Journals Books

Like an obsessive collector capturing rare fleeting specimens, John Robben has frozen bits of his time in scenes of daily life by quietly putting everyday people, items, and events under a lens transfiguring them to reveal hidden inherent beauty. While other train commuting men dozed, Robben scribbled longhand in blank journals to fulfill a deep need to make sense of the world that swirled around him. The result? He shows us the intricate filigree in what at first may seem unremarkable--his life as a toy salesman and father of five children. In so doing, he surreptitiously delivers his message: there is joy and wonder in life's smallest moments despite inevitable doubt and fear.

John Robben will arouse your emotions when reading his inspiring stories about his past.You will enjoy his style of writing and he will take you along with him on his journey through life.Stephen Tuers.

The perfect book for your night table. Take one dose each evening before retiring to find fodder for the mind and soul. A book you'll be delighted to read and quick to recommend.

When I started reading Pathway to Purpose it was almost as if Katie had been listening to my prayers and cries out to the Lord. Katie's vulnerability in sharing her life through in Pathway to Purpose can't help but pull you in hook, line and sinker. You will be touched and challenged as I have been with each chapter. If you complete the exercises at the end of the chapters you will be on your way to having a closer walk with the Lord and a more mature outlook on the amazing life God has waiting for you.

The Pathway to Purpose Personal Journal is more than just a

journal where dreams, events, goals, feelings, and insight are

recorded. It is perhaps one of the most useful tools that we have at

our disposal for discovering the answer to the age old question,

"what is my purpose in life?" The journal is designed for recording

of dreams, events in one's life, goals, fears and insights as

progress is made on the pathway to finding our purpose in life.

Author, Katie Brazelton, asks thought-provoking questions that go

beneath the surface into the very depth of our soul. As one

prayerfully and honestly works through this journal they can not

help but come away with a better understanding of what their

purpose in life is. For the reader who wants to go even deeper, I

strongly recommend Conversations on Purpose for Women also

written by Katie Brazelton.

The Pathway to Purpose Journal is meant to be used as a companion to the book, Pathway to Purpose, but can be used as a "stand alone" journal. Provides a place to record your thoughts, dreams, and desires as God reveals them to you during your journey to purpose. The thought-starters spur you to dig deeper and reflect more. I record my questions to God, to myself, and others, too. As the answers come, I include them as a record of God's faithfulness and direction to me. I could've used just any journal-but I've found this to make my study more meaningful and directed.

A great read for anyone who wants to know/vailidate "being in the world but not of the world." Merrell-Wolff writes of his experience in a very feeling and direct way. No trite scientific disection of the "other life," but a shared experience that grant's the direct experience to the reader. Moving from recounting the "Experience" to dynamic words and poetry that comes form the space of that experience, the book is a joy of acknowledgement that this can and should be felt by all. Franklin talks of his struggle to sustain the barage of energy from his "excursions" into the city... the trouble is, he speaks of the late 1930's not the late 1990's; which has all the more to overwhelm one. Having been introduced to Merrell-Wolff from John C. Lilly (the dolphin doctor... some call him;) who writes the introduction to the Julian Press edition; it is refreshing to have another excellent spokesperson to the inner journey. A great book on the journey that more should tread... or at least read of others travel.

The last reviewer mentioned another book written by FMW called "Philosophy of Consciousness Without an Object," which he states is out of print. Both books are worthwhile, since they refer to separate awakenings. Pathways refers to an earlier awakening and Philosophy to a later one which goes beyond the discoveries made in the earlier. In Philosophy the two stages are described something like (it's been awhile since I read these) 1) the awakening of the subjective pole of subject-object consciousness; and 2) the transcending of subject-object duality altogether. If you are interested in both, be aware that another book, titled "Franklin Merrell-Wolff's Experience and Philosophy: A Personal Record of Transformation and a Discussion of Transcendental Consciousness" (also available at Amazon.com) contains both Pathways and Philosophy. So, rather than buy Pathways, or search around for a secondhand copy of Philosophy, you might want to buy the combined version.

This book is the personal record of the author's transformation of consciousness. The author is very well versed in both western and eastern philosophy, so he was able to put his experience into those frameworks. Frankly, this is the most important book I have ever read. I highly recommend it. I've re-read it several times. He also wrote "Philosophy of Consciousness Without an Object", which is unfortunately out of print.

The author has a sophisticated vocabulary, so read it with a dictionary by your side. It's not an easy read.

Written by Cathy Jo Marley, whose own experience turning 50 provided inspiration, Peeking Over the Edge... Views from Life's Middle is a memoir of the joy of middle age, candidly exploring the second half of life as a time to be enjoyed to the fullest. From coping with a hysterectomy, to fondly recalling distant memories, to the luxurious yet tawdry experience of reading "bodice ripper" romances and more, Peeking Over the Edge offers a candid glimpse of the simple moments in life, and the relish of adapting to new changes with aplomb. A wonderful amalgamation of insights into the pleasures of life well lived.

Cathy Jo Marley's PEEKING OVER THE EDGE,is one of those keep it on your bedside table books, because anytime you feel like life isn't worth getting up for, pick it up and read a few pages. Anywhere in the book will do. Then, unless you are ready for Esther's Golden slippers, get yourself up and put on those Red High Heeled shoes that set your feet a-dancing, dancing, dancing all your cares away. Every inspiring vignette reminds me of Robert Browning's timeless poem, "Grow old along with me, The best is yet to be. The last of life for which the first was made..." While Cathy's book will be read by women for the most part, it may be well to sit on HIS lap and read a couple of things aloud to HIM, at which point HE may feel less need for the little blue pill (which is probably sugar anyway.) Cathy, you go girl!

Cathy Marley has given a voice to the fears, emotions and elated journeys we take as we try to find our way through life. Each essay is a special treat to be savored and pondered.

There is simply no better guide to the performance of scripture and sermon out there. Childers' approach is simple, to the point and absolutely fundamental to anyone who wants to learn how to speak in front of a crowd, give sermons or read scripture. She uses frequent and poignant examples to make her point and draws extensively on her knowledge of theatre to show how this time-honored artform has direct applications for homileticians.

This book is superb for all beginning homeletic students. Finally a book that gives us "How To" use our bodies, minds and
Spirit to give excellent holy ghost filled preaching from a pulpit. This book is a breath of fresh air from all the theology filled "wannabe" preaching techniques. Thank you Ms.Childers for answering the prayers of a fellow minister.
A must for every seminary student and Christian who looks forward to lively well presented sermons of the gospel. Bravo!!!

Minister D.F.

Looking at the title, traditional Christians may have a problem with the association of preaching with theater. Childers addresses this issue openly. She argues in her book that even though preaching is *not* acting, preaching can learn from actors.

Childers believes that preaching is not merely sharing a sermon manuscript, but rather is a transforming and theological event. Unlike acting though, preaching is a serious matter that involves theology. The problem is that preachers often times lack passion. She quotes Thomas Betterton saying, "Actors speak of things imaginary as if they were real, while you preachers too often speak of things real as if they were imaginary."

Theology is important to preaching-they work together in a "dialectical relationship, one shaping the other." (p. 25) Theology keeps preaching focused on matters of ultimate importance. There are three categories in defining the purpose of preaching: maintenance, persuasion, and encounter with God. Childers prefers the encounter model of preaching because she sees preaching as revealing God, even though this model does not exclude maintenance or persuasion.

Rather than trying to argue people into heaven, we should use lively preaching so that listeners are not on the defensive and to help people feel free to change. Preachers have often focused too much on the manuscript at the expense of the actual preaching event.

Preaching is an art form. According to Childers, the church often overlooks art as merely a tool to be used. We tend to think of art as novelty or propaganda. But art is more than that-it is the stuff of life. Preaching is an art form because it uncovers the ambiguities and incongruencies of life. Preaching and art both hold a "mirror up to life."

Some elements of theater are applicable to preaching:
1) Actions (or movement),
2) Distance (prevents people from going on defensive),
3) Performance --One problem is that many people are concerned with preachers performing. But performing means to "carry though to completion" Paying attention to performance means increasing intentionality which heightens authenticity.

Childers describes the three parts of the creative process in theological terms. The first phase is "Creation" which is when the preacher listens to what the text says. Incarnation is the second phase when the preacher joins with the text and becomes a third entity, just as the actor joins the script and becomes a new being. The third phase is "Transformation" which is a result of the union and changes the preacher.

Childers reviews some exercises that preachers can use in training for performance. She emphasizes the importance of voice training. A lot of people think that voice training will make them sound fake, but she says that, "The goal of voice work, in fact, is quite the opposite: to uncover the best you, the most natural you." (p. 60)

Following voice training is the subject of vocalics, or orchestration. Four elements of vocalics are rate, pitch, volume and the use of pauses. The key to good orchestration is variety. She shares a few good tips on pausing. Emphasis is also important for clarifying the meaning of a message. Changing the word that is emphasized can change the meaning of a sentence.

When a preacher reads a passage that is going to be expounded, he should imagine what kind of movement will express the flow of the text, and what kind of gestures depict it.

Like actors, preachers should internalize what they are reading. They should express the emotions of the text, and not sound like a "stained-glass-window voice." Childers talks about principles of interpretation when it comes to performing the Word. These include the willingness to listen to the text and subordinate our will to the will of the text.

Another critical element is that of concentration. Preachers tend to have the glazed gaze when they look at their audiences. They need to focus on what they are doing at the moment and "listen" to their audience.

Finally, Childers talks about the role of plot and blocking in preaching. Plot applies both to the sermon and the worship service itself. It has conflict, climax and resolution. And blocking can be applied to preaching because it makes sure that the audience can see what is going on.

See also my review on "Comedy and Preaching" by Joseph M. Webb.

I PURCHASED THIS BOOK AND IT IS A EXCELLENT WAY TO KEEP RECORD OF YOUR DOG AND ALSO STAY ORGANIZED. THE COVER IS VERY NATURAL AND BEAUTIFUL. THIS BOOK MAKES A GREAT COFFEE TABLE BOOK AND IT'S ABOUT TIME YOU CAN REALLY KEEP TRACK OF YOU DOGS HEALTH AND VET BILLS. I CHANGED MY VET AFTER REALIZING I WAS BEING OVER CHARGED. BUY THIS BOOK! IT'S FULL OF TERRIFIC INFORMATION AND TIPS. YOU CAN'T GO WRONG WHITH THIS BOOK.

I PURCHASED THIS BOOK AND IT IS A EXCELLENT WAY TO KEEP RECORD OF YOUR DOG AND ALSO STAY ORGANIZED. THE COVER IS VERY NATURAL AND BEAUTIFUL. THIS BOOK MAKES A GREAT COFFEE TABLE BOOK AND IT'S ABOUT TIME YOU CAN REALLY KEEP TRACK OF YOU DOGS HEALTH AND VET BILLS. I CHANGED MY VET AFTER REALIZING I WAS BEING OVER CHARGED. BUY THIS BOOK! IT'S FULL OF TERRIFIC INFORMATION AND TIPS. YOU CAN'T GO WRONG WHITH THIS BOOK.

Our family recently purchased a puppy, and the Pet Tracker. Our whole family has made entries to the Tracker. We are planning a weekend getaway before school starts, and will do well to leave the Tracker with our pet sitter! A very ingenious way to keep track of records, receipts and certifications.

Catherine Carey captures everything that is beautiful about Petoskey in this watercolor journal while giving practical, clever painting tips for her readers. A wonderful keepsake for Northern Michigan visitors, but artists and tourists from all over can appreciate this colorful, well-written treasure. This book will definitely inspire you to capture your memories in a unique watercolor journal of your own.

This book is a treasure! A must for any fan of this darling Northern Michigan town, this journal combines helpful painting tips with Petoskey sights and scenes - a wonderful souvenir and an excellent tool for artists at any level.

No matter where you live this book is one everyone who loves travel, beauty and art, will love. Packed full of paintings and painting tips this book is a delight and an insight into the authors town and talent.

Bill Wasserman was probably the most dedicated WCO (Wildlife Conservation Officer) the PA Game Commission ever had as its employee for over thirty years.

Poacher Wars, by WCO Wasserman, is a compelling work in law enforcement and wildlife conservation ... a remarkable book that you will remember for years to come.

I had no idea that game wardens had the kind of investigative skills demonstrated by officer Wasserman. Crimes against wildlife can be more difficult to solve than crimes against humans. With wild animals, game wardens can't interview family & friends of the deceased to gather information that might lead to a suspect. Some of the crimes that officer Wasserman writes about were more difficult to solve than the murder of a human!

The book was very enjoyable, and I highly recommend it!

In POACHER WARS, Bill Wasserman portrays his villains vividly, comprehensively, and accurately. Reading this book reminded me of my own "hoofties" and my dealings with them, some of them with Bill at my side. Bill's writing style is easy to read, yet very descriptive. Each story has its own uniqueness and its end only wants to make you go on to the next story. If you want to know what working wildlife law enforcement is like for a Pennsylvania conservation officer, this book is a must read for you. Great job, Bill. And thanks for the memories and your friendship!
Chuck Arcovitch, WCO, retired

I began using this book one year after I was married, and all I could think about once I began reading it was "Why didn't I start this sooner!" Prayer truly does change things. It has been wonderful seeing the changes that God has done in my husband all because I prayed for him, but the most amazing thing for me has been the changes that have occurred in me, as a result of my prayers for my husband. I believe that when we truly submit to God in prayer he will open our minds to areas in our lives where we have been resistant. This resistants may be what has been inhibiting our mate from change.

God is great and worthy to be praised!!!

Changed entirely the way I pray for my husband and helped me develop a more Godly perspective on my role as wife--one that even I, a businesswoman, can understand and strive for. From the first moment I began to read and pray I experienced profound changes in my heart, and saw that my husband did too--in the first two days! Thank you, Stormie, for taking our marriage to a far richer level--so quickly. I had no idea how much power there was in praying in the right way. I have been transformed and the effects on my husband are nothing short of incredible.

I found this book quite by accident. I had already bought too many books on the subject of marriage, but this one was different. I thought my marriage was perfect.. so that is where the enemy attacked. It was so easy before, now I see it is something we always need to work on.. like in a beautiful garden, there is always work to do. The more time you spend on a garden the more beautiful it becomes..marriage can be the same! I know now I need to pray for my marriage and especially for my husband. Like the author, I had already been praying for my children. This book not only helped me with how to pray for my husband, but it convicted me in areas I was completly unaware of. I cried. This book is a much needed tool for all marriages, and I wish I had read it even before I met my husband.

I need a teachers edition

I'd like to know if this book is teacher's edition?

As an instructor at a college, I have used the last three editions of Mr Slater's book since 1999. This has to be one of the most understandable, helpful and explanatory textbooks ever produced.
The examples are clearly written, and the use of small,quick reference 'vignettes' make it so easy for the student to get answers to just about any question they want to pose.
I use many textbooks, as I teach various business and management subjects, and this one stands head and shoulders above any other textbook covering this particular discipline.
The BEST part of this book? It can be kept as a reference guide for just about any mathematical question that comes up in everyday life, such as credit card balances, mortgage amortizations etc.