A Sobering Examination of WWI For Younger Readers

Book:  The War to End All Wars
Author:  Russell Freedman
Rating: 4.8 of 5.0

Russell Freedman has created in this book a chilling and straightforward pictorial on WWI. The book is aimed at 12 years old and up, but that doesn't mean that everyone won't appreciate the book. There is much to be intrigued by. The photos are especially haunting. None of them are gory or too shocking for a younger reader, but they still get their point across very well. Pictures of the trenches, early tanks, ships sinking, and a picture of the village of Wytschaete near Ypres all bring home the horrors of war.

Also to be appreciated about the book would be how the author keeps the synopsis of the war to such a straightforward narrative. So much happened in the 1914-1918 period politically and on the battlefront. But Mr. Freedman does an excellent job of getting the point across without bogging down in the plethora of facts.


A good book for anyone just starting to learn about WWI whether young or old. Worth picking up. Thumbs up.

What's The Point In Having a Phone You Can't Use?

Product:  OtterBox Armor Series Waterproof Case for Samsung Galaxy S III
Retail:  99.95
Category: Cell phone case
Waterproof: Yes
Rating: F

Horrible. That's the first and foremost thought I have about this case. The idea is solid. And it probably is waterproof. And it is definitely sturdy. But how much use is it when you can't use it?
First issue is the fact you just can't hear it. If you don't have a bluetooth you are out of luck there. You won't be able to hear through the speaker with the case on. Second issue is with the screen turning off. This feature is to save battery. It goes crazy with this case. I found myself almost unable to miss with it at all during a call.
The third problem I had was the buttons are almost completely unresponsive. Now I know how the Thing from the Fantastic Four feels when he tries to make a phone call.

So when you factor in the price plus all the things wrong with this case, I say save your money! This is the second OtterBox I have gotten for my Samsung Galaxy, and both of them were terrible. Avoid at all costs!

Growing Your Mixology Library

Book:  Wine Cocktails: 50 Stylish Sippers That Show Off Your Reds, Whites, and Roses (50 Series)
Author:  A. J. Rathbun
Rating: 4.0 of 5

First off, I have to say that I am a mid level wine enthusiast. I enjoy a full bodied red wine. I'm also a beer enthusiast as well (all craft beers). So on one level I wasn't interested in this book at all. I mean come on, the whole point of wine is to enjoy and savor it for it's own unique flavors. Not to dilute it where it tastes nothing like the grape at all.

So why did I review this book then? Well it is a great book if you appreciate it for what it actually is. It's not a 'wine lovers' guide or something as deep as that. I personally consider this book to be a great way to try out some new drinks. Most of us have our own little bar area. We add books on mixing drinks and making cocktails. Well, why not have this book as well?

Many of it's recipes are excellent for cool drinks during the summer. Can't you picture yourself right now floating in a pool enjoying a tall class of Sangria? Great book to add to your collection. Many of the recipes will be enjoyed by someone at your party. So I'm giving it thumbs up. Nice addition to your collection.

Get Moving!

Artist: Crash Kings
Album: Crash Kings
Rating: 4.5 of 5

Linda Perry is a pretty smart lady. Say what you will, the woman has an eye for talent. This is proved by this cd and many others. Sure we have all heard the #1 single Mountain Man, but how is the rest of the album?

Pretty darn good actually. The cd keeps the music upbeat and lively. Each song flows nicly into the next and keeps your foot tapping. It is piano driven and a little like The Fray, but has more rock injection in my opinion. How do the songs break down? Let's do the 1 to 5 scale (5 is the best).

Mountain Man - 4.8
Song speaks for itself. It's upbeat and will get you up and moving every time.

1985 - 4.2
Another upbeat song. This one could be a single as well.

It's only Wednesday - 4.4
This song is pretty cool for 2 reasons. One it shows off Tony Beliveau's vocal range nicely. And second, Ben Folds Five are back together! That's who they remind me of on this track.

Come Away - 4.0
You know, I am not a Crash Kings fanboy or anything. This album is just solid. Songs like this one are in the upper range because they are just that darn good!

Non Believer - 3.2
The third single from the cd. Good but nothing special in my opinion.

14 Arms - 4.8
Possibly the most rocking song on the whole cd. Listen to this and try not start bobbing to this one! I found this one of the most exciting songs on the whole cd.

Raincoat - 3.4
Another song that could have easily been a single.

You Got Me - 4.3
The second single. By this point in the record I decided I wanted to see them live. The energy is amazing.

Saving Grace - 3.6
It strikes me on this song how they are not just good songwriters, but also good musicians as well. Kudos!

My Love - 4.8
You might think the last song on the album would be filler, but it's honestly one of the best songs on the whole cd.


Total 41.5 / 50.0. Not too shabby! This cd is completely worth your hard earned money. No need to just buy single songs off amazon.com. Just fork the cash over for this great record.