A Southern Tragedy, In Crimson And Yellow

Book Description

For A Southern Tragedy, in Crimson and Yellow, Naumoff creates an extended metaphor like a poet. The novel has the grace and finality and wonder of a postmortem, where each detail is revealed, turned around and looked at from behind, from underneath. It's about some people mostly screwing up right and left, and the remnants of a beautiful, bright heritage, and the diary of a woman driven mad by grief. By the end of the novel, there is nothing less than the whole shebang, the whole mystery of life and death and honor.

With meticulous physical descriptions, Naumoff has written not just an historical novel, or a political one, or one of personal lives and tragedies, but all those things at once.

--Haven Kimmel, author of A Girl Named Zippy

Customer Reviews:

A Much-Needed Story, and a Good Read, Too.......2005-12-03

Social realist fiction has fallen out of favor in recent decades. And while nonfiction treatments of issues such as class and racial inequalities, corporate malfeasance, and low wage labor have their place, they don't pack the emotional punch of this novel. Naumoff brings the people to life as he explores the circumstances that brought a dozen of his characters to the burning and barred factory. As the actual fire reminds us of the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire of the early 1900s, this well written novel is in the tradition of the great progressive writers of the time.

Ambitious, Poignant, and Timely Novel.......2005-09-27

Lawrence Naumoff's sixth novel is as heart-breaking a view of lives rocked by poverty and disaster as Hurricane Katrina's devestation brought to light. "A Southern Tragedy" is sometimes difficult to bear, much as the televised images of Katrina were; but this is a necessary book, a novel that confronts bravely and wisely what it means to be poor and forgotten in our greedy corporate culture. In this taut and frequently lyrical novel, Naumoff introduces us to a small Southern town in its heydey at the turn of the century; little Hamlet, NC was a southeastern railroad hub, and the trains brought a lively culture. There was even an opera house in Hamlet and a strong merchant class. From the early 1900's to the 1990's, the author traces the gradual decline of the town and its heirs of lost fortunes. When the factory that made Buttercup Ice Cream is turned into a chicken processing plant,the reader senses the ultimate disappearance of all things lovely. Brightening some of the books darkest pages is young Ellie McCorkle whose pluck in adversity is reminiscent of Norma Ray. Ellie, too, at the end of her financial rope, reports to work at the chicken plant on the tragic day when the famous fire occurs. This fire--which actually occured--was the worst industrial accident to ever happen in North Carolina.
"A Southern Tragedy" is a bold departure for Naumoff who is best known for darkly comedic books about men and women. Here he takes on unscrupulous business men, rednecks, and the fierce disparity between the haves and have-nots. There is also a fabulous, mentally handicapped character, Bynum, who will steal your heart.
If you were attracted to a book like "Nickle and Dimed," but felt the author's experience was less than genuine, reading this provocative and nitty-gritty novel will satisfy your desire to mine hardcore truths about hard-scrabble life in modern America. There are no easy answers, as Naumoff shows us. But examining its intricately linked causes rather than glossing over a tragedy is the first step towards enlightent. Naumoff's fans will want to read this book for a sobering dose of reality, then go re-read his "Rootie Kazootie" for a barrel of laughs.

A Masterpiece of a Story, Masterfully Told.......2005-03-11

This is an extraordinarily sad story, told with feeling, and understanding, and a sense of despair that somehow doesn't leave you depressed, or feeling like life is a dead end. This is a difficult task to accomplish, and Naumoff has done it in "A Southern Tragedy . . ."

Based on Naumoff's notable backlist, he definitely chooses the innocents of the world to write about. This book is particularly poignant, with the absolute contrast of good and evil; innocence and corruption. The narrator's yearnings for the days of the ice cream factory come across beautifully as a metaphor for the opposing cold and heat in the book. The author gives us a slab of concrete that housed the making of something soft and delicious and happy; and ended up holding dead shreds of meat and hot oil and horror and unhappiness; and death.

An important book on many levels: individual; communal; corporate; personal; and political. Glad to have a new book by this vitally sensitive American writer.

Average customer rating:

Once again, for the guys, Jason!

Much is hidden in ambitious kick-off to series

Celtika and Iron Grail

Good read

A FLAWED ATTEMPT AT AMBITION
Celtika
Robert Holdstock
Manufacturer: Tor Fantasy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Holdstock, Robert | ( H ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Historical | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
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The Iron Grail (Merlin Codex Book 2)

Lavondyss: Journey to an Unknown Region

The Hollowing

Mythago Wood

Gate of Ivory, Gate of Horn (Mythago Cycle)

ASIN: 0765349043
Release Date: 2003-12-30

Book Description

Centuries before he meets Arthur, Merlin wanders the Earth, eternally young, a traveler on the path of magic and learning. During his journeys, he encounters Jason, and joins in his search for the Golden Fleece.Hundred of years later, Merlin hears of a screaming ship in a northern lake, and divines that is the Argo . . . that Jason still screams our for his sons, stolen by the enchantress Medea and thought dead. But death is not the end, and Merlin's trek to the North leads to the revival of both man and ship, with new companions and a new quest-to find Jason's sons.Roving from the frozen north to the blighted island that will become Arthur's realm, from the deep forests of ancient Britain to the sun-washed shores of ancient Greece, Merlin's journey is an epic tale of mystery and enchantment.

Customer Reviews:

Once again, for the guys, Jason!.......2006-05-11

A pretty good book, even considering the "Mythago Wood" ideas, re-re-reiterated all over again (and yeah, I do know the grammar stinks; it's intentional). Annoying, though, that in a book called "Celtika" there's this main plot about Jason's search for his missing (formerly believed dead) sons, kidnapped by Medea and hidden in the "future" of the Argonauts' tale. Merlin/Antiokus manages to resurrect Jason and rebuild the Argo, then they gather a new lot of Argonauts and set sail. The most interesting figure was that of Urtha, Arthur's ancestor, repeating the life-death cycle of the Pendragon, or more likely initiating it.
The book was a nightmare of wild fantasy, Niiv the nymph (Nimue?) - a crazed shaman girl, the goddess Mielikki (who?!) standing in for Hera, the Celtic hordes going to conquer all continental Greece, and Merlin finding (after only a few centuries) that Medea was his childhood sweetheart. Hmm.
The blend was good, but the story failed to appeal to me. I personally consider that among all Greek heroes Jason was the complete anthithesis of one - and to read about him (again!!!! after his appearence in one of the books in the Mythago cycle) was pretty boring...
Beautiful cover art for this edition, though!!

Much is hidden in ambitious kick-off to series.......2005-12-13

Robert Holdstock's "Celtika" may be the most ambitious "short" fantasy novel I've ever read. The fantasy genre, perhaps inspired by Tolkien's epic "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, seems to be chock full of massive tomes (such as George R. R. Martin's magnificent "Song of Ice and Fire" saga). Relatively brief at around 350 pages, "Celtika" nevertheless packs enough ideas, possibilities, themes, subplots, and mysteries to justify a larger effort. While many of these elements will likely be explored further in the later novels of this planned series, "Celtika" nevertheless leaves the reader a bit discombobulated at times.

"Celtika," not surprising for the first book in the "Merlin Codex," spins a yarn about Merlin the magician of King Arthur fame. But Holdstock takes a very unusual turn in this novel, setting "Celtika" a couple of generations before King Arthur is born. Indeed, Merlin's strongest relationship with a mere mortal is his bond with Jason, the Greek hero of the Argo and the Golden Fleece. Surprisingly, Jason's relationship with Medea and his sons forms the backbone of "Celtika."

Jason dies a broken, blind, old man in the opening passages of this novel. Merlin, whose non-human heritage allows him to ignore the passage of time other than through the exercise of his magical powers, revives Jason 700 years later from his resting place at the bottom of a lake in Northern Europe. Merlin shocks Jason first by telling him that 700 years have passed, but also that Jason's beloved sons are alive -- his witch-wife Medea hid them from Jason rather than murdering them as everyone who has studied Greek drama has believed. Soon, Jason has assembled a new cast of Argonauts to track down his sons.

This incredibly original wedding of classic Greek tales with the Arthurian legend contains many subtle literary allusions to other tales. Holdstock is content to let most of these references lie near-hidden in his brief text, and Holdstock generally uses dialogue to advance the story rather than long explanatory descriptions of places, thoughts and characters. It's a rare book that I would like to have been longer (brevity being the soul of wit and all that), but I often felt like I was missing something as Holdstock's economical prose swept me along.

Somehow Jason and the neo-Argonauts get swept up into a Celtic invasion of Greece (this is a generation after Alexander the Great swept East, so Greece is ripe for the picking). A much-hyped clash between Greeks and Celts at Thermopylae doesn't really satisfy, and there's a confusing "climax" as Jason gets reunited with figures both beloved and hated from his dark past.

Perhaps three stars isn't a fair review of "Celtika," as I am definitely going to check out volume two, "The Iron Grail." Yet, I am more intrigued with seeing whether "Iron Grail" can deliver on the unfulfilled promise of "Celtika" rather than through any great warmth for this story.

Celtika and Iron Grail.......2005-09-14

Any fan of mythology will love this book. Brilliantly blends ancient Greek heroes with Arthurian Heroes and a Celtic backdrop. Fast moving story with larger than life characters. I wouldnt spoil the story for anyone but this is a must for any fantasy reader. The only fly in the ointment was Mr Holdstock's chronological displacement of Greek mythological events. The Argonauts came first and then the Trojan War because one of the argonauts was Peleus, Achilles father. In fact it was Peleus' wedding that leads indirectly to the Trojan war. When Eris was not invited to the festivities she cast a gold apple to the guests which was to be given to the fairest. That apple became the prize that Paris later awarded to Aphrodite in exchange for Helen of Sparta. That being said it in no way spoiled the story any more than the changes made to the recent movie Troy. I am eagerly awaiting the third book.

Good read.......2004-02-09

Just finished Celtika by Robert Holdstock....a excellent read with a new twist on the story of Merlin and Jason (from Golden Fleece fame). If you're a stickler for keeping true to the old myths you may not like it, if however you like seeing tales told from a different perspective go for it. Takes you to a magical world 700 yrs after Jason's famous quest. Great cast of characters.

A FLAWED ATTEMPT AT AMBITION.......2004-01-31

Out of the gate this book fails because of the first-person narration by Merlin. This style is very constricting since characters can only appear if Merlin encounters them. One reviewer mentioned that Holdstock is writing for the "well read" crowd - this is a true statement, but that does not mean the "well read" crowd is going to like this or appreciate what Holdstock is trying to accomplish, and that is mix the myths so to speak. His writing style is so surreal that at times it is easy to lose the pace of the story - this is compounded by the multiple complications of mixing Greek Gods with Arthurian and Norse legends. The problems of geography notwithstanding because Holdstock has conveniently created "The Path," which Merlin walks, apparently for eternity, allowing him to transverse great amount of distance is short periods of time. The fantasy aspects of the story also fail to impress - for those of you who enjoy fantasy you will recognize the fault of making nearly everything possible - no rules at all (remember the old Batman utility belt?).
Back to the narration, there is so much of it that hardly any dialog is written. The obvious problem with that is nearly zero character development - Merlin explains and describes and things happen around him and a gigantic host of characters pop in and out.
I appreciate the attempt at something different, but I was not fooled by Holdstock's attempt at literary fantasy. One star for an original idea and one star for the really cool paperback cover art.

Average customer rating:

Celtika
Robert Holdstock
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000MVQJCA

Average customer rating:

Celtika, book one of the Merlin Codex
Robert6 Holdstock
Manufacturer: Tom Doherty Assoc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000K7BBL0

Customer Reviews:

this book is about my cousin, his picture is on the cover.......2007-04-09

i didnt get to read it yet. i actually found out about this book from my grandma today. my family never told me what happened when my cousin (James Wanger) stop showing up at family events. now i found out y. im about to read it and see how true it is. pretty crazy.

Book Description.......2005-12-30

They were as different as six teenage guys could be. They ranged from fourteen to eighteen years old. One was an altar boy and Eagle Scout; another was a high-school dropout who worshiped the Mafia. Nevertheless, Robert Solimine remained the perpetual outsider, the kid too nerdy to ever fit in. But what started as cruel but not unusual ways to punish one of their own escalated into an unthinkable plot for murder. Finally, while all six boys sat in parked cars next to their high school, Solimine was convinced to recite the Hail Mary-and then garroted with an extension cord from behind. Suddenly, the plan sketchily, even jokingly, conceived by a group of seemingly typical suburban New Jersey youths had become an irretrievable act of monstrous evil, a crime that horrified the nation.

From the reporter who alone covered both trials in the Hail Mary murder case comes a riveting true crime story-and a shocking expose of the violence simmering beneath the deceptively placid surface of the Ameriacn teenage dream.

Very Good True Crime.......2002-07-07

This wasn't your typical true crime novel. It was well-written and not exceedingly repetitive as many true crime novels are, repeating all the facts over and over again throughout the telling of the story. The fact that this was a murder case involving 6 typical teens, yet atypical teens, makes it all the more interesting. This book was hard to put down and unlike many novels, it seems that the murderers get for the most part, what they deserve.

Professional, succinct, true crime.......1999-10-29

The best part of this book is the author's description of southeast Passaic County, New Jersey, where the action almost exclusively takes place. Clifton, Paterson, and the industrial Passaic River valley are evoked quite well, especially the area's weird mix of industrial might, industrial blight, and lower- to middle-middle-class residential. The kids are the same dumb (but the author unconvincingly claims throughout the book that most of them are smart), wasted youth described in so many true crime books lately (e.g., Bully, Smoked), with an ethnic twist. All you need to know about a crime that was sensational back in the early 1990s but is probably forgotten now, even in northern New Jersey.

Average customer rating:

Paula Wolfert is Sublime

This cookbook is a good read

I've only tried two recipes so far...

Transforming

Typos, major steps left out, dead ends.

The Slow Mediterranean Kitchen: Recipes for the Passionate Cook
Paula Wolfert
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Baking | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
Special Appliances | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
Mediterranean | European | Regional & International | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
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Cooking at the Kasbah: Recipes from My Moroccan Kitchen

The New Book of Middle Eastern Food

ASIN: 0471262889

Book Description

From one of the leading lights of contemporary gastronomy comes an irresistible collection of slow-cooked, flavor-drenched dishes from the cuisines of the Mediterranean
Who can resist the sensuous delights of a slow-simmered stew, salmon fillet slow-roasted until it is soft as silk, or leg of lamb braised until it is meltingly tender? Slow cooking is the hottest new trend in food, and no one better captures the art of sumptuous, unhurried cooking than renowned food writer Paula Wolfert. In The Slow Mediterranean Kitchen, she returns to her favorite culinary regions and shares an enticing treasure trove of more than 150 authentic recipes that wend their way from North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean to Italy, Spain, and the South of France. With her trademark passion for detail and curiosity about cultural traditions and innovations, she offers loyal fans and new converts the secrets to simmering, slow roasting, braising, poaching, and marinating their way to flavor-drenched dishes that capture the enchanting tastes and aromas of the Mediterranean table. Perfect for anyone who loves to cook, this rich resource is a must-have for the bookshelf of everyone who is serious about food.
Paula Wolfert (Sonoma, CA) is widely acknowledged to be the premier food writer in America. Her writing has received many awards, including the Julia Child Award, the M.F.K. Fisher Award, and the James Beard Award. She has a regular column in Food & Wine magazine, and her articles have appeared in such major publications as the New York Times, Saveur, Bon Appétit, and Cook's Illustrated. She is the author of six other cookbooks, including Couscous and Other Good Food from Morocco, Mediterranean Cooking, and The Cooking of South-West France.

Customer Reviews:

Paula Wolfert is Sublime.......2007-09-27

It can be no mistake that this book is addressed to the passionate cook. As others have stated, most recipes are labors of love, requiring hours and often days to complete. This passionate cook states emphatically that they are worth it.

Those who dislike or are not willing to devote the time and patience and sometimes lengthy ingredient lists needed to create her dishes should look elsewhere for cooking inspiration - this book is not for them. If, however, you have the time, passion, and slower outlook and lifestyle which are the hallmarks of Mediterranean cooks, then this book is a jewel.

I will single out a few recipes of the many I have made and the one I come back to time and again is the Gazpacho With Melon. I have never tasted a more beautifully complex cold soup. Both light and deep, it sings on the tongue and will dazzle anyone lucky enough to taste it. Spicy Mussels with Herbs and Feta Cheese and eaten like a soup are the only way I serve mussels now. Greek and Moroccan lamb stews, braised veal, slow-cooked duck and chicken - every recipe delights.

This book takes me back to time spent around the Mediterranean, time that was slower, more fully experienced, and far better flavoured than anywhere else. Time filled with passion :)

This cookbook is a good read.......2007-03-30

I have enjoyed just sitting down and reading this cookbook. I look forward to trying many of the recipes included in the book.

I've only tried two recipes so far..........2007-02-28

...but both were disappointing. The "Fall-Apart Lamb Shanks" were good--but after marinating overnight and more than seven hours of careful prep and cooking (to say nothing of the expense), they should have been grrrreatt! The "Golden Potato Gratin" was bland. The recipe suggested using one of three cheeses; I used Buffalo mozzarella because I couldn't find either of the other two suggestions. Maybe if I'd used one of them, the flavor would have been brighter--but the third cheese suggestion WAS mozzarella! I am glad I tried this on my patient, forgiving husband first rather than serving it to company.

Transforming.......2005-10-20

I never thought I would consider a cook book to be transforming, but that has been my experience with The Slow Mediterranean Kitchen. It has changed my cooking habits more than any cookbook I own (some 40 - 50 at this point, and still growing).

Cooking has been a long haul for me. I used to not like it at all, and considered anything that took longer than 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish as being way too involved! But by the time I have reached Wolfert's Mediterranean masterpiece, maybe I was ready to be picked. I absolutely savored Wolfert's long leisurely approach to preparing food. Now I'm somewhat disappointed if a dish doesn't take at least a whole day to prepare (cutting the amount of time one can enjoy making the dish.) Cooking a complicated recipe (not that these recipes are all that comlicated) now seems like an invigorating puzzle, the challenge being to get the pieces to go together just right.

I've learned so much from this book. First, how to roast a perfect chicken! That in itself is worth kajillions. Second, the very best way to roast rack of lamb. Also, one recipe involved a two hour preparation of carmelized onions. I always wanted to know how to properly do that. I guess, in the final analysis, this book has contributed more than any other book in making me a passionate cook, or at least pointing me in that direction. Introducing me to a very interesting cuisine is frosting on the cake.

Typos, major steps left out, dead ends........2005-05-12

My wife and I are on our third recipe. We are experienced amatures, so we knew a few instructions were being left out here and there, but, what do you do with the ingredients that are never brought back into the dish. The ideas are great and I'm sure dinner at the authors home would be quite thrilling, but forget this book if you want to prepare food without a lot of guess work.

Product Description

African Greys have a deserved reputation for extreme intelligence and ability to repeat words. They make fascinating pets and companions. Books in the Complete Pet Owner's Manuals series present basic information about pets for new or soon-to-be owners. Advice and instruction covers feeding, housing, health care, training, grooming, protection against hazards, and more. Texts emphasize pet care basics and are easy for all readers to understand, but most titles also present facts that even experienced pet owners and breeders will find new and useful. All books in this series are filled with high quality full-color photos and instructive line art. Paperback / 96 Pages / 6 1/2 x 7 7/8 / 2001

Customer Reviews:

VERY GOOD BOOK.......2007-02-22

It is a great book, answering everything an owner has to know for an African Grey parrot.

Kim Bloomer, co-author Whole Health for Happy Dogs.......2006-07-07

I recently read Maggie's book and was very delighted with it. I have never owned a bird, but have always been fascinated by them. This book really put some things in perspective for a complete novice on the nature of these birds. I think it is a very good guide for those of us who know absolutely nothing about them but would like to. Maggie was recently a guest on our online radio show and it was wonderful to hear her birds talking in the background as we spoke and listen to her share her complete love of and admiration for these wonderful birds.

This book has beautiful photography to go along with Maggie's simple to understand and implement writing in this book and I highly recommend it.

A must read.......2006-06-01

This little book is packed with information about how to care for, and be a good companion to, the incredibly intelligent African Grey parrot. It's a very good how-to with lots of advice and information - and more importantly, for those considering bringing one of these amazing birds into their families, it provides a good synopsis about the nature of the lifetime commitment that comes with that decision.

So please - if you're a new Grey owner, or just thinking about buying one, pick up this book. You'll be glad you did.

well .. what Can I say lol.......2006-03-02

Amazon is a very Good service .. no waiting around ;)
an this book ha ha was very Nice only problem was so Nice I Ordered it twice an sent a copy to Mother as We both have African Grey Parrots an She said Richard
.. thats the Book I already sent to You
so Yes very Nice Book !

Great parrots.......2005-10-16

Book give us all knowledge to start take care of african grey parrots.

Very good Book

Customer Reviews:

For the Serious Student.......2000-10-16

I combined a review of this book with the author's first book, "Behind Numerology". Both books are exceptional and for the serious student of numerology interested in advanced study. Please refer to the review for Behind Numerology for specific details and kudos on these two books. Highly recommended, with much gratitude to the author for taking me to a whole new level of study and insight. I believe these books are out of print, but worth the effort to track down through the online resources.

Average customer rating:
Have You Any Wool?: The Creative Use of Yarn
Jan Messent
Manufacturer: Search Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Knitting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Textile Arts | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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Jan Messent's Wool 'n Magic (Search Press Classics)

Knitted Gardens

Knitted Animals (Education S.)

Knitting Beyond the Edge: Cuffs and Collars*Necklines*Hems*Closures - The Essential Collection of Decorative Finishes

Knitted Historical Figures

ASIN: 0855327685

Average customer rating:
HAVE YOU ANY WOOL
JAN MASSENT
Manufacturer: SEARCH PRESS
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000S6YGZ6

Average customer rating:
HAVE YOU ANY WOOL
JAN MESENTT
Manufacturer: GUILD PUBLISHING
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000SHPUOQ

Average customer rating:
Have You Any Wool? Three Bags Full

Manufacturer: Schott
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000J0FLF0

Product Description

Music for children. 17 traditional rhymes for voices and Orff-instruments.

Average customer rating:

HAVE YOU ANY WOOL?
JAN MESSENT
Manufacturer: GUILD PUBLISHING
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000SA77YY

Have You Any Wool?: The Creative Use of Yarn

Average customer rating:

Have You Any Wool?: The Creative Use of Yarn
Jan Messent
Manufacturer: Pitman
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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

Textile Arts | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0858964112

Customer Reviews:

For the truly dedicated crafter, a complete course book........2002-11-18

The first thing you should know before buying this book is that this is not one of those ready-made, quick 'n' easy project books: you will be making your boxes entirely from scratch, section by section. Obviously a lot of work for something that you may only intend as the holder for a "real" present, but that is the point. These lavish, artistically crafted containers ARE worthy gifts in themselves, and showpieces of your skills from more than one area of crafting.
The author starts with lists of basic necessities for cardboard box crafting, detailing types of cardboard needed for various parts of boxes and glues, tools, etc. Next, there is a Techniques section, with step-by-step illustrations of the various steps in boxmaking, such as batting, wrapping, assembling, and lining strips. A similar section on ribbon embroidery techniques and other embellishments follows. These instructions are basic enough to serve as valuable references, and someone who has never attempted ribbon embroidery before can conceivably do a decent job if he/she pays careful attention.

The "real" fun comes in the largest section, the projects lavishly photographed and laid out in two-page spreads. These boxes are arranged from beginners skill level at the beginning, to the advanced crafter level at the end. Each project uses new box building skills that build upon the skills practiced in the last project.

I know this all sounds extremely complicated and exhausting; but I have found it to be worth it due to the fabulous results. There are scalloped, diamond shaped, and heart-shaped boxes of various sizes at the introductory level alone. If you decided to stop there, you would already have some beautiful victorian-inspired treasures that are totally unique from any prefabricated craft store box, many with hinged and fitted lids, lined in velvet or silky materials and padded sumptuously for a feminine feel -- and you would not have to spend more than an hour or so of total work. But mere boxes are just a starting point. Further along are a pincusion shelf with two drawers, a teapot, a crescent moon, a 12 inch doll's travel wardrobe case, and more.

If I had to nitpick some cons I could mention that it was a little inconvenient to have to spend time at the copiers enlarging the box patterns. The only other drawback is the time you will spend shopping for just the right fabrics and notions to decorate your finished products -- which, after all, is one of those drawbacks that plagues many other crafts as well, including quilting and making clothes. So, if you are already involved in some other area of crafting, you may have some of what you need already lying about.

Because of the involved and time consuming nature of this discipline, I have sadly had time to devote to learning only a few of the beginner's boxes and one more advanced project, a romantic keepsakes box with a drawstring pouch for a top instead of a lid. This particular box has been variously enlarged and reduced to fit the size of intended birthday, shower and Christmas gifts, changing color schemes and notions to reflect the occasion. It has become a favorite of mine and the recipients often treasure these containers long after they have eaten the chocolates or dried fruit that was inside. So I believe that if you only find one favorite as I have, it will become like a special signature gift that you will learn to make quickly as you practice it.

In a nutshell, this is a great book for those who wish to put time and care into something original and beautiful that will be used as gifts and keepsakes.

Average customer rating:

What can you say..

PRIVATE BEETLE BAILEY REPORTING FOR WORK, SIR!

Beetle Bailey Book and Figure Set
Mort Walker
Manufacturer: Dark Horse Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Pop Culture | Graphic Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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Beetle Bailey Celebration

The Best of Beetle Bailey

ASIN: 1569714940

Book Description

Clamshelled package includes a 4 inch PVC figure of Beetle Bailey with a 5` x 8`, 128 page, black & white collection of strips featuring him!

Customer Reviews:

What can you say.........2002-07-02

about Beetle Bailey. Having read the comic strip for decades it is like revisiting an old friend. A newer generation will enjoy it too!

PRIVATE BEETLE BAILEY REPORTING FOR WORK, SIR!.......2001-03-13

This book is truly a work of brilliant satire. The world's laziest comic private has one laughing yet again. As funny as this work is, the "Taps for Sarge" section is moving. "Beetle Bailey" without Sarge is like computers without the Internet or TV without cable. A vital element is missing.

This book takes you through a full range of emotions, from bittersweet sadness for the irate, yet lovable Sarge to rolling with laughter at the irrepressible private.

It's time to report to work, Sarge!

Amazon.com

Born in Greenwood, Mississippi, the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Endesha Ida Mae Holland came of age as the civil rights movement was changing the lives of black Mississippians. Dirt poor, she dropped out of high school and became a prostitute when she was barely into her teens. By the time she was 18 years old, Holland had served two terms in the county workhouse for theft and for assault. A chance encounter led her to become involved with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and she became an activist and organizer, taking a new path that eventually led her to the University of Minnesota, where she earned a doctorate and became a college professor. From the Mississippi Delta is a gritty, inspiring memoir.

Book Description

After being raped by a white employer at the age of 11, Holland became a rebel, turning to prostitution and delinquency. But when she stumbled across the civil rights movement she found herself developing in to a leader-only to encounter the cruelest retribution at the hands of white bigots that she could ever have imagined.

Customer Reviews:

Ida Mae Holland .......2007-09-08

Harrowing, at times bleak, but a superbly written memoir of a very special lady and the historical times she helped create.

Reflections.......2000-03-10

Endesha's story, rich in its southern dialect is a remarkable story of triumph, and a testimony that affirms regardless of our past, our pain, our short-comings that within each of us is a tiny seed waiting to blossom. Her ability to surmount the many obstacles growing up in the Mississippi Delta (a black girl) in the 60's serves as a beacon of light for African Americans who are today experiencing the pitfalls of poverty and injustice. Endesha has shown us how a committed spirit can burst forward to claim all that the Almighty has in store for us. Dr. Lady, thank you for pioneering the way. Keep writing!

The redefinition of inspiration.......2000-03-07

'Inspirational' has become one of those watered-down adjectives like 'brilliant'. Though we know certain words might signal something monumental, perhaps our frequent usage of them has lost some of the grandeur in their meaning. We no longer arch our backs or allow a goose bump to rise. Behold, along comes a work like From the Mississippi Delta: A Memoir. Dr. Endesha Ida Mae Holland turns the term, 'inspirational' on its ear. What is most remarkable about 'Delta'? Is it the phenomenal story itself or is it Holland's gift for unrelenting and witty story-telling? Holland never abandons humor even at the crux of tragedy. Her pen is as brazen as it is impeccably descriptive. She writes with an immediacy to jar the reader's sense of time so that we relive her most defining moments with bated breath. From Emmett Till's death to Dr. Martin Luther King's visit, Holland's simplest daily encounters mark turning points in American history.

Notably, 'Delta' celebrates the tenacious spirit of a true woman-child. Holland narrates from a clever perspective that never quite chooses between the wise narrator looking back and the rambunctious girl reaching forward. This devise is poignant. Arguably, young girls (in particular, young, black girls) are some of society's most disenfranchised members. When Holland employs that voice, the reader is humbled. One is reminded of Anne Frank's influence. When the worst aspects of humanity are articulated through the voice of a little girl, we see ourselves so clearly--vulnerable, restless, but especially hopeful. Thank you, Doc. Your struggle is instructional. Your literary prowess is an inspiration.

A MAGNIFICENT READ!.......2000-02-03

Aside from being a celebration of the human spirit, Ms. Holland's Memoir offers a fresh, interesting, and unique glimpse into the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. This focus alone, I believe, renders the book meritorious.

Ms. Holland tells the civil rights story from the perspective of individuals born and raised in the muck and mire of Mississippi's lethal brand of white supremacy and racial hatred. Through her eyes, we get a close-up view of what had to be overcome; and, what was required of ordinary folk brave enough to get involved in a situation that could and DID, literally, cost them their lives and the lives of their loved ones.

These unsung heroes deserve national attention and recognition if the story of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States of America is to be told in its entirety. But, if this isn't reason enough to add Ms. Holland's book to your 'must read' list, I believe the author's superior craftsmanship will certainly convince you her work is worthy of the acclaim she is sure to receive once her book gains a wider readership. And, above all, the Memoir is a magnificent read!

Usually, I find it awkward and sometimes unnerving to read books written in a black, southern, vernacular. However, as in the case of Zora Neale Hurston, Endesha Ida Mae Holland writes with such a pure and authentic voice, I found myself falling effortlessly into her rhythm.

I'm a voracious reader and the authors I most enjoy are great storytellers. My current favorite is Barbara Kingsolver, and my all time favorite is Zora Neale Hurston. Endesha Ida Mae Holland 'puts me in the mind of' both these writers.

She also reminds me of Frank McCourt (Angela's Ashes & 'Tis). Like McCourt, Ms. Holland transports you back to her childhood and growing up years with such seamless ease, you find yourself sharing her heartbeat through every single experience she lives to tell about. Almost immediately, I found myself caring deeply about her; I grew to love her mother, her child, her neighbors, her friends; and, I found no strangers among those who populate her world.

What an exquisite gift of storytelling she has! I certainly hope she plans to write more 'from the Mississippi Delta,' because her talent is as rich and fertile as her source.

Obviously, I've become a devoted fan of Ms. Holland and her work ~ a designation I'm hoping you and I will soon share. Who knows, your reading experience with Ms. Holland may inspire you to join me in asking Oprah Winfrey to feature the author and her book on the Oprah Show, as well as making 'From The Mississippi Delta,' an Oprah Book Club selection.

I was moved to make this appeal to Ms. Winfrey because I believe we all benefit from an increased national and international exposure to brave and talented women like Ms.Holland. These women are profoundly inspirational and deserving of our applause and recognition.

A MAGNIFICENT READ !.......2000-01-26

These unsung heroes deserve national attention and recognition if the story of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States of America is to be told in its entirety.

But, if this isn't reason enough to add Ms. Holland's book to your "must read" list, I believe the author's superior craftsmanship will certainly convince you her work is worthy of the acclaim she is sure to receive once her book gains a wider readership. And, above all, the Memoir is a magnificent read!

I'm a voracious reader and the authors I most enjoy are great storytellers. My current favorite is Barbara Kingsolver, and of course my all time favorite is Zora Neale Hurston. Endesha Ida Mae Holland "puts me in the mind of" both these writers.

What an exquisite gift of storytelling she has! I certainly hope she plans to write more "from the Mississippi Delta," because her talent is as rich and fertile as her source.

Obviously, I've become a devoted fan of Ms. Holland and her work ~ a designation I'm hoping you and I will soon share.

Who knows, your reading experience with Ms. Holland may inspire you to join me in asking Oprah Winfrey to feature the author and her book on the Oprah Show, as well as making "From The Mississippi Delta," an Oprah Book Club selection.

Book Description

This digital document is an article from The Mississippi Quarterly, published by Mississippi State University on December 22, 1996. The length of the article is 514 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: The Mississippi Delta and the World: the Memoirs of David L. Cohn. (book reviews)
Author: J.B. Smallwood
Publication: The Mississippi Quarterly (Refereed)
Date: December 22, 1996
Publisher: Mississippi State University
Volume: v50 Issue: n1 Page: p183(2)

Article Type: Book Review

Distributed by Thomson Gale

Memoir of the Delta Canal,: From the Mississippi River below Fort St. Philip, into the Gulf of Mexico, near Isle au Breton. Compiled from the best sources

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Memoir of the Delta Canal,: From the Mississippi River below Fort St. Philip, into the Gulf of Mexico, near Isle au Breton. Compiled from the best sources
William M Burwell
Manufacturer: Price Current Print
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0008CJ90M

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