Review: The Overseer Class by Steven W. Thrasher

The Overseer Class by Steven W. Thrasher is a sharp and unsettling examination of how modern systems of power operate through networks of surveillance, bureaucracy, and institutional control rather than just obvious political or economic elites. Although an extremely heavy topic is explored The Overseer Class was powerful, informative and insightful. Thrasher challenges readers to rethink power as something embedded within systems and cultural norms that quietly sustain inequality and is designed less to comfort than to provoke deeper reflection about the structures shaping everyday life. The is an important read and should be added to a college reading list as a start. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Steven W. Thrasher and Amistad for a digital copy (eBook) of #TheOverseerClass in exchange for my honest opinion. #TheOverseerClass will be published on May 19, 2026. 

REVIEW: City Bird by Vinet and Harrison

 

If you enjoy reading about birds or bird watching you will enjoy this charming exploration of urban birds. City Bird: Explore the Charming Metropolitan Melodies of Our Feathered Friends by Angela Harrison Vinet and Janis Hatten Harrison beautifully blends scientific insights with lyrical prose.  It captures the essence of how many birds adapt to and thrive in urban environments. This graphic novel or dare I say picture book is enriched with vivid descriptions and stunning illustrations, making it both an informative and aesthetically pleasing read. I think if the authors added a little bit of scientific background information such as scientific name, genus, range etc., it would have enhanced the experience and added to the reference guide aspect of the book. Through their engaging narrative, Vinet and Harrison inspire a deeper appreciation for these avian inhabitants of many bustling cities. This book is a must-read for urban bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the authors Angela Harrison Vinet and Janis Hatten Harrison – Quarto Publishing Group – becker & mayer for a digital copy of #CityBird in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Microterrors

 

Microterrors by Charles 'Tony' Hart, MBBS, BSc, PhD, FRCPCH, FRCPath is one of the world's leading experts on medical microbiology.

The hidden dangers surrounding us.Despite the confident strides of modern science, the threat of deadly unseen organisms such as viruses, bacteria and fungi still grip the imagination with their ferocious intensity. For instance, resistant strains of bacteria can now survive the strongest antibiotics and deadly new biological weapons are being cooked up in laboratories worldwide.

Microterrors explores these threats as well as humanity's greatest living rivals that have been on the planet far longer than we have. The introduction covers terms, definitions and a brief natural history, including the role of viruses in human evolution, as well as bioengineering and biological weapons. Microterrors then presents the truly terrifying rogues' gallery of invisible killers. Image and summary courtesy of B&N.com

This is a well compiled visual catalog of viruses and bacteria that pose a threat to us in our daily lives. Microterrors are everywhere, in the air, water, soil, the things we eat, touch. EVERYWHERE!!!!! Whether you are a science buff or not you'll appreciate this book. It's a great coffee table piece.

Microterrors is divided into two sections: Viruses and Bacteria. Included in the introduction is an how to guide to aide in understaning the layout and icons accompanying each microorganism. For each there is a quick reference guide states origin, first identified, transmission, portals of entry and incubation period. Also included is a brief description, clinical feature, treatment and prevention. 
The pseudo-colored images are well done and beautiful. Microterrors are indeed beautiful and terrifying at the same time.

Rating: ★★★★★Awesome!!!!!
Publisher: Firefly Books
Pages: 192
Pub. Date: 2004