March, 2019 | Soup Recipes, Good Books and Cafe Reviews

The China Study by T Colin Campbell

Michael Soos Book Review Articles 26 March 20199 July 2019Book Review, health

Summary: T. Colin Campbell undertook a series of experiments on animals, studies into human eating habits around the world and almost by chance, the existence or emergence of what are considered “western” diseases with some very startling results. He went further studying links between cancers, heart disease and other “western” diseases (Diseases of Affluence) in conjunction with other entities outside of the USA. The book is based on one of these studies: the study of cancers and diseases in China (thus the title of the book). Cancers and heart disease are totally preventable.

Thoughts: I thought I was reasonably well versed in healthy eating and fitness but I was utterly flabbergasted with what I learned from this book. On the whole, the “While Food Plant Based diet” recommendations didn’t surprise but the journey to get there did. The book is divided into 4 parts: The China Study, Diseases of Affluence, The Good Nutrition Guide and Why Haven’t You Heard This Before. Each section is a new revelation which left me intrigued, astounded and excited to find out more. One could end up being quite cynical about big business (in the food, health and medical areas at least), the weakness of government and the apparent lack of scientific impartiality of academia but you would miss the point. His message is simple: eating a (predominantly) whole food, plant-based (WFPB) diet will eliminate “diseases of affluence” (heart disease, cancers. etc.). That’s a big call and it’s no surprise this study and book resulted in HUGE opposition and critics. There are some big industries that would fold and the ethics and strength of government and impartiality of academia is questioned. Think no dairy industry, small livestock industries, bankrupt medicine and pharmaceutical companies and the demise of the western medical profession as it stands right now!
It is quite difficult to stay objective on this one as there are critics everywhere. It has turned out very much to be a war and as we know, the first victim of war is the truth. It is a fascinating read and is a must-read for anyone who wants some insights into what a “good” human diet might look like and the evidence to support this view. Be wary though: this will cause robust discussion with anyone you mention this too. You’ve either a convert or a critic!

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

Michael Soos Book Review Articles 21 March 20192 April 2019Book Review, self improvement

Summary: We live in an age of political correctness, positive affirmations and lack of personal accountability. It is a “fake” world where “fake it ‘til you make it” and “oh, it’s alright if you don’t” tends to give our children and adults alike a distorted view of the “real world”. Far from being a pessimistic, negative book, Mark puts everything into perspective and suggest we will all have down times and “bad days”. He says it best where he isn’t about turning lemons into lemonade but more about learning to tolerating lemons better or even using lemons to your advantage. Accept you as you are.

Thoughts: This is definitely a book I would not have normally read or have any interest in reading but it was strongly recommended by a friend so I thought I’d give it a go. It certainly has rough edges so is NOT for the more sensitive types out there. In the end, I found it immensely entertaining (if not, somewhat vulgar), quite educational about the “real world” and human behaviour and desires and very inspirational. Putting things into perspective and not taking yourself and others too seriously and moving on when things turn to dirt (stronger language actually used) is a skill we all can and should learn. We are all awesome but we’re not perfect and we should embrace those imperfections. Taking personal responsibility for your own actions, accepting you for who you are, riding the bumps out, ignoring the critics, celebrating successes when they come, realising no effort equals no rewards (no gold medals for just showing up) and finally having fun along the way seems to be the underlying philosophy of the author.

The Barefoot Investor by Scott Page

Michael Soos Book Review Articles 20 March 20192 April 2019home finance

Summary: Scott Page had been through total financial loss where he lost his house and all possessions through bush-fire. This major and traumatic event highlighted how unprepared for life and understanding and managing money he was. Scott outlines his formula for financial success irrespective of your income levels or wants and desires. He states that if followed, personal financial success is just about guaranteed.

Thoughts: This is a little different to the books I normally read and review but I was fascinated how Scott’s plan works and how we call all afford to “live well” and “save well”. His methods are simple, solid and quite down to earth and his delivery style very entertaining and very easy to read and digest. He does emphasize the “date nights” which he insists you do but if you’re are already organised, a little disciplined and self-motivated, a “formal” and deliberate session with your partner (or on your own if single) will achieve the same result. Clarity of goals, clear understanding of your current situation and implementation of Scott’s 3 simple steps (Plant, Grow, Harvest) and consistency of action should have you financially successful and be ready for just about anything. This is worth a read even if you think you already have your home finances under control.

Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann

Michael Soos Book Review Articles 15 March 20192 April 2019Book Review, book reviews, great book reviews

Summary: In the 1920s the Osage Indians became enormously wealthy from oil drilling on their reservation. Then, one by one, were systematically murdered so their wealth could be quietly stolen.

Thoughts: Whether Indians in America or Aborigines in Australia, white people killing natives to obtain wealth seems to be a nasty trend. The vicious murders which were ignored, or even contributed to, by law officials and those in authority were appalling. A few greedy individuals plotted a scheme over many years to systematically kill whole families of Osage. Some were eventually brought to trial, after years of dedicated chasing down of the culprits, and without today’s technology and forensics. Kudos to those few who persevered and brought some of those responsible to justice. An amazing story, but one which should never have had to be told.