Groups Books

I picked this book by using the "pick a random book with your eyes closed" method at the library.

For an American this book can be tough to start. The "poor talk" that Lovelace used throughout the book can be a little tough to get through, but don't give up! It is too good of a book to let one minor flaw stop you. (And a little secret: As the book progresses, Lovelace seems to have trouble keeping up the "poor talk" and becomes a lot smoother to read).

Lovelace's use of description is almost without comparison. He has Hugo's gift of description without having to use chapters to describe a building, person, or general area. His one line descriptions hit so dead on that you almost feel as if you are standing in "the Hill".

The story itself is also an amazing read, but most reviewers seemed to have missed the biggest purpose behind this book (whether Lovelace intended it or not, it is the overall theme). The major theme is that we all judge people without knowing them fully. We hold people back because we don't like the partial picture we are presented. We never take the time to learn the whole story. As you read the book, you think to yourself how you want to be better. You don't want to judge. You vow to yourself that you will stop, when suddenly the last paragraph hits and you realize, "Wow, I am STILL judging without the whole story, maybe it's not possible to stop." If the last paragraph did not make you think this, I suggest you reread the book and think about each character and how you feel about them.

Overall, an amazing read. Lovelace writes an amazing book, with the only flaw being that the "poor talk" seems a little forced. As the book progressed, he seemed to get into a more comfortable area.

Definitely Recommended!

Don't get me wrong I enjoyed this story but in all honesty I thought it was a GOOD but not GREAT story. A little too stiff for me. I did like the characters but at times the reading got a little too much like work just trying to get to another part of the story that was a little more fun and not as much work. [I think I said that right], nothing personal just one reader's opinion.

The "double vision" of Caribbean life is portrayed in the life of Aldrick who is caught between generational and cultural conflicts. And all of this during Carnival! The Dragon Can't Dance was almost prophetic in the depiction of the commercialization of Mas. Change always brings choice and Lovelace's characters highlight the necessary pain that comes with any decision.

In Earl Lovelace, without exception, we have the Master Storyteller of the Caribbean. Even years after its publication (1979 and 1998), "Dragon" remains peerless as an authentic, forceful voice of postcolonial Trinidadian society. Nowhere else have the intricacies of carnival been more profoundly explored and dissected than here by the artful mastery of prose in this defining portrait. Lovelace's stinging critique of race and politics is poignant and luminously presented. With heavy symbolism and sensitivity, the story reaches successfully beyond Caribbean life to touch the larger human condition itself. The central figure of Aldrick (whose "mission" is to performa the Dragon dance during carnival) embodies a entire people's frustrations and aspirations. This is an unexaggerated powerful tale by one my absolute favorite Caribbean writers. This story is timeless and one of Lovelace's best creations, far surpassing, in my opinion, his other wonderful novels like "The Wine of Astonishment", "The Schoolmaster", or even "Salt." Anyone sincerely interested in Caribbean culture and literature will find this novel indispensable reading.

Alan Cambeira
Author of AZUCAR! The Story of Sugar (a novel)

I loved this book so much that I recommended it to all my family and friends. Earl Lovelace captured everything that Carnival means for Trini people. The characters are so real that the faces that I chose to see them as, were faces of people that I actaully knew in my family. LOL. This novel will make all readers want to take a trip to Trinidad and experience life there. This book is just too sweet for words!!!!

David Boucher has written a book that examines in detail the contribution of both artists to the worlds of both literature and rock & roll. In his intoduction he looks at the progress of Cohen from serious poet to rock & roll recording artist and performer. This transition cost him status in the literary world but aided by the legendary "golden voice" and some consummate musicians it allowed him to reach a hitherto undreamed of audience.

Dylan, whom he refers to as "The Changing Man" in Chapter Three, was the chameleon-like performer who picked up, and discarded new personas and new musical styles at the drop of his very famous hat. The obvious example here is the infamous "electric tour" where Dylan was heckled and called "Judas". This abuse was, the book shows, not only for his perceived betrayal of the acoustic folk movement, but also a reaction to the contempt with which Dylan treated his audience. Dylan had always been a confrontational performer, and his response to such attacks was to become louder and less acoustic than ever. What David Boucher also shows is that this signified a shift from the community centred ethic of the folk movement to the excessive individualism and nihilism of the Beat poets who through the drug culture wanted, like Rimbaud, to experience the extremes.

In other chapters the myriad influences on both performers are examined as well as their involvement with political and religious organisations. Finally David Boucher gives us an insight into the road travelled by both men in search of their own personal salvation.

Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen are complex men and complex performers. To listen to, or to read the works of either man is always challenging. In this book the author has written an analysis that is equally challenging exploring, as it does, the anger and the angst of the 1960s and beyond. I enjoyed every minute of the challenge.

What makes this book such a unique and significant contribution to its genre is that it is written with the insight and sensitivity of a spirit that seems deeply attuned to those of its subjects. Not only does the reader come away with a better understanding of the historical times and political contexts that shaped these men, and the personal struggles and psychological bents that motivated their writing, but also with a clearer understanding of what attracts their devotees to their work.

Throughout the book, Boucher weaves explorations of various aspects of the lives and cultural context of Dylan and Cohen that strongly affected them and their work. These include the civil rights movement, drugs, women, sexuality, God and religion, what it means to be reluctantly identified as the voice of a generation, and -- particularly for Cohen -- the holocaust. Boucher also explores the influence of other artists on their work, from Woody Guthrie for Dylan to Lorca for Cohen, as well as the influence that Dylan and Cohen had on each other.

Just as Dylan and Cohen make poetry an accessible part of popular culture, with equal skill Boucher makes philosophy of art and interpretation accessible as well. He points out that our experience of lyric poetry is informed by the questions we bring to it and he explains that the richest experience is to be had when the most appropriate questions are asked. Boucher uses the theories of several philosophers such as R. G. Collingwood, Henry Jones, and Michael Oakeshott, to identify which questions are most appropriately asked of particular works at particular moments in the artists' creative development. He also shows the fruitlessness of asking the wrong kind of questions of a particular poem, as is the tendency of many thinkers. He describes various forms of artistic expression: pseudo-art, or art as magic; art as the expression of emotion, or imaginative art; and inspirational art, or poetry which delights in images. He then demonstrates how, at various stages in Dylan's artistic development, his work takes all three forms of expression, whereas Cohen's work primarily takes the form of the last two. He then offers examples from their poetry to illustrate which form(s) of expression is/are being inhabited by a particular work and he supports his demonstrations with quotations about their work from the artists themselves.

Finally, Boucher helps to bring the period to life for his reader by including several pictures of book covers, concert and film posters, magazine covers and various photographs. The overall result of the book is that Boucher successfully positions his readers to have a richer experience and a deeper understanding and appreciation of the lyric poetry of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.

The irate and intemperate person signing himself pepidude in a previous review seems incapable of being able to appreciate an argument or of understanding the nature of the exercise that David Boucher has undertaken. It is a thematic book with a wide range of references, not a book of facts about Bob Dylan.The author introduces us to the complexities of issues relating to the difference between popular music lyrics and poetry, between origins and originality, the poetry of imagination and inspiration and much more. Anyone interested in ideas and issues, and in theories as well as facts will find this book immensely stimulating and fascinating.

David Boucher's masterly work 'Dylan & Cohen' is essential reading, not simply for devotees of these 'Poets of Rock and Roll' but for anyone with an interest in the history of the radical cultural, political and musical changes in the last century.

It is clear from this eloquent book that neither Dylan nor Cohen wished to speak for anyone but themselves and equally clear that the strength of their work would be seized upon by a generation looking for a new direction. Thankfully they both continued to write through their tribulations and we have a bank of some of the most evocative music to continue to listen to.

I urge you to buy this book but with a word of warning: you won't want to stop reading once you've started.

This is an excellent study of the music and lyrics of the 2 greatest rock "poets." Boucher explores whether or not their lyrics even qualify as poetry and keeps the subject interesting! He effectively delves into their psyches,as well, without getting hung up on personal, biographical details which have been over analyzed in other places. I found the final chapter "The Religious Experience" to be some of the best writing that I've seen on Dylan and Cohen's spiritual journeys. I highly recommend this to fans of either man's work.

Most books of this caliber are fat little paperbacks with tiny print; this book was easily readable in a few hours of one day, and it gave me the most modivation ever. John Mason gives biblical examples, short personal examples, strong insparation, and invaluable advice for each nugget - each no longer than a page (front and back). After reading my friend's copy, I ordered my own and highlighted all the parts that gave special sparks in my soul. It's short, to the point, wonderfully put together, and makes you see many things inside yourself in many different lights. I recommend this for anyone who wants to brighten their lives and get into positive thinking =D

A close friend recommended this book to me. I ordered it thinking it would be a book to just skim and think about. It is far more than that. With potent quotes, applicable scriptures,and readibility, this book is perfect for anyone who needs a 'pick me up' in life or to give to someone you know who is having difficulties in life. It has changed me, I now give it as a gift and people love it!

I found this book to be encouraging and challenges you to look beyond being a "regular guy." Examine your God given talents and put them to work to become extraordinary.

Well-written, concise, and most importantly, rings with the Spirit of Truth. Questions and doubts that have bugged me for years--and kept me immobilized--have been answered by John Mason's teaching of Scripture. Simply a great book. Holy Spirit inspired. I can't believe I haven't come across this man before. God bless him.

The book is laid out in nice, easy to digest nuggets with scripture references. Mr. Mason's emphasis on God's will for us to be unique is a nice touch. Overall, anyone who has ever wrestled with low self-esteem, lack of confidence or faith, will benefit greatly from the book.

In this book, Jan challenged me to include God in the "dailyness" of life. To recognize that He is with me as I drive to work and someone with questionable driving skills cuts me off. How do I respond with God sitting next to me? Does it really make a difference? It's beginning to, but I'm a slow learner. This book teaches without too much preaching. It's a book which will encourage you by example, not just by exhortation. Jan shares her personal struggles, defeats and victories that serves as a model that can help us understand the need to "practice the presence of God" every day.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am currently reading it for a second time. I think this is the best book I have read in the last year. Jan Johnson articulately describes many of my own recent experiences in 'Enjoying the Presence of God'. She shares her own life as a fellow sojourner seeking to follow Christ with honesty and clarity. The chapter on Hearing God is the best I have read on this topic. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to go deeper in their realtionship with God and have purchased it for some of my friends!

In this book, Jan challenged me to include God in the "dailyness" of life. To recognize that He is with me as I drive to work and someone with questionable driving skills cuts me off. How do I respond with God sitting next to me? Does it really make a difference? It's beginning to, but I'm a slow learner. This book teaches without too much preaching. It's a book which will encourage you by example, not just by exhortation. Jan shares her personal struggles, defeats and victories that serves as a model that can help us understand the need to "practice the presence of God" every day.

I found this book incredibly refreshing and satisfying. Jan writes in a practical, yet very honest way. As a mother of 4 young children, I was searching for how to spend my life connected with God more than with the busyness and tedium of parenthood. This book has truly revolutionized how I relate to the Lord, and I find myself coming back to it and sharing it with others time and time again. It is the modern day classic of The Practice of the Presence of God. If we all learned this from the time we became Christians, I can only imagine the Christian life of our world would be dramatically different. My favorite part is about how she had invented her own version of spiritual correctness, but found that what she needed wasn't a great quiet time, but a God-centered lifetime. She gave up on getting it right in order to relish being His much-loved child. Profound, challenging, and incredibly refreshing. Worthy of your time and life.

This is a life-changing book. Jan Johnson has a unique ability to communicate how to live moment by moment in the presence of God. I highly recommend this book to those who have a heart for the Lord and a desire to touch lives through prayer.

A thrilling story with historical significance. Marcus' life is turned upside down during the time of the Nazi's, but he is a man of great hope, courage, and perserverance. You will experience the full gamut of emotions when you read this book; love, fear, joy, sorrow and triumph of good over evil and the power of love. I look forward to SL Berg's next book.

I thoroughly enjoyed the drama, suspense, and multi-faceted characters in this great and enthralling story! I am certainly looking forward to this author's next book with anticipation.

Escape to Live is great book and I definitely recommend to everyone. Berg introduces the reader to characters that are strong and resilient. They are very much in love and they limes are entangled forever. Their romance induce in spite of war and devastation. It is adventures story and ones you start reading it you will not put out of your hands.

This book should be made into a movie; it's perfect. It has everything including marvelous character development. It's not just a love story; it is a tale of adventure illustrating the strength of ordinary people challenged by adversity. Man's indomitable spirit wins out; love conquers all. It's a delightful read. The story takes place during World Was II, the horrors of concentration camps and the birth and near death of Israel. The narration brings tears of pain and of joy. I heartly recommend it. Get a drink, find a cozy place, make yourself comfortable; you're not going to be able to put this down until the end.

Marcus Feldman was the son of a successful department chain executive in Berlin in the 1930's Marcus works with his father at the store - The Feldmans had it all - love, success, money - Marcus had fallen in love with a girl, Gretchen, in his family's department store, and was planning on marrying her. The atmosphere around Berlin and Germany as a whole was changing...the Feldmans were Jewish..and the tide was turning against the Jewish people. Marcus must take over the business when his father dies suddenly, and he finds that the government is going to audit his store and see if they are in accord with their taxes - Marcus feels it is time for his mother and fiance to leave Germany - Marcus devises an escape plan for his family - Thanks to a good friend who is in the German army, Marcus impersonates a German soldier, and his mother goes to 'visit' her in-laws in Poland. He and Gretchen marry, and she leaves for Liverpool, where she will wait for Marcus. Then they will all rendevous and start a new life in a freer world. But plans go awry...Gretchen gives birth to their son alone in England. Gretchen finds solace in a good Jewish man, Steve Goldman - whom she finally marries - Marcus had been in a POW camp in Siberia - after he is released, he finds love with Tanya, and they marry and like many of that time (post WWII) the Jews went to Palestine, where they fought for their own land, Israel. It is surprising that both families settle in Palestine, and both successful. It is a matter of time until both families meet, and they are close friends - It is a story of triumph of life, even in the direst of circumstances, love, through types of separations, and determination for their people to be together and unified country.
Escape to Live is a beautifully written book that will make those old enough remember, those of us too young to be amazed that so much horror truly transpired. From that horror came a more unified world..
Excellent reading.

Well, if it was, then it is a fine and fitting end. Although the cliffhanger tells us that we aren't going to be seeing that much less of Rebus.

Rankin used the self imposed limitation of the last ten days of Rebus official career very well. The action is taut and well plotted and the descriptions of people, places, and things are spot-on.

By now, Rebus is like an old friend who drops in for a short visit every year or so. You are always glad to see him, you get nostalgic over the good times you have had together, you are shocked by how old they have gotten, which reminds you of how old you are getting, you get annoyed by the same things they have always done, and you are sad whenever they have to leave. In this case, there is a finality to the departure, yet you are not sure if that finality is terminal. It is somewhat confusing.

I thought the awkwardness depicted between Rebus and Clarke is well written and realistic. It is very tricky to describe the interaction between people who have known, liked, and hated each other for a long time, especially when a landmark is approaching in their relationship.

The crimes being solved in this case was interesting but I thought some of the turns were a little too pat. That didn't stop me from enjoying the book, nor does it stop me from jonesing for more Rebus and Clarke.

Say it isn't so, Ian. Has 60-year-old John Rebus come to the end of the line? The popular protagonist spends his last days in his three-decade-old career in this novel in his usual manner, solving crimes, upsetting the powers that be and dealing with his 20-year-old enemy, Big Ger Cafferty as well as setting the stage for tying up loose ends with his long-time partner, DS Siobhan Clarke.

In the mix is a delegation of Russian businessmen, Scottish politicians and a large bank and its executives all seeking to bring business to Scotland. And then a leading Russian dissident poet is found murdered, and everyone wants to sweep it under the rug as a mugging gone bad. But is it? Neither Rebus nor Clark is convinced, especially when a second murder caused by an arson fire seems to be connected to the original case. To complicate matters, Big Ger is assaulted and left in a coma, and Rebus seems to be implicated.

This novel is as good as Rankin gets in the way of a mystery novel, and he works in commentary on Scotland in general, Edinburgh, money, politics, greed and power. Where does Rebus go from here? This reader (and many others, I'm sure) hopes Rankin hasn't permanently retired him--he's too good a character to fade out of existence.

Highly recommended.

Almost exactly two decades ago Ian Rankin's first Rebus novel, Knots and Crosses, began with the sentence, "The girl screamed once, only the once." Twenty years later and Rankin has used the same sentence to begin the last, as it did the first, of the Rebus books.

DI John Rebus is retiring in November of 2006 and he and his erstwhile protégé, DS Siobhan Clarke, are working on clearing up Rebus' old cases, when a dissident Russian Poet is murdered in an apparent mugging right after he left an Edinburgh bar in which local crook and longtime Rebus nemesis Morris Gerald Cafferty had been drinking.

Meanwhile Russian dissident Alexander Litvinenko is dying in a London hospital, poisoned by person or persons unknown. Are the cases related?

The poet was murdered during a time when the Edinburgh big wigs are hosting a group of potentially very large Russian investors and the brass wants this case wrapped up as quietly and delicately as possible. Then somebody attacks `Big Ger' Cafferty and the blame lands squarely on Rebus.

Think he's gonna back off? Not a chance.

Rebus and Clarke chase down leads that eventually take them to the Scottish Parliament and we all know how much politicians like to be investigated. And if you've read or learned anything at all about John Rebus, you know he does not take too well to authority and after being told for the umpteenth time to back off, Rebus remarks to himself, "It's not the underworld you need to worry about, it's the overworld."

I have been reading Rebus right from the start and I find it hard to believe it's all over. Yes, he's retired, but Michael Connelly's brilliant character Detective Hyronamous Bosch retired, came back as a PI and we sure as all get out hope Mr. Rankin finds more for Rebus to do, because we're addicted. This book is as good as all the others and all the others have been great.

Reviewed by Vesta Irene

Ian Rankin
ISBN: 9780316057585
Little Brown and Company, 2008
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for ReviewYourBook.com, 09/08
4 Stars
Fans will be thrilled with the return John Rebus.
Fans will be thrilled with the return of Detective Inspector John Rebus. Exit Music begins with the Inspector reluctantly preparing for his mandatory retirement. Just as he thinks his desk is clear of cases in comes a new one. Rebus once again teams up with Detective Siobhan Clarke in the investigation of a murdered dissident Russian poet. What at first glance appears to be a mugging, soon shows signs of something much deeper. Another death brings more questions.
Exit Music shows a personal side of Rebus. He dreads retirement while partner Siobhan looks toward a future where she does not work in his shadow. Ian Rankin has open doors in which Rebus may return. Fans of Rankin will rejoice in this new novel. While they will mourn Rebus' purported retirement, they will eagerly turn the pages of Exit Music.

In Ian Rankin's "Exit Music," Detective Inspector John Rebus is ten days away from retirement, a prospect that appeals to him as much as root canal. His superiors eagerly await the departure of this maverick, with "his mistrust of teamwork" and his "two-decades-plus of bets hedged, lines crossed, and rules broken." Although John gets results, he rarely does anything by the book, since he has little regard for authority or proper procedure. It is a miracle that this chain-smoking and whiskey-guzzling detective has lived long enough to turn in his warrant card. Rebus's protégée, Detective Sergeant Siobhan (Shiv) Clarke, has mixed feelings about her friend and mentor's departure. She is grateful for everything he has taught her. On the other hand, his unorthodox methods are troubling and she is impatient to get out from under Rebus's imposing shadow.

Their final case together begins as an apparent mugging that results in the death of Alexander Todorov, an émigré Russian poet living in Edinburgh. Todorov was a dissident who was vocal in his criticism, not only of his former government, but also of the new class of Russian oligarchs. He considered these multi-millionaires to be materialistic, corrupt, and greedy--selfish men who spend their ill-gotten gains on fancy clothing, high-end cars, pricey real estate, precious metals, and expensive artwork. Was Todorov bludgeoned to death to silence his scathing criticism of his countrymen? A subsequent murder adds to the mystery, and Clarke is placed in charge of a team with a challenging and time-consuming mission. They must ascertain if the two crimes are related and if so, who was behind them. Rebus is intrigued to learn that his archenemy, a gangster knows as Big Ger Cafferty, may be involved. Before he walks off into the sunset, Rebus would love to bring down this vicious thug who has been a thorn in his side for years.

"Exit Music" is an incredibly complicated and dense police procedural with a large number of characters, suplots, and red herrings. This four hundred page novel, which is sluggishly paced at times, could easily have been trimmed with no loss of coherence. On the other hand, the author gets high marks for depicting police work realistically, demonstrating the tedium of endless conversations with potential witnesses (some of whom lie or omit information), the sifting of every bit of physical evidence, and the search for a key fact that could break a case wide open. He also brings Edinburgh to life and deftly portrays the political and economic changes that may lead, one day, to Scotland's independence from Great Britain. Rebus is a delightful rogue who is content to say and do what he likes now that he is days away from packing it in. Although he is not in charge of the investigation, John blithely goes off on his own to follow his hunches wherever they may lead.

What makes this book memorable is Rankin's stunning epilogue--a tour de force of superb writing and dramatic surprises. The fact that the ending is not neat and tidy makes it a fitting coda for the checkered career of Detective Inspector John Rebus, a man who has always lived on the edge and thumbed his nose at conventional wisdom.

You'd expect the director of Kanakuk Kamps to know a little something about kids, and this book by Joe White doesn't disappoint. White shares the lessons he's learned from years of interaction with tens of thousands of other kids as well as raising four of his own, and some lessons he's had to learn the hard way. The book is solidly founded on Scripture as the foundation upon which to build a family and Joe clearly communicates that his number one goal as a father is to pass a legacy of faith in Christ to his children. The practical steps to accomplish this goal make up the various chapters in the book and over half the book is just practical resources and material for parents to use with their own children. Nothing earth-shattering in this book, but you won't be unaffected either. Joe White is serious about training young people and serious about grounding them in God's Word - your parenting will be challenged by Joe's commitment to this great cause of being a father.

My wife and i have read this book and tried to apply it to the raising of our five kids. It was a great guide for us and we have bought numerous copies to give to friends. Buy it, read it, apply it, give it away. Great job Joe.

This book is amazing! I've been using it for 7 years now and it is chalked with fantastic relational tips, as well as incredibly practical ways to train your child and give them a firm faith based on the Bible. Very easy to use. Joe White has done all the hard work of creating devotions, and choosing age appropriate passages of the Bible for your children to memorize. Our three year old memorized Psalm 23 in it's entirety, and we were shocked. I never would have even attempted to teach her had it not been for this book! Don't go on without it!

I am now buying several more copies of this book to give away. I was so excited when I finished reading this book that I wanted everyone else I knew to have it too! It is so down-to-earth and practical that I feel like I may actually be able to integrate some of the ideas into our busy lives with our two young sons.

I picked up this book because I've had the pleasure of knowing the author and his family. I've recommended it to every parent I know because it proved to be such a invaluable resource.

Having seen first hand the success that the Whites have had raising thier family, I was dying to see how much advice he could get into a practical form in this book. I was so thrilled to see that Joe was incredibly successful in putting together a priceless tool for parents of kids of all ages.

As a full time youth worker, I talk to tons of parents that have, for the most part, given up on their dream of raising Godly kids in the world that we live in. It is possible, we are called by God to do it, and you can never start too early!

This book gives you practical advice on how to accomplish this seemingly impossible task from a man who has done it! Whether you have teenagers or toddlers, there is practical advice for you that you can begin to put into practice today.

Buy it, today, read it, tomorrow, and be prepared to reap the rewards for years to come!

I had the wonderful opportunity to meet and receive the autograph of James McEachin at the American Booksellers Conference in Chicago. Seeing him in the corridors, I kept wishing I remembered his name--for I did remember his face from many of my favorite TV programs. So, once home, with "signed" bookmark in hand, I ordered the hard copy of Farewell to the Mockingbirds...having no idea what the book was about.

The slice of history called the "Houston Insurrection," as portrayed by James McEachin, will be one that I'll never forget. Each of you owe it to yourself and your families to read this new dramatic, perhaps fictional, but entirely believable novel.

McEachin takes us back to the time of World War I, beginning in 1917, and takes the readers into the midst of the 24th U.S. Infantry Regiment (Colored) and, in particular, K (King) Company. For many of us, we have no idea of the "actuality" of segregation as it was experienced early in our Country's history. Within the confines of the Army structure, where all officers were white, and that allowed them to "act out" their emotions, Farewell to the Mockingbirds presents the story of those referred to at that time as "colored." It presents their reactions, their fears, and their anger at the treatment by those in authority. For me, one of the interesting points of the book was that the entire battalion, and indeed Black men from all over the United States, wanted to participate in the War...they wanted to go overseas and help defend their country. The Secretary of War knew they needed men of all colors and tried to move toward their full use; the "war," however, was also at home, as James McEachin tells the story...and the battle was ongoing!

McClellan is the main character...the First Sergeant who led King Company. Clearly a learned man, his love for the Army and the United States is well demonstrated. Only in the midst of the internal "war" within the Army does he come to make decisions contrary to those given by the commanding officers. And even then you realize that race is not the issue--saving the lives of his men is his primary objective. His commanding officer is white, a Quaker, and a man who clearly does not believe in war--neither the official one nor the one within the Army. Perhaps a stronger officer would have controlled and prevented what happened, but somehow I doubt it.

McClellan was a born leader and he had trained King Company to be soldiers. Instead, they were ordered to a construction post where their only jobs would be to support the white soldiers in their work. Yes, I'm glossing over the specific activities and happenings prior to the Insurrection. It is impossible to take certain acts and dwell on any one of them; you must visit Houston and become one of the Mockingbirds; only then can you weigh and evaluate what happened there.

Oh, and when you're in Houston, you'll meet Jody--a twelve-year-old boy/man who became a soldier in the King Company and later was one of the 13 men hung. Make sure you pay close attention to Jody from his first being "drafted" and finding his way alone to join the Army...you'll want to know him well by the time he stands on the gallows.

The story line, then, is that some part of a battalion of "colored" soldiers rose up against the civilians, the police, and other soldiers, and were later either hung, placed in prison, or dishonorably discharged. This is a part of our history. In Farewell to the Mockingbirds, James McEachin will take you there in an unforgettable, well-researched, and totally plausible narrative of that time.

At first, when I finished, I felt like I was siding for the "underdog," that I would have been the "first female defender," perhaps, that attempted to bring some right into the "mock" trial of the mockingbirds. Then I realized that, no, I was merely expecting that fellow Americans be treated fairly and equally, for indeed the war was there in the United States, no matter what was happening overseas. And I was glad James McEachin had written this book to ensure we understand who really were, and are, the mockingbirds.

This novel commands your attention from beginning to end--buy a copy. You will want to read it again and share it with others!

As we say now about Mark Twain, the future will hear, "another James McEachin". He has written the definitive book on man's inhumanity to man while, paradoxically, presenting a paean to the triumph of the human spirit. McEachin brings to life people to aspire to who have terrible failings and seemingly simple folk with hidden greatness. So many thoughts that have never been expressed and behaviour never before delineated. You will read word combinations you've not seen til now.

Mr. McEachin again reminds me of why he is my favorite author. His powerful words are overshadowed only by the human-ness of his characters. He is a master storyteller.

The actor James McEachin has enjoyed a fine second career as a novelist. This, his second novel, is an incredibly moving book about an unforgettable, yet forgotten, incident in our past. In 1917 the US Army sent a regiment of black soldiers to Houston, Texas. As could have been expected, trouble eventually occurred. Big trouble. A riot between white Houston police and the black soldiers which resulted in the deaths of several people. The result was the largest murder trial in American history, followed by the largest mass execution. This is an emotional book, written in the heat of righteous anger. But, Mr. McEachin never allows his obvious sympathies for the soldiers to descend into maudlin sentimentalism. The soldiers are fully rounded men, often troubled and flawed. Their actions are not made out to be more noble than they were. It is a book that reminds us of how far we have come in America, and how far we have to go. Most highly recommended.

I am a writer. After reading this book, I feel like a fraudcalling myself a writer. James McEachin's writing is that good, justbrilliant. When it comes to men of letters, somewhere, sometime, somehow, some way, James McEachin must be acknowledged and recognized as a national literary treasure or there is no justice in this world.

I thouroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. I also read and studied "The Mother Factor". Both of these books should be used in conjunction with each other for the best results.

This book will help you overcome the career problems instilled in you from the way your father raised you. The first step is to be aware of the things written in your father factor "rule book". The next step is to figure out a way to change these rules to ones that will help you in your career. If you go on denying that the problems encountered in your career have anything to do with the way your father raised you, then you will run into more problems changing the pattern then you would otherwise. The book points out that denial is a way of allowing your father factor rules to creep up on you and sabotage your career. Most of us try to solve our problems by cutting the "branches and stems" instead of the roots, hence allowing our problems to crop up all over the place. By studying this book and following the author's advice however, you will not likely be blind-sided by those unwritten father factor "rules".

This book is written by an extremely knowledgable professional. In general, I tend to be skeptical about self-help books but this one was worth every dime and more. I felt that I was receiving quality phychotherapy, which I could partake of at my own rate of comprehension. While it's true that a portion of its content is clinical--maybe a tad dry--the bulk of it is engaging and illuminating. The advice, checklists and exercises are extremely valuable. If you are open to this man's message, able to think critically about your behavior and its influences, and motivated enough to change by doing the difficult work herein, then this book will help you. For me, it was validation. It was the first, and most important, step toward healing and reform. It took me several months to read it because I re-read a lot of material, using it more as a textbook. Not only did I recognize myself in its pages but also many other types of my coworkers. This book increased my awareness and understanding of why people do the dysfunctional things they do, thus increasing my empathy and sympathy and, inevitably, my productivity and progress.

I am always leery of new ways to blame our parents for our struggles. Fortunately this book didn't fall into that trap. It does offer some interesting insights into how our leadership and management styles at work may be influenced by the styles and preferences of our dads.

It's not all bad news. I can attribute my creative approach to problem solving, the use of humor to put people at ease as well as my reluctance to play office politics to my dad.

In my work coaching executives, this book is helpful in shedding a light on previously misunderstood behaviors. Seeing the source of a lack of power, low self esteem of hesitance in decision-making has been very useful. This helps in my work with men who are dealing with a sense of disconnection with their professional success. Dr Poulter offers some interesting sources of blind spots - those unexplained reasons why we do what we do. This can really help with those "hot-buttons" we all have and a new way to work with them

I wrote an article about this book on my blog at my website about "The Disquiet in Men".

This is a very intense book requiring a lot of self honesty and much self reflection. However, I highly recommend it for any man or woman who experiences a lot of anger and frustration related to career and "father" issues that they just can't resolve.

The Father Factor: How Your Father's Legacy Impacts Your Career comes from a psychologist who maintains the influence of a father is key to understanding choices and roadblocks in a career. Both positive and negative impacts are surveyed, from a passive or absent father's influence to understanding how destructive messages translate into workforce action or inaction. The 'what you can do about it' section is critical for change and a successful career approach.

"Nothing great was ever accomplished without passion." (Freidrich Nietzsche) Proof that this truth applies to parenthood courses through the selections in "A Father's Poems" by Ajit S. Dutta. Honest and intimate, meditative and lighthearted, this collection examines perhaps the deepest and purest of all loves, the love of one's own children. The book's themes relate the author's journey into parenthood: learning from his children and learning to guide them; wanting to protect them while at the same time respecting and nurturing the innocent perfection of youth. Scenes and meditations both frivolous and profound will ring true to any parent, or aunt, or even family neighbor. You'll want two copies of this touching book of poems: one to read and reflect upon, and one to share as a gift.

"Nothing great was ever accomplished without passion." (Freidrich Nietzsche) Proof that this truth applies to parenthood courses through the selections in "A Father's Poems" by Ajit S. Dutta. Honest and intimate, meditative and lighthearted, the 55 poems in this collection examine perhaps the deepest and purest of all loves, the love of one's own children. The book's themes relate the author's journey into parenthood: learning from his children and learning to guide them; wanting to protect them while at the same time respecting and nurturing the innocent perfection of youth. Scenes and reflections both frivolous and profound will ring true to any parent, or aunt, or even family neighbor. I recommend two copies of this wonderful collection of poems: one to read and reflect upon, and one to share as a gift.

This is lush, generous talent. Ajit Dutta moves the reader, whether yound, old or casual. A Father's Poems is a book to treasure, explore, read and read again. The writing is contagious, no one remains indifferent. Instead, be ready for a journey from the imaginary to the riches of daily life, with all its nuances: awe, enchantment and laughter.

This book moves me to tears and laughter and leaves me with the feeling of someone truly understanding those universal familiar feelings of a parent's love. Mr. Dutta expresses those deep and loving emotions we all feel for our children but simply cannot put into words. Mr. Dutta is so masterful in finding those simple phrases that say so much.

Ajit Dutta has created a real jewel of a poetry book in A Father's Poems. No one could read these lovingly poignant poems without being deeply moved. Ajit has captured both the spiritual and temporal nature of childhood - its innocence and experience. His deep love for his daughters shines through the poems as he speaks in beautiful language of how much he has learned from them. Cheerios, rice krispies, and childish impatience are delightfully juxtaposed with powerful personal thoughts on the feelings of humility at the privilege of being part of the miracle of fatherhood. As Ajit says in his author's note, the poems are "highly personal" yet also "universal. It would be hard to pick a favorite, but I think "Dinner Conversation with a Six-year-old" captures the essence of the poems. "...But if God is everywhere, how come I don't see him? Do I really have to finish my chicken. I'm really, really full you know." This lovely little book would make a wonderful Father's Day gift.