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Fascinating, well-written
Buy this book. Get it from your library. Whatever. Just read this book. I'm struck with the similarities between the antiscience movment and the antichoice movement and their decision to obfuscate and downright lie at times, along with a persistent willingness to do whatever it takes to force their religious beliefs onto the rest of us. The real tragedy in all this is that this determination to win at all costs does not allow any substantive discussion of the real issue[s] to occur, and heaven knows we have truly serious problems in society today that need rigorous discussion in order to reach anything close to an effective solution.This is a story of the fight against evolution being taught in our schools. I found it rather shocking how the strategy used by the antiscience faction is exactly the same in every fight the radical Christian Coalition is embarked upon today. Read this book for no other reason than it provides a calm, logical rebuttal to their attacks [I refuse to call them "arguments" as there is never any chance for discourse].In my Kindle version, almost always "budget" shows up as "bud get" which was a little offputting but quickly my eye adapted [would that somehow figure into the evolution argument? small joke] and wasn't problematic.Monkey Girl provides an easily understood, cohesive explanation of what all these confusing-for-us-laypeople terms/theories are [evolution, Darwinism, Intelligent Design, etc.] and gives a fair recitation of all the players involved and description of this whole issue. Highly recommend this book. And I'm sure all my friends are sick of my constantly referring to it in conversation, but it's just that relevant and good. | 45 stars
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Boring!
We had to read it for our GCSE coursework. Everybody found it boring and too descriptive. If you have a choice, do not choose this book! To make it worse, it is incredibly long and depressing. DO NOT EVEN TOUCH IT!!! | 01 star
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A Classic Tale of Love, Honour and Redemption
I found this book to be a classic tale of honour and redemption, dealing with love and perceived cowardness. This book is about a young man, Harry Ferversham, who is brought up in an old military family, thinks he is a coward and is about to be married to a girl who's father disproves of the military. As a result, he decides to quite the military. The trouble comes when he finds out that his unit is about to be shipped off to war, just before he quits, but he decides to quite anyways. Three of his friends in his military unit send him white feathers of cowardness, and when his fiancée finds out, she breaks off her engagement, and gives him a fourth feather.Harry, with his life in tatters decides to go and attempts to do heroic acts for his friends, in the hope that if they redeem their feathers, his fiancée, Ethne Eustace, will withdraw hers.Meanwhile, Jack Durrance, one of Harry's other friends, finds out that Harry and Ethne's relationship has been broken off, but not why it was broken off. He tries to court Ethne, as he was in love with her before, but she has now decided that she made a mistake with sending Harry away, and doesn't love Jack. Before she can tell him this, Jack gets blinded, and she decides to pretend to love him so that she can care for him.Interestingly, this story is told, after the feathers have been given, primarily from the viewpoints of Ethne and Jack, which allow the reader to find out what's happening only as those characters do, and it also allows us to see Jack and Ethne's thoughts towards each event as they slowly piece together what is and has happened with Harry.A warning note is, like many of my fellow reviewers have stated, there is very little action in the book, unlike in the movie adaptations, as many of the events are just mentioned as a backdrop. But, this is not a bad thing, as this story does not need any major action scenes, and they would probably hurt this story, which is more of personal struggles, of love and honour, than battles.This story has some 19th Century ideals, such as colonialism, and the fact that there is only one non-white character in the book, who, while he plays a fairly major supporting role, is not that well developed, nor is he a very strong character. Despite all of this, I really enjoyed its tale of honour and redemption, and if this book is taken as a product of it's time, it is really quite amazing. The book also gives the reader a great view of upper-class English life in this time period. | 45 stars
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Can't go wrong with a classic story
I was so glad to have finally read the actual words behind all of the film versions of this story. Since I was a child, I've been intrigued by every film adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' and wondered how much of each was true to the original text. I enjoyed reading it much more than any interpretation I've seen, and will make it a tradition to read it every Christmas from now on. | 45 stars
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Enlightened Hospitality is for More Than Just Restaurateurs
It took me a long time to plow through this book, as there were many worthwhile tidbits to absorb. I picked up "Setting the Table" after a client mentioned he'd read it. I knew nothing about Danny Meyer going in and can now say I greatly admire and respect the restaurant company has built.Danny combined following his instincts with listening to trusted advisors and over 20 years, opened 10 restaurants and a catering company in New York City, all while employing a philosophy he calls "enlightened hospitality." While the book is about his journey of building restaurants, business people in any industry can benefit from applying his principles. Here are a few of his keys.He starts with investing in his community, because he believes that creating wealth for the community increases the chance of increasing wealth for investors. Most of his restaurants were planted in areas that weren't so great when he started, but his commitment helped reinvigorate them.Know your core values, do not waiver and share them with everyone who works with you. These inner beliefs will guide you through tough times and keep your decision making on course. Everyone has to learn to roll with the punches, but you never concede your center.Make sure your people, and your clients, feel heard. Most people don't necessarily need you to agree with them, but they do want you to listen and hear them. Could there be more appropriate timing than right now for this message?Here's something that resonated most deeply for me; advice shared with Danny by his grandfather Irving. "The definition of business is problems." Business is about problem solving. Humans are fallible and mistakes are inevitable. Accept them, embrace them and learn, grow and profit from them. If you're in it for keeps, be overly generous and take a gracious approach in your problem solving. It will always pay off in the long run.Finally, enlightened hospitality has five stakeholders and decisions are made based on the priorities of 1. Employees, 2. Guests, 3. The Community, 4. Suppliers and 5. Investors. Such a hierarchy certainly seems out of sync with many businesses these days, however it makes perfect sense when you're building loyalty and long-term success. If this sequence doesn't make sense to you, look at how each is the foundation for the next. And read the book, where he explains it in detail. | 34 stars
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This book is not just about Rwanda, it is about extremes.
My humanitarian medical trip this year to Rwanda mandated that I attempt to understand the insanity of the genocide that killed, in 100 days, over one million children, women and men only eight years ago.My first read was the excellent, and highly recommended book: `We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed With Our Families' by Philip Gourvitch (1998). My second read was this book, also stellar.This book is not just about Rwanda, it is about extremes; it is about Africa. This is about unbelievable agony, suffering and human catastrophe. `This is not a pretty' book. Scott Peterson has done a outstanding job in duct-taping a handle on a tragedy that is uncircumscribible. The degree of evil to be encountered in this book is extraordinary. This is a book about degenerate crimes against humanity and how people come to commit such atrocities.Peterson divides the book into three parts: Somalia, Sudan and Rwanda; with Somalia get the lion's share. Sudan comes next and finally, Rwanda (about 70 pages of the 320 paged book).Peterson seeks "to illuminate human tragedy in a way that show how such tragedies may be easier to avoided in Africa, and beyond, in the future." Whether he accomplisha this is your judgement call. As a cynic, I believe that what has been, will be again, and `history will repeat itself' sooner that we think or want.He breaks down Rwanda's genocide into three primary axioms: 1) Hutu's hatred and fear of the Tutsi's, 2) Catholic Church's' silent support and active disengagement, and finally, 3) the French government's active support before and during the genocide.However clean and persuasive these arguments are they fail to explain the social insanity and the demonic deprivation that took possession of the Hutu population and drove them into a such an unholy orgy of defilement and slaughter. I cannot fault Peterson for failing short of a succinct, logical, sane explanation of such insanity. No one has, nor do I believe ever will, sufficiently explain the "Why" something this insane happens.Notwithstanding, this is a solid, informative work worthy of any library concerned with such matters. Highly recommended.. | 45 stars
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Refreshing
I think that this book is long over due. Christianity has received such a bad rap. People back away from Christianity not because of Jesus, but because of Christians. So many Christians aren't transparent and they behave as if they have always had it together. I think this books deals with the good, bad and the ugly of life. The myths about Christians and Christianity and the patience and forgiving love of a wonder Savior, Jesus Christ. It is truly a must read... | 45 stars
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This will become a primary reference source on your book shelf
I bought this text to help me bone up on electronics as part of my HAM Radio advocation. I did not expect such a complete work. As I said in the title you will use this as a reference for years to come. I feel like I got more than my monies worth! | 45 stars
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Thought provoking visions
When I first started reading the book, I was more than a bit put off by the over use of early 21st century in the first chapter, but I stuck with it...and the rewards were worth it. Since reading Vinge, Bear, and Gibson, I have been very interested in the idea of uploading a personality and space exploration using uploaded avatars. Stross does a great job of exploring those notions. Even better was his conceptualization of post-human intelligences as limited liability corporations. This was a subtle but compelling idea in the story...that our corporations would take over is a new idea...The book is a lot of fun with interesting ideas, and I highly recommend it it you like "cyberpunk" types of science fiction. The ending didn't do much for me, but the middle was worth the trip. | 45 stars
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Loved the New Orleans Flavor!!
Just finished reading this book and thoroughly enjoyed. It took me back to my visits in New Orleans making both the characters and the scenery Ms. Cameron describes very real! The steam between Guy and Jilly was sexy red hot.A Good read! | 23 stars
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So So
I was disappointed in this second book. The voice of Erast was what made the first book so enjoyable in this one he has been silenced in favor of a rather annoying shallow girl. | 12 stars
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The best book I've read in years
Isaacson's writing style makes us feel like we know Einstein as he goes through his life. If you like Physics, Relativity, this won't be a dumbed down version. Indeed Walter Isaacson has effectively enticed the biography reader and the science reader interested. | 45 stars
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One of the funniest things ever written
This has to be one of the funniest things I have ever read. I have read it a dozen times at least. You can read this little piece of heaven in 3 hours or less. The dialogue is great and is never boring or drawn out. I don't think this play will ever get old. Now if only I could find it being performed somewhere... | 45 stars
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A very forgettable book
This book was just very "blah", in my opinion. MacLean utilizes the same plot vehicles familiar to hundreds of romance novels, but with the least amount of depth possible. I really didn't care one way or the other about either the hero or heroine, or the very minor conflict in the book. The reader wasn't involved in the inner thoughts and feelings of the characters on any more than a basic, superficial level. In my opinion, it was like reading an outline of a novel. The only reason I didn't give this book one star was because there was nothing overly wrong or offensive with the story...really, there was nothing there in general. An extremely forgettable read. | 12 stars
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Disappointing
Picking it up at an airport (ok, so I have only myself to blame), the reviews on the cover looked quite good, promising strong plotline. However, it didn't take me long to get bored with a light stile of writing, a plot that never picks up speed (it just plain never gets going), and uninteresting characters. He works so hard describing Hasidic Jews in New York, but only makes it sound like he's trying too hard to make it interesting. Don't bother. | 01 star
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Bummer, but a good read.
Should not be made into an afterschool special. Thomas Hardy is an excellent and verbose writer. Why use a few words to describe something when a whole page is more deft? Sometimes. Sometimes it is just a bit over the top. Good read. | 34 stars
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amazing story
What some people accomplish in one life time. Amazing.The copy of Three Cups of Tea that I read was a libarybook, so I`ll start by sending the price of the book toThe Central American Instute.Amy Burris | 45 stars
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It was excellant!
I was only 11 when I saw the movie. It was my favourite movie of all time! I read the book after I saw the movie and I really enjoyed it. It gave more detail and the story was told very well. | 45 stars
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Hot, sexy, and HILARIOUSLY funny!!!
Pirate Lord Gideon and his men are ready to retire. They're rich, they have a beautiful island all to themselves....but wait! Something's missing. We need some women...and here comes a boatload of convict ladies....we'll rescue these chicks and rescue them. We're offering honorable marriage, so surely they'll just fall into our arms, right?This book is a sexy riot as the pirates clash with the convict ladies, some of whom aren't convicts at all but missionaries led by virtuous Lady Sara. The worst thing about this book is that you'll split your sides laughing. Highly recommend! | 45 stars
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Classic
This book is most definitely a classic! At some points the dialog is a little,difficult to interpret but push through because there's very touching story here. | 45 stars
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Interesting world; terrible protagonist.
I really like the world of the Rachel Morgan books, and that's what has kept me reading even though I never warmed to Rachel as a character. This last book, though, has made me wonder if it's worth the bother to get the new volume coming out this month.Rachel performs demon magic and assumes, without checking, that it's not black magic. Rachel tries to play around with Kisten, knowing what she does about vampires and pheromones, and "doesn't realize" she's pushing him too far. Rachel jerks Ivy around for yet *another* book, this time with nearly disastrous results. Rachel, in other words, is her usual self-centered, short-sighted self. I can't understand why anyone would want to help her/ work with her/sleep with her; I can't understand why anyone wants to *know* her.As I said, I love the world (though it always leaves me wanting pizza with extra sauce), but the main character is such a selfish, thoughtless person (and not even in an entertaining way) that I just can't recommend the books. | 12 stars
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Entertaining and insightful...
I was actually a little worried about this book at first, because it was looking a little like a feminist rant against society's married-with-children expectation for women. But Gilbert quickly turned introspective and philosophical, and ultimately the story becomes a journey that almost everyone can relate to on some level. After all, we all have our own version of crazy, right?Annnnnd, being a food blogger as well as a COMPLETE FREAK, I kept track of all the food she mentions in her "No Carb Left Behind" tour of Italy.Check out my site for the list of food and the full review: [...] | 34 stars
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I ran right out and bought all her other titles
As a foodie and a wine lover, as well as a person who loves New York, this book was like being in heaven at the same time as being a voyuer. I often go to the "starred" restaurants and have my own opinion not only on the food but on how I was treated as a normal everyday person. Having a food critic do the same in costume and actually rate the restaurant based on this makes me want to give her a standing ovation. Hopefully, restaurants around the world have learned something from her and her very equitable way of evaluating restaurants. Ruth writes so very well and entertainly, and you are torn from your own reality into her world of costumes and intrigue. I highly recommend her books if you like food, wine and real life New York restaurants. It may change where you decide to spend your hard earned dollars next time you go out to eat. | 45 stars
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Was it meant to be funny?
Were they lighthearted drollities rather than stomping elephants? O dear. Having read many detective novels, historical and otherwise, and possesed of a passion for Georgette Heyer, this reader looked foward to what promised to be a diverting read. But alas, while I was glued to the book for the evening (one I have lost and shall never recover), it was in awe struck horror, and a masochistic desire to see just how bad it could be. And it was very bad. The author's bio notes that she is studying both history and law at Havard - how? have they read her books? - I have quite lost my respect for that august institution if this is the calibre of work they produce. The author obviously feels that teen romance pulp is the height of literature, and reproduces it with little or no difference between time periods or characters. This is the history of the world as acted by your college's sororities (with the one frat guy playing all the love-interest parts). I pass over the scenes set in France - Mon Dieu - with closed eyes and a shudder,the lack of historical (or life) verisimilitude, and close with the earnest wish that given the author obviously had a fetish for strong, masculine hands, perhaps someone could use theirs to strangle her. | 01 star
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The First "Modern" Mystery Novel
Scholars consider it the first modern mystery novel. Agatha Christie called it "one of the three best detective stories ever written;" G.K. Chesterton went further, calling it "the finest detective story of modern times." The ever-erudite Dorothy Sayers flatly stated that every mystery novelist owed something to "its liberating and inspiring influence." Today, however, the vast majority of the reading public has never even heard of it.The novel, of course, is E.C. Bentley's TRENT'S LAST CASE. By most accounts, Bentley wrote the book on a dare--much as Agatha Christie would later write THE MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR AT STYLES. When financier Sigsbee Manderson is found murdered at his country home, a London newspaper dispatches part-time artist, part-time journalist Trent to the scene. Within three days Trent cracks the case... or so he thinks. But is his solution correct? Or will it result in a terrible miscarriage of justice?From a 2005 standpoint, TRENT'S LAST CASE is not a remarkable novel. Published in 1913, it feels overwritten, wordy, more Victorian in style than modern--and while the plot itself is interesting, it hardly compares to the unexpected twists offered by the very writers who so praised it and who were so influenced by it. But the fact remains that it was the first: Poe may have created the detective story and such writers as Doyle, Collins, and Dickens may have wrung romantic changes upon the theme, but it really wasn't until TRENT'S LAST CASE that the mystery novel as we presently think of it was born.Most contemporary readers will likely find Bentley's style tough going, and although extremely influential the triple-twist plot has been done with considerably more drama in later novels. But say what you like, TRENT'S LAST CASE really is "the first," and that counts for a lot. Worth reading for the history of it!GFT, Amazon Reviewer | 34 stars
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A Hopeful View of Islam
It's possible the authors have an agenda, but if so, it's barely detectable. I was encouraged by the book's message, which is that most muslems are fair minded and want what's best for their children and are willing to work and sacrifice for it. Even the conservative ones want education, and are ultimately willing to extend it to girls as well as boys. | 45 stars
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Inspiring
I found the book to be very honest with very good insights. The book is very down to earth with ethics that seem to have gotten lost over time. I used several quotes from the book in my thesis. | 45 stars
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Defending against the darkness...
Ms. Morgan has created a great series here. It is slightly lighter fair than a couple series in this genre, yet just dark enough to maintain more of a compelling edge feel than a lighthearted romp. This is an edgy universe complete with its cracks in the earth's crust.I'll admit to reading some other online notes on it and being concerned about the idea that it might be ending at any point in the near future. There is enough material to go on for quite a number of books- on both sides of the barrier. Hopefully what I saw what just misinformed garbage!Blake is perhaps my favorite character introduced so far. His romance with Brenna was no disappointment. The plot is born of a continuation of the first book and heightens the tension. There were some real nail biting moments thrown in the hesitant, yet heated, romance. My favortite kind of man, Blake is damaged, dark and deadly. Brenna is brilliant and determined in all things.I loved Book 1 and this one, if possible, superceded it. Our initial couple made a strong appearance here- maintaining their position as defenders of the defenders- showing that the plotlines will be closely connected so you will continue to catch glimpses of our favorite heros and heroines. For cold nights and dark days, these paladins are the defenders we are all looking for! | 34 stars
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Pleasant Easy Read
Though not the deepest of all the existential novels, there is something very sweet and familiar in Gilbert's Eat Pray Love. Her writing is very straight forward and accessible. The joy in this book is the common theme of self-discovery that is universal. A bildungsroman for 30-somethings. | 34 stars
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What does the Kindle offer that makes it worth the purchase?
When the Kindle was first released, one of the most compelling arguments against purchasing it was that it did not really fill a need. There are already books and books have been working just fine, thank you, for a long period of time. And not only are there books, but there are very good libraries where books can be borrowed freely and conveniently.The argument for the Kindle was most often an argument of convenience. Want a book when you are sitting in an airport? Want a book when you are sitting in bed? Order it and download it in 1 minute! Sounds like the ultimate convenience for the "ugly American" who wants for nothing and yet needs for everything.But it is not that simple. Because the best thing about the Kindle is that, like Jeff Bezo's has pointed out, it `disappears'. And that is a very good thing. What does this mean? It means that once you get over the newness of the Kindle and try out all of the `experimental' features -surf the web, try to locate your house on Google maps, check the time, load and listen to an MP3, turn the sleep mode off and on to check out the screensaver pictures, play Minesweeper -once all that stuff is finished, you are going to actually read something and then you will forget all about the device in your hand and get lost in the text. That is what the Kindle was made for and that is what it does best. And it is the number one reason I am very happy with the Kindle that my lovely wife got for me as a Valentine's Day gift.Uniformed users (in some cases people who have never used a Kindle) complain about the lack of a back light on the device. But that is by design. The best thing about the technology used on the Kindle - and on other similar devices - is that it is designed to look like the printed page. But it is a page that does not yellow with age. And unlike the printed page, if the font size is too small, you can make it larger. That is a huge step forward for me. It means that after a long day staring at a (back lit) computer screen I can come home with tired eyes and pick up the Kindle and read without straining my eyes even more. If left my glasses upstairs and I don't feel like getting up, I can just move up the font size a little more and get them later. The text is crystal clear, easy to read and the font size is easy to adjust. The contrast is excellent to me - I am actually glad that the screen background is not completely white - as white would cause more glare than the current Kindle very light gray background.Additionally, the device is small and light. Pick up and read a large novel - like Stephen King's `Duma Key' or Dan Simmons' `The Terror' and then pick up the Kindle. Which would you rather spend an hour holding? And even if you can get it from the library, how many of us can read a 700 - 900 page book in the 1 to 3 weeks we can keep it checked out?But for me it is all about the eyestrain. And I am sure a lot of people who love to read would agree with me that it is very hard to sit down and concentrate on a book when you spend your day sitting in front of a computer screen reading and writing for 8 hours. To me it is worth the expense to be able to read more for pleasure.I really hope that this device continues to sell because the more Kindles (or other book readers) that sell, the more eBooks that will be sold. And the more sales that are made, the more likely that publishers will get more books converted to eBook format. There are a lot of writers who are out of print or have books out of print that I have no doubt would sell on the Kindle. Even successful mystery series writers could benefit from eBooks. How many times have you read a series such as William Tapply's Brady Coyne books or Ross MacDonald's Lew Archer books or Ed McBain's 87th precinct books and you end up having to search for one or more of the books in the series? The library doesn't have it, it is no longer in print so brick and mortar stores or even online resources can't help. So you have to go with a second hand copy. It may be inexpensive, but it might take 2 weeks before the book is in your hand.If it was available in eBook format you could get it when you want it. I would rather buy an eBook of an older mystery book for 3 or 4 bucks that spend the same for getting a second hand copy shipped to me. Who knows what condition the book will be in once it arrives? And what if the font size is small or the pages have yellowed with age? The Kindle version will be easy to read, convenient and the writer or his heirs will actually get paid for their work. Sounds like a win-win to me. I just hope that publishers start seeing it that way as well. Why should varied and interesting writers like John D MacDonald or John Steinbeck or Peter De Vries or John Hersey (to name a few) have books that are out of print? I understand the legal legwork required for author's who have passed away, but ultimately I think getting these writers out in the marketplace will benefit everyone.The same goes with magazines. If this concept catches on it could really provide a convenient service in which both the seller and consumer would benefit. Unfortunately, the selection is currently small. And I am not sure that I see the benefit of a magazine like `Time' or `Newsweek' has on the Kindle. Both of those magazines are filled with photos and are meant to be viewed as much as read. Magazines like `The Nation' are a much better example of where the Kindle format can translate magazines comes into play. The reason that the `The Nation' is a perfect example of a Kindle magazine has nothing to do with politics and everything to do with the fact that this magazine is meant to be read and is dense with words - not photos. I hope other magazines and journals see the advantage of this format and make it available and soon.Finally, the Kindle is a great way to read the classics. Not only are these books readily available online, but they are often free or available on a donation basis. Again, I can think of many times when I tried to read an older classic but was defeated not by the words but by the small text or the weathered and yellow paper that made it hard to read. With the Kindle it is about the words - as it should be. I highly recommend that Kindle owners look around the web to see what is available - and when you find a great book, think about making a donation to the people or organizations that have gone to the effort to keep these books alive.Last thoughts: I have to agree that the cover could use a little work. I tried to work with the plastic clip and use the cover as designed, but ended up following the advice of multiple readers and got a piece of Velcro to hold the Kindle in the cover. That makes it possible to use the cover - which both protects the device and give a convenient hand hold for reading. It also holds the Might Bright light pretty conveniently - another solid recommendation by fellow readers. | 45 stars
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Devoured in one sitting
Wow. I'm not one for alternate history books, but Naomi Novik's book changed my mind about this series. She created amazing characters that came immediately to life in a world that is just on that side of familiar. Her easy to read writing makes the story flow beautifully, also.It's a can't-put-it-down book. Read and enjoy! | 45 stars
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I love the Kindle
I dithered for nearly a month before determining to buy a Kindle. Despite the way too long wait, I can now say that I love this device. My biggest complaint is that I do not have enough time to read books on it (stupid job gets in the way of everything). However, as with all new devices certain things could be better. The buttons are sometimes a trifle sensitive, and may not be placed ideally. Being able to create folders to organize my books would be a wonderful help. Finally, I remain somewhat unimpressed with the cover, it does not firmly seat my Kindle. Despite these somewhat picayune issues, this may be the best first gen device I have ever purchased. I heartily reccomend this device. | 45 stars
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My Hero
Dick Winters is, and has always been, and will always will be, my hero.The things he wrote about and just the way he perceives the world around him - as a kind, patient, intelligent and disciplined man, makes you feel immediate calmness even just by reading the book. Imagine what it would be like to be under Dick's company, or his batallion, to have him as a leader. The men loved him immensely and had nothing but praise for him, and it's all justified praise because he really is a remarkable man.Dick Winters is such an inspiration and an amazing individual. May be rest in peace.He will always be my hero. | 45 stars
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Perhaps Tarkington's best novel.
This novel by Tarkington won the 1919 Pulitzer Prize in Fiction. Actually, this is the second novel in a trilogy (the other two being "The Turmoil" (1915) and "The Midlander" (1923)). The novel chronicles three generations of a leading family in Indiana, including their period of decline. Major Amberson, who had earlier acquired a fortune, is the dominating head of a socially prominent family in the midwest U.S. His daughter Isabel is in love with Eugene Morgan but, through a misunderstanding, they break off their relationship. Isabel marries a man with whom she has little feelings and gives birth to a son, George, who grows up conceited and arrogant. Eugene, now a widower, returns to the midwest with his daughter Lucy and starts up an automobile factory. Lucy falls in love with George and Isabel and Eugene begin seeing each other again. But, George is appalled that his mother is considering marrying someone outside of their class. He takes her overseas to prevent the marriage but later brings her back when she is dying. The Amberson's fortune is now depleted, George is forced to start working for a living at a chemical plant, and his old friends appear to applaud his "comeuppance." But, after an automobile accident, George, Eugene, and Lucy, who still is in love with George, are reconciled. The story of the Ambersons represent the changes that U.S. society has undergone, particularly near the turn of the century: those in upper society who earned their places by heredity are slowly being replaced by those who earned their position by their achievements in industry, business, and in finance (that is, by their own labors). George had been unwilling to change. Perhaps it is appropriate that it is an automobile that forces him to realize this. In July of 1998, the editorial board of the Modern Library listed this book as one of the top 100 novels written in the English language for the twentieth century. I do feel that a response is needed to Mr. Ted Ficklen of St. Louis (of Aug. 12, 1998) who gave the book a poor review. I certainly was not an English major yet I read "The Magnificent Ambersons" long before the Modern Library list had come out. And, I knew of Booth Tarkington; the Penrod books were on my shelves when I was a kid. You may not know of Tarkington but others obviously have; there aren't too many authors who have won two Pulitzer Prizes in Fiction. | 34 stars
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Boring, wordy and snobbish
This has to be the most boring book I have ever read and if I could give it zero stars I would. Maybe if you are a professional chef this is interesting, or if this level of food consumption is an everyday part of the world you live in, but for me some one who enjoys a well written book and a good adventure in my kitchen, I was bored. At first it was fun to hear some of the stories or his experiences and so on, but page after page on short ribs? Come on - I felt like I was reading a bad text book in college. As I continued to read I went from bored, to mad, to flat out pissed off that anyone bothered to publish this let alone charge $16 for it. As the book continued I began to see the author as just as self absorbed as the people he wrote about. While I admire their skills and culinary talents, there was a sense of superiority lurking. I'm not sure who I was more disgusted by, the author or the people he wrote about. Don't waste your money, you will be so disappointed. | 01 star
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Not Up to Its Predecessor
Disappointing read, after "The Devil in the White City," which I enjoyed. The two strands of plot in this book, namely Marconi and the murderer Hawley Crippen, do not have enough in common, but seem stretched out in order to fit together. Either subject would make a book, but the two are not really generically entwined. Some good writing, a fair amount of padding, but in any case, the book is too long, and would have benefitted from some judicious cutting. | 23 stars
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Fear Not
Despite some of the misgivings in the editorial reviews you should not hesitate to buy and read this book. One of Kellerman's hallmarks is his consistency. The only weak character here is Robin and she is ongoing in her weakness. Why would Alex tolerate her betrayals? This is implausible. Plus, she is smarmy, like Spenser's Dr. Silverman. In each case, their dogs are always more interesting characters. Milo is dependably Milo; Petra is a welcome addition to the group in the recent novels, and Alex really gets a chance to play Alex, making concrete psychological judgments and handling a disorder that is of broad human interest.The plot is complex but intelligible and the ultimate conclusion is satisfying. Handling the exposition and investigation through dialogue is perfectly OK, so long as you like the participants in the dialogue and what's not to like here?Alex's patient and her physicist boyfriend are both interesting characters and the dysfunctional adults are sufficiently interesting to hold your attention. Jonathan Kellerman's writing seldom tends toward the extremes; his watchword is steadiness and evenness. OBSESSION is fine; go for it. | 34 stars
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Keeping up with the Joneses, Smiths, Wangs, Bushes, Kennedys, Gates...
An expansive view of 20th century literature in American economic thought finds two similar bookends. The beginning of the 20th century saw Veblein's classic "Theory of the Leisure Class". After a century of the largest economic growth ever undertaken by one country in the history of the world, the end of the 20th century is marked by a similar, yet different vein of literature; condemnations of overspending by the masses on luxury items. In other words: everyone is now spending like they are part of the leisure class. Many authors have taken a stab at this, and this work by Robert Frank is one of the better ones.Through the selective use of statistical data, this book shows how Americans are falling into debt in living like kings by buying unnecessary stuff that often and quickly gets outdated and uncool. Facts and figures from various sectors of the US economy (auto, home construction, restaurants, entertainment, etc...) are brought forth, chapter by chapter, to back up this point. The author attributes this spending to a "Keeping up with the Joneses" attitude, decries the results, and proposes several government changes to remedy this problem. The latter include a savings deduction, and a progressive consumption tax. By reading this book, most readers will notice a slight liberal - progressive stance on the part of the author.The essential points of the book are true to all but the most obdurate observer of modern American culture. Unfortunately, the author should have suggested some other changes to remedy America's overspending besides the savings deduction and the progressive consumption tax. First, how about increasing the amount of minimum vacation time employers must give their employees. This in itself will give employees (all of us) more time to spend doing things like spending time with family, exercising, taking vacations, etc... that do not require purchasing goods. Studies have shown that the less time people have to recreate, the more money they will spend in doing the recreation, if only to make themselves feel that they used their free time fully. Second, eliminate the various deductions businesses and individuals can obtain thru the purchasing of goods and services. Third, eliminate complete public-funding of schools. If every family in America had to pay for some percentage of their children's K-12 education, parents would quickly and willingly instill the principles of sound finances in their children from an early age.Overall, a good book to read, but not the best of its genre. I do recommend it as a solid commentary on American society at the turn of the 20th century. | 23 stars
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Intriguing read for anyone who's a member of society
Why do some ideas, products, or styles catch on and suddenly become wildly popular across the country? Gladwell fills his book with true-life examples in an easy to read style. If you've ever wondered what makes something "cool" while something else is "geeky" and why we Americans fickly latch on to trendy things like we do, this work offers some great insights. An absorbing read for anyone who is curious about what makes people make the (sometimes inexplicable) choices they do. | 34 stars
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A must-read
The details of John Crawford's book have been discussed in several reviews, so there's no need to rehash them here. Suffice to say that "The Last True Story I'll Ever Tell" has easily earned a place in the small (but, sadly, growing) pantheon of necessary war literature.I will note that Crawford's writing style is often much more succinct than is common in soldiers' memoirs. There is rarely a lot of dramatic buildup; Iraqi friendlies who have entire chapters devoted to them are killed or dispatched in two or three sentences, without much of the 'And then, the inevitable happened' kind of buildup. Surprisingly, this style works more often than it doesn't. In Crawford's experiences, events often came to an end with little fanfare, and he and his unit had to move on quickly. His blunt and concise treatment of these endings is effective in communicating the suddenness in which soldiers have to deal with these events.A previous reviewer brings up several criticisms of the book; I will touch on the most legitimate one. John Crawford's tales certainly aren't on par with O'Brien's "The Things They Carried," but then Crawford doesn't have the benefit of twenty years' reflection that O'Brien did with his work. Nor is Crawford's collection the least bit fictionalized, as O'Brien's book was. No, while Crawford is obviously familiar with O'Brien's style, these are similar books in different contexts--a 'based on a true story' reflection versus a collection of wartime journal entries. Maybe an editor would have helped--or maybe the raw transcript feeling of his stories would have been lost at a time when they can be most appreciated. Crawford's book by no means replaces "The Things They Carried," but belongs comfortably next to it on discerning readers' bookshelves.In short, the overall collection of stories would easily earn this book a 4-star review. What pushes this up to a 5-star review is the final eponymous entry, perhaps even just the last page. Without spoiling the ending, I will say that at least one friend of mine met a fate very similar to Crawford's post-war experiences. Perhaps that's why I'm biased--not only are Crawford's final words heartbreaking, many of us also know that this ending is repeated thousands of times over in the lives of many Iraq war vets.In short, buy this book. Those who did not support the Iraq war (and, indeed, even those who did) will be crestfallen to see how it has affected those who fought it. But even the war's most ardent supporters can take solace in one fact--no one who reads this book will ever spit on an American soldier. | 45 stars
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Parker goes west
This is NOT one of Parker's successful Spenser mysteries, but a western featuring a taciturn lawman and his West Point educated deputy. But if you imagine Spenser and Hawk transported to the wild west, the dialog wouldn't be much different. | 34 stars
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I love it!
No more trees are killed. It is handy, easy to tote, and easy to operate. I have read more books since February 2009 than in the last 5 years conbined. | 45 stars
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Thoroughly enjoyable in spite of credibility issues
Using the real-life Augusto Pinochet extradition case as a seed for an imaginative plot-line, John J Nance has penned the perfect light-on-the-grey-matter combo legal/political/techno-thriller for you to take along on your next flight over the big pond!Former US President, John Harris, has been charged by the Peruvian government under a recently ratified treaty - the International Treaty Against Torture - with authorizing the cold-blooded murder of hundreds of civilians during a CIA raid on a Peruvian drug factory. British lawyer, Sir William Stuart Campbell, who has been hired to represent the Peruvian government, makes his first attempt to execute an arrest warrant for Harris as he sits aboard a Boeing 737 about to take off from Athens. When Captain Craig Drayton learns of the legal process that is about to take place on his aircraft, he quickly reaches the emotional and patriotic decision that the charges couldn't possibly be anything other than a bogus attempt to kidnap and ultimately execute the former president, as well as embarrass the US government. Faking a hijacking attempt, he rolls his plane, takes off with the former president and a full load of passengers who have no idea of the perilous adventure in which they are now embroiled.When Harris asks his friend and former law partner, Jay Reinhart, to represent him in the ensuing legal battle, he also advises him that the plane, ostensibly en route to Rome, effectively has nowhere to land that wouldn't endanger Harris' safety! Campbell, a brilliant barrister and legal strategist, has filed a warrant at virtually every airport in Europe. The only obvious escape route is to land at an American Air Force Base in Europe, spirit the former President aboard a US jet and run like a scared rabbit for the safety of US home turf! But the sitting president refuses to condone that particular rescue because of the enormous political fallout that would certainly result! The entire world would recognize that the US signature on the International Treaty Against Torture was absolutely meaningless!When a secretly recorded video surfaces that clearly films Harris authorizing the black-op that would kill the innocent civilians during the execution of the raid, the problem is no longer how to save a former President from legalized assassination by a kangaroo court in Peru! Now the question revolves around Harris' guilt and whether the US government should force Drayton to deliver Harris into the hands of the Peruvian government for a legitimate trial.From the standpoint of a Canadian reader, the patriotism and flag-waving is typical, blustery US jingoism and, at least in my opinion, is outrageously overdone. That a senior airline pilot would unilaterally reach the decision to endanger his own life, his plane, his crew and a full load of passengers to save a former US president from a dubious legal process is more than a bit of a credibility stretch. BUT, that said, Nance does a fine job with the plot and the legal process on an international stage. It's a compelling page-turner in which I found myself fully absorbed despite my misgivings at the likelihood of such a series of events. Unlike many thrillers, Nance even takes time to develop his characters and make them considerably more life-like than the typical cardboard cutout heroes of many of today's thrillers.With a minor suspension of credibility, "Headwind" is a thoroughly enjoyable read.Paul Weiss | 34 stars
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Every Day is a Good Day
That is, every day is a good day if the Kindle comes out with a new newspaper or magazine. Today, two more have emerged. It is similar to when free podcasts were being released from the Apple store several years back. One day KQED's Forum would be published, then Left, Right and Center, then Car Talk, then tons of great stuff from WNYC, the New York Times, the BBC, NPR, and on and on. Finally, only two remained: Fresh Air with Terry Gross and the Charlie Rose show. The former has now joined, the latter stubbornly hangs on to Audible.Does anyone know where we can find out more about what other magazines and newspapers are going to be available on the Kindle in the future? Is their a website, anything? I'm looking forward to that day when the New Yorker and The Believer come out.By the way, the Denver Post is a pretty good newspaper, and the price is right at $5.99. It seems that the Times and the Independent are overpriced at $13.99. I hope The Kindle cuts the cost of the newspaper price to about $5.99 a month, no matter what the paper, with the big 3 being, at most, $9.99. | 45 stars
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A good catalyst for discussion, but a dry, flat style
Our high school read this book for our Summer Reading Program. Most students and faculty agreed that the book raised excellent questions for discussion, but the dry, flat style of the writing made it very difficult to read. After falling asleep several times trying to read this at night, I finally forced myself to read it early in the morning. Bellamy spends much of the novel explaining how this socialist utopia functions, providing detailed analysis of the economy, government, education, and other institutions. I would recommend this book to readers interested in discussing political issues, but not for readers who need a strong plot or dynamic characters. | 12 stars
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Where there is risk, there is often great reward
Business is a specialized extension of life, so the reality is that there is no failsafe. However, that is what makes the game so interesting. For if you could not fail, business, like life, would be very dull and uninteresting. In the modern world, jobs are being created and destroyed at a rate faster than at any time in history. There is also no doubt that the pace of change will continue to accelerate. Furthermore, the physical location of jobs is also changing at a rapid rate. However, the rate of change of job movement will slow and eventually flatten out. As countries such as India and China develop, the wage differential will narrow. Finally, at some point most of the jobs that can be outsourced will have been outsourced.In this environment, the challenges can be overwhelming. The sensible person explores every possible advantage and there is a great deal of sense in this book. Overall business strategy, rather than operational aspects, is the focus. While new technologies are continuously being developed and are creating new business opportunities, the strategies examined here are applications requiring very little new technology.There are two key points, the first is how to identify a new market that can be exploited and the second is how to manage your growth. Two aspects of markets are described. The first is as a white space, which is a market niche that is currently unexploited. While these are market opportunities, there is a danger in being the first mover. With no history to examine, it is easy to be a trailblazer for others who will avoid your mistakes and be in a better position to exploit the market. The second is the sweet spot, which is a location that will allow you to maintain your advantage and defend it against others who might want to challenge your position.Several case histories are presented, including an extensive one about Enron in an appendix. Companies such as Dell computer, Southwest airlines and Jet Blue are examined, including their strategies for entering markets and how they manage to maintain their position and profits, even through difficult times. However, I found the case history of Enron to be the most interesting. Their initial business strategy was a brilliant one, but when Enron branched out into other areas without performing the due diligence of research, they began to experience failures. It was the attempt to maintain the faade of unrelenting success that led to their downfall. Rather than admit to the failures, managers at Enron began to engage in account manipulation that snowballed as failures grew in magnitude and number.As the world changes rapidly, market niches are created and destroyed and are not always evident. Entering these niches requires forethought, courage and determination to succeed. If even one is missing, failure is likely. The information in this book will help you to identify new niches and ask the right questions concerning whether you should enter one. You must supply the courage and determination. | 45 stars
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Constant Distractions
Steve Berry's previous book, The Templar Legacy, showed that he had the action/mystery genre down pat. That tale and this one, full of twists and turns throughout, keep any reader turning the pages.However, a major distraction within that book and this one is the glaring errors in the historical facts presented. Proven, uncontested events are ignored or changed to fit into the narrative. For example, in The Alexandria Link, the death of an Arab family on a beach, a real world event, is attributed to Israeli shelling when in actuality this was not the case.Also, Berry's choice of using the universally rejected historical designations BCE/CE detracts from the story and calls into question the legitimacy of his background research. If he is going to write about historical events, he should put more effort into confirming what is known about such events. Reading these two books is like reading a mystery-suspense where the writer relates how the Apollo 11 astronauts traveled into space in a Buick.Lastly, Berry's blatant misquoting of Bible passages through his major protagonists/antagonists creates the impression that these characters are extremely ignorant concerning their specialties, making his characters less than sympathetic figures for us, the readers. | 01 star
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Fine rendering of the novel.
This is a well-red audiobook- the pacing is good, the enunciation is clear and the reader varies the vocal color enough to make individuals identifiable during dialogues. My only quibble is that a few characters (most notably Joseph) are rendered in dialect so authentic as to be hard to understand. | 34 stars
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A refreshing take on a complex subject
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, both as a baseball fan and as someone interested in nonfiction work in general. While I had heard a lot about Bill James before reading the book, once I finished reading it I felt as though I really had got to know the man behind the myth. If you're interested in detail and don't need to be spoonfed explanations where none are necessary (see Mr. Levenberg's review below)--and certainly if you are curious about Bill James--then I think you will like this book. | 45 stars
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If you want to franchise your buisness, don't buy this book!
I purchased this book to help me in franchising my business. I found it hard to read, confusung, boring, and full of legal jargon that I could not understand. | 12 stars
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Eat Pray Love
I liked the book somewhat but was disapointed to learn that Julia Roberts would be playing the main character in the movie. I never would picture her in that part (not a fan). I thought Anne Heche would have been a better choice. She and Gilbert look alike and have the same depth and sardonic sense of humor. They really missed the boat on this one. As far as the book goes, I got a little bored towards the end and wondered when she was going to reach some sort of Nirvana, if ever. Do we all need to go on an around-the-world journey in order to find ourselves? This can be accomplished in the peace and solitude of one's own space, where ever that may be. Happiness is not something that can be "found" so it is not about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but the process of finding our way. She may have returned home unfulfilled (as many of us do) only to find she had grown and had taken a small step towards a new and different direction in her life. This process can change throughout one's lifetime so we should be open to the prospect of successes and disappointments along the way. Acceptance is a powerful emotion that can bring us into the promise of new possibilities. Sometimes, that is enough. | 23 stars
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Heaven sent
This book was written for me and it came at a time when I needed it the most.I had been suffering from OBE attacks (I called them) since 1994 and didn't even know what it was. I went to see everybody, from the doctor, to the priest, to the spiritual healer etc., they couldn't understand me. I prayed to God for any other human problem - but please, stop these spontaneous OBE's from happening....! Because I had no knowledge about it, it was frightening. Most night's were like Freddy Kruger's Nightmare on Elm St. (Fall asleep and it's BOUND to happen). I was desperate. Until I found this book....., IN AN OBE!So much has happened since then and now that I understand it, I pray that it never stops.I've bought 3 copies for friends, and my sister whom I live with also has her own copy.It is definitely the book of all OBE books, easy to understand and very well guided. Highly recommended. | 45 stars
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Truely a Classic
This is truely a classic novel. Bronte's wonderful tale of Heathcliff, mainly, is an excellent though provoking novel. It contains everything, and a reader who indulges in any genre of novels will no doubt love this story.This novel takes place on the moors in the late 1700's into 1802 England. Heathcliff is taken in by Mr. Earnshaw, owner of Wuthering Heights. Heathcliff, becomes beloved by Cathrine Earnshaw, but despised by her brother Hindley. Catherine, however falls in love with Edgar Linton, heir to Thrushcross Grange. She denies Heathcliff's proposal, for she claims it to be too much of anm embarassment to marry him and marries Edgar Linton. The novel tells of tells of the characters and their intense fellings toward one another, as time goes on and their childern grow. | 45 stars
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Excellent book on metaphor and visual images
This is a great first attempt at sorting out the issues of applying developments in the theory of conceptual metaphor as set out by Lakoff and Johnson to the subject matter of visual imagery in advertising. | 34 stars
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Couldn't put this down!
Jonathan is a fantastic writer, so of course with this book he has his readers at the edge of their seat wondering what is going to happen next. His writing puts you into the story. The details of everything is superb! THIS IS A MUST READ BOOK!! I love the suspense, lust, craving, and so much more this book has to offer. I was really feeling bad for David but then.......GO GET THE BOOK! =) | 45 stars
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Very disappointing
As a died in the wool Caldwell fan, I coundn't believe this book. It just was not Caldwell. Her stab at humor fell totally flat. Hornet's Nest was enjoyable, but I am having problems wading through Southern Cross. Please bring back more of the strong stories a la Kay Scarpetta. | 01 star
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Not a complete waste of time
I love all of Patricia Cornwell's Scarpetta books, they are fast-paced and intriguing. The style of this book is the opposite, a lot of jerking back and forth between subplots that sort of come together in the end. I took this book on a trip and was going to give it to my mom when I was done reading it, but I wasn't sure if she'd like it or even if I liked it. I also couldn't really say what it was about, but it suggests things like racism, police brutality, high school violence, without ever coming to a real point. I like the characters Hammer, West, and Brazil, but I felt like any development of them was confusing and conflicted a bit with my impressions of them from Hornet's Nest. I think PC's strong points as a writer are her ability to make you want to turn the page and finish the book in one sitting, but this book made me want to put it down and walk out of the room. | 12 stars
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Brilliant mix of action and emotion
I love the male-female way Coben writes. The thriller action bits are male, while the emotional stronghold the books have over the reader can only be seen as female. A winning combination! | 45 stars
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A Whole New Outlook
I found Daniel Pink's book, "A Whole New Mind: Why Right-brainers Will Rule the Future", to be both encouraging and insightful as I begin to prepare myself for the workforce. I am currently a freshman at Drexel University and reading this book was a requirement for my English class. Surprisingly, I have already recommended it to many of my friends and family. The concepts presented by Pink are so witty and thought- provoking, it is hard not to enjoy this easy read. The book is strictly opinion-based, leaving much room for interpretation, debate and controversy. However, his ideas were simply brilliant.Welcome to the Conceptual Age everyone! Our country must now give birth to a new generation full of life, love and emotion. Appealing people will give way to appealing products and appealing products are what sells in a world of a million choices. These people will use both halves of their brain to see the big picture and recognize the pieces that make up the whole.Being able to see things as a whole requires a new mindset and Daniel Pink is well on his way to sharing the secret with the world. Understanding connections between objects and ideas around you will also allow you to see the pieces that come together to create the masterpiece. Pink's book offers many suggestions for success which all contribute to his central idea: Right-brainers will rule the future.Pink offers three major reasons why right-brain thinking is becoming so important to the future of our economy. Since there is an excessive amount of products now available to the consumer, these products must now be unique and enticing in order to distinguish them from a myriad of other products similar to it. Sending work overseas to countries such as Asia and India has also proven to be less costly and more effective. Many of today's jobs are being replaced by technology; computers are faster, cheaper and more efficient than the people once filling these positions. This is Pink's theory behind abundance, Asia and automation.Pink's arguments are convincing, his ideas are revolutionary, and his suggestions for success are unprecedented. He has compiled six senses that he believes will be the key to understanding the Conceptual Age, and they will "increasingly guide our lives and shape our world" he contends. Although everyone possesses the basic attributes of design, story, symphony, empathy, play and meaning, most people simply need to sharpen them. . In a world of abundance, people are losing touch with many of their feelings and as they search for deeper meaning, there will be a new generation to answer their calls.But rest easy left-brainers, Pink's book is full of silly ideas, quirky suggestions and reliable resources for exercising our creative side. By suggesting a slew of books, symphonies, websites, workshops and courses, Pink has ensured that there is something for everyone. We must look at the big picture to wholly grasp what it means to think with a whole new mind.Not only is Pink's book written clearly and concisely, but he makes his points using a unique writing style that captures the reader's attention. Technology is beginning to surpass human intelligence, which in turn has begun to hinder the job market. Jobs are being outsourced to other countries and workers are being replaced with computers. What are we all to do?Read this book and take on the Conceptual Age with a whole new mind! | 45 stars
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Autobiographical and true to life
Sons and Lovers by D. H. Lawrence. Recommended.Sons and Lovers is said to be the most autobiographical of D. H. Lawrence's novels; according to the introduction by Benjamin DeMott, some critics have found it too flatly so. Like the protagonist Paul Morel, Lawrence was born to a coal miner and a woman who has married beneath her class, and his older brother died young, DeMott notes. Many other details coincide as well.Unlike some of Lawrence's other works, such as Women in Love, in which Lawrence explores lofty themes in a philosophical and often grim tone, Sons and Lovers is as down to earth as Paul's rough, violent, yet congenial father Walter. Despite his many apparent and iterated flaws, Walter Morel is shown as a whole person rather than a fictional creation, with a gentle, content, industrious side, at least when he's sober. Perhaps his "smallness" is a function of where he is and who he is expected to be rather than who he could be. He's so tied to his lot in life, the mining life, that it never occurs to him that his more gifted sons could aspire to more. That they achieve more is a source of both pride and derision for Walter Morel. Although Walter is a background character (to both reader and to the Morel family), it is he, "an outsider," who forges the bond between Gertrude Morel and her sons, first William, then Paul.Gertrude Morel is not the first woman to try to live her life through her children, but her hold over her sons dooms their relationships with other women to failure and leaves them deeply unsatisfied and unhappy. Her motivations may be questionable, but she is sometimes right. William's fiancée Lily would have cost him dearly, emotionally and financially, had he lived to marry her, and Mrs. Morel sees her own mistake of a marriage in his future. Although she makes her beliefs known, she seems willing to let William make his decision and suffer the consequences.Having learned from the experience with William, Mrs. Morel takes a different approach with Paul, who seems to be her last, best hope for justifying her own life. Her relationship with Paul becomes overtly sexual. When they go out together, they behave like lovers on a date. "He stroked his mother's hair, and his mouth was on her throat." When Paul tells his mother that he doesn't love Miriam (how can he?), she "kissed him in a long, fervent kiss. 'My boy!' she said, in a voice trembling with passionate love. Without knowing, he gently stroked her face."It would be too easy to attribute all this to an Oedipal complex, but it is more complicated, as life is. Paul serves as Mrs. Morel's alter ego, pseudo-lover, and breadwinner. Everything she did not or cannot have must be Paul's. She is savvy enough to know who is a threat to her hold and who is not. She recognises in Miriam a woman much like herself-intelligent, thwarted, let down by men, hungry for a kindred spirit or soul mate. Paul, too, is aware of this and hates Miriam for it-and for the fact he does, indeed, love her, making him unfaithful to the woman to whom he owes his fidelity. There are spiritual overtones as well, as the religious Miriam tries to sacrifice herself for Paul, whom she sees as a "Walter Scott hero." This sacrifice repels Paul ever further.Mrs. Morel rightly perceives that Clara Dawes is not a threat to her-she is fascinating, attractive, enigmatic, and sensual, but she lacks the ability to be more to Paul than a diversion from Miriam, Mom, and himself. Knowing that nothing of importance will come of this affair, Mrs. Morel even encourages it. It cannot divert Paul from her, and it fails as a result.In the end, the only intimacy Paul is capable of is with his mother. She has come between him and his own consciousness-and he has allowed her. Everything is filtered through her. How she has achieved this is not always clear, as she uses more than rhetoric and conscious effort to mold Paul. When he wishes her dead, there is hope that then he would begin to live. "Mother!" he whimpered. "Mother!" Then: "He would not take that direction, to the darkness, to follow her." With the past buried, there may be a future for him. Only Lawrence knew as he wrote this most human of his novels... | 34 stars
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Kismet
Again by Sharon Cullars (4.5)Tyne is a mid-thirties career woman who has struck out in love time and again. But her days are distracted by the erotic visits she receives every night from a handsome stranger --- who meets her in her dreams.David can't seem to escape from the hold his dreams have on him. His life is spiraling out of control from the incessant pull of a mystery woman. But there's something else just beneath the surface; a truth that could shatter everything he thought he knew about himself.Again by Sharon Cullars allows readers a glimpse into the past and the present with a healthy dose of pure desire. Eloquently laced with the pull of soul mate desire, Again is a taste of something extraordinary. | 34 stars
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The power of ONE....and many!
When a friend told me about the book I was a bit skeptical, but intrigued. I picked up the book yesterday and finished it this evening.This is an incredible story on so many levels. It is about the power of perseverance, the difference one person/one idea can make, the sadness of abject poverty and it's impact on society, and an object lesson for those of us living in a society with so much abundance.To see the hunger for education by those for whom it is not a entitlement and to see the dedication and lengths that these people will go to obtain that education is humbling in a country where we have so much and so much is taken for granted.The dedication shown by Greg Mortenson in the face of daunting odds and difficulties is truly inspiring.Read this book and share your copy with everyone you know. | 45 stars
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pretty good
not as good as stupid white men or downsize this. those that gave it 1 star did not read the book...those that gave it 5 stars decided before they read it that it would be great. can't take the cook too seriously because of its author, but still pretty good, if you can see through the bs. | 34 stars
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Great Cover!
I am decidedly not a fan of Austen, but my boyfriend specifically asked for this edition for Christmas. It is part of an excellent series of Penguin Classics that are being re-released with superb cover art. Normally cover art bears only a fleeting relation to the actual content of the book, but the covers in this series are all very fitting for their books. The pages are nicely weighty, and the cover art continues on the inside flaps of the cover. | 34 stars
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Brilliance Audio edition a disappointment
I'm a longtime Persuasion fan, and know the novel well. I bought the Brilliance Audio edition because it's tough to find unabridged versions and I like hearing my favorite old stories aloud.The tapes are certainly sturdy for repeated library lendings, and the narrator is easy to hear and understand, but otherwise Michael Page is the wrong reader for this story! His vocal characterizations are quavery and pinched, and don't usually fit the characters--or degrade them to farce level. The music signalling the end of each cassette is distracting, jarring even.Not a great reading of Persuasion. Not even a good intro to the novel for first timers, and terrible for those of us who know the characters already. | 23 stars
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A Visionary Life
A beautifully written biography of a catholic nun of the 11th century. Well written and illuminating. Keep you interested to the last page. A reading for all ages, but above all if you have a spiritual interest. | 45 stars
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book
Great value, book looked perfectly like news. Prompt delivery, kind note from merchant. Good opportunity for me and for merchant. | 45 stars
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Not Very Erotic
I guess I was expecting something quite different, but this collection of supposed "best" stories of the year left me, excuse the pun, limp. I think I could crank out better stories without breaking a sweat. Just shows that the best erotica was written in England a century ago. | 12 stars
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Solid second book
This book picks up exactly where the first left off. This is both a good thing and a bad thing. It's good if you've read the first book recently, because it means no waiting! But if it's been over two years (like with me), it leaves you a bit disoriented until you can get up to speed again. I actually wonder if these first two books were actually just one that the author was forced to split in two.But, once you do get up to speed again, this is a decent little book. Claire and her roommates really only want one thing -- to be left in peace. But Shane's father has other ideas, and once the vampires find out his plans, someone has to pay. I like the group of roommates, though Claire does tend to get on my nerves a bit. She makes some really stupid decisions. I do have to give her a little benefit of the doubt. Just because you're smart doesn't necessarily mean you have common sense. (I might just know this from experience.)Overall, I think this is a good series. I'm interested in seeing where it is going. Maybe this time I won't wait two years to read the next one. | 34 stars
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Blasphemy...
I don't want to sound like a self righteous Christian by any means by claiming that my faith is superior to another's. However this book almost seems to claim that we can be our own God, that we have control over our own universe. It does not take into account that we live in a broken, unjust world when she talks about things like poverty, accidents and illness. She seems to claim that we can be our own mini Gods, and I found some of the language that she used to be downright offensive to the Christian beleifs that I have. And she does not take science into account by any means at all either in her claims on illness as well. The only reason I am glad I read and bought this book is that I can give a more educated opinion as to why I think that it is terrible. | 01 star
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History and Passion
"I don't like you Madeline de la Haute Vironage. I don't want Baddersly. If you force me to marry you, I will make your life a misery." So says Aimery de Gaillard in Lord of My Heart, another great medieval by Jo Beverley.Convent-bread Madeline heiress to a barony, is offered a choice by King William of three lords to wed. The King's choice is obvious, the powerful and honorable Aimery de Gaillard. By his own machinations, William hopes to help Madeline make the "right choice". There is just one problem, Madeline has given Aimery her solemn promise that she will not choose him. She suspects that he might be The Golden Hart, champion to the common English folk, and as such, a traitor to the crown. She soon realizes however, that the handsome Gaillard is her only choice.Torn between his Norman and Saxon roots, Aimery must balance his love for the English people, and his duty as a Norman knight. He does not need or want the complications of a marriage to a Norman heiress, especially one he believes to be cruel and oblivious to the English peoples' sufferings. Aimery must keep his covert raids secret and does not trust Madeline; he is sure she will eventually betray him to the King. Though neither of them want it, their attraction for each other is strong and soon becomes an all-consuming love.Jo Beverley once again brings the medieval world to life, and fills her story with rich and complex characters. I know you will enjoy this book. It is a must read for her fans; indeed any fan of this genre. | 45 stars
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Not as good as Beyond Seduction...
Bought this after reading Beyond Seduction, which I enjoyed reading.However, although I enjoyed the story, felt it didn't live up to what SL is capable of.It was an OK read.Am looking forward to the next Bastion Club book, and of course, that of Dalziel.... | 34 stars
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Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."I'm going to be honest. This novel didn't get interesting to me until page 202. If you look above at the total page number, you'll see this is WELL into the novel.I didn't feel any tension? Any real conflict?So there's a woman living in a house with her parents (both of whom are pretty kooky, though Mama Bennet takes the cake) and four sisters (only one of whom seems remotely redeemable.) They talk, they walk, they go to parties, they get interested in marriage then get dumped, then someone else wants to marry one of them but moves away, more parties, some sewing, some cards, yada yada yada.I read this novel searching for WHAT in the world it is people like about it.Then it hit me: the tension is the life depicted.Jane Austen was living this life-an exceedingly intelligent woman (evidenced by her prose) who is made to reside behind doors hoping a man will marry her and hoping he is someone she'll respect.An insipid existence. A passive life for an active mind.The conflict isn't within the characters. The conflict is between the author and her readers.So how does Austen portray the absurdity of her life without alienating her readers? She creates an intelligent woman and then contrasts her with absurd characters. She gives us Jane, a sweet woman who is considered beautiful by everyone (though her mind is given no notice.) She gives us Elizabeth, a smart girl who is forever compared to her socially perfect sister. She gives us a mother who wants nothing but five sons-in-law, a father who can barely stand the presence of any of these women (or their prospective boyfriends), and a trio of silly sisters either buried in books or the mirror. Their ultimate life goal? Marriage.Having no money makes acheiving this goal very difficult.Wanting love? Equality? Conversation that isn't empty? Nearly impossible.Along comes cranky but rich Mr. Darcy.Somehow Austen has to find a way to make the rich guy see the poor woman's intelligence, and the poor woman see the rich (arrogant) guy's shrewdness.Both of them are trapped in an absurd game. Both of them know it's an absurd game but neither of them can say it's absurd, and Austen daren't let on she knows it's absurd because everyone buying the book is trapped in the very same game.She displays her novel as a light-hearted love story. In truth, I think it's a firestorm. She's shouting, as loud as she dares, "Does anyone else think this is stupid?"If you're reading for entertainment, it starts around 202. If you're reading to see Victorian society laid out on a surgical table and diced with style, it starts at page 1.4/5 for Pride and Prejudice. | 34 stars
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KINDLE Wireless reading device
This is AMAZING!It is SO easy to use, EVEN MY NON "TECKY" HUSBAND CAN USE IT , SO IT MUST BE GOOD. Wireless downloading. Clear menu. NB Need to look for Manage My kndle on Amazon website ( we mmissed it at first glance) Downloadiing is easy and cheap. Phenonmenal selection and choice.. Download from both website and kINDLE2.EVERYTHING worked first time. very intuitive. | 45 stars
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Reluctant user review
I was reluctant to give up my comfortable paper backs for an electronic (artificial, cold) gadget but I received one as a gift. It is so convenient, no more struggling with folded books, no more heavy hard covered books..it fits in my purse and travels with me everywhere. No glare so I can read outside..can't say enough. My husband continually borrowed it so I made him buy his own. | 45 stars
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"At Risk" is a disappointment
I agree with most of the reviews, this is not Ms Cornwell's quality work. It almost seems like someone els wrote it and used Pat's name to get it on the shelf. If I had written this book, it would never have been published.Sorry Pat. I love your work and I've read them all, but not this time. | 01 star
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Oscar Wilde is amazingly funny
This is a serious commedy and classic that nobody should miss.Please red it you will have a serious good time laughing and having so much fun you will not be able to put the book down.Wilde is amazing | 45 stars
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Memorable
Puddnhead Wilson is a very short book that can bear repeated reading. Not because it is a great literary work (it is) or because it is so important (which it is), but because in it Mark Twain exposes himself -- his nostalgia, his bitterness, his resignation, and his hope for his own life and for post-Civil War America with brutal frankness, and yet humorous approachability.The novel may be called "Puddnhead Wilson" but the most memorable character is a highly intelligent slave woman named Roxana. Through Roxana and the rest of the townspeople living in a pre-Civil War Missouri, we find some of Mark Twain's most oft-quoted statements among biting characterizations of the American mentality.I cannot recommend this little book enough. It has its weaknesses (so many critical essays have been written about them that it's unnecessary to discuss them here) but they are really minor and certainly do not detract from the sheer enjoyment and contemplation that it gives the reader. Not to mention that the apologetic forwards to both Puddnhead Wilson and Those Extraordinary Twins are brilliant short letters from Twain on writing.I cannot speak about Those Extraordinary Twins because I've never been able to get into it, or read past the first chapter. It's extremely odd, being about a circus freak -- siamese twins joined at the hip -- with each side having the complete opposite philosophy and constitution than the other. That is, one side drinks alcohol and doesn't feel affected while the other side gets drunk; each side has different taste in clothing; etc. | 45 stars
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Great for victims of paralysis
My 57 year old husband suffered a stroke last year, leaving him paralyzed on his left side. Before the stroke, his favorite free-time activity was reading, but afterwards he couldn't hold a book, keep his place, or turn pages easily. And then the Kindle came into our lives!My husband loves the fact that he can adjust the font size so his eyes don't strain, and the page-turn buttons are a God-send! He can rest the Kindle on a special pillow to get the correct slant without the pages flopping closed, and he doesn't lose words in the center fold of the book. The Kindle has given him back his reading, and both of us are forever grateful! | 45 stars
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A little circular, yes. But somewhat helpful.
Wow. I consider myself to be a truthful, honest person. I hate liars and hypocrites more than I hate anything else in the world. So I had to take a really deep breath and really THINK when I finally woke up to the idea that truth and honesty are not always what they should be. I took a good, long, ugly look at myself and realized that I use truth as a weapon, rather than as a tool. I am not always honest with people because I want to create a better relationship. I am sometimes honest just to be hurtful, to shock people, or to get attention away from whoever is monopolizing the conversation at the moment. Hm. Ugly!The problematic relationship (s) in my life are like cans. I can pick up a big ol' truth-sledgehammer and knock the heck out of that can, or I can use truth gently, like a can opener and let that can open up and get to what's inside.One option gives me the satisfaction of 'letting so and so have it' because I'm darn tired of biting my tongue and pretending that things are OK when they're NOT. And the other option lets me be honest, but gives the other person (the can) the chance of telling truth back to me, too.The feminist rhetoric falls short, as it always does with me. If you don't want to hang out in the kitchen and pop out babies, for heaven's sake, DON'T. But don't blame men if that's what you decide to do with your life and then change your mind later. Don't you think men change their minds about wanting to be married daddies sometimes, too? There is too much blaming going on. People need to own their lives. If you know your situation is messed up, you know enough to change it.Also, the whole thing about minorities and tokens rings very false when Lerner presents the statistic in her final chapter that women actually outnumber men in the world. So, hello? How can we consider to whine and consider ourselves a token or a minority when we are numerically superior? I don't really get that at all.Anyway. 4 stars. It's an eye-opener! | 34 stars
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a christmas carol book
this is a literary classic for all time it may have not been written word for word from the original text | 45 stars
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Kindle
I love the Kindle.I travel by air several times a week, and having the Kindle is Amazing.1. Very light weight2. Able to hold lots of books, and magazines.3. The battery last several days of reading, and I read an average of 3-4 hours a day while traveling.4. After I figured out the cost of buying a book at least once a week, it more than makes up for the initial cost of the Kindle. I have gotten books free from the web. I've downloaded over 50 books so far.I just can't say enough good thins about it. | 45 stars
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A Spirited Quest
I read Eat, Pray, Love while revising a memoir, a mother's journey. Even though the particulars of Elizabeth Gilbert's life differ--a lot--from mine, her spiritual quest to decipher, transform, and transcend pain is one I think most of us share--and prefer to take on vicariously. If Gilbert elicits extreme ratings, it may be because we're either grateful she hit the nail on the head for us or mad she missed the mark. I myself enjoyed Gilbert's humor, her lively writing, her cultural comparisons, her passion for little and big adventures. What did not strike a chord with me in her story is probably what is too different from my own story, one about elbowing life's mysteries with a child's rare disorder. If any reader visiting this site for Eat, Pray, Love is also interested in another spiritual journey, a funny/sad/happy tale--Finding Magic Mountain--blurbed by Isabel Allende & Anne Lamott, then Elizabeth Gilbert's "search for everything" might boost an even larger quest.Carol Zapata-Whelan, author, Finding Magic Mountain (on Amazon.com) | 45 stars
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A Tasty Treat.
Simply put, the book is engaging, informative, and hilarious. Buford's enthusiasm for the high-stress world of commercial cuisine, as well as the more familiar infatuation with Tuscan peasant cooking, is incredibly contagious.It's been said that the book is overwrought and self-indulgent--I didn't find it to be either. Anyone at a high school literacy level should feel comfortable with this writing. Buford writes entertainingly and unselfconsciously about his own experiences. He embellishes and plays with the language. I don't know about you, but I prefer my meat juicy. | 34 stars
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A helpful reference
Most breastfeeding moms would benefit from this book, and as someone with a strong instinct to breastfeed, but supply issues, I found it helpful for the most part. As a quick reference it was pretty good - most of the FAQ'were answered. I'm glad to have it. | 34 stars
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Inspiring Story
Greg Mortenson is a great man, and his book performs a valuable service by showing the compassionate face of Islam to an American audience. Mortenson reminds the reader constantly that he's too busy running his foundation to even find time to sleep. I think he was also too busy to fully collaborate with the ghost writer, whose portraits of Mortenson and the other central players seem two dimensional. | 34 stars
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Trash Tabloid "Literary History"
This book reads like a series of front page stories from a trash tabloid. It is gossipy in tone with very little substance or thought. It is as if the author did a skimming summary of other works and through this book together in order to meet a deadline. "Chapters" are often 3-4 pages long. At times the leap between topics between chapters leaves one puzzled and confused.She would have done better to created a pot boiler of a 19th century soap opera graphic novel - that would have been worth seeing and would have put the book in the proper context. | 12 stars
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LOVE IT!!
I have had my kindle for about two weeks now and I love it.. I read the reviews so I wasn't sure if I should get it or not since I live in an area that you can not do the whispernet. I went ahead and got it and it works great!! It only takes two seconds to download a book to my computer then to my kindle. I'm thinking of getting one for my husband now too... | 45 stars
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Great book
This book is packed full of useful information. It's one of those books you have to take in small bites. | 45 stars
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It's such a happiness when good people get together
"Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition" is a suitable heroine for Jane Austen's lightest, frothiest novel. While "Emma" is not nearly as dramatic as Austen's other works, it is an enchanting little comedy of manners in which a young woman with the best intentions meddles in others' love lives... with only the faintest idea of how people (including herself) actually feel.After matchmaking her governess Miss Taylor, Emma Woodhouse considers herself a natural at bringing people together. She soon becomes best buddies with Harriet, a sweet (if not very bright) young woman who is the "natural daughter of somebody." Emma becomes determined to pair Harriet with someone deserving of her (even derailing a gentleman-farmer's proposal), such as the smarmy, charming Mr. Elton. When Emma's latest attempt falls apart, she finds that getting someone OUT of love is a lot harder than getting them INTO it.At around the same time, two people that Emma has heard about her entire life have arrived -- the charming Frank Churchill, and the reserved, remote Miss Jane Fairfax (along with rumors of a married man's interest in her). Emma begins a flirtatious friendship with Frank, but for some reason is unable to get close to Miss Fairfax. As she navigates the secrets and rumors of other people's romantic lives, she begins to realize who she has been in love with all along.Out of all Jane Austen's books, "Emma" is the frothiest and lightest -- there aren't any major scandals, lives ruined, reputations destroyed, financial crises or sinister schemes. There's just a little intertwined circle of people living in a country village, and how one young woman tries to rearrange them in the manner that she genuinely thinks is best. Of course, in true comedy style everything goes completely wrong.And despite the formal stuffiness of the time, Austen wrote the book in a languidly sunny style, threading it with a complex web of cleverly orchestrated rumors and romantic tangles. There's some moments of seriousness (such as Emma's rudeness to kind, silly Miss Bates), but it's also laced with some entertaining dialogue ("Silly things do cease to be silly if they are done by sensible people in an impudent way") and barbed humor (the ridiculous and obnoxious Mrs. Elton).Modern readers tend to be unfairly squicked by the idea of Emma falling for a guy who's known her literally all her life, but Austen makes the subtle relationship between Knightley and Emma one of affectionate bickering and beautiful romantic moments ("If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more. But you know what I am. You hear nothing but truth from me").Emma is a character who is likable despite her flaws -- she's young, bright, well-meaning and assured of her own knowledge of the human heart, but also naive and sometimes snobbish. She flits around like a clumsy butterfly, but is endearing even when she screws up. Mr. Knightley is her ideal counterpoint, being enjoyably blunt and sharp-witted at all times. And there's a fairly colorful supporting cast -- Emma's neurotic but sweet dad, her kindly ex-governess, the charming Frank, the fluttery Miss Bates, and even the smarmy Mr. Elton and his bulldozing wife."Emma" is the most lightweight and openly comedic of all Jane Austen's novels, with a likable (if clueless) heroine and a multilayered plot full of half-hidden feelings. A lesser delight. | 45 stars
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The Messiah Code - Michael Cordy
I have to agree with other reviewers that the plot was really interesting and the book very good. I thought the characters were developed well, and the scientific information necessary to further the story was presented clearly at the right level. I did not figure this one out until right before the major twist was revealed, and really enjoyed the ending. I will definitely read more of Cordy's books in the future. | 34 stars
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Check to make sure you have Sprint 3G access at home
I love my Kindle 1 so much that I paid the price for my Kindle 2. I was one of the first Kindle 1 buyers (and Kindle 2) and have gladly provided exciting reviews to those people who have asked "What is that?". But, I am very disappointed that you can ONLY download using Sprint's 3G network. Unfortunately, I do not live in a Sprint 3G network so I CANNOT download anything to my Kindle at home except through my computer. This was not the case with the Kindle 1 as I could download easily at home.This is very disappointing and had I known, I would not have purchased this. Amazon needs to be very upfront about this. While I'm sure I could have found this out before I purchased it, I had no idea to even look for it.All in all, I do love the Kindle but I really should have returned the Kindle 2 for this reason. | 23 stars
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It isn't even funny anymore
This is the fifth book in Hamilton's Merry Gentry series, centering on the struggles of a half-mortal fairy princess as she tries to gain the throne and stay alive in the dark court of the Unseelie Sidhe, ruled by her sadistic aunt. Merry's only path to survival is to get pregnant before her cousin Cel. Meaning if Merry wants to live she needs to have sex, and lots of it. For this purpose, her aunt has provided Merry with a selection of the Queen's Ravens, her personal bodyguards who are sworn to celibacy. Meanwhile, Cel is insane, Andais might be too, and Merry's uncle Taranis, the ruler of the glittering Seelie Court, is almost certainly as psychotic as Cel.Amid madness, machinations, murder and sex, mortal Princess Meredith's life is further complicated by the intercession of the long-absent Goddess, who has her own agenda, and her growing affection for members of her ever-growing harem. This is a world set for sex, death, and intrigue, and yet, somehow, it never quite lives up to the potential. Sex is paramount in this series but more than usual in Mistral's Kiss, taking up most of the 212 pages, so much so that the plot never quite seems to make it through. This reads more like the middle chapters of a very long erotic novel than an actual novel.When the story opens, Merry and her guards are in the faded now-dead gardens of the Unseelie land, all that remains of what was once an entire underground world. With the help of the titular Mistral, a former god of the storm and s&m; dominant (and the utterer of the worst pick-up line in all erotica), there might be new life for the gardens. The characters, once finished with the sex and its shattering metaphysical effects (about the 199th episode like this so far in the series) are then forced to exposit at length (yet again) about the glory days of the Sidhe, the wonder of Princess Merry, and the possible Meaning of Everything.At last the long-awaited return of Sholto, the half-monstrous King of the Sluagh finally happens, but it doesn't seem to prove much beyond just how irresistible Merry is, how fragile the male ego is, and how even other species females are jealous haters. Cue more sex, another shattering metaphysical effect, and a franticly pasted-together final showdown that isn't final at all and serves no purpose in the end. The only major plot point seems to have happened off-screen, and all this entire 212 pages did was to provide for a return to L.A. Oh, and more guards for Merry to have sex with, who were all out of the picture for the entire book.The sex was not nearly good enough to take up this much of the book, but it wasn't as if the plot could be padded any other way. Merry started the series as interesting, but it is hard to remain sympathetic when she is the sexiest female in the land, the most comfortable with her own nature, the most concerned, the most caring, and the best lay, besides being the chosen of the Goddess. There's also the frightening number of things that seem to 'spill' in this world, some of which seem to defy gravity: at one point during sex, Merry herself actually spills up off the ground.I can't recommend the book, unless you're reading the entire series. Even then I'm not sure I can recommend it. I hope the next one sets the series back on track, but optimism is hard. | 12 stars
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The Target
I could not asked for a more exciting book to read. Catherine Coulter has never failed with any of her books, I will always come back and read it again and again. | 45 stars
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For the Student of Geneologies
Ricoeur's Rule of Metaphor is the missing link for anyone truly interested in getting at the roots of semiotics, semantics and hermeneutics. For the student of Western Civilization's grammar and logical structure, it provides a genesis of postmodern critique. | 45 stars
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Amazing information, the successor to [Gang of Four]
Got this book last night, and am very impressed. I had read one of Fowlers previous books (Analysis Patterns) and had not been terribly impressed. Do not confuse the two books - they are worlds apart.The book follows the same format as Design Patterns [Gang of Four], with the addition of a very helpful cheat sheets on the back inside cover. The book gives overviews of maybe 50 (I did not count) patterns commonly found in object-oriented systems.IMO, the identification of the patterns themseleves is the great achievement of this book. The descriptions are great, with examples in Java and C#. I found the examples hard to read, because the code of a single class is often interspersed with comments, as well as code from other classes. A minor annoyance in the scheme of things.This is not a book I will ever read from cover to cover - I found myself skipping from chapter to chapter to get brief overviews of what each pattern involved. Sortof a recursive read :)Overall, for object oriented programmers, I would say "buy the book". I think that it will become a classic, as "Design Patterns" has already. Well worth the (somewhat high) price. | 45 stars
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Why didn't I get one of these sooner???
Wow, I love my Kindle. I'm not sure how I got along without it until now. How does it compare to other e-readers? I couldn't tell you. But I'll tell you what, the Kindle is filled with so many great features that I know some of the competition doesn't have, that I think I made the right choice.The built-in dictionary is a very cool feature. While I haven't had to really use it yet, I know that there is the odd time that I've been reading paper books and thought, I wonder what that word really means (other than inferring from context).I like the "clipping" and notes features, as well. I've always been a bit anal about marking up my paper books, but on the Kindle it's easy to save a great quote or snippet from a book, or to add some of your own notes/commentary on something you read. Since I was so up-tight about doing it on paper books, it may take me some time to get used to it, but I can see that I will love this feature. It would have been awesome for text books when I was in University!I love the many font sizes and the ability to rotate the reader on it's side. An accelerometer may have helped, but then again, it may have been annoying if the thing kept flipping around on you while you were reading.Some drawbacks that look to be resolved in the new 3rd Gen models are the placement of the "stick" as it's right under the heel of your right thumb if you are reading it in the "default" position. I've inadvertently hit the button a few times. I also wish the "Home" button was somewhere else and in it's current location was another "Prev Page" button. I find that I often hit it thinking it's the "Prev Page" button like on the LHS of the device.I also wish it supported more formats natively. PDF support isn't great as the scaling is hard to deal with. Reading it with the reader rotated seems to work best for PDFs. It would be nice to be able to use other formats like epub or even native DOCX files, without required conversion. Also, some way to grab a web page and send it over to the Kindle for later reading would be nice. Better magazine support would also be nice, but much of this is the result of the providers and not so much the Kindle itself.That all said, I'm really just nit-picking here. I love my Kindle. It's nice and light, it's easy on the eyes, and it's so much easier than taking 4 books with me when I travel! While I can see that the device may not be for everyone (my dad still loves the smell of a paper book), I would highly recommend the Kindle for anyone in the market for an e-reader! | 45 stars
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New Direction and Thought
Several books and news items written lately remind us that routine work is going away in the Western World. Writers universally state that we must move to higher knowledge work to compete in global markers to retain or increase our standard of living. Unfortunately, until now, there have been few specifics on how to move forward.Pink suggests that we apply actions that utilize the right side of our brain more:1) Becoming more emotionally engaged in what we do2) Fashioning compelling stories3) Combining disparate pieces into a captive whole4) Understanding what makes other tick5) Having fun6) Pursuing significant desires and purposeHe also provides a variety of exercises that the reader can use to transform these concepts into practical actions.The book is a breath of fresh air and provides a path to an exciting future for all of us. | 45 stars
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Resonates!
As others have pointed out, the title is a little misleading. The book is not about "God Experiments" that the author has conducted in his lab and that have proven the existence of a supreme being. I have a feeling that Dr. Schwartz's goal is to encourage experimentation. I believe he hopes to open dialogue that allows individuals to share their experiences and not have to choose between finding a sympathetic church or an open-minded shrink.I was raised by a Catholic mother and an agnostic/scientist father. It's hard to believe they stayed married to the end of my father's life when their world views were so radically opposed. For me, everything in life turned into a battle between them with me as a pawn.Consequently, I know what it's like to "see both sides of the issue" where religion/spirituality vs. science is concerned. I took a lot of Religious Studies courses in university and then wound up a computer scientist by profession.I have also experienced MANY events that cannot be shrugged off as "coincidence" or "chance". Example: The number of times I've predicted a death that was completely, utterly unexpected; including both of my parents and the murder of my roommate. I've had both visual and auditory "visions" that answered direct questions and even saved my life.When my roommate was murdered I asked ministers, priests, even a rabbi, as well as psychologists about HOW I could have predicted the murder. I also said that I believed in God and that I wanted to know WHY I was sent this and other predictions of death. THEY ALL looked TERRIFIED of me. Seriously. I was shocked when the religious leaders, who claim to believe in an afterlife and in prayer (with answers possible) and meditation and, well, bottom line, in a spiritual realm, would refuse to discuss my experiences as real. They would tell me "miracles" don't happen anymore, that every single thing I experienced was just a coincidence.Dr. Schwartz's book, in my opinion, was a risky venture for a professor whose entire life and livlihood was on the line when he shared his experiences and conclusions with the world. | 34 stars
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Great
I love this author and all of her books. I look forward to a new book written by her. | 45 stars
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