Darwin’s Black Box
by Michael J.Behe
New York: The Free Press, 1996.
Synopsis: Michael Behe is a biochemist who has hit upon an interesting dilemma regarding Darwinian evolution: because of their irreducible complexity biochemical systems that are absolutely necessary for life to function could not have arisen spontaneously. Behe carefully documents his findings and comes to the conclusion that the inherent complexity of biochemistry points towards intelligent design as the basis of life. He also analyzes why the scientific community is having trouble with the idea of intelligent design and suggests some solutions to the dilemma.
Evaluation: From a literary standpoint, Behe’s book is very readable and quite enjoyable. He shows that he clearly understands his subject matter and gives many everyday examples to explain the esoteric complexity of biochemistry. That said, the book is rather tedious, but as Behe maintains, the proof is in the details. It’s precisely the details that make this work so compelling. However, in deference to his non-scientific readers, Behe carefully marks out the areas where he gets detailed so that the more casual reader can skip over them. My suggestion, though, is read it right through, even the confusing parts. The arguments against Darwinian evolution presented here are very substantial and they have not been answered by the scientific community as yet.
Slander: Liberal Lies about the American Right
by Ann Coulter
New York: Crown, 2002.
Synopsis: Much of what the media says about politically conservative Americans is untrue. This is Ann Coulter’s contention and she documents it admirably in this book in which she analyzes exactly how the liberals deal with their conservative opponents through the media and public speeches.
Evaluation: Much of what Coulter contends is easily observable in the modern media, especially her contention that the liberals’ primary way of dealing with conservative issues is to ridicule their enemies rather than meaningfully engage their opponents in constructive discussions that might benefit both sides. However, she is rather caustic in the way she puts it, which sometimes is rather annoying. In all, though, she’s right and she’s carefully documented all of her contentions. This is a good read for anyone who wants to take a peek behind the veneer of what the media wants us to think is reality.
Treason: Liberal Treachery from the Cold War to the War on Terrorism
by Ann Coulter
New York: Crown Forum, 2003.
Synopsis: Liberal Americans have had one desire from the end of World War II until today: to destroy the United States of America as we know it and turn it into a country much like the old Soviet Union. So Ann Coulter reads the actions and words of the more radical members and leaders of the Democratic party over the past fifty years. She takes a careful look at the spin put on events by those who have written history during this time and commented on the events and suggests a different interpretation to some of these as well as informing her readers of facts that have been released over some time ago, but that haven’t been publicized, such as the Venona Project.
Evaluation: Caustic as ever, Ann Coulter pulls no punches in her deconstruction of many of the myths propounded by the liberal intelligentsia of the United States of America. As much as her book can make one angry at the lies fed us by various institutions in the U.S., what is writes is true, carefully researched, and meticulously documented. The final conclusion in the book is a very good summary of what makes liberal Americans so antagonistic towards their conservative counterparts.
Not Even A Hint
by Josh Harris
Sisters, OR: Multnomah, 2003.
Synopsis: One of the biggest issues every human being, especially the Christian, has to battle with is lust. Josh Harris has battled with it and after much prayer and careful study has written this book on overcoming lust. There is no secret. The fact is that we as Christians should not let even a hint of lust into our lives. Addressed to both men and women, this book gives some practical suggestions on how to overcome lust in your own life.
Evaluation: This book has helped me a lot and made me think a lot about lust and how it sneaks into my life. Whereas all other books I've read that talked about dealing with lust gave strategies they never did what this one did. While others compromise, Josh sets the bar to a Biblical level: there should be not even a hint of it in our lives. Impossible? No. God gives the power to do so and I've found his practical helps to be very useful in my own battles.
The best chapters in the book are the ones on masturbation and on holiness. The book is worth reading if only for these two chapters alone. If you're serious about your walk with God, you should read this one, along with Every Man's Battle by Steve Arterburn and Fred Stoeker.
Ataturk
by Lord Kinross
New York: Morrow, 1965.
Synopsis: Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the modern Republic of Turkey, is an intriguing figure in early 20th century history. A brilliant military tactician, deep thinker, charismatic leader, democrat, lover of western culture, demagogue, dictator, atheist, womanizer, and alcoholic, this man is an enigma to many and worshipped by his followers. This book traces his life from his birth in Selanik (modern-day Thessalonica), to his death, painting an accurate, unflattering picture both of Atatürk and of the day and age he lived in.
Evaluation: Lord Kinross’ understated English style is perfect for capturing such a magnificent historical figure as Atatürk. It’s a pity that it is not quite as widely read today, as it unlocks both the life of Kemal Atatürk, as well as the background to the reason the Turkish Republic is what it is today. For anyone interested in modern middle-eastern history, this is a must-read, and for those who like a good autobiography, it is an excellent choice, too. This book should foster a greater respect for Atatürk, both inspiring and sobering the reader by what kind of a man he was. Unfortunately, it’s out of print, but should be available through used book sellers or the inter-library loan program of your local library.
The Ottoman Centuries
by Lord Kinross
New York: Morrow, 1977.
Synopsis: Spanning almost five hundred years, the Ottoman Empire controlled much of the middle east from the 1400s to the early 20th century until it collapsed under its own weight. Kinross documents the rise and fall of this empire of conquerors, drawing out their strengths and weaknesses.
Evaluation: A fascinating book, that neither flatters nor debases the mighty Turkish civilization who wielded such influence over the Middle East during its existence. It is a cautionary tale, as well as a window to understanding why the Turks are the way they are today. This is a must-read for anyone who has any interest in the Middle East, especially those who are interested in the Turks. |
