Cocoa Books

Crazy as it sounds, it's true. The smell of chocolate and cow manure (at the same time) brings me back to Hershey, Pennsylvania. Scraping the lot, milking cows, stacking hay, and cleaning calf pens, all while the scent of chocolate from the factory permeates the air.

Cocoa Beans has the same effect.

From the very beginning I was reliving the adventure. Hooking out, smoking, drinking, and getting one over on the houseparents. How about "The Man with the Golden Arm?"

So many memories that only one that has experienced the "Home" or "Milt", depending on which generation your from, can relate to.

I grew up in Hershey at the same time Michael was at the Milton Hershey School, and took a trip back in time to be with him during this book. There is more truth to fiction here--the events are based on fact, and the characters, from the youngest to the oldest are totally believable. Those of us going to public school hated the "cows", mostly because, as an all boys school, they competed for the girls! Michael shows they were human and completely normal (but read the book to find out how we knew they were "cows" without any trouble at all!), with the same hopes, dreams, and desires to stir up trouble that we had in high school.
This book took me back to a simpler time, and I enjoyed the trip. If you want to know what it was like to grow up in the idyllic town of Hershey in 1970, get this book!

The author, Micheal Hughes, does an admirable job weaving a tale of triumph over fear and self doubt in a setting where young men are restrained in a system of endless rules and oppression by their charges. Underlying the main character's passage from boy to man is a story of a corporate good deed gone haywire. Hughes does a fine job of intertwining the two into a light and funny story about life at Hershey Home for Boys. Anyone who has unwrapped the foil from a Hershey's Kiss will enjoy unwrapping the wit and humor in this book. I highly recommend it to young and old alike. It will inspire the young and cause those of an older age to reflect on their own passages into adulthood. The author has done a fine job on this, his first novel. I will look forward to his future works.

At 76 yrs m this book impressed me , i have me 4 son's read it. How fortuate they were a family. Many thank's to the Hersey foundation for having a home and school foot the childen. Thank you Mike for bringing this situation into the open :-) Good luck with your great writing.
Patricia Ryan

Some short distance into this book I began to smell chocolate and the sweet smell of sun-dried hay and the smell of manure on my barn shoes as I trudged down into the basement room where we barn boys changed into our house clothes, thus leaving the barn outside where it belonged. Since I graduated from Milton Hershey School in 1939, some thirty-three years before the author and over fifty years ago, his writing has to be very good to bring those long-ago memories back. The adventures the hero, Purenut, went through are parallel to those of many of the kids of my day, although not so intense, generally, or so erotic. We all dreamed, but Purenut does things we may have considered, but were afraid to do. I cheered for Purenut, but I wasn't sure if he should get away with his misdeeds or not. My reactions have surely become more reactionary with time, and the question is, do I wish him well, or cheer on the administration, who have about a thousand Purenuts to contend with. I got this book in mid-morning and reluctantly put it down at supper time -- finished. It is a lively tale with a universal flavor and I sent my copy on to a classmate immediately. If you are a late-teen or older you will agonize with the hero and you will cheer when he wins a skirmish. You won't be bored.

WOW, I loved this book. This is an emotional story that touched me so deeply. What a great read.

The story is told through Christie's eyes. The story begins in August of 1961 and takes place between Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach, Florida. Christie is the youngest of the three O'Kelly sisters, and is 14 years old when she meets the boy of her dreams. His name is Todd, soon to be her step cousin. Her Uncle Jack is marrying Carly, Todd's mother. After falling for Todd she decides to put away her teddy bear, which she takes back out of her closet from time to time for comfort. After four years of dreaming about her future with Todd, she is devastated from a letter to her aunt and uncle revealing that Todd is married.

The story progresses through eight years. Christie comes home to find that Todd had been to her place looking for her. Todd is determined to win Christie back, but Christie wants no part of being hurt and lied to again. Todd offers to be there for her as a friend due to her uncle's illness. She does not believe him and calls her uncle, and learns it is true that he is sick.

They are thrown together time and again due to her uncle's series of medical conditions. Todd is persistent and they become engaged. Then suddenly her uncle dies.

Christie is confused as she thought he was doing better, and Carly's behavior and actions around her are very different, almost as if she feels guilty about something. Christie is determined to find out the truth, as she does not believe her uncle's death was natural. So she begins asking questions, prodding for the truth, but is afraid this will be the end to her relationship with the man of her dreams.

The author mixes romance and a touch of mystery. The plot is intriguing, the characters are believable, and the story has vivid details. The story will tug at your heart and will bring tears to your eyes.

A fascinating read, I could not put this one down--highly recommended,

Armchair Interviews says: A definite 5-star read.

Where mystery meets romance, If Truth Be Told is a poignant and thought-provoking story of Christie and her search for the two things that matter most to her - love and truth. But when the two collide, she has to find her own balance between them and ultimately decide which matters more.

I have to say that I truly loved this book! Ms. Fitzgerald writes the character of Christie so well that I could almost believe she really exists. I cannot recommend this novel highly enough!

In 1961 when Christie O'Kelly was fourteen her beloved Uncle Jack, who serves as her male role model after her dad died, remarried. At the ceremony, Christie and her older sisters meet their new Aunt Carly's son Todd. Christie thinks he is a hunk, but he ignores her. Over the next four years as she trades bobby sox for stockings, Christie finds she still wants Todd until he marries someone else.

In 1973, a divorced Todd realizes Christie is the one for him, but she rejects his advances. When her beloved Uncle Jack becomes ill, she goes to help Aunt Carly nurse him. Todd uses this time to try to re-win the heart he tossed aside when he thought she was too young for him.

This is a fascinating look at a girl becoming a woman as Lynda Fitzgerald takes readers through the major events shaping the life of her likable lead female. Thus the story line feels more like a series of vignettes in the life of Christie rather than a novel. This technique enables the audience to see deeply into what made her the adult she is, but lacks sustained action built from previous events as each occurrence is somewhat a stand alone. Fans of deep character studies of whom and what turned a teenage girl into the woman she is will appreciate Ms. Fitzgerald discerning tale.

Harriet Klausner

Lynda Fitzgerald has reached out and touched my heart with this book. There are parts where I look back and relive those wonderful tender feelings of my first love, my first heartbreak and then cry because of the lost of a father figure. You will too when you read this book. The author has such a way with words that you will find yourself bursting with laughter at Christie's sense of humor then turn around and cry at the heartbreak of losing her favorite uncle to a fatal disease. You will hold your breath when Christie realizes that there may be more to his death and the truth may cause her to lose so very much more. I just love this book.

Lynda Fitzgerald invites fiction readers to step into the life of a young girl and grow as she grows. The author delivers such compelling dialogue the reader feels the emotion with the same depth and conviction as the characters-, love and hate, disappointment and elation, it's all here, in vivid, alluring detail. If Truth Be Told is the perfect modern day mix of Cinderella and 10 Things I Hate About You.

At the tender and impressionable age of 14, Christie O'Kelly attends her uncle's wedding and meets the man of her dreams, Todd. Having endured a life devoid of love, support and kindness with her wicked sisters and uncaring mother, Christie finds solace and sanctuary in her Uncle Jack's home. His new wife Carly is everything her own family was not and so, not surprisingly she spends a great deal of time with them. Trading her teddy bear for the comfort of Todd's love, she is devastated when a letter arrives announcing he has married.

When her uncle falls ill, Todd returns home to help care for him, forcing Christie to deal with her anger, frustration and broken heart face to face. Now divorced and convinced he made the biggest mistake of his life, he tries to win Christie back, but is met with the stern rebuff of a deeply wounded heart.

What follows is a realistic look beyond the surface fluff, into the very soul of the characters as they must overcome their own misgivings, find a way to forgive and move forward with their lives. Chock-full of wit, overflowing with attitude and heart, If Truth Be Told, breathes new life into the coming of age - first love stories that have touched so many readers over the years. Fitzgerald's unique style, three dimensional characters and true-to-life scenarios take the reader on a memorable journey that covers a wide spectrum of emotions-from innocent first love, to jaded heart-break, to self-discovery and forgiveness and ultimately to accept the shortcomings of others, as well as, yourself.

There are so many unexpected twists throughout this novel that bring the reader deeper into the lives and hearts of the characters you can't help but feel each and every ounce of the emotion that obviously flowed so freely from Fitzgerald's pen. It's almost impossible to place a category or label on this story, except to simply say "exceptional!" I recommend "If Truth Be Told" to anyone that enjoys reading!

Happy Reading!
-RJ

The second and updated edition of the Old Fart's Guide To The Macintosh caters to the new senior citizen computer user and the retiree who wants to get a quick handle on the Mac. The basics become as plain as where to buy one, whether to consider a new or used one, and how to turn on/off the machine. Don't expect this to be a slim handbook of quick reference: it's best used on a step-by-step basis for new learners and is packed with the building blocks of computer knowledge.

This book is written by a young man named Aaron Rosenzweig who has a keen understanding of how to explain the essentials of computers in ways that people born before the era of computers can understand.

Macintosh users, of which I am one, have been quite well provided for by helpful manuals (the iMac for Dummies and How to do Everything with your iMac spring to mind). But there's always room for more, if they add something new to our knowledge of these user-friendly and constantly evolving computers.

Well, Aaron Rosenzweig has done just that, in a very thorough, clear and logical way, especially when explaining AppleWorks, which he describes as the greatest single piece of software ever created because it is easy to use and can do so many things.

Aaron's manual assumes no knowledge of computers, and starts from scratch with a comprehensive run-down of what computers are (not just Macs), their software, hardware, viruses and gadgets, such as mice. He then leaps straight into a discussion about Operating Systems, and a thorough exposition of the Macintosh itself. A description of the Internet follows, then AppleWorks, printing, information and storage, software categories, digital hubs, user groups, computer problems, advanced topics and, right up to date, what's new in OS 10.3 (Panther). The book concludes with a description of some useful web sites and a comprehensive glossary.

I would recommend this book-part manual and part commentary-to any Mac user, though I must warn that it's primarily aimed at the US market and to those who are using OS X. As one who is in neither category, I would yet argue that this is a small price to pay for a well-written, comprehensive, easy to read and understand guide. And if it's any consolation, Aaron is prepared to write a specifically Australian version, if he can find a co-author. Any takers?

When categorizing books, it would be easy to say that the technical genera is something that one "has" to read, rather than "gets" to read. There is good reason for that. Technical books are too long, too boring and don't give any perspective. Thankfully for Mac users, there is one glowing exception: Aaron Rosenzweig's Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh.

Now in its second edition, this ultra up-to-date book stands out for its ability to gather and feed a sea of Mac information in a different way-with personality and luster. Although the title may be a put-off to those who don't consider themselves an "old fart," let me assure you, this book is for anyone who wants to learn more about the Mac.

Aaron's keen sense of direction plots a well-defined path through the jungle of computer literacy. Starting right from the beginning, he uses these great analogies to relate confusing digital ideas to everyday life. Whether talking about New York chefs and operating systems or small towns and passwords, the most confusing ideas are brought down to level that can be understood and related to by all.

Although it might sound like this book is geared just to Mac tyros, it provides a wealth of information and background that even seasoned users will appreciate. From typing letters to creating your own internet radio station, the number of plausible solutions to accomplish almost anything on the Mac is impressive. What's taken me over a decade of trial and error to figure out, Aaron has put on the table for anyone to utilize in only minutes. Many other Mac resources, computer classes, and even personal tutors give you the "how," but not the "why." Aaron makes sure the reader understands how to do something by backing up a few steps and explaining the underlying reason for why it needs to be done. This applies an incredible mental adhesive to the information in the book.

The first chapter, "What is a Computer?," starts with the basic idea of a computer, and why people need one. Those of us new to computers, or the Mac, will appreciate this the most. The basic parts of a computer and what they do are explained in this chapter. Fundamental terms such as hardware and software are also defined along with examples. Adjusted users might wish to skip ahead, but this chapter provides an easy first step for those with no prior computer knowledge.

Gradually getting deeper into the Mac, the second chapter is dedicated to operating systems. It's only fitting that this is a unique chapter for a unique OS. It starts by explaining why an OS is a vital part of a computer, and how it directly affects the user. After the basic concept of an OS is established, the chapter segues into the differences of Mac OS 9 and X. An informative synopsis of the NeXT evolution tells how it played a major role in fabricating today's Mac OS. Additionally, the concepts of Mac "system software" and "OS" are differentiated in addition to some tips on when to use Mac OS 9 and "Classic mode."

Chapter three pulls concepts from the first two chapters and uses them to explain why Mac is the superior computing platform. If you're not a Mac fan, this chapter should pull you over from the Dark Side. For the rest, it points out why PCs are substandard computers. After establishing that concept, the different models of both Mac desktops and portables are compared and contrasted. This provides a nice guide for people who want a new Mac, but aren't sure which model serves their needs best. If a new Mac isn't your thing, don't worry. There are also tips for getting a used system, and what to watch out for.

The next chapter gets into working with the Mac through the desktop. Basic concepts such as clicking, drag and drop, windows and the Finder are explained with very helpful screen shots for reference.

Chapter eight is a whopper of a chapter that covers almost everything about using the internet, and then some. Keeping with style, it explains what the internet is, how it works and why it affects you. The chapter covers how to get online, what email is and how to use it, different ways to browse the web, using Sherlock, video conferencing and instant messaging... just to name a few. Each topic is nicely broken down by concept followed up with suggestions of good software to use.

Word processing nowadays may seem much more complicated than punching keys on a typewriter. But with a little help, anyone can reap the benefits of modern word processing. "Typing Letters with AppleWorks" is a whole chapter dedicated to getting the most out of Apple's free productivity software. From setting margins to checking spelling, you'll be whipping out letters in no time.

The final and most in-depth chapter truly adds the icing to the cake. Whereas most of the book up until now has been geared for people new to the Mac, this chapter rips loose and lets comfortable users really get their hands dirty. The chapter goes into many aspects of UNIX, including the terminal, X Window systems and GNU. There's even a section on how to get started with computer programming. If you're the artistic type, don't pass up the "Computer artwork and graphics" section, which goes into 3D and video effects software. If words or melody are your thing, don't feel left out. There's section on desktop publishing and a great music section that includes how to create your own recorded music as well as an internet radio station.

This book is well worth reading and is something to keep around by the Mac for those times when it seems like you can do no right. In addition to Aaron's great voice, I also enjoyed this book for its completeness, accuracy and clarity.

It's Christmas time. A very special time of the year, when family and friends just seem more important. It's a time when you sit back and think about how good life is, and how much you really love the people around you. Your family, your friends, that weird guy who always walks around town wearing the top half of a superman costume, screaming things about the Bible. And most importantly, Christmas time is a time of giving. I'm talking gifts, baby. Some of you may be giving the gift of a Macintosh to a loved one, and that may be the first computer for some of those loved ones. Handing them, perhaps, the greatest gift you could give. A doorway into the information super-highway. The means to express their ideas and creativity in ways other gifts could never provide. The ability to be entertained with music, movies, reading, and more!

Well, if you are giving the gift of a Mac to someone who isn't familiar with Macintosh, or if you know someone who has a Mac, and doesn't really understand how to use the computer effectively, then I have the perfect book for them: "Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh" by Aaron Rosenzweig.

As the book states on the front cover, "A book for those who recognize the word 'computer' but do not know exactly what they can do". It does a good job of that. Aaron Rosenzweig took great care to explain not only how to use the software on the Mac, but also how to use things that seem so trivial to an "advanced user". There is a whole section on how to use a mouse, another just on how to turn the computer on. Also, the author doesn't just tell you how to use these things, he explains them, along with alternatives, and even the history of them. For instance, he explains the differences between a mouse, a trackball, a trackpad, and a tablet. He not only explains the differences, but the advantages and disadvantages to each, along with suggestions on which would be best for what type of person.

Another really nice feature of this book is that it has the definitions of "technical words" throughout the book on the side of the pages that the word is used. And it continues to put those definitions there, so that you don't have to flip back if you forget a word. These side areas also have pictures, for instance, a picture of the "command" key on the keyboard for when he mentions a keyboard command using the "command" key.

The book doesn't stop at the basics. It teaches how to use the Finder, how to change the way your computer behaves with System Preferences, how to save things to disks, (hard drive, CD, DVD-R, etc.) and all the things a person would need to know to use a Mac on a regular basis. There is even a 60-page section on the Internet, including some helpful links (2 Guys was mysteriously missing for some reason). The book even goes on to teach how to use AppleWorks, and all the iLife applications. (iTunes, iPhoto, iChat, iMovie, iDVD)

At the end is an advanced topics "for the curious", that delves in to things like .Mac, UNIX, Computer Artwork, Different Processors, etc.. And there is even an entire section on Panther at the end that discusses the differences between it, and previous versions of OS X.

Throughout the entire book, you can tell that the author really has a love for the Macintosh, and really knows not only how to use a Mac, but also the history of the Mac. He explains why things are the way they are and how it got that way, but does it in a way that doesn't seem like it would be too much information or become boring for a beginner. He also does a very good job of explaining alternatives. He talks about Windows and Linux, and explains why he thinks the Macintosh is the best choice. He talks about the different models Apple offers, and which model would be the right model for what type of person. He talks about software alternatives, and more.

While the book is designed for an older person who is new to computers, I would suggest it for a beginner of any age. It is enjoyable to read and very informative. Even though I know the Mac pretty well, I enjoyed reading it and never felt bored. Aaron Rosenzweig has put together a great book, and is a valuable asset to anyone who wants to "Learn how one computer will unleash your unlimited creative potential".

"Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh" is available for $29.99US from Cocoa Nuts website and I give it 4 out of 5 pants.

-iKen
http://www.2guysamacandawebsite.com

Old Fart's Guide To Internet Searches uses the popular search engine Google as its root, showing older computer users how to understand the World Wide Web and its potentials. From an introduction on its initial invention and how it's evolved to a new case study set of examples which walk users through the basics of making an effective Internet search, this is a highly recommended pick.

This is another of Aaron Rosenzweig's 5-star books. Aaron is an expert researcher and teacher. He has filled his book with loads of good information and advice on searching the Internet.

For more of my comments, see my more comprehensive review in the Washington Apple Pi (Mac users' group) Journal for May/June 2004.

Once again, author and computer wiz Aaron Rosenzweig has come up with THE comprehensive field guide to navigating the wide world of Internet searches. This book leaves absolutely no stone unturned when it comes to detailing the different search engines, tips and techniques for getting the most out of your searches, using the ever-popular Google, discovering NEW search engines and the right key words and phrases to use to get you to your destination with less frustration and wasted time.

For ANYONE who has a computer, this book is a must, and will no doubt become one of your most-used books on your shelf. Keep it right alongside your computer. You will not only need this book, you will be grateful for it! An awesome step-by-step guide for Old Farts, Young Farts and those of us Farts that fall somewhere in between!
MARIE JONES, Reviewer for BookIdeas.com

So you ended up getting your loved ones their fist computer for christmas, and you included a copy of "Old Farts Guide to the Macintosh" in their stocking. Of course they love the computer (it's a Mac, who wouldn't) but they just can't seem to get around on the internet quite as efficiently as they should.

In other words; it's been 2 months, and you're damn sick of getting calls asking where they can find cast and crew credits from the movie "The Big Lebowski", or where to find a picture of a rabbit with a pancake on its head.

That is where the newest book in the "Old Farts Guide" series comes in; "Old Farts Guide to Internet Searches" by Aaron Rosenzwig. Like the books predecessor ("Old Farts Guide to the Macintosh") this book fills a void other books seem to miss. It breaks things down in plain english. No term is mentioned with out a definition on the very same page, and no prior knowledge is assumed.

The book is aimed at the older crowd who are still intimidated by computers, and does an excellent job at explaining things that a lot of us take for granted. I know how hard it is to accomplish this task. I've worked about 5 years in phone tech support, and I have talk more first time computer users through how to use a mouse then I care to count. The way the author conveys these "basic" concepts is extraordinary. I would suggest "Old Farts Guide to Internet Searches" to anyone new to the internet.

"Old Farts Guide to Internet Searches" is available from Cocoa Nuts and is priced at $19.95. For the books ability to explain things in a easy to read manor, and for the giant void this book fills, I give it 5 out of 5 Stars

-iKen
www.2guysamacandawebsite.com

Product Review
From the foreword by Brian Pinkerton to the index at the end, this is a superb book. I have to thank Aaron for writing this Internet guide. If you enjoyed the Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh and also use the Internet, then this is the book that you MUST HAVE! It is very easy reading, and Aaron's sharp sense of direction paves an easy path through the Internet jungle. He provides easy to understand overviews of the Internet, browsers, and search engines. Aaron suggests scanning through the book and then reading it in it's entirety from cover to cover. Although all of the chapters are independent of each other, it would be well worth your while to absorb the information presented in all of the chapters.

First things first, the guide is equally applicable to the Macintosh operating system, Microsoft Windows, and Linux operating systems, and covers not only the most popular browsers (Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape), but also over a half dozen additional browsers. Aaron includes many screenshots of his examples, in order to familiarize the reader with the particular topic that he is covering throughout the book.

The book starts out by describing the Internet, various Internet Service Providers, and different types of Internet connections. A number of search engines are covered, starting with Google and continuing through a "No-Search Search Engine", called "BrainBoost", which by-passes the "key word" concept and allows the user to directly type in a simple question in plain english. Aaron covers simple searches with how to find specific types of information, such as finding friends, financial information, books, recipes, movie listings, acronyms and driving directions, to name a few. Next Aaron covers advanced searching techniques, and how to save your search preferences in Google so that you can easily customize and repeat your individualized options the next time that you search. Last, but not least, Aaron covers various types of Internet hoaxes that crop up from time to time, and includes tips on how to identify and avoid them.

After the main topics section Aaron has compiled a handy list of useful web sites, arranged into helpful popular categories, each with a brief descriptive paragraph, a comprehensive Glossary of computer terms, and an alphabetical Index at the end.

Summary
While the book is designed for an older person who is new to the Internet, I would suggest it for a someone in any age category. The book is enjoyable to read, and it is very informative. All of the technical terms are in plain english, and Aaron has left handy margins on each page for the reader to record notes. Even though I have used the Internet for many years myself, I enjoyed reading this book and I never felt bored with it. Aaron has put together a great book, and it is a valuable asset to anyone who wants to learn more secrets on how to use the Internet.

One of my biggest pleasures with this book is both the presence of an index and plenty of cross-referencing. Another really nice feature of this book is that it explains the definitions of many technical words throughout the book along the side of the pages where the word is used. These side areas also have pictures, for instance a picture of the browser window with arrows pointing to the appropriate place corresponding to the text description.

I enjoyed the book's clear sense of order, thoroughness, and accuracy. I highly recommend this book not only to us Old Fart's, but to any user, new or old, who is using the Internet. This very powerful book is invaluable to read and you are sure to keep it nearby your computer whenever you use the Internet. I look forward to more books in Aaron's "Old Fart's Guide" series. The "Old Fart's Guide to Internet Searches" is available for $19.95 from the Cocoa Nuts web site and I would rate it 5 out of 5 farts(the good kind).

I have three different books for objective C programming, which by the way are very hard to find. This book, which was published just recently, is the best objective c book I have read yet.

Objective C is a great language for all platforms, not just the Mac OS, and this book leads you to it. It gives you both Cocoa and standard C information. If you are interested in learning Objective C, this is the book for you! It's inexpensive, small concise and packed with information.

Probably the best book to read to learn Objective-C, if Apple's PDF on the language is not enough for you. Covers Objective-C both from Cocoa and non-Cocoa perspectives. Try Apple's PDF first, and if it's not enough to let you jump into one of the Cocoa programming books (which all mostly assume knowledge of C and Objective-C), then this book is recommended.

Andrew Duncan's Objective-C Pocket Reference is just the book that budding Cocoa programmers should have on their desk. It is well written, well indexed, and succinct enough to read in an evening if desired.

After reading it cover to cover, I think this will be a valuable resource for looking up any Objective-C related questions I have.

Note, you should have an understanding of C before trying to read this book. Also - it will probably make more sense to you if you already have some experience with Cocoa. This is a quick reference - probably not the best way to learn the language. However, the book contains a list at the end which recommends other books and websites which are more thorough.

I'd say it's well worth the cost.

O'Reilly's OBJECTIVE-C POCKET REFERENCE follows in its line of slim booklets designed for quick reference while at the computer. I found it a very helpful book.

While titled "a pocket reference", the book is not something that should be put on the shelf right away and merely consulted from time to time. For a beginning Objective-C programmer, reading the book straight-through can be very enlightening. The basics of Obj-C are easy to grasp, and an Obj-C beginner can immediately start constructing solid applications without knowing about categories, protocols, or root objects. But O'Reilly's book is the best place to start becoming familiar with these obscure topics that might just help one solve a particularly tricky problem.

I have only a few complaints about the book. One is that it talks about the #import preprocessor directive, but nowhere does it mention the advantages of using #ifndef guards. Another problem is that in some parts it is Cocoa-specific; I would have preferred that it concentrate on the OpenStep standard in general so that other OpenStep implementations might not be left out (but the book does occasionally mention GNUstep, which is great).

O'Reilly proves itself the best publisher for developers again with this book, and any Objective-C programmer should invest in it.

I am so pleased to have heard from many children and parents who have enjoyed reading CocoaIce together. I hope that some of the parents and teachers who have enjoyed this book, will also enjoy reading BULLOUGH'S POND, a book for grownups published under my childhood name, Diana Muir.

Cocoa Ice shows me two different worlds which is why I really like it. I live in Maine and have seen ice ponds and ice being harvested. It seems silly to us in Maine that people would pay money for ice because it is everywhere in the winter, but when you go someplace hot and tropical you realize the ice is something good. I like having stories that are about girls, and different places and times. Cocoa Ice makes me smile and want hot chocolate.

This book shows two sides of the historical journey of chocolate from producer to market -- but really it is the personal story of two little girls from two cultures who both enjoy chocolate (what little girl doesn't?). The illustrations are wonderfully evocative. We have to read this book again and again to our 4-year-old for the story, and to our 7-year-old "because it has facts in it." I am ordering extra copies to give for birthday presents for all the upcoming 5-year-old parties.

I had to have this book for a college "Intro to Biology" and it was great. The book has a lot of information that I needed for class. It was easy to read, which was really great since I had a full class load. There are also really good diagrams and pictures to illustrate the examples and concepts from the book.

"Basic Concepts in Biology" touches the basic definitions of the scientific study of life; from the origin and evolution of life, to the biosphere, ecosystems, life energy and life organization, cells-prokaryotics/eukaryotics, DNA, proteins, photosynthesis, human genetics, bacterias, viruses, protistans, fungi, plants, animals, the so controversial issue of global warming, and many other very interesting topics. The topics are illustrated with beautiful and colorful pictures. In the back of the book there is a CD. If you are a student, please don't ignore it. The CD will help you to study in an easy and simple way. It is excellent...

Reviewed by April Sullivan for Reader Views (12/07)

"Enlightened Chocolate" is an elegantly-designed cookbook focused on recipes using dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder. Why these two ingredients? The Introduction explains the reasoning, the history, and the health benefits of these ingredients. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants. Saulsbury goes on to says that good chocolate is like fine wine, and an informed choice on what ingredients to choose is provided in the beginning pages.

Once you have the best ingredients in stock, it is time to start cooking. The cookbook provides over 200 recipes that are low in fat and calories. There are recipes for drinks, cookies, candies, cakes, pies, soufflés, and even main dishes. All include dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder. I tested the Mocha-Chip Crispy Rice Bars and the Spiced Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. Both were delicious and easy to make. I can't wait to try the pudding, the cheesecake, the muffins, and more.

All chocoholics out there will love this book! As a chocoholic, I appreciate the seriousness Saulsbury gives to the subject of chocolate. She provides good information upfront and great recipes in the book. Nice color photos on the first two pages made me want to drool all over the pages. I have at least two or three other chocolate cookbooks on my shelf. But I think I will get rid of them. "Enlightened Chocolate" is all I need. It provides the same recipes and more, but with better chocolate and a low-fat approach.

I went on to Amazon looking for exactly such a book as this. I've read article after article on the health benefits of chocolate and cocoa, but rarely any good health-inspired recipes (with the exception of the ubiquitous hot cocoa made with skim milk).

Then I stumbled across Enlightened Chocolate. It's a goldmine. This is a brilliant book, and I do not use that description often. The author has created a modern classic here: comprehensive (yet clear and concise) explanation of the science news on the healthfulness of dark chocolate and cocoa (I should add an incredible, detailed bibliography on the subject, too), and stellar recipes that reflect both classic and modern tastes.

The chapter on using chocolate and cocoa in savory dishes is groundbreaking. I have only seen such attempts by the most skilled of chefs (think Iron Chef), but here are fresh interpretation that anyone can make with ease. I made the vegetarian chickpeas with spinach and Indian spices, which also has a bit of cocoa powder to enrich the flavors. Outstanding! And so simple to make. The chocolate yogurt (so simple: cocoa powder and honey mixed into plain yogurt, then topped with fresh berries) is now one of my regular breakfasts--such a light a healthy, not to mention incredibly delicious way to get so many healthful ingredients into a simple-to-make breakfast. And the baking--well, lets just say that the double chocolate cookies and chocolate cheesecake are beyond compare; taste anything but "light" and are rich with chocolate flavor.

The book has meticulous instructions that are invaluable to any level of home cook. The photographs that begin the book are gorgeous, and will tempt everyone in to baking and cooking up a storm. If you follow her directions exactly, you will have success. I love this book.

This is by far the best chocolate book I've come across in years. Cutting edge and delectable in every way. A winner in every way!

Quoting from the back cover:

"Stay as a welcome guest of The Inn at Cocoa Beach, and if you have the nerve - request room 107. Maybe you'll be one of the lucky ones who check in and check out without experiencing anything beyond a periodic ice-cold breath of air caressing the back of your neck, or a feeling someone is watching you, or a nagging sensation defined only by your soul - something is not right about the room. Or maybe you'll be one of the unlucky few to have all your senses explode as you discover 107's secret. These guests check in but never check out - at least not through the front desk."

The Inn is classic mystery genre, well written and well edited. Ron Starr is a good writer with an active imagination who writes mysteries which take place in and around Florida. Ron's other novels include Welcome of the Ahwahnee, Mounds and Retribution, all of which I have read and reviewed in the past. If you enjoy fast-paced, intriguing mysteries, you'll probably enjoy this novel.

Kaye Trout
Reviewer

I enjoyed reading this book very much. It kept my attention through the entire story. I felt actually I was there and part of the story.

This is a Marvelously written, and thought-up story, it conbines Education, and Entertainment, into a wonderful story, that you will want to read over, and over, again!! In this Carmen Sandiego Mystery, young detectives, Maya, and Ben embark, on a fabalous journey, trying to stop The Elusive Thief, Carmen Sandiego, from stealing cocoa, from specific points in time, without cocoa, there would be no chocolate in the world, and that would be a diaster for chocolate-lovers!!! Maya, and Ben are the first ones to take The Newly, Designed, ACME Chronoskimmer, out, for a spin, When The Chief hears about the crime!! Maya, and Ben's journey takes them from meeting The Maya, Indians, to the future Moon Dome!!! Meeting, intresting characters along the way!! This story is Excellent, and I highly suggest it to any Carmen Sandiego Fan!!!