative is rich with details and history, the descriptions are transportive, and the pictures add more depth to it. Bainy Cyrus was meticulous about the information she shared with treaders. I learned a lot about the history of Martin Manor as well as The Woman’s Club and its activities, which was exactly what I expected from this book. Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club is perfect for any reader who enjoys learning about the history of landmarks in different cities and countries. There is nothing that I would want to change in this book. It is just perfect. Author Bainy Cyrus made sure her readers were fully immersed in the history of this beautiful mansion until the end. I certainly was!

Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite

Charles Serocold's aim in writing A History of the United States for Newcomers is to help immigrants assimilate into their new country. He accomplishes this and so much more! Over fifty million people who were born in another country live in the United States. Charles covers the period from before Europeans came to North America up to the present day. He discusses politics, social conventions, movements, crises, and famous people. He does not condemn but explains by stating facts about how America developed and its direction. His treatment of the events that led up to the Civil War is the best explanation that I have ever read. This history book does not have an agenda except to inform and prepare people to be better American citizens. At the end are several appendixes that give even more data to help one understand the United States.

A History of the United States for Newcomers by Charles Serocold presents US history in a non-judgmental, straightforward, and informal style. This book is a page-turner and I wanted to keep reading it. Each chapter is independent so they can be read in any order you desire. I have an MA in American History which means I have read many books on the subject. Charles’ book is one of the best American history books I have ever read. I would recommend this book not just for newcomers but for anyone who wants a thorough history that is not a commentary supporting political agendas but presents facts without judgment. I wish every high school in the US would adopt this book as their primary textbook for their American History courses. Thank you, Charles, for presenting a balanced and factual history of the greatest country in the world.

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

Confession by Nicholas Antony Parisi tells the true story of the "King of Bootleggers" Murder. The story of two mob families fighting each other for control and the murder of the "king of bootleggers" took the world by storm. Told by a member of the Parisi family, the whole sordid story is laid bare, including the murderous, corrupt journey of the mob's rise in Springfield, Massachusetts, during Prohibition. Lots of details are brought to light in this gripping account as you learn about how the King of Bootleggers was gunned down, one of the biggest trials in history, and plenty more gruesome details. This is a sensational story, brutal and bloody, but a true account of one of the biggest murders in mob history.

Confession: "King of Bootleggers" Murder by Nicholas Antony Parisi is one of the most gripping true crime stories I have ever read. Be warned: it is not for the faint-hearted. It is graphic in its detail and brings to light the horrors of mob life, the corruption within the mob families and on the outside, and the fascinating trial with a surprise request from the jury. This book will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish as Nicholas Parisi takes you behind the scenes, delving deep into his family history and offering never-before-heard details that shed light on a time most of us know nothing about. All the names are real, and all the details come from newspaper archives, trial documents, conversations with family members, and even the diary written by the alleged murderer. This is one story that will stay with you for a long time after you've finished reading it, and I highly recommend it for true crime aficionados and fans of mob thrillers.

Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite

J Arthur Moore's The Real Boys of the Civil War is a historical journey back to the American Civil War in a compilation of stories about boys who served in the war. These boys achieved some impressive feats despite enduring harsh prison conditions, sad losses on the battlegrounds, and the pain of war wounds. Ten-year-old Johnny Clem escaped capture after straying away from Newark, Ohio. Charles ‘Charley’ King was twelve when the Civil War began and was promoted to drum major of the field music of the Forty-Ninth Pennsylvania Regiment. Some of the boys pleaded to be soldiers and become drummer boys in the army, a decision many of their parents struggled with. Many of these boys, who had highly unrealistic, romantic expectations of war, faced daunting experiences as they lost their friends and struggled to hold on to their humanity amidst the chaos of war.

J Arthur Moore's writing is straightforward but thorough and filled with detailed information, including the ages of the boys and the time they joined their regiment. His insightful words are supported by letters, newspaper articles, journals, and even pictures that depict the youngsters more vividly. The horrors of war are made glaring with tales from witnesses of the Confederate prison camp, like sixteen-year-old Michael Dougherty, who was shocked by the sight of different torture instruments. The Real Boys of the Civil War will appeal to history enthusiasts and fans of military books. With every story and character examined, it becomes clearer just how devastating and wasteful war is to the human race. Thanks, Arthur, for shining a light on the sad cost of war and the sacrifices made by hundreds of thousands of boys in the American Civil War.

Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite

Relentless Hope: A True Story of War and Survival by David L Britt recounts Word War II from a prisoner of war’s (POW) point of view. Chester “Chet” Britt grew up adventurous, building aircraft and being part of the scouts. He was a math whiz and found the love of his life, Grace, just before he embarked on West Point as a Cadet. The day after Chet graduated from West Point in June 1940, he married Grace. However, the war soon requires Chet and other West Point graduates to be relocated to the Philippines to help fend off the Japanese. After trials of fighting in terrible heat with low supplies, Chet and his group finally surrendered. But this was only the start of the POW's most difficult time of the war, facing disease, malnutrition, and inhumane treatment from the Japanese.

David L Britt wrote Relentless Hope: A True Story of War and Survival to share a different side of World War II. David focuses on the experience the POWs had to go through and the survivor’s guilt the remnants of the captives had to live with afterward. The novel shows that comradeship can give one strength during difficult times. Praying and holding onto your family can bring you home in better shape than without it. David brings the emotions to life in the novel. The fear returning POWs had of rejection and how they handled the backlash from some civilians for surrendering during the war. David L Britt reminds us of what soldiers had to endure for us to live in a semi-state of harmony today.