Bell Books

The cover of this book caught my attention at the library, so I just had to check it out. I must say, Bell Hooks's ideas and opinions are right on the money. She mentions issues such as black male masculinity, feminism, and racism and breaks them down very well. She's not the average traditional black feminist. She's not afraid to talk bad about white folks (like Madonna) and she's brave enough to use the word "white supremacy"; not in a militant way, but more reserved. It's easy to tell she's a liberal, but she's not restricted to traditional left-wing philosophy because of her strong Afro-centric view-points. This is a must read for all Black people, especially Black women who hardly have any intellectual role-model to look up to.

Until now I have only read excerpts from bell hooks' works. Then I recently saw a C-Span program in which bell hooks led a discussion with a college audience. Reminded of the intriguing excerpts I had read, I chose Black Looks as my first full encounter with this intriguing woman's thoughts.

I did not examine the readers' comments on Black Looks until completing the book, but I too would like to take the opportunity to give the book my whole-hearted endorsement for everyone's perusal.

Unlike the reader who began a review highlighting his leftist political affiliation and interracial marriage/family, I DO believe that this book was intended for that individual reader, as it was intended for me, a white female -- and for all men and women of all colors, backgrounds, and sexual orientations. One's skin color, (marriage) partner, children, class status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, and gender, among many other characteristics, do not determine one's dedication to overcoming the racist, heterosexist, capitalist patriarchy. Indeed, I think that this idea is a theme running throughout Black Looks, as evidenced in bell hooks' essays on Clarence Thomas and Madonna.

I do not find incivility in bell hooks' thoughtful expressions and critiques. Rather, I find a much-needed naming of the incivilities that happen to people in this world, due to various "-ism"s and those who espouse them.

Complaints of "bias" or "slant" in bell hooks' essays and other works seem nonsensical to me, when I recall that no human being's thoughts, feelings, and perspective are "objective." Moreover, "objectivity" is not a quality that one desires in cultural criticism, which functions to set forth an alternative point of view that is so often silenced. An individual who feels the need for "objectivity" in Black Looks might seriously question whether any book, television program, song, or other form of media is "objective," including those forms of communication that comprise mass media.

I think that an individual who can accept that this book is for him/her can also begin to look at mass media with a more critical gaze, an activity that is sorely needed after the hours of unquestioning consumption of TV/movies that fills the evenings and weekends of many Americans.

THIS BOOK IS ANOTHER MANDATORY READING FOR ANYONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN THE EXCHANGE OF CULTURES OF THE INDIGENOUS OF TURTLE ISLAND AND THE AFRICAN, WHICH HAS BEEN GOING ON BEFORE THAT THUG COLUMBUS CAME OVER HERE.

I'm biracial . . . my father is white and my mother is black, Latina, and Asian. hooks makes us look deeply and critically at the linkages of race, class, gender, and sexuality in ways that are painfully honest and moving. Oppression is never an easy topic. As she has stated, reading hooks' work should make us feel angry, sad, & uncomfortable. Finally, an intellectual who goes beyond the "taken-for-granted" simplistic non-analysis and makes us THINK DEEPLY! This book is a classic!

The book speaks for itself. There aren't enough adjectives in the english language to describe the dynamics of this book. I don't have anything more to say,except 'READ IT.'

Camileon
By: Shykia Bell

"Camileon" is the debut and extremely intriguing novel by Shykia Bell. Prior to getting this novel from Ms. Bell, I've heard such wonderful things about it. I think I was more excited to read it, once I've found out it was in one of my favorite genre sci-fi fantasy. Regardless if your into this particular genre or not, "Camileon" is in a class of its own.
This novel proved to me that Ms. Bell is here to stay; "Camileon" is very well written. The creativity, as well as her imagination was above and beyond any sci-fi novel that I've read. "Camileon" is very descriptive and strategically written; I wouldn't be surprise if any movie producer picks it up for a movie. I definitely believe and highly recommend that it will satisfy any avid readers. I've read so many sci-fi, fantasy, horror etc. but I would have to admit that "Camileon" is my all time favorite.
Congrats Ms. Bell you definitely out did yourself with this amazing novel. I definitely give this a 10+++++.
Shaifire
Urbanfirebooks/Urbanhottnessbooks

I found this book to be very entertaining and it keeps you on the edge of suspense. Just when you thought you had it all figured out it takes an unexpected twist that keeps you wanting more. Guaranteed you won't be able to put it down.

I found Camileon to be a unique, well written and original read. With characters that are easy to identify with this supernatural story is riveting, and luckily there's a sequel on its way.

I was somewhat unsure when I opened this book, as I am not a fan of the sci-fi/fantasy genre but was pleasantly surprised. This rich story and depth of the characters that Shykia Bell created transcends genre and quickly sweeps you into her dynamic world. You're taken on many twists and turns and leaves you asking questions about life and of all the possibilities, and most importantly - what now? This novel leaves you wanting more.

I was pleasantly surprised by this extremely well-written debut from new comer Shykia Bell. This paranormal/Sci-Fi tale was so inviting and intriguing; it was hard not to get lost in the story. I will not go into details about the storyline because the synopsis gives just enough to make you want to crack open the cover without giving anything away. While reading each chapter I found myself wanting to know more and more - it was quite addictive! I am not particularly a lover of sci-fi/fantasy, but there is so much mystery to this story that I was sucked in from page one.

Shykia Bell does a superb job creating the setting and leaves nothing to the imagination. The way she describes the scenery and actions of the characters makes you feel as though you are actually a part of the action. The cover art is fabulous and ties in perfectly with the story, as does the title. I was slightly disappointed at the end only because it was revealed that there is a second installment. It is not clear whether this will be a sequel or a trilogy. I feel this information should have been on the back cover. Regardless, that is only a minor oversight in my eyes and in no way takes away from the book or my opinion of it. I recommend this book to lovers of paranormal adventure or those who want to give it a try. Great work!

Englishruler
ARC Book Club Inc
Star Rating: 5.0

This is a great book-exciting, exotic and fascinating as Bass profiles different scientific and social scientific researchers' projects in Africa. One gets a feel for the different cultures and ecosystems viewed through the lens of his portraits.

I was talking with a friend today who is bound for Uganda and as I rummaged around the attic of my mind, remembered what a pleasure this book was when I read it over ten years ago. I highly recommend it. Perhaps I shall read it again.

This is a book for people that think scientists walk around in white coats spouting equations at each other and relating dysfunctionaly to the rest of the world. Learn about science as a way of life, a way of seeing the world and accepting its challenges. Yes, Africa is somewhat of a mess, but as Africa goes, so may go the planet. Tom Bass brings you beautifully into this chaos and gives you the flavor of life with scientists who have let it all hang out, put it all on the line, in their fascination with and commitment to an important way of looking at the world. It's a new genre: Guerilla Science.

Camping With the Prince, a 1990 book by the science journalist Thomas Bass, is a rare find and highly recommended. Most books on contemporary Africa are gloomy and angry. Some are hostile towards Africans, some towards Westerners, some towards both. Camping With the Prince is neither. Instead it is a fascinating look at things which are going right. Bass deserves praise for that alone. But his topics are fascinating in their own right. In seven chapters, Bass investigates seven areas of scientific research in various parts of sub-Saharan Africa. They range from sustainable forestry in Mali, to the response of nomad communities in Kenya to food shortages, Nigerian research on insect pests and virology, and on to paleoanthropology and the mating habits of the multicolored cichlid fish of Lake Malawi. To the extent there are villains in this book, they are international specialists in foreign aid, who have spent forty years delivering bad advice on agricultural policy and building dams that spread the guinea worm. But in fact the villains are very few. Much more common are people like Thomas Risley Odhiambo, a Kenyan entomologist who founded the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology in Nairobi, which carries out world-class research on low-impact pest controls. Bass asks Dr. Odhiambo how Kenya -- and by extension Africa generally -- can afford such a program when many Kenyans have no potable drinking water. Odhiambo makes an equally obvious reply: '"My own feeling is that we have to run on twin tracks," he says. "We have the longer-range problems that depend on science and technology. We must solve them. At the same time we must tackle these problems arising from urbanization and dislocation from the land. If we take only one track and not the other, we will be in worse trouble, because we will have no future in terms of strategies for the long run." Odhiambo's realistic but hopeful attitude -- a recognition of contemporary problems, coupled with the faith that Africa can overcome and transcend them -- is typical of the people Bass meets. They are Africans like Odhiambo and the Nigerian virologist Oyewale Tomori, Westerners like Jeremy Swift, an Englishman who has spent fifteen years living among nomads in the dry savannas, and even East Asians like Odhiambo's Chinese colleague Lu Qing Guang, who conducts research on insects like the trichogramma wasp which prey on common pests. The book has one minor flaw, in that it presents readers with seven more or less independent chapters rather than a coherent narrative. Bass also demands some effort from the reader, as his book addresses complex scientific issues without condescension. Those who will be put off by discussions of nematodes, Lorenzian biological aggression theory or the life cycle of the tsetse fly will find parts of the book pretty dense. But most readers who take up a book like this will view technical detail a strength rather than a weakness. And altogether, Camping With the Prince is a well-written, welcome respite from the bleak tone of most writing on modern Africa. Bass has done a fine job and deserves readers.

This is a book for people that think scientists walk around in white coats spouting equations at each other and relating dysfunctionaly to the rest of the world. Learn about science as a way of life, a way of seeing the world and accepting its challenges. Yes, Africa is somewhat of a mess, but as Africa goes, so may go the planet. Tom Bass brings you beautifully into this chaos and gives you the flavor of life with scientists who have let it all hang out, put it all on the line, in their fascination with and commitment to an important way of looking at the world. It's a new genre: Guerilla Science.

I ordered this book because a family member has been diagnosed with the same cancer that Mr. Herrera went through. I went to his site and clicked on "Contact Mr. Herrera" and was amazed at how fast he responded. Later he called me and we talked for a good while. He was so pleasant to talk to and he was so helpful with all the information he had to share with me. He gave me many people and places to GOOGLE for my own personal verification of what he was sharing with me and I found him to be a true humanitarian - trying to share the wealth of knowledge that he has regarding an alternative method for treating this horrible Mantle Cell Lymphoma cancer. I can't thank him enough for his kindness.

I was very touched and moved by the experience that Mr. Herrara had gone through. He is a very brave man and I have extreme admiration for him. I watched him on As the World Turns and his character shows what and incredible actor he is also. I hope now he is living and very full and prosperous life. I would highly recommend his book to anyone. No one would believe a real person actually went through what he went through. I'm hoping one day I have the opportunity to meet him in person, it would be such an honor!!

Having met Anthony when I performed one of his imaging tests, I was interested to see if his good humor and strength of will translated into his book. I should not have worried. From the first chapter, it is apparent and I found myself pulling for him all over again. We are transported into his world of pain, loyalty of friendship, and frustration with a medical system that sometimes forgets that the patient is part of the process. I continually recommend Anthony's book to my patients, and I recommend it to anyone who wants to read the story of a true survivor.

Fascinating book by a unique and interesting person who has loved his life and has managed to do what he loves through force of will and an engaging personality. Anthoney Herrera is an actor, playwright, television producer, and poet, currently appearing on "As the World Turns". This book is an account of his fight with mantel cell lymphoma. It is also an account of his life with and without cancer. Well written with not a single excess word. Straight and to the point. This man took responsiblity for his medical care. He found the best doctors and the best hospital. Personal and very readable. Should be read for an account of the trials of a strong, funny, and intelligent human being who decided to continue living and living large.

The Cancer War is a must read for anyone going through cancer treatment (whether as the patient, family member or friend). Anthony details his struggle with lymphoma, including his pioneering second stem cell transplant, with style, humor and grace. This book gets beneath the soap opera star veneer and into the heart and soul of a brave warrior. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and most of all, you'll be touched and changed by his words.

When Taylor begins her search, you not only feel her need to find her real mother but meet some delightful people along the way. The landlady and her "friend", the young man next door, the childhood friend all add depth and appeal. Add to that a large dose of small town Christmas and you have a joyous holiday experience.

It's a story you can't put down once you begin reading it. Taylor, a woman searching to find her real parents goes to Dell Colorado. The author paints a realistic image of a friendly small town at the Christmas season where Taylor believes she will find clues to who her parents were and the secret of the bell. It's an interesting adventure with an intriguing ending.

This is a great story which is very well written. It is hard to put down the book. You want to know what is happening. The way the book is written you actually can see yourself in the places the character is in, see the people she is interacting with. I love books like that. It is a story you can really get into.

I could hardly put the book down.
The characters were so believable.
The ending was especially wonderful.

I enjoyed this book so much. It just pulled me along. I could hardly wait to see what was going to happen next. It is a great story to read at Christmas time, but would be a good book to read any time of the year.
I bought extra copies to give as Christmas gifts to family and friends.

I cannot understand why anyone (with the pretribulational perspective) would not like this book. It is entertaining, well designed, and fun to read. Bell quotes many scholars, and presents the information in an anything but boring manner.

Differing views are presented fairly, and historical tidbits are welcome insertions. So are the present-day applications.

Revelation doesn't get much simpler than this, except "Dragons, Grasshoppers & Frogs!" which is for new Christians and teens.

Both books deliver the goods, and would be excellent resources for those teaching this most wonderful last book of the Bible.

This book was a fun and delightful way to learn about the Book of Revelations in the Bible, yet at the same time it was very informative. If this book is going to be used in a study group for the book of Revelations, however, please be aware that the first 15 chapters cover the book chronologically from chapter 1 to up to the end of Revelations, but then has several additional chapters that cover such things as other views (preterist, historical, and the like). Therefore, a study group should leave time for covering these chapters as well, either while reading through revelations or at the end.

I was reading the Left Behind books and began to think to myself "surely, this can't be the only explanation for the Book of Revelation". I mean, I'm a Christian, but I wanted a little bit of perspective and maybe some other theories. This book gives me just that and explains many of the other theories scholars think Revelation might mean. A great study tool for anyone wanting to find out more.

The complete Idiot's Guide to the Book of Revelation helps our understanding of the symbolism inherent in Revelations. While we cannot be sure of exactly what is meant, the Guide is easy to read and comprehend. And the Book of Revelations itself promises a blessing to all who read it.

This is a great book on Revelation. It doesn't tell you what to believe. It gives you lots of history, lots of great details to help you understand better. My husband is using it to teach his teenage Sunday School class about Revelation and they are liking it. It is very user friendly.

When I first laid hands on this book, it was merely the cover that caught my attention, having just turned from classic fiction to science--fiction and fantasy epics, and this being my first one, I didn't know what to expect. The back cover made it seem like my kind of book, so I decided to give this old book a chance at catching a place in my heart. To think I doubted. To think I doubted is enough to make me feel unclean, like most of the creatures in there, but not he book itself, no, definitely not the book itself. This book deserves too much praise.
I believe, once I've read the first chapter/prologue, that this book is sure to prove a captivating fantasy, how true it is that the beginning lays the foundation for not only the book, but the way you think about it, too. Oh, who could not notice the bright descriptions so deep and so true that just the mere beauty of it would make one snicker at a picture, so deep, and so grasping. Who could not pity Edward, for all his brutality, he died a fateful death at the age of sixteen!!! Who could not frown at Ethelred, and laugh inspite of themselves, and regret it with horror afterwards? Yes, who could not despise Angelo, and yet wish they had that same brilliance, dreaming on and on??? Of course, who could not hate Elfryth, a queen evil enough to rule with more of an iron fist than even Satan? Jadrien Bell, a. k. a. Christe Golden did such a wonderful job of making us care about the characters, that by then, I could feel a deep pleasure swelling up in me at the most austere part of the book, and still love Kennag and the crippled boy monk later.
Now, I'm not much of a spoiler, so don't try to get the ending from me. But one hint though, Elfryth's death haunts me to this day. Having read and discovered all the big names in science fiction and fantasy epics written by professional and non--professional critcs, I concluded that to make the reader actually care about a certain character or two can make even the most mediocre of stories interesting. I bet Christie Golden realized that, and she no doubt did a fine job of it at the beginning, wasting no time. But even if I did not care about it, the story overall still clung to my hand like an atomic magnet. That amoungst all the science fiction and fantasy epics are few. The more experienced readers will surely agree with me on this one.
When I finished the book, I regarded Christie Golden with great respect, expecting other books with equal powers to astound, and the same unwillingness to leave. But when I found out that this was her best novel ever, I wasn't surprised. Oh, woe is me and anyone who will ever look upon this book with indifference. It had definitely found a place in my heart.

Weaving a plot using Bible prophecy and Nordic sagas, the author has created a novel with an intricate plot which is well crafted and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The story takes place at the turn of the first millennium. Many of us faced fears at the turn or our millennium but immagine Alwyn a monk and Kennag a pagan woman as they join forces against Satan in the guise of Angelo. Using Britian's ruler and the trickster Nordic god Loki, Angelo plans to usher in the Apocalypse and rule the earth.

I thought the novel was unique and imaginative, and I hope to see another Jadrien Bell historical fantasy available in the near future.

Bell offers a fun, fast light read here. Those who know medieval history will perhaps be bounced out by a lot of small errors (and a couple of not-so-small ones) but readers who like generic medieval-flavor fantasy will have a good time with this book. The heroes are likable, the bad guys really bad (what they lack in smarts they make up for in enthusiastic evil). There are no new ideas here, but what Bell lacks in perception of medieval paradigm--and how it was changing--is made up for in page-turning action, razzle-dazzle magic, and a really fun Ragnarok.

I haven't a fraction of the writing talent that Ms. Bell displays in this book and can't hope to do it justice, but I have to say something!

I loved it! Only the inconvenience of having a job stopped me reading it in one sitting - it took me two days!

The way in which the author has woven diverse threads of pagan mythology with christian apocalyptic prophesy works perfectly. It never felt contrived or forced.

Angelo is beyond machiavellian, and the reluctant relationship between the two heroes works very well too. Add to that some of the "stranger-than-fiction" characters and events from history and you have AD999.

When God created a being in his image, an insurrection occurred in Heaven with the reactionaries led by the supreme being's beloved Lucifer. However, the revolt fails and God casts Lucifer and his followers from Heaven. They are doomed to reside in Hell away from God's glow. Satan reigns in Hell and is stepping closer to dominating the earth. His final plan outlined in the Book of Revelations begins when the Anti-Christ walks the planet.

Once before, Satan came close to victory. In 999 A.D., people believe the world is coming to an end. Satan, disguised as the Roman Angelo, murders King Edward so that his selected puppet Ethelred becomes England's monarch. For the next two decade, chaos rules the land. The signs of the Apocalypse are visited upon the people and God appears to have forsaken humanity. Instead of abandoning mankind, God selects two special individuals to act as his Witnesses. On first look, a crippled monk with a useless hand and a Scottish midwife seem as poor a choice as anyone could make. However, the divine creator has bestowed special powers that combined with courage and purity might defeat the seemingly invincible Satan.

Anyone who enjoys apocalyptic fiction will gain much pleasure from reading 999 A.D., a frightening story that seems very real. The exciting story line combines historical tidbits including millenia hysteria with religious beliefs that make for a genuine feeling tale. Angelo comes across as a Middle Ages crazed serial killer (as expected of Satan in any guise) that adds to the overall terror. Jardien Bell has written a fascinating novel perfectly timed for Millennium buffs.

Harriet Klausner

A very heartwarming story about a hardworking and talented Irish-Catholic family. The travels and travails of the Burkes as they rehearse and perform across the country during the turbulant decade of the sixties against a background of racism and Vietnam, is a nonstop adventure for the reader also. The book brought back many memories for me personally as my family also traveled in the sixties in a 64 Chevy Belair wagon-but we only needed one! The story just goes to show how much has changed since that era. Or has it? An outstanding story-Highly recommended.

The Burke family brought many childhood memories of my own past. This family represented everything good in America at a time when our country was experiencing issues of racial hatred, turmoil and unrest. I was fortunate to attend the same Catholic school and parish as this wonderful family and remember the Christmas shows on local televison. I recommend this book be read by all families to show the love, devotion and moral values instilled in this family as an inspiration to all!!!

The Burke singers lived my fantasy. I too am from a large Catholic family who grew up in the fifties and sixties and the relationships of the siblings in the book and the antics of the little brothers brought back so many childhood memories for me. My elderly mother has been mute for several years due to a stroke, but she was able to communicate her pleasure in reading the book and seemed to like it better than any others she has read. This book could be read and shared by children, parents and grandparents in a family. The story is told with humor and affection and it was just too bad the trip had to end. Don't think it hasn't been fun... Because it HAS!

This book shows that truth is easily as fascinating as fiction. The Burke family's exploits would be beyond belief if there weren't so much proof they actually happened. This book made us laugh and cry while we returned to a decade when America's innocence was unpeeled in the face of racial oppression, assassinations, and the agony of going to war on foreign soil. Seen through the eyes of a child innocently traveling the country singing with her family, and laced with the family dynamics of ten children on the road, Burke's book left us stunned, warmed, and thinking deeply about our country today. If you're looking for a book that leaves you filled up, read this.

When my grandmother was alive she made fudge. It was so rich, you couldn't eat it. You had to sort of scrape little bits off with your teeth - if you took a full bite you'd probably die, it was so rich and sweet and wonderful.

I've been reading this book rather like eating Nana's fudge. I don't want it to end, so I'm doing little bits at a time. When I first started I read something like the first five chapters without taking a breath. Now I'm rationing.

Wonderful. Just wonderful. I'm 57 years old, so this is my time, the shows they appeared on, I watched. When I get back to NY I am going to go the Museum of Broadcasting and watch tapes.

The only thing that could make reading this book better would be playing the tape of the Burke Family SIngers doing Christmas carols in the background.

Now if I only had some fudge....

For three days in July of 1863, war raged in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. When it was over, thousands of men on both the Union and Confederate sides of the conflict were dead or dying, and the lives of the residents of Gettysburg were changed forever. Fixin' Things, by Peggy Ullman-Bell is a tribute to those residents, especially "all the women who sacrificed their health, their lives, and their sanity to keep the [Gettysburg National Cemetery] from being a hundred times larger."

The story centers on the Loren family and their near relations. Like many people who lived close to the Mason-Dixon Line, their loyalties were mixed. The Loren women, Kathin and her younger sister Megan, secretly operated a station on the Underground Railroad. Kathin's sister-in-law, although born in Philadelphia, thoroughly adopted the slave-owning society of Maryland, where she lives with her husband Jason Mercer. Jason, a colonel in the Confederate army, is a kind and intellectual gentleman, while Kathin's husband Edwin, a captain in the Union army, is an abusive and foul-mouthed tyrant. When war comes to Gettysburg, family relationships and loyalties are strained. The Loren farm and their townhome, rented to a female blacksmith and a schoolteacher (tacitly recognized as lovers), become field hospitals and refuges for wounded soldiers on both sides.

In this well-researched novel, readers will grasp the immensity of this historic event--and recognize at once how the small community of Gettysburg was devastated. Churches and schools were desecrated and dismantled, overflowing with blood and offal and stuffed to the seams with the dead and dying. Fields and crops were trampled; wells and streams were fouled. Larders were emptied; supplies raided. And rather than fight back or protect their possessions, most residents of Gettysburg gave all they had and more than they could afford. They baked the last of their flour into bread for the hungry men, nursed the wounded in their own homes, ripped up their petticoats and linens for bandages. In turn, many of the desperate soldiers became attached to their resident saviors, who hid them and shielded them from enemy soldiers and, in some cases, from their own army which would have sent them back into action.

Even after the battle, the horror continued in Gettysburg. The wounded were legion; the town was bereft of supplies, and thousands of dead needed to be buried. (And, in a few weeks, orders arrived to dig them up and rebury them elsewhere.) In Fixin' Things, author Ullman-Bell explores the impact of this event on the fictional Loren sisters and their friends. Readers are transported back to an event of huge historical consequence in our country, viewed through the eyes of people who lived it personally, with all glamour and patriotism stripped away.

Author Peggy Bell is the worthy representative, and her book, "Fixin' Things" is the fitting memorial. This fascinating and credible story of the Civil War as seen (primarily) through the eyes and experienced through the lives of the women of the time, transports the reader into a ghastly world gone mad with the blood-letting, gut-spilling violence of insane men playing a to-the-death game of "King-of-the Hill." And through it all, the women were there; amazing women, with strength, resiliency, and fortitude. Feeding, nursing, wading through the blood and guts, bandaging mutilated men with strips torn off their petticoats, they fought through the war with unmitigated valor.

A wonderful piece of historical fiction, Bell's "Fixin' Things" has everything you could want in a good tale; a unique plot angle with twists and turns, lots of intriguing sub-plots thickening and expanding the story, remarkable characters brought to life, and scene depictions that run the full gamut from tender and lovely to terrifying and horrific. The story of the Battle of Gettysburg as told in this book was the best I have ever read. This book is an excellent tribute to the women who loved their broken country, mended it, and nursed it back to life.

Exceptionally written. Author keeps you 'in' the action. Does a super job of letting you see through words the events of the time. Paints the picture well. The author's rendition of the women of Gettysburg is enlightening, especially since we typically read only of men in times of war.

Peggy Ullman Bell's second book does NOT disappoint! This is an excellent historical fiction from the author of "Psappha, a Novel of Sappho," and will definitely be noticed! Well written, vivid, accurate historically, a fascinating and exciting read. And a most enjoyable story of a young woman's coming of age. Ms. Bell's writing in this book, as in "Psappha", takes you there and you can watch the story unfold! Hope to hear a LOT more from this Excellent author....

This is an unusual novel about the marvelous ways which women gave comfort and love during the civil war, an ode of love as responsibility in the care of others. While many books chronicle the adventures of males during this war, this is the first I have seen to get to the heart of the woman as homemaker, caregiver, and patriot. It is a book you will remember and ponder long after reading. The characters are diverse and stimulating. As fine a work of historical fiction as I have seen. It has everything from sexual abuse, to burying of body parts after surgery, to helping slaves to get north, to family conflicts. Throughout there is the heroism of women. I highly recommend it.

This little inspirational book is small in size but big in meaning. Don't let the brevity of some of these quotes fool you -- they could each be a meditation for a whole lifetime.

Although these quotes come from the Hasidic tradition, one does not have to be a Hasidic Jew in order to use this book. Editor Yitzchok Leib has selected passages that are relevant to anyone seeking a path to God, and especially for Jews in recovery, who might need a quick quote as a pick-me-up throughout the day. Non-Jews will find it interesting, too, as they discover about a type of Jewish spirituality that is not so well-known to the general public.

The quotes are arranged by topic into 16 sections, each beginning with a quote from Rebbe Nachman of Breslov (founder of the Breslover Hasidic movement, died 1810), followed by excerpts from the letters of his chief disciple and recorder of his teachings, Reb Nosson of Nemirov. Among the Breslover Hasidim, letter-writing has been raised to a spiritual art, and Reb Nosson was the master of masters in using this literary form. His letters, although originally addressed to individual Hasidim, were intended to be inspiring essays on how everyone can apply the teachings, and were eventually published for all to read...The compact size of this little volume makes it very convenient to slip inconspicuously into a purse or briefcase for reading in those otherwise "wasted" moments on the bus, subway, or waiting in line. It would also make a nice gift for just about any occasion, too.

I think that the book is really good and it gives you alot of now ways to fight the "koach ha mdome" (ha yetzer hara)

Prescriptions for Inner Strength, Meaning and Hope is the perfect subtitle for this gem of a book. Small in size, Healing Leaves brings forth the wisdom of the beloved Rebbe Noson on a very personal yet universal level. This is the perfect book to keep by your bedside and refer to again and again. Rebbe Noson, the scribe of Rebbe Nachman has something for everyone in this book. It's just the thing to turn to when you are looking to create balance in your life.

This is a beautiful book. I have given it to many people as a gift. It is a gift that will make a difference to the person receiving it. The letters are inspirational and timeless. They were written in the 1800's and are exquisite even today. You will not be sorry with this purchase.

Healing Leaves: Prescriptions for Inner Strength, Meaning and Hope, from the letters of Rebbe Noson of Breslov is a remarkable treasure of 126 pages that fits in your pocket, and provides strength and inspiration for any trials or tribulations.
It will help you to connect with G-D, speaking of the special process, spoken of by the founder of Breslover Chassidim and mentor of the author, Rebbe Nachman of Breslov: Hitbodedut, pouring out your heart before G-D
A book to keep by your bedside and in your pocket and to meditate on the spiritual wisdom found within. Divided into themes such as Renewal, Hope, Joy and Avoiding Anxiety and Depression, it is a book not only for religiously observant Jews, but anyone interested in practical spirituality, and using the wisdom of ages to cope with life, and bring about joy.
Hence some notable meditations from this work include such gems as:

"Rebbe Nachman teaches us to begin anew- each day, each hour, each minute.
You must remain young, renewing yourself each day and making a fresh start."

And

" Even while the gates are closed are closed and locked on every side and in every corner - so that one may have mistakenly thought there was no hope, G-D forbid - I still believe that there remains plenty of hope! For G-D's capacity to send relief and deliverance is very great indeed, and His power of salvation is inexhaustible."

A gift for a lifetime.