💖A Year of Book Reviews (2021)

A Year of Book Reviews (2021)

January 2021
Shanté Keys and the New Year’s Peas

Shanté is visiting her Grandma’s house for New Year’s dinner and the unimaginable happens, no black-eyed peas! She sets out about the neighborhood in search of these elusive peas and is also introduced to other people’s cultural traditions. Read more about her adventure in the book: Shanté Keys and the New Year’s Peas by Gail Piernas-Davenport (2007, 32 pages, kindle edition). Grandma cries: “Chitlins, baked ham, macaroni and cheese, greens, and hot cornbread, but no black-eyed peas!” (kindle loc. 4). This fun story is very reflective of a tradition in the American South, still practiced today by Southerners of various hues. The book includes an author’s note on multicultural New Year’s traditions and a recipe for Hoppin’ John.

February 2021

Nubian Kingdom

The Nubian Kingdom (modern-day Sudan) was a powerful civilization in the ancient world. A resource to learn more about this kingdom is the book: Nubian Kingdom (Kushite Empire): Ancient History for Kids 5th Grade Social Studies by Baby Professor (2017, 64 pages, kindle edition). It provides a good overview with brief descriptions and plenty of photographs.

The book states: “The written sources from Ancient Egypt and Ancient Rome indicate that the Kush Kingdom existed before the civilization of Egypt” (kindle loc. 7). Of note, the book refers to the title of Candace as “sister” whereas other literature implies the interpretation of Candace (Kandake) as a queen mother. Although, this book is geared towards 5th graders, it can be enjoyed by both kids and adults.

March 2021

The Shamrock and Peach

Get a taste of Ireland and its fusion with the American South in the book: The Shamrock and Peach: A Culinary Journey from Ireland to the American South by Judith McLoughlin (196 pages, 2012, 2nd edition). The author grew up on a sheep farm in Northern Ireland and moved to the United States as an adult. She states: “When my husband and I arrived in Georgia, we were at first bewildered by the culture. Very few people identified with the Irish…I quickly identified with the deeply religious society and the warmth of Southern hospitality” (kindle p. 11).

This cookbook has scenic images of the Emerald Isle and easy to follow recipes. Treat yourself to delights that include: Shepherd’s Pie, Soda Bread, Fig & Fennel Skillet Cornbread, Fried Green Tomato, Irish Whiskey BBQ Sauce, and Raspberry & White Chocolate Buttermilk Scones. “Food has a way of connecting people to their heritage, to a culture and to a time and place” (kindle p. 19). I wholeheartedly agree with that sentiment. Happy Irish-American Heritage Month!

April 2021

How the Left Destroyed the Western Negro

The current social-political climate has brought forth various agendas for conversation and debate. The book: How the Left Destroyed the Western Negro by VKY (for Victoria Kabeya, 107 pages, paperback, 2021) is a comparative essay that explores the relationship between the political left and African-Americans/African-French. Some of the topics include: consumerism, globalism, monetization of Black suffering, social media “black egomaniacs,” political immaturity, and opportunistic motivations. This French-Belgian author presents a very impressive argument on the dangerous aspects of leftist political ideologies on Black populations. For example, she states: “The recent protests in 2020 have highlighted a deep hatred of Blacks in the west for Donald Trump. Yet,…the crimes committed by Barack Obama as well as his inability to improve the condition of Black Americans are still overlooked” (p. 18).

The author has some hard-hitting intellectual left hooks and brilliantly defends her stance. No rose colored glasses found in this text. There are a few critiques that could be made (e.g. relevant U.S. systematic forces), but overall it remains a strong argument. She concludes with a political prophecy that is quite eye-opening. The book is a short-length read, very informative, and can be easily followed. I highly recommend this book whether or not politics interest you, because it’s just that good. A must read!

May 2021

Star Wars Princess Leia

The Star Wars saga continues through the awakening of a royal heroine, Princess Leia, in the book: Star Wars Leia: Princess of Alderaan by Claudia Gray ( 2017, 291 pages, kindle edition ). She’s 16 years old and ready to embark on her first diplomatic humanitarian mission. Her path into young adulthood is met with challenges inside and outside the palace. As a “senator-in-training” the perils of Emperor Palpatine’s harsh intergalactic rule becomes even more apparent to the young princess. Leia reflects: “…Palpatine won’t surrender power unless he’s forced out. If the Imperial Senate hasn’t been able to hold the Empire in check by now, they never will” (kindle p. 132). The seeds of rebellion begin to grow within her.

This book has political intrigue, action sequences, easy to follow writing, and a very entertaining storyline. Even if you are not familiar with the Star Wars book series, this particular book is a good first choice read (as it was in my case). There are brief descriptions of the Clone Wars, the former Republic, and current Imperial tyranny that helps the reader navigate this interesting galaxy. A great read!

June 2021

The Little Book of Biblical Justice

The theme of justice is found throughout the Bible. There are cultural and religious worldviews that may appear odd in contemporary society. But the historical context must be taken into account. Dr. Chris Marshall, PhD provides a general overview of biblical justice in his book: The Little Book of Biblical Justice (2005, 82 pages, kindle edition). He explains different aspects of justice that includes: shalom (peace), vulnerability to exploitation, punishment, and restoration.

He writes: “God’s coming justice is the culmination of, not a substitute for, human striving for greater justice here and now” (kindle p. 29). He adds: “We often think of mercy and justice as opposites…Mercy helps to bring about, rather than to interfere with, justice (kindle p. 37). The book has a scripture index, end of the chapter summaries, and an appendix summary of key points. This is a good short-length read that provides a broad overview of biblical justice.

July 2021

Great Women of the Apocrypha: Susanna

The Apocrypha is composed of 18 books that are considered “hidden writings.” The book: Great Women of the Apocrypha: Susanna by Robert J. Bagley (2018, 8 pages, kindle edition) explores the case of Susanna, a wife and mother, accused of a crime. If found guilty, the crime carries the death penalty. This apocryphal text takes place in ancient Babylon and features a young Daniel, of later prophetic fame in the kingdom. Susanna is the pious wife of a wealthy landowner and she frequents the beautiful gardens on the estate.

Per the text: “8: And the two elders saw her going in every day, and walking; so that their lust was inflamed toward her” (kindle loc. 43).

There appears to be an ulterior motive toward Susanna, who cries out to the Lord for help during the trial. The Holy Spirit moves and brings forth a young Daniel to become involved in the matter. What will be the verdict?

Generally, the apocryphal texts are more common in Roman Catholic and Ethiopian canons, in contrast to other Christian based denominations of the Protestant tradition. Who typically (not absolutely) have no exposure to the apocrypha. However, I do read this text with a healthy amount of skepticism until further research is conducted. First, check the apocryphal text against Biblical scripture, how does it hold up? For instance, in the text Susanna cries out to the Lord.

“Hear my prayer, O Lord, and let my cry come unto thee. Hide not thy face from me in the day when I am in trouble…” -Psalm 102: 1-2, Holy Bible, KJV

So, there is Biblical scripture that supports one’s cry unto the Lord. This scriptural check example is not a conclusive study, but a needed first step. Next, research needs to identify historical accuracy, scope of validity, and why this text has been excluded from some Biblical canons. Overall, the story of Susanna is very interesting and uplifting.

August 2021

The Eighth Round

The areas of equality and constitutional rights are still ongoing issues in American society. The dimension of race, ethnicity, and/or gender adds to the complexity. Zeke Wilson, a prizefighter, U.S. Marine veteran, and boxing promoter, faced one of his toughest fights in a Boston federal courtroom. In his book: The Eighth Round (2014, 208 pages, kindle edition) he describes the racial discrimination directed towards him via the Massachusetts Boxing Commission. A unique aspect of the lawsuit was that it alleged same-race discrimination, as two of the defendants were African-American.

There was a full courthouse for the trial with both Harvard and Yale Law Schools and other civil rights attorneys in attendance. The case was argued before an all-White jury. Mr. Wilson had fought four years to have his day in court and had much hardship along the way. From lawyers who dropped the case making him a pro se Plaintiff, financial strain, racial epithets, and telephone harassment. He writes: “The first thirty-five attorneys I spoke with felt that I had no chance” (kindle loc. 1065). “There was absolutely no precedent for same-race discrimination anywhere in the federal court records” (kindle loc. 1313-1318). This was a ground-breaking legal case that established a meaningful precedent (Wilson v. McClure, 2000).

This legal situation illustrates certain Black individuals, who exercise the authority given to them vis-a-vis the dominant power group, can be useful to accomplish the goals of the powerful. In exchange, these Blacks can satisfy their own various personal motivations. Often, minority communities can identify with the racial struggles of their fellow minorities. But one should be careful not to confuse a similar racial struggle with a person’s character. The view of the African-American community as a monolith of the same thoughts, opinions, and motivations is inaccurate and unrealistic. Although, there can be substantial consensus on major issues that effect the Black community, diversity of thought can also be seen. If in doubt, just watch the news or Black YouTubers’ disagreements on socio-political issues.

Finally, discrimination is illegal, regardless if the perpetrator is the same or different race of the injured party. This is supported by the same-race discrimination precedent set by Mr. Zeke Wilson. This book is a must read!

September 2021

Mother to the Motherless

Zipporah Kimani-Kamau affectionately known as “Mama Zipporah” is the Executive Director of Huruma Children’s Home. This faith-based non-profit provides food, shelter, and love to the orphaned children of Kenya. She describes her life and divine assignment in the book: Mother to the Motherless: The Inspiring Story of One Woman’s Devotion to the Orphaned Children of Kenya (2014) by Mama Zipporah. Her early life was composed of a loving mother, an abusive father, poverty, and shuffling off to different relatives. As a young woman she made life choices beneath her dignity. She writes: “You yourself may be wondering why anyone actively involved in ministry, as I am now, would be so willing to admit to the past sins of their life. But while it was a time in my life that I am not proud of, it only proves that I am human…it is only through God’s saving grace that I have been able to overcome the sins of my past…”(kindle loc. 438-443). She learns from these mistakes and continues on her journey to become a wife and mother.

Mama Zipporah has always had a heart for children and early on took legal custody of seven youths in addition to her own three biological children. She became initially involved in a project to care for orphans and then eventually began her own non-profit. She’s honest that the path has been both difficult and rewarding. She did not expect the community jealousy, betrayal, and corruption attempts that tried to deter her efforts. But her faith prevailed and obstacles were defeated. Today, her children’s home has 150 children from various ethnic groups with different languages being raised in a “home” environment. She writes: “I began to realize that, despite my own ordinary appearance, I too had received an extraordinary calling…without status or education, I still was called to do extraordinary things” (kindle loc. 652). An inspirational read!

October 2021

Afro: The Girl with the Magical Hair

Afro is a young lady who loves to read and has a special gift that is coveted by a wicked queen. The book: Afro: The Girl with the Magical Hair by Okechukwu Ofili (2016, 51 pages, paperback) is a modern fairytale that puts an African spin on the Rapunzel story. The author writes: “The Queen had full control of the Kanek hair trade in her kingdom. She kept the finest hair for herself, leaving only the leftovers to be sold to her subjects” (p. 11). I bought this book while on vacation in Ghana and so glad I did! It has an engaging storyline, cute illustrations, and good plot. A timely story for both kids and adults, that can promote an icebreaker conversation about: naturals, weaves, braids, and relaxers.

November 2021

Scientology From Islamic Perspective

Muhammad Vandestra provides a comparative religion analysis in the book: Scientology From Islamic Perspective (24 pages, 2017, kindle edition). This short book provides a brief overview on the origin and philosophy of Scientology in comparison to Islam. The author states the motivation is not to “denigrate scientologists” and more so to provide “informed knowledge.” He asserts the Church of Scientology has allegations of criminal activity, apostates’ claims of cult practices, and FBI encounters. The author writes: “Social status, or wealth have no bearing on how much Islam a person is entitled to know, nor does the length of time a person has been Muslim” (kindle loc. 142).

The comparative religion analysis takes a brief detour into Christianity, which is a bit off task since Scientology does not claim this religious doctrine. However, the book itself is still a good general overview and contrast between Islam and Scientology.

I look forward to reading other works that delve deeper into the comparative religion aspects, particularly between Orthodox Islam and the Nation of Islam.

December 2021

A Slice of Life

Enjoy a heart-warming collection of short stories in the book: A Slice of Life: Every Person Has A Story by Smita Das Jain (84 pages, 2021, kindle edition). A variety of love-infused stories that focus on: marriage, courtship, class divisions, and Covid lockdown epiphanies. A well written collection with a few twists and turns. The author includes in her dedication to: “All Indian Writers-for making the reader in me realise that I need not pick up a foreign author’s book every time for a good read…” (kindle p. 4). A great book!

Some Favorite Book Quotes:

“Time flies past but leaves shadows behind” (kindle p. 17).

“He was a person of eclectic but predictable tastes” (kindle p. 59).

“I have made a beginning by befriending you” (kindle p. 66).