Reds Books

A most fascinating book, revealing the identity of Fulcanelli, backed up by a great deal of evidence that has been carefully sifted through and analyzed by the author Patrick Riviere. If you have any interest in the subject of alchemy this book is a must read, not only for the step by step journey the author takes us on in uncovering the mystery of who was Fulcanelli, but also the vivid picture he paints of the time period - a period that was rich with energy and individuals devoted to alchemy. Don't miss this one, its a very special book!

Anyone with even a basic understanding or interest of alchemy will enjoy this book, as is a prominent name in the field of alchemists. Patrick Riviere's research and close connections to Funcanelli, through Fucanelli's only student Eugene Canseliet, lends credence to his conclusions and also puts to bed all those who wish to lead us astray in determining who Fucanelli really was or is.

Mr. Riviere has provided ample factual information in this book to justify his reasoning and claim that Jules Viole is actually the person who was known as Fulcanelli.

I think there can be no further doubt as to who he was. There are lots of other theories as to who he was, but none of them can claim the authenticity that the author amply elucidates here. While these other theorists try desperately to stretch the facts and often do their best to create a scenario which could fit those facts, they really do fall flat on their faces.

This reads like a good detective story, except that it is not fiction!

With his paramount research in alchemy and his link to a great adept Fulcanelli himself, the author Patrick Riviere have written an intriguing work entitled "Fulcanelli: His True Identity Revealed." The respectable author, Riviere, was a student of Eugene Canseliet, who was a disciple of Fulcanelli himself. Thus, Riviere is a proper author who is able to solve such a mystery that surrounded the great alchemist of 20th century.

"Fulcanelli" is composed of 203 pages, as divided into eleven chapters, with additions of an introduction and an appendix. The first three chapters dealt with the alchemy in the 20th century and discussion of Fulcanelli's two works, "Mystery of the Cathedrals" and "Dwellings of the Philosophers." The fourth chapter focused on the encounter between Fulcanelli and Eugene Canseliet, and the next few chapters deal with the debates and evidences on the questionable identity of Fulcanelli. Then, Riviere brings his point home the real individual, by revealing the strong evidence, who became the famed Fulcanelli.

There is a common sense where one would need to read the history of a subject before studying that certain subject. In the case of Fulcanelli where his works, "Mystery of the Cathedrals" and "Dwellings of the Philosophers," are concerned, Riviere's "Fulcanelli" will be one of the most useful books for any sincere seeker or just curious reader.

This book is strongly recommended.

Patrick Riviere does an excellent job in bringing out all the facts around Fulcanelli and in establishing his true identity, namely Jules Violle. A physicist with a keen interest in light and alchemy. The author has the advantage of being the student of Eugene Canseliet, who was Fulcanelli's only student and a fellow alchemist.

The book is easily read as the author takes the reader through his interesting investigations and detailing of the enigma around Fulcanelli.

Get Organized, Get Published is an excellent book by Cleaning and Time Management Guru Don Aslett and Carol Cartaino. The book contains tons of information on organization for the aspiring writer to the seasoned pro.

One of the greatest benefits from reading this book is the motivation it provides. When reading, you can't help but want to get to working on your writing projects. And once you get organized and get started, all you need to do is follow the advice in chapter 14 and Don't Stop!

Besides the tips, suggestions, and strategies that Aslett and Cartaino present, they have also included many quotes from published authors regarding the organization, time management, and writing strategies they have used to succeed. If just one of these gems helps you succeed, and I'm sure the combination of all the strategies in this book, if followed and acted upon, will, then the book will be worth more than its weight in gold.

I personally spent the last year focusing on dvds rather than writing projects. This year, my goals include doing a lot more writing. I pulled this book off the shelf to read again to assist me in making 2008 great. The motivation from this book will get me back to the keyboard, and the organization and time management strategies will ensure I reach my writing goals.

Thanks Don and Carol for a great book!

Reviewed by Alain Burrese, J.D., author, speaker
Hard-Won Wisdom From The School of Hard Knocks, Hapkido Hoshinsul, Streetfighting Essentials, Hapkido Cane, and The Lock On Joint Locking series.

I don't have enough time. I don't even know where to start. I don't know what to write about.

The list of excuses is endless. The remedy can be found in "Get Organized, Get Published!"

No matter what your writing experience, you've probably encountered organizational problems, time constraints and a whole host of other writing-related issues. Now you can learn how to get the most out of your day, office space and how you can make effective use of your writing sessions.

Sample chapters include:

* Finding the Time to Write

* Making Your Master Plan

* The Big Step: Getting Started

* Organizing Your Work Area

* Organizing the Writing Process Itself

* Time Management Tips for Writers

* "Just a Minute": Outwitting Interruptions

If you struggle with any aspect of your writing - whether it be a cluttered desk, personal battle with time or even if you feel creatively empty - this book is designed to give you the extra edge in your writing venture.

"Get Organized, Get Published!" is a powerful motivational tool. Each page will help you capitalize on your writing dreams. This comprehensive guide to organizational strategies contains everything you need to "Get Organized, Get Published!"

OK, I have to admit, I am a published writer for 22 years, as a journalist and commentator. Yet, despite my many promises to myself, I have not moved myself to the stage where I can proudly add AUTHOR to my list of achievements. Why? I have enough material to publish some collected work type books, and enough ideas to put together a bunch more. But, getting organized and THINKING, ACTING (as in taking ACTION) and FOLLOWING UP in an organized manner have been my nemesis. I just read this book today and have to give the author credit for putting together an EXCELLENT resource and collection of USEFUL and USABLE ideas, tips, thoughts, and even action lists. A MUST HAVE book (and quite a bargain at the price I saw here) for anyone who is serious about writing that book he/she always wanted to - finally! Good luck.

This is a must have for anyone wishing to write a book of their own!

I've been doing book reviews for the Society for Technical Communication for about 6 years now and haven't come across a book as interesting as this one! It's very difficult to put down.

Currently, I'm writing a book of my own outside of my 40-hour writing position as a software documentation writer. I've made more headway on my personal book in the last three weeks than I have during the past year by following the tips suggested in this book. Other writers with whom I work are asking me about Don's book, as I have been taking it to meetings to read during those first few minutes that everyone is waiting for the meeting to begin.

This book overflows with helpful and "do-able" advice for eliminating distractions to writing. For someone who publishes quite frequently, I hate writing and will find nearly any excuse to avoid doing so. Perry Mason re-run? Cleaning the diffusion bowls (you know, those things around the lights on the ceiling)? Nearly anything becomes more attractive than writing. Aslett and Cartaino cut away all of life's frippery to help you get down to writing.

This book was one of my very favorites as a child, and my children adore this book as well (my mother has the original copy and they love for me to read it to them when we visit her house!). My children always giggle when Harvey and Mildred stick their tongues out at each other and call each other "stupid, no-good, loud-mouthed and bossy"! I always wished I could have a secret underground hideout across a lake in the woods, and a raft to use to get there. Two of my other favorites (and my childrens') are Miss Suzy and Miss Twiggley's Tree - fabulous stories and fabulous illustrations!

My grandmother, who was a school principal and also gave me more books than toys, would read this, tirelessly, over and over again from the time I couldn't write out my whole name, until I could read it myself (but still wanted gramma to read it to me). I didn't even have siblings at the time, but I absolutely adored this story! I still have the original copy where I practiced writing my name in the cover, but still couldn't make an S come out right. To this day, almost 3 decades later, I still remember Mildred's beautiful party dress with dirt thrown on it by Harvey, the little picture of an indian Harvey put on the wall of his cave--the tea party Mildred had with her doll (was her name Lucinda?) Those illustrations were amazing. I look forward to reading this over and over again to every child I come in contact with!!!

Living on a farm with no real neighbors to speak of, my little brother and I not only loved this book, but we also lived it. Just like Harvey and his sister Mildred, we fought like crazy but we also discovered that when school was out, we only had eachother. The book made us laugh and also taught us something about being good to your brother or sister.

A childhood favorite! I read my copy to my children every year when we come to visit the grandparents. The book is so worn that it is not longer attached to the binding but my son and daughter love to hear about Mildren and Harvey. They can really relate to the brother sister name calling! They are past picture books but we still enjoy the read aloud experience. I wish it was still in print. I would give as gifts to families with sibling rivalry! a Fabuolus book!

Coming from a family of schooteachers, my mother successfully made sure that I always had more books than toys. I may have resented it as a child, but as an adult, I look back with nothing but gratitude and appreciation. Harvey's Hideout was one of my very favorite books. I read it countless times. It is such an endearing story and I can remember the beautiful, vibrant illustrations as if I saw them yesterday. I loved Mildred, as mean as she was! I loved her independence...her creativity...and her yellow-flowered dress! To me the story showed the importance of family and acceptance and love for one another, even if it's a brother whom you just wish would go away! They say that "Books are your friends" and Harvey's Hideout was one of my very best. If I am ever fortunate enough to come across a copy again, it will have a permanent place in my book collection. A must-read for children of all family structures, in my opinion...a real treasure. ~Enjoy~

How do you teach a child how to behave at a wedding -- the seriousness of which they may not be able to comprehend? Look no further, this book helps parents know how to talk in simple terms with their children about going to a wedding and helps children understand appropriate behavior through humor and positive interactions with their parents. This book is one that kids will want to read again and again whether or not they are heading to a wedding.

My kids loved this book - it explains what happens at a wedding through a cleverly-written story, and there's nothing else like it out there. This would make a perfect gift for a flower girl or ring bearer, or any kid who's invited to a wedding. The great thing is that it's not too "girly," so boys will like it, too.

This book is a delight! A unique and creative gift for all the "little ones" who will be heading to those spring and summer weddings. The lessons about proper behavior at a wedding are carefully woven into a delightful storyline. The wonderful illustrations will capture every reader's attention.

Written by Sara F. Shacter and illustrated by Christine Thorton, Heading To The Wedding is a children's picturebook with a purpose beyond entertainment - to educate young people about what a wedding is like, and what the proper way to behave at one is. A young boy and girl are used to thinking of big gatherings as parties where they can dress up in costume and act out to have fun; together, they learn how to enjoy themselves and respect the special day of the bride and groom. A glossary of wedding words round out this ideal book for preparing children to attend a wedding.

I remember practicing for fancy family gatherings as a child, but it was never this much fun. The first time I read this book it was to my 89 year-old grandmother and my 4 and 8 year-old children. I can't say who enjoyed it more, everyone was laughing out loud! The lesson in the book can apply to any semi-formal gathering and it is a fun book to read anytime.

I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I first picked up this book. From the moment I cracked it open, I was completely hooked. Mudaine train rides to work and back were suddenly filled with the crazy adventures of two (nearly) fearless California gals, staking their claims and burning their initials into the heart of Texas. Before I knew it, I actually started dreading the announcement that my stop was next. I absolutely loved every chapter and recommend this to anyone who is looking for their next favorite book.

These are two chicks you'd wanna hang with, but we can leave the reds behind. All the talk of the dancers at Antone's, how a midnight run to Gardenridge and the yearly Marie Calendar's pie special is my Austin too. To hear a newcomer's view of our bugs, the heat, the twang and the rodeo made my laugh alot. I think most Texans would get a kick outta Heidi and the Reds.

I truly enjoyed this book of short stories. The chapter about Georgia's sister was very endearing. I loved that each story was independent of one another and yet they all seemed to fit together because of the city's backdrop. You really get to know the two main characters, Georgia and Vivian as they go through their everyday lives, from minimum wage jobs they love, to their friends that visit and give life to their adventures. The chapter about Georgia's Uncle relating back to the songs of Tom Waits reminded me about how different songs and movies can jog someone back to the memories of loved ones. I highly recommend this book.

As a long time Austin local, I must say that I approve. I'm not one to want to encourage Californians to move on out here, but Heidi & the Reds doesn't lie. We got the bugs, we got the slackers, the singers, the blues, Stevie, Antone's, you name it and Heidi's got it. The book's more about family and friends and dreams then about any city or state, but I think that's why everyone will like it. And if you ever was curious about rodeos, carnivals, the blues and the Southwest you won't be disappointed either. I'd recommend it to all my buds.

I read The Doldrums and have been waiting and waiting for Mel's next book. Heidi did not disappoint. Although this was totally different from The Doldrums, I haven't laughed this hard in a long time. 'The Bug Killer' was my favorite chapter. I think everyone can relate to that fear of cockroaches and she paints Austin, Texas so vividly that I felt like I was there. It almost seems like a little Berkeley in the middle of the South. After reading 'Heidi' I'm ready to cruise on down to 'Pint Nite at Antone's.' Maybe we'll run into Mel.

Having listened to Warren on his radio show for awhile, I was anxious to read his book, he is a wonderful human being with an incredible insight to "doggy behavior".

I have used some of his products, such as the doggy fog horn to deter barking, and it worked like a charm!

His advice is straight on and makes a great deal of sense.
If you get a dog, get a copy of this book and you will ave the best behaved dog on the block!
If you have a dog get this book and re-train your dog, "you can teach and old dog new tricks!".

This is an excellent book on dog behaviour and what you can do about it. I found it well written, interesting to read and full of great information and insights. As an owner of an intelligent frisky puppy, this book is invaluable to me and I use as my dog's bible..well worth the price.

Mr. Eckstein has this book so filled with incredible information. Some of the info truly is coming from your dog's perspective. His suggestions have given me four incredibly trained dogs. I buy this book as a gift for anyone I know who has gotten a puppy and tell them that this is a dog owner's bible.

Any dog lover should grab a copy of this book. Eckstien is known for adopting pets and transforming them into not only warm,wonderful companions but movie stars, and show winners. Eckstein shares his stories in past books about how he has save dogs and cats from kill shelters and literally certain death, to become extras in tv shows and commercials. Eckstein has worked with both celebrity pet owners and appeared on celebrated tv shows, but he is most comfortable with the dogs and cats he loves. This book was very informative because it explained the mysteries of why my dog chased his tail or burrowed before he used the bathroom, and also great tips on handling, and training my pooch. I liked how he worked on rewards basis and not beating, whipping, or restraining. Overall the book is humane, sensitive to both pet owner and pet, and describes all the areas that you would want to work on with your dog.

Warren Eckstein brings the same caring and compassion for pets, sprinkled with some light-hearted humor to this book, that he does to his radio shows each week. This is a comprehensive and straight forwardingly written guide book for the care and training of dogs. Warren tells us that many of the problems that we encounter with our canine pets are the result of the dog simply being bored. Given the frenzied pace at which we live, our dogs are left alone for increasing periods of time. He gives us many suggestions for keeping our pets from being bored,going from the simple rotation of toys to the suggestion of an occasional canine playdate or party. He even suggests doggie makeovers and and how to give a doggie massage. I particularly liked his suggestion of using a shake can (an empty soda can filled with some coins and taped closed) as a training aid. When Fido goes yet once again to knock down the kitchen garbage pail, you have already balanced the shake can on top of it, and Fido gets a noisy surprise when the can hits the floor.

Her weaving of personal narrative and political context makes this book a must read for feminists of all genres and anyone interested in learning more about the real lives of activists, women and daughters. Making real the complexity of family, relationships and love is a journey for the rest of us too.

Bettina reviews a very important period; her growth, both personal and political, make for fascinating reading. I know her, and many of the persons and events in the book, and her "take" on them is very insightful. Events in her family, which took/take up so much of the reviewers time, are treated, I think, with respect and love, and don't detract from what is a wonderful story. Bravo to her.

I was one of Bettina's students when she taught at SJSU thirty years ago. Her classes were always packed. She is an amazing lecturer and scholar. She had a tremendous impact on all of her young students.

Even thirty years later, I am impressed by her will, determination, and her sense of self. I read an excerpt of this book published in a local news magazine, but even before I read the excerpt I knew I would buy her book.

Most individuals at some point in their lives reflect on their childhood and how it formed who they are today. Bettina's book does this and more...she examines why she makes the choices she did in a manner that is honest. She does not go for the "easy out", but then she never did.

Her lessons and her ability to bear witness to her own life can easily be internalized and applied to your own experiences. You don't have to agree with her politics...you just have to recognize her unique humanity and in doing that you will grow yourself.

Like many others involved in the struggles of the Sixties and thereafter, I was aware of Bettina Aptheker: plaintiff in the famous lawsuit that finally validated the legality of the CPUSA; "red diaper baby" of the famous Herbert Aptheker; and participant in many organizations and campaigns. Also like many others, I had no idea at all about the interior person, the feeling individual who was Bettina Aptheker. The revelations of this book were a bit of a shock to me, though not so much as once they might have been, largely due to the feminist movement's success in raising consciousness about the too-common dysfunction of American families.

What makes this book powerful is the way in which the author weaves in her personal experience, the dimension of feeling, with events of the time and all in the context of relationships both comradely and familial. It seems almost a cliche to say it took great courage for her to live life as she did--shattering the conventions that bound her from sexual awareness and recognition of the crimes committed against her by her famous father. Add to this the tension and very real danger implicit in being a high-profile, public Communist in the US, and we can see her as a very strong person indeed.

This book is a gift to those who may be stunted by any form of "correct" conformism, especially that generated within traditional patriarchal families. It is also of value to those who cared about the efforts against war and racism...and who still care about these issues. Finally, it is a gift to see how she and her beloved partner have distilled the essential values of their lives into a spiritual practice. Thus, Ms. Aptheker completes a familiar circle from personal anguish to struggle for social justice to personal transformation. For those who consciously walk this circle, Intimate Politics will be a deepening and worthwhile book to read.

There are two distinct and fascinating stories interwoven here.
Ms. Aptheker was part of the inner circle wherever boomers spontaneously manned the barricades for social change. She gives us a meticulous (perhaps too meticulous) first-hand account of the people she knew and the events she lived during the free-speech, civil rights, anti-war, and feminist revolutions. Hence, the word 'politics' in the title.

Then she tells another, much more interesting story. The 'intimate' passages introduce us to a very, very bright, traumatized young girl, one who is eager to please and desperate to fit in. So she steps out bravely -- her courage is astounding (especially her courage to change course in pursuit of integrity)-- but every bold action she takes also exposes her to very real dangers from the powers-that-be. A more sensible person might have withdrawn and conformed, but Ms. Aptheker staggers defiantly on. This is a story about secrets, injuries, shame, stubbornness, self-destruction, self-discovery, healing, and the courage to keep following your star, despite it all.

This is one of the best books ever! Our family has enjoyed this book for years! Sometimes we even act out the parts. It is so entertaining. It started us on a Nicholas Allan kick where we seek out his books. Some are rather irreverent, such as The Queen's Knickers, but all in good fun. Jesus' Christmas Party is the best one.

This charming story gives a realistic spin to how things really might have been out there in Bethlehem. It makes me laugh everytime I read it, and it makes a wonderful skit that our family loves to put on at Christmas time

I love this book. I bought three, two to give away and one to keep. I have it sitting on the coffee table. People pick it up, think it's a cute kid's book and read through it. I can always tell when they get to the end...there is a little sigh and a look of peace! It reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. That our lives are hectic, just as the inn keepers night was, but he took time to celebrate the baby's birth!

The simple line drawings are accessilble to all. the innkeeper certainly didn't know what he was in for when he let Mary and Joseph use the stable. Despite the bright light and all the interruptions the innkeeper finally gets in the spirit of things. A short, sweet look at the joy everyone had at the birth of a special baby.

The poor inn keeper keeps getting woken up because two tired travelers need a place to stay, they need blankets, there is a bright light in the sky, three wise mencome looking for a baby...finally he storms down to the barn to give them a piece of his mind but stops when he sees the "lovely" baby. In his excitement he runs and wakes all the people staying at the inn to tell them about the baby!

la recomiendo para gente abierta que quiere salirse de los típicos autores que aparecen masivamente en todas partes. Me parece nuevo, refrescante y bueno

leí el libro de un tirón, me gustó y espero leer algo más del autor

Es un libro IMPORTANTE, no sólo porque crea que está bien escrito, sino porque se queda contigo, en la memoria y en el corazón. He aprendido mucho de este libro.

sólo puedo decir que me gustó. No conocía al autor y lo leí por casualidad.LO RECOMIENDO DE VERDAD

el libro es INCREIBLE. Me encantó desde el principio hasta el final. Yo no sé porqué no se publican más así

This is one of the best series that I have ever read. It is a must see but beware, once you pick it up you will not want to put it down.

Very interesting book and brings to mind the hardships and heartache endured by those who opened up this country as they moved west, yet they endured.

There is much happiness and hope in this book. Ingeborg's marriage to Haakan is a wonderful blessing to her and her children. There are some new characters to add spice to the books and the discovery of Grace's deafness to add tears, but Kaaren and Ingeborg's faith continues to grown in the face of the difficulties that come from farming and joys of proving up their homesteads.

Those pioneers are sooo brave! I wish I could be like them. Lauraine is an excellent author. Keep it up!

Book 3 in Red River of the North opens with Penny writing to the absent Hjelmer who has fled the area to avoid a "shotgun wedding" trick. Even though he is young and immature, he is a hard worker with an eye for the future and inside information on the plans of the railroad. Kaaren delivers twins, nearly dying. One twin is not healthy and Lars cannot accept his deaf daughter. School is in full swing in the prairie schoolhouse, with Kaaren as teacher.

Ingeborg and Haaken travel a far distance by train to escort home the seriously injured younger sister of Kaaren. Solveig is a bitter, disappointed young woman who was on her way to join her sister, but whose future is crushed in a train wreck. Face scarred and barely walking, she goes home with Ingeborg and Haaken. Olaf, Kaaren's long lost uncle, mysteriously turns up after a long absence and his many talents make him useful and loved.

Penny has finally decided to travel to Fargo for work and further schooling. The farms continue to progress - a large wooden barn now graces the homestead of Ingeborg who gives birth to another baby, Haaken's first biological child. Metiz continues to weave in and out of the lives of the pioneer families. Her grandson, Baptiste, stays with his friend Thorliff to go to school and help with the farm work.

As much as she balks, Ingeborg gives up her plowing and hunting after teaching young Thorliff to take her place. As usual, tragedy does not pass over them without leaving scars. A tragic fire, blizzards and failing farms cause loss of life and dreams. Agnes give birth to a stillborn daugher. She harbors intensive anger toward Hjelmer for hurting her dear niece, Penny.

The railroad is coming and the time for proving up their land arrives. Both the Bjorkland widows are remarried with families. Extra people share both homes now. A large sack house stores their grain for direct loading on the train.

The book ends with their town becoming a water stop for the railroad, a real town with a real name, Blessing. In spite of the author's confusion with family relationships and forgetting Kaaren's married name, book 3 still deserves 4 stars.