Clubs Books

. . . an illuminating look at the risks involved in flying commercial airliners, from a line captain who spent his career doing just that. . . . Power-Waters uses his captain's eyes and mind to explain why things happen and what can be done to make the skies safer. . . .
Roy Boydston, General Aviation News

Once again Captain Brain Power-Waters had the courage to take on the FAA. I hope his effort is not in vain. The ALPA, IAM, and NATCA need to take a stand and do the right thing. We all know the FAA want. Congradulations Brian for your great book. This is a must read for everyone! Steve Goodman, Line Captain, A&P, I.A.

I thoroughly enjoyed Captain Power-Waters' latest book. Now the truth is out! What a great job of telling the truth, and in such an interesting fashion. Power-Waters' story telling holds the attention while putting out information that is valuable to all in aviation. Is It Safe? covers today's primary concern of the risky business of flying commercial airlines, and what can be done about it. I am recommending my friends read it. Captain Power-Waters continues to do a service for all aviation by telling it like it is. This is overdue in aviation.
Paul E. Stebelton, FAA Accident Prevention Specialist (13 years), Captain USAF Retired.

"Thank you for sending me a copy of Is It Safe? You obviously have done an extensive job researching this topic, and, more importantly, it is clear you have lived the issues. I congratulate you on your effort.
Robert Roach, Jr., General Vice President IAM, the International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers.
IAM has over 14,000 mechanics and flight attendants in their association.They also preside over 75,000 other airline employees.

Whether it's airline practices, the two-person cockpit crew, or just plain bad design, Captain Brian is all over it. He's particularly hard on the FAA, from a lot of different angles. He points out that they can't possibly do the job they're saying they're doing, and that their delegates (DERs and airline employee-supervisors) aren't as interested in safety as in keeping the schedules met. He points out that the FAA doesn't follow its own rules, and how, if you're high enough up in the bureaucracy, you can get away with all kinds of questionable actions. He even mentions how some (to his mind, as well as most others' ) "unqualified" FAA officials (they're all "officials") decided to "get" Bob Hoover. . . . .
He sounds alarmist, even -- until you realize he's quoting actual accident reports, actual cockpit recordings, actual GAO studies, actual facts. . . . .
The book reads like a hangar-talk bull session, where you're listening to a guy who knows his flying, knows his airplanes, knows his maintenance, and, well, knows what he's talking about. . . . .
Tim Kern, Aero-News Network

Three cheers for Cal Brantley! Lise Baker's new private detective is smart and funny and not afraid to speak her mind. Her cool demeanor is the perfect foil for the bizarre and deadly circumstances she finds when she investigates the death of a child in a Nevada casino. The Losers' Club is a great beginning for a wonderful new series.

This book is a must read for anyone who wants to know what the life of a real Private Investigator is like. This book could not have been written by anyone who is not a working PI. "The Losers' Club" is certainly the best PI mystery that I have read in a long, long time. Cal Brantley doesn't carry a gun but a cellular phone, a camera and a knowledge of people are all the weapons she needs. I think she one investigator I would like to work with and I am looking forward to hearing more of her story. Thank you, Lise S. Baker for writing this wonderful book.

It's hard to believe that this is this writer's first mystery novel! Lise S. Baker's style is very polished. Her extensive personal experience as a Private Investigator bring realism to this suspenceful insurance investigation of the death of a child in a Nevada Casino. It's one of those page turners that is usuall written by well established authurs. If the right Hollywood screen writer reads this one, it could actually end up as a big screen box office hit! As a Practicing PI myself, I was not only throughly entertained, but even learned a few trade secrets from a much more experienced PI, Ms. Lise Baker. I can hardly wait for the next advanture of Cal Brantley, a "new school" San Francisco, female PI.

Hard-boiled private-eyes have evolved from the Sam Spades ofthe 1940s, to the Mike Hammers of the 1950s, the Jim Rockfords of the1980s, and even to Rick Deckard in BLADERUNNER's futuristic film noir setting. (In the 1970s, Woody Allen spoofed the type in PLAY IT AGAIN SAM and his short stories "The Whore of Mensa" (in WITHOUT FEATHERS)and "Mr. Big" (in GETTING EVEN). In THE LOSER'S CLUB Lise Baker adds a new twist to the type with Cal Brantley, an attractive, tough but vulnerable female P.I. who distrusts corporations and macho men, is loathe to come off a job, relentless in her pursuit of truth, and very good at what she does. She is loyal to family and friends, with a soft spot for her demented ex-boyfriend.

Cal's new assignment partners her with an obnoxious ex-LAPD cop, an acquaintance of Mark Furhman. They travel together to Nevada, land of legalized gambling, prostitution, New Age spiritualists, and UFO fanatics. Baker deftly weaves all these elements into Cal's quest to investigate the death of a little boy, while she simultaneously tries to save her ex-boyfriend from self destruction. The character of Cal well drawn. Baker manages to avoid cliches as places Cal squarely in the genre of hard-boiled investigators. A professionally adept, emotionally scarred, love 'em and leave 'em sort, Cal's ambivalence about meaningless sex provides an interesting contrast to the private-eyes of yore. Unlike Sam Spade, Mike Hammer, and her other antecedents, Cal is the child of '60s flower children, with a passion for Led Zeplin. And this gives a different perspective to the seedy people and sordid things she witnesses.

Baker's rich imagination is well complemented by a fluid, engaging writing style that has no rough moments. Like Cal, Baker is a professional investigator, and she knows her stuff. Altogether, LOSER'S CLUB is a provocative update of the genre that keeps you turning the pages.

I am an avid mystery reader--Connelly, Crais, LeHane-- and this new novel is right up there. It's rare when I actually laugh out loud in the middle of a page--her dry humor really is appealing to me. Her writing is tight and evocative and Cal Brantley is a great character. I was definitely disappointed, though, in the last 1/4 of the book. Things got predictable and unbelievable, particularly so because the majority of the book was of such a high caliber. I thought there were too many characters in the novel--too many to be well-drawn and some of them (Violetta in particular)came out to be caricatures. The subplot about the ex-boyfriend could definitely have been left out and improved the book overall. But I am very much looking forward to her next book--hope there is one.

I didn't think this book was so good. It was only ok. Mallory has to baby-sit for twins. The twins wear the same things, share a room, ( they even have the same stuff) In the end The twin realize that they need their own space. If you are a Mallory fan.... you should read this book.

This is definetly one of the best BSC books. Its about Mallory getting a job for twins Marilyn and Carolyn Arnold Mal thinks it will be easy money but the twins are little brats when Mallory finds out the truth about the feelings about being identical twins will she help them out?

I loved this book! It is about Mallory who gets a job to babysit for twins! She thinks it will be easy, but when the mother leaves, the twins go crazy. While Mallory is struggling, Claudia also has to battle them. Finally,using a special method, the twins are acting normal, but they tell Mallory that they want to be different. And with saying that, their life and Mallory's life changes just a little bit. :)

this was definitely one of my favourite books and it has one of the best covers too. Basically Mallory is sitting for the Arnold twins and they are terrors, but it turns out that they just wanted to be individual people instead of dressing alike all the time. My favourite parts were the birthday party, the shopping trip where they bought new sophisticated clothes with their birthday money, and when the club members go on a shopping trip and most of them get their ears pierced after Mal & Jessi got permission and also the part where they got new earrings. But honestly, who waits that long to have them pierced at an older age? Most people I know, including myself were not old enough to remember getting our ears pierced, so it seemed really strange to me that most of them weren't allowed until them and some of them not being allowed until they're older. Anyways back to the book, it was well written descriptively and definitely worth a read. Enjoy

When 11 year old Mallory baby sits for Marilyn and Carolyn Arnold, she thinks it's going to be okay. But when Mrs. Arnold leaves, the twins turn into horrible brats. Taking care of The Arnold Twins is a baby sitting nightmare. But Mallory's a responsible member of the BSC- and she's not giving up!

I have always loved the books on Mary Ann. I am, like Mary Ann, also very shy and sensitive. After reading this book I walked away feeling braver and stronger. I love the new Mary Ann because she is not only her caring old self but also a new more confident person. This book is really an insperation. It also shows you that when you belive in yourself, with a little help from your friends, you can do anything. This book is a true treasure.

I love this book! Somehow,as I was reading along,it made me feel stonger about myself. I didn't know how to stick up for myself,but after reading it,I did. A so must read.

By far this is the best book in the bscff series. Mary Annedefinately proved she not just meek shy girl always behind someone todefend her. This time that punk Cokie finally was cut down to size, by Mary Anne. First Cokie made fun her by her big breakup with Logan,then lied about Logan saying that she begged him to get back with him. Also said he going with another girl{which was true}, then she sabotaged the yearbook ballots! . That's when Mary Anne did her own scheming as well, along with the BSC's rival, Cary.In this book you could see Mary Anne try on new attitudes and maturing from the old quiet Mary Anne! She even snuck out of her house! Now that's major improvement! Also in this book Mary Anne and her parents settled long overdue conflicts.Mary Anne has proven herself to Logan, BSC, Cokie, the whole school,... and herself that she is here and here to stay!

Here's the deal. MaryAnne, as you know, has broken up with Logan. Cokie is still after Logan, and she's also still attacking MaryAnne (you know what I mean).

Both MaryAnne and Cokie are on the yearbook team, or whatever you call it (I read this a few days ago). Cokie is in charge, and she's most enthusiastic about the parts like "Most sporty", "Most likely to be seen in Beverly Hills", etc. Cokie is convinced that she fits in most of this categories, and is being mean to MaryAnne, spreading rumours and everything.

MaryAnne teams up (sort of) with Cary Retlin to get her revenge on Cokie. But in the end...
It really is Sweet Revenge. Read it and find out. The Real New MaryAnne is much better than the Old MaryAnne or the Not Good New MaryAnne. Hope you liked this review.Br

This is book number eight in the series.

In this installment, Mary Anne, Cokie, and some other people are on the yearbook commitee at school. The school nominated categories are being updated this year- so in addition to all the categories like best dressed and most likely to succeed, they have other categories like Most Artistic and Most Likely to Be Seen in Hollywood. Cokie, unfortunately, sabotages the votes so that she and her friends will get all the categories to themselves. Mary Anne and Abby figure this out, though, and go to the vice-principal to get a recount.

Cokie, furious (as always), spreads a rumor around the school that Mary Anne begged Logan to take her back, sending him e-mail messages and hundreds of messages on his answering machines. Logan, reportedly, had said 'no, there is another girl, and I don't like you any more'. This isn't true, and Mary Anne and the BSC get Cary Retlin to help them think up a way to pay her back just in time for the huge party that Cokie's throwing.

Mary Anne's dad grounds Mary Anne just before the party, so Mary Anne sneaks out and arrives there, where she tells the truth to Cokie once and for all- that Cokie's a brat that no one likes and that even though she thinks that telling lies about other people will make her seem cool, they don't.

Mary Anne finally gets over her nightmares, and learns that her dad had recently been experiencing the same flashbacks to the night of the fire.

A good book, and a lot more serious and realistic than the original BSC series.

Wow! I liked Dawson's other books. But this one. . .She blew me over. I laughed and cried, but mostly I hoped if I ever found myself in the place she put her characters I'd find Bathroom Friends like that.
Buy it. Keep it. And thank Dawson for being a sensitive woman, an articulate spokesperson for all women.
Jody Payne

I have to admit I picked up this book because of its title. But a few pages into this book, I was so riveted that I simply couldn't put it down, I couldn't stop reading. Then I went back and re-read it slowly and carefully, to the very last page, because this is one of the best books I have ever read.

This book *is* about "The Make a Wish Foundation", and about breast cancer, but on the other hand, it is also about so much more, and it was so well-written, so beautifully and realistically categorized, that, like some previous reviewers, I would love to see another book on these characters. Ms. Dawson, Encore, please!

This book starts off about Holly, but she quickly meets Maggie and Grace, and they soon turn into a three-some of good friends, cemented by the fact that they are all going through some kind of crisis in their life. Holly is twenty-five, Maggie is forty-five, and Grace is in her mid-sixties, so that we get a very good snapshot of three women at three very crucial stages of their life - Holly, who is entering adulthood, Maggie, facing her empty nest, and Grace, dealing with the inevitable problems of aging and sickness. We also get some very cute conversations as they explore the generation gap - and their different attitudes towards work, marriage, husbands, children.

I loved, loved, loved this book. I have to admit that I like books with more than one plot-thread, I tend to get bored easily and I like books like this that have more than one primary character that can keep my interest. Add to that some extremely realistic characters, and excellent writing, and I, at least, have found a real keeper. There is something about each of these three women's dilemma's that ring true, that feel real. While I have been in Holly's shoes, and I can tell you that that is *exactly* how I felt, I can feel that Maggie and Grace, too, were extremely realistically portrayed.

I did not feel that this book had too little of the men-in-their-lives, I think that that would have made it a little too complicated, and besides, this book was all about the women.

No matter what your tastes, I really don't think that you can go wrong with this truly exceptional novel!

The Pink Magnolia Club, a wonderful story of women's friendships, is one of the most moving books I have read. I have never felt the need to review a book on line before, but it is my duty to praise Dawson for her service to the special friendships that we as women have and the magnificent work of the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation.
I have learned so much about this organization and its good works from Dawson's Book. The Pink Magnolia Club not only touched my heart but also my soul. I cried at the ups and downs in the friendships among the three women and recalled such friendships with older and younger women that I have been blessed to have. I am ordering this book for those women, ages 17-82, I am lucky enough to call my friends for 1 year to 43 years so they can have a good cry, remember our friendship and learn what to do with those rings still stored in their drawers.

It begins with Holly setting out to check off to check off at least one and maybe two goals on her life list. When she reaches the room where she plans to begin this goal, having sex in an improper setting with her boyfriend, Justin, he ruins it by proposing to her in front of a ballroom full fo people. She reacts by running from the room and getting sick in the bathroom. There, she meets two older women. Both are there as part of the Dresses for Dreams sale, where old wedding gowns are donated and sold to make wishes come true for breast cancer patients. Grace, the elder of the two, is working there, and Maggie has donated her dress, though it was hard for her.

They get to witness a spectacular to do when Jusin follows Holly into the ladies room then storms off, leaving the girl confused and hurt. They form a bond and continue to meet, sharing their problems and woes. Maggie's big problem is she and her husband Mike have drifted apart, so much so that he forgot their twenty fifth annerversary and has now bought a boat, intending to sail the Caribean for a few months, alone. He needs some time. Grace and her Ben are still happily married, except for one problem. He is in denial about her fatal prognosis with cancer.

As the story progresses, the three women work on putting together a fiftieth annerversary party for Grace and Ben, though Holly and Maggie secretly plan for it to be a second wedding to make up for the big one she did not have. Maggie tries dating and also has a few attempts at dealing with Mike, while Holly confronts the fear that keeps her from marrying Justin, or anyone, with a clear mind. They make more life lists, go to jail together, and eat lots of chocolate.

***** A favorite author makes a change of pace in this heart warming, sometimes funny, sometimes painful novel that no woman should miss. This is one of those books where a lot happens, but it's hard to describe. It is a gentle walk that will renew something inside you and make you appreciate life. Does Grace get her dream wedding? What happens to the two estranged couples? Read it and find out, just keep some tissue and chocolate handy. *****

Reviewed by Amanda Killgore.

In Fort Worth, three women meet in the ladies room of the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation meeting hall. Middle aged Maggie Prescott is giving away her wedding gown that she wore twenty-five years ago because she believes her husband Mike no longer cares about her. Holly Weeks is stunned because the man she loves has proposed, a request that goes contrary to her life list and heats up her fears following her mother's death years ago from breast cancer. The third bathroom buddy sixty-five year old Grace Hardeman suffers from breast cancer.

Though from three different generations, the trio becomes friends. Grace provides a role model for her younger buddies as her philosophy of "today is a gift that's why it's called the present" resonates in all she does. However, even she fears dying as it is a matter of time before she must enter the hospital with her beloved loyal husband and her two pals providing her support.

Readers who enjoy a wonderful relationship drama that emphasizes the importance of loved ones during a health crisis will want to read THE PINK MAGNOLIA CLUB and donate to the Making Memories Foundation. The story line moves the audience through the three women confronting varying traumas in different ways. The characters seem genuine and fans will hope for the best whatever that might be for each one. Geralyn Dawson provides a powerfully emotional tale that will bring her much praise from fans and reviewers (and tissue companies) for this courageous tale.

Harriet Klausner

Diane's book is great fun and practical, too. The recipes are short and to the point. I haven't screwed up one yet. In addition, the information on the aphrodisiacs takes just the right tone to spark some playful romance.

This book is perfect for a romantic dinner for two. It is sexy, fun and entertaining.

This book tells you step by step how to prepare Recipes and them are pretty easy to make.
Erotic entrees include Scallops with Asparagus and Ginger Beurre Blance and Sausages in Red Wine. And if you make it to dessert, try replacing low-carb with "low-garb" by enjoying the sweet sensation of Strawberries. yummy..
Other book very yummy it's Sex and the perfect lover by MabeL Iam( hardcover)

The ritual of cooking and dining have not been explored enough in our American culture in terms of romance. This book is about preparing sensual dishes (tastes and presentations) with the right atmosphere (candles, soft music, flowers, beautiful settings). All the recipes are simple and are clearly displayed on only one page thus freeing the cook to spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table with a loved one.

A good book, but I find that I refer to other "aphrodisiac" cookbooks more because they have photos. (After all, so much of our sensuality is from the pleasures of the eyes!)

This book is an autobiographical account of the author, Jo Ann Schneider-Farris. In particular, she takes the reader with avid captivation into the world of an organization few get exposed to in the way she has. She does so revealing personal aspects of her and organized religious organizations. She confirms for me concerns that I had in dealing with this particular organization years ago. The brilliance of her prose in self revelation brings a light of honesty to the transcript. Jo Ann's journey takes the reader along with her in a delightful timeline fashion. I am left, knowing that her life's journey is only in progress. I want to know more. It would be nice if Jo Ann were to publish a sequel or additional autobiographical release. I would recommend this book to anyone. On a personal note, I would like to thank Jo Ann for sharing this. I have found it tremendously uplifting!

Jo Ann Farris' story is thoroughly captivating! It's not often that we get a first-hand look at what goes on behind the scenes of religious organizations such as Jews for Jesus. In addition, Jo Ann shows us how determination and love from her family allowed her to overcome her hardships and keep moving forward toward a happier life. The story is quite inspirational and I heartily recommend it.

As an acquaintance of the author's I rejoice that she has come through her ordeals and is again the happy person I knew long before the events she described. As a Christian, however, I was left deeply saddened that yet another person has failed to have Jesus come into her heart because of the "agendas" of some so-called Christian and religious organizations. The "Jesus-drug" she mentions as the basis of extreme fundamentalist churches, and the personality-directed groups "Jews for Jesus" and "Focus on the Family" left her with an incorrect view of true Christianty. I urge all Christians who read this book to pray that we can better learn to share the glory of Jesus without obscuring His love and death for our sins by our own "agendas".

A couple weeks ago I decided to re-read this book looking for information I encountered in my past. It was there. It is not often one can read text that is honest, very complete and accurate in presentation. Additionally, this script is actually pleasingly fun to read! (15-Sep-05KK) Reviewed first: 01-Jan-2003This book is an autobiographical account of the author, Jo Ann Schneider-Farris. In particular, she takes the reader with avid captivation into the world of an organization few get exposed to in the way she has. She does so revealing personal aspects of her and organized religious organizations. She confirms for me concerns that I had in dealing with this particular organization years ago. The brilliance of her prose in self revelation brings a light of honesty to the transcript. Jo Ann's journey takes the reader along with her in a delightful timeline fashion. I am left, knowing that her life's journey is only in progress. I want to know more. It would be nice if Jo Ann were to publish a sequel or additional autobiographical release. I would recommend this book to anyone. On a personal note, I would like to thank Jo Ann for sharing this. I have found it tremendously uplifting!

Jo Ann Farris' story is thoroughly captivating! It's not often that we get a first-hand look at what goes on behind the scenes of religious organizations such as Jews for Jesus. In addition, Jo Ann shows us how determination and love from her family allowed her to overcome her hardships and keep moving forward toward a happier life. The story is quite inspirational and I heartily recommend it.

A lot was learned about the subject matter of Shed No Tears. It seems not all the facts of the era had been fully exposed, until the writing of this book. I also enjoyed learning the cast of characters. Some I dispised, some I fell in love with. To this day, I still think of them. I highly recommend it.

Like all good historical novels, Shed No Tears has enough event driven momentum to make readers forget that they know its historical stream. Beyond that, it incorporates some important historical aspects of the American Revolution for the reader to ponder. Moral, ethical and political problems haunt the novel's background and this helps give depth to the characters. Finally, this novel develops its characters in such a way that the reader really does care and worry about them. Solomon, the free, black, commercially successful protagonist is strong almost too strong but his discovery of himself and his place in the times makes him a sympathetic as well as admirable figure. Several of his friends and enemies are drawn with enough depth to allow us to know them as people whether we love or hate them. Romantic momentum the book has and most readers will be diverted from their other activities to read it through as quickly as possible.

EXCELLENT - A GOOD BOOK FOR YOUNG MINDS - UNDERSTAND ABOUT HISTORY!

This novel is an atypical account of the American Revolution from the perspective of a free Black coloinal male. It provides a unique perspective not published in most historical accounts recounting the birth of this nation.

Shed No Tears is a rich tapestry of adventure, love, saddness, hatred and the human spirit. It evokes, thought, emotions and reations at every turn.

I strongly recommend this book to all critical thinkers, and socially conscientious readers. It's well-woven tapestry provides something for all; regardless of your individual perspective and knowledge of the birth of this nation.

Definitely not your typical story about U.S. history! Nor of the African-American experience during revolutionary times. No handkerchief head negroes here or those trying to get along to "get along". "Shed No Tears" will hold your attention from page one to the end and have you begging for a sequel(which I hear is in the works).

The lead character is a strong no-nonsense, intelligent African-American male, who truly lives in a world of hypocrisy that at times verges on the fringes of madness. Solomon Cooke, cool, calm and collected yet ready to drop the hammer on any fool when life or love is in danger. Not only must he deal with the madness going on around him he must also deal with the challenges of finding a true love and happiness.

Romance, drama, suspense, humor and unfortunately tragedy are all here. And yes, I agree with several of the other reviewers, however with one caveat, I believe "Shed No Tears" WILL BE an excellent movie. Truly a great work.

Ron Fay, through his own experience, saves us the pitfalls of trial and error. Taking us through the planning process, he covers everthing from Market analysis, financial and tax considerations, equipment, and space planning, to personal training and membership retention. Other helpful tools include a section of forms and templates. As a Personal Trainer I knew the service end of the business but felt less sure of myself in terms of managing an entire facility. I took this book and have used it as a roadmap to open and successfully run a small club here in rural Upstate NY. Must Have reading for any trainer considering their own club.

THIS BOOK HAS SO MUCH SOUND INFO FOR THE NOVICE OR SEASONED TRAINER.I RUN A PERSONAL TRAINING BUSINESS FROM MY HOME . I WANTED TO TAKE THE LEAP OF FAITH INTO A LARGER BUILDING AND WAS LOADED DOWN WITH SO MUCH INFO I DID NOT NO WHERE TO START.THIS BOOK LAYS THE GROUND WORK FOR "THINGS THAT MAY BE FORGOTTEN" WHILE SPENDING YOUR FAMILIES LAST MONEY ON A FITNESS PLACE.THIS BOOK TOUCHES ON ALL OF WHAT WILL BE NEEDED TO OPEN THE DOORS OF A SMALL CLUB OR WORK OUT OF YOUR HOUSE IF NEEDED. THE FAYS DID NOT LEAVE ANY STONES LEFT UNTURNED. GREAT BOOK DERRICK BROWN

If you are thinking about starting a gym, regardless of size, this book is a MUST HAVE. I read it over a weekend. It is clear and concise and touched on many important aspects I never really thought about. Whether you are planning on a small home based gym or a large commercial one, this book gives great insights into equipment, financing, marketing, etc., AND a realistic view of what to expect from your business. Before you dive into a business, read this book. The information is well worth the money, and then some.

Excellent blue print for the person, that wants to start a business, without laying their financial life on the line.
This book shows how to start with little financial backing and build with the monies earned.
By following the advise given, many of the stops and starts of a new business can be avoided.
Highly reccomended for a small town successful business.

In researching my new idea to open a small gym, I was overwhelmed with information on the web and after perusing the SBA website and printing a full 3-ring binder's worth of research articles off the internet until I LUCKILY found this book. I was stunned to come across a book especially designed to guide me in my new idea to open a small gym. Then I was surprised at how completely applicable it was and how informative and practical the information was-these guys really share their secrets to success! Its a step by step easy to read well thought out book that guides your thoughts and decisions by helping you build a business plan based on your personal principles and desires for your gym. Its nothing short of amazing, and easily the most important bit of research I have done. I read the book and treated it like a text book, taking notes and when answering every question and carefully thinking about each point they recommend considering sot hat I read a little bit each day and wrote a lot and hammered out my own ideas in the process. I had all the ideas, but had not articulated them, organized them and nd built on them until I read this book. I am now 6 to 8 months from opening my gym but after reading this book, I have now articulated my true reasons for opening my own gym, and kept those reasons firmly in mind as I have analyzed my target market, competition and developed the marketing plan. I feel I am head and shoulders above most small business owners when they start out. I look forward to reporting back with the huge success of my new small gym!! Thanks to Ron and Barb Fay for not only sharing their experiences and lessons learned from them but for presenting these lessons clearly and in a concise book that gets the job done.

This is a well written and well illustrated guide for someone new to visiting Joshua Tree National Park. The dozen or so routes we did in this book were all challenging and enjoyable. There are thousands of routes in the Park, but this is a swell introduction for the traditional climber. At this price I don't see why any climber visiting the park wouldn't have a copy. The photographs and maps are the best I have seen in any book.

First of all, this book is written by some really nice people. This book is void of the elitism that usally comes with a guide book to an area like this. My wife and I have been to J-tree many times but this was our first year with this book. It truely enhanced our time there. The full color pictures are great, and they took all the pictures from such logical places that if you are following a road or trail and find yourself needing direction, you look up and see exactly what is in the picture for the climb you are looking for. My wife and I found ourself laughing on one climb when we were looking off in the distance for a rock formation and spotted the tree 6' in front of us that was also about 6' in front of the camera lense in the picture! And there are climbs that real people can do! I notice in other guide books the only highly rated climbs are 5.12 and up! Get this book, you won't be dissapointed. I only wish I could meet the authers and tell them of my appreciation.

Sometimes, as the saying goes, less is more. This book is a classic example of producing a user friendly rock climbing guide to one of the premier cragging areas, by limiting the scope to climbs that most people who go to Joshua Tree actually enjoy. As the title stipulates there are no 5.12 sphincter squeesers here, just interesting traditional climbs (no bolts for the sport freaks).

Each climb is photographed in color with a graphic overlay clearly showing the route. Most of these routes are short, single pitch climbs that encompass a wide variety of problems with the emphasis on classic crack climbs. Approach info and the maximum protection requirement is noted along with a very abreviated strategy for the climb. Information on lodging and camping along with dining options are covered pretty well, though the surrounding areas offer a lot more variety than the book indicates.

If you're a beginner/intermediate climber and aspire to climb in JT, this is the guide to get.

This book is the best non comprehensive climbing guide book I have ever seen. The highlights are:

- Full color photos of the routes
- Both approach photos as well as close up route photos, making it easy to find the rock and specific route
- Full park map with relative camping and route locations listed
- Very good beta on each and every route (includes sun/shade, rack suggestions, etc), usually about a page per route not including another page for photos.

So basically if you're interested in the 5.5 to 5.9 trad routes in Joshua Tree you'll love this book, simple as that.

Wow! Great book, color detailed photos of routes, sun/shade orientation for all routes & basically all the info that one needs to have a memorable trip in Joshua Tree. Also great to have a book that has a focus on climbs under 5.10. All in all this is the most informative climbing book I have ever purchased. Would have been happy paying twice the price I paid for it.