TheRicanReader

In an era where AI is reshaping daily life, Generative AI for Beginners offers an accessible introduction by an author who has the credentials to speak to the subject. Dr. Alex Quant, PhD, is a visionary tech enthusiast who has established herself as an authoritative voice in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain.  Her book helps simplify complex AI concepts, explaining how large language models work in a way that’s engaging and easy to grasp. She provides valuable historical context, helping readers understand not just what AI is, but how it evolved and where it’s headed. The book’s greatest strength is its effort to connect AI to everyday life. It highlights how AI assists in drafting emails, generating creative content, and supporting small businesses. Unfortunately, while these examples are useful, they often lack the depth needed to feel truly tangible—a missed opportunity for making AI’s real-world impact clearer. The biggest dra...

Catherine Ponder’s Open Your Mind to Prosperity isn’t just another self-help book—it’s a blueprint for lasting abundance that remains strikingly relevant today. More than a collection of prosperity affirmations, it offers a methodical, mindset-driven approach to unlocking success in every area of life. The Big Idea: Prosperity begins in the mind before it manifests in the world. It’s not just about financial gain—it encompasses health, relationships, and fulfillment . Much like the ancient Stoics, Ponder underscores a profound truth: our thoughts shape our reality. Before abundance can appear externally, it must first take root internally. Why It Matters: In a world obsessed with quick fixes, Ponder offers something far more sustainable—a mental framework that fosters long-term, holistic prosperity. Standout Insights: Release to Receive: Let go of thoughts, habits, and attachments that no longer serve you to create space for what you desire. Prosperity is a State of Being: True weal...

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind  Estimated Read Time: 2-3 minutes Do you often ask yourself: What’s really happening in the world? Why have things unfolded the way they have? What is the aim of mankind? The meaning of life has been contemplated for millennia—by Aristotle, Socrates, and Plato—and now, in a bold and ambitious exploration, historian and professor Yuval Noah Harari offers his own sweeping account of our species in Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind . Harari, a historian at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, masterfully guides readers through the three momentous revolutions that have shaped humanity: the Cognitive Revolution , which gave Homo sapiens the ability to think and communicate in complex ways; the Agricultural Revolution , which allowed humans to settle and dominate their environment; and the Scientific Revolution , which propelled us into an era of rapid technological and societal transformation. The book is crisp, engaging, thought-provoking , a...

Catherine Ponder’s   How to Live a Prosperous Life  is an ageless guide to achieving abundance through the power of thought and spiritual principles. Packed with real-world applications, this book emphasizes that our successes—and struggles—originate in the mind. How we think determines how we experience life, and Ponder masterfully lays out a path to reprogramming our mindset for prosperity. A key theme of the book is that  prosperous thinking produces prosperous results . Ponder explores the importance of meditation, affirmations, and visualization as tools to align ourselves with abundance. She stresses the necessity of having a  Master Plan —a clear vision of what we want to achieve—because without direction, prosperity remains elusive. Renewing the mind, shedding limiting beliefs, and developing a wealth-conscious mentality are central to her teachings. Beyond financial wealth, Ponder expands the concept of prosperity to include health, relationships, and person...

(2-Minute Read) Massimo Pigliucci’s A Field Guide to a Happy Life: 53 Brief Lessons for Living is a modern reimagining of Epictetus’s Enchiridion, making ancient Stoic wisdom accessible to contemporary readers. For those on a Stoic journey—as I am—this book serves as an insightful companion, distilling core Stoic principles into practical lessons for modern life. The book is structured around 53 short lessons, each offering a concise Stoic principle followed by a reflection on its modern application. Pigliucci explores key themes such as distinguishing what is within our control and what isn’t, how to cultivate inner freedom, and how to face adversity with resilience. In one particularly thought-provoking chapter, he reinterprets the Stoic idea of accepting fate, encouraging readers to actively shape their lives within the boundaries of what is possible rather than passively submitting to circumstances. Another lesson challenges the reader to rethink success, arguing that true happines...

As a student of Stoicism, I found Epictetus' teachings in How To Be Free to be both enlightening and thought-provoking. A.A. Long skillfully translates Epictetus’ wisdom, originally captured by his student Arrian, preserving the profound insights of Stoic philosophy with clarity and fidelity. Epictetus’ teachings offer a timeless guide to inner freedom and resilience. His reflections on control, acceptance, and virtue resonate deeply with modern challenges, reminding us that peace comes not from external circumstances but from mastering our perceptions and actions. Long's translation from the original Greek is both clear and faithful, making the core principles of Stoicism accessible while maintaining their philosophical depth. That said, the language and structure may feel dense or abstract for some readers. Epictetus’ philosophical style often requires careful contemplation, and Long’s scholarly interpretation lacks the modern examples needed to fully bridge the gap between a...

I would like to thank NetGalley, author Judith Viorst, and Simon & Schuster for providing me with an advanced copy of  Making the Best of What's Left: When You're Too Old to Get the Chairs Reupholstered.  This review reflects my personal thoughts and opinions, independent of any influence from the author, publisher, or NetGalley.   Review Bestselling author Judith Viorst, at age 94, once again delivers an engaging, witty, and deeply reflective exploration of life’s later years in  Making the Best of What's Left.  With her hallmark blend of humor and wisdom, Viorst offers a compelling and, at times, sobering examination of aging and the inevitability of life's passage. While her humor shines, the book’s real power lies in its poignant reflections on embracing the twilight years with courage, grace, and acceptance.   Viorst’s sharp and entertaining writing stands out. She masterfully balances humor—often a much-needed antidote to life’s heavier realities—...

Acknowledgment is due to NetGalley, the author David Von Drehle, and Simon & Schuster for providing me with an advanced copy of  The Book of Charlie: Wisdom from the Remarkable American Life of a 109-Year-Old Man . This extraordinary book is a profound exploration of resilience, wisdom, and the art of living well.   David Von Drehle’s telling of Dr. Charlie White’s story This is more than a biography; it’s a meditation on how to navigate life’s challenges with grace and purpose. Charlie White’s remarkable 109 years offer lessons on thriving through seismic cultural shifts and personal trials, making his life a blueprint for resilience and wisdom.   A Stoic Blueprint for Modern Life As a student of Stoicism, I’m drawn to stories that exemplify its principles. Charlie’s life embodies them effortlessly. From enduring the loss of his father as a child to adapting to monumental societal changes, Charlie offers timeless lessons: Accept what you cannot change. Focus on your ...

Curiosity is your superpower, and Dorothy Leeds’  The 7 Powers of Questions  shows you how to wield it. As a former corporate executive and graduate-level adjunct professor, I’ve always encouraged my teams and students to ask questions—not just to gain knowledge, but to start conversations, spark connections, uncover opportunities, and challenge assumptions. Leeds’ book takes this principle further, proving that the power of inquiry is transformative in life, work, and leadership.   As children, we asked countless questions—“Why is the sky blue?” “How does this work?”—because we were curious, eager to learn, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. But somewhere along the way, most of us stopped. Leeds argues that society conditions us to accept things as they are instead of questioning them, and she offers practical tools to reverse this trend.   For business leaders, this book is a game-changer. The ability to ask thoughtful, strategic questions is essential to in...

Henry Cole’s Albert’s ABCs: A Sibling Story is a delightful and relatable picture book that cleverly combines the alphabet with the dynamics of sibling relationships. The story follows Albert, a young alligator, as he navigates the challenges and joys of having a baby brother, Baxter. Using single words arranged alphabetically, the book captures everyday moments of siblinghood—from frustration to affection—through simple yet effective storytelling. Each letter introduces a new scenario, such as “Crying,” “Diaper,” and “Nap,” culminating in a tender resolution with “X” for a kiss and “Zzz” for bedtime peace.   The illustrations, rendered digitally by Cole, are expressive and comedic, with Albert’s exaggerated facial expressions vividly conveying his emotions throughout the day. While some readers may find the digital art less vibrant or textured compared to traditional media, the illustrations effectively complement the humor and charm of the narrative.   This 32-page book is i...