Characters Books

This first brick-like volume contains Giant-Size X-Men #1, and then (Uncanny) X-Men #94-131. This is the whole first Chris Claremont/David Cockrum run, and the more sizeable part of the revered Claremont/John Byrne run. There are a lot of "classic" stories here, including the "Phoenix Saga", the debut of Alpha Flight, "Proteus," and the first part of the "Dark Phoenix Saga" (it seems like an odd place to cut off, but reading these comics makes you realize that there's seldom any clear ending point between arcs; there's always at least two things happening, and one is never resolved in the same issue as the other).

It is, all and all, a hugely enjoyable run, and there are all kinds of first appearances scattered throughout the story. The primary lineup is fairly consistent throughout, with Cyclops, Wolverine, Colossus, Storm, Nightcrawler, and Banshee (a lot of people also include Jean Grey in this, but she's not really a team member [she's not mentioned in the blurb on the opening page], but a supporting character, and is usually dragged into the action); Professor X is in the background, and former X-Men Beast, Havok, and Polaris show up several times.

One thing to note is that a lot of people talk about how the modern X-Men comics are too often dragged into stuff that shouldn't really involve the X-Men, and then offer up this period as a counter-example; given that there are several times when the X-Men cross over with, of all things, "Power Man and Iron Fist", for no reason other than Chris Claremont was involved with that series too, this period is perhaps not the best example (the most bizarre of these being Storm venturing back to her birthplace, finding it inhabited by a bunch of junkies who try to knife her, only to be rescued by Luke Cage, who then delivers a lecture of kids wasting their lives). Now, there are a couple of stories that deal specifically with mutants, but most of the time it's just the X-Men in well-done superhero adventures.

As a diehard fan of the 90s "X-Men: The Animated Series", reading this makes you realize just how many of that show's stories were based on the Claremont comics fairly directly; not just the big stuff like the two "Phoenixes" and "Proteus", but also "Xavier Remembers" (#117) and "Repo Man." (#120-121) I actually liked the animated series' version of "Proteus" a lot better; in the comic version, Proteus is a pretty straightforwardly Pure Evil, refers to Joe as "the-one-I-hate," and, for an episode that deals with such a key component of Moira's life, not having Professor X there seems like a real waste. The Animated Series version does something a lot more interesting with Proteus; it focusses on the idea of Kevin as an isolated youth who doesn't understand why his father isn't around, and pursues him despite the clear evidence that Joe is a jerk. It also focusses squarely on Professor X's complicated relationship with Moira, and his attempts to help Proteus. Finally, it uses Proteus to touch on other characters' feelings of rejection because of their mutancy (Rogue), and also on political cynicism (Joe is a "family values" politician who doesn't want to be seen with his son because he's a mutant).

Another thing that's fairly impressive about this run is the narrative flow, which just doesn't let up most of the time. Consider this series of events:

#111 - Beast comes to rescue the X-Men from Mesmero in Texas. At issue's end, they are confronted by Magneto.
#112-113 - Magneto captures the X-Men, flies them to his Antarctic fortress, and imprisons them. They escape, and while Phoenix and Beast end up on the surface, thinking the others are dead, the others end up leaving by a different route, thinking Phoenix and Beast are dead.
#114-116 - While Beast and Phoenix get home and misinform Professor X, the X-Men have an adventure in the Savage Land, including a reunion with Sauron and Ka-Zar, and their first meeting with future continuity-annoyance Zaladane.
#117 - The X-Men get out of the Antarctic, and are rescued by a Japanese vessel on a shady government-sponsored adventure, necessitating radio silence until they get back to Japan.
#118-119 - The X-Men get to Japan, find several Power Man and Iron Fist characters (and one of their villains) there, and help save Japan. They team up with Sunfire once again, and Mariko appears for the first time.
#120-121 - The X-Men catch a flight home, only to be intercepted by Alpha Flight, looking to retrieve Wolverine. Thanks to a somewhat contrived and anti-climactic ending, they fail.
#122 - The X-Men finally get home. Now that's a world tour. It takes several more issues to clarify that the X-Men/Jean and Beast aren't dead, since Professor X has decamped to the Shi'ar Empire with Lilandra, and Jean is off on Muir Island with Moira, Havok, Polaris, and Multiple Man.

One final great feature of the Omnibus is the old Letters Pages ("Mutant Mailbox"), where you get to read people complaining about how Claremont and Cockrum suck, and the original X-Men should be brought back (one letter, in particular, complains about how nothing ever really changes at Marvel, and how they're sure that the old X-Men will be back in action quickly, just like Reed and Sue never stay apart, etc.).

This collection has fallen out of print, so it goes for rather exorbitant sums, but for anyone interested in the classic era of the Uncanny X-Men, this is a strongly-recommended purchase.

The Uncanny X-Men Omnibus volume 1 is a must-have book for any X-Fan. Content-wise you get X-Men #94-131, Annual #3, and Giant Size #1. This features the introduction of the new X-Men, the legendary Claremont & Byrne issues taking us into the Dark Phoenix Saga. If you haven't read these then you're in for an incredible ride. Getting so many issues in an omnibus is like getting 4 seasons of a tv show on dvd to watch. If you have read these there is no better collection than this. Production-wise the reproduction and coloring has never been better (yes, better than the Marvel Masterworks #1-4 which overlap with this omnibus). The binding is solid and built to last. Considering X-Men #94 can go easily for several hundred dollars, this omnibus is a bargain considering how many issues are collected. If you're thinking of getting it...don't wait if you see a copy. Big books like this tend to go (and stay) out of print because of low print runs, the expensive cost of printing, and the amount of space they take up for distributors. Unless you want to end up reading these in a digital form, get the book while there are still copies around. For the massive volume of content, the quality of the content, and the A+ book production values, this is easily the best X-collection ever.

I don't have this book, as its been out of print/sold out for a while; yet I've read all the single issues and like everyone else, this run of Claremont/Byrne is one of the best runs of all time.

Plus I just read on Diamonds website that its being Offered Again!! That means no more $150 copies!! Give Amazon a week or two and this should be available again for retail or even discounted again!

Truly awesome! I wish they could put every x men into one giant book. Bring on X Men Omnibus vol. 2!

This collection of the first 5 years of Claremont's run on Uncanny X-men is a great value. Great quality of the reprinting. My only complaint is minor, that the omnibus overlaps with the first 3 issues in the Dark Phoenix Sage tpb.

Also this book will be getting a new printing in November. Don't pay the marked up prices sellers are gouging for now, just wait. It was in the newest comic solicits from Marvel, it is being reprinted.

A clear and concise exercise to understanding basic animation. As anyone who has ever used Maya can tell you, it's a HUGE program and can be overwhelming in its complexity. So many instructional books throw as much functionality of the program at you as possible, and as a result you end up walking away with only a few tricks that are often unrelated to each other in the context of seeing a project through from beginning to end. This book avoids the clutter and distractions of many of the flashier aspects of Maya and instead focuses on the information required to familiarize the reader with the basics of animation. Each chapter builds upon the knowledge acquired in the previous chapter and is reinforced by well thought out and pertinent tutorial projects.

By the end of the book you will feel ready to take on your own animation projects with confidence.

This is a great book to learn to understand and use Maya. It's well organized and makes you understand not only how to do it, but also why to do it. Recommended.

Park does a skilful job of minimising the amount of maths that a newcomer to Maya needs. Or, perhaps, it is Maya that does that. Anyhow, traditional texts on graphics (think Foley and van Dam) are replete with maths. Usually matrix algebra. But also for the physics of ray tracing etc. What this book demonstrates is showing how to use Maya for many 3D graphics tasks, often without having to explicitly deal with the underlying maths. Like manipulating NURBs or single or multiple light sources. Or dealing with shading issues.

As is common nowadays in graphics texts, there are several colour plates, with cartoon characters made with Maya. Impressive functionality.

I had long wanted to begin the process of learning Maya, but was intimidated every time I opened the damned program. John Park's book allowed me to grow past that fear and build a strong foundation in understanding the program. His instructions are easy to follow and his exercises (included on an accompanying CD) provide real world experiences for learning Maya's basics. Additionally, it is a well-rounded instruction manual that teaches about many aspects of the program (instead of a few particulars). Please buy this book, so Mr. Park is encouraged to release additional manuals!

Park's book is exceptional because it has a simple, easy to follow tutorial format that has you modeling, shading, animating and rendering all in the first chapter. Each chapter builds on the last expanding the skills together as an integrated group. Maya is an awsome program that is fun work with, but its shear size can make it overwhelming for a beginner. Because of this most books either specialize in only one aspect of it, or serve as a general pictorial menu of what you can do but don't adequately tell you how. Park's book stays at just the right level so you feel excited rather than overwhelmed, and by the end you have developed a working knowledge of all the major menu sets, and you have completed a rather sophisticated animation. You can then move on to any other Maya book with confidence, or just continue working with the knowledge you've gained. You don't even have to buy Maya. It comes with a copy of Maya Personal Learning Edition on the tutorial CD.

It's rare to find a good mystery that also makes you laugh out loud. This series does that for me every time! Whiskey and Tonic is the best of the bunch so far. The colorful crowd who lives in Magnet Springs is back for more action.

Imagine a cursed beauty pageant (and beauty pageant winner!), plus a haunted estate that Whiskey is supposed to sell. Add to that mix Abra the diva dog, who steals the precious beauty pageant tiara before taking off with a love of her own. And then there's Whiskey's crush on a Southern gentleman who may or may not be in love with Whiskey's stepdaughter. Lots of complications, surprises and giggles. You'll want to savor every laugh at the same time you find yourself racing toward the thrilling conclusion.

With each new mystery in this series, I become a bigger fan of Nina Wright. Anyone who has ever laughed at (or groaned about) the behavior of an actual dog will love the canine and human characters in the Whiskey Mattimoe mysteries. WHISKEY AND TONIC features not only Abra the diva Afghan hound and her usual co-stars Roscoe the K9 cop and Mooney the Rott hound (Rottweiler/Bloodhound mix), but it also introduces Norman the Golden, Abra's true mate. Watching them romp together makes poor Whiskey feel lonelier than ever! And of course there's a bang-up mystery, to boot. This one concerns a jinxed property that may have something to do with Whiskey's late husband and the deaths of several beauty queens. Wright manages to be spooky, suspenseful, and humorous all in one book. Bravo!

I have read all of the Whiskey books and can hardly wait for the next one they are great reads. I love the afghan hound Abra she is such a diva and is so funny. Nina Wright really captures the spirit of the hound. All of her books are great reads. They are great page turners and the story lines are terrific. Once you read one of these books you will want to read all of them

Whiskey Mattimoe could be me. It seems as though whatever she does, no matter how good the intention, something goes wrong. From showing her old bra to TRYING to keep her dog from stealing purses and tieras, things just seem to go awry for her. When she is given the opportunity to sell an expensive HAUNTED mansion, she has some concern, but forges ahead. Wonderful characters who feel like real old friends pepper this exciting novel with fun and frolic! And, you will never believe how it all ends! Hold on for a fun ride. I know you will enjoy it!

The third installment of the Whiskey Mattimoe series is every bit as fast paced as the first two. These books seem to move along quickly & enjoyably. Whiskey easily pulls in the reader & is hard to dislike. This time, I enjoyed the mystery more than the first two. The plot centers on a cursed house, so there was somewhat of a supernatural twist that I enjoyed. I am waiting anxiously for "Whiskey & Water," the fourth installment.

Treat yourself to this charming little jeu d'esprit. It will do wonders for lifting your sagging Latin spirits when struggling with some of the heavy-duty stuff.

I'm so lucky that my high school Latin teacher, in the early 80s, had us read this alongside Virgil, Horace, Ovid, etc. I had never read "Winnie The Pooh" before! -- and read it only after reading both "Winnie Ille Pu" then, much later, "The Tao of Pooh." You don't need to be as weird or backward as I am, though, to love this. The book is terrific. To all Latin teachers: bring this to class, please. It's wonderful. The students in my class loved it, finding it all very familiar to them as we reached each part. It wasn't easy to translate--I don't know how the newer ones compare ("Harry Potter" in Latin, etc.)--but in 3rd or 4th year high school Latin, it was at our level and a lot of fun. The students who knew Winnie the Pooh found translating it easier than I did, as in: "Oh, this is the part when...", thus were able to extrapolate through its accessibility. For them it was a break from difficult or unfamilar Latin writing, rendering it Useful through familiarity with its English version. For me, I got to know Pooh through Latin, and I've loved Pooh and the gang ever since.

The top line is the original English.
The second line is the latin.
The third line is an attempted translation.
(Here I have added additional comments.)

...in which we are introduced to
Quo in capite nobis ostentantur
By which in our heads they are shown
(to show a person into someone elses head
means to introduce)
(nobis our, capite heads, word order in latin
is not the same as in English

Winnie the pooh and some bees.
Winnie ille Pu ataque apues nonnullae
Winne that Pooh, also bees notnone.
(translate nonnullae as some)

And so our stories begin.
et incipient fabulae.
And they begin the stories.
(Latin unlike English had no word "the". To
translate into English this word must be inserted
when this would make sense to do so.)

HERE is Edward Bear, coming downstairs now,
Ecce Eduardus Ursus, scalis nunc.
Look/behold Edward bear. On the staircase now.
(scalis is literally a ladder)

bump, bump,bump,
tump-tump-tump

on the back of his head,
occipite gradus pulsante
back of the head on the grade (stairs) he hits (pulses)
(Occipital region is the back of the head. Think of hits
or pulsations while on a down grade).

behind Christopher Robin.
post Christophorum Robin descendens.
after Christopher Robin he climbs down (descends).

It is, as far as he knows,
Est quod sciat,
It is which he-thinks

the only way of coming downstairs,
unus et solus modus gradibus descendendi,
the-one and only manner of the stairs descending,

But sometimes
Nonnunquam autem
Not-atnotime(sometimes) but (however)
(sometimes however)

he feels that there really is another way,
sentit etiam alterum modum exstare,
he perceives also there-is-one manner to stand apart
(he senses yet another mode exists)

if only he could stop bumping
dummodo pulstationibus desinere (possit)
Provided that the-bumping- to-give-up (it is possible)

for a moment and think of it.
Et de eo modo meditari possit.
And about I go about manner consider it is possible
(de Eo modo the manner you go about something ie method )
( and it is possible to think about the method.)

And then he feels that perhaps there isn't.
Dende censet alios modos non esse.
Then he feels the-other manners to not be.
(so sometimes he thinks there are no other methods).

Anyhow, here he is at the bottom
En, nunc ipse in imo est.
Behold, now himself at the bottom
(note imus form of inferus is used here)

, and ready to be introduced to you.
vobis ostentari paratus
to you to be shown prepared (prepared to be shown to you)

Winnie-the-Pooh.

(OK, so you get the picture. DONT miss this book. Pooh is about to roll in the mud next then take up flying. Do you really wanna miss that?

If you would have had trouble translating that level of Latin on your own, get a copy in English as well. Also get Latin translation software so that you can quickly look up any unknown word. You can plug in words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs, into the software for immediate translation. I use QuickLatin for this purpose but there are others. Search for Latin translation software on the net. )

Most people who only know a little Latin should hopefully be able to understand Winnie Ille Pu. The ending has a 'notes' section where unusual phrases such as 'scire velim' are listed under their respective chapters for easy reference.

There is something a bit more elegant about the Latin of Winnie Ille Pu compared to Fabulae Mirabiles, but that is caused by the differing genres of the writings. However, Fabulae Mirabliles would be my choice for the Latin beginner.

I sing of a boy and a bear...
Perhaps Vergil would have opted for Pu (Pooh) rather than Aeneid had he the choice, and begun his tome not in the journey from Troy, but rather the journey around the forest.

I have this sitting next to books of equally interesting exercise, such as a translation of modern poetry into Old English. Likewise, Henry Beard's translations of various ordinary statements and phrases in Latin (and cat behaviours in to French) also sit next to this honoured tome.

When I returned from Britain and began to think in theological-training terms, I had to re-acquaint myself with Latin; for an exam I had to memorise one biblical passage, one passage from the Aeneid, and one passage of my choice. I chose Winnie Ille Pu, and, as it had not been excluded from the list, I was permitted this indulgence (I believe that the exam list now has a section of excluded works, including this one, more's the pity).

Do not be frightened off by the fact that this is a book in Latin. It is very accessible, and quite fun to read with the English version of Winnie-the-Pooh at its side. The Latin version has kept many of the original illustrations as well as the page layout forms, for example:

In English:
And then he got up, and said: 'And the only reason for making honey is so as I can eat it.' So he began to climb the tree.

He
climbed
and he
climbed
and he
climbed,
and as he
climbed
he
sang
a little
song
to himself.
It went

like this:

Isn't it funny
How a bear likes honey
Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!
I wonder why he does?

In Latin:

Et nisus est
et
nisus est
et
nisus est
et
nisus est
et nitens carmen sic coepit canere:

Cur ursus clamat?
Cur adeo mel amat?
Burr, burr, burr
Quid est causae cur?

Statements sound much more grand in Latin: 'Ior mi,' dixit sollemniter, 'egomet, Winnie ille Pu, caudam tuam reperiam.' which means, 'Eeyore,' he said solemnly, 'I, Winnie-the-Pooh, will find your tail for you.'

This is a delightful romp through a language study. I have recommended this to friends who want an introduction to Latin, together with the Lingua Latina series, which uses a natural language method for instruction.

Alexander Lenard, the translator, obviously did a great labour of love here, and I agree with the Chicago Tribune's statement that this book 'does more to attract interest in Latin than Cicero, Caesar, and Virgil combined.' One wonders if the Tao of Pooh and the Te of Piglet will be translated into Latin to make them seem 'more philosophical; or indeed, will Winnie ille Pu be likewise translated into Sanskrit and other such languages? It is not uncommon that the entertaining use of language does more for language enrichment and interest than any academic or official push of the tongue. It is no mistake that the Welsh language effort incorporated cartoons from the beginning -- it is natural for people to respond to fun and lively things, and this kind of treatment can be rather tricky, in that the average reader might not be so consciously aware that education is going on...

Winnie-the-Pooh in Akkadian? Hmmm, I feel a Ph.D. dissertation topic coming on...

This work is no small endeavour, but rather a thorough and engaging translation of the entire Pooh story. From the start, when we are introduced to Winnie-the-Pooh, through to the adventures in the Tight Place (in angustias incurrit), when Piglet meets a heffalump (heffalumpum), meeting Kanga and Roo (Canga and Ru), the expedition to the North Pole (Palum Septentrionalem), and finally saying goodbye, the entire story and text is here. One can (as I do) set the Dell Yearling 60th Anniversary Version of Winnie-the-Pooh side-by-side with Winnie-ille-Pu and follow line by line the engaging story, which translates well into this one-time universal language. And why ever not? Surely if there is a story nearly universal appeal, it would be of dear Winnie.

As A.A. Milne was a graduate of the Westminster School (which is housed down the block from my old Parliamentary offices) and of Cambridge, he might consider the translation of his classic work into the classical language a signal honour, and one wonders if, given the fact that Milne studied classical languages himself, if he ever translated any pieces, however small, into those languages that every English schoolboy learns to hate and love.

The story leaves off with Christophorus Robinus heading off to bath (and presumably, bed) ...

Of course, being a person of small importance myself, I identify much more with Porcellus (Piglet) than Pu. I know the struggles against the clerical/hierarchical/academic heffalumpum, and as Pooh has given me a new language of consideration for such conditions, Pu has given me a bilingual command of that language.

Long live the Porcelli amicus!

The first thing that struck me when I opened the cardboard box was the sheer volume of this slip-cased hardcover edition. It's a really thick book, even more so than the Absolute Hush I own.
The art is incredible, I already loved it in TPB, but in this larger issue it really comes into it's own. Batman is more menacing, and everything else is enhanced just enough to give it that little bit more.
I can advice this book to anyone who likes Batman, Jeph Loeb, Tim Sale or just good story-telling.

Loeb and Sale's Batman Masterpiece, this film noir tale builds and expounds on the core foundation of the Batman Mythos. While Miller's Year One Loeb's gangster mystery tales is weaved masterfully and keeps you guessing till the very end. Sale's breathtaking and romantic mastery of black is awe inspiring. Together, this tandem would re-write the book on the " maxi-series " . Their success lead them to bigger stages, but it is this book that put the defining stamp on their already impressive body of work.

The book is beautifully assembled, thick stock pages and crisp and bold color, it is a must have for any die hard Bat fan, a staple to any collection.

7 out of a possible 5 stars *******


Also, highly recommended, " Dark Victory " - can't wait for that Absolute version of that.

Absolute Batman - Long Halloween is an amazing hardcover set of a great Batman story. I really enjoyed the overall packaging of the book - it features oversized art, a beautiful cardboard book cover, and a ribbon placer. This graphic novel contains 13 issues and a decent amount of bonus materials. I found myself reading this 100+ page comic in one night because I was glued to it. I really enjoyed Tim Sale's art - it has a simplistic stylized look to it. One thing I didn't like about this is the fact that it is missing the entire 2nd half of the crime drama, Dark Victory, but it is a great story in its self. The story is a great crime drama / detective story. It really brings back Batman to his detective work that was present in earlier Batman comics. Overall I'd highly recommend Absolute Batman - Long Halloween to anyone looking for a great detective comic or anyone who is a fan of Batman.

The first thing that struck me about the Absolute version of the Long Halloween was it's presentation; hardbound, oversized, page marker ribbon and full color housing all contribute to the first rate production value. Further examination will reveal a dense, twisty tale set against a classic film noir backdrop with a rich ensemble of the Batman peanut gallery. It has a bit of the pulpy feel one gets from Dashiell Hammett and due to the similarity in name I can't help to think of Ray Chandler, who is kinda like the Bushmills to Hammett's Jameson. The Long Halloween is not only well written but also nicely paced for it's near epic length, the gorgeous illustrations not only fit the story perfectly, they nailed down the ambience and the oversized pages really bring this out. If I had a couple more hands I'd give this four thumbs up.

This is an amazing batman comic so pick up if you are a diehard fan of not only Batman, but Jeph Loeb or Time Sale. The story is amazing and I can't wait until they release the Absolute Batman Dark Victory...which is the sequel to this amazing comic. I suggest you pick this up if you are a fan.

Peace...

An easy, inspirational read. Clear concise and to point on every aspect of leadership. This should be stressed to be read by any inspiring officer or one on active duty for 20 years.

Excellent application to the civilian world as well. Wish I'd have found this sooner!

The first book assignment in my Strategic Leadership and Decision Making (SLDM) elective for Air War College was "American Generalship: Character Is Everything: The Art of Command" by Edgar F. Puryear Jr. The level of leadership this study aims at is very high indeed - the ranks of the general officers. The kind of strategy that leaders at this level create and conceptualize, during both peace and war, involves all of the nation's forces, and applies itself through large-scale, long-range planning and development, to ensure security or victory. This book deals exclusively with the sort of character, mentorship and values that a leader at this level must possess, and it does so with a tidal wave of good examples and meaningful quotes.

The subtitle of the book, "Character is Everything: The Art of Command", defines the focus of this study in leadership. Although the leaders studied in this book are chosen from fairly narrow sections of time and from only one country (USA), those times are the greatest perils. Ike, Patton, MacArthur, and Clark are drawn from World War 2. Grant, Sherman, Lee, and Jackson are cited from the American Civil War. Extensive passages on Billy Mitchell's experience as well as that of his ardent supporters Hap Arnold and Tooey Spaatz. George Washington's contribution is discussed in detail. There is a far too small, albeit tasty, portion for more recent leaders, like Colin Powell, Schwarzkopf, Meyer, and Creech, who have had to deal with the today's hyperpolitics, scandal-centric journalism, perpetual war and a evaporating budgets.

As good as "American Generalship: Character Is Everything: The Art of Command" is, some important details of the leadership experience are left in rather soft focus. The rationale behind Operation Market Garden (p288, listed in other references as "disastrous"), continued support for Wedemeyer (p318-9, a similar set of "circumstantial" charges against an officer today would certainly be career ending), and clearing the Hooverville shantytown built by "Bonus Army" marchers (p264-265, brutal tactics used and the unfortunate remarks made at the press conference that immediately followed). These details could have provided the all important context that framed these actions and decisions. Character is revealed through actions inside context.

More examples could have been provided about leaders who did not read books. The book only lists one leader, the confederate Longstreet (p152-153), who did not read extensively. On the other hand, the narrative bogs down with mountains of evidence that reading books, particularly biographies and historical works, helps leaders think more broadly and learn from the timeless lessons of the past.

All things considered, "American Generalship: Character Is Everything: The Art of Command" is certainly worth a read. It is a very good book that could have been great if only it had spent a little more time in the hands of an editor.

Outstanding book on leadership. It covers the dynamics of proven performers through the ages and gives the reader a strong foundation in personal assessment and grow. A must-have for anyone's professional library.

As a career Air Force officer I have read many books on leadership and command. American Generalship stands out as the best I've ever read. The author highlights shared leadership traits held by several of great generals that he gleaned from personal interviews. I give this book to all the officers under my command to mentor them as leaders.

Mr. Puryear wastes no time with fluff. He gets right to the heart of leadership in this wonderfully written book. He has done a superb job in researching and interviewing each of the men he writes about. So, the information you'll receive from this book is both accurate and personal. You can read it casually or blaze through it. Either way, I believe you will be pleased with the nuggets of leadership wisdom revealed by some of the world's finest military leaders.

This book includes one of my favorite Anansi tales, and I love how the clever spider is portrayed by the illustrator--as a "real-looking" spider rather than some sort of spider / human hybrid that seems to grace the pages of many children's books. This more "spidery" persona of Anansi makes him appear all the more crafty, sneaky, and greedy--much to the delight of readers.

It's brilliant how the animals maintain a taste of realism while also sporting some recognizable human qualities too--like sitting in porch chairs and rocking chairs! This is a refreshing approach, and the illustrations are so fun! A joy to look at! You just have to laugh at a fainting hippo and a dejected lion.

The story is well told too. We all wait for Anansi to be outwitted by Little Bush Deer after his reign of trickery and food collecting!

Readers who enjoy this book may also enjoy "Anansi and the Magic Stick," which is created by the same author / illustrator pair: Eric A. Kimmel and Janet Stevens. For readers who like an Anansi that is a spider that has a human face, check out Verna Aardema's "Anansi Does the Impossible."

This book makes a great addition to the family and / or school library.

Good story with elements of mystery & magic...and when will Anansi get his? He does of course. My little one walked around slowly mimicking the sad lion when his goods were swiped...then, she'd burst out laughing. We had lots of fun with this.

This story is about a phrase that if said near a magical rock makes animals fall to the ground and then wake up shortly after. No one gets hit, they just have to say the phrase for the rock to make the faint. It is a great illustration of one of the many great tales from the Ashanti people about the mischevious Anansi. KIDS LOVE IT! I don't know how to explain it, but they think it is so, so funny. If you want to make your kids LOVE a book, get this one. And don't worry there is absolutely no violence.

As a kid I learned how to read with Anansi and the Moss Covered Rock. I had my parents read it to me until I had memorized it, then I read it, associating the words I knew were there with what was there. It was hands down my favorite book as a child and I believe that the moral in it helped build a moral character into me. I never saw any violence in the story, just thought that when you said the magic words you fell asleep - magically. I am 21 now and still have a soft spot for the story, and will likely read it to my own children someday.

My kids (ages 8 and 5) think this book is hilarious -- I just now finished [re]reading it to my daughter, who made me repeat the schtick between Anansi and the little mule deer about six times in a row, ending up with us acting out the two parts. A little boisterous for bedtime, maybe, but we had a ball. The idea of a strange moss-covered rock that knocks out anyone who says "what a strange moss-covered rock!" is pretty surreal, but if you suspend your disbelief the rest of the tale, and its moral lesson, follow like clockwork.
The illustrations are well done, too. Some of the animals are a little too cartoony-cute, but Anansi has an intriguingly zig-zag shape, and it's a nice sight gag to see them using ceiling fans and aluminum lawn chairs. Also, if you flip back through the book you can find little mule deer peeking out from the background on nearly every page, which is a huge bonus as far as the kids are concerned.
A previous reviewer condemned this story as violent -- but it's not suggested or shown anywhere in the book that the rock hits the animals on the head. Instead it's just "KPOM!" and the animal falls in a faint. My kids and I hadn't even considered the being-hit-on-the-head theory at all: they just figured the rock was magic. Maybe they just haven't watched enough Bugs Bunny cartoons...

I have to agree with the other reviews that this is Craig's best yet. HE just keeps getting better. He appears to be a truly gifted writer and can bring his characters alive so you feel you should know them if you run onto them somewhere. The friendship between Walt and Henry Standing Bear brings something special to the series. All the secondary characters are interesting and you want to hear more about them. This book has a lot of depth to it as well as some humor (loved the paragraph of Walt carrying on a conversation with the Rattler). Craig Johnson is one of our local authors so we in Sheridan County can feel pride for such a gifted author. Living in Sheridan, I, of course recognize so many of the locations and areas Craig talks about in his book and it makes the book more interesting when you can visualize the scenes. Several times in the book he mentions "WE need rain" and that's a given here. You hear that phrase all summer. I know I'm looking forward to Craig's next book-maybe Longmire will find someone to share his retirement years with? :) (not too soon though as we don't want Walt to retire yet) I recently discovered 2 other writers (men)who are on my must have list along with Craig's books so while you're waiting for his new one, try John Hart or Charles Martin. I read a lot so it's exciting to find some newer authors really worth reading. Last I can highly reccomend "Another Man's Moccasins" as a great read.

After a stumble on the last story, the author returns home and regains his pacing and style. A very well done tale, that gives us some back story on our hero, and ruminates on time and puzzles that remain with us.The author is working his way to the dependable and must-read ranking.

I previously read great reviews about Craig Johnson's first Walt Longmire, The Cold Dish. I liked it okay, it reminded me of William Kent Krueger's series which is one of my favorites. So I bought Death Without Company and Kindness Goes Unpunished and fell in love with the series. Had to rush out and buy Another Man's Moccasins. He starts off with great characters and just keep adding through the series. The books are first rate mysteries, but what kept me coming back for more was Walt and his family, friends (especially Henry Standing Bear) and staff. They often shake their heads at his oftentimes lack of understanding in relationships and technology, but as the series progresses you come to realize just how much he's loved and respected in the community. Can't wait for the 5th Walt Longmire.

Are you a Craig Johnson fan? If not, read this book and you will be. Just when I thought he couldn't improve his Wyoming sheriff series, he manages to incorporate the Vietnam war and current-day Western life in one book. And it's riveting.

Not only is the plot compelling, you'll fall in love with these characters. And the descriptions, from the Vietnam red-light district, to the wilderness of the American West, are amazing.

And, for the record, all of us women are in love with Henry Standing Bear. Yes, we are.

... for Another Man's Mocassins, let me add another note to swell the chorus: This book really is as good as most of the other reviewers say it is. Johnson isn't content to fall back on the thing that worked last time or the time before; he's a writer who stretches himself and extends his limits as a writer. Pushes his own envelope, if you will.

This is a multi-tiered novel. It's a murder mystery, a coming-of-age story, and a story of what it means to have survived combat. Walter Longmire and Henry Standing Bear are two Viet Nam vets who haven't let their psychic war wounds cripple them any more than their physical wounds; Virgil White Buffalo is a veteran of the same war whose wounds are deeper and more damaging. Lucian, Longmire's predecessor as sheriff of Absaroka County, still bears the scars of WWII.

The coming-of-age story is Longmire's recollection of his Viet Nam experiences, a story that unfolds as the present-day mystery unfolds and which ties the mystery to his own past. The novel takes place in Longmire's memory of Viet Nam and his present-day experiences in pursuing the murderer.

Johnson is an excellent writer who doesn't let the words get in the way of the story. His writing doesn't call attention to itself; it just carries the story. And that's the best thing a critic can say about writing.

Three people are mysteriously burned to death, two of whom in front of a multitude of eyewitnesses. "How could something like this happen?" is the question on everyone's mind, especially when a member of the Somerset Police Department's own becomes the fourth victim of the flames. Could spontaneous human combustion, the ability of a person to burst into flames without reason, be the cause of these deaths? Or, could a man named Victor Frost have single-handedly murdered these individuals with the touch of a finger?
I give this book five stars, because it was an excellent mystery that kept me in suspense. The cause of the murders (pyrokenesis) was fascinating, but even more remarkable was the insight of the main character, Jenna. The authors too, clearly demonstrated a keen knowledge of the events that occurred in the novel, making the plot realistic. I would recommend "Burning Bones" to anyone looking for a good mystery with a surprising twist.

Jenna Blake is back for another round, and this time around, things are gonna get hot! When a man bursts in to flames for no apparent reason, Jenna finds herself wrapped up in yet another mystery. The writers take us on a rollercoaster ride, as we watch things unravel, up until the very end, when a vicious killer attempts to take the life of someone very near and dear to Jenna.

This book follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, and lives up to the standards set by them. If you are a Jenna Blake fan, you will enjoy this book as well.

Three people are mysteriously burned to death, two of whom in front of a multitude of eyewitnesses. "How could something like this happen?" is the question on everyone's mind, especially when a member of the Somerset Police Department's own becomes the fourth victim of the flames. Could spontaneous human combustion, the ability of a person to burst into flames without reason, be the cause of these deaths? Or, could a man named Victor Frost have single-handedly murdered these individuals with the touch of a finger?
I give this book five stars, because it was an excellent mystery that kept me in suspense. The cause of the murders (pyrokenesis) was fascinating, but even more remarkable was the insight of the main character, Jenna. The authors too, clearly demonstrated a keen knowledge of the events that occurred in the novel, making the plot realistic. I would recommend "Burning Bones" to anyone looking for a good mystery with a surprising twist.

Burning Bones was overall was suspenseful, and certainly not predictable. So far I have followed every book, and I do think this was one of the most trivial cases, but what puzzles me is that it is so far from human belief, where all the other books are more murder/ish cases- I'm not ruling out the whole idea, because I do believe anything is possible, but it seems unlikely in the series. But I suppose that's why they wrote it like this??? Overall, the book is great and almost makes me want to be an ME, or at least the assistant, and if like mysteries but not the same old monotonous mysteries, I recommend this book- or any other Body Of Evidence book!

Jenna Blake, assistant to a Somerset Medical Examiner, has just celebrated her nineteenth birthday, and getting over a recent break-up, while at the same time rekindling an old flame with a certain Somerset Police Officer. On top of all of that, she has a new mystery to solve. Innocent people are being set on fire everyday, yet there is no evidence of arson, and there are no witnesses who can say anything except "They just went up in flames." The only possible conclusion is spontaneous human combustion. But that is conclusion is quickly put out, when an unusual turn of events suddenly presents itself, along with an incredible explanation to the deaths of the innocents.

I was hesitant in purchasing this book, as I was worried that Golden's usual sense of mystery and horror would not be present, since he was writing with a partner, Rick Hautala. Boy was I wrong. This book was just as good, if not better than the previous books in the BODY OF EVIDENCE series. Golden and Hautala's writing was immensely enjoyable alongside one another, and is a treat for all fans of either author. A must-have.

Erika Sorocco

This is a story about a woman named Pat Montella, who finds out that she stands to inherit a Civil War-era estate in Virginia. Pat is single, and doesn't understand how she can inherit this property from a stranger in the South. How is she related? She takes time off her job to meet Miss Maggie Shelby, a lovable but eccentric old lady, and the story begins. Pat receives some death threats, but from who?
I really loved this story! There is the mystery of who wants to kill Pat, and the mystery of what really happened to the Bell family, who originally owned the estate. Pat has dreams about a past ancestor, and she ends up solving the present and past mystery.
Elena Santangelo is a wonderful writer! She made Pat humorous and compelling at the same time. It made me laugh to see how Patricia, an Italian girl from back East, tries to fit in with Southern folks. I liked all the other characters in the book as well. The author would weave from the past back to the present in a way that wasn't distracting or choppy. I stayed up late to read this book, and it had a very satisfactory ending. I look forward to reading
her other books!

First the good things,--the story was well-written and well-paced with a nice balance between the contemporary and flash back portions. Other elements were mixed, many of the characters were well-done, but a few were cartoons, despite the last minute efforst to show the "real" under surface of the type. The heroine strayed to often into the realm of spunky/perky for my taste, but if that appeals to you, you will like this. The contemporary plot line was weak and far fetched with little real mystery, no detection and no real clues given except for one major instance of suspect behavior.

A young woman, in a dead end job that she hates, receives a mysterious message from a lawyer in Virginia regarding a possible bequest. It sounds like an old formula, and it is, but the author adeptly keeps the reader interested. This book has everything, mystery, romance, and the ghost of a long dead relative. The characters are very well drawn and the mystery was difficult to solve. Enjoy it.

I should know better than to start a mystery novel before bedtime. Especially one as gripping and well-written as BY BLOOD POSSESSED. After several sleepless hours, completely engrossed in the novel, I realized that Elena Santangelo is definitely a force to be reckoned with. And no, I did not get to sleep until I finished the book.

This, her first mystery novel, not only delivers one of the best stories I've read, but skillfully weaves both the historical "back" story with the contemporary primary storyline with seamless integration, combining them into a finished, polished tale that will hold its own among the best of the genre. Santangelo bears watching - she may just sneak up and snatch an award or two. Brava!

Wisecracking Patricia "Pat" Montella is in a dead-end job and in a nowhere life when out-of-the-blue this Pennsylvania native is notified that a stranger is considering bequeathing property in Virginia to her.

The stranger is retired school teacher, Civil War historian and present owner, Magnolia "Miss Maggie" Shelby. Her one stipulation is that Pat spend one week in May at Bell Run, the estate in question, to learn about the land, the Bell Family and ultimately about Pat, herself.

Laying claim to Bell Run is no easy task for Pat Montella. Not only is there a long-lost descendant of the Bell clan competing for the family homestead, but there are also land developers itching to get their hands on this prime real estate property. Threats, murder and eerie happenings move the plot to a predictable but very satisfying climax, with plenty of suspense to spare.

This book is a real find. Not only do you fall in love with Pat Montella in the first chapter as she humorously fantasizes the demise of her obnoxious boss in a barrage of rifle fire, but you can really empathize with a petite but broad-hipped, short woman in white slacks crawling through Virginia woodland.

Elena Santangelo has created very real characters that are warm, funny, flawed and tragic. She has blended character with the passage of time into an engrossing and atmospheric plot that toggles between presend day Virginia and the ravaged Virginia of the Civil War. I'm looking forward to the sequel!