Books & Looks Books & Looks

Amy Jo Burns is the acclaimed author of the novel Mercury, a captivating story that delves into the complex dynamics of a family of roofers in the small town of Mercury, Pennsylvania. With a background in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University, Amy Jo brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, crafting richly layered characters and exploring themes of secrets, redemption, and the power of choice.
Discussed in this Episode:
The inspiration behind Mercury and the significance of the roofing profession Strategies for creating a vivid sense of place and capturing small-town life The role of secrets and revelations in driving the narrative forward Lessons learned from writing a multi-generational family saga Insights on character development, theme, and structuring a novel across multiple timelines Links:
"Mercury: A Novel" Book: https://amzn.to/4a3ub0g Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zjFVeOxiAqg _
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

D.J. Green is the acclaimed author of "No More Empty Spaces," a captivating novel that intertwines geology, family dynamics, and the rich history of Turkey. Drawing from her extensive career as a geologist, D.J. brings authenticity and depth to her storytelling, transporting readers to the remote mountains of Anatolia where an American engineer grapples with both professional challenges and personal growth. Beyond her literary pursuits, D.J. has over three decades of experience as a field geologist, working in more than 35 states and traveling extensively in Turkey.
Discussed in this Episode:
The art of weaving complex scientific concepts into engaging fiction Insights into the geological wonders and cultural heritage of Turkey The challenges and triumphs of a woman in a male-dominated field Balancing family relationships and career pursuits in a foreign land The meticulous research process behind crafting authentic settings and characters Lessons learned from a successful transition from geologist to novelist Links:
Mount Nemrut: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Nemrut D.J. Green Website: https://www.geologistwriter.com/ "No More Empty Spaces" Book: https://amzn.to/3UEvOwU Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bggVH0_ZAiI _
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

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
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

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
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

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
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

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
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.