Extinct Animals of the World: Nature Stories for Children (Wilderness Album Series)

Customer Reviews:

I think it will be too scientific for most people........2004-06-15

It is written/edited by someone with a PhD, in a reporting style which may annoy some people. It is well-referenced, though I think most people will not care less for seeking out the various journal articles. For example, it often starts a paragraph in this manner: "one study shows that..."

A quote: "Our baseline modeling condition has used a coefficient of rolling resistance (Crr) value of 0.0032, which is representative of an average racing clincher tire (Martin et al. 1998). Kyle (1986) has reported the Crr for high-performance road-racing tubular and clincher tires to be 16 percent lower (0.0027) when measured on an asphalt surface. Some road-racing tubular tires, however, exhibit Crr values as high as 0.0059 (Kyle 1986).

Now what is the point of that? The findings (on whether tubulars or clinchers offer lower rolling resistance) seem to be inconclusive. It doesn't tell us which brand + model tubulars had the higher rolling resistance, so you'd have to look up the article by Kyle if you really wanted to know which tubulars to avoid. At the very least it can be gleaned that the chapter concerning equipment isn't much help.

This book creates a very small niche for itself, perhaps too small. It seems to be aimed at coaches or deadly serious cyclists. I can't imagine there are too many of those in the world. But if that is the case, why bother defining the terms "prologue", "criterium" and "stage race"?

I'll be honest -I haven't read the entire book- but I still didn't find the three chapters on body and machine very useful, nor the chapters covering performance assessment. The nutrition & recovery sections were of assistance, as was the chapter on training in extreme conditions (for me at least).

However, I was disappointed that two very important "tips" were not mentioned regarding training in extremely hot climates, namely: avoid black or dark clothes, as they absorb a LOT of heat; and consume icey cold fluids as they are absorbed into the body faster than tepid fluids. Furthermore, although hypothermia was discussed, there was no mention of the dangerous condition that may arise if extremely frigid air is rapidly inhaled by athletes - the trachea (i.e. your windpipe or whatever) freezes. Absolutely no mention of these important facts, in a book that purports to discuss training in extreme climates!! (...)>I just can't imagine that a large proportion of the considerable number of amazon customers (229,000) of this book own their own hypobaric chambers (or else would have the time and money to train and live at separate altitudes), so I can't fathom how the chapter on altitude training is going to be beneficial to the majority of readers.

On the up side, the book contains many helpful graphs and tables throughout, and the end of each chapter also contains brief summaries.

I didn't buy this book to be able to improve at competition, I bought it to become a better cyclist. My advice, for what its worth: if you're not a scientist with a PhD like I've almost got, and you don't intend on reading a thesis to get some pointers, don't buy this book! Don't get me wrong, it is a helpful book (in its own way) I just think it could be a little more palatable for the average reader.

Performance Cycling for Elite Male Road Racers.......2002-10-10

Summary Conclusion

In High-Performance Cycling, 28 authors combine to review the science of modern-day cycling. The book is full of important and useful information. Considering the many authors, there is only modest overlap of material.

Although most of the information available in the book has been previously published-either in trade or scientific press, the book nicely brings the lay reader up-to-date with one package. There is also much to be gleaned by the savvy cyclist with a scientific academic background.

Subject Matter

The book is divided into five parts:
* Training
* Performance Assessment
* Body and Machine
* Nutrition
* Conditioning and Recovery

The book title may be misleading to some. The puff below the book's title promises to "give you an edge in technique, training, equipment, racing."

Although the book does touch on improving the reader's own performance, especially the last chapter, the book is principally about elite male road cyclists. There are a few references to track riders. There is little specifically about women, masters, mountain biking, BMX, ultra, or other cyclists.

The elite male road cyclist paradigm may put off some readers.
* "Most cyclists can reach peaks of up to ...1200 watts in a single sprint." The author means most high-performance cyclists, and is not referring to the general cycling population.
* "Most cyclists have small computers that display their speed." While many do, most overstates the overall cycling community.
* "In cycling competition there are two types of races: road race and time trails." What about BMX; ultras; mountain biking (many disciplines including cross country, short track, downhill), track racing (sprints, kilos, pursuit, points racing, Keiren)?

Editor's Organization

The organization and general editorial work of Asker Jeukendrup is good. He has organized and tied together the writings of his co-authors well. The editor prefaces each of the five parts of the books with unifying remarks. Only chapters 7 and 8 have appreciable overlap. Chapter cross-references are good. The final chapter, written by the editor, summarizes the book's material well.

There are occasional lapses in consistent terminology that will prove confusing to some readers. For example, the power that an athlete can generate in a sprint is referred to as maximum power. In the case of a top track sprinter this might be 2300 watts. The power that an elite athlete can sustain in a progressive (graded or ramped) test, about 500 watts, is also referred to as maximal power. It would be helpful to the reader to consistently have these values referred to as peak anaerobic power and maximal ramped aerobic power respectively.

Reader Level

As is frequently the case, readers will appreciate the information provided on different levels. Only sophisticated readers will understand some of the points being made. This is therefore a book for most readers to return to and reread as their general cycling experience and knowledge increases.
In some cases, prior knowledge is required and the author needs to be more explanatory.

For example, in Chapter 11, page, 138, we are told that "saddle height [should be] 98% of leg length." That perhaps sounds okay, until the reader tries to follow this advice. Is leg length determined by the book-under-the-crotch-against-the-wall approach? In stocking feet or wearing cycling shoes? How does one account for different cleat/pedal axle distances? Or is leg length determined by the common medical method-measuring the distance from the anterior superior iliac spine to the medial malleolus? Or perhaps (in elite athletes) by a scanogram X-ray? Is saddle height measured from the pedal or from the center of the crank axle? If measured from the pedal, is it with the crank oriented in the direction of the down tube or with the crank in the 6 o'clock (vertically down) position? Is seat height measured to the nose of the saddle or to where the rider generally sits? In other words "saddle height [should be] 98% of leg length" isn't likely to be helpful advice.

Another example, page 61: "Another method is the so-called Dmax method. The intensity is marked that has the minimum distance (d) from the lactate curve to a line connecting the first and last point of the graph." Unfortunately, the text does not describe any particular graph, no graph accompanies the text, and most readers will have no idea what the author is talking about.

Best and most up to date cycling book.......2002-06-14

This book is an extremely good and up to date book on the science in cycling. It discusses training, altitude training, nutrition, aerodynamics and many other relevant topics and experts who work with professional cyclists give their insights and advice. It truly is a high-performance cycling book!

High Performance Heart: Effective Training with the HRM for Health, Fitness and Competition

Average customer rating:

Great for heart patients & tri-athletes & everyone else
Nothing High Performance Here
Excellent insights, at times, choppy and disjointed info

High Performance Heart: Effective Training with the HRM for Health, Fitness and Competition
Philip Maffertone
Manufacturer: MBI
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Outdoors & Nature Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

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The Maffetone Method: The Holistic, Low-Stress, No-Pain Way to Exceptional Fitness
Fix Your Feet: Build the Best Foundation for Healthy, Pain-Free Knees, Hips, and Spine
Training for Endurance
Slow Burn: Burn Fat Faster By Exercising Slower
Precision Heart Rate Training

Accessories:

Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 0933201648

Book Description

Increase your physical performance and stamina, reduce your resting heart rate, train more effectively with less pain and drudgery, live longer and healthier, and perform better in sports with expert advice from sports physician Philip Maffetone. Foreword by Mark Allen. Revised and updated ed.

Customer Reviews:

Great for heart patients & tri-athletes & everyone else.......2002-03-19

A friend gave me this after I was in the hospital for heart disease. Within a week I bought a heart rate monitor and began exercising this way. Four years later, I am still exercising regularly, and my heart is fully recovered. This approach makes exercise easy! The book is especially good because it tells how to really figure your target heart rate, and it tells you how and why you must warm up and cool down.

Nothing High Performance Here.......2002-02-06

This book doesn't hold a candle to Heart Monitor Training For the Compleat Idiot. If you're 50, sedentary and haven't worked out in 20 years, this book will be fine for the first 4 or 5 months.

Excellent insights, at times, choppy and disjointed info.......1998-06-14

I liked the presentation of the beef of Maffetone's information, although he seems to skip around a great deal with many differing opinions. His list of followers is indeed impressive, but I feel this is a great resource for nuggets of training information. His adherence to listening to your body is admirable, but I was left wanting for more information and detail. Excellent resource for the basics of a healthy heart rate monitor based training regimen.

The Natural Advantage: An Organic Way to Grow Your Business : 7 Principles for High Performance

Average customer rating:

The Natural Advantage: An Organic Way to Grow Your Business : 7 Principles for High Performance
Alan Heeks
Manufacturer: Rodale Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Management | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Organizational Change | Organizational Behavior | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Writing | Reference | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Alternative Medicine | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Alternative & Holistic | Medicine | Subjects | Books

Book Description

Harvard MBA Alan Heeks, a successful entrepreneur and founder of an organic farm, explains how to apply the seven principles of organic farming to the workplace. For example, the first principle is caring for the soil, or ground conditioning. Applied to the workplace, this means utilizing clean sources such as inspiration and appreciation and avoiding polluting sources such as stress and fear. By fostering a healthy, organic work environment, the result is a natural sustainable, renewing approach to work and life and demonstrates how it naturally leads to increase in productivity, quality, and fulfillment.

High-Performance Bicycling Nutrition (Bicycle Books)

Average customer rating:

One of my favorite books

High-Performance Bicycling Nutrition (Bicycle Books)
Richard, M.D. Rafoth , and Richard Raforth
Manufacturer: Motorbooks International
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

General | Nutrition | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Nutrition | Special Topics | Medicine | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

The Complete Book of Long-Distance Cycling: Build the Strength, Skills, and Confidence to Ride as Far as You Want
The Cyclist's Food Guide
The Cyclist's Training Bible
Total Heart Rate Training: Customize and Maximize Your Workout Using a Heart Rate Monitor

Accessories:

Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 0933201923

Customer Reviews:

One of my favorite books.......2007-01-09

This book is awesome. Not only is it written in an entertaining way, by a cyclist who happens to also be a doctor, it has easy to understand tables that show you how to estimate your calorie expenditures versus your food intake. It also dispels many of the dieting myths and gives you clear, rational data to improve your performance and manage your weight. Highly recommended.

The Zen Way to Martial Arts: A Japanese Master Reveals the Secrets of the Samurai
Average customer rating:

Some good insights not obvious to martial arts beginners

Essential reading if you aspire true Bushido

Somewhat Good

Excellent

A good book to further martial arts understanding

The Zen Way to Martial Arts: A Japanese Master Reveals the Secrets of the Samurai
Taisen Deshimaru
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
Zen | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Zen Philosophy | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Martial Arts | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books
General | Sports | Subjects | Books
General | Reference | Subjects | Books
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Zen in the Martial Arts

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Sit: Zen Teachings of Master Taisen Deshimaru

The Unfettered Mind: Writings of the Zen Master to the Sword Master

ASIN: 0140193448

Customer Reviews:

Some good insights not obvious to martial arts beginners.......2006-06-21

Deshimaru Roshi (Master Deshimaru) teaches a few lessons on Zen, and its connection to the tradition of martial arts in Japan. He explains that without cultivating the spirit, any martial arts is just a sport which could eventually deplete the body of energy. Instead, the samurai in medieval Japan were taught martial skill and civil education (caligraphy, history, music, etc.). Unfortunately, he says, the real spirit is going away even in Japan, let alone in the West. He shares some nice stories - he has a preference for cats, it seems :). Cultivating the mind through zazen practice is at least as important as practicing a martial art!
These being said, these book is not a practical manual - they are questions and answers from a public event in 1975 - probably Taisen Deshimaru has written better suited for that pupose. However, the martial arts beginners could use it to understand what every martial art grand master says: it's not at all about fighting!

Essential reading if you aspire true Bushido.......2005-01-02

Marial arts have for the most part sunk into mere sport. True, traditional martial arts training strengthens Ki, destroys egoism and fear, moves the student beyond dualism, and develops a consciousness that has forgotten the self. This slim book is a jewel for those willing to start this arduous life long journey.

Somewhat Good.......2004-05-08

I felt this book was pretty good. It is easy to read with its conversational tone. There was no new information that I found in the book. I think if someone has been involved in traditional martial arts for an extended period of time this book will not offer much new information. For people who have recently entered into martial arts I believe there is some useful insights.

Excellent.......2004-04-09

If you want to grasp the true essence of Zen and martial arts (traditional martial arts where the emphasis is on life and death and not the juvenile sport that it has become), then this book is an excellent start.

A good book to further martial arts understanding.......2001-10-11

Hi, my name is Grant Griffith you can email me at grifbox@hotmail.com,
This book by Taisen Deshimaru gives the reader a framework to begin zen meditation and ultimately produce spontaneous 'non-thinking' actions in the martial arts. True to the title, the book shows the link between zen and the martial arts. This is done with an interesting mix of interviews, short stories and anecdotes.

Book Description

Plant and animal motifs, chain patterns, geometrical and symbolic motifs, architectural forms, stylized suns and moons, rosettes and borders, calligraphic lettering and Turkish adaptations of rococo — all derived from authentic sources — are among the many types of design illustrated in clear, easily reproducible images. 264 black-and-white illustrations:

Customer Reviews:

turkish children's coloring book would be better.......2001-12-12

Just a mish mash of designs with no information on originality of the designs, or even a mention of what century. Just thrown together to dupe a person. VERY disappointing.

great for artistic endeavors.......2000-06-23

This is a most helpful book if you wish to decorate anything with a turkish motif. I found the text as the bottom of each graphic informative and helpful. However, some motifs are so intricate that they're a bit difficult to trace and/or transfer.

Average customer rating:

Authentic Turkish Designs
Akar
Manufacturer: see notes for publisher info
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000OMVBXY

Rover, Don't Roll over: A Compassionate Training Guide for Dogs and Their People
Average customer rating:

A realistic guide to dog ownership

This book works!

Canine common sense

Jody should be on Oprah

For Dog Lovers Everywhere!

Rover, Don't Roll over: A Compassionate Training Guide for Dogs and Their People
Jody Rosengarten
Manufacturer: Ten Speed Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Dogs | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Training | Dogs | Animal Care & Pets | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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Similar Items:

The Art of Raising a Puppy

The Other End of the Leash

Dr. Pitcairn's New Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats

ASIN: 1580085644

Book Description

Imagine how easy dog training would be if your dog could tell you exactly how to get the results you want. In ROVER, DON'T ROLL OVER, professional dog trainer and behavioral therapist Jody Rosengarten taps into our four-legged friends' perspective to present new, more realistic approaches to dog training. Does your dog insist on sleeping on your bed? It's okay—let him! Does your pup want to eat "people food"? Don't worry—go ahead! You don't have to practice training with your dog (at least not in any obvious way) and the words you choose to use during training don't matter—really! This pro-dog, anti-dogmatic manual rejects the rigidity of traditional obedience classes in lieu of kinder, gentler practices that encourage your dog's natural joie de vivre. Written for thinking dog lovers who want to better understand what makes their companions tick, ROVER, DON'T ROLL OVER is for busy owners who want a well-behaved dog, but don't want to spend a lot of free time getting there. Spoil your dog but teach her to listen too; this alternative guide offers proven yet flexible training methods that honor human and canine alike.

Customer Reviews:

A realistic guide to dog ownership.......2006-03-07

Too many people seeing the ideal dog on TV or movies, or maybe a super bright one who does lovely tricks, want their dog to be the `perfect dog'. You know, the dog that *never* digs, that *never* jumps up to lick a child, the dog who would never dream of barking, and maybe even rescue 500 kids from a burning building etc. Honestly, for most dogs of average trainability and intelligence, and most realistic owners who want a well behaved companion, not a human substitute that will thrill friends, this book is the book. You will end up with a mannerly, pleasant to live with dog, and you won't have to spend ages doing it. The approach is sensible, realistic and very simple.

This book works!.......2005-11-02

Since getting my 6 week old puppy I have become so interested in dog behavior and training and started reading tons of books. When trying to apply various training techniques I realized many did not work, in fact some lead to my puppy regressing. Any type of physical correction no matter how gentle just did not work. I started realizing that when teaching anything, they have to learn how to do it on their own without any force. We are there just as positive motivators. Thats what this book is able to teach. How to motivate your puppy to do commands, have manors, and follow directions by encouragement and positive rewards. I like that she uses food rewards and toys as rewards, but in moderation. This is a great book and I could tell right away the author understood what so many people do wrong and what we can do right. If you are searching for books to help you raise your puppy, small breed dog, and even larger breed dog I sincerely encourage you to buy this book, it is well worth the money and I only wish the book was even bigger!! I am now teaching my puppy to "drop it" on command, you know how puppies like to put everything in their mouths=). With the technique in this book my puppy has learned it in one day and she didn't even know we were training. When we play with her toys and she is in the middle of chewing it in her mouth, I say "Goober Drop it" and show her a nice treat. She drops the toy right away and I give her the treat. Then I start saying "goober drop it" without showing her ther treat and after she drops it I give her the treat. After a while you can sometimes give her a treat. This is great for puppies to learn and you will learn how to teach this and so much more in a way that is positive and motivational!! This is the first book out of many I read and bought that I highly recomend.

Canine common sense.......2004-09-13

On the subject of raising your voice to your dog, Jody Rosengarten advises, "He can hear a Frito fall at 250 yards. There's no need to yell." When I picked myself up off the floor and did some deep breathing to relieve my belly-laughing- induced tummy-ache, I knew I had found the dog book for me. It goes without saying that common sense is so simple as to often be overlooked. Never is the need for common sense made more glaringly apparent than in this book. If you've never had a dog and are thinking about getting one, read Rosengarten. If you've had dogs for years and think you know all there is to know about their training, read Rosengarten. As a matter of fact, if you think you never want to have a dog, read Rosengarten. She could change your mind and that would be a good thing.

Jody should be on Oprah.......2004-07-29

I loved this book!
It was a pleasure to read.
Very practical advice mixed with humor and personal
insights. I learned a lot about what makes dogs tick.
And also about what makes people tick.
People with dogs, or those contemplating getting one, will find this book entertaining and informative.
It would be wonderful to see her on Oprah discussing this book!

For Dog Lovers Everywhere!.......2004-07-16

Whether you are thinking about getting a dog or already have one this is a must read for every dog owner. I only wish I had read this book before I raised my golden retriever, it would have been so much easier and the results would have been better too! Common sense and compassion are the way to go here, think like a dog, and not only will you have better behaved dogs, you will be a better person as well.

Great Country Store Antiques
Average customer rating:
Great Country Store Antiques
Rich Bertoia
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Americana | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Popular Culture | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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Country Store Collectibles

Antique & Contemporary Advertising Memorabilia (Antique and Contemporary Advertising Memorabilia)

ASIN: 0764312367

Book Description

This visual tour of an important great collection of authentic country store antiques has hundreds of color photographs with detailed captions, including prices. It will provide an opportunity to examine the history of popular culture and its retailing beginnings. The book includes counters, fixtures, and lighting, as well as hundreds of products, advertisements, and packaging that would be found in a country store. The collection represents some of the finest treasures of the genre. And everyone can experience the joys of window shopping...a hundred years ago.

Average customer rating:

Great Country Store Antiques
Rich Bertoia
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing, Ltd.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000MHPSA8

Tabletop Gardens: Create 40 intimate gardens for the home, no matter what the season
Average customer rating:

Stunning!

Striking, simple and complete

A beautiful and practical book for enhancing your home!

Beautiful design and practical

Nothing new here.

Tabletop Gardens: Create 40 intimate gardens for the home, no matter what the season
Rosemary McCreary , Sarah Dawson , and William Holt
Manufacturer: Storey Publishing, LLC
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Container Gardening | Techniques | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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Tabletop Gardens: 40 Stylish Plantscapes for Counters and Shelves, Desktops and Windowsills

Glorious Indoor Gardens

Patterns for Terrariums and Planters

Beautiful Tabletop Gardens

Create Your Own Tabletop Fountains

ASIN: 1580174663

Book Description

TABLETOP GARDENS is a uniquely imaginative approach to gardening. Written by seasoned garden writer Rosemary McCreary and sumptuously photographed by William Holt, TABLETOP GARDENS stands apart - with exquisitely beautiful photographs of miniature indoor gardens, each planted in simple containers and shot in natural light.

The 40 designs offer many ideas for choosing a personal style and getting started - plants under glass, in bowls and trays, and even in water environments. Earthy, rich-green mosses in a glass globe. A burst of forced bulbs for spring. The textured foliage of a fern garden in an antique glass case. A living sculpture of twisted stems. A garden mosaic of creeping mint. It's the pleasure of creating a small Eden and enjoying it no matter what the season - in a cozy corner of a room, or on a windowsill splashed with sunlight. Each project includes complete advice on the materials needed and step-by-step information on how to create the garden. Along with providing design advice, TABLETOP GARDENS gives information on the culture and maintenance of each garden, how to place it where it will prosper, and how to keep it thriving. Popular, easy-to-grow herbs, grasses, bulbs, water plants, vines, and miniature trees are naturals for tabletop gardening. Color photographs show projects in a variety of room settings, with ideas for suitable containers and advice on how to group and style plants for the best effect.

Customer Reviews:

Stunning!.......2004-08-31

I love houseplants and the pictures in this book are a great inspiration to try new arrangements with my plants.

Striking, simple and complete.......2004-03-04

This striking book is an excellent choice for those of you who simply can't stop gardening, no matter what the season or location. While apartment dwellers will especially benefit from the tabletop gardens, everyone could find a place in their home for these beautiful examples. Everything from dry gardens to bogs is covered. Each example includes information on lighting, water, temperature requirements and average life span.

I have never had much success with indoor plants, but I am tempted to try out a few of these, including the ones growing simple grasses in pretty containers.

A beautiful and practical book for enhancing your home!.......2003-08-06

I purchased this book several months ago and have been thrilled with it's beautiful photography, clear instruction and easy (yet clever) ideas for gardening indoors. My home is not set up for big outdoor gardens, so these small container and tabletop gardens have been a godsend! I had never thought of decorating my kitchen and bathrooms with live plantings, and wow, what an improvement! I am buying copies for my friends and family. This makes a wonderful housewarming gift. Don't miss it!

Beautiful design and practical.......2003-07-11

Received this as a gift and found it so well written and photographed that I ended up buying a few as gifts for others. Fabulous book design and layout. Beautiful pictures. Great container ideas and very clear information for ongoing care. The grass garden section was especially neat. The author suggests new takes on indoor gardens such as using mini primroses in a flat basket. I've always planted them outdoors but never imagined how nice they would look inside the house.

Nothing new here........2003-06-30

This is a very narrow topic. By definition these are gardens that are very limited in size and scope. Having said that, i was still very disappointed in this book. It doesn't take much shopping around, thumbing through other books and checking the Internet to find dozens of good ideas for tabletop gardens. And any garden writer worth her (or his) salt can come up with "how to do it" and "plants to choose" text to make the ideas a practicality. So why the paucity of ideas? Why are we treated, on pages 52 and 53, to a two-page close-up of gravel?

Don't waste any time on this very ordinary book about ordinary plants in ordinary containers.

Book Description

When Esk, a young ogre-nymph-human, began his pilgrimage to the Good Magician Humfrey to rid himself of a seductive demoness, little did he know it would become a mission of mercy. A running river paradise and its harmless inhabitants were perishing in the wrathful wake of a greedy demon horde. Now it is up to Esk and his companions--a beautiful winged centaur named Chex and a brave burrower Called Volney--to search Xanth's treacherous reaches, gathering together a mind-boggling company of creatures to defend the precious Vale of the Vole.

Customer Reviews:

Not what I thought.......2005-08-26

I was recommended this by a friend but sadly it's not the story of a small water mammal who, in the throes of existential crisis, rescues his tiny community on the banks of the Thame from a series of rapacious raids by mink led by the evil Bliar.

I suppose it's all very well for those who like this sort of thing, but it's not really reading as such, is it?

Xanth for the memories.......2005-08-26

This is probably the best book I've ever read! At one moment it had me laughing like a spastic drain, the next, crying like a bald man in a caravan - all on the first page! I can't wait to read the second chapter, I'm looking forward to reading the bit where Jimmy Hill seduces the Minotaur with his pipe-organ.

10 stars!

One of Piers best.......2002-06-24

This book is immediately after the last of the "original" series of Xanth (Published by Del Rey) and it gets better and better. To the person who stated that it was for uneducated people, you need to read more of this series. About that Chester, Chet, Cherie, Chem, and Chex that is just ONE family of centaurs. All of them are related in some way, so they have a distinct name similarity. Get it? And not all centaurs are named with a C or a Ch, if you've read almost all of the series like I have. Well, back to the point. I found this book very interesting and kudos to piers for yet another well thought adventure through the magical land of Xanth.

Greatest fantasy book ever!.......2001-03-24

I think Vale of the Vole by the author Piers Anthony is a very good fantasy book. It was also very funny at certain points. I love how Piers Anthony thinks up different fantasy creatures, for instance Nymphs, Ogres, Hippogriffs, Centaurs, Unicorns, Demons, Griffins, and Voles. My faviorte part was when Chex the Centaur learned to fly. The part that I hated was when Ivy, Esk, and Chex went to Castle Roogna. I hope you will read this wonderful book.

oh no tell they get better than this..........2000-05-27

I have up to this point, been a Xanth fan, and gone out of my way to follow the series, which believe me is VERY difficult... anyway after much perseverance I finally got my paws on this one, and it is disappointing to say the least! The puns and creativity seems to have degenerated into serious overkill, that makes it, and the story line brim with tedious, banal, stupidity! I LOVE these books, but they've got to get better than this! PLEASE somebody tell me they get better than this...

Average customer rating:

Vale of the Vole
Piers Anthony
Manufacturer: Avon Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
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Question Quest
Xanth 13: Isle of View (Magic of Xanth)
Golem in the Gears (The Magic of Xanth, Book 9)
The Color of Her Panties (Xanth, Book 15)

ASIN: B000GRVU9C

The Adventures of Danny Meadow Mouse (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)

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Books by Thornton W. Burgess
Burgess books overall

The Adventures of Danny Meadow Mouse (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)
Thornton W. Burgess
Manufacturer: Dover Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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The Adventures of Jimmy Skunk (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)
The Adventures of Paddy the Beaver (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)
The Adventures of Bobby Raccoon (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)
Lightfoot the Deer (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)
Old Granny Fox (Dover Children's Thrift Classics)

ASIN: 0486275655

Book Description

A plump little meadow mouse, always an inviting target for hungry hunters in the Green Meadow, spends much of his time avoiding the clutches of Hooty the Owl, Reddy Fox and Old Granny Fox, Mr. Blacksnake, and other pesky predators as he explores the Old Briar-patch and Farmer Brown's orchard.

Customer Reviews:

Books by Thornton W. Burgess.......2000-06-11

I grew up in a small New England town and read almost every book in the children's section of the library, though none of the books I read stand out in my memory like the books by Burgess. I have never, in all my 40 years, met another person who has read these books. I would like to encourage all to read his books. They are delightful stories with something for everyone.

Burgess books overall.......1999-12-18

Folks,

Customer Reviews:

Sam Vole.......2001-05-13

What young child doesn't want to do things for herself? (Phrase most frequently uttered by my daughter-- "I do it!!!") Sam is aching to vole by himself, but his big brothers keep tagging along (keeping an eye on him). So Sam sets out on an early morning adventure while everyone else is still sleeping... This may be my favorite Waddell and Firth creation, but then again it's SO hard to choose among the many excellent books they have created! I hope the book is reprinted, and soon!

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VALE OF THE VOLE - XANTH

Manufacturer: AVON BOOKS
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000IA3E96

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Vampire Voles
Garry Kilworth
Manufacturer: Random House Childre
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0552547050

Book Description

Montagu Sylver, weasel detective, is back in action in this latest riproaring adventure in the Welkin Weasels series.

Muggidrear, the capital city on the island of Welkin, is in danger of becoming a vampire colony! Ghostly ships are arriving from Slattland, filled with coffins, and the vampire voles are becoming a real pain in the neck. Even the Mayor’s sister, Princess Sybil, has been bitten!

Montagu Sylver, the famous weasel detective, suspects that someone is deliberately sending the vampires across the seas to destroy Welkin forever. With his trusty companions, he sets out for Slattland, determined to find -- and destroy -- their master. And to make matters worse, the anarchist Spindrick has a fiendish plot of his own -- to put the whole city to sleep so he can wreak havoc. Will Monty come whisker to whisker with the evil master-vampire? And can he stop Spindrick before his plans get completely out of paw?

The second deliciously witty tale in the Welkin Weasels series to feature Montagu Sylver.

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Alice et le cheval volé
Caroline Quine
Manufacturer: Hachette Littérature
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 2012003729

Aspects of reproduction and development in the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) (University of Kansas publications, Museum of Natural History)

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Aspects of reproduction and development in the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) (University of Kansas publications, Museum of Natural History)
Henry Sheldon Fitch
Manufacturer: University of Kansas
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0007EJ7W6

Book Description

Oliver Lewis was champion jockey of the Kentucky Derby in 1875 with a winning race time of two minutes and 37 seconds. Jockey Willie Simms won in 1896, bringing his horse in at two minutes and seven seconds. James Winkfield was the winning jockey in both 1901 and 1902 with winning race times of two minutes and seven seconds and two minutes and eight seconds, respectively. Each of these men possessed the skill and power necessary to spur a horse to glorious victory. All are members of the small, select group of Derby-winning jockeys who were African Americans. The stakes were high: Black jockeys who won a race in the late 1700s and 1800s sometimes won freedom from slavery as well.

This work examines the presence of black jockeys in the Kentucky Derby, from the first instance of slaves working as stable hands and tending their masters' horses to the first black jockey to win the prestigious Kentucky Derby in 1875 and the continued participation of black jockeys in the Kentucky Derby. Black owners and trainers in the Kentucky Derby are also discussed. Three appendices list black winning jockeys, black trainers and black owners of Kentucky Derby horses.

Customer Reviews:

A Rich History Of Triumph And Tragedy.......2007-03-06

Between the years 1875-1902, a dozen black jockeys were aboard winning mounts 16 times in the Kentucky Derby. There hasn't been a black jockey in the winner's circle since Jimmy Winkfield 105 years ago.

In an information-packed 110 pages, authors James Robert Saunders and Monica Renae Saunders takes the reader back to a forgotten period in American history that was yet another victim to the hate of institutionalized racism.

Biographies of the 12 jockeys are richly supplemented with an overview of society and the sport, along with background material that dates back to slavery, when most jobs in the plantation stables were done by slaves & jockeys as young as 10 or 11 piloted the Thoroughbreds in races throughout the nation.

How bizarre it is that opportunities in the sport that began with slavery were then destroyed by slavery in the guise of Jim Crow. The reverberations are still felt today, as opportunities at the top levels of the sport have remained difficult - if not impossible - for blacks to achieve.

The appendix includes lists of champion jockeys, trainers who had runners in the race and owners who had starters in the field. The Thoroughbred owners include Berry Gordy and Stanley Burrell, better-known as MC Hammer, whose racer was aptly named, Dance Floor.

This is a story of triumph in the face of great odds and the tragedy of a nation that seeminngly can't ride fast enough away from the real history of racism in society & sports.

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