Works Books

DRAGONSINGER shows off sci-fi/fantasy writer Anne McCaffrey at her best and most accessible. Of the three books which make up the Harper Hall trilogy, this one is my favorite and a book to which I've returned a bunchful of times. Only thing is, whenever I dust this off (or, come to think of it, any of the early Pern novels), I tend to go ahead and re-read the whole friggin' series. The Harper Hall trilogy, more so than any of the Dragonriders of Pern novels, is targeted towards a young adult audience, but it'll certainly charm a reader of whatever age. And if one is looking for a capable, extremely engaging role model, then look no further than Menolly of Half-Circle Sea Hold.

DRAGONSINGER picks up almost immediately from where Dragonsong left off, with Menolly arriving at the Harper Craft Hall to begin her harper's apprenticeship. A gifted songwriter/singer/musician and the young accidental mistress of nine gluttonous but ever loyal fire lizards, the shy and vulnerable Menolly finds herself near overwhelmed by her new circumstances. She's very conscious of her horribly scarred hand (which prevents her from playing her music) and her still woefully tender feet (from having outran Thread, deadly silver spores which periodically rain on Pern). At Harper Hall, Menolly meets and is intimidated by an array of stern and skeptical teachers. She faces the scorn of her fellow female students, with whom she must share room and board. Her unconventionality and her rare fire lizards mark her as a target of curiousity and envy. For Menolly, all this is almost too hard to bear. But she loves music and loves her fire lizards. And, it turns out, she has more friends than she thinks...

DRAGONSINGER, first published in 1977, is the second book in the Harper Hall trilogy, and, in my opinion, is the best of the three. It continues Menolly's coming-of-age tale and introduces the readers to a gang of winning characters, such as the quiet journeyman Sebell, the majestic, offbeat Master Shonagar, and the impish and ingratiating Piemur (who would take center stage in Dragondrums). Of course, the awesome and perceptive Masterharper Robinton figures in most of the Pern novels, and he makes his presence vigorously felt here. Who wouldn't want to work for someone like him?

Another neat thing about the Harper Hall trilogy is that it allows the reader to relive events in McCaffrey's other novels. Specifically, the timeline of DRAGONSONG and DRAGONSINGER coincides with that of Dragonquest (Dragonriders of Pern), so that, just as we revisited Jaxom's impressing of Ruth thru Menolly's eyes in DRAGONSONG, here, we get Menolly and Harper Hall's horrified reactions to F'nor's disastrous foray to the inhospitable Red Star. Later, the third Harper Hall entry, DRAGONDRUMS, would touch on events occuring in The White Dragon (Dragonriders of Pern Vol 3).

McCaffrey warmly covers a span of seven eventful days in Menolly's life, chronicling her transitioning from an uncertain, bashful young girl to a confident one with the world opened up before her. Menolly is tall and gangly and unsure, and so appealing. It's a joy reading of her overcoming her challenges, making new friends, and impressing just near everyone with her musical talents. My favorite moments would have to be the ones in which she's engaged in her music or spending time with her fair of fire lizards (and, believe me, both activities take up huge, huge chunks of the book). Scenes to look out for: the first time Menolly feeds her fire lizards at Harper Hall, the impromptu Hall concert during Threadfall, all the moments with Shonagar, and Gather Day. As ever, McCaffrey peppers her book with sightings of benevolent dragons, who constantly guard Pern against Thread, and their miniature and inquisitive cousins, the fire lizards. Actually, in this Harper Hall series, the focus is more on the fire lizards than on the dragons. McCaffrey lends Menolly's fire lizards their own distinct personalities, from the imperious Beauty to the nagging Aunties One and Two, to the beleaguered Uncle, to the aptly named Lazybones.

Compared to the other, more adult-oriented novels about Pern, DRAGONSINGER is a lighter, more intimate read, and not as intricately plotted. The stakes here don't shape the world, just Menolly's personal universe. But, I'll tell you what, you'll get caught up in it. DRAGONSINGER (and a whole mess of McCaffrey's novels, come to think of it) fits cozily on my shelf of comfort books. I normally have two copies of books which I particularly love. With DRAGONSINGER, I have three, two of which are pretty threadbare. Such a good read.

The harper Hall Trilogy is my favorite set by McCaffrey and interestingly the first books I read by her. I love dragons and there for dragon stories, particularly ones were dragons are not mindless monsters of destruction, so it would be odd for me not to like these books. The story is very original and the characters well written. If your not sure of getting into the Pern books, this is the series to read! Dragonsinger is a really strong book, despite being in the middle of a set. The story keeps going strong and the characters stay true to themselves.

I know I wasn't supposed to read this book first, but it was on the free book cart at the library. And I've wanted to read McCaffery for some time now. I'd give this book four a half stars. I'd like to have given it five. But I'll get to that in a minute. Her prose is elegant. Each of her characters is clearly defined. The main, Menolly, is strong and modest, but often bleek and insecure because of her background. Thus her behavior makes sense at times when she is overly passive when she shouldn't be. As well as apologizing for every little thing. However, her giving a shiner to Benis was priceless. I love the tiny info on the Fort Sea Hold, and look I look forward to getting clear description when I read DragonSong. The only problem I had with this book was there was no real action, besides the brawl at the Gather. Though I must say, the book was not boringt any time. But I did have to put it down from time to time because its lack of action.

Can't wait to read more McCaffery. I see why she's one of the leading authors in the SciFi/Fantasy genre.

Menolly is now at the Harper Hall. However, she is a geek/nerd and doesn't fit in with all the girls who like doing the standard chick things. Plus there just happens to be a bunch of fire lizards following her around.

She also has to deal with the problem of choosing or being asked to choose a specialisation and someone to be a mentor.

Menolly has achieved her dream of living in Harper Hall, despite the disadvantage of being born female. But she does not know how she will fit in and the fact that she accidentally Impressed nine fire lizards causes disruptions in class and jealousies from the other students. That she comes to realize her full talent as a musician, singer and songwriter and revel in the company of other musicians is the delight of this perfect fantasy novel.

This gem of a story is appropriate for creative girls and women of all ages, all creative endeavors because it says that the barriers the world puts in your way won't stand up to friendship, hard work and talent. I wore out two paperback copies before breaking down and buying it in hardback. Highly recommended.

American children went missing before and after Adam Walsh, but his was the first to gain national media attention. His parents were likable, educated and well-spoken, and Adam was kidnapped from the safest place anyone could ever imagine, from inside a Sears department store. The Walsh family's story could have been any American family's story. I remember seeing the original news stories, and the national TV interview of John and Reve Walsh, on the same morning that their son's headless body was found in a Florida canal.

The true story that John Walsh tells is about a family nearly torn apart by the senseless murder of a little boy, and the anger and rage that they turned into positive action and change, establishing the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and later, becoming host of the TV show America's Most Wanted, which has brought home missing children and helped police to solve murders and bring killers to justice.

The murder of his own child remains unsolved, but Walsh believes that he knows the identity of the killer, a homeless drifter who later died in prison, where he was serving time for crimes unrelated to the murder of Adam Walsh.

I've never read a book so gripping or heart wrenching. My condolences to you and your family Mr. Walsh; my heart breaks for you.

John Walsh has decided he is the voice for victims everywhere. The problem is, fewer and fewer people want him to be. Why? Because of things like this book.

He seems to ignore reality in favor of what he wants us to think.

I agree that this book is very sad and heart breaking. I can only begin to feel the sadness and heart break that this man and his wife went through. This book reveal that. I could only somewhat feel his pain because I have never been through it. This book proves that something good can come out of tragic happenings.

This book is more political then I thought. This man has accomplished a lot Worth the buy.

AS A MAN YOUR NOT SUPPOSED TO CRY, BUT I DID, READING WHAT HAPPENED TO HIS SON AND THINKING OF MY OWN SON I JUST COULDNT HELP IT! ITS A GREAT BOOK AND MAKES YOU WONDER WHAT YOU WOULD DO IF IT HAPPENED TO YOU!

It cost me about $200 to fill my raised bed with the planting mix recommended. It was a complete waste of money, as the water runs right out of the mix. It is far too light. He's right, you cannot overwater, but it also does not hold the water. In areas where water costs money or is scarce, this soil mix is a very bad idea.

This book is very helpful to learn a new way of gardening for higer yields in small areas. It has very helpful advice and good graphics to follow. It is easy to read and understand.

I guess I was looking for the quick answer version. Here's your square, now plant this....Not a book for the average gardener. Unless, of course, you are a botonist.

Have bought several Square Foot Gardening books since they are used so much. Now the second and third generation are reading it in our family. Full of clear, simple solutions and ideas which makes gardening easy and profitable.

I have owned this book for years. Worn out more that one copy. This copy was purchased to give to a new urbanm garden project in a develpomently challanged area of my city. We will be teaching at rick young people how to garden and landscape. This is one of many tools we will use and is as far as I am concerned the best how to do it garden book for people who have little or no knowledge about gardening.

This book was very easy to read and understand. It had a wealth of information in it. I would recommend it to anyone who has any questions and wants answers about the thyroid gland. The book gives some great programs for you to follow.

I was very disappointed in this book. Didn't feel that I learned anything that I didn't already know.

This doctor goes very in-depth in his explanations of symptoms and how the thyroid works, but he is never talking over your head. He explains in easy-to-understand language how the thyroid works and what happens when it doesn't. This book has caused me to search for a new endocrinologist who is as concerned for his/her patient's overall health as Dr Arem. I recommend this book to all who are suffering from thyroid disease, even if you have had it for a long time. You will learn something new about your disease and it's treatment.

I had severe (tsh 337.85) hypothyroidism by the time I was diagnosed. This is the only author that I've seen that even mentioned some of the things that I experienced. I think that this doctor has a real feel for what the thyroid patient goes through.

After 11 years with hypothyroidism, this book finally answered all of my questions. If your lab tests say you're normal, but you don't feel normal, this book explains it ALL. Highly recommend!

This is one of the most interesting books that I've ever read. We originally got it to make up our own book of shadows for Halloween, but not I can't stop reading it! Highly recommended.

While this book is quite interesting, the authors seem to confuse, potions, charms, incantations, spells and magical ceremonies quite frequently. Also the majority of 'spells' listed are quite outdated or obscure.

This encyclopedia has almost every spell that you could need. From banishings, cleansings, love spells and even curses, this book is as close to the classical ancient tome of spells that you are likely to get. It was money well spent. It truly is the Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts.

This book is trulu amazing! I could not wait to get it, and when I did I was not disappointed. I spent 2 days reading this book and I can't imagine what other book you would ever need. It contains everything from recipes for inks, oils, incenses, and potions, to history, health warnings on herbs, spells, hexes, and antidotes. This is definitely a book that will be well used and well loved. It is a huge book with huge potential and would be a welcome addition to anyone practicing spellcraft. Highly recommended!!

The book is amazing. It's so big and I payed the full price for it but its one of my best new age reference books I have. The spells come from all kinds of magickal forms. So you can weed out what you need and what you do.
Amazing book!!

I had this book as a young person and loved it. this is a replacement of a long lost friend. The illistrations are exceptional and the stories wonderful.

When it comes to illustration books, Froud and Lee's collaborative "Faeries" is, quite simply, divine. This book captures the subject matter unlike any other work(s) from any other fantasy artists. The real magic and majesty of the "Faerie Realm" of British Isles and Irish mythology come to life within the pages.
If you love great art, get this book. If you love great legends from ancient lands, get this book.

An amazing book, it totally takes me away when I'm reading it. Beautifully illustrated, the drawings are amazing, so detailed. This one specially is a superb edition, very well designed, and totally worth the price.

I totally love fantasy, folklore, and mythology, so this book was naturally of great interest to me. The pictures of various classes of mythical creatures were absolutely wonderful, and the text that described the myths upon which the pictures are based was interesting and fun to read. I would highly recommend this book for someone interested in a book about fairy folklore that's not overly academic.

I LOVE THIS BOOK ABOUT FAERIES. I READ IT OVER AND OVER.
THANK YOU
PEGGY BOND

Next to the Bible this is my favorite book. I have read it several times and each time I learn something new. It will definately increase your knowlege of the true nature and character of God. You will not only learn more about God but you will truely know God better..Tell me what you think of my Christain fiction novel The Palace Theatre..The Palace Theatre

I enjoyed the book Knowing God by J. I. Packer, it was thought provoking and very insightful. This book was part of a New Testament class and I usually sell my books after reading them but I am going to add Knowing God to my personal library.

This is one of the great Christian classics that is a must read for every generation. It is not heady theology though it is thoroughly rooted in Scripture. It's underlying theme is the love of God for human kind expressed through his character. I felt very loved!

Wow........ When I first saw the book cover I thought; " No Way am I gonna waste my time reading this!" But when I opened the book and read the first page, I could'nt stop! I read three to five chapters a day! When my youth Pastor mentioned this book, I was a little hesitant to purchase it. Now that I am heading toward the deep end, I have no regrets for purchasing it. I recommend that anyone who is reading this to buy the book. Trust me you won't have any regrets.

The updated version of Packer's book features a new preface, an addition to the fourth chapter, and "Americanization" of the text (spelling and such). The list of endorsing readers is quite impressive, many singing the praises after having read the first edition. Apart from that, the book has been left alone, and Packer stated his hopes that the book would continue to enrich the lives of those who read it. It seems safe to say that anyone who reads this volume and attempts to put into practice the teachings it sets forth will find immense value in doing so.
The first few chapters deal with the subject of truly knowing God. Packer is quick and adamant in his distinction between knowing about God, and actually knowing God. The thesis of the book seems to be simply that. While Packer greatly went into theological issues, the tone was set quite nicely in the first few chapters, as he made it quite clear that walking away with doctrine and an unchanged heart would cause the book to be nothing short of a letdown. Another seeming thesis of the book is set forth in the first chapter, as well as the preface, and it involves coming to a right understanding of who God is--and Packer frequently warned the reader that the waters of theology are choppier today than ever before, despite the numerous books written on the subject.
Chapter 4 is an interesting chapter in itself, and will be discussed more fully later. However, while it is grouped with the first three (and the next two chapter, as well), it takes a different tone--"correctly" worshiping God. Chapters 5 and 6, though technically still in the first section, seem to fit well into the second section instead. Dealing with the second and third persons of the Trinity, respectively, they open a great door for what is the majority of the book--
the doctrine of God. Chapters 7-17 discuss different attributes of God--immutability, majesty, wisdom, truth, love, grace, judging, wrath, goodness, severity, and jealousy. These issues are dealt with in quite a bit of detail, and Packer sets forth the proper human response to each of these attributes.
The last sections takes a turn towards the gospel. The doctrine of propitiation pervades nearly the entire section, and the Christian's adoption into the kingdom is quite prevalent as well. Other issues dealt with are facing the trials Christians will deal with, understanding the security received from Christ's atoning work, and the last chapter--through an exposition of part of Romans--helps the reader develop a mindset with which to end the book.
It could easily be said of Knowing God that Packer sets out a brief systematic theology. While it would certainly be incomplete in some ways, one could hardly find a better volume as an introduction to theological study. Over and over again, Packer points out the false view of God that is rampant in society today (though it is interesting that "society" was 1973, and it still seems completely applicable today, 2006), and explains the importance of understanding the biblical view.
Stating the few negatives first would be the easiest way. As has already been mentioned, chapter 4 was quite peculiar. Titled, "The Only True God," it might be best suited with a subtitle/warning label reading something to the effect of "Warning, Anti-Catholic Teaching Ahead." Suffice it to say that Catholics and Orthodox alike would likely cease reading after coming across this chapter. The idea Packer is arguing for is that the second commandment--the prohibition of idolatry--means more than just the age-old idea of golden calves. Rather, in Packer's estimation, that idea is combated with the first commandment. The second commandment forbids the making of things like paintings, statues and crucifixes (hence, the anti-Catholic/Orthodox sentiment). He referred to the story from the book of Exodus where the Israelites, tired of waiting on Moses to return from Mr. Sinai, asked Aaron to build an idol for them to worship. Packer argued that the Israelites were not asking for another God, rather they wanted an image of Yahweh. The reason Moses was outraged was simply that, though they worshiped Yahweh, they had not worshiped Him properly.
However, this does not seem to be what the Scriptures are saying. After rereading the story multiple times, it seems quite evident that the golden calf was to be a replacement for Moses' God, not simply an image of the One True God. The other main argument Packer used was that the Israelites would have had not contact with idolatry, so the second commandment must have been the prohibition of making anything of the nature of statues, paintings or crucifixes. However, that seems to be a weak argument, as the Israelites had just left Egypt, which was full of idolatry. Also interesting to note is the dearth of Scriptures in this chapter. While the other chapters are so full of Scripture references that one could hardly look them up, this chapter had relatively few. At the end, the addition for this version is a complete discounting of criticisms he received since the first edition. The other question left unanswered is what to do with Christ as the physical representation of God, and with the abundance of metaphorical language for God in the Bible that is sure to invoke images in the minds of its readers. It seems Packer may have gone too far, as he argued that all renderings, even of Christ, are nothing short of idolatry--even when used for didactic and devotional purposes. While it should go without saying that worshiping an image would certainly be wrong, the existence of them is not likely to be sin.
Another complaint about the book is Packer's generalizations. Virtually every chapter attempts to go against the modern thinking about God and produce in the reader a biblical mindset. However, as he explains the culture, the reader is hit with "many people believe..." or "most churches do not believe..." without any reference as to the truth of those statements. That is not to say Packer is wrong, nor that his conclusions and assertions are mislead. The simple fact, however, is that the reader is left wondering exactly how common these errors really are. Sometimes the trouble of unsupported assertions is too readily apparent. In one chapter (16), Packer refers to "Santa Claus theology." In that, God is likened to Santa and seen as nothing but good. Packer says this liberal ideology has opened the door to the problem of evil, which was not a problem before the 20th century. This idea seems preposterous, as Augustine dealt with the problem of evil many centuries ago. However, these types of pitfalls found through unsupported assertions are scarce in the book.
All that said, the rest of the book was quite a joy to read. The overwhelming majority of the book is packed with Scripture references and biblical stories as he makes his points. References to past theologians, especially the Reformers and Puritans, are abundant. Hymns are used multiple times to reiterate the message (many from Charles Wesley, too--pleasant to see from someone who is so strongly Reformed). While there was a growing concern that Packer might have been advocating Puritanism, he showed his objectivity in saying that the Puritans did not stress nearly enough the doctrine of adoption as God's children. Another great strength of this book is the light touch of Reformed theology throughout. Someone once joked that without Packer's endorsement (or lack of) on a book, one would hardly know if a book was Reformed enough to bother reading. The expectation is to find an abundance of references to election and effectual calling. However, it is not until the end that many references to election are found, and these fit the context and purpose perfectly.
The theological topics were quite a blessing to read, even for someone who has some level of theological training. Packer displayed an extremely high view of grace and the utmost importance on the work of Christ on the cross. Those two themes, as well as God's sovereignty, seem to tie the whole book together--from God's love, to adoption, to His wisdom. Probably the best topic was that of adoption. Packer reiterated the lack of resources on this topic (in the past and present), and stressed its importance. He boldly stated that, though justification may be more important (as adoption is not possible without it), adoption is the highest privilege. He made quite clear the importance as he stressed the relationship between father and son. It might certainly be a blessing if Packer were to help fill the void of resources in the area of adoption by writing a volume devoted to it, as he did such a wonderful job here.
Another great aspect of this book has already been mentioned. At the end of most chapters is a section on our response. After giving a great explanation of a doctrine such as the wrath of God, Packer asks questions such as
It would be difficult to discuss every positive point of the book. While theologically trained individuals may find it more of a refresher than greatly insightful, the book is not devalued. From new Christians to those who have been in the faith for several years, this book should be a great help. It would serve marvelously for a small group. It would also suffice as a reference for preaching and teaching. If possible, it should be incorporated into the discipleship process of any church (that actually believes the Bible, that is), especially for new Christians.
The rather robust look at God which Packer supplies is evenly balanced, scripturally supported, and historically illumined. All who truly desire to know God should read this book.

I am studying for NP and found this book is comprehensive, with all info you need, symptoms and signs, diagnosis, treatment...under each disease or disorder, well organized and easy to find information you need. And the price at amazon.com is lowest I ever found.

This book has been wonderful! I am thrilled to be able to use it on my journey through nursing school. This book is a pathophysiology life saver as well. The care plans listed here and the information that is in this little book make life much easier! If you are in the medical field, you should own this book. If you are someone that is interested in just learning more, you might want to try the family edition that isn't quite as technical.

A well edited reference book that helps one understand nursing diagnostics. The writing is a bit small and the paper is very thin but other than that its a great little book.

This latest edition of the Merck Manual has been signifigantly updated and refreshed. The breadth is exceptional, and the hundreds of contributors have produced a tight, concise overview of medical coditions. You won't get any hand-holding, so if you are unfamiliar with medical language get a good medical dictionary and before long you'll be off and running. An invaluable reference for medical professionals and patients who like to read it straight up. It's interesting to compare earlier editions and realize that medical knowledge is still incomplete, even with the authoritative tone. The human system is so intricate and amazing. I'm glad that there are people trying to figure it out. Carry on!

I am a nurse and depend on the merck manual for
information and usualy get the new edition when
it is printed.I would not be without the manual.

This book will make you realize that the food choices you make, are not only good for your health but for the planet and all other living beings....we are all connected after all! I found this book very informative, organized and easy to follow. I have loved the few recipes I made already and look forward to making more. I highly recomend it!

This is a beautiful book, with pictures and quotes that are lovely and inspiring. Not to mention that the recipes are really fabulous! Great for entertaining vegan and non-vegan guests and having everyone feeling satisfied and complimenting the chef. The restaurant in Portland, Oregon is well worth the trip, as I'm sure the one in Hawai'i is as well. A must-have for any vegan kitchen.

I'm a vegan living outside NYC. I am a huge fan of your book, the hardcover, it's actually my favorite cookbook. It is beautifully photographed and just a lovely book to own and use in your kitchen!

I've tried about half of these recipes and had good success. Breads, pastas, pizzas, salads, dressings, deserts - it's all here. This is vegan heaven!

When my husband and I started following a plant based diet 19 months ago I never thought we'd make it. We borrowed about 10 vegan cookbooks from a doctor we know and most everything was awful. For a whole month I flat out did not enjoy eating. We then found 4 vegan cookbooks that were o.k. and I could finally enjoy what I had made.

Then, in March my husband stumbled upon Vegan Fusion. The cookie lover in me thinks the chocolate chip cookie recipe is worth the cost of the book in itself! Vegan Fusion is my "go to" cookbook every week. I have made quite a few recipes and all that I can say is, "YUMMMMY!". My 4 year old picky, "I just want a meat sandwich" daughter said of the split pea parsnip soup, "This is the best soup ever!" and had 2 helpings.

There are so many aspects of this book that I like. Of course the recipes are fabulous! Being new to the whole vegan scene, it has a lot to offer a novice vegan i.e. the legume cooking chart, tips on roasting everything from veggies to nuts, startling statistics on "global footprints" of the different diets people follow.

I live in a small town (<2,500 people) and I can find most of the ingredients at our local healthfood store. The only thing I'm sure I can't get locally is green coconuts. I guess I'll just have to go to Kuaui - oh, darn!

I recommend this book to every vegan and health conscious friend I know!

I recently finished my first year at a top tier law school. This book did so much for me. If you are serious about getting good grades in CivPro, I think you should seriously consider this book. It forces you to understand the concepts and work through the rules, which is vital to doing well on exams. Don't stress about exams. This will help you.

This is by far one of the best supplements out there. It really explains everything and illustrates the material with great examples followed by explanations that are clear and concise. I would not recommend taking Civil Procedure without this book.

However, one caveat: this book may not cover all of the material in your Civ Pro class. Off the top of my head, I know it is missing chapters on class actions, Seventh Amendment right to jury trials, and interpleader (though it has impleader and other joinder topics). Despite this minor shortcoming, the material that is contained in this supplement is explained well and illustrated through great examples. Definitely a must have!

This is an essential supplement if you are going to understand this God-forsaken subject. I took off a star because there are some important subjects that are not covered in the book for some reason (For example, there is very little on Rule 24)

This book was very helpful for reviewing each section as we went through them in class. The explanation sections are wonderful and the examples are very helpful for exam prep.

E&E is a great series. I've found many of the books helpful in supplementing law school reading that can be at times difficult to synthesize. However, Freer's supplement on civil procedure is unbeatable.

Law school is about knowing the rule and applying the facts. E&E is great at helping you to know the rule. However, it doesn't help you figure out how to apply the facts, especially in a way pertinent to law school exams. Freer's book is full of examples and frameworks that assure success on your CivPro exam. This is especially true of the frameworks he lays out for analyzing Personal Jurisdiction problems and Erie.

Buy Freer and you'll be happier going into your final.