Tom Segura Tours The Painted Porch

Shadow Divers tells the story of John Chatterton and Richie Kohler, two weekend scuba divers who discover a World War II German U-boat off the coast of New Jersey. Over six years, they lead an elite team of divers in a quest to identify the U-boat, facing treacherous conditions and personal sacrifices. The book is a thrilling and emotionally complex account of their journey.

In 'Turning Pro,' Steven Pressfield provides a practical and inspirational guide for entrepreneurs and creatives to shift from an amateur mindset to a professional one. The book is divided into three parts: the first describes the addictive nature of the amateur, the second paints a vision of what it means to be a pro, and the third focuses on cultivating professionalism. Pressfield emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear, self-doubt, and procrastination, and adopting habits such as discipline, regularity, and a constant striving for excellence. He also discusses the concept of 'shadow careers' and the need to align one's work with their true calling for authentic fulfillment.

In 'American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon', Steven Rinella takes readers across the continent to explore the buffalo’s past, present, and future. The book visits sites such as the Bering Land Bridge, buffalo jumps used by Native Americans, and the Detroit Carbon works, a plant that processed buffalo bones into various products. Rinella’s storytelling combines outdoor adventure with historical, biological, and environmental observations, highlighting the significant role the buffalo has played in shaping American identity.

The book chronicles the period from May 1940 to May 1941, highlighting Churchill's leadership during the Battle of Britain and the Blitz. It draws on diaries, archival documents, and once-secret intelligence reports to provide a vivid portrayal of Churchill's family, including his wife Clementine, their children, and his close advisers. The narrative delves into the personal and political challenges faced by Churchill as he navigated the critical early months of World War II, emphasizing his eloquence, courage, and perseverance in the face of unrelenting horror.

In 'The War of Art', Steven Pressfield identifies the internal force of 'Resistance' that hinders creative endeavors. The book is divided into three sections: 'Resistance: Defining the Enemy', 'Combating Resistance: Turning Pro', and a final section that discusses the role of the muses and the battle between the Self and the Ego. Pressfield provides practical advice on recognizing and overcoming resistance, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, discipline, and continuous work in achieving creative success.

In 'I'd Like to Play Alone, Please', Tom Segura combines his signature curmudgeonly humor with revealing stories about his life, including surreal celebrity encounters, parenting challenges, and family anecdotes. The book is a laugh-out-loud exploration of the absurdities of life and the importance of sometimes needing to be alone.

Allen C. Guelzo's biography provides a nuanced portrayal of Robert E. Lee, examining his military career, personal life, and the contradictions of his character. The book delves into Lee's decision to join the Confederacy, his leadership during the Civil War, and his post-war life. Guelzo offers a balanced view, neither hagiography nor indictment, highlighting Lee's strategic brilliance alongside his personal insecurities and the societal context of his time.

Walter Lord's "Day of Infamy" provides a gripping narrative account of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The book masterfully weaves together eyewitness accounts, official reports, and historical context to create a vivid and immersive portrayal of the events. Lord's meticulous research and engaging writing style bring the day's chaos and devastation to life, highlighting the human drama amidst the historical significance. The book explores the decisions made, the reactions of those involved, and the lasting impact of the attack on the course of World War II. It remains a powerful and insightful work of historical nonfiction.