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Home and Family Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Home and Family
Spider's Voice
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Simon Pulse (2001-05-01)
Author: Gloria Skurzynski
List price: $4.99
New price: $4.99
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

Amazing Spider
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-12-07
I'm a thirteen-year-old that loves to read. I haven't enjoyed twelfth-century books in the past, but this one caught my eye. The reason I enjoyed this book so much was because of it's amazing turn of events. I couldn't anticipate what would happen in this one, as I usually could. If you are looking at this book, I'd say to at least read a couple paragraphs. I'm sure you won't be dissapointed.

The Web That Spider Has Woven is Wonderful
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2000-07-31
I am an 11 year old who simply loves to read and spends hours a day doing so. I read this book and since I enjoy reading books from and about the past, particularly the Middle Ages, you can see how I liked this. I applaud the author of the novel.

One of the best historical fiction books I've read.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1999-08-21
In this tale based on actual events, Gloria Skurzynski has captured the passion and horror of twelfth-century life. All the characters were wonderfully developed and believable, and the story so intriguing I couldn't put the book down. There are still so many areas that could be explored, I can only hope she will write a sequel.

A unique fictional viewpoint of a well-known love affair.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1999-08-08
Although this book was in the "young adult" section of our library, I couldn't resist one more version of the Abelard-Heloise story. I found the book to be well-written and imaginative. Presenting the story from a fresh point of view, that of a mute youth, was an interesting twist. I enjoyed it!

Complex plotting, memorable characters, highly entertaining.
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2000-08-16
Aran's observations of a favored mentor and his romance with a beautiful woman color his life, but violence intervenes and turns a mute boy into a potential sideshow oddity in this story of early France. Spider's Voice, is a fictional account which recreates the story of Abelard and Heloise, 12th century French lovers, and adds many historical insights in a complex plot recommended for mature teens.

Home and Family
The Star: A Story to Help Young Children Understand Foster Care
Published in Paperback by Spartan Graphics (2005-06)
Author: Cynthia Miller Lovell
List price: $7.95
New price: $7.95
Used price: $80.56

Average review score:

Great for Foster Parents
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-24
I sent this book to a friend who is a foster parent. She says that she would like to see EVERY new child who enters the system get a copy of this book...and that every foster parent should read it--as well as all case workers. Pretty high praise! Great for older foster children.

The Star
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-05
My husband and I are foster parents. Inspiration from this book prompted me to decorate the bed room, where our foster child sleeps, with stars. It turned out really cute. It is very easy for these children to "give up hope", but if we continue to remind them of their inner strength, and that there IS hope for their future, remarkable things can happen. Sometimes all they need is for someone to believe in them.

A comforting story for foster children
Helpful Votes: 17 out of 17 total.
Review Date: 2000-11-09
We received this book yesterday and I read it to my two foster sons (aged 7 and 8) at bedtime. The asked me to read eat over again until I got too tired! It follows a girl named Kit from when the social workers arrive at her mother's house to pick her up, to feeling more settled in her foster home. My sons felt less alone in their experience when the story explained that there are other children feeling the same things (sometimes happy, angry, confused, sad). It ends on a positive and personal note that they will be okay. I did think it odd that a star speaks to and comforts the child, but one of my sons said he especially liked hearing about the star. One caution: they were not familiar with the name "Kit" and thought she was being called "Kid." I recommend this book.

The Star: Sensitive and Encouraging
Helpful Votes: 27 out of 28 total.
Review Date: 1999-12-19
The Star: A Story to Help Young Children Understand Foster Care, by Cynthia Miller Lovell, is a refreshingly sensitive book that affirms and encourages children who have been taken from their homes and placed in foster care. The author addresses feelings and questions that children typically have and supportively lets them know that they are not alone. Examples of some issues that are broached include the following: "What does being a foster child mean?", "Am I a foster child because I did something bad?", "Can I eat an apple from the table?" These simple questions are emotionally charged and are of utmost importance to children who ask them.This easy to read book with beautiful watercolor illustrations of children from various cultures and socio-economic groups, is a non-threatening medium to address this sensitive topic with foster children. It indirectly inspires hope, comforts,and affirms each child's uniqueness. The handbook that can be purchased in addition to the book, is a must for adults who wish to indirectly ease children's transition into foster care. This user friendly book provides questions about the main character of The Star and fun activities for the children who read this book. By engaging in these short activities, caregivers can help nurture the bond between themselves and the children whom they help. Because they can also gain insight into the foster child's psyche, they have more tools to effectively help each unique child. In addition to helping foster children and foster parents, The Star can be useful in building sensitivity of this issue and eroding at the stigma of foster care,for peers,educators, social workers,nurses, churches, communities and occupational therapists. As a professional advocate of children in urban and rural areas, this is the only children's book that I have seen available for foster children. It is a must for school and private libraries.

Awesome Book...
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-05-14
My two foster daughters have been placed with us for over a year and they LOVED it! They said some things made sense to them now. Awesome book! Graphics could be better...but it's not too bad. I think this book should be given to every child when they enter into the foster system...even the teens!

Home and Family
The Stay-at-Home Dad Handbook
Published in Paperback by Chicago Review Press (2004-10-01)
Authors: Peter Baylies and Jessica Toonkel
List price: $14.95
New price: $8.94
Used price: $3.58

Average review score:

No more "Mr. Mom"
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2004-12-06
While the day-to-day, 9-to-5 (only it's sometimes more like 24/7) career of child-rearing is still largely a female domain, Mr. Mom is no longer a movie cliche, but an SAHD, or Stay-at-Home Dad. As more mothers bring home larger pay checks, and more paying jobs can be done at home, more fathers find themselves able and willing to do the daycare thing. Thus the rise of dads like Peter Baylies, founder of the At-Home Dad Network and publisher of its newsletter, and thus this very useful and pragmatic guide for "Men Who Clean Bathrooms and the Women Who Love Them."

The Stay-at-Home Dad Handbook would be an excellent tool for any expectant parent, male or female, who wants to look after both home and children. Baylies is full of clear and clever advice about establishing routines, cleaning house (and how to schedule this around the needs of a small child), dealing with tantrums, attaining and maintaining a satisfying social life, living on one income, working at home, avoiding burnout, and what to do when the kid hits kindergarten age. Some of this stuff men simply need explained to them, and Baylies does that with admirable precision, flavored with amusing examples of traditional can-do male attitude - there's a really good idea about how to recycle your old computer and edutain your child at the same time - and tips only a dad would think of, or publish. (Having fun in the summer months via the "ice cube meltdown in armpit" method comes to mind.) But the book's guy-ness comes through most strongly in the "Spotlight on Dad" profiles that finish each chapter: vignettes, some funny and some poignant, by other SAHDs about their at-home experiences: the frustration of waiting and waiting, a squalling infant in one's arms, for the breast-feeding mom who's stuck on the freeway; the guy who's finally taken the proud step of calling himself "a professional parent." ("And if you call me Mr. Mom, I'll hit you with my diaper bag.")

It would be nice to hear a little more about the less tangible rewards of staying at home: the ease and intimacy of life with one's child, the pleasures of not commuting and of being one's own boss. But not to quibble; with its attention to detail and the appendix of cool resources, Baylies's latest child is for any father-to-be who dreams of becoming a real pro. -- Melanie Lawrence for the FEARLESS REVIEWS

Best Book Ever on Stay at home Dads
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2004-11-17
This is "THE BOOK" on stay at home dads! Fun and fast reading that offers valuable insight into the life of stay at home dads. Great parenting tips for both mom's and dad's. Read this book and you will be a better father. This book is a must read for any parent who takes parenting seriously.

Good For Working Moms Too!
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2004-10-13
As a recently back to work mom, I found this book to be incredibly helpful both for me and for my at-home dad husband. The chapter about how to deal with the "rush hour" time before dinner offers some great tips. I definately recommend this book to new moms and dads!

Fathers are people too
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2004-10-13
I had a chance to peek at an advanced copy of the book and I was floored by the creative advise and down to earth approach. I should have read this book 5 years ago when my son's were still young. Luckily I'll have plenty of time to practice on my daughter.

Men who change diapers change the world
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2004-09-28
The book provides valuable nuggets of information for the stay at home dad. This grassroots hands on voices of experience book is a great resource with funny and informative reading.

Home and Family
A Stranger Among Us: Hiring In-Home Support for a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorders or Other Neurological Differences
Published in Paperback by Autism Asperger Publishing Company (2005-06-14)
Author: Lisa Ackerson Lieberman
List price: $23.95
New price: $13.57
Used price: $10.85

Average review score:

Excellent Resource
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-14
Lisa Lieberman's book is a excellent resource for anyone requiring outside assistance in their home. Well-written and well-researched, I am sure it will be a great help to many people.

Sound advice and compassionate counsel...
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-24
"A 'Stranger' Among Us" is no less than a fabulous resource. The book's title is accurate, but quite modest: Though written with a focus on finding support persons for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, this book is nonetheless a valuable guide for families of persons with physical challenges, mental health difficulties, dementia, and serious learning/cognitive limitations as well. This book has a place in the library of any professional or agency serving challenged individuals and their families, and I heartily recommend it to family members and prospective support personnel alike. The author's personal experiences, professional training, extensive knowledge, and abundant compassion combine to provide a tool that is at once accessible, accurate, and wise. This book is a "must-have" resource, a generous and courageous gift.

A must for a medical library
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-12
A fantastic addition to my medical library to use for all of my patients who have family members with disabilities. The book provides many answers and practical help for those seeking and employing in-home support. It is written in an easily readable, user-friendly format.

I most appreciate the sample advertisements and the sample contracts provided. It also helps give permission to those who stay at home to consider in-home help.

Great Resource for Anyone Hiring In-Home Support
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-05
A "Stranger Among Us" is very well written, with easy to follow examples and even worksheets to greatly assist with the hiring process. I especially appreciated how the author allows us to benefit from her "hands-on" experience in her own household, and also includes input from some of the providers that she has employed. Also the reader benefits from extensive research put into this book regarding boundaries that should be established between you and the "In-Home Provider" .

The information and insite offered in this book is amazing. This book illustrates how to endure the difficult and time-consuming process of hiring the right person for the job who will also 'fit" with your family, how to see if the support is working as well as expected and also includes a chapter "When It's Time To Say Goodbye".

A "Stranger " Among Us is a must for anyone who intends to hire "in-home" help, whether you require special support for disabilities or to hire someone to assist with the everyday tasks of a busy household.




Detailed and Diverse
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-07-23
FINALLY, a book that understands the true needs of families and how to help us proactively help ourselves. One of the most difficult dilemas when you have a loved one or child with special needs, whether medical or neurological, is how do you find qualified, caring caretakers? So often as family members we find this task so daunting that we choose not to seek outside help. This book is so reassuring, it gives you the tools to find qualified care, but also the right people for YOUR family.

The thing that strikes me about this book is not only how detailed in strategies it is, but how respectful it is about different kinds of people and their diverse needs. One chapter in particular that stands out is Defining Your Family Culture and Needs. This author recognizes that families have different values, and she discusses how having caretakers who match those values can create harmony, or finding caretakers who are different can enhance a family's life by exposing them to a new way to look at the world. It celebrates the benefits of both and the right to make the choice that is right for your family.

This book has step by step instructions about the various ways to go about hiring caretakers, in and out of home, the strategies you can implement in order to find the best match for your family, there is also a strong emphasis on the role of communication and having mutual respect. She recognizes that a caretaker can become part of your family (which we have certainly found to be true.)I could go on, but it is so incredibly detailed that I couldn't possibly do it justice. This book takes all the guess work out of finding a caretaker, all the things I have wondered and worried about facing when our current caretaker eventually move on to other endeavors. The book makes facing that so much less frightening. I HIGHLY recommend this book not only for parents of children with special needs, such as myself, but as a template for anyone seeking qualified care for their loved ones, whether they have disabilities or not. This book should be on hand in every library and every program that works with families in order to provide an understanding of the need for qualified care and how to how to provide in home supports for those families. I already have two copies and am planning to buy more to make sure our local therapy centers have them in their libraries.

Kristi Sakai parent of 3 with autism, author of
Finding Our Way: Practical Solutions for Creating a Supportive Home and Community for the Asperger Syndrome Family

Home and Family
A Tender Road Home: The Story of How God Healed a Marriage Crippled by Anger and Abuse
Published in Paperback by B&H Publishing Group (1999-12)
Authors: Paul Luchsinger and Susie Luchsinger
List price: $12.99
New price: $2.99
Used price: $0.94

Average review score:

A MUST READ BOOK
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2002-04-23
This is the amazing story of Susie and Paul Luchsinger. I highly recommend this book to anyone, especially those who have endured abuse.
They tell their story, holding nothing back, about what went on, and then how the Lord helped save their marriage.
A MUST READ! Also check out her official site....

You laugh, cry, and show emotion as you read this book.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1999-04-08
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the relatonships that were shared in the book.Paul and Susie worked through some difficult times and came through with flying colors.

WONDERFUL !
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1998-07-18
This book is a God send to many. I pray any couple who's marraige is in trouble, are you just plain love these guys will read this book. I have cryed, laughed and even gotten mad, but all in all this book is WONDERFUL. Thank you so much to Paul and Susie for the time they spent at Brushy Creek Baptist Church in Taylors,SC. You Friend in Christ, Lynda Benden

One of the best books, I have read in a long time.
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 1998-11-02
Susie and Paul have done a wonderful job on the book. This book tells about a marriage that some people would have given up on, but Paul and Susie couldn't. I plan to be married soon and now understand more about beening married and talking to my soon to be husband. I also enjoy learning about Susie and Paul. This book is for any one who want to be married or is married.

A Learning Experience
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-01-26
I think Susie and Paul did a fabulous job writing their life story in this book. They were both very honest and straight forward. You gain a lot of insight from this book and from their experiences as well as learn more about them and what makes them who they are. This book makes you laugh, cry, think, etc , etc. You experience many emotions while reading it. This book also helps you to look at your own life. It lets those that have had similar situations know that they are not alone. I think it is a must read book and I highly recommend it to everyone. I personally have read the book more than once and I get something new out of it every time I read it.

Home and Family
Violence in Our Lives: Impact on Workplace, Home, and Community
Published in Paperback by Allyn & Bacon (1999-01)
Author: Elizabeth K. Carll
List price: $34.00
New price: $5.95
Used price: $0.20

Average review score:

An Insightful and Pragmatic Approach to an American Epidemic
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2000-12-29
As I write this review on the quiet week between Christmas and New Year's Eve, the headlines and news reports are filled with the story of a software tester at an Internet consulting company who wrought an angry vengeance at his former employee by killing seven co-workers. This shocking tragedy has become numbingly familiar to Americans living in a society saturated with violence. This incident underscores the importance and relevance of Dr. Carll's book.

Dr. Carll incorporates valuable contributions from professionals in various fields including mental health, law, business and criminal justice. The book discusses the ways in which violence occurs in the workplace, home and community, and provides a lot of practical approaches for tackling the problem. For example, Dr. Carll offers quick, effective interventions for individuals who have encountered a traumatic violent incident in the workplace. This includes the use of "critical incident stress debriefings" which are confidential structured group meetings that allow individuals to ventilate their emotions and reactions to the traumatic incident they experienced.

In the chapter on Workplace and Community Violence: Intervention and Prevention, Dr. Carll shows how despite increased public awareness, employers continue to neglect the impact of domestic violence on the workplace. She therefore proposes a comprehensive workplace domestic violence program that is particularly sensitive to the needs and concerns of domestic violence victims.

This book is thoughtful, well organized and detailed while still being accessible and very readable. I highly recommend it not only to clinicians, but to anyone seriously interested in understanding and addressing the problem of violence in American society.

The information is comprehensive and thought-provoking.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 1999-02-15
The invaluable and most comprehensive information in this book strongly impels anyone who reads it to become proactive toward attempting to curtail, if not eliminate, the violence that exists in society today. The author discusses the various forms of violence we are presently facing, including workplace and community violence, domestic and intimate relationship violence, media depiction and coverage of violence, and the secondary effects of crime and violence in the course of civic duty, targeting juror stress. What I find to be most unique in this book is the author's recommendations and practical solutions. They are not "pie in the sky," rather, realistic, sensible and attainable. Each one of us must contribute by first reading this book and passing it on to another, then making a visible, concrete effort to help alleviate the violence that does 'not' have to exist in our society today.

Violence is the major public health hazard facing our nation
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-05-24
Dr. Carll provides a highly readable, and yet scientifically accurate strategy for systematically addressing the major public health hazard facing our nation today--violence. An internationally renowned expert, she possesses considerable "hands on" experience in effectively assisting victims of violence, in its many forms. Her highly practical reflections should be of considerable interest to concerned professionals and our citizenry alike. Her underlying message: As a nation, we need no longer be passive victims of acts of violence, interpersonal or environmental. We really do know how to make a difference.

The information is comprehensive and thought-provoking.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-02-15
The invaluable and most comprehensive information in this book strongly impels anyone who reads it to become proactive toward attempting to curtail, if not eliminate, the violence that exists in society today. The author discusses the various forms of violence we are presently facing, including workplace and community violence, domestic and intimate relationship violence, media depiction and coverage violence, including the impact on the family and community, and the secondary effects of crime and violence in the course of civic duty, targeting juror stress. What I find to be most unique in this book is the author's recommendations and practical solutions. They are not "pie in the sky," rather, realistic, sensible and attainable. Each one of us must contribute by first reading this book and passing it on to another, then making a visible, concrete effort to help alleviate the violence that does 'not' have to exist in our society today.

This book fosters HOPE in our efforts to overcome violence!!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-01-25
Unlike most other material written about violence, Elizabeth Carll gives a vivid description of the diverse forms of violence that exist in our society today, including family violence, violence in the workplace, random acts of violence in communities, and also media violence, and, in addition, offers practical recommendations aimed at eradicating existing violence and preventing reoccurrence. The techniques offered for professionals in mental health, the law and business are invaluable in that they are explicit as to means of prevention and, if needed, interventions that can be utilized including using more thorough pre-screening of employees, and conducting training seminars on recognizing and dealing with workplace violence. If crisis does occur, critical incident stress intervention (CISI), which encompasses immediate services as well as short and longer-term follow up as needed, is suggested. CISI is also expecially useful in the prevention of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (symptons such as re-experiencing a traumatic event through recurrent and intrusive memories/dreams, increased arousal manifested by sleep disturbances, temper outbursts, concentration difficulties, and exagggerated startle responses). In this book, the author creates an awareness of the extreme prevalence of family violence, especially violence against women, and the deleterious effects it has on children, including acceptance of violence as a normal response to frustrating situations, which may leave them at a high risk for eventually committing violent acts, themselves. Carll also devotes a chapter to covering media violence, including the media minimizing violence against women, displaying explicit sexual violence, and using violence as a form of entertainment. The long-term effects include desensitization to violence and suffering, learning aggressive behavior and becoming fearful of being victimized, many times resulting in increased distrust of others. The profile presented for identifying the potentially violent personality, highlighting characteristics such as having a history of aggressive behavior/continually blaming others for problems, an unwillingness to take responsibility for one's own actions, and social isolation leave all individuals without excuse for becoming more vigilant in our everyday lives in recognizing the warning signs and possibly warding off danger. Elizabeth Carll gives a comprehensive account of the various forms of violence that exist in our society today, and also strategic methods to identify, minimize, and eventually eliminate them, therefore, fostering renewed hope in an otherwise hopeless society.

Home and Family
When Your Loved One Has Dementia: A Simple Guide for Caregivers
Published in Paperback by The Johns Hopkins University Press (2005-05-10)
Authors: Joy A. Glenner, Jean M. Stehman, Judith Davagnino, Margaret J. Galante, and Martha L. Green
List price: $16.95
New price: $8.00
Used price: $8.99

Average review score:

This is a very helpful book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-14
I am half way through this book and can already say that it is a great resource.
If you are starting down this road with a family member or friend get this book as soon as possible. It may take a few bumps out of the road for you.

An excellent starting point for those with questions
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 13 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-06
Any who care for Alzheimer sufferers or those with other dementias know the challenges involved: eighty percent of people with dementia live at home, and family members often find themselves challenged by unfamiliar demands and new routines. When Your Loved One Has Dementia: A Simple Guide For Caregivers reviews all kinds of challenges, from safety in handling and caring for sufferers and communication challenges to understanding levels of impairment, daily life, and more. An excellent starting point for those with questions.

Great tool for the novice or experienced caregiver
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-07
Even though this book may seem simple at first glance, it is loaded with advice that any caregiver can use. It covers the necessary basics that any caregiver must know about such as:communication, safety, and meaningful activities you can do together.
by Susan Berg author of Adorable Photographs of Our Baby: Meaningful, Mind Stimulating Activities and More for the Memory Challenged, Their Loved Ones, and Involved Professionals

Basics for caring for Dementia patient
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-01
When caring for a loved one with dementia at home, there is little time for reading; this book was a quick read offering good insights to basic care.

Good resources were also offered.

An excellent starting point for those with questions
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-06
Any who care for Alzheimer sufferers or those with other dementias know the challenges involved: eighty percent of people with dementia live at home, and family members often find themselves challenged by unfamiliar demands and new routines. When Your Loved One Has Dementia: A Simple Guide For Caregivers reviews all kinds of challenges, from safety in handling and caring for sufferers and communication challenges to understanding levels of impairment, daily life, and more. An excellent starting point for those with questions.

Home and Family
You're a Medical What!?!: A Lighthearted Peek into the World of a Medical Transcriptionist
Published in Paperback by Robert Reed Publishers (2008-04)
Author: Sara Burns
List price: $14.95
New price: $10.12
Used price: $30.43

Average review score:

Absolutely loved this book!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-04
I absolutely love this book. I was so happy with it that I ordered 3 more for my transcriptionist friends. I find myself constantly quoting something from the book while I am at work. I also have a better understanding of how my doctors feel some days by the time they get to the office. I was amazed at the similarities that we transcriptionists have. We are certainly not alone in our love for our work and in our frustrations that we have at times.

An absolute delightful and fun read with tons of practical advice!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-11
Sara Burns makes the world of medical transcription come alive to those unfamiliar with the field and creates a "chum-hood", if you will, to those of us who share experience in the field, to the point of pure nodding hilarity in which we can identify with common experiences.

Her book is an absolute delight to read. As a medical transcriptionist for almost 20 years, I feel she blends a perfect recipe of information, heaping cupfuls of wit and humor, and plenty of wisdom from her 29 years of experience. She offers everything from practical advice for not only the prospective or new transcriptionist but also wisdom to benefit the seasoned transcriptionist that adds spice to a job you already love. Many times, this book is just plain fun that will have you laughing out loud.

I absolutely loved her chapter, "You Might be a Transcriptionist if ... ," which had me cackling to the point of my tummy almost hurting, and I found myself filling in the blanks with my own experiences on the job. It would be fun for all of us MTs to send Mrs. Burns our "You might be's" so she could be the beneficiary of the same types of wonderful hoots she provided the reader. What an absolutely clever and fun chapter. Quite a change from some of the usual material on the subject of medical transcription, which tends to be on the rather dry and serious side, making one wonder if the field of medical transcription is devoid of individuals with an ounce of personality. Certainly, Sara debunks that speculation and offers her charmingly infectious personality. She draws you into her world and lets you know enough about her own life story that just fills you with a desire to sit with her in a couple of cozy chairs, sipping tea, and asking her to share more stories about herself and this interesting profession.

Funny thing is, working at home, we don't always have another transcriptionist friend ready at hand to talk to. Reading Sara's book was like having a luncheon with her, sharing the ups and downs of the job, the hysterical things that happen, helpful hints, pros and cons ... you name it, she covered it. She essentially became my mate for the duration of the book. I also so appreciated hearing some of her faux pas, gaining comfort from the fact that even a seasoned transcriptionist makes mistakes. Goodness, when you are an independent contractor, you are your own worst critic, so knowing that even the mature transcriptionist makes a mistake here and there, is able to laugh about it, and then move on is ever so comforting. Even the cartoons were a hoot because she nailed every aspect of being a home-based transcriptionist.

My conclusion: We transcriptions have needed a book like this. Sara Burns has filled the void. Many of us are fun, we love our job, and it is far from boring. I definitely would recommend this to those looking into the field and those new to the field, as there is much sound advice given from a woman with vast experience. Additionally, this is a book I would highly recommend to the seasoned transcriptionist who will find themselves smiling and laughing throughout as we can identify with every aspect of what she shares and even gain some helpful tips and new perspectives on our profession. It is simply a refreshing book. Finally, I even think physicians would benefit a great deal from reading her book as they could gain an understanding of what we have to deal with as a transcriptionist, might even laugh at themselves, and might even gain a greater appreciation for those of us who work so hard to make them sound their best.

So, two thumbs up for Sara. Get this book. You not only won't be disappointed, but you will be glad you did because you will have had so much fun ... it's not just a "how to" but a wonderful story that unfolds in the process. Enjoy!

Great advice, well-written, and entertaining!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-02
The previous reviews give an excellent description Sara Burns' book, so I will not repeat what they have to say as I agree with their reviews and praise. I have been in the field for many years and found Sara's book to be a wonderful compellation of wisdom, humor, practical advice, and refreshing honesty, written in a lighthearted, easy, and witty style. I enjoyed Sara's book from start to finish and was sad to turn the last page. I found myself nodding in agreement and smiling with understanding at the humerous, frustrating, and fulfilling moments that she describes so well. With so many years of experience, Sara's insights and practical suggestions will be invaluable to someone considering medical transcription and will provide a good understanding of all aspects of this field. She has a way with words that will hold your attention, whether you are someone looking to get into the field or have worked in the medical field for years. I highly recommend her book - read it slowly and enjoy it!

An interesting home business
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-23
Reviewed by Lynn Bee for RebeccasReads (3/08)

Sara Burns has spent 29 years as a medical transcriptionist and is writing to share her expertise. Much of her advice as a home-based independent contractor will be helpful to those in other professions as well. Her experiences taking her show on the road --spending a year living and working in Kauai -- may well inspire home-based workers in many fields.

Burns wrote the book for three distinct audiences. She says that experienced medical transcriptionists will smile and share in her reminiscences.

She hopes to give newbies a clear picture of what they are up against. While sharing some very good advice, she admits that the field is in constant change and acknowledges that many areas of the profession have changed drastically since her earlier stints in hospitals and clinics.

She also aims to inform the curious about the duties and importance of MTs. While the cover promises spicy anecdotes, the text is general and often repetitive. "Discover which famous person was a flirtatious rascal in the recovery room," teases the back cover. This item is at the tail end of the book and no names are named.

The author does provide some solid guidance about those television ads that promise you a life of ease and great financial gains when you take their class to earn a degree in her field. She is adamant: it just doesn't happen that way.

Burns has an impressive work history and obviously loves her chosen field, but I would not recommend "You're a Medical What!?!" to the casual reader. This book for the serious reader.

Fun and well-written
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-28
Reviewed by Leslie Granier for Reader Views (4/08)

"You're a Medical What?!" is a compilation of anecdotes written about things author Sara Burns has experienced in her twenty-nine years as a medical transcriptionist. Her passion and love for her chosen career resonate throughout the book, However, she is upfront with the reader about aspects of her job that are not as glamorous. Burns states that she wrote the book for three distinct groups: veteran transcriptionists, those considering a career as a transcriptionist, and "any inquisitive individual who happens upon this book." All three groups can appreciate the book and gain important knowledge. However, people with backgrounds in the medical field or those who are familiar with medical terminology will be able to better identify with her stories.

Burns offers helpful tips for those interested in seeking a career in medical transcription. She also discusses where the profession is headed for the future and how vastly it may differ from its present state. She provides good advice for those trying to decide between working at home and working in a traditional office setting. (These tips are helpful for anyone considering working at home, regardless of his or her profession.) She challenges the reader to ponder if he or she has enough self-motivation to remain focused and complete the work on time. Another important item to consider is whether a particular person can work well alone or if interaction with other people is needed.

The author uses humor to depict the job of a medical transcriptionist. She includes some cute cartoons, but the best part is her takeoff of Jeff Foxworthy's "you might be a redneck" routine. She devotes an entire chapter to her "you might be a medical transcriptionist" theme, including such quips as, "If every time you sit in a chair you automatically feel for the foot pedal with your foot, you might be a medical transcriptionist."

This is a fun and well-written book. Sara Burns does an excellent job of recounting her life-experiences so the reader can easily relate to many of the situations. She includes humor to entertain and keep the audience interested. In addition, she serves as sort of a mentor for people considering making medical transcription their career.

Home and Family
Your Home is Not Broken
Published in Paperback by Oasis House (1999-12)
Author: Tony Martorana
List price: $10.00
New price: $4.39
Used price: $3.39

Average review score:

Passionate
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2001-11-15
Tony writes with passion about the condition of many American homes. Whether you are a single parent or a child in a single-parent home, Tony's heart embraces your struggle to find wholeness and happiness. It's impossible to read this book without coming away with hope and solid ideas for healing in one of the most tough and tender areas of American family life. Written by a warrior who's been in the trenches, this book is highly recommended.

Krista Larson (single mother)
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2000-08-17
I just finished reading "Your Home Is Not Broken". Wow! It confirmed so many thoughts, feelings, and emotions from the last 10 years. I can hardly beleive the Lord used my incarcerated husband to get me the book after many years of seeking someone who would, or even could, understand what it is like to parent alone.

Splendid book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2000-05-11
Encouragement sums up this book. Pastor Tony gets right to the heart of the issue. God has brought healing to me through the ordained words of this book. I am so thankful for this single parent ministry, and all of the wonderful staff at the Audubon church in New Jersey!

Your Home Is Not Broken
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2000-03-24
This is a must read! The author lays bare his own soul even as his passion to see the single parent home made whole bleeds through on every page. There is hope for the single parents and their children and this book provides it!

your home is not broken
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2001-10-03
I have just finished reading "Your Home is Not Broken" by Tony Martorana. This is the first book that I have read on helping restore broken families, both as parents and children. It is an excellent work to challenge the church how to reach out to hurting families that surround us at every function. Read this and hear the heart of God towards the hurting, wounded, and the victory that is not only theirs, but ours as the church of the living God! This is a must read for everyone! Let's continue to build the Kingdom!

Home and Family
Alzheimer's Care with Dignity
Published in Perfect Paperback by Headline Books (2007-05-01)
Author: Frank Fuerst
List price: $24.95
New price: $16.12
Used price: $17.37

Average review score:

Great Guide for anyone taking care of a terminally ill patient at home
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-29
My Mother has terminal Cancer and my Father is taking care of her at home. This book has been been a great guide and reference for her care. My Mother does not have Alzheimers but my Father and our family are encountering all the care issues that a family must address when caring for a terminally ill family member at home.

Very specific help for the caregivers
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-09
This book has seemingly all the information that you need to be a successful caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer's. It is written in a very direct style. It addresses very specific solutions to the problems that occur as the various stages of the disease progress. I took care of my mother before I read this book and I could have used the advice here. I would not have had to reinvent the wheel, so to speak. The book acknowledges, but does not dwell on the emotional difficulties a caregiver faces, but since it offers concrete solutions to all kinds of problems, using it as a reference can make the care giving experience that much easier. Keep this one on the shelf, you'll refer to it often.

Wonderful perspective in caring for a loved one
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-28
It has a lot of useful information and wonderful perspective in dealing with a loved one with Alzheimer's. I can already see application and things we can do better for my mother-in-law who lives with us. I just hope we can have half the compassion and patience that Frank shows in his book!

Alzheimer's Care with Dignity
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-21
Magnificent work! It is bound to be helpful to anyone who has a family member or close friend with dementia. There is a multitude of practical points. Anyone will be struck by the author's compassion and dedication to his wife. It is also good that the author admits how the process is so trying.


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