Bryan Books

This is a fascinating book that gives one a tour of numbers, their properties, idiosyncracies and uses in quick computation etc. Having each number somewhat independent from one another you can read any chapter at random and gain quite a bit. The text does require concentration to fully appreciate the ideas. Also I found that having a notepad and pencil proves quite handy. In some cases I had to read certain paragraphs twice to fully understand the material.

There is one drawback that I just cannot overlook. The editing is substandard. Granted a typo here and there can be forgiven but it appears that in this case the number of errors is quite significant. Hence the four star rating.

However, if you like numbers and their properties this is a good book to have by one's bedside to read a chapter or two daily.

For anyone who likes numbers, this book is a delight. Open it at random and find some fascinating treasure. Great for kids who are starting to reach out.

I think this book has something for just about everyone. It's a great read, and it's not dumbed down.

Not since the great Indian mathematician Srinivasi Ramanujan has anyone gotten so involved in the personality of numbers to the extent as which Bryan Bunch has, and the reader is far better off for it. The classic story about Ramanujan and the personality of numbers is the tale about the number 1729. When he was ill in a hospital in England he was paid a visit by his friend and colleague G. H. Hardy, who had been given a ride in a taxicab bearing that number. Upon greeting Ramanujan, Hardy remarked that 1729 seemed like an exceedingly dull number and he hoped that this would not be taken as a bad omen. Ramanujan immediately answered: "No, no, my friend, on the contrary; it is a very interesting number. It is the smallest number that can be formed by adding two cubes together in two different ways!"

Such is the involvement of author Bryan Bunch with the personaliy of numbers. His tales of whole numbers from one to googolplex, fractions, algebraic, transcendental and imaginary numbers is sure to entertain and inform any reader with an interest in the world of numbers. His work is such that there is no such thing as an uninteresting number. To prove that there can be no such thing as an uninteresting number, consder the following: 'One' is interesting because it is considered neither prime nor composite; 'two' is ineresting because it is the only even prime number; 'three' is the smallest odd prime number; 'four' is the smallest even number to be a square; 'five'is a Fermat prime; 'six' is the smallest perfect number;...until the first 'uninteresting' number is reached. The fact that it is the first uninteresting number immediately makes it interesting!

Despite a few minor errors and the November 14 discovery of the primality of 2^13446917-1 (replacing 2^6972593-1 as the largest known prime number), I still believe that this book would be of great interest to any reader with an interest in numbers.

1729 = 1^3 + 12^3 = 9^3 + 10^3, in case you are interested in the Ramanujan story.

Not since the great Indian mathematician Srinivasi Ramanujan has anyone gotten so involved in the personality of numbers to the extent as which Bryan Bunch has, and the reader is far better off for it. The classic story about Ramanujan and the personality of numbers is the tale about the number 1729. When he was ill in a hospital in England he was paid a visit by his friend and colleague G. H. Hardy, who had been given a ride in a taxicab bearing that number. Upon greeting Ramanujan, Hardy remarked that 1729 seemed like an exceedingly dull number and he hoped that this would not be taken as a bad omen. Ramanujan immediately answered: "No, no, my friend, on the contrary; it is a very interesting number. It is the smallest number that can be formed by adding two cubes together in two different ways!"

Such is the involvement of author Bryan Bunch with the personaliy of numbers. His tales of whole numbers from one to googolplex, fractions, algebraic, transcendental and imaginary numbers is sure to entertain and inform any reader with an interest in the world of numbers. His work is such that there is no such thing as an uninteresting number. To prove that there can be no such thing as an uninteresting number, consder the following: 'One' is interesting because it is considered neither prime nor composite; 'two' is ineresting because it is the only even prime number; 'three' is the smallest odd prime number; 'four' is the smallest even number to be a square; 'five'is a Fermat prime; 'six' is the smallest perfect number;...until the first 'uninteresting' number is reached. The fact that it is the first uninteresting number immediately makes it interesting!

Despite a few minor errors and the November 14 discovery of the primality of 2^13446917-1 (replacing 2^6972593-1 as the largest known prime number), I still believe that this book would be of great interest to any reader with an interest in numbers.

1729 = 1^3 + 12^3 = 9^3 + 10^3, in case you are interested in the Ramanujan story.

The only thing I can find wrong with it is that it didn't come with sql server cd. Other than that it's just fine.

If you're new to SQL Server, the format of this book could not be better or reading it cover to cover. It's designed (as Murach's other books) in a style to indroduce a small concept per page and give you an excercise to try it yourself. I recommend this book to all beginners to the technology but not necessarily if you have a lot of experience in the field already.

I am using "Murach's SQL Server 2005 for Developers" for a community college entry-level SQL class. It is a great book with nice prose and good examples.

One drawback is that instead of identifying, say, Figure 8.3 above-or-below the image, the identification is listed at the bottom of the page with the image. That takes awhile to get used to and makes it harder than it needs to be to make sure I am looking at the correct code snippet.

This is the 5th book of Murach's that I have purchased, once again it is as good as the other's. Provides concise information in an easy to read format.

I read Murach's SQL Server 2005 for Developers while looking for a book for teaching a class on SQL. Since the course is going to use SQL Server it seemed like an obvious fit. It is. This is a targeted book for the professional course on writing SQL for SQL Server 2005.

I suppose it could be used for learning SQL for other databases but it does a pretty good job of hitting all the SQL Server specific variations in SQL that make up T-SQL. I also suppose that it could be used for self directed study. Like the rest of the Murach books, it has a side by side format with explanation and related examples. Since there's plenty of room for Lab work, it really fits the classroom well.

Overall I'm happy with the book and don't have any real criticism. It is what it tries to be. A book for teaching SQL for SQL Server 2005.

Good start to a fantasy series. I enjoy a strong heroine and a little romantic tension. The problem is now I have to wait months/years for the next book to see what happens next!

I finished it in just a couple of days. It was quite entertaining. The characters are all or all bad, but it doesn't take away from the fun. Even Gerenint's time spent at school, he made almost all loyal friends, with the small exception of one (who wasn't really all that bad, either). The Knights were exceptionally devoted without blemish. I know, it sounds as though it would be sappy and annoying, but it's not. The story is sweet and full of hope. I think too many people now a-days are a bit too jaded, and this book brings back a feeling that has become lost in present day--even though the situations are vastly different I think anyone can draw comparison lines. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.

How refreshing to read a well-written fantasy story whose characters are engaging and sympathetic. The mythology is very similar to ancient christianity, but instead of finding that trite, I enjoyed the different language and perspective of our basic mythology. It's very easy to relate to. Bryan's writing is poetic and clear. The plot doesn't stand still for a moment. A real treat!

I agree with most of the reviews I have read of this book. It is a good example of High Fantasy. Peasant boy meets princess and falls in love. It is well written and a fun read. I will give it the best accolades that I can give a fantasy novel: in some places it reminds me of Guy Kay. The writing has a similar flow and some word choices brought me back to Kay's work.
The reason I wanted to write this review, is to point out that this is not a first novel. In fact this is the work of a well established fantasy writer working under a pseudonym. This book was written by Judith Tarr. If you like this book you should check out her other novels.

The Knights of the Rose, mages and fighting men, have defended the Mysteries and kept the evil magic of the Serpent imprisoned.. or so they thought. Secretly, or not so secretly, the King of Lys has been gathering power by eliminating the powerful nobles, He also seeks to bring back the rule of the Serpent. To that effect, he makes a move against the Houses of the Knights, who were more complacent than they should have been after being unchallenged for centuries, and destroys their power and their magic. He also moves against the Duke of Quitaine. Averil, the Duke's heir, has been away on the Isle of the Lady, where she was trained and raised from a baby. She has returned to an assassination attempt against her as well as a suspicious illness that has stricken her father. She has found an unlikely ally in Gereint, a farm boy who is also a fledgling mage and Postulant to the Order of the Rose.

The basic tale is nothing novel... A strong lady, imperiled, who hopes against hope to foil the nefarious plans of the Evil King of Lys... aided by a farm boy who has the potential to be a great power. But the Knights aren't Jedi, Averil and Gereint are very likable characters (although why she insists on worrying about how unconventional it would be for her to hook up with a peasant boy when the sky is falling is beyond me!), and the world and writing is just good enough for me to want to keep on reading to the end of this book and on to the next in the series...

This was one of the best books on legal writing I've read. Excellent. I wish I could afford a copy for myself! (I was lucky to find it at the library.)

This volume is by far the best work available on legal writing. Most of Prof. Garner's advice applies not merely to briefs but to memos, letters, and other persuasive or analytical forms. His chapters take you through every step of writing, from the earliest, painful efforts to collect your thoughts, through outlining, issue-framing, structuring an argument, and finally the specifics of sentence structure, word choice, and punctuation. Unlike many writing manuals, this book places emphasis where it is really needed: not on mechanics, but on the large structural tasks that can make or break a project. While some of Prof. Garner's formatting suggestions may not be acceptable in many jurisdictions, his more general advice -- the real reason for buying this book -- will be helpful everywhere.

Bryan A. Garner, editor-in-chief for the latest edition of Black's Law Dictionary, is one of America's foremost proponents of the "plain English" movement in the law. In The Winning Brief, Mr. Garner distills the principles found in his seminars and his other books (such as The Elements of Legal Style) and channels them toward one goal: helping the reader write better legal briefs.

The Winning Brief presents its advice in the form of 100 tips, each followed by quotations, commentary, and examples. The tips follow the chronological order of a writing project, from initial brainstorming to proofreading. The tips are listed inside the front and rear covers for quick reference.

Mr. Garner's advice has contributed directly to my practice. I have applied his advice in writing four summary judgment motions; two were granted, while the other two led to favorable settlements for my clients.

The reader is sure to find at least one or two tips that can be applied immediately to a current writing project. Not only that, but Mr. Garner's advice can be applied to other non-fiction writing projects. In sum, I heartily recommend this book to all attorneys who hope to be more persuasive in their writing.

Garner's book is helpful because:
1) It is written in an easy to understand accessible way.
2) It segregates and categorizes what he characterizes as tips. That allows the reader to weigh and evaluate the merit of Garner's judgment on a tip individually. It also allows the reader to conceptually focus on a narrow writing issue.
3) The advantage of each "tip" is supported by a brief observation or argument.
4) Garner uses examples to support the validity of his arguments in favour of a tip, often with before and after pieces of writing.
5) Because of the organization into 100 tips, the book also can be a helpful reference.

While the advice to avoid clutter, in words, ideas, and layout sounds commonsensical, applying that advice is not always so obvious. I think Garner does a terrific job.

Even though, in an effort to avoid clutter, I have been using many of these "tips", I had not engaged in the kind of analysis that Garner has. Even it you already observe these tips, there is some comfort in having validation--that you are on the right track.

An earlier reviewer refers favourably to Judge Aldisert's book from NITA about appeal briefs in the course of reviewing Garner's book. I am reading that book now. I do not think Judge Aldisert's book is a superior alternative to Garner's book. I think the books are complementary. Justice Aldisert's book has a number of points that are specific to certain areas of American appellate practice. Garner's book is more about getting your ideas across well through writing, and has a strong emphasis on some important components in putting sentences and paragraphs together, grammatical, structural, choice of vocabulary.

Overall, Garner's book is a tremendous resource. Lucky lawyers reading it; lucky judges when they get the benefit of better written briefs because of Garner's book.

I'm a former paralegal currently in law school, and one of the more difficult things about dealing with the law is making your writing sparkle... in the most succinct way possible. This book can help. With countless examples and snippets of wisdom culled from top legal minds, Bryan Garner has put together a fantastic resource. He takes the reader through the entire process of writing to the court, from brainstorming to the million (or 100, at least) ways to polish a document.

This isn't a book that rehashes writing tips you'll find in more general guides--it is specifically geared toward the delicate craft of legal writing. Admittedly, this is a somewhat pricey tome, but it's worth every penny.

Hofstadter ranks with Bancroft, Beard, and Tuckman as one of the great scholars of American history. AGE OF REFORM definitely shows why; his scholarly, permeating style impresses his words into your mind, changing both your scope and sense of American history. In this book, he tracks various reformist groups that shaped America, starting with the Populists of the late 19th century and ending with the New Deal reforms of FDR.

Hofstadter's thoughts on the early 20th century Progressives and New Dealers conform with the writings of most other historians. It is Hofstadter's section on the Populists that has always generated the most controversy, both in the past and still today. In the first third of the book, Hofstadter writes of the American "agrarian myth" and how the Populist farmers sought the "lost agrarian ideals" of Jefferson and Jackson. He emphasizes how the Populists were basically reactionary whiners who impetuously thought themselves deserving of some special privelage, simply because they were farmers, the supposed "All-American" profession. Hofstadter goes further by describing the Populists as jingoistic proto-facists. By use of effective documentation, he shows this "dark side" of Populism, with its demagogic rants against politicians, urbanites, Britons, Jews, and immigrants.

Although Hofstadter indeed is very effective in his writing and documentation, he fails in the aspect of fair historical analysis. When one reads AGE OF REFORM, one should always remember the Populists from a broader perspective than Hofstadter's biased urban views. In truth, the Populists are one of American history's unfortunate losers; like the Loyalists and Native Americans, the Populists failed in almost all their immediate objectives; their leaders, like William Jennings Bryan and Tom Watson, are best remembered as lost crusaders. They lost because they were simply ahead of their time; they were New Dealers in a time when the New Deal was ignored and not accepted. The Populists lost in their present because their reforms were meant for the future; thus, at least the future should appreciate and judge the past correctly. Although Hofstadter writes an enthralling historical work, his unjust view of the Populists should not be taken by modern readers as absolute truth.

At one time I used to believe that the Progressive Era in America, roughly from 1900- 1920, was the real source of post World War II ideas of social progress such as Truman's Fair Deal, Kennedy's New Frontier and Johnson's Great Society. Previously I had placed those ideas on the doorstep of Franklin Roosevelt. Ah, but those were the silly days of my youth when I believed that the Democratic Party could be pushed to the left and made the equivalent of a European social-democratic organization responsible to its working class base. I now believe that the progressive period is decisive but for a different reason, that is, its role in sucking up the leftist political landscape and preventing a hard core working class-centered socialist party from crystallizing in this country.

For those, like myself, who look hard for antecedents, this is important to an understanding of why today, in face of incredible provocations by the two major political parties we have no independent class party of the working people. Thus, a look at the period becomes essential for understanding the malaise that we find ourselves today. A good place to start, and I would emphasize the word start since the book originally took form in the 1950's, is Professor Hofstadter's book on the period. While one does not have to be sympathetic to his generally pro-Progressive tilt this little book, complete with important footnoted source references, gives a very good outline of the personalities, issues and sociological trends that broke the back of fight for an independent mass socialist party in the period.

Ironically in Europe, in the period under discussion, large, well-organized class-conscious labor parties some of them, like the Bolsheviks in Russia even revolutionary were rearing there heads. Although a relatively small, loosely organized, and programmatically amorphous Socialist Party did emerge in the United States at this time it was definitely (and occasionally, by choice) subordinated to the Progressive movement. Unless one is eternally committed to the political strategy of the `popular front', that is multi-class organizations based on the lowest common denominator policies in order to achieve social change this was a very badly missed opportunity by socialists.


Hofstadter makes the interesting, and basically true, point that the whirlwind Populist movement that sprang out of the farms of the American prairie in the early 1890's and embraced Free Silver and Bryan in 1896 was fundamentally hostile to the urban classes and particularly to the working class. I have argued elsewhere that the working class had no interest in the inflationary silver coinage issue. Moreover the populist movement, except in the South where it had the potential of driving a wedge into the race question, was the last gasp effort of the small capitalist family farmer in the face of the victory of mass industrialization and the rise of finance capital. I would however, argue that as late as 1896 it was still possible that the bedeviled populist movement could have been an auxiliary to an urban-based workers party. With the rise of the middle class Progressive movement such a possibility was derailed.

The rise of the Progressive movement is the strongest part of this book. Hofstadter having staked out his own personal political philosophy under the aegis of that movement has many interesting things to say about it. The fundamental driving force behind this movement was the fact of ruthless industrialization and the reaction to it by those who either had previously benefited from society, the classic "Mugwumps", or were being driven under by ` the captains of industry'. Particularly well done are the analysis of the rise of the professoriat, the increase in the number of cities and their size and with it the creation of new political organizations, the change in the status of the clergy and the free professions, immigration (that round of it any way) and the changing mores which broke down the prevailing ideology.

While one may, as the writer does, disagree with the depth of the positive effects that the various pieces of legislation that the Progressives were able to get passed one can nevertheless see that a different class axis would have been necessaryin order to make fundamental changes. Thus, although Hofstatder will not be you last place to look in understanding the evolution, such as it is, of American society for this crucial period in working class history it certainly should be your first.

It's not every book that can change one's thinking about a political movement and a period in history, but Hofstadter's book did just that for me when I first read it many years ago. It's an incisive critique of the populist and progressive movements that sprang up in the last quarter of the 19th century and exerted strong influence on American politics until the onset of World War I. But Hofstadter's great achievement is that he sets both these movements in historical perspective, showing us that no movement flowers without roots.

Hofstadter is at his best in revealing that the populist movement played -- and preyed -- on the longing of Americans for a pastoral, agrarian past that was ironically little more than myth by the end of Reconstruction. In an increasingly industrial, urban America, the populists were able to set themselves up as downtrodden victims of various villians, chief among them the railroads and the banks.

Yet Hofstadter convincingly argues that the farmers of the West were eager to become businessmen in the boom years following the Civil War, when land and capital were cheap. It was not until they were battered by the economic slumps that are an inevitable part of a market economy that the agrarian movement began demanding government intervention to reign in capital and portraying agriculture as especially worthy of special attention.

The populist's appeal to the little man, dwarfed by powers beyond his control, played well in some segments of the U.S., but Hofstadter portrays a darker side of populism, exposing its anti-foreign and anti-Semitic leanings. Reading about the populist's railings against foreigners and their dark hints of conspiracy by vast economic and political powers, I heard echoes of the speeches of Pat Buchanan.

As for the progressives, the urban reformers who overlapped to some extent with the populists, Hofstadter cogently points out that this middle class movement was in large part a reaction to the growing influence of immigrants in large American cities. The middle class, he argues, was feeling squeezed between the waves of immigrants, who were increasingly catered to by machine politicians, and the new and enormously rich industrial class. The progressive movement was an attempt to wrest back some measure of political strength by undercutting the power of the bosses with "good government" and to reign in the economic clout of the industrialists through reform.

This is required reading for the student of American history. We have produced few historians who match the stature and achievement of Hofstadter, and this book is one of his best.

Richard Hofstadter (1916-1970) was a prolific writer and commentator on the Gilded Age and Progressive Eras, a founding member of the "Consensus School" of American history, and a scathing critic of the conservatism of his day. Often portrayed, in his day and since, as the "finest and also most humane historical intelligence of our generation", Hofstadter was one of the most distinguished historians of the twentieth century . Over the course of his too brief life, Hofstadter the DeWitt Clinton Professor of American History at Columbia University, was the author of several groundbreaking books including, `The Age of Reform (1955) and Anti-intellectualism in American Life (1963), both of which won the Pulitzer Prize in non-fiction . A vigorous champion of the liberal politics that emerged from the New Deal, Hofstadter fought public campaigns against liberalism's most dynamic opponents from McCarthy in the 1950s to Barry Goldwater and the Sun Belt Conservatives in the 1960s. His distaste of the extreme politics of post war America, expressed in his books, essays and public lectures, marked him as one of the nation's most important and prolific public intellectuals. The range of his interests was unusual, extending from the earliest phases of the American Experience through to the concerns of his day. A `specialist' he was not, a master of the subjects he covered he was; which was widely acknowledged and respected. Hofstadter's principle theme of the importance of ideas in history, more precisely the relation between the way people behaved, in politics and other realms of effort, and the use they made of their mind, along with the idea that history is akin to literature, had an immense impact on his students, colleagues and the entire academic world. Extremely active, Hofstadter was continuously embarking on new thought provoking work right up to his death, caused by leukaemia on October 24, 1970, which caught him, as he himself had written of one of his favourite politicians many years before very much "in the midst of things" .

Hofstadter's "The Age of Reform: From Bryan to FDR" played a significant role in establishing his influence and reputation. The book received critical acclaim when published in 1955 and won the Pulitzer Prize the following year. "The Age of Reform" many are inclined to agree, even its detractors of which are many "is the most influential book ever published on the history of twentieth century America" . This landmark book in American political thought is a study of American political culture from the Populist Movement of the 1890s through the Progressive Era ending with the New Deal of the 1930s. "The Age of Reform" is an evaluation of the reform associations from Bryan to F.D.R., and analyses the ideas of each participant, rather than the legislative or political philosophies, and does not regurgitate the number of details of each reform movement. Hofstadter's analysis of the reformations in a modern perspective and the definitions between each of them, created a unique and vastly influential contribution, which has been seen as not only his most original and influential book but one that solidified Hofstadter as one of the great historians of his time .

[Part of the above review is taken from; "An Enduring Influence: Richard Hofstadter and The Age of Reform" by Alexander Rayden.
© 2005 Alexander Rayden, All Rights Reserved]

Historians still consider the late Richard Hofstadter one of the great American historians of the 20th century. His voluminous output when he worked as a professor at Columbia continues to draw readers and researchers both inside and outside of academia. "The Age of Reform" is Hofstadter's analysis of Populism and Progressivism in American history, which the author defines as a period running roughly from 1890 to 1940. This historical treatment won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1956, although it is difficult at times to see why. If we accept the idea that historians should always strive to lift themselves above their own biases and personal backgrounds, we must conclude that Richard Hofstadter was little more than a prejudiced city dweller who sought to tar American rural movements with an overarching label of anti-Semitism. Fortunately, new work concerning the Populists is available, work that patently refutes many of this author's scurrilous claims.

The author claims that Populism sought to reaffirm the American agrarian lifestyle in an age of increasing industrialization and urbanization. He attacks what he refers to as the "agrarian myth," or the idea that the backbone of American society was the benevolent, hard working farmer; an idea once advocated by none other than Thomas Jefferson. Hofstadter scoffs at the Jeffersonian idea of democratic virtues imbued by working with the soil, going so far as to conclude that Populism, which was a political movement by farmers and their associates to challenge what they saw as hegemonic behavior directed against rural areas by the cities and governmental organs, was deeply and irrevocably devoted to anti-Semitism in its most virulent strains. "The Age of Reform" cites Populist leaders Mary Lease and Ignatius Donnelly as two of the more strident proponents of rural anti-Jewish discontent.

While it is obvious that there was an element of anti-Semitism swirling through parts of the Populist movement, this animosity in no way formed the foundation of rural discontent. Farmers' concerns encompassed a host of disturbing issues, including railroads, the banking industry, corruption in politics, and moral values. Hofstadter commits a grave error in claiming that racial motives constituted the sublime principle for the millions of farmers who harbored a beef with the political system. Author Peter Novick, in his superb treatment of American historians, unearthed a letter proving that Hofstadter admitted to greatly exaggerating his claims about anti-Semitism among America's rural population. If one takes this claim to its logical, and disturbing, conclusion, the author of "The Age of Reform" essentially misrepresented his evidence in order to support a theory. That this is an egregious crime worthy of professional exile has had little effect on the endless accolades accorded Richard Hofstadter over the years. If lesser mortals were to commit such an indiscretion, they would find themselves drummed out of the discipline with great haste.

The second part of this book concerns Progressivism. According to Hofstadter, the concern of the progressives didn't involve a disbelief in the system of American society and government, but rather their position in a world increasingly fraught with the tectonic changes of industrialism. Specifically, Progressive initiatives involved status, as diverse sections of the populace attempted to find a new role in a changing country. As an example, the author refers to the clergy as one of these classes threatened with change. In an increasingly secularized culture, and one in which social scientists and the industrialists rose to undreamt of heights in social influence, those who worked for the churches lost considerable clout. Those men of the cloth wise to the changes in America embraced the reform minded social gospel in order to regain influence over the masses. In short, the changes in American society during the turn of the century led to a restructuring among all classes, not merely the working class or farmers. When a response to industrialism became necessary, everybody responded to it in some manner in an attempt to preserve their social station.

In a way, I understand Hofstadter's concern about the dangers of mass political movements. Look at the author's ethnic background; he was a Jewish-American who worked closely with other Jewish-American scholars in post-WWII America. What Jew wouldn't look for the seeds of an anti-Semitic basis in any political movements with Hitler's final solution still looming large in the popular mind? Populism in its expressions never resembled the scenes in "Triumph of the Will," but even a slender reed of anti-Jewish thought amongst the few was enough to set off alarm bells in the minds of Hofstadter, Daniel Bell, and others. "The Age of Reform" contributes an explanation of one facet of American Populism, but fails to convince me that anti-Jewish sentiment was the driving force of the movement. Hofstadter and company saw brown shirts instead of bib overalls, Nordic warriors instead of the Joads.

All is not lost with Richard Hofstadter, as there is plenty here and in his other works that sparkle with his easy prose style and all-encompassing eye for detail. One of the things I love about this author is how he discusses these obscure writings from various historical figures. In "The Age of Reform," Hofstadter discusses in some depth Ignatius Donnelly's apocalyptic novel "Caesar's Column," a discussion that made me instantly want to procure a copy. His observations on such literary obscurities are always a lot of fun, inspiring the reader to investigate these topics further. In short, when one reads Hofstadter, don't always take his word as gospel just because historians continue to adore him. "The Age of Reform" is an important work on Populism and Progressivism, but it certainly isn't the final analysis on these fascinating subjects.

This game is a worthy FASA battletech product. In the game you recieve two maps, which are identical, 48 Battlemechs which are made from 24 designs, two rule books for beginners and advanced players, dice, game Battlemechs sheets, 144 miniture insignia stickers for the battlemechs and a mail order form. I found the game very enjoyable. The beginner rules are easy to learn and you can really use strategies to disable opponents. A lot of Role Playing board games I've seen are basically just roll the dice chance games.

With this boardgame the players can really use tactics and strategies to defeat opponents. The terrain types with their advantages and disadvantages really add a sense of leadership with deciding which areas to engage enemy companies from.

The beginner rules give you the basics and are detailed enough to keep players happy until they master these rules. Next you can move onto the more advanced rules. The advanced rules make the game absolutely brilliant. There are so many variables to effect the game with strategy, it's incredible.

However the battlemechs you recieve in the game are only stand up cards. However they are beautifully drawn and colourful. I have purchased 14 miniture plastic Battlemechs to help spice the game up. Doing this can really improve the games realism.

There are a few scenarios included to help the role playing in the game. The game allows you to custom battlemechs, which gives you the ability to select weapons, armour, MPs etc. This also helps improve the game because players can create their own 'mech and test their skill against other players.

Another little set back I found was the record sheets for the Battlemechs. The idea is to use a pencil and use the sheets, then erase the pencil marks to preserve the limited sheets. However you can only do that so many times until the sheets are warn out. Scanning and printing out the sheets can save wear and tear.

The game is solid and enjoyable. It also really helps you learn about the Inner Sphere and Battletech. The game is fun and can be played with just he one set. The games can go for hours and never get boring. The strategy and tactics used in the game really make it a worthy title, where you have advanced knowledge on battletech or are a new player, the game is for everyone. I recommend this title!!

This game is a fairly good representation of the BattleTech universe (and it should be; it's a FASA-endorsed prodcut). Overall, however, the boxed set will not be enough to really play the game. If you purchase this game, you will want to also obtain a copy of the BattleTech Master Rules at least; if not a few of the Technical Readouts, Sourcebooks, and so on.

However, this game is also pretty easy to learn (especially compared to many of the other wargames that I've tried). One thing to be aware of is that much of the action takes place in your head: there are (obviously) no laser-lights and so forth, but plenty of dice-rolling ;-)

This game really is good, if you enjoy BattleTech or are looking for a beginner's wargame. I started with the MechWarrior 2 game, read many of the books, and then began this game, and I was surprised how well it kept the feel of the other components of the BattleTech universe. Also, even if you don't play the game, the sourcebooks are a wonderful way to learn about your favorite factions.

This game, ultimately, lives up to the BattleTech name and does it justice. A final note: if you play this after starting MechWarrior 3 (or vice versa) you will notice similarities, since the 'Mech 3 game was based upon the pen-and-paper BattleTech game. Playing this game helped me understand the 'Mech creation system in 'Mech 3 far better than I had beforehand.

Mostly, an enjoyable game for just about anyone.

This is one seriously cool game with an easy to learn but difficult to master universe. The best part is it can be used so many differant ways. 1. Get a friend and have a scrap with 7 or 8(!)mechs each. 2. Get a load of friends and have a one mech each rumble. 3. Play with a story.

There are just thousand of ways to use this system. And the battletech system goes on with the card game as well.

One kick system.

This game is a worthy FASA battletech product. In the game you recieve two maps, which are identical, 48 Battlemechs which are made from 24 designs, two rule books for beginners and advanced players, dice, game Battlemechs sheets, 144 miniture insignia stickers for the battlemechs and a mail order form.

I found the game very enjoyable. The beginner rules are easy to learn and you can really use strategies to disable opponents. A lot of Role Playing board games I've seen are basically just roll the dice chance games.

With this boardgame the players can really use tactics and strategies to defeat opponents. The terrain types with their advantages and disadvantages really add a sense of leadership with deciding which areas to engage enemy companies from.

The beginner rules give you the basics and are detailed enough to keep players happy until they master these rules. Next you can move onto the more advanced rules. The advanced rules make the game absolutely brilliant. There are so many variables to effect the game with strategy, it's incredible.

However the battlemechs you recieve in the game are only stand up cards. However they are beautifully drawn and colourful. I have purchased 14 miniture plastic Battlemechs to help spice the game up. Doing this can really improve the games realism.

The more players you have the merrier. I have only played with a maximum of three, and it was brilliant. However making teams and having alliances also spice the game up.

There are a few scenarios included to help the role playing in the game. The game allows you to custom battlemechs, which gives you the ability to select weapons, armour, MPs etc. This also helps improve the game because players can create their own 'mech and test their skill against other players.

Another little set back I found was the record sheets for the Battlemechs. The idea is to use a pencil and use the sheets, then erase the pencil marks to preserve the limited sheets. However you can only do that so many times until the sheets are warn out. I scanned the sheets and printed out copies of each one.

The game is solid and enjoyable. It also really helps you learn about the Inner Sphere and Battletech. The game is fun and can be played with just he one set. The games can go for hours and never get boring. The strategy and tactics used in the game really make it a worthy title, where you have advanced knowledge on battletech or are a new player, the game is for everyone. I recommend this title!!

I began playing Battletech when the 2nd edition rules were the newest around, and have stayed with it ever since. It is a well thought out, easy to learn game system that is still entertaining due to the infinite setups that are possible. The newest boxed set fixes the one problem I had with the earlier boxed set, the cardboard figures,as the current set comes with plastic miniatures. Metal ones can be purchased for almost every FASA designed 'mech through gaming stores. I have played dozens of different wargame systems, and always come back to Battletech.

-Greg Morris-

I found this book to be very useful. I haven't taken Biology or Chemistry in a few years and plan on taking the CSET for Biology next month. Its a good resource!

This book was a great help in addition to my text book in Biology. It helps to compact information so I was able to pick out only the facts. This is a great tool for people who are trying to CLEP their Biology.

This book is definitely written in a reader friendly manner. It's nice and brief. It gets right to the point without having to read the same passage over and over again. I also recommend:
The Ultimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations
(Volume 1: isbn 1933023007)
(Volume 2: isbn 1933023015)
(Volume 3: isbn 1933023023)
These three study guides helped me to get excellent grades. They had the kind of questions that I got on my college biology tests. The Biology Cliff Notes made biology learning a lot faster.

I used this book to help me prepare for the PRAXIS II content knowledge test in biology (it's one of those awful standardized tests). It was generally very good at covering all of the topics necessary in a concise and easy-to-understand manner. There were occasions when I was less impressed by the way in which a topic was explained or laid out, but it is definitely a good supplement or review for someone who has other sources for learning or re-learning the material. (My main gripe was with photosynthesis.) But for a 200 page book on the vast topic of biology, it certainly did its job, and helped me pass my test.

The book was what I needed but I later had to find more information to complete my work. Overall the book was fine. The service, well it took forever to get here, but okay.

this cd is great ...i love bryan's style and this cd didn't stray from that. there's a big emphasis on the sunsalutations which was a nice change and addition to the other cd's of his i have. very strengthening and energizing!

A real live class is best, but this cd and booklet works very well as an alternative if you can't get to real live class.

This is a pretty good workout (although barely any ab work) but it really isn't for me. I practice with Baptiste and Shiva Rae and also on my own with music (Jala by Shiva is really great for a yoga practice). I love to work hard and sweat and tone but I also like a a spiritual, peacefull aspect to my practice and although he does make some good points, to me he sounds like he is lecturing and even though he is reminding us to leave our ego behind to me he sounds full of ego which may be because of his tone. Baptiste talks a lot but I feel inspired and encouraged and he seems so warm and genuine. Shiva is calm and graceful with a very soothing voice. I know Kest is very popular and successful and probably a real fun guy (at times I cracked up during the routine) and the first time I did it I enjoyed it. Then it got annoying.
The asanas are all very basic and simple but you do hold them quite awhile so you get some heat to be sure. Beginners could follow along and refer to the easy flip guide book. Maybe the advanced c.d. is better.
Namaste.

I really enjoy this CD. It is a nice change from the vidoes, and you only have to do it a couple of times before you really don't need the booklet either.
Bryan Kest has a unique style - but I really enjoy him, and have gotten a lot out of his "conversations" during the class itself. It has some challenging segments, so not for the true beginner, but is pretty accessible, as Bryan really speaks to all levels. I recommend it!

I bought this with the Advanced Yoga CD. I love them both and alternate between the two. Simply put, if yo want a great workout at home and like Kest's style, these are the CD's for you! Personally I get bored with Shiva Rea and other instructors. It is Kest's style that keeps me focused on why I am practicing yoga and at the end feel great!

MY FAMILY AND I JUST COULDN'T PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. THIS AUTHOR HAS A UNIQUE AND BELIEVABLE STYLE OF WRITING. HE SEES THIS SUBJECT JUST LIKE ANY READERS WOULD. HE MAKES YOU FEEL THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING THE PHENOMENA THAT HE HIMSELF EXPERIENCED AND THEN WROTE ABOUT. HE IS TRULY AN NOTEWORTHY AUTHOR TO BE WATCHED FOR FUTURE PIECES IN THIS CLASS OF WRITING. THANKS B. ALASPA FOR THE INVESTMENT OF MY TIME READING YOUR BOOK, IT HAS GIVEN ME MUCH ENJOYMENT!

Excellent book:) If you like ghosts stories, you'll love this book. Author has a unique way of telling his visions and thoughts, that it will be hard for you to put this book down !

My family was with the author the night he stayed at the Lemp Mansion and I found myself reliving the entire experience through his very detailed description of the evening's events - a very entertaining read.

This is a must read for all ghost story lovers. Alaspa's writing and story-telling skills are top notch; it kept me entertained from front to back cover and made me feel like I was really there. I can't wait to read his future works.

The author's in-depth description of his night at the mansion was compelling. Very brave!

Packer and Panna Throme are supposed to be basking in their new marriage and enjoying their honeymoon. Unfortunately this is interrupted by Packer being summoned to help fight the Drammun and defend Nearing Vast. Whisked away from his beloved, Packer must spend months aboard the Trophy Chase fighting the pirate Scat Wilkins. Meanwhile Panna refuses to stay at home twiddling her thumbs. She finds herself having to fend off the two faced Prince Mather who has sold his allegiance to the Drammun. And then there is someone who was thought to be dead, who is plotting their revenge on the Thromes....

I think I might have to rethink my views on fantasy fiction. This series has gotten me hooked on the idea of different worlds and realms. I enjoyed the first book in this series and I was thrilled to continue the adventures of Packer and Panna in the sequel. Once again Panna is my favorite character. She is such a strong female character and a wonderful role model for young women. Even though she loves Packer and respects him, she doesn't want to be left at home waiting. Her experiences with the prince showed just how well she's able to take care of herself in tough situations. The contrast between the crown prince and his brother are very apparent throughout the story. One has given in to the dark side, selling not only himself but his country as well. Meanwhile the other has gone against his brother and tries to do what is right and protect his country from evil. There's also a surprise return of a character thought to be dead. This character is again, another one of my favorites, and they once again never cease to amaze me with their back story. There's lots of sword fighting in this story with plenty of battle fights to satisfy the adventurous reader. The firefish also makes another memorable appearance as the reader once again gets to see the story from its point of view. The best part of this book is how detailed the author describes everything. Even though this is an imaginary world, the story is written so well that one can see themselves fighting along side Packer. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this wonderful trilogy.

The Hand that Bears the Sword, by George Bryan Polivka, is the second book of an exciting series - the Trophy Chase Trilogy.

Packer Throme is a fisherman from a poor village. He has been acclaimed a hero in the kingdom of Nearing Vast for his exploits recounted in The Legend of the Firefish. However, when the greed of men threatens to transform his victory into the destruction of Nearing Vast, he must answer the call of duty and loyalty and serve to defend his country in a war against overwhelming odds.

He discovers that God has given him a choice - to raise his hand as the one who bears the sword in blood when no other way seems possible, or to let God work the impossible.

In the first chapter, Mr. Polivka sets the delightful tone of his book.


The man stood unsteadily for a moment, then put a hand to the small of his back, wincing as he stretched. "Awful way to travel," he said.
That being the royal sentiment if he had ever heard on, Cap took a knee and bowed his head dutifully. He wished he had a hat to remove.
"Yokels," the man said.
Cap looked up, startled.
"Stand up, man! I'm not the heavin' king."
Cap struggled to his feet.
The stranger eyed Cap carefully, then spoke in confidence. "He's much fatter than me."
Cap nodded. "Yes, sir."
"I'm his herald." The man said it as though the job had been punishment for some offense. "You have ale inside, I hope?"


After that delightful example of beginning, Mr. Polivka weaves together the stories of the characters who return from his first book. Each must deal with a crisis of faith during, often with intriguing and surprising outcomes.

Mr. Polivka dips into many of his characters' lives in order to get inside their minds and to recount their experiences. Often, these viewpoint changes flow seamlessly and provide a depth to the story that would have been difficult to achieve otherwise. At other times, the multiple viewpoint changes seem intrusive, particularly when a section of narrative summary halts the flow of the storytelling in order to update the reader on what had been happening to the character.

The Hand that Bears the Sword is an engrossing sequel to The Legend of the Firefish, and I am looking forward to reading the concluding volume - The Battle for Vast Dominion.

Newlyweds Packer and Panna Throme are once again thrust into high adventure. Pirate Scat Wilkins returns with evil intentions for Packer as the Trophy Chase sets sail for the deep waters once again. A new and surprising Hezzan in the Kingdom of Drammun has diabolical designs on not just Packer but on the entire Kingdom of Nearing Vast. And, at home, Panna must await Packer's hopeful return while imprisoned by the lecherous Prince Mather.

Will Packer and Panna escape their separate dangers and find happiness in the Kingdom of Nearing Vast...or will the invading Drammune army steal away their future and that of all the people of Packer and Panna's homeland?

Well, I won't give away the answer, but let's just say that in usual Polivka style, The Hand That Bears the Sword ends with a surprising twist--and leaves the story wide open for book three.

What I enjoy most about Polivka's writing is his amazing and fresh descriptions. "Bench Urmond was purpose poured into a granite mold." This is just one small example of the insight he gives to develop a character in the reader's mind. Polivka is a master of showing versus telling.

I also enjoyed the hilarious antics of Panna keeping the prince at arm's length. While men will like the action/adventure of the story, women will cheer for Panna and look forward to the scenes involving her.

The overall theme of the book is that God does answer prayer but most often not in ways we expect--and it's usually better if we don't get in the way. He is sovereign and carries out His purposes even when, or perhaps especially when we lose heart.

If you enjoyed The Princess Bride, then you're sure to enjoy The Hand That Bears The Sword. It's a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and romance. But be forewarned...you will want to rush out and buy book three, The Battle for Vast Dominion, as soon as you've closed the back cover.

Review by Michelle Griep

As both an author and reader of fiction, I was impressed with "the Hand That Bears the Sword". Maybe it is because I have always enjoyed a book that could hold my attention and make me think at the same time. In a nutshell, the characters are believable and yet a little out of the ordinary and the story line unique. Give this book a try. I have not read his first book but now I will.
The Christian fiction book that I have written main story theme is about ten years in the life of a little girl who was "chosen by God" to be the next Madonna in the second coming of Christ.
Tommy Taylor
Author - The Second Virgin Birth

Reviewed by Lori Plach for Reader Views (12/07)

Have you ever waited and waited for a sequel to come out for a favorite book or movie? When the long-anticipated sequel comes out you find yourself not enjoying the second one as much as the first. Let's face it, sometimes the sequels or the second one in a series fails in comparison to number one. If you enjoyed "The Legend of the Firefish," which is the first one in the "Trophy Chase Trilogy," you will not be disappointed in the second one of the series. "The Hand That Bears the Sword" is just as wonderful as the first one.

Packer and Panna Throme are newlyweds. The honeymoon is soon over and Packer is again called away from his home. It is more difficult for him to leave this time as he must leave Panna at home. He is again headed for adventure on the high seas. Pirate Scat Wilkins is no longer in charge as he was in the "Legend of the Firefish." But no good adventure story is without its villain. Scat seems to want to attack Packer again. Will he succeed in destroying Packer this time around?

Meanwhile at home, Panna has found herself to be in enough trouble on her own. She is being imprisoned by Prince Mather. Will she have the strength to endure the trials and be reunited with Packer when he is again back on the shore? Panna does not ever fail in comparison with her lack of endurance to withstand attacks. She is far from a spineless woman.

Faith and sacrifice are two definite parts involved in this exciting book. George Bryan Polivka has done it again in keeping the reader interested and intrigued in the "Trophy Chase Trilogy." It is a page-turner which will find the reader having a hard time putting it down until the last page. Yet this is a trilogy meaning that there is yet one more book in the series. Is it possible to have an equally enjoyable book again? I will be anxiously awaiting "The Battle of Vast Dominion" which will be coming out in early 2008.

This book can be enjoyed by any adventure-seeker or those who enjoy reading about life on the high seas. It is wonderful to see that, through a very entertaining story, real truths about God's existence and faith through trials can be presented.

In "The Hand That Bears the Sword," head out to the high seas with Packer and stay home with Panna at the same time. You will see just how resilient and committed these two newlyweds can be!