Living History Books

This book is a visual delight! It has large, glossy pages replete with beautiful and fascinating photographs and diagrams supporting a variety of interesting articles. Considering the truly extraordinary presentation quality, the price is very reasonable. I suspect HHMI is deliberately asking a modest price in order to increase sales and therefore the number of people who might become interested in the topic -- they do other kinds of outreach to educate/motivate potential scientists. Kudos to them.

Any smart high school student or college undergrad who has had a good experience with a course in biology would probably be delighted by this book.

Exploring the Biomedical Revolution examines the work of frontline scientists and how they are changing the face of modern medicine, with chapters presenting articles on research enhanced by vivid color photos. Many titles on biomedicine are inaccessible to lay audiences; not so this book, which focuses on explanations which are easy to understand, yet with plenty of scientific detail added for those involved in health care. Highly recommended.

~This book is very well-written, composed of many short (c. 2 pg) articles on various subjects relating to biology/medicine, such as Sickle Cell disorder and Huntington's Disease. Not only are these articles very informative, they are interesting. ~On top of that, there are some really great pictures, including a pull-out poster of deadly microbes. ~The material covered in this book is fascinating, but it's not something that you think about every day (unless you're a biologist or you're really into biomedicine). It stimulates thought, and brings you to the realization that, yes, this is sort of cool. I was somewhat interested in the broad category of biology and medicine, but when I bought this book, I was affirmed in my belief that biomedicine is a remarkably intriguing field of study. ~I would strongly recommend this book to anyone remotely interested in biomedicine. It is a truly amazing book! 5 stars!

I just reviewed Volume 1, where I said the book contains a huge selection of patterns. Volume 2 focuses on patterns for evening dresses, bridal wear, sports wear, and outer wear. The chapters on accessories and trimmings contain some needlework patterns, embroidery and so on. I figure if I don't do the handwork I'll still have learned a lot about buying appropriate materials.

I bought both volumes, but they are organized so you can use them separately. Both contain the instructions for using the book and the special rulers that allow you to draft patterns to fit you. They also both have a big glossary, a bibliography, and two indexes.

Volume 2 has something really special though--a dressmaking manual. The book says it was rewritten from numerous rare original sources that are listed in the bibliography. But it's been rewritten so it doesn't read that way; you can't tell where any source begins or ends. That makes the manual a lot easier to use. And it's so long it could have been published as a book by itself. I'm glad to have it, because I've never been able to find a comprehensive sewing manual for this period. It even has corset-making instructions (the corset patterns are in Volume 1).

Both volumes are very well edited and produced. This is not a cheap printing job.

Anyone who does Old West reenactment or Victorian teas would love these books!

Frances Grimble shares her meticulous vision with us once again. A great two book series full of facinating information and patterns galore. I cannot wait to clothe many a pretty lady using them. Not for the faint of heart. The patterns are period correct and I would advise an advanced skill level, or a great deal of patience. Always do a mock up. Remember these are patterns of the age. So start at the skin and work your way out to a glorious new costume.
Enjoy.

This is a great book, but you should know that it is not a second edition of Fashions of the Gilded Age, Volume 1. It is the second volume of the anthology, and a different book with all different patterns. The title is actually Fashions of the Gilded Age, Volume 2: Evening, Bridal, Sports, Outerwear, Accessories, and Dressmaking 1877-1882. It's just as good as Volume 1, none of the information is the same except the intro on how to use the patterns, and the dressmaking manual is really unique.

I heard both volumes were published but it took me awhile to find the second one on Amazon because it was mislisted. So I thought I'd warn other people.

Co-authored by Susy Flory and Gini Monroe with the assistance of W. Ward Gasque, Using The Best-Selling Novel To Share Your Faith: Fear Not Da Vinci is an exclusive and conceptual study of Dan Brown's famous novel, The Da Vinci Code. Exploring a Christian response to various elements in the novel, Fear Not Da Vinci introduces readers to such ideals and explanations for Christians as to whether or not it is okay to read the novel, if Jesus really was married, if Mary Magdalene is pictured in "The Last Supper", if Jesus was merely a man or a God, if women are holier then men, and tactful ways to approach analyzing and discussing Dan Brown's novel with a gentle touch -- as opposed to an irrational and abrasively critical argument. For its in-depth study and articulated text, Fear Not Da Vinci is highly recommended for Christian readers when reading or discussing The Da Vinci Code.

This is a book on conversational evangelism. The authors have used the best-selling novel "The Da Vinci Code" as a challenge for Christians to take courage and communicate their faith. Flory and Monroe share tips, techniques, and examples to equip the reader to use the Da Vinci Code novel and movie as a bridge for witnessing to our culture.

The book reviews and highlights the key issues detailed in the novel that attempt to discredit the Christian Gospel and the authority of the Scriptures. Sample questions and answers help prepare the reader to defend Biblical truths against the claims Dan Brown has introduced through his fictional characters. The authors use testimonies, stories, illustrations, and personal examples to keep the text moving at a fast pace.

The book is thoroughly researched and well documented. The table on the themes of the Bible showing references where Jesus quoted from each book of the Old Testament was excellent and can become an excellent reference tool for every reader. I especially appreciated the table outlining the material from the Gnostic writings in light of Biblical teaching.

W. Ward Gasgue's contribution on Gnostic teaching added another dimension to this important book. The resource list provided at the end of the book provides recommend reading for additional study in refuting "The Da Vinci Code" and for help in personal evangelism.

This is a timely book for every Christian.

Fear Not DaVinci reflects the compassionate hearts of the authors, their love for their Savior, and their ardent desire that the biblical truths about Jesus not be distorted by Dan Brown's best-seller, The DaVinci Code. I found this book to be eloquent, understandable, heartwarming and practical. The authors are to be applauded for their exceptional writing skills, compelling stories, and mastery of complex theological issues. I know the Lord must be well pleased with the devotion, dedication and hard work of His faithful servants, Gini and Suzy. What a blessing!

From Holy Laughter to Holy Fire is perhaps one of the most important books for the serious believer. For those seeking a book to pass the time - Holy Fire is not for you. It is past time for the Body to stand up, speak up and become doers, not just hearers, of the Word.
ITS NOW OR NEVER!

I have been a skeptic about non-conformist activities usually sighted at so-called revivals. This book has convicted me of not being "ready" to receive Jesus Christ, even though I thought I was "born again", and in every way, a practicing, serving Christian. Well written, well researched, but easy to read. This book is one of those few things that might well be life changing! A must read for those who are searching for Christ's coming.

Dr. Brown gives a soul stirring treatise of the need for revival in our society. Taking past occurances and past revivalists he shows how we are so lacking today. He points out the glories and the pitfalls of the manifestations of revival as well. Makes you want to read more.

In "Frontier Living", Edwin Tunis follows out country's century long westward expansion from the Eastern Seaboard, over the Appalachian Mountains, into the Midwest and South and finally across the Missisippi River to the West Coast. Tunis' focus is not on dates and famous leaders but on the lives of ordinary pioneers. What makes this book so special are Edward Tunis' msterful pen and ink illustrations. He was one of the master illustrators of the Twentieth Century. Tunis' drawings of such ingenious things as flutter-wheel sawmills, bullboats and tree stump pulling equipment are absolutely fascinating. For those who love books that focus on material culture, be sure to check out eh works of Eric Sloane, another master illustrator. Highly recommended.

The subtitle says it all: "An Illustrated Guide to Pioneer Life in America, Including Log Cabins, Furniture, Tools, Clothing, and More." From about 1725 to the closing of the frontier, Tunis examines dozens of aspects of American frontier life in this sequel to his "Colonial Living," and even touches on history (the little-known Black Hawk War, the Santa Fe trade, etc.). His clear, detailed pen-and-ink sketches provide a perfect visual accompaniment to written commentary. (Check out the household articles on pp. 24-5, the tub mill on p. 40, the spinning wheels and loom on pp. 46-8, and--my favorite--the elementary prairie well-drilling rig on p. 157, to take just a few examples.) As is often the case with juvenile social histories, he manages to touch on things you don't learn in books written for an adult audience, so the volume should be useful to researchers of every age. My one complaint is the positioning of the page numbers, which are buried in the crack of the binding! This is a book I was delighted to add to my collection, and I recommend it to everyone who has an interest in pre-1900 America.

Frontier Living illuminates all aspects of daily life on the American frontier, from the log cabin to the ranchero. Black and white illustrations by the author provide embellishments to text which describe frontier daily life; from tools and clothing to food. A recommended pick for students of early American frontier days.

This book is a masterpiece, I have been seeking the path for a long time, and living in the west has made it more difficult, I have been reading many books but this one has given me many answers. Pandit Rajmani has done an excellent job in highlighting the path to be taken to liberation, the necessity for having a guru, and has discssued the merits or not of practicing rituals versus intellectual knowledge versus pure spiritual practices, facts on saints etc. This book is an absolute GEM, it reveals facts and truths that are not easily available, many thanks for a priceless book!

Bharat Vala Patel
Cincinnati, US/Lenasia SA

Rajmani is a student of Swami Rama. So I knew I would enjoy his book. He writes with knowledge about yogis and adepts (sages). Since he writes from a Vedanta background (non-dualism) he discusses with historical precision the men and women who made great contributions. He covers Shankaracharya as well as Dattatreya, and others. He has researched authentic writings. He also writes about Swami Rama from experience. The message is consistent, that without a disciplined mind, one gets nowhere. God is realizable.

In a nutshell, this book describes the lives of 8 saints who lived in the Himalayan mountains. The struggles they went through and eventually attaining Self-Realization is truly a source of inspiration for all those souls embarking on the spiritual path. It gives new hope to thousands of people who have decided to lead a holy life of Truth and Wisdom and are having problems in their spiritual quest. Most of the common problems faced by spiritual novices can be answered in this small and humble book.

In the last chapter of this priceless book, the author gives an in-depth perspective on the teachings of this book. This is indeed a valuable guide to all those deciding to do yoga and other spiritual practices.

In short, the only complaint I have about this book is that it is too short! 181 pages of wisdom does not reveal the true nature of spiritual "giants" who had lived in the Himalayas. Nevertheless, this book is a great introduction guide to these spiritual "giants".

if you are standing in the flames you must read this book

This is an excellent book... Wanda Davis Turner is a wonderful evangelist and speaker, so I knew her book would be great! She tells her own personal story of pain, deliverance, and healing through sickness and the death of her husband among other incidents. IF you have been through any time of pain and hurt in life then this book is for you, the bible backup and personal testimony of this awesome woman will minister health to your body and mind.

This one is a best seller. Wanda Davis-Turner has taken me back to my first love... That is Christ. When you read this book,and examine your own relationship with the Lord, you will know if you are too, standing in the flames.

I have used this book to instruct boy scouts in Native American and early New England craft with great success. The broad range of projects can easily provide you with a year's worth of activities that fit perfectly within the scouting program. The sketches and instuctions are easy to follow and the required materials are not expensive.

Indian Handcrafts by C. Keith Wilbur is a great primer for people who actually want to MAKE items in the manner that native Americans. There are countless illustrations in here showing you exactly what the item looks like - in many cases drawn direction from historical artifacts located in museums (which are named). So if you really want to go see the arrowhead, or the rubbing stick, you can literally take a trip out to the named museum and see the actual artifact for yourself.

It's important to note that while this book simply claims to have "Indian Handcrafts", they are ALL from the northeast US area - primarily Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. This isn't a bad thing at all, but they should more clearly identify that on the front of the book. There are a ton of crafts NOT mentioned in here, because they weren't practiced by the tribes in this area. Also, for example when they talk about gardening like a native, and list out the foods that you should grow, the list is: corn, beans, pumpkins, squash, jerusalem artichokes, ground cherries, gourds and tobacco. This is a great list for Massachusetts, and certainly *similar* to what they grew in Florida or Arizona, but it is again important to know that this is a regional summary.

The book is good about both providing a "super 100% authentic" way of doing things - but also giving you shortcuts if you wish. As the author notes, native Americans were very quick to adapt new technologies when they encountered them. When they met up with people who had easy access to metal, they took those metals and melted them down rather than going through the labor intensive trouble of making their own metals from scratch. When they met up with people who had pretty glass beads, they didn't spend weeks and weeks hand grinding stones down into bead shapes. So in the same manner, sure, you are provided with instructions for hand making dyes from plants and flowers. But if you want, you can also use commercial dyes. This is not really "cheating" - it is efficient, and the natives were efficient where they had access to those supplies.

The book is also cautious in its environmental impact. Yes, the natives would strip birch bark off of trees to use it for various crafts. However, in modern times we do not have huge forests of birch - and stripping off birch bark would kill the trees. We can't afford to kill off trees just for "fun crafts". The author gives you ways to get your hands on the ingredients in a more environmentally friendly manner.

Keith was apparently 67 when he published this book in 1990, and you can see his lifetime of research clearly here. He talks about the different ways he practiced making stone tools, tried carving out canoes, and much more. This is a man who actually learned how to do these crafts and is now sharing his knowledge. I really appreciate that! The drawings are very detailed. I still wish, though, that they used a "regular font" for reading, instead of the calligraphy-style handwriting which is sometimes hard to read - and I wish they included some photos. Drawings are great, but sometimes it is so much more helpful to see actual images of things.

Still, these are minor complaints about a treasure trove of knowledge. Whatever your reason for wanting to learn more about how native Americans lived, I highly recommend this book as a part of your library.

This book describes many of the material goods made by Native Americans, and gives the reader an intimate understanding of their construction. Each item is described, with drawings of museum-piece examples. Wilbur then describes how Native Americans made the item (drawing from eye-witness memoirs where possible), and finally describes ways to make reproductions using modern techniques. Really gives one an appreciation for iron. Ideal for a youngster interested in Indians (and what youngster isn't?)

I've long been interested in the Japanese approach to design of all sorts, but especially architecture. Coming from a much different tradition, the solutions to problems and needs for shelter are often very different than those arrived at by architects with Euro-American tastes and training. Some of the examples depicted so beautifully and discussed so shrewdly in this volume are rooted strongly in Japan's history, such as an old farmhouse relocated to Tokyo and fitted into an urban neighborhood. Others are playful, like the house with a lawn on the peaked roof, watered by a sprinkler system on the ridgepole, and with the courtyard floored in clay roof tiles. There's a two-story "miniature" house with a footprint not much larger than two parking spaces, but which still manages to be a very comfortable environment for actually living in. And, naturally, there are structures *so* experimental, you might not realize they were houses if you weren't told. There are homes in this collection I would love to live in, and others that would probably give me nightmares, but all of them are fascinating.

This book is filled with page after page of stunning rooms and living spaces in Japan. A must for anyone who believes all Japanese live in cramped, dark, unattractive homes. An excellent conversation starter and coffee table book.

This book provides total eye candy for design enthusiasts. Not your typical formulaic shoji screen stuff. Very original solutions to design problems from a Japanese perspective. I find it very inspiring and look at it all the time.

This is a wonderful book that takes the reader into the depths of Japanese culture and relationships at the turn of the century. Japan is leaving behind the world of the samurai and the shogun, and cautiously opening up to the influence of the politics and values of the west.

Kenichi Yamamoto is a samurai who ignores his wife, Lady Masa, as he pursues his mistress, Osen. But Kenichi and Masa have a son, Renzo, around whom the story revolves. Renzo is confronted by the changes in Japan, which previously had sealed itself off to all outside influence. Though he must perform his traditional duties to family, he experiences life in London and Paris, becomes an art dealer, and befriends westerners in his country. The interactions in the relationships among the characters are poignant and strange, as they should be to readers of a foreign place and time. The author creates a wonderful picture with these characters-their customs, thoughts, feelings, and dress. You can easily visualize the houses they live in, and the various locations from a coastal seaport to the stinky streets of Tokyo. This book added to my knowledge and understanding of Japan.

This is a wonderful book which I really enjoyed reading.
The narrative painted a vivid picture of what life might have been like in Japan before the country was opened to the Western world and the modern day.
It fills the reader in to the customs, expected roles of women
and the entitlements of men in the early days of Japan.

It even touches on a bit of history. This really is a wonderful book.

This is a wonderful book which I really enjoyed reading.
The narrative painted a vivid picture of what life might have been like in Japan before the country was opened to the Western world and the modern day.
It fills the reader in to the customs, expected roles of women
and the entitlements of men in the early days of Japan.

It even touches on a bit of history. This really is a wonderful book.