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Technology has typically raised concern – including the question if it causes people to lose the ability to think, particularly with the development of artificial intelligence. One of this week’s selections delves into the thorny topic. Also, a pastor teaches how to release some of the burdens many naturally acquire through life, and a popular country music star reveals some of the great recipes that come out of her “pretty b*tchin’ kitchen.” The fiction choice is the latest in Irv Segal’s Jake Cooper series of mystery-thrillers, and a sports offering examines the team that recorded the most victories in a Major League Baseball season.
“The 1998 Yankees: The Inside Story of the Greatest Baseball Team Ever,” by Jack Curry (Twelve)
This is the definitive book telling the inside story of the definitive baseball team written by the YES reporter who was there for every one of the Yankees’ 125 victories to eventually take home the World Series title, despite a rough 0-3 beginning. But “The 1998 Yankees” isn’t merely the perfect gift for every Yankee fan. “Baseball fans who love to hate the Yankees can still appreciate the book, but probably won’t enjoy it as much as anyone who owns merchandise with that classic interlocking N and Y,” wrote Rob Merrill, reviewing for The Associated Press. “These Yankees were professional baseball killers who didn’t mind heeding Steinbrenner’s no facial hair rule. They went to work every day, pounded teams into submission, and did it all again and again from April to October.” (Nonfiction)
“Knowing What We Know: The Transmission of Knowledge: From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Magic,” by Simon Winchester (Harper)
Could it be that many may soon be incapable of forming rational, logical thought? In some corners, one no longer has to know math, read a map, or perform academic research. The average person in the industrialized world has devices at their disposal with the capability of instantaneously performing complex mathematical problems. GPS devices can pinpoint a person’s location and direct them to how to get to their destination. And the knowledge of the ages is available with a few finger strokes on a handheld device. “A delightful compendium of the kind of facts you immediately want to share with anyone you encounter,” according to The New York Times. “Simon Winchester has firmly earned his place in history . . . as a promulgator of knowledge of every variety, perhaps the last of the famous explorers who crisscrossed the now-vanished British Empire and reported what they found to an astonished world.” (Nonfiction)
“Secrets of the Rabbi’s Mafia: A Jake Cooper Novel,” by Irv Segal (My Identifiers)
In this latest thriller, Jake Cooper, a former student of Jewish Talmudic law, investigates a murder in 1995 Chicago for which his girlfriend has been arrested. This in turn uncovers secret stories about a Jewish mafia engaged in corruption, including extortion, kidnapping, and murder. The only question is, will he stop them or become their latest victim? “’Secrets of the Rabbi’s Mafia’ by Irv Segal is a fascinating mystery on a dazzling mission to delight the most discerning fans of crime fiction and international legal thrillers,” wrote Olga Markova for Readers’ Favorite. “Irv Segal eruditely enhances the suspense and mystery with witty insights into the Talmudic laws, leading to unexpected revelations.” (Fiction)
“Traveling Light: Releasing the Burdens You Were Never Intended to Bear,” by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson)
Pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado takes the reader through the process of releasing the excessive baggage everyone tends to carry, so that they can lead a happier, more productive life. Some of those burdens include:
- Arrogance
- Hopelessness
- Disappointment
- Shame, and
- Excessive self-reliance
Many of those burdens aren’t for one to carry alone, and the author argues that they should be left to God. “Lucado shepherds you through the beloved 23rd Psalm, leading you beside the still waters of quiet reflection and using the familiar verses to walk you through an inventory of emotional and spiritual baggage you were never meant to carry,” wrote Christian Book. “Lighten your load as you step ahead in faith!.” (Nonfiction)
“Y’all Eat Yet?: Welcome to the Pretty B*tchin’ Kitchen,” by Miranda Lambert, with Holly Gleason (Dey Street Books)
While Miranda Lambert may be best known as a country music performer, she also acquired the art and love of cooking from her grandmother, Nonny, “The Original Queen of the Pretty B*tchin’ Kitchen,” she says. “The 290-page book features a hearty blend of stories, memories and more than 50 recipes, covering appetizers, casseroles, entrees, drinks, desserts and favorites — including banana pudding, Vicki’s deviled eggs, Bev’s chicken salad, whiskey cupcakes, Neicy’s gumbo, chili and jalapeño cornbread,” wrote Jessica Nicholson for Billboard. “The kitchen table, where Lambert says she has written so many of her songs, is a place to share food, but also a safe, nonjudgmental space to share hopes, fears, dreams, heartaches and laughter, Lambert says. And it’s a place where the country icon draws closer to her collaborators, whether bonding over a song or a recipe.” (Nonfiction)