Will Self Books

You need this book. It will provide you with a year of excitement, and promises to CHANGE your life. I am on day three, and i am SOLD!

PURCHASE THIS BOOK!!!

What originally attracted me to this book was the original and colorful layouts on each page. It is fun to flip through and gain bite size insights on any of the daily activited.

Of course, you're probably not going to be participating in most of these activites (like "eat this book day"), but that's not really the point. The book is fun to look at, and fun to read.

It seems some other reviewers have taken the title of "THIS BOOK WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE, AGAIN" a wee bit too seriously. This isn't a self-help book, and it's probably NOT going to change your life unless you actually follow through with the ridiculous daily suggestions you'll find on it's pages. It's a joke! It IS intended to be a hilarious daily planner of sorts, perhaps even accurate for the criminally or mentally insane. Each day reveals off the wall suggestions of what to do to change your life, such as emigrate to New Zeland or claim you are Jesus. Are you going to do these things? Probably not, but each day when you open up the planner you are sure to laugh out loud or at least chuckle at the life altering task the planner has suggested.

I love this book and the first one, "This book will change your life." It is so funny and wonderful to share with friends and famliy. Wonderful for a shy person who would like to try more in life, and wonderful for a outgoing person who would like to experience even more from life. Will make you LAUGH!!!!

This book is useful in so many ways, not only does it motivate one to change ones' life but it also offers helpful hints on how to do this. Some of them are a tad out of my personal league but I am sure others would do them. There are many little "daily-things-to-do" that will take you out of your comfort zone and make your life richer and more fulfilled. Try it won't you?

I enjoyed reading this book. However there are two things that could make it better:

1. Print the title on the spine of the book.
2. Reduce self-importance in the translator's preface.

I have tremendous respect for the translator's martial arts achievements and his fluency in Japanese and I appreciate his regard for the warrior's way. But I would enjoy the book better-- and I think it would appeal to a wider audience-- if Mr. Tarver relaxed some of his us-versus-them attitude in the preface. For example:

"Whether enlisted in the military or not, the burning desire to protect is one of the things that separate us from the sedate, self-infatuated crowd."

When I buy a book to learn about traditional samurai values-- values like humility and respect for the people you serve-- I find it distracting to have this kind of self-congradulatory language in the preface.

Otherwise I found the book interesting and useful.

It is amazing to me that such a small book can cover so many deep and life changing principles. This is not just a code of conduct for warriors it really should apply to all people. The concepts of loyalty, bravery, and honor are brought out and explained in a clear straightforward manner. I really enjoyed reading this book though I have never trained in martial arts or studied anything about the samurai. I became interested because of our American warriors overseas and decided to give this a read. I am blown away that all the same principles apply to warriors today as several hundred years ago.

This book is an easy to read basic guide for warriors at any stage of their development. As with most Asian guides to war and martial arts, the advice might appear basic, and even elementary, but to really understand, and to incorporate it into their life, it will take the reader years of training and study. Mr Tarver's background also gives him a special understanding of the original text, so the translation really feels right, and lot of power in it.
Unfortunately, Mr Tarver loses a bit in credibility with his foreword. He appears naive. He blames "wealthy liberals" for their antimilitarism, while totally forgetting the greed that has driven many of the USA's wars. That mars an otherwise excellent achievemnt. Mr Tarver would do well to remember that you can be a honest warrior, but be in the service of an evil master. Just see what happened to the millions of Germans, Japanese, Italians, etc., that sacrificed their lives in WWII.

I have been teaching martial arts for years and have read every book I can find on the warrior culture of the samurai. My curriculum for martial arts students includes several books that my students must read and write reports on in order to move up a belt rank. I had been using The Code of the Samurai but I have switched for several reasons.

1. I never liked that the other book used the work Knight when talking about the Samurai Warrior. I prefer to stay with a Japanese feeling when reading this type of book and Knight just wasn't as comfortable.
2. I feel that this book is brings the concepts and the mind of the warrior out in a more clear and complete way.
3. It is completely evident that the author has a lot of experience in the martial arts and the way of the warrior. This can make a huge difference in what you take away from the read.

I first heard of the warrior series when a friend loaned me a copy of The Book of Five Rings by the same author. I liked it so mush that I bought my own copy and this book at the same time.

If you are interested in learning about the warrior mind from a warrior's perspective then this is your book.

I read this book and found it very moving. I became interested in the Samurai after watching The Last Samurai and I read several books on the subject. This book is a great guide to the mind and insight of the Samurai and it has caused me to reevaluate my view of many important life issues. I bought the Last Samurai DVD and understand the culture in the movie much better now. I cannot recommend this book enough.

This is a powerful and unusual novel. I'm surprised that Gray isn't more widely known. His writing is challenging but rewarding.

The story behind 1982 Janine's publication is a suitably rabelasian fable in its own right. Upon original publication, the novel displeased critics who had previously praised Gray, as Anthony Burgess (though not as harshly as Gray's supporters would have you believe; see Homage to QWERTYUIOP for the proof) and led the terminally 'politcally correct' and others of their ilk to outrightly condemn it. The latter mob were fussing over nothing. Gray has described this as his favourite among his novels. It is certainly one of the 'big three' (together with, of course, Lanark and Poor Things) in Gray's oeuvre, and while it does not scale the heights that Lanark did (which Gray wrote over almost twenty years), it is still a great achievement in its own right.

It has all the typographical pyrotechnics Unlikely Stories, Mostly had, which are always to the point, and never mere exercises in chaotic artlessness certain types would have you believe they are. This is most true of the famous 'breakdown chapter', which Irvine Welsh has difplagged time and time again. Jock McLeish is the Holy Fool, living on fragments of memory, alcohol and sex fantasies, leading up to a confrontation with God and a decision to take his own life by the horns and work as if he was living in the early days of a better nation. Neither Jonathan Coe or the late B.S. Johnson (the latter was almost Gray's equal; the former tries to be) could match this novel's achievements, depth and honesty. The introduction by Will Self (in the new Canongate edition) is good reading, too. Buy.

1982 Janine is set in the consciousness of a middle-aged inspector of security systems, holed up in a small Scottish hotel with a bottle of whisky, trying to have sexual fantasies. So far, so unpromising. The trouble is, his memories of his (far from satisfying) life keep getting in the way. And so the book continues, with Jock's baroque and teeth-gratingly embarrassing fantasies (big-breasted women in leather skirts, behaving badly) displaced more and more frequently by the shabby and unflattering truth - Jock is aware that he is a small, not very brave man who has spent his life making bad decision after bad decision. Eventually he swallows a bottle of sleeping pills. And that's not even the third last chapter, so I'm not spoiling anything for you. This is a brilliant novel - Gray's style is (as ever) classical, measured and almost pedantically correct, but it fits Jock as well as the three-piece suits he's worn since his college days. There are some barkingly insane typographical maneuvres in the wake of the pill-swallowing episode, but that's all just to set up what comes next. The comedy is grim and the sadness is awful, but there's real catharsis there for those who can appreciate it. My favourite of Gray's novels - leaner and tougher (if not as wild and ambitious) than Lanark, and less whimsical than much of his later work. The paperback edition is completed with his now-characteristic inclusion of snippets from the book's worst reviews.

I have a headache. This book was one of the most bittersweet reads I can remember: a page where I'm engrossed, followed by a page where I'm grossed out (by the author's style, not the content). I'm open to all sorts of subtle and not-so-subtle literary devices, and Alasdair Gray's 1982 JANINE embarks on a journey of writing creativity with all the tenderness of a sledgehammer.

The premise of Gray's story is interesting: a burned-out, middle-aged businessman drowning his sorrows in a shabby motel room while concocting a series of farfetched sexual fantasies--all in an effort to smother the overwhelming dreariness of his actual life. A plot dripping with existentialism, to be sure, and Gray's furious (often unreadable) style creates a mood of despair and frustration that conjures up enough alcohol-induced pink elephants to fill the San Diego Zoo. Yet the style also works against the story, as it becomes redundant to the point where its impact is lost. And as an aside, Gray's (through his protagonist) preoccupation with white silk blouses and button-down denim skirts became downright annoying. I would have preferred to have seen a little spandex, myself.

This is no "light" read; the author's style requires the reader to pay close attention. Yet there is a literally unreadable chapter--when Jock, our protagonist, takes a bottle of sleeping pills on top of his fifth of whiskey--where my heart went out to the copy editor who had to tackle all the nonsensical and upside down prose. The author waits until the end of his story to tell us the intimate details of Jock's trials and tribulations, then gives us an anticlimactic ending in the form of a very weak epiphany that doesn't measure up to all of the madness running rampant through the preceding pages. So as I reach for the aspirin, I would like to believe that 1982 JANINE is a metaphorical Mae West: when it's good, it's very, very good--when it's bad, it's blathering nonsense.

--D. Mikels

My six year-old is a Daddy's Girl and this book, even though she has had it for a long time, is one of her very favorites. It is very reassuring to her, especially with its comforting refrain ("I know Daddy will be there"). No, it is not a sing-songy all-is-well book, but neither is it particularly gloomy--it is more a testament to the quiet love of fathers and daughters.

(My child has never asked where the mother is, incidentally)

This book shows the confidence a child should have that a parent will always be available to them. This will keep the attention of young children and be easy to read by young students. I highly recommend this excellent family oriented book for students K-2 and parents.

I read this with my 3-year-old some months after her mother filed for divorce (her mother has primary custody). We re-read it 12 times that day, only giving up because Daddy was worn out! It seemed to give my daughter comfort to be reassured that Daddies are always there. However, I do agree with Kirkus Reviews that it is a melancholy book -- the mother is not referred to in this book -- she's probably dead -- and the outdoor illustrations are as lonely as a Wyeth painting.

Still, the book seems to acknowledge that not every moment in childhood is deleriously happy and fulfilling, while still giving reassurance of the strength of a father's love. The simple language is easily understood, and the illustrations are skillfully done. It is not a happy book, but a reassuring one, and we like it in my household!

This is a wonderful book for Dads and their daughters to read. I am somewhat perplexed by the criticism that "mom is nowhere to be found." In a growing number of instances Dad's are in fact left -- or seize -- the role of primary parent. Most books are mommy-centric and no one has a cow. Should Daddy-centric books be treated any different? When mom leaves children naturally fear Dad will someday leave too. This book certainly comforts daughters who worry if Daddy will be there and reminds Fathers how important it is that we are. Well done!

This book has some good principles, but it is repetitive, and after a while it becomes silly. Whenever you get to a point where you want some hard information, she gives you the names of a few books where you can find it, which is the one redeeming quality of this book. I cannot believe it took her more than a couple of weeks (or less) to write this. It is mostly white space, even when there are words.

Janine Adams has done it again: written a book about dogs in clear, concise language that any *person* can understand. This book makes a fabulous addition to any dog owner's library.

Using a postive and respectful approach to dog training and communication, Adams has compiled "must have" manual for new dog people, as well as experienced guardians. It's been several years since I raised a puppy, and with the new addition to my family, Ms. Adams' "How To Say It. . ." has been the most frequently referenced volume in my fairly extensive doggy library.

Puppies aren't the only topic covered, however. There are chapters on many issues, including: adding a second dog, adopting an adult dog or puppy, traveling and training your dog; health care issues as critical as diet, vaccination, and euthanasia; and specific behavior issues are tackled, such as jumping on people, leash problems, separation anxiety and counter surfing. . .and so much more.

"How To Say It. . ." is at the top of my short list of recommended dog books.

How to Say It to Your Dog is a rich handbook filled with practical tips, advice and resources. I love the author's positive and holistic approach, and how she incorporates new research (such as the new recommendations against automatic annual revaccinations) in an engaging, fun, and helpful way. 4 paws up!

The good parts of this book: the recommendations are practical, reasonable, and, in the long run, pretty straight-forward. Some examples of the 200 items: Get your priorities straight; Teach her to set healthy boundaries. In all, not a bad checklist.

This book probably is useful to parents or caregivers who need to review or talk about these items. For parents or caregivers to a child with moderate academic, social, or emotional problems, however, this book is insufficient. Readers should turn to books by Myrna Shure, Martin Seligman, and others.

This book matches a similar book for boys, from the same publisher, 200 Ways to Raise a Boy's Emotional Intelligence. Why is it that we think of self-esteem for girls and emotional intelligence for boys?

Bottom Line:  It's a buy for any parent, teacher, or caregiver working with girls.

Best feature:  Each of the 200 "ways" has a short action step individualized for both parents and teachers.  Makes implementation of the ideas much easier.

Pet peeve:  No index....aarggh!

What a find! Borrowed from the library and soon to become a core source of smart, practical and important strategies for helping my daughter navigate her complicated world and become a person of strength and generousity.
It is the type of book useful to those who enjoy well written parenting books and those who want something that they can pick up and put down, as time permits.

I was sent an email Oct. 12th and notified that my item was being returned because of an incorrect address, so I ordered another one to be sent to the correct address, as a result my sister received two books and I am charged double. Now what do I do? I would like a refund of one of my orders since I was told it was being returned.

This book offers an easy way to write a simple will without hiring a lawyer. The forms were well organized with at least two different examples shown for each. My only recommendation is BEFORE you begin filling in the forms, have your thoughts organized ahead of time. Some forms must be photocopied in advance because more copies are needed than the two provided. Overall, a great book that I highly recommend.

I've put off writing up a Will because it appeared quite complicated. This book answers all your questions and explains in a step-by-step approach exactly what has to be done to be in compliance with the laws of each state.

The forms are included. There are 2 copies of each and they are perforated. You can fill them out following the instructions and have them notarized before witnesses, or present them to an attorney if you prefer.

Even if you are having the Will drawn up by an attorney, this guide will explain everything you need to know before taking that step.

I highly recommend it!

I connected with this book. She describes her own feelings and emotional bonding that I too have felt. I was raised on a ranch with two grandparents whose ideas about animals conflicted so I saw both sides and can understand more than many about animal "energy" Their Energy is everywhere and we all feel it all of the time, most not paying attention to it because it is so common a feeling.


I grew up around more animals than humans and the encounter with kids that I went to school with made me withdraw from them. I was badly pigeon-toed from having my hips dislocated when I was born and the teasing was never ending so I avoided my classmates as much as possible, and I could not wait to get home each day to hug my dog who was always there for me. Even in the bitter cold of winter he was waiting at the school bus stop....

I am not telling this story to get sympathy, I do not need it. I just want you to understand why I am passionate about this book... This Is On The Cover:
" We can find in the eyes of an animal a whole new world. In their liquid depths lies the capacity to trust, be strong, to face fear, to heal and to find love. They see us at our best, without pretense or propriety. And in return for our love and Respect, they give us the gift of ourselves-the true reflection of our Souls..."

.... Each of my animals has taught me something that has stayed with me even after they had to move forward to another realm....
They have taught me that I can give love and it is returned without question. I have learned to be calm because anger hurts and causes fear. They have taught me deformities are something you can live with by my watching them and seeing that their lives go on.
...I have learned compassion does NOT come with a price. I have learned to accept myself as I am and not worry about it. I have learned about a love that goes deep and is non-judging.....
I HAVE SEEN SELF-sacrifice first hand when my little Rat Terrier stood between me and an aggressive much larger dog. He would have died to protect me if he had no other choice.
My Soul belongs to the Animal world.

Margot Lasher is a wonderful story teller and and like most good story tellers, she takes us from considering the personal and mundane to glimpsing a better understanding of the universal. This book reinforces the deep, enriching and enlightening connection we humans have - if we allow it - with all living creatures. It encourages us to recognize key experiences where animals have entered our lives to reach us, to heal us, maybe to ask for help from us. It is a very moving book which can send us into the world with heightened awareness of our fellow creatures.

This book was wonderful and inspirational, a true example of how to live your life as a member of the animal kingdom!

I like science, but I'm not a scientist. The terminology was easy to read and although I did learn a little about the anatomy of the cell, it was mostly about how little we know about the order and structure of the universe which is also encoded within the cells of our body.
How we can make changes that affect our cellular growth and health. It was an easy book to read.

I am aware of spiritual principles describing how life works. For years I have seeking easy-to-read and understand physiology and biology to allow me to explain the grounded roots of this in lay terms. Dr. King's book does this. I would not have expected a book about cells and biology to be so fascinating that I could not put it down. And it was. Did you know that neurons reach for each other and if they cannot find connections, they die? Just like us humans!! This is Life 101 and a primer for all who want to increase their success and achievements and wisdom.

As a Life Coach and Clinical Psychologist , I have often stated that change best occurs from the inside out and that biology and nature offer us much wisdom to learn from. Joan King, In Cellular Wisdom has captured both of my beliefs and brought biology knowledge to its application in our everyday living. Cells are our most basic structure and we often ignore or are ignorant of what we can learn about LIFE from the biology of our human body.
Dr. King has written a magnificent book that is both scientific and metaphysical and offers wisdom from the body to apply to all systems in your life. Read slowly and thoughtfully.

Dr. Patrick Williams,
Master Certified Coach and
CEO, Inst for Life Coach Training (www.lifecoachtraining.com)
co-author of Total Life Coaching (2005)

This book is one for serious students, while it explains a very complex text in a more simplified manner, it is not to be taken light heartedly. This book is straight forward & to the point. All contents should be read & re read untill fully understood by the individual reader. On the surface the teachings may seem harmless but as the book explains you can not make the Journey into Enlightenment without encountering & facing your own dark side. While you may choose when to open your eyes to spirituality you may NOT choose what you see. Take the exercises serioulsy, and listen closly to find exactly where your answers are coming from. This book is a CORNERSTONE, an absolute MUST READ ! VERY WELL WRITTEN ! Very helpful in the education process.

The Elements of the Qabalah is a decent introduction to the subject. It is very simplified and does leave some topics out, but it's a small book and should only be read by those who are completely unfamiliar with the Qabalah. It is really just a bare bones introduction, covering the basics. If you already have even a passing familiarity with the subject, then it's likely that you won't learn much from this book. Otherwise, if you're looking for a place to start, this would be a fine option.

This is the first book I've ever read on the Qabalah. I found it very interesting, and easy to understand for someone who has no previous knowledge on the subject. A lot of the content was specific to the different spheres and their meanings. The thing I found most helpful was the exercises at the end of every chapter. They are simple, yet challenging, and they are written so people of different religions can use them for personal reflection.