Washington Books

If you are like me, you have often wondered how our most talented novelists would see important historical characters. Gore Vidal has whetted our appetite with his novels about the first hundred years of the United States. In Aspire to the Heavens, talented mystery writer Mary Higgins Clark makes George Washington come alive as a simple man with many personal challenges in his life. Although I was familiar with the material in this book, Ms. Clark did a wonderful job of both making it more interesting and accessible by making his life into a personally focused biographical novel. As a result, I got a lot of new perspectives on my own life that I will benefit from for many years to come.

The book's title alludes to a promise that George Washington's mother asked for and received from him. She wanted him to always do his utmost. In her family, that had meant "Aspire to the Heavens." He took on that promise with her encouragement. Out of his own character, though, he decided to be the most decent man he could possibly be. That latter promise to himself is the one that this book focuses on.

The form of this book is to describe George Washington through the lens of his personal life, rather than his public accomplishments. The style reads more as though it is a novel rather than a biography, and there is certainly some literary license in the ascriptions of motives and personal thoughts. Yet, these devices work well as long as you remember not to take them too seriously and literally.

Although Washington will always seem larger than life to all Americans, he was a man who had many setbacks in his own life. Before the Revolutionary War, he was certainly not considered to be the great man most now believe him to have been.

Life was hard as a youngster. His father died when he was fairly young, and his mother carried a whip to help assert her authority over him and his siblings. She did not keep a very attractive household, which young George resented. Although she loved her son, she put him down verbally at every opportunity. Her opposition to his desire for an ocean-going career was a fortunate one for the United States and democracies everywhere, but a bitter disappointment to him at the time. George sought escape from her whenever possible, especially to the home of his half-brother at Mount Vernon (which he would eventually inherit and buy out from his sister-in-law).

An early friendship with the Fairfax family led to a long relationship with the first and greatest love of Washington's life, Sally Fairfax, his proposal to her similar-appearing sister (which was refused), as well as his interest in surveying as a career.

His mother constantly tried to discourage his military career, and complained bitterly about the risks he was taking during the colonial campaigns before the Revolutionary War. She blamed the early death of George's favorite half-brother on war-related illnesses.

It is fun to read Martha Washington referred to by her pet name of "Patsy" throughout the book. You will also read here a sensitive interpretation of Washington's frustrations as a step-father and in securing Patsy's love and attention. As you may know, the story ends tragically as both step-children die at fairly young while, while the Washingtons never have children of their own. Their step-daughter asks them to adopt two of her children after her husband dies, whom the Washingtons' raise.

The book's structure is an interesting one. The main historical thread is the aftermath of John Adams's inauguration and the Washingtons' trimphant return to Mount Vernon to farm. This development is interspaced with flashbacks of key moments in the lives of both George and Patsy.

After you have finished enjoying the book, I suggest that you evaluate your own life from the perspective of how you will be remembered as a family member and as a friend. Many people focus too much on their careers and public accomplishments. This book can help you assess the balance you have achieved in your life. All of us can learn from how George Washington came to keep silent when something upset him rather than creating a fuss that would have hurt his closest relationships. He was a fine family man and friend, as a result, as well as an inspiring, steady leader.

Show loving support for all those you care about . . . always!

I just finished reading Aspire to the Heavens for the second time. When I first discovered this true gem a few years ago, I didn't understand why it was the only Mary Higgins Clark novel left shelved at my local library during peak lending season. Admittedly I was somewhat surprised after reading Ms. Clark's introductory page stating that this was NOT a suspense novel, but rather a story about the life of George Washington. Expecting to dive into a juicy suspense - imagine my disappointment! However, after browsing over the first few pages, Ms. Clark's writing style (as always) had me immediately intrigued. This fabulous little book took us into Mr. Washington's personal life from his uncomfortable relationship with his own mother, to his lifelong infatutation with his best friend's wife, through to his spunky courtship and marriage to the wonderful and intuitive Mrs. Washington (Martha). Mary Higgins Clark taught us to KNOW George Washington, with all his leadership q! ! ualities and common sense mannerisms, allowing us to respect and admire him for the great person he was (much in the same way that he WAS perceived by his countrymen of the 1700's). This magnificent book gives us history, adventure, romance and a glimpse into a bygone era. A suspense novel it was not - but my, what a pleasant surprise! And once again, Ms. Clark's amazing writing talent managed to wrap up the novel at precisely the best possible moment, leaving me feeling like the characters were good acquaintances, yet leaving me with still another feeling - that I had gained privileged information about a truly amazing person who was not a mere piece of fiction. This is a book you will want to keep in your home library and share with the entire reading community!

ASPIRE TO THE HEAVENS was first published in the late 1960's, well before Mary Higgins Clark's meteoric success as a author of mystery/thrillers. This biographical novel breathes life into the stick figure we know as George Washington. Portrayed as a kindly and responsible man with a welcome dash of humor, ASPIRE TO THE HEAVENS covers Washington's career from rash youth to an undaunted and vital old age. Interesting light is shown on Washington's hopeless love for the beautiful Sally Fairfax, wife of his best friend, also illuminated are his difficulties with his controlling virago of a mother. After rereading this underappreciated yet gleaming work of fiction, one can almost feel regret that Mary Higgins Clark did not continue in the field of historical literature, it is to be wondered what she might have done with figures like Jefferson and Adams. ASPIRE TO THE HEAVENS is highly recommended.

it is exelente book if you need same ideas ,for your paintigs this book it's greatfull

Apart from the Catalogue Raisonné, this is the best contribution to the understanding of Newman's work in recent years. It is the catalogue for an exhibition held at the National Gallery in London and, therefore, carries no surprise: All the masterpieces are there, arranged in a chronological order, beautifully illustrated and accompanied by an enlightening text.

Armin Zweite's chronology of the life and work of Barnett Newman is absolutely fantastic. Written in a compact style hitherto unknown by art commentators the book flows from one anecdote to another. Complete and well referenced, the book is as complete as one would wish without ever being overbearing. Given the limited scope of Newman's work I would have hope that all prints were in color but alas only about 50% are color. Still the works are presented logically and connections are made throughout the book. HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommended for anyone. HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommended for the abstract art enthusiast.

An excellant book which gives the average individual an insight to one of the most remarkable ships in the US Navy. Covers the history from the ships design to her scrapping. Tells in great detail, yet in a very readable text, the story of the crew, the officers and the ship in World War II.

This was an amazing book, one of my favorites by a good deal.

It tells the story of the USS Washington, from birth till victory in WWII (which effectively ended its life. In a real tragedy what's left of the Washington is probably razor blades and paper clips right now . . .)

The perspective is from the men who served on board her, but it does not follow any specific group, it weaves together different crewmembers experience into a composite of what the ship went through. You get an appreciation of what daily life must have been from the lowest ranks to the O-10 Admirals on board during the war. The writing enables this because it is so absorbing, detailed, and fluid.

The USS Washington was in a bit of an odd place historically. It was a battleship in what would prove to be a carrier war, so its prestige status in the fleet was cut short of its designers aspirations as soon as its brethren were settling on the silt in Pearl Harbor. Its technical prestige status would later be eclipsed by the Iowa class battleships, the largest U.S. and widely considered to be the most supreme battleships ever built, likely able to best even the Yamato and Musashi thanks to radar fire control and some other innovative design features. Yet despite this position it would be the USS Washington that would be the battleship to do the most to win the war.

The story follows the ship starting with its shakedown cruise, where you can see just how many teething problems a ship as large as 45,000 ton war wagon will inevitably have, especially considering the level of engineering analyses available to her designers at the time. Training then proceeded to the heat of the Caribbean, complete with Monkey stow-aways. After Pearl the USS Washington is surprisingly sent to the Northern Atlantic to help the British escort convoys on the Murmansk run. The comparison between the American and British navies was particularly interesting. The American radar control of the main and secondary batteries was essentially two orders of magnitude better than what any other nation had in WWII. The most amazing moment on the Murmansk run is when a British battleship slices in half a British destroyer, and how the fleet reacts. However the USS Washington is never fully committed to battle in the North Seas, much to the frustration of her crew.

The Washington then gets called to the Pacific for the eventual push all the way to Japan, starting with the Solomons. Here the Washington proves her worth, especially in the early naval battles around Guadalcanal where victory was very much in doubt. The most distinguished part of her career, and some of the most white knuckle, page turning reading in the book, is when the Washington and South Dakota go toe-to-toe with the Kirishima and Hiei, two Japanese ships of the line. Washington emerges victorious after sending Kirishima to the bottom. The Washington continues to make her presence known with multiple shore bombardment raids. Later in the war she primarily provides anti-aircraft cover for the Halsey's carriers. In another moment of sheer frustration Washington is flagship of TF 34 which is denied the opportunity to pursue Kurita's center force in the Battle of Leyte, despite Admiral Lee's request to Halsey. Had TF 34 engage Kurita it would have been the type of open ocean battleship to battleship engagement that the Navy had been built around for decades, but which never really came to pass.

Despite the intensity of the battles the book really is about life on board the ship, which could be downright tedious when not in the combat zone. There are plenty of foul-ups, lighthearted moments, and horseplay to shield the reader from any boredom however.

The Washington's collision with the Indiana is another astounding piece of real life history, and again expertly crafted into words by the author.

If anyone has a family member who served in the Navy during WWII, if anyone has ever wondered what it was like inside a ship at war, if anyone has an interest in battlehips or their history this book will be tremendously enjoyable. I only hope that someday it is re-published so that more people can be introduced to the amazing story of the Washington and the men who fought her in the greatest naval war in history.

Battleship at War catalogs the relatively brief but action packed career of USS Washington, one of the great ships to serve in the Navy during World War Two. Of all the American battleships to serve during the war, Washington had the most distinguished career, serving in both the Atlantic and the Pacific, and sinking the Japanese battleship Kirishima during the Second Naval battle of Guadalcanal. This book righfully takes its place alongside Edward Stafford's "The Big E" (which narrates the career of the carrier Enterprise) as a premier work of the genre. It is incredible to me that both of these great titles are out of print, just as it is incredible to me that the richest country in the world could have failed to preserve these proud ships when other ships with much less distinguished careers survive to this day. Battleship at War is a must read for anybody who is serious about naval history.

This book made me feel like I was part of this
amazing, ground breaking, informative conversation. I learned
an immense amount, and it served as a great compliment
to my weekly lessons.

In this book, Murrays shared their unique insights in connecting Raymond Dart's developmental process and movement with F.M. Alexander's technique. From it,I got a much clear understanding of "mechanical advantage" and the technique of F.M. Alexander. I also treasure Murray's emphasis in a dynamic process rather than a fix or static position. The editor did a great job in footnotes and photos that link and clarify various references. This book is a must read for anyone interested in Alexander Technique, poise and movement. An understanding of Alexander technique and reading in Raymond Dart's "skill and Poise" may be required to appreciate the messages conveyed in this book.

This book ranks right up there with the works of Walter Carrington as required reading for any serious student and all teachers of the Alexander Technique (second only, of course, to Alexander's own books). I have had the amazing experience of having had a few lessons with the Murrays and can attest to the value of their "Dart procedures" for me personally. This tightly edited, easy-to-read book is the only comprehensive, written account of the Murrays' work with the technique. It details the genesis of the "Dart procedures," their basis in core Alexander technique principles and practical tips for the student and teacher. The numerous photographs are a critical aid to understanding. (Not for beginners. This book will likely be beyond those who have had no lessons in the technique.)

I personally am very selective when it comes to any art survey volume. An art survey I have found can be either very weak, or very important and powerful, yet rarely anything in-between. In terms of the Italian Renaissance they are rarely on the powerful side as they don't function to serve the key purposes for historians, curators, and collectors. Most importantly surveys rarely clarify the impact of significant artists of a period and their relationship to the bigger realm of art history between their collective works. This is not the case with Bellini, Giorgione, Titian, and the Renaissance of Venetian Painting.

For example, the current exhibition, of the same title, at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The rich and informative catalogue by David Allan Brown et al., a publication done in association with the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., focuses on the most intense period of the Renaissance in Venice. The work examines a time when Giorgione, Titian (young at the time,) Sebastiano del Piombo, and Palma Vecchio worked alongside each other, and their lesser known colleagues, each and all in the light of the great Giovanni Bellini. The period which is examined represents the first three decades of the sixteenth century. It also represents a pivotal and major period of visual, and intellectual, impact for Italian art in Italy, Europe, and the world.

Brown et. al. does not handle this exhibition catalogue like a normal, or typical, survey. With 336 p., 9 1/2 x 11 1/2 , 31 halftones + 162 color illus. it is a masterfully planned art volume. Although written in a serious and scholarly manner, a layman will enjoy it.

The volume does not divide up the artists, but looks at their interrelationships. Secular subjects are explored, as are themes of music, love, and time. The leading scholars efforts, along with their detailed entries, provides a solid source for continuing discussion of pictures that are nothing short of monumental.

Bellini, Giorgione, Titian, and the Renaissance of Venetian Painting is an exhibition book that is, in my view, well worth obtaining now while available at the publisher price. I see this work as a required addition to any great library on Renaissance art today, and will certainly be valued tomorrow.

This remarkable show (and catalogue) is a summary of Venetian painting from 1500 to 1530, allowing a side by side comparison of the work of Bellini, Giorgione, and Titian in what was one of Venice's astonishing high water marks of artistic creativity.

Once you have been bitten by the bug, these paintings are with you for good. Seeing this work firsthand, one can't help be seduced by the ravishing, luminous beauty light and layers of glazing that makes these paintings unique. The stillness in some of these works suggest the real subject here is light and color -- something these Venetians seem to have captured like no other group of artists.

The reproductions in the catalogue are quite good, and there are a very generous amount of close detail shots of the paintings too -- something particularly useful in illustrating the intricacy of detail in Giorgione's work. The essays are interesting, but my favorite is one I almost missed after the technical photographs of xrays in the back: an essay which describes how the Venetian painters were at a remarkable crossroads of shared experimentation in color including glassmakers, creators of fabric dyes, and other tradesmen that contributed to a new world of color effects in paint. For example the painters would use finely ground glass mixed into the oils to give the glazes a more bright, refractory quality.

This is a captivating show and a great catalogue to accompany it.

A must for the student and lover of the Renaissance and Venice in particular.

We bought this book when my son was 3 and my daughter was still catching a ride in the backpack. We needed easy but nice hikes and boy did we find them. It gives good accurate directions and realistic difficulty rating. A big plus if you are hiking with toddlers. My kids are now 6 and 4 and is still our favorite hike book. You won't be disappointed and you will find a ton of hikes that are close to home yet you feel miles away.

This book (and it's companion volume) are highly appropriate for families, children of most ages and for less than highly active adults.

Thoroughly Recommended!

This book will give possibilities for varying degrees of difficulty hikes and day spots to visit. The best resource I have ever found.

this book helped us find great hikes for kids from the day it arrived. strongly recommended.

It is the most accurate rated hiking book I've owned (I have alot) and most used I would also say its an accurate place to start if your out of shape the ratings are realistic you dont feel like your regretting it half way threw the hike You finish without feeling like the only thing you lost is a few pounds (not your mind or breath) your kids arent whinning and are ready for the next one!!!!

I have purchased several copies of this book, everytime a new edition comes out actually. I can't believe I am the first to review it. If you are a parent and you are new to hiking with kids in the western Washington region this will probably be the only book you need. It is superbly written, with great details on the hike itself,knowing ahead of time what difficulty level you are facing is a must in my opinion, as well as directions on how to find the trail head, tips and tricks to hiking with your children in a way that you will all enjoy it and so much more. I highly reccomend this book, you will not be disapointed.

For this Japanese textile collector, this rates among the very best for photography, not to mention information on the various dyeing techniques and other information on Japanese textiles. Not to be missed for the serious affecionado.

I checked this book out from the library and knew I had to have a copy on hand for my own research. It has more information between its covers than several other books I've read on kimono combined. Extremely valuable for anyone interested in the history of kimono and Japanese textiles. Beautiful color photographs, well-written and well-researched sections, copious footnotes and good quality paper all make this book worthy of a place on any textile collector's bookshelf.

This publication gives an excellent and extensive overview of the traditional Japanese folk textiles that are in the collection of the Seattle Museum of Art. Articles include an overview of these textiles and their use of color and bast fibers. Other articles highlight sashiko, kogin and hishizashi embroidery; katazome, tsutsugaki and yuzenzome, kasuri (ikat) weaving and the textiles of Okinawa. The book is lavishly illustrated with very high quality photographs of garments from the museum's collection. This will be a nice additiion to the library of any fiber artist or someone interested in Japanese design and crafts.

No more sifting through field guides containing hundreds of birds you will never see around here. The authors of this book have limited their scope to the birds of this region. Many helpful illustrations and charts help a beginner with identification. I plan to use this book to assist Boy Scouts with their Bird Studies Merit Badge

This in an excellent book for the birds in this area. My 5 year old can identify all the birds in our backyard and can easily look up the new birds that come around. A must for parents who have children and birdfeeders.

Birds of Seattle and Puget Sound is our most used identification source. We are beginners, and get confused with tomes which identify every bird in North America. This little book brings us the instant joy of identifying our flying guests while they are still at the feeder or bath. We appear to be "experts" to our house guests who marvel at the variety of birds visiting our yard.

After I read the first poem, I felt like this book was "talking to me" and continued reading the rest of the book. Having 2 boys, one with autism inspired me to read this book. I also realized that so many of the poems touch our everyday lives in more ways than I can list. Now when I need an uplift, I select a poem from the book and read it several times. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK FOR FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND FAMILIES WITHOUT SPECIAL NEEDS. You can carry the book with you for those moments outside of the home when you need an immediate uplift.

This book is a beautiful compilation of inspring, uplifting messages for your soul. Whether you are going through challenges now, or your experience of life is its grandeur and splendor, these thoughts WILL brighten your day!
This book touches all regardless of religious, cultural or spiritual base from which the individual views life.
I highly recommend this book for everyone. We ALL need a little light in our days or nights sometimes.
I am confident you will turn to this book again and again.

I read the whole book in one sitting. Then I started over, slowly, one poem at a time. The blessings are clear. Each poem grants a daily lesson for those who love to reflect. You will see yourself in the poems. Deeply personal and life-revealing, they are well written and easy to read. Highly recommended!