I just had a page posted on Shepherd.com, a unique new search site for books. The concept is very interesting. An author chooses a topic. Mine was “the best sci-fi that explores the nature of reality.” Then chooses and describes five of their favorite books on that topic. They get to add a brief bio and a description of one of their own related books. Someone searching for something to read will get an informed and knowledgeable short list of suggestions. The descriptions are more useful than standard reviews because they are all written by the spotlighted author, who is an expert in the topic. Just wandering through the vast labyrinth of fascinating books is addictive. Try it out!

Forgotten thoughts
Lost in the wilderness
In search of remembrance
What secrets will they uncover there
Before they return?
– Mad Erik

Unwanted thoughts
Of unwanted gods
Wander through dreams
Exiles, expelled from the epic
Destined to appear and disappear
Until at last
Someone remembers.
– Mad Erik

Knowledge is a jewel
Sometimes stolen
Often, simply stumbled upon
Polished with endless effort.
– Mad Erik

Strangers meeting for the first time,
The collision of worlds
Like collapsing wave functions.
Which relationship will emerge
From the infinite possibilities?
How you doin’? Or
We’re from the government
And we’re here to help!
– Mad Erik

What are the treasures of the Gods?
Can they be seen by mortal eyes?
Or have they been encrypted,
Hidden, to protect the gate
Permitting only a few to enter?
– Mad Erik

Stealth and surprise
Are the sword and spear
Of the predator
Emerging from nowhere
Retreating into the wilds.
– Mad Erik

I think I think therefore I am
But sometimes I think I am a liar
Living within a Cretan paradox.
What if I am and I am not simultaneously
Starting what I finished
Before ending the unbegun.
– Mad Erik

Fanaticism set loose
Rips its bloody path
Through the world
Pausing after each victory
To feed on the bones of the beautiful
Before moving on toward the promised land
Where other gods will send them to infidel hells.
– Mad Erik

At any moment
As hunger slavers by the roadside
Greed may pounce
Avarice might grab
Reaching for a morsel
Without regard for collateral damage.
– Mad Erik