Women with Men : Three Stories
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Take Two
  • Portraits of Depression
  • A required read for Ford fans
  • Disappointing
Women with Men : Three Stories
Richard Ford
Manufacturer: Vintage
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

ContemporaryContemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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GeneralGeneral | Short Stories | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Ford, RichardFord, Richard | ( F ) | Authors, A-Z | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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  5. Independence Day Independence Day

ASIN: 0679776680
Release Date: 1998-04-28

Book Description

Richard Ford's Independence Day--his sequel to The Sportswriter, and an international bestseller--is the only novel ever to have received both the Pulitzer Prize and the PEN/Faulkner Award. Now, with Women With Men, he reaffirms his mastery of shorter fiction with his first collection since the widely acclaimed Rock Springs, published a decade ago.

The landscape of Women with Men ranges from the northern plains of Montana to the streets of Paris and the suburbs of Chicago, where Mr. Ford's various characters experience the consolations and complications that prevail in matters of passion, romance and love. A seventeen-year-old boy starting adulthood in the shadow of his parents' estrangement, a survivor of three marriages now struggling with cancer, an ostensibly devoted salesman in early middle age, an aspiring writer, a woman scandalously betrayed by her husband--they each of them contend with the vast distances that exist between those who are closest together. Whether alone, long married or newly met, they confront the obscure difference between privacy and intimacy, the fine distinction of pleasing another as opposed to oneself, and a need for reliance that is tempered by fearful vulnerability.

In three long stories, Richard Ford captures men and women at this complex and essential moment of truth--in the course of everyday life, or during a bleak Thanksgiving journey, seismic arguments, Christmas abroad, the sudden disappearance of a child, even a barroom shooting. And with peerless emotional nuance and authority he once again demonstrates, as Elizabeth Hardwick has written, "a talent as strong and varied as American fiction has to offer."

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Take Two.......1999-11-23

I think this is one of Richard Ford's best along with Wildlife, Rock Springs, and The Ultimate Good Luck. The subject matter and setting are quite different from the Americana we've come to expect from him, yet the depth of insight is there in maybe even more intensity than in any other works. I rank the first story, The Womanizer, up there with more obvious and less subtle works by Camus concerning "the human condition" While some reviwers found the protagonist lacking direction and substance, I felt that this was precisely WHY this story was so good. Ford has managed to portray a character who is non-commital and self-deceptive to the point of ridiculousness. He is an onion skin of lies and apathy floating back and forth between Paris and the US under the illusion that he is having an affair with a woman that he really doesn't care about. There are so many great scenes in here from the one where he imagines himself in court with his wife to when he presents the little boy with a gift. Ford undermines him with irony from start to finish and presents us with incredible detail and insight a character who is fundementally vague and doesn't even know himself let alone others. A classic of the short novel which should be ranked with the best of Peter Handke in this genre. There is a little of this protagonist in all of us. Well done.

3 out of 5 stars Portraits of Depression.......1998-10-19

Richard Ford's Women with Men is a collection of three short stories. The first and third seem closely related. They focus on two men from the Midwest, both entering middle age, and both profoundly confused and clueless. The city of Paris features prominently in both stories. The third, story, much shorter and sandwiched between the Paris tales is a sort of coming of age tale of a teenage boy in Montana. It seems somewhat out of place.

In the first story, "The Womanizer", Martin Austin a supposedly happily married man, has traveled to Paris for a business trip where he finds himself intrigued by a somber, enigmatic woman undergoing a painful divorce. The story chronicles what happens when Austin becomes unaccountably obsessed with her. In the other Paris story, "Occidentals", Charley Matthews, whose wife has recently abandoned him, is visiting Paris on business, accompanied by his lover, Helen. I found both stories painful and dreary but was struck by how congruent Ford's writing style was with the psyche of the characters. Both the characters and the writing are ponderous, and humorless and grim. The result is an unusually intense portrayal of unconscious grief, depression, and delusion and quiet despair among men (and the women in their lives) who are groping for meaning and purpose in a soul-dead existence, and who are floundering for human connection without the slightest capacity for autheticity or intimacy.

4 out of 5 stars A required read for Ford fans.......1998-02-05

This collection of stories extends a major theme in Ford's work: women sans men do just fine. Drop a male or two into the picture, and the problems start to pile up. This collection throws this thematic cream pie in your face. It's not a subtle message; the title's obvious poke at Hemingway gives it away before Page One. Fortunately, its thematic constructs do not overshadow the absolute quality of the work. Ford is a premier American writer, and this volume upholds his lofty standing, although it may not raise it to the next level (whatever that may be). Still, there are nits to pick. To the well initiated, these stories may well read like highly developed drafts of finer works to come. While the characters are true and well-developed, they lack a certain depth of those in other Ford works. And the internal dialogs, for which Ford is famous, sometimes border on whining, particularly in the third story, Occidentals. If you're not a Ford fan, these shortcomings may leave you searching for a more engaging read. Still, anyone interested in serious American literature, should check out Women with Men.

2 out of 5 stars Disappointing.......1997-07-20

Way before the Pulitzer, back in the work shirt and jeans days before Sportswriter, I developed a real hunger for every word being published by Richard Ford. It was a great satisfaction for me when significant recognition arrived for him. As a deep fan I seized Women With Men as soon as it came out. But I'm sad to say the book disappointed me. In the Paris stories, gloomy and forlorn are perfectly acceptable, but insufficient. A good dose of Paris would help, but Paris just isn't there the way Oaxaca was there in The Ultimate Good Luck, or the way New Jersey and New York State were there in Sportswriter and Independence Day. Except for some cliched Left Bank geographical references, Womanizer and Occidentals could both be set in Binghamton, and would be better stories as real Binghamton than fake Paris. The Paris stories seem like a couple of false-start fragments of a novel which never got off the ground. Kind of strange that in each of them the narrator is surprised to note that Paris is in the North, and not the middle. Jealous is an old-fashioned Ford story which feels like a remnant of the material from which Wildlife was sculpted. Perhaps I'm blind or dense, but I can't figure out why Jealous is stuck in there between Womanizer and Occidentals. Of course if this were an absolutely random selection of three prime quality Ford stories, I probably wouldn't even wonder or care if they hung together as a collection. Is it too cynical to imagine that Knopf wanted a quick package to ride the Pulitzer tide, and scooped together Women With Men out of old stuff Ford had lying around? All of the above notwithstanding, I have no doubt that Richard Ford's very best writing is in the future, not the past.
Women With Men - Three Stories
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Women With Men - Three Stories
    Richard Ford
    Manufacturer: Alfred A. Knopf
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover
    ASIN: B000IX4GG8

    Superman: Red Son (Elseworlds)
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • Great Read
    • Graphic SF Reader
    • A fine reimagining of the Superman mythos
    • It's great
    • Elseworlds - Brilliant
    Superman: Red Son (Elseworlds)
    Mark Millar
    Manufacturer: DC Comics
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

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    5. Superman/Batman Vol. 1: Public Enemies Superman/Batman Vol. 1: Public Enemies

    ASIN: 1401201911

    Book Description

    This CD Contains a Collection of Superman Radio Shows.

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Great Read.......2007-10-01

    Great read for anyone looking for a creative well thought out twist to the Superman legacy.

    4 out of 5 stars Graphic SF Reader.......2007-09-03

    A very different relationship between Luthor/Superman and Superman/Batman/Wonder Woman, in this recreation of the Superman myth, witch Superman growing up a Ukrainian farm boy.

    Taking over for Stalin, the world becomes happy and communist, except for Luthor and the USA.

    A little twist at the end, too.


    5 out of 5 stars A fine reimagining of the Superman mythos.......2007-07-30

    I've always been a fan of the Elseworlds universe. It provides different possibilities which, while familiar, can also be self contained pieces all on their own without having to be bogged down with the idea that it may have repercussions in the continuity of the larger comic book universe. It doesn't always work, with either the art or the story a little off kilter, but when it does you know you have something special.

    "Red Son" is an example of when it does work.

    In the world of "Red Son" the Superman we know never crashed on the Kent farm and he never grew up to stand for truth, justice, and the American way. He crashed down in Soviet Russia, and became its greatest advocate, defender and premier. In this world, nothing is as it seems.

    Mark Millar does beautiful writing and the story is tightly woven, spanning decades from the moment where Superman becomes Stalin's right hand man, until his final Battle with Lex Luthor and the United States of America! The art is more than passable and melds well with the story, providing just enough action that you'll find yourself holding your breath as you turn the page.

    The point of this whole review is to point out that I haven't been this excited and amazed by an Elseworlds book since Kingdom Come and I think I've been waiting for this little gem to come along for a long time without even realizing it. You'd be a fool not to give this work a shufti. Buy it forthwith! The sooner you get it, the sooner you'll agree I was right.

    5 out of 5 stars It's great.......2007-06-12

    This take on Superman is great. You get a differnt perspective if he had been a Soviet. Great read for everyone, even if you are not a Superman fan. It's worth your time.

    4 out of 5 stars Elseworlds - Brilliant.......2007-06-05

    This is one of the better graphic novels I have picked up in the last few months. I anticipated it to be good - but I never expected it to be this good. What it's strengths were breaking away from the molds in which the DC characters are made from and recasting them in different circumstances. The "humanness" of Superman comes through as well as his capacity to protect all mankind.

    I was pleasantly surprised to find myself rooting for Lex Luthor at the end. Throughout the book you get a keen sense of his intellect that rarely shines when he is bent on world domination. I believe this graphic novel gives Lex a new light in which he shines beyond capacity.

    I would recommend this to any Superman fan, or anyone familiar with the series.
    Superman: Red Son No. 1 of 3
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Superman: Red Son No. 1 of 3
      mark millar
      Manufacturer: DC comics
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Comic

      GeneralGeneral | Comic Strips | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
      SupermanSuperman | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
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      ASIN: B000NSGREM
      Superman: Red Son No. 2 of 3 (elseworlds)
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Superman: Red Son No. 2 of 3 (elseworlds)
        mark millar
        Manufacturer: DC comics
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Comic

        GeneralGeneral | Comic Strips | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
        GeneralGeneral | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
        SupermanSuperman | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
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        ASIN: B000NSI9ES
        Superman: Red Son
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Superman: Red Son

          Manufacturer: Tandem Library
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Unknown Binding
          ASIN: 1417669721
          Superman : Red Son No. 3 of 3 (elseworlds)
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Superman : Red Son No. 3 of 3 (elseworlds)
            mark millar
            Manufacturer: dc comics
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Comic

            GeneralGeneral | Comic Strips | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
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            ASIN: B000NSI9TI

            Surak's Soul (Star Trek Enterprise)
            Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
            • Great Sci-Fi
            • Mediocre...
            • Save your money, folks! It's not too late!
            • Weak ending.
            • Typical of the Series
            Surak's Soul (Star Trek Enterprise)
            J.M. Dillard
            Manufacturer: Star Trek
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Mass Market Paperback

            Dillard, J.M.Dillard, J.M. | ( D ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
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            ASIN: 0743462807

            Book Description

            You are alone in the dark reaches of space, surrounded by aliens who do not understand who you are and what you are, and who will not accept your beliefs. Under such circumstances, an emotional human would feel lost, cut off, adrift, but Sub-Commander T'Pol is a Vulcan, and Vulcans control their emotions. However, no other Vulcan has served for longer than a few weeks on a human ship. Has she, as others imply, lost her way?

            Pulled, once again, into one of Captain Archer's dangerously impulsive attempts to make first contact, the sub-commander finds her life threatened. T'Pol reacts, draws her phase pistol and kills. It was a simple act of self-defense. But is killing ever simple? Has she forsaken the teachings of Surak?

            Determined to be true to her heritage, T'Pol forswears violence. She tells Captain Archer that never again will she kill -- even if ordered. Is she, as Archer suggests, endangering the entire ship?

            Customer Reviews:

            5 out of 5 stars Great Sci-Fi.......2007-05-28

            I really enjoyed this book as I could relate it to Enterprise. The author really knows the characters. It is a great book to read and will keep you in suspense.

            1 out of 5 stars Mediocre..........2006-08-30

            This was during ENT's early run, while the characters were being fleshed out...(at least in novel form).

            T'Pol spends majority of the book feeling sorry over herself for shooting an alien that seemingly was about to attack Hoshi. All the while, Archer is checking up on both.

            I had to stop in the middle, because nothing interesting or different seemed to be occuring.

            1 out of 5 stars Save your money, folks! It's not too late!.......2005-01-12

            This book deserves a zero. Unfortunately, there is no rating that low, so I am forced to give it a one.

            Suffice it to say I've read fanfiction that was less contrvied and boring. It barely has anything to do with T'Pol at all. She just has ONE meditation about the issue at hand, and says "OK, let me give up using violence in any form because it's always wrong." And we get to see nothing else about it until about page 205 (near the end of the book).

            And the whole Alien Mystery thing wasn't that great either. I figured out quickly whodunnit.

            If you do want to still buy it, don't order it. Borrow it from your library or at the very most buy it from your local bookstore. It's not worth paying the shipping and handling fees.

            2 out of 5 stars Weak ending........2004-03-31

            This is, overall, a fair to middling Star Trek story; the action is good, the characterizations are better than average, the plot fair if not terribly original. The problem is, it is mostly spoiled by a rather wishy-washy, unsatisfying ending. Since I can't say much more about the ending than that without giving away major plot points, suffice it to say that I found both the climactic point AND the post-climax epilogue to be very implausible and to be a cheap out for the major focus of the story.

            1 out of 5 stars Typical of the Series.......2003-09-29

            One of the problems with Enterprise is the accusation it ignores establised canon. The premise of this story: if Vulcans kill does it betray the teachings of Surak has already been addressed in The Original Series by Spock.
            Star Trek Enterprise Surak's Soul Display with Other
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              Star Trek Enterprise Surak's Soul Display with Other
              J. M. Dillard
              Manufacturer: Pocket Books
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Mass Market Paperback

              Dillard, J.M.Dillard, J.M. | ( D ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
              GeneralGeneral | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
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              ASIN: 0743465199

              Answering Jehovahs Witnesses: Subject by Subject
              Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
              • Former JW Offers Good Advice
              • A little rancor can be okay...
              • SOUR GRAPES
              • GIVE 'EM THE OLD ONE-TWO!
              • The Truth
              Answering Jehovahs Witnesses: Subject by Subject
              David A. Reed
              Manufacturer: Baker Books
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Paperback

              Church Institutions & OrganizationsChurch Institutions & Organizations | Ministry & Church Leadership | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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              ASIN: 080105317X
              Release Date: 1996-05-01

              Customer Reviews:

              5 out of 5 stars Former JW Offers Good Advice.......2007-05-21

              The book Answering Jehovah's Witnesses: Subject by Subject is written by author David A. Reed. Mr. Reed is a former Jehovah's Witness who was open to seeking the truth and because of his openness, came to understand the reality of how the cult operates. He describes how it was the cult's constant elevation of the organization above scripture that drove him to start questioning their authority. He uses his experience as a Jehovah's Witness in this work to expose both the corruption of the organization as well as its doctrinal fallacies. In addition, he reminds the reader throughout the book how to talk with Jehovah's Witnesses and which topics to start with. He suggests that we work with their training and not against it. He informs us to start by asking them questions about the information and to have them explain the answers. He states that the worst way to approach them is in a confrontational manner. Previous to this work, Mr. Reed produced a book with a similar title, Jehovah's Witnesses Answered Verse by Verse in which Scripture passages are used as proof-texts for Jehovah's Witnesses belief. In addition to this, he edits for a publication on Jehovah's Witnesses' beliefs titled Comments from the Friends. He is president of Gospel Truth Ministries, Inc. Other works include the Index of Watchtower Errors and Jehovah's Witness Literature: A Critical Guide to Watchtower Publications.
              The author's purpose for this book is to offer a response to a change in Jehovah's Witnesses behavior. Today's Jehovah's Witness seems, according to the author, not as well versed in scripture as the older Witnesses. They instead seem to be apt to rely on the authority of the organization more than scripture. This is likely do to the fact that more and more of the cults teachings are deviating further and further from scripture. Thus, making it risky for the cult to train their followers in scripture. This book is written to show the reader first how to get people to see that the cult is not "God's organization" but rather a human organization that is out to control them mentally. Once this is accomplished, the reader can move on to a subject-by-subject discussion of doctrinal topics.
              I think this book is extremely well written and offers a format that any reader regardless of experience in dealing with Jehovah's Witnesses can just jump right and get started. I think he does an excellent job at using their own sources against them, so it is hard for them to say that he doesn't know what he is speaking of or that he has misrepresent the facts. He does an excellent job of dismantling the credibility of the watchtower as "Gods organization" and as long as we are faithful in consistently representing these fallacies and errors to the Jehovah's Witnesses I think we will see many people leaving the cult. Mr. Reed should be commended for the amount of research that he put into this book. If there is any critique of the book that I could find is that maybe there were too many topics and could be a bit overwhelming and repetitive but this would only be a minor problem.

              5 out of 5 stars A little rancor can be okay..........2007-04-08

              I know David Reed has some issues with the Witnesses. Anyone who has devoted/wasted any significant amount of time with them does. However, his book is so well researched and his knowledge of theology allows him to set the record completely straight. I am currently researching the topic and found that this volume was quite a bit better than the "Verse by Verse" volume. I found that it was easier to search by subject and have all the verses in one place. The only criticism I might have is that there were too many categories. Some of the information gets repeated and this can be frustrating (but that's if you read it all the way through like I did). If you're just browsing for a particular topic, the organization of the book works out just fine.

              I'm impressed with the amount of research that he put into his work. I've seen some of the standard quotations from Witness literature before, but he adds to them with additional, equally damning quotes that haven't been used in other tomes of this sort.

              This proved to be an engaging read, and useful for anyone doing research on how the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society has deceived millions.

              1 out of 5 stars SOUR GRAPES.......2007-03-09

              Sour grapes...Reed,formerly a witness himself,has spent many years casting aspersion upon his former religious breathren...This sort of book goes over BIG in mainstream fundamentalist circles,mainly due to the fact that Reed is an ex-"brother" who has re-canted,and apparently made it his life's work to hurl invective against a faith that,AT ONE TIME,he did everything possible to advocate...
              So what,exactly,is Reed"answering"here?
              Reed's book reads like a mainstream protestant biblical outline..He takes aim at particular scriptural notions and,like any good dogmatic prestadigitator,bends the scripture to fit his viewpoint,MUCH IN THE SAME WAY THAT HE CLAIMS THE WITNESSES DO WHEN THEY PRESENT THIER SIDE OF THE STORY..
              People like Reed fail to understand that THERE ARE NO ABSOLUTES WHEN IT COMES TO FAITH...likewise,there are no ridgid,ironclad "answers"either..Reed himself should know this,especially given the fact that,at one time,when he was a witness himself,he advocated"answers" that ran counter to mainstream christian thinking,and now advocates mainstream christian thinking as being the"answer"to jehovah's witness theology...
              Hey-David...get over it already...neither you nor the witnesses have got it down pat,100%..Everything is open to interpretation...your "answers"are fine,IF THEY SATISFY YOU..if,on the other hand,a witness chooses to believe otherwise,and DENY your CURRENT"Truths",then that is thier right,and it is just as valid,FOR THEM,as anything you have got to say.

              5 out of 5 stars GIVE 'EM THE OLD ONE-TWO!.......2006-12-12


              David Reed, a former JW elder who now runs a ministry that helps the victims of this savage--but seemingly harmless--mind control cult, has crafted a truly helpful volume for:

              Those who are studying with Jehovah's Witnesses and would like a clear and intelligent rebuttal from a former insider.

              Those who have a friend or family member who is studying with the Watchtower cult.

              Any JWs looking for help in deprogramming their mind from the fear, lack of self confidence, and guilt they're enslaved to.

              Anyone who simply wants to understand this weird anti-American cult.

              Reed delivers on all counts. Much better than other books written by those who never were JWs. Five stars and two thumbs way up!

              1 out of 5 stars The Truth.......2006-01-07

              I found this book very interesting although i am a little skeptical on the author beliefs verus the religion. I am not a jehovas witness but i really find these people very interesting and actually i think what they say is true. The author was just saying his beliefs not what the religion is.

              Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes
              Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
              • Oustanding as usual
              • Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes
              • Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes
              • So many ideas, so little time
              • Christmas Cake Inspiration
              Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes
              Nadiene Hurst
              Manufacturer: Merehurst
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Hardcover

              CakesCakes | Baking | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
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              ASIN: 1853918334

              Amazon.com

              For the English, sugar paste (fondant) cake decoration is truly an art. Nadiene Hurst and Julie Springall are professional cake decorators in England, specializing in royal icing and sugar paste. They both teach and write for a variety of cake-decorating and bridal magazines. Each of the more than 20 exquisite Christmas cakes photographed and described in Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes was done by one or the other.

              Step-by-step instructions with photos follow ingredient lists so comprehensive they include even the tools and materials necessary to re-create these elaborate cakes. Each cake begins with either a traditional Rich Fruit Cake or an alternative Light Fruit Cake, and you can choose whichever you prefer. The recipes for both are in the back, and they are scaled so that you can make as many cakes as you need, as large or as small as you'd like. A recipe for royal icing is followed by instructions for covering cakes and cake boards and for piping decorations.

              Some of the cakes described are timeless. The Crown of Holly, the cover recipe, is beautifully draped with a two-tone yellow sugar paste and a mass of holly leaves and berries made of gum paste. Midnight Snowflakes is simple enough for beginners; covered with dark blue sugar paste, snowflakes made of royal icing are carefully piped on top. It may sound difficult, but there's a template for the intricate snowflake pattern in the back (there are templates for almost every design and decoration shown in any of the recipes).

              For a traditional Christmas gift, you could make a project out of Yuletide Slices. Small slices of fruitcake are covered with marzipan and sugar paste, and then each one is decorated differently. The authors suggest making two or three different designs and then arranging a few of each in gift boxes. The designs include simple ones like Stars, Trees, Ribbons, and Bells, and more elaborate ones such as Taffeta and Holly, Fruits (made of marzipan), and Christmas Rose (made of gum paste).

              There are also modern cakes like the brightly colored Three Kings, which is topped with gold stars springing out on wires, and Festive Drapes, a magnificent creation decorated with gold holly leaves, pearl pears made of marzipan, and red taffeta drapes made of sugar paste. The recipes are certainly complex and time-consuming, and you'll need to find a good cake-decorating supply store for the tools and materials, but the final results will amaze and astound and be well worth the effort involved. --Leora Y. Bloom

              Book Description

              Re-creating the desserts in Classic & Contemporary Christmas Cakes may take some time, but the results are gorgeous. --Bon Appetit

              Customer Reviews:

              5 out of 5 stars Oustanding as usual.......2007-09-05

              I really like this lady.As the book name: Classic and contemporary...you will fine cakes for all tastes, and most important: new ideas! she does not come with the same as usual christmas cakes, so I will say she is more contemporary than classic...but for sure ...she is fantastic.

              5 out of 5 stars Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes.......2007-01-16

              Great illustrations and step-by-step instructions. The book is in excellant condition.

              5 out of 5 stars Classic and Contemporary Christmas Cakes.......2007-01-12

              I bought this book as a gift for a keen cake maker. The collection of cakes illustrated are indeed inspiring and feature a broad range of themes. The instructions are clear and detailed. I am sure we will enjoy choosing and adapting many designs from this book.

              4 out of 5 stars So many ideas, so little time.......2007-01-03

              A wonderful book to purchase with ideas for all occasions. Detailed instructions with pictures show you how. Many beautiful cake ideas to choose from.

              4 out of 5 stars Christmas Cake Inspiration.......2003-03-11

              This beautifully photographed 112-page book features new and inspiring Christmas cake designs. Using vibrant Christmas reds, deep royal blues, and creamy ivory, these cakes beautifully capture the joys of the Christmas season.

              The book includes a brief Introduction, and then is arranged by the individual cake. There are twenty-two unique designs featured in the book. Each cake contains an equipment list (metric and US conversions included), a listing of any special equipment required, a full-color photograph of the cake, and steo-by-step instructions on how to assemble and decorate the cake.

              The cakes include: Christmas Cracker Surprise, the beautiful cover cake called Crown of Holly, and even decorated slices of fruit cake called Yuletide Slices.

              Techniques used in this book include: Rolled fondant (used in the majority of the cakes), piped royal icing, Gum Paste, Pastillage, and Modelling. Recipes for Light Fruit Cake, Rich Fruit Cake, Rolled Fondant, Gum Paste, Pastillage, Modelling Paste, and Marzipan are included.

              At the end of the book you will find templates for all of the cakes, and an equipment list with definitions.

              While intermediate to experienced decorators will benefit most from these designs, beginning cake decorators will be able to adapt them for their skill level using the intructions provided.

              San Marco Florence: The Museum and Its Art
              Average customer rating: Not rated
                San Marco Florence: The Museum and Its Art
                Giovanna Damiani
                Manufacturer: Scala Publishers
                ProductGroup: Book
                Binding: Hardcover

                History & CriticismHistory & Criticism | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books | Criticism | General | Regional | Themes | Women in Art
                GeneralGeneral | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                Exhibition CatalogsExhibition Catalogs | Museums | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books | General | Guggenheim Museum | Los Angeles County Museum of Art | Metropolitan Museum of Art | Museum of Contemporary Art | Museum of Modern Art | National Gallery Of Art | Tate Gallery | Whitney Museum of American Art
                GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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                ReferenceReference | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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                GeneralGeneral | Italy | Europe | History | Subjects | Books
                ASIN: 0856674745

                Simple Lace and Other Beaded Jewelry Patterns
                Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
                • Great for Beginners
                • Good addition to any beadwork library
                • Great Teaching Tool!
                • Sorry I bought this book
                • Beautiful book...
                Simple Lace and Other Beaded Jewelry Patterns
                Mary Ellen Harte
                Manufacturer: Eagles View Publishing
                ProductGroup: Book
                Binding: Paperback

                Decorative ArtsDecorative Arts | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                BeadworkBeadwork | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
                DecoratingDecorating | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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                JewelryJewelry | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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                BeadworkBeadwork | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
                DecoratingDecorating | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
                GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
                JewelryJewelry | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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                Similar Items:
                1. A Treasury of Beaded Jewelry: Bead Stringing Patterns for All Ages A Treasury of Beaded Jewelry: Bead Stringing Patterns for All Ages
                2. Bead Fantasies: Beautiful, Easy-to-Make Jewelry Bead Fantasies: Beautiful, Easy-to-Make Jewelry
                3. Netted Beadwork: A Beadwork How-To Book (Beadwork How-To series) Netted Beadwork: A Beadwork How-To Book (Beadwork How-To series)
                4. Coraling Technique: Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Ten Original Design Necklaces, Bracelets And Earrings In The Most Popular Russian Beading Technique Coraling Technique: Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Ten Original Design Necklaces, Bracelets And Earrings In The Most Popular Russian Beading Technique
                5. Bead Fantasies II: More Beautiful, Easy-to-Make Jewelry Bead Fantasies II: More Beautiful, Easy-to-Make Jewelry

                ASIN: 0943604559

                Book Description

                This is the first seed bead workbook to supply large, clear, graphic illustrations plus instructions on how to thread many popular jewelry patterns. Written with beaders of all ages in mind, this book provides a framework for creating attractive and colorful rings, bracelets, napkin holders, necklaces and earrings. The patterns come from cultures throughout the world, many of which were collected by the author during her travels. The book is a must for the beginning and intermediate seed bead worker, and several of the patterns may be taught to children as young as 7 years old. It is also a great "glossary" of pattern ideas that experienced bead addicts can use in their own designs.

                The fun begins with simple chains and a beaded ball and loop clasp that can be put on any pattern. Each page has a graphic pattern large enough to place beads on, and a clear illustration of how to thread the beads. A short set of specific instructions offers further guidance, along with several hints on how to vary the design to create unique pieces. The next patterns show how to create simple lacy bracelets and slender lace necklaces. Three patterns show simple, beautiful earrings. Finally, there are patterns for creating larger, elegant lace necklaces and chokers. Color photos of all jewelry patterns are provided.

                Patterns included are: Ball and Loop Clasp; Lace Loop Chains I & II; Lace Loop Necklace with Diamonds; Lace Diamond Pattern; Multi-Diamond Pattern; Medallion Pattern; Pretzel Loop Pattern; Flower Chains I & II; Hour Glass Loop Pattern; Pagoda Earrings; Dangling Diamond Earrings; Spider Web Earrings; Chain Link Necklace; Hula Hoop Necklace; Pennant Choker Necklace; Julia's Necklace; Empress Choker Necklace; Hanging Bead Necklace; Julia's Loopy Necklace; and Valentine Necklace.

                This is a wonderful new book for all ages and skill levels!

                80 illustrations; 6 pages in Full Color.

                Customer Reviews:

                4 out of 5 stars Great for Beginners.......2007-01-12

                I don't know what I was expecting when I got this book, but I must say, it is a VERY good start for beginners into the world of beading. Clear diagrams, and wonderful written instructions.

                It is laccking a bit on how to finish pieces, (thus the rating) so I might suggest it for those with at least some experience in beading.....or at least those with a bit of imagination.

                For the experienced beader, however, you will probally reconize most of the stitches and project ideas...so I would probally not have gotten this book myself had I been able to flip through it a bit, but it's a nice addition to my "referesher of the basics" library.....

                3 out of 5 stars Good addition to any beadwork library.......2006-07-06

                I enjoyed the book. However, beginners may have some difficulty with the patterns. This book mainly concentrates on the focal part of the pattern(s). Does not really get into detail about how to begin and end the piece. Some designs were a bit to simple for me but gave me ideas on how to expand on the patterns presented in the book.

                With a little imagination I think this would be a great book for a beginner, plus the price is not bad at all.

                4 out of 5 stars Great Teaching Tool!.......2005-06-09

                I've been an avid beader for over 15 years now, but was looking for a book of simple netting for my 12 year-old daughter...I found it in this book! Ms. Harte explains the steps involved in clear, concise instructions with diagrams to further explain. My daughter and I both love the book!

                2 out of 5 stars Sorry I bought this book.......2004-01-16

                I was highly disapointed with this book. Although the pictures are beautiful, many are variations on the instructions,which I found confusing. Although it was fairly easy to follow the thread path once I got going, it was VERY difficult to figure out where to start. I made up several items, and none meet up to my expectations, the loops don't "loop" and the necklaces don't drape.

                5 out of 5 stars Beautiful book..........2000-06-24

                Large and detailed sketches guarantee that you can follow the instructions for the bead lace in this book. Light on color pictures, heavy with ideas. Most laces are made with a single needle, but there are a few two needle laces at the end of the book. Good for beginners and advanced beaders - enjoy!
                Simple Lace and Other Beaded Jewelry Patterns for ages 7 to 70
                Average customer rating: Not rated
                  Simple Lace and Other Beaded Jewelry Patterns for ages 7 to 70
                  Mary Ellen Harte
                  Manufacturer: see notes for publisher info
                  ProductGroup: Book
                  Binding: Hardcover
                  ASIN: B000Q5OWAS

                  Penthouse Living (Interior Angles)
                  Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
                  • Good insight into the past, current and future of the penthouse
                  Penthouse Living (Interior Angles)
                  Jonathan Bell
                  Manufacturer: Academy Press
                  ProductGroup: Book
                  Binding: Hardcover

                  GeneralGeneral | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
                  GeneralGeneral | Interior Design | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
                  GeneralGeneral | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
                  All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
                  Similar Items:
                  1. 50 of the World's Best Apartments (Images) 50 of the World's Best Apartments (Images)
                  2. New Apartments New Apartments

                  ASIN: 0470094494

                  Book Description

                  The penthouse is perhaps the most iconic of all living spaces. The word implies wealth, with an emphasis on space, views, and an enviable urban lifestyle. But when did our domestic aspirations start to look skyward? Is the contemporary penthouse a purely elitist space, or are there mass-market solutions that might open up the roofscapes to everyone? Penthouses are aspirational, conjuring up a life with an undeniably sexual edge – Playboy magazine even developed its own penthouse concept for an early issue. They also imply a sense of mystery and power, these are the homes of industrialists, media moguls and film stars, elevated high above the rest of humanity.

                  Penthouse Living presents a selection of architecturally adventurous and dramatic penthouse projects from around the world, including modernist icons, cinematic visions and futuristic concepts, as well as a history of the penthouse, recent projects and tomorrow's icons. Penthouse Living will open the door to just a few of these exclusive spaces, an in-depth look at the developing architectural response to living on high.

                  Customer Reviews:

                  4 out of 5 stars Good insight into the past, current and future of the penthouse .......2005-12-23

                  The word penthouse often conjures up images of eliticism, sex and luxury. This book delves into this subject and explains the origins of penthouse living and how it has evolved ever since its coining. The author introduces the subject with a brief history of New York City during the late nineteen hundreds when "skyscrapers" came to shape and offered the privileged few a luxurious vertical escape from the hectic street below. He explains the meaning of penthouse as a lifestyle as well as a certain type of architectural habitat. He even mentions how the word penthouse is often misused by developers to lure occupants to typical top floor apartments that lack the elements of what a penthouse should have according to him. Despite the change in scale and form of what defines a penthouse from a mansion perched high above to a simple roof top addition, the term penthouse nonetheless conjures images of eliticism, sex and luxury although not only limited to financial means.

                  www.hjlbookreview.com
                  [New York rooftops]: A series of five articles about living in penthouses, gardening, farming, etc., which appeared in the New York World Telegram & Sun, Aug. 1962
                  Average customer rating: Not rated
                    [New York rooftops]: A series of five articles about living in penthouses, gardening, farming, etc., which appeared in the New York World Telegram & Sun, Aug. 1962
                    Hope Johnson
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Unknown Binding
                    ASIN: B0007KDVZ4

                    Diseño Gráfico y Comunicación
                    Average customer rating: Not rated
                      Diseño Gráfico y Comunicación
                      Jorge Frascara
                      Manufacturer: Ediciones Infinito
                      ProductGroup: Book
                      Binding: Paperback

                      GeneralGeneral | Graphic Arts | Graphic Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                      GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                      SpanishSpanish | Foreign Language Nonfiction | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
                      GeneralGeneral | Arte | Arte, arquitectura y fotografía | Libros en español | Formats | Books
                      Artes GráficosArtes Gráficos | Diseño Gráfico | Arte, arquitectura y fotografía | Libros en español | Formats | Books
                      No-FicciónNo-Ficción | Libros en español | Formats | Books | Automotriz | Ciencias Sociales | Crimen y Criminales | Educación | Estudios de la Mujer | Feriados | Filosofía | Gobierno | Hechos Verídicos | Planeamiento Urbano y Desarrollo | Política | Sucesos de Actualidad | Transportación
                      ASIN: 9879637054

                      Book Description

                      En su séptima edición este libro es ya un clásico para los estudiantes y profesionales del Diseño Gráfico.Una de las grandes virtudes del valioso libro de Jorge Frascara es que no sólo considera los objetos del diseño gráfico y las técnicas usadas para producirlos, sino que también examina en detalle el rol del diseñador gráfico y los métodos que utiliza, a la vez que analiza la naturaleza de la comunicación visual.

                      A través de este libro el lector puede comenzar a hacer preguntas más pertinentes y a comprender los factores y criterios presentes en todo problema y en toda solución de diseño de comunicación visual, cualquiera sea su escala y su contexto económico, técnico o socio cultural. Ni las computadoras ni los satélites por un lado, ni la falta de recursos en países en desarrollo por el otro, alteran esto. El autor de este ensayo, Jorge Frascara nació en Buenos Aires en 1939 se gradúo en 1961 en la Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes con el titulo de profesor de pintura. Reside en Canadá desde 1976, donde además de una profusa actividad profesional es profesor de arte y diseño en la Universidad de Alberta, donde fue Jefe del departamento desde 1981 a 1986. Entre otras actividades, es miembro de la comisión editorial de varias revistas especializadas, asesor en símbolos gráficos en la Organización Internacional de Normas (ISO), miembro del Instituto Internacional de Diseño de la In! formación (Austria) y Director de educación en Icograda, el Consejo Internacional de Asociaciones de Diseño Gráfico del que fue presidente desde 1985 a 1987, es miembro de la comisión asesora sobre símbolos gráficos para el Consejo de Normas de Canadá (1979-90); miembro de la Comisión Directiva de la Asociación de Educación en Diseño Gráfico (Gdea, Usa, 1994-96); miembro fundador, Magenta Revista de Diseño (México, 1981); editor asociado de Icographic Magazine (1981-84); co-director del congreso de Icograda-Unesco Diseño para el desarrollo (Nairobi, 1987); delegado de Alberta, Foro para una estrategia de diseño, Departamento de Comunicaciones de Canadá (1990/91); co-organizador del congreso Educación del conductor joven (Edmonton, 1993); co-director del Congreso Edmonton '95, trazando el futuro de la educación en diseño gráfico (Edmonton, 1995).

                      Ha dado conferencias y ha enseñado en veinte países, ha recibido honores de varias organizaciones y ha sido jurado de varios concursos internacionales de diseño. Su experiencia profesional incluye la ilustración, la animación, la publicidad y el diseño gráfico y ahora se concentra en la investigación y desarrollo de comunicaciones para seguridad vial y otros aspectos de relevancia social.

                      Led Zeppelin: Good Times, Bad Times
                      Average customer rating: Not rated
                        Led Zeppelin: Good Times, Bad Times
                        Eddie McSquare
                        Manufacturer: Music Sales Corp
                        ProductGroup: Book
                        Binding: Paperback

                        RockRock | Composers & Musicians | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        EntertainersEntertainers | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
                        RockRock | Musical Genres | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                        ASIN: 0825613124

                        Books:

                        1. Y De Repente Un Angel
                        2. A Ship Made of Paper: A Novel
                        3. A Sky So Close: A Novel
                        4. A Yellow Raft in Blue Water: A Novel
                        5. Accidental Happiness: A Novel
                        6. Amata Means Beloved
                        7. An Ice-Cream War: A Novel
                        8. And Now You Can Go: A Novel
                        9. Barometer Rising (New Canadian Library)
                        10. Cage of Stars

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