James S.

Philosophy as a way of life

Revisado: 03-03-20

This book uses biography and history to flesh out real life examples of how philosophy in general and stoicism in particular can help quell anxiety, promote tranquility, and provide structure and meaning to life. I have read and listened to a number of books on stoicism and found this to be one of the more relatable and compelling volumes. Less time is spent on the historical origins and of stoicism and more emphasis on practical application in the modern day. The author narrated the book and he has a fairly pronounced Scottish accent which didn’t bother me at all, but my wife found it hard to understand at times.

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Pleasantly surprised

Revisado: 04-05-08

I listened to this book to get a feel for what my 13 year old daughter was reading. I didn't know what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised. The plot was interesting, the main character was reasonably well developed, and I ended up caring about the outcome. The author taps into teenage girl angst without being overly dramatic or sappy. I thought it might be a struggle to get through, but instead it was enjoyable.

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Entertaining and informative

Revisado: 03-28-07

Plot is believable, reasonably absorbing, main characters are developed in depth. The real strength of this book is the topic. Author does a laudable job of personalizing the Arab-Israeli conflict and presenting a balanced portrayal. The issues are complex and depressing, but seem authentic. My only gripes (and they are minor) are that it was somewhat repetetive and verbose. The book is 20+ hrs long. He could have cut it by 25% and it would have been better, not worse. Still, very worthwhile and one of the better audiobooks I have purchased. I highly recommend it.

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OK

Revisado: 03-21-07

This is the first DeMille book I have listened to, but I have read all of his prior work. This is one of his lesser efforts. The premise is plausible and the science seems credible, but I think his John Corey and Kate Mayfield characters have run their course. Their interactions and dialogue have become predictable and repetetive at this point. Unless he finds a way to freshen them up, he should quit while he is not too far behind. If this was your first encounter with John Corey, perhaps the banter would be more interesting. This book was entertaining enough to pass the time, but certainly no gem. I thought Charm School, Plum Island, and The Lion's Game were much better.

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Not his best

Revisado: 03-21-07

I have read (or listened to) all of Hiaasen's books. While I don't think it is as bad as some of the other reviewer's suggest, it is clearly one of his lesser efforts. The plot is thin and drags at times. The ending is predictable. Some of the humor is forced. Unlike some other reviewer's, I did like the narrator. I think she did the best she could with the mediocre material. I hope this is a temporary detour for Hiaasen, rather than a sign of things to come.

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