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Thoughtful and accessible approach
This book takes a fresh and unique look at the Qur'an. The author lays the groundwork by examining the concepts of deity and revelation before going on to look at the Qur'an from the perspective of modern scientific knowledge. Highly recommended! | 45 stars
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Another Enjoyable Austen
Persuasion, Jane Austen's last novel, is the story of Anne Elliott and Frederick Wentworth, two young lovers who are persuaded to be separated rather than marrying when they first fall in love around age nineteen because of lack of prospects. The story picks up eight years later when circumstances have changed and the now Captain Wentworth has returned to the area with a successful career and Anne's family is now reduced in financial status. Anne wonders if perhaps Frederick might still harbor feelings for her, but this being Austen, things never go smoothly and there is quite a lot of wondering and subterfuge, and colorful characters to keep things amusing.This is not my favorite Austen; things started off quite slowly and there is not a great deal of dialogue. I did enjoy the fact that Frederick and Anne rediscovered each other relatively later in their lives, and as always, the build-up to the happy ending kept me smiling. While Persuasion doesn't have quite the emotional zing that Austen's earlier works do, it is still enjoyable. I doubt there's such a thing as an Austen novel that won't capture you in some way, and Persuasion accomplishes just that in its subtle, quiet style. | 34 stars
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Great ski racer, fair author
I bought this book mainly because I am a skier and racer and was interested in Bode's racing expeiences. The family history was charming but not that different from any of us that live in northern N.H. I was a bit disappointed when he spent the final chapters going on about the war in Iraq. There are plenty of books about that. | 23 stars
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Personal Notebook
This book is short on information, and long on the author's personal thoughts. It's not hateful, because she doesn't exploit, but it's boring and tiresome to hear her doing little more than flinging out her own jazzy rhetoric instead of providing facts and details about what's really going wrong with black classlesness. Apparently she had a good idea, seeking to report on why and how black inner city culture glorifies staying down, but the message is presented in a look-at-what-I-can-do style that is very disappointing. She's much too much giddy with her own Hoo Ha reflections, such as her chronically annoying "(I'm ghetto)," and "(I'm not ghetto)" closings to every paragraph where she demonstrates a personal preference - and there are far too may of them. If you want to learn all about Cora Daniels' thinking process, Ghettonation is the book for you. If you want to find out, as I did, some basic information on the offputting black underculture, wait for someone else to report it. | 12 stars
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The First But Not The Best
Shadowy embassy official Mr. Vladimir is running out of patience with the fellow he has hired to sow dissent in London, one Adolf Verloc. You may, too, long before the anticlimactic end of "The Secret Agent."Joseph Conrad's 1907 novel not only predicts the rise of terrorism as a global force (and analyzes its anarchistic roots with probing curiosity and pungent wit), it also more or less created the genre of the spy novel, both the high artsy type John le Carre produces and the popular sort dished out by Tom Clancy. It's an important book, at times quite a good read. At times...As when we meet the Professor, a sinister bomb-maker who fondles in his pants pocket the rubber-bulb detonator of the explosive he has strapped to his body as he walks the crowded streets of the city, to warn off any bobby who might try and mess with him. "They depend on life...a complex, organized fact open to attack at every point, whereas I depend on death, which knows no restraint and cannot be attacked," he sneers. "My superiority is evident."Or the mentally retarded Stevie, the man-child so sensitive to the pain of others, even a starving horse that drives his mother's cab. He wishes only for comfort and joy for all, like the kind he knows when his loving sister tucks him into bed. "To be taken into a bed of compassion was the supreme remedy, with the only one disadvantage of being difficult of application on a large scale."There's some humor and much wisdom in Conrad's novel. Conrad was a great writer, capable of capturing in often-meandering sentences some very difficult concepts about the world we live in and the complex psychology of those around us. At his best, he's brilliant. But "The Secret Agent" is more than a little windy, with a rambling narrative that introduces a bevy of characters but doesn't do very much with them and one key moment of action that happens outside the unnecessarily shifting narrative.Some reviewers here have made mention of the fact those of us who don't appreciate Conrad here are guilty of being members of the MTV generation and so on. Yes, it's true, I have seen a music video, a Duran Duran one. I remember someone flipping a table... But the problem here isn't with modern readers' short-attention spans.When Conrad was being discursive in "Lord Jim," it was for the sake of delving into the many layers of a conflicted central character, filling a broad canvas with the stuff of a vast world at sea which threatened to drown Jim's overarching sense of self-importance if he didn't keep escaping into something else. There was a point to its narrative time shifts and here-and-gone secondary characters. In "The Secret Agent," one gets a sense of a slight yarn, no more than a short story really, being tricked up and lathered with unnecessary detail. The central character is a dull slug and a poser, his wife, the only mildly sympathetic character, is little better, a Stepford Wife without the nice house.Conrad's book starts off well, but then takes a sharp left turn after the central act of terror, petering out in a series of elliptical conversations, of little or no importance to the final resolution, where Conrad commentates on every unspoken thought and nuance of expression. The narrative becomes very slow and dull, to the point when we finally are given an act of on-screen violence, it's so lethargically rendered that the victim barely cries out before expiring. Some point about pointlessness is being made, for the 456th time.That Conrad created here a genre that has served us well is beyond question. But it's only an okay book, not the best by Conrad or the best spy fiction by a long chalk. It's not even the best story about an unprincipled man named Verloc who causes a London bombing, as Alfred Hitchcock reworked this book into his 1936 film "Sabatoge." That's a classic work of art, something not to be missed. Conrad's novel is but a dry run in comparison, sometimes very dry. | 23 stars
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Worth reading once
I think the author makes some good points that explain how generation X and Y think and make decisions and relate to others. After about the first half of the book it doesn't seem to offer as much "meat" as the beginning of the book. Instead, in a strange way, the book goes on to discuss endless case studies with the basic theme of pampering your customer. For $7 it is worth reading once. After which you can donate it to the public library. | 12 stars
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Purchased a Kindle & won't work in Canada!! Weren't told!!!!
I think the Ceo On Oprah really mislead the audience.Why would he havenot said US only?? | 01 star
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great read
Naked In Death By J. D. RobbEve Dallas has to find out who the murderer is and tosolve the problem of the missing items. Many murders that areprobably connected. The romance is hot and very steamy.Very gory and violent content-more than what I normallyread but the story line is very good and exciting and verydescriptive. Love the computer technology conversations, reallyin depth hacking. | 34 stars
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An Imperfect but Important and Accessible Book
Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid is not a perfect book. Nor is it unbiased -- Jimmy Carter has a definite stand on this issue and he sticks by it. That being said, he succeeds here on many levels, even if impartiality is not one of them.Perhaps the most notably of the successfully executed aspects of this book is the accessibility of the material presented. Carter writes with a clear voice on a complex problem and highlights the major compoments of the conflict in the Middle Easter in language that is understandable even for those with little background on the issue.It is therein that the greatest value of this book lies. The fact that Carter's book is once again bringing this issue into the mainstream dialogue of American politics is a huge achievement to be applauded, and while I personally believe he is probably too lenient on the Palestinians, to take an unpopular opinion and support it so vehemently as Carter has done here takes true courage. I will always admire Carter for sticking to his beliefs, even if I do not always agree with what those beliefs are -- he is consistent and I believe truly wants to see a peaceful world in which everyone is treated with fairness and justice, although his attempts towards achieving that may sometimes seem misguided or naive to others. I see Carter as a person who truly and selflessly wants to better the world for ALL people, be they Jews, Christians, or Muslims, and I believe any insinuations otherwise are a fundamental misunderstanding of his character and reflect a willful misreading of the text presented here.More than any specific point made in this book, it has an intrinsic value for calling attention to the plight of the Palestinians and everyone in the Middle East. Truly this is an issue that will affect America by how our government handles the conflict, and I believe that no matter whether one agrees with where President Carter mostly places blame in this book, he should be sincerely thanked for forcing the issue out into the open where it should be. This is something that we can no longer ignore if we want justice and peace for not only those in another part of the world, but in our own country as well. | 34 stars
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DAMN GOOD
This is a fantastic page turner. Although I really liked Ed's book about K2, No Shortcuts To The Top is a far better book. Why? Because you get to know more about Ed basically, where he comes from, what makes him tick, what his worries are, how he rationalizes risk taking, and how he increasingly needed to fit in family life alongside high-stakes mountaineering. I kept turning the pages until there were none left, then I immediately started re-reading from scratch. | 45 stars
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Please, do not publish my previous review.
Dear friends,Please, for personal reasons, do not publish the previous review of this book even though you can keep the 5 star rate. Many thanks, Gilmar | 45 stars
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JD Robb-Betrayal in Death
This book is once again..Robb at her best! I absolutely love Eve's character! She is my favorite of all the fiction characters I've ever read about! Strong..Idependent...She brings justice to all of her victims no matter what the consequence. I can't say it's my favorite JD Robb, but that's only because they're ALL my favorite..but i will say this is a MUST read..it's amazing..as all of them are;) I def. give it a 10! | 45 stars
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Beware Kindle Buyers
Shame on you, Amazon! I bought a Kindle 1, just over a year ago and it stopped working. Amazon said I could pay $50 for a refurbished model. No special deal on buying the new, "substantially upgraded" one that Amazon is now touting. Sad to spend this kind of money ($350 for the original) and have Amazon NOT stand behind their products. Rude customer service manager spoke to me as if I should have expected the product to fail after one year. Gonna wait for the iPad. :-( | 01 star
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Unforgettable!
'Tess' is a beautifully-written classic that kept my kindle dictionary busy. It is a story about how painful and unfair life can be, and especially to those who are by-nature the most loving, kind and sensitive. You will fall in love with 'Tessy' and wish only the very best for her. Be forewarned, however, that Hardy wrote very little of the 'best' you will wish for Tess into this story. As a result, you may want to delay reading this book until you feel 'up' for reading a very sad and tragic tale. That caveat aside, 'Tess' is an exceptional work of literature, and a book you aren't likely to forget.Caution: Amazon has posted an editorial review that gives far too much of this book away. If you plan to read 'Tess,' I don't recommend reading its editorial reviews. | 45 stars
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So what's the beef?
Before buying I read all the gripes and complaints about Kindle problems, no chaper numbers etc,no way to hold it blah, blah, blah after buying mine it's seemed to be a lot of whining about nothing, sure a few things could be improved but in truth what's not to like, Kindle is outstanding in many respects book downloading is awesome, it's easy to navigate, as for chapter headings and such who needs it all I want is to read the book content,further more I disregarded all the hype about problems becuase I've never been disappointed in anything I've ever bought from Amazon and that's a lot of different things, super easy to shop, order placing is a snap with one click and Amazon makes me feel as if I'm an important customer, prices too can't be beat anywhere in the world, hats off to you guys Kindle is just one more winner in a long line of winners, keep at it, | 45 stars
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terrific
Had the audio tapes from the library and listened so many times I wore it out. Thought the reader was wondeful and will buy it on CD to add to my collection. | 45 stars
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How could we have let this happen?
Though my Amazon-ordered, newly-released paperback edition of 'Imperial Life' was missing pages 191 - 194 (thanks, Vintage Books), I thoroughly enjoyed Rajiv Chandrasekaran's book. As others have noted, it's seminal reading in terms of understanding just how badly the US bollixed things up over there. All the professional review snippets in the paperback version rightly acclaim Chandrasekaran effort. As the NYT Book Review puts it, "it is eyewitness history of the first order." The late Molly Ivins sums up what every reader's reaction ought to be, regardless of political stripe: "How could we have let this happen? How could we have been that stupid?"Everyone will have their favorite tale in here. Here's mine, which involves a business privatization effort...-----When the trio met with a team of Germans to discuss how factories in the former East Germany had been privatized, the CPA team was told that the Germans had eight thousand people working on the project. "How many guys do you have?" one of the Germans asked."You're looking at them," Corlis responded.The German laughed and asked again. "No, how many people work for you?""No, this is it. Three people," Corliss said."Don't bother starting," the German said.-----That's the tone of the entire book.Worth noting: though the reporting is set almost entirely in the bubble of the Green Zone, the author's feet are firmly planted in the Red Zone, i.e., which is basically _everything but_ the Green Zone. It's a courageous piece of work that will stand on its own legs for years to come. Kudos also to the editors at Knopf, who - as the author graciously acknowledges - pieced this reporting into a very compelling narrative. | 45 stars
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The Perfect Sales Guide
This book is considered one of the best books in business, for many reasons. The subject itself (sales & marketing field) suggests a smart choice from the author working on the right track, that all businesses need this book and this subject either to fix their sales practices (if they aren't achieving targets) or to improve them (if they are achieving them).Authors (W. R. Cates, Bill Cates) could successfully deliver and represent their practical experience in a simple, straight forward, to the point, attractive language to the audience to make the best use of the scientific material in the book.As the title suggests, the book emphasizes on The Four Cornerstones That Turn Business Relationships Into Gold. The subject sounds redundant at first sight, but actually the treatement is new and different. The idea concentrates on the quality, not the quantity (how to work smarter, not harder and how to work less and earn more). The book is really good and going to help you alot no doubt. | 45 stars
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Ok
Another westerner who sees poverty in places such as Bali and somehow translates that into spiritual enlightenment. | 12 stars
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One school at a time
Kidnapped and imprisoned for several days in Pakistan, caught in the middle of gunfire in Afghanistan, interrogated by US agents in Nepal, drinking tea with prominent members of the Taliban, chatting with a king on an aeroplane, getting married only a few days after meeting his future wife - these are just some of the misadventures which have befallen Greg Mortenson, as described in this book by David Relin.After almost making it ot the top of K2, one of the most difficult mountains to climb in the world, Greg Mortenson became disorientated on his way down, finishing up in a town called Korphe, in Pakistan. After being treated kindly by the villagers, he promised to return and build a school for them. On returning to the US with his funds completely exhausted he started trying to raise the $12,000 he thought it would cost to build the school. After encountering many difficulties, the school was finally finished, and since then Mortenson, with the assistance of a team of locals, has managed to build many more.The book tells a very interesting tale of how one man with not many resources but plenty of determination can make a significant difference in the lives of generations of people who are living in poverty in a distant land. Foreign aid is often unsuccessful because it tries to do too much too fast, or relies on inappropriate cultural assumptions, or creates dependency. In confining his endeavours to building schools, Mortenson seems to have found a way of providing aid which works. | 34 stars
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Very Slow
I have come to the conclusion that this is a novel you will either love or you just can't get into it. I am one who couldn't get into it. Hawthorne gets off of the topic often and takes forever to accomplish the discription of something I felt most writers could have done more quickly and more succesfully. All of the discription seemed excessive and only confused me. I had to force myself to read the first half of this book, and by the time I had reached that point I came to the conclusion that if it hadn't already captured my attention then it wasn't going to.I have always enjoyed early American literature, Greek literature, and have read my fare share of William Shakespeare, but I just couldn't enjoy this one. It was just too dry, and the story really seemed to go no where. I really couldn't recommend this one to anyone as a good read. | 23 stars
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A great reading experience
The Kindle has far surpassed my expectations as to what it would be like to read a book on it. Within the first two weeks I finished a 720 page Anthony Trollope novel, part of a series of six novels that I downloaded for a total price of $0.99! I love that it is always open to the page I am reading, that I can hold it in one hand, or even read it from a counter top in the kitchen. The readability of the type is great and the battery life is fantastic. I have used the text-to-speech feature in my car and it is a passable alternative as a way to keep reading when you have to be looking elsewhere. I haven't read any newspapers or magazines yet, but the Kindle store has a lot of great offerings. I can't imagine that any serious reader would not love a Kindle. | 45 stars
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It's fantastic
I'm an avid reader. This is a problem for me sometimes because I would devour books way too quickly. I would carry around a hefty load of books for a vacation and I'd be finished with the books before my vacation was any where near finished. And this includes me just reading at night or by the pool/beachside. During the day time I'm doing other activities.The Kindle allows me to pack on tons of different books and carry them with me wherever or whenever. I can slip the Kindle quite easily into my purse or bag. The E-ink is amazing in direct sunlight.Out of the box, the Kindle was ready to go. That was a major plus. Getting books sent to you automatically was amazing. What took a little getting used to was handling the Kindle without pressing the page buttons. But after a month using the Kindle, I'm a pro now. I also handled the Sony E-book reader. It's very slick and pretty, but I found the page buttons a little frustrating after I was so used to the accessibility of the Kindle's buttons. I can hold it in one hand and read comfortably.I am now living in Vietnam and although I can't download the books/magazines wirelessly, I can download them to my computer and use a USB cord to transfer it to my Kindle. The charger that comes with the Kindle can be used internationally.Although the format of the books, and especially magazines, are not glamorous, it allows me to read everything quickly and easily. I am finding myself addicted to my Kindle and reading it all the time. If I get bored of something, I just jump to another book or article.The internet surfing capablities are very minimum, but that's ok, since I don't use the Kindle as a multi-function machine. I do use the dictionary in there often to double check on words though.Another note, Amazon has been amazing in regards to the Kindle. I accidentally dropped mine and there was a slight crack on one of the buttons, which I thought was a malfunction of the Kindle ... so Amazon replaced it immediately. Kudos to the company.Like I said, the Kindle is not totally glamorous and high-tech, but it does what it's supposed to do very well. Keep the reader reading. I love mine. | 45 stars
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Classic worth listening to
This is the third time I've listened to this audio book, something I have never done before. I must admit, it gets better ever time. The description of the characters is incredible - when have you read a whole chapter describing an individual? Or the landscape? Certainly way more verbose than modern style, but the observations stand the test of time, and paint pictures that linger. None of the characters is flawless, and the errors of omission in their acts toward each other results in no end of misery. But the view of life in another time, with all its physical differences and all its emotional similarities to ours is intrigueing. And Rickman is fabulous, capturing accents and personalities that reading myself in my cozy chair in Phoenix Arizona would never have known. | 45 stars
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BEST PRESENT EVER
THIS WAS A BIRTHDAY PRESENT. COMPLETE SURPRISE....BEST PRESENT EVER....I ALWAYS HAVE SOMETHING TO READ. IF I FINISH A BOOK, I DON'T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT RUNNING TO LIBRARY OR BOOK STORE....EASY AS A SEARCH AND PRESS OF A BUTTON AND I HAVE A NEW BOOK WITHIN SECONDS.....WORTH EVERY DIME... | 45 stars
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Catching a Husband
A long tale and not my kind of story. It was about a widow lady wanting her two marriageable age daughters find a suitable husband. All the players in the story seem to have this same pastime and providing tmes and events where it can take place. The verbage was in old English, sometimes with different meanings than today and the narrater didn't always make voice changes to distinguise who was talking. It became more interesting toward the end and I'm sure in the day it was written it was a good story. | 12 stars
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About time!
This book reads like "The American Way of Death" for the bouquet-tossing set. Media manipulation, gender expectations, and the pursuit of money above all else -- this book has it all. | 45 stars
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Likeable book , good series foundation
This book was a very fast read (I read it easily in two evenings). I liked the concept of Harper, a young woman who can find the dead and determine their cause of death. But, I found the story a little too familiar and predictable. I think if Charlaine Harris fleshes Harper out a little more, this could become a good series. I would like to see a little more emphasis on her unique abilities. I also feel that Harris needs to work on the relationship between Harper and her brother Tolliver. Although, Harris sells their relationship as tight and supportive, it stills comes off a little too incestuous. Over all, I like the main character and the book, therefore I gave this book an average rating. | 23 stars
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Utterly stupid
I would be willing to accept a so-called "light-hearted romp" or farce, or whatever, but please! Even with the bar set that low, this book manages to miss the mark.The premise of the book is entirely implausible. The whole spying plot is a pointless game - the spies' goal seems to be to merely annoy the bad guys, and the bad guys are the most cliche-ridden Snidely Whiplash villians imaginable - yet at the same time they can be vanquished by a scolding on manners. The hero allows himself to be distracted from his mission by trivialities - not a very reliable spy, I guess. It's unclear why he even has a cloak and mask - what would be point of that, anyway? And why does he enter and exit his home through the front door while wearing cloak and mask? The heroine seems omniscient, with her leaps to fantastic and coincidental conclusions, her access to royal papers and conversations, and ability to know exactly where the hero is imprisoned.I'm not even sure what the characters' motivations are. Why do they even care who's on the throne? They don't seem to dwell on it much - even the death of another spy doesn't seem to bother them much.The writing is formulaic and laden with cliches. We have saucy minxes stamping their feet prettily, the obligatory device where the hero and heroine's initial dislike for one another has to be overcome by love; flaring nostrils; everyone exclaiming "Drat!" when foiled....Characters scowl with anger, "oomph" and "oof" in slapstick scenes, and pace with anger. And of course the parallel modern-day story is ridden with updated cliches of the same kind.The thing reads like a George Hamiliton b-movie spoof of a Zorro movie. Maybe that was the author's intent. But it lacks the wit and originality of one. And yes, I'm being sarcastic. | 01 star
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Kindle2
I am very pleased with the new Kindle!! I love the new improvements and enjoy reading AND listening. | 45 stars
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Makes a Girl Think...
A very good read for anyone searching fiction that gives perspective on our inner selves.Isabel certainly is not boring. There was a bit too much romance in The Right Attitude to Rain (2006) for my tastes. I would have liked to see more mystery interspered with the philosopy.The niece, Cat, also seemed dull. Cat could easily leave the country and be written out as far as I am concerned. This book was less an adventure for Isabel and more about getting her man, which even after she does, it is very apparent that Isabel is just waiting for the other shoe to drop.Alexander McCall Smith is a treasure and and writes like a dream, but it may be a failing of male authors to put so much stock in making their characters into couples. Who knows. I only ask the question. | 34 stars
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Surprisingly good
*This is the first in a series. Second book is Magic Study. Third is Fire Study.*I was on the fence about reading this book for a long time. It sounded interesting, but I also thought it sounded like a weak plot for a a corny romance book.I mean, she's risking her life at every turn after killing a man (who completely deserved it) and she falls in love with the man who is, essentially, her boss and capture. It could so easily be just a juvenile romance with a supernatural element thrown in.I was wrong. This series is great and much more in-depth than I ever imagined. It's not just a story about a girl who becomes a poison tester and happens to fall in love (this is done in a very subtle way, not the over the top, he's so hot/amazing/unbelieveable that ANY girl would die for him way.) Yelena discovers she is much more powerful than she imagined (both in her magic abilities and in her inner strength) and I like the fact that Valek is flawed. He's not the perfect prince-charming type.I'm in the middle of the third book in this series (Fire Study) and so far each book has built on the characters, the world and the super-natural element. And thanks so much to the author for NOT making this a love-triangle story. At least so far, I've really enjoyed watching the way Valek and Yelena's relationship grow and I love the fact that he's always there for her.So my advice is if this book sounds even remotely interesting to you, you should read it. You won't be disappointed. | 34 stars
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I was hoping for more...
Yes, this is an interesting neighborhood for a PI tale, but good grief, the violence and gore are somewhat overdone. Futher, there are some big holes in the plot, and too many convenient wrap-ups, to make this a plausible story. I was hoping for more... | 23 stars
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impossible to cancel
look, its the times. its good, but it's not worth $20 a month and the trial turns into a non cancelable trap. here I am, 30 minutes into trying to cancel and am paying $20/month because the trial period lapsed as I kept putting off canceling because it was so difficult to cancel. - I think they made this practice illegal with paper magazines. | 01 star
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I love my Kindle
I absolutely love my Kindle. I travel extensively and enjoy reading. However, it was difficult to take more than one book on a trip simply from a weight perspective. The Kindle allows me to have all the books I could possibly want to read with me on my trips while only taking up the space of one little book! I also love that I can increase the font size so that I don't have to get out my glasses every time I want to read.The Kindle is light-weight, has an easy to read screen, and the downloads are so fast it's incredible. I don't think you'll be disappointed with this product! | 45 stars
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a readers dream product
I have owned my kindle for a while now, and i absolutely love it. I never thought i would enjoy ebooks, until now. It is so portable, and easy to read. The screen and text quality is beyond what i expected. The battery life is superb. I have recommended this to many of my friends, and i cant tell them enough how much they will never regret owning this product, just wonder what took them so long to buy. I bought this over the sony, due to the fact i didnt have to download to my computer and then transfer files. I can just turn it on and find what i want, and its there.. Life cant get any better or simpler for an avid reader..my only thing so far is the cover that it comes with.. i have a hard time making the kindle stay in it while i am reading. i may order a new one.. that is the only think i could think of that could use some improvement.. the kindle in my view is perfection. | 34 stars
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How To Improve Your Marriage Without Talking About It
This book was so spot on it's scary. Loved the examples thrown in. Definately a revealing read and something that is already proving helpful in my marriage | 45 stars
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Carter at his most controversial...
Former President Jimmy Carter has stated that he carefully and deliberately included the word "apartheid" in the title of his latest book. In retrospect, and in light of all the controversy this slim volume has produced, one wonders how it would have resonated with a more prosaic title such as "Peace in Palestine." Would the book have garnered the attention Carter desired without that searing, evocative, and controversial word emblazoned across its cover? After all, those three pregnant Afrikaan syllables conjure up one of the twentieth century's most brutal and racially repressive regimes. Juxtaposing them with "Palestine," as the title of Carter's book does, in effect accuses Israel of the same. Since "apartheid" remains such a strong word it should get used, particularly by a former President of the United States, with extreme caution. In chapter 16 of "Palestine Peace Not Apartheid" and in various media interviews Carter claims that within the occupied territories, but not in Israel proper, conditions of apartheid do in fact exist. Nonetheless, he qualifies this statement by saying that the desire of land, not racial prejudice, underlies this "Palestinian apartheid." What evidence does he have to make such a claim? Not only that, if things are indeed that bad how should readers react?Those looking for a detailed argument within Carter's book must wait some 180 pages. The majority of the book weaves Palestinian and Israeli history with Carter's personal experiences and reflections. He begins in 1973, his first trip to Israel as a guest of Yitzak Rabin, and runs through August 2006 when Ehud Olmert became Israel's Prime Minister. Along the way Carter sprinkles his voluminous personal ruminations with history stretching back to Roman times. Some chapters have names such as "The Reagan Years" or "The George W. Bush Years." These chapters generally contain less about a particular president's mideast policy and more about Carter's reflections on the era. Regardless, the book soon becomes a chronological narrative of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Events such as the 1967 war, two intifadas, the Palestinian elections of 1996 and 2005, Israeli politics, the Oslo agreement, Bill Clinton's peace plan, the Geneva Initiative, and countless others fly by with little effort thanks to Carter's breezy prose. Readers unfamiliar with the conflict will learn some basic history. Two early chapters, "Key Players" and "Other Neighbors," provide some cursory background not only on Palestine and Israel, but also on Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia. The most personal chapter, "My Visits With Palestinians," relates Carter's conversations with Palestinians who claim to have, or at least to know someone who, suffered legal injustice, punitive bulldozings, jailings, or torture under Israeli rule. This chapter presages the controversy yet to come in the book's final two chapters, "The Wall as Prison" and "Summary." The word "apartheid" does not appear until the beginning of chapter sixteen with this passage: "Utilizing their political and military dominance, they [the Israeli government] are imposing a system of partial withdrawal, encapsulation, and apartheid on the Muslim and Christian citizens of the occupied territories." Carter then describes the vast network of walls, sensors, surveillance equipment, and trenches that surround Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza strip. These barriers make a Palestinian state "infeasible," he claims. He also makes some strong statements, such as "In order to perpetuate the occupation, Israeli forces have deprived their unwilling subjects of basic human rights. No objective person could personally observe existing conditions in the West Bank and dispute these statements." Then, in the final chapter: "A system of apartheid, with two peoples occupying the same land but completely separated from each other, with Israelis totally dominant and suppressing violence by depriving Palestinians of their basic human rights. This is the policy now being followed...." Carter then delineates the conditions he believes will lead to peace in the region. He also accuses the current United States administration of taking little to no action to foster peace between Israel and Palestine.Carter tread on extremely controversial ground in this book. And he knew it. Israel remains one of the United States' only allies in the Middle East. Israel receives voluminous monetary and military aid from the United States, which has contributed to Israel's seemingly invincible armed forces. Debate or criticism, like that Carter presents in this book, seems nonexistent in the press or within Congress proper. Carter, also knowing this, had to walk a delicate line. Most likely this accounts for the sliht tension present throughout "Palestine Peace Not Apartheid." Most of the book discusses peace. Carter wants peace, he claims that the Israeli and Palestinian people want peace, and that the majority of Americans want to see a peaceful solution in the region. Fair enough. But the book's tension arises when the peace effort narrative gets overlaid with Carter's delineation of the treatment of the Palestinians. Not to mention the use of that explosive word "apartheid." So what was the goal of this book, laying out a plan for permanent peace in the region or exposing what Carter sees as a human rights atrocity? In effect, he attempted to weave both into the text. So what comes first, ending what Carter sees as an apartheid or finding conciliatory peace in the region? Can he have both at once? What takes precedence? Or are they one and the same? Given his arguments, one would think that this book would take a position of "liberate Palestine" in the same vein as arguments the Bush Adminstration presented to "liberate the Iraqi people." Obviously, the politics of the situation likely kept Carter from going there, assuming he wanted to. But if Carter truly believes an apartheid exists within the occupied territories, and he does seem to think so, the book then falls short of a response plan. Carter doesn't argue very strongly that the American government and the American people should demand an end to the alleged oppression. Instead, Carter argues for peace negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians. But under conditions of apartheid, as outlined in the book, would such a conciliatory approach work? If a Palestinian state now seems infeasible, as Carter argues, what would a peace plan look like? It all seems a little fuzzy. Nonetheless, Carter, like him or hate him, is an extremely intelligent man who knows the limitations of the situation. Some supporters of Carter have criticized this book for "unevenness" or "incoherence." These conclusions ignore the volatile politics that undergird this issue. For Carter, peace means the ending of what he sees as atrocities against the Palestinians. It also means, as outlined in the book, separate and autonomous Israeli and Palestinian states within the land once known as Canaan. Given the political tensions, this likely remains the only viable road to travel. Incoherence in a book about Israel and Palestine? The situation itself is somewhat incoherent.Since its publication, this book has raised the ire of many people. The lawyer Alan Dershowitz in particular has accused the book of containing numerous inaccuracies. Carter refused to debate him publicly. Carter also found an unusual ally in Fox Network's Bill O'Reilly, who defended Carter against accusations of anti-semitism. Though the book has succeeded somewhat in widening the debate in the United States, it might also contribute to Carter's isolation on the issue. His use of the word apartheid," accurate or not, places him firmly on one side of the issue. Can the Israeli government ever see him as an objective arbiter again? One would think not, but time will tell. Already some inauspicious signs have appeared. Prominent Democrats have distanced themselves from the former President and The Carter Center saw numerous resignations in protest. Not good. Regardless, "Palestine Peace Not Apartheid" has stirred dormant waters. Whether or not it contributes to the ending of the seemingly intractable Israeli/Palestinian conflict remains an open question. | 34 stars
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"The Jews and the History of Judaism"
Paul Johnson's A History of the Jews is the finest popular history of the Jewish people written in the English language, since the Max Dimont's "The Indestructible Jews" was published in 1971. And for that matter, it has remained so since it's publication in 1987, even though many new scholarly and popular histories have come out since then.What Johnson does with masterful understatement is capture the sweep and drama of Jewish history, without yielding to either stereotypes or sensationalism, as well as any Jewish author has so far managed. Johnson divides the book into only seven chapters, each one matching his understanding of the ages of Jewish history: Israelites (biblical), Judaism (the formation of), Cathedocracy(Rabbinic Judaism), Ghetto, Emancipation, Holocaust, and Zion(Israel). Some other reviewers in this space have stated they feel these chapters are too long, but they are no longer than the eras of Jewish history they cover.Of some interest to this writer, is that over half the book is devoted to the Modern period, especially to the last 2 centuries, the Enlightenment, the Holocaust and Zionism. Johnson's book, as a history of the Jews, thus is an excellent text, as well as being a good read. However, as a history of the Jewish faith, Mr. Johnson does not cover his subject anywhere near as well, especially considering that Jewish history, for many, many Jews is much more than just the action of random historical forces. For this writer in particular, as someone personally touched by the Holocaust(my father and Great uncle helped liberate concentration camps), the flow of Jewish history and Jewish faith are anything but random processes.In my book, "Jewish History and Divine Providence" available here on Amazon, I discuss Jewish history as part of a divinely ordained, prophetically driven cyclic process, that has come to an end in our time, due to the arrival of the Messianic era. To this writer, the great wealth of prophetic and historical allusion in the Hebrew Bible, beginning in Deuteronomy Chapter 28, and continuing all through the Prophets and the Writings, provides the Jewish people, and has ever since, with a model of both ethics and history.The patterns set in motion by the Bible and Jewish faithfulness to it, endured from then to the 20th century pivoting on Jewish fealty to prophetic ethics. The history of Jewish faith since then, was one of strenuously trying to preserve this heritage and culture, and in the modern period, trying to more broadly apply it, with unfortunately disastrous results (i.e. The Shoah). These are ideas Mr. Johnson does not touch on, but which are so much a part of the fabric with which he works, that his book is indeed deficient without them.For the `whole ball of wax' that is the history of both Jews and Judaism, the interested reader should purchase both A History of the Jews and Jewish History and Divine Providence. This will make both the culture of the Jews and the spiritual reasons for their survival, as clear as daylight. | 34 stars
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Smitten with Kindle
Well, I'm in love. Instant books and periodicals, a personalized font size, page-turning not scrolling, the dictionary look-up feature, light-weight and purse portable. I think Kindle loves me, too. | 45 stars
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Only read 3/4 of the way through it!
This book in my opinion wasn't very good. There were no serial killers. Just some punks spraying a monument and gettin' in trouble. Cornwell start thinking about what your fans want. Stick to Scarpetta and you'll do great! | 01 star
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A New Way of Thinking
This book gives readers a new way of thinking. Often we focus on the sin and not on the reason why we are sinning. This book examines the big "sin" of lust and reveals that it really is the wrong way to look at it. Lust=desire=the thing we long for, the thing we cannot live without. It isn't just sexual. It is the thing that we run to for pleasure. That can be a drug, sex, food, work, etc. Bell shows the reader that you should not resist lust, in fact you cannot. One needs to set their lust/their desire towards the Father. This may seem like common sense but often people are taught to white knuckle their way through their lusts. The reality though is that you really would never be free from that desire. If one is able to see how amazing the Fathers love is, they would see that nothing else really compares.Here is some application. I am riding in my car on a summer day and there are beautiful women all around me. I asked God, "how can I really not lust/think/stare at all these women?" Then, having been shown by Bell to direct my lust/thinking/staring towards Heaven. Now that place is more desirable than anything on this earth. I laughed and drove around now thinking of the day I will be with my Father in Heaven.I have also used this book when talking to people who are struggling with major addictions and when I share with them that all one needs to do is find a greater love, then at least they have hope. Those with addictive personalities are people who are so passionate about what they love. They often become the most active believers when they come to Christ.Anyways, I highly recommend this book to those who struggle with strong urges of desire towards things in this world. If directed in the wrong way an addictive can kill or hurt you. Directed towards the Father, it can be a love so passionate, it can light up the world. | 45 stars
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Pick this Kindle Edition, not the Free one
I've developed a general rule to avoid free Kindle editions of virtually anything, and it paid off handsomely when I picked this edition. There were two Penguin Kindle editions. This one for $.99 and another for free. As with other free Kindle editions labelled "Penguin", the edition was not Penguin, it was a "Pocket Book" edition. This one, for a buck, is true blue Penguin.To further validate my point, this edition has many addins which are often missing from a cheap Kindle edition. First, it has a history of the book's writing and publication, an outline of Wilde's life, an excellent bibliography covering both 19th and 20th century works, two appendices on 19th century reviews of the book and on the provinance of this edition. It also has notes on the chapters which explain things understood by a late 19th century Londoner, but which have been lost to us. An example is the term "Japanese effect" referring to a style adopted by some late 19th century painters, mimicing some aspects of Japanese art. A leading example was the great portrait artist, James MacNeill Whistler.In a word, it is a complete, genuine Penguin edition, cheap. | 45 stars
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Kindle: Wonderful Electronic Book
I purchased a unit for my wife and one for myself after seeing and getting a discount through the Oprah Winfrey show. I absolutely love mine. The best feature for me (at age 67 and a contact wearer) is the ability to increase the font size which is especially important in dimmer light situations such as in bed. The ease of using a reading light and hitting an advance button and NOT turning pages is also very convenient. One aspect I don't like is the leather cover which is necessary to attach the reading light. It does not want to contain the Kindle very securely. I prefer holding the Kindle without it. | 45 stars
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Kindle 2
I love my Kindle 2. I can carry it with me much easier than a book, magazine, or newspaper. Sometimes I just enjoy listening to the text to speech feature instead of reading. I am quite impressed with how easy it is to use. I just opened the box and turned it on. The books are also cheaper to purchase and you don't have to worry about storing the books on a shelf. I think everyone should have a Kindle. | 45 stars
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Amazing Amazon Kindle
If you enjoy reading than this product is the one for you. I was excited at the possibilites this product could do and have not been dissappointed. I sometimes juggle reading two or three books at a time and the ability to carry those books with me without "really carrying" them with me is fantastic! The ability to highlight, look up words, make notes etc. was well thought out. Downloading new books getting samples of books that stimulate an interest is perfect. My daughter plays basketball and waiting while she is practicing or between games in tournaments becomes an enjoyable experince with my ability to whip out my Kindle and read one of the many books I am enjoying. Of all the many products that I have come across the Kindle is easily the best. My congrats to those who conceived this product and the technology that went into it-you have truly made book lovers and readers extremely happy. | 45 stars
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Needs Charts
Good reading but without the Charts and the stock ratings info. Just not IBD without some of it. Would pay a couple bucks more if it was included. | 12 stars
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I'm Glad This Was My First of Nora
This is my first Nora Roberts Book I've read and I really enjoy it. I am having trouble finding out if it's a series. It takes on the role of a stand alone but then looks as if it's sold with others that have nothing to do with it's stroy line.I loved the book. If it is a stand alone... I feel it was incomplete. If it's a series... I can't wait to continue.This takes you back to a time of magic and honor. Where a loving family sets their own rules and truths, and holds strong ties. You can't put it down! | 45 stars
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the cestus deception
I have been a fan of Mr. Barnes work for a long time. He is up to speed with writing a very good novel with great characters. I especially enjoyed the background material of the clone troopers. I do not know if any other writers have used this before or this is something created by Barnes, but it is still good and made me want to know more about the troopers. | 34 stars
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Love it!
I bought the Sony Reader first and I liked it, but decided to try the Kindle as the books were cheaper.I love it, I didn't really think I'd use the wireless download all that much but it has come in handy several times. The Kindle is very easy to use, has good battery life and I wish I'd bought it sooner. | 45 stars
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Learn Something New
It's always a good time to learn something new. As a life-long Christian, my eyes were open to some insights into Judaism and Islam. Unfortunately, I find I hold some stereotypes that I never knew I had. Now that I recognize them, I can work to dispel them. I learned some things that will change my life. | 45 stars
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An example of why bad things happen to bad people
WUTHERING HEIGHTS has always been portrayed to me as a magnificiently tragic romance between an unconventional pair of lovers. I'm glad I can finally judge it for myself. Heathcliff, rather than coming across as the quintessential brooding (yet sympathetic) hero, is a character of textbook psychopathic tendencies, right down to the needless torturing and killing of animals. Catherine is never described or portrayed sympathetically either; she is ill natured, petulant, conniving and as vengeful as Heathcliff, whom she regards as her soul mate. (But, of course, since they are both physically attractive, people must feel free to ignore these aspects of the text.)So what triggers the tragedy in their romance? Unconventional Catherine decides to take the conventional route of the times and marry for money. Heathcliff, a foundling who has been raised as Catherine's brother, slinks off with his tail between his legs, only to return in three years time with enough money to gamble with,enabling him to win the mortage to Wuthering Heights from Catherine's nasty actual brother. Meanwhile, Catherine and Heathcliff are quite dismayed when Catherine's husband finally puts his foot down and says they cannot continue their relationship. Catherine proceeds to her bedroom where she eventually bites a hole in her feather pillow and (in my favorite scene) amuses herself by naming the bird from which every feather came. Heathcliff elopes out of spite with Catherine's sister-in-law, a conventional sort who still manages to do what the wild and reckless Catherine should have done in the first place, or even later, instead of hiding out in her room for months on end. But no, that would have spoiled the plot, wouldn't it? WUTHERING HEIGHTS is definitely driven by plot, with the characters' personalities shifting to suit Miss Bronte's narrative needs.Am I glad I read this? Yes. Bronte's descriptive strengths made mucking through the characters's histrionics worthwhile. Should I have felt guilty for having put it off for so many years? Certainly not. I think even as a teenager I'd have found the characters absurd and unlikable. Do I have concern for those who think Heathcliff's continued obsession with Catherine after her death, and his compulsion to punish all those who'd thwarted his relationship with her (as well as the offspring of these people, even his own)is a shining example of a true love that transcends death? Most definitely. It saddens me to think that some girls may remain in abusive relationships because their boyfriends are the Heathcliff-type, and therefore, supposedly desirable. Heathcliff is psychopathological. Love for one person, thwarted or not, is not supposed to be used as grounds for destroying the lives of everyone else you come in contact with. | 23 stars
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This book is making my days and LIFE better!!!!!!!
I found this book quite by accident laying obviously in the wrong place at the public library. I've suffered from depression for 7 years and it got worse and worse until I became suicidal. From page 1, the author's words caught me and I recognized myself in her. The best thing for me in the book was the Tricks of the Trade section where I was guided through ways to help cope and the almost 'work-book' like style. It gave me strategies and hands on things to try to when I needed it the most. I took the book to my psychiatrist and showed him what I was doing and he applauded me. Now my husband is reading it and I'd highly recommend it.The book is written in an everyday tone of voice, it's not medical, it's not preachy, it's just like talking to someone who's been there. | 45 stars
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As great, if not better, than the first book!
In Throne of Jade, we have the second adventure of Captain Laurence of the air Corps in 1806 England. In this alternate history novel, dragons bond with men and women and then serve, in England, as air warriors, carrying airmen, serving as mail service, etc.Anyone who read the first book will have fallen in love with Temeraire, the wonderful dragon who bonds with Captain Laurence upon hatching, causing Laurence to be forced to leave naval service for the more disreputable air corps. As Laurence and Temeraire's bond grows closer, we come to appreciate their loyalty to each other and country.But it turns out that Temeraire is such a rare dragon that the Chinese, who had originally meant the gifted egg to go to the Emperor of France (Napoleon) are deeply offended that he has been allowed to bond with a commoner like Laurence, and that he is used in battle. Thus, a trip to China is necessary to avoid an international incident.What happens on the journey, the people they meet, and the denouement in China make up a fine, readable adventure that anyone who loves a good story will enjoy! I look forward to reading the next book! | 45 stars
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Comedic Conferates Win as Well
In addition to all that's been said about the battles, I have to say that there is much of comic genius in this book. Thaddeus Byrd is one of the funniest characters on paper (paper worth more than what it is printed upon indeed). His blustery apprehension of the cracked world is as winning as it is side-splitting. His tenderness in considering his young wife make you love him. His achievement of presence in the Battle of Manassas is a remarkable development. As a Southerner, I have to say the Cornwell gets it right. It is very rare that anyone except Southerners get the details of Southern sensibility correct. And generally Southerners themselves are quick to hide behind a mask of pleasant amusement. But the bravado, insecurity, breeding, manners, and style of the South are perfectly laid out in the writing of this novel. I for one did not find the battle to be the heart of the novel. Rather, I found it to be the development of Faulkner, the braggadocio of a self-made man, the epitome of the South, and the revealing of his spineless nature. Mind you, I have living relatives name Robert Lee and John Davis. And the original name on my own birth certifice was Stonewall Jackson. | 45 stars
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I'd rather chew aluminum foil.....
If I had not had to read this book for a class on Weddings, Marriage, and Family: A Feminist Perception, there is NO way I would have ever had bought this book. Ms. Ingraham wants half the world's population to not marry AT ALL. Yes, there are excellent issues she brings up regarding sweatshops, racism, corporate greed, etc., but to deny a little girl a dream of wanting to be a princess for a day is ridiculus! She uses weddings and marriage interchangeably which gives a wrong impression. This book was the last straw for my EVER wanting to take another feminist course in college. | 01 star
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I've been wanting these!
I'm slowly collecting the entire series and after a professor exclaimed why work reminded her of Wuthering Heights I knew this was the next buy. The book was in good condition and arrived quickly. Thank you. | 45 stars
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Nobody Could Plan a Better Tour of Bedlam
If you've read any of Tim Dorsey's books, you have an inkling of what his main character - Serge Storms - is about. He's manic depressive but hates how he feels on his meds, so he doesn't take them which leads him to run wild from one fiasco to another, which author Tim Dorsey has carefully recorded for us to enjoy.Occasionally Serge used to get caught by the police and returned to the Chattahoochee mental hospital, but since his escape in 1996 he's been on the lam. He's been investigating a diamond theft at the Museum of Natural history in 1964 and his grandfather's alleged suicide. Unfortunately, his search for answers is constantly disrupted by Serge's passion for travel, trouble, and strange traveling companions. Serge is an expert on Florida history and is fascinated, no obsessed, with everything about it.In Miami Rico Spagliosi the last fence alive from the big job back in '64, the last living link to the diamonds that never turned up, is being laid to rest. Tony Marsicano, heir apparent to Carmine Palermo, was with Rico during his last moments, so everyone assumes he knows where the diamonds are currently located.FBI agents Miller and Bixby take loads of photos of the funeral for the boys in Virginia to analyze. Miller is a 64-year-old veteran who has seen it all from the big gem heist back in '64 and on. Bixby is straight out of the academy, young and enthusiastically stupid. They are surprised when Serge and Lenny show up to attend the funeral, amused when they were thrown out by the bodyguards, but it put them on their radar screen for possible trouble.When Serge was a kid he overhead a lot of stuff about his grandfather Sergio - mental health problems, run-ins with the mob, the big heist at the Museum, after which he became a suspect because he was running with the wrong crowd. The main reason, Serge speculates, is because his granddad was a storyteller and pathological liar. The authorities got the big gems back - the Star of India, the DeLong Ruby - but they never found about a dozen diamonds, which today would be worth a fortune.Serge starts up Serge and Lenny's specialty travel tours of Florida by setting up a website. It's designed to achieve all of Serge's goals so complex as to be genius. Customers will never look at Miami the same way again. Tour option number 12 will take customers zigzagging all over Miami on the exact route taken in 1964 when the police made a deal to retrieve the diamonds from a Miami fence. To top that off, Serge offers a cut to any customers on the tour when he recovers the stones.Tony Marsicano makes a deal with the feds to testify on the Palermo family and enter witness protection. As he steps off his private jet, he is gunny sacked and whisked away by Serge and Lenny's Florida Tours and the real hilarity begins.A second getaway from the airport yields a smart-ass sports columnist. Agents Miller and Bixby are surviving on no sleep and faxed messages describing Serge's locations in ways only a fellow history buff would understand. Thank heavens we have Serge interpreting his master plan to us along the way or it would never have made sense. As it was, it actually did make a weird sort of illogically insane sense to someone who might be drunk or high. When Lenny asks Serge just why he loves Florida so much, Serge's answer is, "Because I need nonstop stimulus. Living here is like being in a permanent studio audience for Cops."Thankfully for us readers, Serge does manage to complete everything on his checklist and then some. A wilder ride in the back of a limo has never been had anywhere but with Serge and Lenny's Florida Tours.Tim Dorsey has outdone even his previous books featuring Serge Storms: Florida Roadkill, Hammerhead Ranch Motel, Orange Crush, Triggerfish Twist, The Stingray Shuffle. The action is tighter; the swings from one cast of characters to another sleeker; the timeline noted more clearly. But not one part of the ending, not one, was expected. But, can you blame me? With the mastermind of Serge Storms aka Tim Dorsey at the wheel, who could plan a better tour of bedlam? | 34 stars
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Kindle Review
I've had my Kindle for six months now. I love the ease in which I can buy books and upload them to my Kindle. I live over 12 miles from our PO and local library and over 30 miles from a local bookstore, so the Kindle is ideal for purchasing novels. | 45 stars
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Really good book!
I have read alot of the books that she has written and I can say that I love veryone of them. The in death series is one of the best I have read so far! Thanks. | 45 stars
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Great beginning to the Malloren series!
I really enjoy the works of Jo Beverley. I enjoyed the rouges series and feel this group will be super as well. Cyn and Chasity (Charles - as he meets her while she is pretending to be a young man) really have great chemistry. Cyn immediately realizes she is posing as a man but feels in his gut that she is terrified and needs his help. He also believes that she will not trust him if he unmasks her - so for at least a third of the book they interact both as males - and some of the scenes are quite amusing. The plot is a complicated one as the background of Chasity's father and his brutal ways of dealing with his daughters is reveled - and the protection of the highly regarded Malloren family will be the only thing that will perhaps save Chasity from scandal and ruin. I highly recommend this book!! | 45 stars
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Title should be "A Little about ETF's"
This book is more about Archie Richards' personal investment philosophy than it is about ETF's. I'm not sure who his target audience is, but I can assure you if you want to learn about ETF's, you are going to be spending about 75% of your time reading about Archie's personal opinions about the investment world and what is wrong with it. The other 25% covers what ETF's are and how they work. It may be good info. if you want to be the Cliff Claven of ETF's at your friendly neighborhood bar. But if you want to learn how to use ETF's as a viable investment, you would be better off going to the websites of the sponsors for these funds and read their free information. I can think of only one market that can benefit from this book - those of you who have never invested in your life, are VERY conservative and are prepared to buy and hold your investments for more than 20 years. For the rest of you, don't waste your time or money. | 01 star
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Two stars for Kindle version
I keep looking for a copy of this book for myself, but they are extremely expensive when or if they can be found.I keep looking at the Kindle version--which is at least three times more than I care to pay for a book that has flaws in its execution.The flaws can be seen if you download the sample. Mathematical formulas translate just fine, which sometimes is a problem with math-heavy books, but after the first few formulas, there is a graphic which is useless--only the text made it into the book. From reading the surrounding text, these missing graphics leave the book sorely unsatisfactory.The publisher could have done a much better job--and they could turn this text over to Dover so they could satisfy the demand for paper copies of this classic. | 12 stars
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No Good For UK
This UK paper is $9.99 a month for Americans but over twice the price if you live in the UK, plus Americans get images but UK customers do not. Well done Amazon! | 01 star
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New Virtual Field Trips
This book is good in that it has many different topics and several websites to get you started on finding a virtual field trip. However, quite a few of the websites did not lend themselves to easy virtual field trips or to any at all. A lot of extra work is often required and I question whether it was necessary for me to purchase this book when I think I could maybe do fine just googling a topic and finding something that would work. | 23 stars
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Very helpful - our biological mysteries solved!
Though I have read other books on bioidentical hormones, this one is SUPER! Suzanne's open honesty about her own journey is combined with informative interviews with MD's that have gone beyond the model of Western medicine. It is fascinating to see so many top notch doctors and surgeons that finally realized that their medical model was not enough and were inspired to question further.The advice is mind opening, easy to read, and has many practical hints. The doctors carefully explain the difference between synthetic hormones (such as Premarin) and the bioidentical ones. The moral is that the loss of hormones is what ages us and that, in modern society, where we have long life expectancies, we may choose to supplement the hormones we have lost so that we do not feel the negative effects of aging.I read this book cover to cover in a week, which has not happened in many years! I am now buying copies for all my friends. | 45 stars
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Cusslerfan
Many people seemed to have missed the boat on this novel. This is a pirate novel set in modern days. The story is your typical Robin Hood (of the Seven Seas) style of adventure. The moral pirate, the scoundrel with a cause, Dirk Pitt without the government to legitimize his exploits. The story is a quick, fun read that captures some of the eariler elements of Clive's first Dirk Pitt novels. My only criticism is the enclusion of too many named characters. I don't need to know what every member of the crew does, save that for further novels. Overall a good read that kept me going, nothing too surprising, but not a let down either. | 34 stars
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Boring! Too Little Story, Too Much Filler
I liked Water For Elephants even though there were some technical problems with it, but Flying Changes is so boring I didn't make it past pg. 11 before I started skimming and by pg. 25 still hadn't found any connection with this book. I'll put it up for resale.Too much description of small things and every move the horse makes is kind of a hint that there isn't enough story to make this thing move. It seems Gruen is trying to show us how much about horses she knows. Well, I have horses and work with them every day so this book becomes redundant to my life. I'd like to read a book where something I know nothing about is happening. | 01 star
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Odd Choices
While a wonderful concept, I find it odd cater technology to mainly urban areas. People living in rural areas without large libraries or bookstores would benefit more from this product. Why Amazon chose to not include wi-fi is somewhat stunning. Many rural areas do not have EVDO access, or even if they do, it isn't Sprint.Hopefully, Amazon will realize the blunder and add wi-fi to the next generation. | 23 stars
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the truth about lies
In my academic life, I was fascinated by privacy and secrecy and actually published some articles on those topics. So I was naturally eager to gain some new insights. Like many authors who are also psychoanalysts, Saltz raises questions instead of delivering answers.Saltz organizes the book by categories of people with secrets: gay men and lesbians, lovers, addicts, and criminals. She illustrates with examples, composites of her own former patients, and sometimes with stories of public figures.This technique represents the book's strength -- facinating stories -- but also weakness. One person's story rarely can be seen as an exemplar.I can't help wondering how our views might change if we organized secrets by motivation rather than category. Some people have what Saltz calls malignant secrets, such as cheating spouses and criminals. Others have what she calls benign secrets, i.e., things we do that don't cause harm and aren't anyone else's business.But we have other secrets that challenge us. Some people have secrets to protect their jobs and their lives -- and not just gay men and lesbians. Many years ago, I met a man who never told his employer he was Catholic.Then we have secrets that represent simple on-disclosure and secrets that involve telling (and sometimes living) actual lies. We have secrets that represent discretion rather than necessity. I once knew a woman whose daughter was serving a long prison term. When asked, "Do you have children?" she had learned to come up with a story that didn't lead to more follow-up questions.Some people keep secrets because they have inappropriate answers to appropriate questions. Casual acquaintances and coworkers feel comfortable asking most adults, "Where are your parents?" or, "Are you going home for the holidays?" Some truthful answers would stop the conversation cold. Instead, the speaker wisely opts for secrecy and perhaps a lie. Stressful? Maybe. Necessary? Yes.What would the author, a psychoanalyst, have to say about these situations? When is the decision to keep secrets a wise one? We get some ideas in the very last chapter and I would have liked to see them developed more throughout the book.Finally, I was disappointed in the author's repeated reference and judgmental attitude to secret-keepers Bill Clinton and (she claims) Martha Stewart. Many believe that maintaining Clinton's secret would be in the best interests of the country, if not the Clintons' marriage. Ironically, Monica Lewinsky was on her way to an arranged job at Revlon. She would have disappeared among other faceless twenty-somethings in the lower rungs of the corporate ladder. The US lost international credibility by getting fixated on what, in nearly every other country, wouldn't make headlines.Martha Stewart's case has been critized by lawyers and legal scholars, many of whom claim the prosecution relied on a questionable interpretation of law and evidence. Stewart's own lawyers were less than stellar. It's quite possible that Stewart has few secrets after all, at least related to her alleged crime. | 34 stars
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Intermittently Incisive
Political books are big right now. It seems that whether you're a Democrat or a Republican, liberal or conservative, if you put out a book saying that people who think your way are true upstanding Americans and the people who disagree with you are the scum of the earth, those who agree with your opinion of the other side will rush out and buy your book - no matter how sloppily written it is.This goes a long way towards explaining the unevenness of Michael Moore's new book, "Dude, Where's My Country?" Part anti-conservative jeremiad, part liberal diatribe, it's alternately amusing, thought-provoking and annoying - in about equal measure.There are entire chapters that read like they were ground out under deadline pressure and can easily be skipped: as with the third chapter, "Oil's Well That Ends Well" (when an author uses a bad pun for a chapter heading, you know you're in serious trouble): it starts out like a bad imitation of those pieces Woody Allen used to crank out for The New Yorker in the 1970s ("Last night I had a dream. Actually I had a number of dreams. One had something to do with smearing Tofutti on a camel."), and goes downhill from there.But on occasion Moore can suddenly tell the truth in such an unflinching way that you realize just what's been going on in this country in the past two years. "It is my firm belief that Bush and his cronies (especially Attorney General John Ashcroft) have only one goal in mind: To scare the bejesus out of us so that whatever bill they want passed, whatever powers they want Congress to give them, we will happily hand it over." This strikes me as being exactly right. I also agree with him when he writes on page 114 that "Bush failed to do his job and it may have cost 3,000 people their lives. That alone should be enough to haul him before an impeachment tribunal."So this book is uneven. Some of the attempts at comedy just fall flat. Some of the rhetoric rings hollow. But if you do some discreet skipping of the more dorky prose you will find a good reason why the current occupant of the White House and his anti-democratic agenda should be opposed. And that's a good enough reason to read this book. | 23 stars
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magical story
I think this book is very well written, it gives a sence that you were really there in old England. Dickins explains every thing right down to the point you feel like your at the movies. I think this book is one of the best of the century. | 45 stars
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A Sensual Puget Sound 'Masala'
Owl Island by Randy Sue Coburn is a delicious read, steeped in local detail, pungent salt air, and packed with the quirky mix of individuals who make up our urban and rural Puget Sound Communities. Native locals will thoroughly enjoy reading this book, and arrivestes will love it for the insights and inside scope on local culture. The reader travels through the NW counter culture of the early 70s, (as seen through the eyes of Phoebe, a spunky, brainy, rebellious young woman,) to the present NW scene, with its fabulous mix of intellectuals, filmakers, musicians, artists, craftspeople, fishermen, biotech researchers, animated gamemakers, entrepreneurs of herbal teas, body piercings and tattoos! As this journey unfolds, Coburn shapes a sensitive and suspense filled study of the complexity of human relationships. Moral issues abound as well: in the biotech world, the filmaking industry, in the 'ghost net' trailings of the commercial fishing industry, in the conflict laden tribal rent increases on Owl Island, and in the secret past of her protagonist. Coburn is a strong story teller, and intellectually honest in the details which shape her characters. When Phoebe shaves her legs to please her man, Coburn's rebellious, independent heroine humerously embodies the all too human foibles of young love. | 45 stars
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It's hard to add anything new to this discussion...
...and say anything about this book that hasn't been said a hundred times already. I think that the advice I would give is to read the book without prejudice and don't take it too seriously. There are aspects of it that are frustrating and perhaps overwrought, but I think the same writerly inclinations are probably responsible for the glib and deft and lovely aspects of the writing, as well. More than anything here you have a really well-done novel, an impressively-crafted story. Forget about Nabokov and Salinger and read it to glean its own merit. It's touching and entertaining, satisfying and a lot of fun. | 34 stars
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Food for Thought
Rob makes a great case for merging the physical and the spiritual. It's about much more than just our sexuality in relationship to our spirituality. Good book for challenging a small group to think through the ramifications of traditional thought systems. | 34 stars
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No buyer's remorse here
The Kindle is great. It was so compelling I let my wife drive the 300 miles to Chicago while I sat reading in the passenger seat. My reading list is growing and I find myself browsing books in genres I typically don't explore. The access to the web and book reviews are great. During lunch break I can read samples of books before deciding to purchase. I'm very pleased with the durability, technology and ease of use. Strongly recommended for those on the fence unsure whether to buy. A non-regrettable, non-buyer's remorse purchase. | 45 stars
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Historical Document
When I was a kid my father read this book to me (almost 40 years ago). Some of the stories told in this book have been updated with recent research, that is why this book has to be read as a historical document, not as a history book. | 34 stars
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Kindle Unit
Received as promised ! Love the Kindle as it is more versitile than I first thought. I bought it for my wife's Birthday present and she is so happy with it. Thank You!! | 45 stars
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Knowing Uncle Walt
Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination is the largest, dare I say the most thorough examination of Walt that I've ever read. In fact, this is the first time I've ever felt like I knew the man. And at over 900 pages, a number that makes J.K.Rowling spill her butterbeer, I feel closer to Disney in general. Neil Gabler has crafted quite a portrait using data and interviews where many previous Disney biographers use speculation and theories. The information is exhaustive... and the journey is exhausting.Like most biographies, the early pages introduce Walt's parents and his early life. The stories help us understand why Walt became Walt Disney. But, it is the middle pages I found most compelling. In these, we read about the creation of the Disney animated features. From the first shorts to SNOW WHITE, all the way up to THE JUNGLE BOOK, we get the greatest understanding of the factors and decisions affecting the final output. I congratulate Gabler in tying his work directly to my own memories of these films, and even enhancing my own experience with themThe last segment of the book is dedicated to the burgeoning Disney organization as it expands into Disneyland, all the way through the initial phases of Epcot. This again is familiar and informative, but is tainted by Walt's own fading interest and pending death.The book is a rewarding chore to read, and a great supplement to many of the recent "Treasures" DVD sets. There will be people who are going to hate this book. Anyone looking for a book that finally exposes Walt Disney as a horrific monster, despite the lack of evidence... they will not be happy with this book. On the other hand, anyone who is hoping the book will justify their own view of Walt as a perfect man who would frown on current Disney practices... they will be disappointed as well. In fact, I feel that Walt would have been accepting of any and all changes that have happened in the parks and in films. Walt Disney was a great man who succeeded due tothree things: persistence, a good support team and living in a simpler time. Neil Gabler's book "Walt Disney: Triumph of the American Imagination is a great book for getting you back in touch with all three. | 34 stars
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Helpful advice
I found this book to be a very comprehensive and practical guide. It is just what I am looking for. bmw | 34 stars
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The best digital reader there is
If you have made the decision to switch to a digital reader, the Amazon Kindle is in a class by itself. Nothing else comes close, especially Sony's struggling version. If you get it, you will marvel at the convenience of having a virtual library at your fingertips: books, magazines and newspapers ... plus documents from home or work that you want to peruse at your leisure. It truly is wonderful at what it does.That being said, it has some flaws. The most glaring is the little device's "hot" factor - you likely will leave it somewhere and it will be stolen. Guess what? Amazon does not give a crap! They gladly will stop your Kindle from accessing your account for new purchases but, while they have the ability to quickly identify a new registration by the illicit new "owner," they simply see this as a new customer and embrace the new user as warmly as they did you. I imagine this is how Gillette might have viewed someone who stole your razor ... as long as the thief bought blades, they didn't care.However, a Kindle is quite a bit more expensive than a razor - and far more technologically advanced. Because it must be registered and linked to an existing Amazon account to function, Amazon easily could reduce the "theft potential" of this product by simply not allowing the re-registration of devices reported as stolen - and notifying the original owner and/or law enforcement of the attempt by someone to use a stolen device. Sadly, they will not do this. They will not talk to you about it. They will not talk to the media about it. They will not, in short, accept any responsibility for this totally indefensible position. How sad.You also cannot share magazines and newspapers between two readers, even if they are registered on the same account (although books can be so shared). Who wants to subscribe to two issues of "The Economist" or "The Washington Post" just so two people can read the same publication? And who wants to have to swap Kindles to effect the same thing (especially if one is in the middle of reading a book)?This device also could benefit from the same ability to download native PDF that is available with the DX model.Still, the bottom line is that the Kindle is peerless as a digital reader. When you are ready to embrace this new way of reading, it is the only thing to buy. | 34 stars
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Great pocket sized edition!
Best novel ever!! And this one is the perfect size to tote around while on vacation or commuting. It is very small, but still easy to read. I really like the satin ribbon bookmark that is attached to the spine. I'd check out all of the novels in the mini gramercy collection and snatch up the titles you like. I hope they come out with more! | 45 stars
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three cups of tea: one man;s mission to promote peace one school at a time
Informative, on a very essential issue and country, and well written--offers sympathetic and detailed coverage of Pakistan's (and somewhat Afganistans's) culture (including Islam) and topography. A bit "hagiographic," about Mortenson, but admiration well earned for Mortenson and his efforts. Certain honest observations of his management style and other weaknesses give credibility to account of his passion, character and success. I'm glad he succeeded in changing the subtitle to emphasize PEACE, RATHER THAT FIGHTING TERRORISM. | 45 stars
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A Leadership Manual
As the authour of One-Minute Manager and a few dozen other business books, Ken Blanchard has tried to put most of what he knows into this one volume. It is a very valuable, though at times a tedious read. But it brought back to the forefront the concept that I have learned from Ken's books long ago--the importance of Situational Leadership. In this book, Ken goes into great details on how to best practive an updated version of Situational Leadership called Situational Leadership 2. I find the designation a bit misleading, but the concept is good. It is a good read and I recomend it. | 34 stars
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4 1/2 stars - almost perfect
It's difficult to not fall in love with your Kindle once you've gotten started with it. I bought a Sony eReader too so I could compare. At $100 less, $50 worth of free books and 100 Free Classics I decided to send the Sony back and keep the Kindle. Not having to be tied to a computer is a great feature. For the first Kindle revision I'd like to see some password protection provided. Right now, if we lose our Kindle, someone could shop away on our charge cards until we've realized we lost it and get a phone call to Amazon. I'm really surprised Amazon didn't at least include the opportunity to password protect prior to purchases.Other than that, and a few minor inconveniences with pages turning when I don't want them to I LOVE IT. I'm getting more comfortable with holding the Kindle in such a way that errant page turns are minimizing and I don't expect it to be a chronic problem going forward.Enjoy | 34 stars
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Enjoyed. 4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I read it on one afternoon. It does not make my favorite list, however, it was a very good read. | 34 stars
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Any Way
I read the book in one night - I couldn't put it down. That's how it is will all of his books! | 45 stars
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Desperate... a Little
This is an interesting book to review. There is, first off, the book itself. The writing is pretty typical of Christian Fiction. Fluffy with moments of complete clarity and spiritual insight. Those moments make it very worth the read. Then, there is the subject matter - Pastors' Wives. Being a youth minister's wife, I found myself sometimes relating. Other times, I felt that the portrayal wasn't very realistic. But, perhaps it is because my husband isn't a "Senior" pastor and we no longer live in a small town.There were times when I almost rolled my eyes. For instance...(stop here if you do not want to know parts of the story)Felicia's husband was spending so much one-on-one time with Nancy Borden. Really? Ministry-wise, what an idiot. And, the younger kids seemed much older than their years. The three year old son did things and spoke like he was about 5 or 6. Same with the 4 year old daughter. And "Kitty Katt?" I'd give anything to have had her with a different name, for starters. And the perfect timing of Mimi puking on her? Not very believable. But, satisfying, so it's still cool. Her hidden past? Eye rolling material. The way none of the PWs stood up to her? What was that?! Does being a PW mean you have to be a doormat?I do, in part, sympathize with the idea of not being able to be fully yourself in your church and around your church members. But, not quite to the degree they took it. For instance, Jennifer was terrified of what people thought when she missed a service. I have no idea how often our Senior Pastor's wife is at church on Sunday morning. When I miss a Sunday, no one berates me or makes odd assumptions about my personal life. I have pierced my nose and dyed my hair funky colors and the church members just laughed with me. I HAVE had people be mean. At one church, a lady actually complained because I was pregnant. I should not, in her opinion, have been around the teenagers in "that condition." *mega eye roll* Anywho... I don't know how Jennifer could have been married to her husband for 15 years and not have known anything about his first wife and their life together. That would simply not be acceptable in my marriage.I suppose, every marriage is different. Corey and I certainly aren't perfect. Nor do we have a perfect relationship. Reading this book, I realized just how blessed I truly am. My husband always (99% of the time) puts me first. He knows how to say "no." The phone DOES ring a lot, but there are plenty of times that he turns it off, because we are having family time or "us" time. He doesn't spend time alone with other women. He doesn't expect me to be super woman. I can be as involved as I want to in the youth ministry. If I don't want to go to a meeting, then I don't. He doesn't compare me to Suzy Homemaker. He doesn't compare me to ANYONE for that matter.This was the best passage in the book:"...as a pastor, he's expendable. He could leave the church tomorrow, and God would find someone else to fill his role. But nobody else can or should fill his role as my husband and the father of our children."I am blessed to have a husband who knows this without me having to tell him or remind him constantly.So, overall, the book was pretty good. Not life-changing, but I read it for an easy-read, so I wasn't expecting C. S. Lewis or anything. It was okay. I might even read the next in the series: A Matter of Wife or Death. | 34 stars
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Loving Chloe
What's not to like about Chloe. I loved her and loved the book. Jo-Ann Mapson is an excellent author.I would recommend any of her books to anyone who likes a good story.Mary Pichette | 45 stars
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another great treatment from Romm
Romm really does a great job of logically building his case. He provides references on both sides of arguments prior to drawing conclusions. This book provides a balanced view sure to inform every reader. | 45 stars
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Where are you going?
Okay I must say this book was not what I expected.... I now see that when Oprah endorses a book it may not be something like the Color Purple. This book was the most strangest, delightful, mind opening book I have read in a very long time. I am sorry I can't give you more than that. I normally read romance, deep south, and crime novels.....Let me know how it feels to you..... | 45 stars
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Apartheid not peace is the reality!
Great book by ex-president Jimmy Carter. This work sheds light and gives an insightful input to the workings of foriegn diplomacy and the reality / hopelessness faced by consecutive US administrations when dealing with this situation. Both sides (Israel and Palestine) seem to be locked in an unconditional/uncompramisable power struggle for land and rights to its exsistence. Some very crucial points raised in this book drawing from his own experiences and his views on the subject to date. He appears to be pointing the fingers at what is considered a very stubborn Israeli government using the Palestinian people as a non-exsistent entity to be mistread. Drawing heavy parallel to the treatment of black south africans during Aparthied he is also extremely critical of the wall being built around the occupied territories. Overall a well recommended read to both pro-israeli and pro-palestinians! | 45 stars
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Eh..
I was really interested by the story from the book descripton on the back, but now thay I have read it... it draged on quite a bit and it was too fantasy-ish. Almost like a wanna be Alice In Wonderland, but not good. I expected more from Connolly. | 12 stars
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Good book...some stuff wrapped up
I am a huge fan of the Southern Vampire series. I love Sookie as a character and the supporting cast is faboo.The beginning of the book was mostly set-up, which was fine. We get a bit of some of the old characters and get to start knowing Quinn a bit.Then, we move on to Sookie going to settle the business with her cousin's estate. I can honestly say that this plot point bothered me more than anything else. I have read all of the books, but had not read the short story that this plot point referred back to. It made it a bit difficult to follow what was going on as I felt I was missing information. I will now try to track down the short story so I have all the info.There is one major revelation in the book (which made me hate Bill all the more...I used to love him...now I want to throttle him) There is also a resolution to the Debbie Pelt line (at least for now) Plus, they opened some new plot lines with the Fellowship and some of Sookie's friends and acquaintences. I won't be surprised if the next book has a big plotline involving the Fellowship.As for Quinn, I love him. Yes, he isn't fully developed, but so far so good. He is so much like Ranger (from the Janet Evanovich Stephanie Plum series), even so much that he calls Sookie "babe".I wish there was more Eric in the book (I LOVE ERIC), but I can cope. I look forward to seeing his interaction with Sookie and Quinn.Overall good book and a must read for Sookie Stackhouse fans. | 34 stars
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the road
It was more affordable here than at the bookstore. Plus you can always sell it back for money. The story line was okay, but if you like this book i recommend watching the movie THe Postman with Kevin Coaster(awesome)! | 23 stars
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Not so Thunderstruck
Larson is the author of The Devil in the White City, a superior work to this one. The newer book traces Marconi's invention and trials with wireless telegraphy and the famous Dr. Crippen murder and flight from justice. A big problem is the timeline: Crippen kills his wife and buries parts of her in the basement so that he can be with his young lover, but Marconi's work doesn't coincide with Crippen's actions until the last few chapters of the book, when Crippen and his lover (who is disguised as a boy) take off in a ship for Canada and their actions are telegraphed back and forth between the ship's astute captain and the police captain on their tail. That part is great; the rest of Marconi's trials and many errors are rather boring after a while. | 23 stars
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How much?
One of Jack Higgins' earlier novels, "Pay the Devil" is nevertheless an entertaining if uneven read. Unlike his later novels, "Pay the Devil" weaves not the same level of intrigue, but this is tempered by frequent bouts of action.The narrative involves the return of Colonel Clay Fitzgerald to Ireland following the American Civil War to inherit the house left by his Uncle. Once in Ireland, however, Clay fast becomes outraged at the unfair treatment of the tenant workers. Adopting the mantle of the legendary outlaw Captain Swing, the Colonel sets out to avenge the peasant workers.Unfortunately, for all its pace, the novel has its fair share of inconsistencies. Firstly, the syntax is simple and often without sufficient description. Secondly, the plot is uneven and often unsatisfactory, with the reader left without the knowledge of "Who was the original Captain Swing?"All facets considered, While certainly an interesting diversion, "Pay the Devil" has too many flaws to recommend. | 23 stars
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Very personal decision based upon circumstances
I own a Kindle 2 but don't use it as much as I thought I would. I have a very good library about two miles from my house and already own about 500 books that I haven't read yet so I am tending to use the Kindle in special instances. I would like to get most of the 500 TBR books done before we decided to downsize to a smaller house and that's going to take me a while ! I also really like the feel of a book in my hands and miss that somewhat when reading on the Kindle. I did loan it to a friend recently when she was travelling to Florida for a week and she loved it.Here are the things that are really good:1) The ability to have many, many books on a single device. Largely comes in handy to me when travelling.2) The ability to download books for free. Many of the classics are available for download and there are usually three or four more current books that are offered for free at any one time that interest me. I just check the Kindle bestseller list frequently and have snagged some really good books free that way.3) Weight and size of the device is great. I've also used an iPad and it's significantly heavier and I can't put it in my purse for easy transport4) Can change the font size, making it larger as needed (not a problem yet, but I can see this being important as I age).Downside:1) Most books still cost money and I can get them from the library for free2) No backlighting which means you need to have some sort of light if you are reading in the dark. I found a reading light for about $13 on Amazon that I really, really like and can use it for regular books as well, so not a huge problem.3) The size of the screen is small so I feel like I am constantly flipping pages4) Because it is an expensive device, I am always a bit nervous about taking to the pool or beach and leaving it on my chair. When it's a paperback book that cost $5 - $9 (or $1 at a used book store) people aren't going to steal it and I just leave it on the chair. With the Kindle, I tend to carry it with me which I am not crazy about.I really think how much you like the Kindle will largely depend on your particular circumstances -- I know several people who absolutely love it !Edited 10/5/2010: I an actually using the Kindle more than I did originally. I have done more browsing around and discovered how to find many great books (not just classics) for about $3 or less. I have also discovered that I like owning these books without taking up room in my home. Have ordered a Kindle 3 - will report on that soon. | 34 stars
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nice idea for your sandbox
I tried reading this book, but found it too out of sync with what I experienced day to day in my Silicon Valley job, not to mention what we read in the papers. Which of the tech industry's big names is not an *******? Maybe the two Google guys.The author has found himself a lucrative niche - what HR won't pay lip service to a "No ******* Rule", with paid speakerships for visiting Stanford profs? But when you look at the reality - not the studies the author cites, but the reality around you, particularly in the higher ranks, it's very different. In short, this is a "feel good" book with no relation to real life.In addition to reading the book, I have heard the author speak, and I know the reputation of one of the execs he has occasionally celebrated on his blog. All I can say is, theory is fine, but practice is something else altogether.Be a good person. You already know how to do that. Trust your gut, when hiring and when choosing friends. That's all you need. Not this self-indulgent tome. | 12 stars
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Really makes my drive to work more pleasant...
I drive about an hour to and from work every day, and Ive always been so bored. You can only listen to talk radio so long. I got this last month as an early Xmas gift, and I've already ready 3 books! And I only read while I'm driving to and from work!I definitely recommend this to anyone who has a lengthy commute... | 34 stars
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