Morgue Mama: The Cross Kisses Back (Morgue Mama Mysteries)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Probably the BEST mystery I've read
  • Fun read - worth picking up
  • Flawed Thelma and Louise duo nevertheless charms
  • Morgue Mama gets it done
  • Newspaper sleuths scoop a murderer
Morgue Mama: The Cross Kisses Back (Morgue Mama Mysteries)
C.R. Corwin
Manufacturer: Poisoned Pen Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Women SleuthsWomen Sleuths | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Dig (Morgue Mama Mysteries) Dig (Morgue Mama Mysteries)
  2. Death in the Garden Death in the Garden
  3. Seventy-Seven Clocks: A Bryant & May Mystery (Bryant & May Mysteries) Seventy-Seven Clocks: A Bryant & May Mystery (Bryant & May Mysteries)
  4. The Gutter And the Grave (Hard Case Crime) The Gutter And the Grave (Hard Case Crime)
  5. Still Life (A Three Pines Mystery) Still Life (A Three Pines Mystery)

ASIN: 1590582055
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Book Description

"In Corwin's witty and engaging caper, the start of a new series, newspaper archivist Dol­Iy Madison Sprowls, called Morgue Mama 'behind her back,' and a determined cub re­porter, Aubrey McGinty, team up to investigate the poisoning of TV evangelist Buddy Wing at the Heaven Bound Cathedral in 'the Hallelujah city' of Hannawa, Ohio.... The irrepressible, 67-year-old Maddy (as she prefers to be called), a lonely divorcée clinging to her post as manager of the Hannawa Herald-Union's morgue, helps Aubrey search the newspa­per's records, which yield a multitude of suspects, some amusing and some tragic, but each adding an intriguing dimension to the ever more complex case. Smalltown politics and office love affairs entangle almost every­one except Maddy, whose existence be­fore now has revolved around filing news ar­ticles in steel cabinets for brash reporters to paw through. Her matchup with Aubrey brings her and the reader genuine excite­ment right through the stunning conclusion to this lively adventure."
Publishers Weekly

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Probably the BEST mystery I've read.......2004-11-16

This book is one of the best mysteries I have read in a long time. The ending really took me by surprise.

Dolly Madison Sprowls has been in charge of the Hannawa Herald-Union newspaper's morgue for more than 40 years. She has gained the nickname Morgue Mama, but no one uses it to her face.

That is until 24-year-old Aubrey McGinty is hired. She is on the police beat replacing Dale Marabout who has been moved to the copyediting desk. He's not too happy about it, though.

Normally Morgue Mama stays in the morgue all day, but her world gets turned upside down with the hiring of Aubrey. Morgue Mama and Aubrey forge a great partnership. Soon they are working together to try to prove that Sissy James did not poison TV evangelist Rev. Buddy Wing. Aubrey believes that Sissy confessed because she is covering up for someone else, or at least believes she is. Plus there was plenty of evidence pointing to her having done it. Still Aubrey does not believe she did.

Plus part of Rev. Wing's congregation split off recently and started their own church under Tim Bandicoot, Rev. Wing's former associate. Spies from each congregation are keeping an eye on each other. Could one of them be the killer?

Aubrey and Morgue Mama have many adventures during the investigation and sometimes end up in danger. Can they prove Sissy didn't do it? Can they find the real murderer among the many suspects? Although the paper doesn't want them looking for the real killer, that is the job of the police.

I hope there will bee more Morgue Mama books. C. R. Corwin has created a terrific character. This book moves along at a quick pace and you won't want to put it down.

I highly recommend this book. I think it should win awards. It is fabulous!

4 out of 5 stars Fun read - worth picking up.......2004-11-06

I definitely enjoyed reading this book and am keeping an eye out for the Corwin's next book. If you're looking for a light, fun read check it out.

4 out of 5 stars Flawed Thelma and Louise duo nevertheless charms.......2004-10-24

Looks like another church scandal...two warring congregations produced by a schism over speaking in tongues, a beloved television preacher murdered, and Mary Magdalene-type Sissy James (who was having an affair with "I don't speak in tongues" Tim Bandicoot, one of the murder suspects) confessing to the crime...and all this happens before we meet the crusty Morgue Mama---don't call her that to her face unless you're the Hannawa Herald-Union's hottest, most ambitious young crime reporter, Aubrey McGinty, survivor of childhood abuse. Dolly Madison "Maddy" Sprowls, who tends the "morgue," the archives of the Hannawa Herald-Union, hates being called Morgue Mama...but this doesn't stop the bold Aubrey from crawling into Morgue Mama's heart with the words, "Maddy, I don't think Sissy James did it."

Thus begins the adventure for an unlikely crime duo. Their chemistry is intriguing if flawed since Aubrey's too blinded by ambition and youth to see the depths of like Maddy has seen. Still, youth and age and partners in crime make an irresistible combo. The details of Sissy's guilt or innocence, as well as the murder of Jim Bakker-type preacher Buddy Wing, pale next to the timeless clash of crusty but soft-as-meatloaf and mashed potatoes Maddy and young dynamo Aubrey, who seems indifferent to the fate of Dale Marabout, her competition in the crime beat reporter stakes. Yep, youth and great legs in trousers always win over seniority and sagacity...or do they?

Maddy, like the reader, can't avoid Aubrey's allure. The two women newshounds make the most interesting and offbeat too-cozy-for-comfort sleuth duo since Spenser and Hawk. Bring it on, Morgue Mama!

4 out of 5 stars Morgue Mama gets it done.......2004-04-14

This mystery novel moves along at an exciting pace. Corwin brings the characters to life with realistic, every-day traits, yet doesn't bog down the reader with superfluous meanderings. I enjoyed getting to know the sleuths, and had a great time tagging along for the ride as the story raced across the pages to the fantastic ending.

5 out of 5 stars Newspaper sleuths scoop a murderer.......2004-04-05

The veteran librarian of the Ohio "Hannawa Herald-Union's" morgue (newspaper archives), Dolly Madison Sprowls, or Maddy, known as Morgue Mama behind her back, teams up with ambitious rookie reporter Aubrey McGinty to prove the innocence of a convicted murderer in this clever debut.

Hannawa, "The Hallelujah City," has a lot of churches, and one of the biggest is the Heaven Bound Cathedral, an evangelical television ministry. The murder of its leader, Buddy Wing, couldn't have been more dramatic - poisoned by a kiss on live TV. At the height of the service Pastor Wing always kissed the cross on his Bible, and on the fateful day it had been painted with poison. Poison in his water pitcher added insurance.

Evidence found at the home of Sissy James, mistress of a rival evangelical leader, prompts the unhappy woman to confess. But Aubrey thinks she confessed to protect someone - maybe her family-man lover. She enlists Maddy to help her ferret out the secrets of the church turn up a generous handful of suspects. Maddy, a sharp but lonely divorcee somewhat past retirement age, welcomes Aubrey's youthful enthusiasm and guts.

Corwin, an ex-reporter, knows the insular nature of small town politicos and their sometimes frictional, sometimes cozy relationship with the local newspaper. Aubrey's tussle with the police chief hierarchy rings true, though the spectacle of a couple of evangelical preachers shoving each other around an editor's office strains credulity a bit.

The writing is witty and narrator Maddy is immediately engaging. The plot is a humdinger, almost guaranteed to surprise. Corwin has set up an intriguing duo and most readers will be avid with curiosity to see this pseudonymous author's second outing.

Arianna Baker: Portal to Yasanadi
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A wonderful book in the Fantasy Genre
  • Arianna Baker: Portal to Yasanadi
Arianna Baker: Portal to Yasanadi
S.M. Jensen
Manufacturer: PublishAmerica
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

ContemporaryContemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1413763693

Book Description

Arianna Baker, a twelve-year-old, is torn between the separation of her parents because of her powers or claiming her rightful heritage by following the magical path of her ancestors. She uncovers a tangled web woven with demons, mystery, magic and danger as she discovers portals to other worlds within the confines of her own home. Still mourning the passing of her cousin Lucy, doubt begins to enter Arianna's mind that Lucy is truly gone forever. Shortly after a friendship develops between Arianna and her neighbor, Willow, they begin their journey into the unknown. On their perilous journey they encounter the jikininki demons who guard a marinka, a magical flower used for powerful potions. The journey continues on through another portal, which leads the girls to a wondrous magical world where they meet Captain Caduceus Durbend, who helps Arianna seek the answers she is looking for.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A wonderful book in the Fantasy Genre.......2005-08-24

What a nice surprise to read something so spectacular in this genre - I felt like I was on a magical journey, with each page sucking me in even more than the last with it's detailed, imaginative, and suspenseful storyline. Author S.M Jensen fills each page with superb fantasy writing. It was a perfect summer book to read by the lake.

5 out of 5 stars Arianna Baker: Portal to Yasanadi.......2005-08-23

It was quite refreshing to sink into a book and be taken on a wonderful journey. I anxiously await the sequal as I'm sure it will be another book I can't put down!

Harvard Medical School Guide to Healing Your Sinuses (Harvard Medical School Guides)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great Reference Book for Sinus Sufferers
  • Don't bother
  • Excellent book
  • Excellent resource
  • No real revelations...
Harvard Medical School Guide to Healing Your Sinuses (Harvard Medical School Guides)
Ralph Metson , and Steven Mardon
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

AllergiesAllergies | Disorders & Diseases | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
RespiratoryRespiratory | Disorders & Diseases | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Medicine | Subjects | Books
All Amazon UpgradeAll Amazon Upgrade | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
Health, Mind & BodyHealth, Mind & Body | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
MedicineMedicine | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
Harvard Medical School GuidesHarvard Medical School Guides | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. The Sinus Cure: 7 Simple Steps to Relieve Sinusitis and Other Ear, Nose, and Throat Conditions The Sinus Cure: 7 Simple Steps to Relieve Sinusitis and Other Ear, Nose, and Throat Conditions
  2. Sinus Survival: A Self-help Guide Sinus Survival: A Self-help Guide
  3. Sinus Relief Now: The Ground-Breaking 5-Step Program for Sinus, Allergy, and AsthmaSufferers Sinus Relief Now: The Ground-Breaking 5-Step Program for Sinus, Allergy, and AsthmaSufferers
  4. What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About(TM) Sinusitis: Relieve Your Symptoms and Identify the Real Source of             Your Pain (What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About...) What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About(TM) Sinusitis: Relieve Your Symptoms and Identify the Real Source of Your Pain (What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About...)
  5. Living with Chronic Sinusitis: A Patient's Guide to Sinusitis, Nasal Allegies, Polyps and their Treatment Options Living with Chronic Sinusitis: A Patient's Guide to Sinusitis, Nasal Allegies, Polyps and their Treatment Options

ASIN: 0071444696

Download Description

From a leading expert at one of the world's most respected medical schools----learn how to beat sinus infections once and for all. Nobody needs to tell you how painful and annoying sinus problems can be--the pounding headaches and congestion, the perpetually runny nose, and the debilitating fatigue, not to mention sleepless nights, lost work, and ruined vacations. Now you can do something about it by learning what a top expert tells his patients.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great Reference Book for Sinus Sufferers.......2007-09-16

My name is Chris Martin and I am the author of Having Nasal Surgery? Don't You Become An Empty Nose Victim! Similar to the Harvard Guide, my book offers treatment tips to sufferers of sinusitis, allergies, postnasal drip, nasal congestion, asthma, and acid reflux.

The Harvard Guide to Healing Your Sinuses is a valuable resource, which is written in easy-to-understand language that details various sinus conditions, including ones that might seem like sinusitis but are not, and numerous strategies for treating them. In addition, discussions of treatments include helpful thoughts on various methods of sinus surgery, how to prepare for surgery if needed, and what to expect.

I appreciate how, on pages 162-163, Dr. Metson and Mr. Mardon cite empty nose syndrome (ENS) as a "troubling phenomenon," which results from an overly aggressive surgery of the turbinates (inner nasal mucus-producing tissue that performs many critical functions). The description of ENS is accurate, and I am grateful it is noted as a complication of surgery, as not all sinus self-help books acknowledge ENS.

When discussing treatments, The Harvard Guide to Healing Your Sinuses mentions zicam, which is the oral spray form of zinc. The authors note while zinc has been shown to reduce the duration of a cold, particularly when used at the onset of symptoms, it must be sprayed into the nose every four hours for one to two weeks to be effective. A word of caution, though, which also should be highlighted, is that spraying high concentrations of zicam in the nose can lead to burning and destruction of olfactory epithelium, the nerve cells responsible for smell. Consequently, some users of zicam have permanently lost their sense of smell.

This book definitely has much useful information on sinusitis from a highly reputable source. It is a great reference book for sinus sufferers.

2 out of 5 stars Don't bother.......2007-08-17

This isn't the worst book on sinus infections I've ever encountered. However, it does not hold a candle to Sinus Survival (Ivker), and in fact, when compared, seems wholly inadequate. Don't waste your health here.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent book.......2007-01-14

This book is well organized and describes sinus problems from minor to major. Several tables summarize treatment, medications, symtoms, etc. Although fairly technical (that's a good thing) the authors didn't 'talk down' to the layman. I found it very helpful and insightful. The book describes many self-treatments in a very orderly fashion.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent resource.......2006-10-06

The information is coherent and well organized. Yes, it is possible one can glean much of the information from other sites on the Internet. However, doing so would take twice as long as reading the book and one can never tell when they are receiving advice from a real doctor or a quack. Everything in this book is backed by a Clinical Professor at Harvard. Not only does that offer peace of mind, it also gives you an upper hand when trying to get the correct medication from your doctor. "I read in this book by Ralph B Metson from Harvard..." goes a lot farther than "I read on an Internet site somewhere..." I wish I could have read this book years ago.

Of note:
The recommended salt usage for nasal wash is a bit high. Some prefer it that high, I recommend doing Internet research and trying less salt at first, ESPECIALLY if you notice a stinging sensation. Never, ever try to force water through a clogged nose!!

The explanation of Zicam in the book is not quite correct. Zicam is *marketed* as homeopathy, but it is not really homeopathic; it actually contains Zinc. Homeopathy is just water.

Also, I was told Atrovent (in that form) was taken off the market.

4 out of 5 stars No real revelations..........2006-05-16

This is a good book if you know nothing at all about your sinus condition. However, I had already gathered much of this information from good websites. There were a couple of interesting things that I wasn't aware of, but the bottom line is, how is this going to help me? Is it going to give me new ideas so I can get better? Unfortunately, it didn't. If you've already tried nasal irrigations, decongestants, steroid sprays, antihistamines, possible allergy shots and antibiotics, then you know all you can know about treating sinusitis without surgery. If you are facing surgery, then maybe the chapters on what to expect will be useful.

Southern Living Cook-Off Cookbook 2004 (Southern Living (Hardcover Oxmoor))
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Southern Living Cookbook
  • A Five-Star Cookbook showcasing Five-Star Recipes
  • It's great
  • DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!
Southern Living Cook-Off Cookbook 2004 (Southern Living (Hardcover Oxmoor))

Manufacturer: Oxmoor House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | U.S. Regional | Regional & International | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
SouthSouth | U.S. Regional | Regional & International | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Southern Living Our Readers Top-Rated Recipes (Southern Living (Hardcover Oxmoor)) Southern Living Our Readers Top-Rated Recipes (Southern Living (Hardcover Oxmoor))
  2. The All-New Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook (Southern Living (Hardcover Oxmoor)) The All-New Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook (Southern Living (Hardcover Oxmoor))
  3. Southern Living 2005 Annual Recipes (Southern Living Annual Recipes) Southern Living 2005 Annual Recipes (Southern Living Annual Recipes)
  4. Pillsbury Best of the Bake-Off Cookbook: Recipes from America's Favorite Cooking Contest Pillsbury Best of the Bake-Off Cookbook: Recipes from America's Favorite Cooking Contest
  5. Southern Living: 30 Years of Our Best Recipes Southern Living: 30 Years of Our Best Recipes

ASIN: 0848728661

Book Description

The results are in and, honey, are they tasty! Four hundred recipes were selected from over 34,000 entries for this first-ever collection of dishes from the Southern Living Cook-Off, the largest annual recipe contest in America. Besides the tantalizing recipes, cooks will love "behind the scenes" photos and stories, notes from the judges, and interviews with grand prize winners. A special chapter on "How to Create a Winning Recipe" reveals how to make your recipe stand out from the rest of the competition. Who are the ultimate winners in the Southern Living Cook-Off? Everyone lucky enough to get their hands on this first-of-its-kind edition.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Southern Living Cookbook.......2007-02-20

I just can't get enough of the Southern Living cookbooks. The recipes and photos are just great. I've never been disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars A Five-Star Cookbook showcasing Five-Star Recipes.......2006-05-29

This cookbook chronicles the winning entries in 2004's Southern Living Cook-Off and that's what it is meant to do. This is not a "regular" cookbook in that it is arranged in categories based on the categories of the cook-off. The recipes themselves are some of the finest a southern cook could hope for. Every recipe that I've made from this book has been a keeper so far and I am certain to find more as I try others. Highly recommended for adventurous cooks!

5 out of 5 stars It's great.......2005-12-13

I have made several dishes from this book for my family. We have loved them all. I think this is a great cookbook.

1 out of 5 stars DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!.......2005-02-07

What trash! I'm returning it. This is a big book - with teensy print that is more grey than black (and thus hard to read). It is also very difficult to find recipes. The table of contents merely cites broad things like Southern, Main Dish, One Dish, and Desserts, and the index is totally useless (e.g., Vegetables includes Shrimp, Chicken, Pot Roast, and Brisket, but no vegetables). I gave up trying to find if veggies were even listed. It doesn't even include comments from the contributors as to why they think their recipe is special. Amazon has zillions of wonderful cookbooks for sale. Don't waste your money on this one. Despite the hefty price tag, it is pure trash.

Ella in Europe: An American Dog's International Adventures
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Delightful
  • ella in europe - a great read!
  • A Must read for dog lovers
  • Best book about dog and man
  • So sweet
Ella in Europe: An American Dog's International Adventures
Michael Konik
Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Dogs | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Europe | Travel | Subjects | Books
Travel with PetsTravel with Pets | Specialty Travel | Travel | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Lauren's Story: An American Dog in Paris Lauren's Story: An American Dog in Paris
  2. Rex and the City: A Woman, a Man, and a Dysfunctional Dog Rex and the City: A Woman, a Man, and a Dysfunctional Dog
  3. What Wendell Wants: Or, How to Tell If You're Obsessed with Your Dog What Wendell Wants: Or, How to Tell If You're Obsessed with Your Dog
  4. Dog World: And the Humans Who Live There Dog World: And the Humans Who Live There
  5. Globetrotting Pets: An International Travel Guide Globetrotting Pets: An International Travel Guide

ASIN: 0385338635
Release Date: 2006-03-28

Book Description

Part travelogue, part valentine to a beloved pet, Ella in Europe chronicles writer Michael Konik’s magical six-week journey through Europe with his dog, Ella. An homage to the friend who has “licked away my tears when I’m sad, hopped on her hind legs when I’m happy, and snuggled me when I’m lonely,” here is the story of a bond unlike any other–and an extraordinary dog who stole her way into one man’s heart.

Los Angeles writer Michael Konik had always shared his life with dogs. But Ella, a gentle Lab mix, was something special. From the moment Konik laid eyes on Ella, he knew: This dog was meant to be his. An enchantress who charmed all who met her, Ella Guinevere Konik had a truly unique gift–and soon Konik found a way for Ella to share that gift, signing her up for a program that brings dogs into hospitals, nursing homes, and children’s shelters.

When Ella turned ten, Konik wanted to thank the “best friend” whose unconditional love had transformed his life–and given comfort and joy to others in need. So a trip to Europe was planned–and for Konik and Ella a once-in-a-lifetime adventure began, one that would strengthen the already-powerful bond between them. As they explore Europe’s most beautiful–and surprisingly dog-friendly–cities, Konik is amazed at the experiences he and Ella can share . . . Arriving in Vienna on July Fourth with Ella wrapped in her American flag scarf . . . Dining at four-star restaurants in Paris . . . Ella swimming in the Danube . . . Taking a gondola ride in Venice . . . Sunbathing in St. Tropez . . . Searching for a canine toilet in Monte Carlo. But soon this journey of friendship, love, and discovery must come to a close. And as Konik heads home, accompanied by the canine friend who “helped teach me what love means,” one thing is certain: Both dog and owner have been changed forever.

At once a testament to the power of unconditional love and a celebration of devotion, Ella in Europe is
a book for anyone who has ever felt a special connection to a dog they’ve loved.


From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Delightful .......2007-09-12

We've been traveling in Europe quite a bit this year, and I can't say I've seen a lot of people actually traveling with their dogs, but this book shows you what is possible. The author is a responsible dog owner - Ella is well-trained and well-behaved, which is probably critical to such an adventure. Because of that, they (and we, by extension) get to see Europe in a new way. Traveling in such a way provides another entree into cultures different from our own by providing a "bridge" - in this case, a dog. I appreciated the author's candor when elaborating on his worries and concerns. They were similar to what I would worry about in a similar situation. He also knows that his dog is a dog, not a furry person. The end seemed a little "unfinished" but overall it was a very enjoyable read.

5 out of 5 stars ella in europe - a great read!.......2007-08-30

Ella in Europe is a terrific book....THE adventure us dog lovers would look to undertake....it is funny and sad, goofy and inspirational and best of all, makes one re-evaluate just what is important in the moment. My 7 year old pup and i read most of this book out on our deck and we were sorry to get to the end..but it is one i will read several times and probably see something new each time....

5 out of 5 stars A Must read for dog lovers.......2007-08-06


"Ella in Europe" is a must read for anyone who loves dogs. It's the story of Ella, a lab/greyhound mix, and her Dad, Michael, who decides to take Ella to Europe as a reward for her work as a therapy dog.

Prior to their European adventure, we are privileged to see Ella at work. During her therapy sessions, Ella teaches her Dad a thing or two about life, about REALLY learning to accept others, about living in the moment, and being grateful for the many things that most of us take for granted.

During their adventures in Europe, Ella, Michael and Sandrine enjoy eating in the finest restaurants, staying in swanky hotels, hobnobbing with the locals in pubs, etc. Ella is allowed to enjoy life to the fullest, something which dogs in the United States can only dream of doing.

This book is written with great honesty, great love, and a great sense of humor. There are many memorable scenes and passages, but there is one in particular which strikes a chord in all of us who have ever had the privilege of sharing our home and our heart with a dog:

How I dread the day when I'll have to say goodbye to my best friend. Everyone who's ever owned a dog knows how these magical creatures quickly evolve from mere pets and pleasant distractions to fully vested members of the family. They're our four-legged sons or daughters or siblings. We care for and fret over them as though they were parents or offspring. People who dislike animals don't comprehend the dog lover's devotion. They innocently wonder, "What's the big deal? It's just a dog."

Those of us who share our homes with dogs can't comprehend such a benighted viewpoint. To us, the love and transcendent light a dog brings into this world are a very big deal, indeed. Ella Guinevere is an extraordinary animal unlike most any other I've known. But in many ways, she's just like any other dog on earth.: They all radiate goodness into our frequently evil world. They all make us humans smile----and cry and laugh and sigh. They all make us feel. And for that we should be eternally grateful.

Do yourself a favor and pick up this book. You won't regret it. It also makes a great gift for family and friends who are animal lovers.

5 out of 5 stars Best book about dog and man.......2007-07-09

"Herr und Hund" - eine ganz besondere Konstellation in der Beziehung zweier Lebewesen, die bereits so eindrucksvoll von Thomas Mann, John Steinbeck und vielen anderen Schriftstellern thematisiert wurde. In deren Fussstapfen tritt nun der in Hollywood lebende Autor Michael Konik mit seinem englischsprachigen Reisebericht "Ella in Europe".

Ebenso amuesant wie spannend geschrieben, erfaehrt der Leser, was Michael Konik und seine weisse Labrador-Greyhound-Mix-Huendin "Ella" auf ihren zusammen sechs Pfoten und was sie mit ihren vier Augen in Europa gesehen und erlebt haben. "Ella is just a dog, but she is my best friend, too," betont Konik. Deshalb moechte er - auch in Europa - so viel Zeit wie moeglich mit ihr gemeinsam verbringen.

Zum grossen Erstaunen des Autors und seiner amerikanischen Leser sind Hunde in Europa - anders als in den USA - fast ueberall willkommen, sogar in Geschaeften, Restaurants und Hotels. Davon koennen Hunde und ihre Besitzer im sonst so freien Amerika nur traeumen!

Konik bewundert und beneidet an den Hunden, dass sie kaum in der Vergangenheit und schon gar nicht in der Zukunft leben. Stattdessen sind sie beherrscht von der Gegenwart und sind zufrieden mit einer Hand voll Futter. (Vielleicht sind Hunde die wahren Buddhisten!?)

"Ella" wurde 1994 geboren und war acht Jahre alt, als ihr "Dad" Michael Konik mit ihr sozusagen als "Belohnung" fuer ihre jahrelange Treue im Jahr 2002 fuer sechs Wochen Belgien, Deutschland, Tschechien, Oesterreich, Italien, Frankreich und die Niederlande bereiste. Zahlreiche Fotos bereichern das Buch, das aus jedem Leser einen Hundeliebhaber macht, wenn er es nicht schon vorher war.

Mit der englischen Sprache hatte Michael Konik in Europa sicherlich kaum Probleme, aber Hunde wie "Ella" sprechen ja sowieso ueberall die gleiche Sprache. - "Wuff!"

Das Buch "Ella in Europe" war das schoenste und ruehrendste, das ich seit vielen Jahren gelesen habe.

[...]

4 out of 5 stars So sweet.......2007-05-17

I'm so glad I picked this book up on a whim. The author is clearly besotted with his dog and isn't ashamed to tell the world (or at least those who read his book). He starts out telling the readers about dogs he grew up loving and how much he missed the companion of a dog when he grew up and moved into areas where dogs weren't allowed (now why would anyone do that?!). Eventually, he finds Ella, a white lab/greyhound puppy and he's a goner. For the next eight years she gives him unconditional love and one day a bell goes off. Hey, maybe he'll share some of this loving and he enrolls them in a service dog program where they spend the next few years bringing joy to the sick, the injured and the mentally handicapped. When Ella turns ten, the author takes her on a trip through dog-friendly Europe as a way of saying thanks for being such a loyal companion.

The book follows their adventures as they eat in fancy restaurants, visit touristy sites and shop for a Hermes scarf. This was a very charming, feel-good book only marred by a bit of repetitiveness here and there. Definitely recommended for dog lovers looking for a feel good read.

How to Speak Furniture With an Antique French Accent: Formal and Regional Furniture Charts Clues, Clarifications, History, and Characteristics Buyin
Average customer rating: 1 out of 5 stars
  • How did this book get published?
  • Not recommended if you need factual information
  • A largely disappointing book.
How to Speak Furniture With an Antique French Accent: Formal and Regional Furniture Charts Clues, Clarifications, History, and Characteristics Buyin
Jeanne Siegel
Manufacturer: Bonus Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Furniture DesignFurniture Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
FurnitureFurniture | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Furniture & CarpentryFurniture & Carpentry | Woodworking | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
English (British)English (British) | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. French Furniture : From Louis XIII to Art Deco French Furniture : From Louis XIII to Art Deco

ASIN: 156625003X

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars How did this book get published?.......2002-04-12

This book was terrible. The author's thoughts are arranged in such a disjointed fashion without any semblance of organization. It's extremely difficult to read and almost impossible. I was so desperate for another source on french furniture that I bought it after reading a similar review prior to my purchase. I am also not the type to get online to write to write a book review but I was so disappointed with this book, I was compelled to do so. I guess this just demonstrates that anything can get published. I'm just surprised this got past the editor and publisher as well.

1 out of 5 stars Not recommended if you need factual information.......2002-02-18

I found the information provided in this book to be inaccurate at times, putting the accuracy of ALL the information to question. In addition, it seemed to be a compilation of information/statements not arranged in any logical or meaningful fashion.

I was very disappointed.

1 out of 5 stars A largely disappointing book........1999-11-05

A mostly disappointing jumble of information compiled haphazardly into a book. The editors would have done well to have insisted on further fact checking of dates (e.g. the author has Henry II ruling from 1547-1599 while Henry IV rules from 1589-1610), organization (most of the book is written as if compiled from scraps of notes) and clarification rather than the jumble of facts, historical footnotes and irrelevant anecdotes (i.e., "His mistress, Madame de Pompadour, ... was also a very loving person") that make up this book.

If you enjoy reading disjointed prose, this book should satisfy as it is written almost entirely in a stream-of-consciousness style which juxtaposes facts such as, "The American Empire period was from 1820 to 1840" with historical footnotes such as "General Charles de Gaulle preferred Empire furniture".

The opening and closing sections of the book, the chronology and the vocabulary, are good ideas but ultimately disappoint. In the first, the author attempts a chronology of French rulers and furniture periods but this section is largely unsatisfactory and could have much benefitted from charts, photographs or even bullet-headings to help identify particular trends.

The vocabularly, which takes up 65 of the 136 pages, is somewhat useful although I can't fathom why the word "silk" needs to be defined here, and there are several plain mistakes such as a "guéridon" being described as a candle stand rather than as a pedestal table, and "pied de biche" is described as a scroll foot rather than as the doe hoof which is the translation and the description of the element.

I had great hopes for this book but it has mostly informed me that a decent book on this subject is still waiting to be written!

Florida, My Eden (Stresau Landscape Design Series)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Good guide, but incomplete botany
  • Mildly disappointed.
  • Good combination of pictures and cultural info.
  • Florida, My Eden
  • Book saves gardener from many planting errors!
Florida, My Eden (Stresau Landscape Design Series)
Frederic B. Stresau
Manufacturer: Florida Classics Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

LandscapeLandscape | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
LandscapeLandscape | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Betrocks Florida Plant Guide Betrocks Florida Plant Guide
  2. Native Florida Plants, Revised Edition: Low Maintenance Landscaping and Gardening, Revised Native Florida Plants, Revised Edition: Low Maintenance Landscaping and Gardening, Revised
  3. Florida Landscape Plants: Native And Exotic Florida Landscape Plants: Native And Exotic
  4. Easy Gardens for South Florida Easy Gardens for South Florida
  5. Your Florida Landscape: A Complete Guide to Planting and Maintenance : Trees, Palms, Shrubs, Ground Covers and Vines Your Florida Landscape: A Complete Guide to Planting and Maintenance : Trees, Palms, Shrubs, Ground Covers and Vines

ASIN: 091245119X

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Good guide, but incomplete botany.......2007-05-12

This is a good book to start with if you've just moved to Florida and need to understand the landscape. It's well illustrated and laid out logically, but you'll find yourself looking for plants and trees you've seen in Florida that just are not in this book.

3 out of 5 stars Mildly disappointed........2002-04-15

Although this book seems to have some good information in it, the multitude of grammar- and spelling-related errors made it difficult for me to trust the other information disseminated by it. A stronger editorial effort would have helped quite a bit.

I feel like the book is extremely vague with regard to the provenance of each species - an increasingly important issue in the state of Florida. The book would also be so much more useful to most Florida gardeners, horticulturists, and landscape architects if the author would have made more of an effort to more clearly delineate those species that are native to the state and those that are exotic (and invasive, if applicable).

With that said, the book remains a fairly good reference, especially for beginners. Nice color photographs and a seasoned landscape architect's opinions/observations about how to use each plant in Florida landscapes.

5 out of 5 stars Good combination of pictures and cultural info........2001-10-01

Great book covering a broad range of palms, trees, shrubs, flowers, vines, etc. Includes photographs on each plant covered, along with cultural info. like how much cold they can handle, where they come from, ultimate size, best way to use in the landscape, and leaf, fruit, & flower descriptions. I use this regularly when trying to decide what to put where, in the landscape.

4 out of 5 stars Florida, My Eden.......2001-08-03

Great book for the southern parts of Florida. It was hightly recommended by our Plant Nursery. Fairly good pictures but great discriptions of plants, trees, shurbs etc.

5 out of 5 stars Book saves gardener from many planting errors!.......1998-09-21

As a newcomer to Florida I knew nothing about local horticulture. This book was a tremendous aid in my education. It gives straightforward information about many plants, trees and shrubs including growth habits, size, best locations and culture. The book is well organized and the info is easy to access.
FLORIDA, MY EDEN
Average customer rating: Not rated
    FLORIDA, MY EDEN
    Frederic B. Stresau
    Manufacturer: Florida Classics Library
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover
    ASIN: B000NYGI6S

    Mesopotamian Planetary Astronomy-Astrology (Cuneiform Monographs, 18)
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Mesopotamian Planetary Astronomy-Astrology (Cuneiform Monographs, 18)
      David Brown
      Manufacturer: Brill Academic Publishers
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Library Binding

      GeneralGeneral | Interior Design | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
      Assyria, Babylonia & SumerAssyria, Babylonia & Sumer | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
      EgyptEgypt | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
      EgyptEgypt | Middle East | History | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | World | History | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Egypt | Africa | History | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Astrology | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      AstronomyAstronomy | Astronomy | Science | Subjects | Books
      ASIN: 9056930362

      Metro Letters: A Typeface for the Twin Cities
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Metro Letters: A Typeface for the Twin Cities

        Manufacturer: University of Minnesota Press
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

        TypographyTypography | Graphic Design | Design & Decorative Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
        GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
        Graphic DesignGraphic Design | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books | 3D Graphics | Adobe FrameMaker | Adobe Illustrator | Adobe InDesign | Adobe PageMaker | CAD | Desktop Publishing | Electronic Documents | General | Information Visualization | Interface Design | Printing | Reference | Rendering & Ray Tracing | Scanning | Typography | Web Design
        ASIN: 0972969616

        Book Description

        Can a typeface communicate the unique character of a city? This is the question the University of Minnesota Design Institute proposed when it began the project "Typeface: Twin Cities" and commissioned six teams of talented typographers to create a custom font for Minneapolis and St. Paul. "Typeface: Twin Cities" was an experiment to further understand the relationship between typography and urban identity that sought not to brand the cities themselves but to engage the public's awareness and appreciation of design and typography throughout the metro area.

        What began as an attempt to discover a subtle form of civic identity evolved into the invention of a truly unique concept. The Twin font is accompanied by a software program that can link the typeface via the Internet with live databases detailing the Twin Cities' urban conditions—wind, temperature, traffic congestion—and these variations visibly affect the type's appearance. Metro Letters recounts the complete process behind the development of a font that aims to visually represent the diversity of the Twin Cities and inspires other designers to devise their own new ideas, innovative prototypes, and creative experiments.

        Juba's Cup
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Juba's Cup
          Luella Dow
          Manufacturer: Pine Orchard
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          GeneralGeneral | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
          ContemporaryContemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
          HistoricalHistorical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
          Discrimination & RacismDiscrimination & Racism | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
          ASIN: 0965878635

          Book Description

          BLACK HISTORY / SLAVERY / HOMESTEADING.

          This is a work of historical fiction. It is based on the real character of a true, black slave who escaped from a Southern plantation in the 1850s to establish a dairy in the Pacific Northwest.

          Follow his narrow escapes from the South to St. Louis. Then venture west to the Oregon Territory, where Juba homesteaded by a stream, to be known as Negro Creek, carrying the same name today in Whitman County, Washington, near Rock Lake.

          All that remains to remind us of his presence is Negro Creek, a meandering stream that flows from a hillside south of Spokane and quietly murmurs: "He was here, he was here." But wherever he went, Juba was judged by the color of his skin.

          Books:

          1. Mrs. Pollifax and the Whirling Dervish
          2. Murder by Magic: Twenty Tales of Crime and the Supernatural
          3. Murder Can Botch Up Your Birthday (Desiree Shapiro Mystery)
          4. Murder in Belleville (Aimee Leduc Investigation)
          5. Murder in Clichy (Soho Crime)
          6. Murder in the Forum (Libertus Mystery Series)
          7. Murder is a Girl's Best Friend (Paige Turner Mysteries)
          8. Nobody Runs Forever
          9. P.I. on a Hot Tin Roof: A Talba Wallis Novel (Talba Wallis)
          10. Pale as the Dead: A Genealogical Mystery (Signet Mystery)

          Books Index

          Books Home

          Recommended Books

          1. The Virgin's Lover
          2. Star Wars Complete Cross-Sections: The Spacecraft and Vehicles of the Entire Star Wars Saga
          3. The Art of Doing Nothing: Simple Ways to Make Time for Yourself
          4. Site Unseen: An Emma Fielding Mystery
          5. Rose of No Man's Land
          6. QED: The Strange Theory of Light and Matter
          7. The Last Lone Inventor: A Tale of Genius, Deceit, and the Birth of Television
          8. Famous for Fifteen Minutes: My Years With Andy Warhol
          9. Sounds of Texas Birds, Vol. 2
          10. Our Trees How to Know Them