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A Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

A
Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Published in Paperback by (2004-04-01)
Author: Mayo Clinic
List price: $19.95
New price: $15.18
Used price: $13.92

Average review score:

Glad I Have It
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-17
I am very glad that I purchased this book at the beginning of my pregnancy. I am now 18 weeks and it has been great following along week by week as to the development of the baby! There are also helpful notes and information as to my own changes in health on a week by week basis. Very practical and informative.

A Lifesaver!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-12
The book is a must have for first time mom-to-bes. I carried it with me everywhere, learning all I could about what to expect from my pregnancy & the birth of my son. It is full of wonderful information. I highly recommend it. Who better to learn from than the Mayo Clinic.

proved to be a valuable resource
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-12
This book was the most helpful pregnancy book I found. I have since purchased a copy of it for every friend/relative who is expecting and they have all found it a valuable resource as well. I highly suggest it. The information is laid out in a user-friendly manner and the real-life questions/answers are most helpful. I think that this book is a must-have for every pregnant woman, especially for first-time mothers!

Fabulous and Informative!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-29
I got this book when I was pregnant with my daughter. I also got Your Pregnancy Week By Week. Both were fabulous. I could read about what was going on and understand, with out the fear of What to expect, which I thought was a crappy book. I have talked with many friends and they too were frieghtened by what to expect, so I loaned out this book, and information without the fear. It is easy to understand, easy to find answers, and reassuring. Definitely worth your money! This is one that I want back for my second pregnancy!!

great book; just right
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-01
My wife and I really enjoy this book. It is plainly written in a relaxing and sometimes mildly comical way. The book is basically comprised of two pieces. The part we find most helpful is the survey of what is happening to the mothers body through the duration of the pregnancy. In this regard, the book is a blessing. My wife simply felt weird on many days - and it was great to know that she should be feeling weird, and that there was an explanation for why she felt weird. I suppose one can assume it is because of the pregnancy, but it seems satisfying to know exactly what is going on. Similarly, there is a large glossary that details specific side effects expectant mothers may endure (with explanations as to why) along with many tips for remedying or limiting the effects.

The second (smaller) piece to the book is a detail of the developing fetus/embryo. This could be satisfying to some. Those interested in specifics of prenatal development should look elsewhere. My suggestion would be to watch PBS "Lifes greatest miracle" for an excellent and beautiful account of the developing organism in the womb.

Overall, the Mayo clinic book is a great resource for mothers and fathers who want to know how to prepare and what to expect from a pregnancy.

A
The Blue Day Book
Published in Hardcover by Andrews McMeel Publishing (2000-05-15)
Author: Bradley Trevor Greive
List price: $9.95
New price: $1.43
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $10.00

Average review score:

It really IS a great book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-07
I bought this for someone at a time when they were seriously contemplating suicide. This person had basically shut down. It was like nothing was getting through anymore. The Blue Day Book made him genuinely smile. That meant everything in the world to me. I knew he was still in there somewhere. It is now several years later and he is doing well (in case you're wondering). And maybe the book didn't save his life, I mean I can only attribute that to God. But the book is the first thing that was able to shine a light into his endless darkness. I guess it goes without saying that I HIGHLY recommend this wonderful little book.

The Blue Day Book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-12
The Blue Day Book is the ultimate coffee table book. It always lightens my days when I'm feeling down. The pictures are well matched to the sayings.

NOTE there are two versions of this book out
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-04
One has a picture that is a little racy. And the Hallmark version has that picture substituted. The pictures are funny and worth a laugh, but this is definitely for adults. There is a children's version that is equally funny.The Blue Day Book for Kids: A Lesson in Cheering Yourself Up

All in one
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-23
Bradley captures every emotion and feeling and soothes the reader. The photos help us along as well. After purchasing this book and "A Teaspoon of Courage" I read them and sent copies to my sister.

Fabulous photos
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-05
If you've got photographer friends, this book will be an inspiration for them. But the black and white photos also provide a great pick-me-up for anyone you know who's down in the dumps.

The volume describes myriad ways in which we all may feel under the weather sometimes--all of them illustrated with fetching postures and facial expressions of a large group from the animal kingdom--polar bears, pigs, lambs, monkeys, mice, dogs, kittens, lions, hippos, camels, sea lions, penguins, pelicans, even an anteater--and so on.

But the bottom line is that life goes on--and that people are "only young once...and never old twice." In other words, pick yourself up and enjoy life to its fullest, despite your blues, while you can.

Fabulous.

--Alyssa A. Lappen

A
Coming Home (Heartland #1)
Published in Paperback by Scholastic Paperbacks (2000-06-01)
Author: Lauren Brooke
List price: $4.99
New price: $0.01
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $10.00

Average review score:

Touching
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-01
I really liked this book. Even though I'm an older reader (52) who collects horse fiction, and its out of my age bracket, I found it to be very readable and it held my interest. Its a wonderful book for the young teen. The main character, Amy, learns some significant lessons in life after her mother dies in a tragic accident, and she is left to run the horse rescue by herself. She learns that life does go on, and responsibilites must still be realized, even in the face of tragedy. The characters in this book are likeable, the horses and horse terminology are realistic, and the book is not overly mushy or boring. It moves pretty quickly, and has a taste of suspense at times. All in all, I believe this book would be an excellent gift for a young, horse crazy girl! I would have greatly appreciated having it when I was at that age where horses were just about my whole world, and boys came second!

Beautiful story
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-17
This is a beautiful, touching story of love , strength , hope , and regeneration after an agonizing loss.
Even though it is a young adult novel, I recommend it to anyone of any age.

Heartland Review By Andrea
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-26
Heartland-Coming Home

Heartland is a place of dreams and horses and that's where Amy's heart belongs. Heartland is a place like no other, breaks painful memories and teaches horses to trust again. To what I know Amy's calls Heartland home like no other place in the entire world. Amy loves her family very much and especially her mom. She loves her mom because she has don many things for her. I think Amy likes having her mom's gift, having to be able to understand what they need. And saving the animals by teaching them to stay healthy and stay trusting.

This book is mostly about a girl named Amy. And Amy is trying to help these horses that can't trust anyone anymore. And later in the book something bad happens. Someone get into a terrible accident. But you have to read the book to find out.

Great Series
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-09
Bought this for my 15 year old daughter. She loved it and actually read it. Which is always nice to have a teenager read!

Heartland Coming Home
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-17
This is about a girl who loved horses, and her mother owned a ranch called "Heartland". They take care of and help any type of horse. One day they went to rescue a horse and her mom died from getting hit by a falling tree. Amy is left to save Heartland.
I think this story is really good. It reminds me of my life because I take care of horses. I also think that Amy will safe Heartland and be just like her mother. Also I think Amy and Ty will get together. I would recommend this book to people because this story is sad and truthful about life.

A
The Dog Is Not a Toy: House Rule #4
Published in Paperback by Andrews McMeel Publishing (2001-04-15)
Author: Darby Conley
List price: $10.99
New price: $4.26
Used price: $0.29
Collectible price: $15.95

Average review score:

A Get Fuzzy Reading Guide
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-11
I won't go into how fantastic this comic strip is, but it is easily my favorite comic strip of all time. :)

For the uninitiated, there are eight collections so far and three treasuries. The fourth treasury is not yet released.

Please keep in mind that each treasury is two collections put together, so as far as I know the treasuries are the same as two of the collections, except I believe the treasuries have the Sunday comics in color while the collections have them in black and white.

In chronological order, the collections are:

1. The Dog is Not a Toy: House Rule #4
2. Fuzzy Logic: Get Fuzzy 2
3. The Get Fuzzy Experience
4. Blueprint for Disaster
5. Say Cheesy: A Get Fuzzy Collection 5
6. Scrum Bums
7. I'm Ready for My Movie Contract: A Get Fuzzy Collection
8. Take Our Cat, Please: A Get Fuzzy Collection

The treasuries are:

1. Groovitude (encompassing collections 1 and 2).
2. Bucky Katt's Big Book of Fun (encompassing collections 3 and 4).
3. Loserpalooza (encompassing collections 5 and 6).
4. The Potpourrific Great Big Grab Bag of Get Fuzzy (encompassing collections 7 and 8). (not yet released - release date is currently 9/1/08)

These comics are beyond hilarious, and I would highly recommend them to pet lovers/haters of all ages. :)

Made Me laugh
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-15
I liked reading the early stuff, as well as the new stuff. The book is short (as are all comic collections) and I read it in a day, but I just couldn't put it down. The only complant I have is, they should be numbered so you can get them in order, but you can take the time to figure it out by date, thats no problem!

Played For a Fool
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 23 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-29
Rob Wilco is an unappealing cigarette nosed, cigarette faced idiot who lives with a talking bad cat named Bucky and a sweet, not too sharp Sharpei-Lab mix named Satchel. Rob is always played for a fool by his bad cat.

The guy isn't much, but at least his pets talk to him. Oh, brother!

Pretty funny
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-23
This book was pretty funny. It's obviously an older book as I have read a lot of the comics in 'Get Fuzzy', but it was still pretty damn funny. Bucky's the best

THE TRUTH ABOUT CATS AND DOGS
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-01-25
Recently, I began to slowly return to the barren landscape that is today's newspaper comic section. I soon discovered 2 strips that I actually looked forward to reading every day - The Boondocks and Get Fuzzy. After warming up to The Boondocks, I went out and bought every book to catch up on this unique strip. Needless to say, I also did the same thing for Get Fuzzy. The Dog Is Not A Toy (House Rule #4) is an excellent introduction into the lives of Rob Wilco, Bucky Katt, and Satchel Pooch. Finally, the truth about cats and dogs.

A
Wake Up, I'm Fat
Published in Audio Cassette by Soundelux Audio Publishing (1999-05)
Author: Camryn Manheim
List price: $17.95
New price: $1.94
Used price: $0.08

Average review score:

Great book, but she seems to have altered her opinion about fat and health
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-26
I love Camryn Mannheim and her book. I'd give this a 4.5 if I could, because since she wrote the book, she's lost quite a bit of weight and puts the reasoning for it on being a mother.

I hated it when Carnie Wilson went from being a NAAFA member and spokesperson for loving yourself at any size to being obsessed with being thin. She's admitted to lying about why she had WLS and has made a snootful of money pimping it to others. She has been a major factor in the deaths of hundreds of (mostly) women who didn't make it after the surgery and her recommendation of it.

And I am very saddened by Mannheim's abandonment of her principals of fat-acceptance and the people who have supported her and her book.

Isn't there anyone out there who will stay committed to the cause and not cave in when someone runs some cash under their noses or threatens their career if they don't lose weight?

Ack. Love the book. Disappointed in Mannheim today.

great on many levels, thanks, Camryn
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-08
I just happened into a copy of the book when I had a little time to kill, then I could hardly put it down. I enjoyed the book and the many reviews that have been written here. I normally write reviews on obscure books where there are only a few, if any, reviews so this is different for me and I doubt if i have too much to add. Beyond the self acceptance theme that has been much reviewed (I have fat issues and support Camryn's views (mostly)), I liked the book on many other levels. Of course I liked the humor and human interest of growing up in America. The struggle for success story is good too. I especially liked the unconventional approach to the book itself. Frnakly, I did not much the Cammy--fat dialogs, but I liked many of the other, unusual things like asides and notes to herself and others throughout. There were other quirky approaches that I really liked too. I really like the book and recommend it highly.

Wonderful book by a strong, intelligent, beautiful woman
Helpful Votes: 13 out of 13 total.
Review Date: 2004-02-26
After reading the past reviews, I wonder if I'm the only man who read this book. The first thing that caught my eyes, I'll be honest, was the cover picture. Camryn is a gorgeous woman with very nice legs. She is also a person of deep character, who has persevered and triumphed despite the prejudices of our shallow society. She relates her struggles in a moving way, but avoids the whining, "why is the world so unfair?" tone that unfortunately characterizes some similiar works. If you want a glimpse into the mind of a powerful, beautiful and intoxicatingly magnificent woman, then you will enjoy this book.

Funny, but it didn't make me feel any better about my weight!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-07-20
Camryn Manheim is an sassy, award-winning actress and laugh-out-loud funny. This book is a personal account of her experiences of fat-ism and her journey to self-acceptance.

Manheim is a natural storyteller and, being overweight myself, there was a lot here to relate to, but although I enjoyed the book, there were no groundbreaking revelations for me here ... though it does make a pretty strong case against society's obsession with being thin, this book is in no way a "self-help" book (to be fair, it doesn't claim to be) and it didn't help me to "make peace" with my fat. It did however make me laugh a lot and that's reason enough to encourage others to read it!

Thank you Camryn, for speaking out for big women everywhere.

Probably Calista Flockheart's archenemy
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2005-07-09
Camryn Manheim is a fat activist. Her experiences in a world where people are literally dying to be thin include getting in to the NYU Masters of Fine Arts program, gracing the cover of "fat" magazines such as Radiance and winning an Emmy for her performance on The Practice. She is a likeable, mature and attractive woman who has fought passionately for what she believes in. But does that make one a good author? In Manheim's case, it damn well does.

"Wake up, I'm fat," is a hilarious, bittersweet page-turner. This socially critical memoir mainly deals with one individual's struggles on growing up in our superficial world. Anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, be it because of their race, religion or looks, will immediately be able to relate to the amiable narrator.

Manheim manages to be honest about the ugly underbelly of today's beauty image and her struggles without sounding whiny. She uses dark humor and clever prose to describe how she got to where she is today.

Subjects such as erotic weight gain or personal ads are also dealt with in this book. They may make the reader feel slightly squeamish at first, but ultimately they just make this book a more interesting read. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about "the underdog being on top" or who simply likes a good story told well.

A
101 Inspirational Stories of the Rosary
Published in Paperback by Poor Clare Sisters (2003-04-01)
Author: Sister Patricia Proctor
List price: $12.95
New price: $7.92
Used price: $5.67
Collectible price: $12.95

Average review score:

It works
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-30
Four months pregnant and single in L.A., an old boyfriend pleaded with me to come back me and live with him in New Jersey. He even offered to marry me. I gave two weeks notice, bought a ticket for the three thousand miles home and started in to work to collect my last check, finish the work day and to leave the next am at seven. I had going away parties thrown for me in the office and my room was already rented to someone else. On the bus on my way to work, I said to Mary, "This is an answer and if you want me to accept it, I will, even though it doesn't feel exactly right." I phoned the boyfriend at noon - four hours after praying - and he had changed his mind. He said he wouldn't pick me up at the airport and that couldn't live with him. The whole story is enough for a book that is coming out called Defiant Hope but the 'baby' is now 17 and Mary worked everything out perfectly, all because I prayed the rosary. The way I pray is as if I'm on the phone with her. She must like that!

Totally Awesome!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-09
This was a WONDERFUL inspirational book! The best I have read in a long time. The stories range from a person's memory surrounding the rosary, to a personal miracle, to a family miracle. Some of the stories made my hair stand up on end, so many goose bumps! Some of the stories I shared with my protestant friend, who by the end of the book, began to ask me more about the Rosary and Mary. Even though she has no desire to become Catholic, she has totally embraced the Rosary and her new understanding of Mary... continuing to show that the Rosary, when understood, can bring all faiths together. Praise be God! I plan to buy this book (and a few Rosaries) to pass around as gifts! Wonderful for all peoples of faith, a definite must for any Catholic!!

Spiritual Aid and inspiration!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-10-20
This book was most inspiring in my prayer life. I look forward to another of the same with more input from men.

blessed
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-28
i loved reading the inspiring stories of help from Our Lady by praying the rosary, which i also pray and believe in. if you want to be really "touched" by some wonderful accounts of miracles, then buy this book. i am sure you won't be able to put it down. i marked several pages so i can find them and read them whenever i get a little blue. this book will pick you up!!

barbara

Wonderful tool for energizing faith in prayer
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2005-05-21
The rosary is a prayerful devotion that is more than a millennium old. It comprises praying specific prayers while meditating on events from the New Testament.

"101 Inspirational Stories of the Rosary" was written for "the year of the rosary," 2003. The book comprises a collection of short personal tales from average people all over the world, who believe that they have received help from God from challenges in their life or assistance for those they love, through praying the rosary. Many of the stories are remarkable miracles of healings from mortal illnesses and saving during accidents or on the battlefield. Others are testimonies of incidences of personal inner healing experienced or witnessed. The stories are short and can easily be read as uplifting food for meditation and encouragement before going to bed, or for when the reader wants a quit does of faith and hope during a hectic day. The chapters of the book are peppered with biblical quotes and quotes from the ages expressing people's belief in the power of the rosary, such as Mother Theresa, Patrick Peyton, and Lucia, of the children who allegedly received messages about the rosary at Fatima, and many others who have been recognized as saints. The writing is easily accessible to people of all ages.

The book also includes an extensive appendix to answer any questions the reader might have about the rosary; its history and promises associated with recourse of the rosary; directions on how to pray with one; a list of web site that provide additional information, including one operated by the author (www.rosary101.com , which has more chapters from the book available for viewing); instructions for making your own rosary; and encyclical published during the year of the rosary (one of the last documents drafted by Pope John Paul II). The is a great gift to people who are struggling with spiritual dryness, spiritual seekers looking for new ways to pray, or people who recently return to or enter a church. I have found it to be an immeasurable source of encouragement during difficult times, for helping me retain my faith and strongly recommend it to any one open to learning about powerful Christian prayer.

A
Dancing Barefoot
Published in Paperback by O'Reilly Media, Inc. (2004-01-01)
Author: Wil Wheaton
List price: $14.95
New price: $5.95
Used price: $4.03

Average review score:

I laughed, I gushed...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-08
...I got a little teary-eyed. This is an excellent book. It's funny and compelling and Wil shows what a great writer he is. I wanted more and I'm upset that I didn't buy "Just A Geek" first. I'll be remedying that as soon as I'm finished writing this review. If you just like a good story whether it be about Star Trek or just being a regualar everyday person, or if you want a good laugh, I recommed this book.

geeks rule
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-20
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Wheaton at a sci-fi convention in 2006. He was really nice and easy going. I picked up a smaller book that he had printed in limited numbers. I love how he spins his tales. It took me a while but I finally grabbed his book Dancing barefoot. His childhood storys and those of his current family are heartfelt and warm. His dealing with the memories of his Trek experience and coming to grips with his "Child Actor" status. If you are a trek fan or not doesn't matter the guy is a great writer and I can't wait for the next book.

Wil Wheaton: Author!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-29
I was very pleased with this book. Excellent writing, but it leaves me wanting more.

MUST READ
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-13
Whether you are a Star Trek Fan or not, this book is worth reading. As Wil tells his stories, you feel each and every emotion. After you finish the book, you a yearning for more, so go and pick up "Just a Geek". Enjoy it- I sure did!

entertaining, thoughtful, and quite inspiring
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-17
Dancing Barefoot is one of those books that as your reading, you take a step back and say, "oh my god I totally understand this! This was me."

The book is a collection of stories that Wil had posted on his blog and compiled together. The stories are very inspiring and Wil shows his emotions in one of the most effective ways that humans do: through his writing. I was very touched after having read Dancing Barefoot and even inspirted enough to do some writing of my own.

If you're considering whether or not you want to purchase Wheaton's book, just read his blog and within 10 minutes of reading some of his entries your mind will have been set yourself.

I loved it, and look forward to Wil's next novel.

A
FINE DINING MADNESS : The rules & realities of fine dining
Published in Paperback by iUniverse, Inc. (2005-04-05)
Author: John Galloway
List price: $18.95
New price: $11.84
Used price: $6.37

Average review score:

Should be required reading for everyone who dines out
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-13
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (8/06)

"Fine Dining Madness: The rules & realities of fine dining," should be required reading for everyone that dines out. John Galloway writes about his personal experiences in the restaurant business from the restaurant employee angle. From his experiences, I learned a lot about what not to do if I don't want bad things happening to my food. Since I am a pretty considerate diner, I always felt that I was relatively safe from waiter or chef retributions; however, I learned that dining with rude guests can result in both of us getting food that has been tampered with. There are acquaintances that I will never dine out with again. As a matter of fact, after reading this book, I would like to invite some of them over to dinner and do what some of the waiters have probably done to my food just because I was with them.

While the stories are entertaining, I also learned a great deal about dining etiquette, not just how to treat restaurant employees, but also useful information about subjects such as ordering wine. Galloway does the reader a huge favor by providing a lot of useful information in a format that is totally enjoyable to read. Galloway also talks about diners
who earned top respect and treatment from the staff, a lot of it is based on their behavior and not all of it involves how much they tip. There are some heartwarming stories about dining guests who earned a great deal of respect from the staff. To Galloway, decorated war heroes ranked highly, and this was justifiably so. He includes some historical facts that help highlight the importance of what these people were involved with.

Galloway also talks about the colorful personalities that he dealt with on a daily basis, either being his co-workers or being the guests, several of which were celebrities, including President Bush. Galloway's recollections tend to be hilarious. He uses his dry wit to make comments that instantly will make you laugh out loud.

I highly recommend this book as a gift to people who are rude restaurant diners. Hopefully, they will recognize themselves and make some needed changes. I also recommend it to people who enjoy a good, humorous, non-fiction book. The subject matter is not typical, so it will be a fun change for them. You will just have to read it for yourself to see what I am talking about. Enjoy!

Rockin'!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-30
Good gravy I loved this book! I was sad when it ended, and will hunt the stores for Mr. Galloways's next write.

As the other reviews suggest, this book is about everyone. You and me. Oh sure, there are different names and faces, but they're just like you and me. John is meant for higher ground, but he's stuck in the restaurant world of fine dining. He's restless, and feels dishonored in the world of fine dining, but has the spine to take the road less traveled.

If Galloway fails in anything else he tries, at least he tries, and that's a lesson for all. And if he writes another book, everyone is a winner. But the most important lesson in Madness is to live with a kind heart, as he does.

Read this book and You'll learn much about fine dining, even more about life.



Enlightening but not as entertaining as I had hoped...
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-31
I purchased this book based on the recommendations I read here. I have to say I was disappointed with this book. Considering how everyone here raved about it, I thought it was going to be this fantastic book. It just did not live up to the reviews. There were some funny parts and the first couple of chapters with the "rules" were enlightening, but it wasn't worthy of 5 or even 4 stars, in my opinion.

Actually 4.9 Stars
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-29
This book is special. It is the insider's view on the range of characters found in restaurants... from both sides of the kitchen doors. It is very funny in most spots: while reading it on a plane, my eyes watered from the urge to laugh, other times from the urge to cry. It is intended to be biographical, humorous, tender, tragic, respectful, irreverent and witty. It is all of the above in different places. It is NOT a boring work.

If English is not your native language, you are apt to miss most of the humor. Unless you spend a lot of time out of the house, it can require thought to decipher the meaning. If you're street-smart, it is comical language.

Only the naive might think this work is not PC, this author repects those who've earned repsect and definitely disrespects those who've earned disrespect.

To read the book will make you a more savvy diner, a better customer, a more realistic restarant patron and a decent tipper.

If you eat at restarants, infrequently or otherwise, consider yourself uneducated until you read this book.

Eat, Drink and Be Wary
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-01
Loved this book!

It's a hilarious look at the restaurant business from a waiter's perspective. The author recounts his restaurant war stories with anecdotes about patrons and waitstaff alike. From celebrities, call girls, mob bosses and crazed chefs, to all forms of addiction, wine insights, imperative tipping protocol and other useful information, Galloway shows readers how to get the maximum value from their restaurant dollar. This book is a must read for anyone who dines out, aspires to a better life, or ever wanted to know what was happening behind those swinging doors (hint: three-second floorsteak).

A
Good Night, Mr Tom
Published in School & Library Binding by Topeka Bindery (1999-10)
Author: Michelle Magorian
List price: $16.95
New price: $13.22

Average review score:

powerful story about family
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-11
Timid, scrawny, Willie Beech is the abused child of a single mother. She sends him to Mr. Tom, who lives in the English countryside, because London is being bombed by the Nazis.

The two main adults in this story, the mother and Mr. Tom, seem very similar in the beginning. Yet, by the end, we see that they are completely different. What really hit home was this: hard times can make hard people, but one's true colors shine through when faced with others in need.

Mr. Tom's gruff exterior is only his exterior. He's really got a warm heart, which he opens up to Willie and shows him the love that's supposed to be in a family.

The mother's quiet, strict exterior masks her bitter, mean nature. She has no love for her children, and abuses them in subtle, neglectful ways.

We don't actually see the abuse, we see the end result...which, in my opinion, is far more powerful. I cried for Willie at the end of this book, and cheered Mr. Tom for doing everything he could to save this poor boy. When children are old enough to understand the results of abuse, every family should read this book.

Excellent book....
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-28
This book is very intense but a good read. It is about evacuees from the London area because WWII was beginning. This particular town is painted different than most during this era. The people are nice and giving. If anyone does misuse the children they are put out for it! The major characters meet each other and both are not too sure of the other. It tells the story of a lost soul bringing healing to another lost soul. There are some intense and disgusting scenes but when you come out on the other side it is worth it! I don't recommend this book for anyone under the age of 12 or 13.

Amazing Stuff
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-18
I decided to read this book for seventh grade accellerated reader. This great piece of literature has quickly become one of my all time favorite books. I'm very hard to please when it comes to books. When you read this, you become so attached to every last character. It is truly amazing.

Good Night Mr. Tom
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-07
I thought that this book was a very good book to read. I thought that it gave a lot of details and it was very interesting and exciting. This book was sort of hard to understand because Mr. Tom said different words funny. I really liked the part where Mr. Tom went over to London to try to find Will at his house. I also liked the part where Will was taken from his hospital bed and brought back to Mr. Tom's home. The ending left me hanging because at the end he said Dad I'm growing. I would give this book about five stars.

Good Night, Mr. Tom
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-16
"Good Night, Mr. Tom" puzzles me. When I read it objectively, looking only at the writing, it's not so impressive. The flow isn't particularly good and at times the book clunks along. The dialogue is engaging, though, and thoroughly real.

And the story itself is incredible. "Good Night, Mr. Tom" tells of a young London boy who is sent out to live in the country during World War II for his safety. There, away from an abusive home, Willie is able to grow and learn what it means to be loved.

With a series of remarkably realistic and fun characters, Willie (renamed Will in his new home with "Mr. Tom") moves and grows. Aspects of the book will make the reader cry (quite a few), aspects will chill you, but on the whole you will smile through your tears, because this book is just... special. It's got a very special feel to it, through tears and sad moments.

So while at times the story gets dull, it's an excellent book. I would recommend this to young teens, mostly because it deals with serious issues and might be a bit much for younger kids.

Definitely recommended.

A
The Last Vampire
Published in Paperback by Hodder Children's Books (2003-10-16)
Author: Christopher Pike
List price: $12.40
Used price: $14.95
Collectible price: $14.95

Average review score:

Pike's vampire is the ONLY vampire.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-10
Best vampire story ever. Sure, some might argue that some of our blood-sucking heroine's feats are ridiculously far-fetched, but c'mon, it's fiction. I just like that the plot is really fast-paced, engaging, and has a solid foundation. Pike's interpretation of the vampire makes more sense than some other vampire characters. Plus, she could probably kick their butts. The Last Vampire rules!

The start of a great series...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-24
Sita, the main character of the book is a 5,000-year-old vampire, who looks 20, and believes she is the last vampire. Sita goes by many names but chooses the name of Alisa Perne as she walks among the humans on Earth. She soon realizes that she is being hunted by someone who knows what she is. She thinks it might be the client of a detective she killed in self-defense. The detective had found out her secret and was a threat.

To figure out who is hunting her, she goes to high school and makes friends with the detective's shy son Ray and then falls in love with him.

She begins to think Ray is actually her old love Rama reincarnated.

Another person from her past, her old enemy Yaksha, is actually following her, trying to kill her to atone for his sins. Yaksha is her creator and the most powerful Vampire ever. Sita was led to believe that she had killed him long ago.

Then there's Seymore. Seymore is a student who wants to become a vampire, after he figures out Sita's secret.

Can Sita and Ray be together and be happy? What will happen when Sita meets up with Yaksha after all these years? Will Seymore become a vampire? Can Sita ever be free of her past? Read The Last Vampire to find out!




I especially liked...

The way Sita was made to be just a regular person with hopes and dreams and feelings just like us. Not All moody and dark like other vamp novels.

I didn't like...

There was nothing that I did not like about this book.

When I finished reading this Book I wanted to...

To write the author and tell him to make some more about this wonderful character

This Book made me feel...

Very upbeat and pumped up with adrenaline.

The author of this Book...

Christopher Pike: is one of my favorites even thought he writes books for teens I have tried to keep up with his books as an adult.

I recommend this Book because...

It is a good read with all the makings of a movie. The romance did not outwiegh the suspense and the action.

Further Comments...

I was so glad to find out that he made 5 more books in this series and the 2nd was just as good if not better than the 1st.

Timeless
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-27
I read The Last Vampire series when i was 13, which i am now 22, and the story still affects me today. I have to say that this series is still a favorite of mine, and I remember that when i finished the last book I felt an emptyness for it being over, so I read it again. Sita goes through things that no vampire in any other story has gone through (I dont want to ruin it), and it is an emotional ride. Read this series and you will never forget it!

The last vampire #1
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-11-06
This book was really good i could hardly put it down. Sita or Alisa Perne is telling the story of her life. She also explaines her fears. When she falls in love with a boy named, Ray Riley, she finds out that he is in danger.Pat, Ray's girlfriend, is suspicious of Alisa. I could tell that Pat was very upset. I like this book because I love to read about vampires. I think others should read it. It's a good book! So drop what your doing and read it or Sita will get you! Beware of vampires.........

Interesting Vampire Story
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-28
The Last Vampire is a good horror novel, but fails to draw you in completely. The main character, Alisa Perne, or Sita, is a stunning, petite blonde who has lived as a wandering vampire for five thousand years. It gets tiring hearing her talk about how beautiful she is, and how she knows men love to look at her body. It is also tiring as she lists endless super-human traits she owns that make her invincible. Pike seems like he just couldn't stop listing abilities. His writing is flawed in places.

What makes this story interesting is that Pike has removed the setting from Transylvania to a place no one associates with vampires - India. And he works in Krishna as a character. You know - the blue dude with the flute whom Hare Krishas worship.

I will read the rest of the series, but Pike has failed in creating a heroine that readers can relate to and root for. I get tired of all the men eating out of her hand.


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