Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Conceivable Future addresses one of the most challenging questions faced by today's generation: Is it ethical to have children in a world facing climate collapse? Meghan Elizabeth Kallman and Josephine Ferorelli explore this complex issue without offering easy answers but instead creating a space for reflection. The book combines personal stories with political context, grounding the question of family planning in the broader fight for climate justice and action. Kallman and Ferorelli focus on reproductive justice and how climate change impacts these decisions, offering real-life testimonies from people grappling with this issue. It navigates the complex emotions many women face when considering motherhood in a world increasingly defined by environmental instability. The weight of societal expectations and personal fears about raising a child in an uncertain future are captured authentically.

The book’s strength lies in reframing the burden of climate guilt into collective responsibility. Instead of reducing the climate crisis to individual choices like having children, the authors emphasize the systemic changes needed to protect future generations. This message, especially for women who often feel the weight of these decisions, is both empowering and inspiring. Whether you're contemplating family planning or seeking inspiration to engage in climate activism, The Conceivable Future is an indispensable read. It serves as a beacon of hope and a realistic roadmap, urging readers to envision a more sustainable world worth fighting for, regardless of their decision to have children. Meghan Elizabeth Kallman and Josephine Ferorelli offer an honest and refreshing perspective, particularly for women grappling with these life-altering questions.

Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite

In a world where temperatures are rising, animals are going extinct and the human population has reached all-new highs, The Teen's Guide to Saving the World by Aaditya Sengupta Dhar seeks to explore the ways in which teenagers can start making a difference in the world. Taking into account the various ways in which individuals can make a difference, this book not only inspires young people to make a change but equips them with the knowledge on how to do so.

The Teen's Guide to Saving the World by Aaditya Sengupta Dhar is a wonderful book and I absolutely loved reading it. I feel that with the state the world is in, it is so important to get young people involved in sustainable living and environmentally friendly ways of life. The way this book is laid out is not only inspiring but also very easy to follow with such amazing tips. I also found the headings of the chapters to be really charming as they each allude to the focus of the particular chapter while having positive connotations. Dhar not only managed to write a wonderful book but did so in a well-put-together manner. There is a good flow to the topics of the chapters as well as the overall message of the book. I also liked the fact that the author is a teenager and therefore is taking things into account from the perspective of prospective readers. This is definitely a book that needs to be put out into the world.

Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite

Loose on the Landscape by Joel Everett Harding is a breathtaking journey into the heart of nature, a mesmerizing blend of personal experiences and ecological insights. This creatively written memoir weaves a tapestry of adventure, reflection, and a profound appreciation for the natural world. Readers are treated to a series of captivating escapades, from navigating vast marshes at midnight to encountering the mysteries of geyser fields in the dark. The narrative takes daring twists, like being swept away in a flooded river without an exit, or venturing into a prehistoric swamp inhabited by remnants of the Cretaceous era.

Joel Everett Harding's storytelling is a testament to the diverse facets of his life, capturing moments that are both perilous and whimsical, often leaving readers with insightful takeaways. Each chapter serves as a gateway to broader perspectives on existence, connecting readers with the natural world, human emotions, history, art, and our innate affinity for the environment. Moreover, his guidance on becoming "eco-collectors" of landscapes and natural settings enriches the reading experience by encouraging us to create lasting, meaningful memories. Loose on the Landscape is an exquisite exploration of the interplay between humans and nature. It inspires readers to forge a deeper connection with the world around them and to appreciate the beauty and wonder that can be found in unexpected places. Harding's literary prowess shines in this evocative narrative, making it a must-read for anyone who is a fan of this genre and seeking to embark on an extraordinary journey through the pages of a book.

Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

The Politzer Saga is a memoir that beautifully captures the diverse achievements and struggles of Linda Ambrus Broenniman's family over the years. The book not only preserves her family's history but also honors the resilience and tenacity that have been passed down through generations. It offers poignant insight into their lives and pays tribute to their legacies. Despite being raised Catholic by her parents, who had survived and escaped World War I, the author always knew that she had Jewish Hungarian heritage. After discovering a box that survived a fire that consumed her parents' home, she found well-kept family documents dating back to the eighteenth century. Her relatives were authors, businessmen, art collectors, lawyers, and miners. They faced religious persecution and antisemitism, and some died from tuberculosis. They survived revolutions and both World Wars. From a wandering violinist to a brave woman who refused to renounce her Jewish heritage and a famous doctor who revolutionized otology, Linda retraces their footsteps and talks about their remarkable lives.

The Politzer Saga is one of the best family history books I have ever read. It is well-detailed, and Linda Ambrus Broenniman's ability to weave together personal stories and historical events creates an engaging and insightful read that pays tribute to her family's legacy while exploring themes of identity, survival, and perseverance. The incorporation of photographs and documents adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the storytelling. The author's diligence in uncovering her roots and piecing together her heritage is indeed commendable. It takes a special kind of dedication to delve into one's past and unravel the mysteries of one's origins. It shows not just a curiosity about personal history, but also a deep appreciation for the connections that bind us to our ancestors. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves captivating and emotionally engaging books.

Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite

Stop the Killing: How to End the Mass Shooting Crisis by Katherine Schweit addresses the thorny issue of guns and gun violence. The author has had a noteworthy career, from being in the media to obtaining a law degree and serving as a special agent with the FBI. When the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting occurred, she was chosen as a member of the team to help find a solution. Their report spanning fourteen years of incidents indicated an increase in shootings from an average of 6.4 to around 16.4 annually, yet no one seemed to take note of the escalating problem. When there is a shooting, it is followed by mass anger and numerous calls to support the victims, but generally, it ends there. What is the responsibility of the government and citizens in addressing this issue? This work examines the various issues such as pathways to violence, who, and why.

Stop the Killing by Katherine Schweit contains a wealth of information. The author acknowledges that this is a multifaceted issue that needs to be addressed from many different perspectives. For this reason, this book stood out from most of the others I have read. I found it to be thought-provoking on a variety of levels, such as the role of leadership, the mass media, and the Internet in maintaining a healthy balance in society. I also loved the way that the author provided comprehensive statistics and copious references, indicating that the book is well-researched and can be used as a guide to finding other resources on this subject. The readers will also appreciate the easy-to-understand language used, which makes it accessible to all types of readers. I cannot wait to read more from this author.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

And She Was Never the Same Again: A Multigenerational Memoir is a work of non-fiction in the grief, self-help, and memoir subgenres. Penned by author Natasha Pryde Trujillo, Ph.D., this intriguing work delves into the profound impacts of loss across generations, cultures, and identities. Through narratives spanning near-death experiences, trauma, chronic illness, and the stigmatized death of a partner, the book explores the complexities of grief and its enduring effects on individuals and families. Each chapter offers a poignant exploration of loss, highlighting the diverse ways in which individuals navigate their sorrow and showing that we are both unique and united in our experiences of grief.

Author Natasha Pryde Trujillo has done a lot of soul-searching to craft a deeply introspective and emotionally resonant memoir on a very difficult topic indeed. I enjoyed how the narrative brought together personal tales but also invited readers to examine the multifaceted nature of grief from a range of different viewpoints. The synthesis at the end of each chapter provides valuable insights into the manifestation and maintenance of grief over time, leading to a deeper understanding of the grieving process. I felt this organizational touch would be highly useful to those wanting to refer back to the passages that impacted them most. More than a mere memoir, this book serves as a profound educational tool, encouraging readers to confront their own experiences of loss and embrace the complexities of the human condition. Overall, I would certainly recommend And She Was Never the Same Again as a well-penned work that challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of grief and offers a path toward healing and growth.

Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

From earthquakes to nuclear war, humankind is faced with threats to its survival from multiple sources, both natural and manmade. Michel Bruneau examines this sobering theme in detail in The Blessings of Disaster: The Lessons that Catastrophes Teach Us and Why Our Future Depends On It. Topics covered span everything from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods, extreme weather, biological hazards, and terrorist attacks to the possibility of an economic collapse and World War III. The knock-on effects should also not be underestimated. A common factor is that preventative action is often too late and instituted after the event. The author reviews legislation such as building regulations and construction methods, concluding that more should be done to prevent or mitigate the extent of disasters. The inability to predict these events with any accuracy is also evaluated. This is where the politicians step in, often citing a lack of funding for what should be regarded as timely warnings and prudent precautions. There is an inherent conflict in that lives and property damage must be weighed up against higher costs involved, and lower profits by vested commercial interests. Ultimately the public must pay, but are both resistant and complacent. The role of the media and entertainment industry has muddied the water by sensationalizing and misrepresenting disasters, relegating them to distant events that seem unreal and non-threatening to the viewer.

Michel Bruneau is a professional engineer and a specialist in earthquakes, so a study of that phenomenon takes center stage, particularly as earthquakes pose a regular and tangible threat. The Blessings of Disaster highlights the lack of disaster planning by those in authority and the apathy of the general population. Climate change and its dire consequences are evaluated, as well as the impact of overpopulation on the environment. Even pets and farm animals contribute to climate change, just one of many interesting facts. The author catalogs all the possible doomsday scenarios, pondering the age-old question as to whether God’s will is somehow involved as some would have us believe. End-times theories abound, giving rise to a sense of fatalism and inevitability that leads to inaction. This book does not set out to be negative or claim to be a definitive work on the subject. It is a strident call to humanity to wake up, be prepared, and take action. It is thus a valuable tool in creating public awareness. As the title suggests, it may take a major catastrophe to change attitudes, but ultimately good can come of it. The book is painstakingly researched and comes with a long list of sources, plus an index. It is highly recommended for those who are concerned about our future.

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.

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.

Reviewed by Grace Masso for Readers' Favorite

In The Typhoon's Eye: A Story of Childhood and Leaving Home by Bles Chavez-Bernstein is a childhood memoir that covers the author’s growing years in the Philippines through her coming-of-age, to leaving her family in pursuit of a dream. The author introduces readers to a family that has survived through moving from place to place and that has stuck together in spite of the odds. Her father is an ambitious man who wants to have a house for his family and the mother is a loyal wife with strong family values, a woman who stays with her husband even when he is caught cheating with his cousin, Ela. Bles takes readers on a ride through her childhood, exploring the exciting experiences and the climate in her family, allowing compelling images of locales she lived in and the lifestyle of the people to come out strongly in the writing. It is a story of family and love, and one that captures the theme of separation in a poignant manner, with the author forced by circumstances to leave her fiancé and children to seek greener pastures, hoping to keep her promise of freedom for herself, financial assistance for her family, and fidelity to Andy.

In The Typhoon's Eye is a unique memoir that those who have lived in the Philippines will adore. Bles Chavez-Bernstein has a unique voice and it is compelling. The descriptive nature of the writing pulled me in and some passages had me laughing, especially the way the author captures scenes from her childhood. One of the things I loved about this book is that it captures a reality that kids growing up in rural areas experience, such as feeling a kinship with nature and the woods. Her conversation with her mother about who owns the hills and the mountains is very revealing of the mind of a child. The family life is brilliantly written and the reader gets a clear idea of family values and what is most important for each member of this family. Locales where the protagonist has lived — from San Jose to the barrio of Guinaban, to Ocampo, and Sandig, carefully nestled in Mt Isarog, a dormant volcano — are well written. The narrative voice is lively and gripping, the prose crisp and the characters fully developed. In The Typhoon's Eye: A Story of Childhood and Leaving Home is engaging, emotionally rich, and depicts provincial life in the Philippines with compelling and colorful images. A wonderful memoir that reads like fiction.