Young Adult Books

... hold on! Cause when I opened this book, it hit me like a fist made of bricks ... marshmallow bricks, that is. Kay takes us on whirwind tour of the traditions and ceremonies of the Hawaiian culture. It's light and fluffy, heavy on good dialogue and light on cliche and racism ... which I hate. Anyway, it did get a little slow about 2/3 of the way through and the story seemed a bit contrived, but I think Kay should get points for actually finishing this story when the average writer would have realized that it was going nowhere. Easily my favorite book of all time. I give it five stars and one of my patented awkwardly long hugs.

A new version of this book is now available on Amazon published under the author's real name (M. L. Kamahele) with ISBN: 1599713284. Pease note that the old version of this book (listed here on this page) is now "OUT OF PRINT". So any versions purchased/shipped from this page are probably USED. To purchase a NEW version of the book, search for the book on Amazon using ISBN number 1599713284 or the book's full title.

It's hard to believe that every reviewer thats written a review for this book has only reviewed THIS BOOK, and this book only. I'm not saying its a bad book, it's just suspect that all the reviews come from people who seem to read ONLY this book. Also, many "Listmania" lists happen to have this book at the top while listing all the most popular teen lit underneath. Hmmm, is that a tad bit suspicious? It could be true, this could be a "cool book for any teen", just be aware that publishers and authors are allowed to write reviews anonymously for their own works. I am sure that This review will soon have many "not helpful" votes as the author and publisher seem to spend a lot of time on this page shilling. Google it if you don't know what it means.

omg this is the best book i have EVER read!!!! the first time i read it, it took 3 days cuz i could never put the book down! all this action and excitment keeps popping up page after page and i cant stop reading!!! i would reccomend this book to any other highschooler (i'm a junior this year *YAY*), but read it twice cuz you'll miss a bunch of stuff the first time probly since u hafta read it so fast. cuz then the second time i read it, i figured out all the double chapter meanings and noticed lots of hints that the author dropped that i never saw bfore

...anyway, this book rox my sox!!

Every other reviewer gave this book 5 stars..hard to believe that they all actually read it. This book has a lot of potential, most of it wasted. It appears to be self-published, and it certainly never had the benefit of an editor to correct the massive number of punctuation and grammar errors. These are so frequent and obvious that it interferes with the reading. A good editor would also have helped the author develop the characters and smooth out the disjointed storyline - there are no transitions connecting the changing scenes, no explanations for why characters react the way they do. Everytime the children go to Tutu's grass hut and "travel" to the realm of the Hawaiian gods, the action/reactions are the same. Each of those scenes cry out to be cut in half (or more) - they are endless and get boring. I found myself skimming through these praying for it to end, since nothing new or interesting was going to happen. I forced myself to finish the book, hoping (against hope, as it turned out) that questions would be answered. I wanted to like this book, as a former resident of Hawaii, but was disappointed.

Political intrigue and moral questions are explored in The Kestrel, the second in Lloyd Alexander's Westmark trilogy.

The long-lost heir to the throne, the orphan Mickle, has been reinstated. The evil chief minister Cabbarus has been exiled from Westmark. Things seem, on the surface, to be going smoothly. But the untimely death of the king of Westmark sparks the flame of unrest in the country.

The nobility is unhappy with their "beggar queen." The commoners want a government in which they have more of a say - they would be happy to do away with a monarchy altogether. Thrown into this mix is Mickle, now the ruling queen upon her father's death, and Theo, who finds his loyalty tested and divided between his friends in the anti-monarchy movement and his love for Mickle, which causes him to want to protect the crown. When a neighboring kingdom invades Westmark, Theo sets out to prove himself by aiding his friends, while Mickle rises to become an unlikely war leader.

The Kestrel continues to explore the hard questions introduced in the first book of the trilogy. The main characters wrestle with wondering when violence is acceptable, and for what reasons. They also have to deal with issues of stealing (when you're hungry, is it okay to be taking from your own side?), honor, and how far you can make personal compromises before you become someone you don't want to be. Alexander does a commendable job in presenting these issues with no pat answers or preachiness. In the book, as in real life, there are no easy solutions and people have to deal with the consequences of their choices.

The political issues are also brought into play in The Kestrel. The ideals of the peasantry, the long-standing aristocracy, and everything in between are represented by most of the main characters. Each idea has merit, and yet they are hard pressed to find the right balance. While the war is brought to a satisfying conclusion, the book itself ends on an unclear note, hinting that the problems of Westmark government will be concluded in the final book of the trilogy.

The second book of the Westmark Trilogy, the adventures of Westmark continues in "The Kestrel". Theo is now traveling through Westmark to learn more about the country. He and Mickle, now known as Princess Augusta, are hoping to be married after he returns. But suddenly and without warning, Westmark is thrown into turmoil as the neighboring country of Regia has declared war on Westmark. Theo is once again forced into making a hard decision, will he stay in the sidelines or fight for his country? Eventually, he joins under the command of Florian and his people to fight a guerrilla war against the troops of Regia. As he sees brave and honorable men die one by one, Theo finds himself changing into a merciless commander and a stranger to himself...

For those familiar with Lloyd Alexander's award winning series, "The Prydain Chronicles", I can honestly and truly recommend this other series written by the 'grand master of fantasy'. A bit more serious with dark overtones, "The Westmark Trilogy" deals with realistic events that can almost convince you that the series is based on true historical events. Through the series you will be given a chance to explore the characters as they struggle with forces beyond their control. Lloyd Alexander gives a realistically accurate study of human nature and psychology of war. I must say, after reading this book, I was left in thoughtful silence, musing over what I had just finished reading. It is not very often we Young Adults are given books which leaves you in a state of contemplation

As I said, I can highly recommend the thrilling and psychologically filling "Westmark Trilogy". Best to read in order. But the faint-hearted be warned, this book and the next one in the series are somewhat violent and gritty since the main theme is about war. But nothing too bad to turn away lovers of a good series! Pick these series up!

Regia is invading Westmark. King Constantine IX of Regia and his uncle, Duke Conrad, have already paid off the corrupt General Erzcour, who is the commander of all of Westmark’s forces. Erzcour has ordered all of his men on the Regian border to surrender to Regia. However, many of his soldiers and officers disobey his orders, to stand and fight for their country in the mountains that separate Regia from Westmark. Unfortunately, the valiant fighters are leaderless and low on ammunition. They beat a hasty retreat. Queen Augusta of Westmark, who was formerly a street urchin because the corrupt chief minister, Cabbarus (now affiliated with Regia), threw her out on the streets before she knew she was a princess, orders a carriage to carry her to the border. She then rallies the remains of the army to the nearest city and resupplies there. She is eventually forced to fall further and further back. Meanwhile, revolutionaries who wish to overthrow the monarchy must for the time being support it because if Westmark is defeated, then they will be also. One group is lead by Florian, a very well respected anti-monarchist. He begins to organize militias and to support the Queen’s army as well as he can. Justin, a far more radical revolutionary who will stop at nothing to establish a republic, leads the second group. Theo, Queen Augusta’s boyfriend, becomes second in command of Justin’s group, and assumes the name “Colonel Kestrel”.

I would recommend The Kestrel to anyone who has already read the book that comes first in the trilogy, Westmark, because The Kestrel is the second book. Westmark helps give you more background information on most of the characters, particularly Queen Augusta and Theo (Colonel Kestrel), and the setting. This book is excellent. It combines war, romance, and comedy (in subplots) into one very pleasurable story.

If you've read the other glowing reviews for this book, and for the other books in the same series, then you'll probably understand why I decided to purchase this whole series all at once, without reading even one of them first. According to absolutely everyone else, these books are brilliant, and I fell for the hype. I was looking forward to reading them like a starving man looks forward to eating a three course dinner.

But having now read the first two books, I beg to differ from the other reviewers. I read the first one, 'Westmark', over a year ago. It was okay, I suppose, but I was so nonplussed by it that I waited until now to read this second book in the series. And I have to say, I am just as unimpressed with this one.

This book does have some good points...there are the poignant observations on the brutality of war, the inequality of the feudal system, and the corruption of the power of officials and the ruling class. That's all well and good, and done with some finesse.

But there are some big problems, too, with this book. The storyline moves quickly, often too quickly, and glosses over too many things. There is a lack of detail and world building, the things that help make scenes real for a reader. Also, it lacks warmth, and fails to make the reader feel happy. Sorry, but I like books that give me a happy, warm feeling at least ONCE in the narrative. This book was never really uplifting. But the biggest problem was with the characters. I just never really felt empathy for them, or cared too much what happened to them. I did warm slightly to the street urchins, the elderly castle advisor, and 'The Monkey', whose military experience was admirable. And Mickle, the Queen, was at least a strong female character. But everyone else was just sort of dull, flat, or even annoying. I should have liked the Poet, but he just went on and on about his Muse, to the point where I wondered, doesn't he do anything else? Is he completely one dimensional? Where are the intelligent, poetic insights that such a character should have brought to the story?

I know war is dark and horrible. But there's still room for warmth and even humour in a war story. Australian comedian John Doyle proved that when he wrote the brilliant and evocative tv series 'Changi', which showed how a group of young Australian men dealt with the horrors of life in a WWII Japanese POW camp, by keeping a sense of humour, and holding on to their basic humanity. That show was realistic, gritty, and so sad I cried in EVERY episode, yet it was still uplifting and inspirational...not like this book!!!

I also know this book was written a few decades ago, and the standards for writing were often lower back then, in the age before modern word processors, when it was much harder to do rewrites. But I still think this book should have been much better. And I am worried by the fact that it has been given so much acclaim by so many reviewers. Are literary standards really so low that we'll proclaim any middle-of-the-road work a literary masterpiece?

I don't know if I'll ever get around to reading the third book in the series. Even if someone told me there was my favourite chocolate and a $50 note tucked inside its covers, I'd still be a little reluctant to open it up.

But hey, what do I know? I'm the only person who doesn't think this series is the most brilliant thing ever! I suppose you'll just have to make up your own mind. But don't make my mistake -- don't go buying the whole series of books until after you've read the first one. Then, if that first book leaves you feeling like I did, as flat as a pancake and as bored as someone watching a 24 hour marathon of documentaries on how to watch housepaint drying, then at least you'll know you haven't wasted too much of your money!

While "Westmark" (the previous book) and "The Beggar Queen" (the final book in this trilogy) are excellent books, this is the best, because -- well, because it's the one that has the power to hurt the most as you see what characters you care for are forced into by circumstance, the twists of fate and their own sense of duty.

Former Chief Minister Cabbarus, forced into exile in "Westmark" plots with the uncle of the King of neighbouring Regia to invade Westmark and re-establish a "proper" society. Theo wanders the country, trying to get a grip on how he feels about the thought of Mickle, the street urchin he fell in love with in "Westmark" becoming Queen... with himself intended as Prince Consort.

When the invasion begins, Mickle finds herself forced to become a military commander, and Theo finds himself among Florian's "children" again, fighting the Regians as an irregular, eventually rising to the rank of colonel among Florian's forces.

And Alexamder takes the chance -- without seeming preachy or heavy-handed -- to present us with just a bit (PG13 rating or so) of the horror of war and what it does to even good people.

Because "Colonel Kestrel", the brilliant and ruthless revolutionary/guerrilla leader is, also, the gentle Theo, who has never believed in violence as a solution to anything.

Someone has said, more or less, that Alexander is here presenting a parable on the uses and effects of violence, in causes good and not-so-good. He proposes (by example) the question "When -- if ever -- is violence justified in a 'good cause'?", and proceeds to show us (again by example) the answers to that question arrived at by various people of greater or lesser good-will.

And then he hands the reader an even hotter potato to examine than that -- he asks us to consider the after-effects of violence (even "in a good cause") on the people who have found themselves forced into it.

And it hurts -- in a good way -- to see what some people must give up so that others may still have it.

(David Drake presents a much more violent -- and most *definitely* adult -- look at much the same questions in his military SF novel "Redliners".)

In the end, everyone is forced to compromise somewhat, and all *appears* to be well.

On the other hand, this *is* the second olume of a trilogy.

I just wanted to say that it's strange that Mr. Fuqua has biopolar disorder. It's strange that he's not embarrassed to say it. I don't think hes weird or anything, but maybe others might. That's sad because I saw him at my school and he's so funny and tells a story about trying to sale a styrofoam boat to Bermuda. He doesn't seem to have biopolar illness if that's being kind of insane. I found out he did in the back of the paperback version of King of the Pygmies, but it's not in the hard version. I read both. I really loved this story and recommend it. Also, you should read the back about Mr. Fuqua having bipolar problems. It's sort of sad if you met him.

One of my all time favorite books. When regular teen Penn starts hearing voices in his head he realizes that he has the power to help people because he can hear their thoughts. Penn's depressed elderly neighbor seems to confirm that he has a new power after her thoughts are recieved by him and he helps her. Penn's similarly afflicted uncle Hewitt helps him to get through this terrible time and ultimately helps Penn and his family make some very important decisions.
The only downfall of this book is that Penn also has a retarted older brother. This kind of detracts from the real issues and takes away from all of the other issues that Penn is dealing with (girls, school, life, friends, etc.)
This is a unique and not-written-about-enough look into the world of the mentally ill and a must read for teens who are going through troubled times.

This is a good book. This is a good book from the beginning to the end. This is the kind of book that every person, young adult to adult, should read, because it is about being human, understanding another person's delimas, and walking in someone else's shoes.
Penn Swayne is a normal kid in an East Coast town that lacks even a hint of magic, when he starts to hear voices. They sound like the people around him, some funny, others crushingly sad. Mostly they leave him at a loss for what to do and fearful of being diagnosed, loosely, as insane. Thankfully his truly insane Uncle Hewitt tells him not to worry. He's not insane, he's special, a king of sorts for what he can do.
King of the Pygmies is about reality vs. magic, about illness vs. gifts, and control vs. no control. It's funny, sad, and pretty gut wrenching. This book should be read. I've never read anything better about a subject I know too well.
Now, one last word. I read the previous reviewer's remarks about the author being liberal for speaking out against the administration. Therefore, this librarian, which is what they said they are, would ban the book from his or her readers. This really makes me nervous. Is this what we've come to? He/she call the book's content good but say that the writer, for speaking his mind in some article in a magazine no one reads, unacceptable. Well I find that unacceptable, and everyone else should, too. Books should be judged for others by content, not by personal agendas.
This is a special book, written exceptionally well, dealing with a difficult subject, the onset of a mental illness that will change Penrod Swayne's life. In this time and day, how many teens and even adults are experiencing similar issues? If you're a student, a teacher, or work in an office, it's entertaining and informing. It is what a book should be.

At some point, one must come clean as to their identity and why they are writing. I don't seek to hide my point of origin just as I would hope someone contesting the material that I write would reveal their point of view to me. I am a librarian. A good one. I care about the youth whom I serve and seek to provide them with the best possible materials. However, there are times when one must dabble in certain subterfuge, and this book is that time. Right away I admit that it is not about the book, at least not completely. I actually enjoyed the story enough and can acknowledge its value. What I don't acknowledge and in fact disavow completely is the author's politics and how they have ruined his work for me.

Last summer, Mr. Fuqua had an article in a highly regarded literary journal that need not be named. Like most YA librarians, I recieve it in order to find appropriate materials for my clientel. And curious as I was, I read the piece on Mr. Fuqua, who, after some back and forth about his life and ideas, said that he is, "more scared of this administration," than the possibility of developing cancer. There we have it. Politics enters literature, and I do not feel good about the mix. Why he pushed so hard to reveal himself, I do not know. No matter, I will take simple action to deny developing minds access to his work, including his last book that takes place in the Cold War. Mr. Fuqua, it seems, wants all to know and identify him as an anti-war anti-America, anti-president, and anti-establishment writer. If he chooses to take this risk, he must know that others will choose a similar path and write him off according to our own moral compass and patriotic sensibility.

In all of us, there comes a point when one must stand up. Mr. Fuqua's story is entertaining enough. I can even see its value and will now take pains to search for other books that might give comfort to those afflicted by mental illness or know of someone with these issues. But his assault on America's ethics continue throughout his story with disheartening images of an untraditional family, of a fall-down drunk, and the writer's constant questions about human sanity and insanity that might cause readers, when all is said and done, to question their own more than the main character's.

King of the Pygmies is more than just a book. It is an issue hidden in a story, and because that issue is important, it gives some value to a book that really shouldn't be read by young minds of any sort. Save it, I think, for adults who understand that aspects of this pleasing story are drivel.

Penrod has been named after a grandfather, Penrod who must have been himself named after the beloved YA book by Booth Tarkington, PENROD AND SAM, a wonderful story of a boy and his dog. This boy Penn has even bigger problems than the original Penrod. For one thing, he is coming down with schizophrenia, a condition which in this book is characterized by the ability to hear the thoughts of other people (or maybe not). Penn's no good uncle has had this condition for many years and he tells his nephew, no, it's not schizophrenia, it is that we are both Pygmies, we are a sacred totemic tribe much misunderstood by society. As victims of Pygmy Syndrome, argues Uncle Hewitt, we are not to be tampered with by medicine or treatment. Hewitt announces that both Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise, two of Hollywood's smaller stars, are actually Pygmies too.

I think maybe the author got to this point in his story and realized that he was way off base, for he spend the last pages of the book (SPOILER AHEAD) with an earnest note to teen readers urging them to seek medical help if they think they might be schizophrenic.

Fuqua never really engages us in this story. I didn't really care whether or not Penn was schizophrenic or not. He has an older brother of 21, handsome and rugged as a movie star, who is mildly retarded and works at Burger King. The relationship of Penn and Matty is mildly interesting, but it makes you wonder, how many different ways can author Jonathon Scott Fuqua dabble in disability and mental illness? He seems drawn to these "different" characters not from any genuine interest in them but because his research has shown him that they might be a new colorful bunch for the prolific writer to spin tales about.

Penn has a cute romance with a newcomer to Havre de Grace (Maryland), a Filipina-American girl his own age (15 or so) called Daisy. She is quite sympathetic, although Penn tries to hide his spiralling schizophrenic episodes from her. In one of the worse episodes he throws himself into a vacant lot where generations of bums like his uncle have left behind shards of broken bottles, so that his thrashing and tormented tremors slash his skin in a million pieces, leaving his backside gummed with blood. Penn's mother, Belinda Wallace, is another strong female character. It's possible that Fuqua was attempting to write a strong family-based fable about schizophrenia, and then got sidetracked when he realized that his story was falling between two stools. It turns out to be neither an allegory nor a very realistic tale.

However the author can sketch out a romance between an awkward boy and a more self-possessed girl, and I eagerly look forward to reading more books by this modern day Booth Tarkington.

I wonder if I was a real Pygmy what I would think of the book; it takes an awfully facetious attitude towards Pygmies. And what about the character Colin Turnbull, a man who may or may not exist? Is he a figure in Uncle Hewitt's imagination? Or is it all a weird coincidence that the real life Colin Turnbull was the anthropologist who wrote extensively about the oppressed Pygmy peoples of the world?

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.

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.

Thoroughly enjoyed the layout and excellent photos of the projects and the other interesting items included in the book

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!

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

Hey,this is a pretty great book!Even though some people like the idea of a Nancy/Frank thing,I think its sweet that Ned cares about Nancy. I mean now-a-days,all guys are players.Where else can you find a guy who cares about you and doesn"t cheat?Answer rhat question.Anyway , even though I like the Nancy/Ned thing,there was a lot of romace in this book!Not just between Nancy and Frank. This is a definetly must read book!

This is a great book!!! What is with the whole "I'm sorry Nancy but I'm in love with Callie I feel terrible about kissing you,'Thats alright Frank me too I'm in love with Ned" thing Frank and Nancy are meant to be!!!!! They are so not being true to themselves. Nancy admits that she is attracted to Frank practicly in everybook and in a question of guilt Frank proves that he is jealous of nancy going off with other men!!!! Anyway a good read as useual totally recorrmend!!!!

This was a pretty good book.It was all about how Nancy and the Hardys have to solve this case at a resort.Ned shows up in the middlish end.He sees Frank and Nancy hugging and thinks that hes lost his girlfriend.But Nancy talks to him and they still go out together.The case is eventually solved and Nancy and the Hardys go back to their regular lives then solve their next case,The Paris Connection.

I LOVED this book! It was really good. Nancy and the Hardys get called in to help with sabotage at a rich mountain resort.It's full of mystery,romance(LoL),and keeps you reading!I loved the part in the cabin & I hate that Ned showed up.It's a Must read for any fan!

I think this is the best Nancy Drew & Hardy Boys Supermystery of all. I finally was able to locate it in December. I have been wanting to read it for years, but I never could find it. It has an interesting plot intertwined with just enough romance that it's not too mushy.

I agree with the other readers, Ned should have been left out. Carolyn Keene should definately write a series without Ned and Callie. Frank and Nancy are meant to be.

Fred Neff wrote Lessons from the Art of Kempo, a book that is as much about a philosophy of life as it is about a martial art. According to the author, "the ultimate aim of Kempo practitioners is not only to grow in power, but to improve themselves and learn to live in harmony with others." Kempo, as explained by Fred Neff, is a beautiful method of harnessing a person's abilities to be in tune with nature. The author says, "Kempo teaches not only how to efficiently protect yourself, but also how to flexibly combine techniques in a smooth free flowing action that seems almost effortless to the viewer." The book explains Kempo as a form of continuous energy that changes as it flows. The Kempo practitioner's goal is to strive to perform in such a manner as to promote harmony. Implicit within Fred Neff's book is the message that energy can move in a linear manner, at an angle or a circular manner. While Lessons From The Art of Kempo shows linear and angular moves there is a definite underlying emphasis on softer circular movements that do not directly oppose force, but rather redirect it. The Kempo book has clear explanations and photo illustrations that make learning easier and more enjoyable. Consistent with the book's philosophic leanings that emphasize the use of the mind is the chapter on "Effective Kempo Strategy." The lessons on strategic approaches to the use of Kempo are easy to understand, practical and further solidify in the reader's mind potential uses of the fighting moves taught earlier in the book. Fred Neff's Lessons From The Art of Kempo is a thinking person's martial art book that transcends just teaching how to fight to that of a holistic approach to improving oneself through the study and practice of the Art of Kempo. The book's point that a Kempo practitioner should strive toward developing harmony with nature and other people is a positive social concept that appears consistent with the author's own approach. The author Fred Neff has done extensive community work as a teacher and lawyer, which has resulted in his receiving the city of St. Paul Citizen of the Month Award, a Commendation from the Sibley County Attorney's Office, the WCCO Good Neighbor Award, The HLS Justice Award, Lamp of Knowledge Award From The Twin Cities Lawyers Guild and the Presidential Medal of Merit. Fred Neff's Lessons from the Art of Kempo is a gem of a book that I very strongly recommend.

"Kempo is an art of philosophy, physical culture, and self-defense that develops the body, mind, and spirit. It includes meditation, punching, striking, kicking, throwing, and locking techniques. Also included are dodges, blocks, and sticking techniques for tying up an opponent with his or her own arms. Kempo moves are both linear and circular, allowing for a smooth flow of action from soft to hard movement. There is a continuity of action that make it exhilarating to practice, irresistible to watch, and difficult to defend against."

"Ultimate aim of kempo practioners is not only to grow in power, but to improve themselves and learn to live in harmony with others. Kempo teaches not only how to efficiently protect yourself, but also how to flexibly combine techniques in smooth, free-flowing action that seems almost effortless to the viewer."

Kempo principles: 1. Don't worry, instead focus on the solution. The byproduct of relaxation and comfort is the path to finding solutions. 2. You can do whatever you believe is possible. 3. Use your opponent's actions against him or her. Any action creates a weakness or an opening for counterattack. Even an opponent's strength can be manipulate and turn it to your advantage. 4. Concentrate on what you do well 5. Be flexible in your approach. Learn to use techniques that will work in a situation and discard anything that will not. A Kempo practitioner learns to expect the unexpected, and varies the self-defense to fit the situation. 6. Preserve. Fighting is not about show but perseverance to survive and win. 7. Dedicate yourself to continual self-improvement. The quality of your training determines the success of failure. Kempo philosophy teaches that knowledge is endless. Practitioners of kempo never become conceited because they know that kemp is an endless way. 8. Take advantage in adversity. Every crisis has two elements: danger and opportunity. If you do not despair, if you see the opportunity and work hard to overcome the difficulty, you will gain from every experience. You must overcome the feeling of doubt caused from self-seeking validation. A kempo practitioner stands alone in his skills. 9. Try to live in harmony with nature and its ways. Unity of action creates harmony and strength.

Stances: Natural Stance, Back Stance or Cat Stance, Front Stance (R or L Cover), Horse Stance, Reverse Cover

Hand positions: low guard, Mid guard, high guard (preferred)

Foot patterns: slide step (shuffle), step 45 degrees, side step, circle step, cross over (forward and back), and half turn (crescent step).

Blocks: Inward block, Outward block, downward block, upward block, upper and lower block, and fan block (parry and chop or parry and simultaneous backfist)

C1: L knife block, R vertical punch to solar plexus
C2: L knife block, L punch to the bridge of nose
C3: R cover, step forward R punch to groin (opponent left downward block), R backfist to face (R upward block), R grab and pull down trapping opponents L arm over R arm, finish with L punch to face.
C4 : Opponent throws a L and R punch. From a R cover, left outward block, grab, and pull and R outward block the opponents R punch, grab and cross Opponents R over L arm, finish with a L uppercut to the opponents R ribs.
C5: R cover, R rear kick plant back, L and R punch
C6: R cover, L front snap kick, R side kick thrust
C7: R cover, shuffle forward, L backfist, half step CC, R punch, R sweep kick to the legs
C8, R cover, L punch, L backfist, R punch
C9: R cover, L side kick, R round kick
C10: L cover, R backfist, left cross behind towards opponent, step behind, two hand sweep the opponent over the R knee
C11: L cover, L side kick, R round kick, L spinning backkick.
C12: R cover, L front snap kick, spinning R back kick
C13: R cover, L outward block, shuffle, R uppercut, L punch

Basic strategies:
1. Keep calm
2. Use your mind. Fight intelligently. Fight passionately. Feel the power and speed of the technique without thought. Fight with an empty mind. Fight without fighting.
3. Control the situation. Try to maneuver into a place where you can best take advantage of your skills and strengths. Close the gaps and Fight in close and decrease the chances the opponent will kick you from a distance systematically. Do fight for show or flash. Fancy techniques are abandoned as injury and risk increases. Use what works.
4. Watch the opponent's actions. Watch for the signals an attack is coming. Don't be presumptuous about the opponent's abilities or inabilities. Watch for shifts in weight that indicate the opponent is preparing to kick. Take the simple technique for protection, such as an inward block. An inward block by itself can break bones in the forearm. Less is more.
5. Consider range in select a technique. Be care not too seek demonstration of skill but think about why the technique will work and what gates it will open. The flow into the gate should be natural and predictable. Find the obvious opening.
6. Disrupt the opponent balance. The best technique is always to put the opponent on the ground on his back. This is the most vulnerable position to be in for the opponent.
7. Use movement as a defensive weapon.
8. Keep the techniques simple
9. Use the element of surprise.

Kempo is a passion of mine that has not abated in the fourteen years I have been practicing it. In my continuing quest for more knowledge I have tried to learn everything that I could on the subject. After reading numerous books on Kempo and other martial arts books with discussions of Kempo, I find that my favorite martial arts book is "Lessons from the Art of Kempo." This book in a straightforward and useable way lays out REAL Kempo--not what you see in the movies or the useless open hand waving movements that some have tried to pass off as Kempo. Lessons from the Art of Kempo shows you the fundamentals of REAL Kempo and how to apply them. Even after practicing Kempo for years, I still find this book has strong meaning and appeal for me. I enthusiatically recommend this book not only to others with a passion for learning Kempo, but for anyone who wants to learn about the REAL art of Kempo.

I am an avid student of Asian history and martial arts. For the last 12 years I have made a study of Asian fighting strategies such as described in Sun Tzu's masterpiece "Sun Tzu Bingfa" ("The Art of War"), which is the definitive work on strategy and Miyamoto Musashi's "Book of Five Rings." In "Lessons from the Art of Kempo" Neff has done an excellent job making practical use of Asian strategic fighting considerations. Chapter 12 of Neff's book on kempo strategy very favorably impresses me. This chapter includes principles from Sun Tzu, Miyamoto Musashi and others. The net effect of Neff's book kempo is that complex principles of strategy have been condensed into workable and usable ways for people to defend themselves. I applaud this book's easy to read straight forward manner. I highly recommend "Lessons from the Art of Kempo" by Fred Neff to anyone. It earns my most enthusiastic 5 star rating.

Kempo is the "fist way" as shown in Lessons From The Art Of Kempo by Fred Neff. Too many books that claim to be on kempo are nothing more than a collection of flashy movements that are impractical and have no usefulness in a real fight. Lessons From The Art Of Kempo gets down to what you need to know and need to do in order to win a fight. It shows conditioning exercises, how to position your body in a fight, how to hit, where to hit and winning strategies. I like Lessons From The Art Of Kempo because it is reality based and does not waste space on flashy movements that have no value and are a waste of time to anyone serious about self-defense. If you want to learn to fight better and--more importantly--smart, a good first step is to read this outstanding book on kempo written by Fred Neff.

I first started this book when my mom read it to me when I was very young.
Now it is one of my favorites. It is hillarious, exiting, and touching all at the same time. If you want a book to read to your kids this is it!

My son recommended this to me, when I had complained that I wanted a book that was cheerful. The first chapter was definitely the best of all, and it is what kept me reading through the rest of the book, which was also good.

I've read this book at least two dozen times. I read it once for myself, and each year I read it to my new batch of 7th graders. Everyone loves it. (There are a few parts I don't read to my students.) Every time I pick it up, I fall in love with the characters and am so glad to be part of their lives again! It's funny and sad and is so amazingly real. One year my students wrote Mr. Davis, and he replied. Mr. Davis and I corresponded back and forth for a few letters, and he was seemed like a great guy.

These stories get played on every long car ride our family makes, and all of us (from the first grader on up) are rapt. Davis uses his gentle voice and sly humor to paint unforgettable portraits of beloved relatives, local eccentrics, and lost friends. The stories are fresh and moving each time we hear them; in fact, the repeated listenings increase our appreciation for the mastery of Davis' telling.

This is family entertainment of the highest order.

I don't think anyone can listen to Donald Davis tell his Different Drummer story and not be touched by it. Just it alone is worth the price of the set of cassettes. You also get to hear LSMFT (yes, that's the title of the story), which has a nearly perfect ending. Each is a story so good that you wish you could forget it, so that you'd have the pleasure of listening to it again for the first time.

This is one of the best books I've read this year. It's also the book with the worst editing I have ever seen.

The plot is wild and funny. The daughter of a werewolf Thane is being hunted by both her family (she tried to kill her father and quite nearly succeeded) and a guild of werewolf hunters. Worse, she battles her anxiety. Lonely Werewolf Girl has many, many characters. Sometimes it's difficult to keep track of them all. I enjoyed this book on many levels. I didn't finish this book quickly, not because it wasn't good, but the short chapters which jumped from character and place and did all sorts of funny acrobats which taxed my poor concentration. This was a good thing. I dragged the pleasure on for three days as opposed to finishing it in one swallow.

Millar, being at least as talented as Gaiman and Pratchett, would do himself well to find another editor. Or maybe the editor would do him or herself well by hiring a high school student to proof read the final draft before sending it to print. Obviously no human read the final draft, and any reasonably literary high schooler could do better than Microsoft Word at spelling and grammar. The sloppy editing did this writing wrong.

Regardless, I give this book a five. Reviews are generally seen as a reflection of the writer and not the editor. The writing was excellent.

I bought this book at my local bookstore.I was looking for a new book and the cover jumped out at me.It turned out to be one of the best books I have ever read.While it is not a dark horor story,there are great battles,fantastic characterization,and rivalry and back stabbing among werewolf clans.
Kalix is the main character of the story.She is an outcast from her werewolf clan for past crimes against her king.Now she is a skinny,homeless,malnourished werewolf girl living on the streets.She is being hunted by her clan who have orders to bring her back to face trial.She is both hated and feared by her clan because she is a fierce fighter when she is overcome by her battle lust.She trusts no one but her self,but grudgingly is befriended by a couple of roommates who take her in and help her.
One of her sisters is a werewolf fashion designer who has a friend that is an other-worldly-fire-elemental-warrior queen with a fashion fetish.

There are twin werewolf sisters who aspire to be rock stars,but in reality are slackers who lie around and just get drunk all the time,living off the clans money.

There is so much more to this book than what is written above.You will truely not want to put it down once you start reading it.This book ended up making the rounds at work and everyone who read it loved it.Some kept it awhile,so their family members could read it.

My review title says it all...READ THIS BOOK!!!

I really enjoyed this book. There is something refreshing about how seamlessly the mundane, the fantastical, and the absurd all blend together. There were a lot of characters to juggle, but with deft skill on the part if the author, I found that I could keep up (Except tracing back the family tree of the werewolves etc.)
The character of Malveria in particular was a lot of fun. So overall well written, fun, and I will definitely look into more by this author.

Martin Millar has created a world that is so ordinary and extraordinary at the same time - it's so easy to immerse in it and enjoy every bit of fun, almost forgetting to leave.

I loved it.

I find it rather curious that Amazon only includes the PW review in which the reviewer really didn't "get" the book and not the starred review from Booklist. Are they trying to not sell copies of it? This brilliant, funny, irreverent, romp is a great entertainment. I took it to Mexico with me for a beach read and my reluctant reader husband grabbed it and couldn't put it down. It's a terrific book.

This book is amazing in its ability to both amaze and terrify a potential candidate. It's a must have for any candidate trying to get in. It makes sure to give advice on the mental preparation you must make and the physical riger that is to be endured. As a female candidate this book has helped me answer my questions, end my doubts, and showed me how to prepare. If you're looking into any of the academys get the candidate book!

I just met my Blue and Gold Officer, and I think hes cool. We talked, but my dad was in a hurry so we couldnt really get into a conversation, since we were busy. Anyways, this book told me how to act in front of him. I saw a lot of guys trying to act tough to a guy who could break them in half. A lot of them werent even showing respect. But I knew what to do, even if I am a little younger than most of the guys there. I think I made a good impression on him, and am going to try to get to know him better soon, but so far, I have'nt had time to contact him. Oh well, this is still a very good and valuble book.

I'm entering as a member of the Class of 2007. This book helped me stay on track and know what to expect from the Admissions process. My admissions counselor was extremely helpful. This book gets 2 thumbs up!

This book is amazing!!! It helped me a lot to prepare for USNA, but I didn't get an appointment due to a medical disqualification. However, I followed the advise in this book and it helped me get into THREE other federal service academies. I got into the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. So even if you don't plan on going to the Naval Academy, it sure helps to read the book on how the application process works esspecially with the congressional nominations.

Currently Im a PO3 in the Navy who will be attending the Naval Academy Preparatory School this year with subsequent attendance to the Naval Academy proper. While this book only had a rather small mention of how enlisted applicants gained admission, and an even smaller section on NAPS, its still THE BEST resource out there for an aspiring applicant. After all its not the NAPS or Prior candidate handbook. As an Air Force brat I lived on USAFA for 3 years and I can tell you that the atmosphere that they portrayed in this book is pretty realistic. Just remember that nothing about any academy is going to be perfect. If you aspire to be a Mid or are the parent of the fore mentioned this book is an absolute necessity.
Keep this in mind. If you REALLY REALLY want to get in there is nothing that can stop you. I almost failed out of high school my junior year and then went to a military school (NMMI) for my senior year. Even though I excelled there I still only had a 2.57 GPA. Just goes to prove that if you REALLY REALLY want to get in all you have to do is go all out and focus on that one singular goal. Success is a measure of sacrifice.

What can I say? Max Lucado is a gifted writer who takes spiritual concepts and puts them into understandable and easy-to-grasp stories illustrations.

Max Lucado is a premier story teller. The message that Christ knows how we humans feel and that he is close enough to call on whenever we need him is uplifting and comforting.

i haven't read max lucado books in awhile and I have read quite some of them. I have to say that this is one of his best written. The chapters are short but they are meaningful, each one of them that applies to different people.

This a great book. I love the way Max writes. It's very unique and refreshing. He really brings the stories to life.

This is my first Max Lucado book and I loved it! It took me a while to read it because I don't read that often but something made me keep coming back to try and finish it. He made everything so simple and easy to understand. The real life examples were great! I would recommend it to anyone!