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MIST ON THE RICE-FIELDS: A Soldier's Story of the Burma Campaign 1943 - 1045 and Korean War 1950-51
John Shipster
Manufacturer: Pen and Sword
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
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Military & Spies
| Professionals & Academics
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General
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ASIN: 0850528747 |
Book Description
This is the story of a young officer in the Indian Army who commanded a company in the Burma Campaign of 1943 to 1945. It covers the part played by the author and his unit in the long campaign to recover Burma, starting with the fierce close-quarter fighting in the jungles and rice-fields in the Arakan in which the Japanese suffered their first major defeat. The story moves on to Kohima which was the scene of some of the bitterest fighting in the Burma War, and which saved India.
For the author, however, the Burma War was a prelude to the bitter campaign in Korea (1950-51), where the author commanded a company of the Middlesex Regiment in the harsh conditions of extreme cold and snow, as part of the Commonwealth Brigade fighting in close co-operation with the Americans.?
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Later Incarnations of Francis Bacon
E. Francis Udny
Manufacturer: Kessinger Publishing, LLC
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Philosophers
| Professionals & Academics
| Biographies & Memoirs
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General
| Philosophy
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
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ASIN: 1564595366 |
Book Description
Contents: Francis Bacon Vindicated from the charge of Bribery; Deaths Feigned or Otherwise Mysterious; Francis Rakoczi II of Transylvania and the Count St. Germain.
Average customer rating:
- Fantastic book
- Hits plenty of issues often neglected
- A lot of good
- very well written, full of good information
- Interesting but...
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The Maffetone Method: The Holistic, Low-Stress, No-Pain Way to Exceptional Fitness
Philip Maffetone
Manufacturer: International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Aerobics
| Exercise & Fitness
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General
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Stress Management
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Exercise
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High Performance Heart: Effective Training with the HRM for Health, Fitness and Competition
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Accessories:
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Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor
ASIN: 0071343318 |
Book Description
Dr. Maffetone's unique training system for champions proves that the kinder, gentler approach actually works the best. This fitness regimen has worked for champions and non-athletes alike- because it's based on Dr. Philip Maffetone's deep understanding of how the body works. Maffetone has used that knowledge to develop The Maffetone method, his successful low-stress fitness program, which can be tailored to any individual. It means "training slower to go faster," says Mike Pigg, world champion triathlete and Maffetone client. The Maffetone Method includes: A ten step program to reduce stress and increase overall fitness; Exercise techniques designed for increased results with decreased pain; The real lowdown on some of those fad diets. In short, this is a fitness regimen for champions that everyone can use to reach their own goals whether it be running a marathon or walking around the block.
Customer Reviews:
Fantastic book.......2007-07-19
An excellent, educational read for anyone who wants to maximise performance, or just get healthy.
Hits plenty of issues often neglected.......2005-03-08
His take on fitness is unique. While I tend to dismiss chiropractors, his ideas make some sense. He also has clinical experience to support his ideas.
His overall diet ideas are sound. That advice will take you far. I'm not so convinced by the low-carb test, but its worth a try. My low-carb experiences have been less than pleasant. Probably give it a try again his way in the next few months.
His stress on aerobic stuff is questionable as well. Plenty of good evidence supports more build mass and speed approach. Before an injury limited my exercise, I was following his approach on the treadmill and it seemed to be working. But my "experiment" was cut short.
Finally, I am glad somebody has covered at least a bit on issues like stress reduction, breathing and footwear.
A lot of good.......2004-04-27
I read this book because a coworker very strongly recomended it to me. He also recomended that I try it. Initially I dropped some weight and was pretty well convinced that it worked but I held out the final acceptance until this past weekend when I ran a half marathon and came within striiking distance of a personal best.
I do not agree with all of the arguments of the book. But I have tried running at a slower rate to maintain my lower heart rate and it has worked out well for me. I suggest reading this work and implementing the parts that are right for you.
very well written, full of good information.......2003-08-13
The Maffetone method is not revolutionary and is not a break-through. Hence the title of this book may be a bit misleading. The MAF method is simply low heart-rate walking in order to burn maximal amounts of fat (instead of carbs) while exercising.
The author makes a very strong case for something that any runner knows: slow running builds fitness, is easy on the joints, and also is maximally effective in promoting weight loss. What makes the book strong is the author's ability to take the time and explain the rationale behind this method of slow aerobic burn. I appreciate mixing theory and practice and presenting his case in an intelligent and learned manner.
For those who are not exercisers and who are looking for weight loss, this is a very important book to explain the rationale and get one going.
The book is best used in conjunction with a heart rate monitor.
Interesting but..........2003-06-25
...I wonder truly about the efficacy of training at a % of 180 beats per minute.
Customer Reviews:
This is a great book.......2006-07-13
So far I've had a REALLY good success rate with the recipes in this book. Everything I've made has exceeded my expectations, and NONE have been difficult. This book doesn't go for glossiness - it goes for authenticity. At least that's what I make of it.
I Love This Book.......2005-12-09
This is a great cookbook! My husband loves the pork stew. The fried ice cream is awesome! My family has enjoyed many of these recipes. I also have bought 5 copies over the years to give to friends as gifts!
Easy recipes.......2005-08-03
The recipes are basic mexican cooking even a beginner can understand and follow. Excellent book!
Suprisingly good!.......2001-07-13
This is a handy cookbook. It's relatively short, but packed with good recipes and nice color pictures. In many cases, it has seperate recipes for the sauces, preparing the meats, and then putting it together. I thought it would be labor intensive, but instead I've found it inspiring me to try out new combinations.
Good Mexican cookbook from a trusted Chinese publisher.......1999-04-07
Hey, I have this book! I bought this book about a year ago because I purchased 2 other cookbooks from this publisher, Wei-Chuan, and I really like the way the cookbooks are presented. My friends always laugh at me when I tell them about this book ... but this is a good - How to cook Mexican cuisine - from a Chinese publisher! The instructions are fairly good and the steps are simple ... like a lab experiment, but tastier! I've tried the delicious rice, and chicken enchiladas recipes and they're great. Of course, you can also improvise by taking spices from one recipe and using it with another recipe. Half of my problem is that I don't know what ingredients to use and this book really helps.
I encourage you to try this book and other books from the publisher Wei-Chuan.
Average customer rating:
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Mexican Cooking Made Easy (Including Latin American & Caribbean Recipes)
Manufacturer: Galahad Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Regional & International
| Cooking, Food & Wine
| Subjects
| Books
| African
| Asian
| Canadian
| Caribbean & West Indian
| European
| General
| International
| Latin American
| Mexican
| Middle Eastern
| Native American
| U.S. Regional
ASIN: 0883654180 |
Average customer rating:
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Betty Crocker's Mexican Made Easy (Betty Crocker Paperbacks)
Betty Crocker
Manufacturer: Macmillan General Reference
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Baking
| Cooking, Food & Wine
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General
| Cooking, Food & Wine
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Mexican
| Regional & International
| Cooking, Food & Wine
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ASIN: 0671846914 |
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Feeding Budgerigars
Cessa Feyerabend , and
Matthew M. Vriends
Manufacturer: Tfh Pubns Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Birds
| Animal Care & Pets
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General
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ASIN: 0876669712 |
Average customer rating:
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So you want to raise budgies
Norman R Horwitz
Manufacturer: Cage Bird Printing Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
General
| Veterinary Medicine
| Medicine
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ASIN: B0007KAQAM |
Book Description
Knitting is all the rage, but did you know crocheters outnumber knitters 3 to 1? Cozy Crochet does for the hook what Knitting Pretty did for needles, with 26 step-by-step projects that will appeal to the sophisticated tastes of the new generation of crocheters. Ranging from simple projects for new converts to more advanced patterns for seasoned crafters, the creations in Cozy Crochet are fresh and contemporary: stylish striped throw pillows, an embellished clutch purse, a delicate wrap for a night on the town. A comprehensive learn-to-crochet section teaches the basics in plain language with 65 helpful diagrams, and each project is illustrated with a beautiful full-color photograph. Appealing, accessible, and utterly original, the designs in Cozy Crochet will have readers hooked.
Customer Reviews:
Love it but one pattern is giving me trouble!.......2007-02-07
I was attracted to this book mainly for the Cozy Kerchief pattern-and I can't create it!! Sorry to say but so far I'm left to assume that the pattern is not only flawed but incomplete. I feel positive about the other patterns.
A Beginner Book.......2007-01-07
I got this book for my little sister, who is learning how to crochet. The projects were a little too simple for me (I've been crocheting for 18 years), but I really liked it and wanted to give it to someone who could learn crochet from it (I would like to have had a book like that when I was learning). A lot of the projects are things I would like to make or have someone make for me.
oh so cozy...........2007-01-06
If you want to know your basic crochet try this book. The projects are sweet. Just making the simple round coaster looks pleasantly swell. I rather enjoyed the pattern for the "flower" accessory that can make any plain jacket adorable. Then there is the "cozy"kerchief that you chain and double crochet that will please not just the little girl in the house, but perhaps your best friend, too.
But this book is full of challenges too, with halter tops and granny square clutches. Easy to follow instructions that can make the most extra-ordinary gifts.
If you want to learn basic crochet or need a pattern to make someone the perfect gift...this is the book you'll want.
too simple.......2005-03-01
I would consider myself a beginner to intermediate crocheter so I took the advise of someone to get this book. I was disappointed to see how simplistic this book is. It is a pretty book on the outside, but it really should be labeled in some way that it is for the very beginning beginners.
Many household items............2005-01-30
I've made scarves, afghans, table mats, lace and doilies, as well as many other small crocheted items. I like COZY CROCHET because it includes some smaller items one can use as gifts, such as lace edging for pants and flowers for applique as well as the so-called `hippie' belt. I made the latter for my 16-year old granddaughter and she thought it was "cool". The flowers can be sewn on denim jackets and hats or the seat of your jeans. CC also includes lacy shawls and stoles, pillow covers, and a crochted skirt. I am not too fond of crocheted items that hang-like skirts and purses-as they tend to grow longer and longer over time (stretch and sag), so I would advise not making them.
The book also includes household items such as a fruit bowl made from fabric strips, a crocheted rug and dish rags. In every case one must ask, when this item becomes dirty, how will I get it clean--but the authors don't provide any info on that aspect. I think all these things could be thrown in the washer, though it would depend on what you use as your basic fiber. Also, a good wash might make it unravel. Too often these books tell you how to make something but don't tell you how to care for it after you make it-this book does not explain how you would keep a item from stretching or unraveling in the washer--a painful experience after you spent hours making it.
Amazon.com
If you find aquatic plants fascinating but aren't sure where to start, let this thorough how-to manual be your guide. Brimming with practical insights and photographic inspirations, the Complete Guide to Water Gardening supplies step-by-step instructions for all types of water features, from full-blown oriental ponds to a simple container of bog plants. Possibilities are only as limited as your size and budget.
Proper planning is essential to good results, and this book takes it nice and slow. Explanations are straightforward and comprehensible for folks who have some previous home improvement experience, but for a first-ever project, this may be biting off a bit more than you can chew. Leveling, backfilling, laying concrete--these are a few of the details to prepare for in adding even a small pond to your garden. You'll see your efforts pay off quickly, though. Flourishing plants and a return of natural amphibians are a couple of rewards in sight.
Plant selection involves a good understanding of this developing ecosystem, and the sections concerning options and routine maintenance are specific in the requirements of your new garden. Close-up shots of healthy plants and systems, as well as diseases and pests, will provide an excellent education. If you're looking for a new adventure in gardening and don't mind getting your feet wet, this could provide just the experience you're looking for. --Jill Lightner
Book Description
Expert advice and ideas are available on every page, highlighting the latest trends in planting, products, and design.
Customer Reviews:
Good for info.......2004-12-04
This is a great little reference tool for building a pond. It does lack detail in construction or things like filtration and upkeep.
The outdoor plant and fish sections were informitive. It gives a lot more detail there but it's getting there certain chapters were a little vague. It's a good book for basic know-how and we be good to add to a group of books on the topic. However not stand alone one stop resource.
good, but not complete.......2004-08-11
This is a very good book on water gardening and does have some nice pictures. I must disagree with another reviewer; this is NOT the only book you'll ever need on the subject. It is very good and a valuable recourse, but has left me with many questions still unanswered.
OK for general info........2002-06-07
My husband and I found this book helpful as a general reference for building our pond. We were disappointed that there wasn't more detail in certain key areas. For example, when you look up pH in the index and turn to the selected page, they just show you a picture of a pH test kit. It would be nice to know why we need one!
The equipment section would have been enhanced with a greater variety of filtration/pump set-ups and the pros/cons of each configuration.
The section about plants is excellent; it is extensive, with detailed thumbnail descriptions, and helpfully separated into groups.
I would recommend this book, but not as a complete source of water garden info.
Got to buy this book.......2002-01-09
We have a giant hole in our backyard and it is a tribute to this excellent book. It describes the process of creating a water feature as well as or better than any other publication on the market. We will have a wildlife and bird resource thanks to the quality of this publication. My sincere thanks to the author/editor/writer.
THE Book on Water Garden Construction and Maintenance.......2000-04-19
If you want to build a pond/stream/waterfall, and you want the pleasure of doing it yourself, this is THE book to buy. There are several good ones available, and you should consider some of them to help yourself gain valuable knowledge about the subject.
However, of all the books in this field, this is the most comprehensive, best illistrated, and the most diverse guide of its kind.
The Hard cover edition (if available) will be a book you'll want to keep with your other favorites.
Amazon.com
Full of solid, practical advice and plenty of how-to pictures, Ponds and Water Features is an ideal title for those looking to create unusual ponds, wetlands, or fountains in their gardens. Focusing on appropriate plants for damp areas, and exploring all kinds of methods for adding natural looking and healthy water features, you'll find direction for growing gorgeous plants and creating your own unique haven.
Designed to be a complete do-it-yourself guide, don't let the small format of this book fool you--it's absolutely jam-packed with ideas for all styles of gardens, and as always, publisher Dorling Kindersley manages to take fairly complicated projects and reduce them to a manageable size that even the home improvement novice can handle. Practical considerations are dealt with firmly--no skipping such detail work like drawing up thorough plans or planning around underground utilities. The aim of this book is to get you professional-quality results, and if you follow directions carefully, you'll get the job done beautifully. The plant listings supply plenty of ideas for many climates and special needs.
Inspirational ideas are plentiful--the garden photographs are lush and detailed, and provide all kinds of unusual notions for creating a truly unique gardening space. Whether you're looking to add a formal reflecting pond, or incorporate a simple fountain into your courtyard, you'll find options for all your projects that will set your new plants off beautifully with striking combinations of textures and materials. --Jill Lightner
Book Description
Introducing a new series of practical guides on important gardening topics. A new generation of gardening reference titles, the AHS Practical Guides present the practical know-how of the American Horticultural Society in compact, attractive guides that address specific gardening topics. From popular plants and plant groups to garden design and planning solutions, these books answer every gardener's needs. With new photography, fresh ideas, straightforward text, and the finest horticultural information, the AHS Practical Guides inspire confidence and ensure success. Practical information in a compact format, with more than 250 color photos in each guide Includes clearly explained projects for the less experienced or busy gardener.
Average customer rating:
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AMERICAN GARDEN GUIDES, THE: Water Gardening (American Garden Guides)
Denver Botanic Garden
Manufacturer: Pantheon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Flowers
| Gardening & Horticulture
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Gardening & Horticulture
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
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General
| Techniques
| Gardening & Horticulture
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
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ASIN: 0679758607
Release Date: 1996-04-02 |
Book Description
The latest entry in this popular, user-friendly series includes comprehensive information assembled by the leading experts at the most prestigious North American botanical gardens, arboreta, and display gardens. A plant selector featuring information on more than 200 water plants is included, plus an extensive section on tropical plants and hardy water lilies. 350+ photos, 300 in color.
Book Description
This practical resource tool and handbook for parents details thirty common teenage problems arranged alphabetically from abuse to suicide and including such hot topics as anger, depression, drugs and alcohol, homosexuality, loneliness, masturbation, peer pressure, pornography, and shyness.
Customer Reviews:
HELP! is Available for Parents of Teens.......2007-09-23
As a Christian Counselor "Helping Your Struggling Teenager" is part of my list of resources that I highly recommend for parents, youth pastors and others who work with teens. This parenting handbook on thirty-six common problems faced by our youth is outlined to include the following categories for each topic: What the struggle looks like, why the struggle happens, how parents can help, how professionals can help, where to go for additonal help, case studies, inventories and checklist. This easy to use reference lists issues from A to V (including anger, homosexuality, obesity, schizophrenia, suicide, violence and much more). This text is also culturally relevant for Counseling in African American Communities.
Average customer rating:
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Hector Berli (Music Book Index)
Tom S. Wotton
Manufacturer: Reprint Services Corp
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding
Artists, Architects & Photographers
| Arts & Literature
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0781294878 |
Average customer rating:
- Very Good Book
- Thank You, Sandy!
- Excellent
- A real life heroine
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Am I Alive? A Surviving Flight Attendant's Struggle and Inspiring Triumph Over Tragedy
Sandy Purl ,
Gregg A. Lewis , and
Gregg Lewis
Manufacturer: Chevron Publishing Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Special Needs
| Specific Groups
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
Women
| Specific Groups
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
Motivational
| Self-Help
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
Emotions
| Mental Health
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
Mental Illness
| Psychology & Counseling
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Transportation
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1883581060 |
Customer Reviews:
Very Good Book.......2006-09-21
One of my great aunts died as a result from flying debris in the Southern Airways Crash in New Hope, Georgia that Sandy Purl describes in great detail in this book. Several of my family members are mentioned and her book, as far as what happened on the ground when the crash occurred, is perfect to every last detail. The plane landed in my grandparent's front yard, basically, and I can remember what the crash site looked like the day after. Reading this book was very difficult for my grandparents, but that is to be understood. When I read this book, I gained a better undertanding of why things happen and I have such a tremendous amount of respect for Ms. Purl. I hope one day I can meet her and give her a hug.
Thank You, Sandy!.......2004-05-30
As one of Sandy's passengers aboard Southern 242, I want to thank her for having the courage to write a book about her deeply personal experinces in dealing with the accident. She and her fellow stewardess, Cathy, did a great job under the most difficult circumstances. Without their initiative in preparing the passengers for an emergency landing at short notice and with no guidance from the cockpit, fewer of us would have survived. The pilots did their best to find a good place to land and the stewardesses did their best to protect us from injury. Sandy's story shows the price that can come with assuming the responsibility for so many people in a desperate situation. But she did it willingly and has forever earned high praise for that.
Excellent.......2000-07-31
This was an excellent book in it's own right but it helped me more than I can ever express. As an emergency worker suffering from depression and post-trauma stress for over a year, reading this book and finding so many similarities with what she went through after her ordeal, released something in me that I'd been resisting and helped me to decide to finally get the help that I need and deserve.
A real life heroine.......2000-06-25
She is an outstanding writer and this is a wonderful story. She's really a hero and I don't think she even realizes it. She talks of pulling passengers from a burning plane like it's no greater feat than going to the grocery store to buy a box of Cheerios -- all in a day's work type of thing. Wonderful book, wonderful woman. I'd like to meet her. I'm an EMT and am trained to save lives. She wasn't, but it made it seem so routine. As a life-long flight-attendant wanna-be, my hat's off to Sandy. There aren't many celebrities that I would have a desire to meet, but this lady --- I'd love to shake her hand. I also recommend reading "Hail Fire" by John Tielking, one of the surviving passengers of this crash. It is his account of the events and is an excellent book. He also mentions Sandy's amazing actions on that fateful day.
Book Description
For his many devoted readers, Philip K. Dick is not only one of the 'most valiant psychological explorers of the 20th century' (The New York Times) but a source of divine revelation. Dick, whose work inspired such films as Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Minority Report, dedicated his life to solving one ultimately unanswerable question: What is real? In the riveting style that won accolades for The Adversary, Emmanuel Carrre follows Dick's strange odyssey from his traumatic beginnings in 1928, when his twin sister died in infancy, to his lonely end in 1982, beset by mystical visions of swirling pink lights, three-eyed invaders, and messages from the Roman Empire. Drawing on interviews as well as unpublished sources, Carrre traces Dick's multiple marriages, paranoid fantasies, and vertiginous encounters with the drug culture of sixties California. He vividly conjures the spirit of this restless observer of American postwar malaise whose more than fifty novels subverted the materials of science fiction-parallel universes, intricate time loops, collective delusions-to create classic works of contemporary anxiety. As disturbing and engrossing as a book by its subject, Carrre's unconventional work interweaves life and art to reveal the maddening genius whose writing foresaw-from cloning to reality TV-a world that looks ever more like one of his inventions.
Customer Reviews:
French guy gets it right - again!.......2007-03-17
What's going on with these French novelists seeming to re-invent biography with their love letters to American weirdos? Michel Houellebecq wrote my favorite (non S.T. Joshi anyway) appreciation/bio of H.P. Lovecraft ever, and now here comes another in much the same vein, only more so. This is part biography, part literary criticism, and part attempt at doing just what the title suggests: inhabiting, for a short while, the mind and imagination of Philip K. Dick. I say it succeeds at all three, beautifully. Finishing it, I immediately wanted to start it again.
Carrere provides non-judgmental look at Dick's life.......2006-11-15
I Am Alive and You are Dead by Emmanuel Carrere has been on my books to read list for awhile. I have a weakness for biographies and autobiographies of writers, and if it's a writer who I all but worship as a god, well, all the better.
Philip K. Dick is one of those writers who, once I discovered all those years ago with Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, felt compelled to read every book I could get my hands on. There are a few here and there that I have missed, but I have read the vast majority of Dick's works, and perhaps none was more haunting than Valis, particularly the author's introduction to the novel. Not having any use for religion myself, I felt a bit betrayed that a writer I idolized could have written something so strangely spiritual. It seemed like it had to be all a joke. I know exactly how those French fans felt at that science fiction conference,Carrere describes in I Am Alive and You are Dead because I have been there. If anything, though, it was Valis that made me want to read more about the life of Philip K. Dick.
Carrere calls the biography he's written "a peculiar book," and says he has attempted to portrary Dick from the "inside." I can't say whether this is the result, but the book chronicles Dick's life with an empathy that seems born of a true fan, who wants to understand this writer and share his story with the world.
He tells the story of Dick's decent into madness with honesty, and yet avoids passing judgment. It is a tragic story and a dark story, all the more disturbing because it is a true story and not a work of fiction.
I have seen what madness can do to a person firsthand, and I'm always the last person to classify what others call crazy as insanity. Sure it sounds crazy that Jesus could appear in some girl's toilet bowl, but then millions of people go off to church each Sunday, many of them believing in things that look a whole hell of a lot like insanity - a virgin that gives birth to a semi-divine child, a person turning into a pillar of salt, a dead person disappearing from a tomb. When it comes right down to it, The Bible is full of as much weirdness as say, The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch. I appreciated the fact that Carrere never tried to paint a caricatureof Dick, but presented the man as he was, and showed the way he struggled to understand the seeming insanity taking over his life.
Carrere also does his best to link the different epochs in Dick's life with the books he was writing at that time. He doesn't cover all his novels, but a fair number. The result is that the reader can see the inspirations behind some of the themes, and in some cases the outright autobiographical nature of the works.
I have read no other biographies of Dick's life to date, and so, have nothing to compare this book with, but found it a solid and well-rounded effort. It may not be quite as page-turning as one of Dick's novels, but it is written in a way that is engaging and entertaining.
A fascinating look at the mind of a really strange person.......2006-10-20
This book is not just a biography of Philip K. Dick, famous science fiction writer; the movies Blade Runner, Total Recall and Minority Report are based on his stories. It is also an attempt to find out what made him tick, to get inside his mind. And that is a strange place to be.
Dick was born in 1928, near Berkeley, California, half of a set of twins. Evidently, his mother knew little or nothing about child rearing, because Jane, his twin, died at 6 weeks of age, possibly of starvation. Her death affected Dick for his entire life.
He was a big lover of classical music, and a voracious reader, especially of psychology, philosophy, and later in his life, religion. Dick never achieved his dream of becoming a "serious" novelist, though not for lack of effort. Writing science fiction simply paid the bills, until he became successful at it.
His first wife was a Communist sympathizer (having an FBI file in 1950s Berkeley was practically a badge of honor), he got his second wife sent to a mental hospital, and his third wife left him, and took their young daughter, when he objected to her getting a job outside the home. Dick had a fear of being alone. Dick was a paranoid agoraphobic who was subject to panic attacks. He was, shall we say, well acquainted with the world of prescription drugs, taking them for all sorts of physical and mental ailments. On speed, he could write a novel in two weeks, without sleeping, though he knew that he would physically pay for it later. In later years, he was perceived as some sort of LSD guru, even though he took it only once. There were a couple of stints in drug rehab.
As a youngster, during one of his rare trips to a movie theater, Dick was suddenly convinced that nothing existed outside the theater. The four walls and the pictures on the screen were the sum total of reality. Another time, he wondered if he was really alive, or if he was simply an android who was programmed with false memories so that he would think that he was alive. In later years, Dick turned a couple of innocent fan letters from Eastern Europe into a plot to get him behind the Iron Curtain, and keep him there.
Anyone who has ever read one of Dick's novels, or seen one of the movies based on his stories, needs to read this book. For those not familiar with Philip Dick, read this as a look into the mind of a very strange person.
Heavy on interpretation.......2005-11-20
Overall, this is a nice work, but it seems to be an interpretive biography, with emphasis on interpretive.
Some may love it, depending on what kind of biography one is looking for. I would describe Emmanuel Carrere's PKD bio as melodramatic.
This is the first PKD bio I've read. Emmanuel Carrere uses PKD's books as the timeline, without much emphasis on years, which can be frustrating to some (like me). Also the author's style is somewhat flowery and heavyhanded. I almost stopped reading it in the beginning because I wanted something more straight forward.
The kicker is, PKD's life is so interesting to me, I got caught up in it and eventually appreciated Emmanuel Carrere's style.
The book is appropriately titled, A Journey into the Mind of Philip K. Dick. Emmanuel Carrere was looking for motivation, not just describing events.
Fortunately there are other PKD bios, which I intend to read.
Is this Review a Manifestation of Ultimate Truth or a Figment of Your Imagination?.......2005-11-19
What a fascinating journey through a bizarre and brilliant mind! I had always wanted
to learn more about Philip K. Dick, but had been turned off by other articles and
books that had drained the life from Dick's story with overly dry and pedantic prose.
In contrast, Carrere offers psychological insight and philosophical speculation
that can only be described as "Phildickian." As one who had read all of
Dick's better-known works, Carrere seems to have reanimated Dick's spirit in this
compelling, partially novelized tale. What the reader sacrifices in footnotes and
verifiable fact is more than made up for by the sheer human interest of the story.
Product Description
Illustrated with color reproductions of Flower Paintings.
Product Description
Why Am I Afraid To Tell You Who I Am - offes insights on self-awareness, growth, and interpersonal communication. Discusses the human condition, dealing with emotions, growing as a person, and ego defenses. Concludes that the courage it takes a person to reveal himself to others is based on a mature love.
The Secret of Staying in Love - The secret of staying in love is communication. The greatest gift we can give to one another is the gift of self.
Fully Human Fully Alive - discusses our vision of ourselves, others, the world, and life itself.
Unconditional love - The only love worthy of the name is unconditional love.
Average customer rating:
- The genius revealed Breaking the icy sea within
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I Am Memory Come Alive
Franz Kafka
Manufacturer: Schocken
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0805235566
Release Date: 1988-05-05 |
Customer Reviews:
The genius revealed Breaking the icy sea within .......2006-09-15
Kafka's autobiographical writings are central to his life - work. His genius is revealed not only in the novels, stories, parables but in the dairies and the letters. The sense of something uncanny and wonderful may be given in a single line.
While reading Kafka is always disturbing the rare beauty of his perceptions too give the sense of the special meaning of great literature.
The man who came most alive when he was writing brings the reader to life through his startlingly poetic observations and thoughts.
Average customer rating:
- Excellent Portrait of Los Angeles
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I am Alive In Los Angeles!
Mike the PoeT
Manufacturer: iUniverse, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
20th Century
| Poetry
| United States
| World Literature
| Literature & Fiction
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General
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| United States
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General
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ASIN: 0595395201 |
Book Description
Mike signifies Los Angeles with a highly developed native sensibility that reveals subtleties, shades, and tones well past the obvious. Time and place becomes the know of a place on an intimate human scale:
- Los Angeles and all its ramifications and vibrations and well beyond through the eyes, the heart, the brain of MIke the Poet.
He breathes hope in language that shimmers depicting what we often times fail to see but what we most definitely feel. His love affair becomes our love affair; we become a part of the journey our selves and all hail Los Angeles.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Portrait of Los Angeles.......2007-03-12
Mike the Poet is not only a great poet, but he's a heck of a nice guy. This book of his poetry not only gives one a feeling for the emerging urban culture in this influential metropolis, it reveals a lot of local history unknown to transplants like me. Highly recommended for LA natives, newbies, and lovers of contemporary poetry in general.
Book Description
In the bleak and bitter cold of a copper mine in northern Japan, a Chief Petty Officer of the U.S. Navy was given an opportunity to write a prisoner-of-war card for his wife. He was allowed ten words—he used three: “I AM ALIVE!” This message, classic in its poignancy of suffering and despair captures only too well what it meant to be a prisoner of the Japanese Army.
Now, acclaimed military historian Major Bruce Norton USMC (Ret.) brings to light a long-forgotten memoir by a marine captured at Corregidor in the spring of 1942 and interned for three devastating years by the Japanese. With unflinching prose, the words of Marine Sergeant Major Charles Jackson describe the fierce yet impossible battle for Corregidor, the surrender of thousands of his comrades, the long forced marches, and the lethal reality of the P.O.W. camps. Joining some of the most important eyewitness accounts of war, I AM ALIVE! is a testament to the men who fought and died for their country. Jackson’s unembellished account of what his fellow soldiers endured in the face of inhumanity pays tribute to the men who served America during the war—and shows why we would ultimately prevail.
Customer Reviews:
Colorful tales from a most extraordinary Marine.......2004-12-22
"I Am Alive!: A United States Marine's Story of Survival in a World War II Japanese POW Camp," by Charles R. Jackson, has been edited by Bruce H. Norton. The introductory materials of the book note that Jackson graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served as an Army officer. He resigned his commission in 1925 and enlisted as a private in the Marine Corps in 1927. He rose to the rank of sergeant major and was made a warrant officer before retiring. This book draws on his experiences as a prisoner-of-war held by the Japanese in the Philippines and Japan.
This is a remarkable book. While firmly in the tradition of the American military narrative, it is quite different in tone from any military true-life story I have ever read. Jackson's voice is that of a folksy storyteller. In the book he specifically mentions the tradition of military oral folklore, and his own style draws on that tradition.
Most of the book is structured as a series of interconnected character sketches. The gallery he presents is a very diverse group: officer and enlisted, as well as civilian; Japanese, Filipino, and American of various ethnic groups; Christian and Jew; even non-human. I found some of the most striking pieces to be the following: "The Story of Lieutenant Asaka," about an enigmatic Japanese prison commandant who is respected as a "real soldier" by his own enemies; "The Story of the Old Swede," about a Marine first sergeant who is an alcoholic; and "The Story of First Sergeant Santaleses," about a formidable soldier of the Philippine Scouts. But my favorite tale is "The Story of Soochow," about a little mongrel dog who becomes a Marine mascot, and stands by his Marines in battle and in prison.
Jackson's sketches bring all of these characters to life. Despite the serious subject matter, the author's tone is often quite funny--at times he made me laugh out loud. But he also unflinchingly describes the horror and violence of war, and the often horrific suffering of the POWs. Jackson also touches often on Marine tradition and esprit-de-corps.
Jackson's is a truly extraordinary voice: witty, learned, clever, playful, and deeply humane. This book is a valuable contribution to the canon of military narrative, as well as to the literature of imprisonment.
Great book but different from what was expected........2003-08-16
I was somewhat disappointed in that the author seemed to focus more on times before capture than times inside the prison camp and mine. The book seemed to jump around alot and the writing styles seem to change from chapter to chapter which detracted from the stories the auther told. Over all though, he went into great detail in describing to the readers about what made each man unique. The author shows an incedible talent in portraying each man's stengths and weaknesses. He shows how even the Japanese guards that tormented them had human and good qualities that kept him from hating them outright. This book seems to focus more the human soul than the life of a prisoner.
ONE OF THE VERY BEST!.......2003-06-14
I AM ALIVE! is a collection of short stories told by Marine Sergeant Major Charles R. Jackson, a West Point graduate who resigned his Army commission, in 1926, to become a Private in the United States Marine Corps. Fifteen years later, he was a sergeant major in the 4th Marine Regiment, fighting for his life on Corregidor, and later dealing with life as a POW in the bottom of a copper mine in northern Japan for nearly four years.
Much credit is due to Major "Doc" Norton,USMC, who edited this work and ow presents this story as a masterpiece of World War II experiences. I know the phrase, "I couldn't put it down," is well-worn, but that is exactly what happened to me. One story leads to another, each one better than the last. The finished product is a marvelous collection of observation of fellow Marines, soldiers, Japanese officers, and even Shoo Chow the mongrel mascot of the 4th Marine Regiment, who also survived being a "guest of the Emperor."
I have read many of Major Norton's books, but this is without question his best effort yet. There is no doubt in my mind that this is an award-winning book. I would encourage every veteran, every parent, and every service man and women, to read
this great book. They will immediately learn where their military heritage comes from. Without doubt, a 5-Star book. I'll buy 25 copies as Christmas presents.
found himself
Average customer rating:
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"I am cherry alive," the little girl sang
Delmore Schwartz
Manufacturer: Harper & Row
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Poetry
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20th Century
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Schwartz, Delmore
| ( S )
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Schwartz, Delmore
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ASIN: 0060252448 |
Books:
- Mr Brown's War (Letters & Diaries)
- Mussolini in the First World War: The Journalist, The Soldier, The Fascist
- My First 80 Years: Live to Learn, Learn to Love
- My War Against the Land of My Ancestors
- Navy Diver: The Incredible Undersea Adventures of a Master Diver
- Nobody's Warriors
- Occupying Force: A Sailor's Journey Following World War II
- Oh What a Web We Weave: Computer Technology in Secondary Schools
- On to Atlanta: The Civil War Diaries of John Hill Ferguson, Illinois Tenth Regiment of Volunteers
- Once A Cowboy (Harlequin American Romance Series)
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