Bennett Books


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

Bennett
Did You Hear about Amber? (Surviving Sixteen)
Published in Paperback by Puffin (1993-06-01)
Author: Cherie Bennett
List price: $3.50
New price: $1.89
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

It was pretty good.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1999-04-25
It was a good book, but I didn't like how Amber was so self-centered. In the end, she changes for the better though.

It got me to love reading...
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-07-08
I read this book when I was in 6th grade and I am 22 now and still skim through it. This book really got me back on the reading track and I started enjoying reading again. Cherie is a terrific author, and if it weren't for this book and her many sunset books, I don't think I'd be reading as avidly as I do today! Two thumbs up.

Beneath all popular teens, there is always a problem.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-01-25
Amber Lynn Harkin has it all; boyfriend, cheerleading, and the hot dance group, Sizzle. One day she finds out that she has a disability. She now faces many risks concerning her reputation. It just goes to show you that being different is ok and just because you are popular, doesn't mean you don't have a lot of problems.

It is a sad story but truthful
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1998-12-08
The story was very touching. It made me cry. I felt her pain. It was well written and described the truth of a teenagers life. People can be cruel to those that are different. I hope in the next book I read with Amber, her luck changes

You won't want to put it down.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-27
Sixteen year old Amber has everything: a rich and handsome boyfriend, popularity, a role as head cheerleader, a dance group close to stardom, poverty, a thirty-two year old mother, and a crippling medical secret that could cost her everything she thinks is important in her life. Amber's cockiness and manipulations to rise to number one also play a role in her social downfall. This novel by Cherie Bennett is an excellent story about how one girl's impoverished beginnings created a stong desire in her to hide her true self and become the best at everything, only to find one day that the life as she had built as her own was nothing but a lie. Amber finds that undoing this lie takes her away from her previous dreams and shows her the dreams that she really wanted. I recommend this book for its excellent writing and "soapopera-esque" storyline.

Bennett
The Doctor's Book of Humorous Quotations: A Treasury of Quotes, Jokes, and One-Liners About Doctors & Health Care
Published in Paperback by Hanley & Belfus (2001-01-15)
Author: Howard J. Bennett
List price: $26.95
New price: $19.78
Used price: $15.52

Average review score:

Take Two At Bedtime
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2001-02-25
The practice of medicine is a serious affair. Dr. Bennett's new book is a lighthearted counterweight to our daily effort, allowing us to chuckle at ourselves, our colleagues, our profession and all of those who interact with it. The book is also a good source for that fitting joke or quip you might need for a lecture, a toast, or a presentation. Open up any page for a few moments of zany entertainment. It makes a perfect gift for yourself, a friend or as a "thank you" to a colleague.

My funny bone hurts
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-10-23
There is no doubt that humans are the funniest animals on the planet, and appropos of the medical theme of this humorous book, I thought I would make one comment in that vein.

Yes, we humans are pretty funny creatures, but what would you expect of a mammal that actually has a "funny bone?" I'm referring to the upper-arm bone, which is actually named the "humerus." Well, it's actually spelled a little differently, but only by a couple of letters, and that's probably because anatomists didn't usually win first place in their spelling bees in school.

Well, I don't know if the hip bone is connected to the thigh bone myself, but I did learn how to spell way back when. Anyway, this book is sure to tickle the humerus or funny bone in all of us, and it just goes to show you that although seriousness may be only skin-deep, funny is truly to the bone.

Praise for The Doctor's Book of Humorous Quotations
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2001-02-25
The following reviews were sent in about my new book:

The practice of medicine is a serious affair. Dr. Bennett's new book is a lighthearted counterweight to our daily effort, allowing us to chuckle at ourselves, our colleagues, our profession and all of those who interact with it. The book is also a good source for that fitting joke or quip you might need for a lecture, a toast or a presentation. Open to any page for a few moments of zany entertainment. It makes a perfect gift for yourself, a friend or as a "thank you" to a colleague. Alan Stone, MD, Clinical Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center.

This is the funniest book I've read in a long time. It's loaded with anecdotes, definitions, jokes and quotations about doctors and medicine. Almost no medically related subject is left out. Even in you think you don't have time to read (who does?) find some time for this relaxing and enjoyable book. Howard Fischer, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine.

Humor and laughter in medicine are needed now more than ever before because of the increasing stresses of modern medical practice. This gem of a book compiled by Dr. Bennett, himself a noted humorist, includes a great variety of quips, quotes, and jokes that can serve as a lifeline to sanity for stressed-out physicians whether in practice or still in their training years. Much of the material in this book is both funny and original and can be used to liven up ward rounds, medical lectures, and yes, even the sacred physician-patient relationship. It should be relished but should also be shared. Lugwig A. Lettau, Charleston, SC.

The true medicine is humour
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-14
As a medical student I really enjoyed reading this book. I've read other books and articles of Bennet, and enjoy his humorous way of putting things. Asa foreigner I had a few difficulties enjoying all of the jokes related to US health services. However, all in all I found the book worthwhile reading, and I had some really big laughs that cramped my stomach. I am sure I am going to read and reread this book in the future.....after all, good humour and hilarious jokes are the best medicine ever invented, and there are no sideeffects!!!

This book is a gem!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-03-02
This is one of the funniest books I've ever read. Dr. Bennett did a terrific job pulling together both classic and original quotes about doctors and medicine. Enjoy the material when you have some free time during the day or comb through the collection looking for amusing lines to use on rounds, lectures, or other medical situations. Best of all, buy the book for your medical friends or anyone who enjoys funny and insightful lines about doctors, medicine, and health.

Bennett
Hilary Rocks: On Stage, Screen, and In Between, Hilary Duff is Living a Fairy Tale Life!
Published in Paperback by Triumph Books (IL) (2004-11-30)
Author: Erin Brereton
List price: $9.95
New price: $3.50
Used price: $0.10

Average review score:

Hillary Duff rocks, so does this book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-07
Hillary Duff does rock and this book does so aswell rock, i am a huge fan of Hillary Duff, and this is the best book ever written about her. It's easy to read too.

It's great....
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-20
There have been many biographies about Hilary Duff lately, and I must say that this one is very good. It doesn't exactly dive into the depths of her life too much (it does give you some basic autobiographical information, however), but there is a lot of great information about her movies, singing, album, and possible future. Plus, there are tons of great-looking glossy photographs that will satisfy any devoted Hilary Duff fan. The style is sophisticated and written well, but not in an annoying teenybopper-ish way. Whether you're a huge fan or just want to read more about Hilary with some good pictures, this is a fabulous book.

Great!!! :)
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2005-03-28
I am A HUGE-------- Hilary Fan and I love this book!!!!!It has great pictures and accuate facts and it is just great I Love it and trust me it makes a great gift for any Hil fan!!! :)

I Love This Book!
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2005-02-18
This book is absolutely rocks! The cover is the coolest picture I have ever seen of Hil! I wish there was a way to buy a print of the cover as a poster. I have Hilary Duff's 2005 calendar, which has some rad pictures, but this cover shot totally rules. Great book and lots of awesome photos.

for all hilary duff fans
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2005-02-14
this book is a must have for all hilary duff fans. it is really good and gives you loads of information. it is great for all ages and i love the front cover.

Bennett
The Holy Spirit and You: A Study Guide to the Spirit-Filled Life
Published in Paperback by Bridge-Logos Publishers (1994-06-01)
Authors: Dennis J. Bennett and Rita Bennett
List price: $11.95
New price: $5.97
Used price: $2.99
Collectible price: $11.95

Average review score:

READ THIS BOOK!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-18
This is a very thorough, comprehensive overview of the gifts of the Spirit and its workings. It taught me so much and helped me grow in my faith.
Bennett backs up his teachings with Scriptural references throughout the book, which is also helpful

The Book That Launched a Movement
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2004-06-28
Father Dennis Bennett wrote this book to simply give his curious readers a look inside the charismatic experience that was taking place at his Episcopal Church in southern California but little did he know that this book will literally launch a new movement within the evangelical church world. From this book has come millions of charismatics within mainline denominations such as Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist, Roman Catholics, and many others.

The book is written in a autobiography style with Bennett adding verses of Scripture here and there to help the reader see the teaching of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4). In short, Father Bennett wants his reader to know that this is indeed an experience with the Spirit but he wants you to see that it is based on Scripture.

While you might read this book and not agree with Father Bennett over the Spirit-Baptism, you can't help but to realize how hungry for Jesus we truly need to be and how God wants us to be on fire for Him (Romans 12:11-12; 1 Thess. 5:19).

What a life changing book
Helpful Votes: 20 out of 22 total.
Review Date: 2000-07-31
This book is a must read for all christians. It takes you from start to finish...everything you ever wanted to know about experiencing the Holy spirit in your life. What a great resource. The information and application of it is life changing!

An excellent guide to a Spirit-filled life!
Helpful Votes: 24 out of 25 total.
Review Date: 2000-10-28
In this book you will find the best description of what the baptism of the Holy Spirit is about!! Includes also a biblical description of each gift of the Spirit and its application for today. In the last section you will find insights about how to walk in the Spirit. Since the very first time I read it 22 years ago, this book assisted me in my christian walking. I strongly recommend this book to every honest believer who is looking for the release of the power of the Holy Ghost in his/her life!!!

It changed my life.
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-12-20
All the time in the media you hear "Buy this. Buy that. It will change your life!" Yeah, right.

But this book really did change my life. I got curious about this thing called "the Baptism of the Holy Spirit." Someone loaned me the book. I saw a little prayer in it for receiving "the Heavenly languge of tongues". I read it out loud, with virtually no forethought and no real expectations of anything happening. Suddenly my jaw dropped and I was able to speak in tongues!

Not only that, but within several days another change, totally unexpected, could be seen. I had this new inner peace inside so that my formerly very bad temper was so removed from me that people who worked with me years later could hardly believe I ever had a temper! Victory over a nasty temper was by no means the only blessing that came forth, either.

I have not read this book for over 10 years. There might be things I would nitpick about now that I am a more matured believer. Or maybe not. In any case, I will always be grateful for it.

Bennett
In the Groove: Vintage Record Graphics 1940-1960
Published in Paperback by Chronicle Books (1999-04-01)
Author: Eric Kohler
List price: $18.95
Used price: $9.99

Average review score:

Long, lost days of style.
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2001-08-01
As a graphic designer, I get so flustered when I see the same old CD covers now: a photo of the artist or band, and their name scribbled on top, or a really un-inspired text treatment, most likely using some wretched Photoshop tool like, alien skin or eye candy- blech! Perhaps modern day CD's skimp on the design work of the covers because they are so much smaller now. But back in the days of LP's and 45's art was generously splashed on covers. Full-colored, stylized and oh, so hip! Each one fit to be framed and displayed. "In the Groove: Vintage Record Graphics, 1940-1960" effectively chronicles the history of this long, lost art-form in a picture-book style. I say picture-book, because of the lack of background information on many of the pieces, in fact there are quite a few pieces that are listed as "unknown designer", how unfortunate! Some poor old designer dedicated his or her life to creating some stunning art to attract music lovers' eyes to this or that particular record, and now they're the "unknown designer". Eric Kohler did his best grouping together styles of record graphics, so seeing the evolution of style was very nicely mapped-out. Nice quality paper, nice printing... would've been nicer in hardback. Still, this is one of my favorite books!

Cool Collection of overlooked medium
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2001-02-21
I liked this book so much that I bought a copy for my record-collecting boyfriend and a DJ friend with a varied and ecclectic vinyl collection.

When I thought of record cover art, I thought of those fantasy-styled "YES" covers, or the metal band covers of the 80's. I had no idea about how many cool vintage record covers were out there.

The book focuses on covers from 1940-1960. You'll find many jazz, swing and vocalists represented here. The reproductions are excellent and the variety is impressive. While most covers are reproduced in 3x3inches, quite a few are refresented as full pages which is about a 9-inch square. It is organized by artist and record company, showing you how the artist's style influenced the cover.

I highly recommend it for record collectors, vintage enthusiasts, graphic designers/illustrators and those who love old things. It made me miss the 12-inch vinyl covers all the more and has inspired me to track specific albums down. CDs can never match the emotional connection that vinyl did.

Excellent book, poor binding
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-04
This is a fantastic book for album cover designs. But as I was warned, the glue on the binding really does gives out after the first reading. But the content is so incredible, it's worth purchasing this book...just be sure to handle it carefully so you don't loose your pages.

"Groove"y Covers
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-05
Being a music lover, I've never been partial to one type of music only--I have a passion for everything from rock to classical, pop to country, even from jazz to techno. Something in all of these styles intrigues me. And how intriguing is this incredible book by Eric Kohler. I never thought I'd "get into" a book dedicated solely to album covers from 1940-1960, but I was wrong. The music lover in me kicked in, and I found myself fascinated with the glorious color photos, the revealing and well-researched text, and with the artists themselves. This album cover artistry really has diminished with the advent of the much-smaller compact disc (which is a truly disappointing fact), but Mr. Kohler's book rapturously captures the vividness of the times, the artists, the moods, and the music of those two decades. It took me back to the time when I myself used to stare at the covers of my records for hours while playing them over and over again - this classic book uncovers that wonderful feeling inside you once more. And to top it all off, Mr. Tony Bennett himself writes an introduction that's both classy and sentimental. This is a great book for any music lover with a coffee table -- and an open mind towards how art has influenced music (and vice versa) in so many ways.

Sound pictures.
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2002-12-14
Mr Kohler presents two hundred and fifty covers (from his large collection) which he rightly thinks show the best of album design in the early years of the LP. He features eight artist/designers who created some of the most distinctive work in cover art. Two of them are my favorites, David Stone Martin who gave Norman Granz's Clef label some beautiful cover illustrations (twenty are shown) and Reid Miles who created the east coast look to Blue Note Records. Unfortunately only four of his covers are shown but you can see dozens more in the two books by Graham Marsh: The Cover Art of Blue Note Records and The Cover Art of Blue Note Records, Vol.2. The other six designers range from the unique illustrations of RCA's Jim Flora to the work of Swiss born designer Erik Nitsche and his semi abstract work for Decca. Record companies are also featured and you can see the beginnings of the Capitol Records house style, I think they were the only major company to produce consistently well designed covers with excellent photography and typography.

Though all these covers are interesting to look at I don't think too many work as complete design units, that is image and text complement each other, mostly they are images with text added later. One cover that I like is on page eighty-one, it shows a file-card box and the albums title, 'Guide to Jazz' is typed on a card which is resting against the box, the tabs of the other cards have musical instruments on them, a simple creative idea that works. Strangely the designer is unknown.

I doubt you will see as good a coverage of the early years of the LP as this (well produced) book but have a look at this title that concentrates on jazz covers from the fifties and sixties, Jazz West Coast: Artwork of Pacific Jazz Records. It has dozens of examples of creativity on paper twelve inches square, somehow CD covers just can't compete with that.

***FOR AN INSIDE LOOK click 'customer image' under the cover.

Bennett
The MAN TO SEE
Published in Paperback by Simon & Schuster (1992-11-01)
Author: Evan Thomas
List price: $25.00
New price: $15.98
Used price: $4.70
Collectible price: $29.59

Average review score:

Book Changed My Life: You'll Love This Book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-16
"THE MAN TO SEE" was a great book. Since I'm going to be attending law school this fall (of 2007), I thought it wouldn't hurt to read books by and about lawyers; man, am I glad I included Evan Thomas's "THE MAN TO SEE" because this is without a doubt one of the best biographies I have read in ages. Page by page, you feel caught up in a drama without end. The characters, adventures, and funny stories add so much luster to a larger-than-life figure. By the end of the book, I was sorry to see it all end; I felt like I actually new Mr. Williams! If you're interested in a good biography check out "THE MAN TO SEE." You won't be disappointed.

A great Book
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2002-01-07
This is one of the best biographies ever written. A wonderful piece about an interesting man.

A tremendous book
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2000-11-26
I have never been more absorbed by a book than by this one. Admittedly my interest was heightened by the fact that Williams was my criminal law teacher at law school, but I found this a fantastic book. Evan Thomas (did you know he is Norman Thomas' grandson?) paints Williams warts and all, and I found it a searing read. The account of Williams' deathly fight with cancer is most poignant. Anyone at all interested in law should read this book, and anyone interested in an amazing life will be enthralled by this account.

Excellent, Excellent book
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-05
This is one of the best biographies I have ever read. It is a great story about a great man. I read a lot of biographies and I can tell when the author is fauning over his subject - just read some of Robert Slater's books on Jack Welch. Thomas book did none of that. Thomas made you feel that he was giving an accurate and true account of Williams life. Of couse Thomas was helped by selecting a subject that was larger than life, a one of a kind person both in legal talent and raw personality. This book is right up there with "Vince", Michael O'Brien's biography of Vince Lombardi. Interestingly, Lomardi and Williams were very much alike - both very religious yet profane, and above the rest of their competitors in their chosen fields. They were also both like to drink, were emotional and quick to say exactly what they thought or felt about something. I recommend this book to anyone who likes to read biographies about great men.

A Magnificent Biography of a Fascinating Man
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2001-12-14
Take a fascinating subject-- Edward Bennett Williams. Add a highly-skilled author with remarkably deep interviewing and archival research skills-- Evan Thomas. Put in a lot of hard work. And presto-- you have Thomas' "The Man To See," one of the most thorough biographies ever written (I have read many hundreds).

Edward Bennett Williams was one of the most dynamic men of the 20th Century-- a great figure of destiny whose life would have seemed emptier had not Evan Thomas been his biographer. EBW was a self-made man in the days where one could still achieve that accolade. He was no spoiled yuppie of family money. Bright, hard-working, forward-thinking, compassionate and disciplined-- and a wonderful rogue!-- this was Edward Bennett Williams. Warts and all, Evan Thomas presents the larger-than-life lawyer who pioneered criminal law practice in postwar America, bringing the constitution into the 20th Century. He sought power for the purpose of doing good, after doing well. Thomas interviewed practically every living person with whom EBW had a conversation or situation.

I am re-reading "The Man to See" for the fourth time in ten years. It remains fresh and fun. What a brilliant book!

Bennett
Nine O'Clock in the Morning
Published in Paperback by Bridge-Logos Publishers (1970-06)
Author: Dennis J. Bennett
List price: $10.99
New price: $4.57
Used price: $2.63
Collectible price: $10.99

Average review score:

Every Christian should read this book...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-19
If you want to be encouraged and uplifted this book is a must. God has not left us to do His work without enabling us with His power. This book explains with testiomony what that means...

IF YOU WANT TO REVITALIZE YOUR FAITH, READ THIS.
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 1998-06-23
FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE WONDERED WHAT FAITH IS ALL ABOUT, THIS BOOK IS A MUST. IN CLEAR, EVERYDAY LANGUAGE IT TELLS WHAT AN ELECTRICAL, AWE INSPIRING EXPERIENCE IT IS TO MEET THE HOLY SPIRIT, FACE TO FACE. YOU GO FORTH WITH A FRESH UNDERSTANDING OF GOD THE FATHER, GOD THE SON AND GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT. I READ IT WHEN IT WAS FIRST PUBLISHED AND HAVEN'T LOOKED AT LIFE THE SAME WAY SINCE.

Changed the way I felt about speaking in tongues.
Helpful Votes: 19 out of 19 total.
Review Date: 1999-06-24
When I first read this book several years ago, I was very skeptical about the gift of tongues and other physical manifestations of the presence of the Holy Spirit. This book taught me so much and answered so many questions I had about the Holy Spirit and his importance in a deeper relationship with God the Father and God the Son. I am most grateful for Dennis Bennett's ministry and the willingness he had to share it with us through his wonderful book.

Change You're Life!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 1998-06-30
If you know Jesus then this book is for you. It will change your life. It changed mine in 1982.

An account by someone who lives it
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2005-06-23
This book was handed to me, by someone in the prayer group that I was a part of at that time. I think everyone who has serious questions about the full gospel, or charismatic christian experience, should read this book, because this is one informed believer that didn't get into extremes after receiving "it"-namely, the operation of one or several of the manifestations, or gifts of the Holy Sprit.

I have only one cavet about this book. Please understand-the author of this book is A PASTOR. Full gospel believers who are Bible informed, know that a pastor in the christian faith, is an office of our faith-and must be called by, and empowered by-God. You can't twist his arm-he gives to whoever, and however he chooses to.

Dennis saw many manifestations of the Holy Spirit in his life, because he was in the office of a pastor. After reading this book, I was somewhat disappointed that I did not see some the same manifestations in my life, especially that of seeing others healed.

God DID choose to let me have a taste, in ministering to a lady, who I had ministered to for 3 years. She wasn't growing, and wasn't attending church regularly, and I felt that I had done all I could do for her if God didn't majorally intervene. I saw her touched as a result of my laying hands on her. So God did let me see it operate in the life of someone not called into the full time ministry.

I will tell you that I did receive the manifestation of devotional tongues. But I will also tell you, that if you are struggling with surreder to God on several issues at the time that you do receive, you will prob not majorally benefit from
this priviledge until you surrender ongoing, known sin.

Please do not judge your spirituality by what God did in this author's life. Let me say-God wants to move through whosoever will-but he does it his way, not yours, and in his time-not yours.

Bennett
Ordinary Jack (Isis Large Print for Children Windrush)
Published in Hardcover by ABC-Clio Inc (1987-11)
Author: Helen Cresswell
List price: $14.95
Used price: $17.50

Average review score:

childhood favorite
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-22
One of my all-time favorites from childhood, and I was pleasantly surprised to find it holds up just as well on a re-read as an adult. Maybe better; I didn't get all the humor and wit at age ten!

The lone average child in an extremely eccentric family, Jack feels left out and begins a campaign to be special too.

Highly recommended!

The first in a hilarious series
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2001-04-19
If P.G. Wodehouse had been writing novels for young readers during the last quarter of the 20th century, he might have come up with something like "Ordinary Jack," the first in Helen Cresswell's series The Bagthorpe Saga. Jack, a hopelessly conventional and normal boy stuck in the middle of the madcap, eccentric Bagthorpe family, known for their prodigious achievements, wonders how he can ever get himself noticed. Uncle Parker, not so brilliant himself, sympathizes and comes up with a plan: Jack will become a prophet and go in for such mystical pursuits as visions, water divining, crystal-ball gazing and Tarot-card reading. Of course, all sorts of complications and much hilarity ensue. This very funny book and its six sequels can be found in British paperback editions and ordered from Amazon.co.uk.

Excellent for adults, or precocious children
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2004-10-16
This book is usually billed as a children's book. I'm pretty
sure that's the reason it's out of print. It's an *excellent*
book, one of the best I have ever read. The characters come
vividly alive, driving the storyline. The plot is deeply
involved, yet easy enough to follow. The prose is crisp and
colorful and draws the reader into the story.

The only problem is, the vocabulary is a little more advanced
than a lot of children these days can comfortably handle. If
the book were marketed for adults, it would be a bigger hit.

This is not to say that children cannot read this book. They
can, if they're avid readers with a good grasp on vocabulary.
I could have read it by sixth grade or so -- about the same
time I was ready to read Dickens and Shakespeare. I didn't
happen to run into it until somewhat later, however, and I can
confirm that it's a great book for adults.

This book will exceed your expectations and capture your
imagination. You'll read it in notime flat, because you won't
put it down for mundane things like meals.

The second book, Absolute Zero, is just as good. The others
in the series are also not bad, though the first two are easily
the best. This is the one to get first.

Puts the "din" in extraordinary
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-06-26
It's been a long time since I read a children's book that really knocked my socks off. I had heard in various children's book circles about the mysterious Bagthorpe saga. A series of stories in which a single ordinary boy must learn to live with his genius/insane family. What I had heard, however, was not exactly conclusive. For all I knew, these books could be good or they could be overrated justly forgotten tripe of the lowest order. Out of the merest curiosity (and because I could locate a copy in my library) I found an original 1977 edition of the book, complete with illustrator Trina Schart Hyman's fabulous cover in which every single Bagthorpe member is rendered in the flesh. What I discovered will now eat up hours and hours of my spare time as I systematically track down each and every Bagthorpe edition in the series available to me. This is an amazing children's experience that must be read to be believed.

Jack is just your average kid. In any other family, this would be a good thing. In Jack's family, it's just short of catastrophe. For you see, in the clan of the Bagthorpes, everyone's a genius. Jack's brother William has a ham radio, plays darts, enjoys the bongos, and often goes about searching for new exciting talents to add to his bag of tricks (or, as they say, strings to their bows). Rosie, Jack's younger sister, is an accomplished portrait painter and recently beat Jack at swimming. Living in such a conceited family might push anyone over the edge, but fortunately Jack has one person he can count on. His Uncle Parker married into the family and, though extraordinary in his own ways, he's just as normal as his nephew. Together, the two plan to make Jack into the kind of guy his siblings see as an equal. They're going to make him into a prophet. This may mean they'll have to employ dowsing rods, crystal balls, purple suits, bear costumes, and tarot cards, but in the end it'll all be worth it.

So many in-jokes, clever puns, and smart plot twists pop up in this book that you'll wonder how long these characters were wandering around author Helen Cresswell's head before she committed them to paper. Adults reading this book will recognize characters they've met in real life while children will read about them and find themselves wishing they belonged to families just this crazy. There's more than a little "Cheaper By the Dozen" in this book, except that each character you meet in "Ordinary Jack" comes with their own very particular personality. I can even pinpoint the moment I feel head over heels in love with the book. After a particularly disastrous birthday celebration that ends in the dining room catching on fire, Uncle Parker laments that, for him, the real loss of the evening was that he won't be able to get the little mottos out of the crackers now. Americans, unfamiliar with crackers, may need a bit of explanation about this Britishism. Those who know what they are, however, will be delighted by Uncle Parker's assertion that he collects them so that at parties he can "stop conversation dead" with one.

Will kids like the book? They won't be able to help but do so. Jack is completely sympathetic, dealing with his crazy relations by becoming even crazier than they are. I loved his self-esteem talks to his dog Zero and how the women in the family suddenly start to get involved in Yoga for no particular reason. Reading this book, you'll forget it was originally published in 1977, so contemporary are some of the terms and fads. You can only assume that had no-carb diets been around in the late 70s, the Bagthorpes would've been involved in those as well.

There are hundreds of children's books that center on crazy families. Heck, Polly Horvath's practically made her living off of the genre. But the best of all these, by far, is Helen Cresswell's really breathtaking Bagthorpe books. "Ordinary Jack" is one of the best children's books I've ever had the pleasure of reading. A brilliant book for any kid with a sense of humor and a yen for the bizarre.

VIVA Bagthorpes!
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2002-07-05
How COULD they have stop printing these books? I have loved the Bagthorpes since I first got Ordinary Jack as a kid and wanted to get the Bagthorpe series for my niece and friends who are having children. Even though I was labeled "gifted" as a child, Jack is readily identifiable and the books are written with such a gentle humor that they are well worth fighting for.

Really, are we supposed to let "Sweet Valley High" set the tone for our pre-adolescents?

Bennett
The Reincarnation of Bennett McKinney
Published in Paperback by Nonetheless Press (2002-12-20)
Author: Steve From
List price: $12.95
Used price: $5.60
Collectible price: $12.95

Average review score:

What an ending!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-10-28
I read this book because it was highly recommended. I am glad I read it. It was easy to read, easy to follow; it had great character development, great detail. Just when I thought I knew how it was all going to end -- nope, it took a turn I wasn't expecting. Congratulations to the author! I hope he considers writing more.

This is one for all to read!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-07-14
Workin with him for quite a few years, I'd been hearin about this book from Snork (Steve From) for a long time, and when he finally got published I couldn't wait to read it. This is one book that once I picked it up, I counldn't put it down. Not just a great story of the rodeo circuit, but a book that will have everyone-young or old, from the country to the city-holdin on for the next ride. The Reincarnation of Bennett McKinney will make you laugh, cry, and waitin on the best. The movie's gonna be great! Waitin on book 2.

Just a good 'ole fashioned read......
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-01-21
This coming from someone who never reads this type of book, but got it on a high-recommendation, it is simply wonderful. The narrative makes you feel like you there, description are colourful and the story itself keeps you hooked. When is the next Reincarnation???

Great book!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-01-18
America got a new star! So I think about Steve From. Kind and wise book. Thank you!

Above my expectations
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-01-21
My husband brought home a book that one of his counter parts at work had written about Bennent Mckinney. I picked the book up thinking I would read it as long as it held my attention. To my pleasure and surprise this book written by Steven From was very entertaining. He had me laughing and swearing in the first couple of chapters. I'm not really what you would call a cowgril and most generally read romance with some supense. But like I said , I thought I would read until I became tired of it. The book was very well written and kept me turning the pages to see what would take place next. I liked it because it was written on a cowboys point of view, and it let you into the mind of the cowboy for a better understanding why they do what they do. I came away with repect for the bullrider and the bullfighter. Can't wait for the movie. Teresa Laflan

Bennett
Sunset Forever (Sunset Island)
Published in Paperback by Berkley (1997-06-01)
Author: Cherie Bennett
List price: $3.99
New price: $29.99
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

The Greatest Series Ever!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-14
I love all of Cherie Bennet's Sunset Series. In my opinion they are one of the most interesting teenage series published. I have been to book stores looking for sunset books and have found up to 20 books in the series. I would love to read them all! And I hope you can put a list of ALL the books in this series. Thanks.

A real tear-jerker
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1999-03-25
I have read all of the Sunset Island Books and this is definetly one of the best of the series. I cried during parts of it, especially towards the end. I couldn't believe they were all going away for the winter. But, definetly a very good book.

A Tear-Jerker
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1998-08-31
I have read all of the books in the series and they are the best. But Sunset Forever is the best it Shows that your best friends are people that you can depend on and that will be there for you always and forever.

A tear jerker
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1998-08-31
I have read every single one of the series Sunset Island and it was i must admitt the best series I have ever read. The last book Sunset Forever though was the best book in the whole series. I was sitting reading the end and the tears were rolling down my cheeks. I just wished it would never end becasuse i it did the whole series would be over.

Cherie Bennett's finale to the Sunset series was incredible!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1998-01-15
Cherie really captured the true meaning of friendship in this novel. Sadly enough, it was the last one in the Sunset Island series,( the best series ever) and it really blew me away. I cried and I laughed. Although I couldn't wait to find out what happened, I longed for the book to never be over because the thought of finising my favorite series ever was a bit sad. It really exposed how love can affect your life, through friendship, and romance. The ending was a suprise, and as I read it through tear-stained eyes, I smiled. I had hoped that there would be another Sunset book after that one, a follow-up, but I guess that would ruin the effect. This book was the best in the series and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in teen fiction. Peticularly those who love Cherie's books as much as I do.


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