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S Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

S
Improving Performance: How to Manage the White Space on the Organization Chart (The Jossey-Bass management series)
Published in Hardcover by Jossey-Bass Inc.,U.S. (1990-06-15)
Authors: Geary A. Rummler and Alan P. Brache
List price: $29.95
New price: $5.92
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $31.00

Average review score:

Best Process Book Ever
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-10
This book presents some interesting concepts on Process Design and Performance.

The best business improvement book ever written
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-10-28
Don't let the date this book was published influence your decision to buy - it is timeless. I am on my second copy of this book and would characterize it as the best book on business process management that has ever been published. This is "The Book". Everyone I know in the Business Process Management field has this book. I recommend it to every client and every business improvement team member that I work with.

The information contained in this "gem" can help anyone involved in process improvement. Consultants, executives, managers, process team leaders, process team members - it doesn't matter whether you are working in manufacturing, finance, logistics, sales or human resources. It also doesn't matter whether you are new to BPM or have been in the field for 20 years. This book will change the way you think about organizational structure and approaching business process.

Trying to characterize what parts of the book were best, would be like trying to dissect what parts of the blue sky you like best. It is all great stuff - each chapter is better than the next, and will help you understand what needs to be done to make business improvement initiatives work. It is well written, easy to understand the concepts, with hundreds of useful illustrations and models to learn from.

I would give this book 6 stars if I could ...

Classic
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-09
This book will survive the trends, since most of the trends are based on the principles in this book. The names will change (Quality Circles, Just In Time, TQM, Re-engineering, Six Sigma, ...), but these principles and how well they are implemented will determine a companies' efficiency and quality.

Simply the best of "Best Practices" - Invaluable
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-06
As a business process and systems analyst, I have used the techniques in this book extensively to document existing and proposed processes and systems.

The diagramming techniques ensure thorough identification of all relevant interfaces and will assist in identifying those frustrating and toxic business processes that defy verbal description, but once diagrammed, seem to become clearly understood. I cannot count how many "Ah-ha" moments I have seen when confused managers, too deep in the trees to be able to see the whole forest, finally see the problems with their business laid out in clear pictures drawn with the techniques taught in this book.



Best companion for process improvement
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2004-06-28
This is by far the first book that dealt with process improvement and change from all angles. This book provides examples that will help the novice in preparing and implementing change. Packed with examples and worksheets to guide the reader thru the whole process. However, since it was written in 1995, this book does not cover prevailing technologies but is still useful in understanding the foundations for change. If you are looking to implement business process change/improvement, read this book in conjunction with a more recent book by Paul Harmon "Business Process Change" who happens to be a student of Mr. Rummler. Paul Harmon's book cover such topics as CMM and Six Sigma when implementing process change.

S
The Investigation: A Former FBI Agent Uncovers the Truth Behind Howard Hughes, Melvin Dummar, and the Most Contested Will in American History
Published in Hardcover by Barricade Books (2005-12-25)
Author: Gary Magnesen
List price: $23.95
New price: $14.18
Used price: $16.09

Average review score:

HRH Fans must read....
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-12
This is a fast read, Ive read all the HRH books and this was intresting. I think the author did a fine job. After reading this book I felt that indeed Hughes would have loved the drama that swept the nation, Even in death he is larger then life. The book is a great read and will be surprising....

confusing but convincing
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-05
Magnesen is probably a great detective and FBI agent, but he gets a C grade for organization and writing. The book was difficult to follow; as were the characters. One thing that would have helped immensely would have been to put a list of key players and their job/title descriptions at the end so we could refer to the list when the people would be mentioned in later chapters. However, his purpose in writing was not intended as great literature, but to convince readers that Dummar is not a kook. And, he did succeed in doing that because I did put the book down feeling like the "Mormon Will" could be real. Magnesen discovers some very convincing evidence that did not come out in the trial or was not pursued.
If you are intrigued by Howard Hughes, add this book to your list.

A MUST READ!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-19
It took a the span of 24 hours to read this book. Every second I was not working or taking care of a 10 month-old baby I was hiding in a corner with my nose stuck in this book. The author starts as a skeptic, but through brillant research and persistence he uncovers the truth of this long-awaited fiasco. His years of FBI experience really shines through his journey to the untold story. Highly Recomended!

Intriguing and Informative
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-03
I came away from this story convinced that justice was not served in the case of the Howard Hughes will. Mr. Magnesen's investigation of this mystery clearly demonstrates why he enjoyed a long and successful career as an FBI agent.

Time past will allow for a calm review of this book!!!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-17
The Investigation by Gary Magnesen represents the trifecta of historical research. Magnesen has the rare combination of an FBI career, Nevada residency and a degree in psychology as implements to harvest the truth in regards to the "Mormon Will."

Fragmented by time and lore, the tale of the unlikely Samaritan, Melvin Dummar is cast in the bright white light of a logical and linear review by a skeptic armed with nothing more than his background and compelling logic as arrows in an intellectual quiver.

I followed the suspicion and misgivings associated with the tale of Melvin Dummar associated with the holographic Will penned by the late Aviator, Industrialist and enigma, Howard Hughes. Shadowing Magnesen's process and logic was eased by his descriptive narration of personal doubts and the path required to find a logical end. He was not on a quest, nor does he seem influenced by the story which ultimately led to his involvement. If anything, he was drawn by the mounting inconsistencies and unfinished stories by those directly effected by Mr. Dummar's tale.

I was fascinated by the process which he undertook in this unlikely task to add clarity to a foggy footnote from the past (1976). The mind numbing research of court and county records, with the juxtaposition of interviews including citizens from towns whose glory days have long since passed into modern history added an element of humor, without diminishing the value of those who still reside there.

Each chapter was a building block which reinforced the tale told by Melvin Dummar as more than plausible. In fact, I was totally convinced he was telling the truth.

The teaser associated with this story is the revelations of a pilot employed by Hughes in the sixties. Although his contribution to the book is barely represented by two dozen pages; his story contained the most unanswered questions or inconsistencies of the 263 pages representing Dummar's tale. The following observations are not a condemnation of the man, simply a set of examples which Magnesen held me rapt throughout the story!

1. When Deiro flew into the unpaved, unlighted airport at night, the previous pages referenced a truck illuminating the approach end of the runway. Yet on the night in question the truck was at the far end (in the pilot's eyes) of the runway. Any landing upon a gravel surfaced, unlighted airport at night would be a large risk at best and possibly illegal, at worst.
2. It is written on page 102, "The fact that Daniels (geologist) was having a beer or two in the morning tells us something about him." Yet the pilot (Deiro) having too many Johnny Walker's and needing to take a nap is not questioned in regard to his credibility. Drinking within eight hours prior to a commercial flight is illegal!
3. Upon the pilots return to Las Vegas, since nobody asked; he didn't bother reporting his loss of the passenger he departed with seven hours earlier.


The preceding examples are a reflection of my intrigue and justification for a media (website) to communicate with this author.

This book is at a minimum, a `can't put it down read' combined with intrigue, injustice and surviving principals!

S
The Jim Morrison Scrapbook
Published in Hardcover by Chronicle Books (2007-10-04)
Author: James Henke
List price: $40.00
New price: $16.00
Used price: $9.99
Collectible price: $126.00

Average review score:

A creative, visually enticing gift for any Doors fan.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-03
I am a big fan of the Doors, and Jim Morrison (went to his grave in Pere La Chaise twice) and I had long been looking for a coffee table book on Jim that was both interesting to look at and a fine read, too. This pop-up book has pockets and slides of letters, photos and mementos so well reproduced they look like originals; it's a must-have for anyone who loves arts and crafts and The Doors! Enjoy it!!

FABULOUS!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-13
I am a devoted Jim Morrison/Doors fan but wasn't aware of this book until my nephew mentioned it to me while we were at a Ozzie/Rob Zombie concert. I promised to give it to him for his birthday. I bought it from Amazon and before I wrapped it I spent at least two hours going through it. This is the most well-conceived, cohesive, unbelievably put-together book I have ever seen. I could not stop going through it and taking all the papers out of their pockets and reading Jim Morrison's letters to his mother, report cards, letters to Jim from his pastor, teachers, etc. Every insert looks like the original document. I cannot say enough good things about this book. I gushed over it so much I hope my kids get the hint and give it to me for Mother's Day!

Jim Morrison lives on...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-06
Excellent collector's edition book for any Jim Morrison/The Doors fan. Full of never before published pictures, handwritten lyrics and letters by Jim Morrison. A must buy for any Doors fan.

Bought for my husband...Big Fan of Jim's
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-15
My husband loved this book and all it has to offer. This is for a true fan of The Doors and collectors.

The Jim Morrison Scrapbook
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-16
The Jim Morrison Scrapbook *****

With the abundance of material that has been released and re-released and alternately released from the Jim Morrison estate in the past decade very little of it has been any good. It is mostly things that had already been released on one thing or another deeming it pointless to own, but not The Jim Morrison Scrapbook. Oh-no! This is phenomenal and a must have for Doors-geeks like myself. This shows sides of Morrison rarely or never shown.

Chronicling the genius from birth, poet, songwriter, lover, performer, and death. This is a book explaining all of those things about the man, but with actually tangible documents like his will, report cards, letters, his handwritten lyrics, rare seen photos; some of which have never been released to the mass public.

The Jim Morrison Scrapbook is the first in a series of "scrapbooks" being released of famous legends. As of right now a Bob Dylan, and John Lennon version is also available. This is essential for all rock fans! A must read!

S
Knitgrrl: Learn to Knit With 15 Fun and Funky Projects
Published in Library Binding by Topeka Bindery (2005-09)
Author: S Okey
List price: $19.25
New price: $15.02
Used price: $47.01

Average review score:

Nice intro to knitting book for teens
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-21
I have had the opportunity to take a good look at Knitgrrl: Learn to Knit with 15 Fun and Funky Projects by Shannon Okey. I'd have to say that it's a pretty nice intro to knitting for 6th through say, 10th graders.

First of all, the projects are all small and trendy: Rocker-Girl Wristlets, Friendship Scarf, Boombox Bag, Faux Fur Stole, Kitty Dim Sum (kitty toys), Stripey Scarf, Ponytail Roll-Brim Hat, Heartfelt Roll-Brim Hat, DIY Leg Warmers, Music Player Cozy, Soda Cozy, Text-Messaging Mittens (trendiest), Downtown Messenger Bag, Lacy Double-Diamond Scarf, and Nakiska Alpine Headband. My favorites are the Downtown Messenger Bag--sturdy, yet sleek and attractive--and the Text-Messaging Mittens which open up just the thumbs of the mittens for quick messages to your best friends.

Okey was able to provide a variety of small, yet imaginative projects by inviting guest designers to contribute to her compilation. That may account for the variety and ingenuity of most of the projects. The only project which looked completely dorky to me were the headphone covers, in pastel stripes. The model looks really happy wearing them, but most of my middle school students would be too embarrassed to wear them, as they look pretty weird.

Next, the beginner knitting instructions. The step-by-step photos of the knit and purl stitches are quite nice, and clear enough for someone trying to teach herself. The slip knot photos must have been edited for space, though, as they do not illustrate the crucial step of pulling the working yarn through the loop. I wouldn't be able to teach myself the slipknot with only the two photographs they offer.

There are lots of "extras" beyond your basic knitting instructions, answering questions like Why Knit? What kind of yarn girl are you? How do I care for my handknits? as well as a list of yarn companies, books, on-line info, and knitting magazines. [...]

This is an attractive, imaginative, hip book for young teens entering the knitting scene and looking for lots of support and ideas for small knitting projects. The only teens who may find this book lacking would be more serious, ambitious, and intermediate level knitting teens who are searching for more advanced projects, such as sweaters and socks.

All in all, if I were the mother of a middle school teen and wanted to interest her in knitting, this would be an excellent choice.

Learn to Knit
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-17
At first I thought the title 'Knitgrrl' was a misspelling, and I don't quite understand it. The instructions are clear, but the young person needs adult help. The choice of patterns is great. It would be good if it came with a set of needles and some yarn to start off the beginner knitter.

Knitting fun
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-10
Thoroughly enjoyed the layout and excellent photos of the projects and the other interesting items included in the book

The Perfect Primer!!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-12
Having just recently 'graduated' from making scarves and just about anything else square or rectangular that didn't require patterns or gauge concerns, i was feeling a bit intimidated and confused over some knitting basics. i have a generous assortment of knitting books, and some are more helpful than others. this is one of the best ones.

i find these instructions to be extremely friendly and clearly expressed. the pictures are clear and accurate. and finally a book that shows and describes that mysterious process of weaving in ends!! this book covers all the basics - yarn fibers, yarn labels, gauge, color chart, needles, etc. and includes a cute and fun 'quiz' which i got a kick out of.

there are great tips throughout the book, colorful photos of the patterns, cute drawings, a nice section on felting (fulling), and even a wonderful recipe for homemade hand salve!

the patterns are defined well by the subtitle of the book "fun and funky". it could be argued that they may be most appealing to the younger crowd, but i think a beginner knitter (or a former knitter in need of a refresher course) would be pleased with the selection. who couldn't use a hat, handbag, scarf/stole, or pair of leg warmers? on top of that and several other items, there's a cool pattern for 'text messaging mittens' that feature thumb panels you can flip off. and dont forget your cat! - you can whip up some cat toys using the adorable wonton and eggroll patterns.

this is a fun book offering very helpful instructions for your foundation in knitting. you will find the cool, beginner-friendly patterns will not only help you learn the basics, but you will also find that they become items that you will use for yourself or as gifts for friends/family/felines.

happy knitting!

Winter Knitting
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-30
Shannon Okey is a designer and loves knitting. She features yarns you can find in stores or online and has plenty of resources for new knitters. Fun items in this book include a kitty dim sum (fill with cat nip) for your cats and ideas for knitting parties. Each book stands alone with all the information you need to get started. So, whether you start with the first or second book, there is enough information to finish all the projects.

For winter, there are unique text-messaging mittens that will be appreciated by anyone who loves to be outdoors and answering their phone in the cold. Also helpful for iPods and would be a great gift along with the music player cozy that works as ear muffs and a CD holder.

Love to ice skate? There is a pattern for leg warmers complete with embroidery, French knot and straight stitch. This book also includes a recipe for homemade hand cream. Knitgrrl has 15 fun projects to try and seems to focus on winter hats, scarves and purses. Knitgrrl 2 has a fun summer theme. Both seem essential!

~The Rebecca Review

S
The Lion's Pride: Theodore Roosevelt and His Family in Peace and War
Published in Paperback by Oxford University Press, USA (1999-12-09)
Author: Edward J. Renehan
List price: $42.00
New price: $6.72
Used price: $3.20
Collectible price: $25.00

Average review score:

Theodore Roosevelt as a father.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-07
This is an excellent work about Theodore Roosevelt as a father. Although the author discusses his children throughout the book, the focus is on TR himself. One thing I have admired about President Roosevelt is that he loved being a father (although his relationship with his oldest daughter, Alice, was strained), and this drew me to read this book. I was not disappointed.

The author also gives us a glimpse into TR's father, Theodore Roosevelt, Sr., who was a very generous man with his time and money. After reading about him, I understood why TR valued public service.

Because the author focuses on the president, the reader will see how TR influenced his children to value public service. For example, all of his sons served in the military. Indeed, Quentin Roosevelt died as a pilot in a dogfight in World War I. The elder son, Theodore Roosevelt II, led the first wave on Utah Beach in Normandy on D-Day during World War II. He died of a heart attack some weeks later. Archie was declared 100% disabled in both World War I and World War II. Kermit also served well in both wars, but suffered from alcoholism and depression (TR's brother, who was Eleanor Roosevelt's father, also suffered from the same). Also, TR's youngest daughter, Ethel, served as a nurse in France in World War I.

This book is definitely worth reading to get a view of Theodore Roosevelt as a family man. I wish we had more elected officials like him today.

A Truly Unique and Fascinating American Family
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-29
Completely understanding TR is impossible without considering his children, or his own childhood for that matter. These are the foci of the "The Lion's Pride: Theodore Roosevelt and His Family in Peace and War." TR was deeply influenced by his father, a wealthy and generous, many would claim great man whose most glaring defect and regret was what amounted to a buy out of his Civil War service obligation. TR called him the "greatest man I ever knew." Yet, in many respects TR spent the rest of his life attempting to overcome and reverse this blemish upon the family record through extraordinary patriotism and service. Leading at the apex of conflict and danger was the duty of a great and privileged family. This credo was embraced wholeheartedly by his children, which makes for fascinating reading. While some would argue this compulsion became excessive and detrimental, the Roosevelt's had no regrets and curiously embraced their family tragedies in the midst of great pain. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the death of the youngest, Quintin while flying patrol over German lines in WWI. On the other hand, if you are looking for an in depth look at any one or more of the children this book will not suffice. Indeed, the early chapters focus on TR's life leading up to WWI, while the latter chapters are largely dedicated to his offspring's activities in young adulthood, particularly those related to the Great War. There is little regarding TR's close and often tender relationship with his children during their childhood in the White House or at Sagamore Hill. As a result, while I greatly enjoyed this book, I was hoping for more breadth and insight into the children's upbringing and their lives after TR's death.

Excellent distillation of Roosevelt's last years
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-12-06
Renehan's accounting of the last years of Theodore Roosevelt Jr. is condensed and fascinating. Mostly covering 1898 and 1910-1919, the book provides insight into the southern New York high society of the early 20th century. Famous names, including Vanderbilt, Roosevelt, Cowles, and Coolidge, parade across the pages.

Nuggets include the mention of Harvard in that time as a conservative and pro-military bastion (compared to today's institution fighting military recruitment in court), Woodrow Wilson viewed as an appeaser, a coward, and an appointer of bigots in his administration (in contrast to a reputation as being a visionary negotiator), observation by Gen. George Patton that Theodore's eldest son, Brig. Gen. Theodore Roosevelt III, was a courageous commander- but no soldier (both father and son won the Medal of Honor...a feat perhaps not matched by any other American family), and the contrast highlighted between Kaiser Wilhelm's non-combat patronage of his sons (during WWI) and the former president Roosevelt's sons participating in front line combat. Another interesting fact: three of Roosevelt's four sons died in military service--one killed in action, one dead of a heart attack a month after D-Day and one day before he was to be promoted to major general, and one a suicide). The fourth suffered from the long term effects of severe war wounds.

Roosevelt is also revealed as a founding father of the original progressive movement...born out of the Republican party, no less. "Progressive" used to mean advocating sensible capitalism through the restraint of unlimited power of large corporations (through the Sherman Act) and the promotion of sound environmental policy and conservation. It also demanded the U.S. government uphold its main role--that of national defense. This is in stark contrast to today's "progressive" thinking--complete rejection of market economics and corporations, radical environmentalism, and pacifism. Roosevelt must spin in his grave.

All in all a great primer of the former president. Makes you want to immediately run out and read more.

Love TR
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-12
I read any book on TR. This one I was hoping would reveal more about his family. It still is a good read about TR.

Inspiring
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2005-07-27
This book made me want to be a better, more involved citizen. It really gets at the heart of this incredible family.

S
Mission Raise Hell: The U.S. Marines on Choiseul, October-November 1943
Published in Hardcover by US Naval Institute Press (2006-03-16)
Author: James F. Christ
List price: $34.95
New price: $11.60
Used price: $11.02

Average review score:

Shallow
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-28
The historical facts are all there...as in many other books. Nothing new, except for commentary relied upon....seemingly a few disgruntled grunts.

Fascinating Account of WWII Battle
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-18
Mission Raise Hell is an unforgettable tribute to the courage and fortitude of the men of the 2nd Marine Parachute Battalion. What an incredible gift James Christ has! With riveting details, vivid imagery, and palpable sentiment, he makes history come alive. Christ lets the story unfold naturally--the plot reads much like a WWII veteran recalling the events of the raid on Choiseul. I look forward to reading Battalion of the Damned and other books by this author.

A Gripping Glimpse of History
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-12
I found this book fascinating. It reveals a brief but pivotal period in the lives of real soldiers, faithfully chronicled by the author. In it I found a captivating glimpse of our history. I am impressed by the dedication it must have taken to seek out and interview so many survivors of the mission on Choisul, after so many years. This is authentic history. I hope James Christ will continue to pursue our past with the same intensity and purity of this first effort. It is an invaluable record.

Mission Good Job!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-03
I found the book extremely good at recounting events from over 60 years ago. The writer did a wonderful job of locating so many survivors of this Solomon Island activity and recording their stories. More of us need to talk to those left of that generation and record (on paper, audio and/or video) their life stories. I thought Mr. Christ did a good job in telling the stories - jumping from group to group to show actions in an almost hour-by-hour retelling. He transported me through time and space to make me feel as if I was there at the time, dodging the bullets along with the men of the 2nd Marine Parachute Battalion.

Riviting Personal Account!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-06
This book shows what it was like from several marines perspective, not just one individual marine. That is what makes it unique. I found it riviting and shocking at the randomness of survival. My father was on the island and took part in the operation. He has told me his account, but this book takes you into the minds of all those still around to re-live a long forgotten battle, complete with the honesty of relating a story from 63 years ago.

If you want fiction, or a beautifully "produced" story, you'll have to check elsewhere.

S
Mr Lincoln's Army
Published in Paperback by Anchor (1951-02-08)
Author: Bruce Catton
List price: $14.00
New price: $11.00
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $14.00

Average review score:

Written Like Only Catton Could
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-22
One reason I am a life-long Civil War buff is because of the pleasant memories I have as a teenager reading several of Mr. Catton's books. Just recently I bought some used ones at a flea market and have decided to read them again. This book is the first one I have reread.

Rereading this book reminded me why Catton is one of the best writers on comprehensive or themed Civil War histories. He was not known for many titles on individual battles but instead focused on particular themes (US Grant taking command of the Army of the Potomac in 1864, a comprehensive history of the Army of the Potomac, etc.).

Mr. Lincoln's Army covers the time from Bull Run to the Battle of Antietam, mainly from the Union perspective. Yes, the folks who like a histories on the Confederacy may like not the perspective, but the book is fair in evaluating the leaders of the Army of the Potomac. The book also has Catton's unique writing style - excellent descriptions of troop movements, battles, and personalities.

The only reason I did not give the book 5 stars was not the content or style of the text but the maps. The maps were few and were of okay quality. To be fair, the book was written in the 1950s, so one should not expect the quality of maps one sees in newer titles.

Complaint aside, read the book and enjoy what is in my humble opinion one of the best histories of the Army of the Potomac.

Recommended.

McClellan's Army in its Glory and Sadness
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-12-05
Around the time of the Civil War's Centennial celebration, Bruce Catton dominated Civil War writing in this country. His books still speak to the reader in a literary style that brings the feeling of the war and its participants very much alive.

"Mr. Lincoln's Army" is the first of his three-part trilogy on the Army of the Potomac. Catton traces the tragic evolution of this army -- always a superb fighting force in the ranks -- from a misused and abused weapon to the anvil that finally broke the rebellion.

In this book, Catton focuses on one of America's few men of Destiny -- at least until he had the opportunity to confront destiny in the face -- General George B. McClellan. McClellan picked up the pieces of the Army of the Potomac twice. First, after its inauspicious start at the First Battle of Bull Run and again after the army's route following the second tussle with the Confederacy near that same small battlefield.

McClellan was good at everything in which a general had to excel except fighting. An outstanding organizer and moral builder, "Little Mac" trained the army to a professional level and instilled in it an esprit de corps that helped sustain it through disappointment and disaster.

The one thing McClellan could not do, as Catton illustrates through his focus on the Peninsula Campaign and the Battle of Antietam, was use this superbly honed weapon decisively in battle. Always thinking he was outnumbered when in fact he held the advantage in forces, and lacking the inner confidence to take even good battle risks, he wasted multiple opportunities to end the war (or at least the existence of the Army of Northern Virginia) and save years of conflict and hundreds of thousands of lives. McClellan ends up as the ultimate in tragic figures, outwardly seeming so perfect for the job and bearing the loftiest of expectations as a savior, but inwardly cowed by fears and suspicions that he wasn't up to it.

This book is a wonderful and evocative portrait of the spirit of the Army of the Potomac in the McClellan era. Catton's great strength is the use of anecdotes to draw the big picture and sniff out "what was in the air" at different points in time. Thus his books are not exhaustive campaign and battle portraits and are short on troop movements and deployments of particular units. He seeks to demonstrate what was actually happening when all the personalities and actors of a moment are factored together. It is a big picture look at his subject buttressed by observations, iconic stories and the unusual that allows the reader to understand the feeling that surrounded events.

Thus, Catton focuses mightily on the relationship between McClellan and Lincoln's administration, his relationship and the performance of senior officers and in deciphering the motives, mindsets and chess game that seemed to envelope significant figures in the Army of the Potomac to a much greater degree than any other Union or Confederate army engaged in the conflict.

As all of Catton's writings on the Civil War are, this one is a classic.

A Literary Look at History
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-02-27
This is the second of Bruce Catton's "army of the Potomac" books that I have read. I have the whole series but let them sit on my shelf for years until I discovered Catton's genius for communicating history while reading "Glory Road". Some historical books are written by persons adept at research but short on writing skills. Others are adept at writing but short on research skills. A good book is when you find someone good at both. Catton EXCELS at both. His ability to show us the Civil War through the eyes of the participants is quite impressive. It's even more impressive when realizing that he takes us across a lot of ground in a mere 339 pages yet never lets us feel that we missed anything nor that we were bogged down in anything. He gives us his philosophy yet seems to try and give us enough leeway to decide for ourselves on a number of issues such as the merits of McClellan as commanding general.

"Mr. Lincoln's Army" covers the war from post First Bull Run with emphasis on the Penninsula Campaign and Antietam. Along the way we get a lot of insight into the politics that had many a politican exasperated with McClellan while the majority of soldiers worshipped him. As we explore the book, we frequently come across many a sideline subject. For example, he covers in this vollume the food that the common soldier had to eat. It was surprizing how thorough he covered the subject in far fewer pages that I encountered in other books.

I've read plenty of fiction that wasn't written as well as Catton writes. Given the fascinating subject matter, this book was a pleasure to read. I can't wait to read "A Stillness at Appomattox".

Why oh why did they stop printing this?????
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2004-01-31
What a wonderful book. I was so lucky to be able to pick up a great condition trilogy of the AOP (Mr. Lincoln's Army, Glory Road, and Stillness at Appomatox).

Catton's style is so amazing. You get the broad strokes of tactical movement, political wranglings, down in the ditch tales, camp life, and of course the human equation.

Excellent. Excellent. Excellent.

I must say, I'm glad I had a little working knowledge of the ACW before reading. He does have a tendency to just start up. For instance, Lincoln's Army starts in the middle of 2nd Manassas, then kind of works back into a flash back and fills in some of the bios. This may be a little confusing for an un-informed reader. You may want to read a very general, one volume sort of history before moving on to Catton.

The good thing though is the book is suitable for a beginner and yet I think the more you know about the ACW, the more you will enjoy it. There are so many great little stories about politicians, soldiers, officers, etc.

Highly recommended.

Great Writing Style
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2004-11-28
When it comes to writing, Catton's style is nearly impeccable. When reading Catton's book, you get the feeling that this is a great writer writing about the Civil War, not a great Civil War historian who is writing.

Catton paints with broad strokes regarding the campaigns of the Army of the Potomoc up to November 1862. People who are interested in the Civil War will definitely want to read more detailed histories of the individual campaigns, but for those who have already done so, reading Catton is great because he ties them all together and really gets into the psyche of the soldiers and the army as a whole.

Much of the book focuses of course on McClellan, who is persona non grata in most histories being written these days. But Catton is able to evoke some sympathy for McClellan's odd position in the power struggle between the military commanders and the Administration's politics, let alone the power struggle within the Administration itself.

All in all, this is a great book for people who have read about the Civil War in depth and are looking for enjoyable reading.

S
Mujer que sabe latín... ní encuentra marido, ní tiene buen fin: alta gerencia, sólo para mujeres
Published in Paperback by Encuadernacion Geminis S.A. DE C.V. (1998-09-18)
Author: Andrea Keller
List price: $14.00
New price: $14.00

Average review score:

LIBRO PARA ADMINISTRAR EL TIEMPO
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-14
LOS CONSEJOS ADMINISTRATIVOS DE ESTE LIBRO, LE VAN A ENCANTAR CUANDO LOS VEA CONVERTIDOS EN UN COCHE NUEVO, JOYAS ETC...

INTELIGENTE, SEDUCTOR...
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-08-05
UN LIBRO UNICO... que conjunta la sabiduria femenina en las empresas con una alta inteligencia y un sentido del humor finisimo !

¡ encantador !
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2003-08-07
YO tengo un negocio son cinco empleados, y el libro Keller ha sido una gran parte de mi exito

Yes, it's a very useful book. Really. But
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2003-05-06
let me tell you it's also THE MOST ENCHANTING AND FUNNY BOOK I'VE EVER READ !
Incredibly well written and with a refined aristocratic sense of humor

UNA AUTÉNTICA "BIBLIA " PARA
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2003-06-16
CUALQUIER EMPRESARIO...
Y QUE ADEMAS DE SER SABIA, ES SUPER LIGERA Y DIVERTIDÍSIMA !

S
My Catholic Faith
Published in Hardcover by Sarto House (2000-02-01)
Authors: Louis LaRavoire, S.T.D. Morrow and Emmanuel Marie Andre
List price: $42.00
New price: $42.00
Used price: $36.25

Average review score:

My Catholic Faith
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-02
The book arrived in just a few days in excellent condition, as all others purchases I have made over the years.

Hands down, the best
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-31
This book is the first book that I recommend to anyone interested in learning about the Catholic faith. I use it myself as a Catholic and I have recommended it to non-Catholics, those interested in becoming Catholic, or Catholics who just want to know their faith better. It contains sound doctrine. Nothing modernistic or liberal, just the truth of the faith and what a true Catholic must know and believe. It is an incredible resource and wealth of the true faith. Every Catholic home should have this and every Catholic should read it to strengthen their faith.

Every person that I have recommended this book to has treasured it.

My Catholic Faith
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-06
I learned of this book from a friend who was getting nstructions in the Catholic Faith. He told me about the book and said it answered all of his questions. He said he now understands what Cathoics believe and he believes, too! He said this book is a "treasure" which is true. I recommend it to anyone who wants to know about the Catholic Faith. It is easy to read and has wonderful illustrations.

Superb Catechism for all ages
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-15
MY CATHOLIC FAITH is really just about the best Catholic Catechism I've ever seen. It is thorough and comprehensive and - thank God - 100% Orthodox. It's only drawback is that some of it is "dated" information, i.e. the National Catholic Welfare Conference has been replaced by the USCCB, etc. But these are miniscule issues. If you want to learn the Catholic Faith accurately yourself, or teach it unadulterated to your children, MY CATHOLIC FAITH is the book to use. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

An Excellent Catechism of My Catholic Faith!
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-08
A beautiful catechism written by Bishop Louis Morrow in the 1950s. My Catholic Faith: A Catechism in Pictures was a very popular catechism in the 1950s until the 1960s. A special Jubilee Commerative edition was published in 1961, 1963, and 1965.

In the Philippines, My Catholic Faith is being published again by Catholic Trade, Inc. It is divided into 3 separate volumes and sold individually for P 36 Pesos which is about more than $0.50 in US Dollars! Sadly, the edition they reprinted was the 1965 edition under the pontificate of Pope Paul VI. It contains Modernist and other innovations such as calling Mass, "The Last Supper" or concelebration of the Liturgy by several priests. I know this because I own the 1965 edition of My Catholic Faith.

My Catholic Faith, was republished by Sarto House according to the 1954 edition prior to the Modernist revision of Pope Paul VI in 1965. It teaches the Catholic Faith very dogmatically and truthfully.

Here is an excellent example:

An anullment is when the Catholic Church declares a marriage to be null after thorough investigation and the evidence have proven that in the very beginning there had been no marriage thus it was not valid.

Nowadays, Catholics confuse anullments with divorce. Most Catholics believe they can get an anullment like getting candy from a baby. Ted Kennedy, a notorious liberal Catholic scandalizer had his 38 years of marriage "annulled" and is now married to a young woman about half his age.

I tell you this... This is an excellent catechism. It is even better than the Baltimore Catechism. It contains no Modernism or Americanism heresy teachings.

This catechism talks about everything---such as:

1. The [Tridentine] Latin Mass of the Roman Rite (prior to its simplication and revision in 1965 by Pope Paul VI and the reforms of the Second Vatican Council that preceeded the 1970 Novus Ordo Missae). It explains why Latin is used to celebrate Mass and why not the vernacular.

2. The role and organization of the Holy Office and Roman Curia* (prior to its reorganization in 1967 by Cardinal Jean Villot, the Vatican Secretary of State with the approval of Paul VI).

3. The Initiating Rank of the Priesthood---the ranks of the Minor Orders and Major Orders (prior to the abolition of the Minor Orders and radical reform of the priesthood by Pope Paul VI).

3. The Dogma of No Salvation Outside the Church.

4. Distinction between Venial Sin and Mortal Sin as well as Sacrilege.

5. The definitions of Heresy and Schism including the invalidity of the the Anglican or Episocopalian holy orders for bishops and priests according to the 1547 Edwardine Ordinal.

6. Differences between the Eastern (Uniate) Catholic Church and the heretical schismatic Eastern Orthodox churches.

7. The liturgical setting, background, and consecration of a Catholic altar according to the Roman Rite prior to the New Rite used in 1969 under Paul VI.

You'll never forget about learning about your Catholic Faith. If you have family, this is a wonderful catechism to instruct your children. If you have a friend or family member that has apostasized or was never born a Catholic, here is the best catechism to instruct and convert them with.

Many people think that the Catholic Faith is hard to follow, but in reality it is that simple to follow out of obedience and love for Our Lord.

S
Naïve. Super
Published in Paperback by Canongate U.S. (2003-05)
Author: Erlend Loe
List price: $13.00
New price: $49.99
Used price: $22.00

Average review score:

Entertaining, Light-hearted and Fast Read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-26
This is one of the few books that a person can zip right through without even knowing about it. The writing style is blog-style which is free-form and first person. Erlend Loe gives the reader a window into the mind and soul of the main character. Since he does not conform to the conventional and formal writing style of most fiction writers, the formation of the main character is very fluid and natural. After reading a few pages, it feels like I know the main character very well and this gets me hooked into the story even more.

Give this book a read! It is unique and creative. Although it may not be for everyone, it is definitely worth giving a chance.

Humor, depth, and simplicity out of chaos
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-24
This gem was truly a thrill to read. Entertaining, funny, simple, and relevant. When I first read it I was about the same age as the hero. And boy could I ever relate! Erlend Loe has touched on universal themes here, and I think that the greatest value of this story lies in its ability to pinpoint simply and accurately the most fundamental questions of human existence and in turn cause you to think about them in a personal way. I don't see how anyone could read this book and walk away unchanged.

Erlend Loe's unique voice in "Naive. Super" is open and insightful on a level that reminds me of "A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius" by Dave Eggers. And that is a compliment to both authors.

(To clarify: The title's spelling of "naive" is an English form, not Norwegian, and only appears in the translation.)

Perhaps my favorite book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-14
This book is wonderful! Simply written and oddly profound, it leaves the reader with a sense of serenity and hope. I first read this during a time of high stress, and it restored my sense of balance and priority. I read it periodically.

Nice Little Story
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-07
I read this book in a day although there wasn't much 'pull' in its plot. The characters are believable and interesting...the main character's relationship with the little kid next door is great - they are both on the same wavelength. I thought his idea for the premium-rate phone line was very funny as it was so scheming and two-faced. Overall, enjoyable enough.

Beyond words !
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-06
Erlend Loes books are hard to describe. They must be read/experienced. A common denominator is easy to read - almost like a childs book, very entertaining, extremely funny and deeply profound. Simple and funny stories with layers of meaning. If you have ever tried to structure and organize your life, you may love this book. I think that you may also be interested in The Dice Man by Luke Rhinehart - another brilliant book.


Books-Under-Review-->Arts-->Literature-->Children's-->Authors-->S-->51
Related Subjects: Sewell, Anna Shepard, Aaron Silverstein, Shel Spyri, Johanna Speare, Elizabeth George Sachar, Louis Seuss, Dr.
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