Anderson Books

This much-needed book fills a gap in intelligent Christian thinking about being male and being Christian. Herbert Anderson is a highly regarded pastoral theologian who was invited to write a book about men. He accepted, as an opportunity to reflect on being a man in the midst of a gender revolution. Then two significant things happened which deeply influenced his thinking without distorting the book from its original focus: he became a grandfather, and was diagnosed (and successfully treated) for prostate cancer. The book is readable and practical, drawing on many men's experiences. The title refers to Jacob's wrestling with God and subsequent lifelong wounding. Anderson draws on events in Jacob's life and relates them to themes common in men's lives (such as disappointment, vulnerability, and aggression), and develops perspectives on themes underplayed in most men's lives (such as nurturing, grieving, and sharing power). Although published four years ago, it is strikingly relevant to the lives of Christian men and women, and a mighty contribution in the true Herbert Anderson style. Fr James McPherson, Anglican priest in Australia

I met Herbert Anderson at a men's retreat sponsored by my church and he spoke on just one chapter of this book. I purchased a copy that weekend and read it cover to cover in a day. I found myself moved by his story and the connections his words, and the story of Jacob, made in my life. I heartily recommend this book to every man who is a father, grandfather, husband, friend, colleague. It is an insightful and compassionate book that will help you along your spiritual journey. Well done Herb!

There is no other book like Jacob's Shadow which addresses the unique issues of a masculine practice of faith. Among so much "trendy" books on the subject of spirituality, Anderson shares himself as man, son, husband, father, and pastor in a way that is disarming, authentic and penetrating. Built around the Biblical narrative of Jacob, son of Isaac and brother of Esau, the book sensitively help us all lower our defenses and enter more fully what it means to be a male created in the image of God. This book is without peer!

I read Jacob's Shadow on the recommendation of a friend and came to it with the scepticism that a man who in fact needs a book like this might be expected to bring to it. I found myself seduced by its clarity and was grateful for its lessons. In ten chapters the book covers ten areas of living in which men might well encounter challenges and benefit from wise advice gently offered. The need for men to acknowlege vulnerability and then confront that vulnerability with courage is both a chapter and an overall theme. In fact, in writing Jacob's Shadow Herbert Anderson made himself vulnerable and in doing so has given the reader a gift which is more than mere words.

Anderson does an incredible job of reflecting on the many facets of being a man and a man who loves and serves Christ. He challenges men to delve deeper into their lives exploring relationships,emotions, loves and friendships and their impact on self and others. He challenges common notions of "Christian Man" and their behaviors, feelings and reactions. He examines everyday events that happen to men and opens up a new dimension on how men can learn and interpret from those experiences. It has truly challenged me to examine myself, my relationships and the fullness of being a man, and a man who serves Christ.

No exaggeration, this is some holy stuff! Like the two prior reviewers indicated that Anderson does mainly zoom in on romantic relationships however it makes sense in a way since non romantic abandonment issues do seep into romantic relationships. I hope that made sense. At any rate, she takes note of many little things that people may feel during the break up process that we take for granted and she guides us through the motions. I think she shouldve focused more on self esteem issues though and immediate gratification as being a cornerstone for this dilemma. Other than that, this book is timeless...I hope Im not exaggerating.

I just wanted to comment on another reviewer's words before I give my review. The book does zero in on getting past abandonment to establish a healthy romantic relationship, but the things that made you an abandoment victim may or may NOT have had anything to do with with prior romantic situations. See more in my review that follows:

I got involved with a woman who has abandonment issues that stretch back to her disapproving/abusive father, all the way up through two abusive ex-husbands. All she's ever known was abandoment (at least from an emotional perspective). Abandonment, according to this book, can cause a person create all sorts of obstacles to true emotional intimacy because they're afraid of being hurt again. Thanks, in part, to this book, we're getting past many of our respective issues (I was dumped by an ex-wife) and learning how to love each other without reservation. If you've been emotionally OR physically abandoned in your life (even if it was just an alcoholic or "absent" parent), you could be what the book calls an "abandonholic." Get this book... it's full of good stuff to help get you out of a truly destuctive mindset.

This book has had a profound positive effect on my life. I went through a painful breakup just a couple of months before I happened to come upon this book in the bookstore. I was so upset about my breakup, I lost over 30 lbs, (and I was thin to begin with), was put on an anti-depression by my doctor and started seeing a Therapist 3 days a week because I was suicidal. This book truely helped me to let go and to realize that loving yourself is the path to healing. It also taught me how to take my ex off the pedestal and see my relationship for what it really was and to move on with my life. This book helped me to gain a feeling of self-worth and to truely realize that I will love again and someone will love me again, but the most important thing is to love yourself.

I read the author's other abandonment book first. This one is so much better. The publisher needs to start printing it again.

As I read this book, I felt like she was reading my mind. How I long for my ex, even though they treated me badly. How I yearn for them. How I criticize myself. One of her principal arguments in this book is that your amygdlada, your emotional brain, is responsible for these feelings. You have to take it from the amygdala and put it into your cognitive brain. She has numerous exercises to do this.

What spoke to me most about this book was the information about abandoholics. People who are addicted to the unavailable, and when someone actually likes then, the fear engulfement and push the person away. She explains the cause of this and has exercises to open yourself up to more mutual love.

An excellent, excellent book. I'm not done yet, but I'm what the author says, that these experiences will take us to a richer life, are true for me.

THe clarity and empathy in this work saved my life.

I happened to be up early this morning and turned on C-Span's "booknotes" to hear David Anderson. When he was finished speaking, I knew I had to buy this book. Even though I have not yet read it, the message that Mr. Anderson shared about commitment, respect, sincerity and acceptance and his evident faith and alignment with his Christian beliefs were so incredibly powerful, that I knew I needed to place an order immediately.
I can't honestly offer a "star" rating as yet, but since I had to make a choice, I feel my rating is justified based on what I've seen so far.

I attend Bridgeway Community Church on a regular basis. I have attended this church for about 5 years now. I know David Anderson personally, and I am very proud of him and his many achievements since I have known him.

Anderson and Zuercher should be applauded for their courage to tackle the ongoing subject of Racism in America. I found the book very informative and encouraging, especially when Mr. Zuercher admitted to thoughts he did not realized he harbored against Blacks. I found the book informative as Mr. Anderson set an example for all us, on how to deal with persons who hate just because of something they see on the outside (skin color, religion style, etc.) This book is for anyone wanting to grow in their relationships with others.

Pastor David Anderson and author Brent Zuercher have penned a groundbreaking and unique book. What happens when two friends of different races explore racism and faith? "Letters across the Divide" happens. For a firsthand account of what multicultural relationships could look like, read this book.

Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction , Spiritual Friends: A Methodology of Soul Care And Spiritual Direction, and Soul Physicians: A Theology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction.

Let me say upfront that I'm a white conservative male. In & of itself, there's nothing wrong there. However, most white conservative males don't think racism is a problem in America anymore. To anyone out there-white conservative or otherwise-if you share that believe, then this bookmis a must read for you.

This book covers reoccuring things like why most whites don't think that racism is a problem anymore & why African Americans answer it so differently. All too often, most white conservatives 0never ask their minoritiy friends & associates if they think racism is still a problem. If they did, they'd get an earfull, just like what is presented in this book.

In addition to being an ordained minister, the Lord has also called me to the ministry of Racial Reconcilliation. It's been a tough challenge but by his grace, I've stayed with it. This book has already been a valuable asset to my work. It's helped me to see things through the eyes of an African American (David)& through the eyes of a white guy, too (Brent). In listening to their correspondence back & forth, it's helped me look at several key issues connected with racism that never came to my mind at all. This book also helps to explain why America hasn't moved forward inb the area of Racial Reconcilliation. Sure, we've passed many anti-racism laws. But laws don't change the minds & hearts of people. And laws don't prevent individual racism 1-on-1.

This book should be a must read for all Christians out there. If you think you've heard everything there is to know about racism, think again. This book will challenge what you believe on the issue.

As I stated above, I work in the field of Racial reconcilliation. If any of you out there have any thoughts, feelings, opinions, suggestions, etc. on this issue, by all means get in touch with me.

After returning from a tour of India, I decided I needed to learn more about this country. Mr. Anderson's book is a true look into this country. This book digs deep into the sights, smells, sounds and feel of India. A very easy read and a great travel log. I hope Mr Anderson continues to write.

In December 2004, the author left his home in North Carolina to study
yoga in India. Anderson found enlightenment in the land of Gandhi and
Mother Teresa, but not in the way he expected. The moment he stepped
foot in India, his lessons began. To quote the author directly:

"India asks existential questions, and demands immediate
reply. How can you square what you see here with your omnipotent,
benevolent God? You can't. What will you make of your life? What
purpose do your many pleasures serve when millions suffer unrelenting
pain?"

Anderson's odyssey begins in Delhi and proceeds through several
cities, including Calcutta. Calcutta, especially, left an impression
on his body, mind, and spirit. Five-star hotels co-exist there with
squalor beyond American comprehension. Caustic pollution burned his
eyes and seared his lungs as he walked the streets of Calcutta.
Emaciated street children fought with feral dogs over scraps of
rotting food on mountains of trash. People with leprosy, birth
defects, and infections begged from every street and gutter. And yet,
despite living in such unspeakable conditions, the sweet spirit and
inner light of the people shone clearly through their eyes and smiles.

Yes, walking the slums of Calcutta enlightened the healthy, successful
American lawyer and writer. After days of experiencing the sounds,
scents, sights of horrible human suffering, and toxic air, Anderson
was too sick to stand, too emotionally drained to weep. He returned
home determined to do all one man could to offset the suffering he saw
in Calcutta.

The Light Within is beautifully written; Anderson shares his
experiences powerfully with readers. He speaks not only for himself
but all humanity - the armless and legless, the perfect and healthy.
Along with writing this book, Anderson established the Calcutta
Children's Permanent Fund, an endowment providing medical and
nutritional support to the street children of Calcutta.

Joseph Anderson has the unique ability to bring the reader through a vivid and heart-wrenching experience of life in India. He takes the reader to places few tourists would venture, and he describes the challenges he encounters --from extreme poverty to personal discovery -- with a deep understanding of human emotion and a personal connection to our sense of sight, sound and smell. If you want to experience what life is truly like in India, through the eyes of someone who connects deeply with humanity, read this book!

Joseph Anderson's "The Light Within" may be the first book written as
a blog. Undertaking a pilgrimage to India (to study with yoga
masters) after his father's death, Anderson promised his mother to
keep in touch with daily blogs. It's evident that the blog was
written not only to his recently widowed mother, but to himself as he
recites his daily activities in England, Paris, and, most
importantly, India. The account goes far beyond a travelogue: it is
part diary, part meditation, part exultation, moves from description
to interpretation to philosophy, even to poetry! Anderson's language
is fluid and often lyrical, even at its most spontaeous. The
narrative is most alive when he gets beyond the touristy days in
England and France and arrives in India; he spares nothing in his
deeply sensory-and deeply moral-account of this land which offers
both splendid beauty and utter degradation. The fact that he has now
begun a foundation to rescue children of Calcutta from poverty,
ignorance, filth, and disease demonstrates the powerful impact this
experience had on him, one that will be shared by sensitive readers.

Pick up Mr. Anderson's book and find a compelling travelogue through India and all-too-human emotional terrain. The writing is fluid and graceful and you will find yourself immersed in the journey of this soul. You will find a wide variety of experience on display, from the haunts of modern London to the very heart of Calcutta and beyond.

Well worth a read!

My son is getting married in August. We plan to use this book as their registry. Guests can sign inside the front and back cover with a short note to the couple. Can we get some insight into the crumbling house in the lower left corner? Thanks.

This picture book illustrates the apostle Paul's words from I Corinthians, chapter 13. For parents who want their children to be biblically literate, this is an excellent choice. The illustrations are detailed and thought provoking.

I was disappointed to find that the "Love Is" was not the same as those published in the newspapers quite a few years ago. The couples were different but cute. I had clipped all the Love Is items from the news but in moving to another state they were lost and I was hoping the ones in the book would be the same as those. There were so many new ones I had never heard before. Especially in the original there were none about children or couples after marriage. Those were new. I am happy with the book but still disappointed.

The book "Love is ..." was literally a thoughtful gift from someone who treasures these words from the New Testament, and lives by them. Wendy Anderson Halperin's illustrations are a gift to all readers.

The tiny sketches & watercolor decorations are delightfully reminiscent of the art of Erik Blegvad who illustrated "The Borrowers" and many other children's favorites, and also an annual calendar for Women's Day magazine. Halperin was chosen as illustrator for many lucky writers, including Cynthia Rylant, Pete Seeger, Jane Yolen, Kathryn Lasky, Sarah Orne Jewett and also the 100th Anniversary reissue of Frances Hodgson Burnett's "The Racketty Packetty House."

Wendy Halperin as 'adapter' and illustrator says that "how we respond to any person ... object ... situation ... is our choice ... and we can choose to ACT WITH LOVE." Saint Paul's familiar words from his first Letter to the Corinthians date back to 56 A.D. yet never 'grow old'. Reviewer mcHaiku hopes that those who enjoy these interpretations will write some of their own and even share in "Comments." This book will bring much pleasure, especially for the oldest to share with the youngest. Discuss your own definitions of LOVE. Find your favorite of the miniature drawings and talk, for example, about the visionary & muscular work of sculptors, and also the way Love breathes Life into a house. Talk with children about change, and how each of us needs others to comfort and sustain us when change makes the going tough.

This is a beautifully encouraging book brimming with LOVE to share.

My two year old and I pour over this book every night noticing different things in the collage-like pages and having discussions about things like kindness and patience. It's a great springboard for introducing these ideas and inspiring to me to be more loving as I teach my daughter about love. I also appreciate that Halperin includes all kinds of people in her illustrations -- all different races, different cultures, people with disabilities, etc... Our life is a little richer thanks to this book.

As a 21 year old gay man, it is heartwarming and touching to see a such a beautiful coffee table book dedicated to portraying gay men positively and humanely, in addition to giving me hope that a long-term relationship can exist in a circuit/club/Abercrombie gay world. The stories of men who have been together for 10, 20, 30 + years are not only inspiring, but well written and accompanied with stunning black and white photos. However, while there was a considerable effort (and a good one at that!) to include a range of HIV positive and negative couples and while there were are three black men and possibly one Latino, I would have liked to have seen more gay men of color. I know there are Asian, Native American, and more Latino gay men in committed relationships, so it would have been nice to have them represented. Overall, it's a wonderful book and contribution to the GLBT community and worth buying--if anything, I just wish it were longer, so that it could include more diversity.

My partner and I are two of the subjects (or is it ONE of the subjects?) of this book. Andy Jones has shown great perception in his interpretation of the interview that we gave and his pen has told 29 very different stories with charm and wit. David Fields black & white photography is stunning and dramatic.

Althouh I'm gay, I still believe in love, married and family. This book show that these things are possible for gay couples. Some people always think of gay men as feminine-type of guy who like to act as women and running for every good-lookig guy on a street. This book will give readers more understanding in gay people.

Like one of the other reviewers on this page, I grew up without positive Gay role models, and it took decades for me to learn self-respect. This book reminds us that well-adjusted Gay couples can be found throughout our culture, something that's important for young Gay people to learn and for older Gay people to remain aware of.

I'm lucky enough to be acquainted with one of this book's subjects, Steve Langley of Washington, and I have a lot of respect for the choice he and his partner have made to be included. It's a beautiful book.

I gave this book to my mother when my partner and I decided to have a commitment ceremony. Mom was having trouble understanding and didn't seem to recognize our commitment to each other as equally valid to straight marriages. After she read the book, she sent my partner a HUGE bouquet of flowers and a card telling him she was so pleased that he was going to become an "official" part of our family!

This is an excellent book to read. Many of us take family matters to seriously, like me. When I read Dr. Anderson book, I began to laugh as she addresses the family life with lots of humor in her book. I thought it was our family that acts that way, but it was good to no other family acts the same way. I strongly recommend every one to read this book. Thank you Dr. Anderson for writing this book. It is true when they say laughter is good for the soul, and I promise you will be laughing up a storm.

This is such a refreshingly funny, thought provoking and interesting way to enjoy life through the pages of a book. I loved it, you can close your eyes and point to a chapter and laugh on through to the next ten before you know it. Monica has such a unique style that is all 'Moe' Keep up the good work, looking forward to the novel.

I have really enjoyed this book. As a wife and mother, I can relate to many of the amusing stories. They come to mind when I least expect it. Once you read this book you may find yourself remembering the stories and laughing to your self. If your friends wonder what you are laughing about, maybe they should read the book!

If I didn't know differently, I would be convinced that Monica Anderson grew up in my house. Some of her columns, especially My Sister's Parents, almost convinced me that she was a part of my family. While reading this book there were times I laughed out loud - in public - causing others around me to stare, but I didn't mind. I told them to buy the book so they'd understand. There were a few times while reading some of the columns, I actually picked up the phone to call a girlfriend (long distance)to share excerpts such as "My only sad Thanksgiving was in 1989. I'll never forget that one. That was the year that my inner thighs first met each other. Before that, there was no communication between them unless I crossed my legs..." Very funny, indeed. Monica Anderson has a sharp wit and a great sense of humor. She has captured the charm and the essence of relationships, parenthood and life on the pages of this wonderful book.

The book "Mom Are We There Yet" is all about real life. It tells stories about events, people and places that everyone can relate to from their own lives. The stories are ones that make you think about what things are really the most important in your life. They are told with a wonderful sense of humor that makes the seriousness of their subject sneak up on you. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants an insight into thier own family life.

I used the first edition of this book heavily when I started in private practice. It does two things better than any other office orthopedics text I've seen; 1) gives you a precise timeline for treatment and followup for the various diagnoses, and 2) covers how, when, and where to put therapeutic (cortisone) injections. It is not encyclopedic, nor does it delve into diagnostic testing for orthopedic conditions, as one other reviewer pointed out. Still one of my favorite quick references.

I have used an earlier edition of this book since 1998 as a nurse practitioner. I shared it with my partner and we both really like how the plan for the fracture care is laid out chronologically. this is most helpful in preparing the patient for what to expect.
The book is complete yet concise, just what we need for a fast paced office. Incidentally it was recommended to me as the best book to have in the office by a very experienced army-trained physician assistant of 20 years.

As a military physician, I see alot of orthopedics type things in my practice.

This book has alot of great stuff on procedures and it also has patient education materials.

Bruce Anderson has created a wonderful textbook that allows the reader to understand, diagnose, and effectively treat most medical orthopedic problems.

Specific problems are easy to identify, review, and treat. Handy figures and specific patient instructions are a nice complement to the text.

Having worked with Dr. Anderson as a resident, I find this book to be something I never like to have too far from my office.

Office Orthopedics for Primary Care offers a succinct overviewof primary care orthopedic problems. The book is well-written andcovers common orthopedic injuries. The book is somewhat deficient in diagrams and pictures, especially when discussing orthopedic clinical exam tests. Overall, a worthwhile addition to any physician's library.