Downers Grove

Book Description

Downers Grove is the haunting and tender story of Chrissie Swanson, a paranoid high school senior for whom graduating has become a matter of life or death. She's an unusual girl in an ordinary town. Her mother's sex life is overshadowing her own; her brother is aboard his own private Enterprise, slipping into one black hole after another; her best friend is hornier than a Prince song; leaving her eccentric grandmother as the only source of wisdom in a rapid downward spiral. As Chrissie tries to take control of the events that shape her life, she finds the events beginning to take control of her, until she is finally cornered by choices with everlasting consequences. Full of humor, wit, and the sacrilegious worldview of a savvy teenager, Downers Grove paints a searing portrait of the American dream in all its broken glory.

Customer Reviews:

"Suburbs are the ghettos of meaninglessness.".......2007-02-23

With a line like that, one would think that Hornburg would be coming out with something original in his tale of teenage maturing. He doesn't. The protagonist, Crystal Methedrine Swanson, holds only a unique name. Her narrative is dull and lifeless, stammering and stuttering through teenage tedium without any background or emotion to light her path.

Chrissie stumbles her way through the final fragments of her senior year at high school, a school cursed with having at least one death before every graduation. Haunted by a gang of pissed off jocks and flirting with a mechanic almost twice her age, Chrissie narrates her life as interestingly as sneezing into a Kleenex. (one peek and toss it into the trash)

If you're still interested, I recommend checking it out from the local library rather than paying money for this slow-moving, uninteresting romp through a forgettable town and a real downer of a protagonist.

Fun read.......2006-07-08

This book is what I would call a "fun read." It offered no insight and when you were through with it you could pretty much go away without really learning anything. However, there were some very funny stories in it; many of which reminded me of some of the things my friends and I did; which is why I rated it a 4.

This could have been a good book........2006-04-30

The pop culture references in this book are to my liking. L7, Hole, Riot Grrrl, Kurt and Courtney.....totally my style, so that's basically why I read this book. Other than that, this book was totally and completely boring. There wasn't enough character development. Each character really had potential to be original, unique and interesting if the author had just gone deeper in description and building up the characters. Also, the plot development just wasn't there. One second she's not sure if she likes the mechanic and the next she's considering running away with him. The plot certainly had potential, too, if it had just been built up a bit more. The story could have been very interesting and suspenseful with the ideas of the curse, the jocks who are out to get them, and the mechanic running from the law, but none of these things were built up at all and we are left confused and uninterested throughout the entire novel. Reading a novel with potential is just that- it could have been good, but the fact is, it just isn't.

Men are from Mars, Women Are Pathetic.......2005-12-02

I could predict EVERY plot twist and character in this novel way before it happened. It has the stereotypical and gendered presence of a particularly pathetic "edgy" teen movie. The brother's a junkie! (of course, he's a boy, so he has a shred of dignity; had they had a girl junkie, she would have been depicted as a pathetic degraded prostitute). The best friend's a trollop! (have I ever read a book about a teenage girl without there being the presence of a lame frigid yet "boy crazy" best friend?) The 'offbeat' (yeah, right) girl character has a crazy name!!! Basically, this book's depiction of twitty lame girls and evil men was more of a cliche than some anti-porn rant by Andrea Dworkin.

Bad........2005-11-24

Michael Hornburg, Downers Grove (Grove, 1999)

I've been trying to think of some sort of witty intro to this review for a few minutes now and not coming up with anything. So I'm going to, under duress, adopt a style of writing I loathe: if you're going to review a boring book, write a boring review.

Michael Hornburg's second novel attempts to enlighten its readers on the subject of high school girls on the verge of graduation-- Chrissy, the narrator, and her best friend Tina. The two of them ramble through Downers Grove, IL, and close-by areas in the weeks leading up to graduation, getting into various loosely-connected episodes.

All well and good, except that the book has no core. The obvious choice for a core here is Chrissy, what with her being the narrator and all, but Chrissy lacks the depth to be a worthwhile core. In fact, Chrissy lacks the depth to be a worthwhile narrator; I haven't been this alternately bored and annoyed by a narrating character since the narrator of Holly Uyemoto's justly-obscure Rebel Without a Clue.

I did finish the book, hoping it would get better; it had been on my list of books to read for a number of years, so long that I can't remember what motivated me to add it, and I figured something had to catch my interest way back when. Whatever it was, I failed to find it, and I found nothing to replace it, either. *

Downer's Grove Revisited (IL) (Images of America)

Average customer rating:

Downer's Grove Revisited (IL) (Images of America)
Montrew Dunham
Manufacturer: Arcadia Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Book Description

On a May evening in 1832, a solitary 50-year-old man on horseback rode toward an oak grove that rose majestically from the quiet Illinois prairie. Stopping at this beautiful site, the man bent a sapling to mark his claim to the rich Illinois farmland that would be his for the settling. In that singular act, Pierce Downer founded the town that would bear his name: Downers Grove, Illinois. ÝÝHe could hardly have imagined the remarkable development of the bucolic prairie town, 22 miles west of Chicago, as it grew to a thriving suburb with a population of nearly 50,000. Many unique and influential people have shaped the history of Downers Grove. ÝÝ

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Downers Grove, 1832-1982
Montrew Dunham
Manufacturer: Heritage Festival Task Force
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

Average customer rating:

Pearls of wisdom
Donald Kenny
Manufacturer: St. Mary of Gostyn, Memory Book Committee
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

General | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Prayer | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B0006PB9UY

Token security. (information security at First Health, Downers Grove, Illinois): An article from: Security Management

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Token security. (information security at First Health, Downers Grove, Illinois): An article from: Security Management
Michael A. Gips
Manufacturer: American Society for Industrial Security
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Management | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Security | Business & Culture | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

Book Description

This digital document is an article from Security Management, published by American Society for Industrial Security on September 1, 1998. The length of the article is 773 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

From the supplier: The Digipass 500 token-based security system of VASCO Data Security in Oakbrook Terrace, IL, has greatly improved information security at First Health of Downers Grove, IL, a network of preferred provider organizations. The system's easier remote access setup allows some 600 mobile employees and utilization review physicians to access data without going to the office. It involves the use of hardware devices called tokens to gain access to the company's network, which generate a one-time password that is sent by the user to the host server for authentication.

Citation Details
Title: Token security. (information security at First Health, Downers Grove, Illinois)
Author: Michael A. Gips
Publication: Security Management (Refereed)
Date: September 1, 1998
Publisher: American Society for Industrial Security
Volume: v42 Issue: n9 Page: p23(2)

Distributed by Thomson Gale

Assessment, implementation and evaluation of a revised advising group program in the Masters of Social Work Program at George Williams College, 1978-1979

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Assessment, implementation and evaluation of a revised advising group program in the Masters of Social Work Program at George Williams College, 1978-1979
Kris Cosgrove
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0007APV2U

Attitudes toward organizations: A comparative analysis of M.S. and M.B.A. students

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Attitudes toward organizations: A comparative analysis of M.S. and M.B.A. students
Myrna Aitta Huebotter
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

Leadership | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B0007ANS2A

Comprehensive parks and recreation master plan, Downers Grove Park District

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Comprehensive parks and recreation master plan, Downers Grove Park District
Alan R Caskey
Manufacturer: Alan R.Caskey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

A departmental safety manual for the Downers Grove Police Dept (CJM MAP project)

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A departmental safety manual for the Downers Grove Police Dept (CJM MAP project)
David L Rechenmacher
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

Law Enforcement | Criminal Law | Law | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B000725R9U

A design for facilitating re-entry and transfer of learning from Practicum I, 1977

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A design for facilitating re-entry and transfer of learning from Practicum I, 1977
Gail Dannenberg and Susan Cowdrey Conklin Russell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0006WXMA2

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Continuing the series' excellence
Less-Than-Innocent Invitation (Silhouette Desire)
Shirley Rogers
Manufacturer: Silhouette
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

General | Romance | Subjects | Books
Silhouette Desire | Series | Romance | Subjects | Books
General | Contemporary | Romance | Subjects | Books
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Highly Compromised Position (Silhouette Desire)

Strictly Confidential Attraction (Silhouette Desire)

ASIN: 0373766718

Customer Reviews:

Continuing the series' excellence.......2007-03-06

This book was as good as the first in the series. Several years ago Melissa broke Logan's heart when she turned down his marriage proposal and went to Houston to pursue a career in journalism. When Melissa comes to town to film a series on notorious outlaw Jessamine Golden, Logan is determined to find out why she told him she loved him but then left him to further her career. Logan ended up marrying someone on the rebound and the marriage only lasted a year. Melissa was hurt several years ago when Logan's brother's ex girlfriend told her about a clause in their father's will that said the first brother to marry would inherit their family ranch. She really thought Logan loved her and even held out hope that he would follow her if he really loved her, now she is back 10 years later and she still has feelings for him. Melissa finds out that Logan married someone else only months after she left so he must have never really loved her.

When the Jessamine Golden story takes a new twist, Melissa stays in town for a while to cover the story. She and Logan finally talk and realize they were deliberately mislead years ago and each was made to think the other didn't really love them. They renew their relationship, but now Melissa has a new life in Houston and Logan realizes he can't ask her to give that up...

This story was sweet and sensual and even had a little mystery. Great read.

Average customer rating:

Morpheus put me to sleep

Stargate Fan

Bad Book? Get A Life!

Good idea, bad book.

This review is going to sound like the others...

The Morpheus Factor (Stargate SG-1, Book 4)
Ashely McConnell , Dean Devlin (Creator) , Roland Emmerich , Jonathan Glassner (Creator) , and Brad Wright (Creator)
Manufacturer: Roc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Adventure | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
High Tech | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

First Amendment (Stargate SG-1, Book 3)

Stargate Sg-1

The Price You Pay (Stargate SG-1, Book 2)

Stargate SG-1: Trial by Fire: SG1-1 (Stargate Sg-1)

Stargate SG-1: A Matter of Honor: SG1-3 (Stargate Sg-1)

ASIN: 0451458168
Release Date: 2001-02-06

Book Description

Based on one of the SciFi channel's most popular shows

On the world of P4V-837, the SG-1 team encounters a race of friendly natives. But the team begins experiencing hallucinations that grow darker with the passing hours-and become unwilling participants in a brutal conflict in which their subconscious minds have become the deadliest weapons of all.

Customer Reviews:

Morpheus put me to sleep.......2007-09-02

Is she kidding? This was worse than the last one of hers I read. I was always told, "write what you know". I really don't think she's ever seen an episode. Daniel's blond? Amanda Carter? Please do us all a favor and write about something you know, and leave SG-1 alone.

Stargate Fan.......2007-07-21

I thought it was an ok story, but there were a lot of mistakes coming from the author and the time-line of this book: first off was that the names of the main characters were messed up, second was that this book was supposed to be some-time after their mission to Netu and their run-in with their biggest enemy, thirdly was that it wasn't till the 4th season that they met up with Osiris , and finally they got the relationships between the characters all wrong as well, such as O'neill and Frasier when in the show it would be between him and Carter. As well as the issue with messing with the imaginations of the main characters and their memories which was also brought up in the season 2 episode" The Game Keeper", and they made the crucial mistake of getting the wrong area when they mentioned finding the 2nd gate since they found it Anartica rather then in Iceland. But other then these mistakes the story was really good. Read the other three books before you read this since this is during the middle of the third season, so it'll make a little more since after a while.

Bad Book? Get A Life!.......2005-04-11

Anyone who says this is a bad book obviously knows very little about writing. Granted, yes there were a few mistakes, but overall I thought the book was beautifully written. I found myself unable to put the book down. I would definitely recommend this book to die hard Stargate SG-1 fans.

Good idea, bad book........2004-01-07

When SG-1 goes to P4V-837, they encounter a hospitable environment and seemingly friendly natives, the Kayeechi. But after a while, they realize that they are each seeing a different landscape, and they don't know who is hallucinting. Then they are pulled into deep, dark dreams, and find themselves unable to wake up. What are the Kayeechi trying to do?

On the good side, I liked the idea a lot more than I liked the book itself, especially since all the dream sequences would have made it too confusing as an episode, which makes it worthwhile to have it in novel form. I also liked the quote at the end of the book, althought I think it might have been better at the very beginning.

But while the plot may have been a good idea, in the transition between mind and paper something flopped. First of all, no one seemed to be in character, especially toward the end. The overstated Jack/Janet attraction seemed unnatural and forced. (Anyway, I thought canon was leaning more towards Jack/Sam and Daniel/Janet, but whatever.) But what really bothered me was that nothing was really explained. We never find out how the Kayeechi turn dreams into reality, which would make more sense in the long run than what the team decides to do. The Kayeechi could make a powerful ally or a formiddable enemy, and as Vair says, they are "neither enemy nor friend" at the moment. The bad parts drag the good parts down, and it all builds up to finally crash into the wall that is the nonsensical, unsatisfying ending. Add to this the references to Daniel's blond hair and Major Amanda Carter, and this is one book you should skip.

I usually expect published material to be more well-written than fanfiction. Apparently the publishers had lower standards. this lame attempt at making money assumes that fans are stupid and will buy anything. Please prove them wrong.

This review is going to sound like the others..........2003-05-25

Good point: The plot is an interesting idea.

Bad points: No background for the characters, jumps right into the story and the story does seem to end VERY swiftly. I wanted more about the planet, the alien race and more interaction between SG-1 itself. Details, details to give it flavor, color, shapes, to make it a meal to enjoy. This book was more like pre-chewed gum!
Weak and not for a person NEW to the TV series. This is my first read from the book series and I hope the first three books were BETTER. Maybe starting from the beginning would have been better...

Book Description

The story of one young man's remarkable journey from corporate America to the Society of Jesus. James Martin leads you from his Catholic childhood through his success and ultimate dissatisfaction with the business world, to his novitiate and profession of vows as a Jesuit.

Customer Reviews:

read this book.......2006-11-17

If you are thinking of a religious vocation, this is the book for you. James Martin (Society of Jesus) was fresh out of college, making big bucks at GE, and living a party life in NYC when he realized how empty it all was. He needed something more in his life and, to the shock of his family and co-workers, entered the Society of Jesus.

The memoir covers Martin's college years, his job at GE, his enterance into the Jesuit order, as well as his novitiate in Boston and Jamaica. During these two years, Martin is challenged to live the life Christ is calling him to live. The memior ends with First Vows at a church in Boston, after which Martin flies to Chicago where he'll begin philosophy studies (the second stage of Jesuit formation).

This was an exciting book to read. I found myself in Martin's shoes, as I have at times thought of becoming a priest. But even if you're a career person, and aren't interested in religious life, read this book anyway--it's a great place to see G-d at work. Highly recommended.

Also recommended: The Gospel of Arnie

A Modern Vocation Story.......2006-07-01

When considering a vocation, this book might provide a little relief to those who hear that discouraging little voice whispering, "You're not holy enough." For that reason, I think this book could serve as a thoughtful gift to someone in the process of discernment.

The story of Fr. Martin hits on some pretty interesting topics. For example: his first career as a corporate man who makes good money, but is probably too overworked to enjoy it. Also, it's interesting to see those around him (e.g. friends, co-workers, etc) react to his discernment process and entrance into the Society of Jesus as a seminarian.

The real story, though, is Fr. Martin's own reflections on the meaning of his journey to the priesthood, and the comparisons to his life "in the world."

Personally, I identified (sadly) with his story of someone who "grew up" as a Catholic, and yet reached adulthood without a deep understanding of the Catholic Faith, its teachings or its traditions. Fr. Martin confronted his religious illiteracy, even if he felt silly asking what might have been seen as simple questions.

Possible Negatives

Fr. Martin is a "down-to-earth" person who lives in the real world. He is someone that is easy to identify with. He's a sinner--just like the rest of us. On the other hand, seeing his "warts," I sometimes felt that there was an ambiguous message about how to deal with our own imperfections. For example, should we see these imperfections and say, "that's just who I am"? Or, should we follow the Gospel message of Our Lord, to "Be Perfect just as your heavenly Father is perfect"? (Matt 5:48)

Also, Fr. Martin clearly lived the Gospel message to serve those who are in need. I don't mean to belittle these good works which are worthy of imitation; but, sometimes I fear that people make temporal good works the primary goal of religion, instead of the salvation of souls.

Overall, I recommend Fr. Martin's enjoyable, well-written vocation story.

Another great book by Martin!!.......2006-05-07

I have not been disappointed yet by the work of James Martin, SJ. I appreciate the honesty of his experience. I believe that the issues he presents in this book that surround religious formation are well written. I do share the opinion of one customer reviewer on Amazon.com who presents a concern about Martin's lack of transparency on the issue of sexuality and the vow of celibacy. HOWEVER, having perhaps a unique insight into religious life from my own experiences in formation, I can attest to the fact that the vows of poverty and obedience are much more divisive in community life than celibacy - and that celibacy is more often the heated issue of those outside religious communities looking inward with curiosity.

I have shared this book with a number of other religious and lay people alike with the recommendation that this is another well-written James Martin book that is candid, humorous and honest.

You will not be disappointed.

Great story........2003-07-28

Martin's personal journey of faith, which eventually led him into the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), is quite a story. He was a young successful business man rising quickly through the corporate ranks at General Electric. But the "unseen hook" brought him to change dramatically - literally from riches to poverty. The reader gets a sense of Martin's sincerity as they journey with him through his younger years in business, and eventually, his experience as a Jesuit novice.
Though the story itself is powerful, I rated this book with only three stars because I found Martin's prose to be lacking at some points in the story. Perhaps I'm being harsh; forgive me.
I recommend this book to any reader who wishes to understand the Catholic preisthood better, especially those young men considering joining the Jesuits.

A Great Read.......2002-02-06

James Martin's book is just the right thing for anyone with an interest in the contemporary Catholic Church. It's especially helpful for those thinking of joining a religious order or becoming a priest--or those who are interested in why a person would make such a commitment in this day and age. Martin's writing style makes this a personal and provocative read. One of the reviewers on the back cover says Martin is a Thomas Merton for this time--perhaps, but in his own style. I'd highly recommend it to anyone with even a passing interest in religion.

Customer Reviews:

Warm Traditions of Italian Cooking.......1999-12-10

My husband and Ann Sorrentino's son were college pals, and 35 years later, are still close friends. They used to drive down from the University of Wisconsin at Madison to suburban Chicago for Ann's Sunday dinners. Thus were made some of my darling's finest memories of great cuisine.

Along with excellent, accurate recipies for traditional Italian cuisine, the book includes Ann Sorrentino's memoirs of growing up in a traditional Italian-American family in Chicago. She associates dishes and ingredients with certain holidays and saints' days, taking us back to ancient traditions associated with Italian food.

Ann Sorrentino was one of our country's foremost experts on Italian cooking for many years. After she died, her daugher compiled Ann's recipies and edited her memoirs to create this wonderful book.

Average customer rating:

A Great Find!

A Great Reading/Learing Experience!

Delightful & Infomative Book For Antique Collectors/Dealers

EVEN A RUNAWAY BRIDE WOULD ENJOY THIS BOOK!

Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers

Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers
Penny Henderson
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0764321722

Customer Reviews:

A Great Find!.......2006-04-29

You don't even have to be a collector to appreciate Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers. Well researched and written in a personal and engaging style, it's a fascinating book for hopeless romantics. The photographs, however, do make you consider beginning a collection!

A Great Reading/Learing Experience! .......2006-01-06

I am an avid collector and seller of antique dolls. I purchased this book in order to learn more. I found it to be well organized, very interesting and informative. You can see the author's passion and love for her subject matter. A definite addition to any reference library.

Delightful & Infomative Book For Antique Collectors/Dealers.......2005-06-21

I purchased this book as a gift for a wonderful collector of beautiful things including a single antique cake topper. I was planning on taking a quick look through the book before presenting it but that was several days ago and the book still hasn't made it to its destination as I've been so intrigued with the topic and fascinated with the history, photographs, and dating and pricing information. As an antique dealer, I'm always looking for informative books on specialized and/or obscure areas of collecting. I highly recommend "Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers" as a most readable, enjoyable, and informative guide. I think the author should be congratulated for her efforts, including her integrity and clarity in the cake topper descriptions and prices, and for avoiding the tendency of some price guides to inflate prices for the purpose of selling more books. This really is a super book that will entertain and inform anyone who collects cake toppers or who simply has an appreciation for social history, antiques, and collectibles.

EVEN A RUNAWAY BRIDE WOULD ENJOY THIS BOOK!.......2005-06-13

My collection of wedding cake toppers consists mostly of the newer and less-expensive varieties. However, this book has given me the opportunity to acquaint myself with some enchanting antique and vintage toppers that I probably will never be in a position to own--or indeed even glimpse "up close." Alas, my taste seems to run to toppers that are either extremely rare or prohibitively expensive (or both).

Opening this book is comparable to stepping into another time. As I read I felt like I was taking a trip down memory lane, and back to gracious, long-past eras.

I gifted copies of "Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers" to two non-collecting friends, both of whom enthusiastically perused its pages. Among their comments to me: "text is easily understood, while at the same time extremely informative.... " ...wonderful photographs and charming line drawings beautifully supplement and complement the author's text."

Without hesitation or reservation, I recommend this book to collectors and non-collectors alike. Enjoy!

Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers.......2005-06-13

What a great book! This field of collecting has ceertainly been neglected, and thanks to Ms. Henderson, it has now been brought to my attention, I found the photos of the Victorian toppers captivating, as I had never seen any qute like that before, Now I will scour antique malls looking for cake toppers to go with my own wedding cake topper from the 70's. I hope this book hasn't started me on another collection, but that is a possibility!

Average customer rating:

Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers
Penny Henderson
Manufacturer: NY
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000MU86HM

Book Description

Sewing Fun Stuff! Soft Sculpture Shortcuts is a 160 page fully illustrated hardcover book featuring over a dozen fun-filled and creative soft sculpture projects along with lots of tips and techniques for creating your own projects.All patterns and clear, concise, illustrated step by step instructions are included. The book has been featured on several guest segments aired on HGTV.

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful Craft Book.......2005-02-27

What a beautiful book! Great timeless projects, easy to understand instructions and gorgeous photography. Nothing fadish or soon-to-be-out-of-style in these well-done pages, so adding this to my personal home library was a no-brainer. Would make a great gift for anyone who loves fabric crafting.

Sewing Fun Stuff! Soft Sculpture Shortcuts (Bernina Sewing Library)

Average customer rating:

Sewing Fun Stuff! Soft Sculpture Shortcuts (Bernina Sewing Library)

ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: 1886884013

Average customer rating:

painting book

Complete guide, indeed!

black and decker complete guide to painting and decorating

The Complete Guide to Painting & Decorating : Using Paint, Stain & Wallpaper in Home Decor (Black & Decker Complete Guide)

Manufacturer: Creative Publishing international
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Remodeling & Renovation | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Decorating | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Painting & Wallpapering | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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The Complete Guide to Doors & Windows (Black & Decker)

ASIN: 1589232623

Amazon.com

A good choice for those who want to add a little flair, depth, and sophistication to their interior painting and decorating efforts, Black & Decker: The Complete Guide to Painting and Decorating will encourage you to do more than just slap on some paint. After flipping through the pages and seeing more than 700 color photos, you will want to play with paint, experiment with it, and control it. The first section of the book--Color & Decorating Principles--explains color theory as well as the use of colors and patterns to create moods in a room. (Warm colors, for example, help make north-facing rooms more inviting, and the people in them warmer.) The second section of the book--Basic Painting & Wallcovering --explains the process of preparing surfaces for finish paint, choosing the right materials, and estimating quantities. (This portion also notes how small patterns help make close spaces seem larger and more open, while large patterns are stimulating and look best in active areas such as a child's room or a large kitchen.) The book's final section--Advanced Painting & Decorating--looks at how to embellish walls and floors with faux designs and decorative accents, and how to add elegant touches with wallcovering cutouts, cornices, and wall frame moldings. Specialty painting tools are also discussed, including paint gloves for contoured surfaces such as pipe and wrought-iron, bendable paint pads for window shutters and cast-iron radiators, and mixer bits. Knowing that some of the designs and color combinations may spur people to wilder-than-normal decisions, the authors wisely advise that people first get samples of their preferred wallcoverings or paints, and then take them home and subject them to the 24-hour test, checking from time to time over the course of a full day to see how the colors change under varying lighting situations. --John Russell

Book Description

Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Painting & Decorating is a comprehensive source of information on all do-it-yourself techniques for home decor: interior painting, wallpapering and staining. In addition, it provides a practical introduction to the basics of home decor design and color theory.

This major revision of an all-time home decor best seller updates all the tried and true techniques from the original book. These classic projects have now been revised to feature the latest tools, today's most popular patterns and colors, and new, in-demand techniques.

Expanded from 256 to 288 pages, this revised edition of Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Painting & Decorating also adds 20 all-new projects, showing do-it-yourselfers how to achieve popular new painting and decorating effects. New projects include: Plaster Skim-Coating, Geometric Paint Effects, Trompe l'eil Wallpaper Installation, Antique Staining, Rub-on Stencils, Wall-lettering, and more.

Customer Reviews:

painting book.......2006-11-15

Not worth the price - bought another book at the same time that is indispensible.

Complete guide, indeed!.......2002-12-21

I can do a passable paint job- but this book helps me assess color and patterns, select type of paint and tools specific to the job, prepare the surfaces and apply the paint. It even guides me through complicated patterns and uses I wouldn't have contemplated at all, without a clear guide. This book takes you through it all with clear advice, excellent step-by-step color photographs. You'll save lots of money and time, and best of all, get easy-to-follow advice to do it right the first time.

black and decker complete guide to painting and decorating.......2000-06-06

this book is written so one can get many interesting ideas and easy to follow instructions. a varity of ideas for everyone pocket book pictures demoastrate beautifully the techniques i really enjoyed this book and recommend it to everyone redecorating thier homes and or giving a room a fresh look

Book Description

Alexander Kordas own story is as extraordinary as any film hes ever made, taking him from revolutionary Hungary to Hollywood during the advent of sound, and London in the 30s where he set up a film empire. A friend of Churchill, he worked for British Intelligence and was knighted for his war effort. In his new book, Charles Drazin paints a vivid picture of this remarkable man.

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