United States Books

I liked this book because it tells stuff alot of don't even know unless they already have this wonderful and informative book. It tells you things you are dying to know.

I finally purchased a copy of Aaron Carter, Little Prince of Pop written by his mother Jane Carter. It was an interesting read, in light of all of the recent publicity involving the Carter family. Some of the highlights of the book are the psychic connection between Aaron and his twin sister Angel and the near-death experience Aaron had when he almost drowned in the family swimming pool. God definitely seems to be watching out for Aaron. The book also talks about Aaron's relationship with his brother Nick and that they are almost like twins even though they are separated by several years. I have greatly enjoyed Aaron's music over the past few years. I am one of those 40-something fans of Radio Disney and Aaron Carter. I enjoy happy music that celebrates life. I wish Aaron well as he becomes an adult. If you look closely at the liner notes of the "Oh Aaron" CD, Aaron seems to be aware that fame is fleeting. Aaron, if by chance you read this review, you and your family are in my prayers. I look forward to a new album from you, because God has given you a special talent. I know I will enjoy any new recordings you may release. If you decide to go to college and persue Marine Biology, so be it! Follow your bliss!!! Thanks to you and your family for bringing a smile to my face!

My friend let me borrow this book to read and I loved it and had to get my own copy. I would recomend this book to anybody whether they are an Aaron Carter fan or not. I think this book is very well written and would give anyone a better idea of the person that Aaron Carter really is so they might appreciate him and his music more. If there is any one book about Aaron Carter that you should read, I definately say it should be this one.

hi every1...

my favourite singer is anastacia cuz she's cool and i love
her viose is interesting will i want to meet her if u all can
she look like a kind ,sweet ,wonderful and pretty cool
and im pretty happy she had a beautiful songs yeah

k k k
luv u all

khawlah

Ok, for all you ***Aaron Fans*** out there, I just want to say that you HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK!!! It tells all about how Aaron became famous, and stories about when he was little! Theres tons of cute pictures of him with his family and friends! I totally loved the introduction, A Bird Egg In The Hand. That was so sweet! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AARON!

It is a very good book, the reading is really good!!! I loved reading the letters between Jefferson and Adams!!!! The letters are very good!!!!

Have you ever wanted to be a fly on the wall and to be able to share in the thoughts and happenings of important places and people? Well, if your desires in that regard include the office of the Presidency of the United States and the early days following the American Revolution, that is exactly what this book provides.

As was typical of statesmen of that day, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams maintained a lengthy personal and professional correspondance the subjects of which were both mundane and highly intellectual. This book takes that correspondance, chronologically arranges it and then groups it according the characteristics of the time and the themes of their correspondance. As an additional bonus, John's wife Abigail Adams is included as well.

My attraction to this volume was to seek clarity and focus on several questions that are quite relevant to today. What was meant and intended by the concept of Separation of Church and State and what was the philisophic and religious thinking of there two important figures? There's no shortage of resources out there to tell you what these men thought, the context of their society and usually as an added bonus how these matters in one way or another support the agenda or perspective of the one putting the source together.

At some point however, if you really want to grapple with these issues or just understand the times and importance of these two men, there is no substitute for simply reading and allowing them to speak for themselves.

The added benefit of reading it through in its entirity is that you are not subjected to the judgement of another as to what is significant, what isn't and you aren't relying upon snippets and quotes that may or may not be in context and may or may not be representative of all that either man had to say upon a certain matter.

Certainly, this is just a small cross-section of all that these two men wrote and by itself there is much more that should be added. However, more than any other correspondance preserved from that day that these men engaged in, this was an exchange between men who considered the other his equal and for whom, with exceptions in time periods that are noted, mutual respect and a desire to explain themselves to one another motivated a candor and depth of intimacy that is difficult to find in other sectors.

Certainly, any student of American History needs this resource as a reference and as such it affords a ready means to add information and topically flip through the pages to see what each man had to say on a particular subject.

Every such student though, in my opinion, owes it to themselves, at least once, to just sit down and read the entire volume. Do this, and you'll have a handle upon the style of communication of the day, a feeling for many of the issues of the day and how they were viewed by the participants who did not have the advantage of knowing at the time how something would resolve. Idiosyncrasies in language and social custom will become more self-evident and the chances of being mislead by a quote isolated from its context will diminish considerably.

In short, for anyone who loves History, this is an experience not to be missed.

The footnotes and introductory passages to the different sections in my opinion do a remarkably good job of providing the reader with just enough context and outside information so that the letters themselves make sense and are not misunderstood. The reader is not told what to think about the letters per se, but rather equipped to make a better informed evaluation and come to their own conclusions. Those elements make the book valuable as well.

5 stars if ever there was a book worthy of 5 stars; again, this IS history.

Bart Breen

What an incredible feeling reading the words of two of our country's founding fathers. To feel the respect and affection , as well as irritation, of these men is astounding. I am grateful that they have been made available to us to have and hold in our own hands and libraries and to pass on to our children.

This is a very intersting book. The letters are all preceeded by an introduction that gives the reader historical context as well as a description of the relationship at the time between the writers of the letter.

Out second and third presidents began their political career as friends, fell out, and then fortunately became friends again. In this wonderful collection of personal letters we see not only the men but the times until their deaths July 4, 1826. One of our most beloved presidents and most mis-understood are brought into reality by this collection. They were after all both remarkable men and human beings.

Great book with great color and powerful art. Lots of art from the movie. well done and well crafted.

I admit, that when I first saw the previews for the 3D movie Kung Fu Panda, I was not impressed. In fact, I did not want to see the movie at all. And then I got this book, "The Art of Kung Fu Panda" and my resolve to not see the movie crumbled into nothing. The artwork in this book is amazing, from the fun and creative character designs, to the beautiful layouts and concept paintings. This book made me really excited about seeing the movie, which I did. And the movie, like the book, is great.

It's so fantastic to have this artbook! I could enjoy the world of "Kungfu Panda" again. All the detailed and beautiful illustrations, and it's also good to read film making stories. I think it's the best artbook I've ever had:)

I love the photos and illustrations of this book.
I am a Kung Fu Panda Fan and this book is a wonderful addition to my collection from the movie. The price Amazon offered saved me money!
Highly recommended!

When the book arrived I must say I was really amazed with the quality of the good. Firstly, The book format is bigger than I imagined and the number of pages and quality of the print are awesome! No issues at all at this part.
And as for the content, is really inspirational. all the landscapes, concepts, designs and so many other things really show how detailed was the entire production of the movie.
The only thing I was missing were the images that appear at the ending credits from the movie. But that only shows the uncountable material to be featured in the book. Thumbs up for the whole crew.
PLUS, u can get a little poster from the movie :)

Though a little skeptical based on one person's review that the book was "lean" in terms of graphics, I went ahead and bought it. While I agree that the book is not gorgeously laid out, it has some of the best information I have ever read in a how to book. My learning curve went straight up and not only would I recommend this book to any parent but have also bought copies for friends.

Everything you ever wanted to know about athletic recruiting when your high school coach doesn't do it for you. And here's a hot tip. You can go one better than your high school coach, Mom and Dad. Check out the opportunities at West Point. Almost everyone there is a scholar-athlete, and all on full scholarship plus getting paid [...] a year! And, best of all, if you get hurt, you don't lose your scholarship! To find out what West Point is really all about, read Norman Thomas Remick's book, "West Point". In conclusion, Wayne Mazzoni did a great job. His, "Athletic Recruiting & Scholarship Guide" is the book that tells you everything you need to know. (Unless you become interested in West Point).

This book made it clear what we need to do. I can't wait to get started on helping my daughter get a place to play in college and a scholarship.

While this book does not have the perfect layout of pictures, etc. that many books do, it has the only thing you really need when it comes to recruiting...an insiders perspective on the process. This book can be read in a few hours and your learning curve during this time will be dramatic. I am so much more prepared now then when I started this process.

I thought I did everything for my son that I could...When it came time for college, we just hit a brick wall. Wayne has helped us break through that wall. Step by step. Our family owes a great deal to Wayne. Thank you!

Once the great champion Barbaro was able to run he would run against his buddies at the ranch. When and once he started to begin his training he wantedto win and when he became old enough to realize how strong his legs were and how deep his well of speed ws. The others bred to be chanps world be at his mercy.
On the day of his first race everybody wanted to see what this colt had in his well of speed. He won by 10 lengths. Time went on and on the day of the race of the Piminto Race, all the horses lilned up in the starting gate and once the bell rang out came Barbaro and then bam! The horrible misstep riuned his moment of glory, he was fighting for his life!
He was sent to the vetrinary clinic he would have to have 36 screws, 3 plates and alot of faith. After many weeks of recovery have pasted but doctors found a deep abcess in his right foot. On January 29th, the owners told the doctors to let him to release him to the green pastures beside the still waters.

BARBARO is a true GENTLEMAN-CHAMPION. The way he won all of his races,
with all that integrity & class, was a wonder to behold.

Get this book, you will love it. The ONLY complaint I have is: NOT
enough pictures of BARBARO were included. I could easily have wanted
at least dozens more. Maybe my words here, will inspire some one to make
my wishes come true. ***GO***BARBARO !!!***

As a Barbaro lover, I enjoyed this book. It's simple, great for children, and talks about the best of this fabulous horse and his tremenous courage.

I absolutely loved this book....loved seeing a "baby" picture of Barbaro too! I really felt like I was right there with Barbaro as he was growing up! I'm sure I will re-read this book many times.

This book touched me in a special way! I smiled, laughed, and cried as I read it. Ms Mickle's presentation of Barbaro's life, much of it from the horse's-eye-view, endeared me even more to Barbaro. I hope his full brothers are being nurtured and brought along in identical fashion. Great reading! NOTE: The Preakness Stakes is 1 3/16 miles long; it was not the longest race he was being asked to complete at the time. The Kentucky Derby was longer--at 1 1/4 miles (1/16th of a mile further than the Preakness). Long live the memory and legacy of Barbaro! My compliments and respect go out to those who helped make him a champion.

Great book. A very necessary addition to the discussion. I agree with the positive comments aleady on this board. I bought and read this book a few years back so the details escape me now. It's time to reread it. That will have to wait until a coworker finishes reading it. I'll expand my comments then.

The three things that stand out are:

1) His refreshing discussion of the world-wide history of slavery that takes a holistic view rather than a bash-the-US approach.

2) His interesting and unique (I think) comparison of the white redneck culture to the black inner city culture...thus the term black rednecks. I discussed this idea with some of my black collegues and they were at first a little uncertain what to think, then they whole heartedly agreed. They are hard working men who despise cultures that reward laziness, lack of education, and intolerance. Most of them grew up in inner city USA, have friends/family there, and find it difficult to relate to those people whom they now view as being stuck in nowhere land.

3) His discussion of the origins of the redneck culture, including language.

Sowell presents many ideas that could reduce racial tension and help all of us strive for the American dream. Craig Matteson's review gives an excellent summary so I refer you to that for details. The title is a great choice. I highly recommend this book for blacks, whites, and other races as well.

In his bestselling autobiography, "My Grandfather's Son," Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas called hearing and speaking with leading conservative author Thomas Sowell "a landmark event." Justice Thomas later cited Sowell among a few who, "unhampered by party allegiances...could speak their minds with honesty and clarity. They were my kind of black men."

In "Black Rednecks and White Liberals," Sowell's sober, reasoned approach wrestles major pieces of Western cultural history from emotional revision and reinterpretation.

Anyone following conservative politics and philosophy since Ronald Reagan's election will recognize Sowell's underlying themes. He long opposed preserving "ghetto" or "gangsta rap" culture, which criticized studious, high-achieving blacks for "acting white." His first essay traces perceived black "cultural heritage" to a "redneck" culture rooted in Britain's working class, transplanted with the 18th century Southern settlers, extracted through education and migration after the Civil War, then given, in Sowell's words, "new lease on life" by liberals and academics after 1960.

Sowell also long opposed affirmative action, racial quotas, and busing. In "Black Education" he uses the histories of Washington, DC's Paul Laurence Dunbar High School and Howard University to divide traditional teaching (based on discipline, study, and hard work) from modern social experiment, multiculturalism, and what Sowell quotes one leader's calling a "superiority-inferiority complex" between mostly white teachers and their black students. Sowell sees the tragedy stemming from students needing the best available education regardless of race.

Sowell's essays siphon morality from causation, drawing lessons (as opposed to agendas or even reparation) from US history. In "The Real History of Slavery," and again in "History vs. Visions," he laments black history told only through acknowledged mistreatment of blacks by whites, challenging Alex Haley's powerful "Roots" mythology. He widens slavery and human exploitation's shame and history to South America, the Middle East ( frightening examples of Arab mistreatment of slaves) and among Africans. He cites Western Civilization and philosophy as catalysts to see and end slavery's evil; Western culture had been vilified for preserving the "peculiar institution" and not denouncing it strongly enough in Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

Two essays, "Are Jews Generic?" and "Germans and History," isolate Nazi Germany's unspeakable Holocaust from Jewish and German interlocked histories. Sowell recalls their cultural contributions: Germans as punctual craftsmen relishing and using learning and technology, Jewish merchants and bankers creating wealth through long hours, hard work and convenient goods and services in new, untested areas. Both were discriminated against (as would other nationalities seen as economic "middlemen"), sometimes violently, by indigenous peoples Sowell saw as lacking their respective initiatives and work ethic. Sowell noted Adolf Hitler exploited this trend in his need to seize dictatorial power from Germany's need for restored price, and used it to win an election with devastating results none could expect in 1933.

Ultimately, this book's provocative title (I received more comment from its cover it than any book I carried publicly) and essays tell Western cultural history without evoking guilt, shame, or burden. "Black Rednecks and White Liberals" is history re-told as statistically as Sowell (also a leading economist) could tell it; a wake-up call from nightmares of past mistreatment. It licenses anyone reading it to transcend their past or its perceptions. Highly recommended for those interested in American history and culture.

With his usual impeccable research and clear writing, in the title presentation, Black Rednecks and White Liberals Thomas Sowell has shown that much of the self-defeating behavior of Black Americans came from neither the antebellum South, nor from ancestral Africa. Rather, they came from the behavior of English expatriates who relocated to the old South. From the Reverend Wright style of rant, to the word choice itself, we see reflected in American Blacks the lifestyles of the people who had lived in the Northern half of England, and who were considered unwelcome and uncouth even among their own countrymen.
There are other long essays, including works on Black education, slavery, and discrimination against Jews, but it is the first that generates "aha's" on almost every page

I was automatically attracted to this book by the title and was interested to see what was written. I'm not a big fan of Sowell but this was a very compelling read. Finally a book that explains "ghetto" culture and not just fingerpoints at it. Also, I love this book because it equates whites and blacks that live similar cultures. Too many conservative writings that focus on societal failures always point to the black community when the same ills exist in predominatly white locales.

I think this is a book that both whites and blacks should read.

THERE ARE MANY BLUES SINGERS FROM ROBERT JOHNSON TO THE PRESENT, BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE THEY CALLED "THE KING OF THE BLUES" THIS MAN IS A LEGEND HE IS CALLED B.B.KING. THIS POWERFUL BOOK GOES INTO THE HUMBLE BEGINNING OF RILEY B. KING AS A SHARECROPPER,THROUGH THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT,RACISM TO PERFECTING THE MUSIC THAT IS HIS FIRST LOVE "THE BLUES" .HERE IS A MAN WHO CAME FROM A SIMPLE HUMBLE BEGINNING TO PERFORMING BEFORE KINGS AND QUEENS AND PRESIDENTS AND EVEN THE POPE. IF YOU HAVE SEEN B.B.KING YOU KNOW WHY HE IS CALLED THE KING OF THE BLUES, IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN HIM YOU ARE MISSING OUT ON "THE MAN" HIMSELF ALL YOU CAN DO IS READ THIS POWERFUL BOOK

I've read BB's book several times, maybe 5 or 6. Every time I read it I still love it. I learn something new about him every time. If you even consider yourself a fan of BB or the blues, you have to read this book. David Ritz is an awesome co-writer, keeping BB's voice in the forefront, and he just gently guides BB. He did a hell of a job with Etta James' autobiography also.
An excellent book!!

His real name is Riley B. King, the B.B. stands for Blues Boy, and he is known as "America's ambassador of the blues". A recommended enjoyable, good read about growing up and into music, self-taught guitar, remarkable attitudes of a man who faced prejudice and hate with an even keel. A performer who went on stage even when he was suffering from a bad case of flu. B.B. King took his music to Israel, England, and Russia, and held up in stature through the lows and highs. And he loves his 'Lucille' (guitar)! David Ritz has co-authored with the King a wonderful synopsis of love, fortitude, belonging, and enthusiasm. Recommended for blues lovers or otherwise... please don't miss this splendid read. (Review based on hardcover 1996)
Reviewer also recommends: 'Between Each Line of Pain and Glory My Life Story' by Gladys Knight

Wow, I just finished reading this biography and am truly satisfied with my reading. It's been a long time since I read a book this refreshing. Talk about honesty, passion and heart.
The last 3 chapters were especially entertaining, talking from the heart about issues generally left untouched. From page one, I couldn't put the book down.
This book really helps you understand B.B's live performances. For anyone who as seen B.B. King live sometimes gets the feeling that his performance is a routine that dates back 25 years (well, I now know it is!), but this fact doesn't bother my anymore, understanding where the man comes from, better understanding his way of doing things.
Recommended for blues fans and anyone interested in a very entertaining read.

A blues story
B.B. King's life is presented here in a breezy, happy go lucky style. Ostensibly an autobiography, (although if you heard any of B.B.'s interviews about the book and his amazement at some of the details that were revealed, you know David Ritz did much more than help out.) this book deals with B.B.'s childhood of amazing poverty and his eventual rise to be the "King of the Blues." Conversational in style, but revealing in detail, BLUES ALL AROUND ME works as both a personal reminiscence and as a look at the life of a black man living in America during the 20th century. Tales of racism (in the military and elsewhere), the difficulties of dealing with a less than honest music industry, and the struggle for success against these odds are all expressed in a manner that shows no true anger, rather an acceptance that these were challenges to overcome. B.B.'s personal relationships with the many women in his life is not avoided, nor his opinions of many of his contemporaries. While the selected discography is extremely disappointing, this book should be required reading for any fan of the blues, and while any autobiography has to be taken with a grain of salt, this one definitely rings true.

This slender book has a good deal of information. However, it is somewhat helpful in locating ghost towns.

For anyone who loves the history and romance of the Wild West, this is an outstanding book that will help you understand more about the where and when of boomtowns in the old and the new west. It was mining that drove development in the western United States, not the cowboy. The products of Northeastern Washington mines were what held together this pioneer country and it helped to sustain development of the west and the United States.
Get lost with this book on a road trip through the dusty corners of Washington State! You will love it.

Upon purchasing your fantastic book and reading many of the wonderful stories on the history of Washington State, we decided to do an article in our Nostalgia Magazine. Thank you for sharing your stories and photos, folks like you keep Nostalgia Magazine a favorite read.

In August 2005 I visited the mysterious "China Wall" in Okanogan County. If it had not been for Jerry's book, which included detailed directions on how to locate the China Wall, I would not have found this historic structure. Once I had arrived at these massive granite walls Jerry's book explained in detail the history of this mysterious wall from yesteryear.

I purchased a copy of Jerry's book. It was taken along with me as my personal history reference guide as I searched for his Boom Towns & Relic Hunters "Geo Relic Treasure Caches". His book explained the detailed history of the area I was visiting while conducting my historic treasure hunt.

Boricuas, an anthology edited by Roberto Santiago, should be in the classroom library of all high school English teachers. Although it is focused on the writings of Puerto Ricans, its universal themes transcend all barriers when included as part of a thoughtful curriculum.
I have been able to use pieces from this book in themes on Identity, Human Rights, American Identity, and Nationalism. I know of teachers who have used this book from high school classes to college courses. It is that versatile. I write this review in the hopes that Mr. Santiago will consider the following request in creating a second edition.
It would be most helpful if some biographical information was included about the authors. There have been some more "influential" writings since the book's publication, specifically "Changing Race" By Clara E. Rodriguez, my former professor, who is already included in the book. It would also be nice, perhaps as an addendum or a separate chapter, that some pieces of historical significance, such as En mi Viejo San Juan in Spanglish, by Pedro Pietri, or WTC by new contemporary poetess La Bruja, would be added. An overview of "scientific" journals and writings both controversial and insulting would be good in a chapter on how Puerto Ricans were "viewed" by the outside. This would be a good counter point and provide the context for the need for self identification and pride.

I love this book! Its got lots of different stories and poems that can fit any Puerto Rican. It really is worth it

Art, Poetry, Short Stories, Drawings. Stories of Religion, from Catholic, to Santeria. From growing up in hungry in the streets of Spanish Harlem, to growing up in the rural areas of La Isla. From being a street hood, to being a Chico and The Man Tv Star. Boricuas, is destined to be a classic. In this collection you get only the best, from the best Puerto Rican writers and poets. Piri Thomas, Esmeralda Santiago, Judith Cofer, Nicholasa Mohr, just to name a few of these talented writters. What I love the most about this book is that it will introduce many Puerto Ricans as well as the rest of the world to the many talented Boricua authors there are. This book will fill you with pride and joy, if you are ever thinking of that perfect gift for that young adult Boricua in your life, this is it.

This book has enlightened me. I know I am not alone in my thoughts. All the feelings I have towards the Puerto Rican struggle for recognition and respect have been expressed and shared throughout this book. Every word brought about different ideas and views on what has been taken away from Puerto Rico. Every Puerto rican should read this and learn about our past and opinions of fellow latinos. This book has opened up and filled a void at once.TO Piri Thomas, Edwin Torres, Pedro Albizu Campos, Esmeralda Santiago and Even Freddie Prinze, I thank you. I feel as if I have discovered I do have a past and yet there is so much more I need to learn. Thank you.
This book should be used in school. Latinos have be deprived of our hertiage along with every other minority. Give it to your children, as a matter of fact READ IT WITH YOUR KIDS.

This book contains a splendid collection of stories about Puerto Rican life by Puerto Ricans. It is an insightful reference tool and an eye operner for the many who may not know much less understand their roots.

Puerto Rico's existence has been a complex one and it is still evolving. By collecting the voices of so many talented observers in a single volume, Roberto Santiago provides a living record for those who want to learn, to ponder, to think. A must read!

This book is a wake up call to the Creative! It completely opened my eyes to the many things to think about and plan for when leaving your secure job, and going out on your own. Extremely well written, with a plethora of knowledge on the subject. A complete eye opener. A MUST HAVE for the Creative who is planning on going freelance, or starting their own business. Very informative and necessary to read in order to succeed on your own. Very exciting, I could barely put it down!

According to the author's website at http://www.creativebusiness.com/books.lasso The Business Side of Creativity addresses freelancing and the basics of pricing, selling, and running a SMALL design or marketing communications business. The Creative Business Guide to Running a Graphic Design Business focuses on the management of a MULTIPERSON organization. The website gives a summary on the various chapters of each book.

I started out excited about this book, then quickly realized much of what the author had to say was outdated at best, not the best advice on numerous occasions, but yet the book contained some valuable information. A bit stoneage as far as business marketing practices. One hundred pages on setting up your own studio/small business with personnel (No, thank you). If working as a freelancer in the graphics or copy arenas is your thing, its worth paying $20.00 to get something out of it.

This is such a comprehensive book. If you have any question about how to run a business, let alone a creative one, this book is the only one you'll need.

I'm starting a sole-proprietor (one-person) freelance design business and I have found this book to be extremely helpful. It manages to be realistic about what to expect while also providing encouragement that if you prepare well and work smart, you have the opportunity to reach your financial goals. The book has made me consider contracts carefully and has given me valuable suggestions (for example, setting up standards such as "I can't accept jobs for which I can bill less than 8 hours' work"), thinking about what kinds of clients I want to attract in my business, and so on. It has important points to consider if you are locating your business outside a large metropolitan area. I recommend it for anyone who is starting out - or considering starting out - on a solo creative business.