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Ella Enchanted
Published in Paperback by Collins (2000-09-04)
List price: $12.40
New price: $7.14
Used price: $1.04
Used price: $1.04
Average review score: 

LOVED IT SINCE I WAS 12!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-24
Review Date: 2008-03-24
A more richer version of the Cinderella tale
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-15
Review Date: 2008-01-15
I actually saw the movie before I read the book and I loved the movie, but it's vastly different from the book. It was interesting to see the differences. I can see why some of the changes were made for the movie, but both are great in their own right.
I liked the treatment of Lucinda in the book better than in the movie. In the movie, Lucinda never learned or understood what she did to people, but in the book she did when Mandy tricked her into experiencing what she put Ella through.
I also liked that Ella had to find the inner-strength to break the curse, opposed to having an easy quick fix of undoing it. To be honest, Ella would have probably in more trouble if Lucinda had reversed the spell, so even if she wanted to obey at times, she would then be under a curse to never obey.
I also like that the prince was treated as a real person and given a real personality. Rewatching Disney's Cinderella as an adult, I was shocked how truly vapid the prince was. He had no personality. He was just a stereotypical pretty boy.
It was also nice reading the progression of Ella and Char's relationship, instead of her going to a ball and just falling in love with him.
This is a great book, which I'll definitely read again.
I liked the treatment of Lucinda in the book better than in the movie. In the movie, Lucinda never learned or understood what she did to people, but in the book she did when Mandy tricked her into experiencing what she put Ella through.
I also liked that Ella had to find the inner-strength to break the curse, opposed to having an easy quick fix of undoing it. To be honest, Ella would have probably in more trouble if Lucinda had reversed the spell, so even if she wanted to obey at times, she would then be under a curse to never obey.
I also like that the prince was treated as a real person and given a real personality. Rewatching Disney's Cinderella as an adult, I was shocked how truly vapid the prince was. He had no personality. He was just a stereotypical pretty boy.
It was also nice reading the progression of Ella and Char's relationship, instead of her going to a ball and just falling in love with him.
This is a great book, which I'll definitely read again.
Delightful Surprise
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-13
Review Date: 2008-01-13
Romance, although also could be fantasy. Upper elementary to middle school. Reading level is supposed to be grade four, but it seems higher to me. 232 pages.
I read quite a bit of this book before I started to enjoy it, but because the librarian recommended it, I stuck with it. The book is the back story of Cinderella, although the reader doesn't realize it until near the end. Instantly, the story of Cinderella--which I never really liked--has a profound truth I now see: When we walk in another's shoes, our perceptions change. Honor book. No illustrations.
I read quite a bit of this book before I started to enjoy it, but because the librarian recommended it, I stuck with it. The book is the back story of Cinderella, although the reader doesn't realize it until near the end. Instantly, the story of Cinderella--which I never really liked--has a profound truth I now see: When we walk in another's shoes, our perceptions change. Honor book. No illustrations.
ella enchanted
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-09
Review Date: 2007-10-09
Ella Enchanted
By Gail Carson Levine
Ella only wanted to be a regular girl. But instead the day she was born, a curse was bestowed upon her. The gift of obedience. The fairy Lucinda does not think before she gives these silly curses and so when Ella is told to do something, she has to do it. If someone told Ella to kill herself she would have to obey. When Ella's mother gets very sick and dies, Ella is left with Mandy her cook that is her fairy godmother and her father. Ella's father traveled all the time and he doesn't know about her curse. Just like her mother said "Don't tell anyone about your curse." Ella had to obey.
But when Ella's dad introduces her to Dame Olga and her dreadfully bossy daughters, Ella realizes that the elder one, Hattie knows that Ella will do anything she says. Hattie commands Ella to give her the necklace that Ella's mom gave to her. But there is a silver lining on the story. Ella becomes dear friends with Prince Charmont, or as his friends call him, Char. Just when Ella thinks that Char and her are becoming great friends, Ella's father ships her off to finishing school so she can become a true lady with Hattie and the spoiled Olive (Hattie's sister).
Finishing school is the worst place for Ella. She must obey every command no matter how awful or difficult. When Ella cannot stand it anymore she runs away, and decides to quest for her fairy godmother and reverse the spell. But Hattie had forbidden Ella to see Char. So how will she be able to tell him how she really feels when he thinks she never wants to see him again?
By Gail Carson Levine
Ella only wanted to be a regular girl. But instead the day she was born, a curse was bestowed upon her. The gift of obedience. The fairy Lucinda does not think before she gives these silly curses and so when Ella is told to do something, she has to do it. If someone told Ella to kill herself she would have to obey. When Ella's mother gets very sick and dies, Ella is left with Mandy her cook that is her fairy godmother and her father. Ella's father traveled all the time and he doesn't know about her curse. Just like her mother said "Don't tell anyone about your curse." Ella had to obey.
But when Ella's dad introduces her to Dame Olga and her dreadfully bossy daughters, Ella realizes that the elder one, Hattie knows that Ella will do anything she says. Hattie commands Ella to give her the necklace that Ella's mom gave to her. But there is a silver lining on the story. Ella becomes dear friends with Prince Charmont, or as his friends call him, Char. Just when Ella thinks that Char and her are becoming great friends, Ella's father ships her off to finishing school so she can become a true lady with Hattie and the spoiled Olive (Hattie's sister).
Finishing school is the worst place for Ella. She must obey every command no matter how awful or difficult. When Ella cannot stand it anymore she runs away, and decides to quest for her fairy godmother and reverse the spell. But Hattie had forbidden Ella to see Char. So how will she be able to tell him how she really feels when he thinks she never wants to see him again?
Cinderella Who? by Sara Martinez
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-10
Review Date: 2007-11-10
Many young girls dream of having a fairy tale life just like the ones that appear in Disney movies such as Cinderella, but what happens when these girls grow into young ladies and expect a little more than your usual fairy tale? In her novel Ella Enchanted, Gail Carson Levine adds a whole new twist to the familiar story of Cinderella. With the use of point of view, characterizations and themes, she achieves to appeal to a budding, young female audience that already has a love for the classic Disney tale.
Point of View
Carson presents a first person point of view that allows Ella to narrate her own story. Her thoughts, her commentary and each of her actions are plain for the reader to enjoy and experience a first hand look into Ella's world. The reader is allowed to relate her character, as she seems more realistic (as far as a fairy tale goes) than ever before, as she goes through every day teenage trials with boys (a prince, to be exact), friendship, fitting in, envy and such problems that still happen today.
Characterizations
Ella
While Disney's Cinderella is an upbeat, optimistic girl that seems to have the whole world set out for her, Levine's Ella is given a whole new dimension as a character. Ella, as a child, receives the "gift" of obedience by the wayward fairy, Lucinda. Forced to do everything she is told, Ella develops a strong, rebellious character determined to become her own person, despite what others command her to do. She may subdue physically, but mentally and spiritually, she is a character that is intelligent beyond her years that refuses to conformity, aesthetics and propriety for the wrong reasons. Carson develops Ella in such a way that her flaws and struggles with herself and others are present. Ella is not a glorified storybook character that has everything going perfectly for her; she fights for what she believes in, she makes mistakes to learn from them and goes through the motions just like her young female audience.
Prince Charmont
When the thoughts of a charming prince come to mind, what is available is only the idea of a charming prince who is just there to both save the day and marry the girl. While in most fairy tales, the female lead character usually overshadows the male equivalent; Prince Charmont is far from hidden. Carson develops Char (as he is cleverly nicknamed) in such a way that he breaks away from the usual princely stereotypes by adding a little more to his personality but still maintaining the characteristics that would most likely still make any female weak in the knees. When Ella first meets Char, she keeps her distance in a demonstration of respect of his nobility, but he refuses to be regarded of higher ranking and asks to be addressed as any other person. He is kind hearted and humble but still he holds strong and true to the convictions that he is instructed as a young ruler. One example of this is when he pauses the beginning of a military journey to get on his hands and knees to help a merchant whose cart is overturned, instead of leaving off and ignoring the lower class. Another defining characteristic is that he, like Ella, struggles to create his own identity under the overpowering shadow of his future as the ruler of the kingdom of Frell. Char's authentic infatuation for Ella and his deep respect for her are what make the reader believe him as the true charming prince.
The Fairy Godmother
One may expect a flick of the wand and a bibidi boppidi boo to describe a fairy; Carson declines to this generic view. Mandy, Ella's fairy godmother is described as aging, overweight, speckled with freckles and frizzy hair. She hides her true identity from Ella and for the first 16 years of Ella's life, she is known as the kitchen maid and nanny. Her real self is only discovered after Ella's mother died and Ella is left to the care of no one but her father. The way that Carson portrays Mandy is in a stern, parental way so the reader can see her as a mother figure for Ella, more than just a fairy godmother that provides every single wish. Carson makes Mandy out to be a lovable character towards the reader because she nurtures and takes care of Ella while still remaining firm to what she thinks is best for her goddaughter.
Themes
In this novel, Carson explores themes that are of interest to a young female audience. One of these is the search for an identity and a place in the world. Carson develops her main theme as Ella is trying to establish herself as a person with her beliefs and convictions, and not just become a pawn to anybody's game that has knowledge of her curse. She demonstrates to the audience that they do not have to conform to a popular idea and encourages the reader to form opinions by gaining knowledge by Ella's example of maintaining her integrity and refusal to ignorance.
Another theme that goes hand-in-hand with the one mentioned before is integrity, being true to who you are. Carson encourages this by making Ella such a strong character that even though she is forced to be someone else, in her mind, she is determined to be who she truly is. Char is also another example of integrity. He is a prince, a trait that may give way to arrogance and to discrimination by status, but he denies any association of himself as a person to his nobility.
With these different literary aspects, Gail Carson Levine creates a fairy tale all her own that only alludes to the commonly known storyline. She creates a story for young girls to be immersed with such believable characters in a fictional world that teach very valuable lessons while also having those key elements that happen to draw the audience in.

Taking Charge of Your Fertility, 10th Anniversary Edition: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control, Pregnancy Achievement, and Reproductive Health
Published in Paperback by Collins (2006-11-01)
List price: $24.95
New price: $13.90
Used price: $14.73
Used price: $14.73
Average review score: 

Lots of good information
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-06
Review Date: 2008-05-06
I purchased my own copy of this book after the friend who lent me hers wanted her copy back. I use this book, not because I'm trying to get pregnant (or avoid getting pregnant, for that matter), but because it's important to me that I really get to know my own body, how it works and what its processes are and what it's doing from day to day.
I can't vouch for the effectiveness in achieving or preventing conception, but if you as a woman are interested in getting in touch with your body and the amazing functions it performs throughout your cycle, then I would definitely recommend this book for you.
I can't vouch for the effectiveness in achieving or preventing conception, but if you as a woman are interested in getting in touch with your body and the amazing functions it performs throughout your cycle, then I would definitely recommend this book for you.
Recommended
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-04
Review Date: 2008-05-04
I can't say enough good things about this book. I have been charting my cycles since the fall of 2005 with this book. We at first used it to avoid pregnancy and then used it to get pregnant. We are currently using it to avoid once again. I feel so much better about my body and am in tune with it that I don't need to chart to know when I will ovulate, get my period, or if something isn't right. You can definitely use this as birth control as long as you follow all of the rules. Or if you break them use a back up method. The book is easy to read and understand. There is also a website for charting questions/help. You can also keep your charts on your computer.
For Girls Who Think They Will Get Pregnant As Soon As They Stop Taking the Pill
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-30
Review Date: 2008-04-30
My husband and I are planning to get pregnant in the next few months. I have always thought when I wanted to get pregnant I would simply go off the pill, begin ovulating two-weeks later, have intercourse, and voila! This book made me realize I might have spent months or years trying to conceive with that plan or I may have incorrectly believed I was infertile. If your goal is to get pregnant as soon as you start trying, READ THIS BOOK!
Awesome book.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-28
Review Date: 2008-04-28
Great book, I have never had fertility problems, but I did buy and read this before conceiving my second child and we conceived the first time we tried. I am now very aware of my cycle and when I am ovulating.
Not just for baby planning - read now!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-02
Review Date: 2008-05-02
You don't need to be planning to get pregnant to read this. I wish I had read this in my 20's, but was so happy that I did a few months before I started trying. This method can be used for birth control and just to understand your body better. You will be happy to have this information for so many reasons and so happy that you starting thinking about your body (not just your fertility). I would recommend it to anyone 18+, and wish there was a version for younger women with all the meaningful information about your body and cycle.
Count of Monte Cristo
Published in Hardcover by William Collins Pub (1946-06)
List price: $4.95
Used price: $19.95
Collectible price: $89.00
Collectible price: $89.00
Average review score: 

The 2nd best book ever!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-06
Review Date: 2008-04-06
except for the Bible, this is the best.
It is the full and undiluted version from the first english translation.
read it, learn it,live it.
j
It is the full and undiluted version from the first english translation.
read it, learn it,live it.
j
Excelent story, short version
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-02
Review Date: 2008-04-02
The book is excelent reading but please get a different version.
This version only has 580 or so pages where as other versions have over 1,300 pages. That means that this version is only half the story.
So much gets lost in translation already don't cheat yourself even more.
This version only has 580 or so pages where as other versions have over 1,300 pages. That means that this version is only half the story.
So much gets lost in translation already don't cheat yourself even more.
Very disappointing
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-01
Review Date: 2008-02-01
Although the story is well known to me, the editing of this audio book was so confusing. I absolutely could not follow it. Too much is cut out.
Count of Monte Cristo
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-21
Review Date: 2008-01-21
Story has good twists, but there are too many French places and people which makes the audio confusing.
Available Free Elsewhere
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-02
Review Date: 2008-01-02
This book is long out of copyright and so is available free for your Kindle elsewhere on the net.
(Great book though!)
(Great book though!)

Where the Wild Things Are
Published in Paperback by HarperTrophy (1984-01-01)
List price: $8.95
New price: $4.00
Used price: $0.16
Collectible price: $10.00
Used price: $0.16
Collectible price: $10.00
Average review score: 

Great Children's Book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-12
Review Date: 2008-05-12
This book has been a 5 star publication since it's inception! I have never seen a child not love this book! It is definitely a winner!
A Dark, Scary Book for Little Kids
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-10
Review Date: 2008-05-10
It's about monsters, for crying out loud! Why on earth would you want to plant the idea of fear and worry with your children just before bedtime? I remember being terrified of this book when I was a child. I will not read it with my kids. I know they will be introduced to it somewhere along the line, and I hope they are not frightened by it. I just do not understand everyone who says they love this book.
The illustrations make the book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-07
Review Date: 2008-05-07
According to the characteristics of picture storybooks, this is a high quality book. The text and illustrations equally convey with the storyline. The shape and size of the book is rectangular and does not have page numbers. It includes all of the literary elements. The book's strength is its illustrations. The book received a Caldecott Medal for its illustrations. The author does a nice job of telling the story through the illustrations. The illustrations get larger as Max's imagination grows and start to decrease in size as he returns home. The colors in the beginning of the book are duller than the end of the book. As Max's feelings and mood change, the pictures get brighter. The book's reading level is 3.4 and geared toward a lower grade interest level, however, can be enjoyed by older ages. One concern is that there are monsters in the story even though it is a children's book. Introducing this book to primary students may lead to questions and misconceptions. One instructional activity to handle this situation would be to talk about the monsters. Ask Were they scary? Did they change? Show the pictures of Max being carried by the monsters and the way they dance and play. Talk about feelings and emotions (the monsters and Max were not sure about each other at first, but then they grew to like each other and play together). The students can then draw monster faces depicting an emotion.
Wild Thing
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-03
Review Date: 2008-05-03
Second best children's book ever. My 15 month old son LOVES it, as did his older siblings when they were little. The song "wild thing" fits in well when the wild rumpus begins... highly recommended!
Heirloom Stuff!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-22
Review Date: 2008-04-22
After having read a copy of this to my oldest grandson, and having the pages worn and dog eared, I had to buy one each for my other 2 grandsons. They are as mesmerized as the 1st was. Can't get enough of it. Fascinated by the little boy's antics. Constantly amused.

Into the Wild (Warrior Cats)
Published in Paperback by Collins (2004-04-05)
List price: $10.35
Used price: $9.78
Average review score: 

Exciting with a great premise
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-22
Review Date: 2008-04-22
Yo! It's me, StoryMaker. My Mom was doing this Book-It homeschool program where we have to read a certain book or amount of books in order to get a coupon for a free Pizza Hut personal pan pizza. I'm not always thrilled about this, though. Unlike my sisters, I'm not such a huge reader. Sometimes, however, if a book is just right, it's possible I could get hooked. I usually like books more when they have a style or tone that is readable for the modern kid. I also like a nice, exciting plotline. A plotline is especially good for me if I can understand what the characters are feeling and why they do what they do and if I can feel for the characters. I also sometimes like books more if they aren't "chronicles" - that isn't to say I don't like a series that is chronicles, I just don't always favor a single book where the storyline is in little pieces (i.e. when it just goes from a single event to another single event - it isn't a single, smooth storyline, so it's harder to get hooked because the ending is not as anticipated because, well, there are lots of endings, so there's less of an urge to get to the end). This month, my sisters said this book (Warriors: Into the Wild) should be my goal and my Mom agreed. So, I ended up reading it. Turns out, this is a just-right book.
What twolegs (clan-cat speak for "humans") do not realize is that clans of feral cats dominate the forest beneath their nose. The original four clans are ThunderClan, WindClan, RiverClan, and ShadowClan - and there's trouble within the clans. ThunderClan cats have fewer and fewer kits, which means fewer and fewer warriors. The clans are constantly fighting for food, so ThunderClan's lack of warriors makes it weaker. Plus, ShadowClan is being leaded by a fierce tyrant called Brokenstar, adding to the turmoil. Eventually, a group of heavenly cats called StarClan send a message to ThunderClan. The message is, indeed, the phrase on the back of the book: "Fire alone can save our clan." Then, a daring kittypet (clan-cat speak for housecat) named Rusty ventures into the forest. Strange...his fur happens to be the color of fire. It isn't long before he gains his ThunderClan name, Firepaw...and then the adventure begins.
One of the great things about this book's tone/style is that it seems good for the modern kid and for someone who likes classic books. This book really seems like it would be good for many different people. It's full of adventure and it really has all of the good-book requirements I've listed. Of course, I can't say it's perfect. It was a bit annoying that Firepaw didn't tell Bluestar, the clan leader, important information for feeble reasons. I'd also like to note that there is some somewhat detailed violence. Also, some folks (especially parents who ban Harry Potter) might believe the whole StarClan thing to be astrology. I don't really think the idea of StarClan is really harmful, though; after all, #1: It's just a fiction book and #2: It don't really think it's like they worship StarClan. Parents, if the violence and "astrology" worries you, simply read the book before you let your kid read it. When Harry Potter was new and folks complained about it being against religon, my Mom read it for herself in order to approve of it.
I also really like the idea behind it: clans of wild cats, with the cats having different ranks and positions. This makes it great for RPGs and Fan Fiction. It's fun to make up your own forest with your own clans and members. In fact, we first heard of it on a message board where people were doing an RPG for it.
Overall, I think that you should really give this book a try. Due to the violence, I think it's probably best if you are at least 9 if you read this. (Just BTW, at least 3 cats die in it.) Seriously, somebody who isn't such a big reader plowed through chapters in it...give it a chance. Signed, StoryMaker. "Gotta trust the kid's review!"
What twolegs (clan-cat speak for "humans") do not realize is that clans of feral cats dominate the forest beneath their nose. The original four clans are ThunderClan, WindClan, RiverClan, and ShadowClan - and there's trouble within the clans. ThunderClan cats have fewer and fewer kits, which means fewer and fewer warriors. The clans are constantly fighting for food, so ThunderClan's lack of warriors makes it weaker. Plus, ShadowClan is being leaded by a fierce tyrant called Brokenstar, adding to the turmoil. Eventually, a group of heavenly cats called StarClan send a message to ThunderClan. The message is, indeed, the phrase on the back of the book: "Fire alone can save our clan." Then, a daring kittypet (clan-cat speak for housecat) named Rusty ventures into the forest. Strange...his fur happens to be the color of fire. It isn't long before he gains his ThunderClan name, Firepaw...and then the adventure begins.
One of the great things about this book's tone/style is that it seems good for the modern kid and for someone who likes classic books. This book really seems like it would be good for many different people. It's full of adventure and it really has all of the good-book requirements I've listed. Of course, I can't say it's perfect. It was a bit annoying that Firepaw didn't tell Bluestar, the clan leader, important information for feeble reasons. I'd also like to note that there is some somewhat detailed violence. Also, some folks (especially parents who ban Harry Potter) might believe the whole StarClan thing to be astrology. I don't really think the idea of StarClan is really harmful, though; after all, #1: It's just a fiction book and #2: It don't really think it's like they worship StarClan. Parents, if the violence and "astrology" worries you, simply read the book before you let your kid read it. When Harry Potter was new and folks complained about it being against religon, my Mom read it for herself in order to approve of it.
I also really like the idea behind it: clans of wild cats, with the cats having different ranks and positions. This makes it great for RPGs and Fan Fiction. It's fun to make up your own forest with your own clans and members. In fact, we first heard of it on a message board where people were doing an RPG for it.
Overall, I think that you should really give this book a try. Due to the violence, I think it's probably best if you are at least 9 if you read this. (Just BTW, at least 3 cats die in it.) Seriously, somebody who isn't such a big reader plowed through chapters in it...give it a chance. Signed, StoryMaker. "Gotta trust the kid's review!"
An Amazing Book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-01
Review Date: 2008-03-01
A couple days ago when I heard of this book I thought, eww it looks terrible, a book about cats who are warriors. They turned out to be really good. These books are action packed with adventure, and really show you the story. I'm now on the third book and can't put it down.
THE BEST BOOK EVER
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-25
Review Date: 2008-02-25
Ok, we know some of the best books ever, Robin Hood, Hoot, Shilho, ect. This book makes all of those books BORING! I'm not to big on cats, but still this book has everything. Drama, action, happiness, everything. I recomend this book to even non- cat lovers. But if will cry every time a cat will die (and I mean burst into tears and have it ruin you're whole week)then this book is not for you. The first one is the best. It is about a kittypet (house cat) named Rusty who just doesn't feel happy with his twolegs (humans). Soon he meets Graypaw, a ThunderClan apprentice, and is given an offer to join ThunderClan. Now, I'm not telling you any more. If you want more info, just go to warriorcats.com. They have a dictonary there that helps you learn any cat language, and understand more. NOTICE: If you don't like spoliers, stay away from certain places on that site! So like I said, this book makes every book seem like boring garbage! I highly recomend it.
Not just for kids!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-28
Review Date: 2008-01-28
I think it's just a travesty to classify this book series as just for ages 9-12. Just as the Harry Potter books have become loved by people of all ages, this book series has the same potential. As a longtime fan of the book Tainchaser's Song by Tad Williams, I was always saddened that I could never find more books like that one...until now. Whereas, as a cat lover and protector, I had some initial issues with the message that cats resent being housecats and the gorifying of feral life, I was quickly able to remind myself that this is a fictional fantasy and should be read as such. I do suggest parents who do buy this book for their children remind them of that fact. With that said, after getting into the book I didn't want to put it down. And I can't wait to get the next one in the series. An adult reading this book will not feel as if it has been written for children - anything but. It is exciting, emotionally gripping, and superbly written.
Not just for kids! Very Emotional!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-19
Review Date: 2008-03-19
As an adult, I feel that I have to tell you that this series will pull you in and make it extremely hard to put down. This is an emotional series where you get to know the characters and you will laugh, cry, get mad, and hope. Don't laugh, but I actually cried as I read the last few lines of this first series because it was like saying goodbye to all my friends. (At that time, the New Prophecy Series wasn't out). If you can believe it, you get so attached to these cats and you forget that you are reading.
This isn't a childish book series (I was actually surprised to see it marketed in the children's section after I read it). It has love, murder, betrayal, honor, courage, friendships lost, and other aspects of life.
There are twists and turns that keep sucking you into the plot. Actually, there are many plots going on, but they are well written and do not get confusing.
Also, It is a series with good values represented, but in a naturally occuring way. I mean Rusty has to make some hard choices in the course of these books.
Please try this series, I have yet to read another of its kind as no book can compare.
Don't forget, though, they must be read in order.
Oh, and you don't have to love cats to read them!
This isn't a childish book series (I was actually surprised to see it marketed in the children's section after I read it). It has love, murder, betrayal, honor, courage, friendships lost, and other aspects of life.
There are twists and turns that keep sucking you into the plot. Actually, there are many plots going on, but they are well written and do not get confusing.
Also, It is a series with good values represented, but in a naturally occuring way. I mean Rusty has to make some hard choices in the course of these books.
Please try this series, I have yet to read another of its kind as no book can compare.
Don't forget, though, they must be read in order.
Oh, and you don't have to love cats to read them!
On Food and Cooking
Published in Hardcover by Collins (1991-11)
List price:
Average review score: 

Analitical Review of "On Food and Cooking"
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-04
Review Date: 2008-05-04
A scientific approach to cooking. It covers all aspexts of food preparation, has extensive bibliography and a good index. This book is not for casual cookers. The reader has to be serious in his desire to profundize his knowledge of the minutia that makes the difference between a casually prepared dish and a great one. He/she have to possess some knowledge of chemistry to get a good information in regard to the delicate aspects of different forms of heat, coockware etc. All and all, it is an excellent source of good information for the serious cook.
So Good - I've Bought Copies For All My Foodie Friends
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-02
Review Date: 2008-05-02
I looked for a book that would help me understand which variables can I manipulate to affect the outcome in my cooking of : meat, bread, eggs, sauces, vegetables ... etc. And would help me with food handling practice - bringing it out of habit in to understanding. Different cultures handle food differently - I wanted to understand what effects those habits have. How does food spoil? And what are the variables that one can control - and how do cultures control them?
This book responds to those questions, bringing real understanding to my kitchen. And it responds to them on both an overview level and a scientific level, and one can engage either or both.
The book really appeals to be because this isn't a scientist writing dryly about food, this is a food lover bringing the context of history and science to food preparation.
This book responds to those questions, bringing real understanding to my kitchen. And it responds to them on both an overview level and a scientific level, and one can engage either or both.
The book really appeals to be because this isn't a scientist writing dryly about food, this is a food lover bringing the context of history and science to food preparation.
Covers everything
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-27
Review Date: 2008-04-27
I am truly enjoying the depth of cooking knowledge in this book. I am a "down home" type cook. It is fun to learn the chemistry of the cooking procedures I use, and to learn the history of the ingredients I use. The book is well arranged and the style of writing is easy to understand. This is not a cookbook, per se, but an excellent reference for someone interested in the "how" and "why" of cooking.
Husband loves this book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-08
Review Date: 2008-05-08
I bought this book for my husband, at his request. He's not much of a cook, but he is intrigued by the encyclopedic knowledge of food and food preparation that this book includes. He is very pleased with the purchase. And I will refer to it, I'm sure.
Great value, great fun, and very informative.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-03
Review Date: 2008-05-03
This is an excellent book filled with great information in what I like to call a "pick up and read a little" format. It is logically arranged and well indexed but it lends itself well to random reading. Think of it as part Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things, part chemistry primer, and part dictionary of eatables.
Since buying this book, I leave it within easy reach on the top of the bookshelf and typically pick it up and choose something at random and learn something new.
Very readable, well illustrated and a great value: you will not regret purchasing this book.
Since buying this book, I leave it within easy reach on the top of the bookshelf and typically pick it up and choose something at random and learn something new.
Very readable, well illustrated and a great value: you will not regret purchasing this book.
How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?
Published in Hardcover by Collins (2003-01-06)
List price:
Average review score: 

Wish all the books were big!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-12
Review Date: 2008-04-12
We absolutely love Yolen and Teague's 'Dinosaur' books. The text is fun and rhythmic and the pictures are just incredible. My son is eight years old and loves these books, just now when he came in as I was on the computer he pointed to the books and said "thanks!!!". We have only one comment. Please, please, please, make all of them available in large book editions. The board books are simply too small to appreciate the amazing detail in the illustrations.
A book for any little dinosaur fan
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-17
Review Date: 2008-01-17
My three year old has been into dinosaurs for a year and is still going strong. He received this for his third birthday and it quickly became his favorite bedtime story. We always end with a kiss and he roars a goodnight. Lol.
I like how the dinosaurs are named in the pictures because it not only teaches bedtime manners, but also dinosaur identification. Believe it or not, the boy can name dinosaurs better than he knows the alphabet.
If your little one is into dinosaurs, this is highly recommended for the collection.
I like how the dinosaurs are named in the pictures because it not only teaches bedtime manners, but also dinosaur identification. Believe it or not, the boy can name dinosaurs better than he knows the alphabet.
If your little one is into dinosaurs, this is highly recommended for the collection.
DINO MITE!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-01
Review Date: 2007-12-01
WE REALLY LOVE THESE BOOKS WITH THE HUGE PICTURES OF REALLY REAL LOOKING PICTURES OF THE DINOS & WHAT IT MIGHT BE LIKE IF ONE WERE REALLY LIVING AS A HUMAN CHILD INSIDE A HUMAN'S HOUSE! FAST TO READ & GREAT EYE CANDY. THIS SERIES OF DINO BOOKS LEAVE U WANTING MORE! THERE ISN'T 1 AT ALL DISSAPPOINTING! WE HIDE THESE FROM GRANDMA SO THEY R ONLY TO BE READ BY ME & THE KIDS! THEY R OUR SECRET TREASURES WE ENJOY!
GRANDMA NEEDED TO FIND HER OWN TREASURES TO SHARE WITH THE KIDS...
GRANDMA NEEDED TO FIND HER OWN TREASURES TO SHARE WITH THE KIDS...
Inflicts guilt and manipulation
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-17
Review Date: 2007-11-17
My son was given this book as a gift. I was disturbed by the text. It makes children feel that they should just do what they are told like "good" little children. Children should be allowed to express their anxiety about bedtime, not just shut up and go right to sleep because their parents said so. Children ask for that one last drink, that one last story, etc, because they want to make sure their parents are there for them. They want to feel secure. Some children have a hard time transitioning at the end of the day and need those reassurances. That is why this book bothered me. I do think the illustrations are great, which is why I gave it 2 stars instead of one.
Clever in every way
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-10
Review Date: 2007-11-10
This book gets high marks for every aspect. The illustrations are really well done and so funny. My daughter loves the silly antics while my husband and I appreciate the looks on the faces of their human parents. Adults experienced in trying to get a little one to bed will appreciate the wry humor while children will love the general silliness. The absurdity of the huge dinosaurs in tiny human beds is greatly amusing to my daughters. The prose is also really well done and very easy to read, lending itself to some dramatics and a nice song-like rhythm.

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie (If You Give...)
Published in Hardcover by Laura Geringer (1985-06-30)
List price: $15.99
New price: $7.97
Used price: $2.09
Collectible price: $15.99
Used price: $2.09
Collectible price: $15.99
Average review score: 

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-06
Review Date: 2008-03-06
This is the story that captivated by interest in this author's storytelling. My students love the books! Plus, the book came in excellent condition.
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-11
Review Date: 2008-02-11
If you give a mouse a cookie is a fabulous book from the mouth watering food pictures, to the non-stop hilerious literature. I love the cute little mouse shown in every fantastic image. I would recommend this for ages 1 to 100. It starts out as a tiny mouse wanting a cookie, then wants more and more. A fun picture book, estatic is a great way to describe this grand piece of art.
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-11
Review Date: 2008-02-11
If you give a mouse a cookie is a fabulous book from the mouth watering food pictures, to the non-stop hilerious literature. I love the cute little mouse shown in every fantastic image. I would recommend this for ages 1 to 100. It starts out as a tiny mouse wanting a cookie, then wants more and more. A fun picture book, estatic is a great way to describe this grand piece of art.
Brad's reveiw that will totally help you out, i rock!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-11
Review Date: 2008-02-11
This book "If you give a mouse a cookie" is a great childrens book! It"s one of Laura Numeroff's great books. Its appropriate for age groups k-5 and maybe younger. Its a book that has a little boy that offers a mouse a cookie then the mouse will keep asking for more and more stuff. It's a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat to see what the mouse will ask for next.
Absolutely charming for ALL ages!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-12
Review Date: 2008-02-12
BOTTOM LINE:
Numeroff does it again!
Anyone who gives this less than 4 stars is a soulless android. There is NOTHING to not like about this book in a series of 'If you give a ...'! It is laugh out loud funny, great to read, and the pictures are cute and hilarious! The story has a nice touch of irony without forcing a MESSAGE.
I think its wonderful to have a children's book that is so clever and whimsical - hard to find one nowadays. Not only does my 6-yr old love it, but I love it myself. :-)
Numeroff does it again!
Anyone who gives this less than 4 stars is a soulless android. There is NOTHING to not like about this book in a series of 'If you give a ...'! It is laugh out loud funny, great to read, and the pictures are cute and hilarious! The story has a nice touch of irony without forcing a MESSAGE.
I think its wonderful to have a children's book that is so clever and whimsical - hard to find one nowadays. Not only does my 6-yr old love it, but I love it myself. :-)

The Lorax (Book & Tape)
Published in Paperback by Collins Audio (1999-07-05)
List price:
Average review score: 

GREAT BOOK!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-04
Review Date: 2008-05-04
I love Dr. Seuss so much. This book is a great tool to teach young kids how to take care of the enivorment. My favorite Dr. Seuess book. <3
Classic Story Great, but Bad Printing
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-14
Review Date: 2008-04-14
I love this book. Well, not the exact book I received, but the original "Lorax" story. The text of the book I received from Amazon is slightly blurred: some sort of printing error, I guess. And of course, it's nigh on impossible to find an edition of the book with the truly telling line about Lake Erie anymore ("...looking for water that isn't so smeary./I hear things are just as bad up in Lake Erie."). Ah well - it's much better to have this shell-of-a-copy of the tale than none at all!
The Lorax
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-17
Review Date: 2008-02-17
This is a great gift for a young child in your life. Not only does it tell a story that sends an environmental message appropriate to the time, but it IS it's own message. I was thrilled when it arrived and I saw the "made from recycled materials" stamped on the front cover. This book can help you start the story of conservation with your kids.
Crazy Environmentalist HOGWASH!
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-02
Review Date: 2008-03-02
Right on, all of you people who have given this book a negative review! What a terrible book to give to a child! Who does Dr. Seuss think he is, anyway? - Trying to teach young people about our moral obligations to future generations, and environmental stewardship... it's appalling. Doesn't anyone care about the struggling, rich, conservative business owners (Like the proud, pro-capitalist, two star reviewer Jeffrey Gray); desperately strip mining our mountains, clear-cutting our forests, polluting our streams, for their own personal wealth and gain? What about THEM? Never mind the fact that the current rate of extinction on this planet is estimated at one species every 20 minutes! Who cares that if everyone on earth were to live like the average North American, it would require 4-5 more planets to keep up with the drain on natural resources! I mean, the Bush administration has been trying so hard to keep facts and figures like these from the public that they've even gone to the extent of changing and editing scientific reports on climate change for our own well being... and positive reviews of "The Lorax" are the thanks they get?
If more children were to read this tripe, they might actually begin to understand our inter-connectedness to all living beings, and accidentally inherit a world with a sustainable future. Is that really what we want for our kids?!
Maybe the Bar-ba-loots, Swomee-Swans, and Humming-Fish should think twice before settling in to a perfectly viable habitat with such vast economic potential. (Wink.)
Peace.
If more children were to read this tripe, they might actually begin to understand our inter-connectedness to all living beings, and accidentally inherit a world with a sustainable future. Is that really what we want for our kids?!
Maybe the Bar-ba-loots, Swomee-Swans, and Humming-Fish should think twice before settling in to a perfectly viable habitat with such vast economic potential. (Wink.)
Peace.
An important message
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-28
Review Date: 2008-02-28
The Lorax is a wonderful commentary on environmental issues and an outstanding book by a very creative and ingenious author. It helps young children understand the importance of actively saving ones environment, while being entertaining at the same time. This is among the best of Dr. Seuss's works.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Published in Paperback by HarperTrophy (1988-09-07)
List price: $5.99
New price: $2.50
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $10.00
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $10.00
Average review score: 

Best Christmas Pagaent Ever
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-18
Review Date: 2008-01-18
I purchased this book simply to replace my original copy, which I loaned out and which was never returned. Reading this book has been a favorite part of my Christmas for many years. While I regret losing my old copy, I am thankful I will now be able to carry on this tradition.
True meaning of Christmas in an untraditional presentation
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-18
Review Date: 2008-01-18
It's a fun story about an untraditional Christmas play. It shows how good can come of seemingly negative changes and find some unexpected, meaningful outcomes.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Very Well Written!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-14
Review Date: 2007-12-14
I like books and I don't know if this is my favorite book but it is excellent. We read it as a family every year at Christmas. It never fails to touch me. It is fun with a redeeming message.
love it
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-13
Review Date: 2007-12-13
I have read this book at least once a year for 15yrs and now I'm reading it to my kids. It's a quick read, I can't put it down.
Perfect Holiday Read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-07
Review Date: 2007-12-07
This is a great, easy way to get into the holiday spirit. Even though the intended audience is kids, I enjoyed it as well!
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