Screwball comedies are among the most beloved films of Hollywood’s golden age, but for decades historians and critics have disagreed over what the genre is and which movies belong to it.
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/09/19/fools-in-love-hollywood-screwball-comedy/
Fareed Zakaria seeks lessons for the present in various European revolutions, but the “liberal” English and Dutch examples he singles out as exemplary barely qualify as revolutionary at all.
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/09/19/in-search-of-steady-reform-age-of-revolutions-fareed-zakaria/
In Mark O’Connell’s A Thread of Violence, the murderer Malcolm Macarthur lurks in the gray area between life and literature.
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/09/19/haunted-by-fiction-a-thread-of-violence-mark-oconnell/
In a novel that fuses horror with historical fiction, Victor LaValle explores the lives of African American women who went west around the turn of the twentieth century.
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/09/19/monsters-real-imaginary-lone-women-victor-lavalle/
Steve Coll’s The Achilles Trap recounts the long history of confusions, misconceptions, and miscalculations in the relationship between the US and Iraq, from Saddam Hussein’s rise to power in 1979 to the the American invasion in 2003.
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/09/19/a-terrible-mistake-the-achilles-trap-steve-coll/
Just Love Her by Raz Mihal is a meditation on the essence of love and its impact on the soul’s journey. This work reads like a personal diary, where Mihal documents his reflections and experiences, diving deeply into the metaphysical connections formed through love. His narrative weaves through the daily affirmations of his emotions towards an enigmatic ‘Her,’ a personification of his ideal love, which ultimately serves as a catalyst for his spiritual awakenings and philosophical explorations.
Mihal’s style is lyrical and introspective, using rich, emotive language to convey his deep connection to the subject of his affection. This approach, while beautifully poetic, can occasionally veer into the esoteric. Mihal’s work is deeply personal and filled with a yearning that resonates on a universal level.
The philosophical undertones of Just Love Her are what set it apart. Mihal delves into themes of divine love versus human love, the essence of soul connections, and the eternal nature of affection and desire. His reflections, steeped in a blend of personal anecdotes and broader existential queries, make the text a compelling read for those intrigued by the intersections of love, spirituality, and personal growth. While I enjoyed this, I think the abstract discussions can sometimes seem circular.
Just Love Her is an introspective journey into the heart of what it means to feel and reflect on love’s transformative power. While its stylistic and thematic choices might not cater to everyone’s tastes, it is a recommended read for those interested in spirituality, personal reflection, and the philosophy of love. Ideal for readers of Rumi or Khalil Gibran, or anyone who appreciates a deep dive into the soul’s response to the divine allure of love.
Pages: 248 | ASIN : B0D9FPWPQ2
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/30/just-love-her/
Natural Insurrection by Wilfred Nieman takes readers on a journey through the evolutionary history of humanity and its impact on our modern existence. The book examines our development from early hominids to the dominant species we are today, focusing on the consequences of our predatory nature and cognitive growth. Nieman prompts readers to reflect on the less savory aspects of human evolution, highlighting how our instincts and intelligence have often driven us to disrupt the natural world in significant ways. His work combines historical, anthropological, and philosophical perspectives to offer a thorough and critical look at what defines humanity.
Nieman’s writing style strikes a balance between scholarly detail and an approachable tone. He effectively presents complex ideas in a way that is both understandable and thought-provoking. A notable example is his exploration of bipedalism and brain development, which he presents in a way that is engaging without oversimplifying the subject matter. Nieman is not afraid to question conventional thinking, particularly when discussing the possibility that humans may have deviated from the natural course of evolution, becoming a species that challenges the very order of nature itself. This bold perspective is likely to inspire thoughtful discussion among readers.
While the book’s expansive coverage is commendable, it sometimes results in sections that feel dense, potentially overwhelming readers who are not familiar with evolutionary biology or anthropology. The author’s thorough approach is evident as he tackles topics ranging from the origins of life to the complexities of human social dynamics, which can occasionally slow the pace for those less versed in these subjects.
Nonetheless, Natural Insurrection remains a thought-provoking read that invites readers to reconsider humanity’s role in the world. Nieman’s skill in blending scientific analysis with philosophical insight makes the book both intellectually stimulating and a source of deeper existential reflection. His assertion that human advancements in cognition and technology have not only separated us from other species but also placed us in conflict with the natural world serves as a poignant reminder of the weighty responsibilities that come with our unique position on this planet.
This book is highly recommended for anyone with an interest in anthropology, evolutionary biology, or the philosophical aspects of human evolution. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy challenging their own beliefs and delving into complex discussions about the past, present, and future of our species.
Pages: 249 | ASIN : B0D3CJNMC9
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/30/natural-insurrection-the-predatory-legacy-of-man/
Joseph Clarke’s SOL – Supportive Guidance for Healing & Awakening is a compelling book for readers seeking solace and growth amidst life’s tumultuous journey. This self-help book, divided into insightful parts, guides readers through understanding their divine nature, introduces daily practices for spiritual and personal development, and emphasizes the importance of community in one’s healing journey. Clarke’s book is both personal and universal, rooted in his own experiences with acute myeloid leukemia, which catalyzed his deep dive into spiritual awakening and mindfulness.
Clarke’s writing effectively demystifies complex spiritual concepts. The book’s first part offers a buffet of spiritual wisdom that is both profound and accessible, making it easy to connect with the ideas presented. Particularly striking is the way Clarke explains the ephemeral nature of existence through the metaphor of the universe as a “dream,” encouraging a reevaluation of our perceptions and our place within the cosmos.
The book is comprehensive in its scope but I think some readers might find the wealth of practices in Part 2, the “SOL Flourishing Program
,” overwhelming. While these practices aim to cater to diverse needs, the sheer volume could be daunting for those new to mindfulness or spiritual practice. Yet, for those willing to navigate through this abundance, the rewards are substantial, offering tools that can be tailored to fit individual paths toward healing.
The inclusion of community engagement in Part 3 is a highlight for me, recognizing that healing is not just an internal process but one that involves our interactions with others. Clarke’s emphasis on community not only broadens the book’s appeal but also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our experiences.
SOL is a treasure trove of spiritual insights and practical wisdom. It is particularly suited for those who are at a crossroads, individuals facing health challenges, or anyone embarking on a journey of personal transformation. Its lessons are universal yet deeply personal, and Clarke’s compassionate voice assures us that healing is within reach, inviting us to explore the depths of our own spirits with courage and hope.
Pages: 358 | ASIN : B0CXH2WWFG
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/30/sol-supportive-guidance-for-healing-awakening/
Phoebe PhobiCat Versus Broccoli by Brianna Brown is a delightful tale that tackles a common childhood fear in a fun and relatable way. The story introduces us to Phoebe, a charming little cat who is absolutely terrified of broccoli. When dinner time rolls around, and she’s faced with the dreaded green veggie, Phoebe reacts with sheer panic, clambering onto the kitchen chandelier to escape. What follows is a sweet and clever exchange between Phoebe and her mother, who uses playful logic to help Phoebe overcome her fear. By the end, Phoebe takes a brave bite of broccoli and realizes that it’s not so bad after all.
I absolutely adored how this picture book balances humor with a subtle but important message. The exaggerated fear Phoebe shows is something that will resonate with kids, making it easier for them to see their own anxieties in a different light. The way Mama PhobiCat gently coaxes Phoebe into trying the broccoli through a series of comparisons is both clever and effective. Comparing the stinky broccoli to Daddy after yard work or the floppy vegetable to Phoebe’s favorite bunny was great because it’s a fun and accessible way for kids to reframe their fears.
The writing is simple yet engaging, making it perfect for young readers or a read-aloud session with parents. The repetition of Phoebe’s protests—“They’re stinky!” “They’re floppy!”—is sure to get giggles while also reinforcing the main point. The resolution is satisfying, as Phoebe realizes that trying new things isn’t so scary after all. I especially liked the way the story doesn’t just dismiss Phoebe’s fear but rather acknowledges it and works through it, making the lesson feel organic rather than forced.
On top of the story’s charm, the illustrations by Kashif Qasim are wonderfully vibrant and bring Phoebe’s world to life. The expressions on Phoebe’s face, from her wide-eyed terror to her eventual pride, are just priceless and add an extra layer of emotion to the narrative. The kitchen scene where Phoebe is clinging to the chandelier is particularly well done and will likely be a favorite among readers.
Phoebe PhobiCat Versus Broccoli is a must-read for any child dealing with the fear of trying new things. It’s a lighthearted yet impactful children’s book that would be perfect for kids aged 3-7, especially those who might be going through a “picky eater” phase.
Pages: 36 | ISBN : 1787883183
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/30/phoebe-phobicat-versus-broccoli/
Fractured State follows a man entrusted with safeguarding a community of Druids who must navigate a perilous world where reality, mythology, and technology intersect and face relentless threats to survival. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
Great question. Fractured State occurs within the world of The Blighted Earth, where humankind is both the planet’s dominant species and ‘the blight.’ Thus, the level of frustration and even disdain for humanity which bleeds through in the narrative leads the reader to question the narrator’s origin and species—High Sentient? Likely, an elemental or Guardian Spirit. For the series, the downstream story arcs were fleshed out first, and I had to map primary story arcs back to Book One to set the stage and create the conditions for what was going to happen later. I needed a great character who captured our species’ duality—flawed and yet possessing great potential; an aspect of the human condition which so vexes the High Sentients. As a combat veteran myself, I am intimately familiar with the challenges and struggles facing many of our military veterans, and as an obscure, religious minority, Druidry presented a likely target for discrimination while also possessing strong ties to nature. Finally, I needed an effective counter to Chaos’s shadow campaign to weaponize human emotion, which spawned the concept of the fúath slugairor ‘Hate-eater’—hence, Arden was born!
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?
To “set the table” for the Blighted Earth series, I needed the right set of conditions for Chaos to exploit in His relentless pursuit to initiate the Great Cascade and bring about the Discordant on Earth. The makings of environmental catastrophe (extended drought, wildfires, natural habitat erosion, human over-settlement, etc.) have been present and worsening for some time, with climate change driving more destructive weather extremes. Additionally, the novel was written during the trials and tribulations we all endured during the COVID pandemic and the unfortunate events in the aftermath of the 2020 Presidential election. When coupled with all the emerging threats, conflicts, and uncertainty which have emerged in last few years, as well as their corresponding negative effects on our collective state of mind and emotions, the real world itself provided all the drama and necessary ingredients for ruinous potential at continental scale. The final step was to inject the enduring struggle of otherworldly entities and supernatural beings into volatile mix—and “voila”—this author had everything he needed to create the “fractured state.” As far as changes during the writing process, extraordinarily little changed in the overall setting in the United States, but local places, encounters, and characters within Arden’s story arc changed as his supernatural powers and the overall impact he was to have in the series gained greater fidelity. These factors then shaped more ‘tactical’ aspects of the novel, such as finding the right settings and locations within the state of Texas.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I explore several themes in Fractured State, and to me, some of the more important ones are:
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
Great news: Blighted Earth fans can expect to see Long Leg from the Blight Earth sometime next year. I am pretty far along in knitting together and refining the manuscript from the initial draft. In fact, I actually have the rough drafts completed for the next three books in what is currently planned to be a nine-book series. In terms of Book Two expectations: expect the unexpected! Another story arc begins with a new cast of characters who will have to accept the baton and carry the gripping narrative forward in the Natural Order’s struggle against Chaos and his minions. Where will Book Two take place? Hint: pay careful attention to Parim’s words towards the end of the Fractured State epilogue. Lastly, though it is hard to pick favorites, Book Two is one of the stories I really want to share with the world!
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website | Book Review
His objective: initiate the Great Cascade and bring about the Discordant on Earth. His target: North America, where the Chaotic flashpoint within human civilization has occurred…in Texas?
The eternal struggle between order and chaos is an inescapable condition of the universe. Caught in the middle is the delicate balance necessary for life to exist and prosper in our world. On Earth, the opposing sides in this timeless conflict are Earth Mother’s Natural Order and Chaos’s Force Corrupted-the En’Troop-EE. The Great Cascade is underway, and with the High Sentients of the Natural Order reduced and in disarray, there may be no stopping Chaos this time.
In Fractured State by R.M. Tembreull, the reality of existence on Earth is reinterpreted, where all living things are seen as the children of a sentient planet. Our immortal souls are gifts from Earth Mother, and all living beings progress through many lives within the Hierarchy of Sentience. If our world could feel, would this change how you perceive our world?
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/30/fuath-slugairor/