Wayne Vincent Hatford

Though a great wealth of practical advice and experiences, I found Valentino Speaks to be painfully dry and difficult to wade through. I was also put back by its premise of being written through a process known as automatic writing. I believe I am very open minded when it comes to spiritualism, but the idea that the long-dead Rudolph Valentino was able to command use of the author's pen and write his thoughts and opinions on such a myriad of topics is difficult for me to accept.

Aside from the supposed way the book was written, some of the topics seemed a little ridiculous to me: bullfighting, clockwise, opera, and portals to name a few. The authors found plenty to say during vignettes such as these, but once I finished them, I felt like I didn't gain anything from them.

I gave this book two of five stars for some pretty deep, thought-provoking vignettes, despite those that did not shine. I could barely finish this book and would not consider re-reading it, but I would recommend it to someone more into self-help, spiritualistic reads.… (mehr)

Whether you believe that Wayne Hatford has been in contact with the essence of Rudolph Valentino or not, this book is a delightful read. Hatford asks us to "suspend belief" for a moment and read this book of vignettes given by the late, great Rudolf Valentino. Arranged in alphabetical order by the author, topics such as Life, Death, Love, Creativity, Free Will, Children, Beauty, and many other of the many things that comprise our lives.

What permeates this book more than anything, is kindness, pure simple and unfiltered. Yes it has the obligatory sprinkling of new-age aphorisms, but in fact - I found it more in line with my readings of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Wanderings of a Spiritist" in it's essence. There is an early 20th century feel to the wisdom found here. It is as easily digested in the 21st century as in the time of Valentino.

Poetry, simple, and honest in its rhyme and meter - not great sonnets of Shakespeare, but conveying simple truths are peppered throughout the pages. A bit of seasoning in this wonderful stew of life thoughts. Chapters begin with short aphorisms more like the "Grooks" of Piet Hein than of a great screen actor.

Thus we see the complexity of man. - Which man? Hatford or Valentino? Does it matter? A good read - suspend your belief - you will be pleased.… (mehr)