Seedlings of the North-Western European Lowland: A Flora of Seedlings

Average customer rating:

Highly informative, practical, and resourceful

Seychelles, 2nd: The Bradt Travel Guide
Lyn Mair , and Lynnath Beckley
Manufacturer: Bradt Travel Guides
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Africa | Travel | Subjects | Books
Seychelles | Africa | Travel | Subjects | Books
Guidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books
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Seychelles: Garden of Eden in the Indian Ocean, Sixth Edition (Odyssey Illustrated Guides)

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Birds of the Seychelles (Princeton Field Guides)

ASIN: 1841621250

Book Description

This comprehensive Bradt guide contains a detailed introduction to the islands' ecosystem, from coastal life and coral reefs to nature reserves and conservation projects.

Customer Reviews:

Highly informative, practical, and resourceful.......2005-10-20

Among the number of titles that we reviewed on our recent sailing charter in the Seychelles, this and the Sarah Carpin guide book (both 2005 publications) served us the best. In fact, this book was so recently made available that it arrived 2 days before our trip and we elected to ditch the Lonely Planet for the Bradt.

The first 80 pages provides an informative guide - the background, history, and nature of the Seychelles as a visitor would want to know before arriving. The Carpin book covers most of the background better in terms of history and folklore (not to mention many, many beautiful pictures), but Mair/Beckley covers practicalities and resources (transportation, contacts, sport, shopping, etc.) much more thoroughly. (n.b. Carpin spent a number of years living there whereas Mair is a frequent visitor.)

As with most guidebooks to the Seychelles, the focus here is mainly on the 3 large inner islands - Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue - and again, the practicalities covered by this guide is unmatched by any of the others that we researched. Good maps, ferry schedules (current as of 2005), thorough reviews and contact information (including web) of many hotels and restaurants, and descriptions of shopping which, in an area that is somewhat resource challenged like the Seychelles, is an invaluable resource. (As we were sailing/self boarding, we were much more reliant on whatever resources/people we could pry information on where to find things as simple as dish soap or soy sauce. If you are going resort/package, as it seems most visitors do, this may be less an issue for you.)

Mair's road-by-road descriptions of downtown Victoria give you just about a shop-by-shop mental picture of driving/walking the smallest capital city in the world. Again, another reason why we pulled this book out time and time again on our trip. For car renters/day trippers, she gives an excellent point-to-point description for exploring Mahé and Praslin (the only two island that you can drive on anyways) on your own. Although Mahé is the largest island, and most often the largest and most central focus in many guide books, there is plenty of attention paid to Praslin and La Digue and more than sufficient practical information - including getting to and exploring the Valée de Mai and Anse Source d'Argent - to make this your primary guide to visiting those islands as well.

When it comes to the other inner islands (Silhouette, North, Curieuse, Aride, Cocos, Cousin, Cousine, Felicite, Bird, etc...) there's about 25 pages devoted to information about these wonderful spots, getting there, accommodations, and other necessities (if any - the islands that have facilities tend to be single-resort type). For most Seychelles visitors, unless some of these resorts are your destination, getting to these islands may be more of a day trip from your base accomodation so there is sufficient advice and information provided here. For folks sailing these isles, the information here is useful in determinine what is worth visiting (well, everything actually, but some are private and do not allow you to land) but of course you're going to need more information on harbors, anchorages and such. For that, we relied on the Pilote Cótier guide (http://www.pilotecotier.com/) kindly provided by our charter in the Seychelles.

Although we did not visit the outer islands, there are another 10 pages on most of the outer islands and 12 on Aldabra alone. Despite these places being generally less accessible, these notes should inspire you to a second, third, or so on visit should you have the means to return to the Seychelles. Again, good practicalities, although here I'd say the Carpin book does just as well and also has a number of spectacular photos of these areas. There are 8 full-color pages of photos in the Mair/Beckley book that should further inspire you to the beauty of this rare, delicate place.

Finally, a note about snorkeling and scuba-diving. Besides highly recommending it, if you intend to learn more before arriving, the Carpin book has a fairly good section in the back detailing the major dive sites which the Mair book does not. I believe that much of the information here originally comes from the excellent out of print Pisces Guide written by Lawson Wood. This isn't required of course - dive resorts tend to pre-plan the daily dive spots based on conditions, guest abilities, likelyhood of good marine life, etc. - but we found it helpful to know more about the locations that we were diving. Even if you are planning on doing a lot of snorkeling, I also recommend picking up the Indian Ocean Reef Guide by Debelius (expensive, but worth it) which will help you identify many many new sea creatures and corals that you will see on your trip to the Seychelles.

Book Description

On Your Own's "Rants, Raves and Thoughts" series continues with new books profiling two of America's most outspoken presidents. Step inside the head of George W. Bush to read his views on Afghanistan, Iraq, terrorists, journalists, and "Hispanically owned businesses."

Customer Reviews:

Much more than a quote book!!!.......2003-04-28

This book has more than the funniest of George W. Bush's "unquotable" quotes. Even if the vaste selection of phrases from his serious (and not so serious) speeches is enough to keep you laughing and remembering the President's best and worst, this book doubles the enjoyment by adding the author's witty, sarcastic, and great humored comments to each quote. Additionaly, this book offers an original short biography, a compilation of the best Bush jokes, and some great personalities' opinions on the President. The creative wordplay for each of the chapter's titles, as well as the artwork, also make this a fascinating book to read, reread, and to quote! You can even compare Bush's ramblings with Clinton's own Rants and Raves and have a great presidential debate! JA!

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Book.......2007-06-08

The most detailed account of Hardin I ever read. A real page turner filled with excellent photos. I have no respect or admiration for Hardin but I like to read about the "bad" guys. Metz is an excellent writer and I highly recomend his other books.

Leon Metz paints a very believable picture........2006-06-26

What I like most about the writtings of Mr. Leon Metz is how he tells of what is said to have happened, what may possibly have happened and what probably did happen. As any old west buff knows, truth was not always a top priority and many stories were blown so out of proportion that the truth may never be known. Mr. Metz uses research along with common sense and comes up with truely believable aspects of this notorious outlaw who was clearly the greatest gunfighter of his time. This is an excellent book by an excellent author about the old west's most dangerous man.

Leon Metz's "John Wesley Hardin - Dark Angel Of Texas".......2006-02-25

Leon Metz is a meticulous researcher who adds human interest information to his biography of John Wesley Hardin. He writes well and his narrative flows.

I learned much from Mr. Metz's novel and thoroughly enjoyed his writing style. I highly recommed this book.

Best book on Hardin.......2005-11-03

Leon C. Metz has written a wonderful account of the life and crimes of John Wesley Hardin. It is filled with many photo's, maps and illustrations. Metz has recorded all his documentation and resources for writing this book. I would highly recommend reading; "John Wesley Hardin: Dark Angel of Texas." Hardin was the worst killer of the "American West" by far. I have this one in my collection and you should too!

Mike Koch, Author of "The Kimes Gang."

John Wesley Hardin--he does look like Randy Quaid!.......2004-08-15

Dark Angel Of Texas is a decent book, very middle-of-the-road, pretty short. The writing is servicable, flows easily, but certainly won't get the adrenaline pumping like Shelby Foote or Robert A. Caro can, following the same pattern as most histories of this nature: early life, romance, the first taste of outlawism, and then death. It's been done before, many times before, and Metz seems content with doing the bare minimum, not putting any flourish or signature to it, making this something you'll bang out in a day or two and never pick up again.

John Wesley Hardin: Dark Angel of Texas.

Average customer rating:

John Wesley Hardin: Dark Angel of Texas.

ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000ICKMHQ

Book Description

Wouldn't it boost your confidence to have an experienced and confident crocheter on call, day and night, offering assistance when needed? Most of us aren't fortunate enough to have that kind of aid, but now there is help available 24/7 with The Crochet Answer Book.

Being a "good" crocheter is not about making perfectly stitched, elaborate, artful creations. It is rather a matter of confidence. You need to be confident in what you are doing and in how to figure out what to do if things aren't going quite right. Understanding why you do certain things and why they turn out the way they do increases confidence and leads to successful crocheting.

This book answers some of the most common questions crocheters have, and anticipates some questions you didn't know you had. The Crochet Answer Book will lead you down the road to gaining the confidence that makes for good crocheting.

Customer Reviews:

Gotta have!.......2007-10-11

Small size. Easy to find what you're looking for. A wonderful reference for anyone...beginner to advanced. A real keeper.

Even beginners don't need this book.......2007-10-09

I thought I might find something new here, but honestly, absolutely everything in this teeny little book is better and more fully covered on the internet. Please people, search engines really work. Don't waste your precious bookshelf space on this one like I did.

Gotta have it!.......2007-09-17

I carry this book with me EVERYWHERE. It is the perfect size to fit in my purse, my crochet bag, my backpack. My most recent obsession has been with Amigurumi. The photos of the little crochet dolls were so cute I had to purchase the Japanese books even though I couldn't read the directions. I was on the verge of giving up when I purchased this book. It helped me figure out every stitch!! I couldn't believe it when I finished my first project. I made 4 more in a week and gave them all away as gifts. Everything I have needed so far has been in this book. It's explanations are easy to understand and the index helps you look up anything you need. I haven't come across anything yet that wasn't answered in this little book.

My only regret was not purchasing this book when I first began teaching myself to crochet!

Disappointing........2007-08-05

As a beginning crocheter, I was very disappointed. The size and type of this book make it difficult to use. I wasn't impressed by the information which is always available in pattern books anyway. Most of the pattern books I have are much better when it comes to explaining basics, stitches, working methods, etc. I didn't learn anything new. I won't keep this book as a quick reference either since it only talks about the basics one knows and doesn't forget.

A Really Good Reference!.......2007-06-15

I recently took up crochet, and found this book in my public library. It was so good that I decided to buy one. Throughout my projects, I can pick it up and refer to it when I have a question or need a reminder. It's just like having an expert standing by.

Average customer rating:
Making an Herb Garden: Beautiful Designs, Plantings and Ornamentation
Catherine Mason
Manufacturer: Trafalgar Square Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding

General | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Herbs | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1570760896

Average customer rating:

We found a name

The Very Best? Well, Maybe Not.... (Review Number 250!!!)

This was our favorite

Frustrating

OK, but many others better

Very Best Baby Name Book In The Whole Wide World: Revised Edition
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Meadowbrook
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Baby Names | Pregnancy & Childbirth | Women's Health | Personal Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Child Care | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
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The Everything Baby Names Book; Everything you need to know to pick the perfect name for your baby

Beyond Jennifer & Jason, Madison & Montana, Revised and Updated: What to Name Your Baby Now

The Mother of All Baby Books: The Ultimate Guide to Your Baby's First Year (U.S. edition)

50,001 Best Baby Names

100,000 + Baby Names

ASIN: 0671561138

Book Description

MORE COMPLETE, MORE HELPFUL, AND MORE FUN THAN ANY OTHER BABY NAME BOOK!

* over 30,001 boys' and girls' names complete with origins, meanings, variations, and famous namesakes * the latest baby name popularity poll rankings, including the most popular names for African-American and Hispanic-American children * survey results on stereotypes of commonly used names * 15 steps to selecting the best name for your baby * advice on changing names, plus famous people who did * fascinating facts about names * advice from "Dear Abby" about using "Jr."

It really is the very best name book you can buy!

Customer Reviews:

We found a name.......2007-09-23

We found a name for our son in this book, when no book seemed to do it for us.

The Very Best? Well, Maybe Not.... (Review Number 250!!!).......2006-02-24

This name book isn't necessarily top of the line, but it's not a bad book either. I found several names that I thought would suit my tastes. As a first time parent, I'm exploring all options and approaching it very carefully so that when it's time to deliver (11/03/06 is the due date) I'll have a name ready and I think this book is more than helpful in the process.

There are sections in the book that cover gender neutral names, 100 most popular boy and 100 most popular girl names in the U.S., popular names worldwide, legal issues (like filing birth certificates if your child is born outside of a hospital), birthstones & flowers, fascinating facts about names, and what some celebrities are naming their kids in addition to the listing, origins, and definitions for over 30,000 names. The definitions aren't totally accurate, but a little research will probably take care of that. I guess for $8.00 you can only ask for so much. To get more depth and insight, you'll probably have to pony up more cash, but The Very Best Baby Name Book In The Whole Wide World is quite capable of fufilling its purpose. It's definitely worth looking into.

This was our favorite.......2005-03-15

Picking a baby name is a very personal process and everyone approaches it differently. We were given four or five baby name books, and this was the one we found most complete and helpful.

I suggest getting several books, including this one, and just enjoy looking through them and getting ideas. Don't worry too much about what a name "means", it varies from book to book and country to country, and no one will know it anyway.

And don't worry if your name is or isn't on a "Top 10" list. The only list that matters is your baby's!

Frustrating.......2003-07-18

I find this book to be a waste of time. My husband and I have searched this book probably a hundred times trying to find a name that has a good meaning for our son. Almost all names with a decent meaning are unusable, while others are generic and boring. We are frustrated looking up 3 or 4 names to find the meaning of the one we are considering. Why cant the author just insert the meaning again instead of writing only "variation of ...."? Also, the meanings of names in this book differ from other sources. Which source is correct? Our son is 16 days old and we are back to the book store trying to find something more helpful. Ridiculous

OK, but many others better.......2003-04-02

I bought Lansky's 15,000+ Baby Names book 2 1/2 years ago before my daughter was born and found it to be less than helpful. I didn't like the way the narrative was handled for each name, plus too many names I specifically went to look up were not in the book. Now we are waiting for our baby boy to be born in June. I checked out this book in the store, and found it to be a rehash of the previous book with more alternate spellings. Once again, some names I looked up were not in here in any spelling. I bought Carol McD Wallace's "The Greatest Baby Name Book Ever" instead, and am much happier with it, although it has shortcomings of it's own. A few inaccuracies, and places where better research would have yielded a better history and origin of certain names. Never-the-less, I recommend Wallace's book along with "The New Age Baby Name Book" for a more complete list of available names.

Average customer rating:

Lots of Info
Easy to read!
Entertaining, but poorly researched.
Best Used Before Naming Your Baybee!
Beyond Rosenkrantz and Satran

Best Baby Name Book In The Whole World
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Meadowbrook
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Accessories:

Health o Meter HDC100-01 "Grow with Me" Teddy Bear Scale for Babies and Toddlers

ASIN: 0671544632

Book Description

More Names, More Up-To-Date, More Helpful And More Fun Than Any Other Baby Name Book!

* over 13,001 boys' and girls' names, nicknames and variations * origins, meanings, and famous namesakes * the most popular names In the US. and around the world * advice from "Dear Abby" * 15 steps to selecting the right name for your baby * psychological stereotypes of popular names * how to change names and famous people who did * current baby naming trends * fascinating facts about names * how to make the best final decision on your baby's name!

Customer Reviews:

Lots of Info.......2007-01-26

My husband and I really enjoyed this book. It gave a lot of information and things to consider when chosing a name. Mr. Lansky chose fairly common names from recent popularity. So if your looking for a book that will give you an idea for that unusual or elusive name this isn't the book for you, but you might still enjoy it for it's other apects. There is an interesting segment on celebrity names.

Easy to read!.......2007-01-18

I really enjoyed this baby name book because it was easier to read and didn't have 10,000+ names in it. If you are looking for more traditional names and variations, this is the book for you!

Entertaining, but poorly researched........2006-12-03

I have a huge collection of baby name books, and consider this one to be one of the most poorly researched. It contains a few articles at the beginning which are entertaining (but fairly standard, as baby name books go), but the meat-and-bones of this book is the list of names themselves. The origins and meanings of names in here are inaccurate more often than not. For example, it lists the name "Gladys" as being Celtic for "princess." In all my 20+ years of researching names, I can't even begin to fathom where that origin came from.

In order to make the claim of being the "very best" - it relies upon the number of names it has. However, that number is largely made up of coming up with bizarre spellings and strange nicknames for already existing names (like Kore for Kora, Imojean for Imogen...).

So, if you're simply looking for a list of names to choose from, this book is OK. If you're looking for actual factual information about name origins and meaning, stay far, far away from this one!

Best Used Before Naming Your Baybee!.......2006-02-04

One of the oafish ladies in my wife's Big Readers Book Club recently had twins (one boy, one girl) and she could've really used this book before naming the screaming mutants "Cooleena" and "Rupappy". I suppose that's better than what her equally idiotic husband named their blue heeler ("Muttplug"). Lansky's book really could help a lot of people. Provided they receive it in time...

Beyond Rosenkrantz and Satran.......2005-11-23

Nowadays, of course, the first question one asks upon hearing that friends are "expecting" is no longer, "Have you picked out a name?" but rather "Do you know whether it's a boy or a girl?" But then that makes the now second question all the more in need of a precise answer.

This once timely book has a breezy, easy-to-read and sprightly quality. It does not, unlike the more recent tomes by Rosenkrantz and Satran, claim to be the "last word on first names" ("Oh, wait, we take that back: the NEXT book will truly be the last word on first names, unless of course, it isn't and we have more to blab on about.") Bruce Lansky's book merely (somewhat self-mockingly) claims to be the BEST BABY NAME BOOK IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD.

I have the 1991 edition, which by rights should be already passe, for as Lansky himself writes, "...every decade a new group of names rises in popularity, as names associated with a previous generation of babies decline." So just how dated is the information on naming trends here? Well, 15 years is certainly a long enough time to see trends come and go. So the Top 100 Girls' and Boys' Names listed here have doubtless seen many comings and goings. Is "Jessica" still at the top of the heap? Have the "Ashleys" come and gone? Has the spate of "J" names so prevalent in the 70s and 80s finally sputtered. (Aside from the aforementioned "Jessica," there was, of course, "Jennifer," "Jason," "Joshua," and "Jared"--but not really "John," which by that point had morphed to its Irish form "Sean," but could be due for a comeback any time now.)

Lansky's approach is streamlined and eminently practical. Whereas Rosenkrantz and Satran become downright "prescriptive" at times, he prefers to offer points to consider: should you name a child "after" a parent or other relative; what about unisex names; the issue of popularity vs. uniqueness; stereotypes attached to certain names; the etymological meaning of a name (a less important concern for him than in many older books): and several other considerations.

Many prospective parents will find the sections on stereotypes and popularity of interest. Many of the stereotypical associations listed are no surprise: Adam and Brooke are attractive; Brian and Chris are athletic, etc. And did Madonna realize that daughter Lola might be stereotyped as "sleazy" at some point in her life. (Well, hey, it IS Madonna, after all--but then Lola's real name is "Lourdes," which is actually very Catholic and traditional, and ironically also very Madonna, verdad?)

Speaking of celebrity (and in keeping with the "image" question), there is section on celebrity name changes, which is worth perusing, but not all that surprising. Many of these, you are likely to have heard before (that Roy Rogers was born "Leonard Slye," for instance). Some "changes" are pretty obvious and not at all dramatic. Benjamin Antonio Gazzara became "Ben Gazzara"? Newsflash: he would have likely shortened it like that even if he had become a used car salesman. And I doubt very many people would think that Orenthal James Simpson's decision to go by "O.J." was a significant name change per se. (Although I'm sure there are many who nowadays might prefer that he be officially known as "California Prisoner #300810" or something on that order).

Certainly, no one will be surprised that the Marx brothers' real given names were NOT "Groucho, Chico, Harpo and Zeppo"--even if they can't tell you exactly what they were. And there are some actual errors here (I'm pretty sure). Lee Remick was born "Lee Ann Remick" not merely the simpler "Ann Remick" listed here. The equally unisex named Dale Evans was born "Frances Octavia Smith," not the unisex homonym "Francis" listed here.

But those are pretty minor mistakes. It's still a fun listing to peruse. And some of the other tid-bits of naming lore thrown in are hysterical. The "Truth Stranger Than Fiction" roster is a hoot and a half, including such monikers as: Dillon C. Quattlebaum, Lieselotte Pook, Peenie Fase and Lolita Beanblossom.

The actual roster of baby names for your condideration, with notes and definitions, is where things get a little loosey-goosey. Most of the definitions are accurate--and we've already seen that definitions are but one of many considerations. It's understandable that Lansky would not dwell on the etymologies as such. But if you're going to do it at all, be consistent and accurate. There are many names whose origins are disputed, true. In that case, it's best to list the various possible sources and suggest the most likely. Is "Alice" from the Greek "truth" or the Old High German "noble"?
And once you've established that, is "Allison" a variant of that name, as listed here OR (as listed under a separate entry) a name that is either from the Irish Gaelic for "truthful" (is Gaelic related that closely to Greek??) or Old German for "famous among the gods" (even better than being noble).

And when masculine names are feminized, does it make the feminine form all the more feminine? Names like "Carl/Charles" and "Andrew" have roots that mean "manly." They also gave rise to numerous feminine variants (the ones from "Charles" alone include: "Carol(e)," "Caroline," "Carolyn," "Carla," "Carlene,"
"Carlotta," "Charlotte," "Charlene" ad infinitum or nearly). But do these names mean "womanly"? No, they are feminine forms of a name that means "man" or "manly." That's the etymology, anbd you can't change it. That does not make them less feminine names. Many will consider them quite feminine, beautiful and almost regal. But that doesn't change the linguistic roots.

But in the last analysis, as Lansky suggests--and as other such as Rosenkrantz and Satran lay on with a trowel--it's really the sound and the image of a given name that counts. That's why "Cameron" is now popular for both sexes, even though its meaning (as cited here and elsewhere) is "crooked nose." Could be worse, though, Lansky gives the etymology of "Brendan," another popular name, as being Irish Gaelic for "little raven." I've seen it elsewhere as meaning "stinking hair." So much for that one--"Would Stinking Hair O'Rourke report to the main office please?" Yikes!

Overall a fun read, and a practical guide for parents.

The Best Baby Name Book in the Whole Wide World

Average customer rating:

The Best Baby Name Book in the Whole Wide World
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Meadowbrook/Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000QNNLX4

The Very Best Baby Name Book In The Whole Wide World

Average customer rating:

The Very Best Baby Name Book In The Whole Wide World
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Meadowbrook Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000VDQG7M

Average customer rating:

The Very Best Baby Name Book In The Whole Wide World
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Meadowbrook Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000NY8514

Average customer rating:

The Very Best Baby Name Book in the Whole Wide World
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Elan Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000P5ADU2

30,001 BABY NAMES COMPLETE WIHT MEANINGS, ORIGINS AND NICKNAMES "THE VERY BEST BABY NAME BOOK IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD"

Average customer rating:

30,001 BABY NAMES COMPLETE WIHT MEANINGS, ORIGINS AND NICKNAMES "THE VERY BEST BABY NAME BOOK IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD"

Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000H1XVLW

Average customer rating:

The Very Best Baby Name Book in the Whole Wide World
Bruce Lansky
Manufacturer: Meadowbrook Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000U7TFEK

Book Description

The unspoken poetry of our nation revealed by an American master.

The first collection of the extensive and superlative work realized by Mary Ellen Mark in the United States, Mary Ellen Mark is composed of many previously unpublished images, as well as photographs from several of her best-known projects. From "Streetwise" to "The Damm Family," Mary Ellen Mark includes the most iconic images from these groundbreaking stories, as well as powerful, never-before-seen photographs Mark accomplished in subsequent years. She makes a deeply felt commitment to her subjects, and her empathy and humanity come through in every image.

Mark is unsurpassed at shaping not only the odd but the everyday into genuinely surprising visual icons. With an eye for symbolism and a gift for meticulous composition, she is drawn to a variety of spectacles and situations, and demonstrates a particular affinity for children. Her elegantly revealing imagery creates a fascinating portrait of our complex, amusing, and occasionally unsettling country.

Customer Reviews:

Splendid Introduction to Mary Ellen Mark's work.......2004-10-24

This is yet another in a spectacular series of Phaidon 55 books devoted to some of the most important photographers of our time. This terse volume on Mary Ellen Mark's work includes all of her major documentary photography essays, ranging from her landmark series on homeless teens in Seattle, featuring Tiny, the waifish prostitute she'd befriend, to circus performers in India and Mexico. Indeed her work truly demonstrates her strong interest and compassion for people, depicting homeless Americans, Irish Tinkers (Gypsies) and India's impoverished masses with much interest and empathy for each of her subjects. This splendid book truly captures the immense breadth and depth of Ms. Mark's work. For years I have greatly admire her work and am pleased that some of her finest images are available now in this inexpensive book. Photographer and writer Charles Hagen has a superb introductory essay on Ms. Mark and her career. Without question, this fine volume is an exceptional introduction to Mary Ellen Mark and her critically acclaimed documentary photography.

A good introduction to an amazing photographic eye.......2001-07-15

I read about the Phaidon 55S series in Popular Photography and thought I would check out the volume on Mary Ellen Mark. I have been drawn to her photographs for years and had recently seen an exhibition of her work in NYC. She has Walker Evan's gift for capturing moments in people's lives and she finds the life beyond the smile or grimace of the subject.Her subjects are lively and a bit wicked at times, but there is supreme truth in her photographs. This series gets its title from the fact that each book has 55 photos by the subject. The price is excellent for someone who wants to collect some great art for a low price. Great introduction to a talented artist....highly recommended.

Respecting the Humanity of All.......2001-06-28

Summary: These black-and-white images are produced on wonderful paper and with great quality. They explore the underlying human qualities we all share. The work is introduced by a Maya Angelou poem, and is concluded by an excellent essay in which Ms. Mark explains her work. Her subjects are mostly people of the economic and social underclasses as they pursue their hopes and dreams, while dealing with their day-to-day problems. Viewing these photographs will draw you closer to people who, on the surface, are quite different from you. The models are often captured over time and in alternative settings to help explain their lives and personalities.

Content Caution: The images in this book contain a few involving minor female nudity that would earn its contents an R rating if it were a motion picture.

Review:

"I note the obvious differences

in the human family."

" . . . but we are more alike, my friends,

than we are unalike." -- Maya Angelou

The theme of this poem nicely captures the focus of this book of loving photographic images. As Ms. Mark says, "I much prefer to photograph people I care about." She wants to "build a rapport with my subjects." In studying them, "I am guided by what moves and surprises me." That final element will affect you as well. Too often, we mentally pass by those around us. Ms. Mark's images make us want to reach out with our hearts and minds.

The book shows people from all parts of America over the period from 1963 through 1999. The photographs portray all kinds of races, creeds, colors, and political and sexual persuasions. Ideas that you may not like are portrayed involving people you will probably find appealing. That juxtaposition of people and issues will cause you to rethink how you relate to others. It will probably make you more modest and humble, and that's good. Special themes involve the mentally ill, twins, homelessness, beauty contests, political rallies, and families over time.

My favorite images in the book are as follows:

Santa Claus at Lunch, New York City, 1963;

Marky Mark concert, Jersey City, New Jersey, 1993;

Hot Tub, West Orange, New Jersey, 1999;

Bodybuilder, Daytona Beach, Florida, 1991;

Russell, Kansas, 1986;

Mary Frances in the tub, Ward 81, Salem, Oregon, 1976;

Jail, Houston, Texas, 1977;

Husband and wife, Harland County, Kentucky, 1971;

Jesse Damm, Llano, California, 1994;

Hurstie Laxton after the flood, St. Louis, Missouri, 1993;

Million Youth March, New York City, 1998;

Lakiesha, South Dallas, Texas, 1988;

Clinton Albright and his father, Santa Clarita, California, 1982;

Nightclub off of Highway 61, Michigan, 1991;

Vashira and Tashira Hargrove, twins, H.E.L.P. Shelter, Suffolk, New York, 1993; and

Tiny, pregnant, Seattle, Washington, 1985.

After you see these photographs, you will probably agree with Ms. Mark that she has been on "a long and blessed journey" that has opened her heart and ours.

Seeing these photographs should encourage you to become acquainted with people you see who you would normally not think to speak to. Try living that way for a day. If you enjoy the experience, keep on going -- taking it . . . one day at a time.

Find the common ground . . . wherever you go!

A Glimpse at the Soul.......2001-06-11

I was fortunate enough to see the exhibition of these photographs at the International Center of Photography a few days ago. If you can, go to see the show before it closes. If you can't, buy this book and get a glimpse at the power of a photograph.

Though no expert, I enjoy the art of photography. I am particularly interested in portraits of real people. Mary Ellen Mark has the ability to capture people with extra-ordinary depth and feeling. Almost without fail, her images are moving. With a skill beyond the normal artist, however, her images have the ability to be thought-provoking.

Consider a photo labelled "Aryan Nations, Hayden Lake, Idaho, 1986." Three pleasant-looking, smiling women--the cherubic face of the woman on the far right particularly draws the eye--set in counterpoint to their white supremacist garb. Or consider the series of photographs of Tiny who has clearly experienced many things in her life but who face, amazingly, holds the same soul in each image. Or consider the contrast between the photographs of Julie d'Aquili and Cynthia Galves despite their similar poses. Julie is a healthy young woman but her somber expression stands out starkly against the cancer-ridden Cynthia who still manages a smile.

I believe that I could write something about every single photograph in this collection. Let me instead just say that these photographs will grip you and hold your attention for hours. You will come back to them again and again. And, unlike reproductions of paintings in a book, photographs do not suffer from the process nearly as much. I would encourage anyone with an interest in photography to take a look at this book.

fat acceptance.......2001-01-05

One image is worth the price: four women, floating in a swimming pool, arms and legs linked, at the national Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, Big and Beautiful New Year's Eve Party, Long Island, New York, 1996.

(Great book for Hasselblad nerds; it will give you a lot of ideas for how to fill a square frame creatively.)

Average customer rating:
Mary Ellen Mark: American Odyssey 1963-1999
Maya, Illustrated by Mark, Mary Ellen Angelou
Manufacturer: New York: Aperture,
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mark, Mary Ellen | Photographers, A-Z | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B000PSUAV6

Average customer rating:
Mary Ellen Mark American Odyssey 1963-1999
Maya Angelou Mary Ellen Mark
Manufacturer: Aperture
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Mark, Mary Ellen | Photographers, A-Z | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B000UEZCZY

Customer Reviews:

Ring of truth missing.......2007-03-19

This book doesn't work for me, and I have read a few. Probably would have been a great Mills & Boon had it not been so gratuitously violent. The contrived violence is a mask used in an attempt to validate what is most obviously fiction. There is no credibility. Nothing is delivered in this novel that cannot be garnered in the public domain or with a little research. It sits on my shelf alongside another book that defies all reality, i.e. OPJB, a work of complete and utter nonsense. A total waste of time for anyone interested in the real world. It is a fantasy probably perfect for lower end television grist-mill.

Powerful........2003-05-02

I have to honestly admit, I've gone back and forth trying to decide whether or not this book is on the level. The premise is incredible-an SAS trooper and an IRA member falling in love. As I've thought over all the information in this book, it does seem plausible to me that it's the real deal. As an SAS trooper, Graham is incredibly sympathetic to the Irish. But, at the same time, he pulls no punches when describing the methodology of the IRA. At the same time, the information I've found on Mairead Farrell isn't contradicted by his novel, and given the amount of information the IRA puts on the web, there would definitely be some rebuttle if Graham was full of it. Graham gives a pained account of the Gibraltar incident-which gives the book more credence. An SAS trooper simply toeing the line (i.e. writing propagnda) wouldn't have cast doubt on the integrity of that operation.

So. What do we have? Probably the most intense pair of star crossed lovers since Romeo and Juliet. Also, we have a small slice of the war between the Brits and the IRA.

Personally, I haven't read anything this powerful in God knows how long. (If you suspend disbelief). I recommend this to everyone.

Violent Delights.......2000-07-10

This is one of the most sad and unusual love storys I have ever read. For an SAS soldier to fall madly in love with an IRA killer is so unlikely but here is the true story of such an event. It not only divulges the love story but also gives great detail of bombings and shootings that took place in Northern Ireland in the 70's and 80's. I just wish there could have been a follow up to the story but that was not to be...... to find out why you'll have to read the book and I guarantee you, you wont be disappointed.

ok.......1999-07-07

The writing is fairly pedestrian and the author fails to really capture the reader. The book deals more with the number of times the two characters got together than with the politics of N. Ireland.

Even thought the writer is a former SAS soldier, he reports one atrocity of the British in Northern Ireland but fails to truely acknowledge the discrimination or convey the deep divisions found here.

Political Heartbreaker!.......1999-06-14

This book may not be the most well-written, but it gives the reader plenty of insight as to how the troubles of Northern Ireland escalated in the 1970's. It is also gives a detailed and painfully honest account of a love affair that should never have been between a naive, romantic, Irish nationalist, and a deceptive British SAS soldier (the author). Though the author portrays his lover as a would-be killer, in the end he reveals the British government's role in the tragic events of that time. For those with an interest in politics and romance, go for this one.

Homicide #2: violent delights (Homicide , No 2)

Average customer rating:

I hope they don't end this series with only 3 books
Needed more Pembleton!
Summary of Homicide Book 2

Homicide #2: violent delights (Homicide , No 2)
Jerome Preisler
Manufacturer: Berkley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Movie Tie-Ins | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Homicide The Novel

ASIN: 1572973404

Customer Reviews:

I hope they don't end this series with only 3 books.......1999-10-12

I mean, just because it's off the tube shouldn't mean it's all over, period. The characterizations of Munch as intellectual head-gamester who misses the designation "nerd" only because he leaves you with the slight impression that it might just be a lousy idea to mess with him, Pembleton as tough but intelligent sleuth, Kellerman as somewhat immature "himbo", Lewis as levelheaded counterbalance to his colleagues' emotional excesses, and Giardello's imposing but fatherly relationship with his subordinates are dead-on. Priesman gets Colonel Barnfather's rank wrong, though--I don't ever remember seeing him as only a captain on the tube. Both this book series and its screen counterpart (as well as the "competition" of "NYPD Blue") mark a renaissance in the "cop story" genre. The killing spree of two escapees from a hospital for the criminally insane doesn't dominate the whole story as used to be the case back when cops were seen as a faceless mass of "Blue Meanies" and the "problems" of the criminals were all anyone was supposed to care about. I know it had to evolve beyond the knight-like Sergeant Friday & Dan Matthews, but the social work theory of police work was no "evolution". Nor were Ponch & Jon, who were only a notch more serious than Barney Miller. Baltimore's "Homicide" cops are PEOPLE--guys with problems at home, problems with the brass, problems with each other. They have strengths and weaknesses. Now here's hoping that this series continues (Munch transferring to a "Law & Order" spinoff isn't quite enough--he comes off as really pretentious and annoying over there), and that somebody gets on the stick and gives us some books on Sipowicz & co.

Needed more Pembleton!.......1999-08-07

This was a good, but not great book. For a novel that ties into a TV show, it was very well written. Other novelizations I read tend to be under-written, meant to only appeal to the fans of whatever show it's about. This book, however, could be picked up by anyone, and it would be a good, and more importantly, an easy read. The character's are fairly true to the show. I can totally see Munsch trying to ruin everyone's holiday with his rant on tainted meat. His character is written perfectly. I am a huge fan of the show, and Violent Delights does the show justice. That is the highest compliment that could be given to this or any book about the show Homicide.

Summary of Homicide Book 2.......1997-10-12

The author obviously knows his Policework. However, the characterization left something to be desired, and he frequently changed the spelling of Meldrick Lewis to Meldrake Lewis a couple of times. Otherwise, a wonderful book.

Average customer rating:

Amazing!
Amazing!
Sound basis for a series.
A thrill ride through the mind of a brilliant author
An enjoyable experience

These Violent Delights
Dennis Koller
Manufacturer: 1st Books Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

Spy Stories & Tales of Intrigue | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 075961492X

Book Description

The gruesome murders of four women force San Francisco Police Inspector Tom McGuire to confront a past he desperately wants to escape.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing!.......2001-09-01

These Violent Delights is a gem. A book like this only comes around once in awhile. It was an amazing read. The book takes you on a thrill ride that makes you gasp for more. Buy this and enjoy!..

Amazing!.......2001-09-01

These Violent Delights is a gem. A book like this only comes around once in awhile. It was an amazing read. The book takes you on a thrill ride that makes you gasp for more. Buy this and enjoy!!!

Sound basis for a series........2001-06-08

Can't wait for the sequel(s)... and the movie. Most I've paid for a paperback in my whole life but worth every penny. I'll be first in line for Dennis's next book.

A thrill ride through the mind of a brilliant author.......2001-05-14

An absolutely phenomenal first novel for Dennis Koller begs for more! With an intense storyline, stunning character development and a gripping climax, These Violent Delights is the best mystery novel to come along in years. Truly an edge of your seat thrill ride!

An enjoyable experience.......2001-04-26

I can't believe that this is the first book by this author. The plot lines are intricate, the characters are detailed, and the writing is superb. I will get this book for everyone I know.

These Violent Delights ... (Romeo and Juliet, II/vi) Shakespeare on Football

Average customer rating:

These Violent Delights ... (Romeo and Juliet, II/vi) Shakespeare on Football
Roland I. Swanson
Manufacturer: Kansas City: Hallmark Cards, 1971
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000NXJDS4

These violent delights ... (Romeo and Juliet, II/vi);: Shakespeare on football (The Relevant Shakespeare)

Average customer rating:

These violent delights ... (Romeo and Juliet, II/vi);: Shakespeare on football (The Relevant Shakespeare)
William Shakespeare
Manufacturer: Hallmark
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Average customer rating:

Violent Delights
R.P. Cotter
Manufacturer: Capri Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0978861272
Release Date: 2006-10-12

Product Description

Private Investigator Clay Mason is retained by a beautiful client to investigate the murder of her sister. Clay's investigation leads him into a sleazy world of sado-masochistic sex and violent appetites. His partner snubs him, corrupt cops threaten him, the killer eludes him and he just might be falling for his client....is he falling in love with a killer?

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