Rainbow The Books

Kantrowitz, Arnie. "Under the Rainbow: Growing Up Gay". Morrow, 1977.

An Early Treasure

Amos Lassen

"Under the Rainbow" is one of the first gay books I ever read and although it was written 30 years ago I found when rereading it last night that it still has a lot to say.
Arnie Kantrowitz has always been one of my heroes because he dared to buck the system for gay rights when not many dared to do so. He is a "good Jewish boy" who was a child t very difficult parents or as he calls them "Freudian classics" and he happened to turn out to be gay. This book is his story and it gives great insight of what it is like to grow up Jewish and gay. We learn all about him from his earliest recognition that he had same-sex tendencies and read about his coming out of the closet a long time later and his ultimately becoming a national spokesman and gay activist. He appeared on the Jack Paar show early on when talk shows were new and because of this he was uninvited by his parents to the yearly Passover mean and his uncle declared him to be dead.
The beauty of the book is that he omits nothing. In the beginning he tried to love both women and men and finally had to admit the truth to the women who loved him. He attempted suicide several times and did not succeed. His life is filled with sex--anonymous, random and bathhouse orgies, he cruised Fire Island, and bathrooms for gratification. He became involved in politics and he lived on a gay commune and he lived the history of our movement and community.
The boy focuses on his gay experiences but it does not leave out the author's other life--ethnic, psychological, educational and spiritual. We get a whole picture of the whole man and he is quite a man.
Memoirs written in the first person can be very boring reads but this is one that will hold your interest and have you flipping pages. His views and insights on organizing for gay rights are wonderful as is the way he writes on his relationship with his family, his lovers and his friends. There is neither bitterness nor regret here.
I love the way Kantrowitz wrote of his mother--she is THE Jewish mother--complex, intelligent and resourceful and dominating. I also respect greatly the way our freedoms were stressed and knowing that the author had something to do with us achieving them gives me a sense of kinship with him.
This is a touching book especially when we realize that so much of it is part of our history. He writes of tolerance and acceptance and above all loving yourself, something all of us need to do a little more.
This is a book that demands to be read and it is a pity tthat not many know about it. Kantrowitz is open and honest and he moved me to tears on several occasions. I can't recommend it highly enough.

I had Professor Kantrowitz as my English teacher in college and I was glad I took his class. He mentioned during class that he wrote a book dealing with his sexuality. I think I might have been the only person to read it. Arnie makes the book his and flies with it. I am amazed that he is as bright and cheerfull as he is today considering. I spoke with him in office about the book and a brief shadow of sadness reflected on his face. I give due credit to him for the strength he has and the obstacles he overcame.

This is a sweet, wonderful, easily readable book about one man's life before and after Stonewall.

First-person stories about being gay can be boring, especially if they've very confessional in nature. Kantrowitz thankfully avoids that. He speaks about the inside politics of gay rights organizing, and relationships with family, lovers and friends, without bitterness....

One of things I found most interesting in Under The Rainbow was the portrayal of Arnie's mother. Like Arnie, I'm Jewish, and personally, I've come to find the doting, ...nurturing "greenhorn" yiddishe mama figure in literature two-dimensional and unrealistic. In contrast, Arnie's portrayal of his mother is that of a complex, intelligent, resourceful woman tormented by being of two mindsets, that of New York City and "the shtetl". ...

Under the Rainbow also explores the dynamics of poverty in the Jewish community, which is a refreshing change from the usual first-generation-tailor-second-generation-doctor immigrant success story.

I'm also gay, and this book make me grateful for the freedoms I have now. I hope that more gay people in their twenties read this. Knowing one's own history is important.

I don't have any harsh criticisms of this book. Would every gay person see themselves in this book? Probably not, but it's ridiculous to presume that all gay people should. Some readers would probably be rankled by Kantrowitz's left-wing politics (though others would say he isn't radical enough), others by the S and M, others by not seeing their specific ethnic groups represented. You can't please everyone. How much can you fit in one book that you can still carry around?

The only reason I don't give it more than four stars is that I'm not sure any book is perfect.

Arnie Kantrowitz was my College Professor, and it was there that he told us about his book. I purchased it, and I was floored. I am a heterosexual female, and I felt like I knew what he was going through. His memories; funny, sad, and always vivid, touched me as few books ever have. Though I have not seen him in several years, the lessons I learned in his class, and his book, guide me today. His book is about tolerance, acceptance, and self-love, something we can all use a little of. Wherever you are, Professor Kantrowitz, I love you!

This coming out story should be required reading! To all those who thought the "classic" coming out story was John Reid's BEST LITTLE BOY IN THE WORLD, all I can say is, you must read UNDER THE RAINBOW. Arnie Kantrowitz is open and honest about his life in a way Reid never attempted. Reading this book, I was frequently moved to tears as I recognized in his story the same experiences I had had in my own coming-out process. It is a shame that this book is not better known; it is the best book of its kind that I have ever read. Don't miss this one!

Sent it to my son in jail and he said that it was the best book he received and really did help him overcome adversity.

I like the plenty of lively stories in the book. They are well written and inspirational. However, as a Christian who believes that the greatest help always come from God, I am obliged to raise my doubt on the effectiveness of it because it answers only part of the question of "Why me?" and encourages primarily those who are willing to and can stand up quickly on their own feet. A good book, I must say, but I would like to recommend also "Where is God when it hurts? by Philip Yancey and "Why Me?: Straight Talk About Suffering by Lawrence Wilson" to those in need.

Maxine Schnall has written such a sensitive, meaningful book. You can tell it comes from the heart and she gives such detailed ways of coping. You can tell the stories are true and they are good examples of the skills she is helping us to develop. So many people could benefit by reading "What doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger"

Well, you've heard the phrase so many times before, but now a gifted writer has made the reader understand why this title rings true. I consider myself a spiritual person, but often when chaos appears in your life, all the principles that you once thought you grasped, go out the window. In the past year, I have been unemployed and gone through tumultuous personal relationships. After reading this book, I felt empowered! The writer was able to put everything in prospective like no other "self-help" book, or form of spirituality has EVER done for me. It all made sense. I have recommended this book to several friends who have also gone through rough times in this past year. They, too, have found this book to be a useful tool in their healing process. Every beautifully crafted chapter provides a source of COMFORT and WISDOM for anyone facing the challenges that life brings. Sure life is difficult, but after reading Ms.Schnall's brilliant work, I feel better equipped to deal with my own life. And for that, this book has indeed been a BLESSING!

I've been raving about this book everywhere I go. It's become one of my all-time favorite reads so far. Silly me. I thought I wouldn't need it because I'm not experiencing any trauma now. But I was SO wrong!

Any time is a great time to read about people who have pulled through a terrible situation, or chosen to be creative in their problem solving, even when it seems like everything is lost forever. Maxine Schnall has written one of the most inspirational books I've ever read (and I read a lot!).

Two things really struck me about What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger. First, the way Maxine writes. She got my attention from the Introduction! I felt as if she came to my house, sat at my kitchen table, and told me things only a compassionate wise woman would be able to say. She's frank. She's got moxie. She knows intimately what the people in her book felt because of her own experience with her daughter's brain injury. (I cried when I read Maxine's telling of her own personal experience and I'm no softie.)

The second thing that got through to my Soul from this book has to do with the saying "God doesn't give you more than you handle". I've always HATED that line and resisted it. In fact, if you ask me, it's a downright lie. But the way Maxine put it in her book really made sense. She points out that we can handle anything because we're sent a lot of help! The blessings are everywhere and she shows you how to recognize them.

I think this book is a gift to people that came straight from her heart. I highly recommend reading it and giving to all of your friends.

This is a great read which is very hard to put down. The characters fit right for the Conch Republic. The mystery keeps unfolding, twisting, and turning throughout book. Anyone who likes to know more about Key West will enjoy this book as well as fans of Emerson Moore and his side-kick Sam Duncan who cannot wait for another exciting adventure.

This really is a must read book. I could not put it down. Really should start with the first book but don't have too. Keeps you going the whole time your reading it.Can't wait for the next book to come out. Really good reading.

Michele
Amherst,Ohio

This book is easy reading and hard to put down. Plots intermingle and many surprises are in store for the reader. It was enjoyable to see Bob's usual characters being true to form and the new ones full of various expertises. Bob's descriptions of scuba diving recovery in Lake Erie are accurate and exciting as are his descriptions of real places like restaurants, stores, and neighborhoods. I'm looking forward to seeing more diving activities from him in his future books.

Once again the Washington Post investigative reporter Emerson Moore finds himself enmeshed in a web of intrigue. This time its when he travels down to Key West, Florida, to cover hurricane Charley's devastating impact. Moore's reporting assignment takes an unexpected and potentially lethal change as he discovers and uncovers cold-blooded murder plots, double crosses, and a plot to steal $400 million in treasure under the protective cover of the hurricane. Bob Adamov is a superb craftsman of hanging-on-the-edge-of-your-seat mystery adventures as "When Rainbows Walk" proves that his first novel feature the intrepid report, "Rainbow's End", was no fluke -- and will leave the reader looking eagerly forward to "Promised Land", the third Emerson Moore, investigative report title in this outstanding series.

I saved "When Rainbows Walk" to read during my vacation in Myrtle Beach, and found myself sitting on the deck overlooking the ocean and completely engrossed in this action-packed tale - at 7AM!!! I love the Key West atmosphere and the surprisingly despicable characters that lurk there. There were many unexpected twists and turns; I could not put the book down. I definitely recommend this book, but not if you plan to sleep late!

I began reading Bob Adamov's books because of the Put-In-Bay references, and he hasn't let me down. I love reading about so many of my favorite people and places - West Side Steve, Mad Dog Adams, the Beer Barrel Saloon, the Boardwalk, and, of course, the Sunday afternoon Antique Car Parade. I can't wait to see what sort of mess Emerson gets himself into on the Island, or where his travels take him, in the next book.

Get busy, Bob, I'm ready for more!

Pat Kaley
Pittsburgh, PA

A few sentences were underlined, but the Bible was in excellent condition. Besides it is an excellent translation. I think it is one of the very best.

The World English Bible is a public domain (not copyrighted) modern English translation of the Holy Bible. It is a revision of the American Standard Version of 1901, with corrections based on the best available Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. The World English Bible is written for English-speaking people all over the world, so it avoids local idioms and language fads. It balances understandability, accuracy, and preservation of the style of the original writers. Because the Holy Bible is inspired by God, it continues to help people of all backgrounds.

The entire text of the World English Bible is available at the URL shown on the front cover, but it is nice to have a nice printed and bound book to read.

This edition is only the New Testament plus Psalms and Proverbs. The rest of the Old Testament is still being edited.

The translation philosophy of the "World English Bible" is described on the WEB: FAQ page on its Web site, "Some people like to use the terms 'formal equivalent' and 'dynamic equivalent.' Neither of these exactly describe what we are doing, since we have borrowed ideas from both, but I suppose that we are closer to formal equivalence than dynamic equivalence."

Dynamic equivalence refers to the thought for thought translation principle used in such versions as the NIV and NLT. This method is less literal than the formal equivalence (word for word) method seen in such versions as the KJV and NKJV. And in my opinion, formal equivalence is a much better principle for translating the Bible.

In any case, the above is a rather accurate description of the translation method of the WEB. It is mostly a formal equivalence version, but it tends towards dynamic equivalence at places. Also added words are not italicized or bracketed as they are in versions like the KJV and NKJV. So its accuracy is somewhat less than these two versions but much better than true dynamic equivalence versions. And with only minor deviations into dynamic equivalency, the WEB is reliable Bible version. Moreover, the WEB is much more readable than the KJV and somewhat more readable than NKJV.

In addition, the WEB differs from the KJV and NKJV in that it is based on the Majority Text (MT) rather than the "Textus Receptus" (TR). These two texts are very similar, much closer to each other than either is to the more popular Critical Text (CT). Of these three texts, I believe the MT is the most accurate, so being based on this text a big plus in favor of the WEB.

In fact, the WEB is one of only two versions currently available based on the MT. The other is my own "Analytical-Literal Translation" (ALT). But, as the name implies, my ALT differs from the WEB in that the ALT is a very literal translation, thus it is more accurate than the WEB. But the WEB would be more readable.

The WEB also has footnotes indicating textual variants, along with alternative translations and explanatory notes. My ALT includes such information. It has alternative translations and other aids within brackets within the text and a list significant textual variants in an appendix. And whether in footnotes, within brackets, or in an appendix, such info can be very helpful in Bible study.

So the WEB provides an accurate and readable translation of the best available Greek text, while providing helpful aids for Bible study. So I would highly recommend it. And for an even more accurate translation of the MT, see my ALT.

For further details on these two versions, an extensive discussion on the three different Greek texts mentioned above, along with reviews of about 30 other versions of the Bible, see my book "Differences Between Bible Versions."

I bought the paperback version of the WEB after reading it on the internet.At this time the Old Testament isn't available in printed form yet.
This Bible is a revision of the American Standard Version of 1901.One difference is the use of the scared name.The WEB uses Yahweh as compared to Jehovah.There was no "j" sound or letter in Hebrew.
The WEB is my translation of choice for internet Bible research.
It is accurate and easy to read.The footnotes are very helpful for clarifying words and telling of differences in greek text used.
The Psalms are seperated and clearly marked.
The other books are not seperated as individual chapters.Verses are identified with chapters in the text itself.So I use the the passage start and stop markers at the top of the pages for locating a particular passage.That's only a minor thing to me.
The entire WEB is available free online at a number of sites.
I will probably buy the complete WEB when it is printed.
I like this translation!It's one of the better modern translations for accuracy and readability.

After years of reading various bible versions and a strong commitment to literal translations I finally found the best. I used to be forced to shift from version to version depending on my purpose. Not anymore. No other bible version captures the Greek and Hebrew manuscripts as well as the World English Bible does. It is more literally accurate than other more popular versions (YLT, NASB, NKJV or KJV) and best of all uses modern english. By remaining more literal to the meaning of the context the translators have managed to select words that address various dividing issues in this church age. It is good for study as well as devotional reading. If you are sick and tired of all the various translations and want to settle with one translation give this one a try. You will never go back.

The best thing about this book is that it's TRUE: maybe not in terms of a particular individual but in terms of the ideas it portrays (that you have to accept nature as it is and work with it to get what you want, and that humans can learn to do so) and in terms of human and animal behavior--the characters act just as they would if you met them in real life. The illustrations add a great deal of verisimilitude to the story, especially with the glossary at the end. Excellent job!

Our children love this book. They have learned to appreciate the nature that is around them every day. An understanding of things that are not wild (the garden) and the things that are wild in the desert/ your backyard.

This year our 3 year old has planted Alejandro's garden, so the wild nature would come to vist. Sunflowers, lettuce, beans and carrots. So far we have enjoyed the birds, bees and butterflies, but we are waiting for the wild ones.

An easy read for 1-5 year olds that may peak their interest in the outdoors. By the way, make sure you are in shape Alejandro's spirit likes BIG gardens.

Alejandro is lonley living in the desert. By accident, he learns that if he plants a garden, animals come for the water and shade and Alejandro's lonliness is lessened.

But later, Alejandro learns that gifts given (the garden) makes the gifts received (the company) all the more sweeter.

"Alejandro's Gift" is a quiet book - no need for funny voices or wild antics. It makes a great bed time story or a great "snuggle with your kids on a rainy day" book.

This can also provide a nice way to discuss nature and preservation with your children.

There are lots of interesting things to look at in the illustrations. I read this to a group of school agers and they all enjoyed looking at the pictures and trying to identify all the different animals. We live far away from any desert, so many of these animals were unfamiliar to us.

This is a good book and I definitly recommend it.

"Alejandro's Gift" combines a story by Richard E. Albert with illustrations by Sylvia Long. Together they tell the story of Alejandro, a man who lives in an adobe house beside a lonely desert road. His only companion is a burro.

When Alejandro plants a vegetable garden, his home is soon visited by small animals who drink from his irrigation furrows. Delighted by the appearance of these creatures, Alejandro conceives a project on a slightly larger scale.

The realistic illustrations of this book are full of life. The animals and plants, as well as Alejandro himself, are captured beautifully. Alejandro's gentleness, thoughtful nature, and hard-working spirit are wonderfully brought to life. The pictures and text together offer a good message about respect for nature.

The book ends with a short "mini-encyclopedia" that names and illustrates animals and plants of the southwestern United States: mesquite, saguaro cactus, the sage sparrow, the collared peccary, and more. An educational and heartwarming book.

in this well crafted story about a young boy. The Always Prayer Shawl was selected to be included in the Jewish Community Library of Los Angeles public radio production "One People Many Stories: Jewish Stories from Around the World." Henry Winkler reads this love filled story on the CD, One People, Many Stories: Jewish Stories from Around the World.

The bond of grandson and grandfather in this handsome and heart-warming tale about a Tallit is indeed good for people of all ages and all faiths--girls and women, boys and men. It tells of the undying human urge for freedom and fulfillment and reinforces the importance of prayer, and the strength of tradition and family. Alyssa A. Lappen

This is a beautiful, moving story that was a gift for our son on his bris. (It moved me to tears when I first read it.) Exquisitely illustrated and well-told, the story celebrates values, tradition, and intergenerational relationships. It will be a great conversation starter with our son, when he is older, about our own family history. It would make a great gift for a bar mitzvah or any occasion.

I got this as a pre Bar Mitzvah gift and at first I thought it wasn't what I wanted because I figured it was for younger kids but when I read it I felt it was for everybody, even people who aren't Jewish. It was a story about a person's whole life and how they change which was pretty neat to think about especially when you are having a bar mitzvah. My grandmother gave it to me because she said it was like her dad's life. It is sort of getting me ready for my bar mitzvah to think about the importance of tradition in your life

I bet a publisher could make some money bringing this book back into general circulation. I remember Ant & Bee and the Rainbow vividly as a little kid during the mid 1960s, so it's been around a while. While the particulars of the story have faded over 40 years, I do remember the colors and the humor and maybe even the suspense bringing me back to look this one over again and again as a 2-4 year-old. I would love to get my hands on it for my own young children. If anyone has any tips on getting a copy, let me know.

I got my first Ant and Bee book for my son on a recommendation from a nursery school teacher from the Bank Street School. My son is not quite two years old, and already follows the pictures and words in these classic books with glee. And because they are just his size, in bright colors, he especially likes to carry them with him when we travel. He likes pointing out characters like the Zoo Man and the Kind Dog, and of course, Ant and Bee. Most interesting about these books is that the text itself is fun for children to look at. Key words are highlighted with varying fonts and colors, and sections are sprinkled with minature versions of pictures from larger illustrations. Ant and Bee and the Rainbow is about colors. The intrepid insect friends like rainbows so much, they decide to make one of their own by painting half an old tire propped up on the ground. Each book has its own special twist with familiar objects. I recommend the entire series. They are wonderful.

I too remember this book as a child in the 70s. My brother and I LOVED it. I didn't realize it was part of a series until I worked in a bookstore in London 3 years ago.

I got my first Ant and Bee book for my son on a recommendation from a nursery school teacher from the Bank Street School. My son is not quite two years old, and already follows the pictures and words in these classic books with glee. And because they are just his size, in bright colors, he especially likes to carry them with him when we travel. He likes pointing out characters like the Zoo Man and the Kind Dog, and of course, Ant and Bee. Most interesting about these books is that the text itself is fun for children to look at. Key words are highlighted with varying fonts and colors, and sections are sprinkled with minature versions of pictures from larger illustrations. Ant and Bee and the Rainbow is about colors. The intrepid insect friends like rainbows so much, they decide to make one of their own by painting half an old tire propped up on the ground. Each book has its own special twist with familiar objects. I recommend the entire series. It's too bad the! se are hard to find. They are wonderful. If Amazon can get them for you, it will be worth any wait!

This is a wonderful guide, with clear maps and smart buying tips for the Flea-Market Junkie and Occasional Peruser alike.
I don't even particularly enjoy Les Puces, but at my home in Paris I have a copy of this guide for guests. When visitors come to stay, I put a stack of reading material on their bedside table (French magazines, books about Parisian history, guidebooks, etc.) and "Bit by the Fleas" is always one of the favourites. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

I've been to the Marchee aux Puces many times in Paris and wish I'd had this book with me before! The photos are gorgeous and helped identify different parts of the huge market and types of furniture. I've enjoyed reading through it over and over since my return. It's so interesting and there's so much to learn. Not just what to buy and where, but how to ship it home and how to recognize value or ... non-value. This book is a real treasure for those serious about antiques or just browsing the market for interesting finds.

Stuart Hough saved me thousands of hours of research with his incredibly efficient reviews. I was able to save a ton of time at le marche des Puces by carrying this handy pocketguide with me while touring - and saved some money by knowing who to talk to and how to approach them. It is written with both style and efficiency - if you are into antiques, this is a MUST READ.

Anyone who cares about French antiques knows that there are many good deals to be unearthed at the marche aux Puces, but the place was always somewhat intimidating to me because it's known to be an "insider's" market. It's hard to know where to go and who to trust. I was delighted to come across this book because it demystifies the process very effectively and is written in a no-nonsense, discerning and user-friendly manner. It is not designed as a comprehensive guide to the Puces but rather as a "short list" of the stands that the authors have found to be most worthwhile (be it in terms of selection, quality, price and/or reliability). It's a bit like having a Zagat's guide to the Puces. I also liked the format, which is compact and practical to carry around Paris, as well as the design and graphics, which are tasteful and up-scale. As a result, I've also found it to be a very appropriate gift for friends who share my interest in French antiques.

This book has a flow to it that continues where, the spider's egg, left off. It has a similar tone to it but with less aggression. With that being said, it still has a dark feel to it. It's almost psychotic and from what I've heard, a bit more personal. Everyone should check this out. It's a great book.

This was quite a surprise! I really enjoyed this book! After reading this, I will definatly be following this guy's works!

This guy really can write, man. I read his first book, the spider's egg, and thought "wow!" Then when I heard he was coming out with a new book, I checked it out and once again "wow" It's a little different, not too much but still deals with the basic messages this dude is expressing. I'm not all that much into poetry books but I really do like these. I can feel it, that why! Keep 'em comin', dude!

Chris gets more personal in this book than he did in his previous. In "The Spider's Egg" he wrote beautifully about the inner demons he was dealing with and the truth hurts, reality of this world. This book is both similar and different mixed together. Sounds weird, right? Well, that's what you should come to expect from this writer. There are certain poems in this book that almost bring tears to your eyes because of the honesty they inflict about things alot of people, unfortunately, have been through and are still going through. From abuse, both physically and mentally of all kinds, to the struggles of keeping faith and hope. Chris, again, uses his words to connect to those who have not had the easiest of lives. It really is a great book and I hope you guys check it out and give it a chance. God bless you, Chris!

I found this book to be very helpful, it is a great way to learn about boating.

This is a terrific and user friendly resource for kids and adults...easy to read, good graphics, and educational!

This book is very informative about boating safety, boating requirements, classifications of boats, state regulations, aids to navigation and environmental awareness.

I've read a lot of boating safety books and Boater 101 is one of the best. I highly recommend Boater 101