Memoirs of Hadrian - Marguerite Yourcenar (French Edition)

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

One of the best historical novels ever written is Memoirs of Hadrian (1951) by the Belgian-born French writer Madeleine ‘Maurice’ de la Sizeranne, Marguerite Yourcenar. The novel provides a moving—and imaginative—insight into the thoughts of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Its writing style, introspective letters, is a master class in historical fiction. The novel is also a thoughtful meditation on power, love, and the human condition.

Through the precision of her research and the elegance of her prose, Yourcenar pushes the story into the deepest recesses of Hadrian’s mind, enabling readers to feel there too, as if we were experiencing ancient Rome that long ago: Hadrian thinks, learns, senses, chooses, acts, and suffers. He appreciates the contours of landscapes, has an ear for languages, and wisdom for the politics of his time. He is a philosopher who aspires to sway Athens with his teachings, if only for the admiration of his lover. He thinks of marriage and becoming a father, and he gives himself completely to Antinous, whose death he mourns as both political unrest in Syria and a profound personal loss.

Memoirs of Hadrian transcends the boundaries of a traditional historical novel, offering a philosophical drama that delves into universal questions about leadership, the pursuit of peace, and the capricious nature of human mortality. Yourcenar’s portrayal of Hadrian as a complex and sympathetic hero, grappling with the demands of empire and his own humanity, adds a profound philosophical layer to the narrative. 

Memoirs of Hadrian is a challenging read but well worth the effort. Yourcenar combines the rigours of historical authenticity with lyrical reflection while also demonstrating why the melancholy, conflicted, but generous-hearted emperor of her imagining continues to engage with 21st-century minds and hearts. 

This is a great work of literature, offering a singular view of history and leaving an indelible impression on the reader. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, philosophy, and beautiful prose.

This is the best historical fiction I have ever read.

The Mental Health Nurse: A gripping psychological thriller novel (Kindle Edition) - April E Swan

⭐⭐⭐⭐

A Gripping but Flawed Psychological Thriller

April Swan’s The Mental Health Nurse (2019) is a dark, twisted psychological thriller. It's a serial killer story that’s sickening and addictive simultaneously – a fascinating read even when it’s needlessly twisty. It's worth persevering with. Ellie is decidedly (and deliciously) disturbed.

It’s brave of Swan to have placed such an unappealing character at the heart of this narrative, and I was often as disgusted by Ellie as the next person. Still, her crimes were so compelling, and the gradual peeling back of the layers surrounding them (both Ellie’s and those of her supporting characters) so good that I was forced to finish the book and find out what had happened to Ellie to make her do the things that she did.

The Birmingham location serves as an evocative milieu for the unpleasant developments. Swan’s prose is at its best in the more dramatic parts of The Life and Crimes of Ellie Light, especially when Ellie is at her most sinister. The narrative is gripping at these moments, and Swan demonstrates a real talent for tension.

But the book could have been better: the random formatting issues (such as the inconsistent justification and paragraph numbers that switch from preceding the colon to following it) and the rush to put the words on the page often made for a less-than-sublime reading experience. This is especially true in the early parts of the book, where some of the most important character developments appear to be happening to Ellie rather than stemming from her own thoughts and feelings.

The last third of the book, too, begins to introduce multiple characters and their intertwined lives in a way that feels forced and (occasionally) strains credibility. Though these additions create a layered storyline, they also subdue some of the laser-like intensity that made the first segments of the novel so gripping because the focus turns away from Ellie.

As fiction, ‘The Mental Health Nurse’ is an easy read. It’s the kind of novel that keeps you up late, even as you’re struck by its dark material and morally ambiguous characters. It’s flawed, but it’s promising. I’ll be reading the sequel when it comes out. I’ll keep an eye out for Swan’s next book.

If you’re into psychological thrillers with an inside view from some seriously disturbed characters and can stomach a lot of gory, action-packed details, you’ll want to give it a chance. Bring a gut check for the slumps in writing style and formatting.

Discovering Wonder: Seeing the World Through a Child’s Eyes - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

 Luigi Pascal's "[Re]discovering Wonder: Seeing the World Through a Child’s Eyes" offers an engaging look at how adults can rediscover their sense of childlike wonder and innocence while maintaining all the insights that come with experience. As the proof-reader of this brief book, I can vouch that it was excellently written and nimble to edit.

Luigi Pascal uses his life as a children's book author and storyteller to provide near-poetic view of the method child-like wonder blends with grown-up lives. The book shines in the weave between philosophy, psychological research and hands-on exercises. Every chapter focuses on a specific expression of child-like perception — curiosity and wonder, love or emotional purity, the passion of emotion in general, music as communication etc. providing solid examples for how this can be developed today it your very own behaviours each day with lists of guides to develop any aspect you need help with.

Especially noteworthy is the section on "The Power of Imagination," and exercises to rediscover creativity in adulthood. By including real-life instances and stories, like the story of Boyan Slat's venture to clean oceans or how Scientist Lionel Dahmer approached problem-solving at NASA puts these concepts into perspective.

Although the book topples occasionally into idealism, Luigi Pascal stays mostly practical in his optimism regarding growing up with a hint of wonder. The last chapter, about balancing grown-up wisdom with child-like wonder has a particularly lovely consideration of how to bring together two seemingly contrary ways of thinking.

But my only mild annoyance is that there were a couple of chapters in the book about authenticity and relationships it would have been nice for those to dig deeper into what genuine adult interactions actually look like. More varied and better case studies or examples would also have added to the strength of their argument, making it more relatable for an even broader audience.

But for adults desiring to rekindle their creativity, parents yearning for deeper connection with childlike simplicity or those who simply feel that life has lost a bit of its magic and wonderment this book is certainly worth your while. His writing style is actually very clear; his prose easily understood because he can convey difficult concepts in a way that the reader understand as being so.

Despite its brevity, this book is rich and tonic. It is a subtle nudge to us that real magic in the world remains if we only seek it and outlines how one may go about creating for themself, a brighter, more worldly life while never outgrowing their own childlike innocence.

Pazzigno A/R - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ho avuto il privilegio di leggere una versione pre-pubblicazione cartacea di Pazzigno A/R di Luigi Pascal Rondanini, e devo dire che l'autore ha creato un'opera coinvolgente e profonda che esplora i temi dell'amicizia, del rimpianto e della redenzione.

Il romanzo segue le vicende di Antonio e Giorgio, due amici d'infanzia le cui vite prendono strade diverse, portandoli a un doloroso allontanamento. Attraverso una narrazione che alterna passato e presente, Rondanini dipinge un ritratto toccante di come le scelte che facciamo plasmano il nostro destino.

Rispetto a I Fantasmi del Passato, che ho avuto modo di leggere in precedenza, Pazzigno offre una prospettiva più ampia e sfaccettata della storia. Mentre I Fantasmi del Passato si concentrava principalmente sul confronto tra i due protagonisti, Pazzigno approfondisce maggiormente le motivazioni dei personaggi e il contesto sociale in cui si muovono.

La prosa di Rondanini è ricca e evocativa, capace di trasportare il lettore nelle strade di Napoli e di far rivivere l'atmosfera degli anni '80. I dialoghi sono autentici e carichi di emozione, rivelando gradualmente le complessità dei rapporti tra i personaggi.

Un aspetto particolarmente interessante di Pazzigno è il modo in cui esplora il tema del successo e del fallimento, mettendo in luce come le percezioni degli altri possano influenzare profondamente le nostre scelte di vita. Il contrasto tra le carriere di Antonio e Giorgio è abilmente utilizzato per riflettere sulle aspettative sociali e personali.

Il finale del libro, che non voglio svelare, offre una conclusione soddisfacente e commovente alla storia, lasciando al lettore molto su cui riflettere.

Se dovessi trovare un punto debole, direi che in alcuni momenti il ritmo della narrazione rallenta un po' troppo, soprattutto nella parte centrale del libro. Tuttavia, questo non diminuisce significativamente il valore complessivo dell'opera.

In conclusione, Pazzigno è un romanzo potente e ben scritto che merita di essere letto. Rondanini dimostra una notevole maturità come scrittore, creando un'opera che risuonerà con chiunque abbia mai riflettuto sui "se" e i "ma" della propria vita.

Voto: 4.5/5 ma visto che nel mondo editoriale si possono utilizzare solo punteggi interi, opto per un 5 pieno.

The Ghostwriter - A.R. Torres

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Ghostwriter by Alessandra Torre is a modern love story with a touch of suspense; this book will have you spinning as the truth slowly unravels. At Washington Square, the book will make you discover the truth of the events that shattered her life four years before as she sets out to finish her final book —— but  Helena Ross, has darker secrets.

In this book, Torre showcases her masterful storytelling skill by conceiving an intricately layered plot with surprising revelations until the end. It is clear that the author excels at creating complex characters - many I hated with a passion - I loved Helena because, at first, she appears almost sadistic; however, as the story develops, our opinion changes, and we realise that there is, in fact, quite a vulnerable and uncertain person hiding just beneath the surface. Shane's beautifully written novel hints at this but is also about the unlikely friendship between Helena and her ghostwriter, which adds depth and heart to the narrative and provides a welcomed balance to some of the darker themes she explores in the book.

The Ghostwriter stands out with its unique narrative structure, blending present-tense narrations with flashbacks that gradually unveil Helena's past. The well-paced chapters keep you engaged, eager to uncover the truth as the story unfolds. The author's vivid descriptions and poignant humour effectively convey the rollercoaster of emotions that will captivate the reader.

The Ghostwriter is not your typical romance, but it's a testament to the author's storytelling prowess across genres. Fans of suspenseful literary fiction will be drawn to this book, as will those who appreciate emotionally impactful storytelling. Prepare yourself for a deeply moving experience as you delve into this unforgettable tale of secrets, betrayals, and the transformative power of words.

Politics for Young Minds - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

⭐⭐⭐⭐

 Politics for Young Minds is the ultimate introduction to politics, government, and civic life for young readers. It takes big, important ideas and explains them in entertaining, engaging, and easily understandable ways.

 From the fundamental concepts (clear definitions of ‘politics’ and ‘government’; various political systems, electoral processes, etc; different levels of government; etc) to more advanced topics (media and politics; the influence of technology on politics; and the impact of diversity on politics), Rondanini consistently uses real-world examples to illustrate these ideas, making them relevant to children’s lives.

 One of the book’s key strengths is its recurring theme that individual voices are significant in shaping political outcomes. The author not only educates but also empowers young readers, encouraging them to be informed and active voters, participants in civil discourse, and engaged members of their communities and political sphere. This is a crucial aspect of the book, demonstrating how young people can influence the political arena. 

 Nevertheless, the book’s desire to demystify can sometimes result in unhelpful simplification or the elision of nuance. Furthermore, although the author tries to maintain a dispassionate voice, there may be times when one’s personal views or biases are discernible, by his own admission.

 Overall, Politics for Young Minds is a great book for individuals looking to get involved with the political world around them and, more importantly, their place in it. What sets it apart is its prose, depth of content, and, most importantly, its focus on civic engagement. It’s a great read for young students and teachers alike.

Ghost in the Machine: A Convergence of Human and Artificial Minds - AvA SiLiCa

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ghost in the Machine is unlike any other book—or work of art, for that matter—on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its human ramifications. It was written not by a human author (AvA SiLiCa) but by a human in a technical discourse with a super artificial intelligence assistant or super AI, with whom she brilliantly—and often horrifyingly—converses.

Tapping into a wide array of issues, ranging from AI’s impact on society to its potential to help address growing environmental concerns to its role in exposing creativity, spirituality, and the meaning of a meaningful life, the exchange is thought-provoking, gentle, generous, and does not take sides: AI is good, AI is bad. 

Perhaps this is the book’s greatest gift: to ease us into the presence of an AI, to coax us into caring about Claude in its way. Proximity can be a powerful thing. If we humanise Claude and insist on putting words in its mouth, the page traces those trajectories away from the bus station into the sagebrush, which might have been human and artificial. And in doing so, we lose part of our claim about who we thought we were. 

Silica’s humility in acknowledging some of the limits of their work and insights into the ethics of AI development steal the show. They highlight where there are opportunities for developing empathy, mutualism and community between people and AI: The future of AI is more than ever about our actions, not less. It is about developing responsible and ethical AI. Humanity cannot outsource its future, dignity, and humanity to machines.

AI can help solve some environmental issues, or the lives of at-risk populations, make new art forms like music, novels, etc. It’s a human-centred and humane discussion: thoughtful and transparent, intellectually powerful and moving in some philosophical way. One quickly begins to think through or alongside these two about the problems. 

Ultimately, Ghost in the Machine is a thrilling, beautifully philosophical account of the human/machine interface and an urgent, articulate, and optimistic guide to a future where feelings and empathy are embedded in everything, ethics are paramount, and the qualia, the what-ness, is always revered. It demands to be read by anyone interested in technology, the future of being, or simply in how and why things are as they are. 

An Italian Wife - Ann Hood

⭐⭐

Though Ann Hood's An Italian Wife promised a juicy family saga of successive generations, it doesn't quite live up to its promise and frustrates.

The book opens powerfully, with a visceral presentation of Josephine Rimaldi as a teenage granddaughter in southern Italy who is forced into a marriage and reluctantly immigrates to America. Hood's prose is beautiful in these opening portions of the book, offering a delicious insight into the culture of Italian Americans. 

But it veers into disaster as it leaps unsteadily from generation to generation of Josephine's progeny: what could have been a gripping account of the development of an immigrant family becomes instead an array of poorly conceived figures who flicker too briefly into view before the text takes off again. You only got to know them for one chapter, and then it was on to the next generation.

Compounding the problem is the novel's relentless and often gratuitous sexual content, which stops the narrative cold several times. Sure, some sex is inescapable when attempting to portray a multi-generational tale, but here it seems exploitative rather than insightful as to the characters' psychological makeup.

Hood is talented, and she did a great job of studying her characters, but this doesn't transpire for all. Ultimately, though, An Italian Wife fails to realise its potential due to its lack of cohesion, thinly drawn characters, and overuse of graphic explicitness. What could have been a brave and important novel about the immigrant experience becomes a vermeil-clad mess.

La Décision (The Decision) - Karine Tuil

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Karine Tuil’s novel La Décision (The Decision) shows what it is like to operate at the harshest end of counterterrorism investigations. It shows how these protagonists sometimes wrestle with issues of morality, questioning the choices they need to make that will change their lives forever. I read the French text. 

The story is about Alma Revel, a French anti-terrorism judge, who must determine whether to keep this young man in custody as a suspected ISIS collaborator or grant his release. Meanwhile, her personal life is in turmoil as she launches an affair with the defence lawyer of the accused.

Tuil fully displays her meticulous research and background as a legal journalist, with a vivid inside portrayal of the judicial system's mechanics and the interpretive quandaries accompanying terrorism-related crimes. She poses difficult questions related to an immediate professional duty, versus the array of personal predilections that can sometimes accompany it. She poses the consequences that hang in the balance when weighing one over the other. 

The narrative is not just a thrilling ride, but also a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of right and wrong. Tuil, in a master class of characterisation, illuminates her protagonist’s inner struggles, inviting readers to delve into the shades of morality. The author's ability to present a balanced view, without taking sides, has earned her acclaim and encourages readers to critically examine their own perspectives.

Though some reviewers criticised what they saw as improbable or predictable plot points, I believe it’s a page-turner. This novel transforms an emotionally loaded subject into one with compelling storytelling and emotional gripping.

Mnemonic Phantasms - Ava Silica

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mnemonic Phantasms, a captivating journey into the realm of ghostwriting, is a testament to the power of storytelling and the intricacies that lie beneath the surface of the literary world. As a seasoned ghostwriter, I had the unique opportunity to review this manuscript before its publication. Ava Silica's work resonated with me on a deep level, reflecting the shared experiences and challenges of our craft.

Throughout the e-book, Silica takes readers on a unique journey, recounting her most extraordinary and unconventional ghostwriting experiences. From alien-abduction memoirs to celebrity pet psychics, from doomsday prepper cookbooks to billionaire vanity biographies, each chapter is a distinct narrative that showcases the author's adaptability and keen observational skills. What distinguishes this book is the way Silica effortlessly blends the bizarre and the profound, leaving readers both entertained and reflective.

As a ghostwriter, I found myself nodding at the side of Silica's insights into the industry—the challenges of taking pictures of a patron's voice, the ethical dilemmas that stand up while taking over arguable initiatives, and the regular push-and-pull among creativity and compromise. Her tales function as a reminder that at the back of every book, there are infinite untold stories of collaboration, conflict, and the pursuit of truth.

But Mnemonic Phantasms is more than just an insider's look at the ghostwriting alternative. It's additionally a meditation on the character of authorship, identification, and the blurred traces between reality and fiction. Silica's narrative is full of surprises, and readers can expect a stunning coup de théâtre to leave them wondering what they thought they knew about the book and its introduction.

While compensated for my proofreading offerings, I have not received any fee or incentive to depart from this evaluation. My evaluations are my own, and I agree that Mnemonic Phantasms is a need-to-read for everyone interested in the craft of writing, the publishing industry, or the sheer energy of a properly told tale.

Ava Silica, who authorised this review, has created a unique and charming painting that pushes the bounds of the memoir genre. Her willingness to experiment with shape and content is a testament to her bravery as a writer, and I don't doubt that this short book will spark many conversations about the position of ghostwriters in the literary world.

In conclusion, Mnemonic Phantasms is a rare gem that offers both entertainment and intellectual stimulation. It's a book that will make you laugh, ponder, and question everything you thought you knew about the writing process. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers and fellow writers, and I eagerly await Ava Silica's future literary endeavours.

Update. The book is now available on Kindle Unlimited and Amazon in an Ebook version. 

Hello Stranger - Katherine Center

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Katherine Center's latest novel, Hello Stranger, is a heartwarming and entertaining read that will appeal to many readers. The book follows Sadie Montgomery, a struggling portrait artist who develops prosopagnosia (prosopagnosia) after brain surgery. The situation proves particularly challenging because Sadie, a finalist in a prestigious portrait competition, must navigate her personal life and relationships without being able to recognise faces.

I praise the Center's ability to create lovable and quirky characters, infusing humour, emotion, and romance into the story. Sadie's journey of self-discovery and growth is a central theme as she learns to cope with her illness and accept help from others. Supporting characters such as Sadie's best friend Sue, neighbour Joe, and her beloved dog Peanut add depth and warmth to the story.

While some critics found the storyline somewhat predictable, with a few coincidences that made it hard to believe, the story's charm and heart more than made up for these minor flaws. The author's engaging writing style and the book's fast pace immerse readers in Sadie's story from beginning to end.

Some reviews I read also praised Center for shedding light on the rarely discussed condition of prosopagnosia, praising her ability to balance humour and emotion in a satisfying and uplifting way. I can only agree with them. 

The author's note at the end of the book is also worth highlighting, as it provides insight into the central point about the importance of hope and joy in storytelling.#

Overall, "Hello Stranger" appears to be a delightful and heartfelt novel that showcases Katherine Center's talent for creating lovable characters and crafting stories that leave readers with a smile.

I would give "Hello Stranger" a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. This rating reflects the book's ability to captivate and entertain readers while delivering a meaningful and emotionally resonant story.

Reimagined Tales: Subverting Expectations in Fantasy and Digital Legends - Pascal de Napoli

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As the author of the introduction to "Reimagined Tales: Subverting Expectations in Fantasy and Digital Legends," I must admit that I feel a bit awkward reviewing this collection. However, I can't not express my admiration for the innovative and thought-provoking stories within its pages.

"The Looking Glass Tales" and "Code of Justice—Robin Hood Saga" not only offer a fresh perspective on classic narratives but also a unique blend of fantasy and modern technology. This innovative approach challenges readers to re-examine their preconceived notions of good and evil. At the same time, the author's skill in creating compelling and immersive worlds is sure to captivate the imagination.

Each story within these collections is a masterful exploration of the complexities of morality and heroism. The characters, with their richly drawn personalities, offer struggles and motivations that are not only illuminating but also deeply relatable. As readers navigate the twists and turns of these reimagined tales, they are invited to question the very nature of justice and the transformative power of empathy and understanding.

While my perspective may be partial, given my involvement in the introduction, I firmly believe that "Reimagined Tales" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates innovative storytelling and the power of literature to challenge and inspire. These stories, with their lingering impact, will continue to resonate in your mind long after you've turned the final page, inviting you to see the world through a new lens.

Economics for Young Minds - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

"Economics for Young Minds" provides an engaging and accessible introduction to the often complex world of economics for children and teenagers. The author, Luigi Pascal Rondanini, draws on his extensive background in finance and passion for mentoring youth to break down fundamental economic concepts in a way that is easy to understand.

The book covers a wide range of topics including needs vs wants, supply and demand, production, money and banking, government policies, trade, financial markets, and even emerging areas like cryptocurrency. Rondanini uses relatable examples, stories and straightforward language to illustrate how these economic principles impact our daily lives. 

One of the strengths of the book is how it encourages critical thinking about big societal issues. Rondanini challenges readers to consider how innovation can expand inclusion, the importance of sustainability, and the role of ethics in profit-seeking. The book empowers young people to see themselves as active participants who can shape the future economy.

While generally very informative, some sections could benefit from even more real-world examples to reinforce the teachings. A few of the more technical concepts may still require an adult's guidance to fully grasp. 

Overall, "Economics for Young Minds" is a valuable resource for any parent, educator or student looking for a solid foundation in practical economics. By sparking curiosity early, Rondanini inspires the next generation to dive deeper into this important field that impacts us all. Both educational and motivational, this book provides a gateway to a lifetime of economic literacy.

The Housemaid's Secret - Freida McFadden

 ⭐⭐⭐

The Housemaid's Secret by Freida McFadden is an entertaining yet flawed sequel that fails to match the brilliance of the first book. Continuing the story of Millie the housemaid, this book finds her taking a job cleaning for the wealthy Garricks in their New York City penthouse. However, the reclusive Mrs. Garrick seldom leaves her room, raising Millie's suspicions. 

This fast-paced psychological thriller initially hooks readers in with the mystery surrounding the Garricks. However, the first half feels slow with minimal plot development. Millie's repetitive thought patterns also become grating after a while. The prose lacks nuance, and the storyline grows predictable despite a few twists.

That said, the shocking twist halfway through the book makes for a gripping turn of events. Seeing things unfold later from a sociopathic perspective adds intrigue. Some of the final revelations also take readers by surprise. Ultimately, these second half twists feel clever but require too much suspension of disbelief.

In the end, while The Housemaid's Secret works fine as popcorn entertainment, the story stretches credulity a bit too far. And with no memorable characters or profound ideas to contemplate, the book fails to leave a lasting impression. Fans of domestic thrillers may have some fun thanks to the fast pacing. But readers who prefer psychological depth and plausibility may end up disappointed.

I would give this sequel 3 out of 5 stars as it falls short of being a skilfully crafted thriller. The repetitive writing style, shallow characterisations, and improbable plot diminish its impact. Still, it serves its purpose as a diversionary read. Those new to Freida McFadden's work would be better off starting with the superior first novel, The Housemaid.

Project Management for Young Minds - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

As a novice to project management approaching this introductory book, I found it an inviting and reasonably paced first glimpse into the field and frameworks for conceiving and executing projects – whether treehouses with the kids or business expansions in the office.

The author eases new readers in using understandable language and a colourful tone that makes the content feel more like story time than a technical textbook. Examples stay down-to-earth and practical using engaging scenarios. Chapters build gradually in complexity without seeming intimidating to inexperienced managers.

While the overall orientation skews towards younger team leaders with its hip lingo and occasional cartoonish characters, as a parent and small business owner in my 50s, I still discovered many valuable takeaways applicable to launching my own ventures. The breakdowns around scope management, budgeting techniques, risk planning, team coordination, and adaptability skills clarify fundamentals I wish I knew when I first kicked off initiatives decades ago.

In particular, the case studies analysing historical undertaking like massive railway expansion in the 1800s demonstrate how purpose-driven yet methodical project leadership can transform industries and propel civilization forward by leaps. I appreciate the balance of entertainment with substance.

If anything, at times the light tone borders slightly too much on candy instead of nutrition. Certain essential project elements perhaps deserve more gravity, with kids needing to appreciation potential building hazards and fiduciary duties fully even while having fun. A few deeper mathematical examples would also be welcome. But by and large, it covers the pivotal concepts and mindsets effectively.

Overall as a project administration primer for the curious layperson, I believe the energy and insights will appeal to pre-teens while still leaving parents and other newcomers better equipped to productively shepherd operations from imagination to fruition after reading. I commend the friendly packaging of multifaceted project management foundations into easily digestible bites for the younger Builder Books series!

Free reviews for published and unpublished books

Greetings, 

I am an avid reader. If you would like me to read, review, and provide feedback on your book or manuscript, I would be delighted to do so free of charge. 

What's the catch, you may ask? There is none. As an author and ghostwriter myself, I believe in helping others in the writing community.

In order for me to review your work, I would need a PDF or EPUB version, as I rely on my computer for reading due to vision issues. Please also provide a synopsis and any specific feedback requests. Additionally, to ensure suitability, please confirm your book does not contain gender bias, excessive gore, or exceed 100,000 words. 

I will not publish the review anywhere without your approval. As evidenced by my past reviews, I have high standards for a 5-star rating.

Please let me know if you would like me to review your book. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

CdV

PS. I am fluent in English and Italian and intermediate in  Spanish and German. 

Bridging Worlds - Luigi Pascal Rondanini and Pascal de Napoli

 🌟🌟🌟🌟

This imaginative short story collection takes readers on a journey across time and space, exploring philosophical questions about the human experience. In "Shattering Reality," we dive deep into the troubled psyche of a man grappling with schizophrenia. "The Last Anchorite" paints a vision of a lone wilderness dweller carrying the weight of humanity's future after an apocalypse. Other tales feature spiritual tests, interdimensional travel, android-human relations, and more surreal transformations. 

While absurdist at times, each story aims to reconstruct reality by first shattering limiting assumptions. The characters are generally outcasts struggling to find meaning amidst life's harshest walls. Speculative scenarios also re-examine societal norms from thought-provoking angles. Ultimately, the author encourages us to return from these fictional journeys "with refreshed eyes towards the intricacies, contrasts and profound magic still embedding the world immediately around us each new day."

The quality of writing is excellent, with vivid descriptions and insightful narratives that draw you deeply into each plot. A few stories fail to fully deliver on their ambitious philosophical promise. However, the collection as a whole succeeds at pushing imaginative boundaries. For lovers of cerebral, metaphorical tales that aim to awakens your sense of awe, this makes for an intriguing read.

Siddhartha - Hermann Hess

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Spanning a seminal period of spiritual awakening in ancient India, Hermann Hesse's iconic novel Siddhartha intricately explores the quest for meaning and inner peace. Through the lens of a young seeker disenchanted with familiar paths to enlightenment, we trace a journey of worldly indulgence and despair that ultimately gives way to transcendental revelation. 

The philosophical insights on freedom from suffering, the limits of language, and attaining purpose through self-reflection rather than external forces offer deep resonance for readers young and old. The three distinct phases of Siddhartha's transformation map an archetypal inner odyssey from youthful zeal to hedonistic extremes before the mature clarity of a cantered, compassionate outlook emerges.

Hesse skilfully captures both the intoxicating power of the sensual realm and its essential emptiness when devoid of moderation. Through the allegorical highs and lows of the protagonist's existence, universal insights about embracing temporality and finding divinity shrouded in simple things emerge with grace. Subtle yet intensely meaningful themes around the cyclical nature of life and the sacred wonder permeating all creation reveal themselves to Siddhartha only once he stops seeking external answers.

The spare lyrical style perfectly befits the Eastern flavour and spiritual essence permeating this modern fable. Though the final portion grows esoteric compared to the engaging opening acts, the novel as a whole offers a luminous parable of the soul transcending earthly values to glimpse redemptive eternal oneness. Readers often find echoes of themselves in Siddhartha's longing, and therein lies the resonance of Hesse's masterwork for each new seeker charting their course towards inner tranquillity.

1991

Tales to Grow By: A Collection of Imaginative Stories for Young Minds - Pascal de Napoli

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"Tales to Grow By" brings together a diverse collection of imaginative short stories for young readers that span an impressive range of genres from whimsical fables to thrilling adventures. Author Pascal de Napoli has crafted relatable characters and lyrically woven plots exploring timeless themes of courage, friendship, diversity, hope and more. 

As a parent, I appreciate how the anthology structure offers bite-sized yet meaningful narratives perfect for quality time reading aloud with my children. The stories work well for a variety of ages, starting gentle for preschoolers with tales like the sweet vegetable parade then growing more complex for teens with emotive coming-of-age journeys.

De Napoli's writing voice has a wonderfully vibrant quality that pulls you into these richly envisioned worlds. I could see my children's eyes light up as I read aloud scenes like a magical forest clearing or bustling gnome village that felt thrillingly real. The messages about empathy, imagination and self-acceptance emerge organically without feeling forced.

However, the story collection could benefit from more consistency around targeted age groups and complexity levels. A few specific stories come across noticeably more mature while others felt too simplistic for older elementary schoolers. Providing clearer age recommendations for individual stories, though, makes choosing which tales to share easier. 

But overall, as a parent, I think this is a charming, beautifully written anthology covering so many important themes I would want my kids to absorb. De Napoli crafts each mini fantasy world with care and emotional resonance. The relatable characters and subtle life lessons stay with you while always inviting your own interpretation. I would foresee families getting years of joy from growing up alongside these "Tales to Grow By."

2024

Germinal - Emile Zola

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Few books capture the cruel injustice of economic oppression more vividly than Zola’s seminal 1885 work Germinal. This uncompromising yet compassionate portrait of a mid 19th century coal miners’ strike sears itself into one's conscience through vivid depictions of the destitute class lured underground by desperation. 

Zola’s astute observations on labour exploitation and class consciousness form the philosophical backbone while his meticulously detailed depictions of bleak landscapes and devastated bodies refuse to let readers turn away from the human toll. We are immersed in both the sooty darkness of the pits and glow of resistance fermenting underground.

The striking characters come alive through Zola’s signature naturalist style conveying every visceral sensation. We feel the empty aching stomachs, the bone-weariness after back-breaking 14 hour shifts, the rage simmering as deadened spirits reawaken to injustice. Though brutal and unflinching, light still pierces through the resilience of community and optimism against impossible odds.

The novel telescopes effortlessly from blistering authenticity of domestic conflicts to sweeping analysis of systemic chains binding the working class for centuries in servitude. Zola exposes the foundations and fault lines of industrial society, leaving the reader reeling, radicalised yet with a profound well of empathy for those still crawling in the shadows, robbed equally of economic freedom and humanity.  

The ending's abruptness offers little solace, no facile solutions to class warfare’s legacy. But the refusal to provide redemption only reinforces Zola’s thunderous condemnation of exploitation’s toll. Germinal remains an eternal call to action, shining light where indifference and comfort wish for darkness. Few works so unforgettably sear the human costs of indifference into your very soul.

1990