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The plot of the book will keep you reading, at first the three stories will make you ask many things about the real plot, but when the three stories merge and start the main story of the book you won't be able to leave the book, nevertheless, at the end of it is like a James Bond movie with a new star Sean Dillon instead of Sean Connery.
The story is good but it has his details that any secret agent would never do, for example to trust blindly Asta and try her to be against her step father.

Read it!

THE BEST AFTER NO WAR STORIES. SEAN DILLON RETURNS IN THIS GREAT ADVENTURE.

After the prologue sets the background of the Chungking Covenant, the story jumps forward 50 years and digresses for the first two chapters in an unrelated case involving Sean Dillon. Chapter three goes back to the Chungking Covenant, and Dillon is brought into the case somewhat belatedly. It is an interesting case, but both the good guys and the bad guys bumble about a bit too much in circumstances where one slip could mean sudden death (dropping their guard, turning their back on a known enemy, etc.). Some scenarios are repeated in other Sean Dillon tales.

Unlike James Bond, Dillon never seems to have much luck with women. The story has considerable violence but very little sex. Overall, the book is worth reading for light fiction, especially if you are a Sean Dillon fan. The action is fast paced, and never gets dull.

An excellent novel by Jack Higgins. This suspenseful novel is for young adults and older. In 1944, Mao Tse-Tung and Lord Mountbatten signed a secret document. If the British would supply the Chinese Communist Army with ammos to fight the Japanese, Mao Tse-Tung would extend the British Rule over Hong Kong by another hundred years if he ever rules China. However, the plane that held the secret documents was lost in a plane crash.

In 1993, the Italian Mafia learned about the secret documents from one of the pilots that survived in the plane crash. Now, the Italian Mafia would find the documents so their billions of dollars of investment will not be gone in Hong Kong. The British Government finds out that the Mafia is up to the documents. Sean Dillon and Brigadier Ferguson are on a mission directly given by the Prime Minister to recover the documents before the Mafia lay its hands on them.

I recommend this book for people who have spare time to read. It's an excellent novel after all. The storyline is interesting. With the beginning focusing on Mao and Lord Mountbatten and then it ends. It then jumps right into 1993. The Mao part is great. I thought that their meeting really happened. The author has a serious tone in that part of the novel. The best part of the novel that I thought was when Sean Dillon was introduced. He seems like a cool and cold-blooded guy. A guy who use to work for any other terrorist or government organization. He bombed places and killed people. However, he never killed children or women. He sounds like a brutal man but actually he's not. The author was smart in creating Sean Dillon because he makes Sean sounds like a bad guy at the start of the novel but when you read further in the story, what you think of him actually changes. Another interesting character is Asta. She appeals to be like a charming girl who only knows about having a peaceful life. But actually, she's a heartless woman who killed her own mother and tricked Sean Dillon. These two characters are interesting because they tend to change throughout the book.
When reading the book, the story becomes more exciting. There are more actions and myths to solve. Once you piece all the myths and problems, it feels like if you are part of the story with them to solve the case.

I think Jack Higgins could do better in stretching the storyline and having a longer climax and resolution because the climax was not that good and the resolution sucked. But, after all, this book is good.

An exciting novel, which one should not miss. Check out this book and read it. Do the documents really exist...

In China, in 1944, in the waning days of WW2, a document was signed by Mao Tse Sung and witnessed by Lord Louis Nountbatten, on behalf of Winston Churchill. This document, the Chungking Covenant, guaranteed continued rights to the British to accupy Hong Kong for yet another 100 years. The plane on which Scottish Officer, Ian Campbell and the Covenant was flying, crashed but Campbell , barely alive, was rescued by his batman and returned to England, never to regain his wits.Fifty years later as the time approaches for the handover of Hong Kong to the Chinese, the now aged batman reveals the presence of the Covenant to be hidden somewhere in the grounds of Campbell's castle in the Highlands of Scotland and both British Intelligence forces and the Mafia, who hold huge interests in Hong Kong, are anxious to acquire the document. The Brits hire Sean Dillon, former IRA operative and general mercenary to many countries (but definitely an almost good guy) to act on their behalf and to vie with a mysterious American millionaire, to get the document. If you like action thrillers with plenty going on, you'll love this as I did...it would make a marvellous movie!

That one day 4 year olds will be able to actually read this book.
This book is not meant for kids aged 4-8. It is well beyond what they understand. Frankly , i don't even think a 4 year old can even read this. Nice pictures. But unfortunately , i don't enjoy buying a book for pictures. I can get pictures anywhere. I didn't need to purchase this book to get them. Anyway , don't buy this book unless you enjoy paying a high price for pictures. With regards to the age group. Unless you have a gifted 4 year old this book is a waste of time for him/her.

What better gift can a parent give a child than a vision of a free and just future. This beautiful book is the illustrated text of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's speech given in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963.

The text of King's inspirational speech is illustrated by 14 African American artists/illustrators. Each illustration is attractive and deftly illustrates points in Dr. King's speech. Any of the illustrations could well serve as pictures for someone's wall. Every illustration is noteworthy and inspirational. I love the cover illustration by Leo and Diane Dillon. Other illustrations that I am moved by include You Have Been the Veterans of Creative Suffering by Tom Feelings and The Table of Brotherhood by James E. Ransome.

This book would serve well for a method to introduce children to Martin Luther King. Whether as a teacher or parent you choose to read the whole text of the speech or discuss King's life and his importance in American history, may depend on the age of the child. While the recommended ages for reading are 4 to 8, a four year old may not understand the message. Certainly, this book would serve as a tool for older children or even adults to get to know King and his message.

I think that every American should read the text of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s I have a dream speech. It is as deeply meaningful and powerful today as it was in 1963. What better way to preserve the memory of Martin Luther King's speech than owning a copy of this book either for your children or yourself. This is a truly beautiful book which would be a great and lasting addition to a children's library.

ý I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of creedý. That all men are created equalý. Most of you have probably heard of this speech from many of Martin Luther King Jr. books, and probably have heard the amazing story a million times. But hearing what his wife has to say about all of the changes and differences that he has done is like having a big serving of your favorite food. If you like poetry or bubble bursting stories youýll adore this book. She tells you a variety of things from sad, bad, and, exiting things. Also on top of all of that the pictures are wonderful and they tell a lot of what has to do with the passage. This book will lift you from your seat and youýll never know, because this book will take you away. I donýt care who you are but this book is for you so get it, its waiting!

This book was written by: Correta Scott King
The title was: I Have a Dream

I used to read this to my kids when I was a children's librarian in an African-American school in Detroit, and they loved it. It has such amazing, beautiful pictures- you can't really understand their beauty until you see the book in front of you. And of course, the speech is incredibly moving. The book prints the full text of the speech, but since there isn't alot of writing on each page, and there is such beautiful artwork, even 4th graders sit in awe at what is read and shown to them.

Don't be fooled by the fact that this is marketed as a children's book: "I Have a Dream" will appeal to readers of all ages. In this book the full text of Martin Luther King's famous speech is accompanied by 14 superb works, most of them in full color, by 15 different artists.

The book contains a thoughtful forward by Coretta Scott King and a brief but informative biographical supplement about Dr. King himself. A magnificent black-and-white photographic portrait of Dr. King in his oratorical mode serves as an effective complement to the rest of the book's illustrations. Also noteworthy are the final pages of the book, in which the artists briefly share their personal thoughts about Dr. King's legacy and about their contributions to the book.

The power of Dr. King's speech is greatly enhanced by the beautiful artwork of this book. The pictures encompass many different artistic styles and techniques. Each one is a masterpiece which invites the reader to return and reflect upon it.

As I noted at the start of the interview, this book should be enjoyed by both adults and children. It would make a wonderful gift for individuals interested in the civil rights movement, in African-American history, in multiculturalism and racial reconciliation, or in contemporary art. This book is a fitting tribute to one of the 20th century's most influential visionaries.

Disseminates the elements of ki and aikido training and philosophy eloquently

Tohei is great martial artist and instuctor but this one put me to sleep. Dull

After years of Aikido training I reached the conclusion that Japanese cannot articulate their thoughts about KI simply because, in so doing, they would have to admit that all the KI "stuff" comes from China. Even in this book Tohei sensei talks about positive and negative energy because he eventually doesn't want to use the terms Yin and Yang. This having said, this book offers an interesting perspective about the body energy as it is envisioned by Japanese. Tohei sensei reportedly is a man with immense KI. He is the only Great Master who received the 10th dan from O Sensei M. Ueshiba.
In conclusion, if you want a Japanese perspective on KI, buy it. If you are a beginner and want to get started on your inner energy cultivation, I strongly suggest you to buy "Opening the Energy Gates of your Body" By Kumar Frantzis. If you are experienced in this field ... well you already know what you want to do.

Here is the deep left field point of view.
Qi, Ki or whatever its name is such an abstraction, and its experience so subjective to even attempt to say anything about it is futile at best.
Tohei was a great instructor, but the branch of practice that "only studies that which fosters ki" is fallacious at best. EVERYTHING ought to develop and foster Ki, propery practiced.
So... there.
Interesting to read, but better and deeper works out there.

I found the book to be very helpful in understanding some of the principles and concepts in ki-aikido. As a beginning practitioner of this art form, I found this book to be an excellent guide as to the various techniques and also it has provided me a better understanding on some of the concept of ki-aikido in general. Definitely a must read for all beginning practitioners or would be practitioners!

Since I was new to a computer, let a lone, an internet, this book has been sitting along side my computer since I received it. It has given me sites for some of my favorites, I would not have otherwise known how to get in touch with. It is a very well put together book, and simple to read, not to mention, FUN!

I went through the table of contents highlighting the areas I was interested in. I found many of the sites down or useless to me since I am not an American. All told out of 1001 things to do, I found only 23...........ho hum. It makes a good library donation.

This book provides 1001 sites, along with summaries. It is a great resource for anyone who uses the internet - although seasoned internet experts will be able to think of some sites which should have been included in this book. It is a fun and informative guide, I highly recommend it.

As the media specialist in our school, I have relied on this book for many great Web sites for our students. It sits right next to my desk and computer.

I bought this for my parents, who are just learning to navigate the internet. They LOVE it! Contains a site for almost anything they can think of.

Eric Payne's "I See Through Eyes", a collection of short stories and poetry, chronicles life as a black man inspired by religion, sexuality, racism and family. Payne appropriately categorizes his works into six divisions: Young, Havin' Fun Wide-Eyed & Naïve; Lamentations; Fires of Revelations; Perchance Romance; To Know God; and Liberation. As such, the reader can readily recognize a gradual growth towards individual freedom in each segment.

Payne's poem "Because" reveals deep-rooted [Black] family values, suggesting individuals should step back and be thankful for their present situation established by ancestors whom he claims have "[made] my way clear / blindly moving, not knowing the outcome / working your hands with faithful vigor / for my sake [. . .]" .

While his short story "Insanity Wears High Heels" pokes with the narrator's probable and ultimate sexcapades, readers can still expect a wonderful and purposeful moral as a conclusion. Payne intertwines his knowledge of music with the beats and rhythms of his natural rhyme scheme, eloquently detailed passages, and allusions to Coltrane and Donna Sommer.

There is an ardent need for young, talented writers such as Payne. "I See Through Eyes" easily quenches the appetite of hungry youth who may find relativity in his truths.
Unsuccessfully edited in regard to inconsistencies in style, yet well written, Payne's works effortlessly take a reader back to the oral tradition, where readers are soothed by delicate, precise words and traditional themes of human nature.

This brotha's work is eyeopening. With poems like "the neighbor" and "if I was white, I wonder", he tells it like it is. It's amazing how poetry can touch one's heart. A friend of mine saw my copy of this book and read it. It nearly brought tears to her eyes. Everyone should see through this brotha's eyes. Get the Book and tell a friend.

This collection of poetry and prose is entertaining and enlightening. To delve into the mind of a man on aspects such as Love and God is refreshing. Selected favorites such as Sunrise, which shows that the simplicity of words can be enough and Petals Against My Skin that make vulnerability appealing is reason enough to add this to your collection. Women everywhere need to See Through Eyes and get this book. Better yet...men...make the jesture and get your woman a copy!

When you hear folks say that Eric Payne's book, I SEE THROUGH EYES, is filled with poetry and prose that has the ability to capture young minds and make old ones pause in deep reflection, then, you better believe it! I found that long after I finished reading this book, I could hear or see something in my day that would bring to mind certain poems from this collection.

This book consists of six sections with seven to thirteen narrative poems and prose pieces per section. From the beginning of the book to the end, Eric allows readers to see through his eyes and intimate thoughts some of the concerns, frustrations, and celebrations in the experiences of men. He articulates clearly in, "The Neighbor" and "If I Was White, I Wonder," the struggles black men often have with racism and social acceptance. He describes man's spiritual nature and reverence for God succinctly in, "Man," "Faith," and "There is No God." Poems like, "The Phone Call," "Variation on The Phone Call," "When," and "My Heart," depicts the anxieties they feel when finding love or facing heartaches. Then that sexy little Haiku titled, "Sunrise" along with poems, "Braggadocious" and "Petals Against My Skin," are so sensual and passionate that they are guaranteed to make a woman smile.

Reading I SEE THROUGH EYES, does capture one's attention and rocks like a lover as Bernice McFadden, author of SUGAR and THE WARMEST DECEMBER states on the book's cover. I enjoy reading poetry and I especially enjoyed this book and this writer's intimate thoughts about issues that are not always expressed openly by men. I look forward to reading more by Eric Payne in the future!

"I See Through Eyes" by Eric Payne is a window into the soul of a young African American male as he goes about the chore of daily life in America. The poems are filled with reality and emotion.

This collection of poetry is divided into six sections, they are: 1) Young Havin' Fun Wide Eyed & Naive 2) Lamentations 3) Fires of Revelation 4) Perchance Romance 5) To Know God 6) Liberation. My favorite section is "Lamentations" because it deals with feelings of the heart. In "The Phone Call" the poet reflects on Shannon a woman that he dated that had it all together, and he thought that they were both equally interested in each other. Then Shannon suddenly drops out of sight. The poet wages an internal battle with himself as to whether he should call her or just leave the situation alone. I know that at one point in my life I was in the same situation as the poet,so I could definitely relate to his plight.

I really enjoyed "I See Through Eyes" and look forward to reading more of Eric Payne's work. On the RAW scale "I See Through Eyes" is a 4.

Reviewed by Simone A. Hawks

I actually did a video review of this book on youtube. This was the first time that I've read a book of this kind. Even if you have a elementary grade understanding about history, you will be able to decipher that the research that Dr. Clarke presented in his book were based on fact. Dr. Clarke gives us the history that has been glazed over to make european culture seem justified in their actions. THe truth of the matter is that european culture is the most agressive when it comes to the domination of the world's people. This book will give you a breakdown and open your eyes. Read it in one day. Fantastic

clarke knew his stuff.people can refute his claims but they hold merit

Just another academic making money with half-truths that suit his prejudiced worldview. The deliberate spelling of "African" as "Afrikan" tells you all you need to know: it's the same as oh-so-worldly college sophomores who spell "America" as "Amerika" to prove they're politically aware after taking that popular "African-American/gay/La Raza/womyn's studies" course on how America is evil because it expects people to work for a living and holds them responsible for the results of their decisions.

Dr. Clarke has again crushed myths of the Atlantic Slave Trade. The number one myth is "Afrikans are just as much to blame for selling slaves as Europeans". If ANYONE has ever said this to you and you didn't tell them that was a pile of buffalo poo poo, than you need this book! If you agreed with that statement you need this book. Dr. Clarke breaks down our ways back before the trade. And the BIG differences between European & Arab slavery to Afrikan slavery. TUA NTR Dr. Clarke!!! In which 99% of the people don't know how Afrikan slave system worked. And yes where are our memorials? And the true nature of the Atlantic Slave traders is exposed in detail. Also what did Afrikans do when they found out what was REALLY going on? That answer reveals our nature and how beautiful, strong and weak we are. This books hits EVERY corner about the Slave Trade. And crushes alot of myths. Again Dr. Clarke provide a slamming bibliography. That is a library listing by itself! Every child should read this book when starting to learn our history in America. And the strategies used by both sides. I could go on & on, this book is just everything about the subject in one book!

Professor John H. Clark has done a amazing analysis with providing the reader with a clear understanding on how the slave trade and genocides was instituted and systematized into what is now identified as capitalism on a gobal scale. This is a must read for anyone exploring the history of the African American history.

A typical Jack Higgins story, but told wonderfully. Believable characters, plausible plot and writing that has always made me read him. A throughly good read.

A mysterious assassin is out to kill a world figure and must be stopped. The story moves along well, but we seen this tale before. I wouldn't mind, but Higgins has worked this plot before with better results. See Eye of the Storm or The Eagle Has Landed

Jack Higgins did it again. Once you start this novel, it is hard to put it down!

This book is another in Higgins' Liam Devlin series. Devlin is the former IRA gunman, German intelligence operative and all around charming rogue from such other Higgins works as "The Eagle has Landed" and "Touch the Devil."

This time, Devlin is semi-retired from the IRA and working as a professor of English literature at Trinity College in Dublin. The KGB has placed a deep-cover operative in Ireland, where he's killed both Protestants and Catholics at key times, in order to maintain the state of strife and distrust that exists in Northern Ireland.

But when a Soviet engineer defects to Britain, he has a story to tell. The KGB had set up a town called Drumore in the Ukraine, but it's an exact replica of a market town in Northern Ireland. There, a young man named Mikhail Kelly, son of a Russian mother and Irish revolutionary Sean Kelly, is trained to act as a normal Irishman, and a member of the IRA. Kelly has been in Ireland for twenty years, acting on Moscow's orders to derail any peace initiatives.

Now, the jig is up. But the KGB attempts to put Kelly, his usefulness over, out of commission. They fail, and now Kelly has no where to run and nowhere to hide. In a last act of desperation, he sets his sights on the Pope, who'll soon be visiting England.

Devlin, working in conjunction with the IRA and Brigadier Charles Ferguson, must stop him.

This is a good book for Higgins fans. The beginning of the book seems sort of slow, and never quite builds the tension it intends to. The action picks up near the end, when Mikhail Kelly is unmasked in his assumed identity. Kelly's romp through Great Britain, one step ahead of Devlin and Ferguson, is the best part of the book.

If you like Higgins, and especially Devlin, this one's worth picking up. If you're new to Higgins, don't start here. Start with "Eye of the Storm."

It's been quite a while since I've read a Jack Higgins book, though his were the first action/adventure, spy novels I ever read. Now I remember why I enjoyed them so much.

A Soviet spy, a very talented actor, code name Cuchulain, has been living in Ireland for 20 years. His task: to foster unrest. To this end, he's been part of the IRA, but he also works for the other side--whichever will make the situation in Ireland worse.

British Intelligence learns of this from a defector, and has to work in conjunction with the IRA and the only two people who can identify him: the defector and the foster daughter of a high-ranking Soviet official, a concert pianist who was just a child when Cuchulain killed her father.

The story has several twists, as our heroes try one avenue after another to find and stop the elusive and deadly Cuchulain. By the end of the story, the Soviets are after him as well.

The Good:
Jack Higgins's writing style. It's so transparent, there's nothing between the reader and the story.
The premise. It's intriguing and chilling to think that one man, in the right place, at the right time, with the right training, could cause so much havoc.
The plot and pacing. Every time one avenue of investigation or attack is closed off, we veer down another, always increasing the tension.
The characters. While this isn't by any means an in-depth character study, the characters are well-rounded and understandable individuals the reader can care about.


The Bad:
It's quite obviously an older book, with dated references, particularly those to the Soviet Union.
Cuchulain's cover identity was fairly obvious early on.


The Verdict:
This is what a spy novel should be: exciting, edge-of-your-seat suspense and action, plenty of twists and turns, and characters and consequences you can care about.

THIS BOOK IS HIGHLY INFORMATIVE. IT COVERS ALOT OF HISTORY ALONG WITH THE GREAT STORIES. I PERSONALLY USED IT AS A SORT OF TOUR GUIDE WHILE VISITING WILLIAMSBURG. QUITE A FEW OF THE PLACES WRITTEN ABOUT ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. REALLY FUN WAY TO LEARN ABOUT HISTORY AND GET A FRIGHT AT THE SAME TIME.

L. B. Taylor himself came out to see my home "Hewick" as he was preparing to write his 2nd book on the "Ghosts of Virginia". He included us in his second volume, and dedicated ten pages asking if "Hewick" is Virginia's "Most Haunted" house? We often have people come by Hewick Plantation and ask if it is really true that we have ghosts here??? This is a fascinating book and I have all of books he has written and look forward to each one as they come out. Maybe one of these days he will make another visit here, and my youngest daughter can relate to him an experience she had during the night when she was eleven years old.....

No matter where you travel in the US, you can always find books about local and regional ghosts and other stories of the supernatural. I travel extensively, and I make a point of visiting bookstores, just to add such books to my collection. The quality of these books varies, so when I find an author with a flair for telling a good ghost story, I feel as though I've discovered a local gem. I must say that of all such books that I've purchased, Mr. Taylor's collections of Virginia ghost stories have been my favorites.

Luckily for Mr. Taylor (and for me!), Virginia seems to be overrun with ghosts, and so he's had plenty to write about. I believe that, to date, his "Ghosts of Virginia" series is up to volume 8, and none of these volumes are slim by any means; a couple are quite robust. The one thing they have in common is that they are all extremely entertaining and well-written. We should thank Mr. Taylor for his efforts in compiling these stories, as he spends much time, money, and effort in rooting out the wealth of eerie tales and legends of this fabulous state. For my sake, I hope his efforts continue for years to come. So long as they do, I can assure him that I will continue to add his volumes to my bookshelves.

L.B. Taylor,Jr. has a masterpiece in The Ghost Of Virginia. As a Virginian, I know about many of these true happenings. All through the book he provides pictures with loads of information. I would advise anyone who is interested in true ghosts tales to get this book.

Recently, I had an aunt pass on from Cancer. Living in New Jersey, I had to travel to my birthplace, Suffolk, Va. several weekends in a row in the final stages and upon her passing. My co-author travelled with me, and we picked up a copy of this book at Shirley Plantation on our way on the first trip down. As I drove, my Co-author, Diana Sinclair, read each story aloud as we drove. I was so engrossed in the tale that I missed several turns along the way. We simply could not stop reading it. The book is well written, concise, complete with locations (We actually visited some of the sites) and informative in historical and geographical detail. An excellant read. In fact, we are going to Williamsburg this weekend, and we have volume two to keep us company....

The world is governed by very different personages from what is imagined by those who are not behind the scenes. -Disraeli.

_Secret Societies and Subversive Movements_ by the British patriot Nesta H. Webster is a fascinating account of the various secret and subversive movements which have plotted against both throne and altar from the most ancient times to the modern day. The book relies on Webster's previous research regarding the French revolution and the "World revolution" as well as various documents by individuals such as the Abbe Barruel and Professor Robison outlining the growth and development of secret societies. The book is cleanly divided into two halves, the first focusing on the past and the second focusing on the present day (the book was written in 1924 following the horrors of the First World War). Webster's book makes for fascinating reading, explaining fully the rise of secret societies and subversive movements from their most ancient origins in various mystery cults until her time.

The first section of this book focuses upon what Webster regards as "the past". The book begins by noting the role of the ancient secret tradition in various mystery cults which existed in ancient times. The book focuses particularly on the Jewish cabala (which Webster argues has been distorted by the Talmud, the Sephir Yetzirah, the Zohar, and other ancient texts). Webster quotes from individuals such as Eliphas Levi and Gougenot de Mousseaux regarding the role of this ancient system. Webster then turns her attention to the coming of the redeemer, foreshadowed perhaps in the ancient world traditions, though brought to earth in the person of Jesus Christ. Webster notes the various modern day distortions which have been claimed about Jesus including those which argue for a "Christian" socialism and those which claim that Jesus was influenced by the Essenes. Webster thoroughly refutes both of these claims by reference to Holy Scripture. Webster also shows how Christianity became distorted by both the Gnostics and the Manicheans as well as other heretics after Christ's death and resurrection. Following this discussion, Webster turns her attention to the revolt against Islam. Here she notes particularly disturbing instances within Islam of various subversive movements which advocated outright materialism and atheism. She shows how these movements claimed to be part of the Islamic tradition; however, upon reaching the higher grades the initiate was informed that he had been duped by religion which was regarded to be a sham. Webster also notes such notorious Islamic societies as the Assassins, who played an important role in the ancient and medieval world. Webster next turns her attention to the Templars, noting the blasphemies of which they have been accused as well as their relationship with various Islamic societies. Webster claims that the beliefs of the Templars bear a striking similarity to those of the false Cabala; in particular, she notes the various distortions of Christianity present in both the Talmud and the lies about Christ present in the Toledot Yeshu. Webster next turns her attention to occultism, noting the presence of Satanism and Rosicrucianism, particularly as these relate to freemasonry. Webster also shows how freemasonry has actively conspired against throne and altar, particularly Continental masonry (though she denies the influence of malevolent elements to such a great extent within Anglo-American masonry). Webster also explains the rise of the Grand Lodge within masonry as well as German templarism and French illuminism. The influence of Swedenborgianism as well as the influence of various mysterious recurring individuals such as the Comte de Saint-Germain keep recurring within the masonic literature. Webster also shows the rise of the Jewish cabalists distinguishing between the false cabala (of the Talmud and the Toledot Yeshu) and the true cabala which may have been a precursor of Christianity (in particular the Trinity). She also shows how Jewish beliefs in a coming Messiah play an important role in their tradition. Webster also examines the role of the Bavarian Illuminati, a secret society started by Adam Weishaupt, a professor of canon law, in Ingolstadt, Bavaria and modeled after the Jesuit order in many respects. The Bavarian Illuminati actively plotted against the monarchy, and they became adherents to a rationalist/materialist philosophy upon reaching the higher grades. Another important figure in the society of the Illuminati was that of Baron von Knigge, referred to as "Philo" by his Illuminati compatriots. Webster suggests that the roots of the Illuminati philosophy are to be found in the Jewish cabala, along with the tight linkage between cabalists and various other freemasonic groups. Webster also notes how Jesuitism and British masonry may provide suitable sources for reaction against subversive elements.

Webster next turns her attention to the modern day. Here, she explains the role of freemasonry in bringing about revolution. In particular, Webster shows the errors of socialism, a system which claims to be for the working class but which in fact operates against the interests of workers. Indeed, socialism may be a viable alternative for the finance capitalist. Webster links several groups which may play a role in the coming revolution. These include pan-Germanism, Illuminism, Bolshevism, International Finance, British Socialism, and the Jewish peril. The real initiates may be members of any of these various groups. Webster also shows the subversive elements within such movements as those surrounding Aleister Crowley and the Theosophical Society. Finally, Webster traces the role of the Jewish cabala through the many secret societies up until the modern day.

This book provides an excellent historical perspective on the inner workings of various secret societies and subversive movements which operate behind the scenes seeking to obtain power over the lives of billions.

Well what can I say. It is a pretty good book although she is an ultra-leftwing political conspiracy theorist. People seem to forget the Fascism is an ultra-leftist ideology while anarchism would be an ultra-right. She places too much emphesis, with distorted facts about Zionism and this "Jewish" conspiracy. If anything from the manipulation and continual twisting of facts today concerning Israel would prove exactly opposite to her position. There is more of an International Socialism/Communism or even one could argue "Theosophy" and its ideological cohorts are determined to undermined Judaism. This arguement is holds much water due to the fact that all subversive movements are based on previous Gnostic Pagan ideologies while Judaism is the only sole faith based on monotheism. Debase Judaism, the debasement of Christianity is a very easy task. I would deffinately suggest "The Rainbow Swastika"-H.Newman or "Hitler's Preistess" for a well rounded background to understand where Webster attained her vast, and contorted hatred for the Jews. As a Christian I found many of her facts in the sections "Ancient Secret Traditions","The Cabalists", "Jewish Peril" as well the section on the Talmud to be held from a traditional anti-Jewish Catholic point of view. I believe, and advocate, that if anyone truly wish to understand Cabbalah or the Talmud to walk into your local Orthodox Synagogue and ask all your questions to a learned Rabbi. In the Jewish Culture Education and teaching others, like in Christianity, is considered a blessing. Therefor when it comes to the specifities of Jewish Theology one must go to the source, the Rabbi and the Bible. Webster bases no fact that the Jew is the only people on this planet that practice the faith Pharasee Jesus Christ had worshipped, nor does she give any account whatsoever that the entire ethical, values and moral system and the belief in one G0d in the Christian West is solely due to the Jew. I believe that any individual above the mere minimum level of intellect would knowledge themselves to the long history of anti-semitism. This World Jewish Conspiracy is a fraud. Israel is a State therefor Zionism is technically no more. The book is very interesting although it is very clear that she dismisses Communism and the Power Elite in Britian and America: Round Table Group and the forerunners to the Council on Foreign Relations (see "Fabian Freeway" - R. Martin. Looking back one can accurately see that Webster's insight was misguided but I must admit that for her day, one might actually believe her work, due to the 1920's the Protocols were in full swing, Pogroms, the Dreyfus Affair, Revolutions. It is too bad that Carnagee, Ford, Rockefeller (CFR) and most of the elite are not Jews. Nor are they Christians or even Muslims. A Christian believes in Jesus, A Jew believes in G0d, A Muslim believes in Mohammed and their god Allah. These power elites are gnostic or G-dless at best. It is a very interesting read but very obvious written with an agenda to further the Jew as the traditional evil in a Protocolist, anti-Semitic Europe.

This is a good book. Now I second everyone'se ratings with encorced acceptance BUT JESUS taught AGAINST ALL deception and any occultic movements and actions. I was in the Black Dragon and I will take a risk in saying that online but oh well. Believe me, they are very much occult and connected to illuminism. I do NOT support any of that. Any version of the Bible will clearly state this about the truth of Jesus and being a Christian. And no, it does NOT mean anyone is perfect. History books will not reveal what this book will reveal because secret societies do NOT allow their secrets to be taught openly in a way that will give anyone the power to stop them, expose them and otherwise defeat them. This is why they are called SECRET SOCIETIES. So even though you will see books and myriads of information on them through the net, you will never get a true list of all member's names, where they live and their own connections to groups like the Illuminat. And if they do that, they would be risking death for sure. The truest and darkest secrets that would damage them will not be revealed enough to allow the world to truly stop them save World War Three, and with the way things are going, I would not doubt that this will not happen in the future sorry to say:( This is what happens when you take the side of the occult in satanism via witchcraft and any occultic movement desiring a one world order under their sick, twisted and dark agendas. GOOD BOOK.

This book written by Nesta Webster is not a typical sensationalistic book.
While this work is dated,it's also loaded with a lot of information about well-known and little-known secret societies.This author investigates the origin,founders,and in some cases the actions of these organisations.The French Revolution being one.
Not all of these societies are bad and that is expressed in this book.
This book is an excellent introduction to the study of secret societies and I recommend it.
It's written well and despite it's size,I found it hard to put down.

Originally published in the 1930s this book covers several known secret societies that made a mark in history. The Islamic assassins, the Knights Templar, the Freemasons, the Bavarian Illuminati among others are all explored. The big thing that this book does that other more recent books on secret socieites don't do is it explores the role of Jews, the Cabala and International Jewry in this age old conspiracy. This is something that is completely neglected in most recent conspiracy related books due to political correctness. While only a fool thinks that all Jews are somehow involved in this it takes an equally foolish person not to see that while the majority of them are not Jews, Jews are still disproportionately involved and the roots of most, if not all, of the ideologies and tools that move the globalist conspiracy forward spring forth from ideologies and ideas that have roots in the Jewish culture.

Bennett Cerf's legendary career had him founding, leading, then selling one of the world's pre-eminent publishing houses, writing best-selling anthology and humor collections, speaking live and appearing weekly on the "What's My Line?" quiz program. He assembled much of his oral history through transcribed interviews and journals for what would be his autobiography, which he planned to write before dying in 1971.

His family, most notably son Christopher, assembled "At Random" from Cerf's exhaustive life chronicles. His family focused it, according to their introduction, "primarily about publishing and (Cerf's) pre-eminent role in it."

The result is a fascinating story which assembles Cerf's life and career as businessman, newspaperman, TV celebrity and, finally, his role as husband, father, and friend (a lovingly remembered childhood, glimpses of his marriages and family, loving remembrances of friends and co-workers from George Gershwin to Moss Hart.)

Cerf knew and published some of the 20th century's most well-known and beloved authors. "At Random" teems with anecdotes and personal remembrances of James Joyce, D.H. Lawrence, Dorothy Parker, Sinclair Lewis (with some frank critique of his career), William Faulkner, and Ayn Rand. Cerf also crosses paths with legends like New York's Cardinal Spellman (who shares an unusual lunch date with author John O'Hara) Presidents Roosevelt and Truman, and General David Sarnoff who, at the book's conclusion, clashes with Cerf over a fraction in Random House's sale price to RCA.

"At Random" has much to teach about publishing, its machinations and the egos and careers of its stars, the authors. But you come away wanting to know Bennett Cerf better: his political liberalism, hot temper, love of celebrity and of language. He hints at each in his narrative, only leading you to wish other quotes and remembrances could have been included in an addendum to this lovingly compiled book.. (Excerpts from some of his still popular pun collections may have helped.)

"At Random" examines the life and legacy of a celebrity too rare amid an increasingly sordid and more coarse media landscape - an author and businessman who became a TV celebrity first, celebrating the brief period when books were as anticipated and celebrated as films and recorded music are today. It's essential for anyone appreciating 20th century classic literature and history, a love letter to its first star authors and, by proxy, the man who published them.

When all of us who are now officially Older Than Dirt were growing up back in the 1960's, we usually aspired to be one of three particular men of achievement. For those of us with an athletic bent, Mickey Mantle was the man of choice. For those adventurers and dreamers among us, John Glenn appeared to offer the perfect life. Finally, for us bookish sorts, Bennett Cerf, publisher of Random House, panelist on "What's My Line," author of some of the worst puns ever written, and all around man about town, was who we aspired to be. This book is in essence his memoirs, told in oral history format just a short time before his unexpected death in 1971. He describes in detail why he was able to grow Random House at such a rapid rate: in his day, the book business was a stuffy one, and no publisher worth his salt would dream of lowering himself to seek out new authors. Bennett, being young, foolish, and very intelligent, would travel to wherever these authors lived and impress them with his obvious wit and sincerity. The sheer number and weight of authors whose service he was able to acquire through these means was absolutely staggering: Eugene O'Neill, James Joyce, Robinson Jeffers, Gertrude Stein, and Bill Styron, to name a very few. Through his liberal editing policies, he was even able to publish authors whose ideas he completely disagreed with, such as Ayn Rand. Some, like playwright Moss Hart, became lifelong friends. Although New Yorkers have long thought of their city as the center of the universe, Bennett's long and storied career made many believe it was true. The reader will enjoy his chatty, breezy style time and again, as a reminder that at one time, in the world of books and publishing, one man truly made a difference.

From his early days at Columbia, starting out with the Liveright Publishers in the 1920's, and buying into the Modern Library Classics, this is without doubt the best look at publishing I've ever read! The amusing story of how a special copy of Ulysses came across the Atlantic, and into the hands of US Customs is worth the price of the book! Add to that, hilarious yarns, like meeting with Gerturde Stein & her Sidekick Alice, featuring the hilarious promotion of their book so it could "compete" with the hot new book FOREVER AMBOR ,and its even hotter author K. Windor makes for some real fun. Mr. Cerf even wrote a short comment in some of Ms. Stein's books admitting he could not always figure out what they were about. A trip to London to meet Bernard Shaw is also good for some laughs. His comments on many other "Literati", including Saroyan, Faulkner, O' Hara, Ayn Rand,Wittaker Chambers, etc. plus general comments on the state of the world are all top. In short, a must read for anyone of all ages, even if you don't care too much about writing and publishing!

When I was a young girl, one of my favorite television shows was 'What's My Line' where the game participants had to guess from various hints what the person was representing. Along with Dorothy Kilgallen, I enjoyed most the witty, debanoir Bennett Cerf. I tried in vain to be on the show as at that time, I had "four mothers" instead of forefathers. But that was off-limits back then. In 1955, his autobiography 'The Life Of the Party' portrayed a humorist along the vein of Mark Twain. He loved to solve puzzles. He was master at humorous anecdotes, always at random: as apparently was his sense of thought.

Here are a couple of examples from one of his "Bumper Crop" books"
The learned but unwordly head of the department devoted to the study of comparative religions at Harvard invariably asked the same question on every final exam: "Who, in chronological order, were the Kings of Israel?" Students came to count on this procedure as a sacred institution and prepared accordingly. Only once did he vary from this practice, asking instead: "Who were the major prophets and who were the minor prophets?" The class members were at a loss and all but one left the question unanswered. This sole survivor scribbled furiously and deposited his paper with the air of a conqueror. "Far be it from me to distinguish between these revered gentlemen, but it occurred to me that you might like to have a chronological list of the Kings of Israel."

Do you know why so many Hawaiian words sound and look alike to the uninitiated? There are only twelve letters in the Hawaiian alphabet. The vowels, (A, E, I, O, and U) and the consonants H, K, L, M, N, P, and W.

He was a clever man and an educated man. It's too bad he never received his well-deserved 'Star" in Hollywood, but he was an Easterner (no doubt), and it probably is reserved for the game show hosts. He could have been one, and a good one at that!

The beauty of this book is that you get to know Bennett Cerf as the scholarly, brillant, and excellent businessman who met the most amazing and well known writers of the 20th century. The gentle questioner on What's My Line was the powerhouse of Random House.

This is the book you keep if you want insights into the personalities of such greats as Sinclair Lewis, F Scott Fitzgerald, William Saroyan, James Joyce, William Faulkner, Dorothy Parker, and a hundred other writers.

This is the book you keep when you want to remember a time when, in business deals, your word was all that was needed and great writing meant having something intelligent to say.