The genius in all of us: Why everything you’ve been told about genetics, talent, and IQ is wrong
By David Shenk
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
One of the most interesting features of this 302-page book (total pages) is that there is only 134 pages of text. There is an 18 page bibliography (pages 279-297), and there is a 138-page "Sources and Notes, Clarifications and Amplifications" section (pages 139-277). There is no index.
Just a note here on the "Sources and Notes. . ." section: Shenk uses 134 pages of text to make his case, and it is engrossing reading. But, if you think "Sources and Notes" would be a long, tedious, boring section of the book, you would be sadly mistaken here. For each and every assertion that Shenk makes in his argument (we’ll get to that in a moment), he has a source or note to verify it. This is a highly researched, evidence specific, thoroughly developed argument that is worth every minute you spend with it.
If you are looking for a motivational book that will support all that you do in life, this is where to start. If you think for one moment that you are limited by the genes with which you were born, think again. Shenk claims your genetic heritage may account for only about 50% of your talent, and the other 50% is determined by nurture and your environment. What you do, and how you feel about what you do matters.
If I was looking for support for all of the motivational essays, speeches, articles, and books I have written throughout the years, this would be the book — and the evidence. What Shenk is saying is that the intensity of your motivation, ambition, persistence, and self-discipline are not genetically determined but are shaped by nurture and environment. Just as you teach children how to take responsibility for their lives, you, too, can have a direct, sustained, ongoing, positive, and productive influence on your own talent and ability. This is good news, and if you don’t believe it, read this book, and bathe in the evidence that supports his assertions.
All of the books that have been (and are being) written on neuroplasticity — "[the] term referring to the ability of the brain and nervous system in all species to change structurally and functionally as a result of input from the environment" — gain support from Shenk’s work. Shenk makes the case for the plasticity of intelligence.
Shenk explains how genes really work, that intelligence is a process not a thing, that talents are not innate gifts "but the result of a slow, invisible accretion of skills," as well as how to be a genius, how to inspire children, how to foster cultural excellence, and how to improve your genes. This is an amazing book!
Having been an advocate of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s work on flow, I was delighted to find Shenk referring to Csikszentmihalyi: " . . . intelligence isn’t fixed. Intelligence isn’t general. Intelligence is not a thing. Intelligence is a dynamic, diffuse, and ongoing process. This finding fits perfectly with the earlier work of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and colleagues, who concluded that ‘high academic achievers are not necessarily born ‘smarter’ than others, but work harder and develop more self-discipline’" (p. 42).
Whether you are a supporter of the interactionist perspective or not, the book will introduce you to the way genius is made. That is especially interesting to read.
I think the author made a superb decision to separate his argument and the evidence used to support his argument. He is an excellent writer, and 134 pages may be all you have to read. I have found that the more technical you become by incorporating all your evidence and references within your narrative turns off more readers than it encourages. Shenk’s argument is so well presented, so smoothly offered, and so effective that it should be readable by a large audience — especially, I might add, educators. Educators are often those prone to picking out and doting upon their brighter students. After reading and absorbing what Shenk has to say may make them think twice about this approach.
The use of examples such as David Beckham, Michael Jordan, and Tiger Woods, as well as Friedrich Nietzsche, Beethoven, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was delightful information.
Because of Shenk’s argument, and because of his emphasis on the interaction between genes, nurture, and environment, I loved the following paragraph: "For deliberate practice to work, the demands have to be serious and sustained. Simply playing lots of chess or soccer or golf isn’t enough. Simply taking lessons from a wonderful teacher is not enough. Simply wanting it badly enough is not enough. Deliberate practice requires a mind-set of never, ever, being satisfied with your current ability. It requires a constant self-critique, a pathological restlessness, a passion to aim consistently just beyond one’s capability so that daily disappointment and failure is actually desired, and a never-ending resolve to dust oneself off and try again and again and again" (p.55). Talk about motivation to excel!
Now, after writing a paragraph like that, Shenk offers a realistic assessment of what it takes to excel: "It also requires enormous, life-altering amounts of time—a daily grinding commitment to becoming better. In the long term, the results can be highly satisfying. But in the short term, from day to day and month to month, there’s nothing particularly fun about the process or the substantial sacrifices involved" (p. 55). Do you wonder why the information in this book — even when read by those seemingly committed to change — is likely to go in one ear and out the other?
Oh well. Even if you are familiar with the ideas here, even if you wave off social-science research as bogus, and even if you believe that talent comes primarily from genetic inheritance, this book is a good read. Shenk makes you think — and that’s a healthy thing to do whether you agree or disagree with him. Five stars out of five!
Showing posts with label Richard L Weaver II. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Richard L Weaver II. Show all posts
Monday, December 30, 2013
Monday, March 25, 2013
My reading life
My reading life
By Pat Conroy
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
On page 88, Conroy conveys an insight about his own writing that not only corresponds to my own experiences, but also offers a suggestion to "would-be writers" who might want to begin a writing career:
"Whenever I sit to write, I never allow myself the benefit of a Sabbath or day off; nor do I give myself time off for good behavior. Good writing is one of the forms that hard labor takes. It is neither roadhouse nor weigh station, but much more like some unnamable station of the cross. It is taking the nothingness of air and turning it into a pleasure palace built on a foundation of words. From the time I could talk I took an immense pleasure in running down words, shagging them like fly balls in some spacious field. Though I failed to notice it at the time, my childhood was a long, patient apprenticeship of finding my comfort zone in the ocean of words that rushed through me each day" (p. 88).
At another point in the book, Conroy writes, ". . . I am a man of ingrained habit, my life has fixed points of immovable behavior that can make my daily schedule seem neurotic to the point of inertia. To me, the writing life requires the tireless discipline of the ironclad routine. The writing of books does not permit much familiarity with chaos. . . " (p.108). So many people would love to be a writer; so many people do not have the self-discipline to be a writer.
I have read none of Conroy’s previous nine books, but I do not read fiction. As an active and involved author of college textbooks (see COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY (McGraw-Hill, 2012), I use my reading time for keeping up with current events, reading nonfiction, and devouring any material that might — in some way — contribute to my textbook writing or the writing of my essays (see the blog at andthensomeworks). Writing college textbooks is a highly competitive industry that requires 24/7 devotion to task, year-in and year-out. As another example, I have read On Writing (and loved it), but I have read none of Stephen King’s fiction.
I am always fascinated by writers who write about their craft. As it turns out, we all have our habits and eccentricities. What works for one writer does not necessarily work for another just as the ease with which words come to authors is not the same for all. Some
sit down at the computer keyboard (or typewriter) and words flow as if they are simply a channel or conduit for some mysterious, outside donor while others struggle with every word which only reveals itself through beads of sweat wrenched from some intense brawl with unknown interior antagonists. That is precisely why reading about a writer’s craft is so engaging.
Conroy’s book, however, is more than just his "reading life." Sure, he reveals the books that have meant most to him, and the teachers (and librarians) who have been inspirational, but, as the quotations above suggest, his book is about how he writes and the discipline necessary to pursue it. Also Conroy is a terrific story teller. Not everyone has that gift.
For 22 years I commuted from Perrysburg, Ohio, to Bowling Green State University, and that 20-25-minute drive allowed me time to prepare for my professional life as a professor (on the way there), and gave me ample time to unwind (de-stress) on the way home. It was a time, too, for thinking, and just as when I jog three miles in the morning now, I would discover new ideas, unique ways of saying things, and compelling solutions to outstanding problems. These are times I work with words.
There is something more, however, in the Conroy book. It is, indeed, the language: Conroy is a wordsmith.
"On my writing desk, I always keep the poets close by, and I reach for them when those silver, mountain-born creeks go dry or when exhaustion rearranges the furniture of my fear-chambered heart. The poets force me back toward the writing life, where the trek takes you into the interior where the right word hides like an ivory-billed woodpecker in the branches of the highest pines" (p. 142).
Some might label it florid, flamboyant, even affected or artificial. No such thing! It is a delight to read someone not only with Conroy’s command of the English language but with his ability to conger-up all the analogies and metaphors. Reading this book is like immersing yourself — bathing gloriously — in an ocean of words and expressions, language and style. As Conroy says, you "drift into that bright cocoon where the writer loses himself in language" (p. 305). Ahh, sheer reverie!
"For reasons that have always been unclear to me, the books inside me seem to reach some unanimous agreement about which one of them will go to the head of the line as I open up the next artery that surges out in a tidal fury from the headwaters of my interior" (p. 170). That kind of writing cannot be taught. It is instinctual; however, it is instinct that gathers momentum from training, nurturing, passion, and desire. And that is what this book is all about. How and where does this pallet of background and experience originate?
Conroy answers the origination question: "Story and language brought me to the craft of writing; then passion and my childhood provided both the structure and the details" (p. 306).
"You feel everything in War and Peace except the strain of its creation. It’s like a book made from starlight and fire; the spirit of life itself lends it structure" (p. 271). The quotations, of course, could go on and on. After all, this is Pat Conroy steering the ship, navigating the narrative, piloting the plot, and guiding the verbiage. It is truly a verbal adventure.
Just as Conroy talks about his reading, reading this book (for me) is similar. Conroy writes, "I want a book so filled with story and character that I read page after page without thinking of food and drink, because a writer has possessed me, crazed me with an unappeasable thirst to know what happens next" (p. 311). I loved this book. Five stars out of five! Buy it for his ideas on reading, on writing, or for his delightful storytelling. Or, buy it to be totally enveloped by a wonderful world of words.
By Pat Conroy
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
On page 88, Conroy conveys an insight about his own writing that not only corresponds to my own experiences, but also offers a suggestion to "would-be writers" who might want to begin a writing career:
"Whenever I sit to write, I never allow myself the benefit of a Sabbath or day off; nor do I give myself time off for good behavior. Good writing is one of the forms that hard labor takes. It is neither roadhouse nor weigh station, but much more like some unnamable station of the cross. It is taking the nothingness of air and turning it into a pleasure palace built on a foundation of words. From the time I could talk I took an immense pleasure in running down words, shagging them like fly balls in some spacious field. Though I failed to notice it at the time, my childhood was a long, patient apprenticeship of finding my comfort zone in the ocean of words that rushed through me each day" (p. 88).
At another point in the book, Conroy writes, ". . . I am a man of ingrained habit, my life has fixed points of immovable behavior that can make my daily schedule seem neurotic to the point of inertia. To me, the writing life requires the tireless discipline of the ironclad routine. The writing of books does not permit much familiarity with chaos. . . " (p.108). So many people would love to be a writer; so many people do not have the self-discipline to be a writer.
I have read none of Conroy’s previous nine books, but I do not read fiction. As an active and involved author of college textbooks (see COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY (McGraw-Hill, 2012), I use my reading time for keeping up with current events, reading nonfiction, and devouring any material that might — in some way — contribute to my textbook writing or the writing of my essays (see the blog at andthensomeworks). Writing college textbooks is a highly competitive industry that requires 24/7 devotion to task, year-in and year-out. As another example, I have read On Writing (and loved it), but I have read none of Stephen King’s fiction.
I am always fascinated by writers who write about their craft. As it turns out, we all have our habits and eccentricities. What works for one writer does not necessarily work for another just as the ease with which words come to authors is not the same for all. Some
sit down at the computer keyboard (or typewriter) and words flow as if they are simply a channel or conduit for some mysterious, outside donor while others struggle with every word which only reveals itself through beads of sweat wrenched from some intense brawl with unknown interior antagonists. That is precisely why reading about a writer’s craft is so engaging.
Conroy’s book, however, is more than just his "reading life." Sure, he reveals the books that have meant most to him, and the teachers (and librarians) who have been inspirational, but, as the quotations above suggest, his book is about how he writes and the discipline necessary to pursue it. Also Conroy is a terrific story teller. Not everyone has that gift.
For 22 years I commuted from Perrysburg, Ohio, to Bowling Green State University, and that 20-25-minute drive allowed me time to prepare for my professional life as a professor (on the way there), and gave me ample time to unwind (de-stress) on the way home. It was a time, too, for thinking, and just as when I jog three miles in the morning now, I would discover new ideas, unique ways of saying things, and compelling solutions to outstanding problems. These are times I work with words.
There is something more, however, in the Conroy book. It is, indeed, the language: Conroy is a wordsmith.
"On my writing desk, I always keep the poets close by, and I reach for them when those silver, mountain-born creeks go dry or when exhaustion rearranges the furniture of my fear-chambered heart. The poets force me back toward the writing life, where the trek takes you into the interior where the right word hides like an ivory-billed woodpecker in the branches of the highest pines" (p. 142).
Some might label it florid, flamboyant, even affected or artificial. No such thing! It is a delight to read someone not only with Conroy’s command of the English language but with his ability to conger-up all the analogies and metaphors. Reading this book is like immersing yourself — bathing gloriously — in an ocean of words and expressions, language and style. As Conroy says, you "drift into that bright cocoon where the writer loses himself in language" (p. 305). Ahh, sheer reverie!
"For reasons that have always been unclear to me, the books inside me seem to reach some unanimous agreement about which one of them will go to the head of the line as I open up the next artery that surges out in a tidal fury from the headwaters of my interior" (p. 170). That kind of writing cannot be taught. It is instinctual; however, it is instinct that gathers momentum from training, nurturing, passion, and desire. And that is what this book is all about. How and where does this pallet of background and experience originate?
Conroy answers the origination question: "Story and language brought me to the craft of writing; then passion and my childhood provided both the structure and the details" (p. 306).
"You feel everything in War and Peace except the strain of its creation. It’s like a book made from starlight and fire; the spirit of life itself lends it structure" (p. 271). The quotations, of course, could go on and on. After all, this is Pat Conroy steering the ship, navigating the narrative, piloting the plot, and guiding the verbiage. It is truly a verbal adventure.
Just as Conroy talks about his reading, reading this book (for me) is similar. Conroy writes, "I want a book so filled with story and character that I read page after page without thinking of food and drink, because a writer has possessed me, crazed me with an unappeasable thirst to know what happens next" (p. 311). I loved this book. Five stars out of five! Buy it for his ideas on reading, on writing, or for his delightful storytelling. Or, buy it to be totally enveloped by a wonderful world of words.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
ATSP News: Thursday Essay Preview
by Anthony Weaver
I don't know anything about La Boca and Thursday's essay, Buenos Aires: Our Only Princess Excursion, but one thing immediately stands out. I can't wait to read about the soccer stadium. Below is a preview:
"La Boca, as it turns out, is a very special place. I began talking about it in the first essay, but it deserves more space. There are two things that make La Boca stand out, and we passed close to the first, in getting to the second."
"The first is the soccer stadium. "A man," Teresa said, "will give up his home, his family, and even his marriage, but he will never give up his devotion to soccer." These are dedicated, committed, zealous, even fervent soccer fans."
Read more in this week's Thursday's Essay!
I don't know anything about La Boca and Thursday's essay, Buenos Aires: Our Only Princess Excursion, but one thing immediately stands out. I can't wait to read about the soccer stadium. Below is a preview:
"The first is the soccer stadium. "A man," Teresa said, "will give up his home, his family, and even his marriage, but he will never give up his devotion to soccer." These are dedicated, committed, zealous, even fervent soccer fans."
Read more in this week's Thursday's Essay!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Change anything: The new science of personal success
Change anything: The new science of personal success
By Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I have to admit that I checked out Amazon.com before I wrote this review of Change Anything. At this time (08-20-11), there are 43 reviews and when averaged together, they average five stars out of five. This is important because, for me, it means that a number of people are finding this book useful (or that the authors have lots of family members and friends!). Admittedly, some complain that it’s a bit dry, and others complain that there is no real "science" involved, but overall, the reviews are outstanding.
The reason I checked out Amazon.com first is that I am not looking to change anything at the current time: I do not need to lose weight; I am financially fit; I have no addictions, and I am not looking for any change in my relationships. That simply means that I am not certain that the ideas for change are valid; however, when you look at the positive reviews and the number of people who have found the ideas here valuable, useful, or practical, it indicates the authors have effectively hit on the right message, useful and productive suggestions, and a technique that works.
As I have said in reviewing a number of other books — like those on how to communicate effectively — I feel that any book that makes (or has the potential of making) a positive contribution to our well being or a successful life or whatever, should be heralded and revered. Those who need help in various areas should be able to find it, and I love (being a writer myself) supporting the book publishing industry.
Here, then is my assessment of this book. 1) It is extremely well-written. 2) The "Notes" section looks very strong. 3) It has a terrific index. 4) The examples used throughout are useful and engaging. 5) The ideas are practical, straightforward, well-explained, and useful. There is no doubt that this is a "how-to-do-it" book.
Although the authors offer a number of valuable tools for change (saying that willpower alone is not sufficient) — 1. Love what you hate, or come to terms with pleasure and pain. 2. Do what you can or build the necessary skills that can spur change. 3. and 4. Turn accomplices into friends or get other people into the act of change.5. Invert the Economy or use incentives, and, thus, manipulate the benefits of change. 6. Control your space or use the environment to help the change process — it still comes down to whether or not people are willing to make the commitment — even a commitment to purchase this book!
As one reviewer at Amazon.com said, "The whole book is geared towards specific actions you can implement so that you aren't just relying on willpower alone. The methods recommended here are not quick-fix ideas, rather they are each a part of a larger process of taking deliberate steps to begin heading in the direction you really want to go."
I really enjoyed their discussion of the six sources of Influence in our lives. These are the six sources of influence that can be used to promote a healthy lifestyle:
1. personal motivation where you tap into your existing desires and wants
2. personal ability where you learn new skills to promote change
3. social motivation where you turn accomplices into friends that help you make positive changes
4. social ability where you use confederates to enable good choices
5. structural motivation where you directly link short-term rewards and punishments to your new habits
6. structural ability where you change your environment to one more likely to promote the change you want
People who want to change need to seek out this book. It has real value and potential, but everyone must realize something the authors acknowledge, too: Any change comes from within and requires commitment, work, time, and patience. And whether you like it or not, there is no magic formula, and most people who want change — in whatever area of life but especially in personal development (e.g., weight, exercise, diet, or sleep) — will not put forth the commitment, do the necessary work, take the time, or even be patient (they want instant results!).
By Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I have to admit that I checked out Amazon.com before I wrote this review of Change Anything. At this time (08-20-11), there are 43 reviews and when averaged together, they average five stars out of five. This is important because, for me, it means that a number of people are finding this book useful (or that the authors have lots of family members and friends!). Admittedly, some complain that it’s a bit dry, and others complain that there is no real "science" involved, but overall, the reviews are outstanding.
The reason I checked out Amazon.com first is that I am not looking to change anything at the current time: I do not need to lose weight; I am financially fit; I have no addictions, and I am not looking for any change in my relationships. That simply means that I am not certain that the ideas for change are valid; however, when you look at the positive reviews and the number of people who have found the ideas here valuable, useful, or practical, it indicates the authors have effectively hit on the right message, useful and productive suggestions, and a technique that works.
As I have said in reviewing a number of other books — like those on how to communicate effectively — I feel that any book that makes (or has the potential of making) a positive contribution to our well being or a successful life or whatever, should be heralded and revered. Those who need help in various areas should be able to find it, and I love (being a writer myself) supporting the book publishing industry.
Here, then is my assessment of this book. 1) It is extremely well-written. 2) The "Notes" section looks very strong. 3) It has a terrific index. 4) The examples used throughout are useful and engaging. 5) The ideas are practical, straightforward, well-explained, and useful. There is no doubt that this is a "how-to-do-it" book.
Although the authors offer a number of valuable tools for change (saying that willpower alone is not sufficient) — 1. Love what you hate, or come to terms with pleasure and pain. 2. Do what you can or build the necessary skills that can spur change. 3. and 4. Turn accomplices into friends or get other people into the act of change.5. Invert the Economy or use incentives, and, thus, manipulate the benefits of change. 6. Control your space or use the environment to help the change process — it still comes down to whether or not people are willing to make the commitment — even a commitment to purchase this book!
As one reviewer at Amazon.com said, "The whole book is geared towards specific actions you can implement so that you aren't just relying on willpower alone. The methods recommended here are not quick-fix ideas, rather they are each a part of a larger process of taking deliberate steps to begin heading in the direction you really want to go."
I really enjoyed their discussion of the six sources of Influence in our lives. These are the six sources of influence that can be used to promote a healthy lifestyle:
1. personal motivation where you tap into your existing desires and wants
2. personal ability where you learn new skills to promote change
3. social motivation where you turn accomplices into friends that help you make positive changes
4. social ability where you use confederates to enable good choices
5. structural motivation where you directly link short-term rewards and punishments to your new habits
6. structural ability where you change your environment to one more likely to promote the change you want
People who want to change need to seek out this book. It has real value and potential, but everyone must realize something the authors acknowledge, too: Any change comes from within and requires commitment, work, time, and patience. And whether you like it or not, there is no magic formula, and most people who want change — in whatever area of life but especially in personal development (e.g., weight, exercise, diet, or sleep) — will not put forth the commitment, do the necessary work, take the time, or even be patient (they want instant results!).
Friday, March 15, 2013
Edgar E Willis Uploads Two New Videos
by Anthony Weaver
No... at 99 years old, Edgar E. Willis did not upload the videos himself. He's often admitted that he is technology challenged. In fact, I'm amazed throughout Edgar's career as an author and professor, he never learned how to type. Seriously.
The two new videos uploaded to the And Then Some Publishing YouTube Channel are about public speaking, plus, life and longevity.
In the first video Edgar E. Willis, Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan, talks about his career in public speaking. He gives expert advice to help you give the greatest speech of your life!
In the second video he talks about his life, family, career and keys to living a long fulfilling life.
Next week in Tuesday's upcoming And Then Some News, Edgar will have a question for everyone.
Video 1: Public Speaking - Expert Advice from Edgar E. Willis
Video 2: Life and Longevity - Edgar E Willis
No... at 99 years old, Edgar E. Willis did not upload the videos himself. He's often admitted that he is technology challenged. In fact, I'm amazed throughout Edgar's career as an author and professor, he never learned how to type. Seriously.
The two new videos uploaded to the And Then Some Publishing YouTube Channel are about public speaking, plus, life and longevity.
In the first video Edgar E. Willis, Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan, talks about his career in public speaking. He gives expert advice to help you give the greatest speech of your life!
In the second video he talks about his life, family, career and keys to living a long fulfilling life.
Next week in Tuesday's upcoming And Then Some News, Edgar will have a question for everyone.
Video 1: Public Speaking - Expert Advice from Edgar E. Willis
Video 2: Life and Longevity - Edgar E Willis
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
And Then Some News - New Videos
by Anthony Weaver
This Thursday we take a trip to Buenos Aires. An excerpt from the upcoming essay reads, "Our tour guide (Teresa) told us an interesting story that may explain a portion of Buenos Aires' lack of "charm." She said that during the very early days of the city, the founding father (and those in power) emphasized the cattle and the grasslands of the interior—unlike Rio de Janeiro and Montevideo, cities which placed an emphasis on the beaches and built pedestrian walkways and even boulevards that highlight and emphasize the beaches and water."
There's so much more than meets the eye when it comes to Buenos Aires. Learn more in Thursday's Essay and remember, there are an additional 60 travel essays written by Dr. Richard L. Weaver II in his book Exotic Destinations... And Then Some!: Stories of adventures from around the world. It even includes a picture of him on the cover of the book!
New Videos on the way this week!
Since January 2013 I've been shooting videos with Richard L. Weaver II and Edgar E. Willis. I've been slowly releasing them as I finish editing and getting them ready for uploading to YouTube. There are a total of seven new videos and next week's video will be asking you, the viewer, a question. Exciting!
The first video that has been uploaded to ATSPpublishing YouTube channel is an introduction to Dr. Richard L. Weaver II. He talks about how he started in his writing career, his background experiences, and the books he has published. He has also updated his Google+ page so you can get to know Richard "Dick" Weaver better.
The second video is from Richard L. Weaver II YouTube channel and features an interview with Edgar E. Willis about his book, How to be Funny on Purpose. He talks about his love of humor and why he wrote his book.
Video 1: About Author Dr. Richard L. Weaver II
Video 2: How to be Funny on Purpose - Book Interview with Edgar E. Willis
This Thursday we take a trip to Buenos Aires. An excerpt from the upcoming essay reads, "Our tour guide (Teresa) told us an interesting story that may explain a portion of Buenos Aires' lack of "charm." She said that during the very early days of the city, the founding father (and those in power) emphasized the cattle and the grasslands of the interior—unlike Rio de Janeiro and Montevideo, cities which placed an emphasis on the beaches and built pedestrian walkways and even boulevards that highlight and emphasize the beaches and water."
There's so much more than meets the eye when it comes to Buenos Aires. Learn more in Thursday's Essay and remember, there are an additional 60 travel essays written by Dr. Richard L. Weaver II in his book Exotic Destinations... And Then Some!: Stories of adventures from around the world. It even includes a picture of him on the cover of the book!
New Videos on the way this week!
Since January 2013 I've been shooting videos with Richard L. Weaver II and Edgar E. Willis. I've been slowly releasing them as I finish editing and getting them ready for uploading to YouTube. There are a total of seven new videos and next week's video will be asking you, the viewer, a question. Exciting!
The first video that has been uploaded to ATSPpublishing YouTube channel is an introduction to Dr. Richard L. Weaver II. He talks about how he started in his writing career, his background experiences, and the books he has published. He has also updated his Google+ page so you can get to know Richard "Dick" Weaver better.
The second video is from Richard L. Weaver II YouTube channel and features an interview with Edgar E. Willis about his book, How to be Funny on Purpose. He talks about his love of humor and why he wrote his book.
Video 1: About Author Dr. Richard L. Weaver II
Video 2: How to be Funny on Purpose - Book Interview with Edgar E. Willis
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
And Then Some News
by Anthony Weaver
Announcing a price change for three books, How to be Funny on Purpose, And Then Some Book 1, and Public Speaking Rules!
How to be Funny on Purpose:$19.95 NOW $12.95
And Then Some Book 1:$17.95 NOW $11.95
Public Speaking Rules:$17.95 NOW $12.95
We want to reintroduce you to the And Then Some philosophy: Give more, get more, want more from life! In 2006, my Dad and I started our company based on the fundamentals in these books, especially And Then Some Book 1.
The key element to How to be Funny on Purpose is a precise and practical set of instructions for turning the momentary flicker of an idea into a full-fledged and funny joke. This book breaks down why a joke is funny in timing, perception, setup, and delivery. Now just $12.95 or less at Amazon.com.
And Then Some - Book 1 is a collection of essays that lend themselves to the times when you only have a moment to spare. They are quick, positive, encouraging, fun... And Then Some! Now just $11.95 or less at Amazon.com.
Dr. Richard L. Weaver II's guide, Public Speaking Rules: All you need for a GREAT speech! gives you the confidence to give a great speech no matter your skill level. Dr. Weaver packs in the information you need to perform at your best. We have a new Kindle version coming in late Spring 2013! Public Speaking Rules at it's new price... just $12.95 or less at Amazon.com.
Thursday Essay preview: Montevideo, Uruguay: A Walk Straight from the Dock
Montevideo is one of the youngest capitals in Latin America, founded between 1724 and 1730, and it did not become the capital of Uruguay until 1828. It is the Southern-most capital of the Americas. It is often considered to be a playground for Argentineans and Brazilians on their summer holidays. About half of the population of Uruguay live in Montevideo; thus, it thrives as the center of Uruguayan culture, education, business, and tourism.
Announcing a price change for three books, How to be Funny on Purpose, And Then Some Book 1, and Public Speaking Rules!
How to be Funny on Purpose:
And Then Some Book 1:
Public Speaking Rules:
We want to reintroduce you to the And Then Some philosophy: Give more, get more, want more from life! In 2006, my Dad and I started our company based on the fundamentals in these books, especially And Then Some Book 1.
The key element to How to be Funny on Purpose is a precise and practical set of instructions for turning the momentary flicker of an idea into a full-fledged and funny joke. This book breaks down why a joke is funny in timing, perception, setup, and delivery. Now just $12.95 or less at Amazon.com.
And Then Some - Book 1 is a collection of essays that lend themselves to the times when you only have a moment to spare. They are quick, positive, encouraging, fun... And Then Some! Now just $11.95 or less at Amazon.com.
Dr. Richard L. Weaver II's guide, Public Speaking Rules: All you need for a GREAT speech! gives you the confidence to give a great speech no matter your skill level. Dr. Weaver packs in the information you need to perform at your best. We have a new Kindle version coming in late Spring 2013! Public Speaking Rules at it's new price... just $12.95 or less at Amazon.com.
Thursday Essay preview: Montevideo, Uruguay: A Walk Straight from the Dock
Montevideo is one of the youngest capitals in Latin America, founded between 1724 and 1730, and it did not become the capital of Uruguay until 1828. It is the Southern-most capital of the Americas. It is often considered to be a playground for Argentineans and Brazilians on their summer holidays. About half of the population of Uruguay live in Montevideo; thus, it thrives as the center of Uruguayan culture, education, business, and tourism.
Monday, March 4, 2013
As we speak: How to make your point and have it stick
As we speak: How to make your point and have it stick
By Peter Meyers and Shann Nix
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is an good book! The authors have even changed the traditional speech parts from introduction, body, and conclusion to "Ramp," "Road map" (forecasting what is to come), "Three PoDs" (points of discovery), Q&A, and Dessert. Instead of organization and outlining, the authors use the word architecture. I was pleased to see that these were the only major changes in vocabulary. The changes work fine, but, being a traditionalist, I’m not certain they add a great deal to learning how to communicate effectively.
The biggest disappointment I have with this book is the lack of an index. For example, I was looking for information on transitions, but could not find it. I thought it might be covered under the topic "architecture," but once having read about "architecture," early in the book, it was nearly impossible to get back to that section without an index to guide me.
What is especially outstanding is the large number of examples included throughout the book. The book, Public Speaking Rules: All You Need for a Great Speech, for example, offers a straightforward approach to the same topic, and like the book, The Elements of Style (which is a straightforward approach to the use of grammar and language) the book Public Speaking Rules provides the essential nuts and bolts of effective public speaking without the heavy use of examples. These two books (in this paragraph) get to the point directly and effectively. The question comes down to, how much information you need to get you to where you want to be — an effective speaker/communicator?
Incidentally, there are a large number of examples that can only come from an author’s personal experience. Meyers has a wonderful, broad, and useful background. The back flyleaf says he is "An acclaimed actor and theater director . . . currently teaches performance and leadership skills at Stanford University, Esalen Institute, and IMD-International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland." In addition to this, he is the founder of a consulting group.
The information here is easily accessible and well-presented. The authors write well. The blend of examples and advice is smooth. The specific suggestions are on target and useful.
I was intrigued by their "performance preparation pattern," and I think their inclusion of an audio exercise on their downloadable package that is designed to "put you into an ideal performance state" is an admirable addition to the book; however, I am always concerned when delivery is taught in a step-by-step manner (e.g., "1. Posture, 2. Breathe, 3. Face, 4. Movement, and 5. Gesture") I have always believed that the best policy with respect to delivery is twofold: 1) let it be natural — a natural and easy outgrowth of a person’s personality and mannerisms, and 2) let it be motivated by the ideas you are sharing.
Overall, the "Notes" section of the book was virtually useless. There were a large number of secondary sources, but there was no primary research cited of any kind. I wondered, for example, where the idea, "Eighteen minutes is the magic number," came from. That is, "Don’t talk for longer than that!" was the admonition, and the next sentence read, "Research shows that adult learners can stay tuned in to a lecture for no more than eighteen minutes before there’s a significant drop-off in attention" (p. 215). The research may very well make this point, however, that research is never footnoted, cited, or referenced in any way. (I had never heard of it before!)
The "Bibliography" used in this book does not include books used in the development of the book. Many have no use in this regard. No, the books cited in the "Bibliography" are those the authors’ have "found constructive, inspiring, and influential, from a variety of disciplines" (p. 273). I have seldom heard of a bibliography provided solely for these reasons. Usually, it is tied to the development of the ideas in the book itself.
You might be interested to know that the book is divided into three major parts: Content, Delivery, and State. And where would you suppose that writers on the art of effective communication might get most of their ideas on "State"? I could not make a guess, but I read this in the "Notes" section, "We have drawn heavily on the work of Anthony Robbins, the world’s great expert on state and how to control it" (p. 270). I’m sorry, but this comment (for me) diminishes the shine of the authors.
If you want insight into the work of motivational guru Tony Robbins, please read Barbara Ehrenreich’s wonderful and insightful book, Bright-Sided. In Kerry Howley’s review of her book, Howley writes, "In Bright-Sided: How the Relentless Promotion of Positive Thinking Has Undermined America, she [Ehrenreich] accuses positivity-freaks of corrupting the media, infiltrating medical science, perverting religion, and destroying the economy. She believes that life coaches and their ilk discourage critical thinking among credulous Americans."
Ehrenreich, talking specifically of Tony Robbins and others of his ilk (from Kerry Howley’s review, "Life Coaches are the Root of All Evil,") writes, "In turning the United States into a 24-hour pep rally, charges Ehrenreich, these professional cheerleaders have all but drowned out downers like ‘realism’ and ‘rationality.’ Their followers are trained to dismiss bad news rather than assimilate or reflect upon its importance. Motivators counsel an upbeat ignorance." These authors must plead guilty to Ehrenreich’s charge.
Again, this is a good book. Any book designed to offer suggestions to help people become more effective communicators should be given some respect. Having written ten editions of a beginning college textbook, Communicating Effectively (McGraw-Hill, 2012), and currently working on an eleventh, I appreciate the challenge (of helping people become more effective communicators). With the exception of their dependence on Tony Robbins and the promulgation of his techniques, I think the ideas of the authors of this book are substantive and worth consideration. I give it three stars out of five. The insights offered are not revolutionary or particularly new, but they should be helpful.
By Peter Meyers and Shann Nix
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is an good book! The authors have even changed the traditional speech parts from introduction, body, and conclusion to "Ramp," "Road map" (forecasting what is to come), "Three PoDs" (points of discovery), Q&A, and Dessert. Instead of organization and outlining, the authors use the word architecture. I was pleased to see that these were the only major changes in vocabulary. The changes work fine, but, being a traditionalist, I’m not certain they add a great deal to learning how to communicate effectively.
The biggest disappointment I have with this book is the lack of an index. For example, I was looking for information on transitions, but could not find it. I thought it might be covered under the topic "architecture," but once having read about "architecture," early in the book, it was nearly impossible to get back to that section without an index to guide me.
What is especially outstanding is the large number of examples included throughout the book. The book, Public Speaking Rules: All You Need for a Great Speech, for example, offers a straightforward approach to the same topic, and like the book, The Elements of Style (which is a straightforward approach to the use of grammar and language) the book Public Speaking Rules provides the essential nuts and bolts of effective public speaking without the heavy use of examples. These two books (in this paragraph) get to the point directly and effectively. The question comes down to, how much information you need to get you to where you want to be — an effective speaker/communicator?
Incidentally, there are a large number of examples that can only come from an author’s personal experience. Meyers has a wonderful, broad, and useful background. The back flyleaf says he is "An acclaimed actor and theater director . . . currently teaches performance and leadership skills at Stanford University, Esalen Institute, and IMD-International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland." In addition to this, he is the founder of a consulting group.
The information here is easily accessible and well-presented. The authors write well. The blend of examples and advice is smooth. The specific suggestions are on target and useful.
I was intrigued by their "performance preparation pattern," and I think their inclusion of an audio exercise on their downloadable package that is designed to "put you into an ideal performance state" is an admirable addition to the book; however, I am always concerned when delivery is taught in a step-by-step manner (e.g., "1. Posture, 2. Breathe, 3. Face, 4. Movement, and 5. Gesture") I have always believed that the best policy with respect to delivery is twofold: 1) let it be natural — a natural and easy outgrowth of a person’s personality and mannerisms, and 2) let it be motivated by the ideas you are sharing.
Overall, the "Notes" section of the book was virtually useless. There were a large number of secondary sources, but there was no primary research cited of any kind. I wondered, for example, where the idea, "Eighteen minutes is the magic number," came from. That is, "Don’t talk for longer than that!" was the admonition, and the next sentence read, "Research shows that adult learners can stay tuned in to a lecture for no more than eighteen minutes before there’s a significant drop-off in attention" (p. 215). The research may very well make this point, however, that research is never footnoted, cited, or referenced in any way. (I had never heard of it before!)
The "Bibliography" used in this book does not include books used in the development of the book. Many have no use in this regard. No, the books cited in the "Bibliography" are those the authors’ have "found constructive, inspiring, and influential, from a variety of disciplines" (p. 273). I have seldom heard of a bibliography provided solely for these reasons. Usually, it is tied to the development of the ideas in the book itself.
You might be interested to know that the book is divided into three major parts: Content, Delivery, and State. And where would you suppose that writers on the art of effective communication might get most of their ideas on "State"? I could not make a guess, but I read this in the "Notes" section, "We have drawn heavily on the work of Anthony Robbins, the world’s great expert on state and how to control it" (p. 270). I’m sorry, but this comment (for me) diminishes the shine of the authors.
If you want insight into the work of motivational guru Tony Robbins, please read Barbara Ehrenreich’s wonderful and insightful book, Bright-Sided. In Kerry Howley’s review of her book
Ehrenreich, talking specifically of Tony Robbins and others of his ilk (from Kerry Howley’s review, "Life Coaches are the Root of All Evil,") writes, "In turning the United States into a 24-hour pep rally, charges Ehrenreich, these professional cheerleaders have all but drowned out downers like ‘realism’ and ‘rationality.’ Their followers are trained to dismiss bad news rather than assimilate or reflect upon its importance. Motivators counsel an upbeat ignorance." These authors must plead guilty to Ehrenreich’s charge.
Again, this is a good book. Any book designed to offer suggestions to help people become more effective communicators should be given some respect. Having written ten editions of a beginning college textbook, Communicating Effectively (McGraw-Hill, 2012), and currently working on an eleventh, I appreciate the challenge (of helping people become more effective communicators). With the exception of their dependence on Tony Robbins and the promulgation of his techniques, I think the ideas of the authors of this book are substantive and worth consideration. I give it three stars out of five. The insights offered are not revolutionary or particularly new, but they should be helpful.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
And Then Some News
by Anthony Weaver
The second Thursday essay finishes Dr. Richard L. Weaver II's exotic destination on a private tour in Rio de Janerio. Exotic Destinations... And Then Some!: Stories of adventures from around the world traces many of the traveling experiences of Richard L. Weaver II. Enjoy reading more about his travels... And Then Some!
An excerpt of Thursday's essay, Rio de Janeiro II: A Private Tour Made All the Difference:
Richard (Dick) will continue to point out locations he encountered on his tour in this second essay on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Thursday.
And Then Some Publishing on YouTube
I've uploaded a new video to the And Then Some Publishing YouTube channel. The new video is called, How to Write - Expert Opinion by Dr. Edgar E. Willis. At 99 years-old he describes his distinguished career in writing books and textbooks, articles, and speeches. Plus, as an added benefit Dr. Willis talks about how he wrote and plenty of advice for new writers.
The second Thursday essay finishes Dr. Richard L. Weaver II's exotic destination on a private tour in Rio de Janerio. Exotic Destinations... And Then Some!: Stories of adventures from around the world traces many of the traveling experiences of Richard L. Weaver II. Enjoy reading more about his travels... And Then Some!
An excerpt of Thursday's essay, Rio de Janeiro II: A Private Tour Made All the Difference:
| We stopped at a Chinese pagoda for one more overview of Rio on our way out of the national park. Carla and I exchanged business cards, and we departed at the Sheraton Hotel at 2:35 p.m. To have well-educated, intelligent, knowledgeable tour guides who speak excellent English, and who are passionate about their city or country, make the choice of taking a private tour a no-brainer. |
Richard (Dick) will continue to point out locations he encountered on his tour in this second essay on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Thursday.
And Then Some Publishing on YouTube
I've uploaded a new video to the And Then Some Publishing YouTube channel. The new video is called, How to Write - Expert Opinion by Dr. Edgar E. Willis. At 99 years-old he describes his distinguished career in writing books and textbooks, articles, and speeches. Plus, as an added benefit Dr. Willis talks about how he wrote and plenty of advice for new writers.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
And Then Some News
by Anthony Weaver
I would be remiss if I did not mention the book, Exotic Destinations... And Then Some!: Stories of adventures from around the world which traces many of the traveling experiences of Richard L. Weaver II. If you enjoy traveling or simply reading about the travels of others, you will love this book.
The first paragraph of Thursday's essay, Rio de Janeiro: A Private Tour Made All the Difference covers Dr. Weaver's traveling experiences:
Richard (Dick) will continue to point out locations he encountered on his tour in the second essay on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil next week. There was so much to see and learn it’s impossible to capture it all in a single essay.
And Then Some Publishing on YouTube
I will be transferring our pertinent videos from my old YouTube channel to our new ATSPpublishing channel on YouTube. And more exciting... our first uploaded video is all new!
99 year old Edgar E. Willis discusses his new mystery, Moss on the Ivory Tower. This book pulls aside the curtains that normally shield the halls of academe and reveals a world occupied by fascinating and vividly portrayed characters who are impelled by the same passions, aspirations, and ideals that motivate all of humankind.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the book, Exotic Destinations... And Then Some!: Stories of adventures from around the world which traces many of the traveling experiences of Richard L. Weaver II. If you enjoy traveling or simply reading about the travels of others, you will love this book.
The first paragraph of Thursday's essay, Rio de Janeiro: A Private Tour Made All the Difference covers Dr. Weaver's traveling experiences:
| As most places are, it was difficult to envision Rio at all before visiting, and had we not taken a private tour on our second day there, we certainly would not come to "know" the city in the way we did. Sure, you see photos and hear stories, but the picture remains incomplete (seriously flawed!). |
Richard (Dick) will continue to point out locations he encountered on his tour in the second essay on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil next week. There was so much to see and learn it’s impossible to capture it all in a single essay.
And Then Some Publishing on YouTube
I will be transferring our pertinent videos from my old YouTube channel to our new ATSPpublishing channel on YouTube. And more exciting... our first uploaded video is all new!
99 year old Edgar E. Willis discusses his new mystery, Moss on the Ivory Tower. This book pulls aside the curtains that normally shield the halls of academe and reveals a world occupied by fascinating and vividly portrayed characters who are impelled by the same passions, aspirations, and ideals that motivate all of humankind.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
And Then Some News
by Richard L. Weaver II
- Handed off to Anthony Weaver
And Then Some Publishing, LLC has new changes in store. I'm making many updates to our whole system including, blogs, websites, social media, books, And Then Some!
When taking on a project of this magnitude you learn quickly this is much more than just writing. I don't code websites, create graphics, code eBooks, and on and on the list continues. I'm a writer.
I'm lucky because I have two sons who can help me fill in the blanks where I'm deficient. Anthony helped me start this company and created graphics, websites, paintings, lots of the coding... And Then Some! After some time off, he has rejoined And Then Some Publishing and has numerous changes in store for us.
Anthony... what are we changing and updating?
(Handed off to Anthony Weaver)
Thank you Dad and I can't tell you how great it is to be back with And Then Some Publishing. I'm very excited... more than very excited, I'm ecstatic!
Dad and I started a solid foundation and now we get to dive in making changes helping move the company forward. For you, our fans, we are working to streamline our social media, websites, books, etc. to make it easier to find the information you want.
Along the way I will be asking for advice to see what you think. Whether it's social media, upcoming eBooks, websites, etc. I want to make sure I don't make things more confusing.
I have already started making improvements and changes.
- Life... And Then Some will be the only blog.
- The daily posts have always been combined here and will continue
- Currently there is a separate blog for each day of the week. This will be phased out.
- The links for the other blogs are being removed from websites and social media. You can see this update in the top navigation of this blog.
- New YouTube Channel: ATSPpublishing
- Previously released And Then Some Publishing videos through the ANTworkstudio YouTube channel are being transferred to the new channel.
- Facebook page updates: And Then Some Publishing
- Adding videos, pictures and updating the page
Dad and I have been working on our first Kindle eBook making minor updates and changes to Public Speaking Rules! We've made substantial progress and even though the eBook is not expected until late Spring 2013 there's a chance it will land early.
This is not even close to a complete list of changes and updates. You'll have to come back next week and check the news!
This week's Thursday essay by Dr. Weaver is all about Relationship Shockers.
What are the variables that are likely to affect relationship compatibility and, thus, longevity? The factors are communication patterns, problem-solving tendencies, sexual compatibility, as well as environmental factors such as job loss, financial strain, infertility, and illness.
Find his book Relationship Rules at Amazon:
Monday, February 4, 2013
Make your own rules: A renegade guide to unconventional success
Make your own rules: A renegade guide to unconventional success
By Wayne Rogers with Josh Young
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Having written a number of "rules" books myself, this one immediately caught my attention and intrigued me; however, I was skeptical from the outset because of the words "renegade," and "unconventional" in the title and then the author, Wayne Rogers, Trapper John on the TV series M*A*S*H, made me suspicious as well. What was there not to be skeptical about?
Then you read the front flyleaf about Rogers’ background: "since graduating from Princeton University, has applied his own iconoclastic vision to a wide range of business including a vinyard, a famous bridal boutique, a chain of convenience stores, the worlds of banking and real estate, a restaurant, a film distribution company, and more" (front flyleaf), and your interest is likely to be piqued somewhat.
The writing was comfortable, easy, and accessible. The examples were numerous and well incorporated, and although there were no footnotes, bibliography, or references, the book is based on Rogers’ personal experience—there is a lot of that—his analogies combining the world of business with his own experiences were apt, interesting, and in many cases, simply delightful.
Admittedly, his suggestions, experiences, and advice will not be appropriate for everyone and certainly won’t apply to everyone, but I found his ideas productive, interesting, and useful. Much of it, of course, is common sense, being in the right place at the right time, luck, fortunate connectivity, and basic abilities—but that’s all right since a successful life depends on these factors anyway. And what this book does is provide support and encouragement; nothing wrong with that!
If you like basic business books, straightforward personal advice based on a wide variety of business ventures, and a good (interesting) read, this is a good choice. It is by no means a great choice, but it serves its purpose well.
By Wayne Rogers with Josh Young
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Having written a number of "rules" books myself, this one immediately caught my attention and intrigued me; however, I was skeptical from the outset because of the words "renegade," and "unconventional" in the title and then the author, Wayne Rogers, Trapper John on the TV series M*A*S*H, made me suspicious as well. What was there not to be skeptical about?
Then you read the front flyleaf about Rogers’ background: "since graduating from Princeton University, has applied his own iconoclastic vision to a wide range of business including a vinyard, a famous bridal boutique, a chain of convenience stores, the worlds of banking and real estate, a restaurant, a film distribution company, and more" (front flyleaf), and your interest is likely to be piqued somewhat.
The writing was comfortable, easy, and accessible. The examples were numerous and well incorporated, and although there were no footnotes, bibliography, or references, the book is based on Rogers’ personal experience—there is a lot of that—his analogies combining the world of business with his own experiences were apt, interesting, and in many cases, simply delightful.
Admittedly, his suggestions, experiences, and advice will not be appropriate for everyone and certainly won’t apply to everyone, but I found his ideas productive, interesting, and useful. Much of it, of course, is common sense, being in the right place at the right time, luck, fortunate connectivity, and basic abilities—but that’s all right since a successful life depends on these factors anyway. And what this book does is provide support and encouragement; nothing wrong with that!
If you like basic business books, straightforward personal advice based on a wide variety of business ventures, and a good (interesting) read, this is a good choice. It is by no means a great choice, but it serves its purpose well.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Chicken soup for the soul: Think positive (101 inspirational stories about counting your blessingsand having a positive attitude)
Chicken soup for the soul: Think positive (101 inspirational stories about counting your blessingsand having a positive attitude)
By Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hanson, and Amy Newmark
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I have been delighted with many of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books, but not in the way many of those reading this review would suppose or imagine. My first goal in selecting this book was to find potential topics, themes, or ideas to write about on my own positive-oriented blog Life... And Then Some!
For the short, inspirational stories, of course, this is not unlike most of the previous books of this genre (although a number of reviewers at Amazon.com suggest this selection is not as strong as others).
There was an unexpected byproduct here, however, similar to the one I experienced in reading my father-in-law’s (Edgar E. Willis) book, How to be Funny on Purpose: Creating and Consuming Humor. What I discovered from reading the Willis book, because of its clear, accurate, and detailed explanation of how to create humor, I found myself engaged actively in the process of writing jokes. I had never written jokes previously nor did I think myself capable. What fun I had constructing them!
Well, in reading about "thinking positive," I went through a number of epiphanies. I couldn’t help myself. I thought, for example, about what a positive and pleasant life I have led, and why it has happened.
The life I have led, both by design and positive thinking, fortunate (and lucky) decisions I made along the way, and certainly circumstances that have provided opportunities I never dreamed could happen, has been challenging, exciting, rewarding, and incredibly satisfying. Many of the results of positive thinking occur because of good choices along the way!
Here is my conclusion regarding positive thinking. All of life depends on making good choices. So, if I were to give advice to anyone (as I have done to over 80,000 students during my teaching career), it would be this: Prepare yourself in such a way that you (not someone else) is in control over the decisions of your life.
Now, I fully realize this is easier said than done and, too, that no matter how much we prepare, we cannot be in total control over all the decisions of our lives. That is true, however, that should not be discouraging. The point is to prepare as widely, broadly, and thoroughly as possible—stretch ourselves in all possible directions—in order to give ourselves the edge, the opportunity, or the advantage in any decisions that affect (or impinge on) our lives. We do not (cannot) know what curve balls life will throw at us, but that does not mean we cannot prepare ourselves to meet them.
When you apply this philosophy to your life, you are always looking for ways to improve, expand, or extend. You never stop learning or, even more important, looking for ways to increase your knowledge and potential.
This is the philosophy, I believe, that best undergirds, reinforces, buttresses, supports, and strengthens positive thinking, or it is the most likely philosophy to bring positive results from positive thinking. Positive thinking alone is valuable, but it takes more than just positive thinking to bring concrete results.
I found this Chicken Soup for the Soul book useful and valuable in this regard. I realize that teachers seldom know the impact—long-range results—of their instruction, but if I instilled this single idea in any of my 80,000 students I taught over more than 30 years in the classroom and lecture hall, I would consider my work successful. It is more than just a positive message, it is a charge, command, or instruction that, when internalized and practiced, will send you on a mission to take responsibility for your life.
By Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hanson, and Amy Newmark
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I have been delighted with many of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books, but not in the way many of those reading this review would suppose or imagine. My first goal in selecting this book was to find potential topics, themes, or ideas to write about on my own positive-oriented blog Life... And Then Some!
For the short, inspirational stories, of course, this is not unlike most of the previous books of this genre (although a number of reviewers at Amazon.com suggest this selection is not as strong as others).
There was an unexpected byproduct here, however, similar to the one I experienced in reading my father-in-law’s (Edgar E. Willis) book, How to be Funny on Purpose: Creating and Consuming Humor. What I discovered from reading the Willis book, because of its clear, accurate, and detailed explanation of how to create humor, I found myself engaged actively in the process of writing jokes. I had never written jokes previously nor did I think myself capable. What fun I had constructing them!
Well, in reading about "thinking positive," I went through a number of epiphanies. I couldn’t help myself. I thought, for example, about what a positive and pleasant life I have led, and why it has happened.
The life I have led, both by design and positive thinking, fortunate (and lucky) decisions I made along the way, and certainly circumstances that have provided opportunities I never dreamed could happen, has been challenging, exciting, rewarding, and incredibly satisfying. Many of the results of positive thinking occur because of good choices along the way!
Here is my conclusion regarding positive thinking. All of life depends on making good choices. So, if I were to give advice to anyone (as I have done to over 80,000 students during my teaching career), it would be this: Prepare yourself in such a way that you (not someone else) is in control over the decisions of your life.
Now, I fully realize this is easier said than done and, too, that no matter how much we prepare, we cannot be in total control over all the decisions of our lives. That is true, however, that should not be discouraging. The point is to prepare as widely, broadly, and thoroughly as possible—stretch ourselves in all possible directions—in order to give ourselves the edge, the opportunity, or the advantage in any decisions that affect (or impinge on) our lives. We do not (cannot) know what curve balls life will throw at us, but that does not mean we cannot prepare ourselves to meet them.
When you apply this philosophy to your life, you are always looking for ways to improve, expand, or extend. You never stop learning or, even more important, looking for ways to increase your knowledge and potential.
This is the philosophy, I believe, that best undergirds, reinforces, buttresses, supports, and strengthens positive thinking, or it is the most likely philosophy to bring positive results from positive thinking. Positive thinking alone is valuable, but it takes more than just positive thinking to bring concrete results.
I found this Chicken Soup for the Soul book useful and valuable in this regard. I realize that teachers seldom know the impact—long-range results—of their instruction, but if I instilled this single idea in any of my 80,000 students I taught over more than 30 years in the classroom and lecture hall, I would consider my work successful. It is more than just a positive message, it is a charge, command, or instruction that, when internalized and practiced, will send you on a mission to take responsibility for your life.
Monday, January 21, 2013
The unbelievers: The evolution of modern atheism
The unbelievers: The evolution of modern atheism
By S. T. Joshi
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I picked up this book because it looked like a good read. First, it looked as though Joshi had an excellent background as a writer, scholar, and editor, and at least five previously published books to his credit. Second, his 10 pages of notes looked solid, and I knew his information was well researched. His 30 years of knowledge and background in researching this topic is remarkable and impressive.
This is truly a competent history book that is well-written. It is a clear, easy-to-read, thorough documentary. The book covers the works of Thomas Henry Husley, Leslie Stephen, John Stuart Mill, Friedrich Nietzsche, Mark Twain, Clarence Darrow, H. L. Mencken, H. P. Lovecraft, Bertrand Russell, Madalyn Murray O’Hair, Gore Vidal, Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and Christopher Hitchens. I am not a reader of any of these writers, although I have to admit that I read and enjoyed Hitchen’s book, God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything (2007).
In the epilogue, I agreed entirely with his personal note: "I will frankly confess that many of the central issues pertaining to religion—the existence of God, the existence of the soul and its survival after death, the existence of heaven and hell, the dependence of morality upon religion—have ceased to interest me because they have, to my mind, been all but settled in favor of atheism" (p. 247). Joshi adds in the next paragraph, " . . . after more than thirty years of investigation of these questions, I have not found a single argument offered by the religions as even remotely compelling or convincing. Every one of them has been demolished by far superior thinkers than I, and I do not pretend to hold out hope that the pious can somehow come up with better arguments than they have" (p. 247).
I have found, in my own life, a similar discovery to the one found by Joshi: It is unlikely any book or any set of evidence of any kind, " . . . will convert, any significant number of the populace who are devout, or even those who are fencesitters;; such individuals tend not to read books that might threaten the stability of their belief structure, to which they have become psychologically dependent" (p. 247).
I believe the author’s intent writing this book is well-supported and well-represented throughout: "I have written this book in the hope that it might shed some light on the development of atheist thought over the past century and a half or so" (p. 16). I especially enjoyed Joshi’s reasoning regarding which writers to include in this book and which to exclude. (p. 16)
For those who are religious and are reading this review, please not eht author’s comment on page 14: ". . . for perhaps the first time in human istory, it can plausibly be said that civilized societies are essentially nonreligious" (p. 14). "Intellectually, . . . at least in the West, the battle is, in my mind, over. Atheism has won. The intellectual classes are, if not explicitly atheistic, certainly nonreligious and in many cases anti religious" (p. 14).
". . . It does take a certain amount of knowledge—knowledge of science, knowledge of history, knowledge of language and literature, knowledge of fundamental philosophical conceptions—to grasp the intellectual issues and stake in the battle between religion and irreligion, and once those issues are grasped, the majority will come, regretfully or joyously, to the realization that religion simply has no credibility. It is an emperor without clothes and has been without clothese for the better part of two centuries" (p. 15).
If for no other reason, this statement alone offers a strong endorsement of this book and, too, reason enough to read it cover-to-cover. Five stars out of five!
By S. T. Joshi
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I picked up this book because it looked like a good read. First, it looked as though Joshi had an excellent background as a writer, scholar, and editor, and at least five previously published books to his credit. Second, his 10 pages of notes looked solid, and I knew his information was well researched. His 30 years of knowledge and background in researching this topic is remarkable and impressive.
This is truly a competent history book that is well-written. It is a clear, easy-to-read, thorough documentary. The book covers the works of Thomas Henry Husley, Leslie Stephen, John Stuart Mill, Friedrich Nietzsche, Mark Twain, Clarence Darrow, H. L. Mencken, H. P. Lovecraft, Bertrand Russell, Madalyn Murray O’Hair, Gore Vidal, Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and Christopher Hitchens. I am not a reader of any of these writers, although I have to admit that I read and enjoyed Hitchen’s book, God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything (2007).
In the epilogue, I agreed entirely with his personal note: "I will frankly confess that many of the central issues pertaining to religion—the existence of God, the existence of the soul and its survival after death, the existence of heaven and hell, the dependence of morality upon religion—have ceased to interest me because they have, to my mind, been all but settled in favor of atheism" (p. 247). Joshi adds in the next paragraph, " . . . after more than thirty years of investigation of these questions, I have not found a single argument offered by the religions as even remotely compelling or convincing. Every one of them has been demolished by far superior thinkers than I, and I do not pretend to hold out hope that the pious can somehow come up with better arguments than they have" (p. 247).
I have found, in my own life, a similar discovery to the one found by Joshi: It is unlikely any book or any set of evidence of any kind, " . . . will convert, any significant number of the populace who are devout, or even those who are fencesitters;; such individuals tend not to read books that might threaten the stability of their belief structure, to which they have become psychologically dependent" (p. 247).
I believe the author’s intent writing this book is well-supported and well-represented throughout: "I have written this book in the hope that it might shed some light on the development of atheist thought over the past century and a half or so" (p. 16). I especially enjoyed Joshi’s reasoning regarding which writers to include in this book and which to exclude. (p. 16)
For those who are religious and are reading this review, please not eht author’s comment on page 14: ". . . for perhaps the first time in human istory, it can plausibly be said that civilized societies are essentially nonreligious" (p. 14). "Intellectually, . . . at least in the West, the battle is, in my mind, over. Atheism has won. The intellectual classes are, if not explicitly atheistic, certainly nonreligious and in many cases anti religious" (p. 14).
". . . It does take a certain amount of knowledge—knowledge of science, knowledge of history, knowledge of language and literature, knowledge of fundamental philosophical conceptions—to grasp the intellectual issues and stake in the battle between religion and irreligion, and once those issues are grasped, the majority will come, regretfully or joyously, to the realization that religion simply has no credibility. It is an emperor without clothes and has been without clothese for the better part of two centuries" (p. 15).
If for no other reason, this statement alone offers a strong endorsement of this book and, too, reason enough to read it cover-to-cover. Five stars out of five!
Monday, January 14, 2013
Tangled Webs: How false statements are undermining America: From Martha Stewart to Bernie Madoff
Tangled Webs: How false statements are undermining America: From Martha Stewart to Bernie Madoff
By James B. Stewart
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II
If you like crime novels, an excellent reading experience, or you are just looking for entertainment, this would be an excellent book to choose. Stewart is a great writer, and the detail he provides in each of the cases he discusses (Martha Stewart, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, Barry Lamar Bonds, and Bernard L. Madoff), gives you a tremendous sense of presence throughout this book.
This is an engaging, captivating, and totally encompassing experience. One reviewer at Amazon.com characterized the book as: "suspenseful, ensnaring, and powerfully emotional." I agree. Despite what you may have read about each of these cases previously, and despite what you may think about each of these individuals, Stewart does a superb job of explaining why these four people are not innocent victims nor victims of anything but their own behavior.
Incidentally, there are eight pages of small-print sources the author used, and it is clear that his findings and conclusions are exhaustively investigated and researched (through the use of notes from investigations, court proceedings, and personal interviews). Of course, he is a journalist and a lawyer, so you would expect a high degree of credibility, and it is demonstrated throughout the book.
I recommend this book highly—without reservation or qualification. Lying in our society is rampant today, and it doesn’t matter whether it emanates from high-profile people or from citizens in general, it has the potential of undermining the fabric of our society.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Thursday Essay Preview -"Lucky Sevens" and Relationships
Thursday's Essay Preview
Thousands of couples got married on July 7, 2007, because they believed that date would result in wedded bliss—“lucky sevens” they thought. But, what effect does luck have on relationships?
For this essay I depend on the research of Professor Richard Wiseman of the University of Hertfordshire who studied “luck” for more than ten years. I have avoided using quotation marks, however, I depend on his article, “The loser’s guide to getting lucky” (sponsored on the Web by BBC News) for the information in this essay.
Thursday's Essay Excerpt
So, for those who chose to marry on July 7, 2007, because it had the potential of bringing them triple the amount of luck for wedded bliss, I leave them the following suggestions. Let your luck motivate you to pay attention and plan carefully. First, pay attention to everything around you so you can take advantage of all opportunities to make life better for your relationship and your relationship partner. Second, plan not just for today but for years ahead. Plan to make time for yourself, for your partner, and to enhance your relationship. Save money every week to assure financial security. Because there is always an element of chance in life, you need to capitalize on that chance to make life more rewarding, challenging, and exciting. If luck is truly the confluence of preparation and opportunity, then it is easy not just to understand but to support what Thomas Jefferson said: “I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have it.”
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
New SMOERs Video and Women are Superior Essay Preview
And Then Some Publishing News
We've been talking about the SMOERs book and now the video interview is here! Watch the video and find the book at SMOERs.com.
Author Richard L. Weaver II talks about his book of quotations, "SMOERs: Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement, Rules". Discover this tasty treat of quotations based from his delicious book. From the famous, the infamous, and quotes you have never heard before. Listen as Dr. Weaver shares quotes from the book and answers questions about the inspiration for his books, the setup, plus the reasoning behind the concept. Think of the delicious S'Mores... just spelled funny: S M O E R s
Watch the video and find the book at SMOERs.com.
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview:
Thursday’s essay is called, "Women have superior leadership traits." Although I cannot make the complete case that Dee Dee Myers makes in her book, Why women should rule the world (HarperCollins, 2008), and although her conclusion resides in the title of her book, in this essay I am interested in the research that supports her conclusion.
Women have superior leadership traits
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
We've been talking about the SMOERs book and now the video interview is here! Watch the video and find the book at SMOERs.com.
Author Richard L. Weaver II talks about his book of quotations, "SMOERs: Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement, Rules". Discover this tasty treat of quotations based from his delicious book. From the famous, the infamous, and quotes you have never heard before. Listen as Dr. Weaver shares quotes from the book and answers questions about the inspiration for his books, the setup, plus the reasoning behind the concept. Think of the delicious S'Mores... just spelled funny: S M O E R s
Watch the video and find the book at SMOERs.com.
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview:
Thursday’s essay is called, "Women have superior leadership traits." Although I cannot make the complete case that Dee Dee Myers makes in her book, Why women should rule the world (HarperCollins, 2008), and although her conclusion resides in the title of her book, in this essay I am interested in the research that supports her conclusion.
Women have superior leadership traits
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Whether liked or not, stereotypical males are “aggressive, ambitious, assertive, forceful, [and] self-confident” whereas stereotypical females are “helpful, kind, friendly, sympathetic, and affectionate” (p. 149). Perhaps the key now is to redefine leadership and redefine power. In the information age in which we are living, fortunately, that is already happening.
And Then Some Works!
And Then Some Works!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
New Facebook Pages and Essay Preview - How to reach students in today's technology-driven world
And Then Some Publishing News
Have you seen our new Facebook pages? We've added a page for And Then Some Publishing, Edgar E. Willis' World War II memoir, Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform and How to Be Funny on Purpose, plus Lynne Hall's Special Delivery baby memories books.
Facebook Page: And Then Some Publishing
Website: AndThenSomePublishing.com
The library of And Then Some Publishing books, videos, and blogs.
Facebook Page: Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform: A Memoir of World War II
Facebook Page: How to be Funny on Purpose
Website: EdgarEWillis.com
Books by Edgar E Willis, videos series and interview,
It's how to be funny and not for dummies including the video series "How to be Funny on Purpose." It's World War II in an unvarnished approach and shockingly truthful account with a video interview of Edgar E. Willis at 96 years old!
Facebook Page: Special Delivery: A Baby Memory Scrapbook for Boys or Girls
Website: BabyMemoriesBooks.com
Baby memories books that are a keepsake for a lifetime for you or as a gift. Theme based illustrations and text so you can add as much or as little as you want. Add comments, pictures, and special memories. Videos, Table of Contents, and page examples.
Visit And Then Some Publishing's Facebook pages and don't forget to "Like" us!
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview:
Thursday’s essay is called, "How to reach students in today’s technology-driven world." The point of this essay isn’t really what these two gentlemen [playing Lewis & Clark] said during their talk, it’s about what they did to make history come alive for their listeners. In a Time magazine article entitled “History Goes Hollywood” (September 18, 2006, pp. 64-66), Nathan Thornburgh points out that schools are teaching less history, “so kids have less of an idea about what happened ...or why it matters (p. 64).”
How to reach students in today's technology-driven world
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Teachers can’t dress up in costumes every day and use a wide array of props to make their points. Daily lessons do not need to be dumbed down and the intellectually challenging assignments eliminated and replaced by vapid video presentations—less in-depth education and more seduction. And teacher-education programs don’t need to begin offering circus training, costume designing, acting, and text messaging courses. This is obvious. But what is the answer? How do educators make certain they are reaching today’s students and making the kind of impression that makes learning—knowledge acquisition—enjoyable enough to inspire a lifetime of continued interest in further learning?
And Then Some Works!
Have you seen our new Facebook pages? We've added a page for And Then Some Publishing, Edgar E. Willis' World War II memoir, Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform and How to Be Funny on Purpose, plus Lynne Hall's Special Delivery baby memories books.
Facebook Page: And Then Some Publishing
Website: AndThenSomePublishing.com
The library of And Then Some Publishing books, videos, and blogs.
Facebook Page: Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform: A Memoir of World War II
Facebook Page: How to be Funny on Purpose
Website: EdgarEWillis.com
Books by Edgar E Willis, videos series and interview,
It's how to be funny and not for dummies including the video series "How to be Funny on Purpose." It's World War II in an unvarnished approach and shockingly truthful account with a video interview of Edgar E. Willis at 96 years old!
Facebook Page: Special Delivery: A Baby Memory Scrapbook for Boys or Girls
Website: BabyMemoriesBooks.com
Baby memories books that are a keepsake for a lifetime for you or as a gift. Theme based illustrations and text so you can add as much or as little as you want. Add comments, pictures, and special memories. Videos, Table of Contents, and page examples.
Visit And Then Some Publishing's Facebook pages and don't forget to "Like" us!
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview:
Thursday’s essay is called, "How to reach students in today’s technology-driven world." The point of this essay isn’t really what these two gentlemen [playing Lewis & Clark] said during their talk, it’s about what they did to make history come alive for their listeners. In a Time magazine article entitled “History Goes Hollywood” (September 18, 2006, pp. 64-66), Nathan Thornburgh points out that schools are teaching less history, “so kids have less of an idea about what happened ...or why it matters (p. 64).”
How to reach students in today's technology-driven world
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Teachers can’t dress up in costumes every day and use a wide array of props to make their points. Daily lessons do not need to be dumbed down and the intellectually challenging assignments eliminated and replaced by vapid video presentations—less in-depth education and more seduction. And teacher-education programs don’t need to begin offering circus training, costume designing, acting, and text messaging courses. This is obvious. But what is the answer? How do educators make certain they are reaching today’s students and making the kind of impression that makes learning—knowledge acquisition—enjoyable enough to inspire a lifetime of continued interest in further learning?
And Then Some Works!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Final Part of Edgar E. Willis World War II Memoir and Following the Rules Preview
And Then Some Publishing News
-----
It might be the final part of the Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform interview with Edgar E. Willis, however there's more. What? There's more?
We have more video's from Edgar coming soon and he is about to turn 97.... YES, 97! The upcoming video series comes from the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Edgar presents a combination of a lecture and a question and answer session all about William Shakespeare. If you love Shakespeare or have to study him, then you are in for a treat!
Part 4, is the conclusion of Anthony Weaver's interview with author Edgar E. Willis. At 96, Anthony's grandfather, retired Emeritus Professor of Communication at the University of Michigan, penned his memoir Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform. This book is Edgar's account of the time before and after he served on the USS Alaska during World War II. In his decommission Edgar faced some big decisions that would choose the path for his life. With an education, he had career choices, a wife and children, what was to happen next?... And what does he hope readers will take away from his World War II memoir?
Click here if you can't see Part 4 of Edgar's interview.
Usually, we provide links to all of the videos in the Civilian interview series here. Instead, this week we want you to go to Edgar's website: EdgarEWillis.com. As soon as this post is published And Then Some Publishing is updating the website for better access to content and where you will be able to see all his videos in one place. Check the progress of our changes EdgarEWillis.com.
-----
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview:
Thursday’s essay is called, “Following the rules." After an unabashingly, unsubtle attempt to sell my rules-based books, I talk about a column in the New York Times by Jane E. Brody entitled, “Rules Worth Following, for Everyone’s Sake.” In this column, Brody reviews Michael Pollan's book called Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual (137 pages, $11 retail, $5.50 at Amazon). I mention some of Pollan's rules and comments by other reviewers of his book. In the excerpt from the essay located below, I share some insights about those who may not appreciate Pollan's book; thus, you can determine---right here and now!---whether or not my essay is worth reading.
Following the Rules
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
There are three types of people who will not appreciate Pollan’s book. First, those who have read his previous books will find this one redundant. More than that, it is simply a distillation of and recycled verbatim from his previous book, In Defense of Food, referred to above. Second, if you are already into food and nutrition, you will find much of what Pollan says, common sense—maybe even, elementary. The third type of person who can skip this book and his previous one are those who simply adopt Pollan’s approach, which he summarized in just seven words: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” Obesity solved! Diet-related ailments eliminated!
-----
And Then Some Works!
-----
It might be the final part of the Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform interview with Edgar E. Willis, however there's more. What? There's more?
We have more video's from Edgar coming soon and he is about to turn 97.... YES, 97! The upcoming video series comes from the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Edgar presents a combination of a lecture and a question and answer session all about William Shakespeare. If you love Shakespeare or have to study him, then you are in for a treat!
Part 4, is the conclusion of Anthony Weaver's interview with author Edgar E. Willis. At 96, Anthony's grandfather, retired Emeritus Professor of Communication at the University of Michigan, penned his memoir Civilian in an Ill-fitting Uniform. This book is Edgar's account of the time before and after he served on the USS Alaska during World War II. In his decommission Edgar faced some big decisions that would choose the path for his life. With an education, he had career choices, a wife and children, what was to happen next?... And what does he hope readers will take away from his World War II memoir?
Click here if you can't see Part 4 of Edgar's interview.
Usually, we provide links to all of the videos in the Civilian interview series here. Instead, this week we want you to go to Edgar's website: EdgarEWillis.com. As soon as this post is published And Then Some Publishing is updating the website for better access to content and where you will be able to see all his videos in one place. Check the progress of our changes EdgarEWillis.com.
-----
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview:
Thursday’s essay is called, “Following the rules." After an unabashingly, unsubtle attempt to sell my rules-based books, I talk about a column in the New York Times by Jane E. Brody entitled, “Rules Worth Following, for Everyone’s Sake.” In this column, Brody reviews Michael Pollan's book called Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual (137 pages, $11 retail, $5.50 at Amazon). I mention some of Pollan's rules and comments by other reviewers of his book. In the excerpt from the essay located below, I share some insights about those who may not appreciate Pollan's book; thus, you can determine---right here and now!---whether or not my essay is worth reading.
Following the Rules
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
There are three types of people who will not appreciate Pollan’s book. First, those who have read his previous books will find this one redundant. More than that, it is simply a distillation of and recycled verbatim from his previous book, In Defense of Food, referred to above. Second, if you are already into food and nutrition, you will find much of what Pollan says, common sense—maybe even, elementary. The third type of person who can skip this book and his previous one are those who simply adopt Pollan’s approach, which he summarized in just seven words: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” Obesity solved! Diet-related ailments eliminated!
-----
And Then Some Works!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Cyber Monday Sale!
It's our first annual Cyber-Monday Sale! We have great items for your baby like plush reversible baby carrier cover and an all-in-one baby changing station. Want a great deal on a fleece blanket? How about Frosty the Snowman and Santa fleece blankets, and one item so cheap we can't tell you what it is! See for yourself at ProductsThatPamper.com - A handmade paradise of products that pamper
Interested in public speaking, self-improvement... and then some? We have you covered. This week Dr. Weaver will be adding posts to our "Words of Wisdom" section. Every two weeks a new post from great thinkers of many generations. Get ready for inspiration and motivation. Check out three books by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
You Rules - Caution contents leads to a better life
YouRules.com
Get the rules of self-improvement! "Look Inside" at Amazon.com
You Rules! answers the questions:
1. How do you establish the characteristics for success?
2. What are the essentials for a healthy lifestyle?
3. What methods can you use to get where you want to go?
4. How can you best exercise your creativity?
5. What can you do to maintain your program of self-improvement?
6. How do you look to a positive future?
With the answers to these questions, the guidelines offered throughout this book, your commitment and self discipline... you can obtain anything you desire in life.
Full chapters now available: (click link below)
Table of contents
Chapter 21: Pull yourself up by your own bootstraps
Chapter 25: Open the mystery doors of your life
Chapter 47: Rage, rage against the dying of the light
Public Speaking Rules! - All you need for a GREAT speech
PublicSpeakingRules.com
You don't want to speak just "good," and you don't want to be just "better." What you want is to be GREAT! This guide isn't just an introduction to public speaking, it's your handbook to improve your public speaking, whatever skills you possess. It doesn't matter if you're an advanced public speaker, just beginning, or in need one great speech. Public Speaking Rules! is your nut-and-bolts handbook whether you're starting from scratch or simply brushing up.
Whether you need tips on fears and phobias, a special occasion speech, impromptu public speaking, and/or writing the perfect speech... we have it all. Check out all the public speaking topics and learn how it's not just public speaking... it's Public Speaking Rules!
Click the link below:
> Speeches
> Public Speaking Rules book
> Impromptu Public Speaking
> Fears and Phobias
> Special Occasion Speeches
> Writing and Delivery
And Then Some - Essay to entertain, motivate, & inspire!
AndThenSomeWorks.com
Daily And Then Some moments have never ceased, and will never cease. With respect to influential, life-altering, high density, transforming events, nothing compares with the colossal And Then Some phenomena. And Then Some is your benchmark. Establish a new pattern and approach for reshaping your life.
Be positive, get motivate... And Then Some!
> And Then Some Approach
> Family
> Humor
> Messages
> Relationships
> Thought Provoking
> Travel
Have a great Cyber Monday!
Interested in public speaking, self-improvement... and then some? We have you covered. This week Dr. Weaver will be adding posts to our "Words of Wisdom" section. Every two weeks a new post from great thinkers of many generations. Get ready for inspiration and motivation. Check out three books by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
You Rules - Caution contents leads to a better life
YouRules.com
Get the rules of self-improvement! "Look Inside" at Amazon.comYou Rules! answers the questions:
1. How do you establish the characteristics for success?
2. What are the essentials for a healthy lifestyle?
3. What methods can you use to get where you want to go?
4. How can you best exercise your creativity?
5. What can you do to maintain your program of self-improvement?
6. How do you look to a positive future?
With the answers to these questions, the guidelines offered throughout this book, your commitment and self discipline... you can obtain anything you desire in life.
Full chapters now available: (click link below)
Table of contents
Chapter 21: Pull yourself up by your own bootstraps
Chapter 25: Open the mystery doors of your life
Chapter 47: Rage, rage against the dying of the light
Public Speaking Rules! - All you need for a GREAT speech
PublicSpeakingRules.com
You don't want to speak just "good," and you don't want to be just "better." What you want is to be GREAT! This guide isn't just an introduction to public speaking, it's your handbook to improve your public speaking, whatever skills you possess. It doesn't matter if you're an advanced public speaker, just beginning, or in need one great speech. Public Speaking Rules! is your nut-and-bolts handbook whether you're starting from scratch or simply brushing up.Whether you need tips on fears and phobias, a special occasion speech, impromptu public speaking, and/or writing the perfect speech... we have it all. Check out all the public speaking topics and learn how it's not just public speaking... it's Public Speaking Rules!
Click the link below:
> Speeches
> Public Speaking Rules book
> Impromptu Public Speaking
> Fears and Phobias
> Special Occasion Speeches
> Writing and Delivery
And Then Some - Essay to entertain, motivate, & inspire!
AndThenSomeWorks.com
Daily And Then Some moments have never ceased, and will never cease. With respect to influential, life-altering, high density, transforming events, nothing compares with the colossal And Then Some phenomena. And Then Some is your benchmark. Establish a new pattern and approach for reshaping your life.Be positive, get motivate... And Then Some!
> And Then Some Approach
> Family
> Humor
> Messages
> Relationships
> Thought Provoking
> Travel
Have a great Cyber Monday!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
