Banners Books

Not bad if continuity mavens (I'm one of them) can just relax and not worry about where this fits in the overall timeline of the Hulk character, and just enjoy the story. Think of it as two guys (Azzarello and Corben's) personal take on what the Hulk is all about and you'll be fine. That approach will also help some of the more stranger aspects of the story- such as Doc Samson's sudden callousness about life- go down easier.

I also liked the lean verbiage and strong emphasis on visuals; too many comic book stories kill you with tons of dense word balloons, forgetting that they're supposed to be comics, a visual medium. I'm all for reading a nice dense novel... when I'm in the mood for a nice dense novel. Generally (there are exceptions), I like my comics to get the job done with nice art and lean-and-mean prose. And that's what "Startling Stories: Banner" does with all cylinders firing.

Oh, and the actual story? Mr. Azzarello and Mr. Corben envision a truly savage, out-of-control Hulk who routinely leaves death and devastation in his wake, with General Ross, Doc Samson, and the army having the horrible, tiring task of cleaning up after him. But their hands aren't totally clean, either. And the whole mess only makes Bruce Banner, who is completely ineffective in halting the madness, all the more tragic.

100 Bullets creator Brian Azzarello collaborated with legendary artist Richard Corben for this Hulk mini-series, which is undoubtedly the best Hulk story you've never read. Banner finds Azzarello and Corben re-envisioning the green goliath in this self-contained story, as Bruce Banner is on the run from the military after his green-skinned alter ego lays waste to a town and it's inhabitants. On his trail is Doc Samson and General Ross; each of which has their own plans for both Banner, and the monster they all played a role in creating. What makes Banner works so good is Azzarello's purposely grim storytelling, and his characterization of Doc Samson is cynically funny. Richard Corben's artwork is what sells this TPB however, with his rendition of the Hulk being both monstrous and more akin to Jack Kirby's original vision. All in all, Startling Stories: Banner is the best Hulk story you've never read, and even though it is too short for it's own good, it manages to stay with you after turning the final page.

I found the art in this book to be rather weak. It wasn't bad, but nothing real great. The story on the other hand is a pretty good one. It really goes into the psychology and guilt of Banner. What would it be like if you had a monster inside? And it has a killer ending.

This scenario has been done many times before where this character is concerned. That is, Hulk versus the U.S. military. However, artist Richard Corben's distinctive style gives the reader a breathtaking view on carnage, mayhem and destruction!

Azarello's script is simple and the dialogue is kept to a minimum to the point where it appears that he wanted Corben to cut loose.

Never has the Hulk's rage, savagery and power been so well depicted and drawn. The facial expressions and monsteresque stature of Marvel's Green Goliath as pencilled by Corben truly gives us the sense of the cine-fantastic. A simple two panel scene of Hulk breaking down a mountain side has never looked this great. Indeed, one can truly feel the "Baaash!" when Samson connects with the Hulk on a double page spread. While some fans may disagree with Samson's persona as a self-serving megalomania S.O.B., Corben captures his attitude majestically.

This is the best Hulk saga that has been published since Peter David's departure from the series.

Review by Brian Grindrod

Ever wonder what it feels like for Bruce Banner to have the earth's most terrible natural force be the consquence of your natural survival instincts and temper? This story distills it down to it's most basic form. Ever wonder how the Hulk's rampages are explained to the public? Azzarello and Corben give a perfectly credible explanation within these pages. And just why is it that Banner - who should've left the region he's been inhabiting for all these years - is still living in America's South west?

BANNER is a great story for those who find the Banner/Hulk dynamic to be among the most intriguing and tragic in mainstream comics, but want a story outside of the continuity of the monthly title. Corben's art - though by no means a definitive vision of the Hulk - is unique, singular, and bizarre. Azzarello's script does nothing to change the course of the Hulk's history, but it is far better (and RELEVANT) than anything that's been done with the character in years. The depiction of why the Hulk was created and how it feels for Banner to deal with the aftermath of his alter-egos rampages has never been better handled or more revealing than in these pages (especially during the conversation he has with Doc Samson towards the book's conclusion).

Bruce Jones is getting tons of accolades for his current scripting on the regular series, but it would be interesting to see what this creative team could do with the opportunity. 'Cause this series feels less like a one-shot and more like a taste of bigger things to come.

This is one of the harder reviews for a lay critic like me to write. I have to be objective about my subjective opinion.

I think this is a pretty well-written book, filled with strong details about the environment, setting, and emotions of the characters throughout the story. The backdrop gives a strong tone and mood of the novel. While I do think the writing is a little too detached, you still get a good look at the character's inner motives and drives. They all seem like small-town folks, but you know they're deep, complex beings.

In all honesty, though, my biggest problem with the book is the genre and inspiration. It's got the Southern tragedy of Faulkner all over it, and I personally detest Faulkner and the vague, detached, stream of consciousness writing.

Now here's what I did enjoy: the nostaglia of my time in Aburrido Verde, at South Central Kentucky University, where I ate many a meal in the SWAN and the Garnet Cafeteria, and was a troll for the "Hark." (I would have liked a reference to the "Hark" hacks! LOL!) I was in AV the day of the major hailstorm at the beginning of the book. I didn't have any connection to the ASG, and only once or twice went to Z-Mart, that I recall, though.

I will respond to other reviewers. I did catch elements of an anti-war nature, but didn't interpret anything overtly political about it.

Finally, I think Mr. St. James has a lot of promise for future novels, though I suggest he adapt a new style, and not be so depressing. Again, that's a personal bias. It's great to see someone stepping up and writing about southern Kentucky, where there's a dearth of literature, but an abundence of ideas.

I've never read something this bad. It dodesn't matter that I'm one of the pple who St. James makes fun of in this book, the fact thaet this book is a piece of kentcky juvenilia written by a collg stuent shoul

There's not that many books that talk about Bowling Green, Kentucky and the politics of the region. Southcentral Kentucky needs social commentary, and this is it. You probably won't like this if you're one of those diehard Bush&War supporting folks (i.e. conservatives) but if you can open your mind a bit you might find something to take in. This book is a cornicopia of Kentucky spirit and myth.

This book was recommended to me by a friend, and I'm certainly glad I read it because I enjoyed the book thoroughly. I recognize and appreciate good work when I see it. I'd like to add that if your favorite works are by authors such as Faulkner and Jesse Stuart, add an extra star to this review--and for heaven's sake, buy the book!
Also, if you support Bush, don't let bgcultist scare you off. Whether you love Bush or hate him has little to do with how much you'll like this book. I have no idea how that even came up...
Anyway, keep your eye on this author, as he's set to become the next Jesse Stuart!

If you're from Kentucky, you'll appreciate this writing. Don't concern yourself with "puerile" people, puh-lease. Read this book because it tells a great story of the American condition--something to consider in this age of Warmongering.

The author attempts to check the "accuracy" of translation of the New International Version. However, he is not clear as to what his criteria of accuracy are. After a very hurried and yet opaque discussion of the two extremes of translation formal and dynamic equivalence Martin focuses upon the intent of the translators of the NIV itself. It soon becomes obvious though that Martin is himself a proponent of formal equivalence. He is very disparaging of dynamic equivalance as a concept and resorts at one point to calling it paraphrase. There is none of the excitement over translation that there is in, say, Phillips' "A Ring of Truth".

Martin would appear to be a cessationist from the references he cites, e.g. Warfield. His understanding of doctrine is at times bizare. For example, his version inspiration of closer to Islamic dictation of the Koran than to Godly inspiration.

The most disturbing sentence in the book, when talking of formal equivalence is "we do not, however, encounter passages which cannot be understood by the average literate adult Christian who is willing to make an effort to study them" (p20). Martin suggests that the average Christian has better reading ability than the average man. Given that 97% of (British) people are habitual non-readers this is a hard claim to swallow. He goes on from this statement to assert that the Bible should not be made easy to read; this despite the comment earlier in his tirade that Koine Greek was the common man's language. The conclusion of such an argument as his is, of course, that every Christian should be fluent in Koine Greek themselves and there by eliminate all necessity of translators.

Martin castigates the NIV translators for having their own "favoured interpretation" when deciding to add (or omit) words in the text. However, for this to stand we must be clear that Martin himself therefore also has a favoured translation but he is not couragous enough to tell us what that is! In his critisms of the removal of technical terms he makes the statement "familar (and more accurate)" but without justifying that assertion.

At the start of the book Martin quotes J Gresham Machen by saying "the differences between the manuscripts is 'infinitesimal in comparison with what they have in common'" and yet he goes on to make point out the similar small differences in the NIV wording. A glance at an edition of the Greek New Testament (e.g. UBS4, NA27 or earlier) will show the minutia that both Martin and Machen ignore. Worse perhaps is that Martin implicitly argues for a KJVish dialect of English as the only correct wording. The is not quite a KJV-only tirade but that thought is close to the surface the entire time.

Martin says that the NIV translators indulge in unwarranted paraphrase but in most of the examples he cites (ad nauseum) what he calls "paraphrase" would more correctly be called modern English. He prefers stilted and arachaic English that is nothing better than transliteration of the Greek text into English words. Despite his suggestion that the removal of technical terms makes the resultant text hard to read it is actually this extereme literalism that makes the Bible text difficult to read. Martin's style of literalism only obfuscates the text rather than clarifies it. One random example is that he prefers the expression "did not know her" (in Matt 1:25) over the NIV translators choice of "had no (sexual) union with her". Such an expression as "knew in the Bible sense" can only be considered quaint by any modern reader.

Throughout Martin mentions linquistic principles. However, it is clear to even those with the minimum understaning of such principles that Martin is not one of them. He seems unaware of the work underlying either Mona Baker's on translation in general (In Other Words) or of the excellent summary from Cotterell and Turner of the application of linguistics to Bible interpretation (Linguistics and Bible Interpretation). Although both these books post-date Martin's by only a little while the material that they cover would have been available to Martin. Overall his tone is strident hardly an attribute of a man of God and not exhibiting "speech seasoned with salt".

Does he prove his point about the (in)accuracy of the NIV? No, I don't believe that he does. He does not make the case for formal equivalence over dynamic equivalence. I cannot recommend this text to a general audience. The appeal of the book will be limited to only two groups of readers: those who are already presuaded of the same position as Martin and those involved in translation work as a warning of the critisms that their work will be subjected to.

This is simply the best book out there on the subject of Bible translation. It debunks the myth that we need (or should) dumb down the Bible. All you NIV addicts (as I once was) should read this.

Dr. Martin does a good job of arguing for the importance of accuracy over popularity when chosing a translation. This is the Bible we are talking about here, not which translation of Dostoyevsky capture's the essence of the author's work. The review by Trevor Jenkins below is unfair. It most certainly would not be good for Martin to endorse a translation. He picks on the NIV because it has become the de facto standard. This is the point. He is trying to steer us back to high standards when choosing a translation. The NIV doesn't cut it with the exception of "readability". But that should not be the main criteria. Accuracy should be, and Martin does a good job of supporting his argument. Should be read by all thinking Christians.

...and Martin hits the nail on the head. This' a short book but should be seriously considered by all believers.

If a translation is to be accurate, it must translate the words God used. Given that there is no perfect translation, some are better than others because of how they translate the words God used (and what manuscripts they use). In particular, on the issue of what Bible to use in churches for worship, teaching and for public readings, etc., Martin rightly points out that the more accurate the words are translated the better. Otherwise, the doctrine of inspiration is not being upheld. Still, he does not explicitly support one version over another (and even has an appendix with serious questions about the 'KJV only' stance).

On a more personal level, the issue he applies to Bible translations applies to all of us is - do we choose the Bible we like or use for some subjective reason or is it because it best fits with the doctrine of inspiration? Indeed, do we consistently apply the doctrine of inspiration to all areas of life? God has used this book to open my eyes to the necessity of doing that more than any other (apart from the Bible itself).

- Mark

Reviewer Trevor Jenkins seems to condemn Robert Martin as a proponent of Formal Equivalency, as if being a proponent of Dynamic Equivalency sets you on a higher plateau in regards to translation philosophy. The theme of Martin's book can best be summed in his sentence, "The dynamic equivalence translator tends to be relatively unrestrained in his theologizing. What a formal equivalence translator generally does only as a matter of necessity, the dynamic equivalence translator often does as a matter of choice." Consider an example. Proper names should be translated formally. No one thinks of substituting Jerusalem for Washington. Yet where Gehenna shows up in the NT (a Greek equivalent of the Hinnom Valley in the OT), the NIV translates it as *Hell*. This is interpreting the text, not translating it. (The same can be for Hades and Tartarus.) There are about 11 words used in the English Bible for *Lord*, but the NIV translators refuse to translate the proper name Jehovah/Yahweh, and the reason given in a private letter was a profit motive. So accuracy (and integrity to the source text) is indeed lacking in the NIV, and other "Dynamic Equivalent/Paraphrased" Bibles that have followed suit. Use the NIV, or any other DE translation, but only with a FE/Literal translation close by.

This is one of the best books in general I've read in a very long time. It's hard to find original fantasy or science fiction anymore, but this book is not only original, it's deeply engrossing. There are so many small details that make this book more than just a good story, including the slightly Asian flavor. The characters are brilliant and vivid; even now, months later, they're still stuck in my mind. This is a brilliant gem of a novel.

The superb Liz Williams has another winner with her dreamy, impressionistic, but exciting "Banner of Souls." Set in a far future where Earth is mostly water and Mars is where the action is (the worlds are connected by a never fully explained piece of tech called "the Chain"), the tale revolves around Lunae, a young girl who can shift time; the Martian warrior "Dreams of War" (equipped with semi-sentient armor), who is sent to Earth as her protector; and, from "Nightshade," at the edge of the Solar System, comes Yskatarina Iye (equipped with a vast supply of prosthetic limbs along with her arachnid-like animus--ironically, pretty much all that's left of the male half of the human species). She is sent to Earth to remove Lunae from the scene.

The baroque characters are amazingly well drawn (even the minor ones) as they bash about, none quite knowing exactly what's going on (with the possible exception of Yskatarina), among creatures real and not real, alive and dead, human and mechanical.

In a previous book the author has acknowledged the influence of Jack Vance, and that influence certainly appears in this tale, too, with its vivid portrayals of strange worlds, strange creatures, and dry dialog. But this isn't a tribute by any means. It's a fine piece of work in its own right.

There's a banner on the front cover in which readers are advised that Liz Williams is "an author to watch." Just so. More important, she is an author to read. And read again.

In this future world men are all but gone and the main characters are women -- and that is one of the least noteworthy things in a truly strange book. The settings span from the harsh landscape of Mars to the tiny pocket left of Earth to the nightmare depths of the galaxy. The stakes are no less than the fate of humanity. The characters are human, yet clearly alien. Her gothic themes are offset, however, by Williams's clear (and excellent) prose. Unlike most gothic fiction, there is no lugubrious writing -- or worse, language so dense (or just bad) that you can't even tell what is happening. If you like richly imagined science fiction by someone who knows how to write, pick up this book.

Lots of original ideas, pretty iffy execution.

Some emphasize the feminist credentials of the book, but why? Just because there are no men left on Earth/Mars? If so, the gender aspect just doesn't seem very pronounced or relevant. Could have been all male characters and it wouldn't have made much of a difference. I certainly expected a more radically different worldview there.

But mostly, after a while I didn't really care about what happened to the protagonists. I just couldn't buy into anybody's point of view or stay interested in the plot. Or, for that matter, really understand what the plot was about.

Your mileage may very well vary however. There is so much cookie cutter sci-fi out there that the writer deserves praise for breaking out of the usual subject matters.

A very strange story that will not appeal to just anyone. There's a sense of detachment from the characters because they are so far removed from humanity. It is far future and humans have augmented themselves in various ways that make them seem less human, such as the kappa (taken from Japanese myth). In most of known space there is only one gender: female. Children are grown like plants and, I assume, raised by communities. So there is no mother/father/family dynamic. Everything seems detached to me; I had a hard time caring for the characters.

I did like the structure of the book, though. How it switches back and forth in short chapters from the hunter to the hunted. And it is nicely written. Liz Williams is definitely a writer to watch!

This book is actually composed of two separate books. The first, Praying in the Spirit, was written in 1662 from a prison cell. As you could imagine, it is intensely practical. It is not known when the second book, The Throne of Grace, was written, nor from where. Its manuscript was discovered after Bunyan's death. It is more mystical (by Puritan standards) and is less practical.

To say that Bunyan pastored and served in a difficult time is to be guilty of an understatement. In the late 1600's the Church of England began strictly regulating what their pastors were allowed to teach. Bunyan found himself alone and isolated; many like-minded pastors had been expelled or had fled to either the Netherlands or the United States on their own accord. Bunyan, who did not have a degree and thus was not allowed to preach, was imprisoned. While his congregation was deprived of a talented pastor, his family was deprived of their provider. Bunyon's time in prison left his wife to raise their daughter who was born blind. The constable reminded Bunyan continually that a simple promise not to preach would spring the jail door open. While the temptation to renounce his call must have been staggering, he remained in jail and chose to write.

In addition to The Pilgrim's Progress and The Holy War, his time in jail produced Praying in the Spirit. It is regarded as one of the definitive Puritan works on prayer. He carefully walks believers through the process of prayer. He warns of hindrances, marks out obstacles, and lovingly encourages his readers to have a deep and intense prayer life. My what a contrast to our own day! His advice does not consist of "take a 10 minute walk with Jesus" or even "Pray, `Father expand my boundaries'." He instead counsels, "Take heed that your heart go to God as well as your mouth. Let not your mouth go any further than you strive to draw your heart along with it" (p. 53). The tone of the book is pastoral. It gives the impression that Bunyan is writing to his flock because he cannot preach to them. It is shocking that while he is in prison he is not focused on his own woes, but rather upon the prayer needs of his congregation.

Praying in the Spirit is as biblical as it is practical. It surely must be one of the best expositions ever on 1 Corinthians 14:15. For Bunyan, "praying in the spirit" is not a sort of quasi-spiritual mystical experience. It is pleading passionitly before God. It is coming before the throne of Grace with boldness. Primarily it is praying within the will of God. He describes it as having his soul "cleaving to the dust" and asking for God to rescue it (p. 20).

The second part of this work on prayer is The Throne of Grace, an exposition of Hebrews 4:16. This work explains how to pray boldly, and it gives a very powerful description of the splendor of God. While it may not have been his chief intent, the main result of the pages spent describing the throne room of God is a fuller understanding of the earnestness with which we should pray. After passionately painting a picture of the throne of God, Bunyan describes Christ at the throne, constantly making intercession for us. The majesty of God is made plain, and the importance of prayer is accentuated.

Biblically, this section seems to go beyond what is written. Bunyan makes several assertions that would today be questioned. He says that God has more than one throne (throne of grace, throne of judgment, etc.), and he assigns spiritual elements to much that is unnecessary. For Bunyon, the fat of the levitical offering is a symbol for Christ's prayer, and the rainbow relates to Solomon's temple. A careful Bible student might be alarmed about some of his statements, but one also must remember that this work was possibly not meant for publication. Instead it may have been Bunyan's own study in preparation for preaching, if that opportunity would ever fall to him again.

Bunyan's writings call the reader back to a different age- an age where prayer was passionate and bold. Who better to write to a congregation on the importance of prayer than a pastor confined to prison? Prayer reflects the cell and the age from which it was written, and it is a reflection that our generation is dire need of seeing.

The Banner of Truth Trust's Prayer collects two of John Bunyan's works in one volume. Praying in the Spirit (1662) provides instruction and encouragement for Christians to pray personally and spontaneously to God, without the use of written forms of supplication. The Throne of Grace, published posthumously in 1692, is actually not so much about prayer as Christ's office as high priest, which enables Christians to confidently bring their prayers to him.

Praying in the Spirit provides much practical teaching on prayer that will prove beneficial to many Christians. The only drawback lies in Bunyan's total rejection of liturgical forms of prayer, which he sees as antithetical to heart prayers inspired by the Holy Spirit. Given the year this work was published, it's hard not to conclude that it's partially a polemic against the Church of England's then-new 1662 Book of Common Prayer. Still, even Christians who disagree with Bunyan on this matter (and I am one of them) can only wince as he attacks those who persecuted him and put him in prison for opposing such prayers. (Praying in the Spirit was written in the same prison where Bunyan later received the dream that inspired his best-known work, The Pilgrim's Progress.)

The Throne of Grace, in contrast, contains very little practical instruction on prayer. Rather, it is a far-reaching, lofty meditation on Christ's role as high priest and how his work benefits the Christian. If you tend to contrast the Puritans with the medieval Christian mystics, as I have been prone to do, this work may shake your view a little. As Bunyan meditates on the throne of grace and all that surrounds it in Heaven, and argues that Christ is both several of the objects seen there and separate from those objects, it's hard not to apply the word "mystical" to Bunyan's musings. ("Mystical," by the way, is not a dirty word per se. While some Christians consider mysticism to be unbiblical, many Christian mystics in church history held a very high view of Scripture.) The author himself, judging by his introduction to the work, evidently believed that the Holy Spirit inspired this work.

While there is much to commend in both works, the reader should be aware that neither one of them is an easy read (although Praying in the Spirit is much less difficult than The Throne of Grace). Bunyan writes long sentences and packs much content in each one. There are also occasional instances of obsolete words or obsolete meanings of words, but the publisher/editor helpfully provides definitions in footnotes. Prayer is a valuable and worthy read, but potential readers are advised to get acclimated to Puritans and their writings before tackling this one. (I myself found this a very difficult read over six years ago, but did not have the same problem in my just-completed second run-through.)

How anyone could call this book dry is beyond me. It is one of the best, if not the best book I have read on prayer. Once you have read the Puritans on any subject, you will never be satisfied with the cutesy fluff that satisfies modern Christian appetites. Do yourself a favor, buy and read this book, carefully, prayerfully; you will find it a refreshing fountain of spiritual blessing.

Prayer is divided into two parts: an exposition of what true prayer is and how praying is an appeal to Jesus on his throne of grace. To be frank, this is not Bunyan at his best. He's written better stuff (see Pilgrim's Progress). The material is pretty dry and half the time, he's battling high church Anglicanism. The few diamonds here are his descriptions of prayer being from the heart, not an formulistic external exercise.
The backdrop of where the book was written (Bunyan was imprisioned for his Puritan beliefs after Cromwell died and England reverted back to monarchy) is very interesting and I suggest all to familiarize themselves with that interesting period.

"Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the soul to God, through Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit, for such things as He has promised, for the good of the church with submission in faith to the will of God."

This is how Bunyan defines prayer in this amazing little book. Written while imprisoned in Bedford gaol for nonconformity, these two treatises show Christians the beauty, power, and awe of true prayer. In the first, Bunyan describes prayer as being "in the Spirit", and "with understanding" (1 Cor. 14:15). In the second, the theme is the Christian's privilege of approaching "the Throne of Grace" (Heb. 4:16).

Beware! says Bunyan. "You are not a Christian if you are not a praying person. The promise is that every one that is righteous shall pray (Ps. 32:6). You then are a wicked wretch if you do not." Surely this is a serious call to prayer!

But he also gives an encouragement: "If [God] had said, I will commune with thee from my throne of judgment, then indeed you might have trembled and fled from the face of the great and glorious Majesty. But when he says he will hear and commune with souls upon the throne of grace, or from the mercy-seat, this should encourage you, and cause you to hope, nay, to 'come boldly unto the throne of grace, that you may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.'" Surely this is a wonderful word for Christian and non-Christian alike - God is on his Throne of Grace, and He can be approached through prayer!

Read this book, and learn of the true biblical understanding of prayer from one of the greatest writers in all history!

I have to say I truly enjoyed this book from cover to cover. If you enjoy Japanese History, or stories of Samurai, I highly recommend this book! While little is truly known about Legendary Ronin Yamamoto Kansuke, to the point many use to ask if he even existed, this book almost makes you feel as if you know him, and you feel for him. This book offers an exciting look via fictional accounts of the real life battes at Kawanakajima between Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin, through the eyes of Yamamoto Kansuke. I give this book an A+!

The Samurai Banner of Furin Kazan has, more or less, the effect that The Da Vinci Code had on me. It absorbs you into the Sengoku era and creates a simulation of how life was back then, except that you feel what certain characters felt up-close and personal. This is a must-read especially for those interested in Takeda's golden era. Don't miss it!

This was written in 1958, so it is a modern portrayal of medieval Japan. It presents a main character - a master strategist - who usually has no idea where his good ideas come from, or why he feels so strongly that something should be done, which doesn't make for a very interesting story - there is little development of ideas or reasoning, just sudden intuition. Although he is quite successful militarily, he is totally clueless when it comes to women, and winds up obsessed with putting the children of concubines into positions of power without regard to the needs of the clan as a whole - the clan which he professes to love so deeply.

While this is presented as historical fiction, it is not, as far as I can tell, historically accurate in many ways. It presents Shingen's decision to become a monk as a move to placate his concubines by becoming celibate which seems ridiculous, and it portrays Uesugi Kenshin as the only aggressor in their wars, which I doubt is true. It dramatically understates the ruthlessness of the rulers of this period - Takeda Shingen forced one of his own sons to commit suicide and had criminals boiled alive.

If you are looking for a rousing tale of strategy, intrigue and warfare I think you'll be disappointed, and the book doesn't shed as much light on sengokujidai Japan as I had hoped. A weak plot with two dimensional characters.

It is not as easy to find good samurai literaure as one would imagine.
This book- 'The Samurai Banner of Fu Rin Ka Zan' by Yasushi Inoue would be a delightfully fascinating find for anyone truly interested in the genre.
It is written in a such a way that one can visualize the story as vividly as if watching a well made, well acted movie epic, and it is just as engaging. One does not need any previous knowlewdge about who Takeda Shingen or Yamamoto Kantsuke were for one to get drawn into the plot.
It is surely informative, but it is also fun to read, and at the end it leaves the reader wanting for more.
I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Although a work of historical fiction, this novel provides an insightful look into one of the most interesting characters during the Sengoku Jidai,Takeda Shingen. It is sad that very little is offered in English regarding the life of one of the most talented generals and administrators of the Warring States Era in the form of a historical text. However, this book allows us to understand the uniqueness of this famous daimyo and one of the key figures that was instrumental in his rise to power:Yamamoto Kansuke. Even less information is available in English regarding this obscure individual, save for his involvement in the Fourth Battle of Kawanakajima. However, amongst Japanese history enthusiasts, Kansuke was the intelligence behind the Takeda and their rise to power during this turbulent era. Kansuke's loyalty to his young lord is similar to that of an overbearing father offering unwanted guidance to a son as he ventures out to battle, whether it is on the field, his own seat of government, or his love affairs. The character of Kansuke is truly an intriguing one, and especially Inoue's depiction of him makes this novel well worth the read.

To supplement your enjoyment of this book, I would also recommend reading Kawanakajima 1553-1564 by Stephen Turnbull.

Great preaching and exposition of the holy scriptures. Bunyans writing is one of a kind. These volumes are for a serious student of the bible.

If you are paying close to eighty dollars, make sure that your order says (3 Volume Set).If not, then you are only recieving volume one!

"The Works of John Bunyan", edited by George Offor

This review intends to inform readers of the contents of these three volumes so they may buy these books without the risk of guessing. Fortunately for me I guessed correctly!

To answer your first question, reader: Yes, "Pilgrim's Progress" IS INCLUDED in volume 3! Part I, Christian's journey, begins on page 89 after an 88 page introduction by the editor. Part II, Christiana's journey begins on page 168. And part III, The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, begins later in the volume on page 586. All parts are included. (Note that the latter is not commonly included as a part of "Pilgrim's Progress" in most books.)

Having said the above, if you are *only* looking for "Pilgrim's Progress", especially parts I and II, then these collected works are not for you. These books are physically HEAVY to hold, much too heavy for comfortable reading; you will need a stand, table or desk to avoid cramping your hands while reading.

The print, while quite legible, is small; some sections seem 6pt or smaller, especially the footnotes. As is common with many reprints of early editions, a few letters per page are faint, and a few have slight blotches such as a filled "e" center or a slightly thicker "t" crossbar, etc. As mentioned before, the print is still quite legible; if you are looking for the collected works please do not let the print deter you!

The sturdy binding and covers on the volumes handles the unexpectedly heavy contents well. I suppose the dimensions are roughly 9x7x1.125".

The copyright information says "Reprinted from the edition of 1854 published by W.G Blackie and Son, Glasgow". Reprints from the middle of the 19th century somehow seem appropriate for the writings of Bunyan; it gives one a feeling of history. And I *DO* love old books!

The editor describes the difficulty of obtaining 1st edition prints of Bunyan, especially since most editions were cheaply and badly printed "for the poor". Another interesting editorial comment is that Bunyan was somewhat of a misogynist.

As expected from a 1854 reprint, there are many woodcuts throughout the volumes, and they are excellent.

The 19th century compiler and editor, George Offor, supplies many footnotes. The footnotes, especially in the "Pilgrim's Progress", are often of a devotional nature such as "Take heed reader!", etc. But there are also many other footnotes clarifying rare words, doctrinal points, cross references, circumstances of writing, etc. Many of the footnotes have initials next to them, presumably indicating selected editorial comments of other commentators. (I was unable to find a clear list relating the initials to full names.)

Volumes I & II are entitled "Experimental, Doctrinal and Practical". Volume III is titled "Allegorical, Figurative and Symbolical".

To help you decide for yourself whether to purchase these books, here are the contents:

Volume I: "Experimental, Doctrinal And Practical" (771 pages)

- Grace Abounding To The Chief Of Sinners (his personal testimony)

- Bunyan's Prison Meditations

- The Jerusalem Sinner Saved

- The Greatness Of The Soul

- The Work Of Jesus Christ As An Advocate

- Christ: A Complete Saviour

- Come And Welcome To Jesus Christ

- Of Justification By An Imputed Righteousness

- Saved By Grace

- The Strait Gate

- Light For Them That Sit In Darkness

- A Treatise On The Fear Of God

- The Doctrine Of The Law And Grace Unfolded

- Israel's Hope Encouraged

- A Discourse Touching Prayer

- The Saint's Privilege And Profit

- The Acceptable Sacrifice

- Paul's Departure And Crown

- The Desire Of The Righteous Granted

Volume II: "Experimental, Doctrinal And Practical" (758 pages)

- The Saints' Knowledge Of Christ's Love

- Of Antichrist And His Ruin

- The Resurrection Of The Dead, And Eternal Judgement

- Some Gospel Truths Opened According To The Scriptures

- A Vindication Of Gospel Truths Opened According To The Scriptures

- A Discourse On The Pharisee And The Publican

- A Defence Of The Doctrine Of Justification By Faith In Jesus Christ

- Reprobation Asserted

- Questions About The Nature And Perpetuity Of The Seventh-Day Sabbath

- Of The Trinity And A Christian

- Of The Law And A Christian

- Scriptural Poems

- An Exposition On The First Ten Chapters Of Genesis

- A Holy Life: The Beauty Of Christianity

- Christian Behaviour

- A Caution To Stir Up To Watch Against Sin

- A Discourse Of The Building, NaTure, Excellecy, And Government Of The House Of God

- Bunyan On The Terms Of Communion, And Fellowship Of Christians, At The Table Of The Lord

- A Confession Of My Faith, And A Reason Of My Practice

- Differences In Judgement About Water Baptism No Bar To Communion

- Peaceable Principles And True

- On The Love Of Christ

- A Case Of Conscience Resolved

- John Bunyan's Catechism (called "Instruction For The Ignorant")

- Seasonable Counsel

- An Exhortation To Peace And Unity

- Bunyan's Last Sermon

Volume III: "Allegorical, Figurative And Symbolical" (790 pages)

(Note: the first 88 pages of this volume, called chapters I-IX, comprise an introduction written by the editor describing the writing of "Pilgrim's Progress" itself. That which you and I know as "Pilgrim's Progress", the journey of Christian begins on page 89 and is labeled "First Part" in the volume's table of contents. The "Second Part", the story of Christiana, begins on page 168. The third part appears later in the volume, beginning on page 586, and is labeled as "The Life And Death Of Mr. Badman.")

The editor writes the following introduction:

- The Pilgrim's Progress From This World To That Which Is To Come

- Chapter I: Life A Pilgrimage ...

- Chapter II: ... having been written in prison ...

- Chapter III: Bunyan's Extraordinary Qualifications To Write The Progress

- Chapter IV: Bunyan's release from jail ...

- Chapter V: The inquiry "Was Bunyan assisted in writing?" ... No.

- Chapter VI: A bibliographical account of the Progress' editions ...

- Chapter VII: An account of the versions, commentaries, ...

- Chapter VIII:The opinions of learned men ...

- Chapter IX: Obervations upon ... some prominent parts

- First Part (this is the actual "Pilgrim's Progress")

- Second Part

- The Holy War Made By Shaddai Upon Diabolus, For The Regaining Of The Metropolis Of The World

- The Heavenly Footman

- The Holy City (Or "The New Jerusalem")

- Solomon's Temple Spiritualized

- Discourse On The House Of The Forest Of Lebanon

- The Water Of Life

- The Barren Fig-Tree

- The Life And Death Of Mr. Badman (This May Be Considered The Third Part Of The "Pilgrim's Progress")

- A Few Sighs From Hell

- One Thing Is Needful

- Ebal And Gerizim

- A Book For Boys And Girls

The above Title of this book clearly states "(3 Volume Set)" and yet I only received the 3rd volume. The ISBN that they have listed is for the 3 volume set and not just one volume. I called Amazon (actually they called me, it was nifty) and complained. They saw that it was a mistake, seemingly a common one judging by what some people have already said here. And now they are sending me all 3 volumes. My real complaint is that now I have to wait an entire month before receiving it and I needed volume 1 for school!!! Can't beat the price, so I will have to borrow a book until mine arrives. If this happens to you just call Amazon and force them to send you all 3 books because the ISBN is for a 3 volume set and not just one volume!! DONT LET THEM FOOL YOU!!

When you order this, you only get Volume 1 of a 3-volume set. Also, the type is very small. Otherwise, I like Bunyan and I like having his works collected together...

Why is it that whoever placed this book on Amazon does not think that a detailed description is necessary? They may not, but I do, so here goes. This book covers the development of some of the doctrines of the ancient church and almost none of the present day doctrinal questions. The periods it covers is: Apostolic Fathers (as Jewish and Gnostic perversions); Reformed; Apologists; Anti-Gnostic Fathers; Alexandrian Fathers; Monarchianism. It also covers the doctrine of the Trinity, of Christ, of sin and grace, the atonement, divine grace, the church and the sacraments. It does cover "The doctrine of the last things" but only in a very limited way: the intermediate state; the second advent and the Millennial hope; the resurrection; the last judgment and final awards. It does not cover such things as the question of the post or pre-tribulation rapture or other similar or modern concerns. All that it does cover, it covers briefly, a few pages per question, and does not go into deeper (or boring) detail. This book is supposed to be a companion to the writer's Systemic Theology and is supposed to give the historical background for the subjects covered in that book. I suppose that when viewed for that purpose, it is a good book. Just don't expect too much from it. It is about 7/8 thick (hardback book). It does not compare with the wide volumes I have found at the seminary libraries. That's where you need to go if you want detail.

In full disclosure, I write the following as a Roman Catholic Christian convert, from a Protestant background.
I have this book in my library as a good reminder of what led me to look at the liturgical church traditions and eventually Catholicism. Besides the permeation of rationalism that governs reformed theology in general, the most useful point of reference for me are the six little pages discussing the Apostolic Fathers and their Doctrinal Views (Section 1 under Prepatory Doctrinal Development).
It is here that we find a little gem (or should I say germ) of Reformed Theology. Berkhof's writing has a demeaning disrespect for the writings and teachings of the Apostolic Fathers that one does not encounter within the liturgical church traditions (Orthodoxy, Lutherism, Anglicanism etc), but that marks and indeed is necessary to maintain a Reformed Theological outlook.
Now, don't get me wrong. What Berkhof writes is "true" in a sense, but he fails to disclose the "why." This should have been included within his History of...
In paraphrase, Berkhof states the Apostolic Father's writings were dry, uninspired, repetitive, and simplistic. In and of themselves they have very little use. What Berkhof fails to state or even to speculate is why were the early writings in such a state.
Simply put, the writings are much in the same pattern of the New Testament writings (putting aside inspiration) i.e. leaning upon accepted scripture (Septuagint), repetitive, dry, moralistic etc. We lean upon God's Spirit to glean the truth's from holy writ, because as they stand the writings are dry to our natural disposition. I don't mean to offend anyone's sensibilities, but let's face it - reading and studying scripture is no easy task because many parts are just plain boring (not as good a read as Gresham or King) resulting in our better spiritual selves battling the flesh which is ready for a snoozefest.
So, why oh why, do we have a continuation of this writing style with the Apostolic Fathers? Well we can find the answer in Scripture. Taken from 2 of Thessalonians (written around AD 51 or 52 - about 20 years after Christ's death and resurrection) Chapter 2 vs. 15 states simply, "So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us (NASB)."
Those of the liturgical traditions thus see the writings of the Apostolic Fathers i.e. a continuation of the Apostolic charism to carry on the church teachings and traditions. It is here we see the value and have respect for these writings. These same teachings and traditions that carried the church before the new testament scripture was canonized. The Church was reinterpreting the accepted Jewish scripture (which by the way was not formally canonized until some 200 years after Christ's death and resurrection), and did not have their New Testament scripture in canonized form - for some 280 years after Christ's death and resurrection.
So, here we see the Reformed against the Liturgical Church traditions. All starting from the assessment of the Apostolic Fathers. What follows in Berhof's writing are the fruit from the tree. Good for what it is, but in my opinion faulty from the first suppositions.

This is a good overview of Christian doctrinal development. But if theology is what you look for, purchase Berkhof's larger systematic theology instead. If you want something much more up to date-(from the same tradition) get R.L Reymond's recent systematic theology.

Brief overview of the development of the major doctrines of historic Christianity.

A great little book for the intended purpose. Also try JND Kelly's "Early Christian Doctrines" for more information on this topic of study.

This book is a companion to Berkhof's Systematic Theology. I noticed one reviewer said if you wanted theology get his Systematic Theology instead. I say get them both and use them together (like they were intended to be used) and you will be enriched in your understanding of both Reformed theology and its history.

One of the top books that I've ever read. And one of the most unforgettable.....

This is the first romance novel I read, many years ago. I still count it as one of my favorites, along with the other 'Reckless' books. Hannah and Shadow are beautiful characters with a passionate and ever lasting love. There is a lot of description, but I think this takes us through Hannah's experience. She is the narrator of the story and she is learning all of this in order to be with the man she loves. We see how much information she has to assimilate in a very short amount of time.
I love this book and highly recommend it to everyone!

I loved this book! It's a great way to escape from personal problems and stresses. There is plenty of action, adventure and romance in this novel. I've read it at least 5 time since I got it! It is definately a great "bath tub" book.

This book was awful. I couldn't finish it, it made me sodisgusted. A woman in an agonizing, no win love affair with a violentman who makes continous bad choices. How could this woman love this man and give up everything for him? His stupidity brought her much pain and despair. It's a story of pain and suffering and I lost all respect for the warrior whose thirst for blood seemed to be more dominating than his love of this poor girl. There is no happiness in this book. None. Yuck Yuck Yuck.

If you like historical romance novels, you will definitely love this one. I read this novel over ten years ago and it has stuck with me ever since. It is a bittersweet tale of two lovers who caught between two worlds that are at war with each other. As children they played together and lived in innocent harmony. They are separated for awhile, but meet again after they have matured into adults. They fall in love, but hteir love is doomed because their people are at war with each other. It's a riveting tale that will stir a passion inside you that you won't forget.

I must first acknowledge that the book is worthy of reading. Secondly, good4nene "vernisa" needs to proofread before posting comments. His/her posting of "I thought the book was rather boring.i was so dissapointed with what i read.however i think her real biography should be done alot later on in her career.it was just to soon." As a teacher, I would have written "I thought the book was rather boring. I was so disappointed with what I read. However, I think her real biography should be written later in her career. It was just too soon." Regardless of the quality of Vernisa's writing, Carrie has demonstrated her many talents.

Carrie Underwood is my FAVORITE singer EVER!!!!!!!!!!! This biography is wonderfully writen and detailed. It is a AWESOME book!!!!! GO CARRIE!

Thanks, Sara

Carrie Fan Site: http://www.xanga.com/carriefan1

I thought the book was rather boring.i was so dissapointed with what i read.however i think her real biography should be done alot later on in her career.it was just to soon.

This is an outstanding children's book geared to ages 7-12 not an adult fan book. My 9 year old daughter loved learning about the new American Idol star in this up-to-date library book. It's not boring it is written for children.