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Tools Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Tools
Real Options Analysis: Tools and Techniques for Valuing Strategic Investment and Decisions, 2nd Edition (Wiley Finance)
Published in Hardcover by Wiley (2005-11-04)
Author: Johnathan Mun
List price: $75.00
New price: $39.99
Used price: $37.50

Average review score:

This book can help me to investment after MBA finance class.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-29
It is a real-hand-on book! Although the book looks very "huge", the analysis helps me to prepare MBA class.

An excellent book for intermediate reader
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2004-01-28
Mun's book is an excellent guide for those who have basic knowledge about asset valuation and want to study real options.

Real Options
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-14
Mun's book shows how real options problems, like those faced in the real world, can be solved. Other books may provide a better introduction to real options concepts, but the methods employed are suitable only for very simple problems. Where other approaches require that you develop your own lattices (or other solutions), Mun shows you how to use his Supper Lattice Solver and Monte Carlo simulation software to solve these problems. I am convinced that his approach will not only facilitate the solution of these problems, but will also be more readily accepted by management. I look forward to acquiring Mun's software and applying it in practice.

The Second Edition - A Great Practical Guide through the Real Option Debate
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2005-11-30
As practitioners and academics continue to grapple with quantifiable uncertainties in real asset decision making, the debate about real option models will no doubt continue.

Johnathan Mun's second book and more specifically his case study approach allows practitioners from diverse industries to enter the debate with simple excel asset pricing skills. To my mind there is no better pragmatic work on the topic than the second edition of Real Options Analysis. With the book in one hand and the robust SLS software up on the screen - framing, pricing and understanding real options is pretty straightforward.

Two points to note: After 30 days, just as you begin to get hooked on the superb software it is likely to gently expire. That's when you are saved by the second point; the author is hugely supportive - His `one line insights' in response to specific queries made this a great purchase.

Edinburgh. Scotland.

On average: a good book
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2004-07-29
This was my first book on Real Options. After this, I complemented my knowledge with more accurate researches on the theoritic foundations on the subject (eg. Trigeorgis and Copeland).
What I liked of this text is that it was a soft landing into the Real Option world, with a simple and easily understandable description. Its major pro is to present transparently the basics of a concept that is often approached at a too high and formal level.
What I did not like is the fact that few chapters at the end were not really useful but full of stuff and formulas with no explanations that cannot practically be used. I had the sensation they were out of place, since I could grasp their meaning only after passing to more comprehensive books.
One more criticism is that you don't understand the effect of the difference between private and public risk in real options evaluation as you do with other texts. However, I still consider this the book where I formed my basics before being able to master some other more detailed book (but also more difficult to master). The Crystall-Ball package was also a nice surprise. At the end, if you consider the price and the content it was surely good value for money even though it's not a masterpiece.

Tools
The Sell Your Novel Tool kit
Published in Paperback by Perigee Trade (2002-12-03)
Author: Elizabeth Lyon
List price: $14.95
New price: $4.70
Used price: $4.13

Average review score:

Novel Selling Kit
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-27
After forty years in sales, I am now faced with attracting an agent for my novel without being able to use my mouth. This book has many helful suggestions on how to sell your ideas and get your work published. Highly recommend this to new authors.

Joe Smiga

Expert guidance for the serious novelist
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-29
As with her previous book, "A Writer's Guide to Fiction", I cannot recommend this title highly enough. Together, both books should be required reading for serious novelists. She presents practical ideas and guidance born of her years of editing fiction, and manages to be encouraging and inspiring while keeping a clear eye on the realities of the publishing world.

Though I have not yet reached the point where I can put her ideas to the test in the marketplace, I feel that I will be much better prepared once I do thanks to her systematic, professional approach. If you only buy two books on writing and selling fiction, they should be these two by Elizabeth Lyon.

Highly, enthusiastically recommended.

Comprehensive and helpful
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-02
This volume is useful as you begin to market your work. It's a comprehensive guide to the steps an author should take, and its organization makes it a particularly clear and useful treatise that also is an easy "go-back-and-check" reference.

Problems Solved
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-16
As an already published author, I was encountering difficulty finding a new editor and an agent. Elizabeth Lyon's book solved the problem. I can now write meaningful one page query letters. Thanks!

Excellent Resource To Begin Marketing a Novel
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-11
It's very hard to complete a novel, and after you complete it and begin to think about how to get it published can become overwhelming. That one page query letter that agents and publishers read and judge your writing ability on is an education in itself. This book will help you craft that all-important letter.

Tools
3-D Negotiation: Powerful Tools for Changing the Game in Your Most Important Deals (Your Coach in a Box)
Published in Audio CD by Your Coach in a Box (2007-06-29)
Authors: David Lax and James Sebenius
List price: $29.98
New price: $17.34
Used price: $34.48

Average review score:

Buy it, Read it, Do it!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-01
This is a text book of modern negotiation. A great place to start your studies for the classic ideas, or a great place to go for the expert looking for fresh ideas. This book is worth while because the method works! Basically, the authors use the most advanced problem solving approaches and apply them to the study and practice of negotiation. Nice work!

AN OUTSTANDING AND SUBSTANTIVE BOOK!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-12
Most books on negotiating fall into the win-win or win-loose categories, or some hybrid, but all of these focus primarily on the face-to-face tactics at the negotiating table. This book distinguishes itself by focusing not only on at-the-table tactics, but also on two other critical dimensions: 1. deal design, concerning value, substance, outcomes, and occurring "on the drawing board" and 2. setup, concerning architecture, and happens away from the table.

The authors delve into each of these three dimensions (tactics, deal design, and setup) in great depth, providing a powerful analytical framework, cases, and numerous guidelines and creative insights. This is a an outstanding and substantive book!

An excellent overview
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-20
For an experienced business negotiator, this paints a broader, "global" negotiating paradigm that is well worth read.

excellent, groundbreaking work
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-05
Not as readable as "Getting to Yes" or "Getting Past No", but very well-written. Not too academic, but deep enough for the professional negotiator. Accessible for those first being exposed to the topic.

A strategic approach to negotiations
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-26
Most books on negotiation combine the hardball win-lose tactics with the more effective win-win approach. 3-D Negotiation is different: it adds a new third dimension to negotiation, mainly the need for developing a dynamic strategy on how to set up and shape the optimum situation and overall conditions for negotiations (away from the table), and well before negotiations start. Of course, the authors believe that negotiators must employ all three dimensions as needed during most negotiations.

This new third dimension includes, among other things, "acting to ensure the right parties have been involved, in the right sequence, to deal with the right issues that engage the right set of interests, at the right tables, at the right time, under the right expectations, and facing the right consequences of walking away if there is no deal."

Here is real-world example of acting to ensure the right parties and the right sequence: A US firm was looking to establish a joint venture in Mexico and had identified three potential partners (one excellent, one good, and one that barely meets the set criteria). Should this firm start negotiations with the best prospect, and if those negotiations fail, then move to the next, and so on? Or wouldn't it be far better if this US firm makes it known in the industry (in Mexico) that they are looking for a joint venture partner, and induce these three prospects to come to the US firm? Negotiating simultaneously with the three potential partners was indeed better, especially that the US firm set up the negotiation conditions whereby the three Mexican prospects were rushing to compete for the joint venture!

Although this book introduces a third dimension to negotiation, the other two dimensions are also well covered by the authors, with a large number of real-world examples. The second dimension covers designing value-creating deals, including the traditional concept of enlarging the pie, and how to make lasting deals. The first dimension focuses on the tactics at the negotiation table, including problem-solving tactics such as shaping perceptions, setting ambitious target prices, interpersonal skills, cultural empathy, and many other tactics familiar to those who have read traditional negotiation books.

In short, 3-D Negotiation is a welcomed addition to the topic of negotiation, especially due to its strategic approach to negotiations. I particularly like the idea of backward mapping the negotiation process, starting with the desired target or outcome, then mapping all the parties, their interests, no-deal options. I was also intrigued by the authors' philosophy and the 3-D strategy of: "Let them have your way", as well as their concept of "Zone of Possible Agreement".

Although this excellent book is written with important and complex deals in mind, the 3-D approach can be indeed applied to simpler deals and negotiations. In fact, the reader will find a large number of examples of negotiations ranging from the simple ones such as buying a car or a house, to the more complex ones such as negotiations between countries, or among large international organizations.

Tools
Appreciative Inquiry Handbook: The First in a Series of AI Workbooks for Leaders of Change (Book & CD) (Tools in Appreciative Inquiry, 1)
Published in Paperback by Lakeshore Communications (2003-05-30)
Authors: David L. Cooperrider, Diana L. Whitney, and Jacqueline M. Stavros
List price: $79.00
New price: $349.00
Used price: $142.92

Average review score:

An Extraordinary Tool For Leaders
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2004-06-28
Appreciative Inquiry Handbook offers a rich, navigational guide for industries across the spectrum. Appreciative Inquiry Handbook reflects a new paradigm in American and global industry; a must-read for industry leaders!

Appreciative Inquiry Basics
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-28
I think this book is an essential first book on the theory and practical application of the positve appreciative process.It defines the terms, provides the research and background of the process and gives first hand stories of its application in the real world.

Appreciative Inquiry
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-11
Excellent, I was very satisfied with the theoretical explanation as well as the practical guides for solving the change management issues.

incredible resource for every change agent
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2004-08-02
The handbook is clearly written and introduces not only a new paradigm in thinking about orgaisational change work it also supports change agents in their endeavour to create sustainable and learning organisations. Great practical materials and tools across the spectrum of AI are designed with a lot of ideas how to apply any AI initiative.
This book is well organized and readable and a must for every OD practicioner and change agent.

Appreciative Intent
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2004-06-11
This handbook guides you in applying appreciative inquiry methods in a variety of settings. We have had good results conducting two facilitation assignments with "Appreciative Intent".

In our most recent assignment, our client was impressed with the quality and quantity of the information gathered. Additionally, members of the client's leadership were also impressed with the level of participation from some of the more "quiet" people in the organization. The one-on-one questionnaire technique levels the playing field for people with a more introverted personality. Also, if you like applying a "Theory of Constraints" approach to operations you will observe that using the interview/questionnaire approach creates a multi-channel process when brain storming. (i.e. more conversations can be carried on simultaneously, thereby creating a larger stream of information or ideas in less time)

The CD alone is worth the investment!

Tools
The Energy of Belief: Psychology's Power Tools to Focus Intention and Release Blocking Beliefs
Published in Kindle Edition by Elite Books (2007-11-15)
Authors: Sheila Sidney, Ph.D. Bender and Mary T. Sise
List price: $17.95
New price: $9.99

Average review score:

This is an excellent book that delivers on the promise in its title
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-02
Sheila Sidney Bender & Mary T. Sise, The Energy of Belief: Psychology's Power Tools to Focus Intention and Release Blocking Beliefs, Fulton, CA: Energy Psychology Press 2007.

This is an excellent book that delivers on the promise in its title, presenting clearly and convincingly the tools and methods that can identify and transform beliefs that block one's progress and satisfaction in life. Sheila Bender and Mary Sise have a very readable style that engages the reader's interest as it explains biological energy fields, blocking beliefs and how to deal with them.

Helpful nuggets that stand out include:

· Energy field perturbations (well known in the numerous therapy traditions as signs of problems), as well as elaters and harmonizers (positive aspects of energy fields);

· Energy field reversals (again, well known in the Energy Psychology) and energetic belief reversals that can block progress;

· Self-testing for energetic belief blocks.

The scripts and diagrams for using the Touch and Breathe method, supplemented with richly illustrated case examples provide a clear understanding of how to apply these methods. This book is warmly recommended to those who are seeking methods for self-healing.

[...]

The Energy of Belief
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-20
This book is a must read for both those who are familiar with Energy Psychology techniques and those who are just being introduced to them. It is clearly written with easy to follow instructions, and loaded illustrations demonstrating the techniques. After reading it, I purchased three more copies to loan to my clients. Many have said that they purchased their own copy because the techniques have been so effective. I am recommending this book to everyone I know.

Vital information for self healing
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-26
This is the book I have been waiting for - a well written, comprehensive, yet simple, guide to a profound energy psychology technique - Touch And Breathe (TAB). It is the first book I now recommend to those patients who understand how vital it is to take true ownership of their healing. In the early chapters, Sheila Sidney Bender and Mary Sise impart to the reader their deep knowledge of the essential components of TAB:"the meridian gateway,mindfulness,touch, breath,intention and intuition." From then on, they give clear and practical advice on how best to apply this profound healing approach to a wide variety of common debilitating conditions whose roots so often lie within conditioned, false negative beliefs.
Reading this book, and applying its heart-felt advice to our lives, is a truly rewarding experience. I am honored that it has been published as a companion to my own book The Human Antenna: Reading the Language of the Universe in the Songs of Our Cells

A powerful and user-friendly way to use Energy Psychology
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-21
The Energy of Belief is an eye-opening and informative read for both professionals and non-professions alike on a powerful energy psychology treatment. Psychologist, Sheila Bender, and Social Worker, Mary Sise, have written an easy to "read, learn and do" book that brings the gentle, energetic power of the Touch-and-Breathe (TAB) treatment approach literally to your finger tips.

The Energy of Belief provides an easy to understand scientific foundation of energy, intention, vibrational frequencies, and fields relative to Eastern and Western medical views as they relate to the concept of mind and mind-body-energy interactions. Thought and beliefs are described as detectible energetic elements that impact our emotional and physical being, which can unknowingly disrupt and block healing treatments despite our best intentions. The authors discuss the relative importance of body polarity, how to assess and correct polarity when needed, and its essential value as a guide in successful treatment.

Bender and Sise provide numerous illustrations, charts, learning exercises, and photos as they outline step-by-step procedures for generic (algorithm) and individualized use of TAB to treat the most common to the most elusive and self-sabotaging issues that challenge our lives. Whether you desire to recover from traumatic experiences or self-defeating habits, this book offers a powerful avenue to address all contributing beliefs that may have served to block your previous efforts to change and heal and offer the best opportunity for success.

If you are new to the area of "Energy Psychology" and meridian-assisted treatments, or have training and experience in TFT and EFT, you will find this book to be a valuable resource and reference regarding content, clarity, and ease of application. Of considerable importance is the protocol for treating positive emotions and beliefs that hook a person into repetitive and self-sabotaging behaviors in order to feel better.

As the originator of the Touch-and-Breathe (TAB) treatment and lead author of Evolving Thought Field Therapy from which this book is derived, I found The Energy of Belief to be a "must have" in understanding and applying energy psychology treatments. Dr. John Diepold www.TFTworldwide.com

Self Help Made Easy
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-12
In The Energy of Belief readers are taught a wonderful energy psychology method that is related to Thought Field Therapy (TFT) and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), called TAB. The authors skillfully take readers through the steps to use it on themselves. The authors give information about the history of energy psychology approaches, scientific studies that explain why TAB works and include cases that readers will easily identify with. This book is user friendly and simple to apply to everyday problems or long standing challenges. It belongs on everyone's book shelf.

Gloria Arenson, MFT author of Five Simple Steps to Emotional Healing, A Substance Called Food, Born to Spend, How to Stop Playing the Weighting Game, Freedom at Your Fingertips

Tools
Flintknapping: Making and Understanding Stone Tools
Published in Hardcover by University of Texas Press (1994)
Author: John C. Whittaker
List price: $55.00
Used price: $54.96

Average review score:

Flintknapping:Making and Understanding Stone Tools
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-08
This is an excellent book for the novice or the expert. Everything you need to know about making stone tools the way neolithic man did is easily explained using simple very clear language. The author has done an excellent job explaining the methods, history and reasons behind a very fascinating, little known subject. Those who are interested in the history of technology will love this book.

Very Informative!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-22
This book is without a doubt, one of the best books I have ever read on flintknapping! The black and white photos and drawings show the exact methods of making stone tools, and how they were probably used by Native Americans.

Great for the arrowhead lover in your family
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-09
I bought this as a gift for my husband who is an avid arrowhead collector. He was very impressed!!!

Maybe the most complete book on the subject of Flintknapping!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-23
This is another five star pick, a must have if you are learning to flintknap or just studying primitive skills. Full of information for the beginner to expert.

Introductory Flintknapping
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-04
Pick this book up and you'll be able to start flintknapping immediately. This guide is entertaining while being informative.

Tools
Kick Start Your Success: Four Powerful Steps to Get What You Want Out of Life (Unabridged)
Published in Audio Download by audible.com ()
Author: Romanus Wolter
List price: $19.98
New price: $10.49

Average review score:

Real help for real people.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-26
This is not a "pat yourself on the back you can do it book." Romanus Wolter actually rolls up his sleeves and helps you get on track. I have learned how to create a method that helps me make decisions and his formula for developing an elevator pitch was the first time I was able to bring all my ideas about what I want to do into one cohesive sentence. It seems almost too simple but just follow the chapters and in a very short time you will be talking with the big cats.

Kick Start Your Success works!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-15
From the first step to the last page, this book is compelling. It uniquely grabbed my attention and pulled me forward to a succinct goal, and success script. With daily action steps, I'm on my way to the vision and business that I hadn't been able articulate - and moving much faster than I thought possible. Romanus has opened my eyes and life through his approach. Kick Start Your Success works!

I kick started my success
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-15
The book is amazing. Following the step by step approach I successfully completed my new business.

I went from thinking I should start my business to knowing I should. Then using the step by step approach I established messages and goals that encouraged others to support me. Getting advise and for free was a real benefit

Thanks Kick Start Guy. I got the Kick in the Pants I needed

Kick start your success
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-29
It is a joyfull book to read, picks the pace quick and then ask you to do exercises on the spot. I have had experince with this kind of technique and its great to reinforce what you just have learned quickly.

Disappointing
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-20
I got this audiobook based on reviews given here, and maybe my expecations were too high, but I am disappointed in this book.

My first complaint is the author read his own book. Sometimes this works, but in this case, his voice failed to convey his ideas with enthusiasm. I recommend the author actually spend some money and get a professional voice actor next time.

The author's key to success is to write down not your goal, but your intent on what your goal will do to benefit other people. I found this to be helpful in preparing my elevator speech to find my dream job (which I have not yet found), but many other goals I found this to be non-productive.

Having a good intent and sharing with others may push me in completing my goals, but if some goals are selfish in nature (winning an award, having self-satisfaction with a personal hobby done well, writing that great novel), sharing whatever good intentions gets me no further along than before. The author's solution is for me to keep 'spinning' my intent until I get help.

A much better book (and audiobook for that matter) is Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy. You want clarity? It is significantly better than Kick Start Your Success.

I know this review is going to be voted as not-helpful by all the author's shills, but I am warning you. This book is definately over-rated.

Tools
Machine Shop Essentials: Questions and Answers
Published in Paperback by Metal Arts Press (2004-12)
Author: Frank M. Marlow
List price:
New price: $44.95

Average review score:

Best book for beginners I have seen
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-18
Good coverage of a broad range of topics. Very easy to understand and perfectly illustrated. Many handy tips that an experienced machinist would already know, but are invaluable for a newbie. Terms not introduced in the text are covered in an extensive glossary. Lathe cutting is more thoroughly covered than milling, but the two are complimentary. I have only two complaints. There is no discussion of gear cutting. Although this might be considered an advanced topic, I think it should have been discussed at least generally. My other issue is with the index, which I found confusing. For example, if you want to know about threading, you need to look under "threading" and also under "lathe, threading". All in all, I found it well worth the price.

Everything I need
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-31
This book has literally everything I need on working a lathe. Even the harder questions like cutting curves without a CNC machine are covered. And as a bonus it covers everything else that a home machinist would want to know about mills, grinding, polishing, threads, metallurgy, etc. I am seriously considering returning all my other books on the topic.

Where's the BEEF?
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-17
After reading some of the other reviews, I was really excited about receiving this book. In short order, I was wondering what all the hoopla was about. I guess "essentials" includes telling you about pliers, and screwdrivers, but to me, that is "Machining for Dummies".

I know about pliers, I know about fasteners. I know that a Bridgeport milling machine costs $8000 dollars. I would like to know what milling machine is recommended for around a grand. Any married guy knows that if he spends $8000 dollars for a milling machine, he better have $8000 to spend on a diamond too!!!

My Lathe is a 9 inch South Bend workshop model A converted from a C model, with a 2.25 HP DC motor and a KBMM controller that I built myself. Lathe cost $185. Tooling cost a hell of a lot more. How many of you out there have a $5000 Clausing?

Heres part of whats missing:

What lathe tooling is recommended. I dont mean what pliers! Channel locks came out 500 years ago!!!

What Drill press is recommended? Absolute necessity, and a hell of a lot cheaper than a bridgeport.

How do you convert a tool running an AC motor to a variable speed DC motor? (Once you have variable speed DC, you will never go back to AC)

4 hack saw blades epoxied together and a slit dowel make a pretty decent 1/8 inch keyway broach.

speedbore paddle bits make pretty cool centering devices.

The best way to part is: Tool upside down, Run Lathe backwards. Sounds Just like frying bacon.

On the plus side, the hardening and annealing section is OK but not worth $44 dollars.

Anybody want to trade this tome for a machinerys handbook, since that is what he keeps referring to? Most of what is in here I read in South Bends antique book "How to run a lathe" Cost: $4.00

Mostly dissapointed.



A very helpful and refreshing approach for the new and intermediate machinist
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-10
This book is well written, beautifully illustrated and extremely helpful. Although not my profession, some machine shop work has been a serious hobby for me and I found Machine Shop Essentials to help fill in gaps in my knowledge resulting from a lack of formal training. This book should appeal to enthusiasts and beginning professionals alike. It was a breath of fresh air after having looked at either dated references with photographs of industrial machines or at home shop manuals with very limited information. Having done mostly lathework, I was most interested in learning more about milling and the book "asked" questions that I had in mind and "answered" them, including specific issues regarding the availability and proper use of various cutting bits. The coverage of both lathe and milling basics is far superior to that in three other manuals I purchased (unfortunately) before this one. The diagrams provide a lot of exquisite detail and really compliment the text.

Absolutely Superb!
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-07
The author's stated purpose in writing this book was to provide a back to basics introduction to machining using small manual machines in a one-of-kind parts and prototyping environment. The author succeeds admirably in meeting his stated purpose. It should be noted that this is a practical treatment giving specific step-by-step procedures needed to create a particular feature using a particular machine tool. Furthermore, it must be kept in mind that what is cost-effective in an industrial setting when production runs are in the thousands or tens of thousands may not be so in a prototyping environment. Mr. Marlow does a great job of concentrating on procedures that can be cost-effective in a one-off environment.

Two notable features of the book in general merit special comment. First, the book is presented in a question and answer format. While this may seem unusual at first, it actually serves the very useful purpose of easily enabling the reader to locate and find information pertinent to a specific machining question. Second, the book uses plentiful line drawings that are absolutely superb. In comparison to the usual photographs, the line drawings used here have one gigantic advantage. Namely, photographs inevitably wind up blurring and obscuring details, some of which may be highly significant. In contrast, the line drawings in this book are models of clarity, usefully illustrating all relevant details. I frankly consider the line drawings in this book to be the best I have ever seen, and they are a major reason for the usefulness of the book.

The first four chapters of the book contain basic introductory material on measurement tools, basic hand tools, filing, sawing, grinding reaming, broaching, and lapping. This is all good, solid, useful stuff. The discussion on broaching, for example, is the best introductory treatment of this I have ever seen. Next, there is a chapter on drilling operations followed by a chapter on threads and threading using taps and dies. Although not encyclopedic in its coverage of various thread standards, the basics are covered thoroughly and again, it must be mentioned that the author uses superb line drawings to convey meaning.

Following the discussion of threading, there are chapters on turning and milling operations in which the author discusses a range of machines representative of those that might be found in a home workshop or a small prototyping operation. In the milling section, for example, Mr. Marlow discusses both the Sherline tabletop mini mill and the Bridgeport. A feature of interest is that the author does not discuss the ubiquitous (and to some, infamous!) mill/drill. I was particularly impressed with the thoroughness of his instructions for operating the Bridgeport mill, and I couldn't help but think that this chapter of the book would be invaluable to a home shop machinist purchasing a used Bridgeport. More than just an instruction manual for the Bridgeport, the book also provides general procedures for producing specific features that translate to any machine of a similar type. Mr. Marlow's discussion of how to mill dovetail slides, for example, is a model of thoroughness and clarity. Although Mr. Marlow does provide some introductory material, he wisely refers the reader to "Machinery's Handbook" and its voluminous tables for many specifics on "feeds and speeds".

The later chapters of the book cover such topics as fastening methods, basic metallurgy, and safety/shop practices. The section on metallurgy, while quite basic, I found particularly useful in helping me remember some of my college courses from long ago. Again, this is all good, solid, useful stuff, and presented at a level (neither too elementary nor too theoretical) that makes it extremely useful at the home machine shop level. I found the final chapter of the book in which Mr. Marlow presents a wide variety of "tricks of the trade" extremely interesting. It contains the sort of practical how-to information that almost never seems to be covered in print.

Finally, there are two appendices, one on sharpening lathe tools and the other providing a list of sources for tools, materials, and supplies. Although I do have two minor misgivings about the lathe tool sharpening appendix discussed in the paragraph immediately below this one, I must admit that Mr. Marlow's two page description of sharpening steel lathe tool bits is by far and away (again, because of the superb line drawings) the most easily understood of any I have ever encountered.

I do find a few minor flaws with the text. Table 8.5 on page 353, for example, has gotten the last two column-headings inverted. That is, the RPM figures listed under 5/8-inch cutters should actually be those listed under 3/8-inch cutters and vice versa. Mr. Marlow achieved near-perfection in his appendix on sharpening steel lathe tool bits, but there are two minor flaws.

The first flaw is as follows: In the line drawings at the top of page 483, he shows "side clearance angle" and "end clearance angle". In the subsequent table of sharpening angles, however, we find neither "side clearance" nor "end clearance". Instead, we find "side relief" and "front relief". Now it is true that the sentence immediately preceding the table: "What are typical rake and clearance (relief) angles for HSS tool bits?" does imply that clearance and relief are synonyms. But, aside from being (perhaps?) hard to catch, that still does not answer the problem. For if we understand that in referring from the table back to the preceding illustrations we are to substitute "clearance" wherever we see "relief" in the table, then we would wind up searching in vain through the illustrations for a depiction of what is meant by the "front clearance". Whilst the meaning may be clear to the experienced or well-read amongst us, this discrepancy is irritating and could be quite confusing to the novice.

The second flaw, and here I realize I am opening up a can of worms, is Mr. Marlow's advice to "dip the tool in coolant frequently to keep it from overheating and annealing".
Now I freely admit that I am not a metallurgical scientist, but I have had opportunity to talk to a number of folks who are. And here is what I have been told. Dipping the tool in coolant is a holdover from the days of sharpening carbon steel tools which do have an annealing temperature low enough to be easily reached in tool grinding. And of course, once the tool is annealed, its hardness is gone, and it is useless for cutting. I am told, however, that the annealing temperature of virtually all HSS alloys is sufficiently high that it will not be approached during a tool grinding operation. So annealing of HSS is not the problem. Apparently what IS the problem is that the HSS tool may develop a series of micro-fractures or cracks when shocked by the sudden dip in coolant from a heated state. Now I have also been told that HSS may develop the micro-fractures from overly aggressive grinding as well, but that this is less likely to occur. So if what I have been told by some folks I know to be quite reputable metallurgical scientists is true, it seems to me that it would make sense to grind less aggressively (this is not an industrial production job, after all) to help avoid unnecessary heat build up and to eschew the use of a coolant dip. Note that if facilities are available to have constant coolant flow over the tip of the tool, the sudden shocking issue would not arise---but such facilities are probably not available to the average reader of this book.

I wish Mr. Marlow had covered two additional topics. First, drilling flat-bottomed holes is a subject that continues to vex. Some sage advice here would have been much appreciated. Second, a chapter on shapers, analogous to that on milling machines, would have been of interest to me. Admittedly, I have not seen a shaper in industrial use for years, but there are many of them still in use in home machining operations, and for those folks who have them, a good modern text would be useful.

I cannot help but comment on the one reviewer who was disappointed that Mr. Marlow did not recommend specific machines. First, I suppose Mr. Marlow's inclusion of Clausing drill presses and lathes as well as Bridgeport milling machines may constitute a recommendation of sorts. Secondly, given the wide variety of new (not to say used!) machine tools available, I don't see how it would be feasible for anyone to review them all and make specific recommendations. Finally, which machine tool is best depends upon a number of factors: budget, space available, intended use, etc. So Mr. Marlow was, in my opinion, wise to adopt the approach he did.

While this book would probably not be of much use to an experienced machinist, it certainly is the best single introduction to manual machine operations for the home shop machinist I have ever seen. It would be nice to see Mr. Marlow turn his attention to two additional topics: motors/variable frequency drives and CNC machining. With regards to the former, I understand that one can do wonders nowadays with VFD's and that the price has come down to make them truly affordable. Yet specific information useable by the non-specialist is hard to come by. Second CNC systems and conversion kits seem to be coming down in price and bringing CNC machining into reach of the small prototype shop/home workshop. If Mr. Marlow could address these two topics with the same precision and clarity he did for manual machine tools with this volume, he would provide a valuable service.

Tools
Tools of the Shaman
Published in Paperback by Meriones Publishing (2007-11-03)
Author: Kathleen Stewart Schramm
List price: $23.95
New price: $23.95

Average review score:

A great and practical guide to truly successful living
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-11
This book has both great teachings and real (not to mention practical!) examples from Kathleen's own life. I tried some of the tools listed and had success. This book is really for anyone, new ager or not, as it offers ways to empower yourself using the gifts you already have. Well worth the purchase price.

Higher Knowledge
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-04
Kathleen,
Mahalo> (Thank-You) for this "Higher Knowledge" in sharing "Spiritual" growth and personal "Empowerment". Thus giving us expansion of "Awareness" and connection to the "Universal Spirit" we find ourselves getting in touch with the "Consciousness". Reading these pages have awaken something inside us.
"No Ka Oi" <(your the Best!) when it comes to "Ancient Wisdom" with a "modern application". You are improving the "QUALITY OF LIFE" in which makes us remember "I AM THE LIGHT" we are truely blessed to have walked paths with you.
We give you a "Thumbs UP" with "7" STARS ******* On this Book
Sending Positive energys your way so that you can keep publishing
more books like this one!
ilima & Edwin smiling on a job well done!

Amazing intuition!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-14
I purchased this book for my mom for XMAS but I ended up reading it before she did. Kathleen's adventures in life are absolutely amazing and truly exciting!! Once I picked up the book; I found it very difficult to put it down. It was very easy to read and informative. This book gives you a ton a different tools to use to better your life; and, all around becoming a better "healthier" person. I learned so much from this book. I've used Kathleen's tools and so far, they have worked. Its incredible! For anyone who is "debating" on purchasing this book; stop! Because you won't be sorry!! It is one of the most interesting books I have purchased and can't wait for Kathleen to write another edition!!!!

Very Good Tools!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-02
This was a good read and I found it very helpful for a bad situation I wanted to straighten out. There was a bad situation at work with a supervisor who was just bad news. I used the tools as directed. Within a week this person was fired! I received some long overdue recognition from the boss, an apology and even a hug! What could be better than that! Don't forget to smudge the area after the issue is over and the person is gone. Thanks Kathleen! I can now smile on the way to work!!
Novella

Excellent, insightful book!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-25
This book is a "must have" for all spiritual seekers. The information is ancient wisdom which is metaphysically based. The author teaches excellent techniques useful for paranormal investigators. The experiential stories are fascinating

Tools
Tools of the Trade: The Art and Craft of Carpentry
Published in Hardcover by (1996-09-01)
Authors: Jeff Taylor and Rich Iwasaki
List price: $25.00
New price: $36.35
Used price: $8.40

Average review score:

One of my favorites
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-18
The thing that I love about not only this, but but both of Taylors books is that he has a great sense of humor. I tend to think that in real life, Taylor and I would clash rather strongly on some issues, but that's OK. I will buy every book he comes out with (and here is hoping it isn't just these two) simply because the man has a gift for telling stories. I have read tools of the trade probably 25 times since I bought it years ago at a B&N, and I anticipate reading it another 25 times!

A truly amazing book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2005-12-13
I was given this years ago, read it in a week and loved it, then forgot the title when trying to describe it to a friend. It is a shame it is out of print.

Everyone should read this book, and anyone you know who likes to build things should get this for Christmas.

Absolutely loved it!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-06
I picked up this book about 6 years ago at a B&N store...and finished reading it in one sitting in my yard. Trust me when I tell you that it is not often when I feel overwhelmed by anything. But this book, with its simple prose, made me gulp several times. Keep in mind that it is not a depressing read. On the contrary, it can be funny as heck at times!

A wonderful book, a great gift.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-12-01
It's a shame that this book is now out of print and likely to become scarce, as I have given it on several occasions and have always received many thanks in return.

The author fills the reader, even a reader with minimal knowledge or interest in carpentry, with a true respect for the tools, their usage, and the history behind them. Not just the history in a greater sense, but also the history these tools have in the author's life.

My favorite book
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2002-04-30
I'm now reading this book for the third time. I usually like to pick it up when my office job is making me dream of a life building and remodelling houses.


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