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On Being Catholic
Published in Paperback by Ignatius Press (1997-02)
Author: Thomas Howard
List price: $14.95
New price: $7.50
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Collectible price: $14.95

Average review score:

Another Gem
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-22
Thomas Howard's work was instrumental in my conversion from evangelical protestantism to Roman Catholicism. He is consistently Chestertonian and Lewisian. He presents the protestant concerns with more rhetorical flourish than they normally do. On Being Catholic is no exception and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

This book is very informative
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-05
Excellent book for all catholic it reminds you why you are and also is good for those who just became catholic.

Catholic to the Core
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-13
Among the new breed of Catholic apologists, none are as rewarding to read as Thomas Howard. Raised in a prominent Evangelical family, his move first to Anglicanism and then to Rome caused him some personal trials as he lost both friends and employment because of his beliefs. Despite this, he has remained grateful for the lessons of the faith he received in his former ecclesial homes and sees his path as one of completion and not repudiation of what went before.

In On Being Catholic, Howard outlines his reasons for joining the Catholic Church with a humble passion that is the hallmark of his writing. This humility is important to Howard - he is adamant that it is not his place to reinvent the faith of the Church to his own liking. We are not to reinvent the faith with every generation so to make it easier to digest for contemporary sensibilities but faithfully follow, preserve, and pass on the truths that have been handed over to us.

Howard begins by making note of the inherent religious nature of man. As much as militant atheists may have in the past harped (and continue to do so) about their way being the wave of the future, kyries continue to be sung, prayers made in a thousand tongues, and coversions made in countless places around the globe. Atheism is ultimately a dead end and the question for the believing Christian remains of how we are to worship God. That is, what do we do when we enter the God's presence? For Howard, the answer is as simple: We do what Christians have done for two millennia - we join together in the liturgy to hear the Word. We baptize believers. We break bread, and drink from the cup. In both Word and Sacrament, we do as Christ himself has commanded.

Howard contends the Church finds its purpose in its liturgiy under the authority of a bishop and ultimately the Bishop of Rome. There may be different rites but the same basic outline is followed by all. No one may worship another way as a matter of personal preference. The Catholic Church is not, Howard claims, arrogant to insist others commit to her way of doing things. If one believes what the Catholic Church teaches, then it is as simple as truth and error. On the Catholic side, there is no record of any type of worship common to modern Evangelicalism prior to the last few centuries. All Christians with a history back to the early Church also worships using one of the historic liturgies. This is true for the Eastern Orthodox and other Eastern Churches as well as those who follow Rome.

Howard emphasizes how the liturgy affects the Catholic view of the act of corporate worship. Unlike most of Protestantism, it is not just a gathering of fellow Christians but a participation in the re-presentation of the one the one true sacrifice at Calvary. When a Catholic goes to Mass, it is the union of all the Church throughout time as the veil between this world and the heavenly realms is opened. The Eucharist becomes the real body and blood of Christ for the Church to feed upon and it is in this great mystery that the Church is made one throughout time and space. The Mass itself may be seen as a "diagram of glory" where the "work of the people" is to participate in this great mystery. Hence, attendance at Mass for the Catholic is never just "going to church".

Turning then to salvation, Howard points out that Catholic teaching differs greatly in the understanding of what it means to be saved. For the Catholic, being saved by the Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a moment but a process that begins with their baptism continues throughout their life in the Church. He further points out the simple "sinners' prayer" salvation common to much of contemporary Evangelicalism is a recent innovation. Catholicism and the early Church held to a higher standard of commitment than one might deduce from watching a televangelist.

The alien nature of Catholicism to modern sensibilities continues even in so intimate an area as prayer. In Catholicism, prayer is not merely an intellectual or emotional activity but one that incorporates all the senses. Thus the artwork, the music, the incense, and the requests for the intercession of Mary and the Saints can leave most Protestants more than a little uneasy. Yet all of this is part of the great fabric of the Catholic faith and follows from the understanding granted to the Church throughout history.

All of this is integrated, the author adds, into the importance of the physical in Catholic theology. We are not disembodied creatures and the dualism where the physical is seen as bad and the spiritual as good within Evangelicalism is completely foreign to Catholic thought. Christ took on our flesh and we are to be redeemed body and soul to serve Him. Thus what we do with our bodies does have consequences - not because our flesh is to be disdained but because we are to use it in accordance with God's plan for mankind. It is this embracing of the physical and making it holy that separated true Christianity from its gnostic competitors and allows Catholics today to embrace the mystery of Christ dying on a cross or the hidden wonder of an obscure young woman giving birth to a child in an obsure village.

The Catholic is one, Howard emphasizes, who lives within the tradition of the Church. For many Protestants, tradition is a dirty word that conjures up visions of prelates and priests coming between the "simple truths of Scripture" and the humble peasant. Only the peasant has rarely been humble and the myriad of interpretations on important issues underscores that Scripture is often not quite as perspicuous as some would like to imagine. In this cafeteria like atmosphere of doctrinal innovation, the consistency of Catholic tradition through the centuries is a guard against the chronic individualism common elsewhere.

In submitting oneself to the Catholic tradition and its demands on one's conscience, many suppose this is a surrender of one's freedom. Howard rejects this inference and claims that in becoming part of Christ's Church one finds a greater freedom than in the fleeting pleasures that the world associates with freedom. The mystery of the Church - including its discipline - opens our minds and hearts to a greater union with Christ in which we can experience true freedom and joy.

Howard finishes the book by examning a symbol associated closely with Catholicism that places many Protestants on edge: the crucifix. Again it is the Catholic embracing of the physical - even physical suffering - that allows this image of Christ suffering on the cross to hold such a central place in Catholic devotion. It gives comfort to many who suffer to be reminded that suffering is not always purposeless. This making visible the very physicalness of our salvation is in line with the entire sacramental view of the Church that is the core of Catholicism.

It would be a mistake to see this as a contentious book designed to make debating points in the endless squabbles along the Catholic/Protestant apologetics divide. It would also not be in keeping with Howard's generally charitable demeanor to engage in such argumentation. But do not mistake this charitableness for timidity or lack of conviction. In many ways, On Being Catholic is among the best books in defending Catholicism because instead of attacking Protestantism's weaknesses it focuses on Catholicism's strengths. There are certainly points where I believe Howard was a little too assured of the historicity of the papacy, but the overall power of the presentation and its understanding of the importance of the Sacramental life within historic Christianity ranks it among the most important popular Catholic books in recent memory.

Well worth your time...
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-22
This book meaningfully explores and probes the "good tidings" of the Catholic church, measuring its teachings and concepts against preconceptions and objections by both non-Christians and, especially, non-Catholic Christians. Howard looks at a variety of topics moving from the general to the specific, from the question of whether man is essentially a religious being, through discussions of typical Christian subjects like the Gospels and evangelism, to considerations of particularly Catholic doctrines such as the Church's view of Mary and understanding of human freedom. Probably because he is a converted evangelical himself, Howard tends to be at his best contrasting Catholic and Prostestant views; the chapter which considers whether or not Catholics are "saved," for instance, is one of the book's best. He also excels in his treatments of Church tradition and prayer. A late chapter on "Hiddenness," primarily about gender, is probably the book's weakest mainly because Howard seems too tentative.

Reviewers like to compare Howard to C. S. Lewis; I don't wholeheartedly agree. There is the same tendency to work with apt analogy, of course. And Howard also works "in dialogue" as did Lewis, anticipating and answering objections as he goes. It's appealing and familiar, to be sure. But Howard tends to gush more than Lewis and a lot of his discussions get away from him. Lewis's voice is calm, solid, and reassuring in its peculiarly British sobriety. Howard's voice, on the other hand, bears the weight of much learning and enthusiasm. He's excitable and sometimes overwrought, like a old fashioned preacher. Consider his liberal peppering of the text with Latin phrases, something Lewis (a classics professor) certainly could have done but didn't rely on so much. All this is not to say Howard is less worthy, only that his style is perhaps not so accessible as Lewis's to a wide variety of reader.

Of course this is a nitpick, offered here only because of the common comparison to Lewis. In general, the book is fine, rewarding reading for both the committed Catholic or the curious non-Catholic. For the most part Howard manages to be open-minded and conservative at the same time, not an easy trick.

What it means to really BE Catholic
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-05
As a convert to Catholicism I had already been introduced to Mr. Howard's work in his book "Lead Kindly Light" and had been very impressed with how well he told not only his story of conversion but mine as well. Because of that experience I couldn't wait to get started on this book once I had it but I have to admit that I was a little disappointed in this one. It may be that the other book was just so good that I expected too much of this book, it may have been that the author seemed to delight in using big and sometimes archaic words, or it may have been that this book was a little deeper than the other one but whatever the reason I found this book to be a little dry in comparison to "Lead Kindly Light."

That being said, I would still say that this is one of the better books on the subject of what it means to be Catholic. Having been raised an evangelical Protestant this author is very aware of the horrible misconceptions that many Protestants have about the Catholic Church and is also very aware of the kind of questions that evangelical Protestants sometimes ask Catholics and he takes these questions and answers them in a clear and concise way. He points out that many of the questions Catholics are asked don't resonate at all with them because the question is based on something that is just not part of their belief system. To help clear up these misunderstandings he takes the time to explain to the Catholic reader the background of questions like, "Are you saved?" and then explains to the Protestant reader why they may get a blank stare if they ask this question of a Catholic.

Throughout the book Mr. Howard takes great pains to get to the very essence of what it means to be Catholic and takes on some major issues that divide Catholics and Protestants. He takes on the arguments over tradition, which was never hard for me to grasp as I journeyed home to the Catholic faith and he also takes on the veneration of the Blessed Virgin, which took a while for me to grasp. Everyone I suppose has different hang ups as they make or consider making this move and the author has done an excellent job of tackling most of the things that are most likely to be sticking points. As a side note since grasping the devotion to Mary I have become as devoted to our Blessed Mother as any cradle Catholic.

One significant positive that I found in this book is that the author, with the sensibilities of a former Protestant, backs everything he asserts with scripture. The Church Fathers are liberally quoted as is the Catechism but even the most dedicated disciple of the doctrine of scripture alone will find every one of Mr. Howard's points to be clearly documented by scripture. Curious Protestants will find that this book answers a lot of their questions and devout Catholics will find that this book brings home the truly glorious experience that it is to be Catholic. I would especially recommend this book to any Protestant who is curious about the Catholic faith of a close relative and to any non-Catholic who is married to or about to marry a Catholic.

Works
Only the River Runs Free (Galway Chronicles, Book 1)
Published in Paperback by Thomas Nelson (1998-07-07)
Authors: Brock Thoene and Bodie Thoene
List price: $12.99
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Only the River Runs Free
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-14
Book arrived quickly and in shape described. I am very satisfied with the seller. Thanks.

Another Theone
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-17
This was a pretty fast read. Actually a whole lot faster than Theone's [book: Jerusalem Vigil]. The main character automatically pulls you in and you sympathize and empathize with him through his whole journey. This book has a lot of issues that can cause the reader to look into their own lives and think about who they might need to forgive, or what vengeance they should leave up to God. I enjoyed it, and think I will look for the sequels.

Great Series of Books
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-10
I usually read fantasy fiction books and usually don't read the ones geared toward historical fiction, but I must say, this series is excellent. I couldn't put them down. They are very well written.

exceptional
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-05
Bodie and Brock Thoene have a understading of how the human mind works and their books are so believeable. They take one out of the here and now and put one into the then and there. The history is correct and it makes their books "real".
I am looking forward to reading the rest of their books at some point in time.

Different Setting, Same Great Writing
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2003-03-11
When Joseph Connor Burke returned to the small Irish village of Ballynockanor, he only expected to stay a few months. Just long enough to put the past and his stolen inheritance behind him. But as he gets reacquainted with his neighbors, he finds himself drawn into their struggles against Protestants in general and his uncle in particular. Is there a way to reclaim what is rightfully his? Is the priesthood his true calling? And what about his feelings for Kate?

The Thoenes went in an unexpected direction when they started this series. Up til now, they'd been writing about Israel and America. For that reason, I've put off starting this series, even though I've heard such good thing about it. Boy, was that a mistake!

I know very little about Irish history. In this one book, I learned so much that helps me understand the current struggles. Yet, as always, the history is wrapped in a wonderful story with very real characters. While I figured a few things out before they happened, most of the time I was unsure what would happen next and had a hard time putting the book down as a result. As always, the Thoenes develop their characters well and I felt myself getting angry on their behalf on more then one occasion.

I'm already planning my next trip to Ballynockanor for the next chapter in this sage. Any fan of the Thoenes or anyone wanting some fictitious background on Ireland will love this book.

Works
Photo by Sammy Davis, Jr.
Published in Hardcover by HarperEntertainment (2007-02-01)
Author: Burt Boyar
List price: $49.95
New price: $11.25
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Average review score:

A glimpse in the life by the man himself
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-26
Don't look at this with the eye of a photo critic or you may miss the magic. This is an intimate glimpse into the life of Sammy, his family, friends, and acquaintances as only someone "on the inside" can capture.

A wonderful book!

sammy davis book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-02
an amazing collection of photos that serve as a historical and entertaining view of the times he lived through.

One Eyed Visionary
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-25
Few have personified the phrase "self-made man" as did legendary entertainer Sammy Davis, Jr. (1925-1990). The world remembers Davis for his varied and extraordinary accomplishments as an actor, singer, musician, dancer, and comedian.

But hardly anyone outside his circle of friends and family has been familiar with his photography--until now. With this hefty book, interspersed with reminisces by longtime friend Burt Boyar (who co-wrote Davis's autobiographies Yes I Can and Why Me?), his old fans and a new generation can revel in hundreds of images that reveal yet another significant facet of Davis's far-reaching talents.

Though Photo lacks the singular thematic focus of books published by such photographer-celebrities as Dennis Hopper and Gerry Spence, that's no drawback for this posthumously published volume. Rather, it pulls the reader into the exciting world of nightclubs, casinos, and Beverly Hills homes in which Davis moved, mostly from the late 1940s through early '70s. A voracious shutterbug, he took his photography seriously: his compositions are strikingly iconic, employing sophisticated use of line and form. Yet, his pictures are mostly snapshots--in the best sense of the word: they capture their subjects spontaneously, and his joie de vivre suffuses his work. Think of it as a highly stylized family album packed with candid portraits of "Rat Pack" pals Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Joey Bishop, Peter Lawford, and Shirley MacLaine, as well as other famous friends like Nat "King" Cole, Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh, Sidney Poitier, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Jerry Lewis, and Bill Cosby.

Among the more touching aspects of this book are the portraits of his actual family: his parents, his second wife May Britt and their children, and his third wife (and widow) Altovise Gore Davis. The most poignant are the many shots of actress Kim Novak, the first great love of Davis's life, who was forced by Columbia Pictures studio chief Harry Cohn to break off their relationship (interracial relationships were strictly taboo in 1950s Hollywood, not to mention in society generally).

One photograph, despite its matter-of-fact framing, is particularly chilling. Through the window of a passenger train en route to Miami, Davis snapped a picture of an elderly white gentleman on a station platform holding a cigarette, standing before a pair of double doors over which the foreboding phrase "WHITE WAITING ROOM" is painted. Davis's photographic abilities and inclinations were such that we see a mostly glamorous world through his eye. Thus, when we arrive at this jarring image, it's impossible not to apprehend it from his point-of-view--and also not to feel the sense of injustice that he must have experienced in the Jim Crow South as he clicked the shutter.

As Davis's show business career took off, many venues--even north of the Mason-Dixon Line--were happy to let blacks perform onstage; but the same headliner artists weren't even permitted to drink at the bar, use a dressing room, or occupy one of their hotel rooms. Photographs from Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial, and portraits of politician friends Senator Robert Kennedy and President Richard Nixon, give silent witness to Davis's largely forgotten achievements as an outspoken civil rights advocate.

Photo is a coffee-table book that won't spend much time on the coffee table if your houseguests are anything like mine. Because of a car crash in 1954, Sammy Davis, Jr., was left with only one eye. But what an eye this cat had!

Great book, intresting facts, great, candid shots!!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-09
This book is so fun. It has so many candid great photo's, really intresting history on Sammy Davis Jr. and his relationship's. I really enjoyed this book. Great coffee table book.

For Photograghy Fans Too!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-22
I originally picked up this book as a curiosity and found its links to a bygone era utterly fascinating. The subject matter, i.e., rat pack photos were wonderful but the photographic mastery of Davis Jr. is, I think, equally as stunning. A look into Davis Jr.'s remarkable life is given by him in the way, like other great photographers, he insightfully choses to document and communicate with his subjects through the lens. Again, like many great photographers, the images are powerful and soft, crisp and dazzling. More talent revealed from a man who had more in his baby finger than most of us have coursing through our entire bodies.
Bravo. Well done.

Works
Play to Win!, Revised Edition: Choosing Growth Over Fear in Work and Life
Published in Paperback by Bard Press (2004-09-25)
Author: Larry Wilson
List price: $17.95
New price: $5.98
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Average review score:

Play to Win
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-12
I have read this book a number of times and share it with friends and associates. I have found the delivery interesting, and it moves along with stories and examples. The message is Universal. We are here to learn and grow. So "Carpe Diam."

A solid book, and a solid concept
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-25
This is a very solid book. I took a class provided by the company the authors either work for or own (I read the book as well). This was a tremendous gift for me to read this. Much of what prevents both businesses and individuals from reaching their potential is fear. This book deals with the very issues that commonly hold us back, and gives logical solutions to those issues. I learned things from this book that I was able to implement in my life that changed my personal and professional life for the better. I don't agree with every concept in here. However, I do have to admit that I was able to look at my life from a different perspective after I read this. I used concepts in this book (as well as the bible and other books) to challenge myself to get my nursing degree (which really helped the company that originally sent me to this), buy a home, and become a better husband. I might add that my company's production went way WAY up after a group from our clinic took this class (which is just the book in lecture format). No, I'm not saying this book will take all your problems away. I am saying that some of the concepts in here can only benefit an individual/company's life if implemented with a real desire to improve.

Review of Play To Win
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-13
One of the best business books ever written. Awesome insights which should be read over & over by anyone desirous of running a successful business.

Wonderful for Self-Development
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-15
No matter your business - corporation, sole propietor, financial, education - or your role within that business - owner, manager, new hire - this book can help you grow within that role. Not only can it help you professionally, but also personally. As a corporate trainer, I recommend it in all my management classes as well as to those who come to me for career coaching. It's a great, quick and powerful read.

Choosing growth over fear.
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2004-02-18
This great book by Larry Wilson is all about choosing growth over fear. It's about the miracle of personal development and no one knows more about personal development than Larry Wilson.Playing to Win is a soup to nuts approach to personal development as only Larry Wilson can do.Are you playing it a little bit too safe? What is that costing you? Read Playing to Win. It may revolutionize your whole life as it has mine. Outstanding book.

Works
The Quilter's Catalog: A Comprehensive Resource Guide
Published in Paperback by Workman Publishing Company (2008-02-07)
Author: Meg Cox
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Calling all Quilters!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-11-17
Whether you've been quilting for years, or a "newbie" like me, you will like this book (a lot!). My daughter first showed The Quilter's Catalog to me, I checked it out from the library, and I had to get one of my own! It will take you months to absorb all the information, web sites, tips, everything! Every time I open it, I find something new. This is going to be the perfect Christmas present for my "quilting guru" (my next door neighbor). Although she's been a quilter for years, and probably knows just about all there is to know about quilt making, I'm sure she will enjoy this book as much as I do. Cheers for author Meg - this is one of my best craft books - and I have a BUNCH of them!

Comprehensive
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-14
This is a great source book. I have been quilting for quite some time but found valuable new information in this book. It should be on every quilters book shelf.

Surprisingly good
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-06
Buy this book. If you have only one book on your quilt bookshelf, it should be this one. I have a library of quilt books, but I couldn't believe how useful this one is, and you can also sit and read it like a novel. It's extremely well-researched and contains a wealth of resources that I've never seen under one cover. Where to go on quilt retreats, websites, teacher profiles, equipment, fabric and even some patterns. I love this book, and you will too.

Buy it now!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-06
This book is nearly impossible to put down. Truly, it is just incredible how much wonderful information is packed into this book. Well worth every penny!

The Quilter's Catalog
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-11
I've been quilting about four years and subscribe and buy about every quilt magazine on the newstand. I have bought many books in addition to this one. Of all the books/magazines this is absolutely the best quilting information that I have ever seen. Not only does it have all kinds of instructions, tips, etc., but has numerous resources that you can go to. I recommend this book to all quilters...first timers, as well as, experienced quilters.You will wonder why you haven't bought this book before now.This is absolutely a "MUST BUY" !!!!!!!!!

Works
The Ramayana: A Modern Retelling of the Great Indian Epic
Published in Hardcover by North Point Press (2003-05-19)
Authors: Ramesh Menon and Valmiki
List price: $35.00
New price: $35.00
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Average review score:

Magnificent
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-27
I picked up this book with pretty low expectations since I've read other retellings of classical stories which have either distorted them or were extremely pedestrian. This one, however, is wonderful. It's a page-turner; many times, I got up early so I could read some before work! Beyond that, though, the characters come across as both human and more than human. Even the main villain, Ravana, has admirable qualities; his death, though necessary, becomes a true tragedy. If you have any interest in the Rama story or just want a great read, buy this book.

Rama's Delight
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-04
I have not read the original multi-volume Ramayana, the great Indian religious epic describing the travels of Rama, an avatar of Vishnu. The basic plotline is that Rama, the heir-apparent to the kingdom of Kosala centered in Ayodhya, is driven into exile in the forest, loses his beloved wife Sita to a kidnapping by the terrible demon Ravana and the rest of the story I will leave readers to discover. (Note that the Ramayana is considered Scripture in India, and not merely a story). I am not Indian: as a non-native I find this an incredibly accessible work, and a beautifully lyrical and inspired version. The creator of this version admits that he himself has read only translations of the work, however, there is definitely divine inspiration behind his efforts, as reading it feels like a thoroughly enjoyable spiritual practice. I look forward to continuing this practice regularly.

Indian Epic
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-11
In a way, The Ramayana reads like a "chick-flick". However, it is so much more than that. It teaches about Love, War, Prejudice, Loyalty, etc. It teaches about a peaceful way of being. Great, great book for people of all ages.

I wonder why this epic isn't world-famous
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-24
Almost everyone in the world has heard of Homer's "Iliad" & "Odyssey". They've also heard of "Beowulf" and "Don Quixote" and, of course, "Lord of the Rings". Why is it that the Ramayana is not well-known? It's an Indian masterpiece, an epic of vast proportions that is equal to "Odyssey", and a religious setting that's almost as great as "The Pilgrim's Progress".

It is the story of Rama and his wife Sita, who has been captured by a raksha (a.k.a. demon) named Ravana. 75 percent of this story deals with Rama's attempt (with the help of his brother Lakshmana) to rescue his beloved wife. The man's quest involves many encounters with meat-eating trees, hermits, talking animals, and a vast monkey army (this isn't "Planet of the Apes", I'll tell you that).

Ramesh Menon's retelling of Valmiki's Ramayana is a good one. It's perfect for today's generation, and there are only a few words that need to be looked up in the dictionary.

The one problem I had with this epic is that there is a constant stream of sobbing. Many characters cry for many reasons. I know I'd feel emotional when something bad happens, but this seems constant in Ramayana, and it becomes quite irritating.

So anyway, The Ramayana is a treat for those who love epics and fantastical imagery. And if you don't mind polygamy in fiction, then you'll do fine.

A-

A great English translation of an Indian Classic
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-20
Gods, Demons and Heroes, locked in titanic battle in the mythical days of yore, and performing great feats of strength and/or self sacrifice ... what's not to love about that ?

The Ramayana is one of the great literary epics of Ancient India, retold in this version in full-length and easy-to-read English prose form. It's the story of the life and trials of Rama, a mortal incarnation (avatar) of the great Hindu God, Vishnu. However, it's more than just a simple mythological adventure story ... it's also a morality play. Rama is an archetypal example of a perfect man, dutiful son and pious husband; and likewise his wife Sita is an archetype of the perfect woman/wife. Together they are sent into exile by an act of betrayal, and by fate, and face a series of challenges that mercilessly test their quality and character ... encountering, in no particular order, wandering holymen/beggars, murderous rakshasas, diabolical demons, Gods, Devas, and creatures and spirits of the forest.

The thing that a lot of English & Western readers might otherwise overlook is that this epic is a revered part of Hindu literature, in much the same way that the adventures and trials of Jesus of Nazareth are told in the New Testament of the Bible.

The book is very enjoyable, and can be read on a number of different levels ... as both a simple mythological fantasy, as well as literary classic that indirectly underlies one of the world's major religions.

Some of the deeds and actions by the characters in the story might seem incomprehensible to some of us westerners, but that's just par for the course in grasping the deep seated psychological & religious differences between different cultures, with differing role models.

The author, thoughtfully, included a helpful appendix which defines some of the hindi words that appear in the story (ex: "moksha" loosely translates as "embodied enlightenment"), but it's by no means complete ... but it's enough for a western reader to get by without too much trouble.

In any case, it's a very enjoyable tale.

Works
Staying Healthy With Nutrition, 21st Century Edition: The Complete Guide to Diet & Nutritional Medicine
Published in Paperback by Celestial Arts (2006-10-30)
Authors: Elson M. Haas and Buck Levin
List price: $39.95
New price: $24.50
Used price: $21.37

Average review score:

I had no idea
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-11-11
When this book showed up I was a bit overwhelmed. It is more of a reference manual than practical reading, but this volume has SO MUCH valuable information! I will consult this often!

Food Bible
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-05
I have used this book for everything from looking up recipes to researching diets, cleanses, learning about vitamins, minerals and diseases. Every household should have this book!

PRODUCT AS RATED
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-09
Delivery was immediate and product was in the condition as described. I would buy from this vendor again!

Great comprehensive book on nutrition.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-12
This is exactly the book I've been looking for! Objective, to-the-point facts on nutrition, vitamins, eating habits, and other topics such as preservatives, toxins, etc. I've seen too many "fad" nutritional books that are biased toward either vegan/vegetarian, low carb, low fat, high fat-low carb, etc. This book seems to be objective enough to allow the readers to decide on their own what diet path to take. This book, a good diet, and exercise can stand on their own and I feel this book can last a long time as a good reference book. Personally, I prefer a well-rounded diet (including some red meat), chicken, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts. I lean toward organic or natural foods. Should readers decide to focus on another particular diet, they can supplement this book with one that follows their philosophy. I highly recommend this book as a stand alone or as a starting point to other diets.

all in one
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-23
This is an awesome book for anyone interested in nutrition. Very indepth text book style reading but worth every miniute!

Works
Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Published in Hardcover by Houghton Mifflin Company (1995-04)
Author: Thomas Lathrop Stedman
List price: $55.00
New price: $90.00
Used price: $2.25

Average review score:

great price and item
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-17
great product, great price and i really like. a great way to get the book on a student stipend.

Must have Doctors
Helpful Votes: 16 out of 18 total.
Review Date: 2004-03-05
As both doctor and founder of a EchoScribe Inc, a leading internet based medical transcription company, (www.echoscribe.com) I must recomend Stedmans as the dictionary that all physicians must own. There is also the PDA version that is also a good carry. It not only provides a quick reference, but in writing medical letters, and transcribing documents, this book is a "medical must have."

Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-23
I am a transcriber and Stedman's Medical Dictionary is necessary for my work. It is invaluable. I also love the illustrations for clarification.

Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-09
This medical dictionary provides simple definitions on key
terminology in the field of medicine. Some simple definitions
include the following:
- antigen involves the immune response
- a virus is incapable of growth beyond living cells
- bacterium multiply by cellular division

The volume contains the human anatomy in full color pictures.
For instance, the following parts are depicted:
- skull
- head and neck
- musculature
- cerebral hemispheres
- disc anatomy
- heart anatomy
- classic fractures and radiography depicting the events
- foot joints i.e. interphalangeal joint, tarsometa tarsal
joint, ankle joint

This medical dictionary is perfect for the science student
in your house. In addition, the book will complement the
existing personal library of medicinal acquisitions.

Excellent
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2005-03-10
A great resource, I recommend the CD version for saving a lot of time and effort ... only if you can have a computer on while you're studying.

Works
To Know Christ Jesus (Stagbooks)
Published in Paperback by Sheed & Ward (1999-06)
Author: F. J. Sheed
List price: $35.95
New price: $22.97
Used price: $18.38

Average review score:

Fantastic way to get to know the Lord
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-11-13
The primary duty - and hopefully, the primary desire - of every Christian is "to know Christ Jesus." The Gospels are the principal, and only divinely inspired, means in which one can encounter Christ in written form. Yet, for all their beauty and simplicity, the Gospels can be distant from our own time and culture, both in the style in which they were written, and the setting in which they are based. Famed Catholic apologist Frank Sheed's classic "To Know Christ Jesus" bridges this gap masterfully, allowing the reader to transport himself back to the time of Christ and understand more fully the life of the Lord.

Sheed does something that has fallen out of favor in modern times: bring the four Gospels together into one carefully woven narrative. It is true that when doing a scholarly study of the Gospels, one must address the differences found in the four Gospels. Issues such as the Mark-Q hypothesis or the differences between the synoptic Gospels and John's Gospel are ignored in this book, as they should be: Sheed's purpose is not scholarly, but primarily devotional. He desires for his reader to encounter Christ directly and come to know him better. Sheed writes in modern novel form the life of Christ based on the best sources available and he does this with great success, as the end result is readable, informative, and faithful to the Gospel accounts.

Buy "To Know Christ Jesus" for any friend or family member who would like to get to know Christ better - be assured that if they read this book, that will happen!

Favorite all-time . . .
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-21
This book is my favorite all-time meditation starter. I like the idea of focusing on Christ's life for my meditations, for the obvious reason that we become like what we think about all the time. Well, this book brings all four gospels into play in a chronological discussion of Christ's life, adding touches of culture and history that the average person would not be aware of. This approach adds loads of meaning to what happens in the gospel accounts, since 21st-Century Americans really do have a hard time understanding some of the events and wording in the gospels. Frank Sheed's efficient use of the English language makes this not exactly an easy read, but a meaningful one, even for the average layperson.

no better guide to the gospels
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-13
This book provides the best gospel commentary/reflection known to man.

For every gospel story, this book has a thorough look at the passage along with comments on related passages. This book is well-written and easy to read. You can skip from chapter to chapter, or just read from start to finish.

Though it is easy to read, the material is dense. I've re-read this book 3 times and I'm still getting new stuff from it.

There are few books that I will *specifically* require my children to read. This is one of them. (Though I guess I'll have to wait 'til the kids are about 15-16.)

Comment on book description
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-02
I checked the web site at www.ignatius.com for this item using the ISBN 13: 9780898704198, and the description there is of a paperback book.

The description below is from the Ignatius site
[ ISBN: 9780898704198
Author: Frank Sheed

Length: 399 pages
Edition: Paperback
]

I think that back in 1992 the book was published in hardcover under ISBN 10: 0898704197, but that edition appears not to be available any more.

I am providing this review solely about the edition that is available here rather than about the content of the book. I haven't read the copy I received yet, it was a paperback even though i was expecting a hardcover.

PS: after writing this review I requested that amazon.come make a change to the description of the books binding from "hard cover" to "paperback" and amazon.come agreed to the change. Now any purchaser will know exactly what they are getting when they order the book. I am impressed with amazon.come's willingness to make the change suggested.

A Great Help to Meditation
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-10
F. J. Sheed was a brilliant writer. His To Know Christ Jesus, like Fulton Sheen's Life of Christ, is a great help to reading all four Gospels at the same time coherently, for as the author states, they were not written with chronology in mind, therefore the sequence of Gospel events could be confusing at times. Sheed not only guides the reader step by step through Christ's life, but as a friend of Christ (clearly the author was a man of deep prayer) he also makes the reader stop at certain places along the way to help him meditate and bring depth to the reality of Christ and the significance of His actions on Earth. This is truly a masterful spiritual work. I recommend reading it with the Bible open. It will deepen anyone's understanding and knowledge of Christ and give one a keener sense for detail, and one cannot love what one does not know well, hence the importance of this book.

Works
Trust & Betrayal in the Workplace: Building Effective Relationships in Your Organization
Published in Paperback by Berrett-Koehler Publishers (2006-01-01)
Authors: Dennis S Reina and Michelle L Reina
List price: $18.95
New price: $3.18
Used price: $3.28
Collectible price: $19.90

Average review score:

Excellent Work!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-08
The book really speaks to the most urgent problem in todsy's workplace in my view: lack of trust. As we are all asked to do more with less (time, people and money), it is more important than ever to establish and sustain trust in the workplace. The techniques and skills set forth in the book are applicable to every walk of life. I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to improve their relationships with others, as well as with themselves.

Helpful book for workplace
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-28
Hi - this book has helped me explain to my employees and colleagues the importance of trust in the work place and how we can enhance it.

Trust & Betrayal in the Workplace: Building Effective Relationships in Your Organization
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-17
We've probably all experienced that really bad job that drained every bit of creativity, energy, and enthusiasm we had. Perhaps you had that overbearing boss who had unrealistic expectations or that supervisor who wouldn't just trust you do your work. Maybe you worked in a place where suggestions or attempts to solve problems were quickly quashed or met with anger.

Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace unequivocally illustrates that such situations not only make the job a hassle but also inhibit the potential productivity of all employees. Basically, as the employee realizes that he or she (or others around them) is being devalued, he or she becomes less committed to doing the best job possible.

Dealing with the resulting morale issue is extremely challenging. Even if the actual problem is addressed, often lost trust is difficult to repair. For instance, if the company attempts to encourage employees to report potential problems, few will likely come forward because they can't possibly believe that they won't get yelled at or have their issues ignored once again. Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace explains that this situation need not be futile. There are ways to rebuild trust and address past issues to create a stronger, more productive business.

A TOP-NOTCH BOOK...TERRIFIC FOR PRACTITIONERS!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-22
This is an excellent work that cuts through the typical babble that fills many pages of others books on the subject of trust. The content is exceeding meaty. The organization of the material is first-rate. One of the very best books on the subject. Highly recommended!

Trust as the Foundation
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-03-06
The Reina's develop understandable definitions and offer a well researched and thought out framework for both the development and practice of trust. They also offer practical and accessible vignettes and case studies illustrating the 'trust behaviors' that are so crucial to effective organizations and relationships.

Probably the most powerful part of the book is the section on Betrayal. Betrayal is a huge factor in our lives and we rarely talk about it. This book offers a language, method, and solution for both talking about betrayal and beginning the process of healing from it.

This is an important book for people interested in getting to the root of systemic problems in institutions, families, and relationships.

I highly recommend it!


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