Structural Plan For An Effective Screenplay

 STRUCTURAL PLAN FOR AN EFFECTIVE SCREENPLAY

An Anal-Retentive Outline Based on Structures Developed by Several Screenplay and Television Writers

 

 

 [1991]

Territory

 TERRITORY

An Adult Comic Book Script

PAGE 1

Panel 1

TEXT: "The police called it the work of a serial killer, even named the murderer The Shredder because of the way the body looked---its skin sliced and shredded in strips apparently by some sharp instrument. But Maureen Douglas knew better. It looked like the work of an animal because it was the work of an animal. And its instruments were claws and fangs."

ART: The dead, mangled body of a woman

Panel 2

ART: Maureen Douglas kneels down and examines the mutilated, naked body of a woman, but now its face and torso have been ripped and torn as if by some savage animal.

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 3

TEXT: "With gloved hands, Muffy spread the corpse's legs, checked around and inside its vulva. There were telltale signs of semen. Maureen sighed heavily and rose to her feet. This was the fourth body found in this condition in the last three months."

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 4

TEXT: "That this was the work of a werewolf, Maureen didn't doubt. That it was also the work of Weylin Stone, she knew for certain."

ART: Maureen's stern face looks distant, as if remembering something

Panel 5

TEXT: " The condition in which the bodies had been found told her that. They'd all had sex with Stone before he Changed and savagely slaughtered them."

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 6

TEXT: "Pleasure and pain. That was Stone's modus operandi."

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 7

TEXT: "It had been that way even before he became---what he was now."

ART: Maureen remembers Stone as a werewolf
 

PAGE 2

Panel 8

TEXT: They'd been in love three years ago and they recognized a need for each other. Maureen liked to receive pain, Stone more than gladly gave it. Not excessive pain, mind you. Just enough to make ordinary sex a little more interesting.

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 9

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 10

ART: Maureen is dressed as a provocative schoolgirl, facing right

Panel 11

ART: Maureen and Stone make love (Maureen riding Stone?)

Panel 12

ART: Maureen is dressed as a dominatrix, facing left

Panel 13

ART: Maureen on a cell phone

TEXT: But the murders—No, that wasn't right.

DIALOGUE: Maureen - "Yes, I'd like to report a murder..."

Panel 14

TEXT: Maureen had always found the bodies first. That hadn't been hard to do. She knew what Stone looked for in a woman, knew the places he liked to pick them up, and the places where he always took them. Yet he always managed to stay one step ahead of her. Until tonight. This new body was a fresh kill, which meant Stone would still be somewhere in the area. She searched the ground for prints and heard, in the distance, the wail of police sirens

PAGE 3

Panel 15

TEXT: She glanced up and around at the deserted warehouses that surrounded her. This was where Stone liked to bring the girls, this was where the bodies had been found---but never in a pattern that allowed the police to form some sort of prediction as to when or where he would strike again.

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 16

TEXT: Maureen never really understood how the Change had touched Stone. And it was after he Changed that they broke apart. He told her he never wanted to see her again.

ART: From the shadows of a warehouse, we see the wan features of Stone's face, pasty gray in the moonlight, his mouth stained with the blood of his last victim.

DIALOGUE: "Hello, Maureen,"

Panel 17

ART: Maureen and Stone facing each other

DIALOGUE: Maureen - "It's been a long time. I—had to see you again."

DIALOGUE: Stone - "Too long...Take your clothes off."

Panel 18 & 19

TEXT: Then the Change comes.

ART: Naked, Maureen morphs into a female werewolf lashing out at Stone

Panel 19

TEXT: Too late to stop it now. Talons slashing downwards, razor-sharp nails slicing flesh, shredding it, fangs digging into muscle and bone, chomping, ripping, tearing, screams of shock segueing to screeches of agony.

ART: (Artist's interpretation)

Panel 20

TEXT: Then, silence. Wolf reverting to human. Claws to long-nailed female fingers.

ART: Stone's mangled body lies on the street

Panel 21

ART: Maureen walks down the street away from us

DIALOGUE: Maureen - "Bastard! This is my hunting territory..."

- end -

[Written by Michael Woodhead, 2014]

Babylon Confidential

BABYLON CONFIDENTIAL

A Memoir of Love, Sex, and Addiction

Claudia Christian
(with Morgan Grant Buchanan)
BenBella Books
2012
ISBN: 978-193785606-9
memoir, autobiography, addiction

Claudia Christian pulls no punches as she reveals her stormy battle against the monster, alcoholism.

Throughout this riveting memoir, the reader goes from page to page hoping and praying for a miracle for Claudia. But none comes until the very last pages of the book.

In between bouts of addictive behavior, Claudia searches for sobriety through her personal relationship with numerous lovers (some famous, others not-so-famous); waiting for the phone to ring that would hopefully herald a new role for her to play, one in which she could focus all her energy and attention in order to keep the 'monster' at bay.

Although primarily known for her role as Commander Susan Ivanova in Babylon 5, Claudia has also appeared in a score of other motion picture and television productions.

Ultimately, Claudia overcomes her alcoholic demon through what is known as The Sinclair Method and is now a major spokesperson for this alternative, and obviously effective treatment for addiction to alcohol.

With evocative descriptions of life behind-the-scenes of many of the productions she's been involved with; of her often tumultuous family and personal life; of her alcoholic binges and recoveries, as well as her own humorous and verbal approaches to life—this book is a must-read not only for fans, but for those who also struggle with an addiction to alcohol. 

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2012]

Behind the Mask

 BEHIND THE MASK

The Mystique of Surgery and the Surgeons Who Perform Them

David Gelber
Riffian Press
2011
ISBN: 0-9820763-5-5
medical, surgery

Behind The Mask takes more than a peek into the life of a surgeon. With a touch of humor, and a down-to-earth manner (with the occasional interjection of medical terminology), the author looks at four areas of concern to the surgeon and the patient.

I Preoperative
One of the most important times a patient can have before surgery is the first talk with the surgeon himself. Oftentimes, the patient will only see the surgeon once or twice, so the more honest facts the patient can give at this time, the better. The author also introduces the reader to various aspects of the human body that can often affect the surgical procedure—germs, infection, poor healing, blood complications, and so forth

II Intraoperative
The author now takes us inside the operating theater to give the reader a look at what goes on in there. "Sometimes in the practice of surgery it is necessary to work very quickly". This does not mean, of course, that things are done in a haphazard manner; rather, judgement calls may need to be made on the spot, and the surgeon but be able to do so without hesitation. The life of the patient may depend on it.

III Postoperative
Recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. Once again, the human body is really the thing responsible for healing. Certainly, antibiotics can be given, as well as bandages and stitches, but in the end, it is the body itself that heals (or doesn't heal) itself. So, as a word to the wise, the author reminds the readers to make sure they keep their bodies in very good health.

IV The Lighter Side
No doubt, some patients have met rather dour surgeons, but all is not complete seriousness. There are many surgeons with a sense of humor. The author is one of them, and he shares several funny anecdotes and articles (for example, surrogate surgery, where chimpanzees and orangutans are being trained to perform minor surgeries...)

Overall, this is indeed an enlightening look into—as the subtitle reveals—the mystique of surgery. 

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2011]

Bare Bones Spirituality

BARE BONES SPIRITUALITY

Teachings in a Secular Age

Peter Broner
Epigraph Books
2011
ISBN: 978-1-9369-4003-5
religion, spirituality

This is one of the few books I've read that dares to tackle difficult spiritual/religious/metaphysical anomalies—for example, is God personal or impersonal; where does evil come from; what is karma; what is the soul; and many other intriguing conundrums.

As with many books of this nature, it is not a fast read. And the reader should also be aware that the author approaches the subject matter primarily from a Buddhist-Vedantist viewpoint.

However, no matter what the reader's belief system might be, the author certainly offers much mental food for thought.

As well as the metaphysical ruminations mentioned previously, the author gives what he calls Teacher-Student Explorations. These are several question-and-answer segments that further discuss and elaborate on those enigmatic topics that we may occasionally (or, for some of us, more often) wonder about—consciousness, the Ego, the Life Force, free will, and others.

In addition, the author uses short meditations, fables, talks with God, analogies, and short essays to further help us grapple with the spiritual questions many of us often pose, but to which we never seem to find adequate answers.

As the author begins the book: "My motive for writing these essays is...To arrive at a belief system that I can accept in its totality because I have found... that there are elements in the various teachings and religions that seem to me contradictory or skipped over or avoided altogether".

That assertion is something to which many of us can relate, so perhaps some might find answers within the pages of this book. 

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2011]

After We Die

 AFTER WE DIE

The Life and Times of the Human Cadaver

Norman L Cantor
Georgetown University Press
2011'BR" ISBN: 978-1-58901-695-8, 1589016955
death, dying, dead, corpse, cadaver

This is a fascinating and in-depth informative autopsy of the corpse through the ages.

Did you know, for example, that corpses have legal rights? Did you know that doctors still debate the actual time of death?

And what do you want to know about the dead? What's involved in donating organs? What actually happens during an autopsy? What happens to the deceased in a funeral home? What are some of the ways that a body can be preserved?

These and many more questions are examined and answered.

Strange and horrifying as it might very well sound, did you know that a female cadaver could be used as a surrogate mother? That dead women have given birth?

That, and other legal, moral, and ethical questions are also discussed within the pages of this book. The author has endeavored to steer clear of spiritual or religious enigmas.

Readers of After We Die will not find it to be a dry treatise. Rather, Cantor has filled it with anecdotes, facts, and relevant explanations through painstaking research and occasional humor, but he treats the subject matter with respect.

In the end, the author devotes a chapter to the reader, giving advice on making plans for his or her own body once the soul and spirit have departed.

Like it or not, the fate of your body will eventually have to be considered. This book will certainly open your eyes and help you to understand what is involved, not only for you, but for your family, relatives and friends.

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2011]

A History of Christianity

A HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY

Diarmaid MacCulloch
Ambrose Video Publishing
2010
Christian History, Christianity

Diarmaid MacCulloch and his crew have done a remarkable job in distilling three thousand years of Christianity into six hours of personalized, evocative, interesting, and thought-provoking viewing (this is a DVD series). Indeed, as the liner notes aver, this set reveals "the true origins of Christianity" and "what it means to be a Christian".

Episode 1 - The First Christianity looks at the faith's humble beginnings and how it spread as far away as China where evidence of the early Christians can be found, if not readily seen

Episode 2 - Catholicism: the Unpredictable Rise of Rome shows how Christianity went from the poor and humble in the Middle East to the rich and powerful in Rome and beyond

Episode 3 - Orthodoxy: From Empire to Empire chronicles the spread of orthodox Christianity from the eastern Roman Empire to the steppes of Russia, and its survival from the attacks of both Muslims and Christian Crusaders

Episode 4 - Reformation: The Individual Before God introduces the rise of Protestantism with the introduction of the faith-shaking ideas of Martin Luther and Ulrich Zwingli, and how communities such as those of the Amish came to be

Episode 5 - Protestantism: The Evangelical Explosion traces the history of the evangelical movement and its belief that the individual can stand in a "direct emotional relationship with God". Christianity soon became a 'marketable' commodity, particularly in America, and later moved across the ocean to Asia where it was embraced by David Yonggi Cho and his Korean Pentecostal prosperity movement

Episode 6 - God in the Dock borrows its title from C S Lewis' book, and looks at the future of Christianity—will it survive the onslaught of modernism, skepticism, and doubt, or will it adapt once again in order to survive. The episode covers not only the two world wars, but also the troubling questions of gay relationships within the church

As I said previously, I found this to be a fascinating and thought-provoking look at the history of the faith that I adhere to, but a belief which has also raised a lot of questions in my own heart and mind. Certainly it doesn't answer all those questions, but it does help me on my continued search for the answers.

This is a series anyone with an interest in Christianity would find interesting. 

[Video Review by Michael Woodhead, 2010]

A Lover's Quarrel With the Evangelical Church

A LOVER'S QUARREL WITH THE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

Warren Cole Smith
Authentic Publishing
2009
ISBN: 978-1-60657-028-9
Religion, Christian Church, History

"...many of the worst elements of the modern world—materialism, empire building at the expense of community building, and the accumulation of power and money—have become some of the most recognizable attributes of American evangelicalism".

Like Frank Schaeffer (Crazy for God), Warren Cole Smith was part of, and then saw problems with, the evangelical church in today's society.

Unlike Frank, he goes into more detail about it, trying to understand and come to terms with his own revelations and concerns.

After looking at what he calls the 'evangelical myth', the author goes on to examine the great religious movements, primarily in the United States circa 1730-1745, the early 1800s, and post-1945. In doing so, Smith also notes various discrepancies between them all, the rise of conflicting doctrines, and the apparent age-exclusiveness and use of overheads in the modern church.

Smith follows this up with an explanation of the 'growth' mindset of several churches that have been known for it, and the acceptance of what is known as 'sentimentality'—a desire for a world that we would like it to be and not accepting the world as it is in reality.

Next, the author tackles the Christian retail industry, and how there is an "intertwining of personal financial interests with 'ministry' activities". Also included is an examination of the role Christian music has come to play, particularly in the realm of worship services—the war between traditional hymns and contemporary Christian music. Further, too, the battle between 'Merry Christmas' and 'Happy Holidays'.

The remaining chapters deal with the rise of the parachurch, and body-count evangelism; the effect the modern media has had on the church; and then suggestions on how the church might better able get 'back on track'.

Quite frankly, the book comes to terms with areas that have bothered me as a Christian during the past thirty-odd years. I could sense something wrong, but couldn't quite figure out what it was.

This book points out those glaring flaws, not in a vindictive way, but as one who gently tries to correct with love. 

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009)

Cosmic Connection

 COSMIC CONNECTION

Messages for a Better World

Carole Lynne
Weiser Books
2009
ISBN: 978-1-57863-440-8
spiritualism, channeling

Through the mediumship of Carole Lynne, Divine Guidance offers a multitude of messages which, if followed, would hopefully help make this a better world to live. In today's difficult, and often stressful times, a noble goal indeed.

The book is divided into three sections:

1. The Early Years of Awakening - in which the author struggles with understanding and coming to terms with her gift of mediumship, and what it entails—in her case, channeling what she calls 'My Guidance'

2. The Higher Cosmic Realms - here, she presents divers but quite cohesive messages from Divine Guidance, channeled during ten major sitting sessions over a period of two years. These messages include, but are not limited to, the Oneness of Man and Spirit, and the fact that we are 'energy' beings rather than just simple 'flesh'

3. The Path Widens - Carole tells about her continued search in order to understand her abilities. This brings her into contact with Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, some person initiations, the symbology of the Egyptian ankh, healing spirits, and Love

Although quite readable, this is not a book meant for a quick perusal. Much of the material is something on which the reader needs to meditate, sometimes interpret, and even implement in his or her life.

As Carole points out, a lot of times, Divine Guidance—like Jesus—uses parables, riddles and rhymes so that those who are ready to receive Truth will perceive it.

Echoing the words of Valentine Michael Smith in Robert A Heinlein's novel Stranger In A Strange Land, Carole Lynne postulates, "I know that you and I meet in this place regularly, and within this realm 'you and I' are not 'you and I'. We are all One. I will meet you within that Oneness".

May we all recognize that consciousness. 

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009]

Travel Within

TRAVEL WITHIN

7 Steps to Wisdom and Inner Peace

Jamshid Hosseini
(with Dave Cunningham)
O-Books
2009 ISBN: 978-1-84694-133-7
Inspiration / Self-Help

"The universe has one rule. Only one rule and nothing else. Everything else is a creation of our minds. The universe says, 'Be balanced'."

This is the essence of the material presented in Travel Within. Once you have achieved total balance in your life, you achieve wisdom and inner peace, and Oneness with everything.

In order to do this, the author presents seven steps that we need to understand and experience and pass in our lives:-
     1. Wanting
     2. Receiving
     3. Giving
     4. Balance
     5. Satisfaction
     6. Detachment
     7. Oneness

Before getting to the steps, however, the author has a look at what inner peace and wisdom mean, as well as how the concepts he's presenting hold up under the scrutiny of what we might call the three major doctrines of Life—science, religion and philosophy.

The steps were assembled by the author after he died, visited the spirit world, and then returned with an apparent understanding of the Oneness we all share not only with each other, but with the universe and everything in it.

Following the seven steps, he asserts, will enable us to achieve that Oneness and the ability to obtain answers to all the 'Big Questions' we invariably ask at one time or another.

The goal, he says, is "to elevate the human consciousness enough so that we may avoid the cataclysmic disaster that lies ahead in one of our possible futures".

A worthy enough goal indeed!

[Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009]

10 Things I Hate About Christianity

 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT CHRISTIANITY

Working Through the Frustration of Faith
 

Jason T Berggren
X-Media
2009
ISBN: 978-0-9819443-0-2
Inspiration, Spirituality

A cursory glance at the title would suggest (as I first thought) that the author was totally turned off with Christianity.

However, such is not the case. Rather, the author tackles certain issues about Christianity that have no doubt bothered others, Christian and non-Christian.

For example, some of the topics he discusses include: faith—what's the difference between that and fantasy? Is it rational or irrational?; prayer—is anyone listening? Does it work?; and the Bible—is it relevant to everyday life? Can you trust and believe what it says?

These and other conundrums—sin, rules, love, hell, answers, church and Christians—are tackled one by one through the list of ten 'problem areas' of Christianity.

However, in spite of the fact that the author cannot effectively answer many of the questions he raises, he does end each chapter with an explanation of how he has come to terms with them. These explanations may or may not effectively meet the demands of others who may also be dealing with these questions.

In the end, he exhorts us: "... don't be a 'Christian'. Be something more. Become something better".

Perhaps the arguments and responses presented in this book will help some of us do just that. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009)

42 Rules for Driving Success with Books

42 RULES

For Driving Success With Books

Mitchell Levy
Superstar Press
2009
ISBN: 978-1-60773-012-5
Business, Sales & Selling

"The 42 Rules book series is based on the belief that most subjects can be summarized into 42 distinct areas that capture the essence of a topic"
- Laura Lowell, Executive Editor

In some ways, for me, the title was a little misleading. I had originally thought the book was going to present some rules for helping to make a book you've written a success. Rather, it's more a case of how to make yourself successful by publishing a (non-fiction) book, possibly by the publisher of 42 Rules.

The material in the book is geared more towards professionals and businesses—that is, write a book on a specific subject matter related to your business, publish it, and then market yourself as an expert in that particular field.

Forty-two chapters from a variety of authors offer advice on how to do just that.

Some suggestions are all too familiar—"Find a need and fill it", "Find your passion and pursue it"—while others are relatively new to some—"the power of your autograph".

Nevertheless, for those who are looking for ways to generate more business, more interest in their products or services, or even creating a wider reputation, then the ideas and success stories offered here will help inspire them.

And, perhaps, lead to success as an author with Superstar Press.

At the very least, it's worth giving it a try. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009)

Crazy for God

CRAZY FOR GOD

How I Grew Up As One of the Elect, Helped Found the Religious Right, and Lived to Take All (or Almost All) of It Back

Frank Schaeffer
Da Capo Press
2009
ISBN: 978-0-306-81750-2
Memoir, Religion, Christianity

Those familiar with the Schaeffer family will also probably be familiar with some of Frank's evangelical works which include Addicted to Mediocrity and A Time for Anger amongst others, as well as the film presentations How Should We Then Live, and Whatever Happened to the Human Race. However, he is also the author of The Calvin Becker Trilogy (Portofino, Zermatt, and Saving Grandma) and Baby Jack, as well as the non-fiction works, Keeping Faith; Faith of Our Sons; and Voices From the Front.

As may be discerned when one reads this book, in many respects, Frank is still an 'angry young man', although this time, his anger seems more directed towards himself than at anyone else in particular. This moving memoir takes the reader behind the scenes, so to speak, of the author's life with his parents (Francis & Edith)  and siblings, friends, co-workers, wife and children, and reveals much more than what the reader might expect. That is to say, in 'real life', the Schaeffers, like many other Christian 'icons'—and Frank isn't afraid to name some of them—were, and are, just as human as the rest of us, some of them with even greater foibles than we might want to believe.

Frank presents the memoir in four sections—Childhood, Education, Turmoil, and Peace.

Although focusing on his own emotional and psychological tribulations, he manages to help the reader understand how people and experiences helped shape who he first became, and why he gradually distanced himself from the evangelical movement, turning instead, to Greek Orthodoxy.

Frank is remarkably transparent throughout this book, sharing how more and more alienated he felt in spite of the fact that he and his father were popular evangelical authors and speakers, particularly to fundamentalist churches and organizations crying out to them that they needed to "take back America".

Further, Frank describes his vacillating life as a rebellious young man, a filmmaker and a father, and his eventual journey back to a new prominence as a writer.

The book ends on a poignant note: "...maybe there is a God who forgives, who loves, who knows. I hope so. Anything is possible in world where a daughter forgives her father, for ignorance, for anger, for failure, and places her daughter in his arms."

For those interested in a different perspective on Francis and Edith Schaeffer, l'Abri, and the fundamentalist right-wing evangelical movement, as well as the touching story of someone deeply involved in it all, this is a must-read. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009)

From Om to Orgasm

FROM OM TO ORGASM

The Tantra Primer for Living in Bliss

Chandi Devi & J Ram Sivananda
AuthorHouse
2008
ISBN: 978-1-4343-4960-6
Tantra, Sexuality, Spirituality

Tantra involves more than just sex, and this 'primer' explains so much more of the spiritual, psychological, moral, and physical reasoning behind it.

Utilizing a multitude of charts, photographs, and illustrations, the authors demonstrate how Tantra works, and what various elements of it correspond to or mean.

As they draw on both ancient and modern resources, the authors explain and expound on such concepts as life energy, the chakras, yin and yang, karma, love, intimacy, the Tantric secret to manifestation, sexual union, and worship, just to name a few of the topics related to this ages-old art of spiritual sexuality.

Also included are some suggested practice sessions for individuals and couples, as well as some 'quick Tantra tips' which take five minutes or less to complete.

Overall, this is an excellent introduction to a highly misunderstood life path. Explanations of various concepts abound and, although better suited for couples, the information presented is more than adequate for individuals as well, offering wisdom regarding significant others—"the partner we select should share our basic philosophy of life, possess interests, energy and passions similar to our own, and have a capacity for spiritual growth, mental expansion, and emotional development".

Certainly, advice we could all use from an early age.

Also included is an interesting chart that contrasts Western thought and Eastern teachings—i.e. Western religion and Eastern spirituality.

If you're curious at all about Tantric philosophy, then this book is for you. Not unlike the wizard, Solomon Magus, in my novel, Wizard Of Vasuda, you, too, may discover the path to Bliss. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009)

A Guide to the Best in Cinema Thrills

 A GUIDE TO THE BEST                          IN CINEMA THRILLS

Mystery, Suspense, Film Noir and Detective Movies on DVD
 

John Howard Reid
Lulu Books
2009
978-0-557-12223-3
Film

They don't make them like they used to do. 

And reading through this compendium of some of the best "mystery, suspense, film noir and detective movies on DVD" reminded me of that.

In many cases, these films were made under the studio system, whereby the scripts were tailored to the actors' strengths and personalities. This is one reason why many of the old films were so good.

The author has brought together outlines of hundreds of them, each complete with a cast list, the major production staff, copyright and release notices, story synopsis, and his own personal comment about the film.

Also embellishing some of the outlines are dozens of black-and-white photos, as well as a lengthy but well-written article on "noir, crime and mystery". Several other shorter articles are included, aimed at those interested in the genres—the best Sherlock Holmes and Raymond Chandler as adapted for the movies, for example.

Reid has done a marvelous job putting these all together, thus taking a lot of the legwork out of trying to locate these movies for our viewing pleasure—he includes a small list of DVD suppliers where many of these films can be purchased at very reasonable prices.

Many titles will be familiar; for example, The Maltese Falcon. However, those same people who recognize it might not realize that there were at least four adaptations of Dashiell Hammett's 1929 five-part serial; two of the movies are included in the book, one starring Ricardo Cortez, the other with Humphrey Bogart.

Other titles, of course, won't be so familiar.

There are some fascinating anecdotes, too. For example, for the movie Odd Man Out, "director Carol Reed asked the composer to write the score from the shooting script and record it, so that [James] Mason could walk in time to the beat". Such tidbits encourage readers to find copies of the films in order to see for themselves how they accomplished things.

So, for the lover of vintage thriller movies, this book would make an ideal and extremely informative purchase. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2009)

When the Sun Goes Down

WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN

Betty Breuhaus
Publishing Works, Inc
2008
978-1-933002-76-7
Life planning

"Death ... comes unexpectedly!"

I still remember that line from Walt Disney's Pollyanna even though I saw the movie in the early nineteen-sixties.

But, oftentimes, Death does come unexpectedly, so perhaps we'd better be prepared for it, and particularly the funeral.

"Your funeral service should be a reflection of who you were, the people you loved, what you believed in, what you accomplished, and what you did for fun."

This book will help you accomplish just that. Who says funerals have to be somber and morose? Rather, they can be joyful, affirming events.

Twelve sections deal with different aspects of the funeral with which you or your loved ones will have to deal; the sooner it's done before your death, the less stress will be faced all concerned.

1. Benefits of a funeral
2. Funeral homes
3. Disposition of the body
4. Cemeteries
5. Types of services
6. Fundamentals
7. Service basics
8. Service enhancements
9. Service accessories
10. Afterparty
11. Obituaries
12. Ethical wills

These chapters look at traditional and non-traditional funerals. I remember my father telling me that whenever someone in his family died (in England), the body would be laid out in the living- or sitting-room so that any and all could come to view the body and pay their respects.

The whole point of preparing beforehand is so that your presence will be felt even after you're gone, and "everyone who attends will ... go away inspired to live a more worthwhile life."

"A funeral is a time for the significance of your life to be celebrated. So why not be the author of this celebration?"

Placed sporadically through the book are epitaphs taken from actual tombstones, many of them quite humorous in explaining the demise of the deceased (e.g. HENRY EDSEL SMITH Looked up the elevator shaft to see if the car was on the way down ... it was). There are also some sidebars with 'odd deaths' and photos of unique headstones.

At the end of the book, the author has provided a personal planner based on each of the twelve chapters.

In all, it's an insightful, informative and inspirational read.

My personal suggestion: Betty should contact and go on tour with Julie Hall, author of The Boomer Burden. Each would certainly complement the other and bring valuable information to the public. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Acting Class

 

ACTING CLASS

Take a Seat

Milton Katselas
Phoenix Books
2012
ISBN: 978-1-59777-592-2
Theatre

What a fascinating, informative, inspirational, educational, and fun read!

You don't have to be an actor to enjoy this book, because Katselas takes you not only behind the world of acting classes, but also into the mind of the actor.

And, if you are an actor, this will be one of the best books you could read on the acting process.

Acting is more than just memorizing lines and 'pretending' to be someone else. There's a 'method to the madness', so to speak. Katselas outlines this in three ways.

ACTING - This comprises the techniques of acting: working on a role, and working on oneself. The former includes dissecting and studying the character to be played; the latter includes body, voice, and exercise work.

ATTITUDE - Attitude is everything, as the saying goes, and this is equally true for an actor. In this case, it refers to knowing what goals you want as an actor, and going for them with the proper attitude. Because, as the author writes, "A good, confident attitude will support the smallest talent or technique".

ADMINISTRATION - Technique and attitude also require an equal amount of this: "The choices you make regarding the enhancement of your career and your life, and seeing to it that you complete these choices, execute them, and get them done".

What makes this book entertaining is the fact that it isn't dry teaching. Katselas approaches the material not only as an instructor, but also as an actor and director; not only as educational matter, but also interspersed with interview and conversation pieces.

Acting Class contains an accumulation of Katsela's personal insights, teaching, and beliefs, and is an excellent resource not only for those in the film and theatre industry, but indeed, for anyone learning to cope with life. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

The Boomer Burden

THE BOOMER BURDEN

Dealing With Your Parents' Lifetime Accumulation of Stuff

Julie Hall
Thomas Nelson
2007
ISBN: 978-0-7852-2825-7
Aging, Family, Relationships

Each member of every family should have a copy of this book.

Applying the concepts and suggestions throughout it will help prevent a lot of heartaches, misunderstandings, possible theft, and family squabbles.

Although many in the modern generation seem to be of the 'throw away' mindset, some of them—and even the older generation—have a tendency to hoard things.

Why should we get rid of them? How do we do it? How do we know what to get rid of and what to keep?

This book is an invaluable resource to answer just those questions (and many more, of course) related to dealing with your parents' accumulation of stuff over their lifetime.

Known as The Estate Lady®, Julie Hall presents her information in a straight-forward, serious, but entertaining manner. She brings to light information that many of us don't want to think about, or have never really known about before.

For example, are you familiar with (or are you even one of) the seven types of relatives who, interestingly enough, appear when someone dies?
     1. The loving relative
     2. The well-meaning relative
     3. The estranged relative
     4. The uninformed relative
     5. The guilty relative
     6. The unappreciative relative
     7. The greedy relative

Any of these ring a bell?

Ms Hall also delves into deciding what is worth keeping or selling, and what to give or throw away; how to intelligently handle the terms of the Will; how to clean out your parents' estate; how to deal with scammers, schemers and scoundrels; and how to ensure that your own children won't have to deal with the mess that can happen if things are not taken care of beforehand.

In the appendices are some helpful resources, including a complete parent care checklist; a list of important documents and information that you will need to locate; and a sample wish list spreadsheet.

I attended my first funerals (two of them within two weeks of each other) when I was fifty years old. If I had this book back then, it would have made everything a lot simpler to understand. It doesn't handle the grief; but it does make the aftermath that much easier to cope with.

In spite of its subject matter, this is not a depressing book. Rather, it offers hope, peace of mind, and information for all of us; for we all, at one time or another, will be faced with death, either our own, or that of a loved one.

As the book cover states: "The Boomer Burden gives you practical, effective steps for liquidating and distributing your parents' assets in a way that both honors them and promotes family harmony for generations to come."

Do yourself a tremendous favor-buy this book, read it, apply it.

You'll be glad you did. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

New Birth or Rebirth?

 NEW BIRTH OR REBIRTH?

 Jesus Talks With Krishna

Ravi Zacharias
Multnomah
2008
ISBN: 978-1-59052-725-2
Comparative Religions

In New Birth Or Rebirth?, Christian apologist Ravi Zacharias attempts to show the differences between Christianity and Hinduism.

He does this in a unique way, though, by presenting a conversation between Jesus and Krishna, drawing on material from the sacred texts of both religions.

As well as these major participants, he uses two other 'mortal' characters to introduce things as well as present their own perspective and ask further questions.

Ravi's premise for the book is that the popular belief that "all religions are fundamentally the same and only superficially different" is not true. Rather, he purports that all religions are superficially similar, but fundamentally different.

As much as possible, the author has tried to present both points of view on equal footing. In addition, he also provides a revealing glance at the social strata of India so that an understanding of Hinduism can be a little more complete.

Occasionally, the author lightens things up with a bit of humor. For example, Richard, a Westerner, tries to recall the name of an East Indian dessert, barfi. Unfortunately, the only word he can think of is pukey. In spite of the levity, however, the author doesn't poke fun at any character's beliefs.

In the end, however, it becomes obvious that the author has chosen to promote Christianity as the One True Religion, so to speak, that it has 'exclusive truth'.

That, however, is the whole purpose of the book, and the dialogues have been created to show this.

Although there's nothing wrong with that, it struck me while writing this review that I have frankly never seen an article written by a person of another religion or spiritual belief in which they attempt to refute Christianity. It always seems to be the Christian writers who try to prove that all the other religions are wrong and possess no truth.

This little book (90 pages) has broached a big topic in an interesting but fanciful way. Regardless of one's own beliefs, it's still worth a read. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Awakening the Genie Within

AWAKENING THE GENIE WITHIN

A Journey of Discovery

Bettye Johnson
Living Free Press
2008
978-0-9650454-4-5
Mind-Body-Spirit

Thoughts are things; change your thinking and you'll change your life.

This is basically what this book is about, although Bettye Johnson certainly approaches it from a different perspective. Rather than broaching the material as an affirmative speaker might do, she tackles the mystery of the mind from a laywoman's point of view.

According to Bettye, it's necessary for us to change our negative core beliefs, those credos that became embedded in us primarily in childhood, and which now manifest themselves in adulthood an various negative ways—lack of wealth, wrong thinking, mental cages, chaos, and so forth.

One chapter that really spoke to me is entitled The I That Is I Am, a unique and insightful look at the relationship between others and ourselves. For example, Bettye quotes from an unknown author: "When I give to others, I am giving to Myself; when I take from others, I am taking from Myself".

Ending this very interesting book are two chapters; one. a story dealing with the power of words; the other, the power of no words.

In fact, it is obvious throughout this book that the author loves Words, not only for creating stories and poems, but also to discover the esoteric and ancient and historical meanings of them so as to distill from them their true essence.

Readers familiar with channeling will recognize the occasional reference to J Z Knight and Ramtha's teachings. However, regardless of the reader's own beliefs, there is still much material here that can be applied to our daily lives.

As Bettye herself says, "If we continue on the same highway of beliefs that limit us, then these highways will lead to sickness and ultimately death".

I also understand now what she means when she remarks, "Life is a journey of discovery—the discovery of self".

And, as the ancient adage proclaims and I've noted in several reviews, "Man, know thyself". 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Exploring the Eternal Soul

 EXPLORING THE ETERNAL SOUL

Insights from the Life Between Lives

Andy Tomlinson
O-Books
2008
ISBN: 1-978-1-84694-069-9
Past Lives, Reincarnation

Rather than focusing on past lives, this book looks at the 'life between lives'—the spirit world, or the 'light realm', as experienced through regressive hypnosis by several different individuals (from Europe rather than North America). All the subjects had varying degrees of knowledge about the inter-life from having heard about it to no knowledge at all.

The chapters cover a variety of different aspects about the inter-life: moving towards the light after death, becoming whole, reviewing past lives, soul groups, specialist activities, planning the next life, the influence of karma, and returning to the new incarnation.

What I find amazing is the similarity in the narratives related by the subjects, some environments varying only because of the different personalities and previous experiences.

Two things that impacted me while reading this book: the power of our thoughts to create something from nothing (or rather, energy since, if I remember correctly from physics, nothing is destroyed, it merely changes its form); and the necessity and power of meditation.

Ever since the search for Bridey Murphy in the 1950s, more and more research into past lives and in-between lives has been done, with often similar and surprising results. The author makes note of several of these while recounting his own research.

Exploring the Eternal Soul is only a part of that total body of research, but for those seeking proof of life after and beyond Death, there are some convincing accounts offered therein.

Spirit guides, soul mates, libraries and life books, healing, energy—these and more are examined and discussed through these "insights from the life between lives" 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Christy's Journey

CHRISTY'S JOURNEY

Peter Watson Jenkins
O-Books
2008
ISBN: 978-1-84694-082-8
Past Lives, Reincarnation

Those who recall reading The Search for Bridey Murphy, written in the 1950s, will certainly find this a fascinating glimpse into a series of past lives.

From AD 1275 to 1978, the book traces twelve lives allegedly experienced by a woman named Christy, not only male and female incarnations, but also the different countries in which she lived, as well as the various deaths she experienced.

For the most part, the experiences are told through the question-and-answer method while under regressive hypnosis. The accounts present compelling arguments for the belief in reincarnation. As well, further elucidations of Christy's lives offer insights into our own existences and why we may, for example, undergo certain experiences, encounter certain people, and endure certain illnesses and traumas.

Following the transcriptions of the regression sessions are commentaries by both Christy and the author, elaborating and explaining some of the material just presented.

Christy's Journey is an intriguing read, culminating with four chapters on: an earlier incarnation in Rome; a look at the Akashic Records; recollections of Home (the place of the life between lives); Christy's life patterns; and some thoughts on reincarnation.

As the author states, reading this book may "change the way you look at life and the way you live your life from now on".

Indeed, it has changed mine.

(For further information on the 'life between lives', I would recommend reading Andy Tomlinson's Exploring the Eternal Soul along with Christy's Journey. Both are available from O-Books)

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

You-Turn

 

YOU-TURN

Changing Direction in Midlife

 
Nancy Irwin
BookSurge Publishing
2008
ISBN-10: 1419695010
ISBN-13: 978-1419695018
Self Help

Not unlike several other books I've reviewed (notably those from O-Books), You Turn is another inspiring, motivational volume, and a really good read.

These forty-three stories from people over the age of forty give individual accounts of men and women from all walks of life who have changed the direction of their lives—relationship- and career-wise primarily, but also spiritually, socially, economically, emotionally, psychologically, and financially.

The true stories are presented in two sections:-
     1. Detours, Roadblocks & Dead Ends—changes that come about unexpectedly
     2. Backroads, Alternate Routes & Trailblazing—changes that occur as a result of personal decision

Housewives, lawyers, actors, criminals, professionals, musicians—these and others have unique stories to share, stories full of joys and sorrows, happiness and heartache, courage and fear.

But these inspiring accounts aren't all the book contains.

Have you found yourself halfway through life, with various aspects of it either wandering aimlessly, in a rut, or even dead?

Nancy Irwin addresses your own life to see if you need to make a you-turn.

Perhaps you need to make a change in your current mind-set. Do you spend too much time dwelling on negative aspects and fears, and very little on the positive side of things?

She offers ten questions to ask yourself truthfully to determine what it is you are passionate about, or want to change. She gives self-help tips to get you started; to get you through the rough spots; to get you to take off in your own direction; and even how to run a business on a shoestring budget.

No matter where you are in your life—ready for a you-turn, already on your way, or even wondering what to do—this is an invaluable tool to help you along. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

The Art of Being...Psychic

THE ART OF BEING...PSYCHIC

June-Elleni Laine
O-Books
2008
ISBN: 1-905047-54-1
Spiritualism, New Age, Paranormal

This is an interesting and insightful book.

To begin with, the author spends almost half the book examining and explaining the conflict and communication that occurs between the right half of the brain, and the left. With a series of exercises and tests, the reader learns to understand how each half approaches and responds to external and psychic stimuli, and how to 'trigger' the correct half when required.

Once this symbiotic relationship is understood, the reader can then better understand the remaining chapters.

Although titled The Art Of Being...Psychic, the title also refers to psychic art, and the author not only explains how she does it, but also how the reader can develop his or her own psychic artist abilities.

One of the most important things when dealing with any manifestation of psychic abilities is that of validation: how do you know when the impressions you receive are correct? The author tells you how, and follows that up with a chapter on 'intention': making sure you create positive energy instead of negative in your daily life.

Following this, the author deals with energizing the first three of the seven chakras, and also makes note of the fact that different teachers will use different terminology for the same things.

From there, Laine goes on to developing sensing energy, psychometry, clairsentience, paper reading, water reading, auric reading, finding lost articles, developing psychic art and portraiture, and automatic writing: all with straightforward, clear instructions on beginning, using, and closing down psychic sessions, as well as examples from her own experiences.

To conclude, the author discusses the 'Omni-versal Mind' and how everything is connected to and influenced by energy; and the various body types of men and women, and what they're like when balanced or unbalanced. All this is directed towards creating our own personal life through the manifestation of our energy thoughts.

"Man, know thyself." This book will certainly help to do just that. 

(Book Review by Michel Woodhead, 2008)

The New Chakra System Handbook

 THE NEW CHAKRA SYSTEM HANDBOOK

Casey Costello
O-Books
2007
ISBN-10: 978-1-84694-065-1
New Age, Health

Although a relatively small book at just over 80 pages, and a quick read to begin with, nevertheless, for those interested in developing their chakras and spirituality, the meditations and exercises involved will take much, much longer. As the author often reminds the reader, patience is of the utmost necessity. This kind of advancement isn't something that can be done overnight, or even in a short period of time.

For those not familiar with chakras, they are centers of energy located at precise regions of the body that can be stimulated by, amongst other methods, meditation and visualization.

The author introduces us first to the 'old' chakra system that includes the seven basic chakras—base, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, brow, and crown. Costello gives instructions on how to meditate on and energize each of these centers in order to balance the body and increase one's health.

Once this is done, the reader can then go on to develop and access the thirteen chakras, including a special fourteenth one, and it is on these energy zones that the remainder of the book focuses.

The author also reiterates several times through the book: "Thought is energy and energy creates".

This concept has been taught through many different instructors—positive thinkers, new age practitioners, even some Christian teachers—but, to my mind, none have made it more clearer and understandable, to me at least, than the information offered by Ms Costello.

Along with some specific affirmations for meditation—including some for love, forgiveness, and anger—the author also provides a glossary of terms, as well as a few black-and-white illustrations.

The New Chakra System Handbook is, as the author states, "an easy-to-understand explanation for all". 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Practicing Conscious Living and Dying

PRACTICING CONSCIOUS           LIVING AND DYING

Annamaria Hemmingway
O-Books
2007
ISBN-13: 978-1-84694-077-4
Life After Death, Out of Body Experiences

Food for thought. Insight. Hope.

These and other views are provided by this fascinating look at the NDEs (near-death experiences), encounters with Death in various forms, and communication with loved ones in the spirit world, of fifteen people from all walks of life, including such well-known personalities as Larry Hagman, the actor; and Peter Samuelson, cousin to actress Emma Samms; all rounded out by the author's own story.

Just as each person is unique, so is each story.

But, even after their experiences and because of them, the lives of the people and their world views change-they find a sense of purpose, a reason for living; they lose their fear of Death; they are filled with love and compassion and, and they continually pursue their missions in life as revealed to them through oftentimes dramatic and tragic situations..

The book did raise some questions in my mind:-
     1. Does everyone have a Calling, or are some of us meant to be 'fodder' for those who do receive and follow their Call?
     2. What happens to those who miss, ignore, or don't recognize the Call when it comes? Is there a way to 're-hear' that Call in order to follow it?
     3. How do we discern between our own talents and abilities, and those required for the Calling?
     4. Is there a fine line between what we desire and what the Calling requires?

However, in spite of these personal queries which basically lie beyond the scope of this particular volume, Hemingway has produced an inspiring, very touching, and compassionate book not only for those who might have shared similar experiences and circumstances, but also those who seek to understand Death and what lies beyond it, and what it means to find a true purpose in life. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

I'm Still With You

 I'M STILL WITH YOU

Carole J Obley
O-Books
2008
ISBN-13: 978-1-84694-107-8
Mediumship, Spiritualism, Parapsychology

From beginning to end, I'm sure the reader will find this a very touching, inspiring, and intriguing read. One chapter in particular had me in tears (of happiness).

Sharing with us her gift of Mediumship, and many experiences of some of her clients, Carole presents "true stories of healing grief through spirit communication".

This is one book I found very hard to put down; whenever I had a spare moment, I took it up again to continue where I left off.

My mother died when I was fifty years old. Hers was the first funeral I had ever attended up to that time, and her death hit me like nothing else before had ever done. So, it was no wonder portions of this book moved me to tears. I could readily identify with many of the people involved, including the author.

Like me, she felt very much a loner, often misunderstood, and not really knowing which direction her life was supposed to go. Unlike me, she eventually discovered her purpose and followed it.

These stories of contact with those who have died and passed to the other side will assuredly bring hope and healing to those who grieve, and knowledge to those who have yet to experience it.

"Understanding and accepting that death is a natural transition...eases our passage into the spirit world. Knowing that our spirit continues to evolve in other realms of consciousness gives us the reassurance that life is eternal." 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Holy Sex!

HOLY SEX!

A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing Infallible Loving

 
Gregory K Popcak
The Crossroad Publishing Company
2008
ISBN: 978-0-8245-2471-5
Sexuality, Christianity, Catholicism

"Can you do it...as a Christian?"

Although written primarily for Catholics, this book is certainly not just for Catholics. Any Christian interested in the correlation between spirituality and sexuality will benefit from reading it and, possibly, following some of the suggestions offered.

Popcak approaches the subject matter with humour and, occasionally, somewhat of a flippant attitude, but not sacrilegious, and not enough to make us lose sight of the seriousness of it.

For example, when writing about so-called 'high church gnostics' and their dim view of the body, he writes that they punished it "with extreme fasting, strict abstinence, and harsh sexual continence. These people weren't invited to a lot of parties."

"Sex is holy," he writes elsewhere, "but not in the 'touch and die' sense of holiness. It is holy in the sense that it is the most complete and intimate way one divinized human person can give himself or herself to another divinized human person. Sex is holy because you are holy. God came to make it so."

Through the rest of the book, Popcak offers us a guide to that "toe-curling, mind-blowing, infallible loving".

As I previously noted, even though the book presents a Catholic viewpoint on sexuality, nevertheless there's excellent information and valid arguments for any single person or couples concerned about contraception, natural family planning, foreplay and intercourse, as well as sexual problems and addictions.

Also included are some enlightening quizzes (your Holy Sex Quotient, for one) on various facets of sex and sensuality.

Drawing on scripture references, case studies, and various church edicts and the writings of past popes and saints (and other informed people), Popcak creates an informal, informative and entertaining look at sex and spirituality that's sure to give guidance to some and, possibly, infuriate others. Whichever stance you take, it's well worth a read. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Powers of the Sixth Sense

 POWERS OF THE SIXTH SENSE

Jock Brocas
O Books
2008
ISBN: 978-1-84694-075-0
New Age, Self-Defense

Upon reading the opening pages of this book, I was both surprised and delighted to find that the author was a practitioner of Ninjutsu, and a psychic medium. Having read many other books about the Ninja and spiritualism, I immediately knew how he would probably approach the material.

Certainly, I wasn't disappointed. 

However, even though this is not a book about Ninjutsu itself, or spiritualism as a religion, the author does present many of their techniques which can be used to protect oneself and others in this current world of terrorism and hostile acts, not only abroad, but oftentimes on our very streets.

Although many of the other works on Ninjutsu focus (though not exclusively) on the physical aspect of this martial art, Brocas has taken a more psychic and spiritual approach—in other words, relying more on the 'sixth sense' to warn of impending danger so that physical contact for defense purposes doesn't necessarily have to occur.

Brocas begins Part I with a 'commonsense' approach, making ourselves aware of how often we actually allow criminals access to our personal information without realizing it, and how we can prevent such things from happening. This includes creating protection for yourself, your home, and your business.

In Part 2, he takes a look at risk levels and possible protective measures, paying special attention in two chapters to rape and terrorism.

Part 3 focuses on the psychic and spiritual aspects—how you can develop and use your 'sixth sense' to make your life more secure. Along with this information are excellent discussions and explanations of various facets of psychic phenomena such as mediumship, telepathy, and ESP.

"By attuning yourself to [subtle imbalances in fields of energy] you will be able to identify, perceive and anticipate possible problems that may manifest in life, from street-level violence to international incidents by terrorists."

Powers of the Sixth Sense is an easy read, filled with examples, exercises and extremely helpful information for anyone concerned about living in today's turbulent society. 

(Book Review by Michel Woodhead, 2008)

Tantra for Erotic Empowerment

TANTRA FOR EROTIC EMPOWERMENT

Mark A Michaels & Patricia Johnson
Llewellyn Publications
2008
ISBN-10: 0-7387-0900-X
ISBN-13: 978-0-7387-1197-3
Sexuality, Tantra

If the authors' previous book The Essence Of Tantric Sexuality can be considered theory, then this new book can be the practical workbook.

Replete with fifty-two exercises, dozens of examples, explanations, and experiences, there's a cornucopia of material with which Tantric practitioners or novices can use in order to enhance and enrich their sexual life, focusing on "consciousness, an experimental attitude, and, above all, pleasure".

The author suggests approaching the material slowly but steadily, studying and experimenting with one chapter per week, all of which can be explored by persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity.

The book begins with an examination: first, of Tantra itself, and then sexuality, both physical and spiritual, and how the two can be integrated.

This study is followed by chapters that examine pleasure and desire, with exercises that focus on helping readers to discover various aspects of their own sexuality—what turns them on and off; what forms of foreplay and love-making they enjoy; what their sexual history was like; what does or doesn't happen when they yield to sexual desires; and how they breathe during orgasm—all to help them understand more about their sexual selves.

"From the Tantric perspective, everything that exists is imbued with energy, or Shakti". So follows an explanation of sexual energy—why it happens, how to recognize it, and how to create and manage it.

Following these are informative and enlightening chapters on such things as meditation, reverence, bliss, imagination, and other concepts vital to a working knowledge of Tantric sex.

Together with their previous books, Tantra for Erotic Empowerment provides a dynamic and consciousness-expanding awareness of our sacred sexuality. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Rome: Unabellavista

  ROME: UNABELLAVISTA

How to Tour Italy

Anthony Capozzoli
Bella Industries Publishing
2007
ISBN-10: 0-9794552-0-0-0
Travel

This highly informative and lavishly illustrated 161-page book is an excellent resource for anyone planning a visit to Rome.

Colour-coded sections highlight seven major 'itineraries'-
     1. Ancient Rome
     2. Vatican
     3. Borghese
     4. Navona Pantheon
     5. Barberini
     6. Vincoli
     7. Trastevere

The introductory material gives an overview of everything, and includes such things as maps, dining and restaurant suggestions, and lists of sites with schedules and artists.

As well as descriptions of various artists and their works, there are also descriptions and floor plans of some of the more notable places on the must-see list, such as the Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica.

Concise writing and large colourful illustrations make this book an ideal guide for the visitor to Rome.

Other companion items are also available—an audio guide on CD, for example, and podcasts and newsletters from the publisher (unabellavista.com), as well as other planning guides.

The author's self-avowed passion for "Italy, her art, history, architecture, food, and language" burst from every page of this very worthwhile book. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)

Navigating for Success

NAVIGATING FOR SUCCESS

Moss A Jackson
Corporate Initiatives
2007
ISBN-10: 978-0-615-18045-8
self-help, success

Over ninety-five percent of people in life have no real idea of where they're going, or what they'll do even if they do get wherever it is they want to go.

Navigating for Success is one book that will help them define that voyage, from its first passion to its ultimate performance.

Those already familiar with books by W Clement Stone and Napoleon Hill will immediately recognize many of the principles espoused in this book. Nevertheless, they are expressed in a unique manner, and will give those familiar with the need for success-consciousness a fresh perspective.

Using analogies akin to seafarers, the author presents his material in seven main segments:-
     1. Steering Your Life
     2. Mapping Your Course
     3. Riding Your Inner Wave
     4. Getting Connected
     5. Storm Warning!
     6. Building Your Crew
     7. Setting Sail

The author brings some new terms into play as far as people are concerned—we can fit into roles as a Victim, a Survivor, or a Navigator, paths that we 'chose' at a very early age, but ones that we can just as easily re-choose for our lives today.

The author gives sets of questions to answer to determine which one more closely describes our current path. In the remaining chapters, he focuses on how to become a Navigator—"how to discover where you want to go, and then direct your best energies towards getting there".

The book contains various diagrams, lists, exercises (which the author calls 'Compass Points'), and illustrations from the lives of other people.

Although a small and relatively thin book (137 pages), there is lots of information that can be read repeatedly for further enlightenment.

So, if you don't know where you're headed in life and need a little help, Navigating For Success is one more ideal guide. 

(Book Review by Michael Woodhead, 2008)