“ For to know nothing is nothing, not to know anything likewise, but to be beyond knowing anything, to know you are beyond knowing anything, that is when peace enters in, to the soul of the incurious seeker.”from Samuel Beckett's Molloy 
The kind of splendid historical novel of which there are far too few. The perfect capture of the essence of Victorian sensibility during a time of wondrous advances in science and society. Each character a gem supported by superbly evocative writing. A true joy to read! ~ Reviewed by Karen Frank
With humor and wisdom born of a life lived with empathy and humanism, Merullo imagines a scenario where The Pope and The Dalai Lama attempt to disguise their famous personages and take a break from global fame to contemplate the real nature of their mission. Part madcap caper and part spiritual retreat, the novel addresses important issues while showing the “all too human” side of these illustrious religious leader. Characters from the “Breakfast With Buddha” trilogy make an appearance bringing this author’s theme full circle. ~ Reviewed by Karen Frank
A master at articulating for the reader the heart and soul of her characters, the author once again delivers the magic. The story is told to her granddaughter as remembered. In 1930’s New York, Marian is estranged from her wealthy Irish Catholic family. Looking to escape from their abhorrent values, she marries her dead gay brother’s lover and sails off to volunteer in The Spanish Civil War. The story brims with emotion and thoughtfulness, while marching the characters forward relentlessly in the sweep of history until the circle closes. Magnificent! ~ Reviewed by Karen Frank
This is a memoir for readers who are not fond of memoirs. A young woman returns to her home in the remote Orkney Islands to escape her demons and repair her life. She discovers and rediscovers purpose, life energy and beauty in an environment famous for its stark emptiness and lack of human contact. Wonderfully descriptive and detailed as well as uniquely captivating. ~ Reviewed by Karen Frank
Where have we been, where are we now and where are we going as a species? Pitched for the general reader with clarity, humor and many “aha” examples, we journey from the dawn of humanity to the current Anthropocene Era dominated by man and the religion of Humanism. While pointing out possible pitfalls in our continuing evolution (including self-extinction), Harari remains cautiously hopeful. What separates human consciousness from other species is imagination and the drive to tell stories and Science, Politics and Religion are the tools. Is consciousness simply a sophisticated series of algorithms? Will the continued development of Artificial intelligence eventually put an end to the species? We are currently in the Age Of Dataism where information IS religion. Should be required reading for all. Magnificent, profound and delightfully readable. ~ Reviewed by Karen Frank
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