When Everything Changed: The Amazing Journey of American Women from 1960 to the Present

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When Everything Changed: The Amazing Journey of American Women from 1960 to the Present             

by Gail Collins





Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
 
In this 481-page book, there are 30 pages of notes and an 11-page bibliography.  This gives you an idea of the thoroughness of the book.

Gail Collins was the editorial page editor for the New York Times from 2001 to 2007, the first woman to have held that position, and she currently writes a column for the Times’ op-ed page.  It goes without saying that she is an excellent writer, and every page of her book reflects her skills and easy-to-read style.

This book is a wonderful and important chronology as well as a terrific reference work that is full of insights, stories, historical facts, important information, and inspiration.  Her stories of real women (including Hilary Clinton, Sarah Palin, and Michelle Obama—and others we don’t know) make the book even more interesting. Of the personal interviews, one reviewer writes, “[they]  portray the details of the daily lives of American women of the era. This is not library research. It is woman to woman sharing of memories, frustrations and small victories that took place as ‘everything changed’”
Whether you lived through it, read about it in other books, or are new to the area of feminism and women’s rights, there is something in this book for you.

Carol M. Frohlinger, in her amazon.com review, writes, “From June Cleaver to Hillary Clinton, Gail Collins` new book, When Everything Changed, reminds us of both how much everything has changed for American women in the last 50 years and just how little. Collins writes skillfully about the ‘olden’ days when a glamour career for a woman was to be a stewardess and when the reason most women went to college to get a ‘Mrs..’”

Frohlinger continues her review saying, “What Collins does particularly well though is to highlight that there still isn't gender parity in America's workplaces or homes. She ends on a note that celebrates how far we've come with a reality check - the gender pay gap still exists, too few women serve as CEOs or sit on corporate boards and the work-life balance conundrum has yet to be resolved.”

This is the kind of book that should be required reading for everyone—not just women.  It is intellectually stimulating, completely enjoyable, and a reminder of what women have yet to accomplish. 


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This book is available from Amazon.com: When Everything Changed: The Amazing Journey of American Women from 1960 to the Present.

Outstanding! 47 Ways to Make Your Organization Exceptional

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Outstanding!  47 Ways to Make Your Organization Exceptional        

by John G. Miller


Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

There are a number of reasons why this book merits the word: “outstanding.”  First, it is well written.  Second, it is full of engaging examples.  Third, the chapters are short, easy to read, and full of information.  Fourth, the information—although much of it is common sense—is worth the read, whether it is a review, a reminder, or just new motivation to change and grow.  Finally, fifth, Miller uses large doses of humor throughout the book that keeps the information entertaining and enjoyable.

Terry Schuman, a training manager from Denver, Colorado, writes this about the book: “John has a way of writing that encourages people who typically aren't too fond of business-type books to find the time to read his books. He's an expert at using real life experiences and stories to illustrate his various points and topics.”

Schuman continues his review at Amazon.com: “Outstanding!, just like his other books, is an easy read but is filled with excellent educational material that benefits all levels of management- from executives to front-line supervisors. It has 47 short chapters that quickly get to the point and make you think. I found myself saying throughout the book, ‘I've had to deal with that’ or, ‘I can relate to this,' or, 'I wish I would have done that!’”

The reason I have quoted other reviewers is simple.  I am not in business, and I am not a trainer; thus, I don’t have the experience nor the perspective to judge this book.  But, I think it has wide application outside of business as well.  These are precisely the principles one should use in conducting his or her life.

Schuman continues his review: “John's also not afraid to tell it like it really is. How many other business books have you read with a chapter titled, ‘Fire Customers (If Necessary)!.’ Any of your associates who've ever had to deal with the ‘customer from hell’ will appreciate it. But it makes sense. As John writes, "...standing up for your people in the face of mistreatment by customers makes our staff feel truly valued.’”

Matthew Morine, from Castle Rock, Colorado, writes, “John Miller is an accomplished author and consultant in the business world. His previous book "QBQ" was an exceptional work on identifying empowerment thinking. He continues the linage of thought provoking and insightful works in this text. The book identifies the 47 ways to make an organization better. This book is packed with helpful information. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on the ever increasing literature in the business culture, one can buy this book for the best of the latest ideas. The book also highlights some of the latest and trendy "foolish" ideas that would never work. The author shows these ideas to be lacking. Instead of having to read all of the material out there searching for the best practices, the author has done this for you. This book will provide a framework for any church, club, or business. There is not a single wasted page. For a journey in the best ideas for an organization, pick up this title.”

Again, not having read any other books by John G. Miller, I leave it to Matthew Morine to provide that additional perspective.

This is an excellent book that has garnered exceptional reviews and, thus, is outstanding!!!! 



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This book is available from Amazon.com: Outstanding!  47 Ways to Make Your Organization Exceptional. 

The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience

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The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience    

by Carmine Gallo


Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

This Just as television stations admit their affiliation prior to any review or evaluation they make of a show or product that is produced by their parent company, I have to confess that I am a McGraw-Hill author, and this is a McGraw-Hill product; however, I did not know that until I opened the book to its title page.  (I confess, tongue-securely-placed-in-cheek, that it will be impossible for me to give this book a fair, impartial, and totally honest review!)  Am I biased by my 24-year history of working with McGraw-Hill?  Yes.  Am I biased by my excellent relationships established with the editors who have worked with me throughout this period of time?  Yes. ----but, I am going to continue none-the-less.

Anyone who knows my background knows that I have written more than a half-dozen different college textbooks on the subject of public communication, and my most recent textbook, Communicating Effectively (McGraw-Hill, 2009) (with Saundra Hybels) is currently going into its tenth edition. Half this textbook is devoted to public speaking; it is the section I always wrote even when Hybels was alive (she died in 1999).  My small (Elements of Style-like) book, Public Speaking Rules: All you need for a GREAT speech! (And Then Some Publishing, 2008), available from Amazon.com   , covers all the essential information speakers need.  All this to say, is it any wonder I would be interested in this book by Carmine Gallo?

If you are an experienced speaker or you have read a great deal about public speaking, you are unlikely to find anything new in this book; however, if you want to remind yourself about what it takes to be a great speaker or you just want to polish and hone your skills, then this is just the book.  It is informative, specific, comprehensive, well-written, and complete with wonderful, engaging examples.

Gallo has structured her book much like one of Steve Jobs’ presentations.  That is, she has kept her chapters brief (“Obey the Ten-Minute Rule”—Intermission 1), includes brief summaries at the end of every chapter (“Director’s Notes”), offers short segments within chapters, provides tables, bullet-pointed lists, includes numbers of additional examples (“Share the Stage”—Act II, Scene 11), injects pictures of Jobs at work, begins every chapter with a summary quotation, and furnishes additional quotations, explanations, and stories set aside by brackets (much as my “Consider This” sections in Communicating Effectively).  There are a sufficient number of things going on that Gallo effectively grabs a reader’s attention, and rivets it to the printed page.

Gallo writes about the passion that drove her to write this book: “The purpose of this book is to help you capture that passion [the passion that drives us] and turn it into a story so mesmerizing that people will want to help you achieve your vision” (p. xvii).  She added, “Do not let your ideas die because you failed to present them in a way that sparked the imagination of your listeners.  Use Jobs’s techniques to reach the hearts and minds of everyone you hope to influence” (p. xvii).

If you want a great book on presentational skills, you can’t do better than this one!


This book is both available from Amazon.com: The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience

The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything, Who Killed Change? Solving the Mystery of Leading People Through Change

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The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything    

by Ken Robinson with Lou Aronica


Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

This book is truly motivating, and it is because of a combination of reasons.  It is like “the perfect storm” of stimulus packages.  First, the writers offer an engaging, friendly, compelling writing style that makes reading easy and comfortable.  Second, their choices for examples are wonderful.  Whether you know the people or not—and you will know most of them—they describe each experience so well that you quickly identify with them.  

The third reason in this motivational “perfect storm” is their selection of “elements” to discuss.  For example, they discuss “thinking differently,” “creativity,” being “in the zone,” “connecting with people who share your passion and desire, and “developing the proper attitude,” among the elements offered.  And they discus the challenges, too, such as those that come from within, from a lack of confidence, or from fear of failure.  

There is no step-by-step procedure or “formula for success,” but serious readers do not need these pop psyche crutches or aids.  (Of course, some do!)  

What you get from Robinson and Aronica are a wide and broad variety of examples, and their examples offer the same wide and broad level of application or experience.  You read, identify, absorb, and learn—then you apply the ideas creatively and independently on your own in the contexts with which you are most familiar.  This is both the beauty and the force of this book.  It’s the power of example and then, “we need to aim high and be determined to succeed” (p. 21). 


Who Killed Change?  Solving the Mystery of Leading People Through Change

by Ken Blanchard, John Britt, Judd Hoekstra, and Pat Zigarmi


Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.



This is another book in the long line of fables used to identify and solve important and complex real-world business problems.  It is, like Blanchard’s many other books, well-written, brief, and easy-to-read (like a children’s story).  

From the many positive reviews of the book, it is clear that it accurately and precisely, as one reviewer put it, “focuses on the key information that one needs to consider when planning or salvaging a change initiative.”  

It seems to prove—once again—that the quick, practical, personal, and memorable read is likely the most important way to focus on major business issues.  More than just getting readers to think about managing change, there are many ideas here, too, that thrust effective managing to the fore in readers’ minds.  

The book is about a murder mystery with thirteen suspects, and the authors lead readers through an interview with each of the suspects.  Why each of them is a culprit is carefully explained.  How companies can attack the various issues is well presented, too.  If you’re interested in how to change organizational environments—and you are looking for a very simplified explanation—this is a good place to start.  There is no doubt it! 

These books are both available from Amazon.com: The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything and  Who Killed Change?  Solving the Mystery of Leading People Through Change. 

You Were Always Mom’s Favorite! Sisters in Conversation Throughout Their Lives

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You Were Always Mom’s Favorite!  Sisters in Conversation Throughout Their Lives 

by Deborah Tannen
 
Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.


I have cited a number of Tannen’s books in my textbooks, and I have always enjoyed reading them.  With respect to readability, research, and her use of examples, this book is no exception.  

For this book, Tannen writes, “in addition to analyzing transcripts of recorded conversations, I interviewed well over a hundred women about their sisters—women whose ages spanned late teens to early nineties, and who came from a wide range of ethnic, regional, and cultural backgrounds.  Most were American, but some were from other countries.  Americans included Asian-Americans, African-Americans, Indian-, Irish-, German-, and East-European-Jewish-Americans, and so on.  They were straight, gay, deaf, hearing, married, and single.  I made a point of including women of these many backgrounds in order to hear a range of experiences” (p. 5).  

One discovery that interested me—and confirmed observations I have often published in my textbook chapters that discuss relationships—is that “communication is women’s work” (p. 177).  “In many families,” Tannen writes, “communication is women’s work.”  One of the important comments I make to my mail readers who want successful relationships, in a section entitled, “Essential Elements of Good Relationships,” is, “...for partners to continue in a relationship, they must find mutually beneficial ways of communicating” (p. 182, Communicating Effectively, 9th ed. (McGraw-Hill, 2009).  

On the very next page, I write, “Men need to open up more, show their feelings, listen better, and reveal their responses.”  From what I have read in Tannen’s book about what she learned from her interviews, I know she would agree completely with my admonishments.  

The part of the book I found most interesting for me was her final chapter, Chapter 8, “Sisterness: The Good, the Bad, and How to Get More of the Lovely” (pp. 180-203), in which she discusses a number of aspects of communication, especially electronic forms such as Facebook and e-mail.  

Whether or not the book is valuable for sisters—insightful or useful—you can read the reviews for yourself.  Most reviewers found the book both helpful and insightful. One reviewer said, “Every woman with a sister should find examples that she can identify with. I plan on giving both of my sisters copies of the book.”  Just to balance the scale somewhat, another reviewer said, “Seemed like Tannen was trying to put some sort of organization or categorization on those relationships, but couldn't quite pull it off. The stories are so individual that it is difficult to make any meaningful generalizations. Interesting -- sure -- but not a particularly compelling or cohesive read.”
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Get this book at Amazon.com You Were Always Mom’s Favorite!  Sisters in Conversation Throughout Their Lives

The Language of Life: DNA and the Revolution in Personalized Medicine

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The Language of Life: DNA and the Revolution in Personalized Medicine

by Francis Collins
 
 Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.


Before I was a speech-communication major in college—and since I was in the ninth grade in junior-high-school, I might add—I wanted to be a doctor.  Most of my courses in high school and early college were all science courses.  My interest in science did not wear off, and when I graduated from the University of Michigan, I had to make general science a minor since I had had so many courses in the area, and my graduation would have been delayed for at least a year if I had to pick up a new minor.  All this is explanation for my love of science and, thus, of this book. 

Collins has written a science book on DNA for the masses, and I absorbed the information like a sponge in water.  It is a terrific read not just for Collins’ unbelievable knowledge, the revealing and interesting examples cited, the comfortable, readable, and friendly writing style, or even the specific detail he offers: “The best-understood genes are those that code for protein.  This process involves first making an RNA copy of the DNA; that RNA is then transported to the ribosome ‘protein factories’ in the cytoplasm, where the letters of the RNA code are translated into the amino acids used by proteins....This translation is carried out using a triplet code word; for example, AAA in the RNA codes for the amino acid lysine, and AGA codes for arginine” (p. 7).  Most of the language is not of this style and not nearly as complex. 

But, getting back to my point about why the book is a terrific read.  The book is a terrific read because of how it relates to us all.  Collins writes: “The consequence of all this progress is that a new science has appeared at the very center of biology and medicine: you could call it DNA cryptography.  We’ve intercepted a highly elaborate message of critical importance for the future of the human species” (p. 13).  To drive this point home for every reader, Collins says, “Family health history turns out to be the strongest of all currently measurable risk factors for many common conditions, incorporating as it does information about both heredity and shared environment” (p. 14). 

The book is as reader-friendly as a science book can be.  At the end of nine of his ten chapters, Collins has included a box entitled, “What you can do now to join the personalized medicine revolution,” which offers specific methods for readers to take responsibility for their lives.  If you think you may have trouble with some of the language, there is an eight-page glossary to assist you.  Also, numerous figures help in explaining concepts. 

This is a great book written by the Director of the National Institutes of Health who spent fifteen years as director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the National Institute of Health.  Collins was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2007, and the National Medal of Science in 2009.  The book is copyrighted 2010.
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Get this book at Amazon.com The Language of Life: DNA and the Revolution in Personalized Medicine

Bright-sided: How the relentless promotion of positive thinking has undermined America

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Bright-sided: How the relentless promotion of positive thinking has undermined America 
by Barbara Ehrenreich


 Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.



In this 235-page book with 16 pages of notes, Ehrenreich, author of 16 previous books and a previous columnist at The New York Times and Time magazine, offers a rich and compelling read about the false promises of positive thinking.  

First, those reading this review must know that I am completely biased in Ehrenreich’s favor—even though I am guilty of what she is accusing others of doing.  Before supporting my bias, I have to admit that I have been lecturing to thousands of students a loud, clear, and upbeat message about how positive thinking (along with valuable communication skills, of course) is a well-paved, proven road to success.  Also, anyone who reads my blog will know that many of my Thursday essays (and books of essays—see especially, You Rules—Caution: Contents Leads to a Better Life!) support a strong belief in positive thinking.  

You might wonder, then, why I would be biased in Ehrenreich’s favor, because, she thinks it has undermined America.  But, if you read her book you will understand my bias.  I delighted, for example, in the debunking she gave to Jerry Falwell, Pat Robertson, Robert Schuller, and, especially, Joel Osteen and his wife Victoria.  The story she tells of visiting one of Osteen’s services is truly interesting—even delightful.  

Also, she writes about the etymology of positive psychology because of the publication and popularity of Martin Seligman’s books (especially, for example, Learned Optimisim)—something I had only heard about previously and knew little about.)  The unfolding of the Seligman story held my interest, and the details of her interview with Seligman was sheer delight, as was the connection of Seligman’s Positive Psychology Center with Sir John Templeton (p. 166). 

If you would take the time to examine our culture as closely as Ehrenreich has, you would quickly come to the same conclusion she has, that we have produced a huge supply of successful religious and secular charlatans who, under the guise of instruction, simply want to separate you from your money.  There is a great Woody Allen line from the movie, “Hannah and Her Sisters,” which says, “If Jesus came back and saw what they were doing in His name, He’d never stop throwing up.”  

In this book, Ehrenreich traces the origins of the “cult of optimism” from its origins in 19th century America through to the prevalence of the “gospel of prosperity,” “positive psychology,” and the “science of happiness” in academia and literature.  We are amidst a society of “irrational exuberance,” and it is precisely for this reason that Ehrenreich’s book is a must read.  

This book is not a downer at all.  The question she raises, “Why are we so relentlessly positive?”—even when positivity is unwarranted—is a legitimate one.  The bottom line for readers is worthwhile and should stop many dead-in-their-tracks: Are we not too accepting?  Are we not critical enough?  

Ehrenreich's scholarship is impressive, the stories are fascinating, and the book is badly needed, but it will be valuable only if it truly changes attitudes and shapes minds.

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Get this book at Amazon.com How the relentless promotion of positive thinking has undermined America

Comedy at the Edge: How Stand-up in the 1970s Changed America

Book Club... And Then Some!

(Just an aside here. This is the 100th book I have reviewed for Bookworks.com. That shouldn’t come as a complete shock if you have been keeping up with the Andthensomeworks.com blog or are reading the blog on Facebook. It is a milestone only in that the century mark is often considered such. For me, it has happened rapidly even though it has evolved over time. Whether you are aware or not, my review of books serves a dual purpose. First, it alerts readers/followers to various books and my reaction to them. Second, it provides a continuing resource for information and ideas that I can use in my regular revisions of my college textbook, COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY, 9th ed. (McGraw-Hill, 2009. I am always on the lookout for new material, and books have supplied such a wealth of evidence and supportive substance that my quest has never subsided—and must not dwindle as long as revisions remain on the horizon. How many more revisions there will be does not depend on me or my decisions as much as it depends, of course, on the interest in my books by my professional colleagues as well as positive and supportive reviews/comments by my college-age readers.)



Comedy at the Edge: How Stand-up in the 1970s Changed America
by Richard Zoglin

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

For me, this was a fabulous book. I can’t say that I really have cared that much to know how various comedians (during the 1970s or whenever) lived their lives or began and developed their careers, but, having said that, I have taken a sincere and continuing interest in stand-up comedians since I can remember.

I have never thought much about my interest in stand-up comedians; however, when I began reading Zoglin’s book, I realized quickly I was familiar with most, if not all, those he discussed. For example, just in the first chapter alone I knew of Bob Newhart, Bill Cosby, the Smothers Brothers, Jonathan Winters, Stan Freberg, Bill Dana (as Jos Jim nez), and Lenny Bruce. I watched, too, and enjoyed George Carlin, Richard Pryor, Albert Brooks, Steve Martin, Andy Kaufman, Bob Hope, Robin Williams, Robert Klein, Jay Leno, David Letterman, Rodney Dangerfield, Woody Allen, Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, Roseanne Barr, Paula Poundstone, Sandra Bernhard, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jerry Seinfeld. These are names most of you reading this review will remember as well—some, of course, for being mega-stars as comedians, talk-show hosts, characters in sit-coms, or actors in movies.

What I truly enjoy was Zoglin’s readable, comfortable, story-telling style. The book is delightfully and fully engaging, and you really want to know what happened to each of the comedians he profiles, not just in the beginning nor just along the way, but what they decided to do at the end (or, in some cases, near end) of their stand-up careers. There is no question, however, and Zoglin details it all specifically, that the comedians he writes about changed stand-up comedy for good.

As an editor and writer at Time magazine, formerly serving as the magazine’s television critic and currently as its theater critic (I am quoting from the author’s blurb on the back flap), Zoglin spent more than twenty years covering entertainment, and in that position, he wrote cover stories on Bill Cosby, David Letterman, Diane Sawyer, and Arsenio Hall, among others.

The book is 247 pages long (and you will wish it were longer), and there are eleven pages of sources—many of those actual interviews with the comedians he profiled in the book.

Whether or not you enjoyed and appreciated the comedians of the 1970s, and whether or not you enjoy comedy in general, this book has merits far beyond these elements. It reads well, for one, it is great history, for two, and the detailed stories, examples, and insights make it an exceptional choice.

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Get this book at Amazon.com Comedy at the Edge: How Stand-up in the 1970s Changed America

Showing Up for Life:Thoughts on the Gifts of a Lifetime/Feeling Good Together: The Secret of Making Troubled Relationships Work

Book Club... And Then Some!

Showing Up for Life: Thoughts on the Gifts of a Lifetime
by Bill Gates Sr.

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
 
With a 34-word “Forward” by “Trey” (the name the family called Bill Gates III), I knew immediately I was in for a fun read. In 192-pages, and 49 chapters (averaging less than 4 pages each), Gates Sr. pens a book that can take just a couple of hours to read, but holds your attention throughout because of the light, breezy writing style, the interesting, and entertaining, anecdotes, and the implied instructions on how to live a good life—life’s most enduring lessons.

Incidentally, if you want some “juicy” insights into how Bill Gates III (Trey) grew into the kind of multi-billionaire he is today—from a compassionate father’s perspective—this book offers a valuable and insightful perspective. It gives you a step-by-step program for raising a multi-billionaire son! (This is the appropriate place for an emoticon that shows a wink!)

This book isn’t profound. It isn’t particularly illuminating. It isn’t the least bit complicated or challenging. As I was reading it, the thought crossed my mind that it was written for one reason only: Bill Gates Sr. is the father of Trey! But, if you’re looking for a quick, interesting, engaging book to take up a short amount of your time, this one is an excellent choice.


Feeling Good Together: The Secret of Making Troubled Relationships Work
by David D. Burns

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.


There are four qualities that make this book stand out. First, it is extremely readable—what I’ll call user-friendly. Second, the chapters are brief, to the point, and easily grasp readers’ attention. Third, his examples are interesting, useful, and keep readers intimately involved in the text. Fourth, so much of what Burns says—like his emphasis on listening and self-expression skills for example—reaffirm and underscore the information I have in my book, Relationship Rules: For Long-Term Happiness, Security, and Commitment. It is as if the two volumes are companion texts that will offer ways to improve interpersonal relationships—and then some.

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Get these books at Amazon.com Showing Up for Life: Thoughts on the Gifts of a Lifetime Feeling Good Together: The Secret to Making Troubled Relationships Work

Twitterville: How Businesses Can Thrive in the New Global Neighborhoods

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Twitterville: How Businesses Can Thrive in the New Global Neighborhoods
by Shel Israel

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

In the introduction, Israel writes, “There are several books that will tell you how to use Twitter and why you should. This book does a little of both, but neither is my central focus. I share with you stories of people using Twitter in the home office and in the global enterprise. People tweet to raise money for causes; to make government more responsive; to find and distribute news; to build personal or business networks; or just kill a little time with people you enjoy” (p. 6).

His theory is, rather than providing a simple “how to” book, people learn best from other people’s stories, so Israel crams his book full of stories, and he “argues the case for using social media instead of ads” to market a business. Israel spends more time with the current and potential business uses of Twitter than he does with personal uses.

It is through Twitter that Israel obtained three-fourths of the stories he shares. He “posted on Twitter what [he] was covering, and requested people tell [him] good stories on the various topics...” (P. 8). What his stories reveal and what impressed Israel, is that “Twitter lets us behave online more closely to how we do in the tangible world than anything that has ever preceded it” (p. 10).

The first chapters discuss the birth and evolution of Twitter or, as Israel calls it, “Migration of the Full Whale” (p. 27). These chapters offer an appropriate foundation for understanding the stories within these chapters and those that follow.

The writing is excellent and very readable, the descriptions clear, concise, and detailed, and the examples vivid, engaging, and valuable. From each story you gain a strong identification with the subject of the vignette; thus, there is a delightful immediacy you develop as a reader on a continuing basis.

As “the most rapidly adopted communication tool in history, going from zero to ten million users in just over two years" (front flyleaf), this is a book that deserves attention. First, it marks an important moment in the history of communication. Second, it demonstrates the role that technology plays in our society. Third, it reveals and underscores the importance and need for effective, instant communication. Fourth, it indicates (even confirms) how quickly people take to new forms of communication—or new forms of technology. Not just technofiles—everyone! What an insight! What an amazing revolution! What a great book this is.

Get the book now at Amazon.com   Twitterville: How Businesses Can Thrive in the New Global Neighborhoods

Renegade: The Making of a President

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 Renegade: The Making of a President
by Richard Wolffe

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

Whether you followed the 2008 election campaign or not, whether you were a Barack Obama supporter or not, this an outstanding narrative worth reading. If you enjoy politics and, especially, if you find “behind the scenes” stories and revelations both interesting and entertaining, this book will hold your attention. Wolffe, a writer for Newsweek and a political analyst for MSNBC, is a lively, well-informed, clear, and concise writer. The insights into the political campaign, the twists and turns that Obama’s team negotiated, and the way his public and private obsession with Hillary Clinton wove in and out during all aspects of the campaign, make for fascinating—even compelling—reading. If you are a political junkie, or if you’ve enjoyed such writing as Theodore White’s The Making of a President, you will hold Wolffe’s book in high regard.

It is fortunate for readers that Wolffe adds his own asides and insights throughout the book, just as he does in his commentaries on MSNBC, and the additional bits of humor, along with the indented quotations, direct dialogue quoted from members of the Obama campaign staff (in addition to dialogue by Obama himself), and the expressions of feelings and emotions all add to the clear characterizations you acquire of the primary characters of his campaign: Michelle Obama, David Axelrod, Robert Gibbs, Valerie Jarrett, Marty Nesbitt, David Plouffe, Pete Rouse, and Eric Whitaker.

What is amazing about this book is first, how he was encouraged to write it by Barack Obama himself. Second, how much access he had to the future president. Wolffe was “one of a small handful of reporters to have a front-row seat from the very beginning: from his announcement in Springfield, to a summer and winter in Iowa, through the white-knuckle ride of the primates and the heavyweight contest of the general” (p. 329).

Wolffe “spent the best part of a year inside campaign planes, buses, and hotels” (p. 335). Insights, observations, and author’s conclusions were based on enormous amounts of time within the campaign itself. Wolffe writes in the acknowledgments, “...Barack Obama gave his time expansively, shared his thoughts freely, and planted the seeds of this book” (p. 335). There would be no way this book could come into existence without this.

If you do not know or haven’t known who Barack Obama is, why he thinks or acts like he does, or what his plans are for the future (clearly expressed and repeatedly highlighted throughout the campaign), there is no point in guessing. Read this book. Yes, it is about the 2008 presidential campaign, but it just as surely about the man himself. It is a terrific book!
 
Get the book now at Amazon.com  Renegade: The Making of a President

The Years of Talking Dangerously - Geoffrey Nunberg

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The Years of Talking Dangerously
by Geoffrey Nunberg

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

In just over 50 vignettes on language and 265 pages, Nunberg offers witty and insightful reflections on the idiosyncrasies of the English language. More than anything else, he offers an “inside” (linguists’) look at the closing years of the Bush administration which, with respect to word usage, offered a plethora of examples to examine. It was—just as his presidency was—perhaps, the worst case of any president in history; thus, Nunberg had a great deal of information with which to work. Nunberg’s commentaries on language and politics appeared regularly on NPRs “Fresh Air,” in the Sunday New York Times, and in a variety of other newspapers across the country.

In each of the vignettes throughout the book, the original location of the short essay is mentioned, whether it be a “Fresh Air Commentary” or a newspaper. Nunberg’s insights offer an interesting—and sometimes provocative—insight into the culture of the Bush administration.

For me, his commentaries bring back a time that is easily and happily forgotten and along with it, the failed policies and ideas that not just reflect on a failed administration, but an administration, too, whose policies and corrupt practices (to the extent of deleting or altering scientific reports that opposed administration philosophies) that brought our society (and the world) to near total collapse. These are not pleasant memories. Just two examples were how Bush and Karl Rove used the phrase “people of faith,” or how the word “values” became the property of the right.



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How Did That Happen? Holding People Accountable for Results the Positive, Principled Way
by Roger Connors and Tom Smith

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

Based on more than 20 years teaching the concepts of accountability around the world and with 700 clients in 56 countries, Connors and Smith discuss the approaches to accountability that will contribute more to the success of individuals, teams, and organizational life than any other single attribute.

How did That Happen? leaves no doubt in this reader’s mind, that following their specific and well-explained sequence of steps will enable anyone to establish the right expectations in a positive and principled way that will inspire people, make them feel good about their work, and get results.

Accountability is a personal “attribute” that exemplifies who a person is. It is “a way of being” that empowers and allows people to meet and surpass their expectations.

The authors do not provide generalities. For example, they discuss the four main causes of missed delivery: poor motivation, inadeequate training, too little personal accountability, and an ineffective culture. They offer specific solutions to these problems—among many other topics and issues.

This is truly a great book worth reading. It is written by two author who, clearly, know what they’re talking about and talk about it in a direct, readable, and memorable manner.

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59 Seconds: Think a Little, Change a Lot
by Richard Wiseman

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

In a word: fascinating! 59 Seconds is one of those, “I just couldn’t put it down,” types of books. Having previously cited some of Wiseman’s research on humor in the final chapter of Edgar E. Willis’s book, How to be funny on Purpose: Creating and Consuming Humor, I was already familiar with one area of his research. Other areas include deception and luck. What makes this book utterly fascinating is his ability to distill (and make palatable) thousands of papers (research studies) in psychology, then apply them directly to the way we (readers) live their lives. The way he destroys many of the myths that often are taken for granted, is eye-opening.

Wiseman’s chapter titles reveal how closely the research studies (and his applications of them) relate to our lives: happiness, persuasion, motivation, creativity, attraction, relationships, stress, decision-making, parenting, and personality. How can anyone deny that at least one, and probably more, of these areas relates to his or her life?

Wiseman’s close dependence on scientific studies, while maintaining complete and easy readability, I might add, makes this book a valuable resource and practical guide to change. Wiseman explained his method and approach in this manner: “Over the course of a few months, I carefully searched through endless journals containing research papers from many different areas of psychology. As I examined the work, a promising pattern emerged, with researches in quite different fields developing techniques that help people achieve their aims and ambitions in minutes, not months. I collected hundreds of these studies, drawn from many different areas of the behavioral sciences. From mood to memory, persuasion to procrastination, resilience to to relationships, together they represent a new science of rapid change” (p. 8).

Wiseman’s delightful, sometimes dry, sense of humor not only makes the text engaging, but it makes it entertaining as well.

With the specific, practical tools Wiseman offers, clear reporting of the methods the researchers used, and the delightful encouragement of the author himself, you cannot help but be moved to grow, develop, and change in new purposeful and meaningful directions. His 59-second sections full of useful, applicable advice are thought-provoking and valuable. I remain fascinated! (If you want to see a short video of Wiseman, there is one on the Amazon.com website where his book is advertised.)

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What would Google do?
by Jeff Jarvis

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

I found this book fascinating simply because it challenges you to think. Jeff Jarvis has numerous credentials. He is on the faculty of the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He was the creator and founding editor of Entertainment Weekly. He writes the new media column for the Guardian in London.

What would Google Do? has three parts, and if I was asked which part I enjoyed the most, I would be hard pressed to give an answer, and here’s why. I have always been intrigued by Google, and the first part of the book explains its philosophy in a set of 40 rules divided into 10 categories. For example, his opening section, “New Relationship,” includes 4 rules: 1) Give the people control and we will use it, 2) Dell hell, 3) Your worst customer is your best friend, 4) Your best customer is your partner. This is just one example, of course. But I found great information in the rules, “The link changes everything,” “If you’re not searchable, you won’t be found,” and “Simplify, simplify.” There are many more.

The second part of the book, “If Google Ruled the World.” Jarvis simply applies the rules discussed in the first part of the book to a long list of businesses: media, advertising, retail, utilities, manufacturing, service, money, public welfare, public institutions, and exceptions. In the third part (only 10 pages long) called, “Generation G,” Jarvis focuses on social implications of the new power structure, dramatically democratized by Google's solutions. In one Amazon.com review, B. Mann writes, “While many companies were sleeping, the rules of business changed, at least as it pertains to business built on, or enabled by, the internet. Or maybe not all the rules changed (e.g. Wal-Mart, the big dog, will remain the big dog), but a new set of rules has been layered on top (e.g. small is the new big).

With those new rules (plus, admittedly, luck), Google has become a behemoth, cyberly speaking. In the process, Google helped redefine the fundamental nature of the relationships between seller, buyer, advertiser, and the "middlemen" whose value in society is rapidly evaporating.”

Although there is a bit too much of Jarvis in this book, it is still a worthwhile read. It is not a book about what Google does, but a book of what we can do with Google. And, furthermore, it is not a practical book, a well-organized book, or one that offers a deep understanding, but I think it offers a preliminary look at the way Internet-based relationships fuel a new business model, and I found it enjoyable simply because it is speculative. It makes you think!


Reinventing Knowledge: From Alexandria to the Internet
by Ian F. McNeely with Lisa Wolverton

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

In this delightful, well-written, and fully documented 276-page (of text) book, with 25 pages of notes, you will discover a wonderful, fully absorbing, history book that, in my mind, completely and satisfactorily answers the question the authors set out to answer: How does history help us understand the vast changes we are now experiencing in the landscape of knowledge? Further, what are the pivotal points of institutional change and cultural transformation from the classical period to the present?

With Reinventing Knowledge you must enjoy an intellectual challenge, it is true, but if you are interested in the key institutions (i.e., the library, the monastery, the university, the republic of letters, the disciplines, and the laboratory) that have shaped and channeled knowledge in the West, this is certainly a book that will both dazzle and exhilarate your senses.

Because of my background in speech communication, I was particularly drawn to the early section in which they explain the public arenas of democratic Athens where competitive speech and writing took center stage, but were considered an inferior path to truth. There was, then, a shift to knowledge as written then, in another shift, to libraries that could produce Homer’s epics as well as the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible — which made knowledge portable. In yet another shift, monasteries arose as key knowledge institutions to not just preserve written culture of the ancient past but create new frameworks for understanding as well.

It was with the creation of universities that knowledge was again embraced and there was an emphasis on performance, use of the spoken word, and the questioning of texts. This is how the authors proceed through the book, and it makes for fascinating reading.

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Speech-Less: Tales of a White House Survivor
by Matt Latimer

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

I immediately sought out this book when I read parts of it at my father-in-law’s house. He had just received Speech-Less: Tales of a White House Survivor as a gift, and I read a portion of it that I wanted to include in the public-speaking chapters of the tenth edition of my book, Communicating Effectively (McGraw-Hill, 2009), on which I am currently at work. What I didn’t realize was what a wonderful, funny, honest (and, generally, non-partisan) work of art this book truly was. I say “work of art” simply because Latimer is such a gifted writer. His insights, insider information, and the examples he uses are truly revealing and enjoyable.

He is so open, honest, and straightforward, and although these are, indeed, Latimer’s own viewpoints and opinions, you quickly grow to trust his perceptions. I was fascinated, as were other reviewers, to read Latimer's views of Rumsfeld, Chaney, Bush, Colin Powell, Condi Rice and many other of the big names in the Bush administration. The book is 294 pages long, and it includes an index. Once you get started reading it, however, you won’t be able to put it down. As a writer of speeches for myself (never for others), I am somewhat awestruck that anyone could get as excited and enthusiastic as Latimer (or any other speechwriter, for that matter) about writing speeches to celebrate non-events. Oh, I realize there is no such thing as a true “non-event,” but what I mean are trivial, commonplace, celebrations of little importance to the world. I guess being close to the president of the United States, working for him directly, and knowing that you have to perform (prove yourself with) the little assignments to get the big ones that have the potential of making a major difference, is sufficient.

It was for Latimer; however, his experience as a speechwriter was disappointing: “Still, I wasn’t satisfied with my overall experience in the White House,” he writes. “I’d hoped I’d come on board, impress everyone, and craft the great speeches I’d dreamed of since childhood. That wasn’t happening. In fact, the speeches for the most part were disappointment. And the speechwriting process at the White House was nothing like I’d expected it to be” (p. 179).

Nonetheless, moving among the power brokers of the world—and being depended upon by them—was a serious “head trip” for Latimer like when he said, “Knowing that I was dying to meet the vice president..” (p. 172). You must understand that I have not just a little distaste, but a huge and overwhelming dislike (revulsion), for the people of the administration of which Latmer writes; however, I must add at once, his “no-holds-barred,” full-disclosure, honest descriptions of all the characters is refreshing. Of Cheney, Latimer wrote, “I liked the guy from the outset. I truly did. And unlike many people in the administration, he never once did anything that caused me to change my mind” (p. 174). His admiration of Cheney and Rumsfeld, I might add, surprises me, just as his total dislike of Colin Powell, Jimmy Carter, and all liberals. But that doesn’t destroy the entertainment value of the book! It is a real pleasure to read great writing that flows well, engages you, and regularly tickles your funny bone.

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Telling lies: Clues to deceit in the marketplace, politics, and marriage
by Paul Ekman

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

Telling lies is a book that everyone can read: expert and layman alike. There is no sophisticated vocabulary, scientific terminology, or eloquent theoretical discourses. If you are looking for a specific formula, exact template, or reliable protocol that can be used to investigate or detect liars, this book will serve little purpose because there is no such system. However, if you are looking for a catalog of the wide variety of cues that liars manifest (e.g., words, voice, facial cues, or body), and the results of numerous scientific studies on lying, and examples from politics, sales/business, government, and everyday life that reveal the various cues, this is a delightful, well-written book.

The narrative form that Ekman uses is interesting and engaging. What led me to this book in the first place was some recent research on lying. As reported by Benedict Carey, “Judging Honesty By Words, Not Fidgets,” in The New York Times (May 12, 2009, p. D1), he writes, “In part, the work grows out of a frustration with other methods. Liars do not avert their eyes in an interview on average any more than people telling the truth do, researchers report; they do not fidget, sweat or slump in a chair any more often. They may produce distinct, fleeting changes in expression, experts say, but it is not clear yet how useful it is to analyze those.” The study, according to Carey, draws “on work by Dr. Vrij and Dr. Marcia K. Johnson of Yale, among others,” and was conducted by “Dr. Colwell and Dr. Cheryl Hiscock-Arisman of National University in La Jolla, California. [They] have developed an interview technique that appears to help distinguish a tall tale from a true one.” The actual interview technique is not as important as the conclusion: “People telling the truth tend to add 20 to 30 percent more external detail than do those who are lying.” When liars concoct their prepared deceitful script, it is tight and lacking in detail, whereas those without a deceitful, previously prepared script, recall more extraneous detail and may even make mistakes. “They are sloppier,” say the researchers. The researchers point out that their interview, content-based approach does not apply to individual facts, may be poorly suited for those who have been traumatized and not interested in talking, and it is not likely to flag someone who changes one small but crucial detail in a story.

The point is that in the interview, content-based approach, those who seek to detect lies are not looking for specific nonverbal or verbal clues; they are looking more holistically at content. This “new” science is evolving fast says Carey.

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Life is a verb: 37 days to wake up, be mindful, and live intentionally
by Patti Digh

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

Digh’s book, Life is a Verb, is arranged around her six-point guide to life that includes intensity, inclusion, integrity, intimacy, intuition, and intention.

The following is an accurate “product description” for this book: “Within these pages—enhanced by original artwork and wide, inviting margins ready to be written in—Digh identifies six core practices to jump-start a meaningful life: Say Yes, Trust Yourself, Slow Down, Be Generous, Speak Up, and Love More. Within this framework she supplies 37 edgy, funny, and literary life stories, each followed by a “do it now” 10-minute exercise as well as a practice to try for 37 days—and perhaps the rest of your life” (Amazon.com)

Of the book, Sarah Morgan of Stewartsville, NJ, said: “The writing exercises are excellent, bite-sized, and spur you to much deeper consideration of the topics. And the writing itself is funny, real, down-to-earth and extremely moving. I've bought one copy and will buy several more as gifts.” Morgan has put her finger on an important aspect of this book: It is either a gift-wrapped present (because of the fancy presentation and original artwork that makes the book stunning) to yourself or it can be a brilliant choice (because of the vibrant colors, various fonts, poetry, and artistic designs) as a gift for someone else. This is one of the best conceived, imaginatively produced, creatively expressed, and sensitively presented books I have ever read.

Artybeth from Colorado writes in her brief review of the book, “The writing is wonderful and I've seen so many things I've not seen before. Her insights and observations immediately put one in tune with their inner creative self and there [is] much food for thought. It has a beautiful layout and visuals including wonderful quotes trailing along the pages.”

Digh’s writing is outstanding, the quotations she adds are delightful, the artwork is sensational, her examples are captivating, and her “Action” boxes and “Movement” suggestions are practical and useful. Overall, your senses will be assuaged, your feelings will be soothed, and any harsh or violent thoughts you have will be calmed as you read — really absorb — this wonderful creation.

Married to Africa: A Love Story
by G. Pascal Zachary

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

Married to Africa: A Love Story is a fascinating story about contrasting cultures. It is the zoo located in Accra, Ghana, where Zachary meets Chizo Okon, and this book is about their warm and humorous story. I found the in-law introductions by both partners captivating and truly priceless. Zachary depicts life in Africa—the spiritual fervor of some Africans, the mysterious power of juju, and the rewards of eating bushmeat and other African dishes (from the front book jacket). What it was like being white in a black society offered information and insights just as how Chizo experienced being very black in San Francisco. The vignettes are both wacky and wonderful, such as when police mistook Chizo for a black male robbing Zachary’s house, surrounded the house, and saw her come to the door which a large knife in her hand—not out of self-protection or malice, but because she was using the knife in the kitchen. Driving without a licence, charming a stern Jewish mother-in-law, and managing requests from poor relatives in Africa are among other delightful vignettes. If you enjoy love stories, cultural comparisons and differences, and are looking for a witty well-told tale, this book will suit your reading interests just fine.

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Positivity: Groundbreaking research reveals how to embrace the hidden strength of positive emotions, overcome negativity, and thrive
by Barbara L. Fredrickson

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

In her review of the book, Bonnie Snyder says, “For me...reading this book narrowed the gap between the major premises of many faith traditions and science. If you are a skeptic she has the numbers that really document how positive emotion shifts your ability to see more options, be physically healthier and how to feel better.” Although there is little doubt that this is a self-help book, Fredrickson does not just use anecdotal evidence to support her ideas. She uses lab research results in addition to other scientific evidence to illustrate her findings. As the review in Publisher’s Weekly noted, “The book includes compelling case studies, concrete tips, a Positivity Self Test and a tool kit for decreasing negativity and raising the positivity ratio.“

The book is divided into two major parts. The first deals with her research on positivity, and the second, application of the research and how to increase a reader’s positivity ratio. There are 10 forms of positivity that Fredrickson discusses — joy, gratitude, serenity, interest, hope, pride, amusement, inspiration, awe, and love. Her examples are fascinating, her writing style is engaging, and the background and research she brings to her ideas is impressive. In addition to discussing the 10 forms of positivity, also she examines techniques for increasing positivity such as savoring, finding positive meaning, gratitude, kindness, hope, flow experiences, connecting with others, mindfulness, developing distractions, and positivity portfolios. There is something here for everyone.

One thing you will discover as you dig deeply into this book, changing a positivity ratio (trying to achieve a 3 to one ratio) is not an easy, overnight task. Fredrickson uses the analogy of changing the course of a river. It not only takes time, but it takes a great deal of effort as well.

I thought that Annie, a reviewer of the book from Modesto, CA, said it very well, when she said, “‘Positivity’ living is thriving, flourishing, appreciative living. It's looking for what's good and what's right in each person and situation.” That is what this book is all about, however, what you get after reading the book is a solid understanding of, a firm foundation in, and a convincingly sound approach to achieving a positive approach to everyday living. I highly recommend this book.

Find Positivity at Amazon:
Positivity: Groundbreaking Research Reveals How to Embrace the Hidden Strength of Positive Emotions, Overcome Negativity, and Thrive

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Ecological intelligence: How knowing the hidden impacts of what we buy can change everything
by Daniel Goleman

Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.

This book can be reduced to its ultimate simplicity: reduce consumption, and buy smartly. If nothing else, this book will cause you to become aware of the choices you make when you purchase “stuff,” and, at the same time, educate you in how to become more socially responsible. Mark Mccaffrey, from Lafayette, CO, concluded his review of this book by saying that the approach Goleman takes is “well reasoned, well presented investigations into "stuff" in all its shapes and sizes, providing fresh insights into the complexities and hard choices that must be made at all levels of society in order to turn the tide of waste and social/environmental degradation and foster the new energy economy with resilient, sustainable communities.” The examples are interesting, the writing style is engaging, the insights offered are instructive, and, overall, the book is a worthwhile purchase — especially for those unaware of the environmental footprint they are making as a result of the choices and decisions made when purchasing “stuff.”

Find Ecological Intelligence at Amazon:
Ecological Intelligence: How Knowing the Hidden Impacts of What We Buy Can Change Everything

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