text
stringlengths 29
15.7k
| label
class label 5
classes |
|---|---|
I tremble with laughter...
...at how ironic the title of this book is. Slander, huh? That and libel describes perfectly what Ann Coulter does for a living. Micheal Moore and Al Franken get a lot of things wrong and distort some facts, but not even they have the ignorant gall to accuse their fellow Americans of treason just for the simple fact that they happen to disagree with them. I think Ann may be insane because of some of the utter nonsense she spouts. She got her column pulled for saying something about how America should bomb the middle east and convert them all to christanity. She has also said that free speech is an impedement to government and basically wants to do away with the constitution and thinks anyone questioning her or the conservative agenda should be done away with. It's truly frightining how many people buy her books. I truly hope all those people aren't as insane as she is. I would recommend reading this book though I would get at a library or steal it since she dosen't deserve more money. Then after that you should do the same thing with Al Franken's book. After that, unless your afraid of the truth, you'll see that the truth is in the middle and their both very, very wrong. (Oh, by the way, she's just as ugly as Micheal Moore) | 01 star
|
Greece fought all battles mainly to enslave herself
Through 9 Greek Lives (Theseus, the democracy builder; Aristides, the `Spartan' Athenian; Themistocles, the arrogant but victorious supreme commander; Solon, the legislator; Cimon, the alcoholic but conquering oligarch; Pericles, the noble and unselfish democrat; the richissime Niceas, exploiter of silver mines; Alcibiades, the debauched double-dealing chameleon; and Lysander, the killer of Athens and its democrats), Plutarch sketches eminently the main political and social issues of ancient Greece and of Athens in particular.In Athens, the vicious battle between the few and the many, the haves and have-nots, equality and liberty was fought through two political parties: the aristocrats (oligarchs) supported by Sparta, Socrates, Plato and the priests (`the power of the ruler as the image of the god') on the one hand, and on the other hand, the democrats.The Greek cities were evidently united against their common enemy, Persia, whose policies aimed at defeating the Greek outright or at inciting them to destroy one another. But the cities fought one another even in foreign countries (e.g. for the gold mines in Thrace). It all ended with Niceas's disastrous expedition in Sicily and Lysander's bloody victory over Athens.Plutarch's book is still very actual indeed. He shows us Pericles as the first Keynesian, organizing huge public works and `transforming the whole people into wage-earners', or the anti-scientific stance of religion (`natural philosophers belittled the power of the gods by explaining it away as nothing more than the operation of irrational causes').Plutarch is an excellent psychologist: `people as so often happens at moments of crisis, were ready to find salvation in the miraculous rather than in a rational course of action'.Market manipulation with foreknowledge is of all times: `Solon confided to his most intimate friends that he did not intend to touch land, but had decided to abolish debts. They promptly took advantage by borrowing large sums ...'But Plutarch times were still extremely barbarous: a decree ... that all prisoners of war should have their right thumb cut off to prevent holding a spear, although they could still handle an oar.'This book is a must read for all those interested in the history of mankind. | 45 stars
|
This book scared the living daylights out of me
Orwell crafts one of the most absolutle horrors of a future world in this celebrated novel.Written in the late 40's, Orwell crafts the tale of a bureaucrat in the future whose job along with countless other mindless peons, is (in essence) to erase history.Bombarded by slogans that hammer the totalitarian nature of the state, he finds some comfort in a woman who shares his ambition to break free from the controls of "Big Brother".Parables abound in this book, to a world and people seemingly oblivious to what is going on around them. Orwell has managed to create one of the most frigthening environments put to paper and weave a future world bleaker, but more importantly, theoreticaly possible in any day or age. So ingenious in usage of slogans, and terms made up by the author, that they are culturaly refered to still in this day and age.An astounding piece of fiction. | 45 stars
|
Every Woman's Book: Dr. Airola's
Dr. Ariola was an amazing doctor who knewe his practise very well.It's too bad that we don't have more practitioners like him.This book was very helpful to me as are his other books that I have. | 45 stars
|
A book for mystery buffs, action lovers, and fantasy seekers
The Serpent's ShadowThe Serpent's Shadow, a novel by Mercedes Lackey, is a fantasy dripping with mystery, action, adventure, and even a little romance! This astounding novel is one of my all-time favorite books. It is about a young girl named Maya, who has fled her homeland of India to live in London, England in the later 1800's. She has to work hard against discriminating male doctors to earn her well-deserved doctor's license. Despite all nasty insults, Maya puts on a brave face every day to pursue her cause; helping the people. Lackey uses such tremendous detail that you can't help getting mad at the injustice of it all. However, this is the least of Maya's problems. Besides fighting for her rights, Maya is fighting a mysterious enemy that has been trying to get rid of Maya's family since the day Maya was born. An enemy that is actually her own flesh and blood; she is her Aunt Shivani. With time running out, Maya must learn to use her magic to protect herself before she falls into the serpent's hands.Peter Scott, a young shop owner, is the one to help her. He is also an elemental master (a magician), and is the only one willing to help Maya summon up her power. Unknowingly, both of them fall deeply in love. When Maya nearly meets the same fate as her deceased parents, it is up to Peter to save her before it is too late.This delightful story, with a distinct parallelism to the classic tale of Snow White, is a lovable story to be treasured forever. | 45 stars
|
Concise
This is essentially preparation for differential geometry/topology. It is definitely for math students (I would say familiarity with calc 3 and a good intro to analysis course are essential prerequisites). It is concise: about 130 pages, it covers about a full semester, perhaps more (I actually took a year long course which used it). It's not so easy to read: few or no examples or worked out exercises). But it can be a great little book, with the right supplements.There is another book, by Munkres, called analysis on manifolds. It seems to be very similar in spirit, but it is a fuller version, with examples and explanations of ideas. I haven't really read it (though I do have it on my shelf and have leafed through it), but I thought Munkres topology was excellent, and so I recommend a look at this book, too.When I took multivariate intro to analysis, we used this book after starting with Hubbard and Hubbard. I remember not liking Hubbard and Hubbard, but I'm not sure why anymore: looking back at it, it seemed to give some good explanations and make some concrete computations to clear the hazy abstraction of differential forms.(Edit Feb 8, 2011 - I gave it only 4 stars because of its clear defects. I also recommend - implicit in the above but I'll say it explicitly now - a look at Hubbard^2 and Munkres. There may well be other good treatments.) | 34 stars
|
Not as marred in adaptation as others
While I admire Disney's animation (and am looking forward to their Hamlet-ish The Lion King), I usually gripe about the changes they make in their movies from their source material. All one has to do is read the original Pinocchio, Peter Pan, or, supposedly, Bambi, to berate them for destroying classics. I probably should be bothered as well by their Jungle Book, except that I think that it was one of the cases where the marriage of animation, story and music achieves more than the original. Without the source material, it would be nothing, of course, but the wonderful songs (who can forget "Bare Necessities," "Trust in Me," or "I Wanna Be Like You"?) and the structure that turned Kipling's short tales into a two-hour movie create a gestalt that I'm not sure Kipling's tales do by themselves. This is probably sacrilege to the ears of the true Kipling fan, but I'm nothing if not opinionated.The stories that make up the Jungle Book aren't solely about Mowgli, though, and it's the others, especially "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi," that make this a definate must have. | 34 stars
|
Good, down-to-earth practical guide to problem solving
This book uses practical situations, drawn from extensive experience with police. It is especially effective in its treatment of techniques for opening up & changing attitudes. Its light touch makes it highly readable, along with being highly informative, even for managers in fields other than policing . | 45 stars
|
Review!
This book is very good and totally a classic. It's really long and very much worth reading. One of my most favorites of all time. It starts of really good and then changes direction about halfway through and has a great ending. | 45 stars
|
Curriculum Improvement: Decision Making and Process 9th Ed.
Mr. Doll did a splendid job in writing Curriculum Improvement. I especially liked his method of writing that allowed a non-educator to read this text with confidence, ease and understanding. He did a wonderful job using each situation that related to real life issues that are a part of our curriculum today. However, I do feel that the number of situations and activities could have been lessened. | 34 stars
|
the search is over
wow. it seems a lot of us from MA read this book in the 4th grade...very interesting indeed. i am so happy to see that this book is back in print, as i too had searched for a long time to find it...thinking i had lost my mind when no one else in bookstores or libraries seemed to know what i was talking about when i said i wanted this green book called the silver crown that i read in 4th grade that i have never forgotten. this book is fantastic. i hope the next gen adds this to the ranks of harry potter et. al. | 45 stars
|
Best book for English history and English literature
More than sixty years ago I read my first book by Charles Dickens: A Christmas Carol. Mesmerized by the three ghosts, the stinginess of Ebenezer Scrooge, and the frailty of Tiny Tim, I kept the book beside my bed, tucked under the lamp on the night stand close at hand in the family home in Iowa. When the situation seemed unbearable within the walls where the family quarreled daily, I would read it, and imagine myself freed from the hatred around me.When I began teaching at a small rural Iowa college. I risked everything to introduce A Christmas Carol to my students as representative of 19th century England: the work houses, the potato famine and hunger, the miserliness of those with financial means to stay aloof from the ever-increasing poor. Reading Dickens' Christmas Carol enabled many to discover that life had not changed that much. At night, when I would return to my small apartment on the second floor of an old wooden house, buffeted by harsh winds and empty space, prepared a cup of potato soup or wheat gruel for supper, I began to feel myself to be an ever increasing part of Dickens' tale.Later when I taught at major universities in the USA and abroad, the Dickens classic was my constant companion. When I taught English history or English literature it was required reading. Discussions turned to interpretation and the book's relationship to the present clime and time: we went through the counting houses of banks, the dark alleys where the gin-soaked poor brought stolen goods to those who would resell, and the holes where prostitutes earned a scant living, much as occurs today. Of course I encouraged my students to also read Hard Times, Oliver Twist and other Dickens classics to discover the misery of the Industrial Age and the scorn the rich had for the poor, outsourcing jobs, lending money at usurious rates, and the calloused treatment of employees. Things had not changed much, and personal choice was only for the wealthy who counted for about 1% of the people.At sixty I moved to one of the poorest, most heavily impoverished nations where crime is a daily routine, education at best a joke, and plagiarism expected and condoned by teachers at all levels. In 2007, after Antonio Chang enforced the law to test all teachers in Peru, when I learned that only 151 out of more than 185,000 teachers who were tested for basic compentency had passed, I offered to teach the teachers. My first book of choice was A Christmas Carol as it covers every art and literary aspect of dialogue and education. I am still teaching the teachers--the few who allow me the honor, while most prefer to stay at home or travel to a second and/or third school to teach for additional income. I am still using Charles Dickens' stellar work. I pull out my weathered copy of A Christmas Carol and read it to my students and collegues, and then show the George C. Scott rendition of the classic that is now on DVD and fortunately is available at Amazon.com. Several students swiftly see the similarity between 19th century London and contemporary Peru where survival remains the primary goal and the only source of hope was within the walls of churches. Unfortunately the 1% of Peru who own the means of production and wealth have not yet met the Ghost of Christmas Past and the clergy they sit in front of like marble statues are more like Dostoyovsky's Grand Inquistor in his classic The Brothers Karamazov than the pastor in Dickens' Christmas Carol.A Christmas Carol is mandatory reading in my English classes. Passing any course I teach requires a demonstrative ability to show the relevance of the Dickens' classic about Ebeneezer Scrooge to the twenty-first century elites who still rule over lives and destinies.Today the students at my university in the north of Peru, are working to help the very poor nestled on a small hill in front of the great gates to this privately-owned center of learning to plan for running water and a sewer, to go to school, to look for better jobs, and improve their lot in life. The wasteland that many have moved to in order to escape the depression in the mountains is but a mirror of the rampant poverty of the shanties surrounding Lima, but in each case A Christmas Carol's presentation of the poor districtions of London are easily understood by the poor of Peru, and Ebeneezer's epiphany is readily known and hoped for as a better future for all. Peru has a long way to go before it will climb out of the abyss it is in because of a too-long history of rule by dictators and teachers who occupied classrooms for the limited money but without any skills to impart knowledge, A Christmas Carol gives hope to those who seek a better life, and the Ghost of Christmas past still has its finger pointing at marked graves at those who have no charity, no compassion,no sense of feeling. Dickens' tale will help change that and I will teach it as long as there is breath in this old body. | 45 stars
|
Worth the time
This was such a good book. There were a few chapters that were repetitive but overall this book was very interesting. At the end it seemed to have gone by too fast. This thick book is worth time. It made me very interested in reading books about Ceasar and this time period. Prior to reading this book I knew the basics of Cleopatra's life but this gives a whole new perspective of her. It talks about her relationships with Ceasar and Mark Anthony, her religion, being a queen, mother, and her sad ending. | 45 stars
|
This is an overrated window
All this book proved to be was a sick and twisted window into a true psychopaths mind. I am disgusted with the ideas and mindset presented here. | 23 stars
|
A modern tale and probably just as relevant
Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott is a popular fictional novel invoking England's middle ages. The novel was released in 1820 and is credited with spiking the interest in credited Romanticism and Medievalism.Wilfred of Ivanhoe, a Saxon knight who has just returned from the Crusades and is still loyal to Richard Plantagenet. Ivanhoe returns to a disapproving father who disinherited him because of his alliance to Richard and his love the Lady Rowena. But the protagonist doesn't announce himself, and takes on the guise of Knight of Ivanhoe, The Black Knight, which causes many collisions.Prince John's plan to usurp his brother, Cedric wants a rebellions, Maurice de Bracy just wants Rowena and Sir Brian de Bois-Guilbert wants Rebecca the Jewess. However all their plans are put on hold when they are all stuck together in a castle siege. Upon the return of King Richard, kaos ensues and The Black Knight is obliged to fight in order to save Rebecca from burning as a witch.Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott, a magnificent novel which is just as exciting today as it was when it was written. A fun book of chivalry, love and adventure.Scott peppered this adventure story with many colorful characters, some historic and some fictional, Richard Lion-Hearted and his brother John, Isaac of York and his beautiful gentle daughter Jewess Rebecca, the gorgeous Rowena, Cedric the Saxon, Sir Brian de Bois-Guilbert the famous Knight Templar and Robin Hood and his Merry Men. All are depicted vividly , multidimensionally in an interesting and absorbing tale which engrossed me and was absorbed into my consciousness.Ivanhoe, coming back from the crusades, is faced with a changing world. The ancient world the protagonist left is in conflict with the modern world (relatively speaking) which he came back to. Normans and Saxons, Jews and Christians, the acts of individuals and the granddaddy of all conflicts - good vs. evil.The world Scott created, an ancient world still believing in fantasies and prejudices, is in conflict with itself, wanting to be modern but not being able to let go of its old self. The conflicts in the book range from the straightforward jousts to the conflict within ourselves (Ivanhoe's and Rebecca's relationship).On many levels, Ivanhoe is a modern tale and probably just as relevant. Scott's cynicism and humor are timeless, his conflicts of ancient vs. modern are still relevant today and probably in any day and age. | 45 stars
|
Excellent condition
I got my book much sooner than I expected and it was as good as new. Thank you | 45 stars
|
Excellent book for getting started.
This book does an excellent job of covering the basics of digital logic circuits and chips, and a solid job of covering VHDL design. While some "newer" topics are not covered, that does not hinder this book, as it aims provide a fundamental understanding of Digital components and circuits, and VHDL. | 45 stars
|
A middle of the road effort for Herbert.
'48 is as about as action packed as you can get. It starts off running and never really stops, the book is almost exhausting to read.The plot is pure b-movie pulp. Hitler uses an unstable chemical weapon that, ala The Andromeda Strain, turns blood to dusty clots in the veins of victims. Too bad it spreads and kills everyone in the world, except for a lucky few. The luckiest of the dead died quick, in a matter of minutes. But some live on, clots slowly forming throughout their bloodstream and causing gangrene and other nasty and terribly slow ways to die. It is from these last few, and quite insane, hangers on that our mixed bag of immune heroes must alternate between fleeing and fighting.Most of the novel uses plot points taken from either the cult classic Mad Max or the cheese classic The Omega Man. It's a quick enough read that is easy to forget. Mr. Herbert may have written far better books, but this one is as about as exciting as a plate of literary whipped cream can get. Recommended to those looking for light, fast paced, and exciting reading. | 23 stars
|
A Most Excellent Read
This book rocked my world so much that I bought copies for my kindergartner and second grader. I know they won't read them now but I figured that someday when they're older, they can read their books and actually learn a life lesson. This book made me laugh and made me cry but most importantly, it made me think. Morrie was a gift to the world and I think anybody that was lucky enough to come in contact with him, even through this book, will be touched in a good way.I had the book read in less than a day. You won't want to put it down once you start. | 45 stars
|
When life gives you lemons......
This book will not go down in history as great literature, but it is certainly an enjoyable, emotional, engrossing experience. Since life can turn any of us upside down at any moment, it is easy to relate to how it would feel to lose one's stability and life partner. Some characters were developed better than others. For instance, I never got any sense of the girls as individuals although the boys are very real. However, I think the author wanted there to be five children to give a sense how overwhelming it would be to parent them alone. As usual with this author, money was no problem which would not be the case in most families, but it did allow a little more time to focus on the relationships. Great book for a vacation, a rainy day, or a day at the beach--any time you want to be carried away and not forced to think too hard. | 34 stars
|
A fine book for every body
I like this book. It's sad and happy. It was a fine book. I suggest this book for other readers. This book is about a boy named Jess and a girl named Leslie. They like each other, but one day she dies. | 34 stars
|
E. Roberts
ok...ok...This E. Roberts person must just be totally jealous or something because everyone I know have said that they love the book and I personally can't wait to read it myself!! | 45 stars
|
Awesome Book, good for newbies...
Red Hat Linux for Dummies 7.0 is a great book for those users who wish to learn Linux. Linux is a great operating system, extremely stable when compared to Windows.The book goes from the install process, interent configuration, and even some bash shell scripting. The book covers the topics fully and is rich in detail. As for being a Server Administrator for EchoShell(we run FreeBSD) for a couple months now, I even learned some new commands and features of Linux.I do favor FreeBSD over Linux, but Linux is great for people who want to get into the alternative operating system world. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn the world of Linux. The book has just enough to get you started and teaches you the basic functionality of the Red Hat Linux Operating System. | 34 stars
|
A new kind of Terror is in these pages
This book is a masterpiece. Plain and simple. Not only is this book a masterpiece, but in my eyes, King's most terrifying novel. Stephen King has a way of writing every kind of novel possible, from love, to suspense to pure terror. I believe that this book has it all. For all that have seen the movie and have not read this masterpiece, you are missing out on an excellent story. Pet Sematary is scary enough just by reading the misspelled title. We get plunged into a world that can never end if only buried in a sacred spot, but is this a neverending world that we want to live in? This is a question that King makes you ask yourself all through this novel. King makes us feel for these characters and wonder what you would do if you were in a similar situation. The character development is perfect as it is in all of King's books. A major plus about this book is that King keeps you thinking and wondering through every page. When you think something is going to happen it doesnt, but when you least expect something, King will have you shaking. I could not put down this novel, even though I was scared to death from it. It pulls you in and doesnt let go. This is one of Kings best novels ever. Read this and I promise love from it, and even more terror. | 45 stars
|
A Classic
This story is about kindness and compassion. It was first read to me when I was the same age as my grandson is now, I purchased a copy of the book for him because I hoped he would enjoy reading the story and sharing it with others. I also hoped he would emulate the wisdom, kindness, quick thinking, and cleverness of the main character of the story. I purchased a copy for myself, as well, because the copy my mother bought 69 years ago has been lost.Although the story is associated with the Easter season, its uplifting and positive theme applies to any time of the year. Both children and adults should find this book to be delightful and thought provoking.The illustrations add much to the enjoyment of the story. | 45 stars
|
Why all the fuss?
Perhaps the most overrated book I have ever read. Holden Caulfield is a slacker. I didn't give a darn what happened to him.Go ahead and read it so you can hold your nose when others start to wax poetic about how they relate to it. | 01 star
|
NOT VERY IMPRESSED WITH THIS BOOK
This is about the third book I've read this year where the story would have been much better had it taken place entirely in Egypt. Instead we only visit Egypt in tantalizing flashbacks. The adventures detailed in the flashbacks would surely have been more interesting than the story we're given. And one more gripe - on the front cover of the book Christina Dodd is quoted as saying, "A luscious, sexy, Scottish romp." - which proves to me that she didn't read the book. Yes, the present day action takes place in Scotland but in no way would I describe it as a "Scottish romp." Not a keeper. Buy it used if you just have to have it. | 12 stars
|
I received this book on time or before.
This is a really good book but personally I think the movie is better. Read the book and then see the movie. | 34 stars
|
very boring
This book never got off the ground..Characters never developed...Author tried to put too much Louisiana names and stuff in book and needed to concentrate more on the character and plot which were poor.. | 12 stars
|
A daring read.
Even as a fan of Irvine Welsh, I found this book in some places stepping a little over the line of what I comfortably read. That said, from the first page, I was captivated. At no stage was I left in the dark as to how the main character was feeling. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, the twist in this story ripped it all to pieces.Dont be fooled by the number of pages in this book. It delivers! | 45 stars
|
Superb Sea Drama.
More readable and entertaining than Moby Dick, The Sea Wolf is the ultimate sea-faring fiction.When his ferry collides with another ship in the fog and sinks, bookish dandy Humphrey Van Weyden finds himself alone and adrift off the coast of San Francisco. He is saved from drowning by a passing sailing vessel, the Ghost, captained by Wolf Larsen, on its way to the seal hunting grounds in the far Pacific. To his dismay, "Hump's" request to be put ashore are ignored. Instead he is held captive, put to hard labor, and made to suffer greatly under the brutal leadership of the fearsome Wolf.Wolf Larson is one of literature's most unique characters, and the mystery of what motivates him and what atrocities he'll commit next compel the reader on. He is not the stereotypical pirate ogre, but rather a well-read, deep-thinking intellectual whose best thoughts justify--in his mind--his callous behavior. He is a firm believer in natural selection and survival of the fittest. On the Ghost, he is at the top of the food chain.As the months pass, Hump is changed by the sea and physical exertion, earning 1st mate status. After plenty of excitement and drama, the plot twists when Maud Brewster, a beautiful young writer, is rescued from a lifeboat adrift a following a storm. Hump is smitten, but so is Wolf. The story plays out well to climax, with classy prose and the best description of sailing I've ever read. A good choice for all adventurers and anyone who loves the sea. --Christopher Bonn Jonnes, author of Wake Up Dead. | 45 stars
|
This book is being revised - so the FACTS can be adjusted
I started reading it, but couldn't continue when I found out that the "Facts" were being altered by Kerry and Brinkley. In the meantime, read "Unfit for Command". It gives several excerpts from this book anyway. Then maybe when the new version of the NON fiction comes out I'll read it. Although, I thought NON fiction was truth and truth couldn't be changed... I guess it depends on whose truth it is. I gave it one star because it's pretty thick and I think it probably took a lot of imagination to come up with that much. | 01 star
|
Riveting
Wow, this guy can write! I thoroughly enjoyed this Philly-based mystery full of as many interesting characters are you can ever find walking around the city. Laughs, great perceptions, surprising twists, and depth. This book has it all! | 45 stars
|
Excellent book for breast cancer survivors
This book is well-written and spoke to the many concerns women have after breast cancer. Once diagnosed, there is so much emotion, so many appointments, so many tests, decisions about treatment,etc. that after treatment has been completed women often feel down and have a "what's next" feeling. This book addresses these issues. It is written by an oncology social worker who is married to an oncologist. I purchased several copies for my cancer support group. | 45 stars
|
Splendid
I loved this classic! A little long but well worth it. Something I will read again and again. Wonderful book. | 34 stars
|
Roller Coaster Ride of a Story
The Case of the Fiery Fingers, by Erle Stanley GardnerThis book is dedicated to Doctor Joseph T. Walker and begins by discussing circumstantial evidence, and the various inferences that can be drawn from a fact. It tells what scientific investigation can deduce from a discarded coat along a highway. Often an explanation for some physical clue may turn out to be incorrect. Gardner uses an example from Doctor Joseph T. Walker, an officer of the Massachusetts State Police, and that discarded coat. Doctor Walker has brought murderers to justice and prevented the unjust conviction of the innocent.This story is as fast moving as a big roller coaster, with as many twists and turns to hold your interest until the last page. Erle Stanley Gardner's taut and sparse prose keeps the story moving along. It is one of the best "Perry Mason" mysteries, superior to any film or TV drama.This book starts out when a practical nurse consults with Perry Mason over a possible murder, and ask how to prevent a murder! Next this nurse is arrested for stealing jewelry from her employer; Perry Mason defends her successfully. The problem is assigning guilt when there are numerous suspects. But this story is just starting! Then the patient she cares for is murdered by arsenic. The patient's sister is arrested; she hires Perry Mason to defend her. Now the story picks up speed, and we see numerous twists and surprises to this story. Just how Perry's client is not guilty of this murder comes out at the surprise ending. | 45 stars
|
brilliant
This books gives you onomotopoeia for the sounds of the instruments.It also demonstrates adding instruments -- solo, duet, trio, quartet... Great illustrations.Excelelnt illustrations. | 45 stars
|
I LOVE this book!
This is probably my favorite classic. I loved this book soo much. Everyone should read it because I don't understand how anyone could not enjoy it. The plot keeps you entertained and the characters are absolutely awesome! It's long but it actually doesn't take that long to read because you find yourself just reading huge chunks of it in one sitting. | 45 stars
|
Well Written Account Of Serial Murder
This book covering serial killings in the late 80/90's in the St. Augustine, Florida area was very well researched and written. Numerous references, eyewitness accounts and interviews with the victims and murderers family/friends make this a very good read. Especially interesting was the background material provided on the victims involved which left this reader with a real sense of who the woman were and how they got to the place in time that they unfortunatly met the worthless killer. One update/correction on the story: Madacsi and Motes, the two men convicted of attempted murder for a previous incident involving one of the serial killers ultimate victims - Diana Richardson - was given life sentences for their crimes by the state of Florida on the charges. The book states they were given 20 yrs. for the crime. Regardless, a recommended read. | 34 stars
|
So you're interested in purchasing Brave New World...?
Aldous Huxley's prediction of future societies in his science-fiction classic Brave New World is formidable, yet enlightening. This novel portrays a futuristic society in which people are literally grown in bottles and, once they leave them, only continue to live dull, regulated lives, depending on drugs, such as soma, to alienate themselves from any problem that could ever face them. It is amazing to see how our society is slowly conforming to one man's perception of the future, especially since he wrote these predictions over seventy years ago. People will soon be able to be "bottled," or cloned, and many in today's society have already taken drugs to "escape" from this world.The only downside of this singular depiction is my complete revulsion for this future society. I believe how Huxley has portrayed this society is beautiful and allows readers to fully involve themselves in it, but the society itself is sickening. The people within the society don't actually feel, allowing them only shallow, egocentric personalities. By taking the drug soma, the characters rarely have an actual problem to dampen their conveyor belt- like lives, contributing to an unconventional trait of this novel. This novel deliberately relies on stagnant characters, instead of character development, like other novels, to achieve its effect.Unconventional or not, this book keeps a reader interested with its vivid imagery of what has become our reality. For this, it has become one of the most influential books for many people, especially for a high school student such as myself, attempting to further her reading. I feel all people should make an attempt to read this book just to experience a unique, new view of the world and to expand the scope of one's future reading choices. | 45 stars
|
A Must Have!
I bought this book when it came out and only paid $50 dollars for it, it's hard to believe now that the book is highly sought after by fans and collectors and it's going for $100+! I have it on my coffee table and guests always reach to it, making it a great conversation peice, totally worth it! | 45 stars
|
Great read!
Loved the book when I was a kid. So I bought it for my 10 year old. She loved it too. The movie? Not so much. | 45 stars
|
Afformations Turns The Old Affirmations Model On Its Head
Not sure what I expected before getting this little book. What I got was a simple (the genius of this is in its powerful simplicity) and more potent(in plausible theory)spin on the old affirmations model that has been with us for for generations.Personally, doing a kabillion affirmations has delivered only scattered results over my thirty five years of using them. I am pleased that Noah was given this "affirmations on steroids" model by his inner resources that fateful day in the shower. I fear the setting of new intentions in our subconscious mind in this new way is so simple, most persons will fail to try it or stick with it because most of us suffer from a "if it ain't hard, it can't be good" mind set.Too early in the game for me to report any results with afformations, but I fully intend to abandon doing affirmations that mostly serves to bring to the surface the very thing(s) I was doing affirmations to resolve or transform and adopt the afformation questioning process.Lastly, dealing with the publisher and co-author of the book, Denise Berard was a good experience. Always answered my email in a timely fashion and shipped the book to me ASAP so I would get it in time to take with me on vacation. | 45 stars
|
Great
I feel if you have a child with a bed wetting problem, this book is great to have to read before you start using the alarm at night. I purchased the book, alarm, & the pad for the bed, & this system has worked great. My son has used it for over three weeks, & has set the alarm off three times. Bought it from Amazon.com & saved some money.Great Product,Babs | 45 stars
|
You MUST buy this!
For a young pre-med student with a strong belief in "science" as the truth, this book blew my mind. It makes perfect sense, and should be read by anyone who is interested in the concept of human beliefs and emotions affecting their lives. It is also free of the more wishy-washy new-age trappings that keeps so many people away from this sort of thing. A MUST BUY! | 45 stars
|
Seriously cool book!
Great book!! I've read it many times and highly recommend it to everyone! | 45 stars
|
Frugality wins
Great book for those trying to figure out why they have such a difficult time keeping up with the Joneses. | 45 stars
|
Clean, clear, understated, and thoroughly enjoyable
I give this five stars as much for its compact form as its literary value. To write a compelling story in 300 pages is difficult, but certainly possible; to weave a complex tale in under 100 requires much greater skill. Dickens does just that, drawing you in with a sparseness of prose that is wonderful. Over-explanation has been excised, and we the reader benefit.Having seen at least five variations on this story, I was surprised at just how simple the source material was. Clean, clear, subtle, and leaving far more to imagination than description, this was a wonderful Christmas read. What else is there to say? It's Dickens in under 100 pages; this is not to be missed. | 45 stars
|
Literary marvel; not for everyone
Before you read "You Can't Go Home Again," make sure you have read "Look Homeward Angel." Wolfe's novels are essentially romanticized autobiographies, and although Eugene Gant and George Weber are not exactly the same character, they both represent the author struggling with incredible but unfocused talent, trying to find his home in a world that is inhospitable to his genius. If you are at all the creative type, these books will resonate profoundly. If not, you might find them a little contrived. If you are *Southern*, you absolutely *must* read these books.It's honestly difficult to do justice to Wolfe's poetry with a simple review, but I can say that no Southern author even approaches his writing ability, save Faulkner. These two books form the literary pillars of my creative ego; they are at once tragically self-conscious and fervently optimistic. It's such a shame that Wolfe died young as he did.A final note--before reading the chapters about the party in New York, look up the artists Alexander Calder and Joan Miró. You'll find that an otherwise hilarious scene is actually a scathing satire of contemporary art. If you at all share his sentiments, you'll have trouble staying in your chair. | 45 stars
|
Exactly So
Kipling's JUST SO STORIES certainly rank in English-speaking children's literature right along with A. A. Milne's WINNIE THE POOH and Kenneth Grahame's WIND IN THE WILLOWS. They are fun to read to children 4-8, and even MORE fun for them to read for themselves at ages 7-11 (they're marvelous vocabulary builders --"the mariner of infinite resource and sagacity" <grin>). My English-raised mother heard the stories when they were new and read them to me when I was a child, I read them to my own children, they read them to theirs, and I believe that same cycle has been repeated among millions of families since the stories appeared at the beginning of the 20th century.It is my impression that today the JUST SO STORIES do not enjoy the popularity with children (and parents) that they once had. That may be because they are occasionally "politically incorrect" in their depiction of historical attitudes regarding race and culture. Joel Chandler Harris's UNCLE REMUS stories and even Mark Twain's HUCKLEBERRY FINN are sometimes removed from local library shelves on the same basis. In this reviewer's view, inattention to the works of Kipling and Harris and Twain deprives English-speaking children of some appreciation of the culture and civilization in which they live today. Worse yet, it deprives them of the fun of reading FOR fun.Rudyard Kipling, referred to by one reviewer here as "not a very good writer" was the first English writer to win the Nobel Prize (not the Pulitzer) for literature, in 1907. He was staunchly pro-Empire in an era in which Great Britain not only ruled the waves, but a third of the globe -- the sun never set, it was said, on the British Empire, of which he sang in hundreds of poems and short stories and novels which also deserve reading today.But imperial/colonialist notes are hard to hear in the JUST SO STORIES, which Kipling wrote for the amusement of a young niece. The stories are meant for FUN, and all children deserve to have some. Get this book; read it yourself if you haven't already -- and then read it to the youngsters for whom Kipling intended it. | 45 stars
|
An amazing read
a fun book once you got used to the language it was impossible to put down. I highly recommend it! | 45 stars
|
Lovely book about from a child's perspective in Haiti
This is a lovely book, vivid, well-written, but simple enough to make a great read-aloud for a five year old child. No objectionable content. A simple, beautiful story. I was so lucky to come across this book. (Interesting for me, too, to learn about life in Haiti long ago.) | 45 stars
|
Thoought provoking
A well organized, thought provoking study into suffering, our repsonse, and the doxological theme of scripture. | 45 stars
|
This book sticks with you
After much procrastination I finally read 'Memoirs of a Geisha". I certainly regret not reading it sooner. I cannot recall reading a book with such an original topic coupled with such vivid story telling. The Author must have spent a painstaking amount of time researching Japan and its culture for this book. I was also impressed by his ability to provide first person narration with a woman as its main character.I thought a Geisha was the equivalent of the American prostitute. I never imagined that in order to become a Geisha one must train extensively in the arts, culture, conversation and customs. In order to become a successful Geisha, one must also possess tremendous wit and ingenuity. The main character Sayuri may have had a number of unfortunate circumstances in her life, yet she refused to become a victim. She maintained poise, strength and determination.With the authors vivid description you often felt either compelled or sometimes repulsed and disgusted. Yet I found myself staying up late and unable to put this book down. | 34 stars
|
This book was an OK book but with a twisted ending.
This book was about a boy that had nightmares that actually happen. He tried to stop the nightmares from happening. There was a girl that tried to help him but got too close. | 23 stars
|
Revealing the Magic Underpinnings of Comics
I first read Scott McCloud's book around the time it came out, and I still re-read it regularly.What I have always found enthralling, is the tour-de-force of concepts and ideas that this book touches upon.I think that hardly a person who has ever read the section on time in comics (and in a way, in other graphic forms), cannot but help feel that he is being thought a completely different way of looking at time.Additionally, the analysis of symbols as they pertain to graphic art (and how the more symbolic a work, the more accessible it is to the reader), is priceless.JRVJ. | 45 stars
|
Great for a first novel ...
I read a wide variety of authors and genres. I was surprised at how engaged I was in this book. It is a great idea and one that I have not come across before in terms of story telling. The story itself will rip your heart out if you are a parent of a young girl. This is not on my top ten all time favorites but I frequently recommend it to people who like to read and are looking for something more original than what you'll find on the NYTimes best seller list. | 34 stars
|
Yes, he is a Dillirgaf!
When I started reading DILLIRGAF?, I had no idea what the word Dillirgaf meant. Once I got in to the book, I decided that Ian James Foster was a complete Dillirgaf, whatever that is----jumping from one rollercoaster to the next speeding train, and back to the super-duper rollercoaster again. From boosting X-mas trees, to out-dragging the queens and fighting them to going to sunny California and ending up in Colorado, the events were dizzying rides for me. I couldn't believe one person could go through so much stuff, then pick up and start all over again! I loved it, and can't wait to see how these rides ended up! | 34 stars
|
Good book
Great book for a great price. My daughter loved it.Recommend to you for purchase. Received in a timelymanner. | 45 stars
|
good but
It should try and have table of content as well as page number...hard to get direct quotes without them. The travel novel itself was hilarious though, every scary situation he was put into turned into a comical moment similar to what Robert Downey Jr does with his characters. | 34 stars
|
Just ugh
I have this terrible habit of being unable to stop reading a book once I've started unless it is just God-awful, irredeemably bad. Sometimes that is more painful than others. This was one of those times. Slogging through this book has been a nightly sentence.I take exception with the idea that this is funny, insightful or good. In a nutshell: a new friend - Biff - is inserted into the life of Jesus, and we learn what happened during his previously undocumented years. Guess what? Biff has modern sensibilities and a filthy mouth. Isn't that hilarious and original? No, not really. And that's it. That's all the story has going for it. One cheap trick that has been done before and better.I read Moore's latest book Sacre Bleu, and I didn't hate it. It wasn't a truly great story, but it was readable and infinitely clever. Aside from the fact that both stories focus inordinately on sex, I would not think they are by the same author. | 12 stars
|
Mostly about the Reformation
Despite the title, this book is largely about the Catholic Church and the Reformation: by far that is the longest of the three essays that make up the whole: the other two are a short overview of the long darkness of the medieval period, and a study of the first circumnavigation of the world by Magellan (or, more accurately, by his asian servant).This is not a scholarly work, and does not profess to be: it is "popular history" written to be readable first and foremost. Apparently there are factual errors made and conclusions drawn which may not be able to be substantiated in places: I think it is clear that the book has to be read as opinion rather than "this is exactly how it was", with things that interest the author getting the limelight. To a degree, that grates on me, because it makes me wonder about the superb unfinished biography of Churchill that William Manchester wrote: does it suffer the same errors?The first essay is the shortest, and the most interesting. Its 30 pages on the medieval world, after the fall of Rome and before the Renaissance.I can see how the medieval man viewed the world as timeless: for a thousand years, from 400 to 1400, the world was pretty much the same, with the turning of the seasons another constant among many. To us today, that is pretty much unthinkable: when car models change every year, powered flight is (just) within living memory, the internet, mobile phones: the past is a foreign country. Manchester's point is that for the medieval peasants, it wasn't: it was pretty much like it was, year after year.Still, how he missed the Black Death I'm not sure.Next up is 200 pages on the Borgia Popes, the sale of indulgences, Erasmus, and Martin Luther. Comparatively this is not as interesting (once you wrap your mind around a corrupt Pope, its all a bit ho-hum) but it is still probably the best way to learn about this period of history. I learnt all this in high school, and wish I had just been pointed at this book for a few hours instead.Finally, there is a study of Ferdinand Magellan's epic journey around the world, in a lot more than 80 days. Unlike Sir Francis Drake, he failed to come back alive, which adds a little pathos to the story, but all up its pretty well told.This book is not really about the medieval mind, or the Renaissance: its mostly about the birth of the concept of the modern nation-State replacing the greater concept of "Christendom", and then how those early explorers created the ability for the Western world to seed itself all over the globe. There are doubtless errors and misdescriptions here, but they don't get in the way of telling the story that Manchester wants to tell: "Here is the beginning of the end of ignorance. Go and find out more if you wish". | 34 stars
|
A 'must read' for all bird lovers
I can't say enough good things about this uplifting book and highly recommend it to anyone "in tune" with our captivating feathered friends. An entertaining read from start to finish, each chapter encompasses a true life experience connecting it spiritually to the bird featured in that chapter. Mockingbirds, cardinals, wrens and bluebirds are a sample of the songsters the author has chosen, comparing their habits and personalities to everyday situations--the end resulting in a renewal of our faith, hope and love. Awesome! | 45 stars
|
the old man and sea
Feeling this book with you heart, you will learned something from it. | 45 stars
|
Kyle Longley wrote a passionate book about Figueres
The Sparrow and the Hawk is one of the most beautyful books I ever read. It explains how Jose Figueres was able to flirt with socialism and capitalism, but at the same time he knew both extremes were bad. Figueres's tactis enabled him to calm the F.B.I and the C.I.A., in times were the common enemy was communism. Above all this, Longley can be regarded as an authority on El 48.The people of Costa Rica than you (Longley)for contributing with such a work to our history. Certainly, the younger generations of ticos will not forget for what our ancestors fought. | 45 stars
|
jonathan livingston seagull
this is a book I treasure.It's inspirational message meant very much to me when I neede it the most.Jonathan's constant search for a higher plain told me anyone can do anything if they want it badly enough.I love to fly and always think of him when I do. | 45 stars
|
Beyond Voodoo
Mark of Voodoo is a metaphysical text extending beyond the limitations of a single religion into the challenging realm of spirituality. The non-fiction novel format enables it to attract all readers, people looking for entertainment or knowledge, and wisdom. The principles that are discussed like reincarnation, morality, sexuality, sacrifice can take the reader as superficial or deep as they desire. Some readers will only see an exciting and inspirational story, healers will gain a clearer understanding of the spirit dimensions & how to manifest in them, and Voodoo adepts will gain a deeper understanding of the Voodoo religion. A glimpse of Dr. Caulder's web site will provide even more information about her & her fascinating work... She is at the pinnacle of her tradition. | 45 stars
|
Iron Hand, Hardened Heart, Man of Duty
***"then, for no reason unless acting in accordance with some superstition concerning the Moon, the savage Chief, shouting some unintelligible words to his followers, abandoned their pursuit, turned and headed back toward the land. Ten minutes later, we were alone on a vast, empty, moonlit sea."***** page 349The Trilogy - this writing team of Nordhoff and Hall was beyond doubt, an essential read, at the time, and again even today, if it has not been part of your literary experience before now. The three books should be read in sequence to obtain the fullest enjoyment of all of them, because they are forever entwined within each other:** Mutiny On The Bounty** Men Against The Sea** Pitcairn's IslandAll three works are commanding, but of the three, "Men Against The Sea" was probably, in my view, the most gripping, as it dealt with scenarios unimagined. It is quite comfortable to absorb a tale of lusty, unruly men and women as set forth in an enchanting background of swaying palm trees, ripe breadfruit, succulent roasted fish with perhaps a drop or two of fresh lime juice; of soft ocean breezes that caress the bare skin from the serenity of a beautiful South Pacific shore. But it is quite another matter entirely to be rudely jerked out of bed in the middle of a mutiny, unceremoniously cast asunder in a leaky launch,reduced to eating Albatross beaks and feet, drinking it's blood and staring morosely at the glistening entrails which are up next - as the struggle to stay alive turned human into animal. This brings a whole new dimension to the idea of "survival at sea" and to the three stories overall.Set truly as "men against a sea", it cast the reader away from the safety of the Ship Bounty, out into the savage, open, barely charted ocean, with the seamen who chose to remain with Captain Bligh - in the "launch", a boat much too small for the cargo it was to take back to England, if, indeed, it could make it back at all. This epic journey took Bligh and his loyalists across 3,000 miles of vast sea, the only islands that they came in contact with populated with wild eyed natives; without enough fresh water, food, or protection from the sun and storms. Captain Bligh, the man most of them had detested prior to the mutiny, was of a different turn in the face of this emergency, and the ragged crew found themselves thankful of his leadership as the grim hand dealt them played out against the elements. His iron hand had been responsible for placing them all there in the little boat - that same hand, steady on the rudder and on the discipline of those that remained with him, brought them through the peril that accosted them from every turn.This second novel is adventure in it's rawest form; rudimentary, basic - and yet the authors managed to bring forth the vivid graphics, without gruesomeness. This is especially talented when describing the delicate subject of a starved man's feces being the size and shape of BB's. ( Well, I never said this was going to be a tasteful review) It was all in the choice of the wording, and it was effective.***"He was gone - the finest seaman under whom I have ever had the good fortune to sail. From the bottom of my heart I wished him God Speed.." **** - last pg, final sentence, "Men Against The Sea" | 45 stars
|
Avoid the new translation!!
Please don't be duped into buying the dreadful new translation. The original Katherine Woods translation is poetic and graceful, full of delightful and memorable phrases. The new edition reads like a service manual for a chainsaw. [...] | 45 stars
|
Fair entertainment
Haldeman is among my favorite SF authors. His first novel,The Forever War, is among the best SF ever written, so I keep coming back to his other work, to be awed all over again.Sad to say, it keeps not happening. Oh, this "alien among us" story stands out in that genre. In particular, Haldeman does a good job of showing the how imitation of humanity starts to turn the imitator human. But the ending, when it comes, seems abrupt and seems to leave too much dangling - not least a bit of potential sequel-bait.Haldeman's craft is never in doubt. He writes clearly and (with a few glitches) believably. Brilliance comes only rarely, though even to writers that have displayed brilliance before. On the whole, I find this forgettable.-- wiredweird | 23 stars
|
Dull narrative earns this short novel 1 star
I couldn't finish this book because I was bored, emphatically not because I was shocked.The book is little more than a series of quick sexual encounters, one straight after another. There's nothing wrong with this in principle, but the author Bataille isn't a very creative writer, and you get very little in actual erotic description.Which brings me to my next point. I don't consider this work to be "unashamedly Surreal", as the Amazon review declares, not in the sense of, say, André Breton - who was a genius at imagery - or Paul Éluard. It has a touch of the surrealist style, but just a dab. The sex scenes actually read more like anything one might read in a crappy porn mag.As for the porn itself, I found it predictably misogynist. Pee fetish seems to be the central thrill, which is fine, but the guy was always peeing on the girl, never the other way round, which to me is ultimately pretty close-minded. Beyond this, Bataille is very interested in tying inanimate objects like eggs and disgusting food with sex, but the shock value was minimal, and the sex was pretty conventional by today's standards; or at least it was up until about the fifth sex scene, whereupon I yawned and closed the book. | 01 star
|
This book was an eye opener!
The theory of censorship destroying the humanity we posess is an awesome idea. The technology used in the the book is amazing, considering that Bradbury wrote it in 1953. Yet I wonder why he didn't use computers in the story. . . If anyone has any ideas, please e-mail me. Anyway, at first I hated the fact that nothing had a definite conclusion. Also, you never know if the "book people's" goal was successful. What happens? Even before the book begins, there are several questions that remain unanswered. At first I hated this, but I enjoy the lack of conclusion now because of the oppurtunity to imagine.Overall, it was a great book, even for a 10th grader who hates most science fiction!P.S.--When exactly did it take place? | 45 stars
|
Very Good
I can't believe this book. It's one of the best books I've read in the last year or so. I loved the plot twists and how things are presented. I'm not going to give you a plot summary since others on Amazon have already did this. I enjoyed the main characters and really felt like I got to know them. I liked their interactions and how the characters were developed. I can't wait to read his next book, Stripped. Never would have guessed that this was his first book. Just really think that it was developed and thought out well. I would highly recommend this book. | 45 stars
|
Moving, Haunting Story of a Unique Love *Quadrilateral*
God - particularly in his Roman Catholic emanation - is never far offstage in "Greeneland", as critics have dubbed the fictional landscape of Graham Greene, England's greatest novelist of the 20th century. (It is a disgrace he never won the Nobel Prize for Literature.)Thus we have in this story set against the background of London during World War II not just your normal love triangle - hapless husband, frustrated wife, passionate lover - but also a fourth player to complete the love *quadrilateral* - God, the other apparent "suitor" of the wife.In other words, we have in this book a traditional love triangle inside a most untraditional love quadrilateral. In assessing the book we should ask how well the author has evoked both of these character configurations.The love triangle is utterly convincing - indeed, the passions and practices of the lovers (he is a writer) strongly suggest a foundational event not in literature but in life.As for the love quadrilateral - the reader in Greeneland must acclimate himself or herself to this environment, fused as it is with Catholicism. Some will welcome it, others will be put off by it. Personally I think Greene pulls it off brilliantly. He makes the reader care - deeply - about the religious questions (not answers) which are at the core of the story. This is no mean feat; it would be so easy to be preachy and sententious. Greene, however, is neither of these; his sense of religion's role (if any) in human life is rooted in a deep and forgiving compassion for the sinner and his or her ways.A final word about the new movie version of this book - it is faithful to the story until near the end when the movie adds invented material concerning a post-affair affair. However in the end it returns to the material of the book. If you have not seen the movie, read the book first. And when the story evokes that love quadrilateral on top of what seemed to be a semple love triangle, take out your roadmaps: you are in Greeneland now. | 45 stars
|
Soothing to Mommy and Baby
I hadn't read this book since I was a very little girl, but remembered a warm, fuzzy feeling about it. After ordering the book, I wondered why. It's poorly written, and the colors are wierd. But as I read it to my 8 1/2 month old son, both of us are soothed by the rhythm of the words, and he is fascinated by the illustrations, which seem to have just enough detail to be interesting but not so much as to be overwhelming. Works for us. | 34 stars
|
Good continuation of first book, but a cop-out of an ending
I read the first book of this series, "Wizard's First Rule", years ago when I had no idea that Goodkind was planning to make it a series. That was a good book on its own.He continues in good form with this second book in the series. Richard Cypher (excuse me, Richard RAHL - he found out that the villain of the first book was his real father) now has to learn how to master the abilities he discovered he had in "Wizard's First Rule", and towards that end agrees (extremely reluctantly) to be taught by the Sisters of the Light. But it seems that they have their own agenda, both for Richard and the world - and another group has their own agenda for the Sisters.Goodkind continues to entertain in grand style. This book is a well-done sequel, but it partially suffers from the so-called "sophomore jinx" - the ending of this tale contains several plot twists that can only be described as cop-outs. I won't say any more about what they are but it'll be obvious when you get to them.This is still a good book, however, and I'll keep on with the next book in the series. | 34 stars
|
Engaging & Enchanting
By looking at the publication history for The War in the Waste, it is clear that it was once trade published and has now been re-released as an ebook.This is no surprise.Ms. Savage's prose is simply beautiful. It's lyrical at times, always well-constructed, and flows along without interruption. It's not abstract enough to be literary, and it's far too genre for that, but it's clear that every passage was written with a sort of loving care that I don't often see in fantasy.The War in the Waste is Part One of the Ever trilogy. The book's description covers the overarching plot fairly well, so I won't double it here. The world is a strange blend of fantasy and industrial revolution (with magic) -- well thought-out and believable both in its strangeness and its familiarity. Many things are still not clear, but there are two more books to handle that. Keeping track of all of the different places and names for things can be a bit overwhelming, but it's clear that Ms. Savage trusts her reader to keep up, and does little to coddle them. It's a trait I very much like.I don't think I've ever read a book like this one. The characters are both charming and believably flawed. Some things seem to happen so quickly that you have to go back and re-read a passage to make sure that you really read what you just read.It's hard to judge the merits of an overall story when Book One is clearly just the first third of the whole thing. I can't comment on the ending, because there isn't one -- it flows straight into Book Two. This is not a problem, just the way it's written.The War in the Waste is a difficult book to describe. It's enchanting, mesmerizing and, at times, shocking. I can't remember the last time I read a book with such lovingly-crafted prose. All I can really say is that if you're looking for something different in fantasy from an author who really knows how to write, you should check out The War in the Waste. I'll be picking up Book Two in short order. | 45 stars
|
Rick Steves Delivers Rome!
Just back from my 8 day trip to Rome and Rick Steves' guide was invaluable. It was the first visit to Rome for my husband and I, so I actually purchased and read 4 different guide books prior to going, but brought only this one and the National Geographic guide (BTW - outdated but full of interesting history and details) along with me. This guide has helpful, practical advice in navigating the city and helped us net out what we should see and do. I also felt that his tidbits and advice helped us "do like the Romans." Rome is the most overwhelming place I have ever been (SO much to see!!!) and it would have been impossible to do without this guide. Besides being user-friendly and practical, my husband and I really appreciate the humor and perspective of the Rick Steves' books.I would add that if you are looking for a higher-end, typical tourist experience then there is little of that in this book. Occasionally some of Rick's suggestions for dining off the beaten track were a little to non-touristy for me, however I fully agree with Rick's recommendation, about the Osterias - THE BEST food!Rick Steve's Italian phrase book was also very practical and handy. | 45 stars
|
One of the best Dianic volumes I have ever read
If you are interested in womyn-identified spirituality and positive feminist mythology this is the book for you! I can't emphasize how amazing this book is. Can be used as a workbook/teachers manual or for personal solitary exploration. Shekhinah is truly a foresister of the womyns spirituality movement and you will be moved by her mixture of myths and poetry in the lesson plans. | 45 stars
|
She gets it now...
My daughter is 10 years old and I have kept her hair naturally curly. She is mixed and gorgeous. She was at school and a little girl told her, " You need to tell your mommy to perm your hair, its a mess." She came home crying because this little girl, who is like her (the girl is african-american) said that to her. I talked to her about it but I don't think she believed me when I told her that her hair was beautiful and special. I came to good ole' Amazon and saw this book. I bought it for her and when it came we read it together. She smiled at the similarities between her and the little girl in the book. Like how she asked her mommy to stop doing her hair until the ouchies went away, the same as she does with me, or that fact that every hair style in the book has been done to her hair too. She LOVES her hair now. And she wants more books about little girls' hair. This is hard but I am looking right now for another one. This book is an inspiration to all little girls of color or mixed race. It truly has been for my daughter. | 45 stars
|
The book was delivered damaged. Embarrasing!
I have never seen a delivery that was so damaged as this book was when i received it. It was nicked and perforated in several places.Don't buy from Amazon, that's my suggestion. | 01 star
|
Venture adventure that is worth the trip
I have read and enjoyed Mark Coggins' three more recent mystery novels that feature the August Riordan private eye character, and finally circled back to read this earlier book. Although Mr. Riordan is merely a hired hand of venture capitalist Ted Valmont in this caper, it's still a captivating and exciting page-turner.InThe New New Thing: A Silicon Valley Story(I think), Michael Lewis describes venture capitalists as ducks huddling together on Sand Hill Road. This image has stuck with me as I read news accounts of venture capitalists frequently chasing the same investment idea until it's beaten to death. In "Vulture Capital," Mark Coggins presents a more Machiavellian image of the venture capital industry; the beatings are ... a bit more than figurative. Anybody who enjoys a good detective yarn should pick this one up, even more so if you have some experience navigating Silicon Valley geography and it's personalities. | 45 stars
|
Horrible printing - Blurry pages
Near the bottom of each page the type was offset and blurry to the point of being not readable. Horrible that people sell this book at all. Where is the QA? | 01 star
|
Great
Goes great with the workbook. We're dealing with a family member taht is coming out of this, and what a great resource. | 45 stars
|
Comming of Age
Pat Conroy's The Great Santini is a truly a story of comming to age for Ben Meecham, Bull "The Great Santini" Meecham's son. Bull Meecham wants his family to run like the Marine Corps. which he so proudly loves. However, families dont work like this and is very apparent throughout the course of the book. Bull is also trying to relive his childhood through his oldest son, eventually driving him to do an outrageous event. However, through all the harsh things he does, you'll grow to love and appreciate him, just as his family did, and learn of a secret love between Bull and his son Ben under the fighting between the two.BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:The Lords of Discipline - Pat Controy | 45 stars
|
A Great Book by a Great Man
The previous reviews are very good descriptions of this book. I'd like to reiterate that it helps while reading to remember that this is primarily a study of many case histories of very personal and profound experiences with God. They are mostly in the form of excerpts from autobiographies and memoirs, mainly Christian and contemporary (the book was published in 1903), but many also from other times and faiths. There is no addressing the pros and cons of organized religion here, or, for that matter, of questions like whether miracles really happen, etc.This book is a microcosm, though. James touches on so many matters of religion and, indeed, life and philosophy overall that the book makes valuable reading for anyone interested in humans generally.He talks, of necessity, quite a bit about the subconscious, which had just recently been "invented," showing that profound religious experiences comes from there, though that doesn't mean that they're not of divine origin: perhaps it's our subconscious self that connects to God.James then analyzes these experiences from the pragmatic point of view of, Are these experiences healthy? What are their "fruits"?But there are no ultimate "Answers" of the kind you find suggested in other works of philosophy or theology. Despite some heady speculation towards the end, James sticks to the facts, and never expects his audience to accept anything unproven.Especially interesting, I thought, were the descriptions of "conversion," a two-fold experience consisting of spiritual crisis and of release from that crisis and the reaching of a profound state of surety and, usually, happiness. Besides many others, he describes the conversion processes of John Bunyan (a schizophrenic) and Leo Tolstoy. James makes the very interesting comparison of the process (nowadays called "being born again") with the natural process of adolescence, and speculates that conversion crisis, as encouraged by the Protestant churches, is perhaps one of the healthiest and safest ways of attaining adulthood.Also fascinating is James' description of "the Healthy-minded Individual," who is born with a trusting assurance of God's loving presence, and who never goes through any crisis of conversion because he doesn't need to. I myself would doubt the existence of these lucky people, but then I recalled a person (my children's teacher) who is always cheerful, energetic, and kind, and who I sincerely believe has never lost her temper or been anything more than necessarily stern with her students, parents, and other teachers. She has a profound, almost instinctive, faith in God. That for me is living proof of the veracity of James' categories and conclusions.And James' own almost chivalrous kindness, honesty, and respect for us, his audience make me feel that he himself, whether "once-" or "twice-born," had reached that higher level of morality and happiness; it made reading this book a profound and inspiring experience.Oddly, the preface (by Martin E. Marty) of the version of "Varieties" that I have (Penguin) does not mention the following, found in the preface to the William James volume of the "Great Books" series:"James had been concerned with religion from an empirical point of view as early as 1869, when he had noted in a review the 'anomalous' and 'discreditable' attitude of a so-called enlightened society toward psychical phenomena. To ascertain the appropriate 'stall or pigeonhole' for these 'wild facts,' he helped organize the American Society for Psychical Research in 1884. Two years later he was invited to give the Gifford Lectures on Natural Religion at the University of Edinburgh."On a vacation climb in the Adirondacks in 1898, James underwent a variety of religious experience: 'It seemed as if the Gods of all the nature-mythologies were holding an indescribable meeting in my breast with the moral Gods of the inner life....Doubtless in more ways than one, things in the Edinburgh lectures will be traceable to it,' he wrote his wife. The climb, however, overtaxed his heart, which would not have impaired his health if he had not essayed the Adirondacks the following summer and lost his way. There followed two years of complete collapse. Thus the Gifford Lectures were not finished until 1902, when they were also published in book form as 'The Varieties of Religious Experience.'" | 45 stars
|
simply excellent
In my opinion the Evangelion mangas are even better than the Anime. If you loved the series, you should definately buy the mangas. | 45 stars
|
The ring of truth
A wonderful story. I enjoyed Nora's pluck, her marvelous internal monologues that had such immediacy about them; her crazy friends, her busy and boisterous little children. Having travelled and lived in remote places, I identified with Nora's sense of isolation; desperation, and "war-time" humor. Margaret Doyle's words have the ring of truth. I loved this book.Carol Nickisher, author of Riding the Reef - a Pan American Adventure, with Love. | 45 stars
|
used books
I bought these books because they were what I wanted at a decent price. I knew they were used and expected no less. They were in good shape when they arrived, they arrived quickly. I am happy. | 45 stars
|
Disappointing mess of a book
I reread this the other week, about 20 years after first finishing it, and came away disappointed. The way it's written is almost a pastiche of Hemingway's style --"We did this and then this and then this and ate a meal and the sun was shining and I felt happy and I went home and we drank some wine and went to bed" -- and is really more a collection of (often rather boring) sketches than a book. There are only so many ways of describing life as a poor writer in Paris and how cheap wine was and Hemingway is very repetitive. He takes potshots at rival writers and to hear him tell it, he was the only real star around. The real problem is the author's voice -- this isn't a book by a man in his twenties, or a book by a man in his sixties, but a book by a man in his sixties sporadically trying to pass himself off as a man in his twenties. The part memoir part psychoanalysis just doesn't work and I had to refrain from screaming when I read yet another "But when you get older you realise life isn't really like this" sentence. One to miss, unless you've read absolutely everything else he wrote. | 23 stars
|
very slow
This is my first Austen novel, and I must say, I don't know what all the hype is about. I thought it was excruciatingly slow at times, and then all of a sudden it was fast and over. Some of the writing was beautiful and poetic, but that is like 5% of the book. The other 95% of the book was pretty boring to me. Maybe I am jaded by all the horror and mysteries I read where I am used to fast paced suspense, but seriously, I would read one chapter a day or maybe two with this book and that was all I could handle, because it would make me tired. I felt no connection with the main character Catherine, and I found myself not caring what happened to her, good or bad. I just wanted the book to be over. | 12 stars
|
For Economists and Noneconomists
Rhoads is an effective promoter of the economic way of thinking. He quotes Kenneth Arrow: "the economist's frequent job is to say 'this or that, not both. You can't do both.'" Perhaps owing to his outsider's perspective as a political scientist, he is able to usefully contrast the economic way of thinking with various alternatives. Whereas engineers concentrate on making equipment safer in order to reduce the number of accidents in the workplace, economists would tax each firm based on the number of accidents in its workplace.Rhoads understands the economic way of thinking well. On regulations aimed at saving lives, he states: "We must weigh in our own minds, using our own standards, the gains forgone elsewhere when money is spent on such programs." On marginalism: "Many doctors will want to use scarce resources to the point where the marginal utility of further expenditures equals zero (`everything possible for my patients'), not to the point where it equals the opportunity cost." He explains the economist's approach to reducing (not eliminating) pollution through taxes on pollution and licenses to pollute. "With the incentive schemes", the advantage is that "the possibility of increasing profits by reducing pollutants remains as long as any taxes are paid or capital is tied up in the marketable effluent licenses, that is, as long as any pollutant remains." The author's knowledge of the literature on the microeconomics of public policy and his explication of it impress this reader.Although Rhoads proves to be a clear believer in the benefits of a price system, his philosophy is not free market or libertarian. He justifies subsidies for science and art on grounds that appreciation and fondness for those subjects "are higher, more distinctively human, pleasures, but also harder and less enticing initially." A good sentence that describes Rhoads's perspective and why economists and noneconomists might find the book interesting is this: "I think economists should read more outside of economics, but most people should read more within it." | 45 stars
|
A Very Good Book!
President Zach Herney is running for reelection to his office.He is trailing Senator Sedgewick Sexton in the election.Sextonhas made NASA his key issue in the election.Sexton wants to takeNASA private and allow it to be run by private companies.In the meantime a meotorite has been found in the Artic ice that possibly has evidence of life in space.Rachel(Senator Sexton'sdaughter)an intelligence analyst and Michael Tolland travel to the Arctic and find out that the discovery is a deception.They are ambushed by a team of assassins have have to flee and fight for their lives.They have a desperate struggle for survival.Theplot is never boring. The true mastermind behind this conspiracy is also surprising.This is another good book by Dan Brown thatyou will enjoy reading. | 45 stars
|
The land a metaphor for the people
Haruf presents a landscape both physical and more importantly psychological of the spare, austere plains of northeast Colorado. The action, scoured clean of any unnecessary ornament, suits the geography. I suppose a passing familiarity with the area aids in making the narrative more accessible to the reader. The characters mostly evoke sympathy, even delight, as do a pair of elderly, bachelor farmers. In Minnesota Garrison Keillor would make them Norwegian. A much put-upon school teacher with a pathetic wife fading into terminal mental illness, a pair of immensely engaging sons (who remind me of my twin grandsons), and a friendly ("very friendly," as it turns out) woman teacher fill the important slots in the cast. Regretably, we also learn what abominable things high school boys often are--say I who once was one. The taut, astringent prose entirely suits the novel. Only the mannered omission of quotation marks marred my satisfaction with the book. | 34 stars
|
Money
If you play NL, this book is an absolute MUST HAVE. Harrington's strategies are well explained through detailed analysis of various hands as they develop. Not only does he share his insight with you, but he teaches you how to apply these techniques to your own play for immediate and visible improvements in your game. Honest truth - the day after I read the book, I finished 1st of 1,100 people on a popular on-line site. Results not typical, but I strongly recommend this book, and I'm reading Vol 2 now. | 45 stars
|
To Find the Deeper Answers
I believe that this is a message not a book, a statement not a story. In it Conrad says what he thinks about the world. Its corruption, mutilation, and destruction of itself. This message is planted under the story of a man's voyage down an African River to save another human. If you want to know the message of this book just look at Kurtz. Kurtz is everything that this story is about. He is futility because of Marlow's futile attempt to save him. He is corruption when he changes from an emissary of light to the pure evil that the Darkness and Europe have made him. If you follow his progression during this book, you will see what Conrad believes happens in the real world. By reading and understanding the deeper meanings that lie far beneath the familiar story line and reside in the subliminal hints that Conrad leaves for us, we see that he believes that in the end everything good in this world will be corrupted. He believes that the Darkness, which I believe he means to be this society in which we live, can over power the noblest aspects of man kind. To Conrad everything is futile, no matter how much you care things won't workout.This book was a direct assault on the imperialistic views of Europe of that time. Conrad points out its cruelness, its inefficiency and its darkness. Marlow, who is Conrad's alter ego, has respect of the natives, and sees them as people. Where as the Manager and the Pilgrims though of them as inhuman and treated them as such. Obviously the Manager and the Pilgrims represent Europe and how it feels about people who are different. Just like Kurtz, Marlow wants to change this, he wants to treat them better and so does Conrad. That is why he wrote this book, to show the wrongs of Imperialism and how it can be changed.I believe that the thing that we learn most from this book is that things are not always as they appear. Allot of the phrases and words that Conrad uses can have many meanings and each meaning can change the story and what he is trying to say. We also learn of the wrongs of imperialism and how absolute power corrupts absolutely. This book gives us a deeper insight to life and its many paths, of which we can chose to follow. | 34 stars
|
SCARED STIF
I loved this book a lot! Where i go to school we have to do summer reading which consits of 6 books. This summer as i move on to the 8th grade i decided that this could be the shortest book i would be aloud to read, so i read it. To my surpise it was the best book i ever read! I only gave this book 4 stars becasuse the ending was different! I guess i liked the twist at the end, but i had to call my friend up and ask her what the ending was! OVER ALL IT WAS EXCELLENT! | 34 stars
|
This sleeper classic tops most books written today
Although I was a lit major, this book was never on any of my reading lists in college. I chanced upon it when it appeared on my son's required reading for a course..and wow, am I glad I did! It should be a classic, have no idea why it isn't, if only for the detail and insight about church politics and the workings of congregations in the 1800s.This gem of a novel focuses on Theron Ware, a Methodist minister who has had a less than stellar career, which leads to his current posting in a small, backcountry town. He vows to make a new start and, for a time, things seem to go well. But alas, Theron is less certain than he appears, making him easy prey to those with questionable values and setting him on a parth towards destruction. For the first time in his life, Theron questions his calling, his values and even his marriage.I couldn't wait to see how this one would end..and I won't give the ending away here. I'll just say that if you pick up this one, you won't be disaapointed. | 34 stars
|
A celebration of life!
To be honest, I thought I wouldn't like this book. I had read all the media reviews, and I just didn't think it could compare to "Angela's Ashes", which is one of my most treasured books. However, while I was on vacation I went ahead and read it. And am I glad I did! Malachy's adventures had me laughing out loud, especially the scene with Dorothy Parker. I finished the whole book in about 36 hours, and even though it didn't end on the same note as "Ashes", I realized that I shouldn't have expected it too...after all, Malachy's uproarious ways of describing some of the most unbelievable things is totally unlike his brother's sobering narrative. I look forward to sequels from both the McCourts...and if there are any other writers in the family, I encourage them to follow in the footsteps so skillfully set by Frank and Malachy! | 45 stars
|
Didn't fill the bill
I wanted to know how in the world physicians can see so many people in one day and feel confident they have gathered sufficient information, given good treatment or diagnoses, and not missed anything. I'd still like to know ... | 12 stars
|