Ronald T. Little’s “Me” is a poignant and unflinching memoir that offers a glimpse into the life of a man navigating the complexities of poverty, family, and growing up in a racially segregated ghetto. With raw honesty and vivid imagery, Little paints a portrait of a world often overlooked, revealing the struggles and triumphs of a community grappling with systemic injustices.
Little’s writing is honest and engaging. He doesn’t shy away from the realities of poverty, describing crowded apartments, shared beds, and the constant struggle to make ends meet. We see the world through his young eyes, where racism is a constant presence, authority figures are intimidating white people, and even basic necessities feel like luxuries.
There’s a bittersweet quality to Little’s recollections. He talks about the comfort of family, the camaraderie of neighborhood kids, and the simple pleasures of building a soapbox car or shining shoes. These moments provide a counterpoint to the struggles, reminding us of the resilience and resourcefulness it takes to find joy in difficult circumstances. Through his personal anecdotes, Little sheds light on the broader issues facing the black community in the 60s, 70s, and beyond. He explores themes of racism, addiction, and the social welfare system, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges faced by marginalized groups.
One of the most powerful aspects of “Me” is Little’s ability to convey the human cost of systemic oppression. His memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as he navigates a world that often seems stacked against him. The author’s honesty and vulnerability make his story both relatable and inspiring.
“Me” is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the black experience in America. It is a powerful and moving memoir that offers a glimpse into a world often overlooked.
Harish Padmanaban’s Mastering Site Reliability Engineering with Machine Learning is a timely and comprehensive guide that bridges the gap between traditional SRE practices and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. The book offers a clear and accessible roadmap for integrating ML techniques into SRE workflows, empowering readers to enhance system reliability, optimize performance, and anticipate potential failures.
One of the book’s standout qualities is its ability to cater to readers at all levels. Padmanaban expertly balances technical depth with clarity, providing a solid foundation in machine learning concepts while also delving into practical applications. The author’s expertise is evident in his ability to demystify complex algorithms and make them relatable to SRE professionals.
The book’s structure is well-organized, guiding readers through the essential aspects of SRE, machine learning fundamentals, and their intersection. The author begins by establishing a strong understanding of SRE principles, including its role in ensuring system reliability and performance. He then introduces the basics of machine learning, covering key concepts like supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and algorithms.
A particular strength of the book lies in its emphasis on data collection and preprocessing. The author highlights the critical importance of high-quality data for training ML models and provides valuable insights into data cleaning, feature engineering, and anomaly detection techniques. This section is essential for SRE practitioners looking to leverage ML effectively.
The author’s exploration of predictive maintenance, capacity planning, and incident management is particularly insightful. He demonstrates how ML can be used to anticipate system failures, optimize resource allocation, and automate incident response processes. The real-world examples and case studies provided throughout the book reinforce these concepts and make them more tangible.
The book also addresses the crucial aspects of security and compliance in the context of ML-driven SRE. The author discusses the challenges of protecting sensitive data and ensuring that ML models are fair and unbiased. This section is essential for organizations that prioritize data privacy and ethical AI.
In conclusion, Mastering Site Reliability Engineering with Machine Learning is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to harness the power of AI to improve system reliability and performance. The book’s clear explanations, practical examples, and comprehensive coverage of key topics make it a must-read for SRE professionals and those interested in exploring the intersection of technology and operations. By following the guidance provided in this book, readers can position themselves at the forefront of the SRE revolution.
Sabira Arefin’s The Power of Manifestation in Everyday Life is an engaging blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, offering readers a down-to-earth approach to turning dreams into reality. The book eschews complex theories in favor of practical steps, making the concept of manifestation accessible to everyone.
Arefin’s writing style is refreshingly conversational, inviting readers into a world where manifestation is not just a mystical concept but a tangible tool for everyday life. The inclusion of real-life examples adds a relatable touch, demonstrating how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results through focused intention and action.
While the book delves into spiritual aspects, it avoids dogmatic preaching, instead focusing on the universal principles underlying manifestation. By exploring various cultures and belief systems, Arefin emphasizes the timeless nature of this practice.
However, while the book effectively outlines the foundational principles, it might benefit from more in-depth exploration of specific manifestation techniques and challenges. Readers might find themselves yearning for additional practical exercises or strategies to overcome common obstacles.
Overall, The Power of Manifestation in Everyday Life is a valuable resource for those seeking to harness the power of their thoughts and intentions. Arefin’s optimistic and empowering tone makes it a compelling read for anyone looking to create a more fulfilling life.
Longevity: Lessons from Life: A Guide to Healthier, Longer, and More Fulfilling Living by Sabira Arefin and Hayden Yizhuo Zhang is a comprehensive guide to achieving a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. It delves deeper than just extending the years we live, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity.
The book explores the science behind aging, unpacking the complex interplay between genetics, lifestyle choices, and the environment. It then dives into the exciting world of longevity research, showcasing groundbreaking discoveries that offer hope for extended lifespans.
“Longevity” isn’t just about fad diets or quick fixes. The authors champion a holistic approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical health, mental well-being, social connections, and even the environment we live in. They highlight the importance of nourishing our bodies with proper nutrition, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress effectively.
The book explores the gut microbiome’s influence on longevity and delves into detoxification strategies for long-term health. It sheds light on the often-overlooked lymphatic system, showcasing its vital role in maintaining vitality.
The book doesn’t shy away from the impact of our surroundings. It emphasizes the need for healthy living spaces and fostering a connection with nature. Recognizing the mind-body connection, the authors explore mindfulness, meditation, and other techniques to cultivate emotional well-being and mental resilience.
They don’t stop there. the book highlights the importance of fostering strong social networks and maintaining a positive outlook. The book explores the concept of finding purpose in life, arguing that purpose and resilience are key factors in achieving longevity.
Ultimately, “Longevity: Lessons from Life” is a well-rounded guide that empowers readers to take charge of their health and well-being. It showcases a path towards not just living longer, but living a vibrant, meaningful, and fulfilling life with a lasting impact.
Award-winning singer and songwriter Tiki Black blends her multicultural assets to create intricate lyrics and memorable music. Tiki now bares her soul with her first book, The Sound Of The Broken Wand, a beautifully written collection of poems and a unique accompaniment to her sophomore album. The artist weaves the wealth of her experience into each line, celebrating the magic of human emancipation, as it breaks the spell of survival and allows us to experience the infinite possibilities of life.
My review
‘My existence was in question Was I human? Automaton? To rise above this condition I needed emancipation. They set me free in tight borders Deemed me unique within the mould They said me safe in that terror And afraid of my own person.’
The Sound of Broken the Wand by Tiki Black is a collection of poems and one essay that reflects on every aspect of human life from birth to death and everything in between. The six themes that are used in the book are the blood, the cage, the mirror, the crown, the shoe, and the wand. The author meditates on each of these themes and the poems reflect those deep thoughts. They talk about life, death, love, refuge, power, debt, journeys, magic, reflection, and much more. The striking characteristics of these poems are they all carry pure raw emotions – the unadulterated, painful, and unacceptable part of our lives. These poems are sharp questions aimed at us. Why we are afraid to break the spell and get out of this survival mode? A single moment of bravery can grant us a lifetime of infinite possibilities.
To break this spell, we have to touch the uncomfortable side of our inner self. The one side that we hide from everyone. The one face you are afraid to show. The one side you don’t want to claim as yourself. But it is yours and you have to accept it. Deniability doesn’t serve you. Rather, accepting one’s dark side will result in liberation.
We all have moulded our faces to be in line with what is socially acceptable. But what if the true freedom lies in breaking this spell and embracing who we are? The world will be truly a better place if everyone accepts their uniqueness and encourages others the same. Tiki Black’s poems are a bold reminder of this fact.
What I loved most is the thoughtfulness of these poems. Each poem touches our minds in the deepest way possible. They present unique questions to us. Answering these questions opens new dimensions of our character and mind. At this stage, these poems are slowly transcended to the genre of self-improvement. I really loved the multidimensional facet of these poems. Really enjoyable and thought-provoking read!
Jason A. Merchey’s Wisdom: A Very Valuable Virtue that Cannot Be Bought is an attempt to simplify a widely ignored and misunderstood concept. Wisdom is frequently dismissed as too philosophical and inaccessible to the average person. But isn’t it that difficult? Not at all. Jason Merchey is proving it to be otherwise. With devotion, it can be understood and internalized.
Wisdom is the skill that helps us to regulate our behaviors towards ourselves, others, and geopolitical issues in the world. The twenty-first-century generation particularly lacks this skill. They have made enormous improvements in terms of technology and science. But they are socially isolated, ignorant and unwise. This encourages the inherently destructive nature of humans and their toxic traits. Ignorant communities led by unwise leaders will surely lead to the misuse of power. Someone who doesn’t know when to show power and mercy will ultimately lead us to catastrophe. Hence, wisdom should be learnt and applied to our own existence.
What I liked most about this book is its clarity. The author used his rational and just views of the world to explain the concepts. This is a well-structured book that essentially shows the author’s knowledge of this subject. Because writing on a topic that is difficult to define but necessary for survival necessitates a high level of comprehension. For a better understanding of the concepts, we can divide the book into two parts. In the first part, the author talks about wise qualities such as generosity, kindness, love, emotional regulation, intelligence, empathy, compassion, and modesty. This part is a treasure of knowledge. It clearly draws the line between what is wrong and what is right. The next part is about the applicability of wisdom. Gaining knowledge is one part. But how can we apply these lessons to our lives and achieve the most from our mere 100 years of existence? Life cannot be lived without patience, delayed gratification, self-awareness, and self-discipline. All these qualities stem from wisdom. It can be nurtured and practiced. Only this can lead us to fulfilment in our lives.
Wisdom gives a realistic perspective on all the things happening around us. It helps to articulate our decisions and actions. It creates a sense of responsibility and humility towards our actions. With these qualities, one can anticipate problems and act accordingly. This book should be approached with an open mind to learn and an unbiased view for understanding. With this attitude, we can easily assimilate the wisdom of ancient Greek philosophers to 21st-century thinkers. This vast knowledge is intimidating. But disregarding this opportunity will be the greatest regret of one’s life.
Make Your Own Job by W M Hovey Smith is a comprehensive guide to reinvent new opportunities in life. The gig economy is the new normal. Covid-19 crisis and subsequent massive layoffs have clearly taught us one thing- our jobs are impermanent. Job security is a myth in the fast-growing technological world. The best career advice in this era is to Make Your Own Job. In the author’s words, stay and lose your job or move.
Make Your Own Job is a wholesome guide to kick-start our entrepreneurial career. The author details how to start a one-person business from scratch. From raising the capital to marketing and legalizing the business, everything is covered in this guide. The possible challenges and their solutions along with ideas to scale the business are explained very skillfully in this book. This includes a comprehensive guide to finding a work-life balance and taking care of mental and physical health in these turbulent times. Overall, Make Your Job is an A-Z guide to build a scalable business that serves our own advantages.
Today I’ll be hosting DrSukhendu Mandal, author of Beyond Placebo: Harness the power of your words in my blog. Sukhendu began his writing journey in 2016. Inspired by the cultural mythologies and stories from the Indian yogic system he began studying the various forms of yogic discipline. His first bookBeyond Placebowas inspired by various healing systems and techniques practised by people. It is available for purchase from books2read.com The author also had deep healing experiences in the process of writing this book series.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
During my graduation years, I was inspired by writing.
How long have you been writing?
I started the writing project in 2016.
What inspired you to write this book?
My own healing journey inspired me to interact with people around the country. This book is designed over multiple interactions with people. Rooted in the ancient yogic systems and refined with knowledge of human behavior, Beyond Placebo offers a powerful healing system with simple words. A tool that has the power to create and shift your reality as you read through.
With the 60+ self-healing codes in this book, you will discover how to:
★ Access the Power of Words
★ Healing by yourself with a simple sleep healing meditation
★ Transform your Mental and Emotional well-being
★ Release effects of Childhood Trauma
★ Erase scars of Narcissistic abuse
★ Break the curse of Inherited Generational trauma
★ Harmonize your Relationship with Self and Others
What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?
I write on the Indian yogic system and spirituality. The most difficult part is breaking past the cultural belief systems and spiritual metaphors. It sometimes takes years to refine certain topics.
What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?
I discovered a special gift of storytelling and therapeutic communications in the process of writing this book.
Who is your favourite author and why?
Paulo Coelho
What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Author: Chris Comish
Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?
Yes. I realize it closely. For weeks I stay in saturated space after writing a few creative pages. This happens especially in creative writing styles. After a peak of inspiration overnight, it would pause for weeks or even months.
The best thing to do is allow the flow. There is no use forcing self to write as the material ends up getting deleted in the editing phase.
Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?
Yes. I am working on an ancient form of yogic practise that was known only to a few yogis. This form of practice creates intense spiritual transformation in the span of 21-42 days.
You can reach out to me to keep up-to-date with my upcoming projects here www.beyondplacebo.co.in
Today I’ll be hosting author Curtis Abrams. His debut book Curtstride: The Natural Instincts of Solitude for the S.E.L.F is now available on Amazon.com.
Curtis Abrams has worked in Media Psychology and Sales Management for over 15 years. A native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and currently resides in Tallahassee, Florida, Curtis has been a loner and an introvert most of his life. He is now a licensed professional home and commercial insurance inspector for the State of Florida. Additionally, Curtis is a licensed tutor who mentors and volunteers at public and private schools in Florida. A University of Alabama graduate with a Communications degree, Curtis also served in the U.S. Army for 10 years and has travelled throughout the world to learn about different social cultures. In addition, he’s an avid writer and is currently learning how to play the acoustic guitar and keyboard for his inner peace.
Pleasure to welcome Mr Abrams to this episode of the author interview.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I knew in my heart that I could tell stories based on my early childhood at about 12 to 14 years old listening to people reading books to me. As I used my imagination of what narrative takes off into my own world, I knew Writing stories would take me on a great journey so many years later as an adult, I find myself in the same world of imagination, I can deliver the message to other people that can see within my vision.
How long have you been writing?
I started writing when I was in college at and I wrote some short stories and a few screenplays and blogs for about 15 years.
What inspired you to write Curtstride: The Natural Instincts of Solitude for the S.E.L.F.?
The idea of not understanding your true value based on events that have happened in your life and realizing you’re not finding the true meaning of your purpose due to distractions and noises made me want to write particularly about battling it alone in the cruel world. And since the pandemic has evolved around the globe I wanted to bring some sort of awareness and a constant reminder that you are going to be OK because you are courageous, smart and passionate and I decided to put it in a self-help related book that’s really cognizant of your physical, social, psychological and inner instincts and abilities to survive like an animal whether you feel lonely in self-isolation or you’re just alone and becoming acclimated to your environment, and that’s what solitude is about.
You can now order Paperback and Kindle versions of Curtstride: The Natural Instincts of Solitude for the S.E.L.F. from Amazon.com
What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?
Is trying to find a total solution to any ambiguous dilemma that enters our thoughts and imagination because everyone thinks different and clarifies their meaning a lot less or more did anyone else. And I would like to try to stand on common ground for everyone when I write so everyone can get a profound resolution to whatever the narrative is.
What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?
What I discovered when I wrote my book is when I read after I did my writing I feel exhilarated because I can let it make sense based on my passion that it can deliver a message to someone out there if the intent is correct. And if my story can outlast throughout time and reach someone who may need to hear the message in which I believe it will.
Who is your favourite author and why?
I will have to say I’m inspired by Agatha Christie simply because I used to read a lot of her novels when I was young and it always had a twisted plot in the end that got me captivated and more intrigued into the story in which we as readers wanted more of the story. It felt like I was actually in that setting based on her storytelling.
What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I am a fan of Napoleon Hill, August Wilson, Rhonda Byrne, Stephen King, John Grisham, Earl Nightingale, William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Michael Eric Dyson and James Baldwin
What is the best piece of advice you received about writing?
I was always told that when a reader displays their story do you always listen to what they have to offer so you can digest and analyze whatever the story entails. The more you listen to someone about their story the better it will make sense for you to understand. Is one thing to look at the pages but it’s another thing to actually see it.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
The profound discipline and passion to realize that I have a purpose and intent to live and to make a difference for myself. To keep answering to any challenges that I embrace, as long as I have breath in my body. And to have the ability to help others when in need.
If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Believe internally, always.
Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?
. If you want to write, remember it must entertain the audience as well as you must give a story and you must deliver a sort of information as to why the story is being told. If you know in your heart that you can leverage a story then it would not be hard to produce it, but don’t get yourself stuck because you’re overthinking and trying too hard to make a jigsaw puzzle come together, it takes time, patience, and the ability do you know where and what direction you’re following in order to get from here to there. Take your time, breathe when possible, no distractions, and finish the race.
Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?
I’m going to soon start an awareness program for people who are going through loneliness, anxiety, depression or social isolation issues, I would like to facilitate and reach out to whoever is going through these episodes. I’m going to continue to write more books and material in which it will pertain to mental health, human behaviour as well as social connections. I’m also training to become a certified life coach and if anyone wants to connect with me, I will be more than happy to assist you with anything you looking for. This book that I published, will quite possibly change the way you perceive this life as that you know it, of all ages. And if possible share this unique book throughout the world. That will make me very happy I am here for you, the people. Everyone.
You can follow me on Instagram @curtstride to keep up-to-date on my new projects and initiatives.
Curtstride is a story of an individual’s life journey as they view, learn, and explore as a loner or an outsider. The story centers on your individualistic views, behavior, irrational as you take on the immense challenges and obstacles that will face you being all by yourself. It gives you insight into how unique you are as a person and what concepts are needed for a better outlook of who you are, what you’re capable of, and what you can do to receive a better quality of life when alone. Done in 2nd person narrative, you will learn about your true self internally, your viewpoints dealing with society, and your physical attributes with your health. You will also be guided with an introspective of your inner strength. Each experience represents an animal instinct as you’re living vicariously through their mind and vision as you handle the pressures and rigorous ways of life. Throughout the story, you can incorporate and apply to your everyday activities as you walk through contemporary society as a Lone Wolf and appreciate what other people may perceive as different or unique. There are examples of subject matter and ideas, advice, and game plan approach to the individual to make their journey seemingly reliable and effortless. This applies to the young, teenager, adult, and elderly. Whatever job or business you obtain and what your true beliefs are surrounded by. This journey is for everyone.
Title: Your Marketing Content Planner Guide: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Content Plan and Build a Social Media Strategy that Sells
Author: Izabela Cottle
Pages: 100
Genre: Business, Marketing
My review
Content marketing is the driving force of a business. If there are no customers then there will be no business. Converting an audience into potential buyers needs effective strategies. Being a sought after marketing strategist, the author, Izabela Cottle draws her wisdom from years of experience to this book. This is a concise summary of effective, foolproof, battle-tested tactics. Because of that, I find these techniques, believable, practical, and most importantly converting.
This book mainly addresses small business owners and entrepreneurs. It gives a thorough knowledge of content planning, execution and monitoring. But you can still learn a lot if you are an experienced marketer. Because the author has written very valuable and unique content that actually drives the sales. These strategies analyse our business to the core. It gives a structured and proper content framework focusing on the audience.
Marketing is now all technology-driven. Making your mark on every social media platform is a game-changer. But every platform is different and we have to customize our content to tackle down these algorithm-driven platforms. First, we have to identify our business goal. It is important to decide where to go before starting the journey. The next step is knowing your audience and creating the content. But creating content is inseparably related to monitoring and analyzing its performance. This is the most important part of a strategy. Most authors don’t stress this part. But here, the author explains this part in detail.
This 8 step content planner creates a full circle. We can easily repeat the process by changing our goal in the first step. With new data, we can customize this strategy accordingly. Undoubtedly, this is an all-in-one solution for content marketing.
One of the best features I found in this book is simplicity. The author explains A-Z details with utmost clarity, without giving any chance to raise doubts in between. But this is not a book with theoretical concepts. It is an implementation plan. This unique feature separates this one from others.
The completeness of this book is fascinating. The author has left no stones unturned. A must-read for everyone who wants to learn or innovate their marketing skills.
The Ultimate Reviewer 