Cupid and Diana: A Novel

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Such a nice surprise...

Painful

Satisfying

Delightful

A Sweet if Somewhat Vapid Read

Cupid and Diana: A Novel
Christina Bartolomeo
Manufacturer: Scribner
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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The Side of the Angels

ASIN: 0684856220

Amazon.com

What is it with Catholic girls anyway? In Christina Bartolomeo's Cupid and Diana, Diana Campanella, a decidedly '90s woman with a penchant for early-'50s fashion, can't help but wonder if there isn't more to life. True, making the switch from her dull government job to ownership of a vintage clothing shop has been a personal victory. But the shop is about to go the way of the corset, and Diana's bank balance is dangerously low. Meanwhile, acting as referee between her head-butting sisters (a professional lingerie model in one corner, a perfect Catholic housewife in the other) is intolerable at best. And lawyer-fiancé Philip--handsome, well-dressed, a veritable Clark Kent with a bankroll--provides Diana with stability, security, and a notable shortage of profound passion.

Enter one Harry Sandburg, a displaced New York lawyer with a five o'clock shadow and a rumpled suit to match: "He had the sort of sweet and sad smile some Jewish guys have. It radiated a wry self-deprecation in which there was nothing humble or cringing." Harry is witty, wise, and utterly endearing. To make matters worse, their fervent lovemaking is enough to peel paint from the walls--a fact Diana learns one sweltering evening after a little too much Chianti and meatballs. Profound passion? Yes. But Harry's staying power is questionable, and Diana isn't getting any younger. Amidst mounds of manicotti and family feuds, vintage Roxbury suits and dreary Washington, D.C., political events, Diana struggles to choose between what she should do and what she truly wants. Funny, warm, sophisticated, and intelligent, Bartolomeo's debut is a keen romantic comedy packed with both fictional and fashionable delights. --Stefanie Hargreaves

Book Description

Diana Campanella is the owner of a vintage clothing store in Washington, D.C., teetering on the brink of disaster. She and her blue-blood lawyer fiance still have not set a date for their wedding. And it's becoming more difficult than ever for Diana to keep the peace in her big, unruly Catholic family. But just when all hope seems lost, Diana meets a rumpled New Yorker named Harry, who casts a new light on her life and its possibilities. Now all she has to do is decide whether Harry's warmth and great sense of humor is a better bet than the familiar security her fiance has to offer.

Customer Reviews:

Such a nice surprise..........2005-02-16

I really enjoyed reading this book and have reread it at least twelve times. It has a spunky everywoman of a heroine whose many endearing quirks (I flat-out adore any fiction heroine with unruly curly hair like mine!) include a tendency to remember special occasions in her life by the outfit she had on at the time. This vintage clothing store owner has to make the usual choice between two men - but this time with a twist. Both men have the same potential (only in different ways) to become Diana's perfect soulmate. Cupid and Diana is, in my opinion, a cut above most "chick lit" not just for its story, or even its heroine, but for the author's prose. She has an amazing gift for adding profound statements about life and love in a sweet and fresh way that just blows me away every time I read this book. My favorite example of this is when Diana states that her taste in men runs to guys who have had to wear glasses at an early age - because it "instills sweetness and empathy" - as opposed to her sister's cookie-cutter handsome jerk of a boyfriend. I loved the characterization in this book, though they hit perhaps a little too close to home in some cases, and the story played out really well. All in all, I give this book five stars. I would recommend it to someone who wanted more story and character in their love story than simply steamy boot-knockin' (although there is some of that in here too!).

Painful.......2004-01-18

How can such a short book take so long to read? I hate to say that, because the first chapter sucked me in. Just when I thought the plot was going to move along, she starts to get into a bunch of backstory. Okay, fine, we need a little expostion. Then the book turned out to be more whiny backstory than any real plot. The book lacked any real character development and Diana just couldn't stop whining to save her life. To top it all off, the author used Tom Waits in vain. It didn't sound like she was really into Tom Waits, just using crib notes in the hopes that it would make the book sound "edgy." It only made her look like a poseur. If this book had a soundtrack, Tom Waits wouldn't fit the bill. Try some Dan Fogelberg next time, Ms. Bartolomeo.

Satisfying.......2002-07-26

It won't light the world on fire, but Cupid and Diana will satisfy anyone with a taste for the new, lightly comic women's fiction books that have taken the book world by storm of late. (Please don't use that gross term "Chick-Lit" in my presence. How condescending can you get?!) Unless, that is, the reader is squeamish about women having more than one sexual partner, in which case, he or she probably won't appreciate Diana's realistic dilemma. However, anyone who's been caught between two people will emphathize, and maybe learn something about relationships, faithfulness, and being true to oneself. The book is worth reading for Diana's letter to Harry alone. The descriptions of clothing are icing on the cake.

One question for Ms. Bartolomeo--why is Annette in the book? She serves no purpose. Get thee to an editor!

Delightful.......2002-04-19

This book is full of people I'd like to know. They are well-drawn and funny in all the right places.

They are also very lucky. Diana's family is populated with incredibly beautiful people. Though her shop is failing, it is a crisis of self-achievement rather than financial concerns.

All that aside, it's a really fun read. There's no deep philosophy going on here, but there are interesting truths which is really all a good book needs.

A Sweet if Somewhat Vapid Read.......2002-02-16

Diana Campanella is in her 30s when she realizes that her shop is floudering, as is her less-than-passionate relationship with her finace Philip. Throughout the course of Cupid and Diana, we are introduced to Diana's love-hate relationship with her large Catholic family, and follow along as her life changes upon meeting Harry Sandburg, a recently separated lawyer who has just moved to D.C. The novel is predictable in all aspects, but an easy read. Bartolomeo makes some interesting observations about life that make the book shine every now and then, but as whole, it's largely forgettable. A comfortable look at a life of a woman who manages to shake the cloak of inertia off of herself, something that, as we all know, is harder and harder to do as the years pass.

Cupid And Diana - A Novel About Finding The Right Man, The Right Career, And The Right Outfit

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Cupid And Diana - A Novel About Finding The Right Man, The Right Career, And The Right Outfit
Christina Bartolomeo
Manufacturer: Scribner
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000RISZNY

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Fullmetal Alchemist TV Animation Vol. 1 (Hagane no Renkinjyutsushi) (in Japanese)
Hiroshi Arakawa
Manufacturer: Square Enix
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Comic
ASIN: 4797328568

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Fullmetal Alchemist TV Anime Vol. 1 (Hagane no Renkinjyutsushi) (in Japanese)
Hiromu Arakawa
Manufacturer: Soft Bank
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Comic

General | Manga | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 479732855X

Average customer rating:

Why do only babies save the world in manga and anime?

FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST

Interesting, if overly episodic, beginning

Full Metal Alchemist Solider

Better than I would have ever thought
Fullmetal Alchemist, Vol. 1

Manufacturer: Tandem Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding

General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
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Fullmetal Alchemist, Vol. 2

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Fullmetal Alchemist, Volume 6

ASIN: 1417700017

Book Description

Alchemy: the mystical power to alter the natural world, somewhere between magic, art and science. When two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, dabbled in these powers to grant their dearest wish, one of them has lost an arm and a leg...and the other became nothing but a soul locked into a body of living iron. Now they are agents of the government, slaves of the military-alchemical complex, using their unique powers to obey their orders...even to kill. But their powers aren't unique. The world crawls with evil alchemists. And in pursuit of the ultimate alchemical treasure, the Philosopher's Stone, their enemies are even more ruthless than they are...

Customer Reviews:

Why do only babies save the world in manga and anime?.......2007-08-14

Which using underaged heroes and heroines as the leading character is a very heavily used (and pretty tiresome) cliche, this is actually a very good and well-drawn fantasy adventure (done by a female creator, for a change.)

A young boy and his (younger?) brother wander the world in search for a cure to fix their bodies (the kid had lost a couple of limbs in a freak accident while his kid brother is trapped in a handsome knight's armor suit) and run into some trouble like an overzealous curer and a dashing villain who is holding a humble little village hostage in his evil clutches. Of course, the tow-headed, moon-eyed kid saved the day.

I know Japan produces astonishing loads of comics for young boys (shonen) and girls (shojo), but it's not like adults NEVER read comics or manga at all, correct? Needless to say, I was very relieved to see a well-supporting cast of grown-ups (and their kids, too) carrying along the story, too.

FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST.......2007-03-04

"To obtain something, something of equal value must be lost" (Equivalent Exchange)

About a year ago I watched a few episodes of the FMA series and I kept tuning in to watch what would happen next. I woul always think to my self "Will Alphonse ever get his body back?". After frustration reached its apex a friend of mine spoiled it for me but also recommended I get a copy of the manga (Im the kind of girl that likes to read) and I did. I dont have too much to say about it. Its very different from the anime while at the same time very similar, like the plot, the characters, and most of all, equivalent exchange, but thats where the similarities end

Interesting, if overly episodic, beginning.......2007-02-28

Hiromu Arakawa, Fullmetal Alchemist, vol. 1 (ViZ, 2001)

I'm finally getting around to reading one of the most popular, beloved series in the entire world of Japanese media. I'm not terribly sure what took me so long, but there it is. And perhaps it's all the hype, or maybe it's just because Arakawa had to grow into the storyline, but it didn't blow me away. Don't get me wrong, it's a fine start, but it wasn't all that and a bag of soba.

The story concerns Edward Elric and his brother Alphonse, a pair of alchemists in an alternate-reality Japan where alchemy is common, and regulated by the government. Neither of the brothers is fully human, and the reason for that is revealed as this series of episodes (aside from giving us the beginnings of the brothers' story, there's nothing here that can really be called a story arc) goes on, but I got the feeling that Arakawa's aim through the stories presented in this first volume was to give the audience a feel for these characters, rather than to set up any big themes for later in the series. I could be wrong, of course, as the library's still got me waiting for volume 2, but that's my impression at the point.

Still, these are good characters, amusing and interesting, and the situations they find themselves in are also amusing and interesting. In the current manga wars that seem to be raging in my current reading, I have to say I'm liking Immortal Rain better and YuYu Hakusho easily as much, but this is certainly enough to keep me reading. *** ½

Full Metal Alchemist Solider.......2007-02-20

Do you like comic books like Naruto? Do you like Science Fiction? Well, read this book and you will laugh, cry, and be astonish by the characters in this Japanese comic book. There are four chapters but, they are long and humorus. The writer was also famous for Stray Dog in 1999; the book was an award winner like Full Metal Alchemist. The fourth chapter is full of humor and misgrief. Read the book and find out what happens. p.s. There are eleven volumes in total, and by the way, they are all $9.99.

Better than I would have ever thought.......2007-02-08

I used to hate anime and manga as a whole. That was until I decided to watch the Fullmetal Alchemist anime on a whim. Saw all 51 episodes and the movie in two days- yes, it was that addictive. Fresh out of anime and disgusted with the end of the series/movie, I bought the manga. And believe it or not, the manga is even better than the anime.

At first, it dosn't seem that much different from it, but once you get into the series, oh how much more does it offer! The charactrization is deeper, and so is the plot. Every month I'm still left on a great big hanger wondering what's going to happen next. Not only is the story line, characters, and action great, this manga is chock-full of heart and morals. Some of the stuff in here is pretty deep, don't be decieved by it. And for a mythology/symbolism nut like me, it offers a lot of entertainment.

For those of you who haven't seen the anime, the plot goes like this:
Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers from a rural town in the country of Amestris, tried to resurrect thier dead mother with the help of alchemy. However, things take a thing for the worse- the transmutaion goes horribly wrong, and Ed looses an arm and leg. Alphonse looses his entire body. Ed then transmutes Al's soul to an empty suit of armor, and Ed's limbs are replaced with Automail ( steel posthetics). The two brothers then set out on a quest for the Philosopher's Stone(this is nothing like Harry Potter, don't worry)which is the only thing that can return thier bodies to a normal state. In order to do this, Ed ends up working as a State Alchemist. And that's only the begining. Hiromu Arakawa keeps us constantly on our toes with so many plot twists, it's impossible to get bored of this manga.

So if you liked the anime, is a fan of manga, likes fantasy books, or is just looking for a fun read, go buy this series.

Word to younger readers- this manga does contain a lot of violence, but very little else besides that. I wouldn't let most pre-teens read it, but then again, it all depends on the maturitly level. Otherwise, this is an extremly great series.

FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST (VOL. 1 - Traditional Chinese)

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FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST (VOL. 1 - Traditional Chinese)
Hiromu Arakawa
Manufacturer: GAN GAN COMICS
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

All Chinese Books | Chinese | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
ASIN: B000KE17VC

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Fullmetal Alchemist Vol. 1-9
Hiromu Arakawa
Manufacturer: VIZ Media
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Manga | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books

Book Description

A magnificent, fantastical literary epic of Heaven and Hell in direct conflict, with sleeper agents who will murder, rape and torture at their masters command, and where the heroes will be lucky to save their own skins. It's 2017 and the End Days are coming, beings that were once human gathering to fight in one last great war for control of the Vellum - the vast realm of eternity on which our world is just a scratch. But to a draft-dodging Irish angel and a trailer-trash tomboy called Phreedom, it's about to become brutally clear that there's no great divine or diabolic plan at play here, just a vicious battle between the hawks of Heaven and Hell, with humanity stuck in the middle, and where the easy rhetoric of Good and Evil, Order versus Chaos just doesn't apply. Here there are no heroes, no darlings of destiny struggling to save the day, and there are no villains, no dark lords of evil out to destroy the world. Or at least if there are, it's not quite clear which is which. Here, the most ancient gods and the most modern humans are equally fate's fools, victims of their own hubris, struggling to save their own skins, their own souls, but sometimes....just sometimes....sacrificing everything in the name of humanity.

Customer Reviews:

A fine line.......2007-09-10

Hal Duncan is living proof that there is a very fine line between genius and insanity. Unfortunately, this book proves good ol' Hal is more the latter than the former. This book reads like it was written by a complete maniac. Granted you can't help but be impressed by the genius of it all, but that doesn't make it a good, or even readable, story.

I finished the book only because I forced myself to do so. This book is so easy to put down and there are many parts, when one of the oh-so-frequent changes between different characters (or perhaps the same character with a different name, or in a different time) would come along, and I'd find myself thinking "oh, I just can't do this right now." I'd then put the book down, and go back to actually doing work at my job because that was more appealing than forcing my way through more mindless drivel.

Another unreadable poetic masterpiece.......2007-08-31

Yeah, yeah, another unreadable poetic masterpiece. If you like poetic language and repetition, and can stomach it for hundreds of pages end on end, then this book is for you.

I've managed to get to about page 200. I'm guessing that the entire action or plot development that has occurred in those 200 pages would take a hack writer about three or four pages to present. (That's not a summary, it's a full, non-poetic exposition.) The other 196 or so pages represent poetry and repetition. That's a pretty high ratio. Even Proust probably had a mere five to one ratio of poetry to plot development.

In fairness I should note that the exact same story is retold in about four different dates and settings; so I suppose you could charitably say that we've had as many as sixteen pages of plot development for every 184 pages of poetry and and repetition. Providing you are willing to accept the exact same story as a development if the character's names are changed, (Thomas vs Tamuz) and the locale is called something else, (Sumeria vs some unnamed university). In music it's called development of a theme. In novels it should be called trite when overused.

It is still more than I can stand, but if you like poetry and repetition, this is the book for you.

Alternately compelling and meandering.......2007-08-01

Hal Duncan's first novel is obviously just that - a first novel. Vellum contains several books worth of nifty ideas, none of which are really developed in a satisfying way. Duncan is in general so focused on pushing sytlistic boundaries with the contruction of the book that he looses track of much of its potential. In particular, Vellum could have benefitted from a sharp editorial pencil in cutting out some of the repetitous material (the gay oppression political angle is fine, and valid, but is harped on so vigourously in the first half of the book that its impact is greatly diluted; also, the scenes of WWI imagery are tediously similar and overplentiful).

That said, I did enjoy the book, and am thinking hard about buying the sequel to read the next time I have a 7-hour plane flight to sit through....

Difficult, but rewarding bit of postmodernism.......2007-07-20

Let me start by saying that if you like complex literature, you're more likely to like Vellum. If you prefer fun, relaxing reads -- Vellum isn't relaxing. Sometimes it's downright painful. I'd compare it to Joyce (like so many others) for its wordplay, but it smacks of some of Faulkner's more nonlinear work, or even French surrealism when it abandons plot. It's not quite as difficult as The Sound and the Fury or Ulysses . . . but close.

The trick is this: the characters exist outside of time, and so you cannot tell their story from point A to point B. The novel jumps around in time, across multiple characters, all of whom express different facets of the archetypes that are the real characters. The author tries to assist us by printing in multiple types, but they're so similar that it doesn't really help. Transitions are nonexistent (and sometimes, there are sections breaks that do not, actually, herald a change in perspective, scene, or point of view! My biggest peeve). Point of view is about as fluid as I've ever seen it outside of experimental poetry.

But damn, does this thing read pretty. It's a bit like incantation, and there are sections -- whole pages -- that could be rendered in verse. It's also thought provoking, although the philosophical ideas aren't exactly cutting edge, and haven't been for twenty years. The characters, once you understand the ways in which they're linked by symbols and archetypes, are engaging and interesting, and although they're super-human, they're filled with human flaws.

I see there's a sequel, and to be honest, I intend to buy it and read it . .. but not yet. This book is a bit of a raw experience, with all the horror of Nietzsche's Eternal Recurrence.

experimental novel; many stories expertly blended.......2007-07-09

Vellum is not for everyone. Neither is House of Leaves, The Illuminatus! Trilogy: The Eye in the Pyramid, The Golden Apple, Leviathan, City of Saints and Madmen, or (dare I link to my own book?) Chunnel Surfer II.

It seems to be one of a new trend in novels, an "experimental novel" if you will that takes multiple related stories, shreds them and re-weaves them in new and interesting ways, the result greater than the sum of its parts, due, in part, to the tendency of the reader's mind to fill in the gaps and create connections when they are not explicitly in the text.

Vellum: The Book of All Hours 1 (SIGNED)

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Vellum: The Book of All Hours 1 (SIGNED)
Hal Duncan
Manufacturer: Macmillan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000PH354G

Book Description

This first-rate biblical and theological study offers an accessible examination of the key texts of Scripture pertinent to understanding female roles, affirming full equality of the sexes in family and church. The third edition has been revised throughout. Gilbert Bilezikian avoids using scholarly jargon and complex argumentation in the main text of the book to encourage readers to interact with the biblical research. The aim is for nonspecialized readers to be able to follow his discussion step-by-step, evaluate arguments, consider alternative views, and arrive at independent conclusions. The study guide format of the book is designed for either individual investigation or group work. Pastors, church leaders, students, and those interested in issues relating to gender and church life will value this classic work on the egalitarian viewpoint.

Customer Reviews:

Faulty Exegesis.......2007-07-23

Those seeking a fair, scholarly analysis of Bilezikian's original edition would do well to consider Thomas R. Schreiner's review which appeared in the Journal of The Evangelical Theological Society 30 (1987) pg 99-100. Schreiner takes the author to task for faulty exegesis at a number of points. He concludes that the Wheaton Professor's book "is not grounded on historical exegesis but on modern presuppositions. These persuppositions he laments sadly cause the author to read his theology and experiences "into the text."

Beyond Sex Roles.......2007-05-21

Gilbert Bilezikian has done much to change my views of men and women's roles in the church and in life in general. This book was very thorough and thought-provoking. Bilezikian fully explains all the controversial verses in the old and new testaments that men have used in the church to keep women "in their place." He puts women on equal footing with men as it should be.

Trash.......2007-04-19

Great for feninist christian women,wanting to deny the sciptures and establish an androgenous church.

An Admirabal Attempt to restore God-given equality.......2006-09-15

Bilezikian is definetly to be praised for promoting gender equality as he, and many others, believe is God's true design. Several of his arguments are very well-written and challenging, doubtless refreshing to those yearning to break free of the yokes of sexism.

However, in some cases I found the book a bit heavy-handed; as much as I agree with Bilezikian's general view, he got carried away a few times and some of his statements were inaccurate. I don't agree with his idea that Adam was to blame for Eve's sin because he didn't inform her of God's warning to not eat the fruit (Eve point-blank told the serpent that God warned her of the fruit, so this couldn't be true), nor do I agree that Abraham "obeyed" Sarah by marrying Hagar. Not only is the latter statement inaccurate, but it defeats the point of marital equality that Bilezikian is trying to promote. Marital equality means NEITHER spouse should obey, so implying that the husband should is just as inaccurate as saying the wife should.

I also found his extreme criticism of churches with male leadership too harsh; while I agree that men should not be placed above women, calling a church's practice monstrous because it follows a traditional method is crossing the line. As a person who has had more of her share of sexism in "Christian" teaching, I can certainly appreciate Bilezikian's passion, but many of the things he said could have been worded better and I can see why some took offense at his words.

However, not all of the criticism aimed at his book is deserved. Some have said that he contradicts himself by citing Genesis, yet calling many aspects of the Old testament invalid. I believe Bilezikian was referring to societal practices in the Old Testament as being invalid, whereas his referral to Genesis had not to do with society, but with God's plan when He first created the world. If you recall, God's plan for the world and the world's practices after the Fall were two completely separate things, so Bilezikian was really not at all contradicting himself by discrediting one and supporting the other. His overall argument is certainly valid. People DO need to step into modern times and stop trying to teach women to stay beneath men; in response to someone's statement that "The sexes were created for different services; is this so terrible?" No, but sexism is, so kindly swallow it before you speak of God. Adam and Eve were created for equal rule over Eden and God's design for equality still stands today; is THAT so terrible? And to answer another's question, these liberating views of equality HAVE been discovered before; you just apparently haven't been looking for them. Perhaps you should read Christ's lessons then, because He was actually the first after the Fall to truly introduce the idea of men and women serving equally under Him.

This book has many good points, but if you wish for a more in-depth study of Biblical equality, I recommend "Paul, Women and Wives" and "What Paul really said about Women" over this.

Must read.......2006-08-01

This book is one of many which are reevaluating our gender paradigmns in the church. It draws from the author's personal study and scholarly review of other's works. It contains a rich section of more detailed notes as well as a great bibliography of other works in this arena of thought.

Many Christians have wrestled with the confining role's others have defined for them. It is refreshing to see that ongoing study continues to lead us into freedoms originally intended by the Father. These paradigms should empower God's people to be able to mature into the full stature He desires for His church.

It is a must read for anyone who is on a quest to gain better understanding of our Father's design when He expressed His image through mankind in the form of two genders.

Beyond Sex Roles - What The Bible Says About A Woman's Place In Church And Family

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Beyond Sex Roles - What The Bible Says About A Woman's Place In Church And Family
Gilbert Bilezikian
Manufacturer: Baker Book House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Bakelite in the Kitchen (Schiffer Book for Collectors)
Barbara E. Mauzy
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Kitchenware | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0764313797

Book Description

Popular in the 1930s and 1940s, Bakelite has again become a material of choice for many collectors, and this is the informative guide that Bakelite enthusiasts have been waiting for! Barbara E. Mauzy provides a definitive look at Bakelite with almost 600 full-color photographs of thousands of pieces, including their descriptions and values. More than 40 categories of kitchenware are presented in this appealing volume that covers gadgets, flatware, napkin rings, children's utensils, and even some non-kitchen examples too colorful and fun to miss. This is the one, indispensable source of information on dating, manufacturers, and designs that is an absolute must for the dealer, the collector, even the non-collector., 573 color photos, 8 1/2" x 11", Price Guide

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Some fresh new patterns to choose from

I am so disappointed....

Excellent for beginners and advanced alike!

101 Crochet Squares (1216)
Jean Leinhauser
Manufacturer: American School of Needlework/Asn Pub.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Crocheting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0881957151

Book Description

Now all the many crocheters who love to crochet have 101 Crochet Squares to keep them happy. Jean Leinhauser has chosen these squares for their uniqueness and their design possibilities. Every square is shown in full-color photography and has been carefully edited. Use the squares for all your crochet projects from afghans to sweaters.

Customer Reviews:

Some fresh new patterns to choose from.......2005-03-01

I was looking for more "granny square" patterns and came across this book and ordered it.

It becomes hard finding "fresh new" patterns if you have picked up crochet books in the past. I was thrilled with many of the patterns in this book, since they were different from the ones I already had. It was just what I wanted; lots of lovely patterns so that I could make my own creative designed afghan.

I would consider myself beyond a beginner in crochet, however not advanced, and the instructions of the squares I have made were easy and clear.

I think this book is for anyone wanting to expand their square pattern library, and worth the money.

I am so disappointed...........2005-02-26

I had purchased this book based on the suggestion of someone in one of my granny square swaps - I am returning it today. The color photos of the squares are 16 to a page - very hard to see - and the photos next to the patterns themselves are black and white. I have been crocheting for years and tried several patterns from this book - none of them came out well enough to use in my swap.

Perhaps this book is good for very advanced crochet, but if that is the case, it should be made clear.

Excellent for beginners and advanced alike!.......1999-12-01

This book is great! Each square is creative but well thought out and easy to follow! I have used many of these squares to design my own afghans!

Amazon.com

If you're one-stop shopping for great trimming, gift-giving, and cooking ideas, it's hard to do better than Christmas with Southern Living. Filled with glorious photos, excellent directions, and extensive recipes, the large, lush volume presents a bounty of ways to decorate, craft, and entertain in true Southern Living style.

Elegant centerpieces feature pears and partridges, candles and kumquats. Chandeliers drip with ribbons, glass ornaments, and greenery. A clever mantel scarf disguises pockets to hold gifts and treats. Imaginative cookie houses mimic a barn or a country church. Soups and stews, cakes and chocolates are just the beginning when it comes to recipes; there are also full menus for a Mediterranean feast, a rustic cabin meal, a full Southern-style Christmas dinner, and other irresistible party ideas.

An exhaustive source list provides contact information for supplies as well as specific items (such as china, furnishings, and even entire historic houses) showcased in the photos. An added bonus is the holiday planning guide, complete with entertainment organizer forms, helpful holiday hints, napkin-folding diagrams, and card and gift list blanks. Crafters and hosts from any geographical region will enjoy preparing for the holidays under the expert guidance in this stunning book. --Amy Handy

Book Description

From the most treasured authority on gracious holiday entertaining comes a special 25th anniversary edition of Christmas with Southern Living. As always, CWSL takes readers on a photographic tour of the South's most spectacular residences, decorated to the hilt in a variety of Christmas styles. This commemorative volume also features 25 all-time favorite Christmas recipes; 25 years of top decorating and gift ideas; and a lavish Christmas dinner menu with a step-by-step photographic "Countdown-to-Christmas" calendar and style guide. New "5 Ingredient, 15 Minute Holiday Recipes" help preserve your sanity during the hectic Christmas season.

Key Features:

* Complete guide to the holidays, containing new ideas for decorating, holiday cooking and entertaining, food gifts, and wrappings
* Nearly 100 kitchen-tested recipes with shortcut options
* Over 100 ideas for decorating the entire house—simple centerpieces, place cards, party favors, table setting ideas—many of which are made from things you have on hand
* Over 50 Christmas Tips & Pointers

Customer Reviews:

Southern Living 2005.......2007-01-15

I love this book!! I had originally bought this book for the wonderful
christmas decor ideas...great centerpieces, table scapes, wreaths..ect.
I happen to decorate my house in a very "natural", woodsy theme and this book has loads of those...all just beautiful. To top it off, it has wonderful recipes too! Many times you will get a book like this and it will have a few things you love but the majority is so so. Not this one, I can say that I love everything in this book! Great purchase.

Punkinhead.......2006-06-14

Not what I expected. I have most of the other editions and it seems they took the best of the past 25 years and put it all in one book. I hope that 2006 edition is better!!!

Totally enjoyed the book!!.......2006-02-05

This was my first purchase of a Christmas With Southern Living book and I was quite happy with my purchase and am anticipating the 2006!! I took this to my parents one weekend when my sisters were there and they all wanted a copy. I used quite a few of the recipes from the book for my Thanksgiving Dinner and they went over well especially the Butter Coconut Pie--YUMMY. As I am not a seasoned CWSL book buyer I don't have others to compare it to (except for one from the 1990's my sister gave me which I felt was not half as nice as this one)but would give this ***** five stars.

25th Anniversary Edition Falls Far Short of Expectations.......2006-02-03

I am a decades-long lover of Southern Living publications. Whether we buy the magazines, the cookbooks, or the home products, many of us count on Southern Living for unsurpassed quality and creativity.

I am extremely disappointed with "Christmas with Southern Living 2005". This edition marks the 25th Anniversary of this regularly phenomenal book. I can hardly believe this belongs in the same category as the volumes from previous years.

Certainly, the color photography remains true to form, wonderfully presented. But it's the sheer lack of creative craft ideas, and the fewer number of quality recipe ideas that mar this normally fantastic book. I was expecting a five-star product for the silver anniversary - what I fear I've received is far below what SL should have offered.

I expect CwSL 2006 to make up for what 2005's edition was lacking - this company will most certainly not let us down again. I'll continue to buy Southern Living books without hesitation - and with excitement! I'm simply disappointed that the 2005 book will find its way to the back of the bookcase.

A must have for the Christmas perfectionist!.......2005-10-25

I'm an admitted Christmas fanatic. I love decorating the house, baking everyday in the month of December & decking out the tree. This book has so many great ideas & recipes, especially the planned menus for breakfast, lunch & dinner! You can never go wrong buying a Southern Living book.

Christmas With Southern Living 1998 (Christmas With Southern Living)

Average customer rating:

Holiday Recipes From Breakfast to Late Snacks--Must Try!!

Christmas With Southern Living 1998 (Christmas With Southern Living)

Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

Christmas & Hanukkah | Special Occasions | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

Holidays | Special Occasions | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

Decorating | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Seasonal | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0848718003

Customer Reviews:

Holiday Recipes From Breakfast to Late Snacks--Must Try!!.......2000-11-22

I first checked this book out from the local library and picked out a few recipes to try for Thanksgiving prior to the Christmas holiday parties. I also took it to my mother for her to look at. She began writing down page numbers of recipes she want copies of too. After trying several of the recipes, which for the most part, were very easy, I decided I wanted this book in my home for year round entertaining. The craft and decorating ideas are also wonderful. I especially liked the tomato cage Christmas trees. It was simple to make and when I showed my friends they couldn't believe it--you have to see the pictures in the book to appreciate how simple and elegant they are and so inexpensive to make. For your holiday entertaining I strongly recommend this beautiful book.

Average customer rating:

Entertaining With Southern Living
Margaret Chason Agnew
Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

Tablesetting | Special Occasions | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

General | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 084870780X

Decorating With Paint & Wall Coverings (Southern Living (Paperback Sunset))

Average customer rating:

Decorating With Paint & Wall Coverings (Southern Living (Paperback Sunset))

Manufacturer: Sunset Publishing Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Buildings & Construction | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Household Hints | How-to & Home Improvements | 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

Christmas With Victoria 1998 (Christmas with Victoria)

Average customer rating:

Christmas With Victoria 1998 (Christmas with Victoria)
Southern Living
Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Christmas & Hanukkah | Special Occasions | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

Decorating | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Seasonal | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Style | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Family Health | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0848718070

Average customer rating:

At Home With Southern Living

Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books

General | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0848705173

Christmas With Southern Living 2007 (Christmas With Southern Living)

Average customer rating:

Christmas with Southern Living 2007
A Tradition Continues
Christmas With Southern Living 2007
Holiday Ideas
Best edition ever!

Christmas With Southern Living 2007 (Christmas With Southern Living)
Editors of Southern Living
Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

Holidays | Special Occasions | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Decorating | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0848731522

Book Description

For a comprehensive reference on Christmas decorating, entertaining, cooking, gifts, and wrapping, there's no more revered source than the authorities at Southern Living. Christmas with Southern Living 2007 marks its 27th year of inspiring loyal readers with stylish, innovative ideas for the holidays.

As always, it offers a tour of the South's most stunning residences, all adorned to the hilt for the holidays with easy tips for replicating the looks in your own home. Christmas with Southern Living 2007 covers the full range of holiday home and entertaining options, from delightful decorating inside and out, to updated menus and party recipes, uniquely festive table settings, and heartfelt gifts from the kitchen. It includes clear directions for all projects, over 100 easy-to-follow recipes, and beautiful photography to inspire.For a comprehensive reference on Christmas decorating, entertaining, cooking, gifts, and wrapping, there's no more revered source than the authorities at Southern Living. Christmas with Southern Living 2007 marks its 27th year of inspiring loyal readers with stylish, innovative ideas for the holidays.

Features:

Christmas with Southern Living 2007 continues its 27-year popularity streak

Over 200 full-color photos to delight and inspire

All-new menus and over 100 recipes specially developed and kitchen-tested for guaranteed goodness

Special sections include Make Ahead Party Food, Healthy Holidays, Kids in the Kitchen, and the grand Christmas Dinner

Bonus Thanksgiving decorating section--all new for 2007

Customer Reviews:

Christmas with Southern Living 2007.......2007-09-22

I have been collecting these books for over 10 years and 2007 is not their best. I was disappointed.

A Tradition Continues.......2007-09-21

Each year I look forward to the release of the annual "Christmas With Southern Living" book with great anticipation. It really gets me "in the mood" for the holidays with excellent recipes for everything from Christmas dinner to holiday snacks. Then there are the ideas for holiday decorations for indoors and out. Unlike the ideas in some books, these ideas can be replicated in my own home. Each year I think surely they will run out of new ideas, but they don't! This is a holiday tradition I intend to continue!

Christmas With Southern Living 2007.......2007-09-13

I've collected these books since the early 1990's and I do not think this edition is a nice or has as many helpful ideas as the past few recent years books. The recipies are not ones that I will make, and always before I could hardly wait to make several of them.

Holiday Ideas.......2007-08-26

I have this annual series of books since 1982. The book contain great ideas for holiday entertaining, gifts, and holiday menus. You may even find a new recipe that can become one of your holiday favorites. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the holiday season.

Best edition ever!.......2007-06-25

With gorgeous decorations and excellent entertaining tips, fabulous recipes and great short-cuts, this issue of "Christmas with Southern Living" will inspire readers and help harried hosts and hostesses remove some of the stress from the holiday season. Also includes a beautiful, casual Thanksgiving celebration. I've collected these books since 1986, and, in my opinion, this edition is the BEST!

Decorating With Paint and Wall Coverings (Southern Living)

Average customer rating:

Decorating With Paint and Wall Coverings (Southern Living)

Manufacturer: Sunset Pub Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0376090251

Decorating With Southern Living (Decorating With)

Average customer rating:

Decorating With Southern Living (Decorating With)
Louis Joyner
Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Household Hints | How-to & Home Improvements | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Decorating | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Decoration & Ornament | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0848707729

Holiday Homes (At Home with Southern Living)

Average customer rating:

Holiday Homes (At Home with Southern Living)
Nancy Janice Fitzpatrick , and Vicki L. Ingham
Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Decorating | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Christi Carter's Art of Accessorizing

ASIN: 084870746X

Book Description

The American paitner and sculptor Keith Haring, who died in 1990, is, without question, one of the most popular artists of the 20th century. More than a decade after his death, his output is still important to both a younger generation of artists and to the public in general. Therefore, as more and more of his fans and admirers know him only from the posters and products adorned with his images, it seems all the more essential to present the lesser-known aspects of Haring's oeuvre: to look beyond the Haring of the ubiquitous, world-famous cheerful matchstick figures. From his earliest days as an artist, Haring engaged with the meaning of death, suffering, and violence; with the importance of religion and the afterlife to the individual and to society. It is only against this background that his positive, life-affirming icons can be properly understood. The main focus of this publication is on paintings and drawings from the artist's estate, some of which have never been previously published, as well as the rarely seen, large format pictures and wall hangings on the theme of heaven and hell.

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