R Books

This is a well-above-average Star Trek novel; it has good pacing, good characterization, smooth writing, and a fair to middling plot. It almost fell into the trap of being just another of the many Star Trek novels with the "crazy, out-of-control admiral" plot, but managed to more or less mostly avoid that pitfall. It puts a somewhat different spin on the usual "genetically engineered supermen" plot, too. Since I don't really care for the first of these plots, even seeing a near-miss cost the book a partial star, and while I don't mind the other and found the twist to be interesting, I still feel that the basic concept is overused, so that was a small negative, too. And the suggestion that Riker might be descended from the followers of Khan is rather dubious. So all in all, I'll give the book four stars for a very good effort, but not five. It has too many overused plot points for that high a rating.

"Infiltrator" is a very impressive book for being one of the numbered novels in the Star Trek The Next Generation line of novels. Sadly enough, this novel is the second and final Star Trek novel written by W.R. Thompson which is a shame considering how well this novel and the author's first novel, "Debtor's Planet" were written. It would be nice to see this author make a return to the Star Trek genre.

"Infiltrator," from beginning to end is an extraordinarily intriguing story, written with an excellent premise, superb plot setup and execution and very fast pacing, all combining to make for an excellent read in the Star Trek genre.

The cover art for this novel is good, but still merely standard for the time in which this novel was published.

The premise:

As authors in the Star Trek genre are often want to do and most successfully carry out, this novel draws from the "history" of Star Trek by furthering the legacy of Khan Noonien Singh, the leader of the Eugenics Wars.

During the height of Khan's reign on Earth, several of his followers left Earth to colonize the planet Hera and continue their experiments in selective breeding. After several centuries, the Heran's are ready to launch their plan for universal domination through genetics. The Enterprise comes into the picture and we soon learn that a Heran expatriate named Astrid Kemal is dubiously on board. We also soon learn that is it solely up to Captain Picard and the crew of the starship Enterprise to stop this plan before it comes to fruition.

As stated above, "Infiltrator" is one of the more intriguing and better written numbered novels to be released in the STNG line. I highly recommend this novel to any and all fans of Star Trek fiction! {ssintrepid}

I read this book several years ago while stranded in an airport with a six hour layover. We all remember "Khan" the super genius that enslaved half the world was resuced by Kirk ect ect. What if there was an entire planet of such super geniuses? It is a very interesting premise for a book and even when I read this book it impressed upon by the facts of why the federation so feared someone or something genetically enhanced. I also liked the fact(being 14 at the time) that a 14 year old was the key leader of the oppositions peace negotations. Also the whole "What if Riker is a desendant of these people" was very cool.

This book provided just the right balance between action and humor. I particularly liked the character of Astrid Kamal, a genetically enhanced woman descended from Khan. She handled her fear of being "a lab animal" quite well, and even managed to save the ship (surprise, surprise). Her attempts to learn proper insult technique were quite amusing. ("Go pet a tribble... just the thing to say to a kill-crazy Klingon. Damn, she really is your kind of woman, Worf!")

Star Trek-The Next Generation: Infiltrator written by W.R. Thompson is a book about a selective breeding experiment on the planet called Hera.

At the time when Khan Nooien Singh was being a tyrant on Earth, some centuries ago, a few of his followers decided to leave Earth and start anew. Thus, we have a race of genetically alter humans wanting to reek havoc across the galaxy. Now, enters Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the U.S.S. Enterprise as the foil in the Federation plans to stop this insanity.

Captain Picard enlists the help of an expatriate called Astrid Kemal to defeat this the plot hatched by these other superbeings. This book gives us a good look at what can go wrong with all good intentions, even those of superhumans.

We see Number One, William Riker in the thick of things to stop the brink of galaxy-wide eugenics war and gives us a good look of what he is made of. With Geordi and Wolf things get pretty dicey and grim, but I can't tell out how this gets all resolved or I'll ruin the book for you.

The narrative moves quickly and the character development grows, while the plot is forming and we get a well-planned adventure that will keep you engrossed till the ending. This is one of the better ST-TNG books where the lesser bridge crew do most of the action and clean-up what could be a galaxy-wide Khan on the universe.

Want a deeper walk with the Lord?
His book is insightful and helpful.

If every Christian followed the principles in this book, the world would take notice. No American Christian should neglect meditating on the truths Swindoll delivers in this short audio book.

Coming from the premise in Ecclesiastes, "God made us plain and simple, but we have made ourselves very complicated," Swindoll suggests four principles to overcome ourselves for a better, more God-honoring life. Simplicity is a discipline 21st Century Christians need, and we aren't going to find it at the mall or in many other Christian books.

This small, quick read packs quite a powerful punch for the Christian looking for a closer walk with the Almighty.
The author shares with us his experiences with his walk with the Lord and helps us to see, through his life how he was able to draw closer to the Almighty, bringing him to a more fulfilled relationship.

He uses examples, such as turning from our busy lives and being still to know that He is God. He speakes to us of what it is to trust God and to surrender to One that loves us. Tenderely he leads us step by step into a deeper knowledge of knowing the way to a closer walk with Him.
This is a very good read, not too long, but extremely useful to the Christian seeking intimacy with their Maker.

Satan has a unique strategy for every culture. In North America today he has chosen the rat race. Keep Christians too busy doing good things that they forget Who they are doing them for! This little book helps us get back on track. Slow down, find time to be alone with God in a quiet place. Journal your thoughts. Then surrender! I have purchased several copies and given them to leaders in our church. Thank you Chuck!

Let me preface my remarks by saying that I'm a HUGE fan of brother Chuck, and I have great love and admiration for him as one of today's preeminent Christian leaders. Of all the persons I could choose to emulate, it would be Chuck Swindoll. In reviewing this book, my comments are intended to be totally objective and not a criticism of the author.

My main impression of this book is that, while it provides some valuable insights about some spiritual disciplines that every committed Christian should undertake, it stops far short of being a truly practical resource. Chuck Swindoll steps aside briefly from his hectic life to take stock of some key things that many (most?) Christians miss in their day to day walk with God. He introduces some disciplines which we would all do well to practice, but doesn't really talk about the "how."

In other words, and at the risk of sounding flippant, my reaction on finishing this book (about a one-hour undertaking) was: "Tell me something I don't already know." As a believer who seeks a closer relationship with God, I have long since recognized the need to try to slow down my lifestyle and find time to get alone with God for prayer, study and meditation. I have been struggling with these very issues for some time: how to balance work, parenthood, church activities, household chores, rest, etc. while still finding a way to spend a meaningful amount of time communing with God.

It was my hope that this book would be more of a "how-to guide" than just a simple overview of these truths, and in that sense I was a bit disappointed. Don't misunderstand me, I think the book is great as far as it goes, but I wish Chuck had taken the time to take this important subject into much greater detail. He speaks of "depth" but doesn't really provide it here. Had he done that, I'm sure I could have derived much greater benefit from it.

Reading this book was like having dinner with R. L. Stine. I live in Columbus, Ohio and R. L. was raised right outside the city limits.

This book is told through his voice and being the great story teller that he is, he captivated me with even the smallest facts about his career.

He is honest about his downs and ups and is humble about his own success.

I was so sorry when this book ended, it felt like my friend had to leave after sharing such a wonderful visit with me.

This is a great resource for book or oral reports!

It Came From Ohio is a book about Goosebumps author R.L.Stine, and his life from a child to an adult. This book tells many funny and interesting facts about the R.L.Stine that most people do not know. For instance, did you know that before he wrote Goosebumps, he wrote for magazines and a T.V series? Well now you do! If this sounds interesting, or if you've always wanted to know about R.L.Stine than this book is a must-read!

This autobiography is awesome! I am in the middle of it right now and it gives a lot of information about Robert Lawrence Stine's life. I can't wait until the next chapter!

This book is really fun & interesting. R.L. Stine tells about why he likes scary things. You get to see his early works he did as a child. You also get to find out what "R.L." stands for and when his birthday is. Very informative! If your child is an R.L. Stine fan, this is the book for them.

I like this book because it had large type and I found it very easy to read. This would be a good book for readers who are not so advanced yet, because here you don't have to worry about difficult words. It's also funny and the pictures were a great addition to the book. It really stuck to the "My Life as a Writer" part of the title, because it just says how R.L. Stine has been writing all his life, from little comics to magazines and finally to books, and the rest of it, which wasn't all that much, was about his family. This is the perfect book I know about that will help fans learn about R.L. Stine, so I suggest you read it and see what you think.

James Brown was a true innovator. Nobody can take his genius away from him. He has passed on to occupy the ancestral realm. Remember the ancestors are always with us, you simply have to invoke their names.

I recommend this book for any James Brown fans or casual reader of history.

RIP to the Godfather of Soul, Soul Brother #1, The Hardest Working Man in Show Business. This been a great blow and to all of us James Brown fans here. This book was the one I needed to keep me focused. Just read it all the way through earlier this year. Very strong, uplifting and powerful. James Brown was the Hero, the Legend, the American Pioneer. He wasn't just an entertainer or a hit maker or an artist, he's a man that have overcome alot on what's happening in the world: going thru poverty, business, the Civil Rights Movement, the world, loss of jobs, politics, way of culture, way of living, and a way to express ourselves thru a meaning of religion, life, hunger, soul, pain, and suffering. The Man had it all. Boy I'mma miss him and his talent. His spirit always captures us thru this day. GOOD GOD!!!

Thanks for all the hardship and legacy you put us into, Brother James Brown.

I bought this book a couple of years ago, and once I began reading the first page I couldn't stop until I'd finished the whole book. The things that JB had to go through as a young boy, it's a wonder he didn't wind up on death row, or in an early grave. It's a good thing that he turned his attention to music, and put all he had into it. Even though he was never really raised by anyone, or had a real family life he was able to make his mark in life. I'm glad that he acknowledges the power of God, and he knows what God can do. I enjoyed reading this book. This is a must read for everyone.

I'm 34 I had listened to some James Brown manly the hits. I had the oppertunity to see his show a couple of months ago. It was fantastic. I started getting some of his other albums like the big payback(my favorite) I must tell you I'm hooked I can't get enough of that sound. I finished this book today. It was awsome his takes on things are so down to earth. If you're down with Mr. Brown than you gotta read this.

What a life. What a personality. I have enjoyed this book enormously: You get the feeling that this is James Brown telling you his extraordinary story in a long and fascinating conversation. He talks about his music, his personal life and troubles, his philosophy, and, what I think is most thrilling, show business and stage performance.

My main goal in reading this book was resolving a personal doubt: Was he the genius behind his records, or was it Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley or his producers? After reading the book and listening to his records with lots of new insights, I have little doubt that the main driving force (although not the only one) in his records was himself. What Brown says about his music, where it came from, how it was made, what he intended to say, really made me discover many things in his records! For instance, if you have 'Live At The Apollo (1963)' (one of Brown's best albums) or have listened to it, DON'T MISS what he has to say about it -and play the LP again. I couldn't stop laughing for almost a quarter of an hour.

On another hand, I was also wondering: Is he a ruthless, egotistic and authoritarian character, as he is sometimes portrayed? In the book, JB openly and candidly talks about the discipline in his band, prison, guns, Black Power, and politics; and, paradoxically, in the end I finished with the impression of having received a lesson in confidence in man, tolerance, faith and spirituality. Soulful singers like him or BB King really have something to say about life-not only in their records.

On a last note, I think the (co-)writer Bruce Tucker has structured the book very well, hooking you from the beginning until the last page. As usual, it is better to avoid beginning with the prefaces and forewords, and leave them for the end. Only a little information about musicians in the sessions would have been welcome -although it is true that it's not the scope of the book.

Definitely worth reading it if you are a James Brown fan, and also very commendable if you are interested in music in general.

This book was given to me by a dear physician friend and was the perfect gift to start understanding the "curse of Diabetes" in our family. I in return also had given this book to other friends that I consider could benefit of it; to learn and understand more about Diabetes, it's diagnosis, control, care to live with it, and their imminent complications when we do not follow our doctor's recommendations. This is a very thorough and easy to understand book that should be in the hand of anyone already diagnosed or when Diabetes runs in the family

This is the first book about diabetes that I read, after being diagnosed with the condition myself. It was a useful, tough-love experience. The authors discussed all of my excuses for not doing the right thing by my pancreas, and talked to me gently but firmly about monitoring my glucose levels, exercise, and nutritional therapy. A long chapter is devoted to the link between depression and diabetes, and the emotions that a patient plays through when first diagnosed. I didn't even think about the psychological effects when my various friends were diagnosed with the disease--one of them has had diabetes for over 20 years and is now giving herself insulin shots.

Sorry, Jan, CJ, Dennis, and Cathy. I had to learn the hard way about dealing with the psychological aspects of a diagnosis of diabetes. This book helped me through the various stages--I didn't stay in denial very long (evidently some diabetics pass away before admitting that they have the disease and need to treat it), but the authors did talk me out of blaming my grandmother (deceased these twenty years) for `bringing' diabetes into the family.

Incidentally, the chapter on "The Genetics of Diabetes" is fascinating. Type II diabetes (the kind you usually get when you're old and fat) is actually "much more strongly determined by genetics than is Type I." (Thanks, Grandma).

This guide was first published in 1997, before the glucose level for diagnosing diabetes was dropped from 125 mg/dl to 100 mg/dl, but the authors were already using 115 mg/dl as the criterion in their own practices. They hint that a new diagnostic specification is coming, then get on with the book. Both Type I and Type II diabetes are fully examined, along with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (which has a whole chapter to itself).

The causes of diabetes, its symptoms, and the goals of treatment are explained in very clear language--you might not like what you're reading (diabetes is for life), but you'll be able to understand it. If the book makes you too cranky, be sure to check out the part about what happened to diabetics before insulin was discovered and extracted from pancreatic beta cells. The hardest chapters for me to read were the ones on diabetic complications, e.g. "Diabetic Eye Disease," and "Hardening of the Arteries."

The information on "Living with Diabetes," "Families Who Live with Diabetes," and those dealing with health care professionals, the U.S. Health Care System (or lack of one), and "Employment and Diabetes" will probably prove to be the most useful in the long run, but I recommend reading the whole book. If nothing else, I came out of it with a whole new (and much improved) attitude about monitoring my glucose level.

An excellent basic reference and a recommended pick for both public and school libraries, the large print edition of Dr. Christopher Saudek, et.al.'s Guide To Diabetes assures that audiences who need it will be able to read it. From handling psychological problems to dealing with daily maintenance routines, this is packed with practical information. The large print edition of Dr. Cassel's will reach a wide audience and will prove a listing contribution to libraries. All eye disorders and health issues are covered here, with treatment options and symptoms thoroughly surveyed in an easy-to-understand manner. Highly recommended.

_Fear is sometimes a positive force. In moderation, it can motivate people. Realistic fear of complications can strengthen your resolve to take the best possible care of yourself...The key to making your fears work for you..is to keep reminding yourself of the positive. The power to control blood sugars...improves everyday_. (p217)

Two months ago, I was diagnosed with diabetes. Since then, THE JOHNS HOPKINS GUIDE TO DIABETES has been my handbook and I feel fortunate that Christopher D. Saudek, M.D. and his staff have developed such a valuable tool. It is extremely easy to use, yet covers completely the topics associated with successful living with diabetes.

The Preface states, _This book grew out of our experiences in caring for people with diabetes, particularly at the self-managment program of the Johns Hopkins Diabetes Center. Much that we discuss in this book is drawn from the material used in our teaching sessions -- and indeed, from the material taught by diabetes educators throughout the country_.

I appreciate the self-management program promoted in this text. _A central theme of this book is that [I] can live a long and healthy life with diabetes, but it is a dangerous disease to ignore_. (p4) I learned that the diagnosis of diabetes is objective and ammoral, based solely on the level of glucose in the blood. Knowing that it really does not matter how my blood glucose levels got to be the way they were helped me to accept that something needed to be done to control them. I was able to adjust to daily life with diabetes, learning that I can in fact cope with it.

Understanding Diabetes is the first part of this book and the first part of successfully controlling this disease. The bulk of this book is in the next part, Controlling Diabetes. Their approach to goal setting is representative of this book's healthy attitude:

_We are talking about redefining the quality of life. We admit to looking through rose-colored glasses, downplaying the things you can't do or eat that you used to love. There's no denying that some things ought to be avoided some of life's patterns ought to be adjusted. But none of this has to impair your quality of life. You have the choice. You define quality. You set the goals._ (p36)

If you are interested in controlling your blood glucose levels, this text can show you how.

There is a strong spiritual component that comes into play when changing behaviors. The task of accepting the realities of diabetes; turning from destructive behaviours and turning to life-affirming behaviours is at the crux of repentance. Moving from denial to acceptance requires an element of faith. Faith in the diagnosis, faith in the cure, and faith in ourselves that we are able to take up the task day after day with a fresh re-commitment. My experience with diabetes has strenghtened my own spiritual confidence. The hard won changes to my glucose levels has given me confidence that I will be able to control other parts of my life.

PEACE

If diabetes has entered your life because of your own health or the health of a loved one you need to get a lot of information in order to control the disease as best as you can. This book is a GREAT place to start.

The book provides a good overview of what diabetes really is and why it is so destructive. But MUCH MORE important is the help it gives us in understanding how the disease impacts the way one lives. If the diabetes is responded to constructively the situation can be improved. Depending on the severity of the condition it can be improved a little bit to, in a mild case, something like normality. Most are somewhere in the middle.

The danger is to ignore the condition. This book can help make clear all the good things that can come from responding positively to the condition and gives helpful information on how to do that. And you can find specific information very quickly because the book is so thoughtfully organized.

I've really enjoyed what I have read so far. I was drawn into the story immediately. No matter what one's beliefs are on this subject, you can't help but be compelled by it. I can't wait to read what happens next.

This excerpt is both powerful and intriguing--excellent character development at the outset, yet careful not to disclose too much too soon. I like the scenes out of sequence, the reader has a general idea of what is going on but is left to wonder about how everything came to be and what will happen next. Perfect components for a mystery/suspense novel. At the same time it takes on real issues that nobody wants to think about and makes them accessible through May-a character we will all grow to love.

Yeah right Amazon. I'm doing research on political issues for a new story I'm writing and I come upon this fictional fiction. This smells of a dot com's version of "Wag the Dog." It just so happens that some writer that hasn't published a darn thing came up with this intriging idea, concept, put it on paper with obvious seasoned abilities and got it to you right before the biggest election in history? I don't think so. Nice try. Who really wrote this story?

From the start this excerpt of "Killing Innocence" portrays the plight of women who choose or consider abortion. Like most women, May had hoped her personal choice would be as unassuming as she was, yet it all literally blew up in her face. Now she's in handcuffs while politicians are playing on anti-abortion sentiment and using religion to rise to power! I can't wait to see what happens as the rest of the story unfolds. The writing is very clear, and the way the characters are described brings them to life. May is especially intriguing and I'm looking forward to the rest of her story and where her resolve takes her.

I can't wait to read the rest. Great story line, interesting characters -- made me want to see what happens next.

I give this book as gifts to friends who are expecting their first baby. This poetry is easy to read to the kids, but even more it will teach you great and simple things every parent should know. I also recommend this book to survivors of trauma to help them re-parent or change their understanding of what parents should have been like.

This book should be handed out to every mom and dad the day their baby is delivered. It has the simplest yet most profound advice any parent could receive. I have given this book to new parents sinc it was published and I am disheartened that it is no longer in publication. Let's send letters to get it back into circulation. It is by far the BEST! Sincerely Cecilee

This book is awesome and should be owned by every Mother in the world and Father, for that matter. Children don't always tell you what they feel, even when they know, and this book gives you things to think about. No mother can put it down once they begin to read it.

This books offers wonderful insight to becoming a more attentive parent. Through real life events, the author represents a particular view which parents can tap into and gain a greater understanding into their child world. Ruth Reardon's (author) perspectives easily surpasses many theoretical parenting books available today.

I am a psychotherapist dedicated to helping families function well. I so often hear from parents, "Why don't children come with instruction books?!" Well, this is as close as you can get to that. Learning to listen well. It is incredibly insightful and well-written. I recommend it to all the parents I work with and give it as a baby shower gift to all the new parents I know. It is an excellent must read.

This is a ok book its kinda for younger kids.Its about a shipwreck and alot of kids get stranded on a island Andrew Lian Ned they look to see if anyone else was on the island they were on. But when they were looking they encountered dinosaurs and they get scared and hide. So now they must over come that great fear. Also during the middle of the book they see them starting to fight and they try to kill the dinosaurs and it has a really suprising ending.

Even though this book is short, it is filled with action for a person of any age to read. In the story it also gives the story of the sea monster, the Kraken. I like the creativity of Scott Ciencin's books on Dinotopia, as well as the Dinoverse series. At first you thik that the Unrivaled are going to invade, but later you find out that they are the most peaceful race on Dinotopia. Congatulations, Ciencin, you've done it again.

Even though this book is short, it is filled with action for a person of any age to read. In the story it also gives the story of the sea monster, the Kraken. I like the creativity of Scott Ciencin's books on Dinotopia, as well as the Dinoverse series. At first you thik that the Unrivaled are going to invade, but later you find out that they are the most peaceful race on Dinotopia. Congatulations, Ciencin, you've done it again.

I own this book and a few other Dinotopia titles and I really recommend this to any Dinotopia fan or just about anybody who likes to read really good books. Once I started reading it I could'nt put it down, it is one of the best books Ive read in a very long time. I also recommend the Dinotopia book Windchaser for another good read

or anyone else, for that matter! I own this book and have reread it a few times. Three friends journey into the Lost City of Halycon, and what they find is not what they expect. They meet new friends and face new challenges. But will it be enough to stop the power-hungry Lord Lucius? You'll have to read it to find out! This book has adventure and excitement, and some humor mixed in also. Over all, an excellent book.

Definitely an amazing story. A man told he will never walk again, not only does he walk, but goes on to become a Green Beret afterwards. The story is amazing for what he overcame in life, don't expect a tell all combat memoir though, it's more about his life.

I first read this book in the span of two days in 1998; it was amazing. While the writing wasn't necessarily anything impressive, the story was inspiring. At times throughout Roy's life, I laughed, cringed, and smiled.

It was when he joined the Army, however, that the book took my breath away. The pace of the book during his military career absolutely flies by, chapters are gone in an instant. When the actual battle timeline and facts start rolling in, well, all I can say is: goosebumps and a dropped jaw. Amazing.

To think that a man can define the word hero as perfectly as Roy did and NOT be a household name speaks poorly of how much our country knows about the men and women in the military.

As a former soldier, I immediately put Tango Mike Mike near the top of my "personal heroes" list.

If you pick this book up, you will not be disappointed.

My father told Roy's heroism as a bedtime story when I was a very young - before Roy even receive the Medal of Honor from President Reagan and before this book was written. You see, my family is the 1st generation from Vietnam. While he was in the army, my father had the honor and privilege meeting Roy. Needless to say, my father revive Roy's story numerous times to me. I never imagine it was all real...I am so overwhelm while reading this book that it is all true. A definitely must read.

My USA retired husband saw Roy Benavidez 3 days before he passed in Nov '98. Visitors were restricted but Roy beckoned for him to come into his hospital room (he always made time for everyone). He was in great pain and had his shirt off. His scars showed. A few words were spoken between 2 battlefield brothers. It must have been a comfort to the family to see the hundreds who went to the funeral. Mrs. Benevidez resides in El Campo TX, drop her a line to tell her you still remember Roy. Maybe one day a movie will be made about THIS FINE CHRISTIAN MAN.

I truly enjoyed the book! I met MSG Roy P. Benavidez in 1990 while stationed in the Air Force at Dyess AFB in Abilene, Texas. The book is a must to read. It's an inspiration to all mankind. Unfortunately, on 11-30-98, he passed away. I attended his funeral services along with hundreds to pay our respects to a man whom I met in my lifetime and will never forget. The book has been written. Now, the movie must be made...

This is a small board book. Perfect to fit in Christmas stockings and little toddlers' hands. It's quite silly and really fun.

At first I was disappointed that this book was a small board book, but my kids liked it so much I got over that quickly. It was in my almost 2 yr old daughters stocking Christmas morning and she kept opening it and laughing, even slapping the floor! Teaches emotions and expressions too.

This book is suitable for a 1-2 year old. My little boy is 3 but is a big Sesame Street fan so he still enjoyed it. It's very colourful with thick laminated pages which makes it easy to clean. I would recommend this to other parents.

My one-year old daughter loves this book so much that she has completely worn it out. It is quite durable but she carries it everywhere. It is her favorite. She enjoys making 'monster voices' to go with the monster faces. She has taken to reading it to herself at times. We love this book and are buying it for a friend's newborn - along with another copy for my daughter!

This is my 16-month old son's second favorite book (the first is Ten Little Ladybugs). He loves the book, can hold it himself, and often sits and "reads" it alone, too. However, in reading alone, has grabbed the pages from the binding side and easily tore the book in half. I glued it back, and it seems to hold for now.