Book Review:
Nature’s IQ: Extraordinary Animal Behaviors that Defy Evolution
Reviewed by Lori Erbs
Nature’s IQ website: http://www.naturesiq.com
To order this book please visit:
http://www.mcremo.com/order.htm
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Every once in awhile, a new book appears that compels one to begin sampling it immediately, feasting without cessation until every last delicious word and canapé of imagery has been fully relished and digested. Return to Treasure Island, by John O’Melveny Woods, is such a zesty tale, impelling the reader to cast aside personal identity and plunge into its tranquil shimmering pools of intrigue, surrounded by colorful tropical characters playfully wafting in fanciful breezes. Immersing the psyche completely in its cooling romantic waters, one dives into the depths of its plot, entirely forgetting the sweltering heat of ongoing international tensions and transition.
This is a cleverly crafted story that entices and enthralls, teaming with well-choreographed and fast-paced escapades, expanding upon the framework of Robert Louis Stevenson’s original Treasure Island with exotic and penetrating dimensions while carefully preserving overall consistency of characters, vernacular, settings, and style.
Like Long John Silver’s rambunctious pet, Captain Flint, this literary treasure parrots Stevenson’s classic, featuring rich detail, extensive interplay of personalities, and evolutionary development of Sir James Hawkins, the main character. By expertly weaving stories within a story, as told from varying perspectives -- Nathaniel Hawkins, Long John Silver, James Hawkins, and Chloe -- the narrative is imbued with a certain authenticity and kaleidescopic panorama. As easily as Woods hooks one’s curiosity about the treasure of the Pharaoh’s Gold in the beginning via Long John Silver’s account of meeting Jasper Jennings in the Admiralty Jail, so also does he artfully employ a springboard that nets the reader with empathy in Hawkins’ stunning revelation about the fate of Long John Silver at the ending.
A really good novel does not attempt to delineate the entire scenario in isolation. By incorporating brilliant ideological twists and glints of historical synchronicity into its fabric, Woods transforms this from a mere adventure into a work of conceptual mystique; the enigmatic whale creature, the cryptic codes accompanying the treasure map, as well as Redbeard’s puzzling masonic connections all provide just enough hints for the reader to embellish the rest of the yarn with machinations of individual imagination.
The dichotomy between an intellectual quest and sovereign buccaneering is a significant recurring theme, as portrayed by insightful characterizations of James Hawkins and Captain Steele. In Chapter 17, Steele invites Hawkins to dine with him and inquires:
“’Hawkins, I want to ask you, as an educated man, is this the fate that awaits you? Is this the life you have envisioned for yourself?”
I had not anticipated this question, and found myself short of words and searching for an answer. He was not probing me for quickness of reply, and I took the time to reason it within.
“Truth be told, Captain, I am at a crossroads. I enjoy my studies and the promise of an educated gentry life; one which I think fits well with future plans for a career and family. I had always envisioned this outcome, using a close friend of the family as a role model, Dr. Livesey. But since embarking on this journey, I have started to entertain ideas. Ones I never imagined would enter my mind. There is much to be said of this nomadic life upon the oceans. Much that is appealing to me. In my innermost thoughts I at times can envision myself roaming the seas and living as I please. I think I have a heart for it.”
“Ah yes, the seduction, at least at first, is intoxicating and elating.”’
The related motif of moral integrity versus base behavior resonates throughout, with both extremes of human depravity and selfless sacrifice explored in detail. Young Hawkins’ conscience is featured in this passage as he petitions Dr. Livesey to help Long John Silver from his imminent hanging:
“We both sat there, silently staring at our plates. I did not know what he was thinking, but my mind was racing at full gallop, and anger welled up from somewhere deep inside me. I could not understand why a man of such integrity would not fulfill his promise. I tried to put myself in his position, and it did no good. If I were in a jail cell waiting to die, I reasoned, I would have wanted Dr. Livesey to at least try to help. Yet, he was unwilling to do even that!”
Just as there are microcosims of honor among thieves, it is also possible to extrapolate pirate practices amongst modern associates. This account therefore equips the reader with mental simulations for thwarting actual ambushes of contemporary rogues.
The real treasure of Return to Treasure Island is not the golden statue of the Egyptian goddess; it is rather excavated from within the hearts of its heros and heroines. After Long John Silver saves James Hawkins’ life in Ben Gunn’s cave, Hawkins discloses his original rescue mission to save Silver from the gallows in Bristol. Silver rejoins,
“’I be truly touched by your friendship. Imagine that. Long John Silver has a true friend. Touches me heart to the core, it does.”
He sat back against the wall and closed his eyes with a smile.”
If the special enduring friendship between Silver and Hawkins is the torte of this sublime chef d'oeuvre, the romance between Hawkins and his fiancée, Chloe, is the frosting of this multilayered sweet saga.
This book offers something for everyone; it may be interpreted in a simple or complex manner. While simultaneously reviving Stevenson’s timeless epic, it also charts a decisive course for its own unique and unbridled success.
Nature’s IQ: Extraordinary Animal Behaviors that Defy Evolution
Reviewed by Lori Erbs
Why do arctic terns fly 22,000 miles
each year? How can a fish have both eyes on the same side of its
body? What is the meaning of the complex patterns of dances
performed by honeybees?
The answers to these questions and many more are shared in a virtual odyssey into the kingdom of nature entitled Nature’s IQ: Extraordinary Animal Behaviors that Defy Evolution (Torchlight Publishing, Inc. 2009). Released just after the 200th Anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birthday, this English translation from the original Hungarian edition will delight inquisitive children, wizened sages, the young at heart, nature lovers, and Intelligent Design theorists alike. The authors, István Tasi (aka Isvara Krsna das), a Cultural Anthropologist and Theologian, and Balázs Hornyánszky (aka Bhagavat-priya das), a Bioengineer, present case after compelling case supporting their thesis that Darwinian Evolution is not a logical sequitur of intricate and idiosyncratic animal behaviors but rather, natural intelligence reflects a supreme intelligence and designer. Richly illustrated, offering 200 exquisitely color plates, this 160-page hardbound book scintillates with detail, intrigue, and wit, beckoning the curious reader onward into ensuing vignettes sparkling with enigmatic adventures of mysterious living entities.
A summary of “Darwin’s frogs” is given on pages 122-123:
Darwin himself discovered the frog in Chile (Rhinoderma darwinii). After female Darwin’s frogs lay their eggs on wet beaches, males sense the scent of the eggs and fertilize them. They then station themselves beside the eggs in groups and guard them for about twenty days. When the developing eggs begin to move in their tiny, jelly-like globules, the males lean over to them and gulp—they seemingly eat them! Of course, they do not eat the eggs but instead place them with their tongue into their long expandable vocal pouch, situated in the lower part of ther body. The eggs continue to develop in the vocal pouch until one day the male suddenly yawns widely, and the fully developed baby frogs jump out of his mouth….
…For viable offspring to hatch, the frog father must know that he has to keep an eye on the eggs. Furthermore, he has to have the instincts commanding the right behavior: when the young are about to hatch, he has to get them into his specially structured vocal pouch. And when they are fully developed, he has to set them free. If any of these elements were missing, the frog’s reproduction would be unsuccessful. Therefore, it is inconceivable that the Darwin’s frog and its special way of reproduction came into existence step by step, as a result of small changes….It is inconceivable that this frog species, with its specialized behavior, came into existence by a sudden large-scale mutation….The chance mutation of these genes causing a series of concerted, appropriate behaviors would be more than a miracle.
This excerpt provides one example of the methodology employed in analyzing and diffusing evolution theory in terms of reproduction and survival of offspring. Other sections cover predation, defense, symbiosis, animal communication, navigation, and mating behaviors.
The final chapter, entitled “The Source of Intelligence,” presents an alternative explanation referred to as “inverse evolution” from the Vedic ontology:
The Vedic account of the origin of species has three main principles: existence of a supreme person, living beings on other planets with special creative and multiplication abilities, and descent by modification.
The authors assert that incredible behavioral complexity, species diversity, amazing instinctual intelligence, and symbiotic relationships of living entities emanate from the source of all created beings, the Godhead, as described in elaborate detail throughout the voluminous ancient scriptures of East India. They conclude that “In reality, nature’s IQ is the creator’s IQ.”
Employing a distinctly innovative approach, Nature’s IQ offers original and valuable insights for the Intelligent Design community; however, Charles Darwin’s followers might also find it interesting!
The answers to these questions and many more are shared in a virtual odyssey into the kingdom of nature entitled Nature’s IQ: Extraordinary Animal Behaviors that Defy Evolution (Torchlight Publishing, Inc. 2009). Released just after the 200th Anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birthday, this English translation from the original Hungarian edition will delight inquisitive children, wizened sages, the young at heart, nature lovers, and Intelligent Design theorists alike. The authors, István Tasi (aka Isvara Krsna das), a Cultural Anthropologist and Theologian, and Balázs Hornyánszky (aka Bhagavat-priya das), a Bioengineer, present case after compelling case supporting their thesis that Darwinian Evolution is not a logical sequitur of intricate and idiosyncratic animal behaviors but rather, natural intelligence reflects a supreme intelligence and designer. Richly illustrated, offering 200 exquisitely color plates, this 160-page hardbound book scintillates with detail, intrigue, and wit, beckoning the curious reader onward into ensuing vignettes sparkling with enigmatic adventures of mysterious living entities.
A summary of “Darwin’s frogs” is given on pages 122-123:
Darwin himself discovered the frog in Chile (Rhinoderma darwinii). After female Darwin’s frogs lay their eggs on wet beaches, males sense the scent of the eggs and fertilize them. They then station themselves beside the eggs in groups and guard them for about twenty days. When the developing eggs begin to move in their tiny, jelly-like globules, the males lean over to them and gulp—they seemingly eat them! Of course, they do not eat the eggs but instead place them with their tongue into their long expandable vocal pouch, situated in the lower part of ther body. The eggs continue to develop in the vocal pouch until one day the male suddenly yawns widely, and the fully developed baby frogs jump out of his mouth….
…For viable offspring to hatch, the frog father must know that he has to keep an eye on the eggs. Furthermore, he has to have the instincts commanding the right behavior: when the young are about to hatch, he has to get them into his specially structured vocal pouch. And when they are fully developed, he has to set them free. If any of these elements were missing, the frog’s reproduction would be unsuccessful. Therefore, it is inconceivable that the Darwin’s frog and its special way of reproduction came into existence step by step, as a result of small changes….It is inconceivable that this frog species, with its specialized behavior, came into existence by a sudden large-scale mutation….The chance mutation of these genes causing a series of concerted, appropriate behaviors would be more than a miracle.
This excerpt provides one example of the methodology employed in analyzing and diffusing evolution theory in terms of reproduction and survival of offspring. Other sections cover predation, defense, symbiosis, animal communication, navigation, and mating behaviors.
The final chapter, entitled “The Source of Intelligence,” presents an alternative explanation referred to as “inverse evolution” from the Vedic ontology:
The Vedic account of the origin of species has three main principles: existence of a supreme person, living beings on other planets with special creative and multiplication abilities, and descent by modification.
The authors assert that incredible behavioral complexity, species diversity, amazing instinctual intelligence, and symbiotic relationships of living entities emanate from the source of all created beings, the Godhead, as described in elaborate detail throughout the voluminous ancient scriptures of East India. They conclude that “In reality, nature’s IQ is the creator’s IQ.”
Employing a distinctly innovative approach, Nature’s IQ offers original and valuable insights for the Intelligent Design community; however, Charles Darwin’s followers might also find it interesting!
Nature’s IQ website: http://www.naturesiq.com
To order this book please visit:
http://www.mcremo.com/order.htm
oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
Book Review:
Return
to Treasure Island: The Lost Journals of Sir James Hawkins
By John O’Melveny Woods
(Intellect Publishing, 2009)
Reviewed by Lori Erbs
By John O’Melveny Woods
(Intellect Publishing, 2009)
Reviewed by Lori Erbs
Every once in awhile, a new book appears that compels one to begin sampling it immediately, feasting without cessation until every last delicious word and canapé of imagery has been fully relished and digested. Return to Treasure Island, by John O’Melveny Woods, is such a zesty tale, impelling the reader to cast aside personal identity and plunge into its tranquil shimmering pools of intrigue, surrounded by colorful tropical characters playfully wafting in fanciful breezes. Immersing the psyche completely in its cooling romantic waters, one dives into the depths of its plot, entirely forgetting the sweltering heat of ongoing international tensions and transition.
This is a cleverly crafted story that entices and enthralls, teaming with well-choreographed and fast-paced escapades, expanding upon the framework of Robert Louis Stevenson’s original Treasure Island with exotic and penetrating dimensions while carefully preserving overall consistency of characters, vernacular, settings, and style.
Like Long John Silver’s rambunctious pet, Captain Flint, this literary treasure parrots Stevenson’s classic, featuring rich detail, extensive interplay of personalities, and evolutionary development of Sir James Hawkins, the main character. By expertly weaving stories within a story, as told from varying perspectives -- Nathaniel Hawkins, Long John Silver, James Hawkins, and Chloe -- the narrative is imbued with a certain authenticity and kaleidescopic panorama. As easily as Woods hooks one’s curiosity about the treasure of the Pharaoh’s Gold in the beginning via Long John Silver’s account of meeting Jasper Jennings in the Admiralty Jail, so also does he artfully employ a springboard that nets the reader with empathy in Hawkins’ stunning revelation about the fate of Long John Silver at the ending.
A really good novel does not attempt to delineate the entire scenario in isolation. By incorporating brilliant ideological twists and glints of historical synchronicity into its fabric, Woods transforms this from a mere adventure into a work of conceptual mystique; the enigmatic whale creature, the cryptic codes accompanying the treasure map, as well as Redbeard’s puzzling masonic connections all provide just enough hints for the reader to embellish the rest of the yarn with machinations of individual imagination.
The dichotomy between an intellectual quest and sovereign buccaneering is a significant recurring theme, as portrayed by insightful characterizations of James Hawkins and Captain Steele. In Chapter 17, Steele invites Hawkins to dine with him and inquires:
“’Hawkins, I want to ask you, as an educated man, is this the fate that awaits you? Is this the life you have envisioned for yourself?”
I had not anticipated this question, and found myself short of words and searching for an answer. He was not probing me for quickness of reply, and I took the time to reason it within.
“Truth be told, Captain, I am at a crossroads. I enjoy my studies and the promise of an educated gentry life; one which I think fits well with future plans for a career and family. I had always envisioned this outcome, using a close friend of the family as a role model, Dr. Livesey. But since embarking on this journey, I have started to entertain ideas. Ones I never imagined would enter my mind. There is much to be said of this nomadic life upon the oceans. Much that is appealing to me. In my innermost thoughts I at times can envision myself roaming the seas and living as I please. I think I have a heart for it.”
“Ah yes, the seduction, at least at first, is intoxicating and elating.”’
The related motif of moral integrity versus base behavior resonates throughout, with both extremes of human depravity and selfless sacrifice explored in detail. Young Hawkins’ conscience is featured in this passage as he petitions Dr. Livesey to help Long John Silver from his imminent hanging:
“We both sat there, silently staring at our plates. I did not know what he was thinking, but my mind was racing at full gallop, and anger welled up from somewhere deep inside me. I could not understand why a man of such integrity would not fulfill his promise. I tried to put myself in his position, and it did no good. If I were in a jail cell waiting to die, I reasoned, I would have wanted Dr. Livesey to at least try to help. Yet, he was unwilling to do even that!”
Just as there are microcosims of honor among thieves, it is also possible to extrapolate pirate practices amongst modern associates. This account therefore equips the reader with mental simulations for thwarting actual ambushes of contemporary rogues.
The real treasure of Return to Treasure Island is not the golden statue of the Egyptian goddess; it is rather excavated from within the hearts of its heros and heroines. After Long John Silver saves James Hawkins’ life in Ben Gunn’s cave, Hawkins discloses his original rescue mission to save Silver from the gallows in Bristol. Silver rejoins,
“’I be truly touched by your friendship. Imagine that. Long John Silver has a true friend. Touches me heart to the core, it does.”
He sat back against the wall and closed his eyes with a smile.”
If the special enduring friendship between Silver and Hawkins is the torte of this sublime chef d'oeuvre, the romance between Hawkins and his fiancée, Chloe, is the frosting of this multilayered sweet saga.
This book offers something for everyone; it may be interpreted in a simple or complex manner. While simultaneously reviving Stevenson’s timeless epic, it also charts a decisive course for its own unique and unbridled success.
Return
to Treasure Island website and order info:
http://www.treasureislandbook.com
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http://www.treasureislandbook.com
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