Book Review: How Music Works

We all know that music moves us in some way or another. We also know that there are times a catchy tune (whether it's a song you love, or that jingle you just can't get out of your head) will make it's mark on us at some point. We laugh, cry, reminisce. 

But why does music it do that? How is it that something can change drastically over thousands of years, but still evoke something in us? 

How Music Works by David Byrne dives into that .

There is a lot of information about musical roots and how musicians worked to perfect their sound according to what worked best with their style. 

Byrne gives us his take on music in a style that is very pleasant, straightforward, and conversational. He comes across as someone whose wide-ranging, collaborative experience and creative intelligence combine with an everyday kind of modesty.

Byrne simply goes through the music creation process (ideation, performance, recording, manufacturing, promotion, etc.) piece by piece and explains them to the best of his ability. Those with little to no music experience, would better understand what goes on in an musician's head when they are creating a masterpiece. 


The book would be a great gift or recommendation for someone--especially a young person--who's passionate about listening to music but who hasn't really thought about it in any structured way, or alternatively for someone who has *only* had formal instruction.

I was given this book for free in return for my honest, open opinion. No monies have been paid.

Just Add Watercolor...

I love art. I recently revisited watercolor as a medium to learn to paint with. I was so happy when I saw this book from Helen Birch was available for review from Blogging For Books.

This pint size book has over 200 watercolor pictures from different artists, incorporating different styles and mediums. In the beginning is a contents of thumbnail size images along with the page that they are on. On the opposite page there is a description of what kind of watercolor it is, a summary of the artist/painting, and a tidbit to help a budding artist.

This book is small, but it is packed with information for those that like to look at art, those looking to explore a new medium, those looking for inspiration, and those that just simply need a gift for an artist friend/family member.

I enjoyed looking through it and I will be keeping it on my coffee table and art desk for inspiration.

**NOTE: I received this book in return for my honest review from Blogging for Books.**

Hot Body Year Round

When I got the email that Blogging for Books was having copies of Cassey Ho's "Hot Body Year Round", I literally leaped for joy. I scambled to get on the website because I knew that this book would fly quick for reviwers. I got there just in time. There were TWO (!!!) left!

If you haven't yet checked out Blogilates, you really need to. Or first, ready Cassey's book. She is the founder of Blogilates.

I have been a fan of Blogilates for a couple years now. I've done the exercises, tried the recipes, and have smiled from ear-to-ear from Cassey's positive affirmations. Her workouts can be INTENSE, but when you do them, it feels like there is a friend with you because she is burning hard, laughing, sharing stories, and constantly encouraging you as you do the video when you feel like giving up.

This book is PACKED full of that same information. The exercises are easy to follow with colorful pictures of beautiful outdoor scenes. The recipes are easy, healthy and fun. And of course, you get to learn how Blogilates came to life with Cassey's honest story.

When you are on the go, and don't feel like loggingin on to a computer, this book has everything the website has at your fingertips. I highly recommend it.

**I received this book for free in response to my honest opinion for Blogging for Books. **