Maxim Books

At a time when so many on Wall Street hang on his every word, this compendium of Alan Greenspan quotations is just what is needed. Reading a collection of quotes -- along with the author's excellent analysis -- gives you a better understanding of Greenspan's theories. The author does an excellent job of organizing the Chairman's thoughts into concise chapters with brief commentary. I found the book an easy read for a topic that can be hard to comprehend.

I know so little about the world of finance and economics and I'm so terrified by my ignorance, I Quicken© what my kids spend their allowances on. So, a book on Alan Greenspan's cryptic ruminations on economic theory wasn't exactly at the top of my "must read" list. But Larry Kahaner has performed a minor miracle here. Not only does the Sphinx-like Greenspan speak in this book -- he also makes a lot of sense. Kahaner does an excellent job of putting Greenspan's words of wisdom into an understandable context with clear, supple, and lively explanations. Now I know why Greenspan has been so influential -he works from a core of bedrock beliefs and strategies that guide his decisions no matter what the economy is doing. This book is a great example of how to make the obtuse and obscure understandable for the common reader. It's also a terrific introduction to basic economic principles because Kahaner does such a good job of showing how Greenspan's macro theories can be easily translated into the micro of your own financial life. A surprisingly good read.

Morbid curiosity drove me to open this book. I suppose I expected to find some sort of arch-conservative, Reaganite-Republican, Ayn-Randian, ultra-capitalist dogmatist. But the figure that actually emerges is that of a dedicated, technical-minded civil servant.

The book contains selections from different Greenspan speeches given over the years. Most selections are prefixed with some scene-setting remarks by the author, Kahaner. The book doesn't have much structure to it -- the chapters are in alphabetical order (e.g., "Banks", "Capitalism", "Derivatives", etc). So you can skip back and forth without losing anything.

While Greenspan's speaking style is usually clear, he does have a roundabout way of talking. For example: "I don't want to suggest we're about to do anything at this stage, but I would confirm we are obviously going to do a great deal of thinking about the whole process." Somewhere else, he jokes: "I've been able to string more words into fewer ideas than anybody I know, and I'm continuing to do that."

Nonetheless, the reader can pick up most of Greenspan's opinions without too much trouble. For example: (a)Debt - bad. (b)Inflation - very, very bad. (c)Capitalism - hurray! His view on income distribution: "No society succeeds unless virtually all of its participants believe that it's fair and gives people opportunities." That one sounded all right to me, but his views on labor strike me as downright creepy; for example: "It should always be remembered that in economies where dismissing a worker is expensive, hiring one will also be perceived to be expensive."

On a subject of current political concern, the privatization of Social Security (or "modernization" is what they're calling it now, I think), Greenspan argues against it for workers already contributing to the system: "Investing Social Security assets in equities is largely a zero sum game." But he also suggests that allowing younger workers the option to move to a semi-privatized plan might be practical.

Greenspan maintains a pretty aloof tone in most of his speeches. For example, while touring the economically devastated region of South Central Los Angeles, he dryly observes, "We regulators are swamped with all sorts of data... It's important to put a face on the numbers." On the matter of dealing with others: "...beyond the personal sense of satisfaction, having a reputation for fair dealing is a profoundly practical virtue. We call it 'good will' in business and add it to our balance sheets."

A section near the end of the book contains remarks others have made about Greenspan. One economist sums it up best: "When Greenspan dies his headstone could read: 'I am guardedly optimistic about the next world, but remain cognizant of the downside risk.'"

I read this book because this guy seems to be one of the most important men in the world. I wanted to understand him by seeing what he had to say, rather what someone else said about him. The book is organized very well, and the writer, Larry Kahaner, did an excellent job overall. If you're interested in business and the stock market, I'd say this is a must read. Also, Kahaner's other books are also very good. This is an author I follow.

The core of this book is a series of quotations by Dr. Alan Greenspan, chairman of the Federal Reserve (1987 - ) on the subjects of banks, capitalism, competition, debt and deficits, derivatives, education, employment, the Federal Reserve, forecasting, the gap between rich and poor, globalization, gold, housing, humor, inflation, the new economy, politics, reputation, risk, small business, Social Security and Medicare, the stock market, technology, and trade. The quotations are simplified into their key principles in brief commentaries by the author, Mr. Kahaner. The author has also provided a brief biographical sketch of Dr. Greenspan as well as comments by others about Dr. Greenspan. (For trivia buffs: Did you know he was once married to the painter, Joan Mitchell?)

Alan Greenspan is a classic conservative, monetarist economist. His views fit nicely into that category. He also has a lively wit, which is normally well hidden behind the facade of "non-speak" that he specializes in. The author has considerately included some of Dr. Greenspan's most famous bon mots. His convoluted sentences are more famous across the planet, and deliberately so.

For when Alan Greenspan really speaks, as he did about "irrational exuberance" in the stock market a few years ago, the ground moves beneath the financial markets. So he has to be careful.

Care is also required because of politics. The Federal Reserve is supposed to be an independent body that is not part of the political process. Yet Congress can change its powers very easily. So the best approach is to hide in the shadows, as much as any 800 pound gorilla can.

This strategy is complicated by the fact that the chairman has to make many speeches, and has many required reports to Congress each year. So, Chairman Greenspan has to utter a lot of words while saying very little.

Perhaps the truest statement in the book was the quote about him pointing out that people on both sides of any issue quote Alan Greenspan as supporting their position. And that's the brilliance of these obscure sayings.

The only times he can be open is when he is in front of a group that doesn't matter. For example, he can praise the small community banks to the skies, because they are so small. Bring up Citigroup, and he has to move off in other directions.

The book that still needs to be written about Alan Greenspan is his art of saying much while communicating little. Now, that would be a book!

My favorite slant on Alan Greenspan was missing from this book. The financial news channel, CNBC, has developed a way to anticipate which way interest rates will go. It depends on the size of Greenspan's brief case when he goes into a Fed meeting. When it is thick, rates change. When it is thin, nothing happens. With a between-sized case, the bias between tightening or not may shift. Interstingly, they are often correct with this approach. And this story shows perfectly how much scrutiny he is under.

The man has done a fabulous job of running the Federal Reserve. We should not forget that in our focus here on his words. This is an area where actions speak louder than words, as they often do.

Now that we are off the gold standard, controlling the money supply is more important than ever because there is no limit on the potential to create inflation. As a former economic forecaster, Greenspan knows that economic forecasts are more often wrong than right. So you have to be vigilant and aggressive in anticipating problems. You will get a good sense of that perspective from this book. It will bring all of those words into a coherent sense of Greenspan's philosophy for you.

After you have finished absorbing these very long sentences, I encourage you to think about when in your life it is good to be balanced in your communications in order to moderate the response. Clarity is not always a virtue. But do be clear whenever it is important to get the point across. Follow Hemingway then. When obscurity helps, follow Greenspan.

May you aggressively pursue the opportunities in front of you, but in a balanced way that exercises extreme caution about the risks involved. In considering your choices, you should pause to consider how forecasting may not always be correct. Naturally, you will want to give full weight to the concerns that your hear as well. (This is my attempt at a Greenspanism, for demonstration purposes.)

Thank you Eileen for this wonderful book. The expressions were very vivid and eye-opening and the photos captured the essence of the expressions given. Keep the spirit flowing dear sister.

Based on a deliciously simple concept, Ms. Williams Sabry's "Wishes in Black & White" serves as a compelling repository of real human insight. This thought-provoking gem makes a wonderfully appropriate gift for any and all driven to promote unity in our world today.

Two words that describe both the author and her extraordinary book. I had the privilege of meeting Eileen two years ago while she was working on Wishes in Black & White. Eileen's determination to understand race relations in this country and to help each of us understand those thoughts and feelings are aptly conveyed in this book. This is one of the most important books you will ever read! Thank you, Eileen, for being a stakeholder in the well being of America.

Based on a deliciously simple concept, Ms. Williams Sabry's "Wishes in Black & White" serves as a compelling repository of real human insight. This thought-provoking gem makes a wonderfully appropriate gift for any and all driven to promote unity in our world today.

Avoiding the extreme views that tend to exacerbate racial problems in the U.S., Ms. Williams Sabry has gone to the middle with her question about what it would take to end racism. The respondents views and thoughts show that the gap CAN be bridged and even hints at how it can be done. The photograpy is absolutely masterful in bringing out the character and humanity of each individual.

The author is to be congratulated on both the idea and its implementation in the pages of this book.

When I was a college student in the early 60's I thought it rather odd that one of the required readings for a management class was the book "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu.
I had just served a two year enlistment in the U.S. Army (most of it at school) and thought I was done with military topics.
I soon learned why that book was studied in management classes and is considered a classic study of competition and conflict in general.
The book by Ralph Puckett (Col. USA Ret) "Words for Warriors" like "The Art of War" is not just for military leaders.
Executives, managers and would be managers will find it an invaluable asset in learning how to lead. Whether it is leading a corporate board or a shift crew at a fast food restaurant, the reader will find topics relevant to the situation.
Col. Puckett is a professional soldier, a distinguished graduate of the United States Military Academy. He spent virtually his entire career leading troops in peace and war. He recounts many of his personal experiences, as well as those of other military professionals, and how each relates to the end product of "getting the job done." Sections such as training, taking care of soldiers (employees), personal life, strategy and goals are broken down into easy to read and understand incidents. The book is an easy read, and is clear and concise. In addition to being a very interesting and informative book, I would also recommend it as a reference book to be consulted often by anyone who wants to be a leader that "gets the job done."

Words for Warriors is a delight to anyone interested in why we professionals do what we do. One reviewer called Puckett's book "inspirational reading for future generals," but it is not. This is not the sort of book which paints dry generalities for ROTC and ACSC students, nor is it an autobiography. Rather, it is a well-edited narrative of Ralph Puckett's real-life encounters with the military and political world. It places the reader into the You-Are-There. This is hands-on stuff.
Let's get right to the action. On 25 November 1950, the Chinese Army had just entered the Korean War. First Lieutenant Ralph Puckett was there commanding the 8th Army Ranger Company, a unit composed of only 47 U.S. soldiers and 9 South Korean KATUSA nationals. During the evening of 25 November and early morning of 26 November, Puckett's Rangers fought off 5 head-on assaults of over 500 Chinese in hand-to-hand bayonet fighting and bugle led-charges which continued through the night. Chinese army losses were appalling. When, owing only to lack of artillery support, the Company was overrun by 6th charge, Puckett was severely wounded and against his protests was finally dragged to safety by his NCOs. By the next morning, only 26 Rangers were left standing. For their actions, his two NCOs were awarded the Silver Star, and Lieutenant Ralph Puckett himself was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.
Here's the lesson from Words for Warriors. Puckett knew from the beginning that an officer's first responsibility is to his soldiers, and he must surround himself with talent. I can't tell you how many times I have seen that rule violated by officers whose first responsibility was to the protecting of their own careers. To wit, the sad, sad case of the recent prisoner humiliation and torture scenes at the Iraqi Abu Ghraib prison was not, in the words of politicians, the isolated act "of a few bad apples." To the contrary, it was a clear case of officers' abandonment of duty. This scandal would never have happened if the superior officers had followed Puckett's examples.
Puckett is decidedly neutral in passing out both praise and criticism. While he not hesitant to praise past and present generals, privates, and politicians who have done their duties well, he is also not afraid to point out where generals, privates, and politicians have screwed up. What's more, he's not afraid to list them by name, current leaders included.
Words for Warriors is a collection of 85 short thought-pieces, anecdotes, humor, and combat narratives. It is well-edited into sections, but any one chapter can be read as a stand-alone piece, and each story has its own lesson. And I'm forever grateful that Puckett has included an Index, so anyone can do a quick research on topics anywhere from Agincourt to Apaches to Afghanistan. (Puckett is also well-versed on the Near East.)
Words for Warriors is well-researched and footnoted, for Puckett can cite Chaucer as well as Cheney. He offers chapters which look realistically at the past and equally as well guarded to the future of the U.S. military and our country.
Oh -- and did I mention Ralph Puckett was awarded a second Distinguished Service Cross in Vietnam? To find out more about that one, read the book.

Frederick Malmstrom, Ph.D.
U.S. Air Force Academy

Solid story-telling combined with hard-earned wisdom makes this one of the best books on leadership that I have ever read. Bursting with the guidance of great leaders throughout history, this effortless read will make a difference in the business world and with parents training adolescents with life skills. It contains the crucial elements of leadership success and the tools to inspire others to achieve superior results.

Col. (Ret.) Puckett is a superb communicator, and delivers delivers the hard-earned wisdom attained from his many years leading Rangers in preparation for battle in Korea and in the jungles of Vietnam. In 1950, fresh out of West Point, Lt. Puckett led the 47 men of the 8th Ranger Company ahead of the 25th Infantry Division, and repelled 5 assaults by much larger Chinese forces. Wounded severely in the battle, Puckett didn't order his men to pull back until the 6th assault. Too injured to move, Puckett stayed behind to fight. Later, two of his Rangers returned to drag him back to safety. After Korea, Puckett commanded the Mountain Ranger Division and organized a school for Columbia's Rangers."*

He received a Distinguished Service Cross for the action in Korea and a second in the Republic of Vietnam. Before he retired in 1971, Puckett was recognized as on the nation's most decorated soldiers, with 2 Silver Stars, 3 Legions of Merit, 2 Bronze Stars, the Commendation Medal, 10 Air Medals, 5 Purple Hearts, the Distinguished Graduate Award from West Point, and the infantry's Doughboy Award (joining the ranks of eminent leaders such as Gen. Colin Powell, Gen. Matthew Ridgway, LTG Hal Moore and H. Ross Perot).

As one who has survived brutal engagements and has seen the precepts of the great military leaders put to the test, Col. Puckett's zeal for building great leaders comes through on every page. In our family's consumer product business, this book would have really helped me in my early years to lead my 100-plus `troops' successfully.

WFW centers on the training of the Unit Leader, the most critical management position in any organization; if he fails, the entire organization fails. Managers of all fields will benefit from this inspiring collection of essays, and the focus on key subject areas (such as Command and Staff, Unit Training, Personal Development, and The Goal).

Col. Puckett's conversational tone will infect you with his passion for making subordinate officers strong and successful ... and give you an immersive experience of leadership principles in action. His personal story blended with the advice of military greats like Alexander, Napoleon and Eisenhower make the pages come to life and will remind you why Col. Puckett has received many of the highest leadership awards the Army bestows.

For the last 10 years, he has served as Honorary Colonel of the 75th Ranger Regiment - coaching Rangers in training and on the field in Afghanistan and Iraq. Col. Richard Clarke, commander of the 75th Ranger Regiment, says of Ralph Puckett: "No other Ranger in the history of the Rangers has influenced as many Soldiers as he has."

Words for Warriors will stay with me as an inspiration and a reference for years to come. In the words of famed Lieutenant General Harold G. Moore, this is "the absolute best book on military leadership that I have ever read."

"Words for Warriors" is a jewel. It is instructive, entertaining, inspirational and full of wisdom. Colonel Ralph Puckett is writing about what he knows and all readers will recognize the great value of this book.

Charles Y. Massey

This is a great warrior's paean to his beloved United States Army, unmistakably demonstrated as every time he refers to a Soldier or Infantryman, he capitalizes the words. Words for Warriors, a disgorging of many pieces of practical professional advice and criticism or questioning where it is warranted, is written in clear, concise, educated but understandable prose. A Distinguished Graduate of West Point, with two Distinguished Service Crosses, two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars and five Purple Hearts, Puckett speaks with the authority of a combat legend. My background is Air Force, but I find his words universal in scope and application.

I purchased this book at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. and have relished the quotes and tidbits from Lincoln's life. Lincoln's attitude on everything from the importance of study, communication, focus, diligence, hard work, compassion, & justice ought to be read, remembered, and practiced. I marked many of the pages from this book and will refer to it frequently!

There have been a small number of books published which attempt to collect in dictionary form the more noted words and remarks of Abraham Lincoln. Archer H. Shaw did "The Lincoln Encyclopedia" in 1950; Caroline Thomas Harnsberger collected "The Lincoln Treasury" in 1950; Ralph B. Winn wrote "A Concise Lincoln Dictionary" in 1959; Fred A. Kerner assembled "A Treasury of Lincoln Quotations" in 1965, reprinted in 1996; and Gabor S. Boritt published "Of the People, By the People, For the People" in 1996.

All of those volumes are most helpful in locating a Lincoln quotation, and Don E. and Virginia Fehrenbacher have compiled "The Recollected Words of Abraham Lincoln" (1996). Of course, this latter study selects the more important spoken words of Lincoln as recalled by listeners who heard them.

However, Gene Griessman has put together an entirely different publication. Although it often quotes Lincoln, the theme is actually to inspire and motivate its readers to make an attempt to imitate the immortal Sixteenth President. In this, Prof. Griessman has done a superb job. His book is outstanding. Furthermore, he has identified the sources for the quotes utilized in each small chapter. All fifty-two units are named after one of Lincoln's noteworthy traits, such as "Determination," "Courage," "Honesty," etc. Not only does Griessman give us Lincoln quotes, but he also weaves each one into a little jewel of an essay on that particular subject. If a reader peruses a chapter a week, he or she will have a year's worth of inspiration.

In addition, this small volume contains "Biographical Notes" on the main figures cited and also a Bibliography of the sources quoted. Dr. Griessman has utilized his background in speaking and teaching the fine art of motivation to write this particular book. He also impersonates Abraham Lincoln for large audiences and has authored numerous books and articles.

Wayne C. Temple, Illinois State Archives

It's clear to the readers of this book that Lincolns difficult time in his early years provided him with his remarkable attitude to forge the ideas in this book. His thinking is clear and relevant and timely. It is helpful for the reader to keep in mind Lincoln probably refered to these pages many times throughout his life to remind himself of the correct choices to make. I think this book belongs in everyones library!

Although it often quotes Lincoln, the theme is actually to inspire and motivate its readers to make an attempt to imitate the immortal Sixteenth President. In this, Prof. Griessman has done a superb job. His book is outstanding. Furthermore, he has identified the sources for the quotes utilized in each small chapter. All fifty-two units are named after one of Lincoln's noteworthy traits, such as "Determination," "Courage," "Honesty," etc. Not only does Griessman give us Lincoln quotes, but he also weaves each one into a little jewel of an essay on that particular subject. If a reader peruses a chapter a week, he or she will have a year's worth of inspiration.

In addition, this small volume contains "Biographical Notes" on the main figures cited and also a Bibliography of the sources quoted. Dr. Griessman has utilized his background in speaking and teaching the fine art of motivation to write this particular book. He also impersonates Abraham Lincoln for large audiences and has authored numerous books and articles.

In this entire treatise, this reviewer noted only one very minor error. On page 128, it is set down that Thomas Lincoln was born in either 1776 or 1778. There certainly is no doubt about the date of Thomas's natal day. Abraham Lincoln wrote down in his Father's own Bible the statement that Thomas was born January 6, 1778. (See Basler, Ed., "The Collected Works", II, 94. This fact is most difficult to discover since the index to "The Collected Works" does not carry this reference under the title "Bibles.")

Wayne C. Temple, Illinois State Archives

Heard the taped version of Gene Griessman's THE WORDS
LINCOLN LIVED BY . . . this is a short but moving
compilation of quotations, followed by insightful commentary
that provides historical context.

In some respects, I wish I had read this . . . there was
much that I wish I could have revisited . . . as it was, I
kept pulling off the side of the road to jot down such
items as the following (so as to be able to share it):

[on diligence] "Half finished work generally proves to be
work lost." No other principle comes closer to accounting
for success than diligence.

[on tenacity] "I expect to maintain this contest until
successful or until I die or am conquered or until my term
expires or until Congress or the country removes me." Lincoln
believed that sticking to a decision once made would
strengthen the individual.

[on conviction] "The world shall know that I will keep my
word to friends and enemies come what will."

[on friendship] "The better part of one's life comes out of
friendships." Lincoln knew how to make and keep them.
He enjoyed companionship and knew how to attract
people.

This makes a delightful gift for every dog lover on your holiday list. It's also a much better host/hostess bring-along than a bottle of wine, for it lasts much longer, providing enjoyment each time the reader opens it. Dogs in art and clever quotes are superbly matched by the editors!

This book is a jewell. My husband and I keep in on our table and read from it every day. The quotes inspire us for the entire day. Each one is endowed with great wisdom and humor. The art is exquisite. Shari Thompson has accompished an amazing body of work. Her research and choices have produced a rich and beautiful little book.

I have just received the six new copies of The Artful Dog which I intend to give to all the dog-people on my list, (and some cat-lovers, too). Shari Thompson has discovered a splendid canine collection in the MM of A and matched them to an assortment of most appropriate quotations from a wide range of dog-lovers - St. Bernard (the human) to Ogden Nash. It is a visual and verbal delight.

This beautiful little book, which I received as a gift, is pure joy with it's delightful reproductions of paintings and photographs of dogs of all types from New York's Metropolitan Museum. Each work of art is accompanied by an enchanting quote or short poem that miraculously reflects the art...how did the author ever find these? Dog lovers and art lovers alike will be totally charmed, as I am. It was a great gift.

A great gift for the dog lover on your list. Great art, great quotes. An excellent coffee table book. Easy to pick up, dip into and put down. An appropriate gift for most occassions.

Monica Sheehan is a master at making light of the heaviness in our world today in her book Be Happy. The simple yet powerful messages, coupled with fanciful artwork, make you smile, laugh and ponder at throwing away your day to day troubles. Perfect for the overworked business person, the depressed lover, the teacher with 30 unruly second graders, the mother who has lost her child. I am one of those I just described and smiled and smiled through the pages then ended up buying more copies to send to friends. I highly recommend this book for yourself and your friends.

Be Happy is a marvelous little book filled with "Darts to the Heart" ideas. Nothing to figure out, or process, just Truths presented in a whimsical fashion. This book is certain to put a smile on your face and a lightness in your heart.

I've never written a review on Amazon before but just had to for this great book. I recently had a friend pass away, and I have picked this book up every now and then since, not to take the sadness away but to remember what is important in life. The author is witty, irreverent, very smart, and not in the least bit sappy. And the simple line drawings beautifully communicate the messages in her writing. Can't wait for her next few books to come out too! Until then, I am ordering 15 of these as the perfect holiday gift for friends and family.

This author's illustrations are reminiscent of J.J. Sempe's. With just a few squiggles, she captures the beauty, loneliness, melancholy, and exhilaration of life. I highly recommend BE HAPPY as a gift for just about anyone or any occasion. It is also a great little book to have for oneself, whenever inspiration is needed.

I love this book! I purchased several for birthday and mothers day gifts, and the recipients all loved them too. The author has very inspiring, funny and unique illustrations (and some great "one-liners"). I pick the book up every few days and look at my favorites.... they are great!

I really enjoy Beth Moores teaching to begin with but I had bought this book a few years back and loaned it out. Forgetting I had done this I bought it for a second time and I enjoy more now than then.

This is the best devotional I have ever done. Beth Moore Really digs into scripture. Along with her personal input and encouragement, I highly recommend this bible study. This is the 2nd devotional of Beth Moore that I have done and will do many more to come. If you want to grow in your relationship with God, this is the devotional to get.

What a beautiful journal. I'm looking forward to starting this journal along with a dear friend of mine.

Once again, another excellent resource from Beth Moore! I purchased these books for our Bible Study Group to use at home between classes. Everyone loves them! They are thought-provoking and contain very insightful kick-off questions that cause the reader to think and pen their own thoughts. Each day's devotion wonderfully ends with a one-page section entitled "Respond with Prayer" where you journal a personal prayer to God based on that day's devotional. I cannot recommend this enough as an awesome devotional journal!

This Journal is a wonderful complement to the book. It has been very helpful in a applying what she talks about in the book into daily life.

This is a wonderful collection of poems, musings and essays all revolving around the theme of Nature. You can pick it up anytime, thumb through it, quote it on cards to friends or just when you need some inspiration in this techno existence we're living in. Add it your shelf, why not, it can only do your mind and spirit some good.

Lynne Bachleda calls upon some of my favorite writers and poets (Jeanette Winterson, e.e.cummings, Annie Dillard, Thomas Merton) in order to bring us this marvelous refreshment for the soul. Read all in one sitting, or in bits - it will remind you of how glad you are to be simply alive.

Some of us see the hand of the Devine most clearly in our appreciation of the transcendent beauty of the universe, and in particular that of our home planet. Some of us are in great spiritual pain because what we see happening to the environment and the web of life.

"Blue Mountain" with its wide range of poetry, proverbs, excerpts,and brief essays celebrating the earth was easily the best collection of its kind recently read. It was healing medicine for environmental melancholia and despair. Even though it does nothing to change the daily headlines, the renewal of spirit was a spring tonic for the soul.

Reading it again can even ignite a smoldering ember of hope.

This is a book to take with you on trips, a book to keep by your bedside, to read aloud to friends, or to hold close just for the private joy it brings you. Bachleda's love for the natural world and her wise, humane approach to inhabiting it are a joy. She's a rare and wonderful writer! Amy Lynch

Bachleda has put together an anthology that I would like (and once planned) to have done, but am glad I did not because she has done it so much better. These excerpts are for outdoor folk of any kind, for those who cherish the earth or want to do so more, for hikers and those who enjoy just a sunset or fresh breeze. She has cast a wide net and cites from many ages and cultures and genres of literature, 160 or so indexed authors, passages that are old and welcome friends (like Maclean's "Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it" and Muir's "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings") and many more citations that are new and unexpected gems, even touches of humor like Woody Allen's moose in spats or Marge Piercy shooing the hunters (caw, caw). As in all anthologies everyone will have some favorites that have been left out or will find some selections cited and wonder why. The passages are spiritual and responsible, but without any touch of theological tediousness or political stridency. Bachleda shows us just the beauty, spirit, poetry and wonder of holy earth. Her selections are arranged loosely according to the theme of the hero's journey from desire and need, to marveling and adoration, comprehension and joy, connection and unity, redemption and grace, recognition and compassion, to hope, resolve and beyond. One might read it in that order cover to cover -- which unless done a little at a time would be like eating a giant box of chocolates at a sitting -- but a system of marginal symbols for the elements of nature, the seasons of the year, and the religious sources of the quotations facilitates random access depending upon your location or mood. It is well worth its weight in your backpack or its space on your bookshelf.

In the bookstore my heart was really cold and depressed, and oppressed. I was saying the prayer, but not getting anywhere. I mean the prayer is always good, but I couldn't find any peace. This book helped to break through this malaise, and I was grateful. It helped me see my situation of truly needing help, and it was an avenue of receiving help.
Orthodox Christians believe that the saints write out of the direct experience of the Light of God, and they literally write words of light and love, the Love that the Lord Jesus has shared with them, which is Himself. It is the glory He shares with the Father, that comes from the Holy Spirit. This is given in a measure and type perfectly suited to each person. Father John, in the introduction, explains that the Holy Spirit usually reveals Himself to people just starting to seriously seek Him in a way that is different from people who have learned to humbly live for Him, who suffer in their life with Him. In trying to follow His commandments, they suffer at their inability to follow them, and at the obstacles they encounter, inside and outside, when they try to live out a command such as Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself. It is a kind of quiet war, sometimes. So the first stage, I think, is learning to live in this way, that makes you humble, because you see, with the help of grace, how you are not Holy like God, and you don't fit in with Him, and this makes you realize that you deeply need help, so you call out from your heart, "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God have mercy on me a sinner." In the second stage He consoles and teaches by sometimes appearing, and sometimes withdrawing. When He seems to leave them without help of grace (He doesn't really leave), they suffer from the war more and become humble, because they remember they need the grace that saves them in the war, so they won't act mean and ugly, or do other ugly things that are not the way the people in Heaven live. Then there is a higher stage of grace, above the war, closer to God, but also with a heavier responsibility. Advice of this type is given in the 3rd section of the book. There are three sections each suited to these three types of people. I'm sorry I don't explain it well, but he does. It is good to read his introduction first, because this is a living tradition, and it good to hear from someone who puts it into practice in his own life, and who belongs to the same tradition as those who wrote the original advice.
Some people, like myself, may have been introduced to the Lord almost as a friend who is always with you, but although you might try to live out what is in the Bible, it is on your own terms, according to what you think is right. It might be hard to see God as Holy (not as a buddy) or it might be hard to know who to trust with authority, because there are a lot of teachers and preachers out there. I gradually trusted the saints from this tradition, the most, but it took a long time. At first I used Catholic saints, like St. Theresa and Saint Francis as my guides, and they are very good, but I found the Orthodox tradition was the oldest, and focused on living such a way where it is possible for Jesus Christ to reveal Himself to you as Light. It doesn't view this as an isolated experience of grace, as many mystics receive, but the normal way of life for people in Heaven with God, or who want to live there. This book helps me to learn what their manner of life is, so I might practice now what I am going to be doing forever, anyway, and so fit in with them. An analogy might be the Hobbits who learned about the way the People of the West lived, suffered on a quest with them, and finally went to live with them. I feel the saints, especially the Mother of God, directly help you have the right attitude and relation to Him, and you can feel the difference after a while through contact with the holy things from the Church. The writings in this book are an example. Everything in the Orthodox church is directed toward seeing Him, and living in union with Him, their prayers, sacraments, songs, icons, everything. I am not meaning to proselytize, but rather I want to say Orthodox view things holistically, so to speak. You can't separate one aspect of the tradition, like this book, from the whole. Of course, anyone is welcome to read it, and benefit, but it is also the tip of an iceberg. A quote from the book: "A lion is known by his paw..."
People familiar with the Narnia books will remember, He's not a tame Lion.
An added note- although I already owned many of the sources of his quotes, in the Philokalia, it also introduced me to some new saints, and it is translated, organized, and presented so well that it is worth it to get it. Also it is good for my friends who want to want to learn this life of prayer but wouldn't be comfortable wading through difficult texts that may not apply to them. This book seems to find you and help you where you are.

Ably translated and with an informative introduction by Orthodox Christian Priest John Anthony McGuckin (Professor of Early Church History, Union Theological Seminary, New York City), The Book Of Mystical Chapters: Meditations On The Soul's Ascent From The Desert Fathers And Other Early Christian Contemplatives is a hallowed collection of more than three hundred short meditations written by Christians from the second through the fourteenth centuries. Many of these meditations were written by the Desert Fathers, monks who deliberately left behind the corruption of city life for the isolated deserts of Egypt and Palestine. These brief yet moving and heartfelt meditations focus upon practice, theory, gnosis, embracing spiritual enlightenment, and the expansion of one's mind and soul. The Book Of Mystical Chapters is very highly recommended reading for all serious students of Christian Theology, History, and Spirituality, regardless of denominational background or affiliation.

This is a nice collection of short adages that are directed to the seeker of Christ. Assuming that we are created for union with God in Christ and the Spirit, the authors of this collection, all experts from experience, give practical wisdom and advice.

"If you are serious about the life of prayer, take care to be very merciful, for in this way you shall receive a hundredfold reward and even greater things in the future age," writes St. John Climacus.

I never allowed myself to go to bed while I still felt resentment against a person. And as far as I was able, I never allowed anyone else to go to bed either, as long as they still felt resentment against me," said Abba Agathon.

This is the sort of tenor of the book. Other really useful books in this regard would include bishop Kallistos Ware's classic "The Orthodox Way", along with Markides' "The Silent Mountain" and Robin Amis' "A Different Christinaity". If you like anthologies, a good one with useful notes is Olivier Clement's "The Roots of Christian Mysticism". Enjoy!

These "chapters" range in length from one sentence to a page and a half, with most about the length of a short paragraph. They are arranged into three sections ("the threefold ascent") of 100 chapters each.

Don't be tempted, as I was, to read several each day. These chapters were designed to be memorized and then meditated upon, no more than one a day. This is what the translator, John Anthony McGuckin, suggests in his introduction, and his advice is sound.

While many of these spiritual statements are deceptively simple, each one is worthy of serious ruminating.

I recommend this volume highly, but please take your time.

Related titles worthy of consideration are: "The Illumined Heart," by Frederica Mathewes-Green; "The Mountain of Silence," by Kyriacos C. Markides; and "The Art of Prayer," compiled by Igumen Chariton of Valamo.

Christianity has long since forgotten the old saying, "God became what man is so that man can become what God is." Christianity is not merely about "getting saved" and essentially ending your walk with Christ right then and there. Christianity has always been about theosis, becoming holy as God is holy. "Salvation" cannot be reduced to a mere "get out of hell free card"; it is also healing. It is also transformation. Follow this book, and you are well on your way to becoming a Christian mystic; one who experiences God continually.

Since it looks like Amazon isn't selling this book right now, you can get it from Pangea Vegan Products' website (www.veganstore.com) for $10. A portion of the proceeds still goes to the Washington DC Humane Society & their copies are signed by the author!

Hope that helps.

What a wonderful book for all ages. My daughter loves looking at the beautiful photographs over and over again. The quotes magicallly match the expressive cat faces. This book is a great gift for anyone (including themselves) who admire cats and great quotes.

All cat lovers will love this book. The beautiful black and white photos of the cats along with the meaningful quotes are so appropriate. It really touches the heart. I've given the book as a gift to my cat loving friends, and they all enjoyed it. It's also great that the proceeds go to help the Wash DC Humane Society.

For anyone who has ever been "owned" by a cat. . . a charming collection of photos and quotes sure to please.
A great gift item for cat-lovers everywhere!

I first noticed this little book in a bookstore when I happened to read the blurb on the back cover by Doris Day: "a book reminding us of the wonderful bond between humans and animals" When I opened it, I knew why.

Julia Miles has the eye of a photographer and the heart of a poet. She has composed prose poems in light and shadow and shade to my favorite creatures, the cats.

My favorite photo in the collection, apart from the stunning dual-cat cover, is of two cats, each drooped over each other, headlined by Virginia Woolf: "incessant company is as bad as solitary confinement." Cats and poets can teach us things.

The book is a treasure trove of quotations and philosophical quips for everyday care of the soul, as well as for appreciation of felines. "I can resist everything but temptation" was surely meant for catdom: the photo in question is of a tiger cat-as-stealth-machine-stealing-up-on-a-piece-of-rug, besieging a piece of oriental carpet, mottled after mottled.

Cats are friends, foes (in play), funny, and enigmatic. Most of all, cats are curious (when they're not bored). In fact, cats are most cats when they're absolutely contradictory from one moment to the next. But then, inconsistencies are the "hobgoblins of little minds," as the poets remind us.

Take your mind and imagination out for a stroll by buying this book. It's also a great gift book - for yourself, family, friends, coworkers, for anyone you know, even if they don't like cats (tell them it's a "humor" book).

I should add that I didn't read the very moving introduction until after I'd completely looked through the photos and smiles and words in the text. The fact that Ms. Miles' kittens were rescued from a sure death makes the book even richer and deeper. "Cat Muses" speaks straight to the heart as well as the eye.