Florida Books

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As a survivor of encephalitis, I was delighted to sit down and read this book. I've never met another encephalitis survivor face to face... so, when reading Aunt Killer, I was fascinated to get to know Eva, the main character, who is struggling to comprehend what is happening to herself.
There were some places in the book.... some parts, which touched my heart, as I remembered having the exact same feelings about encephalitis. I felt myself nodding, and understanding, some of the feelings which the author expressed. Some moments, the main character was so 'normal.' And other moments, she just slipped away...
It's high time that someone included the topic of encephalitis within fiction. There are so many people in the world who think that they are alone. Who just curl up with sadness, and attempt to carry on as best they can. This book brings encephalitis out of the cupboard, dusts it off, and explores it in plain view.
Sincere thanks to the author of this book. She has taken a step which will lighten the load of many people, as she has magically woven the truth of encephalitis, around a fast paced story of suspense.

Aunt Killer uses vivid descriptions to enable the reader to visualize the characters and their emotional lives. Romance drifts through the book like a gentle breeze. Compassion and honest form a marriage that keeps the pages of the book turning. The chapters are short enough to be completed while waiting for an appointment. But,the anticipation and curiosity created in the story propelled me to read,"Just one More Chapter!" What would happen without short-term memory? That alone created suspense!

I have just finished reading "Aunt Killer" and I loved it! I am a survivor of encephalitis and I plan on giving a copy of this book to everyone I know. There is no way they won't begin to understand what I went through and continue to go through everyday of my life. Jeneva Johns and I did not have the same type of encephalitis but the end results are the same. I especially loved her telling about "forgetting the butter" but, I guess you'd have to be a survivor to understand that! Way to go, Jeneva!!!!

I knew very little about ballet before diving into this book, and while reading it, I didn't feel that I was at a disadvantage. Reading it is like sitting next to a trusted friend at a ballet, having her point out bits of backstory, criticism, and praise. You can tell that Goldner really loves Balanchine's ballets, and without having seen most of these, I loved them too.

Writer Wellness: A Writer's Path to Health and Creativity This is a valuable and unique work of dance history from the keen eyes of dance critic Nancy Goldner. While there are many books on the life of Balanchine, this is a first for a book that explores and explains many of his greatest choreographic achievements. Dance students, dance history scholars, all libraries, and any person interested in Balanchine's legacy will appreciate the concise writing and interesting details that Goldner includes.

This book is written and researched with care and detail. The author has a superb degree of observation and understands the subject matter, as well as being familiar with the person for whom the book written.

from the perspective of an ecologist interested in komodo monitors thsi book provides both interesting stories and a comprehensive scientific overview of the species. if you are interested in komodo monitors or you plan on doing research involving the lizards, auffenberg's book is the bible you need to read. auffenberg's study is especially good at

(1) describing the macro- and microhabitats of the komodo monitor
(2) habitat usage by monitors
(3) cataloguing the prey eaten by monitors and foraging patterns
(4) general behavior and communication between monitors
and (4) quantifying competition between monitors and other predators and cannibalism of young lizards by older adults.

auffenberg's study provides qualitative data that is ultimately not supported quantitatively on:

(1) reproductive behavior
(2) cognition and intelligence
(3) home range and migration/emigration patterns between populations
(4) habitat preference (as opposed to WHAT habitats they choose, WHY they choose each and WHICH do they prefer first)
(5) community ecology involving monitors

many of the issues with auffenberg's book are purely scientific in nature - while his study provides a solid foundation for hypothesis generation and future research, it does not give quantitative answers to many questions behavioral ecologists have. because it was the first major study done on komodo monitors, in fact one of the first major behavioral studies done on any lizard, many questions are unanswered or left unaddressed. auffenberg's later publications show an improvement in methodology (1988, 1991), but nevertheless "the behavioral ecology of the komodo monitor" is a priceless resource for any person conducting research on komodo monitors. any publication that deals with komodo monitors is sure to cite "auffenberg (1981)."

from a lay perspective, auffenberg's book is an enjoyable, if sometimes dry, read. auffenberg's passion for these animals shows through his scientific writing, which is clear and straightforward. auffenberg doesn't often use scientific jargon when compared to other scientists, but he still requires patience while reading (especially his sections on skull kinetics).

i personally love auffenberg's book because i feel that while presenting very ground-breaking, interesting, and still useful information on one of the most interesting organisms on the planet, he captures a psuedo-scientific charm about komodo monitors that can almost be described as cultural. his writing is aware of its shortcomings but at the same time captures a wordless quality about an organism so different that science can only begin to describe it. perhaps this is my bias as a scientist, but i found auffenberg's book very inspiring for both science and elsewhere.

if you are interested in learning more about komodo monitors you should look at "komodo dragons: biology and conservation," which is a smithstonian press publication. auffenberg's study was conducted during a period in ecolog that has been replaced more than once by developing trends in the field. while modern ecology certainly has its flaws, it is much more holistic and multidisciplinary. "komodo dragons" (2002) includes much more information on higher end cognition, metapopulation dynamics, and conservation biology. there are many different indonesian ecologists who conduct research on komodo monitors presently, but the majority of the modern publications accessible to nonindonesians are published by claudio ciofi and tim jessop.

This book is not a novel. It is a detailed description of almost all aspects of the Ora (the Komodo inhabitant's name for the Komodo monitor), not permitting the some anatomical details of the monitor. As the title implies, the Ora's behavior is magnified greatly. The book is a leading authority on the behavioral aspects of the book. Morphology, grow analysis, predator-prey coactions, and ecology information is also included and is very complete and well recorded (as is everything in the book). This is a must have for any person interested in this lizard, but is serious reading.

Perhaps biased by a fascination for really large lizards, I was enthralled by this book. Walter Auffenberg, wife, kids, and various others spent almost a year on Komodo Island in 1970 doing the first comprehensive study of Komodo Dragons. The depth is awesome, everything from detailed morphology to studies of prey species to inventories of flora. Mixed in with the tables and charts are wonderful accounts of sharing a photo blind with an 8-foot lizard looking for shade, and how to measure a Dragon's maximum speed (chase him with a motorcycle). Sixty dollars and well worth it

This book is without a doubt the only accurate account of the horrible murders in Gainesville, FL. Be in the mind of the killer; be in the mind of the detective tracking him. And know the truth, not the self-serving stories told by the killer and his paramour, not the summaries of newspaper accounts. This was a horrible event. The authors give us a driving, accurate narative. Couldn't put it down.

I've read all three books about the Gainesville Ripper, Danny Rolling - Beyond Murder, Killer on Campus and the Gainesville Ripper.

Beyond is the ultimate Rolling book and it blows the other two books clean out of the water.

It's clear, concise and it moves at a great pace.

The authors spent countless hours investigating the case, researching their information and interviewing not only Rolling, but the families & friends of the victims, the police agencies involved and anyone else they could think of that might have valuable information, making this a tight and accurate read.

Donnelly, a reporter, covered the Gainesville murders for the Miami Herald as the case was unraveling.

Philpin, a criminal profiler for numerous years, wrote a psychological profile early on in the case for the Miami Herald.

If you want to know everything there is to know about the Gainesville killings pick up this book. The other two I would only suggest reading if you can get them for free from your public library because even a nickle for a used copy is too much to pay for them.

I lived this story. After graduating from UF in 1992, I went overseas for 7 years, not knowing the entire happenings with the case. I knew some of the details of the case and that Rollings plead guilty, but I was unaware of the entire story. This book changed all of that.
Reading this book brought tears to my eyes on several occasions. This whole ordeal was so shocking, it is impossible to comprehend. Reliving the memories of fear was hard for me, but I needed closure.
"Beyond Murder" recounts the story of the victims and their families prior to and following the murders, the police force, the killer, and every aspect of the case. There are a few times during the read that I felt as though I was reading a police report when family members were quoted, which I am sure was the case. It took a little from the overall story, but not enough to change my 5 star rating.
Get this book, learn the importance of safety, and always remember Sonja, Christina, Christa, Tracy, and Manuel, five beautiful people taken away from this world by evil.

When preparing for a Disney Vacation, the Internet can be useful but you really need to buy this book and TAKE this book.

Although the coupons are of questionable value, the information is clear, well-presented, and well organized. Just avoiding the busy times made life so much better.

It was so very helpful when we got caught in rain (we went to Epcot- GOOD ADVICE)

It was just as good when the rain began the next day (went to Disney Quest - GREAT ADVICE)

Between this and http://allearsnet.com we saved a bunch of money, got the right resort, and had a ton of fun.

Great book - don't leave home without it.

I love, love, love it! Did I say I love it???

This is a great book for those going to WDW without kids. It gives great info without all the "kid-friendly" stuff that we don't need. It might even be a good book for parents who plan on spending some time away form their older kids at WDW.

It's mostly a sized-down, more focused version of the Official Guide by Birnbaum, but definitely worth the money.

The pictures alone are worth the price. I love it!!!

This is the best guide book I've found, bar none. Not only is it informative but with the pictures, maps and helpful tips it is interesting and insightful. I've used it for two previous trips (one all-girls week and one with my husband) and can only say carry it with you at all times. It's well organized for quick-reference and helps when you have an unexpected change of plans--like those mid-summer afternoon showers that tend to pop up in Florida.

I have really enjoyed this book. I like true stories, and am especially interested in speed boat racing, and stories about how the Mafia infiltrates businesses, and eventually takes them over! It certainly is an interesting read.

If you have an interest in offshore racing, take the time and read this compelling book about the father of the the industry. Ever heard of Thunderboat row? Find out the impact he had on some of the largest manufacturers in the country, and their attempts to to keep him out of the boat building business. You will learn about the rise and murder of Don Aronow and how state law enforcement of Florida(at the time led by the infamous Janet Reno) either bungled the investigation, or for whatever reason, let his death go unsolved. You will learn of the allegation that Don Aronow had ties to the mob, South American drug smugglers, and to the DEA. At the end you can surmise what you will of what his life was about, but you can't take away what he meant to the sport of offshore racing. Read it and pay homage.

This book has to be the best summary of politics, drug running, the offshore powerboat industry, the Mafia, crime, corruption and intrigue that I have ever read!! Aronow was an old friend of my family's in New Jersey and when he got murdered we all waited for the book to come out, sure enough it did and was excellent. If you love the mob, fast boats, fast cars, fast horses and beautiful women, BLUE THUNDER is a MUST READ!! Enjoy . . . . . H.L., Florida

Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views

Although Hart's cookbook incorporates Central Florida's regional foods, I found that I am able to get the majority of the ingredients in Texas - even Key Limes. I only found one item, Wood Duck, that is solely regional, but Hart gives the option to substitute Quail or Cornish Hen.

Perusing "The Bounty of Central Florida" my attention was drawn to Key Lime Cheesecake. It is rich, but light, and full of flavor. The Pecan Crust makes an ideal base for this cheesecake. The Best Flaky Pie Crust is short and browns well, however, makes a larger batch than indicated. For brunch, the Low Fat Blueberry Coffee Cake is ideal and goes well with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. The Chiffon Cake took be me back to my childhood when my mother made one for every Sunday. Rich and creamy is the Hollandaise Sauce and very easy because it's made in a blender giving it a guaranteed smooth texture.

"The Bounty of Central Florida" has easy step-by-step directions to follow and majority of the ingredients can be found in most kitchens. The pages are glossy and easy to wipe and the center has wonderful colored photos of many of the dishes. "The Bounty of Central Florida" is a must for anyone who enjoys simple cooking with an elegant flare.

The Bounty Of Central Florida by central Florida resident and kitchen cook Valerie Hart showcases almost 300 regional recipes highlighting the bounty that would grace any table and make any dining occasion a special event. From Muscadine Jam with Marsala; Jalapeno Corn Bread; Apple-Cranberry-Pecan Bread; and Crab Filled Artichokes; to Baked Wood Duck with Tangelos and Bananas; Fried Turkey Breast Blackman; Chet Blackman's Bodacious Barbecued Venison; and Beer Battered Fried Catfish, The Bounty Of Central Florida is a completely "kitchen friendly" compendium of wonderful recipes showing off the best of what central Florida has to offer the rest of the country.

Some of the world's best cooks live in Florida and as someone who has sampled delicious recipes at the homes of Southern women, I must say they have taught me a great deal about cooking. Valerie Hart's Cookbooks are a warm reminder of the time I spent in Florida and in her new cookbook, she also includes tempting pictures.

Her first cookbook, "The New Tradition Cookbook" is a true culinary classic and in this book the pictures reveal the sophistication and elegance in table settings and gourmet presentation. The picture of an entire table of deserts made with care made me feel a little nostalgic. Strawberry Pie, Chocolate Angel Food Cake and Citrus Sunshine Cake would be perfect to make for a Summer Tea Party.

The Bounty of Central Florida is not only unique because it is written by Valerie Hart, Food Writer and Restaurant Critic, it is unique in the way it is organized. The recipes are organized by favorite foods. Chapters include recipes for Bananas, Berries, Grapes, Kumquats, Citrus, Corn, Mushrooms, Pecans, Fish, Crab, Shrimp, Duck, Quail, Shrimp, Turkey, Venison and yes, Alligator Tail.

Delicious Recipes Include:

Banana Bourbon Bread Pudding
Berry Trifle
Strawberry Cassis Jam
Muscadine Jam with Marsala
Kumquat Chutney
Lemon Curd
Key Lime Pie and Key Lime Cheesecake
Corn and Shrimp Chowder
Portobello Bruschetta
Fried Zucchini Blossoms
Crab and Shrimp in Filo
Shrimp Kebab
Duck in Thyme
Game Hen with Tarragon
Alligator with Shallots and Thyme
Venison Ragoût

Sophisticated and often dreamily gourmet, these recipes all have the comfort of home with the feeling of having discovered a cooking treasure! Finally, a recipe for Plum Pudding! There is also an easy recipe for Ganache Frosting and a delicious recipe for Beer Battered Fried Catfish.

~The Rebecca Review

Butterflies through Binoculars: A Field, Finding, and Gardening Guide to Butterflies in Florida (Butterflies and Others Through Binoculars Field Guide Series,) This is an excellent reference book for butterfly lovers in the State of Florida. I take it with me on my butterfly field trips and when I sit in my yard to observe them. The book has excellent photos, detailed information for each species, and the habitat locations. It's an easy book to carry and pack.

This is one of the best presented field guides I have ever seen. Each and every species of Florida butterfly is pictured and described. Most butterfly guides I've seen use pictures of preserved specimens in a collection. This can be confusing because parts of the wings normally hidden are exposed when the collected specimen is mounted. This book avoids this problem by using only pictures taken in the wild (except for a few rare species). No more unnatural poses!

The text is easily readable without extensive knowledge of obscure scientific words and has enough humor to keep it from getting dry and technical, but not so much that it overpowers the book.

This book deserves a place on the bookshelf of anyone interested in Florida butterflies.

If you are looking for a filed guide to the butterflies of the northeastern United States, this is THE book to get. Written for a relatively small geographical area, the book contains only those butterflies likely to be seen in the regioon...unlike other guidebooks which offer many photos of butterflies not native to the regioon you are in. Excellent photos and the reduced subject area result in quick identifications. Although written for the northeast, the book is useful over a wider range...I have even used it in Texas to great effect. Don't put too much stock in the information about flight period and abundance, though. And don't expect much info on larval hostplants, etc

At long last a book that gets to the nitty gritty of buying property in Florida without blinding you with complex legal jargon.

The Authors experience shines through, lots of invaluable money saving tips, and warnings on where people have got in wrong - committing much more than they needed to and ending up in the wrong location.

A must buy read if you are considering buying property in Florida and want to avoid making mistakes.

This is a no punches barred guide to home purchase in Florida. It tells it as it is warts an all! Any one of the host of tips could save you a lot of money. I'm just so glad I bought this first.

I found this book to contain a LOT of useful information and tips. It really helps when a book is written by somebody who has experienced the same issues and fears that the reader is experiencing or will experience.

Definitely value for money - just one tip from the whole book can end up saving thousands of dollars.

Five stars.

Charlotte's Story, written by Charlotte Arpis Niedhauk, edited by Mary-Alice Herbert, and published by Laurel and Herbert, is a fascinating page turner as well as an important historical document of how a young couple managed to exist alone on an isolated Florida Key in 1934-5. Their survival reminds one of the manner in which people lived before the advent of electricity, supermarkets, running water, or any of the modern conveniences. Their "store" was the beach, where they would look for and find what they needed from raw materials cast forth by the ocean. Charlotte's resourceful husband Russ would make such objects as a dipper from a coconut shell with a handle carved from a madiera limb, a windproof ashtray from the bottom of a shell, fish and lobster traps, kitchen cabinets, and even a jewelry box from a coconut for Charlotte from their "lumber store," the beach. City-bred Charlotte learned to cope with mosquitoes, sandflies, and scorpians, and even how to scull a boat. Their island home was visited by a potpouri of strange, often frightening characters, who threatened theri lives and made off with their property. No one who reads the book will ever forget the couple's experience in the terrible hurricane of Sept. 3, 1935. According to a newspaper report, the barometric pressure was the lowest ever recorded in thehistory of world weather. Excerpts are given from Russ's diary, i.e."Violent wind squalls lasting from 20 to 25 minutes. Sometimes with wind bursts to 70 or 80 miles per hour....Charlotte is sitting on the floor in the open doorway. She saw the tide receed 50 feet before each squall, and then return with a rush. Each time a little higher. No waves visible. The wind has blown the tops off. Afraid for our boat at high tide...The roof of the old house is blowing off in chunks. I can't stop it." After the hurricane was over, the couple decided that being alone on an island had lost its attraction for them, and decided it was time to return to the homeland. At the beginning of their sojourn on Elliott Key, Charlotte seems a naive, somewhat helpless young female. It was a delight to see her grow into a resourceful, independent woman who was an equal partner to her husband. She wrote her story from notes and memorabilia almost a quarter of a century after they left Elliott Key. The first edition of Charlotte's Story was published in different form by Exposition Press in 1973. When the book went out fo print, the clamor for it was so great that Laurel and Herbert republished and reedited it in 1998. This is a book for everyone, Florida Keys residents, tourists, feminists and macho men alike; in other words for simply everyone who loves a good read.

Simply a joy. I loved this book. The setting, the charactors, and the pace. The view of the lifestyle, history, and geography. It was a fun easy read that just couldnt be put down.

While seeking some new Keys Fiction I had the good fortune to have this gem of personal prose proposed by a good bookseller. Normally I like fiction, but I was desperate for a book to read beside the Gulf, and what a read it was. This is the Florida of legend, the roots of Hall, White and Corcoran can be found here. The difference is this is real. Islands with one owner, bootleggers, rum running, customs men, body dumping, good old boys and gals, boat "lighteners," conch lassoing, lime tree tending, chowder cooking and endless beach combing for demi-johns, mahogany, cedar, planks and boxes. All told in simple, straight-forward prose. What I am trying to put into words is that this is an enjoyable adventure in reality for those of us who like the fictional adventure of the contemporary Keys writers. Oh. and the wicked developers are not there yet, but the sense of their impending arrival is clearly here in the devil may care attitude many express who live in this wonderful piece of history.