70 episodes

Book reviews, author interviews, and entertainment I am looking at. Join me and uncover a whole new world of books and discover some new shows along the way!

Books & Looks Books & Looks

    • Arts
    • 4.8 • 14 Ratings

Book reviews, author interviews, and entertainment I am looking at. Join me and uncover a whole new world of books and discover some new shows along the way!

    #67 - Beyond Meditation: Oren Jay Sofer on Transforming Your Life

    #67 - Beyond Meditation: Oren Jay Sofer on Transforming Your Life

    Oren Jay Sofer is a renowned author, meditation teacher, and nonviolent communication expert. His latest book, "Your Heart Was Made For This", offers a fresh perspective on contemplative practice, mindfulness, and personal transformation. Previously, Oren published the highly acclaimed "Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication". He has led sold-out retreats across the United States and online, guiding thousands on the path to realizing their full potential.
    Discussed in this Episode:
    The transformative power of contemplative practice beyond traditional meditation Strategies for cultivating positive qualities like joy, kindness, courage and rest The future of mindfulness and how Oren's approach broadens its accessibility Lessons learned from decades studying and teaching meditation and communication Insights on attention, concentration, self-care, and living with purpose in a complex world Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/95hyQFPReKw
    Buy "Your Heart Was Made for This" by Oren Jay Sofer on Amazon: https://amzn.to/44arDvU
    _
    Produced by Podcast Studio X.
    Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

    • 50 min
    #66 - Chikodi Anunobi on The Thief and the Patriot: Unraveling Nigeria's Complex Culture

    #66 - Chikodi Anunobi on The Thief and the Patriot: Unraveling Nigeria's Complex Culture

    Chikodi Anunobi is a talented Nigerian-born author who fearlessly tackles the complex issues of corruption, tribal conflicts, and political scandals in his gripping novel, "The Thief and the Patriot." With a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in Nigeria and his experiences in the United States, Chikodi brings a fresh voice to the world of African literature. In this thought-provoking book, he skillfully weaves together a tale of power, greed, and the desperate struggle for survival in a nation grappling with its own identity.
    Discussed in this Episode:
    The real-life inspirations behind Chikodi's novel, "The Thief and the Patriot," and how he incorporates his experiences and observations of Nigerian culture and politics into his writing. Chikodi's journey from Nigeria to the United States, and how his background in software engineering and his passion for storytelling led him to become an author. The challenges and rewards of writing about sensitive topics such as corruption and tribal conflicts, and the impact Chikodi hopes his work will have on readers around the world. The fascinating insights into Nigeria's rich history, diverse tribal landscape, and the ongoing struggles faced by its people in the face of political instability and social inequality. An in-depth discussion of the main themes in "The Thief and the Patriot," including the complexities of cultural identity, the consequences of unchecked power, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/95wDG0j0xxw
    Buy "The Thief and the Patriot" by Chikodi Anunobi on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aBw3hZ
    _
    Produced by Podcast Studio X.
    Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

    • 41 min
    #65 - Hanging with Hugo: Crafting a Killer Mystery Novel with Katherine Bolger Hyde

    #65 - Hanging with Hugo: Crafting a Killer Mystery Novel with Katherine Bolger Hyde

    Katherine Bolger Hyde is a talented author who has found her niche in the world of cozy mysteries. With a background in Russian literature and a love for British culture, she brings a unique perspective to her writing. In her "Crime with the Classics" series, she skillfully weaves together her passion for classic literature with intriguing mysteries that keep readers guessing until the very end.
    Discussed in this Episode:
    The inspiration behind Katherine's "Crime with the Classics" series and how she incorporates classic literature into her mystery novels. Katherine's writing process, from developing engaging characters to crafting intricate plots and creating the perfect fictional setting. The challenges and rewards of writing a mystery series, including planning future books and working with a publisher to create captivating book titles and covers. The influence of Russian literature, British culture, and personal faith on Katherine's writing, and how she balances these elements in her work. An inside look at Katherine's latest novel, "Hanging with Hugo," and the fascinating journey that led her from studying Russian literature to becoming a successful mystery author. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_YuofOLO9WQ
    Buy "Hanging with Hugo" by Katherine Bolger Hyde on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4as2Iq1
    _
    Produced by Podcast Studio X.
    Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

    • 49 min
    #64 - Ballplayers in the Trenches: WWI's Chemical Warfare Heroes

    #64 - Ballplayers in the Trenches: WWI's Chemical Warfare Heroes

    Journey with us into the little-known world of WWI baseball, where big-league stars like Christy Mathewson and Ty Cobb traded their uniforms for gas masks. In this episode, we sit down with historian and author Jim Leeke (author of ‘The Gas and Flame Men’) to uncover the incredible stories of major leaguers who bravely served in the Chemical Warfare Service, risking their lives on the front lines. You'll be amazed by the tales of sacrifice, courage and controversy that defined this unique chapter in baseball history.
    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ufWva1zmFWQ
    Buy "The Gas and Flame Men" by Jim Leeke on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aFquyH
    _
    Produced by Podcast Studio X.
    Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

    • 53 min
    #63 - Escaping the Nazis: A Remarkable Tale of Survival and Resilience ('American Wolf' by Audrey Birnbaum)

    #63 - Escaping the Nazis: A Remarkable Tale of Survival and Resilience ('American Wolf' by Audrey Birnbaum)

    Today we have a conversation with Audrey Birnbaum, doctor turned author, as she shares her father's remarkable tale of survival and resilience. In 'American Wolf,' we uncover the astonishing story of a man who escaped Nazi Germany, only to return as an American spy. Audrey's engaging storytelling and fascinating family history will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don't miss this unforgettable episode that celebrates the indomitable human spirit!
    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Uwe-BY3u1IM
    Buy "American Wolf" by Audrey Birnbaum on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3xad8fj
    _
    Produced by Podcast Studio X.
    Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

    • 59 min
    #62 - Inside the Blaze: The Untold Story of the Windsor Tragedy

    #62 - Inside the Blaze: The Untold Story of the Windsor Tragedy

    Today we unravel the lingering questions surrounding one of the deadliest fires in New York history with Marlie Wasserman, author of "Inferno on Fifth." What started the blaze that destroyed an entire city block and left 100+ dead on St. Patrick's Day 1899? Why was the true cause never determined? Marlie offers her take on these mysteries, shares her transition from scholarly publishing to historical crime fiction, and teases her next novel involving a kidnapping threat against President Cleveland's daughters.
    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7N05VjdKYtI
    Buy "Wilderness and the American Spirit" by Ruby McConnell on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ToMfeO
    _
    Produced by Podcast Studio X.
    Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

    • 57 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
14 Ratings

14 Ratings

susie southern ,

The Antiquarian —Alfred Balm

Once again, Blaine did not disappoint❗️I also love history including historic fiction. When I heard the Ghent Altarpiece mentioned in this podcast I remembered just two years ago when visiting Ghent that we visited St Bavo’s Cathedral and saw this LAMB OF GOD masterpiece by Jan and Hubert van Eych. It was really something to behold and I felt so lucky to be able to view it and learn all of the history surrounding it. Thanks Blaine for enticing me now to read this book❗️❗️

SvZ

BJones1129 ,

What a great find!

Snapshots is a fantastic podcast. I enjoy Blaine’s approach to the material. I feel like I’m listening to a modern-day Paul Harvey. There’s no cynicism and no agenda. It’s just a fun and informative addition to my week.

SaraDeSantis ,

Fun trivia podcast!

This is such a fun and educational podcast! The host Blaine does a great job. I enjoy the short bits of info, trivia, and book recommendation. It’s fun hearing about things I’ve never heard or new about - like the history behind the parking meter! You’ll learn something through this show!

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