The book is a fascinating chapter in American history showing how a fringe group can take the ideals this nation was founded on and manipulate them for their own purposes
The lives of the seven paratroopers keep interlacing throughout their lives, whether in war or peace, while they seven maintained different views on what’s good for the state of Israel and society, they mostly managed to keep a friendly and supportive relationship despite their differences.
The bookish world has been abuzz for several month regarding Stoner by John Williams. I’ve read several good reviews from my fellow book bloggers and decided to buy myself a copy.
Seven Mothers by Yochi Brandes is a fascinating book which turns some of the Jewish bible stories on their head by infusing new thinking from a modern woman into the stories which are much beloved. Mrs. Brandes writes about Moab’s mother, Tamar, Miriam the Prophets (Moses’ sister),the Pharaoh’s daughter, Ruth, Michal and Queen Ester.
It is refreshing to read a story from the aggressor’s point of view, usually we get a sore look from the victim’s eyes. This aggressor, however, is justifying his acts, however horrendous. In war and under pressure, as well as mob mentality, regular people commit atrocities which weeks or even days before were unthinkable to them.
The author provides a good historical background of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and provides examples of how the leadership failed its people by not developing a political culture and infrastructure that could support startup state. While Mr. Schanzer does not absolve Israel of blame, he lays most of it at the feet of the United States and Europe who are, according to the narrative, major contributors to the failure.
The Ariadne Objective: The Underground War to Rescue Crete from the Nazis by Wes Davis is a non-fiction book about English spies fighting to save the island of Crete and block Germany’s march to the East.
This is a very unique and enjoyable novel with multiple facets and an absorbing story. The author has proved herself an able writer, weaving an evocative yarn that keeps up interested in a piece which combines paranormal, art and history.
Even though this novel is the second in the series, it is a standalone story which one could enjoy. The returning characters are re-introduced and the synopsis of the first book is rehashed throughout. The story is told horizontally, meaning that the various storylines are happening at the same time but at a different location. The author did a great job setting up the pages so the breaks are easy to follow and understand.
The Reich’s brainwashing of racial purity was so successful many didn’t question it. If you wanted a job or a promotion you “did your duty” even if that meant mass murder. However, this is not an excuse, in war time perception of “right” and “wrong” get muddied, but that usually occurs on an individual scale, not when it comes to the assist and/or participating in genocide or a bastardized form of euthanasia (killing your own soldiers who were left mentally or physically injured in battle).
