Zika/ Donald McNeil/ 203 pages

Zika, by Donald McNeil follows the mosquito and virus currently making it's way into North America.  While a recent arrival to North and South America,  Zika has been found in Africa since the 1940's.  The author describes how the virus was first isolated, and how it spread to South America.  Attention is then turned to the devastating results of contracting Zika while pregnant and what can be done to stop the virus.  This is an informative read that will not overwhelm with science jargon.  Definitely a help to understanding the risk and the possible outcome for North America.

Do No Harm:Stories of Life, Death and Brain Surgery/ Henry Marsh/ 289 pages

Do No Harm:Stories of Life, Death and Brain Surgery is the memoir of  Henry Marsh a British  neurosurgeon.  Mr. March introduces the reader to various patients via the treatment they require.  Along the way he shares episodes from his own life.  The level of detail is shallow enough for the average reader to understand and follow the surgeon and his cases.  An interesting sideline occurs when Mr. Marsh compares the British socialized medical system with the British private system.  Surgeries can be postponed for the average person due lack of a post-operative bed.  This does not happen in the private system.  In one case, the doctor searches through several wards and still does not find his patient until just before the operation.  Yes, the patients are housed in multi-person wards, even the patient with terminal cancer.  Overall the reader will find the book informative.

Make the Connection / Bob Green and Oprah Winfrey 240 p. USA Today Bestseller Challenge

Bob Green and Oprah Winfrey discuss weight issues.  Each present a side.  Oprah shares her personal stories of her weight ups and downs.  She and Bob provide ten simple steps towards a healthier and

happier existence.  

USA Today Bestseller Challenge

Fortytude/Sarah Brokaw/270 pgs

This is a self help book that is aimed to those of us women who have reached their prime - you know 40 plus. It is well written and the author, who just happens to be Tom Brokaw's daughter, tells us that if you have 5 core values you should be able to enjoy the best years of your life. The core values are Grace, Connectedness, Accomplishment, Adventure and Spirituality.

The Science of Staying Young / John E. Morley 254 p.

John E. Morley, M.D., is the founder and director of Saint Louis University’s Division of Geriatric Medicine. He presents 10 simple steps for maintaining the best possible quality of life. Morley’s style is easy to read, understand and follow.