Blog Archives
Think Unique
Think Unique, written by Ortal Green, co-founder of the Glittering Minds, is a workbook-style book designed to help teachers and parents learn the process and benefits of project-based learning (PBL). The author not only explains the rationale behind PBL, but she also leads readers through a series of reflections and questions that build the skills needed to effectively implement the strategy. Green suggests that using the methods outlined in her book, teachers will empower students to think more creatively and critically. The book is designed for the elementary classroom, but the concepts apply to students of all levels.
Think Unique is divided into four parts: “Understanding Creativity,” “Why You Need to Develop Your Creativity,” “All About PBL,” and “Practical Tools and Exercises to Develop Creative Thinking.” Each section builds upon the last, creating a step-by-step guide to the world of PBL. By the end of the book, you have a toolbox of authentic PBL activities you can use in your classroom.
The first two sections focus primarily on understanding your creative potential, even if you feel you have none. The last two sections focus on the strategies of PBL, focusing on the RIDER (Research, Incubate, Dream, Evaluate, Realize) method, and providing examples of how the RIDER method can be used in the classroom to facilitate higher thinking. By understanding that process, you will learn how to design each unit so that students are compelled to think beyond what’s right in front of them.
As an innovator in the field of education, Green challenges teachers to turn the traditional teacher-centered classroom into a more modern student-centered classroom that will foster innovative thinking through project-based learning. With the tools and tips in this workbook, you can learn to tap into your students’ full potential by teaching them how to think creatively.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : 0645224103
A Misunderstood and Misrepresented Mushroom
What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Fly Agaric: A Compendium of History, Pharmacology, Mythology, & Exploration?
There were really two sparks that gave life to this book. The first spark was to produce the book that I had always wanted. When I first developed an interest in this mushroom as a teenager there was very little written about the mushroom that was accessible and the articles and books that were available were frequently vague on a number of important points. I had always wished I could find something that was comprehensive and that could provide a solid background on the history, pharmacology, and mythology surrounding this mushroom. The second spark was the realization that in the decades since I first developed an interest in the Fly Agaric there remained an incredible vacuum in the literature on this mushroom. Thus, the goal of producing the book was to simultaneously fill this vacuum and to produce the book that I had always wanted.
What was the collaboration process like with so many people contributing to this book?
The collaboration aspect was one of the thrilling elements of putting this book together. There were challenges in selecting and contacting the authors and researchers that I wanted to participate but I couldn’t be happier with the selection of individuals who agreed to contribute to this book. Some of the contributors had previously published their work elsewhere, but many of these pieces had been out of print for years or decades and were difficult for readers to find. This provided an opportunity to re-introduce readers to some very interesting literature on this mushroom. It was also great to work with authors on new works, to discuss topics, and lay-outs, and to take a more active editorial role. There were also several chapters that I co-authored, and I feel honored to have had the opportunity to work with each of these individuals as a collaborator.
What is one thing about Fly Agaric that you think is misrepresented in the media?
One thing the media is frequently guilty of is using images of the Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) in articles about Psilocybe mushrooms, frequently referred to as “magic” mushrooms. While the Fly Agaric is also psychoactive it is quite distinct from Psilocybe mushrooms, both in its appearance and in its pharmacology. There is potential for this misrepresentation to lead to confusion among readers, which could lead to unforeseen and potentially harmful consequences.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
There are no books currently in the works though I am presently working on several research articles related to the Fly Agaric, which will likely be published within the next two years.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
How to recognize and identify over a dozen types of psychoactive Amanita species, subspecies, and varieties occurring in North America, and how to distinguish them from look-alikes.What psychoactive and other active compounds are found in psychoactive Amanitas, and how they affect the mind and body.The differences between the effects and experiences produced by psychoactive Amanitas and psychedelic Psilocybe mushrooms.How the Fly Agaric can be detoxified and safely prepared for the dinner table.The history of medicinal and homeopathic use of the Fly Agaric.How the Fly Agaric can be used topically and internally to treat conditions such as pain, inflammation, insomnia, and anxiety.Theories regarding the historical and religious use of psychoactive Amanitas around the world based on archaeological, folkloric, and other evidence.
Fly Agaric
Fly Agaric is what happens when a bunch of mushroom nerds get together and geek out about their favorite fungus- the Fly Agaric. The result is brilliant. The book is designed to be beginner-friendly. No prior knowledge is needed, because the book covers absolutely everything you would need to know, and Feeney has ensured that all the information in the book is 100% approachable. Something in the book is sure to grab your attention and, before you know it, you’ll be dragged into the weird and wonderful world of Fly Agaric fans.
This comprehensive book is divided into five parts, each with a different theme. It begins with a very useful beginner’s guide to mushroom hunting and identification. This section is full of helpful guides and safety information for any fledgling mushroom hunters. The second part is my personal favorite. It is a rundown of appearances of possible allusions to Fly Agaric use in religion, culture, and folklore. This informative book is very well researched, well written, and will likely change how you view some parts of history. Some of the conjecture used in this part is then backed up in part three where Feeney’s experts analyze archaeological evidence. The book then takes another turn in part four, where it becomes a Fly Agaric cookbook. It opens by telling stories of cooking with the mushroom and why doing so is a good idea. Feeney then takes over and tells us everything we need to know about cooking the mushroom. From nutritional information to actual recipes. Finally, the book ends in part five with the science of the Fly Agaric. This section is not too dry and is just as approachable as the rest of the book. The section has everything you could want to know if you wanted to experiment with Fly Agaric yourself.
Fly Agaric is a fantastic tool for anyone that wants to dive into this fascinating topic as it is extensive, thorough, and accessible. This enlightening guide would also make a great coffee table book. You’ll find yourself picking through it, reading the bits you find most interesting until you find you’ve consumed the whole thing. The book is a great read and Feeney and his writers have done an excellent job sharing their passion with the rest of the world.
Pages: 508 | ISBN: 0578714426
If I Only Knew: Life Skills Not Taught In School
If I Only Knew: Life Skills Not Taught In School is the kind of book you need as you lead your everyday life. Bailee Walker covers everything you need to know as an adult. The book is about the lessons that were not taught in the classroom. Reading this book will make you realize that life is not just in black and white. You get to understand why some things work while others do not. Bailee Walker takes you through the reality of life, making you realize that you might have been living in a fantasy world. I like how the author is brutal with the truth, but also gentle when offering solutions to life’s problems.
While reading this book, you get the sense of what the author is talking about without much struggle. You get to learn that the universe knows how to balance things and that everyone’s destiny is mostly determined by the path they take. This book has lessons on technology and computer literacy, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, decision making skills, basic human interaction, politics, the justice system, education, social media and everything else. Reading this enlightening book is similar to learning about a dozen subjects in one class. The subjects’ covered are in the hundreds, but they are all smartly organized. Bailee Walker divided the book into three sections, with each section having particular subjects for discussions.
I enjoyed reading this informative guide mostly because of how the topics were arranged. Bailee Walker included news pieces and stories in the book. The news that is covered is eerie, disturbing and interesting. Having the news items gives one the impression of following a story that has a life lesson at the end. Bailee Walker’s stories are easy to read because they are brief and well summarized. The author went above and beyond to look for tales that will make readers reflect on what society has become, and how the masses react to issues. This book is excellent reference material for people that are looking for inspiration as they face daily challenges in life.
I recommend If I Only Knew: Life Skills Not Taught In School to readers for straight to the point advice that’s given in simple language so that it is easily understood. The author used real life stories that people can connect with. Bailee Walker provides practical and actionable tips that will help readers navigate the muddy waters of life.
Pages: 931 | ASIN: B09LNH61J6
I Believe in Giving Hard Truths
Nature’s Gift of the Soursop Leaves is a short reference guide explaining what the soursop plant is, and what its uses are. Was writing this book therapeutic for you?
Writing this book is a challenge to me as
a. it is the first book to be written in the world
b. have to consider how reader will feel
It gives me more motivation and prompted me to write my second book two months later
Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself?
Yes, it makes me more committed to talk to people and help them.
Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing?
My wife and my late sister as she was a firm believer of the leaves. Sad that her caregiver failed to prepare.
Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know?
I am still doing financial but because of COVID I guess I was called to write the book.
I am very passionate in my writing as I believe in giving hard truths and experience.
Author Links: Website
Nature Gifts of the Soursop Leaves
Nature’s Gift of the Soursop Leaves (Graviola Leaves) is a short testimony and a tribute. The author, David Soh Poh Huat, lost his sister Susan Soh Sung Choo to cancer in 2020. The informative book is meant to support all those suffering from cancer. The author lists out the benefits of consuming Soursop Leaves that are said to cure cancer and many other life-threatening chronic diseases. This flower and fruit-bearing plant is native to the tropics of America and the Caribbean and is consumed worldwide for its healing properties.
David Soh Poh Huat has written this enlightening book to spread awareness about the soursop leaves. It talks about preparing the soursop leaves, then moves on to the quality of soursop leaves that one should consume and where to buy them from. It further covers a list of benefits and finally moves on to various opinions, reviews and facts both supporting and opposing the use of soursop leaves. The author writes in a straightforward and concise manner, accompanied by visuals wherever necessary, which makes following the recipe a breeze. It is meant as an expert source to help readers understand how to source and consume soursop leaves and the potential side effects.
This informative book serves as an introduction to soursop leaves and their possible uses. Throughout the book, the author cautions the reader to talk with their doctors before they consume anything with this plant. Readers who want to know more about this interesting plant and its healing properties against cancer, side effects of chemotherapy, and several other chronic diseases should definitely pick this one up. The author cautions the readers to read up on the benefits, and side effects of soursop leave further as this isn’t a medically proven text, rather the author’s individual and learned experience.
Nature’s Gift of the Soursop Leaves is a nice introduction to the soursop plant and its potential uses. It is not a detailed reference book but does provide research information to get readers started on knowing more about this amazing plant. This would be a great resource for those that enjoy learning about different plants.
Pages: 37 | ASIN : B09BHKWX6F
Plant Folklore
Plant Folklore is a collection of 120 stories that take the reader on a stroll through wild plants found in the hills of Appalachia. Each of these stories covers ancient myths, truths, and the history behind the origin & name of the plant.
Three sections are included in the book, the first being Spring Wildflowers, which includes a list, illustrations, and information about various flower species, with the descriptions of the multiple uses they served to early settlers in America. In addition to identifying each plant by its Latin name, the common names of the plants are also listed to dispel any uncertainty. Additionally, along with enhancing the interest of nature lovers, the pictures of flora and fauna in the book help distinguish between the different species while also clarifying the descriptions.
The second section focuses specifically on the wildflowers found in summers, which will particularly interest plant enthusiasts. In this section, you can find suggestions on precautions to take when planting flowers at home. There are 41 flowers listed here, including one native to America and one brought over by immigrants. It also mentions interesting myths and medicinal uses and warns of the toxicity of plants historically used in America in the early days. In the final section of the book, which addresses shrubs, trees, and bushes more commonly seen, the author reveals the shocking poisonous plants endemic to most people’s diets.
Throughout his book, author Connie Taylor’s knowledge of wild species is woven with folktales, cautions, origins, and blooming periods of flora and fauna. While Plant Folklore covers the fascinating wild plant species found in hills and forests, it also underscores the necessity of protecting them down the road.
As written in the introduction, the author of the book does not intend this book to become a guide to plant medicine. Instead, the author has causally related his knowledge of numerous plants, many of which were part of his childhood memories. A significant focus of the book is on conveying, in an engaging manner, the role that plants played during the early days in America. In addition to explaining the various beneficial medicinal uses of the native species, traded off with modern synthetics, there is a subtle admonition for modern men to disregard most of the native species as non-beneficial weeds.
Plant Folklore is a fascinating book that spreads across several genres. It is perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone curious about different plants and stories associated with them.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B07H6538QQ
Pages and Leaflets of North Oxfordshire
Pages and Leaflets of North Oxfordshire: My Lineage Pre 1700-1959 by Angela Fortnum is a book on family lineage and history. Fortnum was born in Banbury, Oxfordshire. Throughout her life, she has taken up several roles. After completing her schooling, she worked in a bank, took early retirement, and did a health and social care course. However, it wasn’t until her mother’s death that her interest in genealogy was rekindled that ultimately led her to write the book that explores her ancestry, going back to her seventh maternal great grandfather (GGF) and finally concludes with her mother and herself.
Fortnums exploration started off as a simple curiosity about her history; it was only when she started with her research that she realized that there was a story to tell and decided to publish the book as we see it today for the interest of the family historians. The book explores the gradual transition over eight generations from agricultural laborers to self-employed to smallholders and a change in religious beliefs, which stays an essential theme throughout the book. Fortnum’s ancestors have worked in various occupations, been affiliated with different churches, and passed on numerous possessions down the family line, the original account of which has been provided wherever possible in the text.
The text is supplemented by original and unabridged documents. It also provides photos of the churches and directions for those curious and who wish to dive deeper into the local history. I would have liked to have seen topics of general interest or more details about the historical events from the ancestors’ perspective and the impact on their general routine. This insightful book is a fascinating family account filled with photos and historical documents.
Pages and Leaflets of North Oxfordshire: My Lineage Pre 1700-1959 would benefit those doing an in-depth academic pursuit of genealogy. It provides readers with examples of how to put together a family genealogy history and examples of what documents to look for.
Pages: 53 | ASIN : B07HMTFL3M
LITERARY TITAN 