Book Review: The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield

I read this book because I was told it would change my life and how I looked the world around me. Pretty much exactly what the book said. However, I was not completely changed even though I thought some of the ideas of the book were on the right track. I didn't like the fact that this author made up an idea and started selling it as enlightenment. It felt forced and overplayed. I couldn't feel connected with the main character (he was a bit too full of himself) and about half way through the book I had to force myself to keep reading. The writing was not that good and the "coincidences" make the story feel almost incomplete, like written on a whim. I latched onto the energy of the universe concept and even that we all have that energy within us. The rest of the story needs some work to be a bit more believable.

The idea of just walking into enlightenment is not an easy one to grasp. So I just show up and take it? I don't think so. Real knowledge should take years, and the main character of this book can do it in days? Very Neo from the Matrix of you Redfield. And why is he come off a misogynistic and over-barring? Anyway, I can't really recommend this book because I don't think it will change your life. I think it might open you up for wanting to change, but when the book ends, it does not lead you on a greater path (there is a sequel and maybe you have to read them both to get the real effect). Somehow, it made me want to shy away from this idea, not embrace it. It is suppose to bring greater meaning to the lives we all lead, empowering all of us to make better decisions about the world around us. If you want enlightenment, take a yoga class. Leave this book on the shelf.

Book Review: The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake

I saw this book a number of times, looking back at me. After a while, I wanted to know what all the staring is about. The synopsis on the back was minimal: a girl gets picked on about her skin color; then, a teacher with an actual skin problem comes to teach at the school. That is not what keeps you reading and that's not what moves you. Maleeka and her pain moves you. What keeps you reading is the heartache she has to want be different and proud, but can't because she is a follower and ashamed of her talents. It's a coming of age story, mixed with strong ideals on women and gender issues, subtle thoughts on racism and a little bit of teen awkwardness. It isn't a long book, only 171 pages and it's written for Young Adults. It is a winner of the prestigious Coretta Scott King award and is one of the ALA's Best Books for Young Adults. Nevertheless, that is not why you should read it. The story brings about joy, as well as sadness, and reminds us that we all have the strength, if we just believe in ourselves.

Socal Dispach on The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals

In a very intriguing read, Michael Pollan tries to get more personal with what he eats and how food makes it his plate. His premise? Simply follow the origins of a dish from the farm to his plate. And could it be done? Pollan did with his charm and wit.

He gives a long introduction on how we as Omnivores go through the daily troubles of trying to figure out simply what to eat! Unlike others in the animal kingdom (because many forget we are animals too), we can decide on chicken or fish. Or plants. Plus, with all the food available to us in the west, how can we really know what we're getting into?

I really enjoyed this selection and believe it was written very well. We all need to know a little more about what we are eating and paying for. I didn't feel that he gave equal consideration to the vegetarian lifestyle (be gave it a section of a chapter) as he did to the entire section about corn (which was the whole first half of his book); however, he made a lot of really good points and does an excellent job of making you more aware of what's going on in and around your food. This book is a good starting place but don't stop there. Pollan is only one voice of the very complex issues of food production, processing and transportation. He tries to stay objective, but I don't believe he does. And he can't- it's HIS journey into food, and you have his perspective. Occasionally he adds in the thoughts and quotes of others in the food industry, in his efforts to be objective.

Filled with new facts, history and the mindset that all food is created equal, Michael Pollan takes you farther than you ever thought we could go.

4 STARS