Book Description
With film rights acquired by Francis Ford Coppola, this comic novel of instant riches is back in stock. From the author of A Clockwork Orange, One Hand Clapping is a comedy of game shows and greed, high stakes and the high life. The tragi-comedy of used car salesman Howard Shirley, his photographic brain, and the modern world's trivia and trivialities makes for vintage Burgess—at once hilarious and provocative. “Witty and shrewdly joyful.”—The New York Times Book Review “A funny, pointed novel.”—The New Yorker “Ingeniously and devilishly funny.”—The Atlantic Monthly
Customer Reviews:
A fun, early Burgess novel, not ambitious particularly.......2006-07-02
as compared to the whole new language invented for Clockwork Orange but a decent effort that English readers would indentify with more than Americans and what was the horse racing system?
just ok -.......2006-01-31
Not his best work. A journal of sudden wealth, told first-person by an uneducated English housewife. I found it predictable, and the narrator's voice, funny at first, grew tiresome well before the end. If you've the desire for a good first-person book, read 'A Long Way Down' by Nick Hornby instead.
Delicious Black Comedy.......2004-11-22
From the very beginning this book has wit, well defined characterizations and a fine sense of place and atmosphere.
As the story moves along you are taken into the world of the character's loves, hates and desires which ultimately underscores the old saying, "Be careful what you wish for" in a wonderfully delicious black comedy the British seem to do better than most. One is tempted to read it through in one setting because it is hard to wait to find out what will happen next.
a slap at the "who wants to be a millionaire?" crowd.......2000-09-19
One Hand Clapping is a short, bitterly humorous look at a British working-class couple who strive to win a fortune on a TV quiz show, then spend their fortune in a rather peculiar fashion. Although Once Hand Clapping was written in the early 1960s it's satiric message still rings true. I loved it.
However this novel is not for everyone. Firstly, the book has a very British feel about it. Much of the wording is not used in America, and is even distinctly old-fashioned here in England. But otherwise One Hand Clapping is an excellent introduction to the brilliant world of Anthony Burgess.
A great book!.......1999-09-08
I can't disagree more with something12_2@hotmail.com. *One Hand Clapping* is a terrific book, funny, profound, and memorable. Although I read it several years ago, I think about quite a lot -- and remember quite vidily the pleasure I had reading it. I highly recommend it to both Burgess fans and those who have never read him, or think he just wrote *Clockwork Orange.* It's good to see *One Hand Clapping* is still in print.
Average customer rating:
- A fascinating debut from an equally fascinating writer...
- Disappointing
- Self-Invention/Self-Determination
- Very good book - but not perfect
- A beginning, a muddle, and an abrupt end
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The Land of Laughs: A Novel
Jonathan Carroll
Manufacturer: Orb Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0312873115 |
Amazon.com
Thomas Abbey is a man stuck in a rut. An English teacher in a small Connecticut prep school, Abbey is in a crisis. His career is unfulfilling, he has no social or love life to speak of, and he cannot break out of the shadow of his famous father, the actor Stephen Abbey. To kick-start his life, he takes a sabbatical to work on a biography of his favorite writer, Marshall France. France's books were the only thing that kept Abbey sane during his childhood, and though he was renowned for his lyrical and imaginative children's books, nearly nothing was known about the writer's life.
Although Abbey has been warned that France's daughter Anna has blocked all previous attempts at her father's biography, he and Saxony Garder--an intense woman also obsessed with France's life--head to Galen, Missouri, with high hopes of breaking down Anna's resistance. They are surprised to find Anna the soul of small-town hospitality and quite excited about Abbey's proposal--even eager to get the project finished as soon as possible. Even stranger than Anna's behavior is the town of Galen itself. On the surface, all is as a small midwestern town should be. But the people of the town seem to know what their future holds--freak accidents and all--down to the hour and are as eager for Abbey to finish the biography as Anna is.
As far as plot goes, The Land of Laughs doesn't break any new ground--it is a riff on a very old literary theme--and the more interesting issues the story raises--fate, free will, and the creative power of the written word--receive only a glancing blow as the story careens to its somewhat unsatisfying Gothic ending. That said, Carroll does show a good ear for dialogue and a deft hand at creating complex characters and quietly ominous moods. And the story--hoary plot line and all--immediately grabs you and doesn't let go. If you already know Jonathan Carroll from his other novels, you will want to add this reissue of his first novel to your library. And if you haven't yet been introduced to this inventive author, The Land of Laughs is the perfect place to begin. --Perry M. Atterberry
Book Description
Have you ever loved a magical book above all others? Have you ever wished the magic were real? Welcome to The Land of Laughs. A novel about how terrifying that would be.Schoolteacher Thomas Abbey, unsure son of a film star, doesn't know who he is or what he wants--in life, in love, or in his relationship with the strange and intense Saxony Gardner. What he knows is that in his whole life nothing has touched him so deeply as the novels of Marshall France, a reclusive author of fabulous children's tales who died at forty-four.Now Thomas and Saxony have come to France's hometown, the dreamy Midwestern town of Galen, Missouri, to write France's biography. Warned in advance that France's family may oppose them, they're surprised to find France's daughter warmly welcoming instead. But slowly they begin to see that something fantastic and horrible is happening. The magic of Marshall France has extended far beyond the printed page....leaving them with a terrifying task to undertake.
Download Description
Schoolteacher Thomas Abbey, unsure son of a film star, doesn't know who he is or what he wants--in life, in love, in his relationship with the strange and intense Saxony Gardner. What he knows is that in his whole life, nothing has touched him so deeply as the magical novels of Marshall France, a reclusive author of fabulous children's tales who died at 44. Now Thomas and Saxony have come to France's hometown, the dreamy Midwestern town of Galen, Missouri, to write France's biography. Warned in advance that France's family may oppose them, they're surprised to find France's daughter warmly welcoming them instead. But slowly they begin to see that something fantastic and horrible is happening. The magic of Marshall France has extended far beyond the printed page . . . leaving them with a terrifying task to undertake.
Customer Reviews:
A fascinating debut from an equally fascinating writer..........2007-05-26
This was my second Jonathan Carroll novel; I had previously read the excellent, albeit much sparser, VOICE OF OUR SHADOW, and absolutely loved it. THE LAND OF LAUGHS is Carroll's much sought-after debut novel (VOICE was his second published book)--in consequence, it's not as accomplished as some of his later works, but is equally provocative and memorable.
Thomas Abbey, the son of a famous actor, is obsessed with the work of children's author Marshall France. So obsessed, that he decides to write a biography of the man--something which has never been done. Teaming up with the prickly but compassionate Saxony, with whom he quickly falls in love, Thomas drives out to the small town of Galen where France spent most of his life. There, he meets all sorts of bizarre characters, and quickly realizes that all is not right with this little Midwestern town...
THE LAND OF LAUGHS pretty much set the tone for the themes and imagery Carroll would work with later on in his career, and for that reason this is a pretty good place to start if you're interested in checking out his writing. It's written in effortless, casual first-person and is almost impossible to put down. It's quite hilarious at times but, like VOICE OF OUR SHADOW, caps off with a dark and rather disturbing ending. That's the beauty of Carroll: he knows how to pull the rug out from under you. LAND OF LAUGHS is certainly unpredictable. That said, I wouldn't say it's as good as some of his later work--certainly, it's not half as powerful or stunning as VOICE OF OUR SHADOW (if you have the opportunity, read that book!). Some of the writing is clunky, the protagonist isn't the most sympathetic, and there's a bit too much exposition and not enough action in the final third.
But I must give credit where credit is due: this is a one-of-a-kind novel (well, that is, unless you count Carroll's other novels) and has some great moments in it. It also caps off with a twist ending that, I'd dare say, is perfect in every sense of the word. Definitely go out of your way to read this--just don't expect a masterpiece.
Disappointing.......2006-07-11
The premise was good, but the pacing was slow and the ending was lousy. I don't understand the enthusiasm for this book.
Self-Invention/Self-Determination.......2006-06-14
Thomas Abbey leads an undistinguished, unsatisfying existence. He teaches English at a boy's prep school, but is chiefly known as the son of a glamorous 1940's film actor. He bitterly resents this constant association but feels unable to escape it. For his entire life he's lived in the shadow of his late father and their conflicted relationship. When he was a child, his greatest solace was found in the fanciful books of Marshall France, a reclusive writer who died at forty-four. One day, in an antiquarian bookshop, the doleful teacher meets an eccentric woman, Saxony Gardner, who is equally obsessed with France and together they travel to the writer's adopted hometown in Missouri to start work on a France biography. But almost nothing in the sleepy town of Galen is what it seems and slowly their idyllic existence turns into an inescapable nightmare.
Like Neil Gaiman , I am a huge fan of Jonathan Carroll, but of all his works, this novel has particular resonance for me. It suggests that our lives, our selves, even, to a great extent, our world, are largely products of our influence on them. That we are the authors of our own story; we collaborate with our histories to create ourselves and thus the past is as mutable as our relationship with it. The book is chock full of symbolism that deftly illustrates its twin themes of self-invention (e.g., Abbey is a collector of masks) and self-determination (e.g., his lover, Saxony, a maker of elaborate marionettes).
This is a vigorous, engaging read told in a naturalistic, matter-of-fact style that belies the tension and horror lurking just beneath the surface. The characters are well-fleshed out and human with relatable, believable motivations. And despite a shocking climax, at least the denouement allows Thomas Abbey to finally make peace with his past and even find ways to make use of it.
Very good book - but not perfect.......2005-07-11
I'm a big fan of Haruki Murakami (Wind-up bird chronicle is a must read!) and Philip K. Dick and I had seen both of them compared stylistically to Carroll so I thought I would give him a go. I really enjoyed the Land of Laughs. there is a twilight zone aspect to it, however, I didn't find the book stretching on too long - if anything i would agree with those who said its ends too quickly. And yet, on the ending, I would say that it has a better ending than most books in this genre that want to lull around in an unusual world but can't bring the plot to clean satisfying ending.
From what I've read LOL was Carroll's first book so I wouldn't want to draw any strong conclusions, but I did find that the writing wasn't as wrong as some other storytellers like Robertson Davies or Murakami. But it was a very good book and I suspect I'll be reading another of his books within a month.
A beginning, a muddle, and an abrupt end.......2005-04-14
The numerous "Twilight Zone" references in these reviews should be seen as a negative, not a positive. Original episodes were 22 minutes -- for a reason... the stories could not sustain the willing suspension of disbelief longer than that. Witness the numerous misfires when the show was expanded to an hour. Carroll's book crashes and burns early for the same reason... among others: a nasty, unprepossessing and utterly passive lead character who settles for being told everything rather than discovering anything; the abandonment of another main character in mid-tale; and a completely rushed, totally undeveloped finale. The tale literally just stops -- dead. An extremely unsatisfying read.
Book Description
200 YEARS AGO: The expanding Klingon™ Empire found a frozen world rich in deposits of the mineral topaline. They named the planet taD -- Klingon for "frozen" -- and they called the people jeghpu'wI' -- conquered.
FOUR YEARS AGO: The Klingon Empire invaded Cardassia, breaching the Khitomer Accords and causing a break with the Federation. On taD, depleted Klingon forces were overthrown in a small coup d'état, and the victorious rebels took advantage of the disruption to appeal for recognition from the Federation.
NOW: The Klingons have returned to taD and re-established their control. But the stubborn rebels insist on Federation recognition. A solution to the diplomatic impasse must be found, a task that falls to the Federation's new ambassador to the Klingon Empire -- Worf.
Worf thinks of himself as a fighter, not a negotiator, but the Federation disagrees. Now, for the sake of the Federation and the Empire, a Klingon warrior must weave a fragile peace out of a situation ripe for war!
Download Description
Following the events of the Dominion War, Klingon Ambassador Worf reluctantly must forge a fragile peace between hardened rebels and the local Klingon governorship ruling the icy planet of taD. But this is a task that faces seemingly insurmountable odds, for as everyone knows, Klingons do not negotiate....
Customer Reviews:
STNG #61 Diplomatic Implausibility - Exceptional!.......2004-12-26
"Diplomatic Implausibility" is author, Keith R.A. DeCandido's first full length novel in the Star Trek genre. From his work in the Star Trek S.C.E. (Starfleet Corps of Engineers) e-Book series one could tell that he was going to become a major influence in the Star Trek genre which has proven quite true given his breadth of work since this, his first outstanding Star Trek The Next Generation novel.
DeCandido's work stands out with great flare as its originality in the story telling is quite clear, his knowledge of the Star Trek universe is extensive and most importantly, the story is extremely well balanced between pace and narrative!
Pocket Books has done a great job over the last few years in bringing in authors such as Keith R.A. DeCandido who are not only authors but fans of Star Trek which, in this reader's opinion, is quite integral in the pursuit of being able to write a decent Star Trek story such as this novel.
The Premise:
Fresh off the heels of the events depicted in Star Trek Deep Space Nine's final episode, "What You Leave Behind" where Lt. Commander Worf, after defeating the Klingon High Chancellor Gowron and giving the Chancellorship to General Martok, is then offered the opportunity to be the Federation's Ambassador to Klingon which he gladly accepts.
Some two hundred years ago, a mineral rich world known as taD was conquered by the Klingon Empire and its inhabitants became slaves of the Klingon Empire. When the Klingons were mislead by the Dominion into attacking the Cardassians the people of taD, seeing a shortage in Klingons guarding their world, seized the opportunity and retook their world for their own and called upon the Federation for assistance however, the Federation could not and would not intervene due to the potential political ramifications.
With the end of the Dominion war came the Klingons retaking of taD and its inhabitants renewed efforts to gain protection from the Federation comes the need for Ambassador Worf who is now called into the situation to negotiate between the Klingon Empire, the Federation and taD's inhabitants...
I highly recommend this numbered Star Trek The Next Generation novel as you will find it to be among the best of the numbered novels and in it, a truly knowledgeable and crafty author who stands out in the genre. {ssintrepid}
Ambassador Worf + IKS Gorkon = Great Mix........2004-02-17
This novel is great for a couple of reasons. First is Worf's great portrayal. I liked his discomfort with the Ambassador title and him dealing with his diplomatic responsibility. Second, the wonderful crew and captain of the IKS Gorkon. This crew, especially Cpt. Klag, grew on me, and as a result I became a sucker and went out to buy the other adventures of the IKS Gorkon in the Brave and the Bold Book 2 and the other two Gorkon books.
DeCandido is a great author. I first read Demons of Air and Darkness by him, and then a couple SCE stories, and then went back to his first book to check out where Worf had gone after the DS9 finale. In fact I read this book knowing it was, in sorts, a continuation of DS9 in the Relaunch form. Having read up to the Gamma books, it was a welcome change to see another DS9 crewmember that had gone a different way. (Now where's my Rom story!)
The plot deals with Worf having to confront his allegiance between the Federation and Martok and the Klingon Empire. My only confusion is why Worf would have overall command of the mission being a Federation, not Klingon, representative.
So Captain Klag is an awesome character that prompted me to wanna read the rest of his adventures. His crew is interesting, and the Klingon characterizations are fitting. Worf is particularly spot-on, especially with some of his classic one-word responses.
The story and characters flow naturally; nothing is forced. The battles are good; the story is decent when compared to awesome plots like in the DS9 "Millennium" Trilogy. The conclusion sort of came on me too fast to appreciate it, and the lack of twists or climax is what made me rate this a 4 and not a 5. Keith should have written another 30-50 pages to create a totally unique, intriguing conclusion.
Characters from the Romulan prison that Worf rescued are on board the Gorkon... as well is Worf's mind-altered brother Kurn, now Rodek. His pathetic character makes one want to know wtf is bugging him, which is another reason to buy the other Gorkon books. It was great seeing Worf in his holosuite program from Season 1 TNG, seeing Beverly with an old Klingon radical doctor, and Riker reunited with Klag getting hammered despite taking an alcohol-suppressant. Passed TNG and DS9 characters are well integrated and feel natural and not forced or over-the-top like in other novels. Oh, and then there's Martok's pathetic son who Worf beat up on DS9... his character is intriguing. I also liked the continuity with the Emperor of the al'Hmatti and how he didn't just have a miraculous change-of-heart, but fit in with his character until his end.
The good thing is the tension between the crew, just as I would expect from a unique Klingon vessel with distinctive people. Most evocative is Klag's distrust of Worf due to his perception that Worf got his position only for being in Martok's house. It's also good to see Worf still mourns Jadzia's loss. The thing about DeCandido that I've come to realize is you really get into the heads of his characters, and for those we have seen on the screen, you will have no problem visualizing the different people speaking (in their unique voices) the words Keith has written. Kudos to the author indeed!
All in all an excellent cast of new and old characters, with a decent plot and some fun solid action. Reading it definitely makes one want to keep reading the adventures of the crew of the IKS Gorkon, especially with its one-armed Captain!
One missed opportunity: More involvement from the Enterprise crew with Worf. They were pushed to the background, but seeing as this is a Worf novel it was somewhat suitable. However, it is excellent to see that Worf, alone, solves the crisis on taD, and that no one from the Enterprise comes to his rescue. Chalk one up for Worf the Diplomat.
Oh, and those claiming this should be a DS9 book and that it was labeled TNG cause it sells better are mistaken. DS9 is hardly in this novel; TNG is. And in all fairness Worf was aboard TNG longer and keeps joining the TNG crew in the movies. So shutupa yer face about marketing ploys.
In conclusion, I recommend this book for TNG, DS9, Klingon and Worf fans. But also, surprisingly, for non-Trek fans, since the author does a good job recounting the crucial parts of Worf's history in a continuity that is quite suiting for the novel.
This work, though easily read as a standalone, does feel like a pilot book introducing the IKS Gorkon. But for me, that's okay, because it makes me want to read more about them. I'm glad characters weren't fully developed and resolutions didn't just appear out of thin air. I can hardly wait to read more from Keith in the future. I do agree the Rodek-Kurn/Worf relationship needed to have some conclusion, even if not complete, because it does beg one to ask what Worf felt about the whole situation. I sincerely hope it is resolved, or at least addressed in future novels.
Worf is definitely one of the most interesting Trek characters, yet in reflection I find myself comparing this novel to Garak's, "A Stitch in Time", and I find that as standalone novels basing itself mainly on one main character, Garak's novel is vastly supreme. Then again it is much longer. Thus, it is with great difficulty that I rate this novel a 4 and not a 5. Had it been slightly longer, I know it would have given me reason to rate it perfect.
PS, the glossary of Klingon terms is reason enough to buy it!
Wonderfully Entertaining.......2004-01-07
This may be DeCandido's best book so far. The plot is intricate: Worf has to find a middle path between the demands for independence of the natives and the political necessity of keeping the Klingon Empire intact. The Captain of the Gorkon doesn't trust him, the local governor is a ruthless, arrogant incompetent, and the natives are less than ecstatic to discover the Federation representative is a Klingon. There is a fair amount of action scenes in this book, both space and ground combat, and they are very good, although not to the level of the best in the Gorkon books. The dialogue and the character interaction are where the book really shines. The language is witty and incisive and wonderfully entertaining. All the characters are vividly and thoroughly portrayed, including several that lack such vividness in the Gorkon series.
A Fantastic book.......2003-07-28
After a long string a reading mediocre books (like Do Comets Dream?), I find myself looking at one that is truly a pleasure to read. Keith R.A. DeCandido has certainly outdone himself here. This was the first time I've had the experience to enjoy his work, but I will definitely be getting more of his titles, namely the upcoming I.K.S. Gorkon duology and Gateways - 4 of 7 - Demons Of Air And Darkness.
Now, there are two main things this book is about. One is to introduce (I think anyway) the I.K.S Gorkon crew, which is a new ship in the Klingon fleet. The other is to show some of Worf's new challenges as Federation Ambassador to the Klingon Empire. For the former point, Keith goes past the typical Klingon archetypes and really makes this crew come to life. In fact, the Captain (Klag) reminisces about how strange and unique his crew is compared to typical Klingon vessels. The crew is very likeable and is engineered so that interesting and natural conflicts arise throughout the story (and, no doubt, future stories). For the later point, we get to see how Worf deals with the losses of the Dominion War and accepts the new challenges that await him as ambassador, which provides a lot of rich character development throughout the story. Even in diplomacy, his honor and his ability to remain a warrior are constantly tested. It's interesting that a quote from season 4 (spoken by Curzon) says, "The only people who can really handle the Klingons are Klingons". That is very true in this book, making Worf a very logical and natural choice to handle the intense diplomatic situation that unfolds.
What makes this book really special is not just the plot (which is very good), but that it's true to the characters (old and new). When you read the words of Worf, Martok, Riker or any of the other characters, you can really hear the actors speaking the dialog in your mind. Keith goes much further than that, though. While the story remains in the 3rd person, Keith does a great job letting you know how the characters think and reflect on the situations around him. Even Riker's experiences aboard a Klingon vessel in TNG's season 2 are of key importance to his actions in the story. Most of the time, I couldn't help but smile as I was completely absorbed and convinced that these characters were exactly as I remembered them from TNG and DS9.
The book is also true to established continuity as well. There are many times where Worf reflects on the death of Jadzia or Kah'lar, as they have a direct and significant impact on the story itself. Worf's history in Starfleet and the aftermath of the Dominion War are also big events that this story has drawn from. It makes everything fit into place very nicely as you get the feeling that the story is a logical consequence of these events, yet interesting enough that you'll want to read about it.
Commander Riker and Dr. Crusher also make appearances, as they do have a history with several of the crew members of the I.K.S Gorkon. Rather than some books just putting them in for the sake of familiarity, or perhaps for marketing reasons, Keith takes a different approach. Since this is a book about Worf and the I.K.S. Gorkon, the author makes sure he develops the *right* characters. In each case, Crusher helps bring out the passions of B'Oraq, the Chief Medical Officer aboard the ship, and likewise, Riker helps make Klag into more than just a one-dimensional character (which seems like a one-purpose adversary to Worf at the beginning of the book).
Another aspect that I really like the book is that every paragraph is important to the plot or its characters. I'm not a big fan of books that use so much description that you could just remove it from the book and it wouldn't change a thing. I think the English language can be somewhat clumsy if it's used incorrectly, trying to describe every detail as if you were really trying to show a picture or a movie. But no, Keith doesn't do that. Every paragraph is relative to the plot or explains why the characters are reacting or thinking the way they do. Every plot point is intelligently graphed into the whole. I guess the best to describe it is that it's efficient yet emotional and captivating at the same time, which is typically the writing style I enjoy best.
So if you haven't read Diplomatic Implausibility now, you should definitely pick it up. While I'm not sure if the plots in this novel correlate to the Left Hand of Destiny (which I'm reading that now), there is lot to like here and it's an excellent addendum to the shows. This could have been very well been a real episode, as there was no indication that it was a case of bad fan fiction or contrived storytelling at all. This is one is great.
Good Klingon Novel.......2002-12-29
Containing an excellent portrayal of Worf, this novel manages to pull together a number of loose ends of his life after the war, and coming to terms with the death of Jadsia. He is now a diplomat for starfleet, and is sent to resolve a conflict of a world which is under Klingon rule, much to the dismay, and anger of this worlds inhabitants. His old friends on the Enterprise make an apperance as they escort him to his mission, but do not take part in the mission byond that. Worf must manage to pull off a settlement which is agreeable to the Klingons, who will accept nothing less than Klingon rule continuing, and the factions on the world who will accept nothing less than freedom, and Klingons leaving thier planet for good. Among this the constant harrasment by other Klingons and challenges of his honor are present. A good read.
Book Description
This remarkable book brings together more than 150 authentic Buddhist teaching tales from the Hidden Kingdom of Tibet — most never before translated into English. These captivating stories, legends and yarns — passed orally from teacher to student — capture the vibrant wisdom of an ancient and still-living oral tradition. Magical, whimsical, witty and ribald, The Snow Lion's Turquoise Mane unfolds a luminous vision of a universe where basic goodness, harmony, and hope prevails.
Customer Reviews:
A favorite bedside book.......2007-05-15
This is a compilation of Tibetan and Buddhist tales, similar in a way to Zen Flesh Zen Bones (which I also love). The difference is the language is much simpler, smoother, and accessible. Who would have thought Buddhism could be so funny at times? It's a great way to get into the spirit of things, without laboring over it. I just love this book.
Tibetian mini tales.......2007-01-16
This book is a compilation of spiritual short stories from Tibet. The typical story is only a page or two, so not much depth is possible in any given story. A full range of subjects within Buddism are presented, including spiritual, inspirational, enlightening, insightful, fictional, non-fictional, humorous, and sad. I enjoyed the vast majority of the stories to some degree.
In addition to the spiritual value of the book, it is also rich with the culture of Tibet.
My only problem with the book was that by and large the stories were unrelated in terms of plot and characters. Finishing one story did not leave me wanting to read "just one more" before putting it down.
With that in mind, this book would be perfect as a "bathroom reader".
Entertainment: 3.5 stars
Enlightenment: 4.5 stars
Overall: 4 stars
A wonderful, fun-filled, light hearted look at enlightenment.......1998-11-05
The tales of wild crazy masters,and ordinary people on their journey of self-discovery will inspire and amaze you. Hearing about others whose journey's have been successful (in their own ways) renews one's own spiritual quest and helps you to realize that you are not alone, that life is a wonderful mystery, and although it can seem unfair, it can't hinder you if you never take anthing to heart, since it's all transient anyway!
Customer Reviews:
Beautiful Presentations Make this a Worthwhile Purchase.......2000-07-12
I love to cook and try different techniques in my kitchen. After purchasing a new clay pot and feeling quite the novice, I began searching for a book that would give me some fairly detailed instructions for cooking in clay. While there are probably better books on the market for explaining the "do's" and "don't's" of claypot cooking, this book's photographs spurred me on to try out my pot with enough information to sufficiently get me started. There are plenty of tasty recipes to keep one experimenting with this wonderful, historical cooking method without becoming bored. This book is a delightful addition to anyone's kitchen shelf of cookbooks.
Book Description
Well-known firearms authority Massad Ayoob reports on the latest techniques and available handguns, ammunition, and accessories essential to effective self-defense with a handgun. Covered topics are of vital importance to anyone who has an interest in the tactical use of a handgun.
Combat pistols, including semi-automatics and revolvers, are discussed. Readers will learn what to look for in a used handgun, how to build and test necessary skills, and where to find additional training. Combat handgun controversies are thoroughly discussed such as revolvers versus semi-automatics and point shooting versus aimed shooting.
New combat handgun tactics and techniques are evaluated and demonstrated including close quarters battle, and combat scan. Enthusiasts will also learn about common mistakes and accidents and how to prevent them. Contains essential information on concealed carry.
• Learn about the latest combat handgun techniques, handguns, and accessories
• Build and test necessary combat handgun skills
• Tactics and techniques are evaluated and demonstrated
Customer Reviews:
Excellent book........2007-06-01
This book featured a great deal of useful information. The book reads easily and is a fantastic starting point for any citizen with a concealed carry permit. I would have liked to have some specific shooting drills designed for CCW permit holders but, overall the book was very informative and I would highly recommend it. Readers of the author's regular magazine columns will recognize the style of writing and professionalism.
A serious book about self-defense with a handgun.......2007-04-12
The title of this book, the fact that it is a trade paperback and that it is offered under the Gun Digest umbrella may mislead some prospective readers. Yes, this title comes out every few years, and yes, it has a different author each time. That is the Gun Digest way. But don't be mislead!
This is not a book for the handgun hobbyist, this is a book for those who are serious about self defense with a handgun. Massad Ayoob is very qualified to write on this topic and his information is top notch. His style is very readable. He really covers every aspect of the topic--self defense with a handgun--as well as one can in a single book.
If you are new to the subject of self-defense, buy this book and Ayoob's "In the Gravest Extreme" as your introduction to the topic. Unfortunately there is a lot of hot air blowing on this topic today--but rest assured you will not find that here. I give this book my best rating.
excellent book, first hand and very informative.......2007-03-17
i found this book to be a great read and excellent guide to the modern combat shooter, it covers every aspect from choosing a firearm, avoiding mistakes,training,ammo selection,gun leather,new and used firearms,CQB,qualifications and competitions,MR. Ayoob did it right in this book, there are plenty of pictures and diagrams for the beginner and journeymen shooter alike, THIS BOOK CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE!
Good Instructional Book on Handguns.......2007-03-04
Massad Ayoob is one of the best known authors on handguns and their use in defensive situations, but like most gun writers, he eschews great revolvers that are no longer in production, sticking primarily to production pieces. He also has a difficult time saying anything bad about any of the guns, a sure sign of a gun hack. Even so, one can learn a lot from his experience, especially the legal ramifications of using a handgun for defense. One such tidbit is to tell the police briefly what happened, but keep your mouth shut until your attorney arrives. The police aren't always your friends, despite their actions and comments. Meanwhile, anything YOU say can and undoubtedly will be used against you in a court of law. It's an excellent book for beginners and experienced alike.
Excellent buy!.......2006-11-13
This is very informative book. Must know information is covered from cover to cover. I've read it twice, and still find myself looking through the pages from time to time.
This book is a must for any handgun enthusiast.
Book Description
Creative Craft Lettering Made Easy makes personalizing craft projects as easy as A-B-C!
Readers will learn how to add their favorite letters, words and sayings to their projects with this fun and easy book that features:
-15 projects including a friendship pillow, a bulletin board and flowerpots -A wide variety of lettering techniques, including rubber stamping, stenciling, decoupage and beginner calligraphy -Step-by-step instructions on how to incorporate lettering into projects using some of the most popular craft materials, from glass, tile and wood to polymer clay, fabric and terra cotta
Crafters everywhere will give this book an A!
Book Description
Beyond basic lies a rich world of kitchen and bath possibilities. No better guide exists for exploring that world than this book. A wealth of information on thematic styles and how to apply them in these important rooms, this guide can help you create kitchens and baths that complement, harmonize with, and enhance the architectural style of houses and interiors. Featuring more than 200 color photographs and 100 line drawings, Kitchen and Bath Theme Design: An Architectural Styling Guide, shows you how to create Early American, Victorian, country-style, Art Nouveau, contemporary, and other popular kitchen and bath themesNcreate a unique statementNor simply add a few evocative details. Whether you want a complete kitchen and bath design guide, a source of inspiration, or just a few ideas, this bookNdeveloped by the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the only kitchen and bathroom design guide in full colorNhas it all.
Product Description
Book of The Month Club, New York. Soft Cover. 4to - over 9¾" - 12" tall. 5 albums with art stamps pasted in.
Average customer rating:
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Supergrass: "Life on Other Planets" (Tab)
Manufacturer: Music Sales Ltd
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Sheet Music & Scores
| Formats
| Books
| Composers
| Forms & Genres
| Historical Period
| Instrumentation
Rock
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1843283085 |
Average customer rating:
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The informers: A chilling account of the supergrasses in Northern Ireland
Andrew Boyd
Manufacturer: Mercier Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Social Services & Welfare
| Poverty
| Current Events
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Sociology
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
| AIDS
| Abuse
| Adults
| Aging
| Children
| Class
| Communities
| Culture
| Death
| General
| History
| Leisure
| Marriage & Family
| Medicine
| Men
| Occupational
| Race Relations
| Religion
| Research & Measurement
| Rural
| Social Groups
| Social Situations
| Social Theory
| Suburban
| Urban
| Women
ASIN: 0853427259 |
Average customer rating:
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Make Music with Supergrass
Manufacturer: Music Sales Ltd
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Sheet Music & Scores
| Formats
| Books
| Composers
| Forms & Genres
| Historical Period
| Instrumentation
Rock
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1843282461 |
Average customer rating:
- Just Buy It ( A Real-Life Gangster Classic).
|
Powder Wars: The Supergrass Who Brought Down Britain's Biggest Drug Dealers
Graham Johnson
Manufacturer: Mainstream Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Criminals
| Specific Groups
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
Criminology
| Crime & Criminals
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
War on Drugs
| Crime & Criminals
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
True Crime
| True Accounts
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Organized Crime
| True Accounts
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1840189258
Release Date: 2005-11-22 |
Book Description
Gangster Paul Grimes was a one-man crimewave with a breathtaking capacity to steal. Any villains who got in his way were made to pay—often with their blood. But when his son died of a drug overdose, the old-school mobster swore revenge on the new generation of Liverpool-based heroin and cocaine dealers. Against all odds, he turned undercover informant.
Customer Reviews:
Just Buy It ( A Real-Life Gangster Classic)........2005-02-05
This book is gripping from start to finish.It's not your typical Cockney gangster book with a picture of a meat head on the cover and it's not exagerated like the Kray Myths seem to be.It's a story of a well known Liverpool family who are into everything and it progresses into an unbelievable climax.The supergrass turns against the new breed of Liverpool gangsters because he lost his son to Heroin and decides to work with customs officers to put them all behind bars because they all started to sell Drugs.The twist comes when he finds out his other son is now into drug dealing with the very people he's trying to put behind bars which leaves him with the dilemma,does he shop his own son and risk him never speaking to him again or back off?If it wasn't true you may think it is far fetched,it would make a great film and is a must read,you wont want to put it down.The best book I've read in ages.
Average customer rating:
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Supergrass
Linda Holorny
Manufacturer: Omnibus Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Entertainers
| Arts & Literature
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Rock
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Performing Arts
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0711954976 |
Average customer rating:
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Supergrass - The Illustrated Story
Supergrass
Manufacturer: Hamlyn
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Arts & Literature
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
| Actors & Actresses
| Artists, Architects & Photographers
| Authors
| Composers & Musicians
| Dancers
| Entertainers
| Movie Directors
| New Age
| Television Performers
| Theatre
General
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
Rock
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0600589773 |
Average customer rating:
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Supergrass: The Illustrated Story
Everett True
Manufacturer: Hal Leonard Corp
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Rock
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0793564409 |
Average customer rating:
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Supergrasses & Informers
Morton , and
James Morton
Manufacturer: Little Brown and Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
Social Services & Welfare
| Poverty
| Current Events
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Forensic Science
| Crime & Criminals
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
True Crime
| True Accounts
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0751514098 |
Books:
- Perfect Match: A Novel
- Peril, Kentucky
- Plains Song: For Female Voices
- Running: Difficulty at the Beginning, Book 1 (Difficulty at the Beginning)
- Sanin: A Novel
- Season of the Snake: A Novel
- Secresy (Darkhorse Series)
- Seven Peaches: The First Seven Desert Peach Episodes
- Spinoza of Market Street and Other Stories
- Stonedial
Books Index
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