The Memory of Old Jack

Book Description

A burnished day in September 1952 provides the framework for a narrative that movingly distills the lifetime of an uncommonly admirable if very human being. A new corrected edition.

"The Memory of Old Jack is a slab of rich Americana, eloquent testimony that `it's not a tragedy when a man dies at the end of his life.'" -The New York Times Book Review

"The account of Jack's courtship of his wife is a beautiful piece of writing...and worthy of a place among the best pieces of prose written by American writers of this century."-Library Journal

Customer Reviews:

Literary Soul Food...Down-home style.......2007-06-17

Memories of a lifetime move into and out of the mind and soul of Jack Beechum, town patriarch and now-aged and retired Kentucky tobacco farmer who was born of, defined by and wedded to the richness and rewards of the toil and soil of his beloved farm. As in other Wendell Berry novels that I've read, Port William, KY is the setting for the same collage of personages who populate and flesh out these recollections of one man's successes and failures, joys and sorrows, hopes and regrets, with prose that embraces the poignant nuances of each reminiscence. Throughout, it's as if Old Jack's mind lights upon a loose, dangling thread of a past experience and, holding on and following it carefully, he wends his way back to the original whole-cloth of the event. Whether it is the poetry of the narrative, or the truth of universal insights, or the pervasiveness of gentleness and forbearance, this is literary soul food. There's nothing maudlin here, however, as these are remembrances of a pretty vigorous and rough-hewn guy, grown old but not soft. But, by gosh, this IS beautiful down-home style stuff.

phenomenal book.......2007-05-16

For Berry readers, this will come as no surprise, but this is a phenomenal book. I love the simple elegance of the prose, and the import is incredible.

Beautiful, beautiful book.

thank you port royal from campbellsburg........2007-03-28

Mr Berry is a writers writer. Eloquent without being pretentious. Brilliant without being inexcessable. He is Wes Jackson and Frederick Buechner at lunch over beans and Hoecake

Thanks for the Memory.......2007-03-21

This is a fine book, opening a window into a day in the 1950s in a Kentucky river town, and a life that led up to that day. Wendell Berry loves his characters, but portrays them honestly, and makes you feel like you have known them too. The Memory of Old Jack isn't about nostalgia, it's about how people live. It's about human nature and the human condition, and though the circumstances that produced that moment in time have changed, human nature hasn't, at least where I live, and that's what made this book enjoyable. I plan to read it again.

Vintage Berry.......2006-01-19

I've now read most of Berry's canon, and still feel this is his very best novel. I recommend it without qualification.

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The Memory of Old Jack
Wendell Berry
Manufacturer: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OJA1RO

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Memory, Related Functions and Age
Jack Botwinick
Manufacturer: Charles C Thomas Pub Ltd
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Memory of Old Jack
Wendell Berry
Manufacturer: Harcourt
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OJQPMY

Book Description

In love with romance novels? You’re not alone! Romance is today’s most popular fiction genre, accounting for more than half of all mass market fiction sold. If you’re looking to make a serious effort at writing a romance and getting it published in today’s multifaceted markets, you need to learn as much as you can about this highly successful field—especially how to create the perfect heroes and heroines. Now, in this easy, step-by-step guide, a top romance editor gives you the know-how you need to succeed as a romance novelist!

Writing A Romance Novel For Dummies is perfect for both beginning and more accomplished writers who are looking to get the leading edge on writing a romance novel and get it published. Leslie Wainger, Executive Editor at Harlequin Books, explains what it takes to become the next Nora Roberts, providing the techniques you need to:

Select a pseudonym
Write a compelling, heartfelt story
Find the right agent and publisher
Submit a manuscript
Market your novel
Join clubs and associations

Packed with insider advice, this plain-English guide helps you grasp the building blocks of a great romance, providing practical tips on the craft of writing as well as savvy pointers on how to hook your reader from page one, write with passion, and shape a proposal that will wow agents and editors. You get lots of expert tips on analyzing the marketplace, creating compelling characters, and finding your own voice. Wainger also:

Demystifies the sub-genres of the romance world, from historical, contemporary, and multicultural to paranormal, romantic suspense, and Christian/inspirational
Explains plotting, pacing, and writing those crucial love scenes
Discusses how to conduct research, assign credits, and get permissions
Helps you decide whether it’s best to write alone or with a partner

Complete with a manuscript preparation checklist, tips for revising your work smoothly and successfully, guidance in understanding and negotiating a contract, and a list of romance writing resources, Writing A Romance Novel For Dummies is your one-stop guide to becoming a published novelist!

Customer Reviews:

Very Informational.......2007-07-16

This book is full of great information on writing romance novels of all kinds. It's wonderful to read and not boring. Fantastic for beginning writers such as myself!

One of the Better Simplistic Guides to Romance Writing.......2007-05-13

I'm not sure what was going on with the other reviewers when they rated this item. Previously, I had bought the Idiots Guide to Writing a Romance Novel because of the less-than-great reviews written on this book. That was a year ago. Last weekend, I decided to purchase this book and I was really impressed.

There are detailed explanations in this book for why certain conventions work best, how to understand the rejection letters you get, and know when to re-submit versus when to accept a letter as a final "no" on your book. Wainger really takes time to explain subtleties of writing romance and understanding characterization.

If you are looking for a book to explain the publishing process to you, this is not the book you need. But, if you are like me, and you are writing a book that seems to have dropped its momentum in the middle, or you find yourself consistently getting comments on weak dialogue, boring description, or poor characterization in your critique groups and rejection letters, you can benefit from this book.

I think what some of the reviewers were looking for is a manual on publishing. This is not that book. There are tons of books out there on that subject. But, if you want to know more about the actual process of WRITING or OUTLINING a romance novel then this book will be of help.

Wainger takes the time to tell you what works and what doesn't work and gives you specific examples of why certain techniques work or why they fail.

The point of this book is to help you strengthen your beginnings, middles, and ends, characterization, and dialogue. You'll learn what is required in each part of your novel and why your prose my be boring a reader though you have a high concept story.

Most of the other books I've read on romance writing spend a lot of time telling you how to choose a category/genre rather than telling you how to structure a romance. And, some, like Rita Clay Estrada's book You Can Write a Romance give you a great starter kit for understanding the key elements of successful romance, but don't give enough detail on how to fix specific problems.

I can't recommend this book highly enough. It may be a "Dummies" book, but it is much more helpful than some of the serious books by author-experts. I think the difference is that Wainger is an editor and approaches romance writing from a publisher's standpoint: Is there any reason why I should NOT buy this book? Are the characters strong enough? Does this writer have a unique voice? Does this person understand POV and provide a balance between emotional content, sexual tension, and external plot action?

Understanding these elements can help your novel go from the slush-pile to the best-sellers list.

Best of luck with your writing journey. I hope this book inspires you and helps you make a sale!

You Can Do It!!!!.......2007-03-18

I have read several "how to" guides on both writing fiction and more specifically, writing romantic fiction. The thing that really stands out with this book, is that Leslie Wainger believes YOU CAN DO IT! She really believes in you. If you read this and heed her advice, there is a good chance that you may just be able to publish a romance novel.

Whereas a lot of the other books are constantly reminding a novice writer that there is a very slim chance that she will ever be able to publish anything, this book is reassuringly positive. Leslie Wainger never underplays the fact that writing is hard work and takes a lot of time, patience and both physical and emotional energy, but she continuously offers positive reinforement for the efforts of the beginning writer.

This book illustrates an idea to get you started that I have never seen in a "how to" guide or even in the many writing workshops and classes that I have completed. I am so excited by some of the ideas and secrets that Ms. Wainger shares in her positive, upbeat manner, that I have ideas for many new books!

I strongly recommend that if you are serious about writing romance, you do not overlook this valuable trove of information!

Practical tips from an industry insider.......2006-08-05

Author Leslie Wainger provides a comprehensive guide to the romance genre and outlines in detailed steps how aspiring authors can navigate through the industry. Her experience and knowledge make this a strong reference guide for anyone hoping to improve their craft.

"Writing a Romance Novel for Dummies" is a valuable tool that will remain on my bookshelf for years to come.

Disappointment - Stick to reading because you can't write!.......2006-07-19

The content in this book was not worth the paper it was printed on. The writing was stilted and lacked depth. If you plan on being a writer, Ms. Wainger will turn you into a reader. She may be a bigtime editor, but the content was nothing special. There were no real insider tips and advice on getting a publishing house to view your manuscript. You are better off buying Writer's Digest's fiction writing books.

It is a short read that will leave you disappointed by its abysmal, repetitive chapters, headtripping statement about the author's expertise and lastly, the tips that never fully materialize. I got the distinct impression the author sat around with other Harlequin bigwigs and boasted about her expertise. She should have taken a writing class or better yet, stick to judging other writer's work because Ms. Wainger was blind to her own nonexistent writing skills.

Book Description

The first book of the definitive three-volume collection of short stories by the prolific Isaac Asimov, whose tales have delighted countless fans for over half a century--a must for every science fiction bookshelf.

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WAY OF THE MASTER

Law and Gospel Paradigm for witnessing

Insightful book

Praise Ray!

This is eye-opening!

The Way Of The Master: How to Share Your Faith Simply, Effectively, Biblically-- The Way Jesus Did
Ray Comfort , and Kirk Cameron
Manufacturer: Tyndale House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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The School Of Biblical Evangelism

Hell's Best Kept Secret

The Way Of The Master Evidence Bible

The Way of the Master Basic Training Course: Study Guide

The Evidence Bible: Irrefutable Evidence for the Thinking Mind (Pocket Size Special Edition)

ASIN: 1414300611

Book Description

Learn how to share your faith without fear! Learn how to share your faith the way Jesus did--simply, effectively, biblically. The Way of the Master will equip you to confidently lead anyone--friend, family member, coworker, neighbor, or stranger on the street--to a clear understanding of repentance and what it means to be a true and active follower of Jesus Christ. Ray Comfort's powerful and biblically sound text is interspersed with commentary by Kirk Cameron and Kirk's own real-life stories of sharing his faith.

Customer Reviews:

WAY OF THE MASTER.......2007-01-04

THE WAY TO WITNESS EFFECTIVELY THE WAY CHRIST DID ON EARTH!!!!!!

Law and Gospel Paradigm for witnessing.......2006-10-28

Ray Comfort and Kirk Cameron are professional missionaries and also develop training materials for Christians who want to purposefully share Christ with others (even though Cameron is best known for playing Mike Seaver on "Growing Pains"). The book was written to present and advance a new paradigm for witnessing: using the Law when sharing the Christian faith.

Comfort and Cameron recognize that most modern evangelistic programs (indeed, the sermons of popular preachers) can be summed up as follows: "God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life, all you have to do is let him work his will with you. Give your heart to Jesus and things will go well for you." This, however, distorts the Biblical message; it is a half-truth (and is thus not faithful) and it does not bring people from unbelief to a saving faith in Jesus. Comfort and Cameron argue that this misleading message be discarded and replaced by a more Biblically-based message of Law and Gospel. They argue that a more effective and Biblically faithful method is to 1) show the hearer that there exists a Law (the Ten Commandments) which the hearer has broken, 2) show them that when they are judged by God, they will be judged guilty, 3) the punishment for their guilt is eternal punishment in hell, 4) Jesus loves you so much that he has taken the punishment of hell for you, 5) it is necessary to respond to this great love by repenting and amending your life so it is characterized by prayer, Bible reading, and showing love to your neighbors.

The book has many positive aspects. The authors are correct in their argument that the overarching Biblical message is both Law and Gospel. They are correct in their observation that the degree to which they experience the joy of the Gospel is directly related to the degree to which they experience the terror of the Law (if they take the Law lightly, the Gospel won't mean that much; if they are utterly crushed by their guilt, the Gospel will joyous life-long foundation). They also present several helpful analogies, anecdotes, and illustrations throughout the book to make their points.

The book does, however, contain weaknesses. These weaknesses stem from a still-underdeveloped understanding of Law and Gospel. I was shocked as I read through this book and found Cameron's multiple exclamations of disbelief and awe as he discovered the Law. Equally shocking was the appendix: testimonies of Christians who have never heard the Law or realized that they are guilty of sin! While this is a new discovery to Cameron, Comfort, and many other Christian denominations, the Law-Gospel paradigm is a hallmark, a foundational building-block, a centerpiece of my denomination: the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. We have multiple volumes on this paradigm and all of our denominational materials flow from it, so I can recognize that Comfort and Cameron still have a little wrestling to do with this subject.

Specifically, while they present the Law accurately, the Gospel is underdeveloped in "The Way of the Master." Comfort and Cameron routinely say two things about the Gospel: 1) it is not a "health, wealth, and prosperity" Gospel, intended to make your earthly life happy, complete and comfortable 2) it is presented only using the analogy of the courtroom, where Jesus pays the fine the judge lays on you. Throughout the book, the Law predominates and the Gospel is not presented in a way that even comes close to giving the reader comfort. Even in example witnessing dialogues, Comfort and Cameron go into great detail showing how the Law convicts, then end saying something like, "and then you share the Gospel with them." The one anecdote given where the authors bother to explain the Gospel is one given by Cameron in which he witnesses to a man on a golf course. He tells the man that in order to receive forgiveness for his sins, he needs to pray a "sinners prayer," read his Bible daily, and make Jesus the centerpiece of his life. This really bothered me because Cameron (in his sincerity) shows the man the freedom Christ has won for him, only to heap more burdens on him. Throughout the book, Comfort and Cameron show contempt for Christians who live up to their lifestyle standards by questioning whether they were ever Christians to begin with. This mocking and jeering not intended to be judgmental (in my estimation), but again shows that the authors have not come to a full understanding of the difference between Law and Gospel, Faith and Works, Justification and Sanctification.

While I do recommend this book and find it helpful for its easy-to-read analysis of popular theology and a good introduction to Law and Gospel (especially as it relates to evangelism), it is incomplete. To supplement it, I would recommend "Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel" by C.F.W. Walther (it's a tough read, but worth plowing through), "God's No and God's Yes" (a simplified version of Walther's book by Walther Pieper), "The Hammer of God" (a novel by Bo Giertz), and "By Faith Alone" by Martin Luther. One can also visit an LCMS church or listen to some programming on[...]. I look forward to seeing how Comfort's and Cameron's theology develops in the future.

Insightful book.......2006-06-08

With good examples on how Ray uses the law to share the Gospel. I also ordered the traning materials and sample tracts for my fellowship to study together.

Praise Ray!.......2006-04-26

I think there's a moment in everyone's life when they realize that the things they want and the things they need are two different things. Except, when I read this triumph of a book I finally found something that I both wanted to read and needed to read. So, I sat down with a large glass of root beer schnapps and a carton of Luckys and forced my way through it. Now, after completing this creative tour de force, I'm not ashamed of walking up to people on the street and praising the way of the Master. I'm also not averse to ringing a few doorbells to testify to the greatness of the Master. Also, I try to flag down cars on the parkway, but have not had much luck ... and I actually hurt my foot when a 93 Duster ran over it, but it's all worth in service of the Master. Of course, when I say Master I'm not referring to God. I mean Ray. This book has thoroughly cleansed my soul of independent thought. I now look to the sunrise each morning as a sign of Ray's benevolence and purity. If only he could help me with the horrific back pain that plagues my every waking minute. Oh Ray, why do bad things happen to good people? Why did Kirk Cameron's Hollywood career go careening and tumbling, never to be resuscitated? Why did the so-gorgeous and inspiring Chelsea marry him? Is there any hope for me there?

This is eye-opening!.......2006-03-16

I was very skeptical at first when reading the book but it made more sense as I read. Then I actually tried to witness like this and I was AMAZED! People are not offended but are struck silent by what comes out of their mouths. Most of the Evangelical American church does not realize they are preaching a modern gospel. I am doing what I can to preach the truth in love.

The Way of the Master: How to Share Your Faith Simply, Effectively, Biblically... the Way Jesus Did (Foundation Course Study Guide)

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The Way of the Master: How to Share Your Faith Simply, Effectively, Biblically... the Way Jesus Did (Foundation Course Study Guide)

Manufacturer: The Way of the Master Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 1878859579

Product Description

Who do you know who isn't saved? A friend or coworker? Your brother or sister? Your mother or father? Your spouse? Your children? Think of their terrible fate if they die without Christ. Perhaps you want to share your faith, but you're not sure how. Or maybe you're afraid. In The Way of the Master, Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort will help you overcome your fear and give you all the tools you need. You don't have to be an expert in apologetics. You won't be at a loss for words. Just let love swallow your fears and learn to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. This book is the study guide for The Way of the Master Foundation Course.

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Where's the saffron?

Crocus lite......

Not just for saffron lovers

A Spicy Book Indeed

Secrets of Saffron: The Vagabond Life of the World's Most Seductive Spice
Pat Willard
Manufacturer: Beacon Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Herbs, Spices & Condiments | Cooking by Ingredient | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
History | Gastronomy | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
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The Essential Saffron Companion

ASIN: 0807050083

Amazon.com

The world's most precious spice, saffron has been part of mankind's diet--and medical kit--for millennia. Celebrating this fact, and exploring the spice's fascinating journey from the courts of ancient Crete to the American saffron trade and beyond, Secrets of Saffron offers culinary history in the most interesting way: through great storytelling and compelling personal reminiscence. In prose both refined and direct, Pat Willard tells readers about the ancient gift of the autumn-flowering purple crocus, still gathered by hand from the fields of Iran, Greece, Italy, southern France, and Spain. She also provides ancient and modern recipes featuring saffron--a small collection including a remarkably fragrant Andalusian chicken dish, Saffron Crème Brûlée Pie, and "remedies" like An Excellent Syrup Against Melancholy, one of a number of pharmacological treasures.

Though relatively commonplace, saffron remains exotic. Through its history it has comforted (sometimes literally, as a curative) common people (who have often had to gather it) while helping to make Cleopatra alluring; tantalized the highborn in the gardens of Persia; healed Alexander the Great; and driven the crusaders to battle. Ward recounts all this, exploring saffron as world commodity and private passion, finally bringing readers to her own hand-nutured saffron garden in Brooklyn. "One morning," she writes, "the [crocus] blossoms began to unfurl. I gave a yelp, and ran for an old plant saucer, and then I began to pick...." The narrative circle completed, there remains little more for the author to do except to provide readers with a short guide to buying and using saffron, a worthwhile addition. This delightful book should be in the library of everyone interested in food and its almost unfathomable impact on human history. --Arthur Boehm

Book Description

There are few words as evocative as saffron. Over thousands of years it has perfumed the halls of Crete's palaces, made Cleopatra more alluring, and driven crusaders and German peasants to their deaths. While spices that drove adventurers to the ends of the earth, such as cinnamon, mace, and ginger, have become commonplace, saffron remains tantalizingly exotic. Nothing more than the dried stamens of the autumn-flowering purple crocus, it might as well be fairy dust. Resistant to modern horticultural technology, the fragile blossoms must still be gathered by hand from the ancient fields of Iran, Greece, Italy, southern France, and Spain.

Secrets of Saffron is the story of this extravagant rover. Guided with wit and assurance by acclaimed food writer Pat Willard, we roam the rich landscapes of history and personal memory. We dine in the heavenly gardens of Persia; bathe with Alexander the Great; are served golden swans at the medieval court of France. With Willard's help, we also discover the quiet comforts of saffron, from soups that have eased illness to pies that defy death, until we arrive at last in the present day at a small garden in Brooklyn.

Told in sumptuous prose, complete with fabulous ancient and modern recipesâincluding a Moorish wedding feast, a luscious creme brulee, and a balm for an aching heartâSecrets of Saffron will awaken in you a voracious desire for the private pleasures of this most precious spice.

"I am impressed by Pat Willard's singleminded devotion to one of my favorite subjects. I have been under saffron's spell for some time and it is an integral ingredient in my cooking. I love the romance of its noble and complicated history, as well as the painstaking process of cultivation." âTodd English, author of The Olives Dessert Table

"Saffron, the haughtiest, most expensive, and most mysterious of spices, has found its rightful biographer in Pat Willard, who plumbs its historical, mythological, and psychological depths with illuminating insight and a richly evocative (and surprisingly personal) prose. For saffron lovers, this book is a necessary read; for those like myself who have previously equated that spice with such culinary esoterica as gold leaf flakes or wild fennel pollen, Secrets of Saffron is a revelationâand a highly enjoyable page-turner, as well." âJohn Thorne, author of Outlaw Cook and Pot on the Fire

"An admiring account of an exotic spice with a long and varied history, by a food writer whose imagination keeps the story light and lively... a charming little gift for an inquisitive cook."âKirkus Reviews

Customer Reviews:

Where's the saffron?.......2005-10-10

The author writes about saffron the way I cook with saffron - sparingly. The book was probably 70% autobiography and 30% saffron. There were times where I would finish a chapter thinking, "Where was the saffron in that?"

I'll probably only ever read one book about saffron, and it was a mistake to have it be this one.

Crocus lite.............2002-02-02

I read SAFFRON during my lunch break and as it is a small light-weight book I was able to complete it in 2 weeks or 10 lunch breaks. SAFFRON is exactly the kind of book I like to take to work for lunch-time reading: small enough to carry in my backpack; interesting enough to induce me to put my work aside and take a much needed noon-time break; compartmentalized enough that I can read it in installments without losing track; and about food which generally increases my enjoyment of my midday meal which consists of raw carrots, boiled eggs, yogurt and an orange.

SAFFRON is not as well researched or comprehensive as TULIP by Anna Pavord nor is it as informative or well written as the "cooking" books of Elizabeth David whom Willard clearly admires. (In fact, Willard suggests the reader use David's books for recipes.) Willard explains in the opening section that she has not written an historical book documented with citations, nor has she provided recipes that work in all cases. (She says she has not tried many of them--in some cases the ingredients are no longer available or unknown, or the weights and measurements are unknown.)

Willard has gathered together interesting tidbits from a variety of sources -- autobiographical events which are probably the most entertaining part of the book as she is very forthcoming; tales, stories, quotes from literature and history, some sources mentioned in passing, other not, some researched others not. Willard's take on history is flawed but amusing. My sense is that that she selected material based on it's entertainment value not it's verismilitude. Willard's book provides the reader with a bit of diversion, and I for one need frivolity sometimes.

Not just for saffron lovers.......2001-12-20

Saffron is, in my opinion, one of the greatest flavoring agents in the world. I'm partial to it in baked goods and dairy products, and have developed my own recipe for saffron ice cream which is so addictive that I don't dare make it often. The finest (and incidentally the most expensive) wine I ever drank had a distinct saffron note to it which made the experience of drinking supremely heady. Saffron is mysterious to most people, even experienced cooks, and for many an acquired taste.

Pat Willard's book, though it does offer a number of saffron-rich recipes, is primarily a history of the spice and its travels. But even more compelling is the personal content, the stories of Willard's own involvement with saffron which range from amusing (her red silk bodice and almost-but-not-quite association with the SCA) to poignant (her saffron-rich creme brulee pie, created while trying to hold off the worst of the grief over her mother's death.) Willard has a gift for personalizing her work, and even though some of what she writes has an almost confessional quality, her stories are never less than graceful.

The recipes she includes are often quite old, and can be difficult to follow for modern cooks, but there are also more contemporary recipes which will whet your appetite for saffron. If reading about food is as pleasurable for you as cooking and eating, then this book will be a good addition to your shelves.

A Spicy Book Indeed.......2001-07-16

Pat Willard has described a passion, in _Secrets of Saffron: The Vagabond Life of the World's Most Seductive Spice_ (Beacon Press). It is a three-fold work: the history of the spice; Willard's personal history with it (a foundation for pleasing essays from a sensuous woman); and assorted recipes. I have not had enough saffron to consider myself a fan, and I have not tried the given recipes for saffron-soaked custard, pork, lobster, or paella, but I can tell you they sound good, and that Willard has written two previous well-regarded story-and-recipe books on pie and on broths. Cooks are probably in good hands.

It is enormous fun, with Willard as a laughing guide, to see world history as saffron history. She speculates that the makers of Persian carpets found saffron a useful yellow dye and its smell from the vats turned it into a perfume, and then the cooks tried it. The Egyptians used it as perfume, but especially liked the bright yellow for the clot in which to wind their dead. Alexander the Great had plenty of chances to soak up the cultures of his conquests, and liked saffron baths and tea and rice, and before dinner he had wine with saffron mixed into it. Saffron, unlike other spices, could be grown in England, and it still was costly, so it made the fortunes of such towns as Walden, which became Saffron Walden. It was only when new discoveries like capers, sugar cane, and vanilla came from the new world, and banquets were pared from forty dishes to a puritanical ten or so, that saffron began to wane. The ounces of saffron that could be harvested from acres of crocuses eventually became tons of potatoes and corn, crops that were dependable and less fussy.

Willard's history is good, but her personal stories are the best writing in the book. Her bittersweet recounting of going to the Saffron Festival in Spain, where Saffron isn't grown in any quantity anymore, is fine travel writing, and her introduction to the spice by a mysterious stranger who came to call on her has the bittersweet extended into eroticism. She has a rich memory of what happened after her mother's death: "Of all the things that go through your mind when you watch death approach, thinking of food may seem the most absurd, maybe even a little obscene. And yet it is what the living almost always turn to... the living's way of breaking away, the body understanding before the mind fully does what is the necessary and correct order demanded in the wider world." The way Willard writes about the subsequent effect of the saffron crème brûlée pie (recipe, of course, included here) would have made her mother proud. Willard can tell us also of her own successful growing and harvesting of saffron, in Brooklyn. This is a book of many delights, a gathering of all sorts of saffron stories and histories, tasty, pungent, and wonderfully personal.

Average customer rating:

Tour de Force

A scrumptious delight for the eye and mind

The Epicurean Collector: Exploring the World of Culinary Antiques
Patrick Dunne , and Southern Accents Magazine
Manufacturer: Bulfinch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
General | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Kitchenware | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Decorating | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0821227599

Book Description

Patrick Dunne has made a career of collecting and researching the history of fascinating and beautiful culinary implements and his accumulated knowledge is ripe for collecting in a book. From absinthe spoons to caf-au-lait bowls, he illuminates a wide variety of subjects with verve and authority. Lavishly illustrated, part food history, part a connoisseurs handbook, the epicurean collector will appeal to a broad readership interested in antiques as well as the more general areas of food presentation, entertaining, and style at the table.

Customer Reviews:

Tour de Force.......2003-04-01

Patrick Dunne is one of, if not the, leading experts on food-related antiques in America, and French antiques in general. His shop on Chartres street is one of the best-kept secrets in New Orleans. This book lists "et al" as additional authors of The Epicurean Collector, but don't believe it: without Dunne, there is no book. This stunning book is a fascinating look at lovely pieces and Dunne's excellent prose. If you love antiques related to food, own this book and be very happy.

A scrumptious delight for the eye and mind.......2002-09-27

This ravishingly beautiful book is also a highly entertaining and informative jaunt through history. Patrick Dunne writes with great wit and intelligence. Whether discussing the unusual "sugar nipper" or the ordinary egg, he succeeds in bringing alive whole worlds. This is a wonderful book.

Average customer rating:

very good for specific projects, ambivalent about the aesthetic

Great book

30-Minute Rubber Stamp Workshop

Be careful purchasing this item . . .

Best TECHNIQUE and product guide ever!

30-Minute Rubber Stamp Workshop
Sandra McCall
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Graphic Arts | Graphic Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
Printmaking | Graphic Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Papercrafts | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Rubber Stamping | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1581802714

Book Description

This book is perfect for beginning crafters or sophisticated stampers who want to make the most of their time. Inside they'll find unlimited options for making quick and appealing gifts suitable for any occasion.

All of the 30 projects include easy techniques for creating unique and beautiful creative expressions. Author Sandra McCall provides:

-Detailed information on basic stamping techniques and tools -Photos and descriptions of the materials used in each project -Tips for turning cool ideas into practical, easy-to-make projects -16 ideas for the home including desk accessories and gifts for the gardener -11 wearable gifts including pins, necklaces, barrettes and bracelets -New techniques that incorporate recycled materials and found objects

All of the materials used in these projects are non-toxic, inexpensive and readily available.

Customer Reviews:

very good for specific projects, ambivalent about the aesthetic.......2007-03-11

if you are looking for specific project to make and have a certain type of aesthetic, then mccall's 30 minute rubber stamp workshop is for you. mccall's book has 27 projects, from decorative push-pins to bookends to a clock to wearables like pins, bracelets, and barrettes. the several pages of lists of tools and supplies was a bit daunting (but very very practical and useful); if you don't have most of these things already you will have to lay out some money. however, you would need most of these supplies to make any kinds of nice-looking projects using rubber stamping; once you have them, you can use them for projects other than the ones in mccall's book.

i have to say that for the most part i don't share mccall's aesthetic. a number of these projects look fairly "crafty" to me and a few are even a bit crude-looking to my eye, although i also think that some of these same projects are also conceptually quite inventive. for instance, the clock project in the book is largely made from cardboard that just gets stamped on, and it never looks like anything other than a cardboard clock. however, an artist with some imagination could find a way to elaborate on mccall's great concept and use her directions to make something that looks more "finished."

besides the clock concept, in this book my favorite projects (many of which i would use my own aesthetic to make, something that i think mccall fully intends) include the "art-a-tacs" that are pushpins with a flat ended marble attached. i really like what people are doing with the flat-ended marbles these days, making anything from these push-pins to jewelry with them. the tacks themselves are great, but again, i'm not particularly fond of the cardboard "utilitarian" look mccall incorporated with the pushpin holder. i also like the small book project, the leather spiral notebook (she shows you how to make your own wire spiral! nice.), the shade pull, and the shrink plastic button. mccall's examples with these projects are also the most visually appealing to me, and seem to have the most potential for people to build on based on their own color sense and stamp collections.

i am building a library of books about bookmaking, papermaking, and rubber stamping, and at the moment i probably won't buy mccall's book. i checked out a copy from the library to evaluate it, and in the end i decided that given my limited book-buying budget, i won't get the kinds of instruction and the number of widely-applicable ideas that i'm looking for (the most bang for _my_ buck is what i guess i'm saying). nevertheless, i do think the book will be best for people who want to make the specific projects in the book--mccall's instructions are terrific, clearly laid out step-by-step with good photos to follow along as you go. and, later on, after i've bought what seems to me to be the most "foundational" books i need for my library, i probably will add on mccall's book.

Great book .......2006-09-01

I received this book promptly and in great shape. So far,I am enjoying the book and the new projects to try. Definitely was not disappointed.

30-Minute Rubber Stamp Workshop.......2003-12-24

What a fun, idea filled book! The step-by-step- photos and instructions are easy to follow and beautifully printed. I bought this book for my niece who is a new stamper because I thought the title referred to a rubberstamp workshop where you learn how to do all the basics in 30 minutes. Boy! How wrong was I? As soon as I saw the book I had to have one for myself too. There is so much information on both product and technique. There are also lots of time saving hints for those of us who need them. The whole book is written in an informal, entertaining style that is irresitable. I read it cover to cover and I RARELY do that with an instructional book. You will definitely get your moneys worth with this book. This artsy book is on "making gifts" and not "stationary" although there are some excellent stationary ides in the book. I've used several of McCall's ideas as a jump off point- tweaked them to make them my own and they have since become best sellers at my craft shows! Thanks McCall!

Be careful purchasing this item . . ........2003-09-24

Unfortunately I read the reviews and very excitely order the "30 minute stamp workshop" and while the style is definitely artsy, the proposed projects are very goofy. Sorry, I just don't know anyone that is going to wear the stamped barette I make them or use the cardboard stamped clock. I really was looking for a book showing "non-cute" greeting card, stationary and journal designs that I can whip out in 30 minutes or less thanks to step-by-step instructions. Yes, many of todays paper art magazine like Inspiration do show artwork and list supplies but I wanted more than that, like this book, but in stationary form.

Best TECHNIQUE and product guide ever!.......2003-08-24

This book is somewhat mistitled. There are detailed projects but even better it is full of well spoken product descriptions and objecive recommendations.Tools are included as projects are carried out. A refreshing change from most stamp project books.

Book Description

Con la promesa de salud, riqueza y felicidad, el feng shui tiene un inmenso atractivo, por lo menos en concepto. Desafortunadamente, los métodos aparentemente complicados del feng shui son a menudo difíciles de aprender y de aplicar de una manera útil. Por suerte, Mueve tus cosas y cambia tu vida está escrito en un lenguaje claro y sencillo para el lector occidental moderno. Al revelar los antiguos secretos chinos que son tan útiles y necesarios hoy día como lo han sido durante siglos, Mueve tus cosas y cambia tu vida muestra cómo:

• Conocer a esa "persona especial"

• Encontrar un trabajo ideal

• Obtener mejores calificaciones en la escuela

• Disfrutar de una mejor vida sexual

Book Description

Do it yourself! The 500 images presented in this book look fab on paper, but the true three-dimensional fun begins when you pop the included CD-ROMs into your computer. All of the images featured in the book are provided on the CDs as pictures and as 3D models in 3DS format (the universal format for 3D files) so that you, dear reader, can experiment with them in any way you wish. If you aren't already experienced in working with 3D, not to fear - we've also included a demo version of 3D manipulation software so you can teach yourself how to rotate the images, incorporate the included textures, and mix them with your choice of backgrounds. Once you've compiled your own 3D creation, you can use it for Flash animations, graphic design, architecture, interior design, logos, signboards, information graphics, typography, or anything else your heart desires.

Each entry in the book includes:

* the rendered image

* texture examples and the number of textures

* where to find the 3D model on the CD and its quality in polygons

* the image resolution

* a short description

* wireframe image

CDs include:

* Demonstration version of Swift3D software (Windows and Macintosh compatible)

* 500 images and standard resolution 3D models with respective masks, shadow channels, and textures; as an extra bonus, 40 super high polygon models are included. (If purchased separately, these 3D models provided on these CDs would cost over $2000!)

Introduction by German 3D expert Wenzel Spingler, one of the leading professionals working with virtual environments for hyper realistic digital illustration. Models by Spanish model maker De Espona, one of Europe's leading companies in this field.

Customer Reviews:

WORTHLESS!!!!.......2004-03-23

This book and CD roms are worthless for modeling. I found maybe 1 percent useful models. You will have better luck on 3d Cafe or some other free site!

Worse than useless.......2003-07-16

The best that can be said for this garbage from Taschen is that it's "only" [$$]. There is about a 1% (that's right, one percent) chance you will find something you can use, in which case you will get your money's worth.

1. Of the 500 models, only 20 to 30 are any good -- 20 or 30 out of 500! The vast majority, as another reviewer has noted, are of VERY low resolution. A high-resolution model can be reduced for game development -- but the reverse cannot be done.

The images are very deceptive -- clearly made from hi-res models.

2. Whoever developed the CDs should be drawn and quartered. Many path names are wrong. So you will spend a lot of time browsing to reestablish the paths to image maps.

3. Worst of all, many of these are FREE on line. Check the back cover for the URL of the company that actually made the models (deespona.com). There, you will find many free models -- in original Max format (not 3ds, as on these CDs) and with path names intact, etc.

This book is so bad, I'm considering filing a consumer complaint (since once you've opened the CDs, you can no longer return the book).

No use for any 3d work. FORGET IT.......2003-07-02

A catalogue of nicely rendered images, yes. Fine for your coffee table, but no use whatso-ever for any 3D work.
All of the poly meshes supplied are (poorly) auto-reduced versions of the original geometry that the images in the book were rendered with. At best, the supplied meshes can only contain 5% of the orignal geometry. You will find highter resolution models on a games console than on this CD. There are one or two "high res" models included on the CDROM, but they're not worth bothering about.

As an example of how weak this is, take the aircraft model that has a 350k two tone tif texture (could have been 4k) which was actually bigger then the 300k .3DS file. Many of the textures themselves are pooly produced, badly sized or badly anti-aliased, so if you're thinking it's worth the money just for the textures, then think again.

If you like pretty pictures, then get it. If you want 3D models then simply don't bother with this.

Nice models for the price.......2003-06-29

Most of the models in this package are nice, maybe too nice. I was hoping there would be some low-poly models suitable for gaming, and could only use about 5 straight out of the box. The rest were high-poly count models, although I was able to optimize a few more models to use. The book is small, the dimensions of a CD only thicker. The texture are fairly nice, but a few are kind of dull looking, but what do you expect for less than ten cents per model?
I was looking for WWII era models myself, and there were quite a few actually, but there is a nice wide selection of models in this package. Everything from ancient warships to the Bismarck to a 1940 USA Harley Davidson. There are aircraft, animals, architecture, cars, civil and military ships, motorcycles, etc...
There is a little bit of everything, and almost every model is excellent. The Tiger tank was a thing of beauty when I imported it into my game engine.
It's definitely worth the asking price if you want some high quality .3ds format models.

Average customer rating:

500 3D Objects (500 3D objects)
Julius Wiedermann
Manufacturer: Taschen
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 3822816329

Product Description

This indispensable consumers guide to the music of Eric Clapton. An album by album, track by track run down of every song released by Clapton from his earliest tracks with the Yardbirds, through The Bluesbreakers and Cream to his most recent work.

Customer Reviews:

It Fits My Bill.......2003-04-20

This booklet published before Eric Clapton released Pilgrim. It serves the purpose of outling each of Eric Clapton's songs and a summary of their recordings. A very detailed description of each track is given. I especially enoy the descriptions of Eric's guitar styles on many of the songs. Helpful for those debating whether to purchase a particular recording. Yes, there are some slight biases. However, the author does not make his opinion too overbearing. And besides most of his thoughts are pretty compatible with mine. A nice pocket size booklet for Eric Clapton fans.

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