Robin Goodfellow's Blog, page 36

Book Review for A Shot in the Dark; A Spark in the Night by Darryl Miller

A Shot in the Dark: A Spark in the Night, by Daryl Miller, is a touching poetry collection about having faith in the future.

These poems delve into the blessings that many individuals take for granted. Through simplistic, yet touching rhymes, the poems explore the hidden treasures that take the form of our loved ones, our hopes, our dreams. From perseverance, to thankfulness, to desire, Miller explores the very aspects that make us human, and shows us that though it’s easy to dwell in the past, you still have to move on, no matter how painful it may be.

I particularly enjoyed the rhymes; to be honest, I haven’t seen this kind of scheme in forever. It did bring back old childhood memories of when I tried writing for the first time; the first page was so bad that I almost cried. Nevertheless, over time, as I worked harder at it, and I read more, I got better. Now, whenever I go back to these pages, I can’t help but find myself missing those times. This collection works the same way. It illustrates a constant theme in the book, and that is to look toward the future and not get caught up with the past. However reluctant you may be, take comfort in the present, and see the tiniest of joys in life. Poems such as Blooming and Haiku Tycoonbeautifully paints this idea, one that I believe also represents the entire theme of this collection.

The beginning was a bit confusing, but nonetheless the collection was enjoyable . Although repetitive at times, Miller does bring back the bittersweet feelings of our own youth, as well as our own longing for a better future. As such, I would give this collection a rating of a 4.0 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to all audiences.

Book Review for Written Constellations by Hanzel Writes

Written Constellations, by Hanzel Writes, is a collection of poetry that illustrates the imperfect thoughts that make up the remnants of life.

The book is separated into four parts. The first part, Ink, describes the pains of unrequited love, as well as the freedom you could have in removing yourself from the world, and being who you really are. The second part, Spells, introduces fairytale-like poems that are filled with raw emotion, all of which show the depths of reality. The third part, Stardust, has simplistic phrases that cascade down the pages, like stardust from a forgotten time. The fourth and final part, Galaxies, is a collection of vignettes that describe just how big life can be, and how minuscule we really are. From individualistic to almost otherworldly, Hanzel Writes paints a picture of the many levels of life, and how heartbreakingly wonderful they can be.

From depression, to unrequited love, to even painful love, with each word read, I felt a tiny part of me understand just what the poet was implying. One of my favorite poems in this book had to do with dying; after all, what’s there to be afraid of true death once you’ve died a million times on the inside? It’s these kinds of phrases that had me ponder on my own life and circumstances, and trying to figure out if I was doing okay. The fact that each section had its own symbol was also unique to me. From the simplistic poems of Ink, to the deep descriptions of Galaxies; I can’t even begin to remember the last time I’ve read something so romantic.

Overall, I enjoyed this collection. Written Constellations truly does remind of the time when you stare up into the sky, and realize just how many stars there are, how beautiful this world truly is, and how small you really are. While I’ve read many poetry books, I don’t think I’ve come across something so profound. As such, I would give this book a rating of a 5 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to everyone.

The Health Benefits of Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful flower known for its purple petals and overall elegance. Known for its medicinal uses and its rich uses, humanity’s dependence on lavender dates back to Ancient Egypt. Nowadays, you can find lavender as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication at a variety of drugstores.

[image error]Picture taken by cooee by Morguefile.

Lavender, especially lavender oil, can be used for a variety of instances. Some of these benefits include:

Insomnia

According to researchers at Wesleyan University, lavender oil’s aroma can help relax you by calming your nervous system. Researchers have also found that participants who inhaled lavender more deeply were able to fall asleep, and wake up more energetic the next morning. While lavender oil can’t necessarily cure insomnia, it’s still a good way to help promote sleep.

Stress disorders

Because of its re properties, lavender can be used to help treat stress-induced disorders such as anxiety, and even depression. Lavender has a compound called linalool, which has been used for many anxiety treatments. Not only this, but linalool also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Hair loss

Lavender oil has been known to promote hair growth by increasing the number of hair follicles, as well as increase the thickness and depth of those hair follicles. What’s more, because of the oil’s anti-microbial properties, it can smoothen scalps, and through its relaxing properties, can help stop hair thinning.

 

It’s clear that lavender has many health benefits. Not only promote sleep, but can also help with stress-induced disorders and encourage hair growth. It’s a useful herb that has a wonderful history of healing.

 

–Picture taken by jeanneg at Morguefile.

Racism in Healthcare

No matter what anyone says, racism is a prevalent aspect of American society. From poverty rates, to educational disparities, to even influence in politics, as much as we don’t want to believe it, the truth is that if you were born a minority in America, you may not be on an even playing field. Perhaps one of the most racist areas of society, however, comes from healthcare.

[image error]Image taken by Clarita from Morguefile

These healthcare disparities can be explained through a variety of factors and complex issues. From linguistic barriers to cultural differences, to even the type of insurance a person may have and the environment they live in; these variables play a role in these disparities. However, one of the most debilitating factors regarding these disparities is racism.

In an article published by Harvard University, racism is inherently ingrained into our way of thinking. While these patients do need doctors to help with their medical conditions, they tend to be looked down upon by these doctors, alongside other health professionals. That same study showed that minority doctors aren’t immune to this bias either. Dr. Altar Saadi, a Muslim, had experienced harassment from her patients for wearing her headscarf.

According to Professor Vernellia Randall from the University of Dayton, racism in healthcare goes far deeper than just what happens in the treatment room. There are a multitude of barriers that can include language and cultural barriers, “English only” rules, and a lack of competency in understanding beliefs. One of the most prominent examples of this racism includes how very few white physicians will serve a minority community, which typically needs doctors the most. However, minority physicians are more likely to serve these communities. Additional factors, such as racism in schools and discrimination in classrooms, further affect the development of these physicians.

What’s more, we’ve been raised with certain attitudes that are hard to ignore. In an article by Nadra Nittle, many doctors don’t catch their biases, and because of poor understanding and communication on both the patient and doctor’s parts, this can translate to fewer treatment options.

[image error]Picture taken from Richard Nyberg from Pixinio

But while it may be embedded in our thinking, we can reverse these attitudes, can’t we? Fortunately, yes. There have been efforts to eliminate these disparities. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act was signed to try and give healthcare to millions. More medical schools are using holistic in their admissions processes, as are other health professional schools. Special scholarship and loan programs are being made to physicians who work in underserved populations. Civil rights movements, such as Black Lives Matter, are drawing attention to unfair discrimination in economic, political, and societal fronts.

But more work needs to be done. Even to this day, unfair racism perpetuates throughout our society. With the population becoming more and more diverse, it’s becoming more important than ever for these disparities to be addressed.

 

-Featured image by Seeman from morguefile.

Book Review for Haunted Souls by Kathryn Knight

Haunted Souls, by Kathryn Knight, is a tale about forgiving and loving yourself, despite the guilt that weighs you down.

Emily Shea had just introduced Sergeant Brett Leeds to their three year old son Tyler. The two haven’t seen each other in four years, and already the shock of a child begins to fall upon Brett. While struggling with their tense relationship, as well as their lust for one another, Tyler, meanwhile, befriends an unknown entity named Josiah. With a past that won’t leave them alone, and an uncertain future at stake, Emily and Brett must work together to ensure the safety of their son, even if it means putting up with each other. Knight weaves a Gothic story about a couple who picks up the pieces of their past, and learn that, even with the harsh realities in the world, they could still find refuge in each other.

To be honest, Brett irritated me quite a bit. Emily did everything she could to get into contact with him, but he still blamed her. Even so, he does demonstrate a certain protectiveness over her, and it’s clear that he still has feelings for her, no matter what he says. May attitude towards him changed when I finally realized the hell he’d gone through. Though his relationship with Emily and Tyler are slowly blossoming, he still has to deal with the nightmares he has, with Death carefully shrouding him in dark delusions. Then there’s Emily, who struggled with both her guilt and her worry for Tyler. But even so, the two managed to pull together through Joe’s assault, and again, through Josiah. Again and again, these characters show that, despite everything that’s happened, family is still family. Even if you’re separated by time, or memories, or even death, family is always going to be there for you.

This idea of family is an overarching concept of the book. Emily and Brett were still able to find one another, though there is a lifetime of sorrow between the two. Josiah waited for his mother, and when he couldn’t find her, he began looking everywhere for her, even as a ghost. Even Gayle, who was domestically abused by her husband, took her son and ran. A parent’s love for their child, friendship, and even romantic love are all interwoven within the words. Knight explores all aspects of that mysterious force, and shows that love is truly timeless.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. From the characters, to the theme of love, Knight creates a dark, yet tender world that will leave the reader breathless. As such, I would give this book a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to those who enjoy contemporary romance, and the supernatural genres in general.

Book Review for Perturbations by Gary Beck

Perturbations, by Gary Beck, is a collection of poetry that details the beautiful, yet shattered portrait that makes up humanity.

The poems discern the seemingly trivial characteristics that life possesses. From an empty pledge of loyalty taken from an unknowing child, to a summer camp specifically designed for torture, Beck quietly illustrates the aspects of what makes us iridescently imperfect. With each poem comes the clear depiction of timeless values that each generation continues to pass down. The experiences we have, from love, to event nostalgia, are illustrated within the these pages that will leave readers astounded.

One of my favorite poems in this book was titled Common Sparrow, a poem about comforting a child, and watching them in a way a mother bird would watch over her tiny sparrow. When I read this, I couldn’t help but remember the times when my baby nephew would sleep in his cradle, or the night when my parents first brought him home from the hospital. He looked so tiny, and I couldn’t help but feel like everything in the world was out to get him. Still, whenever I read this poem, I thought of it as a sort of lullaby, one that reassured me that everything was going to be fine. Just like this poem, the words in this collection provide a gentle, soothing atmosphere that allows the reader time to reflect and ensure that they understood the meaning behind these poems.

Because of this, I would give this collection an overall rating of a 4.5 out of 5 stars. Beck draws from the bittersweet traits of life, if only to weave it into an embroidery of words readers will find enjoyable. I loved this book, and will recommend it to poetry lovers of all ages.

Book Review for Jessie’s Song by Jeremy Williamson

Jessie’s Song, by Jeremy Williamson, is a tender story about a young girl who, despite being abused, learns how to love herself.

12-year old Jessie comes from a family of eight. Her father has been sexually abusing her sisters, but before he could abuse her, she takes her sister, Katherine, and runs away. Not long after, she is put into the foster care system, where she is sexually abused by her foster parent, Adam. Despite the fact that, she is adopted into a wonderful family, she still hates herself, hates the little girl who was abused,  the little girl she sees as nothing but a whore. This changes when she meets a man named Jason, who shows her that she is loved, more than she could possibly imagine.

It’s clear Jessie struggled with her past. She kept drifting from one place to the next, all the while hating the fact that she was taken advantage of, that she was used. I kept hoping over and over that she would find some semblance of peace, but even that was only an illusion. She bore the weight of the guilt, dealing with the doubt her father had shoved her in, that she would amount to nothing more than a piece of meat. Her mother tried the best she could, but it wasn’t enough. Her siblings were also helpless. She was then shipped from one horrific situation to the next, but somehow, someway, she managed to move on with her life. The fact that God took the shape of the kindly neighbor, and even her dog, if only to comfort her, was encouraging. It allowed me to catch a glimpse of the blessings in disguise, and appreciate the strength Jessie had. It was inspiring, to say the least.

The context of an abusive father, a broken foster family, a home torn apart by tragedy; it’s a reality that many individuals have had to go through. If anyone came across someone with that experience, a majority of society would probably turn their backs on them. Parents would see a bad influence, classmates a whore, strangers a good-for-nothing free loader. Even so, these people still find a way to carry on, no matter what anyone says about them. What’s even more striking is that God is with these people. He isn’t sitting in some wealthy church, listening to the latest gossip, or a fancy dinner with pot roast; he’s there, with the broken, the hopeless.

I did think the story was a bit rushed to some degree. The ending could have been more fleshed out as well, but despite that, it was satisfying nonetheless. Williamson writes a wonderful story about a young girl who overcomes her traumatic past, all the while regaining her faith in God. As such, I would give this book a rating of a 3.7 out of 5 stars, and would recommend this for readers of all ages.

Book Review for Cultivating Ink, by Kiana Donae

Cultivating Ink, by Kiana Donae, is a book of poetry about the different styles, subjects, and tones that were written during National Poetry and Writing Month. From love, to life, to the mixing of other poems, this collection endeavors to explore the many ways that writers express themselves. Each poem is organized into different days, with a different prompt written above each one. Donae’s collection reads almost like a diary, carefully recording the poet’s thoughts, emotions, perhaps even their secrets.

With each unique day and prompt, each poem portrays a simplistic, yet innocent picture of the poet’s mind. While there were a few phrases that made me cringe, others were quite noteworthy. For instance, one poem remarks how the poet’s lover had hung up many stars in the sky, so much so they lost count. Another was a poem that read like a reflection, one that invited the reader to join the poet, just as they would anyone else.

Personally, I enjoyed this collection. It was a bit different from others, and reminded me of a journal. The collection also represents a sort of encouragement to other aspiring poets and writers, carefully dancing between beautiful words and realistic depictions, that allow others to see just how wonderful literature can really be. There were a few phrases that did need work, but overall, I liked the collection as a whole. As such, I would give this collection a rating of a 3.5 out of 5 stars,and would recommend this book to all poets, as well as those looking to celebrate the National Poetry and Writing Month.

Book Review for Criss-Cross by C.C.Warrens

Criss-Cross, by C.C. Warrens, is a Christian thriller about remembering what evil had taken away, and knowing that, in the end, you’ve always a home you can go back to.

Detective Richard Marx is investigating the death of two men, both of whom are connected to the attempted assault of a young woman named Holly Smith. Now, with a sadistic stalker on the loose, Richard must protect Holly with everything he has, even if it means giving up his own life. Holly, meanwhile, is a freelance photographer who can’t remember anything from her childhood. When a card shows up at her door, asking her to come home, she dismisses it. However, after a series of frightening events, Holly finally realizes that she is in more danger than she realizes, and that the only thing she can do to save herself is remember. C.C. Warrens shows that, though the demons from a nightmare may be lurking in the shadows, having courage and faith can light even the darkest of places.

There’s no doubt that Holly is haunted by forgotten memories. To be honest, I’m amazed Holly can still function as well as she does. Not only that, but when she does finally stop running, it’s clear that she will do whatever it takes to protect her friends and survive. Her practice of writing down one thing she’s thankful for to God helped keep her sanity as well, preventing her from drifting off into despair. Her faith also stemmed from the most unlikeliest of places; a ruined childhood, a stolen Bible, and a refusal to give up on life. I loved this part of her character, because it illustrates that while Holly knows that she’s suffering, but she endeavors to endure, if only to reclaim her life.

This brings me to the concept of having faith in God, even in the most troubled of times. Holly was innocent in all of this; the only survivor of her family’s massacre, and with only fragments of her memories left to her, she managed to pull herself together to try and live her. She was trampled on, abused, drifting from foster home to foster home, but she still pulled through. In God, she was strong, and for that I commend her.

As such, I would give this book a rating of a 4.3 out of 5 stars. With each memory returned, the story slowly begins to piece itself together, if only for the sake of a sorrowful truth. Readers will enjoy the gripping plot twists and evocative narrative. Those who love thrillers in general will also love this book.

Book Review for The Words Between Us, by C.J Blaise

The Words Between Us, by C.J Blaise, is a book of memorable sayings that illustrates the joys, and sorrows, of love, as well as the gifts of life we take for granted.

Each saying is a reminder to all lovers, whether they be old, young, or somewhere in-between. The sayings detail the stories behind it, the words interwoven by nostalgia, sometimes remorse. Other sayings are filled with hope and encouragement, oftentimes piecing together the stories that make life worth living. Chaffinch crafts a collection of words that read like poetry, but also caress the experiences that make us human, like a long forgotten ballad whispered in the dark of the night.

What I loved most about this collection is that it presents the harsh cruelties of reality, all the while reminding you to never let go of your loved ones. I loved the philosophies presented in the book. Oftentimes, there was a bittersweet tone laced in each of the sayings, from giving everything you had to fight for the one you love, only to end up saying goodbye, to trying to get over someone, to even the simple reliefs of friendship. There were a few mistakes, which unfortunately, did detract from the book. The sayings were also quite repetitive.

Nevertheless I did enjoy the collection. Chaffinch takes philosophy and life and beautifully merges them into an almost magical work of art. From encouragement to sadness, Chaffinch does a wonderful job of weaving together these sayings. As such, I would give this book a 3.8 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to poetry fans of all ages.