A Books

When I got this book (a friend loaned it to me) I thought, huh, ok, sure I'll give it a try. Wow, I had no idea how good this story was going to be. I could not quit reading. Michael was so faithful to God, and it had a huge impact on me. I liked it so much that I bought two books of my own; one for me to keep, and one to loan out. Everyone that I loan it to is so moved by this story. Way to go Francine Rivers. Please keep it up! BEST BOOK I EVER READ BY FAR! This book should be in the schools as required reqding material.

I am not much of a reader, and I could NOT put this book down. It was sooo good! I would definitly recommend this book to anyone!

My mom had given me this book saying, "This is what a real prince charming should be like." I looked at her funny when I realized what the story was about and was a little hesitant.

The book was fantastic! I couldn't put it down for one second (I stayed up till' three in the morning reading it). Even for those who aren't christians, I think any girl would enjoy reading about Michael's character. He's, in my opinion, what every girl wants in a man. He's loving, caring, gentle, compassionate, honest, romantic, and loves Angel more than anything in the world.

Considering that Angel is an ex-prostitute you have to expect some references to what her job was. There are also a few parts where her and Michael are making love, but it's after they have been married and Francine Rivers doesn't go into any details.

All in all, I loved the book and would recommend it to anyone who dreams of true love and likes reading inspirational stories. No matter what those other reviewers say, christian or not, just try it and I'll guarantee you'll be glad you took the time to read it.

I think it's important that I preface this by saying that I am not a Christian (which had a definite effect on my opinion of this book, if only because I was able to look past the intended "inspirational message" and appraise it as a novel.) This book was recommended to me by multiple (devoutly religious) relatives on the grounds that I would like the love story and that they had cried over it.

First of all, "Redeeming Love" is poorly written to the extreme. It's full of choppy sentences and far too many melodramatic sentence fragments. All of the characters, and especially Michael and Angel, are incredibly dull: Angel is your stereotypical, self-loathing prostitute, while Michael marries her because a very articulate and surprisingly talkative God tells him to, displays no depth to speak of, and seems completely unable to think for himself. The plot is excessively repetitive and annoyingly redundant, and none of the "twists" were even mildly surprising.

Secondly, the book was a poorly disguised vehicle for marketing Christianity, which in my opinion degrades both the book and the religion. Some of the reviewers claim to have been moved by Angel's spiritual journey; personally, I felt Rivers relied on the faith of her target audience and the tragedy (or horror, if you prefer) of some of the concepts in the book- such as children sold into prostitution- as opposed to her strength as a writer or the relatability of the characters to produce that effect.

Many of the reviewers complained about the "graphic" sexual content in the book. I have no idea what they're talking about- the book I read was not graphic, and all the sex was either vaguely referenced or simply just implied. Much of it was in the context of marriage: I don't understand how the idea of a married couple having sex can be considered shocking.

I cannot believe that this book received over five hundred five-star reviews. It is not worth your time, it is not worth your money, and honestly, it is not worth the effort of five hundred people to type up a few mindlessly praising words on Amazon.com.

I am not an avid reader but found out about this book through a friend that told me how it changed her life. I was skeptical but still very curious so I bought the book. I finished it in three days. WOW. All I can say is that for the first time in my life I began to hear the Lord speak to me through this book! I could literally feel the presence of God's love all around me as I read this book. "Redeeming Love" has caused me to fall in love with my Savior all over again! It is a new and fresh love that I now have in my heart for Him! If you feel like you have fallen away from Him and miss His love and presence then you HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK!!! I promise, it will re-ignite your love for Him. He has always been there waiting on you to fall in love with Him again. HE NEVER STOPS LOVING US! It is US who falls away from Him! This book will prove that to you!

Was purchased due to a requirement by my childs school. He has informed me it is a good book.

I was a little disappointed by the ending and the fact that Homer Hickam gave John Kennedy the idea to go to the Moon but other than that I couldn't help but root for the band of misfits.

I bought this book and the audio tapes and my son and I listened and read this amazing book together. Our plan was to read for 30 minutes a night...however it was sooooooo good we listened and read for 5 hours!

We are now going to rent the movie that was made from the film! All systems go....we enjoyed the adventure!

... "On June 4, 1960, the Big Creek Missile Agency, fresh from its medal winning performance at the National Science Fair, is sponsoring a day of rocket launches at its Cape Coalwood range. Everyone reading these words is invited..." This quote can be found on page 356-357 of a book called Rocket Boys; this statement showed me that the success of the main characters was a result of personal hard work and teamwork.

"Rocket Boys" by Homer H. Hickam, Jr. is a nonfiction account of a group of friends from Coalwood, West Virginia in the early 1960's who have a fetish for making rockets. Homer and his friends have a dream to shoot a rocket up into the clouds. This story gives the reader a message that dreams really can come true.

Rocket Boys is one of the strongest books I have ever read. The author accomplished his goals to tell people that team work is one of the most important things to know in your life. This book is recommended for people that like space and rockets and who want a hopeful book to read. Reading Rocket Boys really gets you thinking about team work and how far you can get with it.

Homer Hickam grew up in a rural isolated mountain town but went on to win the National Science Fair.

This book is his story and how he was successful.

I bought 24 copies of this book to inspire my advanced 6th grade Reading class. They loved the book. In our discussions they mentioned never giving up. Homer and his friends kept trying until they had success.

Thank you for sharing your life with us, Mr. Hickam.

Every home should have this movie in their DVD library and watch it every year. It has been my all-time movie favorite for many years that everyone can name my fav.

The moral of this story is so touching to help someone realize how 'wonderful' their life is and the people in it. It will help remind you of your true gifts in your daily presence.

A must own movie!

Merna

Pocket of Pearls: A 30-day pocket workbook to start hearing a softer voice inside of you!

This is by far my favorite movie of all time. George Bailey is so real. I have been that man. A guy looking for the glitz and the glamour only to settle for small town life raising kids and going to work everyday. He is never the richest in terms of money, but when it comes down to it you finally realize money is not all that matters.

Although it didn't impress much at the time of it's release, this film probably more than most others, goes to show that eventually the cream always rises to the top. It's just a charming, heart-warming film with a nice mix of comedy, drama, sadness, despair and joy which makes it difficult for any human being to not be touched emotionally in some way by this film. The screenplay is very good, the casting excellent and James Stewart shows why he is considered to be among the greatest screen actors of all time.

The DVD though isn't all that much to shout about. The Special Features are pretty decent with a very good documentary about the film hosted by Tom Bosley of "Happy Days" fame being the standout but it's placed on the the "B" side of this single disc. Fortunately with the advent of Blu-ray and the much greater capacity such a format affords, we don't have to put up with this inconvenience any longer. The sound quality is in the original mono format which has been THX mastered which makes it the best possible mono quality that you can find. However, it would have been nice if they were to provided Dolby or otherwise 5.1 Surround Sound Options as well. The picture quality has been restored but not very well as visual imperfections exist throughout the film suggesting either a poorly preserved master or that the restoration job wasn't the best.

I note at the time of writing that a Blu-Ray version is out there and I wonder if they made any more audio and visual restorations and if so, I will certainly put it on my list of Blu-Ray titles to get in the future. If you are not too picky about the "dirtiness" of the picture quality, this DVD is certainly one for your collection that bears the test of repeated viewing and enjoyment.

Recommended.

This film, starring the brilliant James (Jimmy) Stewart, is one of the best movies made since film first started rolling. I don't know that words can really capture the magic of this film.

A true holdiay classic, and a great movie! A must have for your collection!

For many, "It's A Wonderful Life" is a staple to their holiday traditions. With all major networks vying to get their hands on this mediocre blockbuster, this little film transforms from ordinary to cult status every holiday. As a viewer, outside of the final act, this Jimmy Stewart classic is more than just a Christmas movie, but instead a powerful Capra film that demonstrates an America from long ago. It shows a small-town America, without the plowed Wal-Mart roads or big-box makeovers. For this critic, it demonstrates the power of independent business, and why we may never find this type of service ever again. As an independent, downtown shop owner of about a year and a half myself; "It's A Wonderful Life" transformed this viewing from holiday pastime to dedicated film exposing the corruptive nature of capitalism as well as the realism of independent business. With this change in tact, Jimmy Stewart's words become more emotional, Donna Reed's actions become more honest, and our little Christmas film transforms into a man's journey to search for himself. I cannot denounce that this is a holiday film, Stewart screams "Merry Christmas" throughout the entire ending, but before that final conclusion there are about two hours of small town America and one man's struggle to escape. "It's A Wonderful Life" is a powerful blend of realism and fantasy, individualism and community, dreams and truth, as well as frustration and joy. The cast is superbly placed in their respective roles and Capra's action behind the camera stands boldly in place. This is not just a movie, but an experience coupled with foreshadowing - giving George not just a glimpse of a world without him - but also a glimpse of a world without small business

"It's A Wonderful Life", the film itself, is beautifully crafted. With new editions being released each season, one can easily see the crisp beauty of Capra's image. Its characters; George Bailey, Mary, Sam Wainright, Potter, Bert and Ernie, and even Clarence seem to jump from the screen, giving us imaginative citizens to this quaint town of Bedford Falls. Capra not only gives these characters spirits and souls, but also the town. Capra built three blocks of Bedford Falls so that he could capture the honesty of the town that Stewart so adamantly wanted to leave - and upon doing this gave this little town a soul of its own. Watching this film, Stewart's portrayal of George Bailey runs the gambit of powerhouse acting. Stewart, freshly back from the war, was worried if he could carry the weight of Bailey's cynicism. His ability to care for Bedford Falls, while always dreaming of wanting to escape could only be portrayed through Stewart's Americana eyes. When he screams at Mary, denouncing his desire to be on the ground floor in plastics, or when he yells at Potter's bid to join him - we scream with him. This film works from an acting standpoint because we believe in the characters - we trust the actors to give us a slice of their souls for these roles - and they do. One cannot fault anyone in this film for their acting and that is a rarity in today's Hollywood.

Capra's eye in this film seems far more advanced than the credit he has received. His enormous sets, the birth of a new "snow", and his ability to create a world we care for without having to travel the globe. What I enjoy about "It's A Wonderful Life" is that Capra tricks you by the end. Here we believe, outside of the brief opening, that this is just your typical drama, a man's life is shown in scope so that he can see his full worth, but then sneakily Capra brings in (depending on your religious basis) a huge science-fiction element that was unheard of during the time. One cannot argue the validity of science fiction vs. religion in this film - since Joseph is portrayed by the stars and planets. Sure, Clarence was an angel, but there is this aura of the supernatural. Clarence offers no evidence that he is, in fact, sent by the man upstairs, so one has to question the time this film was released, the faith in spirituality, and the fact that Capra's Clarence could be alien, vegetable, or mineral. This film teeters between drama and science fiction, while so many critics award this film the "feel-good" holiday movie during December; I find it a bit strange that perhaps this film lead to so many other science fiction movies of the same nature. Perhaps the "Cloverfield" monster could be considered a Clarence to someone in New York City? I may be stretching a bit, but what pulls me into this film time and time again is the fact that Clarence is not of Earth, yet George easily believes. He listens, follows, and - with some resistance - does what Clarence orders. This is a film without guns, without explosions, without the President getting on his red phone - but instead a film where a celestial being can visit someone without fear, anger, or confusion. This is why I collect the "Alf" television series.

Overall, "It's A Wonderful Life" remains in constant rotation no matter the time of year in my home. The acting is superb, the sci-fi element seems fresh every time, and the growing fact that George Bailey is pro-independent business means quite a bit in this rushed Wal-Mart world. Bailey, and this film, is the voice for the little man, the quiet shopkeeper who doesn't want to sell to Potter, but instead dreams of keeping their home-style values. The spark between Potter and Bailey can be seen in every facet of today's growing world, as the rich continue to get richer - the less fortunate work harder and feel more held back. Dreams are traded for jobs - communities are strengthened by friendships. This film is a time capsule for the future, as we discover convenience overcomes customer service; it is nice to look back and see a world like Bedford Falls. The science fiction element to this film, yep - that is what I am considering it - comes in sharp and remains powerful throughout. Did anyone else see Jimmy Stewart's eyes throughout those scenes? Brilliant! While this film will remain a staple through the holidays, I persist that you watch it away from the holiday to see the real message behind the film. Capra was a genius in creating this film, and subsequently crafted a cult film that will remain forever. Even today, nearly thirty years since my first viewing, I am more impressed that ever. It is a film that grows with you, and that is quite a rarity in today's cinema.

Grade: ***** out of *****

My daughter started reading this book at age 12, and has had it for 2 years. She still loves to go back and read selections of love, hope, courage. Give your teenager something worth reading! :)

I bought this book as a gift for my 16yr old niece. The very next day, she told me how much she loved the book. She even cried reading it. I think it's nice to find reading materials that can move the minds and feelings of teenagers.

I skimmed through the book before I gave it to my granddaughter who just turned 13. I thought it had some well written stories that a teenager can relate to and a lot of food for thought. She was so happy to get it, since she had the one for pre-teens also and really liked it.

Once again, "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books has a hit. This is a wonderful gift for young teens with its easy read of short stories on pertinent topics and experiences teens face. Teens I have given it to as a gift have loved it and purchased the next in the teen series. Also a source of good talking points for those anxiety ridden moments or social issues teens face.

I am a teacher in two high schools and I like to read the stories of the book to my students from time to time to inspirate them and reinforce their teenage self esteem! I suggest it to all teacher to make the same with a nice calm background music.

I also enjoyed this book as much as A Child Called "IT". This also made me cry as much as as the first one. I could not put it down as well.

This book among others written by Dave have left me riveted. I can't put them down. All I see is a man who has overcome the circumstances placed before him. He is such an inspiration, I only wish more people would read his books and make something out of their lives, instead of playing the victim (which is much easier to do)

The Lost Boy: A Foster Child's Search for the Love of a Family by Dave Pelzer is a sequel to the heartbreaking memoir, A Child Called "It". Pelzer explains what happened after he was taken away by his abusive mother and neglectful father. This book is really uplifting and moving. I highly recommend this fascinating story and his quest to find a foster family who will love him unconditionally. Enjoy!

This book helped open my eyes to what children go through in Foster Care. It helped me to relize that you can't judge a book by its cover. That the struggle for acceptance,love acknowledgement or to be recognized can consume & overwhelm a child...to even the point of doing something you know in you heart is wrong. This book makes me want to work hard, so I can buy a big house, Just so I can provide enough love and support and room for not only my three children, but for those children in need of a place to call home & to know that they have someone who care about them.

This is a story about a young boy who gets abused and treated unfairly. He doesn't have any clothes besides the ones he caries in a brown paper bag. He runs away from the world he hates. He has no home to go to, then he finds hope. To find out more information about this book find it and venture into it.

In my opinion this book was excellent and amazing.Why? Because it made me cry on the first page, some parts I felt like going in the book, because the suspense never ends. I would recommend it to those who love to read soppy, exciting books that are true.

What a story! What a writer! I could not put this book down. Colin Channer is a talent. I cannot wait to read his next adventure.

The book was well written, great humor and very relatable for anyone who has ever been in love or would like to be. The only thing is that the cover does not give the book any justice. At first glance you would think its one of those trashy romance novels, however its about more than romance, its about true love and the romance behind it.

This novel was a soulful journey. It connects with the reality of relationships and with all of its struggles and triumph. I was drawn into the characters from the opening page. He tells this tale with a poetic spin. His words unfold beautifully and each character takes on a life of its own. I think readers will find a little bit of themselves in this book. I loved it!

This book is a beautiful experience. It is one of the most passionate and real books that I have ever read. I couldn't put it down and I wish that it was longer. The emotions of the characters are so strong that they leap off of the page. This book makes you want to go out and fall in love and hope that you experience half the passion and true love that these characters experience.

Colin Channer to me is like a modern day Picasso with a pen. His dialogue is compelling, soul-stirring and purposeful and his characters are engaging. You can almost close your eyes and imagine yourself seeing the story unfold as if you were a fly on the wall at a gallery in New York, a beach house in Jamaica, or the Streets of London. This is the mark of a truly great storyteller.

Our main character, Fire, is a "simple" man with a "complex" life. By simple I mean he wants what any sane person would want, a circle of good life-long friends, a fulfilling life, and someone emotionally and physically available to share it all with. So, when he meets Sylvia, he feels like he has found the one. What he doesn't know is that Sylvia, an engaged magazine editor, is all but disengaged from her own true desires for her life. Soon we see that complications abound, and the journey they take throughout the story takes the reader on a cross-continental journey in search of introspection, true meaning and, possibly, true love.

An interesting point is that Channer's characters are written from their souls - what drives them to do the things they do is less about their gender than their emotions and their pasts. With such a multi-faceted story, several layers of conflict, we still get a crystal clear picture and understanding as to why things unfold teh way they do. It is a believable, gripping, page turner, and Channer conveys it effortlessly.

Waiting in Vain, simply put, was one of the two best books I have read in a long time. The other was Satisfy My Soul (also by Colin Channer). As an aspiring writer, I wish my prose was as naturally beautiful as Mr. Channer's. Until it is, I will keep devouring his work in hopes that some of his literary poeticism rubs off.

This amazing book really does work- I freed myself from the "nightmare" after years of alternating addictions between cigarettes, nicotine gum, patches and all the rest of it. I quit easily and effortlessly- just like the book says you can and every day I give thanks that I am a non smoker. It's probably one of the greatest things to ever happen in my life! Whenever I am feeling down about something I often remind myself that at least I don't smoke anymore and I am so grateful for that! Smoking really is one of the most putrid addictions a person can have and make no mistake- it ruins lives in more ways that one. Seriously, whenever I see a smoker now, I genuinely pity them.

A couple of points; for this method to work you really do have to read the book. So many smokers I know ask me to just "give them the basics" so they can quit smoking effortlessly without having to actually do any reading. Sorry but you are going to have to spend a couple of days reading because the method cannot be summed up in a couple of sentences. The other thing is that I think that for the method to be effective, a certain degree of intelligence on the part of the reader is a requirement. I've recommended this book to a couple of people and was surprised when they told me it didn't work for them. When I sat down and thought about it I realized that the reason it didn't work for them is because they just weren't bright enough to absorb and understand what is being said; I'm talking about people who probably have never read a book in their entire lives and took over 6 weeks to complete this one. Hey, you don't need to be a rocket scientist but morons tend to have trouble understanding and absorbing anything they read!

My doctor suggested this book for me while I am trying to quit. This book is the best book when you are trying to quit because Allen Carr tells it like it is and I see myself through this whole book. It helped alot to see myself as a smoker and why I do smoke and how easy it is to quit without drugs if you read the book from cover to cover. A must read book to read while you are trying to quit smoking.

It's been over 3 and a half years since I read this book and quit. I've remained a non-smoker without cravings or urges what so ever.

I just don't think I ever wrote a review, because I wasn't sure. Having quit several times, only to return, I think I in the clear now.

No matter what the title may say or Mr. Carr's cheerleading may imply, quitting smoking is not easy. The book helps the smoker to look at smoking for what it is: an addiction. Slog through the first 40 pages or so, which can be repetitive and boring as Carr makes the case that his way works and other methods do not. He doesn't quite say HOW his method will work, just 40 pages telling you that it will work. Stick with it, though; the book gets better.

Carr's book makes the case that there are no advantages to smoking. There is no up side to smoking. He debunks all the reasons & excuses that people usually give for why they smoke. In a nutshell, and perhaps I'm oversimpifying, Carr teaches the smoker to look at quitting as a positive experience, rather than as a negative one. Don't think of yourself as being deprived of smoking; think of yourself as being liberated from nicotine addiction.

But the bottom line is: you really have to WANT to quit. No book, prescription, OTC aid or therapy will help if you don't truly want to quit. It took a heart attack to motivate me to quit. I have not smoked for 6 weeks, after nearly 35 years of smoking over a pack a day. But had it not been for the heart attack, I don't think I would have quit, even after reading this book (I read the book before I had a heart attack). Since I didn't really want to stop smoking, I would have cracked within 2-3 days of "quitting." Despite what the book says and how sensible its arguments are, if you don't want to quit, you won't. But once I made up my mind to quit, it was smooth sailing.

So, if you really want to quit, give the book a try. If not, save your money until you're truly ready.

I think the reason why this book works is because so many people say it works. I read dozens upon dozens of excellent 5-star reviews of this book - but when I bought and read it, I was not all that impressed. It was repetitive, pedestrian and even annoying. However, the next day I remembered his "tight shoes" analogy. Then the next day I remembered to feel good about having a craving - its reminding you to be happy you quit.

Put simply - I think this book may have some subliminal hypnosis in it! Word for word, its not a very good book; but the ideas stick in your head for some reason, even when you dont remember exactly what it was you read.

My advice is to read a ton of excellent reviews before you read the book - then just read it looking for any subliminal messages. If this sounds crazy just do it to get a good laugh then. I quit after I read it and I havent smoked since - dont even want to. Maybe the success is psychosomatic, but quitting is quitting and I couldnt be happier.

I read this in an unabridged edition (117 chapters, circa 1400 pages), which I don't regret. However, having plowed my way to the end, I am tempted to classify this along with "Dracula" as a "classic" novel whose reputation rests more on its great beginning than on its middle and end. It was great up to about chapter 30 (describing the betrayal, imprisonment and escape of the hero, and the reward of his friends). However, once the story starts to sink in to the prolonged revenge, it starts to lose its way for me.

After chapter 30, the hero becomes a sort of divinely inspired madman, who imagines himself to be, and apparently is, a mere tool and agent of God's justice. His behavior transcends moral laws, his plans transcend human intelligence, and he becomes impossible to identify with as a character. Fortunately, there are plenty of other characters, and the story, from this point on, is rarely told from the mysterious Count's point of view. If you are willing to settle in and be patient, you can have some fun watching the weaving, interacting sprawling plot threads. Even so, when it was all said and done, it was wrapped up in a way that left a bad taste in my mouth.

I would not, however, recommend reading an abridged version. Too many threads intersect, and you cannot trust an abridger to like the same parts that you will like.

Having never read The Count of Monte Cristo and only faintly recalling a movie of some years ago, I was prepared for a swashbuckling epic of swordplay and derring-do. My expectations were entirely inadequate. The Count of Monte Cristo is rather a tale of revenge through the artifice of intrigue and cold calculation. Dumas creates a broken man, betrayed by a trio of duplicitous schemers, and devotes the bulk of the book to the complex machinations employed in retaliation.

The phrase "intricately detailed" does not begin to describe the plots and sub-plots which carry this classic forward. Like all novels of its period, the author relies on what the modern-day reader would consider implausible convenience. This doesn't detract from its worth. To create such a tightly-laced weave, some liberties must be granted. The reader gladly forgives Messr. Dumas.

On par with The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, and the works of James Fenimore Cooper, The Count of Monte Cristo is wonderfully thick and magisterially constructed. Set primarily among the preening social elite of post-Napoleanic Paris, yet ranging from Rome to Normandy, it is a 5-star reading experience.

NOTE: I really hate that Amazon includes reviews from several editions of the same book under one heading. Some editions are abridged for this novel, and that truly is an injustice and the reviews show that. The Oxford Classics version - which I read - is an UNABRIDGED version, and my review is based on that.

This story revolves around Edmond Dantes, a young man who seemingly has everything going for him. His employer has much regard for him and is about to put him as captain of his own ship, he is about to marry the woman he loves, all is right in Dantes world. Unfortunately, this type of happiness and success breeds jealousy and envy, and Dantes finds himselft falsely accused and imprisoned. He does escape, and therein the true tale begins.

The story weaves back and forth and entangles lives - but central is the thirst for revenge. Dumas certainly has a way of telling a story, even a long one, and keeping it interesting a fresh. There are twists and turns and an entire host of interesting characters. One moment I found myself cheering for Dantes and the next I was hoping he wouldn't do what I thought he would. However, one can never be too sure of what might happen next or where the story might go.

I had put off reading this novel because of the length for so long, and I now regret having done that. Although the tale of revenge is an old one, Dumas has managed to weave a story filled with mystery, adventure, and excitement with just a touch of romance - what more could a reader possibly want?

I saw the recent movie, (The Count of Monte Cristo - 2002, staring - James Caviezel) and loved it so much, I ordered the book, and this is the version I choose. Unfortunately, this is the first book I've ever read that the movie is actually better! The abridged version is so limited it misses the very crucial points in this wonderful insightful story. If you're an adult I suggest reading an unabridged version in order to get the profound message this book addresses.

I bought this book for one of my children for a summer reading project. I needed a specific version and was glad I could search Amazon by ISBN. The book arrived quickly and the price was reasonable. I'm sure other family members will enjoy the book when the projcet is complete.

What a summer ride I've been on reading Lonesome Dove. I don't know where I've been the last 15 years to only now discover this absolutely amazing story. I smiled, laughed, and cried my way through it. I will surely miss the Hat Creek Cattle boys keeping me up at night. What an adventure!

It took me several attempts after several years to get through the first chapter -- don't ask -- but I am so grateful I persisted. What a wonderful book and great masterpiece. Simply satifying on every level. What a joy!

I wish I could have given this grossly over rated book zero stars. Even one star is being too kind. Having heard so much, I felt totally let down. Lack of development of characters, slow pace, no excitement. Come on, when we read a western we want a John Wayne kind of a western. Good story, emotions, actions. Want to read westerns? Try finding the SUDDEN series. Now thats what was required. What we are handed out is trash. Do yourself a favour. Avoid at all costs.

This novel is like the Rio Grande river, where the story begins: Long, wide, but only a few feet deep.

I read almost 400 pages, waiting to be gripped, but then I gave up and rented the miniseries on DVD instead. It's terrific -- four stars!

The next time I want to read a Western, I'll get a Louis L'Amour. Fun, well-written, packs a punch, and done in two days.

I need the book-equivalent of methadone to wean myself off the the genius that is Lonesome Dove.

Left to Tell is a powerful story of one womens tragedies and survival experienced during the Genocide in Rwanda. This book brought tears and joy to my heart; it inspired me to know that through any horrible and life threatening experience a belief and faith in God will transcend all atrocities man will commit. It is also about how forgiveness can calm and soothe the soul so life can move on with peace in your heart.

I think this is an excellent book, I could not put it down. I ended up reading till 3 in the morning.

I had never heard of Immaculee Ilibagiza before I picked this book up in my local book store. I bought it after reading the back cover and I will never look at life the same again. Immaculee's ability to forgive is something we all should strive for; however, I think none will find the ability within themselves. It can only come from God, just like Immaculee's did. This book will make you cry, it will make you smile but most of all it will make you discard those petty little things that used to irritate you. I will keep this book and will probably read it again and again.

This book was truly life changing for me. When I find myself sweating the little things in life (i.e bills, pregnancy woes, hot weather)I remember Immaculee holed up in this tiny bathroom just praying and pleading for her life. She painted such a horrific picture I simply cannot forget. The killers were calling her name! What a humbling and amazing story she has to tell I literally could not put this book down..at the same time I was educated about how the Rwandan Holocaust all came to be..I had no idea what these poor people went through, the Hutus and the Tutsis became real to me. Who would have thought something like this still happens but this was just the 90's. In the beginning of her book, I smiled through tears as she described the tight knit Catholic family she was reared in--how strong and wise her daddy was, how much she loved her brothers with everything in her being, and how her mother was there until the end to protect her "babies". I was fortunate a few weeks after reading her book to see Immaculee speak at a local venue in Dallas. She was beautiful in person and her joy could light up an entire room. She was filled with the Holy Spirit and it was obvious how humbled she has been. I just kept thinking this woman has lost her entire extended family and she even had the grace to forgive those who killed her own. Forgiveness is the message I took from the book. Life is too short to carry the burden of not forgiving others who we think have wronged us. Excellent read with a message that will keep you thinking long after you read the book!!

I started reading this book before bed, big mistake on my part. I stayed up entranced by this book and continued reading until I couldn't stay awake. The first thing I did the next morning was pick this book back up and finished it. (Which only took a half hour)

I am absolutely amazed at Immaculee's ability to maintain her connection with God while surrounded by such hate. Immaculee shares her story of how she not only survived the Rwandan Holocaust, but how she forgave the killers of her family. This is an inspiring book which confirms how great humans really can be.