Burns Books

Funny, horny, passionate, insightful and a damn good read!

Foreman gives testosterone a good name!

This is Earth First! founder, Dave Foreman's first novel. Set partly in New Mexico's Diablo National Forest and partly in southeastern Arizona, Foreman's natural descriptions read as if they were drawn from his own field notes. This story is as much about commitment to wild places as it is about survival.

Interestingly, Foreman's novel is similar to Barbara Kingsolver's current bestseller, PRODIGAL SUMMER (2000), in many respects. Both novels involve sensual love affairs that unfold in nature. Whereas Kingsolver's lovers, Deanna Wolfe (a forest ranger) and Eddie Bondo (a hunter) debate coyotes, Foreman's lovers, MaryAnne McClellen (a wildlife ecologist) and Jack Hunter (a burned-out, Sierra Club lobbyist) protect Mexican wolves. Like Deanna, MaryAnne understands: "If life in all its fecund, blooming, buzzing, beautiful diversity is to survive, we humans must find within ourselves the generosity of spirit and the greatness of heart to make room for the full flowering of other species and natural life processes" (p. 176). Kingsolver even lives in Tucson, where parts of Foreman's novel unfold.

Jack Hunter is a complicated character. No longer a lobbyist in Washington, D.C., Hunter has become "a hard-drinking, sullen horseshoer in a backwater nowhere;" yet he remains "a man born to greatness" (p. 206). When confronted with Forest Service logging plans and saving the lobos, "Hunter knew he couldn't run any more," Foreman writes. "It was time to stick his spear in the ground and fight for home. He saw the grand cottonwoods and bouncy stream of Stowe Creek Meadow. He saw the tall ancient pines of Mondt Park. He saw the wolves of Davis Prairie. That was what was real. That was what was important. That was what made his life worth living . . . he would fight for it now. No matter what the cost" (p. 200).

Dave Forman has written a howling-good first novel which, like Kingsolver's, I recommend to those who share a love for wild places.

G. Merritt

This was a wild read. Sex, romance, wilderness, wolves, good guys, bad guys, and a moral to the story. The story is about those who love the west and do battle to protect the land and its wildlife. Many of the characters and events are probably emulations from the author's own life that has been dedicated to the protection of wilderness and wildlife. If you want to gain a sense about why some people are willing to devote their lives to the wild then read this book. When you are done, choose your place to stand and defend.

Having moved to the New Mexico outback myself a few years ago with the notion that cowboys and ranchers were noble and strong caretakers of the land, I was shocked to learn about the whole public land multiple use system and what arrogant cretins the abusers of it really are. Dave Foreman has ripped the masks off every wise-use, militia belonging, united nations fearing, and custom-and-culture ranting local rural resident and revealed them for the ignorant, bombastic yahoos they really are. I hope I live long enough to someday hear the howl of a lobo here. This book let me dream that might someday come true.

To my mind, there is no greater Monster Kid than Bob Burns. Burns has lived (and continues to!) the life that every Monster Kid dreams of. He has met some of the giants in the field; become friends with many other lesser-known, but equally interesting personalities; participated in the making of some of the classic films of the genre; appeared on television as part of Shock Theater; has accumulated an untold number of props and other memorabilia over his more than 50-year association with monster and science fiction films; and produced some of the most talked-about, elaborate, and awe-inspiring Halloween "haunted attraction" spectacles of all time.

Yet, despite his extreme good fortune, which could turn lesser men selfish and possessive, Bob Burns never hesitates to share his stories, anecdotes, collection, and super big heart with others.

At long last, Burns, in collaboration with horror/science fiction genre writer Tom Weaver, has gathered a collection of his wonderful experiences in Monster Kid Memories. Here, Burns shares many of the highlights of his life with fellow fans, in addition to hundreds of amazing, seldom-seen photos (the book contains over 300 illustrations), including one very special, never-before seen shot of the Martian costume from War Of The Worlds.

Ever the selfless, generous Kid, Bob turns the spotlight on others, allowing them to shine. We: listen with envy as he describes seeing Bela Lugosi on stage and relates his encounters with Karloff, Elsa Lanchester, Chaney Jr., George Pal, and William Castle; visit the sets of films (Destination Moon, Unknown Island, the 2002 remake of The Time Machine); learn the intricacies of portraying a gorilla; discover the man behind the genius that was Jack Pierce; help Bob rig the seats for a showing of The Tingler; and learn of Bob's innumerous movie prop acquisitions over the decades (he owned the original Time Machine!) and how he came to possess them - these are just a handful of the many treats awaiting the reader.

The book contains numerous highlights, but a few deserve special mention:

The chapter where Bob discusses his friendship with Glenn Strange (the man behind the Frankenstein monster in the Universal House films and Abbott And Costello Meet Frankenstein) is touching and sweet. The two men first met when Bob was a teen, but a genuine friendship started, and lasted until the day Strange died in 1973. The two men shared many experiences together, and such a bond developed, that Burns came to think of Strange as a second father. It's wonderful to read of a friendship between two men like this, and to have Strange step out of those huge Frankenstein monster boots (which Strange gave to Burns by the way, along with an unused Monster headpiece) and learn that he was just a down-to-earth, regular Joe.

A chapter detailing Bob's friendship with George Pal is illuminating. We learn that Pal was a warm and fun-loving man, in addition to fascinating facts about the making of Destination Moon, The Time Machine, and War Of The Worlds. Unfortunately, the chapter is also heart-breaking. To learn Bob's opinion of what really killed Pal is to want to storm the offices of today's Hollywood bigwigs with torches and pitchforks.

The fact that Bob relates the lives and stories of many "behind-the-scenes" people - people whose names won't ring any bells and often don't receive any of the credit and recognition they deserve, is refreshing and very welcome. Some of the make-up artists, stuntmen, bit players, prop and special effects people that Burns knew receive their just due here, and I was grateful to learn of some of the "invisible" people behind some of my favorite old-time films and serials.

Lastly, the chapter that details the history of each of Bob's Halloween "haunted spectaculars" made this reader greener with envy than Elsa as the monster in BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. Reading of the amount of time, effort, and talent that went into producing each of these shows, merely for the entertainment of friends and neighborhood children, is a testament to just how big Bob Burns's heart really is.

The mere fact that these memories, and much more, are captured in one book is reason enough to recommend it. But quite often the telling of one's life to another can make for a dull, difficult read. Not Monster Kid Memories. Although many of these memories occurred decades ago, you wouldn't know it to read it. When he's relating one of his many stories, there is such genuine excitement and enthusiasm emanating from Burns that you swear you're sitting in a chair across from him, listening, caught up in his excitement - several times while reading I found myself actually exclaiming, "Oh, wow!"

This sense of fun and "gee-whiz!" excitement, perfectly captured and transferred to the page by co-author Weaver, is the book's grand accomplishment. For several hours, the reader once again becomes a little 15-year-old boy (or girl!). Only a handful of books can accomplish magic like this, and Monster Kid Memories is one of them.

My only regret is the fear that the title might turn away a wider audience. While the book does concentrate primarily on Burns's association with monsters and science fiction, a potential reader should know that these stories will appeal to anyone. You don't have to love monsters and aliens - Bob Burns does, and the kid-like joy and genuine love that he has for his subjects spills over onto the page and will captivate any film fan.

Just a terrific book.

I read an edition of Starlog magazine about Bob Burn's Halloween extravaganas. I always wanted to attend one of these Halloween shows. Monster Kid Memories is as close as I will ever get. The book makes you feel like you were right there when it was being built and shown. Bob Burns is probably the greatest SciFi fan out there. The book is hard to put down once you start. I do wish Mr Burns would put a video out showcasing the Halloween shows. If you watch a documentary of The Time Machine you can see a portion of one of his shows.

he didn't save lots of kids from burning buildings or shoot down Zeroes, but Bob Burns sure did a lot of other cool things. A neat story of the famous and near famous as told by one of the nicest guys ever to dress up like a gorilla. The writeups on his giant halloween extravaganzas are fantastic - could you imaging being a kid and being able to look forward to these giant home-transforming shows at the end of your street every year?

Being a long time lover of everything that is classic horror & sci-fi, I consider this is a great and highly recommended book from one the most beloved fans of the genre, Bob Burns. It really feels as if he is sharing all his wonderful memories about guys such as Glenn Strange (the Frankenstein monster of the 40's), George Pal (War of the Worlds, The Time Machine), and Charlie Gemora (Monster & the Girl, "the Gorilla man"), with you in your living room. It is a fun adventure to share all of Bob's wonderful memories, and gives insight to not only those actors, directors and makeup men I mentioned, but to Bob's life as well. He is THE fan that we all wished we could be, and along with "IT CAME FROM BOB'S BASEMENT", is a wonderful journey back to the days of classic horror and early sci-fi!

Truly a blessing! Now I finally understand why I have heartburn - it isn't a deficiency of Prilosec that's for sure. Had I known sooner, I could have solved the real problem and spared myself not only a lot of expense but also have avoided the side effects of the drug. Contains lots of helpful health and nutrition advice too. Easy read. Because it lists so many scientific studies, I'm giving this book to my doctor who was as frustrated as I was.

I've been listening to Martie's radio show for years and years. Her style and wit really come through in this book. She's got a keen ability to translate what can be complicated subjects into a readable and easy-to-understand format. Thanks Martie, this book will help a lot of people. I'm giving one to my neighbor and my father!

I wish I'd had this book years ago. It was easy to understand and was backed up with scientific studies. Why didn't my doctor tell me about this. No more Tums for me.

Easy to read with understandable and practical cost effective ways to relieve heartburn and acid reflux.

Dave and Kerry did a fantastic job of compiling a conversation-like memoir of Dave's adventures through life. He is a charasmatic and compelling speaker, and it is evident in his writing as well. This book is a fabulous account of a life that had many bumps in its road, and the confidence to overcome those hurdles.

Dave's life story is a remarkable one and is very encouraging for anyone who struggles with one of life's many obstacles or tragedies. He reminds us of hope; a reminder we all can use at one time or another in our lives. This is a book that engages you . . .. You can't wait to pick it back up and start reading again. It is an intriguing journey of tragedy, miracle, perseverance and ultimately, a fulfilling, purposeful life.

An excellent, engaging book for people of all backgrounds and all ages. Truly motivational book for how Dave overcame huge obstacles to become successful in business and personal relationships. The bonus = Flicker of Hope foundation (book's seller) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. It made me feel good that by buying this book I might be helping someone in need.

Dave's self-chronicle inspires the human soul with his stirring personal triumph from the tragedy of fire. His compelling life's journey is offered with wisdom, clarity, and humor as he takes us softly by the hand "through the fire" beside him from the cradle to adulthood. It is a spirited saga of family love and affection, heart-breaking struggle, deep parental commitment, and one man's destiny as he discovers true happiness in love and making a real difference in the world against all odds. With grace, strength, and courage, Dave reminds us that lasting beauty lies well beneath the skin.

Take a Trip.....through the eyes of a 17 year old into The Outback. Enjoy the heartaches, calm, and priceless stories of a young man living three years in Australia and "The Bush". Join the fun and excitement of a street musician, a hunter of opals. Live your childhood fantasy of being a part of a Carnival traveling from town to town. Join in a corrboree with the Aborigine's and spend some time in the Dreamtime Mates.

My husband, Jon Provost, directed a stage version of Outback years ago. He insisted I read it and I am so lucky he did. It is brilliant. It's a grand adventure, inspiring, exhausting, spiritual, full of humor and wisdom. If you've ever dreamed of visiting Australia, or you've been lucky enough to go, or you just long to be transported to another land without ever leaving your chair -- Outback is for you.

Through Outback I entered a world that has existed past memory - an ancient race that has wisdom which all the centuries have only added to. I stepped out of the modern world as being my only reality and into a deeper reality. It reminded me of what has always mattered most - the integrity of the human spirit and its harmony with Nature. Anyone who enters the Dreamtime with the author will be challenged emotionally to find that harmony again in their lives. It is a tender work of love for a people shrouded in mystery and legend - and a tender love letter to our Mother Earth. I fell more in love with the planet and the life upon it through Outback - and I don't think there is any higher goal a work can achieve.

Dal is a master story-teller. He brings the adventure and emotions of his journey right to the listener. It has given me the desire to go on my own walkabout! I would highly recommend it!

I can not believe I have found this book again. I have the red cover book with the white kitty face on it. I read this book to literal pieces as well. It is my all time favorite childhood book. I modeled my laundry room after the one in the book with the big french windows! I am almost afraid to touch the book because the pages are so fragile. I'd love to purchase a new one and would love to see this book back in print with NO CHANGES... INCLUDING THE ART WORK! I'd buy several copies of this in a heartbeat! Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! to the diligent person who found this book! I Hope is comes back into print!

Linda
Waxhaw, NC

It was one of many books at the family cabin, but when the porch flooded, everything was thrown away. I couldn't remember the name, the author...just the little white kitten who fell in the blue dye. It took a team of librarians three weeks to figure out what book I was talking about (Thank you Mrs. Wilkins!!!). Precious and well-loved, this story charmed me, and I hope will charm my children, too!

I have been looking for this book for months. I could not remember the name of it, but I did remember Mr. Dobby's candyshop and a small kitten who's fur turned blue. It was my absolute favorite book growing up! I loved my original copy to pieces (literally). When I recieved a newer copy recently, I read through it immediatly. The pictures and storyline were just as I remember them. I don't know quite what it is about this story that makes it so perfect. Maybe it's the cute kittens, the colorful candy, or the idea of the little kitten nobody wanted turning out to be the pick of the litter! In any case, this book should never have gone out of print. Kids today would still love to hear the story of Peppermint read to them over and over again.

This is the beautiful story of a small kitten who is born in a candy store and needs a home. If you've read it, you may remember the image of a kitten who has been accidentally dyed blue. You may also remember how heartwarming it is when a sad little kitten and sad little girl find happiness together.
The story, while clearly from a bygone era, is still memorable. It's a great read--I'd highly recommend it to anyone who can get his/her hands on a copy!

This is much more than just the story of how the author survived the horror of being seriously burned over a large portion of his body, although that story of determination and recovery is enough reason alone to read this book. But this is also the story of someone who refused to quit even in the face of a series of setbacks in his personal and business life that would have had most people taking to their beds and pulling the covers over their heads. All in all a most inspiring book and something to keep handy for those times when you're feeling like life is about to get you down. If George Pessotti could overcome the mountain of obstacles that were thrown his way in one short period, so can you!

My father was in the middle of reading this book when I picked it up and read a few pages. 24 hours later I was left full of such admiration for this man George Pessotti. I felt blessed that he had the courage (yet after reading the book I should not of been surprised by his bravery) to share his deeply moving story of survival and faith. I am also very honored to follow the journey of such a beautiful love story that developed through his retelling. Thank You for this special story and for enlightening me on what burn victims really endure. Read this book, you'll say thank you too.

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R154OKG7RGEG8S I read George's book when it came out and found it to be the most motivating and uplifting book I have ever read. Get it, read it, share it.

Jerry

This book tells an amazing and inspiring story. It is told in straightforward terms. If you want to read a very literary biography by a master of style, this is not it. However if you want a highly readable book that relates an extraordinary and true tale of triumph and transcendence, this is for you. It is honest, earnest and lucid.

In the late 1970s, George Pessotti had a fairly ordinary life. He lived with his wife and two children in a nice house in a suburb of Boston. He appears to have been hard working, entrepreneurial, and increasingly successful, when his life threatened to unravel and nearly came to an end. The pivotal life trauma was an explosion of flames that consumed his house and his body. This event, which he was not expected to survive, left him in a prolonged and painful struggle to overcome disfiguring and debilitating injuries. This was compounded by a series of betrayals, by his wife and a close friend in his business and more fires (this time, set deliberately).
Pessotti tells us how, struggling through one disaster after another, he rebounded, building a new business, a new marriage and a new life. In addition he became deeply involved with other burn survivors in nurturing the Phoenix Society, an organization of burn survivors helping each other.

Years ago, I read in a book by Kierkegaard that most of us would be unable to recognize a truly spiritually awakened individual if we looked right at them. The most remarkable individuals, suggested Kierkegaard, are often hidden in plain view. If this is true, the author is one of these people. Surviving blows far worse than those that many have cited as reasons for failure and despair - Pessotti has created a life filled with service, generosity and love for others - but in which he has not lost sight of himself either. He doesn't trumpet his goodness, but it is there to be seen by anyone who cares to look. He recently won the Phoenix Society's Alan Breslau award for service to burn survivors.

This book will may be of greatest interest to those who care about the world of Burn Survivors, but it should be of great value to anyone interested in power of love and the human spirit.

Book 3 of the historical fiction Rebel King series chronicling the life of the Bruce was incredible. After reading the first 2 books this one packs the knock out punch. Charles and Carolyn Bruce keep the bar set high and continue to surpass it.

The character development of both the English noble and Scots is wonderful. You feel what they feel, you see and hear what they see and hear. They are real. Book 3 picks up in 1310 as Bruce recollects himself and tries to firm up his place over the English supporting Scottish lords. He has all but mastered Scotland except for the English garrisoned castles in the interregnum left by the death of Edward I and the face off between the English nobles against Edward II and his favorite Piers Gaveston. We see this resolved over the course of a few years then the last half of the book is taken up by the few weeks leading up to and including the battle of Bannock Burn in which the last English garrisoned castle of Stirling and ultimately the freedom of Scotland hangs in the balance.

Charles and Carolyn Bruce present their amazing ancestor and most of the famous Scottish and English historical figures in vivid detail. Even Sir John Comyn, the son of the slain Red Comyn is portrayed and given more attention than the usual footnote in history books. The battle, emotion and drama were intense and kept me up until the wee hours of the morning. I just can't say enough. I really enjoyed this book. It has enough historical base to be believable and enjoyed by a student of Scottish history yet the detail brings it all to life and provides true entertainment. A pleasure to read. The only thing I do not like is that I have to wait a while for them to write the next book.

For the non Scot the ability to understand just even a small part of the feisty loyalty of the Scot to the ancient warring clans will make a large contribution to their ability to enjoy a caleigh. My first such event was a source of confusion as I did not comprehend from where all the clan pride and pomp originated from. It was obvious that I needed to know more before I even joined in the second such a session. Now many years later I continue to seek out knowledge from where the fierce loyalty stems from. The series on Robert de Brus provides an enjoyable look in to one of the Scottish historical personages and events that have marked history for centuries. It will continue to so mark history for centuries more and I can recommend all the Rebel King series for the non Scot as well as those of Scottish heritage.

I thoroughly enjoyed this third book in the series. Excellent character development. I can't wait to find out what happens next! Awesome battle scenes bring you right to the battles of Bannock Burn, you can almost smell the battlefield!

I've just finished reading this third book in Charles Randolph & Carolyn Hale Bruces' "Rebel King" trilogy. I am at a loss for the proper words to describe this great work! The authors have brought to life King Robert de Brus and his courage, fortitude, and committment to independence for Scotland.

The authors' description of the battle which gained Scotland independence from the English is totally accurate in the historical sense, while giving the reader insight into the character of King Robert, James Douglas, Thomas Randolph, Andrew Stewart, and many others of the brave Scots who fought & died that Scotland might be freed from the yoke of English tyranny & oppression.

The authors also provide, in my humble opinion, very accurate portrayals of England's King Edward II, Hugh le Despenser, the Earls Of Lancaster, Hereford, Clare, and the other main players on the English side.

The description of events leading up to the battle are true to life and form. The battle itself is described in very accurate historical detail, and vividly portrays how King Robert and his close advisors planned and executed the scenario whereby a small (in relative terms) army of patriotic Scots defeated in detail an overwhelming (but ineptly & arrogantly led) English army.

This is a truly wonderful book, in a magnificent series detailing the life & times of Scotland's greatest leader and patriot. I now feel at a loss, I wish the story hadn't ended!! Being of Scottish descent, I had dreamt my whole life that someday a truly great writer would tell this story. The Bruces have done so, and the maps & artwork accompanying the narrative are excellent. I very highly recommend this outstanding work to anyone who likes historical fiction (although the "fiction" is that minimal amount necessary to provide dialogue amongst the characters; all the rest is history and so very true!) and particularly those, like myself, who have Scottish bloodlines (Robertson on my mother's side) and want to learn more about their forebears.

It's too bad there's not a "10 star" rating...I would certainly give it to this book in particular and to the entire "Rebel King" series by these incredibly gifted authors! I certainly hope that Charles & Carolyn continue to produce MORE of their magnificent work on the history of Scotland. I would love to see them do a work (or a set) on the life of James "The Black" Douglas!!! I know it would be as great as this book and series is...truly magnificent reading at it's best. Once you start the story, you cannot(at least I couldn't) put the book down!

Sure, most Robert Burns poems are on the `Net. Sure, we can look them up, print them out, and then recycle them. But what if you are at home, with no computer on, or in the park, or in a bus or train or plane? This is a smooth, slim, handsome volume, with a purple picture of a thistle on the cover and a ribbon placeholder inside. This is a book of poems for the ages--familiar, resonant, humorous, and ready.

Burns is a legendary lyric poet whose Scots verses inspired Wordsworth and Coleridge. A number of his poems and songs, "Auld Lang Syne" " To a Mousie" "Tam O'Shanter" " A man's a man for a that" are among the most well- known in the language.
Burns bright star burned briefly, and his life was filled with passionate and romantic loves about which he wrote some of his greatest poems. " My love is like a red red rose" is perhaps the most well-known of these.
In brief lines he expressed a great range of feeling, from satirical to humorous to tender and loving.
Here are the concluding verses of one of his signature poems, "To a Mousie"
But Mousie, thou art no thy lane,
In proving foresight may be vain:
The best-laid schemes o mice an men
Gang aft agley,
An lea'e us nought but grief an pain,
For promis'd joy!

Still thou art blest, compar'd wi me!
The present only toucheth thee:
But och! I backward cast my e'e,
On prospects drear!
An forward, tho I canna see,
I guess an fear!

Robert Burns was and still is the greatest Scottish poet to ever live. This book takes you deep inside the mind of the Scots and makes you feel like one yourself. A perfect selection of literature, it is sure to be among your favorite bedside books. Buy it!!!

This is the best volume you'll find of the poetry of the great Bobby Burns (1759-1796). What's so great about this guy is that his poetry is never really sad or whiny like, well just about everybody else, but his poetry is really happy and merry; just a song you sing while drinking scotch. Another thing is that Burns is just the voice of Scotland. His poems in the Scottish dialect are nothing short of delightful like one of my favorites of his, A Red, Red Rose
Oh my luve is like a red, red rose ,
That's newly sprung in June
Oh my luve is like a melodie
That's sweetly played in tune
As fair art thou, my bonnie lass,
So deep in luve am I,
And I will luve thee still, my dear,
Till a' the seas gang dry.
Till a' the seas gang dry, my dear,
And the rocks melt wi' the sun!
And I will love thee still, my dear,
While the sands o' life shall run.
And fare thee weel, my only luve,
And fare thee weel awile!
And I will come again, my luve,
Though it were ten thousand mile!

I am Caroline, My story starts the book on page 3. I am happy to see that this book continues to help people and continues to be used as a resource for Burn Survivors. Remember, One Day at A Time. . .you can do it!!! Wishing you continued success in your recoveries! Caroline

I found this book to be a great resource for information on Burns and Recovery.

Fantastic book. I rec'd a 3rd degree burn and found this book a great resource. After the injury I had no idea what to expect or what to base health care decisions on. This book explains the healing process, skin grafting, burn garmets and much more. I felt I could make much more informed decisions after reading this book.

This book, is definitley rated a five star in most burn survivors views, there simply is no better guide anywhere, at least that I personally know of, and I have searched. Congratulaaation, thank you, you are fantastic,and an asset. SEVERE BURNS, should be a requirement that every burn survivor should be in reciept of.