T Books

Due to ever degrading literary taste of our post-war generation, Stefan Zweig has been forgotten for few decades,in spite of the fact that the first half of the 20th century , Zweig was perhaps one of the most famous and popular authors in the world. He and compatriot Hugo von Hofmannsthal had almost pararell lives.They were both some sort of literary prodigies(Hofmannsthal and Zweig earned their fame in their teens).They began their literary careers as poets and ended up writing various kind of literary genres,including libretto for Strauss. Also both ended up committing suicide. Zweig wrote many memorable fictions ,but only one novel.And, this is "Beware of Pity".
The novel is a kaleidoscope of the Habsburg dual monarchy.Zweig's talent lays on his superb description of human psyche of each character and the representation of comtemporary time. this work well represents decaying , both morally and physically , Habsburg dual monarchy. It shows how anarchoronistic system of mores( of K.u.K) that led otherwise good natured and a bit simple minded Leutenant Hoffmiler conered to the desperate situation. Does Hoffmiler deserve his fate? read book and decide that by yourself. what amazed me was how well Zweig synchronized and symbolized tragic denoument of kekeskalva family with the outbreak of" the war to end all wars". This is both pcychological and historical drama par excellence.One of forgotten masterpiece that recently rediscovered. Thank you NYRB to bring Zweig back.

This is an intense, psychological drama, and a page-turner to boot! What's so great is the wonderful language, the "lofty" writing. I just loved every page, and our poor, tortured hero.

In the introduction to this book Joan Acocella tells Zweig's story as a writer. One of her claims is that despite his enormous popularity as biographer, essayist, writer of great novellas and stories, this novel is his masterpience. The novel is in essence the story of a feeling, of 'pity' of how it becoming the obsession and duty of the main character turns self- serving and destructive. Briefly , the book revolves around the relationship between a poor Austrian officer Hoffstein and a crippled seventeen year old daughter of a wealthy family Edith Kekesfalvas. After he has inadvertently insulted her by having asked her to dance he becomes bound into a relationship with her, in which she falls deeply in love with him without his truly reciprocating. This is how Acocella reads the protagonist's reasoning and its result after her doctor informs him that it would be disastrous for him to abandon her.

"So he descends ever deeper into hypocrisy. In the process, Zweig gives us a piercing analysis of the motives underlying pity. Gradually Hofmiller realizes how much he enjoys the courtesies paid to him for his emotional services, how it pleases him that when he arrives at the Schloss his favorite cigarettes--and also the novel (its pages already cut) that he had said in passing that he wanted to read--are laid out on the tea table. Nor is it lost on him that his own sense of strength is magnified by Edith's weakness and, above all, by his growing power over the Kekesfalvas, the fact that if he, a poor soldier, does not present himself at teatime, this great, rich household is thrown into a panic, and the chauffeur is dispatched to town to spy him out and see what he is doing in preference to waiting on Edith. Beyond the matter of power, however, Hofmiller finds that the emotion of pity is a pleasure just in itself. It exalts him, takes him to a new place. Before, as an officer, he was required only to obey orders and be a good fellow. Now he is a moral being, a soul."

This end in destruction is somehow a foreshadowing of what would happen to Zweig.Having been betrayed with the rise of the Nazis by the Europe he loves, tried to make a new home and life with his second wife in Brazil. But it does not work out and the both of them are found after having taken fatal overdoes of drugs hands intertwined.

It's a fabulously written book about love instigated by pitty, which can be very dangerous. Worth reading as this kind of thing still happens every day.

...no, not the book by Dave Eggers, but this masterpiece by Stefan Zweig. I came upon this by accident, and bought it, intrigued by the story outline and the reviews below. Only very, very rarely does a book have the power to draw me into the lives of the characters, probably because they're usually just that - characters. Not so here. Here we have flesh and blood and all that entails. I'm still amazed at Zweig's story telling. He's the kind of writer who could make a shopping list fascinating. I lived and breathed every single word in this incredibly beautiful book, and, as has been said elsewhere, the tension becomes almost unendurable. I can hardly do justice to it in a few words. Weirdly, I often found myself smiling, not because it's a funny book, far from it, but just through an appreciation of Zweig's supreme mastery of his art. This is one of those books appearing only a few times in your life that wring emotion out of you whether you like it or not. A heart-breaking, unforgettable and life-enriching experience.

I'd also like to praise the translation, by Trevor and Phyllis Blewitt. At no time is there even a hint that you're reading a translation - something that occurred to me only after finishing the book. On the contrary, it seems to me that the elegance of the language and all the magnificent virtues that contribute to Zweig's humanity and genius have been faithfully rendered. The proof is in my twin disappointments; coming to the end, and learning that there are no further full-length novels by Zweig. I'll definitely be reading all his other works, though.

I really like Jackie Shaw. She has loads of info on how to paint and I'll keep my copy.She is an artist that I have books of hers that are 20yrs plus old. You'll like her teaching.

This book has it all -- clear introductory information (materials, workspace, etc.), wonderful stroke instructions, projects, patterns, finishes, and much more. Another nice thing is that the projects are "rated" as quick and easy (beginner) to intermediate to advanced for each technique.

There are lots of color illustrations accompanied by clear, well-written text. The author is very encouraging and upbeat in her writing. This book is such an asset that I am ordering a copy to donate to our local library. It's definitely a must-have!

I have a ceramics business and got tired of plain ol painting and wanted to expand when I found this book. It has taught me so much and my sales are way up! The techniques are explained in precise detail and are easy to follow. It even has practice strokes which I found to be very helpful. There is not a more informative book about painting out there from taking care of your brushes to a beautiful array of advanced technique. This is just a plain wonderful book and I could not say enough good about it!

Jackie Shaw does an excellent job of showcasing all that is possible in decorative painting. Her examples of stroke work apply across the board for any kind of painting. But, what makes this book work is the way she breaks down each stroke into its individual parts to show how to form them properly. Along the way she imparts words of encouragment and motivation to get you going!

She also gives excellent lessons to practice by and keep you stimulated. It is part of the book's progressive learning curve so that as you advance with one part, there is more to learn in the next section as you move from beginner, to intermediate, to advanced.

I rarely write review of books, but as I pulled out this book once again today to reference, I felt compelled to give Ms. Shaw her props! Thanks Jackie!

As an artist learning something new I was looking for a basic book explaining all terms and projects showing the author to be truly talented. This is all you need for a complete first course.
There is some disagreement among the various author/artists about the term " float". Other than that they all seem to agree about basic techniques. Beautiful demos and photos.
Greatest thing: The author takes you through several projects which you can do on any paper or wood for practice, and then divides these into three levels so that you can achieve the degree of finesse you desire. So practical! Take it from there!

The story was good- a man comes to a small English village to claim his inheritance and encounters a mystery and puzzle.

The concept talked about in the book was really intriguing to me. In medieval times parishioners were asked to pray hourly, so that God would be brought into what they were doing. But many average people did not know how to tell time. So church bells would ring on the hour to remind people to pray, and some people carried a little book called the Book of Hours to read a short prayer while the bells were ringing. Then they would go back into what they were doing.

Because the whole point of life is not to make every day like church, where we sit and listen to a sermon and sing; the whole point is to bring God into your everyday life. Bring Him into your cleaning, your working, your playing. Bring Him into the fun parts and the drudgery. That's how we have a relationship with God.

"We Christians are simply beggars who happen to know where other beggars might find bread."- from The Book of Hours, p. 309

I love this quote. I am far from perfect. I am far from all-knowing or all-powerful. But I know where to find the knowledge and the power. It's in Jesus Christ.

So I'm thinking about getting a chime set on my phone, to ring a short phrase at the top of every hour. Maybe it will help me bring God into my life.

Don't let the size fool you. This is one of Davis Bunn's finest pieces of work. I read too fast the first time, because I wanted to see what happens. There will be no hurry the next time, because savoring the beautiful writing will be a delight to all the senses, and deserves full attention.

Shortly before she died, Brian Blackstone's wife implored him to save her family home in Oxford, England. But when he arrives, Brian finds foreclosure on the house nearly complete because of the enormous death tax. An intriguing, suspense-filled novel that made it virtually impossible to put down. One of Bunn's best!

Well worth your time to read! No sooner had I begun this book, I realized I would ber rereading it.

I loved this book! I've been a Christian since I have been 15 years old; however, I have not really been into Christian fiction because I've found more enjoyment in Christian non-fiction and secular fiction. Also, from my past experience, it seems that Christian fiction has been too syrup-y sweet and too preachy. I absolutely adore this book. The story line is wonderful. It has romance, suspense, mystery, drama....all rolled in one. The book also touched me by how God works in our lives to put us on the path that He feels is best for us ...and all the while we can glorify Him by helping and being of service to others (those lovable and those unlovable also). I highly recommend this book. I also look forward to reading more of T. Davis Bunn's books and also other Christian fiction.

So this is somewhat conservative, wrapped up in a mystery, and even more, the setting is England? Hmm. Wasn't quite sure what I was getting myself into, but I couldn't get my nose out of it once I started! I always look forward to reading Bunn's work, so when the opportunity presented itself to borrow this from my DAD'S church library, I took it. If you happen to come across this, take the chance.

Brian Blackstone trudges reluctantly to his inheritance. The reluctance is because his beloved wife left it to him. Would this bring back painful memories? He soon realizes that he doesn't have too long to enjoy what is his, because it just might be up for auction. Then the good doctor, Cecilia Lyons decides to get involved, immediately disliking Brian upon meeting him. But there could also be a possible interest for him in her mind! But this isn't all about romance, so can that idea. Yet there is more to all this than meets the eye. And then the riddles begin to appear. Clues! What's going on? Could there possibly be something valuable about this, or is this just a cruel joke? I'm here to tell you that this is full of surprises, littered with treachery here and there, and it doesn't let up. It is great!

Bunn reminds us that with faith in something higher than ourselves, that there is always hope and a future. That's regardless of age or circumstances, or regardless of whoever YOU are for that matter! God has no limits. God, just like this amazing read, has great surprises, and they won't always come in the way we think they should appear. The surprises will exceed what we expect. That's exciting! Go through this with your favorite tea or coffee. Read it with an open mind. And an open heart!

I was deeply impressed with the balanced approach Larry Burkett has for doing business from a Biblical worldview. I am purchasing copies as gifts.

We liked this book so much, we bought it for my father-in-law who just started his business. If you have a burden to approach your business with Christ at the center, read this book!

I handed this book to my project managers and am already experiencing a ground swell of blessing. The late great Larry Burkett lays the prinicles out in an easy to understand and thoughtful way. I would highly, highly recommend this book if you are interested in doing Business the way God intended.

THE AUTHOR COVERS BUSINESS PRINCIPLES IN A MANNER THAT YOU DONT COVER IN ANY BA OR MBA PROGRAM THAT I EVER HEARD. DEFINETELY WORTH THE READ!

This book is not for someone wanting to get rich quick! If you are a Christian business owner wanting to run your business according to God's word, this book explains God's word and gives helpful tips to follow through with His word.

Tony has a gift he gives freely to all. He has the ability to speak directly TO THE READER. It is as if you're sitting across from him and having a conversation. 'It is estimated that about 95 percent of people can be compared to ships without rudders.'--Earl Nightingale. Tony's book is the rudder for my ship. Tony, thanks for sharing!

Great inspirational book. Helps you realize you can be better than you think and don't stop until you get there! Each principle has different applications in your life and in aggregate, create a recipe for success! Highly recommended!

Many books describe great ideas but few give an actual process to follow. Tony's book describes processes that are based on his education and experiences. Interwoven in these experiences are descriptions of family stories and strong values. He has inspired me.
Thanx, Tony
JB-MBA Pepperdine Class of 2000

The title alone should give you a hint that this is no ordinary 'self-help' book. It's filled with humor, compassion, and sincerity, which is fitting from an author like Tony Magee. Reading it is like chatting with an old friend. I laughed out loud at the stories he used to illustrate his points. I can relate to many of his experiences and therefore, I'll remember the lesson I learned from each. This book belongs in the library of anyone who wants to give their life a boost...no matter where you are in the journey to achieving your dream.

Once I picked up Tony's book...I could not put it down. It was a great read. I have read a lot of self help books but Tony's perpective ..his rags to riches story is a true American success story. I would make this a must read for anyone who wants to dream..and needs a blueprint on how to do it!

Thanks Tony!

What I loved about this book was that it was not written by a professional writer, it wasn't a lawyer's point of view, and it didn't preach to me about the death penalty. Instead, this book was a look at the justice system from a regular person's point of view. Kerry Max Cook raised questions about how the justice system works, or more appropriately, doesn't work, and not by hammering on lofty principles, but by showing the reader what actually happens, in court, out of court, and in prison. However, most importantly, he brings us inside the mind of a person facing the worst possible situation and how that affects him. I was inspired by his strength and ability to persevere through things that would have crushed nearly every human being. This book is a must-read for anyone who endeavors to understand the American criminal justice system and what it means to be accused of a crime.

Read the Innocent Man and thought I could never be moved so much by a book-really a life story. Saw the movie The Exonerated and heard about Kerry's life. I started reading the book for about 2 hrs a few nights ago... Last night I actually read from 9 pm to 3 am and then got up snowy day here) and read from 8 am finishing the book. I felt I couldn't put the book down until this whole ordeal was over-like my not finishing it still had held him in a deplorable state on Death Rown. When he is handed his belongings and the 1.28 check from his Trust Fund I bawled like a baby. I never really thought this was a just world but never really considered how injust men could be. Amazing life story of a man overcoming and rising above horrendous acts of injustice!
A Must Read!

A first-hand account of how and why innocent men and women can spend decades on death row in the United States that should be read and discussed by both pro-death penalty proponents as well as abolitionists.
Kerry Max Cook is a modern Dante/ Job. His story is of one who travels to hell and back, physically, spiritually, and emotionally, but who in the end has the strength to emerge as an enlightened, if wounded human being. The tortures he endures after being wrongfully convicted of the rape and murder of a young woman he only knew casually are simply inconceivable. Not only does he have to contend with the fear of losing his life on a daily basis, (the fear of execution, and the fear of being stabbed) but he also must survive psychologically the tragic deaths of loved ones in the outside world while he is in prison.
The depth of police and prosecutorial misconduct Kerry describes is nothing less than infuriating, shocking. Yet, the presentation of his case is not intended to be an ideological rant against "the system." Merely by stating the facts, Kerry can convince us of the depth of the flaws.
Besides being an eye-opening account into injustice, Kerry's book is also
told in a way that draws us close to him, a human tale that cuts deeply into our hearts. It is a face-paced read that will keep you turning the pages, one that will haunt you and make you want to live each day of your own freedom to the fullest.

Kerry Cook had a few scrapes with law enforcement as a teenager in a small Texas town - joyriding, kicking out the windows of a store that falsely accused him of armed robbery. Thus, police "knew" they had their man when his fingerprints were found at the scene of a grisly murder.

The abuse of justice started immediately, continued for two decades, and nearly ended with Cook's execution. First it was merely physical - police slamming him into a wall, holding his head underwater in a toilet, arranged beatings by fellow prisoners, refusing showers and clothing, and sleep deprivation to force Kerry to confess. More serious abuses then occurred - withholding evidence from Kerry's attorneys, coaching witnesses to slant/fabricate testimony against Kerry, providing scientifically unfounded testimony that "aged" Kerry's prints to the time of murder, solicited false testimony from fellow inmates that Kerry had confessed - culminating to Kerry's arrival on Death Row in 1978. There Kerry was raped three times, and attempted suicide after each. Then his appeal stalled for eight years, and ultimately was denied.

Finally, things started to go Kerry's way. The prisoner who initially testified Kerry confessed, decided to come clean. An FBI expert provided an affidavit stating that scientific fingerprint "aging" was not possible, information was uncovered that a pathologist had told police that the victim's librarian prior boyfriend had ordered a book describing how she had been mutilated (police ignored, and did not provide to Kerry's defense), the major Dallas newspaper printed a major expose of how Kerry had been railroaded, a foundation funded Kerry's successful re-appeal.

The judge in the retrial, however, prohibited introducing most of this new evidence, the foundation funding Kerry's defense ran out of money (his attorney worked pro bono, but could not afford expert witnesses), and after a mistrial (deadlocked jury) and third trial it was back to Death Row for Kerry.

Fortunately, this conviction was reversed again, and Kerry was offered a "No Contest" plea in exchange for time served. His initial decision was to refuse and go back to trial - however, Kerry accepted the deal after learning that the potential jurors generally thought he had gotten out on a technicality and that they were there to "make it right." Finally, after being freed, results of a DNA test came back, exonerating Kerry and pinning the crime on the librarian originally identified by an eyewitness who had been coerced by prosecutors to change her testimony. Yet, prosecutors continued to contest his exoneration when interviewed.

Kerry, however, is not blameless in this miscarriage. Throughout the trials he lied about how his fingerprints got on the victim's door, instead of simply admitting she had invited him up there. (Kerry claims his father told him not to admit this; however, such an action makes no sense whatsoever.) Finally, while Kerry also should be commended for writing the book himself, continually referring to his parents as "momma" and "daddy" was both infantile and aggravating.

Bottom Line: This book seriously questions the wisdom of the death penalty in America.

Kerry Max Cook met young Linda Edwards in 1977 and was invited back to her apartment for a drink, where he left his fingerprints on the sliding glass door. Four days later, Ms. Edwards was found brutally murdered, and Cook was immediately arrested for the crime. In one of the worst examples of police and prosecutorial misconduct in American history, Kerry Max was put to trial with coached prosecutorial witnesses, bunk expert testimony about the "age" (six to twelve hours) of the fingerprint, and suppressed evidence that would have favored the defense. The state declared that Kerry Max was a repressed homosexual (at a time when homosexuality was a mental illness, and in rural Texas, no less) who raped and butchered a female out of repressed rage - a theory, incredibly, they stuck to even during re-trials two decades later, in the 1990's!

Chasing Justice is the story of the framing of Kerry Max by the Texas justice system. The narrative was written in Kerry's own hand (1,200 pages at first draft) and condensed into a powerfully personal 350-page account of life on death row - desperation, abandonment, rape and sodomy, stabbings, and attempted suicide. The prose isn't depressing; rather, Kerry Max just fights on, always waiting for the next turn, building his cadre of supporters. Texas death row has been ruled in federal court to constitute cruel and unusual punishment. Kerry Max fought for a full two decades for his freedom, through three outrageous trials, with not a penny to his name. While the major Dallas newspaper was decrying the railroading of an innocent man, he was convicted again and again and again. To date, he is still not eligible for reparations from the state of Texas because he has not been officially pardoned, which would require the unanimous concurrence several bureaucratic offices unwilling to admit their culpability in the grave trespass of justice against Kerry Max Cook. (By the way, the state spent $5 - $7 million over two decades in their effort to execute Kerry Max).

The reader will question - why Kerry Max? In his book, the author does not devote his energies to answering why, rather, he uses his energy to fight. From some brief research on the case, I have determined that the real culprit hired a very expensive, well-connected good ol' boy lawyer, requiring the police to find another suspect to satisfy the anger of the community. I can only begin to wonder how the Texas justice system conspired for 20 years to keep an innocent man behind bars. During each of his three trials, judges continually approved motions by the prosecutor and denied those of the defense, even to the point at which the court had contradicted itself on which evidence should be suppressed or allowed and for what reason!

Kerry Max's remarkable story is a damning indictment of the death penalty and the Texas justice system. Right before the publication of his memoir, national crime show Body of Evidence: From the Case Files of Dayle Hinman featured forensic experts "solving" the Edwards murder based on false evidence from the prosecution. Even 10 years have Kerry Max's exoneration in the national eye, misinformation is still being spread by those in power. Kerry Max Cook's experiences should serve as clear warning not to blindly accept the word of authority.

This helped me out of a parliamentarian predicament. Easy to use. Fairly thorough.

This book is remarkable. It is easy to read and easier to understand. I love the way it is broken down into segments, so that you don't have to try to absorb all the information at one time.

We bought this for our newly appointed Sargent at Arms to better conduct our union meeting professionaly. It has been a great help and very understandable.

This guide is well organized, accurate and fun to read. I've not only learned a lot from reading it, I've enjoyed the experience. If you have a specific question, the index and table of contents will direct you unerringly to the answer. If you need to know about Robert's Rules, this is the book to have.

VERY HELPFUL FOR THE FIRST TIMER. HIGHLITES BULLET POINTS AND OFFERS HELPFUL HINTS.

I bought the version of T W Parnells book that came with two audio CDs. I had two weeks to prepare for my postal exam and would not have scored in the top 5 percent of my testing group without this excellant book. The audio practice test CD replicated the exact time and instructions of the real test. I went into the exam knowing exactly what to expect and had practiced all of the helpful test taking tips numerous times. I finished each section of the test before the time limit, giving me time to review my answers and correct any mistakes. I am now near the top of the list of eligible candidates for employment with my local post office. I strongly recommend buying the pencils too. Thanks Mr. Parnell and good luck to everyone waiting to take the test. Buy this book and you will do great. Gary Fetters

WHEN I RECEIVED THE LETTER FOR THE EXAME I STARTED A LITTLE SEARCH FOR BOOKS TO PREPARE MY SELF FOR WHAT WAS COMING, AT ONE POINT I HAD 9 BOOKS AT MY HOUSE BUT NONE OF THEM WAS JUST FOR THE 473 EXAME. I'M SO GLAD I SEARCHED ONLINE FOR THIS ONE, THE BOOK IS SO EASE TO UNDERSTAND AND THE CD YOU CAN PLAY ANYWERE YOU WANT, HALF OF THE BOOK IS EXAMES PREP LAID OUT JUST LIKE THE REAL ONES, YOU CAN TIME YOURSELF AND BE READY. I DID IT, THE EXAME WAS VERY EASE FOR ME AND I FINISH ALL THE QUESTIONS WITH TIME TO SPARE. GREAT BOOK!

This is a fantastic book filled with great information, tips and wonderful practice tests....IF you ever even get a chance to take the post office exam. I ordered this book as well as another post office book a few weeks after applying for the exam hoping to prepare. Well, it's been over three months, the books came and I am prepared...but I still haven't even heard word back when I will, and if ever will be scheduled to take the exam. I didn't know this before (the book even states it) but it can take many months, even up to a year or so to be scheduled for the exam after applying for it. Even AFTER the exam (and passing), it can take YEARS to even get an interview. That's even if you get selected and you haven't been thrown out or forgotten about. You may even have to take the test again (and go through the whole waiting process and exam AGAIN). Regardless, The book is great and is a wonderful help and is essential if you want to do well (preparing) for the exam. I wish I could give feedback on how it really helped me, but I don't know yet. I recomend this book, but you don't need to rush out and buy it right after applying for the exam. You won't need it that soon. It won't hurt, but if you do, you will have PLENTY of time to prepare.

How can I put this? I got the job!!! If you only buy one book this year, other than the new Harry Potter one obviously, then THIS is the book to buy. Of course I am assuming that you WANT to have a job with double the pay of any other entry level job, immediate full benefits, and job security out the "wazoo".

I used Mr. Parnell's book as an aid in preparing for the 473-c postal exam. I read it cover to cover, went through each of the practice exams, and found that my confidence and speed improved dramatically with each testing. After grading my practice exams my scores went from the high 80's to the high 90's. This book is a godsend!

When I went to take the real exam, I wasn't nervous; I was prepared! I found that I was completely at ease and that I was able to focus on the questions, rather than the jitters. Mr. Parnell's book is precisely the same format and question types that you will see on the current exam.

After receiving my score back from the post office (6 weeks is about normal), I had my first interview within a month. The interviewer informed me that my score was the highest (unadjusted for military service) that he had seen! Oh, did I mention, I got the job!!!

I was SO satisfied with this study guide, I'm now looking at the other study guides in preparation for advancement exams to help with promotions to higher paying positions as well.

Buy the book. The very first hour you work at your new job will pay for it twice over. How can afford not to?

This book is produced in three versions to suit your study preferences. These are:

The Original Postal Exam 473 & 473-C Study Guide -- This version is text only. It has reference material and sample exams with many test taking tips.

Complete Postal Exam 473 & 473-C Training Program with 2 Test Prep Audio CD's -- This is the same book, but two audio CD's read it to you while you follow along in the book. Using two senses, eyes and ears increase the retention of information.

New Postal Exam 473 & 473-C Computer-Based Course -- This is again the same book, but there is a CD that contains both test prep classes and realiztic practice exams, you'll need an internet ready PC with Windows to use this version.

If you want a job with the Postal Service as a Clerk, City Carrier, Mail Handler, etc. you have to take the 473 Exam. You MUST score high if you want a career in the Postal Service, and in order to score high you need this book. This study guide was the best investment I have ever made. Straightforward and to the point, very precise. This is THE one and only Postal Exam 473 study guide to purchase. Using this study guide, I achieved a very high score, and could not have done so without diligently using this guide by Mr. Parnell. The audio CD is just like the actual test. The most valuable part of this book is the section on Coding and Memory, the strategies presented for this section have to be the best you will find in any study guide on the market. This study guide will help you to achieve a top score if you use it diligently. In addition to using Mr.Parnell's study guide, I purchased his Speed Marking & Test Scoring Pencils, and they make all the difference in the world! When I took the test, other test takers spent unnecessary time coloring in the ovals on the answer sheet. With the special pencils I purchased, I filled in the ovals in half the time! Customer Service is also top notch, Mr. Parnell is very friendly and knowledgeable of this test and the Postal Service. If you want a career with the Postal Service, start by purchasing this study guide, use it diligently, and you will achieve the score you want!

The content is great and very applicable... touches on critical communication skills including seeing other points of view (facts and feelings) in order to influence to action.

This book is not only excellent in its content, readability, and usefulness, it is outstanding in helping any of us become better communicators in business and in our personal lives. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to make a difference in their workplace, their communities, and in their personal lives.

There was Something about the Title of the book Cracking the Code to Leadership that got my attention...great title.

After reading this book I had wished this book was available years ago.
It seems like the one thing that people are looking for in their business and personal life is better communication..more so with today's use of technology..
Effective communication is more important now then ever before
The Par skills are the key to personal and professional success

"Cracking the Code to Leadership is a must read.

Patrick Malone and his team wrote an easy-to-read book that is packed with nuggets of time-tested wisdom. You will want to read it and keep it handy for constant reference.

Cracking the Code to LeadershipThe PAR system described in "Cracking the Code to Leadership" is the most successful method of interpersonal relationship building that I have seen in my 37 years in business. We initially trained our commercial team in the PAR process in the early 90's and subsequently had the most profitable growth period for my business unit. This book does a wonderful job in providing an easy to follow roadmap with real world examples. It should be on everyone's reading list who leads or interacts daily with people.

All of the office politics, dishonesty and clawing that was going on around me was stressing me out. I was about to join in reluctantly for fear of being left in the dust. This book was a real eye opener and has helped me deal with what I have learned to be a universal corporate problem (which explains a lot about why corporate America is continuously critisized). If everyone is clawing their way to the top, who is actually working and getting the job done? Thanks to this book's funny approach to dealing with office politics, I am and I hope it will not go un-noticed.

This book covered some of the most interesting topics of real human life in the workplace, and not only in the United States. It also applies in places like Spain, where I'm from. Jean's experience in dealing with all these subjects makes the book and her advice very useful and realistic. Also I very much enjoyed reading this book -- it's certainly not boring! I strongly recomend this book to my friends, to people who work in companies or institutions, and also to the general public. I'm sure they will learn from it as well as enjoy it. Thanks, Jean, for this excellent book.

I will admit I was skeptical when I picked up the book but I quickly found myself laughing and learning. In a light, funny and to the point "Dear Abby" style Jean answers tough questions about today's changing workplace. Covering everything from when to conduct business durng a business lunch to how to deal with the gum-smacking co-worker, Jean sheds light on many issues. Using real life examples, she gives the reader tools to get ahead in the workplace. No matter what your line of work there is bound to be something in the book for you.

Dear Jean is one of the most useful books for dealing with the everyday antics of the workplace. Jean stresses the importance of personal responsibility that is so often missing in today's employees. To get her career started in the right direction I gave my daughter a copy on the day she started her first real job.

Jean's writing style makes reading this book an absolute joy. Every office should keep a copy for reference.

Dear Jean provides key insights and tips that can help improve our interpersonal relationships at work. The book provides a variety of real cases and issues that we may face at work. The book can become a very powerful "personal skill software" that will avoid us being caught up in messy personal issues at work that may hinder us from accomplishing our full business potential. Alejandro Sucre Director of Caracas Teleport / Otassca