Louisiana Books

Clif Cormier's humble beginnings in Cajun country provide the launching of a young man who became a career Marine as well as a career newspaperman. He fought in WWII and Korea, led his men through dangers, and lived to write about his experiences with great clarity and vivid details. When he retired from the military, Cormier attended and graduated from the University of Florida and became a news reporter and later a city editor of a major newspaper. His story gives people insight into perseverance and adherance to values. He describes his travels in both the Pacific and later throughout the world. Cormier's writing makes this book a must for people who want to read about US Marine Corp life as well as life after the military. Excellent book that holds reader's interest! Semper Fi!

I read this book in one night--A very interesting look into the life of a military man during World War II, and also the typical life for a boy growing up in Louisiana during the Depression. It is well written, and has a very informative prologue. Highly enjoyable; at times sad, and at times very funny.
He has led a very interesting life; I have recommended this book to a number of people, and will continue to do so.

Captain Clif Cormier was my Battery Commander, at Hotel Battery 3rd. Battalion 10th Marines when I was a young 2nd Lt. in 1959. I found him to be an outstanding leader, firm but fair with those who served under him.

I was fortunate to recieve one of his books directly from Captain Cormier and am ordering 2 more for my children to read. It is a story of what it was like growing up in the depression and being a Marine through World War II, Korea, the peacetime Marines and what opportunities retirement can bring.

When Captain Cormier retired, his officers pooled their money (which we didn't have much of) and bought him a second hand typerwriter. We knew he would be as good a journalist as he was a Marine and we wanted to show our respect for him.

I recommend this book for all who have served in the Military,
those who love history, and those who just like a good story about a real life hero.

Captain Clif Cormier was my Battery Commander, at Hotel Battery 3rd. Battalion 10th Marines when I was a young 2nd Lt. in 1959. I found him to be an outstanding leader, firm but fair with those who served under him.

I was fortunate to recieve one of his books directly from Captain Cormier and am ordering 2 more for my children to read. It is a story of what it was like growing up in the depression and being a Marine through World War II, Korea, the peacetime Marines and what opportunities retirement can bring.

When Captain Cormier retired, his officers pooled their money (which we didn't have much of) and bought him a second hand typerwriter. We knew he would be as good a journalist as he was a Marine and we wanted to show our respect for him.

I recommend this book for all who have served in the Military,
those who love history, and those who just like a good story about a real life hero.

I found the book to be very entertaining and although I doubt it was written to be informative, it actually was. I found myself becoming a part of the plot not long into the book. I sincerely hope the author has more to come.

There aren't too many "men" writers these days, and that's disappointing. Anyone who has ever read The Sun Also Rises could never forget the emotional depths Hemingway painted when Jake and Bill shed the constraints of city life to fish together in the mountain streams of Pamplona. In that scene, Hemingway simply showed readers the honest cores of two regular men, but what emerged was one of the most graceful passages in all of classic literature.

Where Hemingway left off, Gordon Hutchinson continues in The Quest and the Quarry. Two award-winning short stories form the basis of this novel, which brings readers into the life of a Mississippi farming and hunting family, and exposes them to the simple pleasures of camaraderie, family, and freedom from the constraints of city living.

The tale begins with a story of an old man's quiet wisdom, elegant in its simplicity, decisive in its certainty. From there it expands, introducing readers to a Southern family and describing the family's longstanding relationship with its farmland. The straightforward dignity of the lifestyle quickly entrances the reader, which is the ultimate purpose of the story. As the tale progresses, the family faces down joy and adversity in the backwoods. The men hunt, farm, and enjoy each other's company in a uniquely male way. There's drinking, card games, practical jokes-and true friendship. Meanwhile, the bonds between them-and between them and the reader-grow. It's almost as though by bringing the reader along with the family, Hutchinson slowly permits the family to accept the reader.

And Hutchinson is a gifted storyteller. With an incisive eye for detail, he conveys all the little aspects of the hunt-from the bitter cold of hunting in the pre-dawn rain to the vivid tastes of the food made at camp-that are necessary for a reader to truly experience it. In so doing, he makes this story accessible to all readers; you need not have any hunting experience, or even like the idea of hunting, to appreciate his message. He changes perspectives at crucial points in the story, allowing it to evolve naturally while providing an overarching perspective of this family's way of life. He writes with a light touch and a steady, patient rhythm that bespeaks the deep-set values embodied by the book's family. His dialogue rings true and conveys a dialect that is at times hilarious, while at others, deeply touching. Further, he empathizes with all of his characters, showing an incredible ability to see from others' perspectives, including-amazingly-that of the hunted deer. His tones are always well matched to the events taking place, easily shifting from mischievous, during moments of carefree revelry, to deep melancholy, as the central tragedies occur.

The dominant theme is simply the raw emotions men feel as they face the challenges of life, some self-imposed, others thrust upon them. Hutchinson expertly and honestly conveys these emotions. He seamlessly juxtaposes the thrill of the hunt and the deep, bitter regret of killing animals as majestic as deer. He captures outsiders' desires for acceptance by an admired group. He also describes the deep longing to control one's own destiny, as well as the concomitant joy when aspects of that control are wrenched from nature and society. Subtle is his expression of a simple yet powerful desire to be a good person-to conform to the example of one's idol, and to properly love a woman-as well as the despair men experience when they fear that they are failing. Finally, he conveys an old man's patient confidence that strong family bonds will always carry the day, able to heal even the deepest of wounds.

What emerges is exactly what Hutchinson aims for: the case for a simpler life, where the values of older generations survive in younger ones. Boys (and a girl) learn to lead a character-driven life by watching the men they admire simply be men. The sometimes cruel whims of nature temper men's characters, while also cultivating bonds in ways that a more plush lifestyle simply cannot. Although many of us will never even begin to experience this reality, simply reading the book reminds us of the things we are missing, and perhaps the values we should strive for in our own ways. And although a very "male" book, The Quest and the Quarry seems to have many women fans, who express gratitude at being given such an honest look at what happens when men let their guard down. In this time of "academic thrillers" and false memoirs, Hutchinson takes us back to an era of classic literature that has fallen by the wayside. I would recommend that anyone looking for a good nighttime read not hesitate to order a copy. You'll be all the better for it.

Being the mother of four sons and coming from a family of small-game hunters, I was looking for a book that would introduce my youngest son to the world of big-game hunters. We got that and much more. This book speaks of a time in old, gallant south when men were men and boys wanted to be those men.

I've known deer hunters, but I never realized all that is involved in getting inside the mind of a deer. Hutchinson takes us with ease and realism from the mind of the hunter to the mind of the deer. His writing is akin to a beautiful ballet of the woods, where the dance ends victoriously for either the prey or the predator while weaving the lifelike drama of southern realism throughout.

My son and I know more about deer and deer hunting than we did before, but we got our education while glimpsing the lives of possibly a time gone by. It is my deep hope that Hutchinson will reach in his bag of short stories and pull together another great book that will take us as deep into another realm of the forgotten south.

I must say, when first opening the novel The Quest and the Quarry by Gordon Hutchinson, I was skeptical. I am not a hunter, and the only experience I have had involving the hunt consisted of a single hunting trip where I fired a rifle only once at an unmoving metal can. After reading a review by Alan Clemons, where he thanks Hutchinson for "taking [him] to [his] own beginnings of deer hunting with [his] father," I wondered if I would be able to connect to the characters as well as someone who had these memories to fall back on. Once beginning the novel, however, I discovered that you don't need your own hunting memories to borrow the vivid and moving tales Hutchinson so generously lends and make them your own. The story unfolds expertly, following the lives and experiences of several members of a rural Mississippi family. The point of view changes throughout the novel, allowing a broad look into the lives of all the characters, each connected by the strongest bond of all - family strength. This novel is about hunting, filling the mind with the excitement and thrill involved in winning a trophy buck while on horseback after weeks of preparation, but it also delves deeper than the mere passion of the hunt itself. Encompassing a tale of a young boy growing into a wise "old timer", Hutchinson reveals the true story hidden in the excitement of the hunt. The lessons taught to young chaps by their fathers and grandfathers as they learn to fire rifles and ride horses are innumerable and irreplaceable. With chapters that will make you cry, chapters that will make you laugh out loud, and chapters that will make you do both at once, The Quest and the Quarry brings the strength that belongs to this rural Mississippi family to life. I am a city girl with a country heart, and this novel brought me in and gave me the privilege of becoming a part of this remarkable, strong and cohesive family.

...and I've got shelves of 'em. This is an exhaustively researched, splendidly written guide for visitors and native New Orleanians alike. Fantastically detailed walking tours cover New Orleans' celebrated five-star attractions...then take you off the beaten trail to explore parts of the city not covered in other guidebooks.

This is the book to pack on your first, third, or even sixth visit to one of our most exotic and fascinating cities. I can't recommend it highly enough.

this book allowed for one of the nicest vacations i have ever taken. more than bourbon street indeed; if you're into historical along with fun, good food, and the infamous celebratory attitude then this is the book you're looking for! it covers everything you can imagine plus the historical information with the descriptions that follow the maps for the various tours is priceless. we didn't take one tour save the plantation *oak alley* tour; didn't need to! the maps along with the additional information is all you need to create your own walking tours, driving excursions and much much more. i would also allow that personally i did read another book: Fabulous New Orleans by Lyle Saxon. the combination of the two really compliment one another. just my opinion. again, great book; i sincerely can't say enough.

Having visited NO before and having read three other "Guides" I was suprised by how different this book was from the others and how everything I personally wanted to know about was adressed in detail. Walking the Faubourgs is the best way to appreciate the very unique city behind the tourist hype and Mr. Delahanty tells you how. Other guide books are collections of data gathered from many sources, but this is a story told by someone who knows and loves his subject. Our morning walks through the Bayou St. John neighborhood for coffee on Esplanade Ave. were greatly enhanced by the information in the "Esplanade Ridge" section. The history is so much more amazing than the garishness of Bourbon St. My daughter, a six year resident of NO, is planning her wedding there and has found this an invaluable resource. There is an address and telephone number for everything. I am recommending this book to all of her wedding guests and buying a second copy for myself, having given mine to her. If you plan a trip to New Orleans, read this book before you go and carry it with you while you are there.

New Orleans' unique food, music, architecture, and people have been justly celebrated and explained to out of towners and locals alike in many, many books. Why one more?

Randolph Delehanty's answer to that question would be, I suppose (I have never spoken with him), that most guidebooks miss the essence of our city: the varied streets - from the carriage-wide alleyways of the Vieux Carre to the grand boulevards of St. Charles and Esplanade Avenues - which tie together our rich architectural heritage and cultural history.

At once public and private, street walking is an old tradion in New Orleans and this book introduces novice and old pro alike to the tricks of the trade.

Delehanty, director of the University of New Orleans' Ogden Museum of Southern Art and author of nine books, including the definitive coffee table book of New Orleans'interiors and patios, New Orleans: Elegance and Decadence, takes readers inside New Orleans buildings and gardens on over a dozen walking, transit, and (when necessary) car tours of the city and its River Road environs. Neighborhood by fauborg, he explains the special points of history that make this a city of towns, unlike most Southern cities. While your eyes are drawn to the architecture, he points out the lives of the inhabitants of these old homes, shops, and mansions - often writers and musicians. A few pages on "New Orleans House Design and Sociability: Stoops, Balconies, Galleries, and Porches" explain how climate, architecture, and sociability were intimately intertwined before the age of air-conditioning, cars, and television reduced urban life to a fraction of its potential for gracious living.

This walker's "ultimate guide" to New Orlean's architecture and culture is a must for locals who hope to become "New Orleans know it alls" and an inspired choice for those out of towners who hope to live like a native, if only for a few days.

Excellent and detailed maps, extensive cross-references, and select listings of all the basic tourist needs (restaurants, music clubs, bars, etc.) round out an excellent guide: the best of its kind (in the opinion of this City of New Orleans' licensed walking tour guide and life long resident of the Big Easy).

These recipes are great--I have had them at the restaurant, and they are just as good at home.

If you've never had the pleasure of eating at Mike Anderson's restuarant, then you've missed out on a rare treat. This cookbook gives you the recipes for all of his menu items and then some more.
I highly recommend you try the stuffed potatoes, the Norman (with either fish or shrimp), Mike's Special or any of the other hundreds of fantastic recipes in this book.
This is the only cookbook I use when it comes to South Louisiana flavor!
I recently moved from MS to PA and Mike Anderson's is the one thing I will truly miss.

If you have ever eaten at Mike Anderson's restaurants in New Orleans or Baton Rouge you know how good it gets. This cookbook lets you create some of the best south Louisiana seafood, make that the best seafood period, you will ever eat. Some of my favorites from the restaurant like Oysters Gaspard, The Guitreau, Mike's Special and the House Salad Dressing taste as though they are served straight out of Mike Anderson's kitchen. The recipes are easy to understand and simple to make. If there is only one Louisiana cookbook in your cupboard, this should be it!

If you have ever eaten anything cooked in Louisiana, you know it is good. This cookbook teaches anyone how to make the delicious foods from Louisiana no matter where they are from! Easy to follow recipes include appetizers, salads, gumbos, soups, desserts - If you are looking to impress someone with some Cajun cooking this book will show you how!

Lawrence Dorr creates the most unforgettable characters! Each and every one leads to a better understanding of the world and a greater acceptance of others. The stories in this collection are filled with extraordinary kindnesses that always seem to come when we least expect it; but more importantly, Dorr shows the reader the only way to transcend the limitations of the physical world. I love this writer and only want to say PLEASE MR. DORR, GIVE US MORE, MORE, MORE.

Lawrence Dorr creates the most unforgettable characters! Each and every one leads to a better understanding of the world and a greater acceptance of others. The stories in this collection are filled with extraordinary kindnesses that always seem to come when we least expect it; but more importantly, Dorr shows the reader the only way to transcend the limitations of the physical world. I love this writer and only want to say PLEASE MR. DORR, GIVE US MORE, MORE, MORE.

Dorr is a master of prose with his powerful images and poignant topics. His word structure alone is impressive. These are some of the best twentieth century American stories I have read.

These twelve stories reflect the experiences and emotions Hungarian-born writer Lawrence Dorr suffered in his war-torn homeland before and during World War II , and after his move to America. As a young lad, Dorr faced the Germans, was posted on the front in excruciating cold, was wounded, found his family killed,and his ancestral home consfiscated. After making a daring escape from the Communists, he wandered throughout Europe holding a variety of jobs, from working a loom in a British cotton mill to being a teacher. These situations are the details and threads by which Dorr weaves stories that tell of the anguish he suffered as an exile. They also illustrate in graphic detail the horror people can perpretrate on others, and on a country, in the name of patriotism and honor. Because the revelations about human nature in these stories are so honest, they are often difficult to read and/or accept, but the reader leaves them wiser and more aware of God's grace. Dorr's characters and plots reveal a love and humanity that heals. Simple and kind acts extended to someone physically or emotionally wounded reveal that good exists, even if given by those who seemingly have lost all dignity. In other stories, Dorr shows the redemptive values of family, nature, worship, and even domestic rituals. In that sense, Dorr is a religious writer. His peace comes from an unshakable knowledge that God is good and that mercy is a gift. Door's writing is spare, lean, and masculine. A gifted writer, his images,descriptions, and writing style attest to his extensive knowledge of and familiarity with the classics, music, and art. It is no wonder that Dorr was nominated for a a Pulitzer prize in fiction. His writings and characters speak of anger,intrigue, passion, humor,love,and friendships. This book is compelling. Dorr is one of America's finest writers of fiction

Lieutenant General Alexander P. Stewart may well be the least known high ranking officer of the Civil War. {? Sam Cooper ?} A native of Tennessee who graduated from West Point, he left the Army to become a college professor in order to provide more income , and stability, for his family. When war came, there was no hesitation; Stewart followed the South, soon earned General's stars, and served with distinction from the early days to Joe Johnston's final surrender in North Carolina.

Sam Elliott has given us a wonderful account of the campaigns of the Army of Tennessee, and General Stewart's part in them. Stewart remains unknown because he was a quiet man who did his job, and left the political infighting to others. During the Bragg debacle, he got along with both sides. Today, the E-Ring at the Pentagon is populated with men like Stewart, equally unknown, but indispensable. The Tennessee Campaign of fall, 1864, gets good coverage, including Stewart's participation at Spring Hill and Franklin.

When the war ended, General Stewart rejoined the Union, and encouraged his men to do the same. Returning to Education, he had a distinguished tenure as Chancellor at Ole Miss. Many today are unaware of the debt we owe to Stewart, and some other leaders from both sides [prominantly General Rosecrans].....the wonderful system of National Battlefield Parks was the result of their hard work. Begining with Chickmauga, the system has spread and become a priceless treasure.

This fine book closes with what is, for me, the most disturbing fate to befall any of the Confederacy's officers. I can not explain how a committed Christian, and a well grounded Calvinist, could do what he did. I have discussed this with the author, and he has no explanation, either. My own theory is that Stewart [a] wasn't really well grounded-I dismiss that, or, [b] became unhinged from his wife's death and/or the effects of old age. In any event, the close marrs an otherwise great book. That, however, is General Stewart's fault, not Sam Elliott's. Great book about a subject who, despite his tragic late life decision, deserves to be much better known.

Confederate General Alexander P. Stewart is revered by today's WATCHTOWER SOCIETY and its JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES members as the only U.S. Civil War General to convert to their belief system. Stewart joins President Dwight Eisenhower and U.S. Army General William P. Hall as the only three West Point educated American Generals who were either reared (Eisenhower) as JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES or converted later in life (Stewart and Hall).As documented in pages 297-9 of this book, the JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES Founder Charles Taze Russell absented himself for two days from the middle of the annual WatchTower Convention in 1908 so he could travel to St. Louis and preside over Stewart's Funeral, which was conducted with full Confederate honors and regalia by the Confederate Veterans. General Alexander P. Stewart's baptism into the JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES religion was reported in the October 1, 1905 issue of the WATCHTOWER magazine: "We had a warm welcome at St. Louis, too, and the attendance was excellent, notwithstanding the fact that we did not get the announcement into the WATCH TOWER, and hence but few came from nearby towns. The morning session was in the "Christian Church" edifice. The topic was "Consecration," and following it nine symbolized full consecration by water baptism. Among the number was Brother Alexander Stewart, well known throughout the South for the active and prominent part he took in the war of the Rebellion, as the leader of "Stewart's Cavalry." General Stewart is of advanced years, but clear of intellect. He has been a "soldier of the Cross" for some time, and deeply interested in "Present Truth" for several years. He expected to be symbolically baptized at the time of the Chattanooga Convention, but was prevented by ill health. After leaving the water Brother Stewart was heard to express great satisfaction at having thus outwardly confessed his blessed Lord and his full devotion to Him and His cause. Brother Stewart already had joined the army of the Lord, but by this act of public confession he, so to speak, donned his regimentals and joined the forces "on the firing line." May he loyal prove and true to the end of the way, and with all the faithful receive the crown of life which fadeth not away. How sectional lines, race and party prejudices and all the distinctions of wealth and fame gradually fade from the minds of those who become by God's grace and truth members prospective of the royal priesthood, the holy nation, the peculiar people, called for a purpose, even to show forth the praises of him who called us out of darkness into his marvellous light! With this erstwhile warrior, but more recently college president and later U.S. Commissioner, none others of the nine were of the same rank or education, yet they all were on the same level of divine mercy through Christ -- justified and sanctified through the grace of our Lord. The assorted company well illustrated the Apostle's words, "Not many great, not many wise, not many learned, hath God chosen." One of these nine was a child of twelve years, a very unusual sight with us. Child though she was she gave good evidence of a clear appreciation of what she did, so that we could not question her acceptability with the Lord. We could not help a mental reflection on how extremes meet in the family of God -- in the body of Christ. The tall man, full of years and ripe in the learning of this world, and the little girl, on the threshold of life every way, had both heard the voice of Jesus say, Come unto me and have your sins forgiven, and find rest for your souls and find eternal life. "All of the Lord's followers meet on this common level. "All ye are brethren," "One is your Master, even Christ." Some may have almost envied the great man, but we doubt not he almost envied the little child, who, starting thus early to follow the footsteps of Jesus, had apparently reached nearly the same point at the same time by the shorter journey. "They that seek me early shall find me" -- the more easily. Nevertheless, the General's learning and influence may be turned to the greater advantage if wisely used in the service of our King. May he, may we all, prove faithful to the cause of him who loved us and bought us with his precious blood."

It IS about time General Stewart gets some press. As stated in this wonderful book there are Colonels in Lee's army that are better known than this man who was one of the ranking generals in the Confederate army. At Franklin Stewart helped lead a far larger and more deadly charge than the famous July 4th, 1863 charge at Gettysburg, yet very few people know of him. As the campaigns of the Army of Tennessee begin to gain further study maybe this will change. This book should help a great deal.

From his birth in Rogersville, Tennessee until his death in St. Louis Stewart always remained at heart a Tennessean and his dedication to his state led him into all of the major battles of the Army of Tennessee. Nobody who studies that army can do so without a study of "Old Straight". This book does a wonderful job of exploring the life, war experences,and post-war work of this deeply religious man.

There are only two small problems with this work. First, Mr. Elliott sometimes goes a little far in defending Stewart. The picture he paints of the political strife in the Army of Tennessee is very clear but on occasion he goes a little out of his way to point out how little Stewart was involved in these political battles. It might be more to Stewart's credit if he had been a little more involved in trying to remove General Bragg before more damage could be done. The other problem is one faced by many writers dealing with war. Most readers get quickly lost as a writer begins to relate how this regiment was placed here and that regiment was placed there. Worse yet is the practice of describing an action in detail with terms like "Jones attacked on Smith's left which was countered by moving Brown......". Soon the reader who often has never heard of these regimental or division commanders becomes confused and is not sure who is fighting who or which side anybody is on. Can it be avoided? I don't know but it does weaken this fine work somewhat.

Still, anyone who hopes to understand the "other" major Confederate army must read this book. Mr. Elliott has made a major contribution to the study of the Army of Tennessee and I thank him.

Sam Elliott has brought to life an overlooked general from the Confederacy. As the highest ranking officer to serve the South from Tennessee, General Alexander P. Stewart was one of the few and lucky individuals to survive the entire western campaign. Soldier of Tennessee gives the reader a wonderful cronological look at the war in Tennessee and intoduces us to one of the most respected men in the Southern army. Not only does Elliott present a thorough description of most of the western campaigns, but he is also able to capture the human struggle of a battered Confederate army. This is a must for any Civil War enthusiast.

This was one of my favorite books growing up. A very entertaining story and exceptional illustrations make this clever book a must for any parent wishing to give their child something different to read. I suppose "different" is a good way to describe it and why it remains near the top of the books I had as a kid.

As a child, I loved all of the Something Queer books. When I found copies at a used book sale, I bought them for my classroom. Several of my students also enjoyed these books. In particular, the students who had difficulty with reading enjoyed these excellent stories which have relatively easy text. They often read them again and again.

I read this book as a child and have never forgotten how much I loved it. I am purchasing a hardcover copy for every little person in my life.

I loved this book when I was a child. The pictures are great, with close-ups, arrows pointing things out and detailed diagrams of various things. It's fun to look at all the details. I also had Something Queer at the Library and thought it was just as good.

Recently, on a trip to my parents house, I found this book and brought it home to read to my almost two-year-old daughter. She loves it! She keeps making me read it over and over again. She likes to imitate Gwen tapping her braces and Jill poking Gwen. (She even says "poke poke poke" to me as she pokes me.) She won't let me read her the Something Queer at the Library book because she is so intrigued by this one.

It's really a timeless book. Though it was published in 1973, it still feels very up-to-date, especially since Jill has a working mother. I love that my daughter loves it as much as me.

This is a great cookbook from the Talk About Good! Series from the Junior League of Lafayette. the Shrimp Grillades and Jalepeno grits are "to die for". This is a great update on the original Cajun Cookbook, Talk about Good! . The menus are great, and the photos are beautiful. Do yourself a favor and buy this book!

I have the set of all 4 Lafayette Junior League cookbooks. This one looks great on the counter or coffee table :) AND has lots of easy and great recipes. The Marinated Shrimp Tortellini and the Oven French Toast are our most favorite and we make them often. Lots of good choices and too many other favorites to mention!

This cookbook is absolutely wonderful! I am from Louisiana, and I truly value this cookbook. I haven't made a dish yet that my fiance' and I haven't said "Wow, this is amazing!" I would recommend it to anyone!

Being from southern Louisiana, I can attest to the authenticity and quality of these recipes. Made the red beans and sausage recipe for my husband. Although he does not care for traditional red beans and rice, this is now one of his favorite meals. Every recipe we have tried has had that special flavoring that makes it a favorite. There are few cookbooks whose recipes I can make for the first time without reservation. This is one of them. Great buy. Great gift.

You can spend your entire life immersed in contemporary poetry and never come close to experiencing the literary genius displayed in Mr. Scafidi's exceptional first book. Put the very best of Russell Edson, Judy Jordan, and a sprinkle of Faulkner in a cuisinart and you'll have a mere taste of Mr. Scafidi's talent. If you buy one book this decade, poetry or not, make it Sparks from a Nine Pound Hammer.

You can spend your entire life immersed in contemporary poetry and never come close to experiencing the literary genius displayed in Mr. Scafidi's exceptional first book. Put the very best of Russell Edson, Judy Jordan, and a sprinkle of Faulkner in a cuisinart and you'll have a mere taste of Mr. Scafidi's talent. If you buy one book this decade, poetry or not, make it Sparks from a Nine Pound Hammer.

"Sparks from a Nine-Pound Hammer," Steve Scafidi's first book of poems, reads almost like a collaboration between William Faulkner and W.H. Auden. Like Faulkner, Scafidi feels the ponderous weight of Southern history pressing on his shoulders; contrasting the 1916 burning of Jesse Washington with the 1998 murder of James Byrd Jr., Scafidi says, "Most white American men are the same color they were then." But, like Auden, he is able to pass from the odium of history to take joy in the physical world. Scafidi's funny and exquisite "Latitudes of Desire" riffs brilliantly on the sight of his wife wearing only her blue panties, taking the reader on a mock-epic journey across oceans and continents in a celebration of romantic and erotic love. Scafidi's language is labyrinthine and sensuous, a lava flow of words engulfing and preserving for all time every sight and thought in its path. Here is a young poet who writes with the delicacy and assurance of a master; I look forward to seeing what he gives us next.

Sparks of a Nine-Pound Hammer marks the arrival of a major American voice of a new generatation. In this stunning first collection, Steve Scafidi confirms that poetry still upholds the power to transform the psyche of our collective past. This daring poet does not hold back from truthfully expressing the unfortunate presence of racism in the South. Yet, Mr. Scafidi maintains the facility to celebrate the shock of dreams with grace. Take a deep breath when reading Sparks of a Nine-Pound Hammer because the poetry will, like the photo of the poet suggests, kick your behind.

This book brought back so many fond memories of when I was growing up in a little town north of New Orleans. My parents were from New Orleans and of Italian descent, and this book is reminiscent of so many things I experienced as a child. My mother made a St. Joseph's Altar for 17 years until she was no longer able to do so, and I was thrilled to find recipes for so many of the dishes she prepared in this book!

i bought two of these; one for our former pastor - priest
and one for our altar society; it is just wonderful

A beautiful book with super pictures. If you cannot come to New Orleans to see the St. Joseph Altars in person, then at least buy the book and enjoy the pictures. The Feast of St. Joseph is on March 19th.

Growing up in a Sicilian family in the 50's, the St Jospeh Altar was a labor of love for my parents. I can recall the women gathered around the kitchen table with their own special paring knives for making cookies and secret recipes for the traditional dishes of their homeland. The photographs are a vivid reminder of those tables laden with so many pastries with the strange sounding names.

Although this book is seen from the celebrations in New Orleans, it still captures the story of the St Joseph Altar with the prayers and rituals of the occassion. I can still hear the beautiful sung Litany of St Joseph translated into English in this book, and taste the crunch of "mudica" (toasted breadcrumbs)on the pasta. This book would be a treasure to hand down to your children as you tell them of their grandparents and great-grandparents or as a gift for anyons who remembers San Guiseppe's feast day. It is a scrapbook of a time past for most Sicilian familes who have blended into the cultural melting pot, and a reminder of a heritage that should be kept alive for future generations.