The God Who Begat a Jackal: A Novel

Average customer rating:

Wit, colourful images and social commentary - A beautiful novel

Haunting, mythical story with slight pacing problem

The God Who Begat a Jackal: Some Comments

Suspending disbelief

Good first novel but needed some serious editing

The God Who Begat a Jackal: A Novel
Nega Mezlekia
Manufacturer: Picador
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Mezlekia, Nega | Authors, A-Z | African Canadian | Canadian | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Notes from the Hyena's Belly: An Ethiopian Boyhood

ASIN: 0312309961

Amazon.com

The God Who Begat a Jackal, Nega Mezlekia's much-anticipated first novel and follow-up to his award-winning memoir Notes from the Hyena's Belly, is a story of doomed love set in feudal Ethiopia in the last days of premodern Africa. It is a time when caste-system slavery is essential to the economy, women are married by force at the age of 12, and warlords run their fiefdoms with the fitful tyranny of petty despots. Mezlekia's heroine, Aster, is the only child of one of these aristocrats, the ambitious Count Ashenafi. Aster is an extraordinary child: she is clairvoyant, can walk through walls, and possesses an unparalleled intellect. Her fiercely protective father cloisters her under perpetual guard and dismisses all of her would-be suitors. Inevitably, Aster falls in love with her guard, Gudu, the count's court poet, and together they set out to record Gudu's immense knowledge of his country's poetic tradition. But their affair is soon discovered, resulting in bitter intrigue and civil war.

While Mezlekia does spin a good tale, his novel is likely to disappoint readers who enjoyed Notes from the Hyena's Belly. Mezlekia's memoir owed much of its success to the consistently high quality of its language, which was full of arresting images but seldom flashy and never pretentious. The God Who Begat a Jackal, on the other hand, features undistinguished writing of the sort one would expect from a particularly bland fantasy novel. The novel can be enjoyed for its plot and social commentary, but it isn't the gem that it ought to have been. --Harvey Cornell

Book Description

From the author of the hugely acclaimed memoir Notes from the Hyena’s Belly comes a first novel steeped in African folklore and teeming with the class, ethnic, and religious struggles of pre-colonial Africa. Set in eighteenth-century Abyssinia, Mezlekia’s novel beautifully intertwines vassal uprisings and the Crusades with the intense love between Aster, the daughter of a feudal lord, and Gudu, the court jester and family slave.

Customer Reviews:

Wit, colourful images and social commentary - A beautiful novel.......2006-05-18

Aster and her doting, desperate and despotic father.

Gudu, born a slave and growing into a talented master-poet in the courts of Count Ashenafi; to a young man in love, risking great danger of detection; to a rebel-leader, finding himself in the fore-front of a people's struggle not just with war and survival, but also with social status, religion and superstition.

The abettors, ancient war patriarchs, who live for the whiff of battle and consider it a shame to leave any side floundering in a conflict.

Nega Mzelekia paints a surreal yet vivid landscape, laced with East African folklore and brimming with wit and humour. A beautiful novel. I had to read it twice, chuckling silently to myself every other line.

Haunting, mythical story with slight pacing problem.......2004-08-15

This haunting first novel is steeped in African folklore and brimming with the class, ethnic and religious struggles of pre-colonial Africa. Aster, the beautiful and intelligent daughter of a feudal lord dares to love one of her father's slaves. Gudu is a deep thinker, a gentle soul born into the lowest stratum of a brutal society. A captivating storyteller, he is among the most prized possessions of Aster's father, Count Ashenafi.

When Gudu and Aster's love is discovered, Gudu barely escapes with his life. He finds refuge and acceptance among Count Ashenafi's enemies, eventually leading them in war against the Count. All the while, the two lovers still dream of being together. Gudu builds a mansion for Aster in his adopted city, while Aster plots to avoid a forced marriage to a man of her father's choosing.

The middle of the book is slowed down somewhat by lengthy and tedious accounts of Gudu's exploits after he joins the Count's enemies.

Through a spare and lyrical prose, Mr. Mezlekia weaves a deeply felt tale that occasionally surprises us with its mythic occurrences, not the least of which involves the ultimate fate of the heroine.

The God Who Begat a Jackal: Some Comments.......2002-12-20

This is a well-written story set in the vicinity of the Ethiopian town of Harer in the years 1750-1800, according to the author's postscript. It tells of a love-affair destined for failure due to reasons of differing social status. As a backdrop, there are currents of class and religious struggles.

The problem is that the religious struggle is between Amma and Mawu-Lisa, which were, according to the postscript, indigenous African religions. Perhaps indigenous African, but not indigenous Ethiopian. In being more universally African, the novel loses what is uniquely Ethiopian.

At the time the story takes place, historical Harer is an Islamic stronghold in a Christian empire. Christianity is part of the country's soul. But, there is no mention of Islam or Christianity in the book. Instead, there are people passing through walls or taking to the air, powered by African magic.

Thankfully, the author cannot completely escape his Ethiopian roots. Even in this alternate reality some things ring true to life in (the real) Ethiopia, such as the pervasiveness of a religion, the different societal expectation of men and women, and some of the peoples' social customs.

Suspending disbelief.......2002-07-24

Historical fiction is a genre that I always thought you have to suspend disbelief to a certain degree. That is usually supplanted strongly with the backdrop of history, allowing the reader to believe that the events actually have or at least may have happened.

Mezlekia unfortuanately sabotages this with his antics of magic and unlikelihoods in plot, that moves it more into a genre I'd like to call historical fantasy. But unlike Wilbur Smiths' River God series where the scenery of history and the fantastic elements he uses, Mezlekia writes a story that only confuses the reader and is filled with slow moving sections that only encourages skimming. Gudu and Aster's characters are developed well in some ways, but their motivations for some of their doings come across as baffling at times.

This is a good beach book, that's all it is really for me at the moment.

Good first novel but needed some serious editing.......2002-05-21

The love story was very engaging in this novel. However, about halfway through, it's lost and suddenly the plot became bogged down with historical information. It totally lost me and I found myself skipping pages. I think Nega is a great writer with much potential as a novelist. His first book was superb. I just think he needs to go back and perfect his novel writing skills. He's not there yet. The structure of this book was off. Historical elements are important but they need to be in the background, coloring the plot. More subtle. I eagerly await his next novel.

Book Description

THE DARK MIRROR is the first book in Juliet Marillier's Bridei Chronicles.

Bridei is a young nobleman fostered at the home of Broichan, one of the most powerful druids in the land. His earliest memories are not of hearth and kin but of this dark stranger who while not unkind is mysterious in his ways. The tasks that he sets Bridei appear to have one goal-to make him a vessel for some distant purpose. What that purpose is Bridei cannot fathom but he trusts the man and is content to learn all he can about the ways of the world.

But something happens that will change Bridei's world forever...and possibly wreck all of Broichan's plans. For Bridei finds a child on their doorstep on a bitter MidWinter Eve, a child seemingly abandoned by the fairie folk. It is uncommonly bad luck to have truck with the Fair Folk and all counsel the babe's death. But Bridei sees an old and precious magic at work here and heedless of the danger fights to save the child. Broichan relents but is wary.

The two grow up together and as Bridei comes to manhood he sees the shy girl Tuala blossom into a beautiful woman. Broichan sees the same process and feels only danger...for Tuala could be a key part in Bridei's future...or could spell his doom.

Customer Reviews:

A Pleasant Surprise.......2007-07-15

I picked up the abridged CD version of Dark Mirror in a factory store for a couple bucks. I wasn't expecting much. The story started kinda slow (especially for an "abridged" version) but it grew on me. Marillier's prose is completely enjoyable.

It is definitely NOT a historical novel but can be enjoyed as an "alternate reality" story. I recommend this novel for romantics, young women, lesbians, druids, people who read manga, people who play World of Warcraft, vampires, sci-fi & fantasy buffs, and cheap guys like me who buy our books at random in factory stores.

Another great novel by Marillier.......2007-06-06

After reading Sevenwaters trilogy I decided Juliet Marillier was an author worth investing time and money in. I was not disappointed in the least. The Dark Mirror's hero Bridei falls in the category of young, brilliant and defiant. This book has much - intrigue, magic, love, plot surprises, and a wonderfully rich background for the story to take place. I recommend this for anyone who enjoyed the Sevenwaters trilogy by Juliet Marillier and the Liveship trilogy by Robin Hobb

Magical.......2007-05-10

I really enjoyed this series. Magic is very prominent in this series. It really makes you realize how less we have to overcome compare to other people. A great book.

Wow . . . just . . . wow.......2007-02-19

I am not sure where to start with this amazing book, the first in the Bridei Chronicles. I myself have studied the Picts a bit and Juliet Marillier seems to hit the nail right on the head with her depictions of their lives and times. Many of the people and situations in this book are absolutely real - based upon historical documentation. The remainder is based upon her best guesswork and imagination and she does a bang-up job.

Somewhat akin to the story of Arthur and Merlin, Bridei is raised by a foreboding Druid in the forest. Unknown to Bridei, he is meant to be the future king of Fortrui, which comprised much of modern-day Scotland. Her descriptions of Druidic teachings, their overall lifestyle, the courts and the rituals of their religion ring true in all their splendor and (in some cases) horror.

Of course there is a twist - there is always a twist. A child of the Good Folk - the faeries - is left on their doorstep at Midwinter when Bridei is young. He takes her in, much to everyone's dismay. They all know it is dangerous to have anything to do with the Good Folk, who are at their best capricious. However, Bridei firmly believes that the child, whom he names Tuala, was left for him by the Shining One (Goddess and moon) and vows to care for her. Eventually he wins over everyone except his foster father, the druid. She is accepted into the household and loved almost universally - until the year Bridei goes off to his first war and she matures. . .

There is not much else I can say without ruining a great deal of the story for you. However, I heartily endorse this book, being a fan of historically based fiction, especially that doing with ancient cultures and their clashes (and eventual destruction) by "tolerant, loving" Christians. But . . . such musings are for another day. For this one, if you do not have this book yet, run - don't walk - to your nearest bookseller and find a copy. You won't regret it.

Mediocre Marillier.......2007-01-22

Juliet Marillier never strays far from the elements that made her Sevenwaters Trilogy a success: introspective heroes, dynamic heroines, and human wilfullness colliding with otherworldly manipulations. Marillier's books work becase of her skill at creating a sense of the mythic and timeless. Here, however, she has created something which, while head and shoulders above a lot of other fantasy works, lacks a kind of spark.
Part of this can be attribted to the characters. In her previous novels, Marillier created characters who sometimes skated perilously close to being too perfect but still managed to feel real and occasionally quirky. In the Sevenwaters stories, we had Sorcha the brave and beautiful who was also capable of being sulky and scared. Red who was grim and dry-humored, Liadan who was down-to earth and loyal, and Fainne who commited some unforgivable acts during her tenure as heroine. And in her Wolfskin stories, we had the complex friendship between Eyvind and Somerled.
Here, however, we're left with Bridei and Tuala. There is a lot of potential in these characters. Bridei is destined to be a great king but is snatched from his home as a boy for a life of isolation and study. Tuala is a child of the Good Folk and faces prejudice and distrust as well as her own fears concerning her heritage.
Unfortunately, Marillier does not develop them. Bridei is a nice guy but there's not much incentive to root for him. When he finally emerges from his isolated existence as the druid's student, does he show the slightest bit of social awkwardness? No. Does he show any slowness in his learning, any faults he needs to conquer in his bid to be king? No. And Marillier skips over a significant part of his life, aging him from child to man in the blink of a few pages. Tuala is a somewhat more interesting character but also seems to have been written on auto-pilot as her own conflict over her unusual heritage is never given the full treatment it needs, making the climax not quite as powerful as it could be.
The secondary characters are a mixed bag. The druid Broichan is blinded by his desire to mold Bridei into the perfect king but Marillier renders him so unlikable that his more human qualities, like his love for Bridei and his doubts over the brutal ritual he must perform come off like hastily-written postscripts. The wise woman Fola is a much better character and is a breath of fresh air whenever she appears, perhaps by virtue of having a sense of humor. The girl Ferada is also the same and her arch intelligence as well as her nastiness steal a few scenes. I also enjoyed Faolan, the mercenary and I'm not surprised Marillier put him in the sequel. The enemies, however, get little page time and fall completely flat.
My main gripe, as I mentioned before, is that the book suffers from a case of reliable rather than creative writing. Marillier glosses over important events, creates conflicts that are easily resolved, and describes the natural setting one too many times (but my tolerance for that was never high anyway).
There's still plenty to recommend about this book. Marillier is never better than when she sets up the conflicts between the Real World and the Other World. Her tales-within-tales, especially the story of Amna, are chilling. She's not afraid to gloss over some of the undeniable brutality of the Druids and she doesn't romanticize either the fairies or the Christians at their expense. It's also a credit to her that the romance between Bridei and Tuala didn't feel incestuous. Okay, it felt a little incestuous but it didn't detract from my reading. And once she sets up her characters, the suspense shoots up like a geyser.
Do I recommend this book? Yes, since it's still Juliet Marillier and she can get away with things I wouldn't tolerate with other authors. But I might suggest a first-time reader of hers to start with the Sevenwaters Trilogy.

Book Description

Humans and elves, dwarves and gnomes, wizards and warriors all live and do business in the thriving, overcrowded city of Cliff's End, to say nothing of the tourists and travelers who arrive by land and sea, passing through the metropolis on matters of business or pleasure -- or on quests. The hard-working, under-appreciated officers of the Cliff's End Castle Guard work day and night to maintain law and order as best they can.

Gan Brightblade is one of the world's greatest heroes and a personal friend of the Lord and Lady of Cliff's End. So when he's brutally murdered in grubby lodgings in Dragon Precinct, on the eve of a great quest, the Captain of the Guard puts his two best investigators on the case. The half-elf Danthres Tresyllione and ex-soldier Torin ban Wyvald soon discover that the crime scene is empty of any forensic evidence -- physical or magical. They have no clues, and the heat is on.

The Lord and Lady want their friend's murder solved -- now. The populace is mourning the loss of a great hero. The ever-unhelpful Brotherhood of Wizards could take over the case at any minute. And then another member of Brightblade's party turns up dead....

Download Description

"Humans and elves, dwarves and gnomes, wizards and warriors all live and do business in the thriving, overcrowded city of Cliff's End, to say nothing of the tourists and travelers who arrive by land and sea, passing through the metropolis on matters of business or pleasure -- or on quests. The hard-working, under-appreciated officers of the Cliff's End Castle Guard work day and night to maintain law and order as best they can. Gan Brightblade is one of the world's greatest heroes and a personal friend of the Lord and Lady of Cliff's End. So when he's brutally murdered in grubby lodgings in Dragon Precinct, on the eve of a great quest, the Captain of the Guard puts his two best investigators on the case. The half-elf Danthres Tresyllione and ex-soldier Torin ban Wyvald soon discover that the crime scene is empty of any forensic evidence -- physical or magical. They have no clues, and the heat is on. The Lord and Lady want their friend's murder solved -- now. The populace is mourning the loss of a great hero. The ever-unhelpful Brotherhood of Wizards could take over the case at any minute. And then another member of Brightblade's party turns up dead.... "

Customer Reviews:

CSI: Camelot?!?!.......2007-04-05

Keith R.A. DeCandido never met an entertainment franchise that he didn't like. I've heard it rumored that he's pitched a series of novels focusing on that former fat-guy Jerod from all of those "Subway" commercials ... and that may end up being more entertaining fare than his fantasy-themed riff on CBS's juggernaut "CSI" franchise with "Dragon Precinct," a largely tepid but thankfully quick read.

Don't get me wrong: DeCandido (and others) has done a scholar's work in sinking the "Star Trek" franchise into the worst level of vanity publishing, but I was looking forward to his creative "stretch" here with an original novel, and, on some levels, it actually succeeds. There's a unique intrigue to the world of fantasy populated by elves, trolls, wizards, and common folk, and, had he stayed firmly grounded in the tongue-in-cheek humor that only occasionally pops up in this tale of exploring the "mystery in a box" theme, he may have hit a homerun. When he hits some farcical moments, the tale spins nicely; unfortunately, those moments are very, very, very few and far between.

Sadly, the procedural isn't that strong, and methinks KRAD could have spent more time reading those instead of the fantasy/science fiction realm he's so often dabbled in. The narrative within the chapters flips wildly from character to character, and, at times, it gets a bit difficult to follow. By the conclusion, I found myself caring less and less about the lead characters and more and more about simply seeing it all finished.

Hopefully, there will be no follow-up, though a few ends are dangled. Methinks he'd best stick to "Star Trek" where, at least, he's guaranteed an audience.

this is a awsome book.......2007-02-28

This book is awsome!!!! It really has a Dungeons and Dragons or Lord of the Rings feel.Alought people say its like Harry Potter but i dont think so. If u like Fantasy or Mystery books this is the book for u.

I hav had trouble finding books like this were its like a fantasy world like Lord of the Rings or Dungeons and Dragons were anything can happen and this is the kind of book.
The only thing i hav to say thats bad about it is that there r not that many books like it and there should be more!!!

A very enjoyable read.......2005-07-18

What a clever idea. I've read a gazillion fantasy books and this is fresh and fun. I love all the cool fantasy characters staying true to their stereotype during a murder mystery. It cracks me up.

A day in the life of the Dragon precinct house? .......2005-03-05

Keith R.A. DeCandido is best known for his Star Trek books, of which there are many. Now, however, he's decided to branch out into his own world, at least for a little while. Dragon Precinct is his first original novel, and here's hoping there are some more. Should he write more in this particular series? I'm not sure how many it can sustain, but I wouldn't mind seeing some of these characters again. Dragon Precinct takes a lot of fantasy conventions (elves, halflings, dwarves, and magic) and uses them for an interesting murder mystery. The solution comes a little out of left field, but that doesn't hurt the book too badly.

Gan Brightblade is one of the world's biggest heroes. He and his friends have defeated many a monster and evil wizard, including the ultra-evil wizard Chalmraik. They are in Cliff's End for an unknown reason, but Gan is destined to stay there: dead. Half-elven detective Danthres Tresyllione and her partner, Torin ban Wyvald, are tasked with finding out who murdered him and, more importantly, how. No magic of any kind can be detected and he has no visible wounds. Even worse, Gan was a friend of the Lord and Lady of Cliff's End, and they are putting great pressure on the detectives to solve the mystery quickly. What do Gan's friends know about this, and will any of them survive to tell? Is Chalmraik back from the dead? And can they solve the murder before Danthres herself kills somebody?

Dragon Precinct is a very quick read, but that's not a bad thing. DeCandido gives us some interesting characterization that bends the molds of the typical fantasy characters. Some of it is old-hat (both elves and humans hate half-elven offspring, elves are rather haughty people), but there are just enough differences that the book doesn't feel derivative. Danthres has a chip on her shoulder that would seem impossible to carry around with her, but she's still fun to read about. Her temper gets the best of her at times, even with her friends. We learn early that she didn't have the best childhood, being one of those rare half-elves that survive past birth, and given the worst facial features of both races. Unfortunately, we don't find out the reason why until the very end of the book, where she deigns to explain everything to her friends. This felt a little awkward, though unloading herself does finally give her some of the freedom she needs to be a better person.

Torin is also intriguing, with his ex-soldier background. He once served with the current commander of the police force in the army and he carries some of that baggage around with him. He has his own informants in various shady areas of town, is able to use some of his military skills in his job, and he makes a very good foil for Danthres. He's also occasionally her lover, though that doesn't seem to have affected their working relationship. It's a very casual relationship which jumps off the page. He's the only one who can talk sense into Danthres when she's willing to lose her job rather than apologize to somebody.

The rest of the characters are given interesting hooks and are fairly well-rounded, but the book isn't really about them. There are two other sets of partners who figure prominently in the book, perhaps too prominently. The inclusion of their cases gives the book almost a "day in the life" feel which doesn't really fit with the plot itself, almost as if there wasn't enough plot to fill even the 237 pages that there are in the book. They're interesting characters, but they seem a bit out of place other than to flesh out the precinct. Osric, the captain, plays the typical gruff captain's role, being there mainly to yell at his detectives or for them to report to.

The other problem with the book is that the solution seems to come from nowhere. A chance comment from the forensic wizard all of a sudden sparks a thought that ends up solving everything. Even worse, it's a comment that the wizard, if he wasn't so arrogant, would probably have made earlier, though of course it may not have meant anything to the detectives earlier. It's really the only fault of the mystery part of the story. As for the other detectives' cases, they are solved rather perfunctorily as well. Actually, even more so. While Torin and Danthres' case takes center stage, the other cases are in the book just enough to detract from it, making the book seem a bit disjointed.

Even with these problems, Dragon Precinct is an enjoyable read. DeCandido's prose is fairly solid and the dialogue is quite good as well. He seems to let loose with the swear words a little bit, as if he's felt inhibited doing too many Star Trek books, so if swearing is a problem for you, stay away from it. The good characters help save the fact that their cases are solved way too easily, making only the end of the book weaker than it really should be. If a lot of Danthres' background that's revealed in the last few pages had been sprinkled throughout the rest of the book, I don't think any part of the book would have dragged. If a police procedural in a magical fantasy world sounds like your cup of tea, you really can't go wrong with Dragon Precinct.

David Roy

not a fun read.......2005-02-25

Although some might enjoy this book, I just couldn't. After about the first 3 chapters, I simply quit and put the book in the give away pile. In some instances, he is somewhat like Terry Pratchett,but doesn't even come close. There are the Guards (police) in a medieval type city, along with dwarfs, elves, trolls, etc. The detective guards must solve an apparent murder of a national hero who was presumably getting ready to go off on a "quest" with his coterie. I was really looking forward to enjoying this book, but it just becaue too boring.

Customer Reviews:

Great Medicine for Sleeping Saints.......2006-11-07

This book is one of the best in my library. Brown doesn't dance around it--he goes straight to the Big Questions: Why don't we see God moving in and through us? Why don't we see what they saw in the early church? Why, with rare exception, don't our prayers get answered? Worst of all, why do so many of us ACT like there's no problem? This book lit a fire under me. I'm praying more than ever before, and rediscovering what it means to really be in fellowship with Jesus... GET THIS BOOK!

Eye opening; life changing!.......2006-07-09

Even though this book was written several years ago, I think it is more relevant today than ever. It will get your attention quickly, because it addresses the frustrations so many are experiencing today in the "church" that has turned worldly, superficial, and powerless. We have tried so hard to be accepted by the world, something we are warned against very clearly, we have walked away from the basics of the Gospel. People are urged to "say a simple prayer" and everything will be taken care of, and they don't have a clue about the sin in their lives or its remedy! Dr. Brown addresses this openly and effectively. He comes from a pentecostal perspective, but non pentecostals will be able to relate and derive great benefit from his discourse. Don't miss this book. You will see why the "church" has drifted so far from its roots and why most of us don't want to attend any more, even if we still go out of habit or sense of duty.

Challenging the powerless Church.......2004-12-19

Book is very challenging. Brings a message to challenge the Church to examine why we lack the power of God. Its a convicting book. It will also bring us to a place of repentance.

Customer Reviews:

Tastey Treats.......1999-12-30

This book is great for all levels of pastry.Chef Rhodes hits on the classics and the innovative.Simple is always better and he has a hit at a great price.A must gift for the amateur or the professional.

Book Description

Michael Susan Ivankovich This book will take you through the earliest years of hand-painted pictures, into the golden age of hand-painted photography, 1900 - 1940. Throughout this 40-year period there were more hand-painted pictures sold than in all the rest of history combined. Although Wallace Nutting was the most famous and bestselling photographer of this time, this book takes you beyond Nutting, into the world of E. G. Barnhill, J. Carleton Bicknell, Royal Carlock, David Davidson, Norman Edson, H. Marshall Gardiner, Gibson, William James Harris, F. Jay Haynes, Charles Higgins, Edmond Royce, Charles Sawyer, Fred Thompson, Stephen Willard, and nearly 200 other photographers in this rapidly expanding field. It will explain the intricacies of the photographic hand-painting process, provide an in-depth understanding of grading and condition, and will clearly explain an easy-to-use, five-point grading system to help you differentiate among 'good,' 'better,' and 'best' photographs. The book also provides a complete overview of the importance of regionality including New England, Florida, the western United States, Canada, and other high areas of collecting. Finally, preservation and conservation techniques are shared by author Michael Ivankovich, one of the country's leading authorities.

Customer Reviews:

An Excellent Guide!.......2005-09-05

At long last collectors of hand colored photos have a guide. This book is well organized, with photographers being listed alphabetically, making a particular artist easy to locate. The background and regionality of each artist is discussed, with representative works and titles of each listed as well. There are full chapters each for the discussion of unknown photographers, regionality, and the conservation and preservation of hand painted photos. Particularly helpful is the 15 step guide to cleaning and restoration. This 1/2 inch thick book is crammed full of useful information, and would have earned 5 stars except for a couple of problems. The first is the exclusion of two Western photographers. Burton Frasher, of Pomona, California, and the McCulloch Brothers of Phoenix, Arizona. Frashers Photo is an important part of CA history, and his exclusion here is a serious one. His b&w postcards are well known, and while his painted photos are less numerous, they are beautifully done and deserve mention. The McCulloch Brothers likewise did outstanding artistic work with photos of the Arizona desert, rivaling even the best work of the Bear Studios. There are also some quality control issues. Some of the photo examples did not print correctly, appear out of focus and have little colored lines around them. The paper used seems poor quality, and I felt I needed to take care in turning pages to avoid undue wrinkling. Despite these problems, I still highly recommend this book. Very useful for collectors!

Average customer rating:

Interesting and informative

Skip This One if you are a Beginner

Excellent Idea Book!

Excellent Idea Book!

The Complete Book of Paint: A Comprehensive Guide to Paint Techniques for Walls, Floors, Furniture, Fabrics, and Metalwork
David Carter , and Charles Hemming
Manufacturer: Friedman
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Painting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Painting & Wallpapering | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1586637053

Book Description

“A welcome companion...The first two chapters—on space and color and on inspiration—set the stage perfectly as motivational tools....Most appealing are the brilliant, illustrative color photgraphs. Twenty projects demonstrate the range of Carter’s artisty....Enjoy this for ideas and inspiration.”—Booklist.

Customer Reviews:

Interesting and informative.......2006-11-24

Carter's book gives a wide-ranging look at many aspects of decorative painting. He starts with a brief introduction, followed by a gallery covering just about every room in the house in his bold, dramatic painted treatments - the cover give just of his interior examples. Take that as an inspriation or warning, as you see fit.

Next, he gives brief descriptions of many basic techniques, including multilayered washes of color, spattering, dragging, marbling, woodgrain finishes and others. This could have been a great resource, but lacks the detail and clarity needed for a do-it-yourselfer to have much chance of success. The project section includes two samples of furniture decoration, but the large majority describe room decorations. Again, I found the directions improvable, especially because I already had reservations about the wisdom or practicality of a beginner tackling such large projects with unfamiliar materials and techniques. I really had to wonder, too, about whether I'd like to live in a room decorated in faux leopard fur by means of stamps cut from potatos.

The last sections present primers on paints, solvents, media, and surface preparation (primers included, if you'll pardon the pun). This is epsecially helpful for special problems, including metallic and masonry surfaces. In most other ways, though, other books are better for the fussy bits of technique, materials, and suggestions for approachable projects.

//wiredweird, reviewing the 1996 edition

Skip This One if you are a Beginner.......2005-12-03

I checked this book out of the library to determine if it was one I would like to add to my collection.

The first half of the book "Inspirations" showed different rooms with various faux finishes and paint, none of which were detailed. The second half of the book was divided into "Technique and Effects", "Projects" and "Directory of paints and surfaces".

"Technique and Effects" addresses the various techniques, i.e. sponging, splattering, combing, strie and others. Generally there were 1-2 small (about 2" x 4-5") close-up photos of the specific technique. The instructions for the technique followed with a few illustrations, not photographs. Some sections did not have illustrations, just text instruction of the technique (antiquing, aging wood and trompe l'oeil).

"Projects" included things like:
- Crackle-glazed headboard (basic and brief)
- Opulent hallway (some weird star-like spots that seemed more appropriate for a child's room or maybe a celestial theme)
- Faux Fur Interior (walls painted in a leopard-print using potatos)
- Theatrical Drawing Room (very amateurish looking).

There WERE several nice projects such as the:
- Empire Style Salon which used Trompe l'oeil panels (no detailed instructions)
- Townhouse Suite with Blue and white striped walls (again just brief steps)
- Silhouetted Salon - very unusual technique and kind of a stylized art painting of a figure done in a navy color
- Stone Blocked Bathroom - brief instructions but think I could follow this one without too much trouble

"Directory" discusses different type of finishes and how they are used; exterior and how to paint various objects (gutters, brick, doors); tiles/ceramic/glass and plastic. I found this section very informative, even though it did not go into a great amount of detail on each component but it was helpful information.

This book may be great for someone who already does faux-finishing, but I felt it lacked details for the beginner. I do think there are much better books out there for learning paint techniques which go into more detail. You might want to try Fresh Paint by Glenwood Sherry, Walls that Wow from Country Sampler Decorating Ideas (even though many of their techniques are not country) and Great Paint Finishes for a Gorgeous Home by Gary Lord

Excellent Idea Book!.......1999-12-15

I have been a professional faux painter for over 5 years. This is the book I turn to when a client is looking for something unusual. The photos provide endless, timeless finishes and designs. I have spent countless hours poured over Mr. Carter's book and I always find a little something in the pictures that I can turn into a 'new' look. The current 'in-style' colors may change, but that is the beauty of paint! Change the colors and you have a new look. As I always say, the best ideas usually begin as someone else's!

Excellent Idea Book!.......1999-12-15

The Complete Book of Floorcloths: Designs & Techniques for Painting Great-looking Canvas Rugs

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All you need to make works of art for your floors and walls
All you need to make works of art for your floors and walls
All you need to make works of art for your floors and walls
Inspirational
Terrific book

The Complete Book of Floorcloths: Designs & Techniques for Painting Great-looking Canvas Rugs
Kathy Cooper , and Jan Hersey
Manufacturer: Lark Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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

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

Floors | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1579903053

Book Description

“Lavishly illustrated. Clear, easy-to-follow directions.”—Library Journal. “A creative way to splash color and de-sign across your floors. Covers a wide range of innovative techniques from sponging to collage.”—The Washington Times. “Helps you decorate floors with eye-catching results. Plenty of samples are at hand displaying a wide range of styles.”—Decorative Artist’s Workbook.

Customer Reviews:

All you need to make works of art for your floors and walls.......2001-11-28

I love making my own decorations but I like to finish projects that look tasteful and as nice (or better) than anything I could buy. You can't go wrong with this book, whether you are just starting out or looking for a larger challenge. There are some easier projects as well as ones that are more difficult. You could spend years using this book and not run out of ideas. Plenty of full-color photos, step by step directions and techniques. Worth every penny you spend on this one!

All you need to make works of art for your floors and walls.......2001-11-28

Inspirational.......2000-08-29

I borrowed this book from a friend and had to buy a copy for myself. It gets your right-brain in high gear. If you're looking for the cutesy, folksy arts & crafts flowing out of China these days, forget this one. But if you like to create and like the unique, this is it. Even if you've never did a cloth before, this book will show you step by step and lead you to create a work of art!

Terrific book.......2000-01-23

I love this book. In the first place, it's just a beautiful publication--very well written and designed, and loaded with examples of gorgeous floorcloths by many artists. I borrowed it from the library just to look at the pictures, then decided I had to buy a copy for myself! Secondly, the instructions are wonderfully clear and precise (I've written and edited instructional manuals, so I know good instructions when I see them.)

Book Description

Unique, illustrated sourcebook on selecting floor coverings.

Average customer rating:

The complete book of floor coverings
Robert Y Ellis
Manufacturer: Scribner
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

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The Complete Book of Home Improvement

Manufacturer: Hermes
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Board book

Floors | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0681891580

Product Description

Great book re ideas and techniques for decorating your home, a complete step-by-step guide. Over 850 color photos and 50 diagrams. Covers painting, paperhanging, tiling, floor coverings, storage, maintainance, repairs, etc., all aspects of decorating. Large colorful book.

The Complete Book of Paint: A Comprehensive Guide to Paint Techniques for Walls, Floors, Furniture, Fabrics, and Metalwork

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The Complete Book of Paint: A Comprehensive Guide to Paint Techniques for Walls, Floors, Furniture, Fabrics, and Metalwork
David Carter
Manufacturer: Clarkson N. Potter
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000IZECJM

The Complete Foundation and Floor Framing Book

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The Complete Foundation and Floor Framing Book
Dan Ramsey
Manufacturer: Tab Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Book Description

Dozens of drawings and diagrams illustrate the fundamentals of planning, estimating, and installing foundations and floor frames.

Now, with the help of this confidence-building guide, you can construct or repair almost any type of foundation or flooring yourself, without fear or hesitation. Author Dan Ramsey provides you with plenty of hands-on instructions and meaningful advice for getting the job done as easily and professionally as possible.

Customer Reviews:

Condition Not What Expected.......2005-09-23

I know it's used but the description led me to believe it would be in better condition than it was. I was a bit dissapointed and am hesitant to recommend this seller to anyone, great price though. I guess the old saying is right,"you get what you pay for." Oh well, the content is what's important, right?

Infographic journalist's manual.......1999-05-06

Great book for understanting charts and diagrams. It's a beginners guide for presenting information with pictures and drawings by Nigel Holmes. Would you know how the USAtoday snapshots fever began? This book remarked the eighties infographic style. It's a classic.

Infographic journalist's manual.......1999-05-06

Book Description

For too long, the films of Woody Allen have been interpreted as expressions of deconstructionism, nihilism, and postmodern angst. In this pathbreaking new book, Mary P. Nichols challenges this, arguing that Allen's work, from Play It Again, Sam to Deconstructing Harry, is actually an attempt to explore and reconcile the tension between art and life. As witty and complex as its subject, Reconstructing Woody shows that Allen is immensely concerned with human ethics, goodness, and virtue.

Customer Reviews:

A good review of the artistry of Woody Allen.......2000-11-02

As a big Woody Allen fan I really enjoyed reading Mary P. Nicols "Reconstructing Woody". Nicols is a professor of political science at Fordham University, and this book is basically her in-depth study or "thesis" on the cinematic art of Woody Allen. She digs deeply into 12 of Allen's films, namely "Play It Again Sam", "Annie Hall", "Interiors", "Stardust Memories", "A Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy", "Zelig", "The Purple Rose of Cairo", "Another Woman", "Crimes and Misdemeanors", "Manhattan Murder Mystery", "Bullets Over Broadway" and "Mighty Aphrodite". She looks at the artisty and craftsmanship of Allen's works and gives her own interperetations as to their deeper meanings, uses of symbolism, and Woody's obvious homages to classic art and literature. She also points out what I've told people all along...that whether he is using comedy or drama as his vehicle, Woody Allen is master storyteller who creates characters of great depth! The chapters on "Crimes and Misdemeanors" and "Stardust Memories" are especially intriguing and enlightening, so much so that Nicols has actually deepened my appreciation of those films. (Not that they wern't favorites already!) I would have liked to have seen what she had to say regarding "Manhattan" or "Broadway Danny Rose", but for some inexplicable reason they were not included. Now that four more Woody Allen fims have been released since the publication of this book, it would be nice to see Nicols do a follow-up which could cover "Deconstructing Harry", "Celebrity", "Sweet and Lowdown", "Small Time Crooks" and some of the older titles that were overlooked here. If Amazon ever offers such a book, I'll be the first here to buy it!

Thesis.......2000-06-24

Nichols has basically written the equivalent of a term paper on the films and life of Woody Allen. That is not to say that the book is dull or only a collection of non-emotive facts about Allen. It delves deep to examine the many facets of his life and the films that he has created. For anyone who really appreciates Woody Allen's films, this would be the book for you.

The Best Woody Ever.......1999-08-15

Nichols has made an exemplary contribution to film studies by integrating that mushy discipline with the rigor of political philosophy. She's surely smarter and better than Woody, but with her help we can see what is best about his art as moral and philosophical illumination.

A profound and provocative meditation on life and art........1999-04-27

Professor Mary Nichols's "Reconstructing Woody" is a profound and provocative meditation on life and art that gazes at these issues through the lens of Woody Allen's films. Nichols's treatment is unique for its insight and readability. Moreover, she succeeds in establishing three truths in her book: 1. That film is as complex, philosophic and insightful a medium for reflecting upon life as any other literary genre, combining especially the novel's ability to recreate a detailed world and drama's ability to have visual impact. 2. That the literary/dramatic reflection of life in art is not simply "reflective" or "passive," but instead represents the artist's ability to see the world through "a" world. If that artist is thoughtful and talented enough, then we do ourselves a service by trying to enter into his or her lens to view our own world. Nichols persuasively demonstrates that Allen is an artist of that rank. 3. That (and this is a very old issue in the Western world) the "sophisticated criticism" of certain intellectuals may, in fact, be less profound than the art it tries to explain. Allen himself has clearly and funnily portrayed this in his films, and Nichols, by presuming that Allen has something to teach her and us, has produced an intellectual commentary that does not distort or render shallow his dramatic corpus. In short, in confronting Allen's art through Nichols's book, the reader will emerge with a greater ability to appreciate a worthy artist's work and the world that that work represents.

Reconstructing Woody (Allen).: An article from: Queen's Quarterly

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Reconstructing Woody (Allen).: An article from: Queen's Quarterly
Maurice Yacowar
Manufacturer: Queen's Quarterly
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

General | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Book Description

This digital document is an article from Queen's Quarterly, published by Queen's Quarterly on March 22, 1998. The length of the article is 3748 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Reconstructing Woody (Allen).
Author: Maurice Yacowar
Publication: Queen's Quarterly (Refereed)
Date: March 22, 1998
Publisher: Queen's Quarterly
Volume: 105 Issue: 1 Page: 94-104

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