1 comments about The Invisible Prison.

1. This book is a bit on the pesamistic side, on the life of a woman in the army. It sounds as if the author had, at some points in her military career, some injustices done to her. However, it does appear as a typical in your face, yelling, army life as often portrayed on TV. True she may have had some difficulties going on in her life, but I don't think it was all to blame on the army. It sounds as if the Army, more specifically a recruitor, was not the best field for her to be in. The book is basically a tale of her troubles. It appears that the Army was trying to drum her out of the military any way they could because of her job performance. Fair or not, I can not say as it is a one sided story. If it is all true then she may have had a reason to write this book. The religious side of the book, I give her credit for. She knows what and why she believes what she does and it appears to be the only bright side of the story. I did like how her conversation threw the book with a councelor ends. This book may have been better portrayed if maybe she had help writting it and it was authored by someone else telling her story.

No comments about Our Life With Caleb.

2 comments about K.B. & Me: The Tale of a Cancer-Fighting Rabbit With an Attitude.

1. You know you're having a bad day when you return home from a root canal and get a phone message saying you flunked your mammogram. This happened to Judith trotter Short. She shares her story in "K.B. and Me."

   The abnormal mammogram led to further testing, which led to a breast cancer diagnosis. Short candidly describes her emotions, reactions and experiences before, during and after treatment.

   K.B. stands for "Killer Bunny." K.B. is a sweet stuffed rabbit toy with fake plastic fangs glued to its mouth. Short used this toy as a visual aid and motivational tool in her fight against the disease.

   She imagined that her white cells were white killer bunnies. She visualized that these bunnies would hop throughout her body, munching away at the cancer cells. She further noted that since her white blood cells were rabbits, they would reproduce quickly. This is the ultimate goal in cancer treatment, and Short used her imagination to rebuild her own immune system.

   Before long, K.B. achieved notoriety as a cancer-fighting mascot. Even medical personnel were touched and amused by K.B.'s indirect healing power. Besides being a visual aid, K.B. was a physical object of comfort that accompanied the author through surgery, chemotherapy and recovery.

   "K.B. and Me" is a short read. Though 85 pages in length, this slim book covers many topics within the subject of breast cancer. On top of her own feelings, Short describes the reactions of others and how she dealt with them.

   The tone of the book is uplifting. The wording makes the reader feel as though she is having conversation over coffee with a friend, rather than reading the words of a published author. I think that very characteristic justifies that the book should be read by all who are directly or indirectly affected by the disease.

   This is by no means a work of breast cancer research. The author offers no medical references or treatment preferences. The book's value rests in its record of how one woman conquered breast cancer. Short faced to disease with humor and a fighting attitude. She published her story hoping it would help others as well.

   My first reaction, upon reading the cover of the book, was that this woman was crazy. A cancer-fighting bunny? Then I began to think of what my own reaction would be I ever face the same diagnosis. Humor and inner strength would be part of my plan of attack as well. Judith Short isn't crazy. She's an inspiration.

   I do recommend "K.B. and Me" as part of any personal cancer information library. The book is not a substitute for education on the subject. However, Short's poignant, courageous tale can assist other victims in their treatments.

   As I mentioned before, this is a short book. If you ever find yourself buying a pile of books on the subject of breast cancer, slip this slim volume on the purchasing stack, too. The other books will provide some education on the disease. "K.B. and Me" will provide the support, humor and guidance that are needed as well.




2. K.B.& Me is a great and unique addition to the body of cancer-coping literature out there. Judith Short writes an excellent and frank first-person account of her experiences with breast cancer.

   This book is a true heart-warmer as you learn how a stuffed bunny or "Killer Bunny" (nick-named "K.B.") comes to her rescue, destroying cancer cells so her body will produce the white blood cells she needs to help fight the disease that plagues tens of thousands of women each year.

   Through her personal account, Short shares lessons on how to overcome this disease from physical, mental and emotional standpoints. Her honesty is truly appreciated as she guides the reader through her personal journey.

   Though her experiences are personal, they are still seasoned with insight and lessons that anyone who has dealt with this disease - either as a patient or as a family member or friend of the patient - can appreciate.

   Perhaps the most intriguing part of the book is Short's firm insistence and belief in the "patient-active" concept promoted in the book. That is, the patient must take charge of her own healthcare and don't treat doctors as if they are God - because they are not.

   Another major plus to the book is that proceeds from it will be donated to cancer-related organizations and causes. This is definitely a book that you'll pull out again and again if you or someone you love is dealing with cancer and are looking for inspiration on how they can get through this illness.

   Short's style of writing invokes such a personal connection that you get a sense that she is your personal cheerleader, cheering you on and giving you hope.

No comments about A Personal Letter to Allen: The Personal Journal of a Wife's Thoughts and Feelings As Her Husband Struggles to Survive, Before and After a Heart Transplant.

4 comments about Codeine Diary: True Confessions of a Reckless Hemophiliac.

1. Andrews provides a glimpse inside the personal space of a poet who happens to be a hemophiliac. _Codeine Diary_ is a carefully wrought memoir that reveals Andrews' passion for language and life, and it is this love of language which makes this uniquely witty and introspective book more than personal. It is good that it was written.
   - C.M.



2. As I read this I entered a world where only 20,000 others are forced to endure in the USA. That world being that of a Hemophiliac. We can never know what suffering is as Mr. Andrews does, but this book has shown us a shocking glimpse of what it's like. I have been awakened from my shallow existence and can now overcome what measly barriers life has given me. Mr. Andrews, thank you for sharing your life with us. I sir take my hat off to you for your courage and wish you nothing but the best of luck in the future! I must also conclude by saying that you are a damn good poet as well, but then again Charles Wright is your mentor. But please do me a favor from now on, try to live a sedentary life for you have much poetry left to write. It would be a shame to deny us of many more years of your wonderful poetry, by risking it all on some reckless adventure. Your life is your own, but remember that you also have a legion of loyal readers that you are now responsible for.



3. This novel is at times funny, at other times heartbreaking, but entirely wonderful. It is a shame that Tom Andrews passed away so soon after the publication of this, his first novel. He was a great writer and a family friend who will be missed.



4. Like Mr. Andrews, I have a bleeding disorder. We also share the sad distinction of having to be hospitalized for "bleeds". These are always terrible, trying times.
   My god how I wished I'd had this book with me during my last bleed.
   Andrews captures the experience perfectly. There is all the fear, the humor, the midnight pleas for more pain medicine, the frustration, the urge to get up and get back to your normal life. It's all there. And without a word wasted.
   The loss of Tom Andrews was a tragic moment for poetry, but I will continue to honor his memory by buying as many copies as I can of Codeine Diary (as well as his wonderful poetry collections) and handing them out to everyone I know (especially my patients with bleeding disorders). I know that the world has much to gain from his wise words.

No comments about I No Longer Dance: A personal struggle with degenerative disc disease.

1 comments about Through the Barren Trees.

1. I met Nancy on an airplane. She was reading her own book, interestingly enough. It's been a year since it was published and it was her time for to re-trace her own footsteps in the path she once walked. It's a journal that was thankfully written for her own purposes and thankfully shared in "Through the Barren Trees". Sometimes it takes a shock to the system, a test of your humanity, a disaster, perhaps a windfall, to test one's resilience. In this case, Nancy's resilience was tested, and she rebounded with apparently a stronger spirit. It's a story about growing spiritually. It's a story about "why we're here" It's a story worth reading if you're on a path towards you're own enlightened self. I'm pretty sure you can find value in it regardless of your religious tendency. It's not a religious book, it's a spiritual one. Enjoy. Thank you for sharing, Nancy!

1 comments about In Dreams I Run.

1. Outstanding! Inspirational! I hope he writes a sequel. Faith at its BEST.

1 comments about The Ghosts Behind Him.

1. I began writing The Ghosts Behind Him in 1994 shortly after my son's trial on a charge of second degree murder from which he was acquitted because of his chronic mental disorder (schizophrenia.) My son Bruce was detained for 4 1/2 years at the Forensic Psychiatric Institute in British Columbia, Canada, until he was deemed well enough to be released on a conditional discharge by the BC Review Board. I equated the task of writing the book to that of having a long, painful surgery but am proud of the impact it has had on many of those who have read it. I believe it is important, for young people especially, to acquaint themselves with the symptoms of mental illness and learn how it can affect family members and in fact entire communities.

   The Ghosts Behind Him was the recipient of The BC 2000 Book Award which was sponsored by the British Columbia government as a millennium year project. Funding was allocated to provincial schools which allowed them to place it on their library shelves.

5 comments about Journey from Madness to Serenity: A Memoir Finding Peace in a Manic-Depressive Storm.

1. Much more than the dull, ubiquitous "let me tell you my story" books weighing down shelves at the bookstores, Akilah takes you on a life journey with her through some personal, emotional and mind blowing experiences. Her detailed accounting of events leaves you never wanting to put the book down to see how she triumphed or fell prey. She has demonstrated her ability to bring you into the life of a diagnosed Manic Depressant and help you to understand and read the symptoms leading up to such a diagnoses. I truly enjoyed the education and research she provides to help someone else who maybe having some of the same challenges. She should be praised for her accomplishments in spite of her circumstances. Most of us couldn't have done it in our right minds!



2. This book is definitely not one of those "Woo Me" stories. Instead it's an inspirational story of one persons experience with manic-depression. The author brings not only her remarkable compassion and but also a bit of research to bear on this devastating dilemma.
   
   
   I read the book in one day. I shared with a friend, and he read it in one day. Therefore, I would say this is not one of those books full of unnecessary detail, yet the author holds you with an interesting story. Akilah, shares with you her life with manic depression, with clear and precise events that takes you into her life. It doesn't get too technical in regards to mental illnesses or depression. If you have background knowledge on depression and mental illnesses, you could probably relate more. However, if you haven't, it explains enough to move you along. The author gives you enough background to understand how manic depression alters one's life.
   
   
   I encourage persons living with depression, to share this book with close friends to help them gain a better understanding of how depression can alter your lifestyle. Reading Akilah's story will help close friends understand 'What Not To Say'to a person with manic depression, and how to recognize the signs. Many peoples first reaction dealing with loved-one with depression is to attribute all their actions to being depressed. Ultimately, those loved ones make the mistake of assuming they amplify all feelings and emotions.



3. This book is definitely not one of those "Woo Me" stories. Instead it's an inspirational story of one persons experience with manic-depression. The author brings not only her remarkable compassion and but also a bit of research to bear on this devastating dilemma.
   
   I read the book in one day. I shared with a friend, and he read it in one day. Therefore, I would say this is not one of those books full of unnecessary detail, yet the author holds you with an interesting story. Akilah, shares with you her life with manic depression, with clear and precise events that takes you into her life. It doesn't get too technical in regards to mental illnesses or depression. If you have background knowledge on depression and mental illnesses, you could probably relate more. However, if you haven't, it explains enough to move you along. The author gives you enough background to understand how manic depression alters one's life.
   
   I encourage persons living with depression, to share this book with close friends to help them gain a better understanding of how depression can alter your lifestyle. Reading Akilah's story will help close friends understand 'What Not To Say'to a person with manic depression, and how to recognize the signs. Many peoples first reaction dealing with loved-one with depression is to attribute all their actions to being depressed. Ultimately, those loved ones make the mistake of assuming they amplify all feelings and emotions.



4. This book is definitely not one of those "Woo Me" stories. Instead it's an inspirational story of one persons experience with manic-depression. The author brings not only her remarkable compassion and but also a bit of research to bear on this devastating dilemma.

   I read the book in one day. I shared with a friend, and he read it in one day. Therefore, I would say this is not one of those books full of unnecessary detail, yet the author holds you with an interesting story. Akilah, shares with you her life with manic depression, with clear and precise events that takes you into her life. It doesn't get too technical in regards to mental illnesses or depression. If you have background knowledge on depression and mental illnesses, you could probably relate more. However, if you haven't, it explains enough to move you along. The author gives you enough background to understand how manic depression alters one's life.

   I encourage persons living with depression, to share this book with close friends to help them gain a better understanding of how depression can alter your lifestyle. Reading Akilah's story will help close friends understand 'What Not To Say'to a person with manic depression, and how to recognize the signs. Many peoples first reaction dealing with loved-one with depression is to attribute all their actions to being depressed. Ultimately, those loved ones make the mistake of assuming they amplify all feelings and emotions.




5. This book is truly a success story. Akilah takes you inside her life, mind, and heart. I feel it an honor to have had the opportunity for Akilah to share her personal story with me. Akilah not only addresses the issues of being afflicted with Manic-depressive illness but shares her intimate thoughts of self-doubt and the feelings of inadequacy in addition to how men attempted to manipulate her in to believing they were some extraordinary men and the only one willing to take on the burden of this illness with her. My heart went out to her when I read the part regarding the lack of support she recieved from the person she probably needed it most from, her mother. How could a mother make a child feel less of a person? How could a mother justify those actions? How could a mother contribute to these feelings of inadequacy supporting a man who is too weak and pathetic to assist a woman in becoming stronger because her weak moments are his only security, wishing them never to leave for fear that she may realize she could do a lot better than him in the selection of a partner. That isn't love. There is no justification for it. I salute you Akilah. I am also afflicted with manic-depressive illness and refuse to allow anyone to use this illness to mask their own inadequacies. The love of God be with, comfort, guide, and protect you always.