TOP 12 of 2024

Here we present the top 12 books suggested to us by members of the 'Rickey Rat Club'. Titles are listed in no particular order.

The Reality Paradox: Exploring the Mysteries of Existence delves into the complex and often paradoxical nature of reality as imagined by philosophers, physicists, and theologians. This book takes a multidisciplinary approach to exploring the fundamental questions about the nature of existence, drawing on the insights and perspectives of various fields of study.

865 A.D. Warring kings rule over the British Isles, but the Church rules over the kings, threatening all who oppose them with damnation. Only the dreaded Vikings of Scandinavia do not fear the priests. Shef, the bastard son of a Norse raider and a captive English lady, is torn by divided loyalties and driven by strange visions that seem to come from Odin himself. A smith and warrior, he alone dares to imagine new weapons and tactics with which to carve out a kingdom - and launch an all-out war between... The Hammer and the Cross.

Only 20 paintings and eight drawings are confidently assigned to Netherlandish painter Hieronymus Bosch (c. 1450–1516) but in their fantastical visions they have secured his place as one of the most cult artists in history. 500 years on from his death, his works continue to inspire scholars, artists, designers, and musicians, death metal band names and designer dresses.

This collection of 16 traditional tales transports readers to the enchanting world of Nordic folklore. Translated and transcribed by folklorists in the 19th century, and presented here unabridged, the stories are by turns magical, hilarious, cozy, and chilling. They offer a fascinating view into Nordic culture and a comforting wintertime listen.

"Strange Worlds" delves into the complex and multifaceted nature of reality. The author explores various theories and perspectives from philosophy, science, spirituality, and mysticism to provide a comprehensive understanding of what reality is and how it can be perceived. The book examines topics such as consciousness, simulation theory, alien abductions, lucid dreaming, quantum mechanics, parallel universes, and more. Through an engaging and thought-provoking narrative, the author challenges readers to question their assumptions about reality and consider alternative perspectives.

This book is a comprehensive guide to the world of Lucid Dreaming. It covers various aspects of this unique state of consciousness, from its benefits and techniques for inducing lucid dreams to its potential for personal growth and spiritual exploration. The book explores the connection between Lucid Dreaming and other practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and substance use, providing readers with insights into the challenges and limitations of each.

In Norse Mythology, Gaiman stays true to the myths in envisioning the major Norse pantheon: Odin, the highest of the high, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin’s son, incredibly strong yet not the wisest of gods; and Loki—son of a giant—blood brother to Odin and a trickster and unsurpassable manipulator.

Numerous endevours have been undertaken to access the interior of the earth. Polar expeditions and battles, such as Operation Highjump, still remain largely classified, and have been shrouded in secrecy for decades, but scientific revelations validating the rumors surrounding these covert events, and their implications, are finally being exposed to daylight. What are the mysteries of inner Earth?

"NOT TO BE TRUSTED: AMERICA'S DARK SIDE" is a thought-provoking book that delves into the various ways in which the United States government has failed to uphold its duty to protect and serve its citizens. The book examines cases of corruption, deception, and abuse of power, shedding light on the actions of individuals and organizations within the government that have put American lives and livelihoods at risk.

The stories of H. P. Lovecraft have been a source of fascination for readers since they were published in the early twentieth century, and legions of fans continue to reinvent his dark and fantastical world to this day. This collection of short stories by the master of the macabre contains more than twenty of his most popular works, including "The Call of Cthulhu," "The Shadow Over Innsmouth," and "The Dunwich Horror." Each story will leave the reader feeling unsettled and uncertain, but also appreciative of the unique elements that Lovecraft introduced to the literary world. Makes a perfect gift for fans of Lovecraft, his work, and the HBO series Lovecraft Country.

This book is a comprehensive guide to achieving success. It covers a wide range of topics including the importance of setting goals, cultivating a positive mindset, overcoming obstacles and setbacks, improving time management skills, building and maintaining healthy relationships, and focusing on personal development. The book also includes chapters on financial planning and management, and provides tips for improving financial stability and security.

The highly prolific writer Philip K. Dick (1928–82) ranks among the most influential of science fiction authors. The Hugo Award winner published 44 novels and more than 120 brief works during his lifetime, and his fantasies formed as the basis for Blade Runner, Total Recall, Minority Report, The Adjustment Bureau, and other successful motion pictures. This anthology presents twelve of his finest early short stories and novellas, which originally appeared in Space Science Fiction, Imagination: Stories of Science Fiction and Fantasy, and otherpulp magazines of the early 1950s.