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Recommend this book:
Let There Be Us
A Journey into Yourself
JC Ramos Paulino
2020 Finalist
220 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Let There Be Us: A Journey into Yourself by JC Ramos Paulino is a thought-provoking, soul-stirring book that asks essential questions about who we really are and provides surprising answers that will set readers on the path to self-realization and redefining their purpose. The book begins with the question: Why are you here? It is a question that most people hardly consider and one that provides a perspective for a life of meaning and fulfillment. The author discusses the systems that have been used to phrase an answer to this question. I particularly loved the author’s take on growth vs the concepts of success and failure and how the growth process aligns with the quest for meaning. In this book, readers are provided with the tools to understand the “why” of their existence, a new approach to identity, and articulates intelligently on a variety of topics like roles and how they relate to the conscious mind and many others.
JC Ramos Paulino is a great writer with the ability to engage readers, helping them understand how they think and why they think the way they do, and the impact of their thoughts on the quality of their life. The author writes with authority on a variety of themes, including how we perceive reality, the right understanding of self-awareness, and how we experience time. In this book, readers will understand the two kinds of consciousness they are exposed to and how to use them to connect to their life’s goal. Let There Be Us: A Journey into Yourself is an insightful book that is filled with lessons and tools for readers. I found it to be a useful tool for redesigning my life, one of the books I needed at this point in life.
Let There Be Us: A Journey into Yourself by JC Ramos Paulino is a thought-provoking, soul-stirring book that asks essential questions about who we really are and provides surprising answers that will set readers on the path to self-realization and redefining their purpose. The book begins with the question: Why are you here? It is a question that most people hardly consider and one that provides a perspective for a life of meaning and fulfillment. The author discusses the systems that have been used to phrase an answer to this question. I particularly loved the author’s take on growth vs the concepts of success and failure and how the growth process aligns with the quest for meaning. In this book, readers are provided with the tools to understand the “why” of their existence, a new approach to identity, and articulates intelligently on a variety of topics like roles and how they relate to the conscious mind and many others.
JC Ramos Paulino is a great writer with the ability to engage readers, helping them understand how they think and why they think the way they do, and the impact of their thoughts on the quality of their life. The author writes with authority on a variety of themes, including how we perceive reality, the right understanding of self-awareness, and how we experience time. In this book, readers will understand the two kinds of consciousness they are exposed to and how to use them to connect to their life’s goal. Let There Be Us: A Journey into Yourself is an insightful book that is filled with lessons and tools for readers. I found it to be a useful tool for redesigning my life, one of the books I needed at this point in life.
Recommend this book:
Hello? G-d?
An Exploration of Life's Most Fundamental Question (Core Emunah Book 1)
Shlomo Ben Zeev
2020 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Hello? G-d?: An Exploration of Life's Most Fundamental Question by Shlomo Ben Zeev is the first book in the author's Core Emmuna series. In this installment, Ben Zeev addresses the singular question of whether or not there is a higher power, lending his extensive knowledge of the Torah and the practical application of both science and general philosophy to answering it. Ben Zeev has compiled supporting passages and texts into the body of this enlightening piece of work and presented a highly convincing study of (and explanations in favor of) one of the most compelling questions asked by mankind.
Hello? G-d? is a genuinely enlightening read for even those with just a casual interest in "Life's Most Fundamental Question". For those such as myself who share in Shlomo Ben Zeev's desire to dig deeper, this book is wonderfully engrossing. I think what I appreciated most is that throughout the narrative Ben Zeev presents answers without the fluff that often accompanies theology books. He offers clarity and concise arguments and examples with a simple straightforwardness that serves to enhance his points while still remaining faithful to the sources (ie: " You cannot make life from something that is not alive."). To say I'm intrigued is something of an understatement. There's no question I will be looking forward to the next two books in the Core Emmuna series, and would absolutely recommend this first segment to all who have an interest in scratching beneath the surface in search of answers to a complex question.
Hello? G-d?: An Exploration of Life's Most Fundamental Question by Shlomo Ben Zeev is the first book in the author's Core Emmuna series. In this installment, Ben Zeev addresses the singular question of whether or not there is a higher power, lending his extensive knowledge of the Torah and the practical application of both science and general philosophy to answering it. Ben Zeev has compiled supporting passages and texts into the body of this enlightening piece of work and presented a highly convincing study of (and explanations in favor of) one of the most compelling questions asked by mankind.
Hello? G-d? is a genuinely enlightening read for even those with just a casual interest in "Life's Most Fundamental Question". For those such as myself who share in Shlomo Ben Zeev's desire to dig deeper, this book is wonderfully engrossing. I think what I appreciated most is that throughout the narrative Ben Zeev presents answers without the fluff that often accompanies theology books. He offers clarity and concise arguments and examples with a simple straightforwardness that serves to enhance his points while still remaining faithful to the sources (ie: " You cannot make life from something that is not alive."). To say I'm intrigued is something of an understatement. There's no question I will be looking forward to the next two books in the Core Emmuna series, and would absolutely recommend this first segment to all who have an interest in scratching beneath the surface in search of answers to a complex question.
Recommend this book:
Magdalene Mysteries
The Left-Hand Path of the Feminine Christ
Seren Bertrand and Azra Bertrand
2020 Bronze Medal
560 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Mary Magdalene is one of the best known female biblical figures, and those familiar with her story have different images and impressions of her. In Magdalene Mysteries: The Left-Hand Path of the Feminine Christ, we are introduced to what is a non-canonical account of Mary Magdalene as the key figure in the work of Christ. From the same husband and wife team who brought us Womb Awakening, Seren Bertrand and Azra Bertrand, M.D. bring us the story of Mary Magdalene as the right hand of Christ in the Judeo-Christian religion and trace her profound knowledge of the mystical. Lavish with colored as well as black and white inserts of evocative images to offer an illuminated path to your reading, this book is a pilgrimage to the lesser-known life and times of Mary Magdalene. It delves into her priestess lineage, legacy, and historical imprints found in coded messages of literature, visual arts, and occult societies.
Seren and Azra Bertrand’s detailed accounts of Mary Magdalene’s lineage and the highlights of her authority as the feminine Christ can only be read in snippets from other historical accounts. Reading Magdalene Mysteries is not only an invitation to look behind the history of the influence of this woman from Magdala but an inquiry into the powerful role of women in general as well. It is an enticing spiritual journey on account of its soulful tone that appeals to your faculties, given that Mary Magdalene is an instinctive force and a spiritual essence. A love-infused magical journey to the life of a biblical figure that is worth examining, this is the right company for anyone who wants to dig deeper into the undocumented story of this biblical icon.
Mary Magdalene is one of the best known female biblical figures, and those familiar with her story have different images and impressions of her. In Magdalene Mysteries: The Left-Hand Path of the Feminine Christ, we are introduced to what is a non-canonical account of Mary Magdalene as the key figure in the work of Christ. From the same husband and wife team who brought us Womb Awakening, Seren Bertrand and Azra Bertrand, M.D. bring us the story of Mary Magdalene as the right hand of Christ in the Judeo-Christian religion and trace her profound knowledge of the mystical. Lavish with colored as well as black and white inserts of evocative images to offer an illuminated path to your reading, this book is a pilgrimage to the lesser-known life and times of Mary Magdalene. It delves into her priestess lineage, legacy, and historical imprints found in coded messages of literature, visual arts, and occult societies.
Seren and Azra Bertrand’s detailed accounts of Mary Magdalene’s lineage and the highlights of her authority as the feminine Christ can only be read in snippets from other historical accounts. Reading Magdalene Mysteries is not only an invitation to look behind the history of the influence of this woman from Magdala but an inquiry into the powerful role of women in general as well. It is an enticing spiritual journey on account of its soulful tone that appeals to your faculties, given that Mary Magdalene is an instinctive force and a spiritual essence. A love-infused magical journey to the life of a biblical figure that is worth examining, this is the right company for anyone who wants to dig deeper into the undocumented story of this biblical icon.
Recommend this book:
Picking Up The Shards
Healing the Pain of Mother-Wounds, Discovering the Mother-Heart of God
Anita M. Oommen
2020 Silver Medal
336 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
Picking Up The Shards by Anita M. Oommen is a poignant memoir that throws light on the author's traumatic experience of being rejected and abandoned by her mother and how she found solace in God during her times of trouble and struggle. The betrayal that she experienced helped her discover herself and led to the mother-heart of God where she realized God is also a mother to the motherless, literally and figuratively. Anita M. Oommen's vulnerability, honesty, and the glimpses into her personal life give awareness and details about her relationship with God, which is like the unconditional and sacrificial love of a father and the compassion and tenderness of a mother. Every chapter points readers towards recovery and healing, and the author's freedom from the tentacles of trauma and rejection that held her back from many aspects of life will inspire readers to discover God's maternal heart.
This book is about understanding, healing, and growing in relationships, and the author gives Reflection Questions and Words of Encouragement at the end of each chapter. This is a good tool for readers who are looking for recovery from trauma and self-healing. The personal stories and experiences shared in the book are heartbreaking, and they also testify to faith in hope and healing. The emotions are raw and honest and will encourage readers who find themselves in similar situations to go into their past and process the events slowly and practice compassion. Truth is bright and it is always important to reach out. This is a good book for those who are in the process of picking up the shards of their lives and getting past their traumas. Anita M. Oommen's story also gives voice to readers with similar stories and tells them that it is not too late to heal the past and build a future with resilience.
Picking Up The Shards by Anita M. Oommen is a poignant memoir that throws light on the author's traumatic experience of being rejected and abandoned by her mother and how she found solace in God during her times of trouble and struggle. The betrayal that she experienced helped her discover herself and led to the mother-heart of God where she realized God is also a mother to the motherless, literally and figuratively. Anita M. Oommen's vulnerability, honesty, and the glimpses into her personal life give awareness and details about her relationship with God, which is like the unconditional and sacrificial love of a father and the compassion and tenderness of a mother. Every chapter points readers towards recovery and healing, and the author's freedom from the tentacles of trauma and rejection that held her back from many aspects of life will inspire readers to discover God's maternal heart.
This book is about understanding, healing, and growing in relationships, and the author gives Reflection Questions and Words of Encouragement at the end of each chapter. This is a good tool for readers who are looking for recovery from trauma and self-healing. The personal stories and experiences shared in the book are heartbreaking, and they also testify to faith in hope and healing. The emotions are raw and honest and will encourage readers who find themselves in similar situations to go into their past and process the events slowly and practice compassion. Truth is bright and it is always important to reach out. This is a good book for those who are in the process of picking up the shards of their lives and getting past their traumas. Anita M. Oommen's story also gives voice to readers with similar stories and tells them that it is not too late to heal the past and build a future with resilience.
Recommend this book:
The Meaning of Life
A guide to finding your life's purpose
Nathanael Garrett Novosel
2020 Gold Medal
360 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Meaning of Life: A Guide to Finding Your Life's Purpose by Nathanael Garrett Novosel is a compelling work that provides tools for readers to find their purpose and to embrace it. While the title suggests a work that is motivational, the book is written from a scientific perspective and engages readers in honest conversations with themselves. I have read books that invite readers to discover the reason they are here, but very few provide clarity with regards to the path that readers can use to find their purpose. In this book, the author explores the different phases and moments of personal life and growth and redefines the concepts of growth, experience, desire, belief, emotions, ethics and support, and choice while showing the part that each of these plays in the individual’s discerning of their “why am I here?”
Nathanael Garrett Novosel is a great writer who asks existential questions like: "How did life come to be? How does life work? How should I live my life? And what should be my ultimate goal in life?” The book is filled with exercises that allow readers to determine whether they have a clear idea of what they are meant to do or not. The exercises are designed for the reader to dig deeper into themselves and identify what they really need. The book is written in an easy-to-read style that engages the reader right from the beginning. The Meaning of Life: A Guide to Finding Your Life's Purpose is an invaluable tool for finding the path in life and their place in the world. The idea of a meaningful life has captured many minds and those who don’t want to simply float through life will discover great tools to define their foothold in this book. Both inspiring and informative.
The Meaning of Life: A Guide to Finding Your Life's Purpose by Nathanael Garrett Novosel is a compelling work that provides tools for readers to find their purpose and to embrace it. While the title suggests a work that is motivational, the book is written from a scientific perspective and engages readers in honest conversations with themselves. I have read books that invite readers to discover the reason they are here, but very few provide clarity with regards to the path that readers can use to find their purpose. In this book, the author explores the different phases and moments of personal life and growth and redefines the concepts of growth, experience, desire, belief, emotions, ethics and support, and choice while showing the part that each of these plays in the individual’s discerning of their “why am I here?”
Nathanael Garrett Novosel is a great writer who asks existential questions like: "How did life come to be? How does life work? How should I live my life? And what should be my ultimate goal in life?” The book is filled with exercises that allow readers to determine whether they have a clear idea of what they are meant to do or not. The exercises are designed for the reader to dig deeper into themselves and identify what they really need. The book is written in an easy-to-read style that engages the reader right from the beginning. The Meaning of Life: A Guide to Finding Your Life's Purpose is an invaluable tool for finding the path in life and their place in the world. The idea of a meaningful life has captured many minds and those who don’t want to simply float through life will discover great tools to define their foothold in this book. Both inspiring and informative.
Recommend this book:
Moral Indignation
Embryonic Stem Cells, DNA, and Christians
Sherman P. Bastarache
2019 Finalist
314 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Moral Indignation: Embryonic Stem Cells, DNA, and Christians by Sherman P. Bastarache addresses many of the issues surrounding stem cell research and the religious arguments against it. While Bastarache begins by stating it's not possible to cover all of the disputes that arise on the subject, he undertakes every one I have heard and does so in the greatest of detail. Using a blend of biblical and religious verses in context and the application of science, Bastarache presents a compelling case about where the true balance lies between faith and reason, and how the misapplication of some beliefs have created an end result—literally the death of a living, fully formed person in order to preserve something not known conclusively to have a life or a soul—that runs counter to the underlying argument it is attempting to make.
Sherman P. Bastarache has compiled a meticulously researched and well written assertion in Moral Indignation. The science presented is mind-boggling and as a layperson it was often a bit too complex for me to fully grasp. That said, even without the same degree of comprehension I'd have liked, the information and evidence provided made Bastarache's point definitive for me. I believe it was in Chapter Seven: Impartment of a Soul, the moment I handed the book to my wife and told her she had to read it. The science cannot be ignored, but when it's paired with philosophy and good, old-fashioned common sense, it has to be shared. It has to be understood. It must be put into practice. I would recommend this book to all who are conflicted on the subject of stem cell research, and those who are looking for a true examination of what it means to be pro-life.
Moral Indignation: Embryonic Stem Cells, DNA, and Christians by Sherman P. Bastarache addresses many of the issues surrounding stem cell research and the religious arguments against it. While Bastarache begins by stating it's not possible to cover all of the disputes that arise on the subject, he undertakes every one I have heard and does so in the greatest of detail. Using a blend of biblical and religious verses in context and the application of science, Bastarache presents a compelling case about where the true balance lies between faith and reason, and how the misapplication of some beliefs have created an end result—literally the death of a living, fully formed person in order to preserve something not known conclusively to have a life or a soul—that runs counter to the underlying argument it is attempting to make.
Sherman P. Bastarache has compiled a meticulously researched and well written assertion in Moral Indignation. The science presented is mind-boggling and as a layperson it was often a bit too complex for me to fully grasp. That said, even without the same degree of comprehension I'd have liked, the information and evidence provided made Bastarache's point definitive for me. I believe it was in Chapter Seven: Impartment of a Soul, the moment I handed the book to my wife and told her she had to read it. The science cannot be ignored, but when it's paired with philosophy and good, old-fashioned common sense, it has to be shared. It has to be understood. It must be put into practice. I would recommend this book to all who are conflicted on the subject of stem cell research, and those who are looking for a true examination of what it means to be pro-life.
Recommend this book:
The Extended Hand
Marti Eicholz
2019 Honorable Mention
514 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Extended Hand by Marti Eicholz follows a woman’s quest for meaning and happiness. In this memoir, the daughter of a preacher — a man with a great sense of control over his family — tells her story and shows readers the constraints of love, her inability to nurture herself, because, like most of us, she yearned for acceptance. In retrospect, she takes readers on a journey that has powerful psychological implications, exploring how our need to please others and to gain approval can lead to our not being able to live a life of our own. In this narrative, she shares her fears, her struggles, and the epiphany that turned her life around. From declaring bankruptcy to finding inner freedom, Marti Eicholz explores her humanity and, in her story, she unveils the mistakes that stop most people from allowing the wellsprings of life to flow from the center of their being.
This is a moving memoir that follows an interesting journey to some of the most meaningful lessons in life. The author explores how our faith can become a limitation to exploring who we truly are and reaching deep within ourselves to claim our freedom. There are significant moments in this memoir and I enjoyed the connection the author has with Robert, the man she’s come to love and who helps her discover the beauty of love. Self-discovery, the freedom to love and be loved, family and friendship, and the quest for happiness are among the themes that are written into this story. What I loved most about The Extended Hand is the author's ability to take a retrospective look at her life and identify lessons and universal truths that compel readers to look at their choices in life and respond to the question: Am I living my life or am I living a life designed for someone else? The writing is atmospheric and the relationships are beautifully explored. A story that is both an eye-opener and a revelation.
The Extended Hand by Marti Eicholz follows a woman’s quest for meaning and happiness. In this memoir, the daughter of a preacher — a man with a great sense of control over his family — tells her story and shows readers the constraints of love, her inability to nurture herself, because, like most of us, she yearned for acceptance. In retrospect, she takes readers on a journey that has powerful psychological implications, exploring how our need to please others and to gain approval can lead to our not being able to live a life of our own. In this narrative, she shares her fears, her struggles, and the epiphany that turned her life around. From declaring bankruptcy to finding inner freedom, Marti Eicholz explores her humanity and, in her story, she unveils the mistakes that stop most people from allowing the wellsprings of life to flow from the center of their being.
This is a moving memoir that follows an interesting journey to some of the most meaningful lessons in life. The author explores how our faith can become a limitation to exploring who we truly are and reaching deep within ourselves to claim our freedom. There are significant moments in this memoir and I enjoyed the connection the author has with Robert, the man she’s come to love and who helps her discover the beauty of love. Self-discovery, the freedom to love and be loved, family and friendship, and the quest for happiness are among the themes that are written into this story. What I loved most about The Extended Hand is the author's ability to take a retrospective look at her life and identify lessons and universal truths that compel readers to look at their choices in life and respond to the question: Am I living my life or am I living a life designed for someone else? The writing is atmospheric and the relationships are beautifully explored. A story that is both an eye-opener and a revelation.
Recommend this book:
 Everything Paranormal by Terje G. Simonsen explores the idea of the paranormal through what Simonsen calls the big five: telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, telekinesis, and healing. Something not as prevalent in modern society, the paranormal is examined w...){kind=link}
Our Secret Powers
Telepathy, Clairvoyance and Precognition. A Short History of (Nearly) Everything Paranormal
Terje G. Simonsen
2019 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Our Secret Powers: Telepathy, Clairvoyance, and Precognition. A Short History of (nearly) Everything Paranormal by Terje G. Simonsen explores the idea of the paranormal through what Simonsen calls the big five: telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, telekinesis, and healing. Something not as prevalent in modern society, the paranormal is examined with examples from history and reports given by established names from a wide range of fields, including archaeology and philosophy. Our Secret Powers shines a light on these paranormal occurrences through an intellectual and psychological lens, while also addressing the skepticism surrounding them and introducing the Mental Internet, which is simply a mental (or telepathic) link that connects everyone.
Terje G. Simonsen has a grounded tone with facts that are well researched and thorough. The writing has a well organized structure, pulling forth instances from history and backing them up through a psychological understanding. The facts are concise and clearly presented, opening up the mind to coincidences and theories of the paranormal, and showing another way of seeing the world. Prominent figures from throughout history are used, presenting their notions and ideals. Simonsen digs deeper into the ideas of these notable people, with names that are easily recognizable, including Freud, Jung, and Einstein. The most interesting concept presented is the idea of the Mental Internet, which goes into the idea of Consciousness being something we're all doing together, and is described as a form of networking with a telepathic connection at the root of this network. Simonsen puts a new perspective on history by taking some well-known facts and mixing them with lesser known information with the focus on the paranormal as what connects them.
This is a book that will make you think about similar coincidences in your own life, such as when you're thinking of someone and then they call, or you pick up the phone and the person you're calling is already on the line, having picked up to call you at the exact same time. Our Secret Powers is an intelligent and fascinating read that will appeal to those who enjoy science, history, psychology, and the paranormal. Simonsen will make you want to hop onto the Mental Internet and see what can be discovered.
Our Secret Powers: Telepathy, Clairvoyance, and Precognition. A Short History of (nearly) Everything Paranormal by Terje G. Simonsen explores the idea of the paranormal through what Simonsen calls the big five: telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, telekinesis, and healing. Something not as prevalent in modern society, the paranormal is examined with examples from history and reports given by established names from a wide range of fields, including archaeology and philosophy. Our Secret Powers shines a light on these paranormal occurrences through an intellectual and psychological lens, while also addressing the skepticism surrounding them and introducing the Mental Internet, which is simply a mental (or telepathic) link that connects everyone.
Terje G. Simonsen has a grounded tone with facts that are well researched and thorough. The writing has a well organized structure, pulling forth instances from history and backing them up through a psychological understanding. The facts are concise and clearly presented, opening up the mind to coincidences and theories of the paranormal, and showing another way of seeing the world. Prominent figures from throughout history are used, presenting their notions and ideals. Simonsen digs deeper into the ideas of these notable people, with names that are easily recognizable, including Freud, Jung, and Einstein. The most interesting concept presented is the idea of the Mental Internet, which goes into the idea of Consciousness being something we're all doing together, and is described as a form of networking with a telepathic connection at the root of this network. Simonsen puts a new perspective on history by taking some well-known facts and mixing them with lesser known information with the focus on the paranormal as what connects them.
This is a book that will make you think about similar coincidences in your own life, such as when you're thinking of someone and then they call, or you pick up the phone and the person you're calling is already on the line, having picked up to call you at the exact same time. Our Secret Powers is an intelligent and fascinating read that will appeal to those who enjoy science, history, psychology, and the paranormal. Simonsen will make you want to hop onto the Mental Internet and see what can be discovered.
Recommend this book:
To the Moon and Back
A Childhood Under the Influence
Lisa Kohn
2019 Silver Medal
250 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
To the Moon and Back: A Childhood Under the Influence by Lisa Kohn is a gritty memoir of abuse. At an early age, Lisa was exposed to abuse, including cocaine, even received from a judge. It just seemed natural for a child who had no other values as an alternative. Now entrenched in a cult in New York, founded by the self-proclaimed messiah, Sun Myung Moon, Lisa Kohn and her brother, Robbie, found a point of reference. But the sense of belonging that the cult gave her soon metamorphosed into a struggle to break free from it. Follow her story to discover powerful lessons on inner freedom and self-conquest.
Told in a strong and convincing voice, To the Moon and Back: A Childhood Under the Influence is a story that reflects the author’s honesty and courage. While Lisa Kohn tells readers an engaging story, she also sprinkles it with insights and reflections that are illuminating and filled with wisdom. Here is an example: “As a kid you misinterpret the nasty things that happen to and around you, and you somehow believe you’re to blame. As a young adult I internalized this more and more.” The writing is engaging, with scenes that are focused, characters that are emotionally and psychologically rich, and commentaries that explore elements of the setting and the dynamics of family.
The conflict is introduced at the very beginning of the narrative: “My brother says that we were raised by wolves. I don’t always agree with him, but I don’t have a more accurate description of our upbringing.” Lisa notes that a friend of hers pointed out how wolves raise their young with more structure than her parents gave them. The conflict develops at different levels and crystallizes in the internal conflict in which the author makes hard and difficult choices. This book has powerful lessons for people trapped in a life under the influence, a story filled with love and hope.
To the Moon and Back: A Childhood Under the Influence by Lisa Kohn is a gritty memoir of abuse. At an early age, Lisa was exposed to abuse, including cocaine, even received from a judge. It just seemed natural for a child who had no other values as an alternative. Now entrenched in a cult in New York, founded by the self-proclaimed messiah, Sun Myung Moon, Lisa Kohn and her brother, Robbie, found a point of reference. But the sense of belonging that the cult gave her soon metamorphosed into a struggle to break free from it. Follow her story to discover powerful lessons on inner freedom and self-conquest.
Told in a strong and convincing voice, To the Moon and Back: A Childhood Under the Influence is a story that reflects the author’s honesty and courage. While Lisa Kohn tells readers an engaging story, she also sprinkles it with insights and reflections that are illuminating and filled with wisdom. Here is an example: “As a kid you misinterpret the nasty things that happen to and around you, and you somehow believe you’re to blame. As a young adult I internalized this more and more.” The writing is engaging, with scenes that are focused, characters that are emotionally and psychologically rich, and commentaries that explore elements of the setting and the dynamics of family.
The conflict is introduced at the very beginning of the narrative: “My brother says that we were raised by wolves. I don’t always agree with him, but I don’t have a more accurate description of our upbringing.” Lisa notes that a friend of hers pointed out how wolves raise their young with more structure than her parents gave them. The conflict develops at different levels and crystallizes in the internal conflict in which the author makes hard and difficult choices. This book has powerful lessons for people trapped in a life under the influence, a story filled with love and hope.
Recommend this book:
Healing Justice
Stories of Wisdom and Love
Jarem Sawatsky
2019 Gold Medal
278 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
In a world that is broken and hurting in myriad ways, where hopelessness and despair steal into the hearts of many, Healing Justice: Stories of Wisdom and Love by Jarem Sawatsky offers a powerful antidote, a great promise, and a path towards healing and compassion. A book that is deeply personal yet imbued with a universal message that chronicles the author’s journey towards healing himself and the world. This book contains the message of hope, the message that even in the darkness of our life, there is a glimmer of light and that in our brokenness, there is the seed of our wholeness. How do we discover that which makes us whole in a world filled with despair? Such is the question that this book answers.
The author begins by asking questions that have strong philosophical and spiritual undertones: “How do we nurture the conditions where shatteredness might bloom into the unshatterable? ... How do we cultivate the ability to hear the cry that is deeper than all sound and see the unbreakable in the broken?” Sawatsky shares his stories, his search for healing justice, and this book contains the lessons he has learned in this journey. This book is filled with wisdom and insight and actionable steps that readers can take to attain wholeness in their lives and in their world.
Healing Justice: Stories of Wisdom and Love is written in a very lyrical style and the writing is filled with symbolism and images that allow readers to have a deeper understanding of the human condition. In language that pierces the soul, this author shows readers how to transform our hostility into hospitality, our anger into an honest search for justice, our pain into a seed of growth, and a lot more. It spoke straight to my heart.
In a world that is broken and hurting in myriad ways, where hopelessness and despair steal into the hearts of many, Healing Justice: Stories of Wisdom and Love by Jarem Sawatsky offers a powerful antidote, a great promise, and a path towards healing and compassion. A book that is deeply personal yet imbued with a universal message that chronicles the author’s journey towards healing himself and the world. This book contains the message of hope, the message that even in the darkness of our life, there is a glimmer of light and that in our brokenness, there is the seed of our wholeness. How do we discover that which makes us whole in a world filled with despair? Such is the question that this book answers.
The author begins by asking questions that have strong philosophical and spiritual undertones: “How do we nurture the conditions where shatteredness might bloom into the unshatterable? ... How do we cultivate the ability to hear the cry that is deeper than all sound and see the unbreakable in the broken?” Sawatsky shares his stories, his search for healing justice, and this book contains the lessons he has learned in this journey. This book is filled with wisdom and insight and actionable steps that readers can take to attain wholeness in their lives and in their world.
Healing Justice: Stories of Wisdom and Love is written in a very lyrical style and the writing is filled with symbolism and images that allow readers to have a deeper understanding of the human condition. In language that pierces the soul, this author shows readers how to transform our hostility into hospitality, our anger into an honest search for justice, our pain into a seed of growth, and a lot more. It spoke straight to my heart.
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