Mental Health Books

i want to know who wrote this book and the publisher,copy right company and every information i can find about this book.

3rd edition out September 2000, over 200 photos

This book gives all the information you need to know for a quick and thorough understanding of gangs. I have been fortunate to meet Al Valdez and he knows his stuff! Whether you are a cop, like me, or a parent, like me, this is a book you need. His unique insight and writing ability give you practical information and advice from the real world.

Outstanding!! I have read several text on gangs in my 18 years of law enforcement experience, this one is the best one yet. The book is not only informative but easy to follow and entertaining as well. Mr. Valdez covers the history and main identifiers of basically every major gang in this country. If you know nothing about gangs, this is an excellent book for a beginner. If you thank you know all there is to know about gangs, read this book and learn how much more there is to know.

This is a great book! Al Valdez has done an excellent job of summarizes the existing gang information avaliable. It is an easy to read book, that is valuable to law enforcers, educators, students, or interested citizens

Detective Valdez has also included gangs that are generally not covered in other similar books. He writes about occult gangs, and militias.

I highly recommend this to anyone intersted in learning more about gangs in the U.S.

Mark Gold is a bright doctor indeed and this book is a comprehensive source of modern psychiatric information for depression and other mental illnesses. However, treatment resistant depression is a serious problem and that fact is that many people simply do not get better from medication, no matter how many strategies they try. Medication has a tendency to stop working and only now are new therapies being invented including transcranial magnetic stimulation, and recently, vagus nerve stimulation. Gold says that "only the rare person will fail to get better." Fact is, medication is usually not the answer for complete relief in of itself and should be combined with some type of psycotherapy for maximum effectivness.

I found this book to be very helpful. Mark Gold has been a pioneer in this field. He has also wriiten extensively about the abuse of cocaine.

I would highly recommend his books to anyone thirsting for knowledge in these areas.

I recieved the tests described in the book. These tests pinpointed the type of depression and the proper anti-depressant.I had relief after taking the first two capsules and have been fine since. (1986-Fair Oaks Hospital,Summit N.J.) Thank you Dr.Gold.

In 1986, the psychiatrists in Canada insisted on trying a series of antidepressants on me, even though I told them that I could not tolerate them. I could not tell them exactly what was going on, but suffice to say that the things that you hear about anti-depressants instigating suicide, violence, and/or homicide are true. The doctors then wanted to hospitalize me and give me Halperidol to suppress the effects of the antidepressants! If I had let them do this, I am sure that I would never have recovered to a stable state.

In 1987 I came across a newspaper review of an earlier edition of "The Good News About Depression" by Dr. Gold. I read the book, and immediately made arrangements to go to Fair Oaks Hospital. I was tested and interviewed as a clinic outpatient, and within three days, the psychiatrist informed me that persons who exhibit the characteristics which I do (positive on depression indicator tests, intolerance of standard antidepressants) often respond to lithium treatment, even though they do not present bipolar symptoms. None of the MANY doctors with whom I consulted in Canada, including those at the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, knew about this important fact. I responded quickly to lithium, and within a month I was able to work, after being "unstabled" to work for a year and one-half. Since then I take lithium prescribed by my family doctor, I have not been to see a psychiatrist since, and I have had no other therapy of any kind for 17 years. You will find lithium listed in the monograph as an "anti-manic agent", but for me it is the opposite, an antidepressant. Who knew? No one except the experts at Fair Oaks in Summit.

Dr. Gold and his associates are The Best, and this book is The Word! If you, or a member of your family, or a friend, has anything that seems to be incipient depression, then get this book. Get your physician to refer you, make an appointment and go right to the Fair Oaks Hostpital. It is your life. They are the real experts, and you will never be sorry. They will give your life back to you, just as they did for me.

The work of Mark Gold and his associates was an eye-opener for me when I was researching (author's book plug alert) the first edition of my book, Dealing with Depression Naturally. It was they who discovered, over 20 years ago, that there is a substantial subgroup of depressives - mostly middle-aged women - who are resistant to therapy because they have a relatively mild or subclinical degree of hypothyroidism that eludes diagnosis unless sensitive, seldom employed tests are used. Thankfully, "the thyroid solution" is finally being recognized by the mainstream. But Gold et al. (and other "biopsychiatrists") are hip to a much, much broader array of established medical/physical illnesses and conditions (literally 100 or so) that also can cause or promote the symptoms of depression, without attracting the attention of the average doctor bent on whipping out the old prescription pad after a cursory physical examination and history, at best.

This book - written with the help of a popular writer to make it an easy read for the average Jane and Joe - will educate you (and your doctor, if s/he is willing) about the range of hidden (if you don't look, they're still "hidden") medical/physical causes that could be causing or contributing to your depression (but not including some of the fringier ones, like brain allergies and Candida) and how to rule them in or out and, in many cases, treat THEM instead of the secondary depresion. With authoritative estimates that up to 50% of depressions are accompanied by physical illnesses that could be playing a causative role - and preventing depressives from recovering fully or at all, even when treated with the latest, greatest drugs (which Gold also discusses in depth, but circa 1995, along with a few natural alternatives and adjuncts) - this kind of knowledge is real power.

I teach a group of inmates at a local detention center. Most of them are there for alcohol and drug abuse. However, this book aptly points out that we are all addicted to something, whether it be material things, or even relationships. Dr. Jampolsky explains in a caring, loving manner how to overcome our addictions. His thoughts are based on "A Course in Miracles." I also recommend his father's book called, "Love is Letting Go of Fear." (Gerald Jampolsky)

This book is not just for those plagued with obvious addiction, it is a call to reflect upon the mind and uncover the barriers that don't allow us to experience real love, which everyone is struggling with at some extent. The foundation for the book is within it's preface: Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all of the barriers within yourself that you have built against it. (A Course in Miracles)

Jampolsky uses personal stories and stories of real people who suffer from the ability to feel love and assists the mind in considering a different perspective, which allows love to flow in. I believe the question isn't; Are we addicted, but, which of my addictions are causing me the most pain?

As a Life Coach using the modality of Rapid Eye Technology, I assist many suffering from addiction in being able to feel "real love" which is where Jampolsky directs his audience. Real love is found within, not from some other external entity. The more we begin to feel real love, the less we become dependent on the false hit we get from addiction in any form.

I recommend this book to all who struggle with addiction, all who care about one who is addicted, and all who attempt to assist others in breaking free from the grasp of addiction. Did I miss anyone?

This is a great book regarding addiction issues and there root causes. It is packed with great information which can be utilized immediately to help with personal issues of all kinds. CC

As a minister, and a student of A Course in Miracles since 1994, I found this book very inspiring and helpful in uncovering all that is addiction. It is not what you think. We used this book in early 2003 as a basis of study for our study group. The entire group received so much insight into their own addictive patterns and many were able to release so much to the Light and Love of God.

I read an excerpt from this book at an on-line site. I ordered the book. I started reading it the same night I received it. I thought I would only read a few pages. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. The questions/situations Dr. Jampolsky posed was me. It was like looking in a mirror. The book offers lots of life situations/problems, and wonderful suggestions to solve them. This book was a "mind" saver for me. And I like the other reviewer, use it as my Bible.

Calling upon a wide range of sources within the perrenial wisdom tradition, and a personal journey of great depth, Ross Bishop invites us to meet face to face with the inner demons that block our path. While most books of this genre offer quick and deceptively easy pathways into the light, Bishop courageously asks the much harder question of how to deal with darkness - what to do with our internal resistance, the self-sabotaging mechanisms that derail us, and the wounded inner child, frozen by fear, that keeps us from moving forward despite our best intentions. The book is filled with insight, as well as practical suggestions tested in over 20 years of work with private clientele. But it is not for those simply looking for a comfortable new age read, for it ultimately demands putting the book down and actually doing the work. If you are serious about moving forward with your life, however, this book will become a treasured dog-eared ally.

I have searched a long time to find a way to heal my emotional wounds. While psychology is helpful, it does not address the depth of my spirit. Spiritual truths are inspirational, but how do I apply them to my life?

Bishop has done a wonderful job of helping me understand why my life is the way that it is and offers practical tools to change it. His insights and exercises are so simple yet powerful. I would call them revolutionary. My life has changed as a result and I am forever grateful.

As you have already guessed, I heartily reccomend this book for anyone interested in healing themselves or others, or to simply gain valuable insight into the human mind.

Are you ready to heal the past and embrace the present moment. If you are, Ross Bishop's "Healing the Shadow", is here for you. I am fortunate to have found this book because it gave me the tools I needed to face my frightened, angry, guilty inner child and start my life anew. My transformation has been noted by many, but most importantly my teenage son. He has told me many times how much he likes me now and what a great mother I am!!! Healing my shadows has brought such peace into my life, it is what I wish for everyone. Thank you Ross.

Ross Bishop melds shamanic practice with deep psychological insight in this book, more successfully than others I've read. Interestingly I'd just finished Firestone's The Fantasy Bond, which is psych theory, and Bishop was saying much the same things, and better (for laymen). The journey excercises are well described and they do work! While much shamanic work involves dealing with our issues purely symbolically - or in detail via recapping or such - Ross' method merges the symbolic with memory recapping, something I've found effective. A great bonus is the list of books he likes, like an expanded Amazon listmania list!

Bishop's book is a very valuable and inspirational book for any one wishing to heal their innerchild. Bishop is an experienced shaman who writes from his own experiences as well as other case studies. The reading material is easy to follow as well as pleasant to read. Bishop leads the reader into learning how to recognize and even accept the "Beast" within. He explains how the "Beast" is manifested by the innerchild and gives easy to follow steps on how to communicate with the "Beast". He explains that once the "Beast" is heard, blockages can be removed and healing can occur.

This book is both enlightening and healing. Without a doubt, it deserves 5 stars!

I read this book in one day. It was what I was looking for in help with becoming an M.I. (Medical Intuitive) for my clients. I had taken classes on becoming a M.I. but felt like there was something I missed. This book is great!! Answered a lot of questions on dialoguing with your Spirit and the Spirit of others. If you are looking to be a medical intuitive or HEALTH Intuitive as the author calls herself, no matter what book you purchase, the key to becoming accurate is meditate, meditate and practice practice.

Karen Kassy's book is a priceless guide to contacting your own inner intuitive guidance system. The clearly written instructions and guidelines are easy to follow. Within the first week after reading the book I was able to receive very helpful, clear guidance involving business matters and health matters, especially from the aspect of stress reduction.

Chapters include a description of Kassy's work as a medical intuitive aiding others with her intuitive readings of their health problems, and chapters outlining medthods for readers to follow in doing their own intuitive work.

She is very careful to give thorough explanations as well as suggestions for conserving your own energy when working with problem situations and people.

Her confidence in everyone's ability to contact their own intutive energy is very reassuring. She writes with the tone of a very caring teacher and friend.

Her book is the perfect gift for the new year.

Health Intuition is a practical, effective book. Days after reading it, I was able offer valid readings on other people. I cannot thank Karen Grace Kassy enough for having the courage to write this book, which, in turn, gave me the courage to do readings on others. If you are serious about developing your skills, this is a must read.

I remember walking into a bookstore and like a beacon going over to the display of this book when it was newly released. After reading the back I knew it was for me. Fast forward a couple years and I have finally read the book. If you are a fan of Caroline Myss and alternative health, this is a must-read.

Unlike some other (medical) intuitives (it is a growing field), Karen's approach is unique. Her kind and gentle manner come through in her writing. Her advice is excellent and she is experienced in this field. The book weaves personal stories of clients throughout her own personal story and development of her gift of health intuition. This means she is able to understand your personal health issues by knowing your name and age. She practices a holistic view health, meaning she is concerned with the mental and emotional aspects of health and healing as well as physical. Her book is well written and you can easily grasp which areas of health might be ones for you to work on.

I also had the opportunity to receive a health intuitive reading from Karen most recently. She was right-on about many things with my own health and offered suggestions I had not considered. Her website has more information on how to contact her: ...

-Catherine Carlson

I have read Ms. Kassy's book. It is easy to read and packed with wonderful insights and suggestions. Because of its tone i contacted Ms. Kassy and received a most empowering and helpful health "reading"- (way) beyond my expectations!
I hightly recommend her voice in the wilderness of intuition and health information and misinformation. It is clear, concerned and informed- on the page- as well as on the telephone.
Thank you, Ms Kassy!

Having been through hypnosis training myself I found this to be an effective approach. I feel Janet did a great job with this CD.

Janet Decker has a caring voice and firm approach, telling it like it is. Most anger management classes are for men, so I tried this tape instead. I listened to it continually, sometimes as as background noise when working. It really has helped. I remember her admonitions, especially the , " you live in anger, you live in misery", sstatement and it all rings true. I have all of her tapes and I think her work is excellent.

I purchased this CD, spur of the moment and am so glad I did. My issues are not particularly outright anger but more daily frustration and impatience. Right away, I noticed a marked difference in my feelings, feeling more calm and relaxed with each use. I especially enjoyed learning the touchstone Ms. Decker teaches to use anytime you need to, to feel calm, relaxed, centered, which I use often, especially driving. I went on to buy several more of her CD's and have benefitted from each one. I have listened to other hypnosis CD's and this for me is the best so far. If you are at all interested in hypnosis or just relaxation and rejuvenation I highly recommend any or all of Ms. Decker's CDs.

I work in a small office, and let's just say that my boss is never going to win "Mr. Congeniality"!! Although he is quick to criticize, I rarely receive credit for my work. I am forced to nod and grin like an idiot while he babbles on incessantly about nothing. I know that sounds like a receipe for happiness, but I believe I had some unresolved anger, frustration and resentment. I cannot afford therapy (as I am also blessed with crappy insurance). So after having incredible success with some of Ms. Decker's other hypnosis discs, I gave this one a try. Once again, the results have surpassed my expectations, and it is not an exageration to say that this CD has saved my job (and possibly my life since my surpressed anger used to manifest itself as road rage)!!
A Reader In Palm Desert

Ms Decker's voice is very calming. The hypnosis suggestions are practical and direct. The customer service offered at this company is fantastic. It is truly satisfaction guaranteed! Without a doubt, I will purchase Ms Decker's products again in the future.

Great ideas for bringing kids to a success mind-set.
I hope to introduce the concepts in a local school.

I found The Inner Wealth- The Nurtured Heart Approach in Education to be a very user friendly book with sensible suggestions and premises. I wish the ideas in this book could be implemented in the very earliest grades. Teachers do not have time for a lot of non-sense and pie-in-the sky. This book is filled with ideas and approaches maintaining dignity and respect for both Teacher and Student. The book is grounded in reality.It teaches a more peaceful way of life which hopefully diminishes power struggles and the same old unworkable outcomes.
I have profound respect for Teachers, and I realize many of the trying and even dangerous situations they find themselves facing. I found this book to be a motivater for so many students and a tool to help prevent exhaustion and burn out in so many Teachers. I found this book worth the money, and I plan to give this book as a gift to some of my special Teacher friends. This is a useful book, in my opinion, for Pre-school teachers.

Our staff has been using "The Nurtured Heart Approach" for several years. The Inner Wealth Initiative provides a stunning and detailed framework for transforming the classroom enviornment. We have purchased a copy of the book for each of our staff members and we meet together weekly to discuss the contents, to share our successes, and to ask each other for support. Thank you, Howie and Tom!!

This book should be in every educators hands! How simple it is shift focus from energizing negative behavior to honoring the greatness of students. Intense and energy-challenged kids have learned through experience that they only get attention from adults when they misbehave. This system of nurturing their gifts, recognizing the success they already demonstrate, and giving no or little attentino to bad choices actually works. It works with the entire class - everyone feeding off the positive comments made. The social curriculum of relationship becomes overt and powerful, and leaves much more time for teaching, learning and empowering minds and spirits. It works on your kids, your spouse, your barista. But a dozen - give one to every teacher you know. Start reminding yourself how great you are, too!

I'd handed the book to a teacher at one of 18 Head Start classrooms a few weeks ago. She has been struggling with some very intense and lively children. This is a 60-plus woman with immense skills and experience and she'd been eating up all the Nurtured Heart stuff I've been feeding her, trying it out with the three little boys who have especially been giving her a run for her money. She told me she thought the book was wonderful, that she'd read it all week-end. I said, "Great! That makes my day, Janet I'm so glad you're finding it helpful!" and she said, "Oh no, you don't understand. You've saved my life. I didn't think I was going to be able to teach little children anymore. They seem to be coming with so many more challenges these days." She is excited for her co-worker to read it next.

And then, a teacher at another site has also been struggling with some creatively intense 3-5 year olds. I've known her for 4 years and have never seen her so discouraged. I did a one-hour training at her site one Friday. When I saw her the next Tuesday she said, "I read that book all week-end. I was sick and I probably wouldn't have read it if I hadn't been sick. I usually don't read those kinds of books, but I've read almost all of it." When I went into her classroom the difference between the last time I was there and this time was like night and day. She'd come alive, nurturing the hearts of those little kids right and left...and I was back today, more of the same. She was having fun.

This is a refreshing change (albeit dense occasionally) among books about an extremely complex, and hard to understand topic, psychoanalysis. The essentials in the relationship between the analyst and her or his patient are spelled out, as what is necessary for the patient to change ( if so courageously desired). I wish I had had Feiner as an analyst.He's erudite, has a great sense of humor, and treats his patients as though they are as well read as he. If one isn't, then being with him gets one to become curious about the world as well as oneself. Feiner surely doesn't suffer from and assault us with those three osities: pomp,preci and verb. I hope the W. A. White Institute which trained him, graduates more like him.

Most books on psychoanalysis, its theory or its process, are packed with abstract, esoteric lingo that's far away from how people feel or express themselves. This one is different in that it's of the "she - I said" vaiety, and at the same time presents a pot full of insight about patients that really rings true. Dr. Levenson, in a truly lucid foreword, pegs Dr. Feiner just right-a rare combination of the shades of Isaiah Berlin and Zorba the Greek. The book is erudite, scholarly, and quite articulate (ocassionally Feiner will drive you maddeningly to the dictionary), and downright humorous, at times, all in the service of trying to capture precisely what goes on in interpersonal psychoanalysis, and how people might change. In a section detailing the interpersonal therapeutic interaction he reveals his wit and playfulness, along with his analytic wisdom. It is an area of psychotherapy that isn't written about usually. But the high point of this profound book is to demonstrate how authentic psychoanalysis is clearly non-adversarial and non-advice giving, but genuine analyses of the patient, the analyst himself, and their interaction. The title gives away the significant themes dealt with: relevance, dismissal and self-definition. It's a well written, translucent, amlpy illustrated book about real psychoanalystic therapy. You get the feeling you'd like to be in therapy with Dr. Feiner (if the fee wasn't too high). A good book. Give it to your therapist for Christmas.

This book is not a how-to-do-it essay about interpersonal psychoanalysis. It is, however, a gliding over, in, and around many of the interactive aspects of a therapeutic relationship. There's a lot of wisdom in these 188 pages, based evidently on the author's clinicial experience. And anyone of any school or orientation can read him or herself into it, not in theoretical jargon (if supplied, there's none in this book), but in the active part of engagement. The writing is sometimes funny, and often has you nodding, "yes, it's like that." It may not be the whole of therapy, but it surely presents a big piece of it, and it is a breath of fresh air. Feiner takes a lot for granted- that the reader is probably a professional and knows his stuff, and, therefore, will make something of what he's written. His self-exposure, his thoughtfulness about the patient and what's going on between them, are loud and clear. The chapters on "touch" and "vengeance" are worth the price of admission. Feiner has it right: self-definition is the umbrella covering all experience and the feeling of relevance is the key to a rational way of living.

Most books on psychoanalysis, its theory or its process, are packed with abstract, esoteric lingo that's far away from how people feel or express themselves. This one is different in that it's of the "she - I said" vaiety, and at the same time presents a pot full of insight about patients that really rings true. Dr. Levenson, in a truly lucid foreword, pegs Dr. Feiner just right-a rare combination of the shades of Isaiah Berlin and Zorba the Greek. The book is erudite, scholarly, and quite articulate (ocassionally Feiner will drive you maddeningly to the dictionary), and downright humorous, at times, all in the service of trying to capture precisely what goes on in interpersonal psychoanalysis, and how people might change. In a section detailing the interpersonal therapeutic interaction he reveals his wit and playfulness, along with his analytic wisdom. It is an area of psychotherapy that isn't written about usually. But the high point of this profound book is to demonstrate how authentic psychoanalysis is clearly non-adversarial and non-advice giving, but genuine analyses of the patient, the analyst himself, and their interaction. The title gives away the significant themes dealt with: relevance, dismissal and self-definition. It's a well written, translucent, amlpy illustrated book about real psychoanalystic therapy. You get the feeling you'd like to be in therapy with Dr. Feiner (if the fee wasn't too high). A good book. Give it to your therapist for Christmas.

Most books on psychoanalysis, its theory or its process, are packed with abstract, esoteric lingo that's far away from how people feel or express themselves. This one is different in that it's of the "she - I said" vaiety, and at the same time presents a pot full of insight about patients that really rings true. Dr. Levenson, in a truly lucid foreword, pegs Dr. Feiner just right-a rare combination of the shades of Isaiah Berlin and Zorba the Greek. The book is erudite, scholarly, and quite articulate (ocassionally Feiner will drive you maddeningly to the dictionary), and downright humorous, at times, all in the service of trying to capture precisely what goes on in interpersonal psychoanalysis, and how people might change. In a section detailing the interpersonal therapeutic interaction he reveals his wit and playfulness, along with his analytic wisdom. It is an area of psychotherapy that isn't written about usually. But the high point of this profound book is to demonstrate how authentic psychoanalysis is clearly non-adversarial and non-advice giving, but genuine analyses of the patient, the analyst himself, and their interaction. The title gives away the significant themes dealt with: relevance, dismissal and self-definition. It's a well written, translucent, amlpy illustrated book about real psychoanalystic therapy. You get the feeling you'd like to be in therapy with Dr. Feiner (if the fee wasn't too high). A good book. Give it to your therapist for Christmas.

The author writes with a vivid readable style. He takes us along with him on his quest to help his son learn. Along the way, we meet a variety of clinicians, educators and other experts. Professionals might do well to read these sections to help them understand how strongly their words and actions may affect a distressed parent.

Dr. Roseman had decades of experience compensating for his own AD/HD and learning disabilities. When he discovered that his oldest son had similar difficulties, he determined that his son would have a different experience from his own. Watching his son's struggles and triumphs was an intense experience, unearthing many varied emotional reactions. Dr. Roseman recounts his own memories of the pain and humiliation he experienced as a child when his school and his parents expressed frustration. At the same time, Dr. Roseman remembers how he had been able to use his energy and creativity to find unique ways around his disabilities.

This book emphasizes the need for individualized approaches for AD/HD and learning disabled children. To Dr. Roseman's credit he does not give blanket dismissals to legitimate treatments that did not work well for his particular child.

Not every parent can or should do what this parent did. Many readers will not have the energy, the time or the financial resources to teach their own child. This intense identification between parent and child can be a powerful positive force so long as the parent is able to allow space for other family members and friends.

When Dr. Roseman talks about his long intense periods with minimal sleep, I could understand the rationale of the psychiatrist who wrote a prescription for Lithium. On the other hand, I think of the intense bond between Helen Keller and her teacher. Often intense, passionate involvement enriches our world.

Most childhood development books, while informative, tend to be as compelling as an encyclopedia. Not A Kid Just Like Me. Bruce Roseman's first person account of teaching his learning disabled, ADD son to read is inspiring and enjoyable reading. I think all parents can learn from Dr. Roseman's story. Dr. Roseman has been blessed with a wonderful son, Joshua, whom he loves dearly. Throughout the entire ordeal recounted in the book of dealing with educators, administrators, etc., Dr. Roseman never, ever forgot the love for his child, he never gave up, he always was his child's strongest advocate. While people were telling him and his wife that Joshua would never learn to read, he took control of the situation and taught his son to read. Dr. Roseman is also honest about himself in this book--he admits many time that he was a bit of a pill to those he encountered--again, though, all for his son. Dr. Roseman sent me this book, and asked me to review it. I am so thankful he did. It is a wonderful work that I recommend all parents read. It contains a compelling, heartwarming (although also sometimes heartbreaking) story that will inspire all parents.

I suspected I had ADD for sometime, but never allowed the suspicion to become concrete in my mind. Then I found 'A Kid Just Like Me'. I could not put the book down and finished it less than 24 hours after buying it. I realized that I had read - or sometimes attempted to read - too many books dealing with ADD in abstract terms; I could not recognize myself in those pages. With Dr. Roseman's book the situation was different: His honest, accurate and detailed description of ADD and learning disabilities opened my eyes to my condition. I consider myself lucky to have found this book and wholeheartly recomend it to those who suffer from ADD, kids and adults, and those who love and want to help them.

Dr. Roseman has earned his stripes in parenthood and medicine. This book is inspiring and helpful. He and his son are courageous and capable people. Everyone can learn from this book. It is also well written and lively. I hope learning specialists and teachers at a variety of schools read this book and learn from it. They should really try to understand how parents feel about their children and how they hope for their children, and thus, how dedication and faith can win in the long run.

When I began to read this book, I thought it would be very technical. However, I found it to be a book that I couldn't put down. It is a wonderful story about a father and son and their journey through heartache, love and striving to live in a normal world. I highly recommend this book.

Support World Alzheimer's Day (September 21st) and become a Champion in the fight to end Alzheimer's Disease. Sign up, get involved and HELP the more than 5 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer's. It's your move.
http://www.actionalz.org/move/
info@alz.org

Help raise awareness of this devastating disease while supporting our goal to reach $1 million in donations. Whether you host a party using our exclusive tips from David Tutera, host a sporting event, like Round to Remember, or get your co-workers involved in the cause. All donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar by The Harrah's Foundation. Your help is sure to go a long way. Together we can put an end Alzheimer's.

There are more than 5 million people in the United States living with Alzheimer's. The seventh leading cause of death in the United States, Alzheimers' is a common, progressive, and deadly disease. You probably know someone who suffers from it. Every 72 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer's. The direct and indirect costs of Alzheimer's and other dementia amount to more than $148 billion annually.

The time to act is NOW. Click the link below to help make a double difference in the fight against Alzheimer's.
www.actionalz.org/fundraising/
info@alz.org

The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

www.alz.org
800/272-3900

This book is fascinating reading, and very inspirational for anyone who desires to make the most of the time remaining with their loved one with Alzheimers. This is not a "Stage of Alzheimers" primer, but a fascinating memoir of a daughter caring for her mother with Alzheimers. Elinor Fuchs' story is unique because she finds ways to turn the difficulties of her mother's Alzheimers into opportunities for love, care, and family healing.

Elinor Fuchs, a professor of drama at Yale University, seems so comfortable in her mother's fractured world, and finds the laughter within always. One very poignant moment occurs when the author is trying to determine whether her mother would rather return to her home of 30 years, or stay in an assisted living facility. Her mother responds: "Why go back in life when you can go forward."

This book will bring tears, laughter, and wisdom to those who take the time to savor it.

Gerry Puhara

Elinor Fuchs writes of navigating the long-distance caregiver role, first with the help of part-time paid caregivers and then live-in caregivers. Care eventually moves to an assisted living facility and finally a nursing home. Fuchs marks each transition with mixed feelings over meeting her mother's dependency needs while trying to preserve her independence. Fortunately, her loving uncle was available to make decisions with her until his own death. Fuchs' intelligence, good humor, and compassion enable her to enjoy her mother in spite of her limitations. She begins to reframe the meaning of her mother's fractured language: "I see Lil not only as a `patient' and `sick.' But as an artist, spinning poetry of a private world, and I began to carry a little tape recorder to catch these exchanges." As a result, each chapter of the book begins with an excerpt that reveals their playful, wacky, and sometimes profound conversations. This memoir is filled with funny anecdotes that show how her mother retained her essential self well throughout the disease.

This book is a joy to read. More than a narrative about aging and loss, it is a story of love's triumph. "The last ten years," writes Fuchs, "they were our best." If only more family caregivers in the midst of such adversity could grasp such an unexpected gift.

This is a wonderful book. It's about a downer subject-Alzheimer's---but manages to be funny, inspiring, hopeful and informative about the process of AD. Other reviewers are right---it is a page turner.
So what an achievement---an upbeat, engrossing book about a human tragedy. I've read a lot of first person accounts about the dementia of a relative and this is the best. It should become a classic. And now the author Fuchs, who teaches at the Yale School of Drama, should make a play of this.

Laughter is the key to surviving a mother with Altzheimers. This story is so full of laughter and love that it eases the pain of the adventure, maybe not while its going on, but certainly after the "exit." It's a non-stop read at any stage of the experience even if you got along with your mother just fine.