Below are located many samples of reviews conducted by Bengal staff, as well as links to and information concerning the books in question. In addition to reviews being posted here on the Bengal website, reviews are also posted on listing sites for submitted books, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and etc.
Title: Grad to Great
Author: Anne Brown, Beth Zefo
Review: 'Grad to Great' is a blunt, no-nonsense and down-to-earth guide and handbook for young adults with questions about getting a job outside of the fast food or retail industries- and I don't think I'm alone in saying that a copy of this book should be given to every college student.
The truth of the matter is that college these days does a lot to prepare individuals in the theory of their professions (never mind that few college grads actually wind up working within the realm of their degree) but is woefully inadequate at exposing students to real professional atmospheres. The first two chapters of this book contained more useful information on actually getting a job or successfully completing an interview than an Associate's degree worth of classes.
The book is small enough to be finished easily in two or three sittings- hardly imposing even to the most overworked student- and reads so easily that the act of finishing it is almost a disappointment. I, personally, would like to pass on a half-dozen copies to those friends who didn't get the opportunity to read it with me.
Title: Presentation Skills 201
Author: Bill Steele
Review: In Presentation Skills 201, Steele offers tips and advice that will move you from a good presenter to a great presenter. This fabulous guide will teach you how to captivate your audience and deliver meaningful and exciting speeches. Well written and easy to follow, this is a book you will refer to over and over again.
Learn how to “Own the geography”, develop appropriate hand gestures and deliver a message that will have a lasting impact. Steele has written a real winner and you will be a winning presenter if you follow his advice. This book belongs on the shelf of every businessperson and the advice given is great not just for presentations, but for business meetings as well.
Presentation Skills 201 is for experienced presenters that want to move their skills to the next level.
Title: Devil's Island
Author: Frank de Sales
Review: Devil's Island is more than a horror story about an exclusive hotel on a mysterious Caribbean island; it delves into the spiritual realm and the battle between good and evil. The story concentrates on the inner struggles of two unwitting characters, (Andrew and Craig) that have been swept away from the world they knew into a warped reality that causes them to relive their most frightening memories...and worse. Unrelenting visions or daymares haunt these two men and in the end, lead them to fulfill their destinies.
De Sales takes us on a perilous journey that moves at a quick pace and leaves you wanting more from this exciting new author. Devil's Island is a must read for anyone that loves horror, religious horror or stories from "the dark side".
Title: When You Need a Timeout
Author: Barbara Mitchell
Review: When You Need a Timeout by Barbara Mitchell is just what every woman needs during these ultra-stressful times. The pages are filled with true stories of women who have experienced stress and are learning how to become emotionally healthy and lead happier lives.
Mitchell outlines numerous methods for stress-busting and includes examples and worksheets for many helpful exercises. This book is a gem and your girlfriends will love you if you buy them a copy. It is very easy to read and Mitchell skips all the technical jargon and writes a meaningful book that is a real help to every woman that is constantly on-the-go and putting herself last in line.
Learn how to “let go” if only for a few minutes and reduce your stress and ultimately become happier and more successful. When You Need a Timeout is the busy girl’s guide to stress relief! Five Stars and Highly Recommended!
Title: How YOU™ are like Shampoo to Job Seekers
Author: Brenda Bence
Review: In How YOU™ are like Shampoo to Job Seekers, Brenda Bence provides valuable information for everyone who is looking for their perfect job. Many job hunters know that branding is important, but don’t know how to create their own successful branding. Whether you are fresh out of college and seeking your first professional job, or you are a seasoned professional looking for another step up the ladder, Bence’s advice will surely help you land the job of your dreams!
Don’t settle for another position that will “just do”; learn how to create a brand that truly highlights your skills, successes and desires for a successful and enriching career. This book is a gem and belongs on everyone’s shelf.
Title: Life’s Ride or Fall…You Make the Call
Author: Gary Greenfield
Review: Life's Ride or Fall is one man's story of thriving despite hardship and life's little pitfalls. Gary Greenfield takes us on his life's journey and shows us how grit and determination can truly make a difference. His easy to read and informal style make this book a gem even for those that don't typically read.
Greenfield succeeds in showing how to keep priorities in order and learn how to "ride deep in the saddle".
Title: Prayer is Our Power
Author: Lonnie E. Pruitt
Review: This wonderful and inspiring collection of prayers will touch your heart and bring you closer to God. Multiple themes and experiences are woven throughout the verses. Pruitt leads us on a spiritual journey and puts joy in our hearts as we find the power of God in his prayers.
This little gem is perfect for your nightstand. Start your walk everyday with God in your heart and prayers on your lips!
Title: Behind the Music, A Devotional
Author: Rachel Winters, Rebekah Winters
Review: Behind the Music is a delightful spiritual devotional geared towards teenagers. The compelling stories written by contemporary Christian musicians are inspiring and touching. The exciting format of this treasure is sure to make an indelible mark on the lives of those who read it. The artists featured share their experiences and open their hearts and souls for the reader to devour.
Rachel and Rebekah Winters have done a truly outstanding job compiling such a meaningful book. Every teen should have this book in their library and every parent would be well advised to read it as well for the wealth of inspiration between the covers.
Title: Debunking the Hyperinflation of Peter Schiff and the Gold Bugs, A Guide For Investors
Author: Richard Moheban
Review: In Debunking the Hyperinflation of Peter Schiff and the Gold Bugs, A Guide For Investors, Moheban outlines and argues against many of Schiff’s predictions . This is a very informative book and belongs on the shelf of everyone that has a true interest in the cause of the current economic debacle and likely outcomes. Everything from monetary policy and inflation to succinct descriptions of past global situations are covered.
You don’t have to be a financial wizard to follow Moheban’s concise and easy to follow arguments and he does a spectacular job of providing a basis for each of his points. Debunking will truly help you understand the reality of our banking system and make more informed choices about your financial future.
Title: River Passage
Author: P.M Terrell
Review: As I began reading River Passage by P. M. Terrell, I was consumed by the gut-wrenching story of a young girl and her family headed out west to forge a new life. These pioneers endured the most harrowing adventures and hard times of the like that we have not seen in this country since the early 1800’s. The main character of this superb tale is Mary Neely. She is a young teenager that is leaving behind an easy if not pampered lifestyle for one that is harder and scarier than anything she could have ever imagined. Based on actual events and real people, River Passage takes on a vivid journey that is at times horrifying and other times, inspiring. Terrell drew me in with her colorful passages and this book soon became an appendage until I completed it. I simply could not put it down and found myself awake late into the night willing to sacrifice my precious sleep to read the next page, and the next, and the next… I easily found myself right along the other families flowing down the river on their flat boats. Terrell expertly led me there and took me on a journey of a lifetime.
Title: Stone Wisdom
Author: Rolland G. Smith
Review: Stone Wisdom is filled with poetry and prose that will illuminate you, elevate you, make you laugh, make you cry and make you wonder about nature and our universe. Smith brings us into his world of thought and awareness in order to lead us to a more meaningful existence. In a delightfully presented package, this treasure is a compilation of Smith’s musings and reflections that are thoughtful and enjoyable. Touching on subjects as varied as exercising, courtesy, prejudice and security this small book is packed with both serious issues and frivolous messages. Stone Wisdom is Smith’s third book and I hope he continues to share his soul with us. He offers us a very enjoyable view of the world from a highly successful news and television personality.
Title: Compulsion
Author: Jennifer Chase
Review: Chase has really outdone herself with the first in a series of cop thrillers. Compulsion is nothing but the quintessential page-turner that every reader hopes for when they first open a new book. Comparable to the likes of Lawrence Sanders’ Deadly Sins series, Compulsion and the books to follow are sure to generate a loyal following. The main character, Emily, is smart, cunning, full of piss and vinegar along with a boatload of girl power. We follow her as she tries to track down serial killers. Full of twists and turns, brave public servants and evil barely imaginable in the minds of the scourge of society, the plot moves quickly and keeps the reader enthralled. Superb! A must-read! Belongs in the library of every serious reader….need I say more?
Title: Log Cabin Cooking
Author: Barbara Swell
Review: In Log Cabin Cooking, Barbara Swell not only tempts your tastebuds, but fills the pages with country lore and old timey proverbs. The recipes are proven winners, but they are certainly not the only reason to buy the book. If you have any appreciation for the hardship of the cooks during pioneer times, you will enjoy Log Cabin Cooking.