Instruction Books

Once again Mystic Life has written a powerful and illuminating book. The ideas contained in these pages are presented with intelligence and gentleness. I highly recommend it to people of all sexual orientations, as it offers valuable insight into the physical and spiritual nature of our lives and relationships.

I completely enjoyed this book. The ideas and concepts are new, fresh and deeply insightful. Mystic Life fearlessly explores intimacy and spirituality, empowering the reader to make clear choices. Written with honesty and compassion. A must read for anyone with questions about love, life and personal values!

This book clearly, succinctly, and powerfully provides a positive, life-affirming alternative to live more fully, spiritually, and authentically - at least for most. Its clear from the writing that we have been programmed to believe in only one way to express love and our authentic selves. This book provides the truth that there is another way, another paradigm in which we may find more joy, more health, more love. I appreciate the author's way of nonjudgmentally inviting the reader to consider a more expanding viewpoint, a perspective of unlimited love and joy.

So it wasnt that I was crazy and all my lovers left me, it was simply the nature of the beast. What about not being possessive and insecure by keeping our mate on our belt; let him free and you be free and then if you both still hit it on, then it is really love.
I loved this pithy and logical book

This book is a short yet significant read. It combines spirtuality with sexuality and relationships in a way that I haven't seen done so well. While the author uses heterosexuality as his frame of reference (since it is the lifestyle he admits to knowing) his writting applies to various forms of relationships. This is a book that people in both polyamorous and monogamous sexual relationships could use. While it does focus on sexual polyamory to an extent, the author does a good job of pointing out how/why we are all polyamorus. I would suggest reading the ethical slut as a way to get an introduction to the "lifestyle" but this would be a great companion to it. I feel it goes a little more in depth into the emotional and spiritual side of things.

This book should be read by both new and senior instructional designers for Web-based training as well as any of their coaches or managers. The concepts, tools, recommendations, examples, and guidelines presented by Dr. Taran provide practical information for creating effective and instructionally sound training for Web-delivered content. I refer to it often when developing WBTs and when coaching peers as they learn to develop for WBT. Buy it, read it, and implement the strategies and practical tools! Watch the effectiveness of your WBT improve.

Like most instructional designers who support training in the today's workplace, my clients have tremendous expectations of me to develop effective learning products within a quick turnaround and using minimal resources. Finally, a book from someone who understands, first-hand, the challenges we face and addresses them completely.

Real WBT, the way it is supposed to work (not just page-turners), is still a rare find. And, very few of us adults with families have the luxury to go back to school to learn the fundamentals for web design. I personally found this book extremely insightful in educating me on the basics while also coaching me through different development aspects.

Reading Standalone WBT was a stretch for my degree of WBT knowledge and experience. I have continued to utilize this book as an invaluable reference tool as I continue to advance my WBT skills. I recommend it to anyone seeking guidance for developing web-based training products that can actually meet learning objectives with or without the use of an instructor.

This is a great resource that summarizes different aspects of Web-based development, including project management, site architecture, content presentation, instructional design techniques, and motivational elements. Unlike other books related to online training, this resource has a sharp focus: standalone Web-based training, which involves only the interaction between the user and the computer, with no educational agents present. If you are looking for a book that comprises all the guidelines you need in order to develop effective standalone WBT, this is definitely the resource to get.

As an Instructional Designer who is fairly new to developing web-based training courses, Standalone WBT is an invaluable reference for me as I build my skills. It is very comprehensive and the author has done her share of research on the newest and most effective techniques in designing and developing effective web-based training. Although the book is research-driven and contains very sound instructional design principles, it is also very practical in its delivery of information. Especially helpful are the real-world examples located throughout the text. For a novice, the chapters on site architecture, content presentation, and instructional design in WBT (chapters 3-5) are extremely helpful and informative. I highly recommend this book as a means to self-study WBT and as a reference tool. I believe that both new and expert WBT designers will benefit from this book.

Like most instructional designers who support training in the today's workplace, my clients have tremendous expectations of me to develop effective learning products within a quick turnaround and using minimal resources. Finally, a book from someone who understands, first-hand, the challenges we face and addresses them completely.

Real WBT, the way it is supposed to work (not just page-turners), is still a rare find. And, very few of us adults with families have the luxury to go back to school to learn the fundamentals for web design. I personally found this book extremely insightful in educating me on the basics while also coaching me through different development aspects.

Reading Standalone WBT was a stretch for my degree of WBT knowledge and experience. I have continued to utilize this book as an invaluable reference tool as I continue to advance my WBT skills. I recommend it to anyone seeking guidance for developing web-based training products that can actually meet learning objectives with or without the use of an instructor.

This is one of the best golf books I have read. It was very easy to understand about the golf swing. The book taught me how to solve my problems, and gave me some very good drills that helped me to feel the correct swing. I highly recommended this book to all level of golfers.

Terry has compiled a tremendous amount of detailed information about the golf game in an easy to read and understandable context. Beginners will really appreciate the simple language as well as comprehensive drills that will make a fast impact to improvement. The skilled or avid golfer will find "Take Control of Your Game" refreshing and brings about an element of enjoyment back to the game of golf and allows one to look beyond the complicated and crazy industry of equipment and game improvement gimmicks. Terry has created this book to relieve the common fustrations and anxieties of game improvement. You can skip the next "Papa Smurf" Titanium Driver, and the Nuclear Driven Irons, because help is on the way with this simple paperback. Buy the book now before your wife finds out about the new $2000 set of clubs you just bought.

Terry Myers' book is an excellent reference guide for golfers of all levels. It's a fast, easy to read book that covers everything from understanding the fundamentals (how and why) to trouble shooting. The illustrations show amazing detail of what each movement should look like in a clear step by step fashion. The Drills and Aids section enables me to practice effectively at home so I can make every minute at the range and on the course count.

Terry has written a text consistent with his philosophy that golf is a game to be enjoyed - not rocket science. His approach combines a total understanding of the mechanics of golf with a passion for teaching the game at every level. The text and illustrations are completely helpful, not a wasted word or superfluous comment to be found. This book will replace confusion with competence and allow students at every level to take their game "up a notch." A winner in every respect.

I've been looking for an easy to use self help guide for a long time. Taking Control of Your Game helped guide me through changes not only in my swing but also my attitude toward the game. My wife and I both found it easy to read, understand, and follow. I wish I had it 10 years ago.

Tales From the Dark Tower is not a book.

Tales From the Dark Tower is a work of art.

Wow... I never thought I'd start a book review like that. But then again, I never quite expected to read something like Tales From the Dark Tower, either. Because it was truly a sweet experience; one of the best ones I've had so far in my career as a book reviewer.

Well, then, what's so great about it? Let me put it this way: it's hard something that is NOT great about it. Everything, from the beautiful artwork on the cover and throughout the book (all done by genius Joseph Vargo) to the quality of the paper to the stories themselves; it's all top quality and I cannot think of a single thing that I don't like about the whole thing. Not one.

And that makes writing a review quite difficult. Why? Because there's simply not very much to say about the piece except that it's a definite must-buy. I don't usually say that; in fact I rarely say that at all, but this time I have no choice but to face the pleasant facts: I loved it. From the first page to the very last. Several different authors contribute with stories, and they're all masters of their craft.

Sure, some people might think the stories are goth-cliché. After all, they are all very much alike, both in setting (in or around the Dark Tower) or in the way the different authors present their ideas (haunted cemeteries, pale and beautiful gothic beauties, forbidden love that forever haunts the unfortunate ones, dark and sinister clouds that blocks out the sun, scary gargoyles staring down at the mortals, and so on). But then again, Tales From the Dark Tower IS a gothic collection, the authors are goths, the readers are goths, it's all a big gothic get-together and thus the stories should and could not be written any other way.

As I write this I have the book next to me on the desk. It looks beautiful. And I'm jealous on all the people out there who have still to discover it. I usually don't read a book twice, but this time I think I have to reconsider.

And I hope a sequel one day will see the light of day. Or rather, the darkness of the night

Tales From the Dark Tower is not a book.

Tales From the Dark Tower is a work of art.

Wow... I never thought I'd start a book review like that. But then again, I never quite expected to read something like Tales From the Dark Tower, either. Because it was truly a sweet experience; one of the best ones I've had so far in my career as a book reviewer.

Well, then, what's so great about it? Let me put it this way: it's hard something that is NOT great about it. Everything, from the beautiful artwork on the cover and throughout the book (all done by genius Joseph Vargo) to the quality of the paper to the stories themselves; it's all top quality and I cannot think of a single thing that I don't like about the whole thing. Not one.

And that makes writing a review quite difficult. Why? Because there's simply not very much to say about the piece except that it's a definite must-buy. I don't usually say that; in fact I rarely say that at all, but this time I have no choice but to face the pleasant facts: I loved it. From the first page to the very last. Several different authors contribute with stories, and they're all masters of their craft.

Sure, some people might think the stories are goth-cliché. After all, they are all very much alike, both in setting (in or around the Dark Tower) or in the way the different authors present their ideas (haunted cemeteries, pale and beautiful gothic beauties, forbidden love that forever haunts the unfortunate ones, dark and sinister clouds that blocks out the sun, scary gargoyles staring down at the mortals, and so on). But then again, Tales From the Dark Tower IS a gothic collection, the authors are goths, the readers are goths, it's all a big gothic get-together and thus the stories should and could not be written any other way.

As I write this I have the book next to me on the desk. It looks beautiful. And I'm jealous on all the people out there who have still to discover it. I usually don't read a book twice, but this time I think I have to reconsider.

And I hope a sequel one day will see the light of day. Or rather, the darkness of the night.

I have to start by saying that I have wanted this book forever. I am a big fan of Joseph Vargos, who amoung us has not seen his art at places like Hot Topic? A friend and I even exchanged postcards done by Vargo as our primary means of communication. His art is beautiful and most of his well known works are contained in this anthology in plate form. The quality of the paper lends itself well to the art prints and those are stunning. Had the volume been slim and only contained his art, I would have given it 5 stars.

However, since the work is also an anthology I feel I have to be fair and review it as a book, too, and I have to be honest, I have read better. There is a wide range of stories in this volume. Let me start by listing all the works with their authors so if you are looking for a specific author, you'll know if they are here. There is **The Dark Tower by James Pipik and Joseph Vargo **Born of the Night by Eric Muss-Barnes **Vampire's Kiss by Christine Filipak and Joseph Vargo **Masque of Sorrow by Christina Filipak **Shadows by Joseph Iorillo and James Pipik **Sentinels by James Pipik and Joseph Vargo **Sorrow's End by Jalone J. Haessig **Noctem Aeternus by Robert Michaels **Nightwatcher by James Pipik **Vesper Tolls by Joseph Iorillo **Sanctuary by Russell Norotny **Lilith by Joseph Vargo and **Watcher at the Gate by Joseph Vargo.

The stories are connected together by a single thread, which is the history and occupants of the Dark Tower. Some are undead, some are alive (though usually not for long) and all have tales of sorrow and morality to tell. Most of the stories are good, though I felt that many could have stood on their own without being connected to the Dark Tower. I even thought that once or twice the authors wrote the stories as stand-alones and then added elements to make it connect to the anthology. I think most interesting were the stories by Joseph Vargo. It's interesting to see what went through his mind, the stories behind his paintings as hold by him. Ultimately, I think my only complaint is I wanted the quality of the writing and stories to match Vargo's art, and that is nearly impossible. His art is so beautiful that it is very difficult to reach that level with another art form -writing.

I would recommend this book just for the Vargo plates alone, especially since Amazon now has the paperback for $16.99. The art is worth it.

So buy it, curl up on a dark and stormy night, and enjoy.

It's got great tales, awsome art work, and sexy scenes. You can't get any better than this.

I am not actually Mike, I'm his 14 year old daughter, just so ya know.... I found the book at Hot Topic and i just HAD to buy it. (It was only 15 dollars at the time, so go to hottopic.com to buy it, it is still like 4 dollars cheaper!) This book is absolutely AMAZING! If you are into gothic "fantasy" this is definitely the book for you! It is full of lavish illustrations bu Joseph Vargo of Monolith Graphics...I couldnt put the book down once i opened it! The various authors -including Joseph Vargo- do a wonderful job of painting a mental picture for you with their words. I would recomend this story to anyone looking for an extremely well put together book, but the squeamish should probably stay away, because of excess blood spillage. ... I would read it a thousand times, maybe more..if only i had the time.. Anyway, its a great read!

You may also be interested in The Gothic Tarot. Joseph Vargo came up with and illustrated it all by himself! His talents are unbelieveable! ...You can get the Gothic Tarot from Hot Topic or hottopic.com, when i purchased the deck it was only $16!!

A long time Lempicka fan, I read Claridge's biography as part of the research for my master's thesis on the artist. This book provided so much information not only on events in Lempicka's life, but also her sexual habits and personal characteristics. I also found this book a great source on life in 1920s and 30s Paris. But be warned, this book does not provide many images of Lempicka's unique paintings, although many of the illustrations are full-color reproductions.
This book reads easily and is entertaining as well as informative. I highly recommend it for Lempicka and Art Deco fans!

Mujer de altos vuelos, Tamara de Lempicka, decidió pasar sus últimos días en la ciudad en la que vivo, la ciudad de la eterna primavera: Cuernavaca, Morelos (México). Hasta ella trajo sus maravillosas obras, catalogadas como lo mejor del Art Déco por los expertos. Única en su momento, se jactaba de haberlo probado todo y de haber roto con las convenciones más gazmoñas.

Su obra está influída por el tubismo de Léger, el cubismo sintético y la pintura del quattrocento italiano, aunque de su maestro Lohte aprendió a componer según el principio de la rima plástica.

No obstante su formación rusa, se sentía polaca; rehuyó toda la vida lo ruso por haber sufrido en carne propia a manos de los bolcheviques. De madre y abuela aprendió el amor al arte. Se casó dos veces --de su primer marido Tadeusz Lempicki, el padre de su única hija ya fallecida, tomaría el nombre profesional-- y tuvo una hija que más adelante redactó sus memorias.

El éxito de su carrera se dio en la Europa de entreguerras, trabajaba incesantemente y llevó una vida social muy activa, cuestión que paradójicamente ocasinó que el mundo culto y bohemio en el que se movía, le demostrara cierta desconfianza: esta ambigüedad que la mantenía como una bohemia-aristócrata la definió toda su vida.

Hizo de su vida un relato espectacular, hecho que ha motivado que quienes intentan biografiarla, tengan que sortear los productos de su febril imaginación. Laura Claridge, a quien le debemos el trabajo más completo sobre la fascinante mujer, ha rescatado del olvido a esta notable pintora, cuya obra rebazó los dos millones de dólares en la década de los ochenta.

Su pintura, caracterizada por la geometrización de la figura, los primeros planos agobiantes y el manejo del erotismo sin trabas, es magnífica y puntualmente analizada por la autora, quien tiene en su haber otras publicaciones sobre arte, literatura y psicoanálisis.

El Museo Brady de Cuernavaca cuenta con dos piezas de Lempicka, una pintora que se ganó un lugar imborrable en la historia del arte occidental.

I like a million other people, had never heard of Tamara De Lempicka (how sad!!) until I heard Madonna in an interview mention how incredible she is. This biography was wonderful, very insightful, I feel like I know 'something' about Tamara now. I have developed a wonderful appreciation of her life and work. Some biographies can be dry and boring, but this one was facinating! Good read!

Over the many years spent in research for this book, ProfessorLaura Claridge acquired extraordinarily detailed knowledge of thecultural, moral, and intellectual atmosphere of early 20th century European aristocracy and avant guard high society. Then, with penetrating wit and spellbinding ingenuity, she wove this Zeitgeist into every relevant passage of this scholarly book. The uniqueness of Professor Claridge's biography is that she has been able to show that just as De Lempicka's paintings represented more than a mere accumulation of colors on canvas, her bewitching life represented more than the simple sum of its parts. Claridge has managed to capture the "gestalt" of the "brave new woman". With compassion and humor, flawless prose and delicate discrimination, impeccable elegance and style, affection, grace, and savoir faire, Professor Claridge has shown how it is possible for a woman to have it all! This book is an education in history, art history, anthropology, sociology, politics, civics, and European culture and aristocracy at the height of its decadent best. I loved this gripping book and read it with the excitement and absorption usually reserved for suspence novels. Bravo.

This book is vivid with details and descriptions of Tamara's fascinating life. A sumptuous bite into the life of an artist; this story is simmered in vibrant retellings of Tamara's historical tribulations, her numerous tumultuous relationships (both male & female), her eccentricities along with an almost infamous ego, and the constant tribulations of trying to express oneself via pigment & canvas. Even if you are not currently familiar with Tamara's work (audible gasp) this book is guaranteed to enrich your view of artists and vibrant women alike.

This book is the real deal. The dedication the authors have to tantra, in its most ancient and esoteric forms, is made clear to readers in this book. The exercises bring tantra down to earth for couples and singles to explore the basics as well as the more advanced concepts of tantra.

I would recommend this book to anyone ready to explore erotic empowerment, and grow spiritually at the same time.

In a culture where sex and sexuality is so often shunned and scandalized, it's refreshing to see a book focused on this sacred aspect of our human nature. Being one of our greatest gifts as humans, sex can empower and spiritually connect us. With wisdom and maturity, the authors present a concise guide to the magickal, powerful force that dwells within us--one that we often fear or take for granted. Contrary to popular misunderstanding, the authors clarify that the practices and beliefs of Tantra are not solely focused on sex. Going well beyond the realm of sexual energy, Tantra for Erotic Empowerment covers significant elements of sensual mysticism, including proper techniques for consciousness expansion, meditation, gender exploration, cultivating balance, and how to evolve in one's loving relationship with another, others, or oneself. Gorgeously written and practical, this book is a must for anyone seeking to strengthen their connection with the Divine and incorporate expanded bliss into their spiritual path.

-Raven Digitalis

This book does much in the way of unveiling and educating the masses into an understanding of what Tantra is. Not an easy thing to do as Tantra is essentially about creating a profound relationship with ourselves, something which the authors, if we let them, allow us to do with aplomb.

The chapters of the book are sequentially designed to bring us closer into gaining a deeper level of understanding of our own consciousness and sexuality. We are encouraged to write a journal as we work through the book, answering questions designed to lead us further into this understanding.

The meditations in the book are not wishy washy having their roots in genuine Indian metaphysical lineages; we find the likes of Shavasana and Yoga (Ananda) Nidra, rubbng shoulders with healthy techniques of worshipping ourselves and our partners.

What I particularily liked was the healthy attitude towards sex and spirituality that runs throughout. A book like this could hopefully go a long way in introducing a sane view of sex.

This work is a very thorough attempt at weaving traditional Indian Tantra in-line with everyday Western life and I think it is a success.

This book continues the work from the first volume with more snippets of info from classical tantric texts made accessable for the western reader. The reader is then free to do more detailed reading/study of the classical texts if they wish on their own.

The authors do make an effort to present their ideas in a way that is "gender inclusive" so if you are gay, straight, queer, of have a different relationship style, you will find that this info is helpful too.

I like the fact that the authors are willing to share more of their own personal opinions of their work, (and the work of other "tantrikas")in an open and honest matter.

Make no mistake if you are looking for a fluffy new-agey book, you'd better look elsewhere. If you are ready to do work for your own spiritual growth and enlightenment, not to mention cultivating a new sexy intimate relationship with yourself and the divine spark that resides within you, this is the book for you

If the authors' previous book The Essence Of Tantric Sexuality can be considered theory, then this new book can be the practical workbook.

Replete with fifty-two exercises, dozens of examples, explanations, and experiences, there's a cornucopia of material with which Tantric practitioners or novices can use in order to enhance and enrich their sexual life, focusing on "consciousness, an experimental attitude, and, above all, pleasure".

The authors suggests approaching the material slowly but steadily, studying and experimental with one chapter per week. All of the exercises can be explored by persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity.

The book begins with an examination of Tantra itself, then moves on to sexuality, both physical and spiritual, and how the two can be integrated.

This study is followed by chapters that examine pleasure and desire, with exercises that focus on helping readers to discover various aspects of their own sexuality, what turns them on and off; what forms of foreplays and love-making they enjoy; what their sexual history was like; what does or doesn't happen when they yield to sexual desires; and how they breathe during orgasm, all to help them understand more about their sexual selves.

"From the Tantric perspective, everything that exists is imbued with energy, or Shakti". So follows an explanation of sexual energy: why it happens, how to recognize it, and how to create and manage it.

Following these are informative and enlightening chapters on such things as meditation, reverence, bliss, imagination and other concepts vital to a working knowledge of Tantric sex.

Together with their previous books, Tantra for Erotic Empowerment provides a dynamic and consciousness-expanding awareness of our sacred sexuality.

My husband started using this book before I did..... as I preferred to speak to the people and learn that way.
NOW I WISH I had started sooner using this very book myself!

I does teach you all the necessary vocabulary easily!

THUMBS UP!

Wish it was available on Kindle!

To reiterate what a previous reviewer had pointed out, the "Teach Yourself Indonesian Complete Course" includes just the textbook, whereas the "Teach Yourself Indonesian Complete Course Audiopack" includes both the text book and compact discs. Contrary to what Amazon.com suggests, you need to only buy the "Teach Yourself Indonesian Complete Course Audiopack" to get the full benefits of the program.

I purchased the "Teach Yourself Indonesian Complete Course Audiopack" several days ago, and after having had the opportunity to peruse the material for a bit, I must say that I am very impressed with what I have seen thus far. The material is presented in such a way as to make learning Indonesian effectively and effortless.

For example, each chapter begins with a dialogue in Indonesian that pertains to everyday activities, such as eating out or asking for directions. Below the dialogue is a box filled with pertinent vocabulary words from the preceding dialogue. Next is an English translation of the dialogue to ensure that the student fully understands the meaning of the Indonesian dialogue. Succeeding that is a section entitled, "How the language works." Here, grammatical concepts and contexts of the vocabulary words relevant to the dialogue are discussed. Finally, several exercises are included in each chapter to reinforce the lessons taught. Do not worry, the answers are in the back!

The compact discs mesh perfectly with the material in the chapters. Native Indonesian speakers act out the chapter dialogues, thus providing the student with the opportunity to practice their listening skills and learn how to properly speak Indonesian. The speakers on the compact discs clearly enunciate so there is plenty of time for the student to practice their Indonesian out loud if desired.

Overall, the "Teach Yourself Indonesian Complete Course Audiopack" is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in learning Indonesian. As a student of Indonesian myself, I highly recommend this product for its exceptional effectiveness.

This book is very easy to use, being well laid out and organized and introducing vocabulary in manageable pieces throughout each chapter. Another nice thing is that the book alternates 50-50 between formal situations and casual situations so you can become familiar with both styles of the language. So far the book is fun and motivating and makes me want to study much more than my other books do.

This book is very detail & percise. It makes it easy to learn the language with ease. It is written with a manner that is simple to follow. Authors took there time to make sure all of the contents was clear & correct. Step by step instructions to make it easy to learn & understand. I give this book 5 stars & I recommend it to anyone who want to learn Indonesian language very fast & correct.

I'm half way through this course and it's pretty easy to use, and the topics and dialogues are relevant and interesting. There is material on the cd's to help you get accustomed to hearing spoken Indonesian, which is great if you live somewhere with very few Indonesian people like I do.

I have two minor criticisms:

1) During the dialog practice there is often not a long enough pause on the cd to allow you to finish saying your part of the exchange. This is not a big deal if you have an ipod and can easily pause and rewind with little trouble. But it's a bit of a hassle when you're using a home stereo and you have to pause it.

2) Sometimes the dialogues contain a couple of words that are not in the vocabulary key for that dialogue, and sometimes not even in the glossary at the back of the book. That has caught me off-guard a few times when I didn't have my dictionary with me.

But all in this is the best introductory course I've seen, and a much more interesting way to start off than using Yohanna Johns's "Bahasa Indonesia" (which looks better for long term serious study).

In a recent interview with Samantha Bravo the author of TEACHING LIFE answers some questions about his writing of the book:

Bravo: In TEACHING LIFE: LETTERS FROM A LIFE IN LITERATURE, each letter to Kelly addresses a different aspect of education, literature and life. How did you decide which topics to address? How do you think the book's organization of these topics affects the reader?

Salwak: The topics suggested themselves to me as I moved ever deeper into the project. I knew I had to write "When a Parent Dies," for example, because the day after my father's funeral I returned to my class to discuss "Hamlet" and saw my father sitting in the back of the room. The chapter on "Marriage" suggested itself because I was struck by how many of my colleagues across the country wrestle with balancing the academics with family life. Many questions emerged over the years from discussions with my parents, both educators, as well as from my students. Overall I answer questions that many teachers (and students) ask of themselves and that I continue to ask of myself.

Bravo: Why did you choose to format the book as a series of letters?

Salwak: To avoid the risk of coming across as "preachy" or dogmatic. That's not my style. Writing letters "to" a former student was an indirect way of reaching my potential reader. Also, this format helped me to establish a warm, personal tone that is the voice I try to maintain in the classroom. I am speaking to teachers, yes, but I am also speaking to students as well as to the general public - and I don't want to alienate them.

Bravo: In the book's summary it says that "'Teaching Life" is an effort to impart lessons to the next generation
of teachers." Would you also agree that these lessons are equally benefiting to students who read this
book? What sort of insight should a student expect to gain in contrast to a teacher?

Salwak: Yes, most definitely. Letters as personal as these permit the student to slip away from present concerns, open the door, and step inside the secret life of a teacher. Happiness is a gift, not a right, and most of us as teachers have been so gifted. Perhaps some students themselves will carry from the book the thought of entering this noble and personally rewarding profession. At the very least I hope they will find here some useful suggestions for getting all they can from their educational experiences.

Bravo: You say that Kelly has become a metaphor for all your students. Could you explain this in more depth?

Salwak: Every semester my classrooms are filled with Kelly's - bright, eager-to-learn men and women who are giving me three hours a week of their most precious possession - their time. What I say "to" Kelly in the letters I say to all of my students: make the most of your allotted time, seek the best in everything you do, and keep growing. My challenge is to find a way to connect with them, to encourage them to care about the material, to think about some of the deep issues of life, and to have a good time while doing so. That's part of what keeps me coming back day after day, month after month, semester after semester. Though Kelly didn't live to realize her potential as a teacher, my experience of knowing her and thousands of students like her continues to inspire me every day.

Bravo: Thirty years after Kelly's death, why did you believe that this was the right time in your career to publish "Teaching Life?"

Salwak: There were many months, even years when I didn't know when (or even IF) I would complete the book. Coincidentally I did so while approaching my 35th year of teaching. To borrow from Samuel Johnson, I believe that into every teacher's life there comes a "time to be in earnest." This is such a time for me.

"Teaching Life: Letters from a Life in Literature" is sure to leave an indelible mark on you, whether (or especially if) you are a teacher (first-year or veteran) or simply a lover of books, literature, and learning. I doubt I will ever be as well-read as the author, or acquire such rich and varied life experiences. But reading this book has inspired me to try. Reading this book was also a way of renewing my own vows to my students: to honor and respect their time, to be an example of curiosity and knowledge, to listen and learn from them. When I finished the last page, I was eager to find a quiet place to sit and reflect on everything I'd read. I'm sure I'll continue to do so for a long, long time.

After having been a college Professor for over 16 years myself, I thought I knew all (or at least most) there is to know about my profession. Dr. Salwak's book has provided me with a tremendous amount of knowledge and inspiration. I am humbled by the realization that there is still much to be learned and very appreciative by the warmth and insightfulness with which the book is written.
This book is a masterful piece of literature that can be of tremendous inspiration for readers pursuing a number of different careers.
Letters from a Life in Literature feels like a warm cup of tea in a cold rainy day. I highly recommend it.

I am an elementary school teacher and School Board member for the Claremont School District. I had the privilege of listening to Dr. Salwak give a presentation about this book. The parallels between educating the college student and grammar school student were striking.

As a classroom teacher for over 20 years, I deeply appreciated this book. Dr. Salwak's perspective and insights gave me a new look at teaching. The advice to any educator and the interplay between instructor and student are thoroughly enlightening. His light touch on the role of pedagogy in education during a time of increased concern over test scores portrays many of the highs and lows involved in teaching. Many K-12 school districts adopt curriculum where all teachers must be on the same page on the same day regardless of their class's composition or achievement. Such an approach is anathema to instilling the love of learning that is portrayed in this book.

Dr. Salwak is an antidote to the factory worker approach to teaching. His passion for education and his passionate reflections on teaching should be required reading for all policy makers who shape education. The letters addressed to Kelly also include good advice for students and their families. His love of reading is a great model for his students and all of us.

Letters from a Life in Literature is a must read for anyone who loves books, values education, or is involved in learning. Dr. Salwak is a shining example of the "lifelong learner" so many schools and college want to produce. This book is a real treat.

This book has an incomparable value to me that is hard to explain with words. It has provided me with very valuable insight that I certainly could not obtain from any other source. As a future teacher, it was very important to me to experience through Dr. Salwak's words all what this wonderful profession of teaching involves. Before reading the book, I certainly thought of teaching as my career goal, but now, I have come to realize that it is my vocation and my passion.

I enjoyed each and every single chapter in this book, from the interesting classroom anecdotes to the sad and reflective moment that the death of a father represents. However, I think that for people like me, whose journey into the wonderful profession of teaching has just began, the chapter about "Transition" is a must read because it explains in detail the challengeable "transition from feeling like a student to living fully as a scholar-teacher." The book also covers other important subjects for early teachers, such as the art of lecturing, reading, and, the most important (I think), how to connect with students.

I would definitely recommend this book not only to anyone in the teaching profession but to everyone who wants to learn more about life from this wonderful professor and person: Dr. Salwak. As his former student, he has changed my life in ways that I would never imagine and I am pretty sure that anyone who could have the chance of reading this book will certainly agree with me that his knowledge and wisdom are without comparison.

I heard about this book through CNN and read some of Lisa's story's on line. Upon receiving it I immediately went read through three of the fables.

I was delighted that these fables caused me to think on my own and come to some conclusions appropriate for my current circumstances, and yet realize that others reading the same fables could apply them to their own circumstances too.

This is a book I will carry around on my person. When my nieces and nephews ask me to read them a book, or tell them a story, I will pull out this book. The fables carry their message gently and with a genuine respect for those who are different. I also like that at the end of each fable, there is no "preachiness" quality to it. The ending causes the reader to reflect and come to their own conclusions.

Excellent book for young and old!

This is a wonderful book... the stories are imaginative and engaging. I've given this book to family and friends and it is on my short list of 'presents for the impossible to buy for'.

A dear friend who has wonderful taste in books introduced me to Lisa Suhay's book "Tell Me A Story". I wasn't immediately convinced to buy it but my friend directed me to one of Lisa's articles on-line and I knew I had to buy this book. Now my only regret is that I didn't buy it sooner, what a beautiful book. "Tell me a Story" is truly a work of art inside and out.

I have only read 3 of the fables so far and each time I fall more in love with this book. The stories really make me think about myself and the world around me. I have found through discussions with other readers that we each gain something special and individual from the stories.

I am looking forward to sharing this book with friends and family. It is a book I can feel confident about sharing and know others will love it as much as I do.

This is a wonderful book of fables. Beautiful characters that I will never forget ! These days when I experience a stressful situation I go looking for guidance in Suhay's world of fables. And I always find an "answer". Friends get ready for this will be the gift I give to you this year ;o) ! Thank you Lisa Suhay !

A good friend of mine with excellent tastes in books recommended this to me. I ordered it and as I read it I love it more and more. As I continue to read the book, I find ways to adapt these fables in my current life. I think this is a wonderful book for both adults and children. In fact, I have a young son who I am looking forward to sharing these fables with as he grows. Thank you Lisa Suhay for a wonderful book!!!

How do you compliment a master? There is none except "thank you."

In a real sense Bruno is a man that should have been born in another time. His sensitivity to the human figure and his love for fired earth is the stuff of a true Renaissance man. He captures the imagination and brings life out of clay.

What is most inspiring aspect of this Italian born sculptor is love to teach and share his skills, tips and tricks with other aspiring sculptors around the world. Sculptors like me. No studio library is complete with out all of his books and tapes.

Bruno works with slabs of clay smashed on the floor and then quickly forms them into layers of mass that are shaped into the maquette. His attention to proportion makes him the artist that others have sought to imitate, and none can completely duplicate.

The first time I browsed the book, I was blown away by the beauty of Bruno's work.
The second time, I was disappointed because of the limited explanation and technical descriptions.
But once I understood what this book was really about, I loved it.
It really is a documentary of Lucchesi at work. You can witness him working. The book is very visual.
You will not learn sculpturing, but you will get the chance to see an accomplished sculptor and his creation.
The book does not tell the why's, you can see the how's.

My copy is now really filthy, with stains of terracota all over it. I keep it by my working bench, and quite frequently, in the middle of my work, I open it to see how Bruno does it.

My recommendation is to buy this book in addition to "From Clay to Bronze " of Lagland.

I found this book to be a wonderful tool for the beginner or advanced sculptor. It leads you step by step and, as a 3rd-year sculptor, the techniques Lucchesi provides have greatly inspired and helped me improve my own techniques.

I'm a student working in wax, but the most important concepts in this book are definitely cross media; it was a good buy. I mainly use the book as a reference tool and posing guide -- it is a great problem solver. There can't be many issues in posing or proportioning that a beginner won't find help for somewhere in this book. Ms. Malmstrom has such a talent for photographing sculpture that you almost feel like you have the actual piece in front of you. And Mr. Lucchesi's work... it's tough to imagine a day so bad that his sculpture can't make you feel more at peace.

This is a super book, very informative and easy to follow. It answered many questions I had, and introduced many new (to me) ideas.