Clubs Books

I received this book as a (somewhat sarcastic) gift after winning a few bar bets on golf rulings. Aside from its obvious value as a reference work it makes great reading in short segments (you can figure out an appropriate location). It is guaranteed to pay for itself in bets at the 19th hole, but will also, unfortunately, add a few strokes to your score. A great gift idea for any avid golfer.

"Decisions on the Rules of Golf" is a combination of the USGA's official "Rules of Golf" along with the most recent questions and challenges to the rules in a convenient Q & A format. While the decisions get deeply involved at times, for a true lover of the sport it makes for an excellent 'casual read', regardless of one's playing ability. The text's small profile will fit into almost any golf bag for quick reference on the course, and the print is large enough so as not to alienate anybody seeking the correct answer to their golf question. This is the official and most current word to be found on golf. Outstanding!

New for the coming two years. Much improved index and better font from the previous 2000 edition.

With wit and wisdom, Bendat discusses all aspects of Inauguration Day -- from the president-elect's morning coffee with the president, to the afternoon parade, to the evening inaugural galas -- all with an eye toward the historical and hysterical." L.A Times, January 20, 2001.

This book is filled with fascinating details about every presidential inauguration in United States history. Most people probably have not given a great deal of thought to inaugurations, but writer Jim Bendat opens the door to a series of intriguing, and sometimes important, details. For example, Abraham Lincoln was the first president to invite a free African American to attend an inauguration. Lyndon Johnson was the first president to be sworn in by a woman.

This engaging book provides us with an insight into a wealth of little known facts about American history. Anyone interested in history (or trivia, though there is much more to it than trivia) will be delighted by this book.

The writing is lively and spirited. The subject matter is unforgettable. The book is terrific.

This is an excellent book for the historian and the casual reader of American history. The style is relaxed and the content is strong. There is at least a synopsis in anecdotal form of every inauguration in U.S.history. With constant controversy surrounding contemporary presidential elections, this book is genuinely a must read. It captures not just the information, but the actual drama of the inaugurations and peppers that with fascinating tidbits. For example, did you know that Frederick Douglass was at Lincoln's second inauguration reception? Or that Franklin Pierce had no lights, no dishes and no bedroom of his own, the first night of his White House stay?

This book is worthy of more than one read and endless "pick-it-up-when-you-get-a-second" reads! Very good, very cool book. Both for someone wanting something interesting to read and for an addition to a historian's library. Here's hoping that Mr. Bendat writes more!

It would be a mistake to think of this as a Bible Dictionary. This dictionary seeks to do much more. As Kevin J. Vanhoozen states in his informative introduction, "DTIB aims to provide clarification, analysis, and evaluation of the various approaches to biblical interpretation currently in the marketplace, with a view to assessing their theological significance--in particular, their value for reading Scripture in and for the community of the faithful." Without advocating any one particular approach to interpretation--the contributors represent diverse theological backgrounds, denominations, and interpretative approaches--the essays provide a framework for not only discovering what the Bible means, but also how to read it.

The opening article on the Book of Acts starts with an overview of its historical interpretation. It includes the mention of John Chrysostom composing the first full commentary on the book to comment on more recent studies focusing on the form of the texts.

The next section is a summary of the themes and meaning of Acts. A short paragraph at the end touches on a topic debated today. Is the Holy Spirit received in all his fullness at conversion, or is there a subsequent experience called the "baptism in the Holy Spirit"?

The last two sections highlight the place of Acts in relation to the rest of Scripture, and most importantly, its practical significance for believers today.

One of the concluding thoughts highlights the value of this resource: "The evangelistic speeches in Acts focus on the resurrection of Jesus, suggestive of a corrective to today's evangelistic message and preaching," which spend more time on the death of Jesus.

Each of the books of the Bible is covered in a similar fashion. But many other topics and even key individuals are included. You can find articles on art, music, anti-Semitism, postmodernity and Biblical interpretation, feminist Biblical interpretation, Jesus and the quest for the historical, and sexuality. The latter includes a fascinating section on homosexuality, giving an overview of Jesus' view, Paul's view and a rationale based on Genesis. Profiles of individuals that contributed in some way to a theological understanding of Scripture include Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Karl Barth, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and John Calvin.

This tends toward the academic but any Christian could benefit from making use of this book. "The ultimate aim of the present work is to commend ways of reading Scripture that lead to the blessing of knowing God and of being formed unto godliness." It's a worthy aim, and those who take advantage of this resource will be helped on their way toward that end.

The Dictionary for Theological Interpretation of the Bible was the Christian Book Award Book of the Year for 2006.

Dictionary for Theological Interpretation of the Bible is an exhaustive resource offering in-depth definitions of terms commonly encountered when engaged in theologic study of the Bible. From allegory as a device for interpreting Biblical passages that fell into disfavor since the eighteenth century but is occasionally still used at the popular level, to a brief history of the interpretation of the Book of Zechariah, Dictionary for Theological Interpretation of the Bible is filled with thoughtful, well-reasoned discourse and is highly accessible to readers of all backgrounds. A valuable resource for amateur and professional theologians, and especially recommended for beginning theologians or others new to the study of Biblical passages.

This book is an enchiridion that stands as a great testament to the vast learning of the many scholars who contributed.
The Book itself is simply fantastic, and all of the articles are suprisingly in-depth despite the vast array of territory covered. The list of contributors is a virtual whos-who of thinkers in the field of theology today (besides Kevin Vanhoozer, NT Wright and the other two editors, Craig Bartholomew of Bristol and D. Treier of of Wheaton, contributors include I. Howard Marshall, Grant Osborne, Anthony Thistleton, Stanley Grenz, Merold Westphal, Nancy Murphy, and Alistair McGrath, just to name a few) though, of course, this should not be an automatic criteria for sucess, it is nonetheless an impressive and well rounded display of expertise.

This dictionary is particularly quite helpful when it comes to outlining contemporary theories of interpretation, and has very thourough expositions on Post-structuralism, Deconstructionism, Reader-Response Criticism, Speech-Act theory, Feminist, Liberationist, and the so called "Yale" school of Narrative Post-Liberal Theologians like Lindbeck and Frei, to mention a few. Also, there are detailed commentaries/interpretive principles and exposition on particular areas of traditional and contemporary thought regarding every book of the bible, and their are even entries on particular authors (most prominantly, of course, seems to be writings on Paul, where their is an interesting description of how schools of thought have interpreted his writings, e.g. Augustine, Luther, to Barth and Bultmann, and there is even an enlightening piece on the "new perspective" on Paul by such scholars as NT Wright, who turn the traditional Law/Gospel distinction on its head, seeing Judaism's law as works that are a function of the grace of God's election, so that Paul's critique is centered on the Law as a means of discrimination rather than the traditional interpretation of a futile attempt to achieve righteousness...)

Other articles include an excellent general overview of Hermeneutics by Thistleton (a leading reasearcher in the field), an article on Truth, another on Meaning, Semiotics, Christian Hermeneutical theories, and a litany of articles on various theories of redactive criticism, source hypothese (both regarding Mosaic authorship vs. JEPD documents, and the background of Q and the Markan priority) and a whole array of others that, if not exhaustive, is the best resource for biblical interpretation out there, (short of owning every book on the subject.)

Other books I recommend to compliment this dictionary are Anthony C. Thistletons books: New Horizons in Hermeneutics, and Two Horizons in Hermeneutics; Grant Osborne's the Hermeneutical Spiral; James K. A. Smith's The Fall of Interpretation; Kevin Vanhoozers Is There A Meaning In This Text?, First Theology, and his new book The Drama Of Doctrine; and for a technical appraisal of not only hermeneutics but the epistemology of science and philosophy in general, I recommend Wolfhart Pannenberg's Theology and the Philosophy of Science

All in all I highly recommend this for anyone interesting in having a valuable resource for referencing the complex world of biblical interpretation

When I recieved this item, it literally only took me about 3 days to read it because it just kept drawing me in, kept enticing me to read more to find out what happens next. The characters are well thought-out, and the story itself is detailed and yet easy to read. I have read this and the original and loved them both. I am particularly fascinated by how the author is able to write down an explaination for the return of the dinosaurs in a believable and well-executed manner. There isn't enough I can say about these two books. I recommend them to anyone who loves dinosaurs, sci-fi, or just a good book in general.

The young hero and heroine, Chase Armstrong and Kit Daniels, survived the first Dinosaur War when a human-sized, intelligent species of dinosaurs returned from space to reclaim their home world-OUR WORLD! Now, the tentative peace between the invaders and the US military is breaking down. Our bombers and tanks are on the move again, as are the fighting machines of the Kra armies. In the midst of the renewed turmoil, Kit and Chase's new romance breaks down as well. Now they must each try to survive alone. Will they find their way back together, or end up as some carnivore's grisly meal? The science behind Dinosaur Wars: Counterattack is fully up-to-date. The deadly Megaraptors, larger than Spielberg's Velociraptors, are fully covered in feathers, the way paleontologists now know they were. Other great beasts of the Cretaceous Era are portrayed in accurate detail as well. A good story, though, hinges on interesting human characters. I hope you will find the young adventurers, Kit and Chase, to be the sort of heroes who make you want to join their quest for survival and love. Think 'Star Wars meets Jurassic Park,' and you'll have a feel for what the book is all about. Counterattack was written in adult-level English and is suitable for all ages to enjoy. If you are a fan of action, adventure, dinosaurs, and a little light romance, I hope you will find this new book to your liking. -Thomas P. Hopp

I am rapidly becoming a big fan of Thomas Hopp's writing. Dinosaur Wars Counterattack is another good old fashioned adventure story, just like the first book. Hopp has a way with characters. The hero and heroine, Chase and Kit, are two young people I want to spend more time with. They seem to get into the toughest spots with dinosaurs, then somehow come out alive. This is really a page turner, just like before.
The dinosaurs in this book are extremely realistic, with great pains taken to "flesh them out" in detail, while not detracting from a rapid-fire plot. I was not aware that many dinosaurs had feathers or fur on them, until reading these books. So long scaly lizards, here come the warm blooded, seriously hungry dinos.
While the beasts eat their share of humans, this book is definitely rated G, because there is nothing a younger reader would need to feel squeemish about. There are no "adult" situations beyond a little kissy-face, and, as I found out, there is a refreshing lack of profane language. Hopp seems intent on making his characters fine, upstanding people, generating excitement by casting them into desperate circumstances. Works for me.
As I did with Dinosaur Wars, I give this novel my wholehearted endorsement. It is an undiscovered gem and someday I predict: a major motion picture.

I have read this book and enjoyed it so much... I was actually one of Doctor Jones' patients in Granite Falls. Doctor Jones captures the 'small town essence' of not only our small town, but, I think most small towns in America during that era. I have read the book a few times, and each time, I enjoy it more. Whether one grew up in a small "Andy Griffith" type town or New York City, I believe this book paints an interesting and delightful picture of the innocence of an era gone by.

Doc Jones is a wonderfully written account of colorful people and an insightful peak into human nature. I couldn't put it down. Loved it!

A touching, funny, insightful account of the human condition played out against the practice of a small doctor and his patients. A way of life that's passing from the American landscape kept alive by Dr. Jones with colorful, witty writing and a real compassionate touch.

In today's society it is common place to be forced to suffer through an extremist's babble about their causes and religions. "Does Your Dogma Bite" takes an anti-special interest group approach to the differences of some of the hottest push button topics we face as a society. It gives a hypodermic injection under the topical skin of peoples belief's and forces one to think outside their own "soapboxes". Read it and experience the rush of freedom from complacency. IT IS A MUST READ FOR TODAYS MOVERS AND SHAKERS!!!!

This book reads like a novel although it can be Biblically supported. The footnotes are hilarious. What is it about?? Our concept of God, religion, and practical rules for decision making on everything we encounter and struggle through in life, love and our decisions (which we may not have made on our own). I am a cradle born Episcopalian who frequently gets "turned off" by the locked in thinking of some Christians who are more interested in defining "sin" than by looking at the real point of Christianity and our creator's plans for us and our happiness. Just read it and see . . .even and especially if you hate religion. Author is a talented writer, methodical, humorous and a born teacher. Do yourself a favor and read it . . . .entertaining, informative and food for thought. I've never read anything like it, but my copy is already dog-eared! Beware: this is NOT a self-help psychobabble book and you can discuss it at all the holiday parties!

I am a public speaker and a trainer. After about forty pages, I was already recommending this book to audiences, and by the time I was finished I would place it in the top ten books that I've ever read (with the likes of Zig Ziglar, Stephen Covey, Robert Schuller, Tony Robbins, and Shad Helmstetter). This is not a self-help book, nor is it written to entertain. It pushes the reader to examine long-held beliefs only to find that those beliefs might be grounded on false assumptions. It had me laughing one minute and scratching my head the next. The author has an incredible ability to lay out a theoretical framework and at the same time, through HUMOROUS footnotes, convey complex ideas in the simplest terms. As a former Social Studies teacher, I wish that I had read this book while I was teaching; it would have made it much simpler to explain complex concepts in everyday language, and to teach students to look beyond the surface. For example, Aud draws parallels between the temperance movement, Communism, and present-day education in a way that the similarities are obvious.

This is a must read for anyone interested in change, religion, prejudice, the affective aspects of decision-making, etc. If you are going to use it as a book for group discussion, be aware that some references are borderline risque, but in the context of the subject matter, it lightens the content nicely.

My hat is off to the author!

This book is the MOST awsome book!!! It really gives a trainer's point of view on the work and skills included!! The story is almost touching, and it really brings the world of dolphins into the light!!

I love this book! Don C Reed tells the story of his career as a dolphin trainer and the relationships he shared with these great animals. After reading this book, i was inspired to become a dolphin trainer when I grow up. You should DEFINITELY read this book!

I liked the book because I like the ocean and it is interesting to know the trainer's point of view about dolphins. It is also interesting to know that all dolphins aren't nice. I am ten years old.

This novel was one of the best medical thrillers I have ever read! Terminology was accurate, pace was fast, characters seemed real and alive... they jumped out of the page! Ricky's character stood out in my mind, the injuries and pain were real, I can relate to him because I know and work on a lot of professional athletes in the area. I will sure pass along this novel to as many people as I know. Thanks to the author for a pleasurable reading experience. When is the movie coming out?

When I read this book, I was both shocked and gripped by its realism and action. Several different stories take place in the book, which all culminate at the very end in an epic showdown in New Orleans. It reminded me a little of the format used in the movie, Magnolia. The various stories give insight into rich characters that are well developed. With characters like the corrupt LAPD Lt., the Doctor who sells organs and performs these 'underground' surgeries, hitmen, a junkie, and an NFL Hall of Famer who needs a liver, the story moves quickly and casts a horrifying image of how these criminals operate. The end is surreal and knocked me out of my seat. I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone who likes true crime, or suspense novels.

In depth character development; I can relate to each and every one of them in some manner. Unbeleivable use of descriptive dialogue. I pictured the whole book right in front of my eyes. Original story and great use of underground knowledge. Came off as a well written professional novel. I can't wait to spread the word!

Wow! This book had me laughing and then I relaized how true it is to Chicago's broker world. Check this book out because it has a couple memorable characters that you will not soon forget.

A great quick read. An entertaing book, especially for those of us in the Chicago area. It is an inside look at the high stakes game of being a "broker". And it's a bet that it is closer to reality than fiction!

Truly this book qualifies as an undiscovered gem! It is a superbly written quick witted tale of high finance set on Chicago's own version of Wall St. I'm definitely keeping an eye on this up and coming young writer.

I found Dressed For Murder and outstanding mystery. The plot was well thought out and put together superbly. It held my interest and the ending surprised me. I hope Earlene Adkins Wetherbee comes up with more mysteries. She is in a genre that was made for her style.

Oh, the things that go on in a small Texas town! The secrets, the conniving, the intrigue. And, of course, the romance. A psycho killer is on the loose, and his next target is a sitting duck. So much packed into a few short days. Did I say short? Certainly not short for the detective who is targeted to die.

This was a great book! It keeps you guessing and has a wonderfully twisted ending! Dressed for Murder is destined to be a classic. This novel is full of twists and turns and I never expected the plot to play out that way.