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To
post a review or for book review consultation and promotion, contact Dennis
Moore, the Book Review Editor for SDWriteway and the East County Magazine, at:
damien_brandy@yahoo.com.
Dennis has written a number of book reviews for accomplished authors, such as Richard Lederer, Sam Warren and Dr. Ruth Leyse-Wallace, and having coordinated book signings for other authors that I have written book reviews for, I am prepared to maximize the exposure and promotion of author's books. One recent book review contributed to the author being featured in a major publication, Ebony Magazine, and consideration in her own TV Show with Oprah Winfrey.
Another book review contributed to the book, Beyond Justice, becoming #1 on Barnes & Noble Bestseller List, after the writing of the review. Yet, another book, Cheri Seymour's The Last Circle, made it to the Bestseller List(s) of amazon.com, after the writing of the review. Have been requested by a co-host of an internet radio show for writers, “Dialogue: Between the Lines,” to recommend authors that I have written book reviews for to be guests on the show.
DIRECTORY OF BOOKS REVIEWED
- A Terrible Mistake, The Murder of Frank Olson and the CIA’s Secret Cold War Experiments 7/20
- The Accidental Anarchist
- The Almighty Black P Stone Nation
- American Wings/Iranian Roots
- America's Nazi Secret
- The Assassination of Fred Hampton
- Barefoot in Baghdad
- Behind the Shades
- Beyond Justice
- The Bible Naked: The Greatest Fraud Ever Told
- The Book No Pope Would Want You To Read
- The Bracelet
- Bumps Along The Way
- Cancer Rip-Off
- From Dirt Paths to Golden Streets
- I Was … I Am, How to Move Beyond Your Past to Create an Extraordinary Life
- If You don't Like Worms, Keep Your Mouth Shut
- Juan Soldado: Rapist, Murderer, Martyr, Saint
- Lava of my Soul
- Mama's Shoe
- Negroes, Flies and Wet Toilet Paper: Confessions of a Preacher’s Daughter – Losing My Religion and Finding God
- Obesity - The Solution
- Shadow Masters
- Sky of Red Poppies
- Surrendered Balance: Daily Living for the Modern Christian Woman
- Things Are Gettin' Outta Hand!
- Through The Eyes Of God
- Tonk and the Battle of the 200
- Transparent
- We Are Victims of Mass Marketing
Negroes, Flies and Wet Toilet Paper: Confessions of a Preacher’s Daughter – Losing My Religion and Finding God,
Written by Debra Roberts (iUniverse, Inc., Bloomington, Indiana, 2011, 306 pages.
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Debra Roberts, an attorney with more than twenty-five years of legal experience, has written a memoir with both candor and wit, of being raised by Pentecostal Holiness Ministers and life with her fanatical preacher mother who inflicted both physical and verbal abuse upon her. She reflects on how the Church’s views and actions – speaking in tongues, casting out demons, and dancing in the spirit – caused her to grow up with no self-esteem, to suffer panic attacks, and live with constant torment about the rapture, demons, the devil and hell. READ MORE >>
Tonk and the Battle of the 200
by John Inman (iUniverse, Inc., Bloomington, Indiana, 2011, 283 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Living just a short stroll from the world famous San Diego Zoo, where this story takes place,author John Inman’s lifelong fascination with wildlife has made his writing of Tonk and the Battle of the 200 a true labor of love. The author concocts a fable of the animal kingdom that is sure to warm the hearts of those having a love affair or kinship with our furry creatures.
READ MORE >>
The Assassination of Fred Hampton
By Jeffrey Haas
(Lawrence Hill Books, Chicago, Illinois, 2010, 378 pages.)
I recall chills going through my body as I left my job at Harris Bank in Chicago on that cold snow-covered day in December of 1969, after getting the news of the death of Fred Hampton, but the chills were not from the weather itself, it was from the cold-blooded nature and reality of a brutal murder. To perhaps put this in perspective, I recall having a prestigious job as a coupon teller at one of the prominent banks in Chicago, Harris Bank, and taking the Illinois Central commuter train home every evening to the south suburb of Chicago Heights. It was a time when we were . . .
READ MORE >>
TOP
The Almighty Black P Stone Nation
Written by Natalie Y. Moore and Lance Williams
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Having grown up in Chicago, and my children being born there, this book by Natalie Y. Moore and Lance Williams, "The Almighty Black P Stone Nation," resonates with me for a number of reasons. In my time and era in Chicago, "The Almighty Black P Stone Nation" (Blackstone Rangers) were viewed as cult heroes, a Robin Hood type, despite their portrayal in the media and some of their more dastardly and infamous deeds.
I could not think of anyone better equipped or more capable of telling this story, than that of the authors, Moore and Williams. Williams actually has a background and particular affinity to the subject matter, in that he is . . .
READ MORE >>
American Wings/Iranian Roots
Written by Kristin Orloff
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Kristin Orloff, a professional educator, has written a coming of age story, the journey of gold medalist Reza Abedi, that mirrors the classic hero's arc, "American Wings/Iranian Roots." This is a book that needed to be told, for so many reasons. The author met Reza Abedi when they were colleagues at a high school in Southern California. Over a period of several years, Reza shared vignettes of life. She recognized not only his authentic hero's journey, but his steadfast loyalty to core human values. By incorporating the author's expressed life changing moments in her dedication to this literary project, she creates a universal experience for all readers.
READ MORE >>
Things Are Gettin' Outta Hand!
Written by Larry Buford
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Larry Buford, a Los Angeles-based freelance writer, a former songwriter for Motown Records, growingup in the factory town of Detroit, has written a book that attempts to get us all to pause and seriously consider today's hottest and compelling issues, Things Are Gettin' Outta Hand! It is his further attempt to promote meaningful dialogue. From reading his book, the author comes across as a social activist, weighing in on politics, a nation at war, and Bill Cosby's celebrated stance on parental responsibility. The author has a lot to say!
READ MORE >>
The
Bible Naked, the Greatest Fraud Ever Told
Written by Sam Warren
Book Review by Dennis Moore
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).”
If one believes in this premise, which does not rely on logic, they are going to have some consternation and difficulty with a new book about the Bible. Sam Warren, the President of the San Diego Writers/Editors Guild, and the founder of SDWriteway, an online newsletter for writers in San Diego, has written a controversial and disturbing book about the Bible; The Bible Naked: The Greatest Fraud Ever Told. Disturbing, in the sense that such harsh words and terms as fraud, absurdities and false prophecies are used to describe a book that has been the foundation of Christianity and faith.
If You Don't Like Worms, 
Keep Your Mouth Shut
Written by Linda Loegel
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Linda Loegel, president of the Alpine Writers Guild, and Board member of the San Diego Writers/Editors Guild, certainly has a way with words, and the ability to entertain and inform while telling a story. This San Diego East County resident followed up on her charming book about two senior citizens travelling across the country, "Bumps Along The Way," with another salt of the earth book, that retraces her upbringing in Vermont, "If You Don't Like Worms, Keep Your Mouth Shut."
Behind
the Shades
Written by Sheila Jean Robinson and Glenn Swanson
Book Review by Dennis Moore
In an aborted attempt to get the daughter of the late musical legend Ray Charles, Sheila Jean Robinson, to attend the 7th Annual Diamond Literary Festival "Authors Dinner Cruise" in San Diego, I have been provided a fascinating look into an icon, through Robinson's book, "Behind the Shades." Robinson was to participate in a book signing and to sing one of her father's classics, "Hit the Road Jack." Although not this year, we have been assured that Robinson will attend next year's Diamond Literary Festival in San Diego.
Transparent 
Written by Don Lemon
Book Review by Dennis Moore
"Transparent," by CNN Anchor Don Lemon, is one of the most honest and self-revealing books that I have ever read! For Lemon to state: "I had played the part of being straight in high school and even occasionally dated girls, but deep inside, I knew the truth. Even though I am sometimes attracted to women, I'm a gay man. While living in New York, this realization became stronger in my mind and I sought counseling to help me accept who I am and what it means for me, for my relationships and for my life;" says a lot about him.
The
Book No Pope Would Want You To Read
Written by Tim C. Leedom and Maryjane Churchville
Book Review by Dennis Moore
The title says it all! Authors Tim C. Leedom and Maryjane Churchville have written a provocative and controversial book about the Roman Catholic Church, with some pretty serious allegations, The Book No Pope Would Want You To Read. At a time when it seems as if there is an attack and questioning on the very foundation of theism, Leedom and Churchville singles out the Roman Catholic Church, particularly The . . .
The Accidental Anarchist
Written by Bryna Kranzler
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Bryna Kranzler, a graduate of Yale University with an M.B.A. from the School of Organization and Management, and Barnard College, where she studied playwriting, has written a captivating true story of an ordinary man who became extraordinary by participating in the history-making events of the early 1900s in Russia and Poland, The Accidental Anarchist. Her book is based on the diaries of Jacob Marateck, the grandfather that she never met, and translated by Shimon and Anita Marateck Wincelberg, her parents.
Mama's Shoe
Written by Anat Tour
Reviewed by Dennis Moore
Multi-talented author Anat Tour has written a captivating children's book, Mama's Shoe, that I suspect will be on every parent's shopping list. The story, based on Tour's experiences with her own son, is one rich with the joy of being a parent and observing the innocence and growth of a child. Told in a playful manner by Tour, a native of Canada, it is sure to warm the hearts of parents, as they read the book to their young children.
Surrendered Balance: Daily Living for the Modern Christian Woman
written by Hermina Krista Pettiford
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Hermina Krista Pettiford, the women's ministry leader in her local Church - New Covenant Tabernacle located in San Diego, and mother of four, has penned the first of what I feel will be many more books on spirituality and the human condition; "Surrendered Balance: Daily Living for the Modern Christian Woman." Although purportedly a guide for the Modern Christian Woman, while reading this empowering and uplifting book, there are nuggets of direction and hope for us all, men as well as women. . . . MORE
Juan Soldado:
Rapist, Murderer, Martyr, Saint
Written by Paul J. Vanderwood
Review by Dennis Moore
Paul J. Vanderwood, Professor Emeritus of Mexican History at San Diego State University, preceded his groundbreaking book on the allure of gambling and prostitution, "Satan's Playground," with this book similarly set in Tijuana, "Juan Soldado: Rapist, Murderer, Martyr, Saint.". . . MORE
Obesity - The Solution
 |
written by Max Sturman
reviewed by Dennis Moore
There could not have been a more timelier book, or more urgent message, than that found in Max Sturman's "Obesity - The Solution." Just today, February 1, 2011, in a story reported by MCT News Service, in the San Diego Union-Tribune Newspaper, it states; "In a new attempt to help an overweight nation slim down and improve its long-term health, the government released new dietary guidelines that called on Americans to eat less, cut down on salt, bulk up on fruits and vegetables, and try water instead of sugary soft drinks." Sturman has been saying this for years in a number of fitness and healthcare books published by him through his "Do It Naturally Foundation," a non-profit initiative by him to make us more conscious and committed to healthy living.. . . MORE
From Dirt Paths to Golden Streets
Written by Merle Fischlowitz
reviewed by Dennis Moore
Merle Fischlowitz has compiled a poignant book of poems that are the personal stories of immigration to the United States, from the 19th Century to the early 21st Century, "From Dirt Paths to Golden Streets."
The author has a personal and introspective affinity for these poems of immigrant experiences, as his adopted son, Benjamin, whose artwork is on the cover of this book, is an immigrant of Vietnam.
Typical of the poems in this reflection of America, the "Land of Opportunity," is the following:
THANK YOU NOTES . . . MORE
America's
Nazi Secret
Written by John Loftus
Reviewed by Dennis Moore
In a December 12, 2010 Associated Press story in the San Diego Union-Tribune Newspaper, titled "Report Details Ties Between U.S., Ex-Nazis," it indicates that CIA documents show intelligence officials provided more aid than previously known to ex-Nazis. Former U.S. government prosecutor, and former Army officer, John Loftus, has written a hardhitting book that exposes U.S. Department of Justice cover-up of Nazis and their American partners, "America's Nazi Secret," that parallels this report. The original version of this book, also by Loftus, "The Belarus Secret," was the "Knopf Nominee" for the Pulitzer Prize in History, and earned "60 Minutes" an Emmy Award for Outstanding Investigative Journalism. Thirty years later, this final manuscript has not been submitted for government review. All the censored items, and more, much more, are revealed for the first time. A third of modern history has been classified, until now. . . . MORE
Sweet Memories
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Nicole Beaudry has written an iconic and entertaining novel that invokes humor, tenderness, sensuality, intrigue, suspense, and, above all, the acceptance that, having reached our golden years, once around is more than enough, Sweet Memories. This author and painter, born in Canada, has given us a novel that titillates the soul, as well as the libido.
Beaudry's book is best explained through . . . MORE
Sky of Red Poppies
Zohreh Ghahremani, this artist, writer and gardener residing in La Jolla (San Diego), following decades of living in my hometown of Chicago, has written a stunning and poetic tale of two girls coming of age in 1960's Iran, "Sky of Red Poppies." The theme of the book questions how much can a friendship change your life? Set against the backdrop of a nation forced to mute its profound identity, "Sky of Red Poppies"is a novel about culture, politics and the redeeming power of friendships.. . . MORE
Through The Eyes Of God
By Sheila L. Jackson
Book Review: By Dennis Moore
Sheila Jackson, an anointed speaker, teacher, and writer who utilizes her gifts to meet the needs of others, and the author of "The Enemy Within," and other inspirational articles, has written an awe-inspiring book, Through The Eyes Of God.
Whether you are a practicing Christian, as Ms. Jackson and myself are, her book will give you hope and encouragement to get through the rigors of life. It deals with issues and battles we face within ourselves every day, issues and battles of self-esteem and feelings of unworthiness and self-hatred. I am sure we have all gone down that path.
Through The Eyes of God builds on a foundation of faith, and teaches us to love and appreciate ourselves as God had intended. . . . MORE
Beyond
Justice
By Joshua Graham
(Dawn Treader Press, 2010, 430 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Joshua Graham has written a riveting and supernatural legal thriller, Beyond Justice, that at times has spiritual and religious overtones to it. Beyond Justice is the story of Sam Hudson, a reputable San Diego attorney that descends into a hell not of his making, when he learns that authorities wrongfully convict him of the brutal rape and murder of his wife and daughter, and sends him to death row. There he awaits execution by lethal injection, while he agonizes over the fate of his young son Aaron, who was beaten into a coma during the rape and murder of his wife and daughter.. . . MORE
Bumps Along The
Way
Written by Linda Loegel
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Linda Loegel, a San Diego East County resident, and President of the Alpine Writer's Guild, has written a charming book about two senior citizens driving together across the country, Bumps Along The Way. This husband and wife team would gain a greater understanding and appreciation of each other, and this vast and beautiful country that we live in, as a result of their trek. . . . MORE
I
Was … I Am, How to Move Beyond Your Past to Create an Extraordinary
Life
by Allison ‘Tammy’ Moore, (Wilmington, Delaware, 2010, 338 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Allison ‘Tammy’ Moore has written what at times seems like a tragicomedy, I Was … I Am, but in reality it is her story of incarceration, and how she used it to become a better and stronger person. She states; “Instead of burying your head in the sand, write in it. Instead of trapping yourself in repetitive destruction, with God’s help, free yourself from the self imposed prison, change yourself and the world. It doesn’t matter that you messed up. I don’t know what your obstacles are, but I know that whatever they may be, God can use them.” Moore realized this while serving time in prison. In her book, you will read her story; her journey back to God. . . . MORE
LAVA OF MY SOUL
written by Iolanda Scripca
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Iolanda Scripca, who lived in Eastern Europe for the first 24 years of her life, has written a collection of poetry and essays inspired by her life, seen through the eyes of her Soul. Now a North County resident, Scripca believes that all humans have "wings ... let's put them on."
That seems to be the basic philosophy of her poems and essays, an example of which is "EPILOGUE OF LOVE," expressed succinctly; "To have lived not being loved at all - hunchbacked like a question mark - your soul continuously on parole imagine beauty in the dark . . . MORE
Cancer
Rip-Off,
We Are Victims of Mass Marketing,
By Max Sturman, (Do It Naturally Foundation, 2010, 226 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Max Sturman, who started the "Do It Naturally Foundation" because of his concern for the children of our country, especially obese children, has written a provocative book about health and nutrition, as it relates to the causes and prevention of Cancer, "Cancer Rip-Off." He states in "Cancer Rip-Off" right away, that countries like Japan and China seem to have a better grip on the situation than we in the United States.
If ever there was a case . . . MORE
Shadow
Masters
By Daniel Estulin (Trine Day, LLC, Walterville, Oregon, 2010, 357 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Award-winning investigative journalist and best-selling author of The True Story of the Bilderberg Group, Daniel Estulin, has followed up with another powerful expose in a similar vein, Shadow Masters. To carry the Bilderberg theme further, the author demonstrates how governments and their intelligence agencies are working with international drug dealers and terrorists for mutual benefit and . . . MORE
BAREFOOT IN BAGHDAD
Barefoot in Baghdad, By Manal M. Omar (Sourcebooks, Naperville, Illinois, 2010, 242 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Barefoot in Baghdad is a Muslim American Woman’s Story of Struggle, Sisterhood,
and Love in the Chaos of Iraq.
Omar's book does not try to persuade opinions about the
war. Rather, it .
.
. . MORE
A
Terrible Mistake,
The Murder of Frank Olson
and the CIA’s Secret
Cold War Experiments 7/20
By H.P. Albarelli, Jr. (Trine Day, LLC, Walterville, Oregon,
2009, 826 pages.)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Who Was George Hunter White? The author of this best-selling true-life
thriller implicates former southern California Border Patrol agent, journalist
and intelligence operative in the mysterious death of CIA chemist Frank
Olson.
.
. . MORE
The Bracelet
By Charles A. Bonner (Verily Publishing Company, Sausalito, California, 2009)
Book Review by Dennis Moore
Several years ago, my then 11-year old daughter, Brandy, escaped the clutches of a would-be child molester in Chicago, right after she had gotten off the bus from school. Heaven forbid, my daughter could have just as well been one of the victims of a child sex slavery ring, such as . . .