Monday, May 25, 2009

Book Review Mondays

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The Last Lectureby Randy Pausch
The Last Lecture
by Randy Pausch

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, PhD.

Randy Pausch's 224-page book, The Last Lecture, is exactly what most would expect from an expanded last lecture: a great deal of "live life to the fullest" advice about remembering to laugh, seizing every moment, overcoming obstacles, appreciating the gifts you receive, and enabling the dreams of others. In ease of writing and types of advice, it reminded me of Mitch Albom's Tuesdays With Morrie. Pausch's advice is that we can face any challenge in life as long as we face it with optimism and determination. Of course the message has been stated before, but it never hurts to hear it repeated again. What I found most lasting from his book are the timeless lessons of showing gratitude, setting goals, keeping commitments, tolerating frustration, maintaining a sense of humor, telling the truth, working hard, and celebrating victories. Because his live lecture is more succinct and reveals Pausch's character and the emotion accompanying the ideas, it is more inspirational. If you watch his lecture (free) on youtube (or you were fortunate to see it live), you know that he is a charismatic, intelligent, funny man who easily and comfortably connects with his listeners. There is no doubt that the book is upbeat and moving. Also, it is full of love, courage, wisdom, decency, intelligence, helpful life lessons, tips, and examples from the people and students he knew. If you want to give someone a gift of hope and affirmation, this would be an excellent choice.

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Through our reading, researching, and writing, And Then Some Publishing (and our extended family of readers) mine volumes of books representing a wide variety of tastes. We use the books in our writing, test and try suggested techniques, and we read for enjoyment as well. We wouldn't spend the time reviewing the books if we didn't get something out of it. Read more reviews on other fantastic books at our BookWorks website.

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