Piatures

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Stars and Smoke by Marie Lu is a fictional-crime-thriller about a secret CIA subsidiary agency teaming with a superstar for a covert operation. When perusing an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book due to wanting to read a fiction book and a playfully-branching-curiosity of the logline (lines, really, at the top of the back of the version of the book I buy). The text explores grief, familial/fraternal/romantic relations, desperation, loneliness, celebrity/public life, and private life (more so in relation to life in/through shadows though not as an individual with a life easily revealable—as a part of a measure of protection and confidentiality—than just personal). I like the text; I find aspects of the story amusing, subtly comical and the text overall as a fun-light read. I find the font/organization/spacing of the text makes the text easier to read. I like the journey through espionage in the story. The author acknowledges using resources to help with writing the book particularly mentioning an autobiography, Life Undercover: Coming of Age in the CIA by Amaryllis Fox, and encouragement/inspiration from appreciating/observing BTS.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey is a philosophical-poetic autobiography of Matthew McConaughey's life (to a particular point) seemingly attempting to  enlightentain (enlighten and/while entertaining/informing) one toward living one's choice life. When perusing an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book from a curiosity branching from: what might Matthew McConaughey offer as a person, personally, aside from a role in a film? When reading the text, comically (thinking of films like How High [2001], Dazed and Confused [1993], Up In Smoke [1978]), at times, I wonder: is the statement I'm reading from Matthew McConaughey coming from a time when he's high on marijuana? I think the text offers somewhat progressive advice about being/becoming an acting partner/entertainer (aside from somewhat progressive advice about life in general) somewhat akin to I Can't Make This Up: Life Lessons by Kevin Hart, Will by Will Smith and Mark Manson, and I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. I find the text gravitates about a down-to-earth tone appreciating life, as best as one may.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami (Translator: Jay Rubin) is a fictional tale (at times reading like a historical fiction, at times feeling as explicable as the film Parasite [2019] as well as an art-house film of a story—a posh-mosh novel) navigating marriage particularly connecting lineage in respect to personality as well as personality in connection with one's personal history (unfamiliar or not in the know of a current relationship—of a marriage), in (arguably beyond) union, intergenerational drama and trauma particularly in connection with sibling relations, cultural-generational drama and trauma particularly in connection progressions of economic stability/instability from perspectives before, within, and beyond war and politics, media, business, equity (extremely intelligently) in a myriad of forms (especially transformatively) particularly in relation to particular cultural-generational relationships affecting progressions of economic stability/instability from before, within, and beyond war and politics (heavily focusing between China, Japan, and Russia as well as connecting entities of circumstances the text mentions of particular periods), supernaturality, writing, thinking, women (in relation to abortion, being, equity—economically—socially), how one chooses to age, and health in general (particular mental health largely in relation to concepts of equity though in connection to death, life, and action in time [passing]). When perusing an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book due to wanting to read a fictional tale. I love how the text approaches generational progressions through individual characters to form, respectively, an always coming of age outlay, interrogating: what is being? more so than: what is life? I find the text details well what highlights being and life is what might not be so bright, so immediately recognizable as apparent—though apparently present, requires digging or exploration of what already is (considering an excavation which is already complete or necessary). I find the text hopeful, offering healing as possible as well as necessary, indicating healing may be/come/look differently for anyone (through exemplifying how being present in life, living a good life, can be solace for another's living).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Honeybees and Distant Thunder by Riku Onda (Translator: Philip Gabriel) is a wonderfully philosophical-poetically-musical-fictional tale about musicians, the natural world, music, and the supernatural world (amongst many other points). When perusing books in an Internom, I decide on buying then reading the text because of a curiosity of the title (aside from appreciating the book cover design): how do honeybees and thunder in a distance correlate? From the perspective of an athlete/competitor, I really enjoy the nuances of character development through realm(s) in relation to competition. I find the text offers perspectives well-considering age in connection to being with one's passion(s) progressively. I think the text offers balances of respect which can enrich any field (inclusive of respectively approaching a/ competitive avenue[s] of a particular field). I find the text offers beautiful perspectives to consider in connection with one's passion(s) that may be present elsewhere in another field one may not so readily recognize as having any aspect in connection with one's passion(s). I find the text grapples with maturity in a way acknowledging an/ acute sense(s) of being evolving through an/ interdependent reality(ies). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex by Dr. John Gray, PhD, is a self-help type book of primarily qualitative research practically guiding toward improving communication between men and women (though the communication revolves around men and women primarily romantically I find the text balances well with considering improving communication generally). When perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I initially set the book down for a few weeks before returning to buy then read the book particularly considering the name in regard to a playful rhyme from elementary school in use to seemingly disparage one gender in comparison to another (in addition to the fact I'm always improving being a mindful individual as well as romantic/life partner). I really enjoy reading the text; I find the text funnier with each passing page as well as relevant to modernity. Additionally, I find the text considers personality more toward the end of the text though guides narratively well, entertainingly toward better communication. When reading the text, I think of two films for two different reasons: Cannibal Women in the Avocado Jungle (1989)(comically, contexts of the film grapple with sentiments of relations between men and women somewhat correlating with the text) and Letters to Juliet (2010)(in connection to the beauty of letter writing, like an ode to letter writing and correlative depth potentials of what may be of a letter/letter writing). I think the following can be wonderful supplemental texts of depths in relation to contexts within Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex by Dr. John Gray, PhD: It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman, Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex by Joan Price, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey, and What to Expect When You're Expecting by Heidi Murkoff.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Love Prescription: Seven Days to More Intimacy, Connection, and Joy by Dr. John Gottman, PhD, and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman, PhD, offers practical advice in tidbits (through qualitative and quantitative research) to apply uniquely per day for seven days toward building one's self/relationship practically well long-term. When perusing a Mona English Bookstore, I find the text then decide to read the text since I am constantly improving practically so as to be a more mindful individual as well as romantic/life partner. I think the text offers sound advice and works especially well as a sounding board for one (or any in a/ romantic relationship[s]) seeking to self-/relationship-assess toward better communication and more mindfulness (even if only as confirming encouragement of what already is progressing). The text brings up particular topics such as emotional intelligence and familial/trauma which I think one may become more aware of (in a/ well-rounding sense[s]) toward healing and thriving practically through three particular texts: It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup, and Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman. Additionally, the text offers resources supplementing contexts of the text in a/ way(s) that may assist one and/or any in a romantic/life partnership beyond the book itself.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman is like a case-study-self-though-bigger-than-self-help-type book about competencies (largely in relation to emotional intelligence) in connection with parameters of aspects of human spectrums. When perusing a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read the text due to finding the title intriguing then finding the correlating context(s) to the title even more intriguing as well as keenly relevant to modernity (realistically, concerning developing a/as a human being well, which makes the contexts so seemingly timeless). I'm really glad about reading the text after Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman because of a perspective dawning in my mind toward the end of Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman: how will one be in a world in which money is not a factor (everyone is wealthy and only pursues debt as a way to build credit)? How will humanity be—in a world at large, when everyone has everything financially necessary, plus more, materialistically, abundantly? The text devolves from anecdotal-qualitative-quantitative-observational research to detail aspects of human spectrums in connection with varying competencies (which really work together though the text delves into contexts of aspects of emotional intelligence more so to inform as well as guide any coming across emotional intelligence unaware of spectrums of emotional intelligence). I think the text is valuable for referential purposes and definitely sound to read carefully in connection with how one may be choosing to develop one's life long-term. I think It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup, and Not In Your Genes: The real reasons children are like their parents by Oliver James are great supplemental contexts to read with Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman. I'm really glad about reading Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman: I really think the contexts are valuable toward becoming a more mindful human being across all areas of human spectrums, toward good/better living, long-term.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Gambler by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a fiction story trailing an individual of Russian descent to extrapolate beyond ethnicity conversations/meanings of etiquette, risk, hope, ambition, purpose, education/learning to self-culture, self-development, short-term in connection with long-term developments, generational culturing, inheritance, romance in connection with maturity (as well as materialism though materialism in itself is a topic alone), stability as a human being aware of how to develop respectively reasonably well in society at large, and health (physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually) amongst other topics. When perusing an Internom, I decide to buy then read The Gambler by Fyodor Dostoevsky because of the title. I remember a club wrestling coach in high school introducing the song, "The Gambler" by Kenny Rogers, to me. After listening to the song the first time, I find myself appreciating the lyrics sixteen years later (and I likely will continue to do so the rest of my life): I find the lyrics substantial as sound advice (particularly the chorus). I'm no stranger to Roulette though I'm not one to really gamble money for pleasure (really, I'm quite frugal). The story revolving around Roulette (heavily, though gambling in general [albeit particularly in connection with risk] most of all) is more interesting to me because of my history of actually playing Roulette (3-1) (the only other game that I remember even being willing to play at a casino is Craps though I've never come to play the game officially in a casino), I always leave with more than I enter with though I've only come to play because of being in an area for another reason or so (otherwise, I don't seek to attend any gambling event as a reason to be in a specific location—I don't derive any pleasurable sensation from gambling). I really enjoy the story because the writing is really good; depicting well human potential by choice behavior so effectively in such a timeline so clearly is appreciable and I think valuable to any reader that may not quite be astute to how one's own future(s) can actually be in one's control especially if one has a/ goal(s) in alignment with building one's future(s). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie is like a self-help type book (though arguably so due to courses available in connection with aspects of the text in relation to varying aspects of life to assist in myriad ways beyond the text though inclusive of the information of the text) for any seeking to be more sociable successfully. Years ago in California, when introducing my merchandise to an individual, I recall the individual asking if I've ever come to read How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie, to which I respond no (since not having done so then). More recently, perusing a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read the text from a branching curiosity, recalling the text being a great subject of benefit and interest to Warren Buffett (which I learn from reading The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder). I thoroughly enjoy the text as I find the text to be more of a somewhat comical form of insider guidance in being a more mindful individual in general amidst any way one may be able to feel so as to be more at peace and socially successful in life. The text advises to review the text in its entirety as well as particularly at least once a month (though as a study, so one may do so potentially as much as one may like/find beneficial) which I think actually is quite sensible for any that may not genuinely attribute through one's being sentiments of which the text discusses. I find the text quite valuable as a way to educate and encourage an/ individual(s) toward a/ better route(s) of being.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Personal MBA (10th Anniversary Edition) by Josh Kaufman is like an amalgamation of research with an/ objective-philosophical underpinning(s) in relation to nearly, if not, all aspects of business (while respectfully acknowledging itself as more of a foundational approach than an end-all for learning [considering that one must continue self-educating respectfully] though offers valuable information that can assist one in a/ way(s) that can benefit one as much as, if not more, than processes of obtaining an MBA might). When browsing books at an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book due to my curiosity of the book title's meaning and how the information the book might contain might constitute such a title as objectively-relevant. If the text is justifiable as a source for one to follow in lieu of pursuing an MBA depends entirely upon an individual's approach with education and information (as well as other facets of one's life in connection to one's life choices, goal[s], objectives, intentions) (the book doesn't completely dismiss earning an MBA though clarifies a/ reason[s] one might benefit from having/obtaining an MBA, purposefully). I think the text offers valuable information that may greatly benefit one approaching business, even if not as an owner, if even only a part of a developing business—though, the advice can connect well other areas of life at large aside from business. I like the way the text integrates aspects of the human spectrum(s) in relation to business (considering a necessity for one to know one's self well). I think the text will be useful as a reference book especially due to its organization making finding a/ particular topic(s) easier. Additionally, the book explicitly states the information within it, so as not to be misleading, and there are offerings to other resources that may assist one with a/ particular topic(s) for one to further self-educate.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Promised Land by Barack Obama is like a journal-letter factually and philosophically navigating Obama's journey (largely Obama's career journey and anything pertinent in connection to Obama's career journey) from childhood into about the end of his first term as president of the United States of America. While perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read A Promised Land by Barack Obama because of actually not acknowledging Obama (entering my awareness as a president of the United States in 2008) more than as I might a family member having a/ responsibility(ies) to fulfill especially as an individual I recognize as older than I. Additionally, I never expectantly put any weight on Obama because I recall my world(s) being quite different entering my undergraduate years of college (which I acknowledge quite thoroughly in my albums Light of Times and Love, of Times) especially as an individual more so in connection with books, movies, music, sports (particularly wrestling as a student-athlete going through growing pain[s]), and video games than efforts channeling (however sparsely) through popular media at the time. I recall my roommate telling me about Obama winning the election as an explanation for a raucous roar I hear and ask about from my/our dorm room on a hill in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania in 2008. With maturity—years later—I recall finding the book, Audacity to Win by David Plouffe in my mom's living quarters, then reading the book with a clearer understanding of not only the developing world at large though myself as an appreciator. I genuinely enjoy good success(es) of a competitively fair world at large. Growing up through diverse backgrounds, I don't recall having an expectation of anyone beyond responsibility(ies) which resounds well with me in my life especially considering that I believe a main responsibility any human has is to live an objectively good worthy life especially if with the capability(ies) to live an objectively good worthy life. 

Reading the text, I mull ideas of which I've come to think of before though more so when reading the text:

1.) In senses of athletic-competitiveness, a/ political action(s) seems like a/ sense(s) of effort(s) one may feel one must apply in order to be successful—to win—though an/ other portion(s) exist of which is/are seemingly beyond basic rules of a game that seem to coincide with ruling, gaming, and fitting—which one may argue does or does not prove valuable for a champion—whatever one is attemption to champion—though a/ contentious-contrite action(s) may seem of good fervor when establishing competitive sports teams. Will politicians behave differently if with political sports teams mandatory on the sides of political duties? (Good exercise can work a world of good.)

2.) Nuclear warheads don't make any nation powerful, good organizations of people and efficient structures do. If a country decides to blow up every country, what will that country prove able to build, if only able to prove destructive? Destruction is not a good wagering tool. Nuclear warheads—though a persistent reality of less than fear more so of not knowing from a/ time(s) when an/ individual(s) operate in a less visible world in which the fantastic of the imagination leaves one to determine how one will choose to rationalize into the unknown everyone faces—even with a good plan—may propel an/ individual(s) to any sense of true security (navigations of a/ feeling[s] of which any can scientifically locate through research, in modernity, that one must choose to identify, channel, or confirm through one's being) though a film like Super 8 (2011), Eight Legged Freaks (2002), or The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) may more than likely draw individuals to a theater than procure a fear of train tracks, film making, or anywhere a spider may be (I hope) in modernity.

I like A Promised Land by Barack Obama because I think the text offers an/ insider perspective(s) for anyone that may really care about ongoings of/in connection with the Oval Office. Additionally, I think the text can offer more grounding to a reality that a/ happening(s) in connection with Oval Office is/are workings of employees on a/an national/international stage in comparison to a/ job(s)/position(s) that may have to deal with a/ similar level(s) of scrutiny(ies) on a/ reasonably incomparable scale(s). Additionally, I think the text offers enough detail(s) for one to make a reasonable consideration of one's position in the world as a human being, of one's humaneness, one's way(s) of choice being, in respect to geography as well as sociography.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Dare Not Linger: The Presidential Years by Nelson Mandela and Mandla Langa is like a ledger of a memoir concerning Nelson Mandela's life primarily in connection with developing South Africa on his way to becoming president, as president, and post presidency. When perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read Dare Not Linger: The Presidential Years by Nelson Mandela and Mandla Langa because of being more aware of the name than the person or anything in connection with the person (of who I come to learn of as an integral part of history). I'm Haitian and (quite aware of my Haitian history) learn so much of elements establishing a country functionally in tandem with the global collective (even in contrast to growing beyond a state of apartheid—which I think any country that experiences a form of colonialism or social intranational drama might be able to comprehend) from the book which makes me greatly consider how a/ nation(s) and/or person/people may progress well after obtaining a/ freedom(s) then entering (if not already within) a global collective atmosphere of different socio-economic happenings as well as progressions (especially considering a period [of history] when/where/how such may occur). I enjoy reading Nelson Mandela's speeches as well as appreciate his approache(s) to navigating toward a better future for all willing to be proactive toward a better future (of which I feel I experience evidence of through glimpses of Nelson Mandela's presidency), knowing that consistent-good efforts may take time to prove effective.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder is somewhat of a biography of Warren Buffett: I use the term somewhat due to the text expounding on finance, ethics, and politics through more so than Warren Buffett's life though happenings in connection with Warren Buffett's life as well as individuals in connection with Warren Buffett throughout his life sharing a seemingly meaningful connection with Warren Buffett as well as the happenings connecting to a situation that may involve Warren Buffett; the portion of the title concerning the "Business of Life" needs acknowledgement to ensure a/ reader(s) understand concepts concerning most, if not all, that encompasses aspects of an/ economy(ies) receives attention throughout the text. When perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I buy then read the The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder (primarily from a curiosity) (because I understand the importance of practically building a good family so) wondering how a family with vast amounts of wealth might be (even considering all families are different). I learn so much from the book about business that I feel so much more knowledgeable about how businesses can process: I feel like The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder and A Passion for Excellence by Tom Peters and Nancy Austin are perfect companions especially for any with a/ mindset(s) of life in connection with business as well as exploring life as a mindful individual developing a/ mindset(s) for good growth(s). After reading the text, I find the world somewhat larger and intricate especially through a/ practical economical lense(s). More so, I appreciate Ben Graham's perspective on the importance of how one lives as well as Warren Buffett's perspective on love especially in connection with financial abundance. The text does not offer any bias to elevate Warren Buffett on a pedestal. I think the text offers details to help one navigate one's life by answering a branching question I've come to develop through my/ observation(s) of the text: Where can one be not just a stellar employee of value—where can one be a stellar person improving/appreciating value—and how can one do both (especially if one is not in a position with a title that might be where anyone may be looking for [a/the stellar individual] who anyone might think needs to be in a certain way or so, is—though [a/the stellar individual] is in a position in life being so)? 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne carries motivational sentiments of core philosophies and sciences across myriads of topics in direct relation to one's being. While perusing books in a Barnes and Noble a few years ago, I remember meeting an individual asking if I've yet to read The Secret in a voice making me feel as though the individual is sharing a secret with me, then the individual departs from my presence: more recently, upon perusing books at a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to purchase then read the text.  Each section of the book offers advice which flows so well with parts of information from other texts I've come to read (in relation to particular topics); (with balances of health) Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup; (with aspects of psychoneuroimmunology/healing) The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn; and (with core concepts the text expounds toward guiding one in a/ way[s] to fulfilling one's life as one wants) I find the text grounds best practically in relation to Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon by Dr. Joe Dispenza and Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill due to the energetic intentions of both latter texts as well as practical steps with (anecdotal, qualitative, quantitative) evidential supports. I feel as though The Secret is easily digestible with tidbits from advising-motivating-teaching professionals as well as the author's commentative encouragement especially considering the organization of the text being seemingly so anyone can read the text understandably without having to be a professional in any particular field: the summaries at the end of each section can be helpful for any needing quick referential reminders of a section. I appreciate the intentions of the book because I think fulfilling one's life in the best-good ways possible for one personally is awesome so if The Secret leads one to do so awesome: additionally, I think myriad forms of texts like The Secret exist (refer to a few books I mention in this review) that offer methodologies that may be helpful for individuals branching from different circumstances of being that may require different guidance.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Mastery by Robert Greene comprehensively (reasonably, in accordance with the author's intentions/scope[s]) though specifically in connection to particular individuals' lives illumines elements of becoming as well as being masterful at any stage of one's life (at any stage of one's life not necessarily only coinciding with one's age more so than perhaps one's skill level in connection with one's being [considering all aspects of human spectrums, consciously and subconsciously]). The anecdotal-qualitative text offers more so mental and willful approaches to comprehending how an individual may progress toward a particular avenue of one's choice(s): I feel like I'm reading a self-help/self-empowerment book motivating one toward fulfilling one's being by acknowledging myriad aspects of one's self (and/or selves). I find the text enjoyable and fulfilling to read: I like the methodologies through individuals—most of which I've never come to hear about until reading the text—with the contemplative philosophizing commentary of the author which leaves one with more resources (perspective/information-wise) so as to self-assess (and/or debate, reasonably) moving forward in one's own life. Additionally, I like the clear organization of the book especially due to the variances of perspective with reiterative concepts that don't muddle throughout the book.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez is a necessary read for anyone (even if just curious) about relevancies of informing gender data gaps contributing toward good practical measures toward gender equality more so than gender neutrality. Upon entering an Internom, I find myself browsing many books of interest. I decide to buy then read Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez largely because I care about developing perspectives and research in relation to women's well-being (especially in light of the reality that many books I read in order to be a more mindful romantic life partner [especially texts concerning women's health] note a/ necessity[ies] for more research on women's well-being). I care about human development toward improvement so reading a text of the sort by Caroline Criado Perez increases my awareness about culture areas in relation to women's (which, of course, means in relation to all humanity) well-being in society at large. Concerning women's health in relation to contexts of the text about doctors, I advise any woman to use sound resources to find a good doctor especially if in relation to one's genital areas: texts like Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing by Dr. Christiane Northrup, MD, Dr. Nita's Crash Course for Women: Better Sex, Better Health, Better You by Dr. Nita Landry, MD, OB-GYN, and The Vagina Bible: The Vulva and the Vagina: Separating the Myth from the Medicine by Dr. Jen Gunter, MD, can be supportive (all the while acknowledging a necessity for more research concerning women's health). Additionally, reading the text, I think of Tantric Orgasm for Women by Diana Richardson, recalling Diana Richardson's attentiveness to improving relations between men and women in order to fully embrace ascending in better ways toward a better union of abundance and understanding, which I think leads toward a better overall world at large. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Essential Kafka by Franz Kafka (with an introduction by a John R. Williams of St. Andrews) is a collection of stories of varying length by Franz Kafka. Browsing a school library's selection, I find the text then decide to borrow then read the text due to an interest in reading a copy of The Trial by Franz Kafka, at my crib (my mom's place), many years ago. After reading the collection, I find the text so valuable that in light of owning a company with many employees in the future, I will give every applicant a copy of the text after becoming an employee particularly for The Trial, The Castle, and Metamorphosis: I think the stories offer important perspectives to consider in relation to one's life purpose in connection to worlds of work as much as about contexts of socio-economic well-being in aside from as well as in relation to romance. The author carries a comical tone through each of the stories as though an observant insider that has naught else to do but find comedy amidst all happenings. Even so, one may gather from Letter to My Father that Franz Kafka's writing flows as somewhat of a therapeutic process to bring understanding from a life that respects life as is though contemplates life as more philosophically. Additionally, I find greater values to understanding social as well as economic ideas within Kafka's stories more apparent after reading Debt: The First 5000 Years by David Graeber because concepts of debt permeate throughout Kafka's lengthier pieces (The Trial, The Castle, Metamorphosis, Letter to My Father) seemingly from a point of life that Kafka can only come to terms with ever so clearly within Letter to My Father (which feels like a must-read that may help well-round one's perspective[s] of Franz Kafka's stories) though may never in a way have to repay, not because the debts are unpayable, due to a/ reflective practical understanding(s). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Husband I Bought by Ayn Rand is drama-type short story about (primarily) Henry and Irene (on the surface) though one may argue the story is always about more than Henry and Irene's relationship with each other. After entering a favorable discussion about Ayn Rand, The Husband I Bought comes up as a recommendation though is unavailable for purchase at the time, then a wonderful surprise comes in the form of news: the short story becomes available for purchase in a book form with an English as well as Mongolian translation meeting in the middle of the text (at least in certain stores  in Mongolia)! After buying then reading the book form of the short story from an Internom, I engage in a discussion of the text with the recommender. Ayn Rand is a clever writer situating stories in connection with individuals as well as livelihoods in a way or so that acknowledges life is always around a corner whether that be the interior of a character or an extension beyond and/or within an environmental physical understanding. The text seems to engage concreteness with slipperiness so as to reveal a perspective of a perspective of an underlying perspective of a continuous cycle of perspectives necessary to divulge the core of Ayn Rand's meanings (such character and situational developments will be quite familiar to any familiar with Ayn Rand's larger texts such as Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead) throughout the short story. Even so, Ayn Rand's story developments on a seemingly smaller scale (in respect to her larger stories of a seemingly larger scale, more so of contexts and actual physical elements of a story in book form) in The Husband I Bought are compelling to discuss especially regarding socio-economic understandings in accordance with the available contexts within the short story. I feel so many connotations between such a short story and Jane Austen's Persuasion (realistically, more so than Persuasion, of course, any familiar with Jane Austen's stories will find many socio-economic underpinnings at play conflicting with society at large in tandem with private vs. public life in Jane Austen's stories): the tangles between wealth, status, love, and/or happiness comparatively from beyond and within colloquial to more global understandings can always seem to be quite riveting, entertaining because one can agree in a way or so though find such a way or so very disagreeable (alas, the discussions leave one to contemplate standards of character and moral in connection with long-term living understandings versus any sense of immediate need, while one must define need and/or want for one's self). I'm glad about reading the text and enjoy the text even more with a discussion thereafter (reading the text).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux is a mystery of architecture and engineering traversing practical existences in connection with human psyches through explorations of the opera. After finding the text in a library, I recall wanting to read the story many years ago after experiencing a  short visual experience on a television: so, I decide to borrow the book from the library (then finish reading the story). The deeper I am into the story, I feel a sense that I am entering and exiting areas of Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy as much as the story begins espousing the core relation of misery being a driving force for a main antagonist's proceedings (branching from a traumatic familial upbringing) in connection with Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe. Reading the text, I find the author correlates well manners of abuse as well as behavior generally concerning different levels of an employment (employer/employee) complex by bringing differing perspectives of distance from the contexts of employment via the opera (especially through a ghastly presence which seemingly supercedes all in relation to systems of employment via the opera though is practically in connection with the opera via economical senses). The investigative environment of the story allows differing perspectives to thrive in unique ways (which I advise any reader to carefully regard to better comprehend the story in fuller comprehensive senses). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Dr. Nita’s Crash Course for Women: Better Sex, Better Health, Better You by Dr. Nita Landry, MD, OB-GYN, brings up-to-date research and science to increase one's awareness about sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women. After spying the book during a walk through Barnes and Noble, I decide to buy then read the book especially because the text is one of the more recent texts I've come across concerning sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women. I enjoy improving how I may be a better romantic/life partner and learning about sexual developments in general though specifically-largely in connection to women helps me become a more aware-mindful individual (especially in relation with my [future] romantic/life partner). While reading the text, I feel as though the book is worth carrying to one's medical appointments because the organization of the text caters to ensuring one is receiving the most appropriate care in relation to one's health. The text offers assisting dialogue to help an individual and/or a patient as well as a healthcare professional make more sense of near any situation in connection with sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women. The text offers many resources for one to further discover more assisting information about a particular area of sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women. I really like the text, and I find the organization of the information in the text can be really helpful for a lay reader of medical texts about sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women. Additionally, I find the text brings to light the importance of funding research about sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women especially since analyzing as well as defining developing aspects of parameters of sexual health in general though specifically-largely in connection to women may lead to a healthier more aware-mindful human society at large.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Acupressure and Reflexology For Dummies by Synthia Andrews and Bobbi Dempsey introduces practices of Acupressure and Reflexology useful for any practitioner on any practical level. After mulling over ways I may be a better romantic/life partner, I decide to buy then read the book about Acupressure and Reflexology to find the ancient holistic-traditional-medicinal-like practices to be sound regarding mind-body interconnections. The text offers insights that allow for one to create one's own effective practices for any particular (mind-body connection) reason while ensuring to advise that Acupressure and Reflexology are of a spectrum of holistic-traditional-medicinal-like practices which support each other. The authors don't leave one to even assume Acupressure and/or Reflexology will be an ultimate resolve for all of one's potential health needs. Additionally, the text offers other resources via an Appendix to ensure any reader may find more pertinent information in accordance with one's particular need(s). I like the text: I find a different way to address my mind-body interconnection(s) practically. I appreciate the offerings of the text methodically toward appreciating aspects of one's body and mind, personally, takeaways that assist in approaching one's body and mind in a/ different way(s). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Foot Book: Everything You Need to Know to Take Care of Your Feet by Dr. Todd Brennan, DPM, FACFAS, FABPM, and Dr. Leslie Johnston, DPM, contains information about foot health, navigating situations one may encounter with one's feet. I remember deciding on buying then reading the book the same day I decide so for The XX Brain: The Groundbreaking Science Empowering Women to Maximize Cognitive Health and Prevent Alzheimer's Disease by Dr. Lisa Mosconi, PhD, though make the actual purchase of The Foot Book: Everything You Need to Know to Take Care of Your Feet, later. I take care of my feet, and I'm into healthy feet. I read the book to be more mindful of feet health especially considering my future romantic life partner(s) (her lifestyle may require particular attention to her feet). What better support may I be supporting her support(s) well? I like the text and feel like I have a better idea of a/ Podiatric perspective(s) in a/ way(s) that may help me navigate toward a/ healthier parameter(s) of feet/foot health.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

Catch-22 (50th Anniversary Edition) by Joseph Heller follows fictional tales of a squadron espousing intricacies of war heavily regarding militarism/war in the early to middle 20th century, heaving a cross industry relevance in relation to modernity. After a conversation at a 4th of July event in which an individual uses the term "Catch-22," I decide on buying then reading the book for a better understanding especially since at the time I am vaguely familiar with the term by ear though not by any definition. The author writes extremely well, correlating concepts of militarism/war thematically through each chapter, character, sentence, paragraph—which leaves one to explore the marrow of a subject though to never truly understand what the marrow of a subject is, which is exactly what the story is trying to bring a reader to. Observing a Catch-22 happens more often than not now when I'm moving about in the world, a nice phraseology to define exactly what is that prior understanding the phraseology might need more words to explain though even with the phraseology needs explaining. Of course, the phraseology is to lead us through conversations of ambition, beaurocracy, private enterprise, family, finances, being/one's purpose, faith, hope, religion, romance, potential physiological/psychological affects and much more (each to a varying degree or so concerning a particular topic) in connection to militarism/war. I really like the writer's style conveying the story so a/ reader(s) grasp(s) the reality of the importance of choosing and variances of decision making which revolve through varying levels of comedy (expounding personality all throughout) maintaining ideas connecting a/ little picture(s) to a/ big picture(s). I love the poetic touches which really help fulfill scenes. The supplementary material offers a bit of general and publishing background of the author and text (by the author as well as other entities like reviewers, critics, and scholars).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Miracle on High Street: The Rise, Fall and Resurrection of St. Benedict's Prep in Newark, N.J. by Thomas McCabe (one of my history teachers in high school) is somewhat of an anecdotal-qualitative-quantitative historical exploring of St. Benedict's Preparatory School into modernity from the establishment's beginnings in alignment with what is truly at the core of igniting such a development: the establishing of human souls to thrive in life. Attending an event with alumni from different schools from within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Newark, I actually receive the book as a gift from John Allen. Being an alumnus of St. Benedict's Preparatory School, I find the happenings of the establishment profound, and I'm appreciative of understanding the contexts in which the establishment transforms. As a former student of St. Benedict's Preparatory School, I'm no stranger to a good portion of its history though the connection(s) with the full context brings new information which makes me better understanding certain social aspects of a developing America especially considering Newark is hub. Analyzing the text, I have another assisting understanding of potential domino effects of social developments branching from individuals learning at a particular age then entering the world at large (especially since those individuals are in and/or entering midlife when I am born into the developing world):

"Like their neighborhoods, schools turned from white to black; for example, the formerly all-white high school in the predominantly Jewish Weequahic section went from 19 percent African American enrollment in 1961, to 70 percent in 1966, to more than 80 percent in 1968. It happened so quickly that the Board of Education could not update textbooks in time either. In a history class, a black youngster read the following from the class text: "The people of Africa are not white like we are."" (McCabe, p. 161)

I'm glad to be living in a world seemingly more aware, collaborative, and communicative in most, if not all, good ways socially. Even so, understanding the contexts of which an establishment is growing from, through, and beyond provides a deeper contextual understanding of that which America is shaping from, through, and beyond. I recall the high school selection process. I actually decide to go to Seton Hall Preparatory School to play football to succeed in the NFL, to be near my girlfriend at the time living in West Orange (about a fifteen-minute walk from my living quarters at the time), and to be in walking distance (from my living quarters at the time) to the school. My mother, one of the kindest-hardest-working individuals one may come across in life, thwarts my decision, so I attend St. Benedict's Preparatory School. Ever since, I do find I walk the world as an anomaly though have come to accept the world as an amalgamation of anomalies. I'm grateful about meeting so many individuals in my life, and I'm glad to be somewhat a part of St. Benedict's Preparatory School's prestigious history. St. Benedict's Preparatory School is co-ed now, and I think is wonderfully developing (as far as I know from the outside). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

McCabe, Thomas. (2011). Miracle on High Street: The Rise, Fall and Resurrection of St. Benedict's Prep. Fordham University Press.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Love Worth Making: How to Have Ridiculously Great Sex in a Long-Lasting Relationship by Dr. Stephen Snyder, M.D., expounds qualitative research through romantic relations from sex therapy sessions to inform practically toward a healthy(ier) sex life. Perusing Amazon book suggestions from books I recently order about relationships and sex, I decide to buy then read Love Worth Making: How to Have Ridiculously Great Sex in a Long-Lasting Relationship to encourage an idea that I may always learn more about a/ way(s) to improve a/ relationship(s) so as to be a better romantic/life partner as well as a growingly-healthier-mindful individual (especially since I'm already done reading so many awesome books especially of the sort, that are valuable and definitely awesome references, some of which Dr. Stephen Snyder, M.D., mentions in Love Worth Making: How to Have Ridiculously Great Sex in a Long-Lasting Relationship). While reading the text, I find a sex therapist can be a useful intercession for a couple that may need professional coaching at a comfortable pace especially respective to each partner's need(s) and/or want(s). I find a lot of the information in the text correlates directly to working concepts in It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn and Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup. Additionally, I'm very appreciative of tantra especially in connection to sex and relationships (even more so now) because core offerings in Love Worth Making: How to Have Ridiculously Great Sex in a Long-Lasting Relationship are of tantric methods (otherwise, many offerings connect deeply with psychoneuroimmunology though for a layperson more so than a fellow in research [unless fellows in research communicate so, as is in the text]). I like the appendix in the back of the book which is like a brief overview of core concepts of the text. I enjoy reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The XX Brain: The Groundbreaking Science Empowering Women to Maximize Cognitive Health and Prevent Alzheimer's Disease by Dr. Lisa Mosconi, PhD, is largely (quantitative research) about cognitive development (though touches on overall health) and preventative measures to live a healthier life free of (at least to experience less of symptoms of menopause, Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia, Diabetes, Hypertension...) near anything that may lead to cognitive decline in an individual though focusing on women (including comparative data relevant for both men and women). Waiting for a start of a film in a nearby theater, I walk to a nearby Barnes and Noble to walk around, and my curiosity peaks at a couple of books (though my proactive willingness toward ensuring to better understand my future romantic/life partner as an individual as well as a woman is reason for my buying then reading The XX Brain: The Groundbreaking Science Empowering Women to Maximize Cognitive Health and Prevent Alzheimer's Disease). Men and women are very different biologically especially concerning aspects of the human brain. The text offers a lot more information (which I find very relevant) concerning environmental effects on human development. I find discovering and exploring information of the sort will help my future romantic/partner and I enjoy more satisfying-well-rounding lives with every zeptosecond. I like the text a lot, and I am glad a lot more headway is happening (especially clinically) for the advancement of women's (realistically, human's) health.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Tantra: The Supreme Understanding by Osho is a text encouraging to be, more aware, growing more aware—through being. After reading The Heart of Tantric Sex and Tantric Orgasm for Women by Diana Richardson (both of which I really like), I decide to buy then read Tantra: The Supreme Understanding due to Osho being one of Diana Richardson's primary inspirational sources as well as Barry Long: I figure I may be able to get a better understanding of tantra doing so though am very appreciative of Diana Richardson's focuses with tantra through immediately applicable methods. Reading Tantra: The Supreme Understanding feels like I'm reading (note the text is a compilation of live recordings from Osho) a dialogue of an individual self-talking, talking with another while trying to tell me something sound though with a lot of examples that make me feel like the individual is between belligerent and intelligent (in overall non-menacing senses). Osho states in the text that the dialogue is to be so seemingly contradictory as well as extreme due to operating in metaphorical spheres so as to better navigate one toward being one's self. Osho seems to indicate for a/ reader(s) to take any part of the dialogue with a huge grain of salt into a fresh-open wound to grow in the world (at large) as one is though in a/ way(s) for which one is to grow. Osho is clear stating in the dialogue a/ way(s) a/ discussion(s) might go if one approaches Osho personally for life coaching. I think one may learn more about Osho than tantra throughout reading the text though I offer a few sentences that can sum the core of the text well;

1. Learn your self.

2. Build your self.

3. Create your life.

4. Embrace your life.

5. Be your self.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Heart of Tantric Sex by Diana Richardson is about being more aware and conscious sexually though the meditative practices as well as philosophies toward being more aware and conscious sexually transcend physical planes. I begin researching for other texts about sex after reading The Joy of Sex by Dr. Alex Comfort, M.B., D.Sc. (especially branching my search from/after discovering The Complete Kāma Sūtra: The First Unabridged Modern Translation of the Classic Indian Text (translation by Alain Daniēlou [inclusive of help from Kenneth Hurry])). The author indicates grounding for initial developments of the text in the Introduction:

"The depth and detail of information given by Barry Long changed the course of my life...Furthermore, it enabled me to understand and absorb, in a bodily way, the words of my spirtual master, Osho. He includes a vision of spirtuality through sex, woven together with interpretations of the ancient Tantric scriptures which were born in India thousands of years ago..." (Richardson, 2003/2008, pp. 11–12).

Even so, I'm a bit skeptical about the direction of the text after reading a portion of the text at the end of the author's Introduction: 

"This book is an attempt to share practical information about sex that created a subtle and significante revolution in my life. It is by no means intended to be a comprehensive presentation of the origins or intricate esoteric aspects of Tantra—it is simply a personal experience" (Richardson, 2003/2008, 12).

Yet, I find the author develops a very sound and valuable text particularly because of the Love Keys as well as meditative practices flowing with reasonably philosophy.  I feel like skillfully I'm a multipotentialite concerning sex styles though I'm a Tantric lover, at heart. The text is sexually well-rounding, considering dynamics that may affect one more so than sexually, always leading toward healing and healthily heightening sexual developments. Additionally, I find aspects of The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, and Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup in relation to psychoneuroimmunology concerning being healthily-mindfully present with one's self as well as another practically are throughout the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Richardson, D. (2008). The Heart of Tantric Sex. John Hunt Publishing. (Original work published in 2003). 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Joy of Sex by Dr. Alex Comfort, M.B., D.Sc., is a creative exploration toward pleasurably-sexually enlivening a/ relationship(s) through mindful play. The text is a re-invention by Susan Quilliam with familial support from the original author's son Nick Comfort. To be clear of the/ direction(s) of which the text is coming from/moving toward, here is a direct quote from the chapter "on gourmet lovemaking":

"To draw parallel, chef-grade cooking doesn't happen naturally: it starts at the point where people    know how to prepare and enjoy food, are curious about it and willing to take trouble preparing it. read recipe hints, and find they are helped by one or two techniques. It's hard to make mayonnaise by trial and error, for instance. Gourmet sex, as we define it, is the same — the extra one can get from comparing notes, using some imagination, trying way out or new experiences, when one already is making satisfying love and wants to go on from there." (Comfort, 2008, pp. 24–25)

After discovering the text while reading, Why Good Sex Matters: Understanding the Neuroscience of Pleasure for a Smarter, Happier, and More Purpose-Filled Life by Dr. Nan Wise, PhD, I buy the text out of pure curiosity of good ways I may improve (as I enjoy). The text mindfully considers potential "sorts of readers" and indicates further in the chapter "on gourmet lovemaking" that "most people will use our notes as a personal one-couple notebook from which they might get ideas...One of the original aims of this book was to cure the notion, born of non-discussion, that common sex needs are odd or weird..." (Comfort, 2008, pp. 24–25) though is clear to acknowledge the text is for the more creative sexual explorers looking for more sexual menu options, if you will. The aloofness of the text away from anger/negativity/sadness toward joyful creative sexual play makes the text more fun to read. I like the sexual illustrations as well as references to aspects of more ancient cultural sexual domains. I think the text is most valuable when one reads the text as the author intends for one to understand the text as well as benefit from the knowledge of aspects of sexual creative play.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Comfort, Alex. (2008). The Joy of Sex. Harmony Books.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

What to Expect When You're Expecting by Heidi Murkoff is a text covering most, if not all, aspects of a couple progressing before, through, and beyond a/ pregnancy(ies). I'm constantly improving considering myself alone as well in relation to an/other good partnering entity(ies). Researching to answer curious questions I have about sex in a/ relationship(s) progressing with a pregnancy, I discover What to Expect When You're Expecting then decide to buy then read the all-encompassing guiding-informative text about a/ relationship(s) before, through, and beyond most, if not all, aspects of a/ pregnancy(ies). Even before the text answers my questions, I begin finding more appreciations for pregnancy, relationships, and women. The text guides through all stages of pregnancy from beginning to end with a clear path from before the beginning of the trimester through to the end of a set third trimester (though covers aspects of a seemingly necessary fourth trimester). I read the text all the way through from beginning to end: I think the text works very well as a reference text for individuals familiar with most, if not all, aspects of a/ pregnancy(ies) and/or after reading through the text completely once. The author advises skipping Chapter 19 if not experiencing any complication(s) to avoid/prevent unnecessary stress though I think reading the entire text in tandem with planning a/ pregnancy(ies) can prove valuable long-term (each relationship can be different, to each one's own). I want to plan a/ pregnancy(ies) with my future romantic-life partner (whoever she may be). I find the text to be very relevant and valuable.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Debt: The First 5000 Years by David Graeber anthropologically explores debt beyond traditional historical as well as economical methodical perspectives through concepts evidentially proving varying forms of economy reasoning toward better understanding underlying premises largely contributing to the establishment of modern economical parameters. After reading The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity by David Graeber and David Wengrow (such an overall beautiful conversation), I research both authors a bit more and decide toward more of David Graeber's works which stand out to me as quite relevant (I even discover one of his works of which I remember reading an article on, about five years ago. Additionally, I think reading Debt: The First 5000 Years after The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity is a sound approach [I find the text is easier to read due to reading in such an order—though to each one's own]). I have an appreciation for David Graeber's well-rounding research enlightening and informing without bias against objective truth (truth that is not working for institutional appeal or seemingly like for a commissioning entity—truth that is relevant for a layperson) emboldens the evidential supports as well as David Graeber's honesty through different contexts of reality. I find the text is extremely relevant and quite a wonderful read. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I Love the Earth by Todd Parr is a children's type book of positive affirmations about wanting good for the well-being of Earth and all in connection with Earth—the universe. I read the text before buying it as  a gift. I like the feel good text and reread the text multiple times. Even so, I think the text can prompt one to question—in some instances—how, why? I like that at the end of the book is a list of ten rules one can apply to help one help Earth.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Sense of Style: The Thinking Person's Guide to Writing in the 21st Century by Steven Pinker is a self-help type book concerning grammar, editing, and stylistically writing. I remember buying the book about three years ago randomly searching Amazon. I don't find anything wrong with assessing a different perspective or so especially when concerning anything in relation to publishing such as writing, editing, etc. toward good. I find the text insightful with intermittent comedic moments. I like the author's logical approach in certain respects concerning punctuation and style. I think the text can be useful as a reference especially as the text acknowledges insights of other entities catering to responsibilities of caring for grammar and style concerning letters, words, and writing. I think anyone can find any portion of the text useful: I like to highlight "Chapter 3: The Curse of Knowledge" most of all the chapters though I find value in sections concerning punctuation as well as organization of words. The first paragraph of chapter one sits well with me as I read the rest of the text as a good reminder (which the author iterates time and time again) to adhere to an aspect of the author's premise acknowledging sentiments of a Purist vs. a Writer and/or Layperson (if one will):

""Education is an admirable thing," wrote Oscar Wilde, "but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing that is worth knowing can be taught." In dark moments while writing this book, I sometimes feared that Wilde might be right. When I polled some accomplished writers about which style manuals they had consulted during their apprenticeships, the most common answer I got was "none". Writing, they said, just came naturally to them." (Pinker, 11).

I like the text though I find the quote from Oscar Wilde to be considering a limiting idea of education as one may consider school in multiplicitous ways.

Pinker, Steven. (2015). The Sense of Style: The Thinking Person's Guide to Writing in the 21st Century. Penguin Books.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Dance With Dragons by George R. R. Martin is the fifth book in A Song of Ice and Fire series. The text continues devolving complex relationships, telling stories of characters not in A Feast of Crows (the fourth book in A Song of Ice and Fire series) before eventually combining all characters appropriately for purposes of fulfilling A Dance With Dragons. I find myself in a space of relief after finishing the text. Reading each book (so far) in A Song of Ice and Fire is fun. Overall, I like the story so far (largely because of the character development), and I feel like the author maintains consistencies in telling the stories which ensure each book is interesting. A Dance With Dragons hosts varying complex themes which I think are important such as aging (as a person of duty, as a woman/man, as a child, as a dragon, as a parent), maturity (as a leader, as a parent/a family member, as a person of duty), self-awareness (comparing/contrasting human characteristics, concerning attraction, deliberating as an adult in an ever changing world bigger than one's self, engaging concepts of freedom as a human being distinct from a position as well as in a position), governments and peoples (an intricate kneading throughout the books that I don't feel one can ignore at all because people make a society), and coin (a controversial distraction—are words only wind?) amongst other themes. I like the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama is an autobiographical self help type book which feels more like a journey through the wisdom the author gains through her relationships which she finds highly valuable for individuals to consider moving in life personally. I end up buying The Light We Carry because of not having my original copy of Becoming to share with my mom seeking to read Becoming, so I buy both texts (initially only having an interest in reading The Light We Carry—I'm glad about reading the text beyond my interest). The author grounds the text in important values for one alone though greatly connecting to values/social values valuing one's self and relationships—leading to as well as building valuable relationships—valuable futures. The text has pictures and offers good insights from the author's myriad social experiences with flashback connections to Becoming (though unique to its own purposes).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn is a self-help type book about finding sources of and healing from generational trauma(s) within one's lineage. After discovering the text as a reference in Dr. Christiane Northrup's Dodging Energy Vampires, I decide to purchase then read It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn. During the end of the text, I think to myself, along these lines, everyone needs to read this book, because generational trauma affects individuals—society, at large—in humongous ways. Each chapter of the text is progressing toward healing through anecdotal (of practical scientific research) guidance and practical methods (of practical scientific research) for a/ reader(s) to engage. One may heal proactively with the text, from beginning to end, though if one needs different guidance, one must seek necessary care respective to one's particular needs to completely heal. One may always improve, even after completing necessary self-work on a journey of eternal self-culturing, and I find the text offers awesome perspectives to consider as one is living—self-culturing. Generational development is so important because one can start to decide aspects of being one might/ want(s) in one's generational line(s) on the basis of individual-personal action. Being conscious of a/ decision(s) one makes is so important and integral to generational development whether one wants one's decision making to be or not to be integral to generational development. Self-culturing generationally is an important aspect to consider when deciding on entering and/or developing a/ relationship(s) (especially a/ romantic relationship[s]). I find the text holds very valuable information (even valuable for any individual already complete with necessary self-work on a journey of eternal self-culturing in the best ways possible respective to one living well). The text has a Glossary, Appendices, Notes, and an Index to help navigate the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins is like an autobiography of the author's life. Over the past four years, I've come across very different looking individuals that have an appreciation for David Goggins and find aspects of his life's story motivational (if not just aspects of his character alone). After an interaction in a gym with an individual telling me about how watching a video by David Goggins is enough to motivate him to get out of bed to go to the gym, I recall all the other instances in which I meet people that bring up David Goggins to me (so I decide to buy then read the text). I like the text. David Goggins spreads challenges (at the end of each chapter) to assist one toward living a better life after dissecting his own life as reason for presenting a challenge for one to use (he encourages to re-use) moving forward in one's own life (after reading the text/from that point in the text). The text is a way to navigate mental aptitudes toward mental toughness in order to accomplish a/ goal(s) one might have in one's life.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Dating Divide: Race and Desire in the Era of Online Romance by Celeste Vaughan Curington, Jennifer H. Lundquist, and Ken-Hou Lin is a text exploring qualitative and quantitative research concerning experiences of individuals of different genders and racial backgrounds in connection with online dating. One day, I open a new tab to find an article (Why aren't college-educated Black women meeting their match?) piquing my interest because of its correlation to a project I know an individual is working on. After discovering the text as a source in the article (with commentary from authors of the text), I decide to purchase then read the book. (Of 2/20/23) As a cis-heterosexual single man, practically confident in my ability to help a relationship thrive, I find dating to be more practical for me after I meet an individual in person though I am not averse to online dating. The text offers substantial research with historical evidential support (which makes a lot of sense)—not just for argument's sake:

"To be very clear—it is not our objective or intention to judge individuals for their personal dating preferences: in some cases, individual racism could play little part in why one person marries another of the same racial background. So too might interracial relationships be formed in a context rife with overt racism. Instead, our aim is to call into question the naive views that intimate racial preferences are natural, apolitical, and inconsequential. Indeed, as we show throughout this book, societal forces that insist on a racial hierarchy of desire shape our intimate desires, whether or not we'd like to address that fact." (Curington, Lin, Lundquist, 2021, p. 15)

I learn a lot about antimiscegenation and social hierarchies historically to a degree beyond my original familiarity prior reading the text. I choose to constantly learn to improve practically, and I hold no racial preference when it comes to choosing a potential romantic/life partner (though I find when women practically prioritize health, personally, attractive—because I live an increasingly healthier lifestyle, personally). The data is accessible and verifiable with links throughout the text as well as a "Data and Methods" portion in the Appendix. The contexts concerning dating seem globally aware with a focus on dating online in the United States. I'm mindful concerning relationships and potential a/ romantic/life partner(s)—romance. I really enjoy reading the text. I digitally applaud individuals partaking in the research development to help bring the text to fruition especially in an age in which access to the internet via a medium like a cellphone is apparent (and entities are looking to ensure access to the internet grows exponentially). Research of the sort can benefit dating, individuals personally, and relationships in the long run in psychological/social ways. The text informs to encourage and enlighten individuals:

"It may not be our intention to have absorbed societal racial preferences, but we can be intentional about acknowledging and not cultivating them. Who we decide to pursue personal relationships with, be it marriage or a brief encounter at a party, is one of the last visible threads sustaining the racial hierarchy now that public racial discrimination is no longer legitimated. The commodifying process of online dating has made the existence of sexual racism undeniable—and our complicity in the process has made it virtually acceptable and commonplace. In this light, searching for a partner is itself a process of remaking race. While it may not be our fault directly if we have a racial preference, it is our responsibility to examine our preferences and decide whether to perpetuate or disrupt them. Are we willing to question why we might have such preferences and what they mean about our relative positions within hierarchies that privilege some and not others?" (Curington, Lin, Lundquist, 2021, pp. 226–227)

If one finds the data too intense to read alone, I advise reading with diverse wise council. The resulting conversations may prove better for everyone in the conversation. Even the authors of the text share in the Acknowledgments: 

"This book was not always an easy one to write, and we found ourselves frequently grappling with the hard truths that emerged from the data. We each came into the project from different perspectives and varying experiences. We often disagreed, engaged in heated discussions, and sometimes called out one another's blind spots. The book is that much stronger for it." (Curington, Lin, Lundquist, 2021, p. 229)

The discourse might not be easy though may prove valuable. I appreciate the text. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Curington, C.V., Lin, K., & Lundquist, J.H. (2021). The Dating Divide.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Feast of Crows by George R. R. Martin is the fourth book in A Song of Ice and Fire series. I find the text fantastically full of drama and snark. An author's note at the end of the book indicates A Feast of Crows is "a book that told all the story for half the characters, rather than half the story for all the characters..." With that, I really enjoy the character plots present, some plot progressions are more enjoyable and/or entertaining than others (to me); Brienne's is drastically epic, Arya's is super cool, Cersei's is twistiest-sinisterly, Alayne Stone's (clears throat) is like a tricky calm, Arianne's is most curious, Sam's is most comical, Jaime's is most reinventing, and all characters otherwise round the world at large well. The text offers a looseness in style which correlates so well with characters' languages morally bending always giving way to honesty—truth (which I feel all characters in the story are seeking to varying degrees). Major driving forces in the text—series—so far, are loyalty, trust, and truth. I'm enjoying the series a lot so far.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? by Rick Warren is a daily reader with forty chapters of exercises and reflections guiding one toward identifying as well as living one's purpose(s) in accordance with God's purpose(s) for/in one's life. I read one chapter per night as a part of my nightly devotional before sleeping. I find the book in my mom's home then decide to read it due to waiting on a different book to read. I discover it's one of my oldest brother's books (R.I.P.), and I notice his notes stop about halfway through the text (I'm not judging him though, much love). I enjoy the text as a part of my nightly devotional. The text has subjective statements though toward the end especially advises/encourages readers to explore more of the topics in groups—not only alone—through exercises, questions, journaling, and reflecting amongst other methods (some of which are available in the book) toward adhering to one's purpose(s) in tandem with God's purpose(s) for/in one's life. I like the way each chapter ends with a "Point to Ponder," "Verse to Remember," and "Question to Consider." At the end of the book are additional resources contributing to well-rounding sentiments of the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Onward: How Starbucks Fought for Its Life without Losing Its Soul by Howard Schultz with Joanne Gordon is about the reinvigorating and reexamination of Starbucks's culture through Howard Schultz's reflective return journey as an impassionate CEO—member—of the Starbucks community. During a visit to a Starbucks, an individual responds to a phrasing on my bookmark I remember (generally) choosing to use ever since about 2015 (without any motivation to other than appreciating the meaning of the words in regard to how I choose to live my life [especially from fall of 2015]) "onward and upward," by telling me of the irony of the individual's recognition of the phraseology in a Starbucks as the individual connotes the book from the CEO of Starbucks, Howard Schultz, with the phraseology. Curious, I decide to buy then read the book. Starbucks is not a franchise. The culture of Starbucks is more apparent to me now than ever before though I wonder of the consistency of the culture now (about decade after the book's initial publishing). Company cultures fascinate me. The text offers experiential lessons and perspectives which I think may be useful for any navigating coursing a company practically and theoretically. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness by Morgan Housel is a book about finances focusing on one's psychological approaches, being, and understanding(s) in relation to finances. The text offers information about finances that seems necessary as common knowledge especially for anyone considering finances, generally and personally. The text offers sound advice—in conjunction with supporting evidence from others individuals in history have come to for sound financial advice—that seemingly is timeless. While (really before explicitly) offering advice, the author is quick to acknowledge the idea of to each one's own before sharing aspects of his financial journey (with respect to his family, largely his spouse as a financial partner—toward the end of the book). I find the book posits finances in a way that encourages one to live the best life one reasonably may (especially financially) with respect to knowing when enough is enough and appreciating that which one already has or healthily obtains (especially against a rat race, keep up with the Joneses mentality). I like the text, and I am glad about reading the text. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Blackman's Guide to Understanding the Blackwoman by Shahrazad Ali is a book that can be easy to laugh at and/or/then slowly crawl into one's self about. I purchase the book after a conversation at a gym with a gentleman showing enthusiasm for the text. The title seems to only suit the text due to references of slavery though I feel anyone may be able to actually connect certain aspects of the author's observances to reality. I find the author is attempting to empower and protect families, heterosexual relationships, thinking for one's self responsibly especially in relation to romance, living healthy(ier) lifestyles conducive to good growth, and reasonably living in an ever changing world (at large) in which one must stand for good, not just agree with any and every passing development seeping in harmful ways toward future generations. I'm glad about reading the text. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey is about a couple (of ducks) trying to find a location to settle and start a family. During a visit for a regular STI test (negative), I find a section of the facility with children's books, so I read Make Way for Ducklings as I wait then finish reading it after my appointment. Testing for an STI is important; if you need more information about testing for an STI, here is a link: Where to get tested for STDs: Testing information and more (medicalnewstoday.com). Make Way for Ducklings primarily develops in Boston, and I'm glad about being able to read the text. The story depicts factors to consider when moving to an environment to raise a family especially highlighting education, security, technology, and traffic well. The text sets emphases on factors that might affect a couple of ducks and ducklings in ways important for anyone trying to find a location to settle and raise a family. I like the illustrations; the illustrative style accompanies the storytelling well (making the story more vivid which I think may be helpful for individuals literately benefiting from visual assistance while reading). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Before Shackles and Chains by Reuben Laurore is a book in a genre similar to Zechariah Sitchin's texts. The text feels like an opinion on parts of history though seems to veer from its initial scope to be motivational for readers. I think capturing details of intricate histories are more possible in modernity due to accessible information especially in connection to Biblical tracings. Certain tracings through the text can be more thorough. Even so, the author seems to attempt an all-encompassing historical perusing with bits of data of topics with vast amounts of data available. History is history/herstory is herstory, I think modernity offers a lot of value in contrast to data which the book connects. I do not hold any racist or stereotypical sentiments in any part of my life nor am I implying the book or author does. The author is my cousin, and he shares the text with me over Thanksgiving. With all that, I think the author's book is light years away from his children's book Luke the World Traveler: Welcome to America! concept-wise (the concept for the children's book is quite brilliant). After reading Before Shackles and Chains, I feel like one must read the book with assisting data for a more well-rounding understanding.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

A Storm of Swords by George R. R. Martin is the third book in A Song of Ice and Fire series. There are a lot of characters in the series so far. The third book is full of familial reorganizations—legacies—albeit conniving ways and battles (more so than a war though all battles seemingly leading to or a part of a war). I really enjoy Jon Snow's character development (as I do most of the characters of which I feel have a fair balance of notable developments in this text—no one character's development weighs more than another to me) largely due to his relationships with wildlings which I find make the story much more interesting. The story is full of so many plot twists: I'm curious as to which directions characters' stories might flow. I'm no stranger to fantasy and/or fiction so the character development intrigues me most of the series so far. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (Funko Pop!) (Little Golden Book) by Arie Kaplan (Author) and Chris Fennell (Illustrator) is a short fun version of E.T. which only captures highlights of the original full length story. I read the book (on the spot) deciding between which book to purchase to donate to one of the hospitals Barnes and Noble has a donation relationship with as a part of a Christmas program. I read the book though I pick another book to purchase to donate. I enjoy the E.T. story, and I like the illustrations: the pages are full and vibrant. The Funko Pop! designs really stand out: I recognize the Funko Pop! qualities of the characters as I'm about half way through the book then learn the text is a Funko Pop! variation of the original full length story afterward. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Values Compass: What 101 Countries Teach Us About Purpose, Life, and Leadership by Dr. Mandeep Rai, PhD, is a collection of essays about layers of values in connection to highlights of a distinct value of each culture the author experiences and shares of her travels. I buy the book because of the author's Travel Noire article on Haiti. I appreciate her input and grow curious about her knowledge base. Dr. Mandeep Rai, PhD, offers a positive outlook in her article about Haiti which is a style she carries throughout her reflective travel essays in The Values Compass: What 101 Countries Teach Us About Purpose, Life, and Leadership. Through the exploration of different cultures, the author shares culturally informative stories offering a more rounding perspective of a particular culture in relation to the author's experiential evaluation of a value the author connotates with a particular aspect of a culture. I like the evocative-thinking text. The short essay form is enough to carry the author's diary-like writing style well in a way that can be quick to read slowly (a decent book for an individual with a busy schedule). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Gilgamesh translated from the Sîn-Leqi-Unninnĩ Version by John Gardner and John Maier is an epic poem largely about nature vs. nurture through Enkidu and Gilgamesh's journeys respectively as well as together. The story is really good (even with only parts of it being available due to only certain parts of tablets being available). I find the translation makes the story a dark-deep-tragic-comedy of a bromance of immense heights that runs into ruin due to a jealous goddess unable to cope with the truth (which Gilgamesh explains as reason for him not being sexual with her), even in realization of the truth herself in multiple ways.  All the while, the story comments on destructive behaviors and characteristics branching from nature vs. nurture though heavily sets a gaze on nurturing beyond and within realms of space and time on every level of existence imaginable within the story. The accompanying notes containing cross-translation information between prior scholars, translators, translations, and supporting texts are very helpful to my interpretations of the story as a whole as well as between columns and tablets of the text. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Eleven) by Kintetsu Yamada is the final manga in the series! The manga resolves a lot in the series through niche moments in the end (Asako's childhood friend maturing to recognize a need for space between/for herself, the baby as well as the baby's father, work-life balance especially during busy times at work especially with a child in the mix, Asako acknowledging her maturity [albeit slow] with gratitude to her family as well as Natori, emotional-empathetic familial/collegial/social intricacies). I like the implementation of Japanese sentiments (food, clothing, terminology) throughout the series, and the illustrations in volume eleven are good, eye-popping frames (especially with the garbs). The manga ends the series on a good note, a happy ending for the series (though has subtle hints that things may go awry real quick [like the series does in subtle ways to engage potential realities of relationships] before returning to the happy ending path of the series). I'm glad about reading the Sweat and Soap series. Fan service in volume eleven is very light.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Nine) by Kintetsu Yamada magnifies aspects of cohabitation mainly through a lense acknowledging a personal situation from a person's history which may be affecting the particular person in the present. Mysteries of Asako's childhood and traumatic history with bullying is center stage in volume nine especially because of Asako's response(s) to aspects of her traumatic history with bullying affecting her relationship with Natori. Volume nine has the most mature tone in comparison to prior volumes. Additionally, I like the cultural introduction (a trip to a festival with Japanese attire/sentiments) in the beginning of the manga, and I like the post portions of the manga. Fan service is light.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Seven) by Kintetsu Yamada is mainly about Asako and Natori's developing relationship within about two months of living together, Asako meeting Natori's family for the first time, and different moments of maturity pertaining to each individually as well as their relationship to each other, together. The text delves into Natori's parents' take on Asako and Natori's future together philosophically indicating the importance of respecting one's house (rules, if you will, like a to each one's own concept) with a bit of parental advising toward living good and healthy. Concerning family, the series overall touches on family dynamics like siblings' feelings about siblings' significant others as well as siblings' feelings about siblings'/siblings' significant others' value(s). Fan service is moderately present throughout the text! I really like the illustrations of the series so far. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Prescription: Medicine: The Goodness of Planned Death by Dr. Jack Kevorkian is about developing obitiatry in order to further human development(s) medically as well as Dr. Jack Kevorkian's efforts to get death row inmates to become organ donors, to become choice candidates for obitiatry especially members on the path of condemnation to a sure death sentence, and Dr. Jack Kevorkian's historical-social-medical-philosophical observations of human autonomy particularly concerning death and life especially in relation to the developing medical field. The author presents very sound economical and moral arguments. Recalling my reason for buying the text reminds me of the ambiguous joyful somberness of the nineties, I'm glad about having individuals engage with me—especially in my younger years—varying topics. Life is such a variety show. To be in fourth grade at a Christian school having a teacher answer my inquiries of euthanasia to then watch a classmate squeeze gerbils to watch the eyes pop unnaturally (or perhaps naturally, since it happens) slightly out of their heads before returning to normal in their heads. Life. My curiosity branches from encountering Dr. Jack Kevorkian while watching channels through a large wooden Zenith television, luxury furniture, in an aunt and uncle's living room. Suicide never looks as good as anything else optional on the other channels. Plus, coming from communities respecting religious laws via the Holy Bible, sacrifice is sacrosanct, and one must choose mindfully—wisely—that which one wants one's life to be about (which is always choosing good over evil whether one's life is hard or not because in the end all proves well with God, amen!). I buy the text to get a deeper perspective of the doctor's pursuits. Regarding the death penalty, Dr. Jack Kevorkian attempts to appreciate life in lieu of meaningless death against a societal mentality of revenge and violence by means of creating meaningful death to engage realms of infradeath as well as potentially save lives through organ donations of any subject to the death penalty with no way out. I'm glad about reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

The Beowulf translation by Seamus Heaney is a classic oral around-the-fire-type narrative of a Scandanavian warrior's/king's character, heroics—life. The text is a moralistic tale heavily revolving around good character. I like the story as well as the story telling style, and I don't find the narrative to be overly complex or lengthy. The glorious-grandiosity of—within—the text is quite entertaining, to me.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Happily Ever Afters by Elise Bryant is a young adult romantic dramedy about a sixteen-year-old girl, Tessa Johnson, aspiring to be an author, struggling with anxiety due to her insecurities and impostor syndrome after getting into a creative school. I randomly buy the book in Barnes and Noble as a part of a Buy One, Get One 50% off deal. I enjoy the looseness of the story telling which seems to be Tessa's voice: I feel like I'm reading a diary and loose text messages an author is trying to make sense of completing publicly, in the form of a story, while the author is living the story. The text has social aspects rounding characters' experiences which approach acknowledging a human as a human and connecting socially in a diverse social world at large.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Clash of Kings by George R. R. Martin is the second book in A Song of Ice and Fire series. I like the introspection George R. R. Martin offers through the characters, and, even more so, the outrospection in relation to particular characters. For example, what an astounding character role Tyrion hosts! What I'm quite clearly noticing now in A Clash of Kings is the aggressiveness toward dismantling and manipulating of children (though set very clear in A Game of Thrones, the first book in A Song of Ice and Fire series) as means to an end or no end. What more of a poster child than Tyrion, to be like the PTSD representation of all children from/in a savage world—always a door, an eyeglass, a mirror to immoral characteristics. What an aware-well-rounding character Tyrion is! For so many to only see outward falsely and never inward honestly—as far as the author shares—sets Tyrion in a role most distinct to any other character. Tyrion is a conduit of truth about society he maneuvers, heavily revealing delusionality about him, ironically, not a product of his environment though so in a resourceful sense for his life—a peace of mind, in a world of individuals suffering from intoxications of coin, cunning, and narcissm. This is not a justification for Tyrion's behavior, just an appreciation for a character set so well in the text, quite unlike any other so far, in connection with major themes in the series so far like children, family, and succession. I like the way each chapter allows for one to focus on one particular character though more characters are always in a mix. The text has an appendix in the back which helps with returning to reading the text after a while to continue engaging the story sensibly. I like the book.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Vagina Book: An Owner's Manual for Taking Care of Your Down There by The Thinx Inc. Team, Dr. Jenn Conti, MD, and Daiana Ruiz (Illustrator) is an insightful text about healthily approaching a vagina in relation to a broader spectrum of better health connecting to as well as branching from a woman. While browsing Barnes and Noble, I find the book in an art section before reserving the text then picking it up a day after the reservation expiration to find it, with the help of an employee, in a health section. I like reading a book of the sort because I think it's important to be cognizant of a woman's body/a body one might want to care more about, and I like to have a book of the sort in my library of books so a woman that decides to spend time with me may learn a bit of herself (if she doesn't already know information I may already/have available) especially/particularly when browsing my library of books. I find the text to be very informative of menstruation which I have a deeper respect for—through better understanding—now. I find certain aspects of the text can/need to be a lot clearer especially regarding human development as well as sexual communication boundaries. I think the style of the book overall between textures of the cover and pages, illustrations, and font styles makes the book like an adult-child-friendly book.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Four) by Kintetsu Yamada divulges, thematically, a girl/woman might not like/be able to like a boy/man a same reason or way a boy/man might like a girl/woman in an overall theme of there being no clear line of relational understanding that brings a couple together to stay together hence the importance of communication beyond visceral senses (though Asako and Natori never completely separate from the visceral). Dating after college, and work in relation to being in a relationship takes center stage in the text: the text offers a couple of interesting perspectives about work in relation to being in a relationship which I find shows different emphases a couple or an individual may put on work and/or a relationship. All in all, volume four explores the importance of communication, of even the tiniest detail, and ways good communication can really affect a relationship in a destressing way (whether a romantic relationship or not). There is almost no fan service in volume four which the author acknowledges with an abrupt teaser bonus chapter of Natori reminiscing about a sexual time with Asako.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

Saki the Succubus Hungers Tonight (Volume Three) by Mikokuno Homare (Author) and StudioHIP-CATs (Illustrator) is a very funny dramedy. The feeding rules of Succubi create an interconnecting open world of sexual possibilities which in the text leads to Succubi feuding. Between the sexualness in the story, there are short deep moments about Renta being a man seemingly only Succubi seem to like (which isn't surprising though is kind of ironic because of ways certain Succubi like him) though Saki's approaches are different than other Succubi's approaches (even while Saki abides by the Succubi's rules and is taking a new route to acclimating herself with Renta's body sexually). I really like volume three.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Whether anyone has a qualm with Playboy does not dismiss a fact that Playboy is one of the most groundbreaking editorials in history to ever cover topics, particularly taboo topics, even now relevant, and not so taboo in/to modernity (consider the times when Playboy starts publishing). 

How do you think I come to discover The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan? A Playboy interview between David Sheff and Betty Friedan in the September 1992 issue of Playboy. I'm a collector, and my pages aren't sticking together.

The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan explores being a woman, a purposeful human, living with goals and meaning, beyond being an American housewife as the standard of fulfillment for a woman's life. Through explorations of economic, social, political, feminine, and masculine—human—mystiques, Betty Friedan brings the importance of having goals and living with purpose to the forefront of humans being mindfully. In my lifetime so far, I've come to experience many, if not all, situations directly or indirectly within the text hence one reason I am patient with individuals in general though particularly women (largely due to not ever knowing a/ situation(s) a person may be coming from as well as acknowledging a person does not know the same of me—which is part of the reason for me apologizing to anyone I ever feel I may have hurt in my lifetime so far—if anyone feels deserving of an apology for a reason I'm not aware of—I'm sorry. I mention this in light of a discovery in my lifetime, a person can find/make offense from a completely good-kind-non-ill-action-or-non-ill-intention in the form of a gesture because that's a way a person chooses to be/respond for whatever reason. I never dismiss the potential of another side to a story and/or another story altogether). 

I live as fully as I may. Betty Friedan encourages living a self-actualizing-purposeful-full-life—to be/feel whole, human. In the text, the economic-social-political nuances of masculinity and femininity are relevant and sound with modern developmental parameters—likely for the perpetuity of time, even with advancing/additional technologies—each nuance to a different degree. The book focuses on American culture primarily though is culturally relevant globally, an aspect of a nuance may have a culturally different acknowledgement/meaning though resembles a situation in the text (Friedan expounds upon this point in the text). I think the topics of this book are very important, and that The Feminine Mystique is a book to reference for a lifetime.

I remember going to therapy twice. The first time to address in and grow through a professional setting to handle certain types of situations with a professional. Bringing up any situation in an unprofessional setting may leave one to get an/ unprofessional response(s) and an/ undesirable result(s). The second time I go to therapy really results in my understanding the necessity to move on one's own in the world beyond any trauma—without therapy though with good-proper efforts, direction, purpose, and self-care. After reading books about my experiences (that I go to therapy for) and writing about my experiences for analytical purposes, in reflection (more so clearer now though apparent before differently)—a different way of crying for help though seeking a/ resolve(s) (which I've a history of doing in myriad ways), I feel amazing—because of my self-culturing, like a continuation of my life, beyond any trauma(s) I've come to experience (a conversation for my future romantic life partner, and, God willing, our immediate family like our children, necessarily). At my current point in life, after doing all the necessary personal work (and I'm always finding a way to improve), I attest The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan has insights of which I feel to be useful for me (considering varying stages of my life so far) and may be relevant for anyone seeking to be more culturally aware of developmental parameters of a human being. I'm going to harp on certain important topics for the rest of my life like literacy, critical thinking, good sex, being a good person—to name a few. I'm beyond so much because of choice practical processes. I think reading a book of the sort can help one become more aware of certain developmental parameters though personal growth usually happens from actually making choice action in one's personal life.

As a single heterosexual man supportive of good women (especially of the autonomous-fit-intelligent-salacious type, to say the least), I think it's important for me to be as aware as possible especially as economic-political-social situations are developing, human minds need to be operating properly in order to secure a more sensible equilibrium particularly in relation to living standards without impeding on a human's rights especially concerning privacy. Even with improvement, purposeful growth and learning is always possible. As many more social nuances are ever present in modernity, mystiques are even more, varyingly—bringing more value to Betty Friedan's book, The Feminine Mystique.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Two) by Kintetsu Yamada definitely does not provide as much fan service as volume one though focuses on other aspects of getting to know different sides of a person in a relationship, in different social settings, slowly including external individuals more intimately. Indications of love making are seemingly present though more so private (like the bedroom scene with Natalie and Blake in Isn't It Romantic (2019) except without the replays—unless one keeps flipping the pages back and forth while using one's imagination—) which actually helps set emphasis on the other happenings pertaining to Asako and Kotaro's relationship, emotionally and socially. I like the character profiles and translation notes at the end of the manga. Concerning the end of the manga, volume two has a few more interesting tidbits than volume one.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Saki the Succubus Hungers Tonight (Volume 1) by Mikokuno Homare (Author) and StudioHIP-CATs (Illustrator) is the meet cute and introductory portion of Renta, a thirty-five-years-old virgin, and Saki, a twenty-year old Succubus, living together. This manga is full of fan service in line with this (so far) ironic-sweet story. After purchasing the manga from Barnes and Noble, tearing the plastic wrap, then reading the manga, I'm looking to finish reading the series. Renta and Saki are in a seemingly perfect situation though Renta is choosing to be considerate of Saki after discovering one of her reasons for not partaking in normal behaviour (for a Succubus). Both Renta and Saki seem to be very horny (and comically considerate of each other), and Saki is a nice Succubus which makes the fantasy the story is offering pleasanter.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Everyday Words and the Character of Prose in Nineteenth Century Britain by Jonathan Farina is an extensive exquisite delve into spherical understandings of certain common words of British print in the nineteenth century. The author is one of my graduate school professors. I remember enjoying his classes beyond his teaching style due to the topics, extending conversations, and my discoveries through choice research—all part of a wonderful graduate school experience. The text explores nineteenth century Britain through choice words (semantics through certain common words of British print in the nineteenth century), intricately analyzing language—derivations. The text is an intricately intellectual scholarly work with comedic tinges. I consider the text valuable beyond realms of English majors.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Nothing Personal by James Baldwin is a collection of essays examining human experiences that may affect human characteristics as well as social dynamics. After an engagement of curiosity, standing in a line at an airport, recognizing James Baldwin’s face, the book becomes a gift to me from the prior owner of the text. The author dissects societal systems and systems of technology to identify ways in which certain parameters connect directly with humans’ physically and psychically particularly in relation to an American developmental experience though relevant in regard to any experience in relation to similar societal systems and systems of technology which the text references. I think the text is worth reading and thinking about in regard to modernity.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney is a recommendation from a discussion of a random though pleasant invitation. Reading the text, I feel like I am reviewing a more entertaining version of the information from an undergraduate PSYCH101 class due to the additional commentary between the explanations of psychological and marketing parameters in relation to social developments as well as sciences. The text seems to root itself within the psychological, marketing, and social which I think is important to understand while reading the text because there are outliers the text does not consider which limits the text, particularly, to the fields I afore mention. Even so, the text proves insightful and may help one navigate toward becoming a more mindful individual.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus by Ludwig Wittgenstein is an exploration of the absoluteness of meaning and the meaningless through parameters of death and life, the existent and the non-existent via parameters of Philosophy (equations—logic—reason—). I feel like I am reading an assignment with a page limit by the end of the book because of the way the last few pages seem to summize the intentions and purposes of the text, for the reader (seemingly in case the jargon doesn't make clear, immediate, or much sense). I like the text and find Wittgenstein's examination of life like a philsophically intense motivational text urging the reader to be present and make one's life of one's own because only one can bring any meaning into one's life.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

While about encouraging reading, I re-encounter two individuals which share with me books of their choosing for practical use in a culturally enrichening sense in a classroom. I'm glad about the chance to read both books; in reading order; the first book is Mae Among the Stars, writing by Roda Ahmed, illustrations by Stasia Burrington, and the second book is I Am Golden, writing by Eva Chen, illustrations by Sophie Diao. This review will focus on I Am Golden. The text encompasses aspects of Chinese culture reflective through an individual, particularly Mei, receiving a form of generational support, and, I think, can encourage an individual, family, to culturally, as well as self, identify in an aware, confident, empowering, and respectful way. The illustrations are so vibrant and fill the pages very well in tune with the writing. I find the author and illustrator's stories in the end about aspects of their upbringing being Asian to be very powerful. As an ally, one that attempts to support good of cultures/individuals of different experiences especially outside of one's own experiences though potentially relatable, I find myself trying to listen as good as I may especially as there is only so much I may reasonably do at times, respectfully, respecting boundaries. I don't condone acts of hate. I find the text empowering and enlightening.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

After asking a Barnes & Noble representative for a book recommendation, I decide to read the text. Circe by Madeline Miller is about a half-divine, half-nymph, witch that struggles coming into being of her own, through her abilities, between worlds of the immortal and mortal as well as between familial relations/tendencies of her youthful past in tandem with familial development of her present maturer years. The text is like a fan fiction of Greek Mythology which offers deeper-rounder perspectives of/branching from, a character from an interestingly popular group of beings in Greek Mythology, the nymphs, and the character's lineage. I like the text's approach concerning Greek mythology. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well. 

Due to inquiring of a student about a book for a class, I learn about Sparks of Genius: The 13 Thinking Tools of the World's Most Creative People by Robert and Michèle Root-Bernstein, a text engaging purposes of creative processes, and imagination. As a creative, I appreciate the text as a form of affirmation (not in a validation seeking sense) since I am properly tending my creative responsibilities. The text offers exemplar methods that may help one creatively, and theoretically expounds creativity. I find the text is a good reminder to all to respect creative processing with, at least, more grace—patience, since each creative process can be quite different from person to person. I find the text enjoyable and very insightful.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe is a book-play about a man of learning—knowledge—that makes a pact with Lucifer after coming to experience magic through a somewhat disdainful-reverential manner. One afternoon while writing in my apartment, I ponder on the phraseology, misery loves company, and find it originates from—its rootings are in—The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus (the character Doctor Faustus of German literary origins). So, I decide to read the text, and find the phraseology (in Latin, in the version of the text I read), "Solamen miseris socios habuisse dolores," which translates to "Solace of the wretched to have companions of pain" (Marlowe, 2020, page 28).  After reading the story, I find the adage is a wonderful line set in the play, of the like. The version I read doesn't have translations so requires a bit of research, and, though the English seems of antiquity, I find it's comprehendible. I like the text, a good read, I think, and I'm glad about reading it.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Marlowe, Christopher. (2020). Doctor Faustus. Independently Published.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Republic by Plato (translated by Benjamin Jowett) is an extensive dialogue between Socrates, Thrasymachus, Polemarchus, Glaucon, Adeimantus—a variety of individuals though ends up heavily between Socrates and Glaucon—about developing a perfect society branching from as well as revolving around inquiries concerning justice and injustice flowing from ideas analyzing makeups—potentialities—of an individual (heavily in accordance with developments of a State). Each character carries a tone of a language (which I think is a unique colloquial touch better situating developments and understandings of the dialogues overall), the text overall seems to be a philosophical comedy respecting realities pertaining to/of the philosophical dialogues within the text. To experience and observe that which is in this extremely relevant text, happening—present—in actuality, whether abroad or near in space and time, speaks volumes on human conditions and societies. The text ends on a comically-wonderful beat of hope and life. I'm glad about reading The Republic.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Upon running into multiple acquaintances, I find myself agreeing to join my acquaintances to a dinner party. I have a chance to meet and converse with individuals around a table, about reading, and its importance. One of the adults asks me if I want an alcoholic drink to which I politely decline. He comically finds shock because I don't drink, do drugs, or smoke. He mentions that every person has a vice, and, I admit to him that some might consider one area of which I have a strong interest in, a vice, though I think, appropriately, it's not. As natural as I might consider sex, it's not always a normal topic for conversations.

So, I find myself buying then reading a book primarily focusing on a form of oral sex, cunnilingus, greatly in connection with parameters of orgasming; She Comes First: The Thinking Man's Guide to Pleasuring a Woman by Ian Kerner might not be most up to date with certain data (percentages) though the techniques in the text can be timeless. I really like the diagrams of techniques and vaginas. This is not erotica though I find myself nearly salivating reading the text. One point I really find interesting is about vaginal agenesis, a condition in which a woman's reproductive system (inclusive of the vagina) does not fully develop. I find a lot of familiar information, and I find new bits of information that I think important in connection to having more meaningful relationships branching from more meaningful sexual relations.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Music to My Years: A Mixtape Memoir of Growing Up and Standing Up by Cristela Alonzo is largely about her upbringing particularly in relation to her journey toward becoming, not only a more aware entertainer, but a woman of her own choice merits. I find out about the author randomly scrolling through Twitter, then decide to buy the book after reading a tweet she pins from October 13, 2019: https://twitter.com/cristela9/status/1183450846819995648?t=Np-ThvHAlwy6xj_ZrW2MrQ&s=19. I mainly find surprise reading stats of her tweet ("1st Latina to create/write/star in network sitcom/1st Latina to star/lead Pixar movie") because Pixar has a lot of films, and television networks are decades old! I like the book. I think the author maintains a comical tone throughout the text though grounds the text in serious topics as well as situations (like bullying, healthcare, etc.) progressing through chapters thematically by songs.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

On my way to the Little Yosemite Valley Backpackers' Campground, I meet a couple for a second time. The wife shares a sentiment of a quote she finds profound concerning grieving, and loss from C.S. Lewis's book, A Grief Observed. I think a lot about the sentiment concerning a loss of a person one loves making one feel like one is missing a limb. To get a better grasp of the sentiment, I decide to read the book largely exploring C.S. Lewis's responses toward God, the loss of his wife, and his life as is, in general, though after the loss—confusing, happy, and miserable, seemingly-knowingly of personal choice, a very conflicting personal processing. I think the text is a good way to explore processing loss especially for anyone trying to better navigate grieving, loss, and/or anyone in a deeply serious relationship that wants to engage in a conversation of the sort as a potential form of preparation—reasonable peace of mind. My version of the text has a foreword by Madeleine L'Engle (author of the Time Quintet) which I think is a good supplemental piece to read prior reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well. 

While helping one of my brothers and his family pack up to move a time ago, I remember finding my sister-in-law has two collections of the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. At a younger age, I remember having to read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe though never any of the other books, and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is the second book in the series. So, I decide to read all of the books in order, and I appreciate them all though each to a different degree.

The Magician's Nephew sets the tone of most of the books. I think it's a great introduction into the realm of Narnia which ties in so well with The Last Battle (more so than the other books do), and I think it is fun to read. 

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a decent story in the series which really becomes like a reference point of deeper magic, meanings, and rules of Narnia which help explain parts of journeys in Narnia at latter points in the series. 

The Horse and His Boy is one of the most critical pieces in the series broadening ideas of worlds in connection with Narnia. I think it's one of the more serious books in the series, and, is a shifting point in tone in the series.

Prince Caspian is a good story sifting ideas of ruling magics/powers in Narnia, and an introductory into more adventurous routes thereafter through The Voyage of the Dawn Treader as well as The Silver Chair; I feel like I'm reading a mini-series in a major series through these three books, and I find these three books to be quite enjoyable in different ways than the books in the series surrounding them though carrying tones of all the stories prior. Even so, leaning toward the end of the series C.S. Lewis funnels more comedy, fun, happiness, and Narnian philosophy in The Last Battle after topsy-turvy journeys in topsy-turvy ways (which seems to really be the style of writing in the series) to end on a light note. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Mis-Education of the Negro by Carter G. Woodson is a collection of reflections by the author. I find the text informative particularly in relation to history in general, African historical roots specifically. I buy the text as a part of a learning process for research purposes. I find the author’s reflections to be aware as well as relevant albeit a bit extreme in varying instances though I do not know the author's life experiences growing in (or the circumstances personally--concerning--) the early 20th century and late 19th century amidst so many different economical and social situations. Even so, I find the author’s reflections to be encouraging toward seeking routes of proper communal-economic growth, self-independence, particularly mental independence, for all individuals, even as the reflections are through lenses analyzing individuals of African descent in development with wider diasporas.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I believe exploring and learning about sexual health is extremely important. If/When someone and I decide to form a relationship, I'm going to continue reading books about sex (at least one a year), and, hopefully, my future partner and I will be coreading (at least one a year) books on an aspect of sex. As much as Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex by Joan Price seems to mainly be about individuals above forty years of age, the emphasis on sexual development, exploration, and health is relevant for all ages particularly for capable individuals willing to comprehend explorations of one's personal sexual developments/health. The text is full of expert advice and testimonies. I find the text very insightful, and refreshing. One reason I choose to care for myself well is so I can enjoy myself well as I continue to grow well--which I think is mindful and respectful concerning growth with a potential future partner, or romantic interest. If you're looking for a book about sexual development and health, I highly recommend Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex by Joan Price (which is full of references to other expert and professional sources).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I enjoy learning about anthropological-cultural progressions (which I find the text to be informative of, respectively). I'm glad to be in connection with individuals of varying backgrounds willing to converse respectfully on varying topics. During a meeting at work, I express an interest in one of the topic options concerning the "Model Minority Myth." After conversations ensue around the topic, one of my colleagues recommends The Karma of Brown Folk by Vijay Prashad. I write the name of the book down, and I'm glad I decide to read the book. The text covers aspects of Asians and South Asians (Desi) in relation to individuals of the African diaspora as well as to cultural progress as Asians and South Asians (Desi) in connection to freedom, economy, equality, identity, multiculturalism, racialness, socialness, and solidarity ranging from historical roots of about the past two centuries abroad as well as in America.

Ultimately, the text leads to a point of cheering, and encouraging solidarity. While reading the text, I ponder of scenes in a film, The Rainbow (1989), concerning ideas of war, the way some view parts of life as a game in a way or so that is far more real to others--far more, affecting--present. Nurturing is a part of every culture, a responsibility of each human, whether self-nurturing, or nurturing another. I hope nurturing tends toward good, the betterment of humanity overall, from each individual of and through proper nurturing. 

In the film House Bunny (2008), there's a scene containing a point about not knowing about Aztec culture though having fun with an experience of an aspect of the Aztec culture in a celebratory form (which I think is actually a nod of respect in a tasteful way--especially in a comedy) some may find fun, honorable, offensive, be opinionless, etc. At the beginning of the Aztec party scenes, I cautiously think about social points that may be problematic concerning the party though I don't assume anything, the party looks like it's a success. I do not know any details concerning the proceeds of the film. Yet, in a situation no one is being disrespectful and/or making a profit from a different culture while crediting a particular culture at an event, open to any, from an aspect of a culture, with invitations out to members of all ethnic groups, is it problematic?

Will Critical Race Theorists be in proper spaces to properly guide students concerning anthropological-cultural relations? Will individuals be able to civilly communicate beyond cultural economic-political understandings toward resolves benefitial toward future generations without bias? Individuals may be doing so already. Still, nurturing properly is lifelong. Realistically, there are a lot of individuals that are like the bus driver that kicks the trouble making kids off the bus in The Long Walk Home (1990). It's nice to get to one's destination(s) without any problems. It's the responsibility of each individual to check individuals nearest first about the potentially problematic as well as the good especially in tandem with social relations (which do not just concern race). If there's no one near to properly nurture, one must be willing to learn, and listen-- self-responsiblity, and self-nurturing are very important: both need proper tending to be done well.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

During a visit to my Barber for a Taper, as per usual, we enter a discussion about human diasporas and histories, apart and interconnecting. In our discussion, a topic of perceptions of bodies of individuals of African descent arises in relation to a book my barber is imbibing via Audible (mayhap reading as well), Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia by Sabrina Strings. As our conversation veers toward romantic realms of perceptions of bodies, I decide I'll read the text for myself.

     The text offers histories of developing pseudo sciences, propaganda -- social standards/standardizing -- particularly concerning women broadly (though specifically honing in on culturing idealogies of beauty pedestaling Anglo-Saxon-Americans/parameters/characteristics of bodies) through about five centuries (with rootings and references from further back). I find the book informs modernity that a lot more accurate research without bias is necessary concerning better supporting developing health data in relation to weight for varying types of bodies.

     In tandem with physical characteristics of women I find attractive, and developing understandings of conversations concerning bodies via histories, modernity -- I understand, tastes differ. Aside from choosing to have a respect for conversations and understandings about race and bodies, for me, personally -- especially romantically, concerning bodies, I have strong inclinations toward athletic women that care about their well being (ideally overall), and find me attractive in a very similar regard as well. She can be of any ethnicity! 

      Growing up with a mom that has a nice physique and takes care of herself for so long so well is a great reason for my strong inclinations toward that which I find attractive physically. In 2017, I remember my mom walking through my room topless, at almost seventy, with an upper body that looks really good. She has a strong body. She takes care of herself. I don't judge or shun one because of one's body type. There are so many different types of people that find different types of bodies very attractive. I think Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia is a great resource for individuals seeking to learn more about parameters of data and health in tandem with bodies and media via a historical perspective.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

The Overstory: A Novel by Richard Powers is a fictional collection of stories about the importance of stories, purposeful vs. nonpurposeful ongoings of humans, and a wonderful homage to human nature in relation to nature overall with intricate deep details of curiosity, discovery, and truth. There are a lot of references in the text which I think help move the stories along well. I think the writing is really good though I find myself reading this text very slowly due to the nature of the content. I find the text to be overall important and relevant though not gripping (mainly because of the constant switching between stories which are vastly different though interconnecting, then the extreme intertwining emphasis on climate change -- mainly trees, which I like though I feel detracts from the stories though cleverly intentionally very well set for completion of the overall points of the text). I'm glad to be done reading the text especially since it is the second of two recommendations I remember telling someone I'll read (the first being Empire of the Summer Moon).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason is a book about becoming wealthy in general though from impoverishment through financial efficiency: spending less, saving, and investing well -- to say the least. The book advises many of the same lessons though through different situations in each chapter, all of which connect to ideals and practices of the richest man in Babylon, Arkad. I find the context to be financially relevant, simple, and useful. After completing equations from my own financial history, I realize one may have tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars or more within a span of thirty years by simply paying one's self a monthly wage above nintey dollars and saving that which one pays one's self-- for thirty years. The text offers insightful financial bits which cover a lot of basic financial bases. If I ever share a child or children, I realize I can set the child or children up to have a good amount of money at thirty. Imagine being thirty, a few years out of college, mature, a bit in debt, working an alright job, then receiving thirty thousand or more dollars: for a mature person, that can be life changing -- just as the simple financial advice in the text. I think The Richest Man in Babylon is worth reading.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Collected Oscar Wilde offers select pieces from the span of Oscar Wilde's writing career. In graduate school, I remember having a crush on a peculiar openly bisexual girl quick to boisterously reference Oscar Wilde of whose works I recall reading very little. So, while perusing Barnes and Noble, I buy the book (I'm glad that I'm finally done reading all the books I purchase on that visit). I really like the organization of the collection. Here are pieces I really enjoy (for varying reasons) and recommend: The Portrait of Mr. W.H. (culturally important piece containing very interesting points concerning the developments of gender/masculinity/feminity in societies branching from societal standards/mentalities in relation to art mediums/media), Lord Arthur Savile's Crime, The Model Millionaire, The Canterville Ghost, The Young King, The Fisherman and His Soul, The Remarkable Rocket, "The Critic as Artist, Part I," "The Critic as Artist, Part II," "The Soul of Man under Socialism," and The Importance of Being Earnest. Yet, I enjoy reading the entirety of the selection and find Oscar Wilde's writing on aspects of theater to be quite insightful.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

During my elementary school years, I remember walking by a Hallmark Gold Crown in Livingston Mall with my mother during the holidays and seeing Martin the Warrior by Brian Jacques on a book display in front of the store. Being an avid reader, I remember finding so much delight selecting the book. Even thinking on the memory brings me to a different sense of joy. After my mother purchases the book for me, I become a fan of the Redwall series. So, finding Mariel of Redwall in one of the library/local book exchange posts (at various locations in Long Beach-- some, if not all, in relation to LittleFreeLibrary.org), is a pleasing surprise for me. The level of elation I find from reading a Redwall book is explicably tearing, personally, and I find these texts quite enjoyable to read. Mariel of Redwall is a fictional story of a mousemaiden warrior that escapes the grips of Garbool the Searat King to find herself on a path of recovery and redemption with her new friends of Redwall and Salamandastron to defeat evil. I think Brian Jacques's Redwall series is a great stepping stone for children looking to read more arduous books with a literary maturity. Brian Jacques implements varying styles of literary culture into the Redwall stories which I find makes reading books from the Redwall series (concerning my reading history of the texts in the series so far) all the more enjoyable. I've yet to read all of them.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals by Rachel Hollis is the sequel to Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant To Be (a bundle purchase from a time ago -- two books for about the price of one). The second book feels like a heavy recap of the first book though I don't find it as amusing. The second book feels more direct and gung ho about its intentions. I feel like the core of the text leads to and from the chapter, "Planning," which I think is the book's most pertinent chapter. As with any advice/self-help type book, I think it's important to keep an open-aware-deliberating ear/mind.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Life of Pi by Yann Martel is a poetic, touching, and witty fictional piece about a writer meeting with the sole survivor of a shipwreck and the eventual telling of the sole survivor's journey from before and after the shipwreck. During a discussion about the film adaptation of Life of Pi, I recall a bit of shock at my lackluster response about the film (though admittingly speaking from the perspective of watching the film while providing amazing customer service for gym patrons sometime in 2017). So, I decide to read the book and re-watch the film. After reading the book, I don't think any better of the film, but, I am glad about reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I remember conversing with a father and his son nearly four years ago about life. Near the end of our conversation, the father is aghast and has somewhat of a brain fart sigh-uttering the name Horatio Alger. I come to find Horatio Alger Jr. is an author. The Horatio Alger Jr., Collection Novels consists of five stories: "Grit," "Luck and Pluck," "Ragged Dick," "The Store Boy," and "In Search of Treasure." I enjoy every single one of these stories about character and integrity. These tales are quite fitting for more than Americans alone. Even so, Horatio Alger Jr. defines what an ideal American is, what the American ideal is to be, through the heroes of these stories.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

After reading about a quarter into Get Out of Your Own Way: A Skeptic's Guide to Growth and Fulfillment by Dave Hollis, I decide to read Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis and watch her documentary Made for More. She mentions her target audience being women though I find points in her messages capable of being relevant for any human. After reading the entirety of the text, I find a few of her points can use a little more context or else can potentially come off as seemingly contradictory. Rachel Hollis uses experiences from her life to encourage women to make choices toward living their best possible lives.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hello,

I hope all is progressing well.

I’m heading out of the video game section of Walmart and find Get Out of Your Own Way by Dave Hollis on top of a stand at the exit of the video game section. We’re making eye contact. Why is this the only book there? I remind myself I’m already reading a book. I pick up the book, randomly open to a page near the end of the book, read a random portion of a paragraph (which so happens to be) of the only theme (which I come to find out is really in only that area of the book as a central topic for a bit with a little indirect sprinkle here and there in other parts of the text) immediately relevant to me throughout the entire book, and I buy the book. It’s a decent self-help book and I think it’s good to read self-help books from time to time (especially since I tend to read a variety of texts) with a grain of salt to a fresh-open-wound. Dave Hollis shares experiences from his life to advise and encourage readers toward decisions that are not community and self-sabotaging. I think the book may serve couples well too. Day-to-day, between varying conversations with varying individuals, and varying duties, I find Get Out of Your Own Way has points that people may benefit from learning and applying. Yet, as with any self-help text, one must be actively helping one's self. If you’re really into self-help books across the board (mind, body, soul relationships, etc.), this might not be the most enlightening read for you (which Dave Hollis notes near the beginning of the text). On another note, the book offers references to other developmental sources for one seeking to explore more contexts for self-improvement.

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The excuse of a dog eating one's homework is believable to me now and I'm glad about it. The Communist Manifesto is a pamphlet. I order a copy via Amazon. My former neighbor's dog shreds the delivery. I go to Barnes and Noble then find The Communist Manifesto and Other Writings by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. If not for the occurrence with the dog, I might not have come to encounter one of the most important historical documents I've come to read to date, The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte, which digs into the economical-governmental-political-societal landscape of France in the 19th century with a focus on class and revolutions in the middle of the 19th century. After reading the text, I've a few affirmations to share:

1.) One does not have time to not create, discover, and fulfill one's purpose(s).

2.) One must develop and learn wholesome-positive-unimpeding senses of life, living.

3.) The understanding of genres in different fields is important.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Elements of Screenwriting: A Guide for Film and Television Writers by Dr. Irwin R. Blacker is very insightful especially for someone with only an inkling of screenwriting between the craft and business. The guide is a good reference and contribution to making one aware of parameters of screenwriting. I'm glad about reading the text. I observe films with a much better understanding now.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I learn about Joel Peterson and David A. Kaplan's text, The 10 Laws of Trust, via Yahoo Finance (as I'm scrolling through Twitter for Business News). After listening/watching the interview clip, I decide to add the text to my reading list (in September). Ultimately, the text is an attempt to build and safeguard high levels of trust in an organization. The text flows from aspects of some of Joel Peterson's experiences in his life which contribute to the developmental points in the text. I feel as though the text is especially for use as an organizational assessment-focal tool though one may find interesting insights reading the text alone. I think the text offers decent points to consider and deliberate (beyond the questions set forth within the book).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne     

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Heart of Darkness and Selected Short Fiction consists of "Heart of Darkness," "Youth," "Amy Foster," and "The Secret Sharer." I find each of these short stories to be profound and important. These contexts are relevant on a universal level. Each short story examines coinciding gamuts of internal and external worlds in a brief grand balance of immense depth.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Even the Stars Look Lonesome by Maya Angelou is a pleasant-surprising read. The context is an aware appreciation of aging, being, being with art, being a woman, being of African descent, being an African woman and being of value as a person in connection with all that contributes well to their being and that which they choose to contribute from and to their being. I appreciate her points: in particular, I appreciate her points about aging, sexuality and sensuality: I think it's important for woman to talk about these topics and for men to hear women talk about these topics (especially since there are so many different people with different perspectives concerning these topics).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

P.S. I Wanna Know by Joe

Hi,

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I hope all is progressing well.

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Great Sex for Life by Linda Sonntag is a decent book (despite the few grammatical errors). The book is dated. Yet, the information relevantly contributes as modern texts concerning sexual processes. I found this book at a garage sale and there are really good points in the text. I like reading information of this nature from time to time (even if some of the information stands as refreshers): there's a lot one may learn to have a thriving intimate relationship and/or contribute very well toward an intimate relationship.

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Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

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P.S. This book contains nudity.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Rin, Tongue and Dorner by Rich Shapero is a book about an extreme fire fetish intertwining with lust, madness, and passion. I received this book for free at the L.A. Times Book Festival. Do people entering new relationships from previous relationships have to endure so much? What are the underlying elements of a psyche transitioning pleasures with one person to share with another? I think Rich Shapero presents many psychoanalytical ideas that may be further honed in the context.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Jataka Tales concern stories of Gautama Buddha's previous lives. I received these volumes of the Jataka tales for free at the L.A. Times Book Festival. Personally, I find many of these tales, meant to encourage one to be mindful and live a good life according to a particular order, as comical in getting their points across. These stories are available for free: I think some of them are as interesting to read as some of Aesop's Fables and some of Grimms' Fairy Tales.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

P.S. I like having physical copies of text(s). Clicking the link will lead to Bing search results leading to the Jataka tales. It's not hard to find the Jataka Tales online. Happy reading!

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Rhythm of My Life: Tuning into the Rocky Rhythms of Fire by Yvon Milien is one of a few free books I got at the LA Times Book Festival. Essentially, it's about Yvon Milien's romantic life and spiritual journey (which, oddly enough, always engages him about his romantic life). A few (of so many) serious questions I like to raise concerning marriage (really relationships) are: 1.) What securities are in marriage that are not already in a serious bond? 2.) What are we trying to do together in the long term of life? 3.) Are you cool with you? Actually, I might uncover more of these questions with every book I read concerning romance and relationships. On another note, every time I read the title, "The Rhythm of the Night" by Corona starts playing in my head.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Initially, I find Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett resonating with "Who's on First," by Abbott and Costello (which is, interestingly enough, accredited to "Who's the Boss," an earlier comedic reference, and years of further development). Yet, as I continue to read, I discover a dark-honest satire about the world (as much as is given of it) in which these characters live that reveals the importance of purpose. Waiting for Godot jostles living, meaning in living, information, and meaning in information. Reading this text after Atlas Shrugged really makes me think more about why and how one is where and when one is with the future ahead. This text is not as dense as Atlas Shrugged but sends an important message about doing in and with one's life: one should not let their life fall in folly or wasting; one should find or make a reason to live their life or else one is left to answer, what is living at all? Where does one go from there if not with a decision, guidance, or the will?

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Reading Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Persuasion is enjoyable and exhausting. I bought Jane Austen: Four Classic Novels to ensure I read the stories in the collection though I did not re-read Pride and Prejudice (I'm sure I read it). I find Jane Austen's writing to be exquisite in its choice genre: I like the way her writing engages particulars of social realms (of her stories) and the routes of her descriptions are as entertaining as gripping (at least to me). I'm glad to be done with reading these particular stories and am ready to engage other texts now.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Emissary by Yoko Tawada and translated by Margaret Mitsutani is a great fusion of speckles from Japan's history debating a developing future in a fictional hypothetical world questioning design and order of an overarching world through omniscient lenses of an inner world. I find The Emissary to be pointedly descriptive, buoyant, and as entertaining as tragic. The text blatantly though intricately displays beauty and joy as well as forcefully engages secure insecurities to draw appreciation in life. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Laws of the Sun by Ryuho Okawa initially makes me laugh (in a good way). The way the text portrays Buddhist beliefs in accordance with its correlations makes me more appreciative about active routes available for people to pursue creating a better world as well as to become better acting people. It's important to be cautious reading texts as such though I think one may find interesting points throughout these types of texts that are useful in assessing how one might better proceed with living their life.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Black Poets is an anthology of Black American poetry edited by Dudley Randall. All-in-all the text is profound. I read so many varying poems by some persons I have never even heard of that are not only potent--but timeless, of which I am very grateful to have come to encounter through The Black Poets.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

​

I hope all is progressing well.

​

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur makes a lot more sense after reading the foreword. As much as these poems are of women, they are very relatable to men. I think Milk and Honey's extrospection and introspection offers more insight concerning women (really anyone relating to the experiences in the text).

​

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Yuval Noah Harari writes cleverly about the developing human condition in Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind. As much as the text discusses historical developments with importance, Yuval Noah Harari greatly ensures to emphasize the eternally-pervasive impact of imaginations working in accordance with the ambiguity of historical developments. I find the text to be an enjoyable-insightful read.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés is an enjoyably insightful read of the developmental human psyche (don't let the title dismay you from reading the text). As I'm walking out of a library elevator reading, a woman asks me about the book, I tell her the title and admit to reading the book to better understand women and how to improve my relations with women (though every person is a person with their own individuality). Clarissa Pinkola Estés emphasizes the value of storytelling as an assistance to living through Women Who Run With the Wolves in an in-depth, entertaining-informing manner.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness concerns racial systematic relations. Michelle Alexander observes and opines on the effects of social developments in (primarily) American societies. After a discussion with my co-workers, I bought the book to better understand their perspectives. Still, I notice headway in human societies, in particular American societies, and I think continually developing intellectual pragmatism will prevail in bringing about greater-diverse-equal communities globally, let alone in the United States of America. The book is informative and definitely useful for its purpose in assisting conversation on the presented matters.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

In Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Society Jared Diamond assesses post-Pleistocene human progressions. The text is very enlightening. Reading Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Society in observation with modernity really makes me interrogate the decisions that people make especially when (seemingly) lacking (unless regardless of or in spite of) knowledge about human developments in history. It's definitely worth reading and may really assist one's sociological understandings.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm by Nancy Farmer is a comical story which I am able to envision in comic book form. There is a steadily moving plot within a realm of creative lore heavily set about Zimbabwe. The book is a simple read though has many details. The Glossary and Appendix assist readers navigating the text. The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm is an enjoyable-relaxing fiction: it's a casual carry along.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Creature from Jekyll Island: A Second Look at the Federal Reserve by Edward Griffin is a very informative and insightful text concerning the development of the Federal Reserve System. In a very roundabout-informative-simple way, Edward Griffin presents the processes historically that culminate as the functions proving the Federal Reserve System as well as other facets of developing society affecting the present day and potentially future days. Edward Griffin seeks to resolve financial-social-political matters that seem to plague the entirety of the developing world that is experiencing any facets of the processes culminating into the functions proving the Federal Reserve System. The Creature from Jekyll Island: A Second Look at the Federal Reserve by Edward Griffin is a detailed-simple-thick read which requires careful attention especially because Edward Griffin doesn’t repeat or re-emphasize a lot of key points as much as he does others to maintain focus on the primary purposes of his text.

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Business of the 21st Century by Robert T. Kyosaki has come to me by accident, an incident of work. Robert Kiyosaki mentions The Business of the 21st Century as a re-emphasis of his messages from Rich Dad Poor Dad with additional contributions that may further assist individuals in the 21st century. The Business of the 21st Century is a quick and simple read. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Save Yourself! by Robert Gilbreath is a very encouraging and enlightening piece (targeting white collar workers with information relevant to entrepreneurs concerning developing elements of one’s self in an ever changing world). This text is very relevant, and, as I am writing about it— I’m having a strong urge to re-read the text. As with all texts, read with a cautious-deliberating-open-mind (especially advising-self-help texts-- with so much readily available information, one must move forward with the information best leading them toward their next step, their next goal). The organization of the text makes reading very simple.

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

War and Peace has been a very enjoyable read. Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy (A.K.A. Leo Tolstoy) writes a rigorous story concerning many different forms of relationships between/within particular areas of societies during a particular war era. War and Peace is a very intriguing story requiring (as I think any story of such depth does) one's patience and willingness to understand the various philosophical and theoretical observations in tandem with all the other working aspects of the story.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Passion for Excellence by Tom Peters and Nancy Austin is a comprehensive advisory and analysis piece for individuals seeking to improve in the worlds of their being. The premise engages manners that may consistently assist successes of businesses and individuals. A Passion for Excellence is for individuals willing to thrive in the worlds of their being. The information is priceless.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

P.S. Improving learning and improving practicing may greatly assist in garnering successes.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Stephen King's Dreamcatcher is a psychological thriller! Dreamcatcher is descriptive, raw, and unforgiving. Honestly, I think Stephen King tries appeasing certain processes in the story throughout and at the end of the story (except I don't think there are any fair ways to--well, you have to read the story for yourself and decide for yourself). As a creative, I'm appreciative of the extent Dreamcatcher covers which helps me understand working elements of the genre better. I find the implementation of Poetry throughout the novel to be appealing and effective.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Hundred-Year House is a very Poetic Novel. After learning of Rebecca Makai's outstanding efforts as a successful short story writer: I've come to find no surprise in the creative processes pulling the text together. She does a great job of engaging and disengaging the audience leading up to key points in her story. Rebecca Makai draws on a lot of different creative writing angles to create a full story.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg (with Nell Scovell) is an expounding for why/how the world at large may be better with women creating/experiencing equal measures of life—without biasing (especially oppressive and suppressive biasing)—from perspectives of Sheryl Sandberg's life (particularly in relation to her home and work experience[s]) considering qualitative and quantitative research. When perusing a Books in English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg (with Nell Scovell) because of a branching curiosity for trying to understand what exactly leaning in means, from an, if not the, originating source of the phraseology particularly, especially since concepts of/the phraseology are/is in other books I've come to read (which I'll mention further in the review as supplemental sources) about progressions of women (though always proving progressions for women and men—humanity, at large). As an individual practically-mindfully progressing to be a more mindful romantic/-life partner as well as individual (personally and generally), I find reading the text insightful (especially for any that may not be aware of conversations in relation to women at large in myriad ways—economically, socially, emotionally—to name a few) particularly because Sheryl Sandberg seems to find purpose through work though concepts of the text progress beyond work only (for instance, the author delves into discussing relationships—professionally, romantically, friendly—in connection with progressing one's choice life). The text revolves around an interdependent reality of equality, at large—even considering how individuals may differ personally, to a degree. I think the following texts may prove well-rounding for any seeking to become more aware of concepts within Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg (with Nell Scovell): The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan, The Personal MBA (10th Anniversary Edition) by Josh Kaufman, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing by Dr. Christiane Northrup, MD, Women & Leadership by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder, Sam Walton: Made in America by Sam Walton, Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away by Annie Duke, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey, What to Expect When You're Expecting by Heidi Murkoff, How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie, Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez, The Dating Divide: Race and Desire in the Era of Online Romance by Celeste Vaughan Curington, Jennifer H. Lundquist, and Ken-Hou Lin, A Passion for Excellence by Tom Peters and Nancy Austin, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman, Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, and It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away by Annie Duke is expounding through qualitative and quantitative research about why—how—quitting is an asset to one's life. When perusing an Internom, I decide to buy then read the text from a curiosity of the potential context(s) which may branch from the title as well as my interest in the texture of the book cover. The text advocates for benefits of a Quitting Coach as well as methods to guide one well toward being mindfully-practical about quitting. The concepts of quitting are in relation to varying aspects and degrees of being—all within and in favor of life—living one's choice life. I really find the text mindfully empowering considering processes to ensure one is aware of one's capability(ies) toward one's choice life in a world at large of (arguably) probabilities. I think the following texts are good supplemental reads in connection with concepts within Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away by Annie Duke: Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder, Sam Walton: Made in America by Sam Walton and John Huey, and The Personal MBA (10th Anniversary Edition) by Josh Kaufman.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Will by Will Smith and Mark Manson is about the becoming (through an intricate uncovering) of Will Smith (most familiar to me as an acting partner and musician). When perusing books in an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book because of a curiosity branching from a reality which receives recognition in the text about a relationship between a viewer and a television in a home: how is Will Smith, at least how might Will Smith be, especially considering the debacle (of March 27, 2022, at the Oscars) post the book? I don't even know about the book's existence until recently (in 2024) finding the book on store shelves. I find the text entertaining as well as enlightening considering Will Smith's trajectories are not familiar to me at all. When reading the text, I think of how growing up, highlights and spotlights are quite different than in modernity, considering more seemingly immediate-readily available information due to additional avenues of mediums for communicating (in comparison[s] between the '60s, '70s, '80s, and '90s especially); viewing an entertainer with a filter is quite different than viewing an entertainer with no filter (which greatly requires any audience member to interact with aspects of human spectrums of being to a personal degree—of which may vary to any degree). Even with landscapes of entertainment and leisure becoming more marginally varying than prior decades (centuries, millenniums—any prior time in history) due to many varying factors, I think the text offers perspectives considering timeless aspects of being, concerning aspects of human spectrums which any can meditate on in connection to a form of healthy self-observance. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Perfection Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough by Dr. Thomas Curran argues exploratively-philosophically, qualitatively, and quantitatively of perfectionism in relation to psychology economically toward practical resolves. When perusing books in an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book due to a curiosity of the contexts in relation to perfectionism. I like the font usage throughout the text. I think the text offers insights that may help one (personality-wise) in alignment with concepts of perfectionism to deliberate concepts of perfectionism personally (perhaps even anyone attempting to avoid perfectionism, if not just learn more about perfectionism to a degree). I think the following texts are great supplementally in relation to concepts in The Perfection Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough by Dr. Thomas Curran: Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress by Steven Pinker, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman, Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, Mastery by Robert Greene, and Not In Your Genes: The real reasons children are like their parents by Oliver James.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey is a self-help type book sharing principles (of qualitative and quantitative research, though greatly expounds details qualitatively which the author notes [earlier in the text] as a procession for comprehensibility) implementable in one’s life to transcend one’s life as well as life in general—in only a/ good way(s)—generationally. When perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read the book because of a curiosity of: what might the book have to offer? I’m familiar with Stephen R. Covey’s name though not necessarily anything beyond his name. I find the text offers practical-immediately-applicable-insightful information as well as exercises to assist one with immediate implementation. I think the text can be highly valuable as is though I am aware other forms of the contexts of the text as well as supplemental information for the contexts of the text existing for different entities to consider appropriately well (all of Stephen R. Covey realm[s] of progress). Additionally, I think the following texts can be great supplemental material for any seeking a/ different exploration(s) of particular contexts of which Stephen R. Covey covers in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change: Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, Not In Your Genes: The real reasons children are like their parents by Oliver James, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman, The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez, Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon by Dr. Joe Dispenza, Mastery by Robert Greene, The Personal MBA (10th Anniversary Edition) by Josh Kaufman, Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup, Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, and A Man's Guide to Healthy Aging: Stay Smart, Strong, and Active (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book) by Edward H. Thompson, Jr., and Lenard W. Kaye (with contributions from contributors which receive credits at the end of the book).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress by Steven Pinker is a text of quantitative-qualitative research arguing for a/ modern attunement(s) between the developing world at large in connection with reason, science, humanism, and progress against all that may be seemingly heightening against reason, science, humanism, and progress (especially in light of particular communication/communal/assessing avenues). When perusing Internoms, I walk away from the book many times though keep the book in consideration, then decide on buying then reading the text, of random curiosity of enlightenment from the writer of a book I appreciate well, The Sense of Style: The Thinking Person's Guide to Writing in the 21st Century. I like how the author brings a big picture perspective with all relevant data to the author's argument to navigate one toward observing relevant data showing the world at large is much better (considering modern objective points of what makes life better at large) than historically (even with its solvable problems) while arguing for particular avenues for any seeking to continue toward better living and a better world at large. I really appreciate the relevance of the book in modernity as well as a text to regard with other information of the sort likely for the next 50 to 600 years, at a minimum, for argumentative, deliberating, and/or supportive reasons. I find the text tends to gravitate about a political atmosphere (albeit seemingly touch-and-go) in a/ way(s) that make(s) the text seemingly more relevant for any living in an electing climate and/or in a freer society respecting individual-branching-into-communal choice(s). When reading, I find The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity by David Graeber and Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman to be quite relevant supports for any seeking to be more comprehensive about culture areas as well as other intelligences (particularly emotional intelligence) in a/ way(s) that can further well-round one's understanding of aspects of human spectrums.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown is a self-help-type book philosophizing practically toward living a more efficient life. When perusing a Mona English Bookstore, curious of the title, I check for the date of publication, because I find the title resonates with a/ conversation(s) of the pandemic concerning the term essential. I'm grateful about having steady employment during the pandemic, not just for any financial reason, though perspective wise especially considering my skills being essential though at the time—(arguably) not my job, benefitting from my skills. Even considering the varying state(s) of unemployment insurance in America during the pandemic, I recall essential becoming more than a floating term (similarly with the term remote) in relation to the world of work at large. Reading Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown, I find the text connects well the term essential in a/ more concrete form(s) with any contemplating the term essential particularly, respectively considering one's employment in relation to employment at large during the pandemic, personally. I feel like the text can be practically empowering especially for any individual that may need/want a/ different perspective(s) concerning being essential (toward a/ more healing sense(s), if more concrete in relation to a/ pandemic experience[s]) as well as for any that may want to approach Essentialism in connection with a fairly-more-recent perspective/practical ideating via Greg McKeown.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman is like a case-study-self-though-bigger-than-self-help-type book about competencies (largely in relation to emotional intelligence) in connection with parameters of the working world at large (though undoubtingly in connection with a very good work life balance). When perusing an Internom, I decide to buy then read the book because of my interest in emotional intelligence as well as a good measure of better self-culturing. I find the text extremely valuable as well as foretelling in a/ way(s) highlighting all levels of a/ working world(s) ensuring to emphasize humaneness from qualitative and quantitative data/research from decades ago so pertinent in modernity. I think the consistency of the relevance of each area of the contexts within the text proves the working world at large can transcend to extent(s) of human development(s). The text offers guiding points for becoming more aware of competencies as well as developing competencies well. Even so, I think texts like It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn and Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon by Dr. Joe Dispenza can be great supplemental reads for any that may need specific methodologies and techniques in conjunction with formative communal and self practices (if one is going from reading a particular text of the sorts I mention in this review then into a social environment beyond one's self alone with a particular text of the sorts I mention in this review). I really like Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, and I think anyone planning on entering the work force on any level can benefit from reading the book. One can improve one's competencies at any time in one's life: I think the text offers more than one avenue for one to do so (especially in connection to one's emotional intelligence, respectfully in relation to the working world at large).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity by Dr. Peter Attia with Bill Gifford encourages progressions toward living a/ healthier sounder relationship(s) with one's self alone as well as one's self in connection with an/ other(s) through methodologies and information for one to acknowledge to  improve one's health span and lifespan (inclusive of—though particularly in the text to emotional, mental, and physical health). When perusing books in an Internom, I recall glancing over the text to ensure to be reading a more recent book on health (especially since considering the term longevity in the title as having to do with biology, I like having the most recent data on what may concern health though I appreciate thorough explorations historically connecting to modernity—concerning statistics). I find the entire book beneficial to varying aspects of one's health. I really appreciate Part III because the language resonates so well with modern health necessities at forefronts of conversations concerning health. 

Due to the scope of the book branching from preventive measures for four particular diseases (heart disease, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and type 2 diabetes) in relation to parameters of metabolic dysfunction, I think the text acknowledges well parameters of its coverage through its language and tone as well as is aware data are dynamic variables. The text informs of particular measures of analysis ensuring to increase awareness of a/ context(s) within and beyond the text. I enjoy reading the text and find practical information throughout the text immediately applicable.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Dracula by Bram Stoker (Illustrations by David Mackintosh) is an epistolary novel of dark comedy (though quite horrific, quite alleviating) navigating an individual's introductory period with Dracula to many happenings with Dracula from then on. I decide to buy then read Dracula because of a curiosity branching from a joke more so than a fetishizing of sexual intercourse with a woman during her menstrual cycle. The text offers moralistic values arguing for good faith even in the midst of a scourge, for efficient uses of finances toward a/ good cause(s), sanctity, good relations (largely in connection with love, peace, mental health—though mental health has somewhat of its own exploration throughout the text which makes the topic stand more so alone than always in connection with a relation), good experience through practical use, respecting cultural perspectives beyond class, and the equality of good characteristics (particularly intelligence beyond the superficial) between men and women amongst many other points. Growing up with references to Dracula (the character), I'm glad about reading the book because I'm aware of the canon of Dracula from which all other tales of Dracula (the character) may arise.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Girls' Guide to Growing Up Great: Changing Bodies, Periods, Relationships, Life Online by Sophie Elkan with Laura Chaisty and Dr. Maddy Podichetty as well as Illustrations by Flo Perry is like a journal for a developing girl/woman to conversationally-opine (somewhat privately—somewhat due to a possibility of someone reading opinions of an opiner in the spaces within the book upon discovering the book) as well as deliberate/receive relevant advice on differing topics concerning aspects of becoming/being a developing girl/woman. Perusing an Internom, I come across the book curious as to the offerings of information the text might have concerning a/ developing girl[s]/woman[en] since I care to learn about women's health in (healthy) myriad forms so as to be a more mindful individual as well as romantic life partner. I think the text covers topics well especially considering the text is intentionally reaching out to developing girls/women in year six of school (prior to secondary school in the United Kingdom—around middle childhood) though I think the text relevant for any even beyond middle childhood. I think the text can function as a bridging conversational tool between developing youth and adults regardless of gender/sex: additionally, I think the text covers topics in alignment with encouraging one to discover one's self for one's self safely (inclusive of being in accordance with modern laws), without bias beyond encouragement of safe developments. The text offers references for any that may want to experience histories/stories of women as well as research more about any topics the text covers.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sam Walton: Made in America by Sam Walton and John Huey feels more like a somewhat personal diary than a biography of the Founder of Wal-Mart, Sam Walton, concerning the meaningful portions of Sam Walton's life largely in connection with Wal-Mart. While perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I come across the book then decide to buy and read the book because of my curiosities of Wal-Mart's development (as well as my wonderings of how culturing/navigating/raising a family with financial abundance might be—even considering I understand the importance of building a family and that every family is different—I'm always trying to improve comprehending varying perspectives reasonably as best I may). I find the developments of Wal-Mart (inclusive of Sam Walton's personal development) which Sam Walton shares honest, down-to-earth, and hilarious as well as wonderfully grounding and humbling. I really appreciate Sam Walton's perspectives about developing a company while keeping practical observance of global perspectives. Sam Walton: Made in America by Sam Walton and John Huey really brings  to light advancements of a time then (mid-to-late 20th century) effective in modernity. I really appreciate Sam Walton clearly emphasizing a calling for better educational parameters in a way of which I've never come to hear another company acknowledge through a/ practical expounding(s) of the term sophistication all the while not dismissing learning (concerning educating and training the workforce—on a global scale). Additionally, Sam Walton's competitiveness is that of not only a competitor though an athlete-now-coach that wants improvement overall regarding the/ field(s) of personal choice expertise/growth—particularly in connection to retail. I really enjoy reading the text and find good surprise that Sam Walton's once-competitors acknowledge Sam Walton (inclusive of his methods and philosophies) fun, solid, and sound for personal and business developments. Near the end of the book, Sam Walton shares ten rules to help one succeed toward one's goal(s) in life personally. I find no surprise Tom Peters acknowledges Sam Walton honorably-well: Sam Walton seems like a perfect exemplification of that which Tom Peters and Nancy Austin define, explore, and expound upon in A Passion for Excellence. I nearly tear toward the end of Sam Walton: Made in America by Sam Walton and John Huey because of having to reconcile with such experiential candor having to come to an end, to perhaps not experience again—aside from and beyond this book.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy is a memoir of the author's life in connection to the author's mother's life as well as the author's career pathway(s) to varying degrees. In passing, I recall meeting a couple of individuals reading the book so I ask about the book and cannot claim to be an individual that watches anything on Nickelodeon post Nickelodeon's 90s heydays (to me) (KaBlam!, All That, Clarissa Explains It All, The Angry Beavers, The Ren & Stimpy Show, Rugrats, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, Blue's Clues, The Wild Thornberrys, etc.). More recently, perusing books in a Mona English Bookstore, I come across I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy: I buy then read the book for a few reasons; I'm curious of the child to adult adjustment and management in relation to entertainment especially in a light of the importance that an individual may need life coaching of a sort (particularly because I find appealing how individuals that garner success[es] choose to continue developing academically—educationally—regardless of deep and vast connections as well as how individuals that garner success[es] form through and beyond educational processes); I'm curious if I'll recall the author from anything I've ever even come to glance at in passing from my nephews and/or nieces' television viewings which I eventually do even before the author gets to the point in the story in which an introduction of the name of the show appears; and I really like the color scheme of the cover of the book. I feel like the book is a necessary expression for the author: mindfully expressing can be wonderful for learning more of one's self—as well as life in connection with as well as beyond one's self—in a/ healthy way(s). I feel like if anyone can relate to the author then being aware that more avenues might be and/or are available for assistance toward healing—with whatever one might be going through—can be helpful. When reading the book, I feel like much of that which the author explores and inquires of receives ample answers through these three texts which may be helpful for anyone trying to find practical resolves as well as deeper understandings toward/of healing personally: Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, and The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez. Additionally, I feel like the book offers many perspectives about processes of being an acting partner. As much as the author presents situations, the author seems to be indicating that personal progressions are happening and that resolves are available through particular avenues. Not to belabour a/ necessary point(s) (which I feel one may not really belabour considering how conscious one must be about creating/building one's life), I feel I must add that one may have to find one's self through a/ proper route(s) of healing to fully embrace a/ necessary resolve(s) along a/ particular avenue(s). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Women & Leadership by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala contains anecdotal, qualitative, and quantitative data establishing as well as supporting areas of research concerning perspectives about women particularly in relation to politics. Upon entering an Internom, I find myself browsing many books of interest: I decide to buy then read Women & Leadership by Julia Gillard & Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala due to caring about the offerings women leaders from around the world may have to share through the contexts of which the book explores (which I initially have no idea about, the book is altogether a good surprise to me). The writing is careful through a research-scientific-reporting tone though with personality(ies) which allows for the information to be as well as feel more accessible. The text enlightens about areas of being particularly in relation to being a political leader connecting future-wise generationally. Considering that the text offers that men are capable of being subject to certain circumstances as women, I find the research-scientific-reporting to be documentarily supporting more reasons for solidarity especially for any seeking the good of the future in all good ways at large between the objectively good of men and women. Noting the world at large is split between men and women population-wise, ideologically through research-scientific-reporting, the text explores nuances of leadership aside from gender (if one is reading carefully) to ensure to increase awareness of a/ way(s) to approach equality. I'm really glad about reading the text because I find the information can help me be a more mindful individual personally as well as in connection with an/ other(s).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Not In Your Genes: The real reasons children are like their parents by Oliver James mainly concerns concepts of nature vs. nature through qualitative, quantitative, and anecdotal explorations. Upon entering an Internom, I find myself browsing many books of interest. I decide to buy then read Not In Your Genes: The real reasons children are like their parents by Oliver James because I like to read contexts of the sort to identify a/ way(s) to improve life personally (with myself) and with a/ potential relationship(s) (especially considering my future family). I find the text thoroughly uncovering—expounding—research to enlighten informatively a/ measure(s) one may take to heal long-term from trauma aside from (though reasonably inclusive of) a good therapist. I like the seemingly apparent transparency of the author to inform readers appropriately (with research formatting etiquette). I find the text clear to read due to the organization of the context(s) (at large). I'm a firm believer in self-culturing/nurturing: I find the author's research to be very valuable, not only for self-help though for other- and self-understandings (as well as a wonderful resource for any responsible for building a relationship with another—who isn't responsible even partially for how a relationship may develop?) especially considering an/ adult-child relationship(s). 

I like the research being honest challenging (if not debunking, scientifically) other scientific research in the fields of concern to guide one's awareness appropriately—responsibly seemingly understanding the importance of raising—developing—a good society (at large) while informing (elevating, in my opinion) fields of research. Raising—developing—an individual, a family, a self, is not wholly up to chance more so than choice. I find other texts exploring epigenetics and Psychoneuroimmunology (It Didn't Start With You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon by Dr. Joe Dispenza, The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez) in a/ way(s) that can broaden one's horizons about self-culturing/nurturing toward one's ideal self(ves)—practically—quite interesting especially considering contexts of concepts (scientifically) of nature vs. nurture from within Not In Your Genes: The real reasons children are like their parents by Oliver James.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Captain Underpants and the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants (Full Color Edition [Captain Underpants #4]) by Dav Pilkey is a comic-book-like-novel following a pair of individuals (students) in an elementary school that have a unique relationship with a principal, with a somewhat-super-secret identity. The book is thrust upon me by a student of a class I teach that tells me I have one month to borrow the book though I never ask for the book in the first place. Even so, I tell the child I will read the book then I read the book. The book is entertaining though has many seemingly nonsensical ideas which one may argue is a part of a major theme the author is harping in quips throughout the text about reality. At the same time, I feel as though the author may be acknowledging different levels of intelligible communication and understandings on a level (perhaps many levels) that any individual in connection with raising children may have to understand to perhaps acknowledge raising a child, a human being, more mindfully. Perhaps Dav Pilkey is providing a book of hope for a/ parent(s) with a child that may be seemingly overly active to a point of a diagnosis which may not prove necessary for a child (or valuable to a child) entering adulthood (everyone grows at a different rate). I like the text as is and think the connections between the author's background growing up makes the text all the more so meaningful. The story feels like a way to empower a recognition of a full human in respect to bigger pictures of life.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Look Inside Jobs by Lara Bryan with Wesley Robbins as the Illustrator is an extremely quick introduction to random jobs. Perusing a Mona English Bookstore in Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia), I find a book I think may be a good resource for encouraging students to become more practically aware of the world beyond and/or with an education. The book does not cover salaries per positions or any economic-social understandings (financial potentialities/realities in connection with a/ geographic placement[s]/situation[s]) in connection with any career and/or job; the book offers optimistic glances of a/ career and/or job situation(s) as well as potential thinking routes for any approaching a/ career and/or job situation(s) as a student (considering any potential goal(s) and/or interest(s) an individual may have–particularly as a student though beyond studenthood as well). I find the text informative: I'm now aware of the existence of the role of a Sewer Technician. Of course, I am well aware of many more jobs in existence than the book offers though I think such a book may assist one in broadening one's awareness of a potential career and/or job path even somewhat how to approach navigating a potential career and/or job path in connection with one's long-term life objective(s). Be careful/gentle bending the flaps within the books.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Anthem by Ayn Rand feels like poetry forming around the title especially as a perfect connecting introduction to The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged (which are phenomenal works). After coming upon the text in a Mona English Bookstore, I decide to buy then read the text due to my interest in Ayn Rand's stories of which I've already come to read and thoroughly enjoy (The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged — Anthem is much shorter than both The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged). Though the text may not have extremely compelling protagonists like Dagny Taggart, Hank Rearden, Francisco d'Anconia, and Howard Roark, the text offers an anthem for the individual/individuals as well as efforts which do not fall in line with any subduing-oppressing-repressive entity(ies) and/or effort(s) of all that makes a human being a thriving individual. The text challenges ideals in alignment with motions and/or perspectives that may seem conflicting in light of anything really good for individual identity. I find the text more appealing due to knowing the stories following Anthem (The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sherlock Holmes: The Reigate Squires, an adaptation by Stephanie Baudet with Arianna Bellucci as the Illustrator, originally by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, is a murder mystery about the discovery of a murder in the midst of disputes between families/estates. I receive the book as a gift for National Teacher's Day (2023) from one of the students of a class I teach. I feel like I'm reading a book that one may consider as a children's book though with no separating chapters the text seems as though operating for a different reading pace that can easily navigate a lengthier story with less guiding points. I feel like the text is an ode to Sherlock Holmes (perhaps even to aspects of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's legacy) from the perspective of Watson that does not offer too much detail into the mystery for a reader to explore analytically beyond assumption (albeit other clues the story offers through illustrations of characters). I like helpful portions of a mystery that allow one to discover/uncover a mystery along the story as a detective might. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Schoolgirl by Osamu Dazai is a fictional-poetic journey of a man imagining (seemingly so blatantly) himself as a Tokyo schoolgirl as though he as a personal connection with an actual schoolgirl of which he must write into a story. After meeting a fan of the author, I receive Schoolgirl to borrow then read. The story reads like a long journal entry of a man that infiltrates a schoolgirl's body to disembody her. The author's voice seems somewhat predatory, somewhat obsessive, in a way that any exterior party to the schoolgirl cannot be, as though privy to an access that might not be available to anyone else. In the beginning of the book, a Preface, by Adam L. Kern, shares aspects of Osamu Dazai's life which I find important for any reader to be aware of when approaching a text like schoolgirl. Osamu Dazai seems to fetishize certain details in a time-space construct of a personal agenda that are seemingly in accordance with what I find to be troubling fantasies of nonconsensual pain. At the same time, of a different note, the author's writing is effective with the style of storytelling on display. 

TRIGGER WARNING: I advise anyone that may feel/have a need to talk to a professional psychologist, psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and/or any other professional that may assist with one understanding one's well-being particularly in connection with one's mental health to be cautious of reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez is a fictional tale (though arguably full of many tales) of generations of a family on the basis of true to life inspirations. After finishing my initial reading list, I decide to buy then read the book from a list of book recommendations (which I tend to do after completing a reading list unless I choose to do otherwise): the book is a recommendation from a fellow gym patron of a time ago. I like the prose-poetic writing style: the author indicates through the text processes of which the author is adhering to—narratively. The story feels as though a passing down from one generation to another generation like a familial oral story telling which one is wavering between telling through mediums of oral story telling as well as writing seemingly piecing together parts of the story on the go for a reader. I like the way the story explores story telling through a/ historical telling(s) which feel(s) semi-auto/biographical. The story really excavates concepts of generational development, deeply emotionally and biologically, particularly of a/ world(s) without limits though within limits hinging on the ability(ies)/disposition(s) as well as resources of a/ storyteller. I'm glad about reading the text slowly because a lot of details pertinent to understanding familial connections begin early on through the story and continue compounding as a part of the storytelling style for the text, seemingly arguing for what can and cannot be by displaying why.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Closing Time by Joseph Heller is the sequel to Catch-22  and carries many sentiments to deliberate decades later exploring lives of characters old and new especially through relationships (romantic and/or not though emphases on romantic relationships are heavily set throughout the text). I decide on buying then reading the text because of enjoying Catch-22 so much (and because the title reminds me of the song of the same name ["Closing Time"] by Semisonic which actually fits a major theme of the book very well). The style of Closing Time is similar though quite metaphysically different than Catch-22 and takes on a lot of transitional responsibilities like explaining outcomes of different characters from Catch-22, expanding developments like Milo's enterprises, and bringing characters closer to relatable modernity outside of a war though in a/ war state(s). I find the perspectives of Closing Time to be more in connection with a civilian that may not have war experience that lives in a world in which war is an area of life to recognize though the story connects through familiar characters in exploring militarism/war, governmental/private enterprises, medical conditions in association with environmental situations that one might experience as a civilian especially depending on one's geographical location, living in parts of the world other than the United States, progressing and remembering/recognizing women in all developments pertaining to humans, psycho-social effects of militarism/war, effects of trauma from a home/situation translating into societies at large from micro-/macro-levels, changing times/aging, personalities, sexual relationships, mindfully living, employment, hope/faith, the afterlife/present life/hell, immortality through creativity, capitalism, advertising, and entertainment amongst many other points. I really like the text because of its awareness to a lot of what plagues modern societies today. Not all is doom and gloom. The introspection throughout the text offers wonderful glimpses of character depths positing the world for what it is as what the world might be in comparison to what one doesn't know in comparison to what one knows. I find the writing style is more prose-poignant than poetic as I recall feeling in Catch-22, intentionally: Joseph Heller's writing style proves to be as sharp as in Catch-22 though feels as though with no numbing agent which works effectively well with concepts of situations/thinkings one may experience aging with different perspectives of a/ world(s) one may encounter. I feel like Closing Time is more of a now-that-we-have-a-clear-understanding conversational piece fitting perfectly well in connection with/after Catch-22. I highly recommend reading Catch-22 before reading Closing Time.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation by George Washington contains:

"rules...from an English translation of a French book of maxims...intended to polish manners, keep alive the best affections of the heart, impress the obligation of moral virtues, teach how to treat others in social relations, and above all, inculcate the practice of a perfect self-control." (Washington, 7)

I find the text going through an old box belonging to my oldest brother (much love, in spirit) which my mom asks me to check for any items that may be of use. I giggle upon discovering the text then decide to read the text because of my curiousities of etiquette(s) of different cultures and periods. The text offers sound advice—a lot of which one must adjust to modern senses or personal tastes (for example, near anything about meat may need redefining for an individual that eats primarly, if not only, Vegan options). Concerning any advice from a self-help type book, I advise deliberating advice to better discern navigating toward a better life with what one's life might necessitate and/or with what good one might want to implement/improve upon in one's life. I like the text: I think anyone can benefit from the information in the text especially anyone that may be new to entering different social circles. Otherwise, the text offers a few points to giggle about though one may never really know how advice one may giggle at may benefit another's life—until one does.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Washington, George. (1988). George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation. Applewood Books, Inc.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Hatha Yoga Pradipika: Light on Hatha Yoga by Yogi Swatmarama (in tandem with extensive exploratory commentary on the basis of practical research of Swami Muktibodhananda) contains not only methods though purposes for each method with commentary offering well-rounding perspectives including connecting details from varying Yogic paths. I practice Yoga: from my understanding, I primarily practice Hatha Yoga. I find the text answers my curiosities of yogic purposes beyond my modern understanding(s) grounding heavily in the physical [acknowledging a connection with other spiritual elements]. For a better understanding of the intent of the contexts, Swami Satyananda Saraswati divulges in the foreword:

"In yogic literature we have a number of reliable texts on hatha yoga. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Yogi Swatmarama is a very well-known one. Another by Yogi Gorakhnath is known as the Goraksha Samhita. A third text is Gheranda Samhita by the great sage Gheranda. Besides these there is a fourth major text known as Hatharatnavali which was written later by Srinivasabhatta Mahayogindra. All these texts are considered to have been written between the 6th and 15th centuries AD...references made in the Upanishads indicate that the science of hatha yoga was known well before this period...Even now, at St. Augustin, a southern province of Colombia in South America, there are large stone figures and carvings depicting hatha yoga practices. However, the systematic form of hatha yoga began to emerge in India some time in the 6th century AD...we should not forget what hatha yoga really stands for. Behind every sick man there is a spiritual man. Behind a diabetic there is a yogi. Behind a man suffering from depression there is an aspirant. When a patient comes for help, teach him yoga and make him better. Treat his sickness, but do not stop there. Take him further into the spiritual domain of life....Just to improve the physical health is not enough. The mental health must also improve, the nature must change, the personality must change, the psychological and the psychic framework also has to change. You should not merely feel freedom from disease, but freedom from bondage and from the vagaries of the mind." (pp. 1 & 20)

I really like the text because I learn new methods for a first time as well as a lot of rooting information practically relevant in modernity (though a method or so makes me chuckle because as sensible a method, I'm quite glad for a newer, more recent, method that may seemingly not be as invasive though one may argue not as effectively thorough). I'm glad about understanding more of good health parameters which are a part of my lifestyle. I think the contexts of hatha yoga are a part of vital understandings of being in the universe at large, and the particular text offers such valuable insights practically toward being, in a way seemingly so transcendental though respectively natural to a/ state(s) of supreme being. One must be mindful of how, why, where, who, and when one transcends.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Swatmarama, Yogi. (2012). Hatha Yoga Pradipika: Light on Hatha Yoga, commentary by Muktibodhananda, Swami. Yoga Publications Trust.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Urban Tantra: Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century by Barbara Carrellas is a well-rounding guide to improving one's well-being as well as relationships sexually through tantra. While browsing books about tantra online via Amazon, the cover art draws my attention. I don't immediately buy the book until after exploring tantra and sex textually through Diana Richardson's writing(s): I'm grateful for The Heart of Tantric Sex and Tantric Orgasm for Women by Diana Richardson. When I do buy then read Urban Tantra: Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century by Barbara Carrellas, I find myself more appreciative of tantra and sex especially since I feel as though I begin practicing tantra sexually before knowing tantra as an actual potential part of a life as though with a proper noun as well as a core philosophy in combination with the terminology to identify—tantra. I like all of the text though "Come Together" is a highly relevant chapter which I feel is so important to acknowledge in connection with a theme in the text concerning making time to be then actually being present as well as conscious sexually whether alone or with another or so. I'm really glad about reading the text.

Additionally, I find aspects of The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, and Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup in relation to psychoneuroimmunology concerning being healthily-mindfully present with one's self as well as another practically are throughout the text. Even more so, I find approaches toward healthy hedonism of which as I recall reading in Why Good Sex Matters: Understanding the Neuroscience of Pleasure for a Smarter, Happier, and More Purpose-Filled Life by Dr. Nan Wise, PhD, as a central underlying focus through Urban Tantra: Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century. I like the different perspectives of sex in Urban Tantra: Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century because I may not subscribe to every form of sexual behavior though I find having an understanding of aspects of different types of sexual behaviors help me navigate my understanding(s) of pleasure better particularly mentally (like understanding BDSM operates properly and safely through consensual rules, which makes aspects of BDSM not so strange and slightly more interesting [to me]). Good communication and good sex work together. Good communication is necessary and wonderful in life.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

The Bra Book: An Intimate Guide to Finding the Right Bra, Shapewear, Swimsuit, and More! by Jené Luciani guides through the realm of bras and that which one (or one in connection with one) choosing/wearing a bra might need to be aware of. Snooping around GetMeGiddy content, I find an article via Twitter about bras then curiously realize I can learn more about bras and breasts through The Bra Book: An Intimate Guide to Finding the Right Bra, Shapewear, Swimsuit, and More! I find the text valuable: I have a better understanding of breasts as well as body types in relation to bras biologically as well as fashionably. I really like lingerie so now I can better shop for my future romantic/life partner. I really really really really really (...) like breasts so now I can better tend to a different realm of breasts as well, more appreciatively. I like the organization of the text because the information is clear as well as easily navigable, to me. I really feel like learning about bras needs to be a part of a healthy sexual education.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Tantric Orgasm for Women by Diana Richardson is about being more aware and conscious sexually though the meditative practices as well as philosophies toward being more aware and conscious sexually transcending physical planes are set with heavy emphases on being present—being in the here and now (not emotionally in the past, feeling forward). After reading The Heart of Tantric Sex by Diana Richardson, I decide to buy then read Tantric Orgasm for Women thinking the text is to assist one with helping a/ woman/women reach an orgasmic state through tantric methods (the text does so though offers more). There are similarities between The Heart of Tantric Sex and Tantric Orgasm for Women though each text is unique unto itself when delving into exploring specific areas of topics through a tantric lense (though the latter book, Tantric Orgasm for Women, seems to be for an audience of women [even saying so within the text], I find the text to be quite valuable for all with an interest in being orgasmic through a tantric lifestyle). The text is enlightening and empowering individuals toward a healthier-sensible-sexual-stable-thriving life:

"When we (man and woman) learn to understand one another's psychology and physiology, we can embrace our biology and our spirituality as one. With a multidimensional quality to it, sex has a far deeper significance than the production of children. It is also fun; it is play; it is prayer; it is meditation; it is a merging into oneness, into love; it is true spirituality...

Women have become sexually repressed due to man's nonunderstanding of the difference between the sexes. But it is not man's fault, personally; he too is a by-product of the social, sexual misunderstanding in force today.

The tragedy of this repression of woman and her sexual power is that whenever man's and woman's real nature is not allowed to go according to its inner needs it turns sour, becomes poisoned, crippled, or paralyzed; it can even become perverted. If woman is corrupted by man, man himself cannot remain natural either. After all, the woman gives birth to the man. If woman, as mother, does not express her sexuality naturally, her children will not learn a natural expression either. Woman certainly needs a great liberation but not through imitation of man, not through being equal to man by being exactly like him. Instead, woman's true liberation will come through being an authentic and opposite force to man...

Woman can begin to cut away from the myth that she is basically emotional, unstable, and given to bouts of moodiness...The heart—at the center of our true being—knows only one language and that is the language of love. When searching and longing for love, it is very easy to lose oneself in the other, thereby unconsciously and accidentally giving up the power and grace of our feminine birthright. By opening consciously to man, inviting him in, while at the same time remaining true to our own feminine awareness, we transform sex between man and woman into love—a sublimely spiritual experience" (Richardson, pp. 204–206). 

I find Tantric Orgasm for Women to be a very personal text especially with the qualitative offerings from actual tantric correspondences as well as sessions in accordance with the tutelage of Diana Richardson. Stylistically (design organization, fonts) both books are very different. I'm glad about reading the text especially since the text is about and for women from a woman's perspective: I learn a lot from reading the text which I feel holds practical methods for one to readily impliment as soon as one learns the practical methods from the text. Additionally, I find aspects of The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez, It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn, and Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup in relation to psychoneuroimmunology concerning being healthily-mindfully present with one's self as well as another practically are throughout the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Richardson, D. (2004). Tantric Orgasm for Women. Destiny Books.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Complete Kāma Sūtra: The First Unabridged Modern Translation of the Classic Indian Text (translation by Alain Daniēlou [inclusive of help from Kenneth Hurry]) is a compilation of "the essence of the ancient works...considering the customs of the various countries" (Vātsyāyana, 4th Century B.C./1994, p. 526)  as well as unique authoring efforts of Mallanaga Vātsyāyana (with, I think, very helpful commentary by Yashodhara and Devadatta Shāstrī) which is to, with proper usage, assist one to "achieve virtue, well-being, and pleasure" (Vātsyāyana, 4th Century B.C./1994, p. 527). I come across the title as a reference in The Joy of Sex by Dr. Alex Comfort, M.B., D.Sc.: Growing more curious, laughing from big toe references which seems so pleasurably elementary (beyond a foot fetish, ever try—), I buy then read Kāma Sūtra which I come to learn is vaster than my initial understanding(s) (yes, more than just a few additional sexual positions seemingly more creative than any I've come across which make me feel as though one that is more than adept practicing Yoga and/or gymnastics may fulfill, even considering how flexible a woman's—). 

For the unfamiliar, The Complete Kāma Sūtra: The First Unabridged Modern Translation of the Classic Indian Text (along lines of qualitative data—truly fascinating research) offers many practices and practical philosophies around sexual relationships considering: 

"sexual impulses are without any doubt aroused and increased, but at the same time the risks involved are evidenced so that no one may be influenced in an evil manner. Vātsyāyana says that what is written in the sacred books should not be put into practice in all cases. Certain things are described so as not to ignore part of the subject. Their application depends on individual common sense. According to his need, the individual practices good or evil behavior. The duty of the treatise is to explain what is good and what is evil" (Vātsyāyana, 4th Century B.C./1994, p. 527).

I learn a lot from the text, and I feel like a lot of the text is actually relevant (certain aspects of the text are popularly in modern media like a reality TV show or so though I've come to experience many aspects of the text personally as well as know experiences of the text are real for another individual or so). The text is sound enough to advise seeking professional assistance in particular cases. Additionally, the text is full of original commentary so a/ fuller understanding(s) may develop from that which the text offers. I quite enjoy the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Vātsyāyana, M. (1994). The Complete Kāma Sūtra: The First Unabridged Modern Translation of the Classic Indian Text (A. Daniēlou, Trans.). Park Street Press. (Original work published in 4th Century B.C.)

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Why Good Sex Matters: Understanding the Neuroscience of Pleasure for a Smarter, Happier, and More Purpose-Filled Life by Dr. Nan Wise, PhD, is a guide toward healthy hedonism which works against anhedonia. I come across the book when reading a GetMeGiddy article, "Why Does Pleasure Feel So Good?" I'm constantly improving as an individual alone mindfully considering others as well especially my future romantic-life partner (we'll be together some day, lady). Finding, buying, then reading Why Good Sex Matters: Understanding the Neuroscience of Pleasure for a Smarter, Happier, and More Purpose-Filled Life proves to be valuable especially in conjunction with other texts I've come to read in relation to Psychoneuroimmunology such as It Didn't Start With You by Mark Wolynn and The Mind Body Code by Dr. Mario Martinez. The research focuses on good sexual development in a way that encroaches supporting orgasms though caters to ensuring well-being is priority. I really like the author's working methodology(ies) around emotional systems (Seeking, Fear, Rage, Panic/Grief, Care, Play, and Lust) as well as meditative practices toward healthy hedonism which the text affirms/examples guiding through qualitative research. I think certain aspects of the text may require a bit more knowledge concerning sexuality prior (for a more well-rounding understanding) though much of the text is palpable for individuals entering the realm of exploring research about sex. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Bullshit Jobs: A Theory by David Graeber is a unique take on exploratively understanding particular types of employers and employees in an ever developing world operating from Middle-Feudal Age type sentiments of employment in connection with modernity economically (capitalism vs./and/or consumerism, caring vs. robotization, morality vs./and/or finance) largely focusing on aspects of employment (fascinatingly, evidentially speaking, humanity seems to be operating in a realm with capitalistic sentiments though not capitalism wholly—the future of work [like the future in general] is largely in the direction[s] of which humans so choose to develop toward). After reading The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity by David Graeber and David Wengrow (such an overall beautiful conversation), I research both authors a bit more and decide toward more of David Graeber's works which stand out to me as quite relevant (I even discover one of his works of which I remember reading an article on, "On the Phenomenon of Bullshit Jobs: A Work Rant," about five years ago. Additionally, I think reading Debt: The First 5000 Years then Bullshit Jobs: A Theory after The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity is a sound approach [I find the texts are easier to read due to reading in such an order—though to each one's own]). The author emphasizes the text is qualitative research albeit having quantitative elements so I shall say the text is more so qualitative than quantitative catering to a fine enlightening-informing balance. I find the text quite relevant especially considering the overall state of work through and post the pandemic. When I have employees, I'm going to ensure each has a copy of the text for purposeful discussions (iterations of which I'll likely reiterate due to necessities of certain practicalities concerning human conditioning in relation to a work-life balance): I like good humans—good humanity (if you will). I appreciate the way the text holistically (qualitatively) approaches health in relation to employment as well.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity by David Graeber and David Wengrow is a profoundly accurate-respectful-thorough argument/inquiry/study of anthropological progressions 

(acknowledging the field of anthropology's progress into modernity from concepts which seem to dismiss perspectives of which thrive in earlier anthropological studies [as well as are becoming more apparent evidentially in modernity with further research] to cater to ideals of influences suffering from extreme forms of prejudice) providing completely different bases of anthropological understandings of ways humanity is historically/presently as well as can be (wonderfully highlighting culture areas). I learn about the text from an employee at Mudhouse Coffee in Charlottesville, Virginia, then decide I'll write the title down (to conduct preliminary research on the text before buying then reading it as I tend to do with book recommendations I may consider reading). I find the text valuable for many reasons of which I will note in these next few sentences. The authors write coherently in a way that ensures readers/laypersons will be able to follow along well through to the end of the book (reconnecting always to the point[s] and/or situations at hand). The text offers evidence revealing popular traditional thinkings of anthropological-history which might permeate through schools (if one so lets them) as problematic, mythical, and due to variances of institutional appeal (historically and presently) (surprisingly, even with evidence of particular anthropologists prior blatantly crediting other sources through evidential support). 

Anthropologically speaking, the authors assure evidentially that humanity is largely operating under systems of influence suffering from extreme forms of prejudice though, even so, humans are capable of creating good in myriad ways which permeate fabrics of prejudice. Historically, personally, I am quite fond of history courses approaching contexts through creative and fictional processes; creative writing assignments (not demanding an analyzation of a particular perspective branching from systems of influence suffering from an/ extreme form[s] of prejudice) from those courses allowing for freedom of creativity are the ones of mine I remember receiving most appreciation. I find the text highly valuable and relevant especially for any individuals that might want a clearer picture of humanity. Additionally, assessing the book from a research perspective may be very valuable as well since the information is so cohesive. I really like the writing. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Man's Guide to Healthy Aging: Stay Smart, Strong, and Active (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book) by Edward H. Thompson, Jr., and Lenard W. Kaye (with contributions from contributors which receive credits at the end of the book) is an all-encompassing text positively directing and informing individuals across most, if not all, aspects of health toward living a life of healthier (if not already healthy) habits as well as practices contributing to an overall healthier lifestyle. I live a very healthy lifestyle and am constantly improving (because I choose to). I subscribe to GetMeGiddy's E-mail Newsletter, GiddyToday. In an email from GiddyToday, an article's headline catches my attention "Between the Pages: 'Man Overboard!' Offers Expert Advice to Aging Men" because I am an aging cis-man/individual that cares about my health. I like the articles overarching topic so continue researching texts on the topic to buy then read the text concerning aging as a man I think may be most suitable, for/to me. A Man's Guide to Healthy Aging: Stay Smart, Strong, and Active (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book) is akin to Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom by Dr. Christiane Northrup. I appreciate the insightful text catering to living a healthy/healthier lifestyle in general as well as individually (particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions/situations—the text covers most, if not all, bases concerning aspects of health specifically in connection with aging men). I find the text affirming of my constantly improving healthy lifestyle, and I immediately begin implementing certain methods from the text especially in relation to eating! I like the text a lot because I find so much value in the information. The text is another reason for me to continue improving my health, and I am grateful for the text as well as choosing to continue improving my health well! 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Odysseus Elytis: Selected Poems (Chosen and Introduced by Edmund Keeley and Philip Sherrard) is a poetry collection from different bodies of Odysseus Elytis's work(s). In Long Beach, California, 2021, I remember having a conversation with a woman of Greek descent in a grocery store about reading; she tells me the greatest poet is Elytis. At the time, I read a poem or so she recommends then let the idea go barely regarding the poet thereafter. During a visit to Charlottesville, Virginia, 2023, I find myself visiting Blue Whale Books. Upon entering the establishment, after greeting an employee, I immediately recognize the "Elytis" of "Odysseus Elytis" then decide to buy then read the poetry collection. The "Introduction" of the text can be very helpful for any unaware of Greece's cultural history through literature especially since many of the poems revolve around a breaking away from Greece's cultural history popularly familiar by non-Greeks unaware of Greece's cultural history through inquiry as well as establishments of other ideals to consider which one may not be considering in relation to Greece's cultural history. I find value in poetry though I'm finding more value in poetry after reading Odysseus Elytis: Selected Poems because of the different mental processing one must undergo engaging poetry as well as stylistic touches which flow so well in poetical contexts. Here are a few poems from Odysseus Elytis: Selected Poems that I enjoy enough to share (though I enjoy the entire collection in its entirety): "Marina of the Rocks," "Form of Boeotia," "The Mad Pomegranate Tree," ""I Lived the Beloved Name...,""Heroic and Elegiac Song for the Lost Second Lieutenant of the Albanian Campaign," an excerpt from "The Genesis," an excerpt from "The Passion," (from the Axion Esti) "First Reading: The March Toward the Front," (from the Axion Esti) "Second Reading: The Mule Drivers," (from the Axion Esti) "d," "Beauty and the Illiterate," "The Origin of Landscape or the End of Mercy," "What Cannot Come About," and "The Leaf Diviner."

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs That Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success by Dr. Mario Martinez is a text offering insights toward recontextualizing aspects of one's life through Psychoneuroimmunology which the author defines in the text as "an interdisciplinary field that investigates the connection between behavior and the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems" (Martinez, 278). I like the field of study as well as aspects of contexts concerning epigenetics. The text offers valuable meditative and non-meditative methods toward making/living one's life better/well embracing worthiness in one's life. I greatly appreciate the phraseologies and terminologies within the text which I feel help associate contexts of the text well. I learn about The MindBody Code through Dr. Christiane Northrup's Dodging Energy Vampires as well as Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom. Even so, I highly recommend reading It Didn't Start With You by Mark Wolynn in tandem with The MindBody Code.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Martinez, Mario. (2016). The MindBody Code: How to Change the Beliefs that Limit Your Health, Longevity, and Success. Sounds True.

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

(Note: Excuse my use of the term Black, a racially sensitive term which I think has too many connotations [like the term White] which may deter individuals from recognizing aspects of humanity humanely, reasonably due to the historical connotations to each term [like I feel of any racial term, not all minds discern the same]. I use the term in reviews of Shahrazad Ali's works particularly because she uses the term Black extensively throughout the two texts of which I'm familiar that have the term in their titles as well as due to her connections to the historical racial aspects of the term Black throughout the texts. I may intermittently use the phraseology I prefer in my life—individuals of African descent—in this review].)

The Blackwoman's Guide to Understanding the Blackman by Shahrazad Ali is like a walk to somewhere good (particularly concerning aspects of being a Black man historically toward establishing positive developments of/for society at large through individuals of African descent primarily in/of America) from the mid-20th century with sentiments seemingly more in line progressing toward the latter portion of the 20th century though very relevant to consider progressing into modernity (keep in mind, the author covers a larger span of history connecting to individuals of African descent prior to the 20th century throughout the text though focuses heavily on progress from the mid-20th century). Reading the text, I feel like I'm on a long walk with an individual that makes a lot of sense with a lot of information that needs making sense of toward progress for individuals of African descent. Considering America's current economical resemblance beyond ethnicity to the mid/latter-20th century though in instances intwining with ethnicity socially—her very relevant points concern establishing good family, good community, sound economy, and good loving beyond racial expectations/stereotypes.

Even more so, the author is doing more than making a case for Black Americans though for a greater society at large of individuals living sound economical, clean, good lives by highlighting/demystifying societal elements (particularly historically) which may not benefit progress for any individual/group at large (particularly through aspects of being a Black man historically toward establishing positive developments of/for society at large through individuals of African descent primarily in/of America [extending abroad]) toward a better functioning society at large. Like The Blackman's Guide to Understanding the Blackwoman, I chuckle at the author's sensibilities, unable to deny comicality—comedy—in her tongue in cheek style of writing conveying reason toward a better society at large. She's a good troublemaker with arguable points of which to consider (some more or less than others, one more or less than another—to me). I feel like I'm reading the text of a woman that's just paying attention well to society she cares about though can only do so much to help and has—at the core of her advice beyond raciality—arguably sound advice to share. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Singer is a text concerning being (which I gather is largely in the presence of negativity, facing attacks against one's being) toward a state of being with God (in a spiritual bliss transcending all layers of existence though in a spiritual bliss on any layer of existence). I decide to buy then read the text after multiple individuals refer the text to me after finding the book helpful (through audio books which I think makes a difference of how one might understand/receive the text). I think the text is most suitable for individuals that are mature/sound with personal self-maturity as the text approaches methods that can work though more likely for individuals not dealing with resolving personal interior situations like trauma and/or problematic relationships (though the methods may be helpful depending on a situation concerning problematic relationships more so than trauma) because certain situations require a particular type of attention (the text doesn't seem to consider healing in many instances—to me, being is not always static, though I have an understanding of when the sentiment may be, to differing degrees, situationally). While reading the text, I literally think to myself how reading the text now in my life makes sense (may be more of beneficial use) due to me being complete with necessary self-work an individual must complete before truly being free with no potential chance of hiccups (when one's no is no for one's self pertaining to certain aspects of one's life which may not even be a vice though an aspect of life one chooses no longer or ever will choose again due to a personal understanding of a/ possibility(ies) proceeding with a particular decision with no bias i.e. like saying no to sweets with additional sugars and/or high amounts of sugar because one's body does not bode well with sugar generally [though one will be alright if one intakes the sugar anyway though will always be healthier without the sugar]). I complete the necessary self-work for myself though for my future family—self-culturing, accountability of self, and self-responsibility are important aspects of maturity. I can go anywhere in the world happily because of my good decisions, knowing I'll only continue making good decisions. One must become one, one can count on, before being one another may even think of counting on. I like the text and think it can be especially helpful for individuals creating and living life forward with no personal issues to resolve toward a state of being with God (in a spiritual bliss transcending all layers of existence though in a spiritual bliss on any layer of existence). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

Dodging Energy Vampires: An Empath's Guide to Evading Relationships That Drain You and Restoring Your Health and Power by Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D., is about protecting one's self, removing one's self, healing one's self, and living on fully from a/ relationship(s) with an/ individual(s) exhibiting character disorders fitting Cluster B (DSM-5). I decide to buy then read the text after coming across the context concerning an/ individual(s) exhibiting character disorders fitting Cluster B (DSM-5) in Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing (Newly Updated and Revised 5th Edition) by Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D. I find the concept intriguing because navigating a/ relationship(s) into adulthood requires mindfulness especially considering an/ adult-youth relationship(s). I'm glad about reading the text because an/ energy vampire(s) can be nearer than one may think and in a/ way(s) possibly slowing one down toward one's goal(s) and/or a/ fulfilling pathway(s) of completion concerning one's life personally. Being able to be more mindful of the ever-growing world at large (especially socially as the global population is continuing to expand) is important to me. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Complete Life of Krishna: Based on the Earliest Oral Traditions and the Sacred Scriptures by Mataji Devi Vanamali is about Krishna in totality narratively from beginning to end (though does Brahman/Krishna really have an end?) from/through all, if not most, narratives one may find Krishna's presence. I decide to buy then read the text after meeting an attractive woman with the name Krishna. I ask her if she knows the immensity and profundity of her name to which she replies in a way indicating she doesn't. When I then think of my awareness of Krishna, I really recall the Bhagavad Gita (more so of Arjuna's epic presence) so I proceed to discover more of Krishna. I find the correlation stylistically between the narratives and a film like Brahmāstra Part One: Shiva (and other Bollywood films I've come to watch) consistently-poignantly parallel (especially narratively—storytelling wise). The text is moralistically insightful. One may learn a lot from narratives prior to one's physical existence (to develop well from learnings toward/in a good/better life rests greatly on one's decision making). I thoroughly enjoy the text. I really appreciate the glossary, index, and appendices in the back of the book. Exploring karma, dharma, adharma, svadharma, and atman (amongst many other conceptual terms) can be helpful toward becoming more self-aware and sound with the universe.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well. 

Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing (Newly Updated and Revised 5th Edition) by Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D., is an all-encompassing collection of information from varying sources approaching women's health in sound ways. I select the book in Barnes and Nobles when looking for a text concerning women's health (which intrigues me very much). I can imagine comical though potentially contentious discussions between health practitioners focusing on women's health after reading so many books (by health practitioners focusing on women's health) because some points across health practitioners differ (which Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D., mentions—variances can be far, wide, and niche in the medical field at large especially in relation to progressions of an individual's health/health in general). I like the text largely because of its appreciating of healing through methods largely involving mindfulness of one's self across space and time with examples from aspects of the author's experiences as a health practitioner focusing on women's health as well as of others' health experiences. The text covers near every area of women's health (emotionally, spiritually, mentally, physically) and, at times, feels like an index guiding to references that completely focus on or stand as evidential support for an area of discussion in a portion of the text. I'm glad about reading the text: I feel more aware of health in general though especially in regard to women's health. I like the way Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D., considers a lot of information to be pertinent to women's health in a way which makes herstory of women's health seem full of readily available information for one to assess practically; the author makes me feel, a lot of evidential support in relation to research and development concerning women's health is so accessible and readily available though few might really know what to do with the actual evidence.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over Your Sex Life by Dr. KJ Casperson, MD, is about practically progressing toward a better sex life; better understanding one's sexual health (personally, generally, medically), better understanding parameters of sexual-societal connections, and better understanding navigating relationships especially in relation to one's sexual health. Browsing Amazon.com, I decide to buy then read the text because of discovering Dr. Casperson is a Urologist (which intrigues me because initially I think Urologists are only for men [and Gynecologists are for women] then learn Urologists can be for individuals with urinary systems [of which type of urinary system {a man's, a woman's, etc.} varies depending on the type of Urologist]). I like the text because it's straight forward and easy to navigate. Even as the text references other texts (a good amount of referential texts which I've come to read already), the text offers valuable insights toward pleasurable sex largely considering low desire as well as pre-post-menopausal situations in multiple ways (all curative, if you will). I enjoy the text, and I'm glad about have the text for referential purposes. I think this text can be very relationship friendly.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown is a true story majorly focusing on the development of rowing culture in Washington specifically (through the University of Washington) though nationally as well as internationally competitively (though philosophically, practically, as well as stylistically—to varying degrees—internationally as well). At a banquet, I remember first hearing of the book from one of my brother's college wrestling coaches (R.I.P.). I appreciate him, and I'm glad his last words to me are about "The Boys in the Boat." I really enjoy the story! Two Note sections (one specific and one more specific) of evidential support are toward the end of the book before an Index (I mention this due to being curious about the way the details of the story are put together and finding the Note sections answer my curiosity satisfactorily, one doing so more specifically than the other). I find the story and writing style very enjoyable as well as thoroughly lively! While reading the text, I literally think how making this a requirement for a team as a coach is necessary. I find the story enlightening due to variances of perspectives considering the times between, of, and surrounding World War I and World War II.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear introduces and reintroduces practical methods to develop effective habits in one's life in lieu of ineffective habits as well as identify both (effective and ineffective habits) through "his four-step model of habits—cue, craving, response, and reward—and the four laws of behavior change that evolve out of these steps." After coming across the book in-person so many times, I decide to buy then read the book. James Clear acknowledges "Leo Babauta, Charles Duhigg, Nir Eyal, and BJ Fogg" as individuals that "have each influenced [his] thoughts on habits in meaningful ways. Their work and ideas can be found sprinkled throughout this text" then encourages "to read their writing as well" while appreciating prior efforts of Behavioral Scientists like B.F. Skinner. 

I like the text, and I think the methods are sound toward assisting one toward living a life with more effective habits including aspects of personality(ies)—a part of a spectrum of a human being as a whole person. I think the text flows along very scientific routes somewhat dismissing wonderful outliers of a human spectrum that may flow along routes of the likes of Faith and Will, for examples. I think the text is effective in what it intends to share, in its form of how it shares toward practicality though I can never estimate humans to be so algorithmic alone. 

Reading the text, I consider the human soul, even if a human operates in somewhat of a mechanical fashion like an automaton—a human is a human, which I don't think the text doesn't acknowledge—considering the smorgasbord of life of which a human can and must reasonably acknowledge and observe. Even so, I feel like the additional chapters about business and parenting reflect how intricate details can become per situation especially with specificity in a particular area of life. Generally, with self-help type books, I like to advise reading as though taking salt to a fresh open wound (read with an aware, at least cautious, open reasonable mind). I'm glad to be done reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Vegan for Life: Everything You Need to Know to Be Healthy on a Plant-based Diet by Jack Norris, RD, and Virginia Messina, MPH, RD, is about Veganism through varying stages of one’s dietary exploration and maturity. I’m Vegan for the rest of my life (though only Vegan for about one year and a half so far), and I choose to be Vegan initially to lessen inflammation. After reading the text, I feel a lot more aware about Veganism through comparative and supportive data concerning health in relation to nutrients in regard to ingredients between differing diets. Now, I have a lot more reasons to be Vegan. Veganism is not superficial, and I find the guiding parameters in the text around becoming Vegan (starting from the womb) as very beneficial toward developing good eating habits well (though, ultimately, I think, my future romantic life partner [wife] and I will culture our child and/or children to discern well enough to make that type of decision personally, solo). I enjoy reading the book, and I like the way the book informs of Veganism.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Vagina Bible: The Vulva and the Vagina: Separating the Myth from the Medicine by Dr. Jen Gunter, MD, is a book heavily focusing on women's health via genitalia medically. Of all the books I've come to read so far about women's health via genitalia, this text contains the most medical advising pre-medical-professional visit though steadily advises that one must bring any concerns (preferably without assumption) to a medical professional for further understanding. The book offers a brief history about certain aspects of genitalia care developments necessarily though most of the book feels educational for a person trying to better understand language a medical professional might use in relation to diagnosing and recognizing symptoms alone (more locally to a person than with a medical professional though the text steadily advises to consult with a medical professional than self-diagnose). I like the text because of its medical approach. The author has preferential points (which the author acknowledges to a degree within the text) that are debatable against other texts (by other medical professionals) I've come to read concerning women's health via genitalia which is a good reminder to always consult with your own personal medical advisor in tandem with personal conditions as well as any resource(s) away from an informative text of the sort. I'm glad to have The Vagina Bible as a reference and resource for better understanding women's health via genitalia. I enjoy reading texts like this because I think it's important to be mindful of what I want to be with, so I may better care, so I will be a better romantic/romantic life partner to a cis woman, and I may be of some kind of assistance to any individual non-romantically with health inquiries about women's health via genitalia.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Piney the Lonesome Pine: A Holiday Classic by Jane West Bakerink is an adventure story about a pine tree that learns to accept being the type of pine tree the pine tree is instead of comparing to other pine trees. During a trip to Barnes and Noble, I meet the author at the front door then decide on buying the book as a Christmas present after the author shares a synopsis of the story with me. I read the story myself as well as to the recipients (attentive to the story, even the trailer of the short film about Piney) and enjoy the story. I think it's a good book to discuss with and read to children because of messages about being and belonging (albeit through the lense of a pine tree). The illustrations are decent and resemble illustrations of the short film (if not directly from the short film). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Who Was Rachel Carson? by Sarah Fabiny (Author), WHO HQ (Author), and Dede Putra (Illustrator) is a biography about Rachel Carson's life. I read the book (on the spot) deciding between which book to purchase to donate to one of the hospitals Barnes and Noble has a donation relationship with as a part of a Christmas program. I choose Who Was Rachel Carson? to purchase to donate. The text informs of Rachel Carson's upbringing toward being an environmentalist, an author, an integral member of a family, and a citizen with concerns as well as practical approaches (with her skillsets) about society. I learn about Rachel Carson for the first time reading this book, and I'm really glad about doing (learning and reading) so.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

The Adventures of YaYa: Soup Joumou Lakay Grann Pola by Angie Bell (author), Tico Armand (author), and Jerry Boursiquot AKA Bousiko (Illustrator) is a story appreciating a part of Haiti's cultural history through a walk with a young Haitian girl, YaYa, in a day with her family and friends in Haiti. I buy the book because of Dr. Mandeep Rai's, PhD, Travel Noire article on Haiti which offers an update on Haiti which I appreciate (especially since I learn about growth avenues in Haiti through the article). I appreciate the book as a Haitian and as a reader. The story appreciates and explores enrichening Haitian storytelling, a culturally-historically popular meal (Soup Joumou), Haitian independence, and traditional Haitian values. The illustrations are good and work well with the layout of the overall book. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Come As You Are (Revised and Updated): The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Dr. Emily Nagoski, Ph.D., is about being proactive about one's sexual well-being. Reading a book of the sort is important and having information of the sort readily available referentially is important, to me, as well. The text offers methodologies to change, embrace, and/or enhance aspects of one's sexual well-being (alone and/or with a/ partner[s]). The text contains valuable information relevant for any engaging sexual well-being. The author implements anecdotal and research references supporting (without bias) being proactive about one's sexual well-being. I'm really glad about reading the book. The text delves practically within and beyond to each one's own concerning sexual well-being.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

This is How You Vagina: All About Your Vajayjay and Why You Probably Shouldn't Call it That by Dr. Nicole E. Williams, M.D., is (for the most part) funny, insightful, and practical about aspects of health (particularly women's health) through the vulva historically to modernity with acknowledgements more research is necessary for certain aspects of women's health. I like to be mindful about my health (generally as a man and personally). I like to be mindful about health of women particularly because I want to be cognizant of my/future romantic/life partner's health (generally as a woman and personally to agreeable reasonable extents). Why accept bare minimums of women's health though expect maximum pleasures from a woman in lieu of assisting abundant-robust maximums of women's health to partner to maximums of pleasure together? I choose to learn better so I may assist abundant-robust maximums of health (generally, personally, particularly of men and women) to partner to maximums of pleasure and a better society at large. In the text, Dr. Nicole E. Williams, M.D., tends to advise one to visit one's doctor for consultation even after sharing practical sound advice. The (no jokes, serious, not to take lightly) final chapter in the book approaches stereotypes and tropes for individuals to be mindful of so as to self-protect and prevent harming others from individuals enacting/exhibiting inconsiderate ignorant harmful behaviors embracing/showcasing effects of harmful beliefs. I really like the book. I'm glad about reading the text and having another text of the sort available referentially.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Ten) by Kintetsu Yamada begins by resolving one aspect of Asako's bullying trauma from childhood though acknowledges more situations of the like may occur to emphasize the importance of good communication and empathy in a relationship. The manga delves weightily into different experiences of family members of a marrying couple (Asako and Natori) meeting for the first time, defining family, how family may mean to an individual, defining marriage, aspects of marriage/marrying, and wedding planning. Relationships are easy, to me, and I have reservations about love as well as marriage. So, as the manga navigates Asako and Natori's journey preparing for marrying/wedding, I get queasy at times. Fan service is light.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Eight) by Kintetsu Yamada takes a veer toward highlighting and uplifting exercise and health after the one-year anniversary dinner. Asako becomes self-conscious after learning from Natori about a two-day work trip at a resort hotel with a private beach in Okinawa then starts exercising after conducting a body assessment (by a pinch of her stomach, reflecting on her consumption habits, and observing her weight on a scale, all comparatively to her lighter self) as well as research about exercising. The manga floats around Asako overcoming her insecurities, both Asako and Natori becoming more aware being in a relationship, and aspects of the relationship growing in the early stages between/from their (Asako and Natori) personalities. I like the focus on exercise and health. I like the series so far, and I really like that volume eight focuses on exercise and health directly (verbally) than indirectly like in prior volumes (i.e., Natori's mom poking at him about his body being different and showcasing habits that may contribute to one's health in a particular way with visual cues). Fan service is light though Asako makes an appearance in a bathing suit for the first time.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon is a dramedy romance type novel about a girl, Evie, struggling with loving as well as trusting that receives a unique ability on her way attempting to recover from a discovery about one of her parents and the fallout of her parents. I randomly buy the book in Barnes and Noble as a part of a Buy One, Get One 50% off deal. The story mainly revolves around appreciating love, being present, dancing, and relationships. I find the story touching as well as easy to read, and I like the story telling style(s). 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

The Penis Book: A Doctor's Complete Guide to the Penis—From Size to Function and Everything in Between by Dr. Aaron Spitz, M.D. is entertaining, informative, insightful, and practical regarding one's overall health particularly in connection to one's genital health. I'm really glad about reading the book: I find the text to be a good contribution to my ever-improving lifestyle. Being proactive about genital health is very important. After reading the text, I feel a lot more appreciative of and grateful for my behavioral health as well as my new understanding(s) of genital health, generally and personally. The text is thorough and a good checkpoint for learning of genital health especially as more contributions to the field of genital health progress (which may lead to an update to certain aspects of the information already present within the text).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Six) by Kintetsu Yamada is about Asako and Natori becoming housemates, living together, and becoming more aware of each other, communicatively. The manga agitates aspects of being in a relationship in the world at large and equanimities of a relationship, prodding interesting macro-/micro-inspections of relationships. There is a small amount of fan service though more steamy scenes with no fan service (unless one considers facial throes of pleasure through sexual passion fan service, to each one's own). All in all, I like volume six, and I like the collection so far.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Five) by Kintetsu Yamada surrounds transitional points of Asako and Natori's relationship: mentorship in relation to obtaining a living space together, considerations of work schedules while living together (both work in the same company though in departments with different busy times i.e. Asako works in Accounting, a department that becomes very busy during the end of the fiscal year which is nigh for the company in the text), pacing in a relationship especially after her dad brings up a curious question of marriage (which Asako proceeds to answer in accordance with her feelings), considerations of a relationship/marriage (Asako's parents are in a marriage of 26 years, a subtle though heavy point set in the manga), meeting family members, and mindfulness in a relationship (both really like each other though are communicating honestly between each other to grow at a respectful pace together). I like volume five though there is minimal fan service.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Saki the Succubus Hungers Tonight (Volume Five) by Mikokuno Homare (Author) and StudioHIP-CATs (Illustrator) is the last book of the series (confirming as of 9/11/2022). Renta and Saki make an agreement, and the manga has a happy ending. There is plenty of fan service. I feel like volume five is mainly for fan service, and outcomes rounding out the series. One aspect of sex that does not come up in the series is safe sex which I find peculiar since the series's core topics are relatively sexual. All in all, I enjoy the series particularly the illustrations in volume five.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Saki the Succubus Hungers Tonight (Volume Four) by Mikokuno Homare (Author) and StudioHIP-CATs (Illustrator) has a lot of fan service, more aggressively-sexual themes are present, and Succubi culture is more present in the story than in prior volumes. As Renta and Saki continue exploring sexually, both discover a lot more of each other, together and personally. Otherwise, the manga focuses on introducing characters, giving faces to names and plot points, and gives a clearer picture of Succubi life from a more domineering-dominatrix (though in non-demeaning sexual ways, the collection so far only has nice Succubi) lenses (though generally as well).  

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi, 

I hope all is progressing well.

On a bus, in a discussion about life, an individual recommends Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon by Dr. Joe Dispenza, I find myself preparing to order the book near immediately after the individual gets off the bus. Normally, if a person asks me to recommend a book I recommend Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill first (which I think is sound for anyone with ambition) though I find Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon, a more scientific-wholesome approach to fulfillment in life, long term (life-term, if you will), more sensible as a first recommendation now (though both texts I mention in this sentence complement each other well). Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon magnifies a human being in tandem with meditative practices as well as scientific data to help one guide oneself holistically. Personally, I like the text, and I find the text defines well aspects of becoming an aware-intentional-wholesome individual evidentially.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sweat and Soap (Volume Three) by Kintetsu Yamada focuses on Asako and Natori's relationship becoming more visible and intimate. More so than volume one and volume two, communication takes center stage, a central theme in connection with situating and normalizing parameters of/for a/ comfortable relationship(s). Volume three is very soft core and the fan service is very minimal though appealing concept wise especially in respect to varying settings. The translation notes at the end of the manga as well as bonus scenes and tidbits help round the story.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Saki the Succubus Hungers Tonight (Volume Two) by Mikokuno Homare (Author) and StudioHIP-CATs (Illustrator) is so good, sexy from the first page. Renta and Saki advance their relationship. Saki has needs she vocalizes, and Renta responds accordingly well! As a person really into safe sex (to the extent of ensuring STD/AIDS/HIV testing results from a consensual partner before penis in vagina sex, Fellatio, and/or any sexual activity that makes sense to have testing prior), I'm appreciating the innocent virgin play (you don't have to be a virgin for the sexual practices in the manga though). The story is getting hotter especially because Succubi have different dietary—health—needs, and there might be a new Succubus in the story! 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Ulysses by James Joyce is a text I come across in 2019 while helping one of my brothers pack to move. I find the text fantastically ecclesiastical, reverent to experience and individuality comically without delay or perturbance in writing as though James Joyce is freewriting with a lot in mind. The text is an excellent showcase of lyricism and poetic writing technique(s). The humour can be a bit like a crude public/private high school's students' group chat though sophisticatingly clever. I feel like James Joyce intends for me to learn about all worlds, particularly ideologically, intersecting his experiences, Dublin, and Ireland through his biblical-genealogical-parodical splay of critiquing—exploring—satiric, storytelling. As I delve into Ulysses, the more I find I am a part of an immense journey of language tumbling beyond with past and present, grappling—grasping—imagining a future, change. Before the very last section of the book, quite an interesting way to end the text perspective wise in connection with everything prior in the text, to me, I find myself acknowledging Ecclesiastes 3 as the perfect companion chapter for the entire book. All in all, I advise reading Ulysses as a collection of parts to dissect and analyze since the text offers so much to ponder.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well. 

While perusing manga in Barnes and Noble, my curiosity peaks at the title of one manga, Sweat and Soap, by Kintetsu Yamada, and I laugh after reading the blurb in the back of the manga. Scent can be a measure of attraction. I like the way Asako, the woman struggling with her perspiration and scent personally, interacts with Natori, the man that appreciates her scent. The manga so far covers interesting topics about romance: fetishes, attention one appreciates/wants and attention one doesn't appreciate/want (on bases of who and why), passions, coworkers dating, communication, scent, attraction, shopping for a bra, and sex amongst other points. I'm glad to be reading a physical manga, let alone a manga in general, again after so many years without doing so, and I'm likely going to read at least one volume a month until complete with the Sweat and Soap series. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith by Anne Lamott, a gift from an individual from Kansas I meet on a beach, is an interesting spiritual journey through the author's life toward becoming a more spiritual individual. The author shares perspectives therapeutically throughout the text; the text shows the author's honest admittances, acceptances, acknowledgements, and resolves of personal problems toward a better life, personally and generally. I like the text. No one really knows what another is going through, and I have a respect for completely fulfilling processes of taking personal responsibility of/for one's life, then moving toward a better life, as best as one may, necessarily. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sexual Soulmates: The Six Essentials for Connected Sex by Susan Bratton is a text sharing approaches to intimacy that may help enliven, enhance, sustain, and/or revive one's sexualness/relationship toward a healthier sexual life—intimate parameters. I learn of Susan Bratton through a good podcast episode of 2 Squirrels In A Sock (as a healthy single heterosexual individual, unintentionally seemingly celibate at the time of this posting, that tends toward constantly self-improving, it's nice hearing women talk joyfully about sex in a fun-healthy way, makes the world seem rounder, makes me feel better inside knowing women that like—and are taking responsibility toward—good healthy sexual relationships are alive). I mindfully-unselfishly acknowledge myself, my responsibilities—my life. Hearing Susan Bratton acknowledging her reality, then choosing to learn, to make a change for better—instead of blaming, trying to control a situation to be right in a way that may only make the relationship worse—already being on the brink of divorce—she makes her way toward a better-happier reality. Good communication and good intimacy are of processes that can benefit each other. Not every relationship is worth fighting for, sometimes a relationship just has to end, and parting ways is best. Even so, I like the points in the text; I think Susan Bratton offers advice, in the text and podcast episode, worth heeding.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Tao Te Ching: The Book of the Way by Lao Tzu (a version by Sam Torode on the basis of a translation by Dwight Goddard) is a moralistic-philosophical guide via the ways of Tao toward establishing a stabler society as well as stabler senses of being. The text of meditations is in a form of a chapter book of poetry. There are a lot of lines and pieces that stand out. Here are some poems from the text I recommend: "Immateriality," "Knowing," "Not Knowing," & "Sharp Tools." At the end of the text are excerpts of The Manual: A Philosopher's Guide to Life by Epictetus which are enlightening, in a different philosophical stylistic form than the Tao Te Ching: The Book of the Way, though both offer important interesting points to ponder.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I remember my oldest brother parking his car backward (front of the vehicle facing opposing traffic) on a one way street at night, us getting out of the car, walking to the trunk in a drizzle, him opening the nearly empty trunk then retrieving a bag to hand me with a vocal happy birthday, and me glad about having a birthday present, a Playstation game, Metal Gear Solid, my christening moment into the series.

Aside from my attraction to Naomi Hunter (especially since she looks like Nina/Anna Williams from Tekken—a resemblance of approachable, cool, intelligent, pretty, toughness—), Mei Ling, Nastasha Romanenko (mainly her voice), Metal Gear Solid (One) is so well put together between a phenomenal story, phenomenal gameplay, and voice acting. Metal Gear Solid (One) is a legendary stamp in gaming history. 

After completing the game, I remember searching for Hideo Kojima online, finding a Wikipedia page with no picture (though I remember the words being enough), and, at the time with different aspirations of being a video game designer (which I may be in a different sense in the long run of life), I recall Hideo Kojima being the second person I look up after Nobuou Uematsu (besides an entity like Square Enix—just to acknowledge, show appreciation in a way, mainly by reading about them/any project(s)). I will always have an appreciation for Metal Gear games I've come to play. Presently, I don't play video games as much as I work creatively, read, research, write, or watch movies though I have an appreciation for a good video game which is sound cause all one really has in such a temporary life are artifacts and memories until death, everything else seems complementary. So, when I find out about The Creative Gene, I decide to read it.

The Creative Gene by Hideo Kojima, translations by Nathan A. Collins, is a collection of publications from Hideo Kojima about his becoming and philosophy as a person and game designer. The book has creative, personal, and professional tidbits that combine as a message to creators and fans as well as a text that allows one to get a better idea of Hideo Kojima as a person as well as creator through his contextual relationship(s) with different forms of media. I like the text. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

While about encouraging reading, I re-encounter two individuals which share with me books of their choosing for practical use in a culturally enrichening sense in a classroom. I'm glad about the chance to read both books; in reading order; the first book is Mae Among the Stars, writing by Roda Ahmed, illustrations by Stasia Burrington, and the second book is I Am Golden, writing by Eva Chen, illustrations by Sophie Diao. This review will focus on Mae Among the Stars. The text is about the becoming of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut into space. The text is very specific to Mae Jemison though proves valuable for any child/person that may face challenges along the way toward realizing and fulfilling personal-life goals/dreams. The illustrations are neat and depict the happenings of the story well. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I'm glad to be done reading African American Poetry: 250 Years of Struggle & Pain (A Library of America Anthology), a collection of pieces by various writers with Kevin Young as the Editor, after buying the text about one and a half years ago. I really enjoy reading across vernaculars of cultures—individuals. The text is split into sections which I think helps with organization on a timeline. The variety of styles is wonderful and scales very well with the writings. I think the title of the anthology doesn't encapsulate that which the text offers completely. Though one may be able to find more African American Poetry within the same span of 250 years, the selections complete the volume well. I enjoy reading the anthology, and, must note, a text of the sort, really amplifies the importance of literacy.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Books of Enoch: The Angels, The Watchers and The Nephilim: (With Extensive Commentary on the Three Books of Enoch, the Fallen Angels, the Calendar of Enoch, and Daniel's Prophecy) by Dr. Joseph B. Lumpkin are midrash, pseudepigrapha, and explorations of aspects of biblical stories as well as spiritual realms through varying religious/spiritual understandings contextually (Apocryphan, Gnostic, Christian, Jewish—). I buy the text in a bundle pack with another book, There Were Giants Upon the Earth: Gods, Demigods, and Human Ancestry: The Evidence of Alien DNA (Earth Chronicles), by Zecharia Sitchin (which is altogether quite different). The first book of Enoch is more apocalyptic. The second book of Enoch is more prophetic. The third book of Enoch is more adventurous, the most enjoyable for me to read. All in all, the texts carry adventurous, apocalyptic, and prophetic substances though to different degrees, of entertainment, if you will, and make traditional biblical characters a lot more interesting (like, are there really plot twists in the entire Jesus story? What's up with Cain and Abel's sister?). After reading these texts, I find I am receiving a lot more answers of questions from my childhood about the linearity of religious stories in the Bible. The third book of Enoch is way too entertaining for church, particularly in a traditional sense. Overall, I'm glad about reading the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I learn about Jorge Luis Borges through a good conversation about books with a woman that ghosts me within ten hours of promising to read pieces by the author with me. Alas, her actions have no basis on the way I read the book, as enduring as I remember the process being for reasonably extensive pieces.

Collected Fictions by Jorge Luis Borges, translated by Andrew Burley, is a collection of writing pieces from Jorge Luis Borges. Here are the pieces I find interesting and help with better understanding the collection overall: "Man on Pink Corner," "The End," "The Library of Babel," "Death and the Compass," "Three Versions of Judas," "The Immortal," "The Aleph," "The Yellow Rose," "The Witness," "Juan Muraña," "The Disk," "The Book of Sand," "Blue Tigers," "The Gospel According to Mark," and "Deutsches Requiem." In the Collected Fictions, Jorge Luis Borges constantly approaches clarifying the unclarifiable universe in a way that makes his writing more appealling. The author leaves no doubt about his being well-aware of stories as well as writing styles scaling decades, centuries, millenia—generations, in honorific senses, and prepares readers with inklings of information acknowledgins so, so as to, I think, better help the reader engage the pieces. There are some pieces that are more intellectual than others, more entertaining than others, more personal than others, more contemplative than others, and I think that adds to the variety in the author's consistency of styles which the author does not mind detailing. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

There Were Giants Upon the Earth: Gods, Demigods, and Human Ancestry: The Evidence of Alien DNA by Zecharia Sitchin is a speculative observance of archaeological, geological, and literary developments exploring toward discovering answers for questions about human genetic formation, history, and identity. I literally run into a couple of individuals one night having a discussion about anthropology and publishing. One of the individuals recommends the text which actually reminds me of another text I remember wanting to read nearly a decade ago due to my curiosity of Biblical proportions. Reading There Were Giants Upon the Earth: Gods, Demigods, and Human Ancestry: The Evidence of Alien DNA makes aspects of the Bible rounder which I find interesting since after an edit or translation, an ancient/historical text can be quite different than an original version of the ancient/historical text—a source text. All in all, I find the text to be an interesting walk through of an anthropological perspective.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

After lightly searching online through a search engine for different types of fetishes that might exist, I discover Perv: The Sexual Deviant in All of Us by Jesse Bering. I find the book is a very insightful text covering a wide scope of fetishes through lenses attempting to understand a human's mind around ideas in relation to sex. The text is not a list of fetishes though more rewarding in that it provides very accurate understandings with historical references about developments of humans in relation to sexual development. I find the language dense though placable because I feel I'll be able to better regard another even more so than I already do now. The author does not seem to be pushing a sexual agenda at all beyond researching toward understanding, and seems to be fighting for the protection of children overall. I like the text. I think the text is worth reading. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis is very intriguing to me because of ways I notice love developing. I find C.S. Lewis exacts upon exactness of different loves in an extremely insightful tome. Growing up with an appreciation and devoutness for God, in religious and spiritual senses, I find makes reading the text more understandable in its totality, personally, especially with my background of researching, in some regards practically, other branches of spirituality beyond Christianity. Even so, C.S. Lewis seems to organize the text in a way that seems to acknowledge not all reading the text may have an extensive-good-thorough religious and/or spiritual background. His points concerning religion and/or spirituality connect to the sorts (religion and/or spirituality) of his defining which I find reasonably sensible. Usually, when a person asks me to recommend them a book, I know which one I will always recommend first. After reading The Four Loves, I feel like I have another book I may have to recommend first depending on a person's current point as well as choice direction personally, in and of that person's life. This is one of the most eye opening books I've come to read in my life. Now, I have a far better understanding of the four loves: Storge (Affection), Eros (Romantic), Philia (Friendship), and Agape (Charity). I think everyone needs to read, and understand this text in its totality. I think The Four Loves is a text one may find useful for life.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Aristotle’s Nichomachean Ethics contains ten books about conditions of/discussing conditions of being good, and happy. This version of the text is a translation by Robert C. Bartlett and Susan D. Collins which includes an interpretive essay of ideas in the books (at the end of the book, overall). I don’t feel the interpretive essay is a necessary read though may be beneficial for argumentative points (if in agreeance or disagreeance with the author(s) of the interpretive essay—if a person is seeking to discuss/write about topics in the text particularly in relation to the essay's coverage). I think Aristotle offers sound perspectives concerning parameters of being/defining good, and happiness. I think Aristotle is positing arguments well while not setting absolutes, seemingly regarding/respecting potential for a different/new perspective for contemplative purposes at the least. I find the text to be enjoyable though grueling. Alas, I am glad about reading the text. I think the text offers contemplative-insightful-relevant perspectives concerning human development in relation to parameters of ideas of good, and happiness.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Developments of academia's learning parameters interest me. In light of recent bills like H.B. No. 3979 (which seems to be protecting against extremist beliefs/behaviors that may be personal beyond curriculums which are inclusive of aspects of particular histories albeit not entire histories of particular histories (which may take a lot of time to include in a school day anyway)), I decide to learn more about Critical Race Theory. According to the "Glossary of Terms" in Critical Race Theory: An Introduction by Richard Delgado and Jean Stefancic, the definition of Critical Race Theory is, "Progressive legal movement that seeks to transform the relationship among race, racism, and power." There are many branches to Critical Race Theory; Critical Race Theorists and Theories can vary so much: From my analysis of the text, I find Critical Race Theory is about critically thinking and theorizing about anything to do with race for analysis, creative/practical purposes, and research. Even as there is a definition of race in the "Glossary of Terms," race seems to be ambiguous, there is seemingly a limitless pathway of inquiry concerning further developments of ideas concerning race.

The text is a scan of different theories of/and theorists that shows different ways Critical Race Theory can branch which seems to include perspectives of the authors. I think the text is a good introduction to Critical Race Theory broadly though if any seek/teach beyond the introduction, the class name will most likely need to have/be a very specific name (which I think is important so as to not misdefine and obscure Critical Race Theory as a whole (which I think falls more in line with available college/university courses/course naming practices beyond a broad-general sense of a topic of discourse/learning anyway)). I'm glad about reading the text, I have a much clearer understanding of Critical Race Theory now.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Talented Tenth by W.E.B. DuBois is an insightful-instructional piece communicating needs for human development and the integral role proper education holds toward properly stimulating humans toward being aware whole individuals fully supporting positive-social developments from within (as humans) throughout (toward and within societies). I buy the text as a part of a learning process for research purposes. W.E.B. DuBois deliberates conditions of humanity with distinct though very inclusive lenses observing African-American developments in conjunction with educational and societal parameters — all of which I consider very important toward further recognizing particular roots so as to better create/improve educational as well as societal parameters for capable-good individuals willing to succeed.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Five Dialogues: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Meno, Phaedo (Second Edition) by Plato is a philosophical journey of Socrates from periods of his trial in Athens through his death. I buy the book as a part of a bundle suggestion on Amazon. Pure curiosity. The text explores the importance of culturing, death, justice, learning, life, meaning, nurturing, and infinite opportunities of a soul through finite forms as well as many other fusions of cultural-literary-mathematical-philosophical equations. I really enjoy reading the text: there are about thirty-five dialogues altogether. Even so, I find within the five dialogues much relevant wisdom. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Showa Anthology: Modern Japanese Short Stories is a collection of stories by varying authors concerning developments of Japan's land, social, and ideological scapes in the twentieth century. I think the stories work well together offering geographical, social, and ideological perspectives concerning Japan and individuals of Japanese descent-- Japanese culture. I like the anthology overall, and I think all the stories in the anthology are worth reading. Here are a few specific stories from the anthology I recommend: "Mating" by Kajii Motojirō, "Les Joues en Feu" by Hori Tatsuo, "Magic Lantern" by Dazai Osamu, "Moon Gems" by Ishikawa Jun, "Bad Company" by Yasuoka Shōtarō, "Stars" by Kojima Nobuo, "Still Life" by Shōno Junzō, "With Maya" by Shimao Toshio, "Under the Shadow of Mt. Bandai" by Inoue Yasushi, "Mulberry Child" by Minakami Tsutomu, "One Arm" by Kawabata Yasunari, "The Day Before"  by Endō Shūsaku, "Friends" by Abe Akira, "Platonic Love" by Kanai Mieko, "The Clever Rain Tree"  by Ōe Kenzaburō, and "The Immortal" by Nakagami Kenji.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

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I hope all is progressing well.

The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand is one of the most prolific texts I have come to read. This is an incredible-intricate story about becoming and being. I cry uncontrollably reading the last hundreds of pages. Both Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead are excellent-extraordinary-insightful masterpieces: I highly recommend both texts. Ayn Rand is one of the greatest-truest writers I've come to experience, literature-wise, of all time.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

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I hope all is progressing well.

The Crucible is a play by Arthur Miller about communities developing and branching from around Salem, Massachusetts that agitates ideas about belief(s), faith(s), community, equity, gender, religion(s), and sexuality circa 1692. I remember wanting to read the play after watching Molly's Game (2018 -- a film I recall enjoying) -- though the text seems somewhat familiar, as though a re-read. I find the play to be a very intellectual piece. Arthur Miller seems to be interrogating ideas of different sects of the church especially between Catholicism and Protestantism. All of the characters in the play are so good and well set. I find the text to be a very enjoyable read.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Goody Two-Shoes by John Newbery is mainly about an orphan girl's developments into a prominent woman through education, good deeds, and helpful people. The book highlights benefits of living and pursuing a good life. As much as it seems like a book for children, the content seems mature. I don't know if there are different versions of the story. I recommend looking around for as near to the original copy as one can purchase. My copy looks like it's a put together rough draft though is clear enough to read, to me. Now, I better understand the term Goody-Two-Shoes and find it to be more honorable than disrespectful. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History by S.C. Gwynne is one of two texts I recall telling two individuals I will read after their recommendations of the texts. The text is an in depth ironing of historical corrugations primarily concerning Comanches in relation to ideas of Manifest Destiny, western migrations (primarily about North America) in general, Indian tribal relations, advancing technologies, advancing economies, war -- geography, and aspects of Quanah's lineage as well as personal development amongst other points. I find the text to be insightful of historical-governmental-human relations especially of aspects of Native American culture beyond an elementary misunderstanding toward/of Thanksgiving (History.com -- Washington Post) in North America particularly between the span of the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries. I find particular attention is necessary to follow the chronological management in the text since there is no distinct timeline of events as a companion to the text-- which I find overall, a splendid read.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

In graduate school, I remember a professor of one class and a student of another class, referencing James Joyce during a time of my inquiring interests of Irish stories, I'm glad to be done reading Dubliners and A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce. A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is a masterful work of prose. This coming of age story of Stephen Dedalus as an individual of Irish descent, a student, a religious observer/practitioner (as a member of the Catholic sodality), a son, a lover, an artist, a philosopher, a human -- is intellectually stimulating! The language is insightful about ideas of nationalism, religion/religiosity, socialism, individualism, English and Irish sentiments, tradition, legacy, and free thinking vs. group thinking between different types of believers with differing beliefs. Dubliners is a collection of good short stories about varying individuals of varying circumstances around Dublin/Ireland. Overall, James Joyce seems to show a great awareness, respect, and reverence of Irish culture as well as a logical-respectful subversion toward establishing greater parameters of living and life without prejudice beyond apprehension. In these stories, James Joyce seems to be encouraging literally escaping toward living a greater fulfilling life as he appreciates though antagonizes Escapism as well as nostalgia very well. His writing style is unique (new to me concerning grammar and punctuation usage) and full of wit. Even so, I find these stories are very-very enjoyable.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

One day I decide to look around an adult shop and find a few books with interesting titles, one of them being, The Ultimate Guide to Orgasm for Women: How to Become Orgasmic for a Lifetime by Mikaya Heart. The text is an exploration of sexuality pertaining to orgasms between facts, observations, and opinions. I think the text offers a lot of important points about orgasms, a lot of which I am encountering for the first time in such a light. I think the text offers a broadening perspective concerning sexuality in general, orgasms in particular, and offers a lot of references for further research as well as a questionnaire for further self-analyzation. I find the text to be enjoyable, insightful, and useful.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Evolution of Labor Relations in Japan: Heavy Industry 1853—1955 by Andrew Gordon concerns the prewar, interwar, and postwar developments of cultural and employment systems within particular companies of the Heavy Industry in Japan between the middle of the 19th century and the middle  of the 20th century (a bit beyond the middle of the 20th century). The text delves into developments of relations between different types of workers nationally, and globally (part-time, full-time, temporary, managers, etc.) concerning wages, seniority, paternalism, unions, and skills. As much as the text focuses on developments of culture and labor relations in accordance with Japan—Tokugawa society, the Meiji order—there are stark connections, within these developments, to processes in accordance with government, industrialization, and nationalism branching from and within other nations. I am very glad about reading The Evolution of Labor Relations in Japan: Heavy Industry 1853—1955. I find the text to be very insightful and relevant to understanding modern day labor relations.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

In a conversation about reading, someone refers me to The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway. As I'm reading a few other books, I consider the text as a possible future read. The text doesn't come to mind again until I am watching a film, The Equalizer, which references the text many times with what some might consider spoilers and a bit of a book review by Robert McCall played by Denzel Washington. I decide to read the text sooner than later.

The Old Man and the Sea is about a fisherman, Santiago, fishing alone, with a lot of experience on the sea, that doesn't seem to be catching any fish. The text is like a reflection of Santiago's life, an appreciation and a longing for his youth, a different life, and a hope in a different lifestyle. Ernest Hemingway's illusive use of hope and skill through the old man's actively reflecting life is fascinating. I think the text is an appreciation of the human spirit -- human will -- human intelligence, deep, and enjoyable.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Walking into Barnes and Nobles, I spy tables full of books on sale. I peruse the books and select a reasonable collection to read. I'm more familiar with reading D.H. Lawrence's poetry than any other writing form from him. Sons and Lovers by D.H. Lawrence is an exploration of life and relationships in an infinite expanse. The novel is poetically reflective in flow and balances between different tethering planes of a human's personal existence. D.H. Lawrence presents very valid points concerning relationships and the presence of life's abundance. Sons and Lovers is a fitting title and well-worth analyzing after reading the story as well as throughout. I appreciate Sons and Lovers and find the text overall to be astounding.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Sexual Happiness for Women: A Practical Approach is an insightful read. I think the text can be really useful for couples and can help an individual with seeking a suitable-ideal relationship. I'm glad about reading the text. Sexual Happiness for Women: A Practical Approach really engages important parameters of relationships and sexuality which can help anyone reading the text become more aware and grow.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths by Bernard Evslin is a collection of stories matching its self-explanatory title. Prior to reading the text, I'm not familiar with many of these tales hence the reason I'm glad about a conversation reminding me about this collection in my Google Play Books library which brings me to completing the reading. I find these Greek Myths to be laughable: I enjoy reading them. At the end of the book, there is a glossary of modern terms deriving from Greek Mythology which is a somewhat relevant-interesting appendix of tidbits.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

A Game of Thrones is the first book of George R.R. Martin's series A Song of Ice and Fire. The book is about clans, families, tribes, and individuals vying to avenge, honor, live peaceably, rule, etc. according to life as is of their understanding in the realms of Westeros and Essos. I find the text to be an enjoyable fantastical read. Heads up: A Game of Thrones is very fleshy.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Common Sense and Other Writings by Thomas Paine is a collection of pieces well set together encouraging and enlightening toward the improvement of societies: the collection begins with Thomas Paine's article, "African Slavery in America." From thence, Thomas Paine's collection purports facts and ideas revealing enslavement under the facility of corrupt aristocracies, monarchies, governments, and any benefiting-supporting-extending parts of societies in connection to the corruption of the aforementioned parties. There are many correlative aspects to modernity in Thomas Paine's contexts which makes the collection a more insightful-relevant read. Reading this collection reminds me that the United States of America is somewhat of a young country.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Art & Wonder: An Illustrated Anthology of Visionary Poetry is an intriguing compilation of art and poetry selected by Kate Farrell. I like the format of the anthology which offers for a multifaceted appreciation. Here are some of the poems I appreciate: "The Child Is Introduced to the Cosmos at Birth" by an anonymous Omaha Indian, "The Song Turning Back Into Itself 7" by Al Young, "A Message from the Crane" by Pak Fu-Jin, "Sometimes" by Thomas McGrath, "Sailing to Byzantium" by William Butler Yeats, "Invisible Particles of Air" by Gustavo Adolf Bécquer, "Elevation" by Charles Baudelaire, "When, With You Asleep" by Juan Ramón Jiménez, "Sonnet XLIII" by William Shakespeare, "Emergence" by Robert Francis, "Day-Blind" by Chana Bloch, "An Altogether Different Language" by Anne Porter, " Vermeer" by Stephen Mitchell, "The Master" by Frederick Morgan, "A Noiseless Patient Spider" by Walt Whitman, "Explosion" by Delmira Agustini, "The Secret Land" by Robert Graves, "The Paradise Within: Adam Speaks with the Angel" by John Milton (from Paradise Lost), and "However Far You Go" by Heraclitus (deep and exhilarating).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Invisible Ink by Brian McDonald is an insightful book about building stories. I received the book as a gift when I was helping one of my brothers pack up to move. I think it's a great addition for teaching about story telling as well as for one seeking to create stories (especially if one hasn't been through rigorous course work, practices, and/or experiential learning processes concerning stories). The real kicker for me is Brian McDonald's hysterical screenplay, White Face, at the end of Invisible Ink: I've never seen the short film, but, I will when reasonably possible.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

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I hope all is progressing well.

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Map is a collection of many poems written by Wisława Szymborska translated by Clare Cavanagh and Stanisław Barańczak. I actually set down a decent book of fiction to read this collection of poems which felt so necessary and good to read (the necessity to read Poetry I felt before the purchase, the good from the Poetry came while and after reading it). "In Broad Daylight," moved me in an alarming way; after reading the poem, I felt like how I might imagine both parties might feel in a situation where one person is shaking another person to ensure they're alive after a potentially disastrous situation and the person turns out to be so--alive. The poems in the collection vary well: here are a few other poems that stood out to me; "Map," "Hand," "At the Airport," "Confessions of a Reading Machine," "Identification," "The Old Professor," "List," "Return Baggage," "A Contribution to Statistics," "The Silence of Plants," and "The End and the Beginning."

​

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

​

I hope all is progressing well.

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The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson is an arguably interesting read (as one may say of near any text). After being recommended the book, I was sitting on a chair in a corner near the entrance inside Barnes and Nobles reading: I turned my head, saw the book, and shook my head (I was reading Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand at the time). I got into a discussion about The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck again: I was not going to read it (because of other books) then I read an article online with an interesting headline and arguable perspective which I find to be an excerpt from the text at the end of the article--so, I bought it. Why? Just to read more of the arguable perspective. I liked three points in the text which I'll vaguely mention as to not spoil the processes of the text for any potential reader: Onoda, Values, and Death.

​

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Medusa Enigma by Dr. Dino Panvini, M.D., is one of a few free books I got at the LA Times Book Festival. Dr. Panvini goes through a lot of drama getting into a really toxic relationship and chasing money. There's a lot more to the story concerning his experiences as a medical professional and his encouragement toward God. At the end of the story, I ask myself a few questions: 1.) What is he really happy about? 2.) What does the outcome mean for him now in comparison to before the drama? 3.) What has he learned from writing this story about himself?

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Seeds by Emilie K. Hill is a book of poetry I've come by through a community group. I may re-iterate this point time-and-time again: expression is important--necessary-- and is available through many channels for the betterment of human social interactions and understandings. "You" and "Junk" are poems that stand out to me: the narrator is filtering emotional, mental, physical and spiritual clutters to make sense of moving forward in sensible order embracing remnants of attachments as propulsion. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

I come about reading Atlas Shrugged perusing books at Barnes and Nobles: soon after, I find myself sitting with the immensity of the text, and, may now claim Atlas Shrugged as one of the greatest books I've come to read (yes, across all genres, and, no, not simply due to it's size). Ayn Rand's confidence in her writing makes the text more appealing especially in conjunction with her very-well-written-entertaining-intertwining-probing-intellectual-prowess pervasive. Reading the text will vary depending on one's reading experience and interest (which goes for any text(s) one reads).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

This is a conversation and book that one must approach with intellectual maturity. Randall Kennedy does a decent job proposing many interesting points that none should overlook concerning developments of language and social relations. Humanity has come a long way, and there are more positive ways to continue growing. 

I read ------ by Randall Kennedy as a research process branching from conversations with individuals of African and non-African ethnicities curious of the term, using the term, and not willing to ever use the term. I am averse to using the term especially as a colloquial term though I am understanding of the usage of the term in particular styles of storytelling to emphasize particular points of developing cultures. I'm not a fan of the word (especially simply for the sake of using the word in lieu of more wholesome connecting terms like 'Bro'). Randall Kennedy identifies many aspects of racial-social developments concerning the term in insightful ways and I think anyone that uses the word should definitely read the text as well as anyone simply curious of the terminology.

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Fire is the first word I intentionally use describing Michelle Obama’s Becoming when anyone asks me about it. I find Becoming to be an encouraging-enjoyable-enlightening-commendable-simple-to-read-text. Becoming explores and reveals well through Michelle Obama’s journeying the importance of choice, patience, truth, voice, and other areas of being in life that stake on human development toward positive progress.

Onward & Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Grimm's Complete Fairy Tales by The Brothers Grimm has sooo many stories and I greatly appreciate the compilation. I like the balance of reason and ridiculousness. Grimm's Complete Fairy Tales is full of bluster that all-in-all comes off as humorous (at least to me, in this particular translation/publication) with a fair dosage of satirical morality.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Black Girl Magic: A Poem by Mahogany L. Brown and Illustrated by Jess X. Snow first came off as a horror to me until I got through a few more pages. The sentiments are intended to realize and encourage women of color (specifically black?) feeling as Black Girl Magic: A Poem describes. The form of the illustrations are as intense as the forms of the words.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Green affirms through anecdotes many ways for one to improve their approaches to and understandings of varying angles of life so as to better appreciate living. Robert Green proposes sensible situations and advises accordingly (though as with any advising text, read with a keen-open mind). Ultimately, Robert Green proposes a blueprint resolving to spurn any reader to live mindfully.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Settle for More is a simple read advocating a life of working hard, smart, and being true to one's self in an aware manner from the perspective of Megyn Kelly. I bought her book because I remember scanning channels and initially thinking upon viewing her years ago, there's more to her. I'm glad about reading Settle for More and think there are important lessons within the text.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Ta-Nehisi Coates essentially writes a letter to his son (a response to his son's developing understanding of the world about him concerning Blackness though as a part of the world as well as an individual of the world) addressing circumstances of black bodies and black lives. His text really conveys emotions branching from his inner interrogations; he writes like a caring, careful, fearful, learning, and willing father working through a form of Post Traumatic Stress. Between the World and Me is an interesting-poetical perspective. 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft is really a practical showing of completing quality writing from start to finish. Stephen King offers sound advice which may really benefit anyone endeavoring to be a more successful writer (one may find a lot of his advice useful in other aspects of life exclusive/inclusive of writing as well). On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft is actually a recommendation to me by a student majoring in Computer Science: it is nothing short of useful details and specificity (and I am grateful for the recommendation which I pursued with as much urgency as the fervor the recommending student--the book seemed life changing for her).

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Initially, My Abandonment is as intriguing as the film inspired by it, Leave No Trace, then it becomes even more intriguing than the film (which is the reason for me reading the text). My Abandonment essentially feels like Poetry with a slab of Prose. One must read the text carefully to come away with a complete understanding: I become reminiscent of (a text I read in university) Annie Dillard's Holy the Firm as I come to the end of My Abandonment.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Reading a book like Opportunity by Eben Pagan is good for individuals seeking to find a variety of reference points to even more knowledgeable-veritable sources. This edition of Opportunity became more of an editorial project for me than a simple read through. As Opportunity encourages readers towards embracing opportunities in and about their lives, it explains as well as delegates principles navigating Eben Pagan's optimal routes, from his understandings, for creating and managing life with opportunities and successes.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

The Song of God; Bhagavad-Gita by Swami Prabhavananda and Christopher Isherwood is a thread discoursing spirituality, unity, and purposes of being. The progressing instances of the discoursing celebrates and praises the Most High, the culmination of all being, as well as aims to guide toward the Most High as well as completely being. The Song of God; Bhagavad-Gita is an enlightening discourse, a diagnosis and examination of spirituality and realms of being.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Eat, Pray, Love is a very warming book concerning the spiritual journey of Elizabeth Gilbert. She writes a very revealing-intimate story which may be self-empowering as well as entertaining. Eat, Pray, Love is a fun-simple read that may serve as a meditative encouragement and reason for one to situate their life instead of feeling trapped in it (whatever aspect of their life which is making them feel stuck).

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Another Shot: A Game Plan for Rebounding in Life tries encouraging individuals to continue to develop. Dave Martin uses a lot of Basketball metaphors and situations to uplift his ideas attempting to propel individuals into action. I received this text as a gift, and—from what I’m told—(from the gift giver) Dave Martin is someone to hear in person.

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

 

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Looking for Alaska by John Green situates mystery well. Of all the available-exterior clues, the inner workings of the mind are not so apparent or calculable. Looking for Alaska is a fairly simple read that maintains lingering effects and presences well through the story.

Onward and Upward,
Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley is a pleasant and simple read. I really like the flowing story lines and the author's ability to make the overall story enjoyable and light. The processes of mystery and mystique complete the story. Where Things Come Back is a smooth story, and a fine leisure read.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

Kevin Hart is hilarious! How much of a surprise is it to know that Kevin Hart -- that all successful comedians -- have to work to be funny? I Can't Make This Up: Life Lessons is about Kevin Hart's journey into his present. You will find that the choice to laugh is his own, and I Can't Make This Up: Life Lessons may serve by assisting one in understanding the control one has in their life, over one's own life which may help one to understand the potential impact one life may have on others. Choose wisely! 

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne

Hi,

I hope all is progressing well.

You ever listen to the Breakfast Club on 105.1 FM radio? They cover a variety of topics across a variety of guests every weekday morning. One member, Charlamagne, has a book covering his developmental processes toward becoming a successful-valuable individual along his career path. Don't let the title misguide you: this book may be useful for everyone. (Of course, the effect of any advice is dependent on an individual's circumstances and receptiveness--among other things.) Take a trip around Moncks Corner, South Carolina, to the Breakfast Club and beyond with Charlamagne in Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It.

Onward and Upward,

Kevin Dufresne