E Books

Anyone who has read my Listmania "Escape Mass Market Fiction" knows that I touted this novel (tertrology actually) as having ".... the most exquisite language since Shakespeare". But it is truly beyond that. After 30 years and over 3,000 books read I can affirm that there simply has been no greater work of fiction produced in any century by man or woman. One of the reviewers for the Lowe-Porter translation was dead-on saying you keep wanting to go back and reread the last 20 pages you managed to finish just to savor the experience. Original editions are a little rare and expensive, but, like any treasure, it's rewards are transcendental, and once read, you can consider yourself part of the most esoteric world of the true literati. NOTE-- Beginners who are easily scared off and prefer to sample before committing might want to skip the Preludes and go straight to the main chapters.

I'm at a loss about how to begin a review of the titanic marvel "Joseph and His Brothers" because of its being so many things, adding fright to the one who tries to properly bring forth what future readers are in store for upon opeing its first page and delving into "Descent into Hell."

I have never before and doubt ever will again read a 1,500 page 'tale,' let alone one that includes a continuous barrage of gripping stories alongside psychological insight of God-like proportions. What's icing on the cake as to this book's sheer power and unforgettableness is its comic charm. I did not know I was going to be reading what is pretty much a comedy when being pulled into this marvelous Old Testament narrative.

If you have read the biblical account of Jacob and Esau on down to Joseph in Egypt and are worried that its contents couldn't stay intriguing for this many pages, there is good news, because it, for the most part, very much is.

In the preface, translator John E. Woods accurately proposes he thinks that "Mann ... wanted to make sure he had readers worthy of him" while explaining that some portions of this interweaving jewel are prone to be more difficult to read than what is, thankfully, the majority. And it is this truth, in which I agree with this stirling translator, that I breifly dwell upon.

In several used bookstores I've been to, the only part of this story that I ever saw available, and in a volume all its own, was H.T. Porter's translation of "Joseph in Egypt." Given its apparent availability over the other three parts, I suspected it would be the best - which Mann himself thought to be true. But, solely from the perspective of, as Virginia Woolf would aptly call me, a 'common reader,' I bring forth that those trickier 'riddles' that Woods forwarns, or maybe just mentions, occur most often in this third volume. The feel of being sidetracked a little too much continues on into the beginning segments of "Joseph the Provider."

Do these, I will dare to say, overly descriptive, meandering pages that include some repitition detract all that much from the sheer pleasure that dominates most of what is nothing short of this literary feast and party? Hardly not. For outside of this minor qualm over the author perhaps going a little too far about content that probably didn't require as much attention, there is no book I have read up until now that has offered more to a reader than this. I guess "sublime" is not a bad word to use when measuring the result of Mann's cataclysmic efforts that encompassed a time span of 16 years, no less, including a 5-year absence between the third and fourth stories.

He touches on such juicy, delicious insights about mankind, helping to devour the notion that life is different now compared to then. And while it is entirely varied in custom, how could our experiences be all that different due to the fact that we all have one monstrous thing in common, our humanity.

Mann had me wondering if he wasn't something more than human, though, his elegance, wisdom, humor and charm are in such top form. And while it could have been one of the great many gods of Baal that Mann includes throughout who could have helped guide his pen, I'm more prone to believe it was the God of the wanderer who possessed his wrist on occasion.

One of the greatest books ever written.

Also the kind of service / support rendered by Amazon, when the first copy did not reach me, was truly touching and amazing. Within a fortnight of not having received the original book sent to me, I had the book finally in my hands ! Great customer service.

For all the great technological magic of our age we suffer the misfortune of living in a time where the depth of hyperbole rends the edge from language leaving us bereft when the time comes to describe something truly remarkable. Thus to say that John Woods' translation of Thomas Mann's Joseph and His Brothers offers readers a gift of almost indescribable value may leave one wondering if I am making a literally true statement or simply wallowing in the common puff of our day. In this case the latter is the case for Mr. Woods' translation of Mann's great opus offers the reader an experience both challenging and sublime.

Readers unfamiliar with Mann's work may feel a sense of vertigo beginning this even more than his other works. Much of the style of narration, unique with its perspective shifting through time, seems almost purposely designed to leave one doubting their footing. Increasing the sense of dread is the books sheer heft, with over 1500 pages of small type and weighing in at almost two and half pounds. Yet those brave souls who resist the temptation to lay down this load in favor of a more easily digested work will come to in the end appreciate the feast to come. Mann's work rests on its own unique rhythm, and once the reader grows acclimated they will surely appreciate both the work and the great skill of Mr. Wood as translator. This series of four novels expounding on the biblical tale of Jacob, his son of Joseph of the famous robe, as well as his brothers, often comes when people engage in the entertaining and fruitless parlor game of determining the greatest literary work of the 20th century. While no single work can claim such a title, the complexity of the work and the Herculean task of translation should be evident that this is only the second instance of its translation into English in the more than 60 years since it first appeared.

Beyond simply outlining the work's subject matter, in many ways it seems written with the express intent of defying further description. With a complex web of interrelated stories, occasionally taking subjects that the bible reflects on for only a sentence and expanded on them for a hundred pages and at the same time seeking to place this seminal tale in its religious, historic, and cultural context, the work often leaves the reader gasping at the audacity of Man's enterprise. Yet almost every one of his efforts comes as a remarkable success, leaving one much to ponder. Indeed, any expectation that one can rush through this work will surely leave you with only a headache and little to show for the effort. Instead, one must take their time and slowly chew on Joseph and His Brother's digesting each piece in turn. Like many great works this one takes effort and diligence, but the reward comes as more than just bragging rights for having read it. Far more, it will offer an often eye opening new perspective and beckon from the book shelf to be taken down again so that you may reread this section or that.

One last point: to end where I began, Mann's attention to detail and word choice often gives pause, making each of us consider the harm done when we rain down words on a subject when a mere drop would do.

The new translation of Joseph and His Brothers is beautiful, as is the novel. Yes, it's long--about 1500 pages--but it's worth all the time it takes to read. Perhaps this isn't the place to start, if you haven't read Mann before, but if you already admire his work, you're going to love this book.

Recommended by a friend, this book has jumped to the top of my list of favorites. The play by play picture painted about the battle of Gettysburg will teach you more about the event than ever taught in High School. More importantly, it's a human story of leadership, failure and triumph. In the end, you'll be left with only one thought, "Wow!"

KILLER ANGELS is one of those books I've always wanted to read but for some reason I just never got around to it. It is my favorite genre(historical fiction) and one of my favorite periods in American history(Civil War), I've lost count of the number of people who recommended it to me. So one fine summer July day in the year 2008 I see it on the shelf in my local library and with no hesitation I pluck it off the shelf. I get home and begin to read this gem of a book. I've read no finer book on the Civil War. There are plenty of reviews here and there to give you all the details you need so there is very little I can add to those reviews. But when you read a book that is so heavily anticipated (it won a Pulitzer for Pete's sake!) and the book so easily surpasses those expectations then it indeed it is a special book. When a writer writes with so much empathy and understanding for his characters and story line as Michael Shaara does then it is a book that you will never forget. This is one of those rare gems that forever will stay with you. Very few books reach that level as far as I'm concerned. A work of passion, intelligence, compassion and wisdom. My only problem is that I wanted more. I didn't want it to end, luckily for us Mr Shaara left us an equally talented son to carry on his work.

This was a major battle (Gettysburg, PA) between the Norhern VA massive group of 70,000 and the indomnable Union fighters that fateful day in one of the bloodiest fights of that war. Antienam in Maryland was the bloodiest with Atlanta's "fallen" depicted in 'Gone With the Wind' and Shiloh not far behind in numbers of casualties.

This fictional account of the Gettysburg massacre on both sides won a Pulitzer prize for Michael Shaara who uses the liberties of creative writing to make these men and their families "real." The most real of them all was the spy, Harrison, who reported to General Lee while JEB Stuart was out about town living it up and getting all of the attention. If you read enough about the U.S. Civil War, you'll realize right away that the truth, though mired in the mud of dissession and cow pastures from one end of the small country as it was in June, 1862, to the East Coast.

It was not the most dramatic confrontation (my choide would be Shiloh, which I drove to many times to meander around the large battlefield on many occasions), as much or more than our yearly trips to Gettysburg (not far from Westminster where Evelyn lived) which received more notice because of Abraham Lincoln's moving address. He had a way with words for a self-educated Kentuckian. But Shiloh, in Tennessee, endured more detailed plans for combat and Johnston met his destiny.

When we read what the scholars chose as the most important, we miss the human part of war (as we are doing now in that God-forsaken, medieval place in the Middle East, and are presented with statistics to prove their choices. Every Civil War encounter has the spy (like young Sam Davis of Smyrna) who met his demise on a lonely hill in Pulaski, TN. Without spies, the generals and their staff are left with maps but that's about all. The spies made the war come alive. Instead of a far flung field or stream far away from home, the spies kept the action going by risking their lives to get important information and plans to the leaders. 'The Killer Anmgels' were on Robert E. Lee's left shoulder but his melancholia wore him down emotionally. Without his generals (Nathan Bedford Forrest being his very best), there would have been no war. The spy Harrison blew cigar smoke "puffing exuberantly like a happy furnace."

"Why do there have to be men like that, men who enjoy another man's misery?" Reading about factual (as far as the staticians knew or could figure) war atrocities can be dry and not very interesting to the average person. It has been de-personalized. Stephen Crane followed his heart and instincts in 'The Red Badge of Courage' to bring the participants to life on paper and not merely a statistic. He inspired Michael Shaara to do much of the same. "The interpretation of character is my own," he wrote. At all times, especially in times of danger to one's life, you must keep one's sense of humor. I thought Mark had one but apparently I was mistaken. This book was written 34 years ago, the year Justin was born. Always the rebel, like his mom, he could not have been a spy. Brave, smart, something of an actor (like John Wilkes Booth), like Jeff could quote Shakespeare from memory, lucky and strong. "It has been my pleasure, sir, to have served such a man...God bless you, sir. Now, it is all in God's hands."

The compelling novel of Gettysburg that Laura Hillenbrand remarked was her model for "Seabiscuit". The times and events are different but the sylistic similarities are palpable. Short chapters. Short sentences, mostly. Extremely visual--concrete, up-close, detailed scenes, always with a dramatic tension. Superbly structured--makes the Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most confusing battles of the 19th Century, sparklingly clear. Accomplished by shifitng the viewpoint from one key character to another, from chapter to chapter (mainly Longstreet and Chamberlain, also Buford, Armistead, and Lee). This is art, and is not easy; the product of intense hard work, with the reader's welfare always paramount. Above all, a human story of real people under stress, striving, where the stakes matter. At the same time, Shaara manages to explicate the larger causes of the war, and in the mouths of his characters he ably argues both the National and the Rebel viewpoints. A masterpiece.

I had been always interested in Americas' Civil War and had read some excellent books on the subject such as A Brotherhood Of Valor: The Common Soldiers Of The Stonewall Brigade C S A And The Iron Brigade U S A, Through Blood and Fire at Gettysburg and Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era (Oxford History of the United States) but "The Killer Angels" is a very special one.

Late Michael Shaara has performed an excellent research on the private papers of the battle protagonist. Based on this material he produce a griping story, presenting the men that march to the tragic encounter, with their ideals, memories, sorrows, doubts & hopes.

He follows Generals Lee and Longstreet and Colonel Chamberlain amongst others, penetrating their most intimate thoughts in such a way that the reader can't avoid wondering how this is possible.
Mr. Shaara does not pick sides, he presents the reader with the confronting "Cause", which every man into the field believes to be just, and for which is willing to shed his blood. The valor and self sacrifice these men deploy, is reflected in each page of this incredible good book.

Enough maps are shown enabling the reader to follow the displacement of the armies in the field.

For readers interested in Civil War, Michael's son, Jeff, has written Gods and Generals and The Last Full Measure telling the events preceding and following this crucial struggle.

A great stuff to be read by history buffs or casual readers. Enjoy!!!.

Reviewed by Max Yofre.

This book is a must have for anyone who wants to improve their life and living process....Its a very eye opening and thought provoking literary piece. Once you have read this book you will forever change the way you think. These divine laws put into application will totally revitalize and enrich your life experience !!

The Law Of Thinking gives you the Master Keys to unlock your doors for living. Once you enter the doorways, they are rules, spiritual laws and guidelines you have to follow that leads you through the pathways which will take you through your goals and developmental stages of your journey.

The Journey of Life which is purpose, fulfillment, fulfeelment and destiny; the ultimate destiny of finding your Truest God Self.

Thank You Grand Master Prophet E. Bernard Jordan for sharing God's principles, the principles that are in you and in each one of us and for giving us the permission to honor ourselves while feeling guiltless, but DESERVED.

There are many statements that people have found offending in this book such as Therapist means THE RAPIST, or 'There are no poor people in America'. My assumption is that these are statements that Bishop Jordan has made by looking at life from a certain perspective and his statements have possibly been over generalised and taken out of context. I myself am a therapist. Not all therapist's are shrinks which is the meaning that Bishop Jordan is probably using to derive his conclusion that all therapists are rapists. Some Therapists such as Occupational, Speech and Physiotherapist's actually tell you like Jesus - to pick up your mat and walk. However, don't let these statements put you off. The Laws of thinking, i beleive, are not necessarily secrets, but they are principles that one may have learnt along the road of life but somehow you have not been practising them or somehow you forgot what you learnt because of the storms of life. Or, rightly so, for some, you may never have heard these principles at all.

Whether you have heard them before or not, Bishop Jordan comes to remind us or teach us by kicking us in the rear - forcing us into action. All of Bishop Jordan's principles are principles that Jesus Christ himself taught. Jesus Christ summed up all his teachings by telling us that we need to Love God with all that we are, love our neighbour like ourselves and be a servant to all. But he also explained that of ourselves, achieving this is humanly impossible - but with God, all things are possible. Therefore, if we desire lasting prosperity that Bishop Jordan has expertly talked about, we must be in God. Bishop Jordan tries to explain this in the Law of Becoming, which is the first law in the book. I beleive that this first law gives birth to the following 19 laws. The ultimate is being in God - being born again and then what follows is the renewing of your mind.

Confessing that Jesus Christ is Lord, beleiving that God raised him from the dead, fellowshipping with God and studying His word is characteristic of being in God. Being in God leads to true wisdom, prosperity and renewal of your mind.

Bishop Jordan lays out what the Lord has already taught in 20 unique laws. No book is a substitute for the word of God (the bible), however, Bishop Jordan's book is a good reminder to us that we need to renew the way we think - the only way we do that is by the word of God.

Bishop E. Bernard Jordan's book brings three words immediately to mind: BRILLIANT, POWERFUL, AND INSPIRING. This wonderful book is all three of those things and I should actually add, eye opening and insightful, to that list of adjectives. This book is a MUST READ for anyone wanting to manifest prosperity into his or her life. I can't urge you enough to read this book AND to seek out other books/videos by Bishop E. Bernard Jordan. His teachings are influencing huge corporations and world leaders and after you read this book I'm sure you will understand why. Stop wasting time reading the reviews and get the book. Your return on investment from absorbing the principles in this book will pay for itself many, many times over! In "The Laws of Thinking" Bishop Jordan teaches 20 secrets to manifest prosperity in your life. If you're a Christian the book will renew your spirit and bring you closer to God as well. If you're not a Christian then this book will give you some valuable deeper insights and may open your eyes to some important things that you hadn't considered or experienced before. Really, it doesn't cost much and what you will surely gain from absorbing the principles taught in "The Laws of Thinking" make it an easy choice - GET THE BOOK AND READ IT TWICE!

I am one of those people who, actually, taught that I was a thinking until I read the book "The Laws of Thinking 20 secrets to using the Divine power of your mind to manifest prosperity" This book made me realize that nothing exists unless the mind creates it, and everything that is taking place in my life....I created it at one point, or another. My thinking process has changed, and I am now creating my own reality from a conscious state of mind. I am now self-employed because I have learned how to used these principles, and I am applying them to my life. Thank you Master Prophet E. Bernard Jordan for writing such a stellar work of art!!!!!!

Harriet Page Potter is an inspiration to us all. She never forgot her grandmother's words. This book is an exciting read that left me wanting to know more about all the characters. I don't want to say more because it the twists and turns make the story so unforgetable.

I enjoyed this book more than any other about Texas history. It was an unbelievable but true story about a woman's fortitude during a very difficult time.

In 1968, I was a 24 year old Texas newlywed who had a serious case of Flu. While recovering in bed, my mother-in-law gave me a book to read called Love Is A Wild Assault. I thought it sounded like a rather "racy" title for my mother-in-law to be recommending to me, but she assured me that it was not just another "dime-store romance novel"; that in fact it was a wonderful story of how love,courage and determination got one young Texas woman through all of the experiences of her life during the early days on the wild Texas frontier. I will forever be indebted to my mother-in-law for introducing me to Harriet Potter and her story. I have recommended it to so many friends over the years, and I never tire of re-reading it myself. I also gave my daughter her own copy a few years ago when she was ready to leave home and begin a life of her own. It has become one of her favorite books; and now we are both anxious to share it with HER daughter who is a voracious reader and will begin high school next year. This book is timeless and deserves the highest praise that can be given. It is indeed a RARE TREASURE to find a story like this one. I only wish I could share it with EVERYONE.

Is it possible to equally detest both feminists and purely decorative women? If your idea of the frontier woman is someone who overcomes both timidity and inselectivity, the lessons learned from this book will be monumental. Its basic thesis is that love must like all things be practical, because in loving the practical, we are loving the life that gives us consciousness. There's philosophy, frontier adventure, and the story of a woman determined to survive whatever life throws at her in this alternately whimsical, romantic, adventurous and violent book. It needs a better edit, and the style seems formal to our ears now, but the challenging sentence structures show us how much smarter people were even 50 years ago (attention modern humans: your civilization is dying and you're in denial). One could probably drop 100 pages of redundant experience and data from this book without losing a thing, but I'll take it as it is. A surprisingly good read.

I have read this book twice for two different book clubs and recommended it for several others. In 1957, Elithe Kirkland, a history writer, takes a diary found in an attic and novelizes it. This is an amazing true story of a pioneering woman in early Texas, her loves, her life and her courage. It reads like it was written yesterday. My favorite book of all time.

"Mayo Clinic Family Health Book" covers nearly everything that takes place in life from preconception to death. Diagnostic and treatment advice is easy to read and accentuated with diagrams and photos.

FOUND THE GENERAL INFORMATION OF SPECIFIC DISEASES AND ITS POSSIBLE TREATMENTS. VERY GOOD AND PRECISE INFORMATION.

We purchased the Mayo Clinic Eeference guide to serve as a family medical book. We are very pleased with the descriptions and information about comon medical issues. I highly recommend this book for individuals who want more information about common and not so common medical difficulties.

This is a book no household should be without. Very informative and helpfull. The index is great and the information is to the point... Excellent photos and drawings. Only drawback: a bit bulky!

The Mayo Family Health book is a "wealth of information."
My husband recently became ill and was hospitalized. We were able to pinpoint symptoms in the book which helped us along with our health provider get appropriate testing and treatment for his condition.

With healthcare today, we must be "informed consumers".
I have worked nearly 35 years in clinical laboratory medicine and I still learn something new everyday....this book certainly helps.

I would say that this is a well written and indepth looks at Michael Jordans return to profession basketball with the Washington Wizards.

If you only read one story about Michael Jordan, this is the one to read. I am from D.C. and regard him as the greatest athlete of the 20th century. It was delightful to read about a second comeback. The fact that he did come back to be a Wizard, makes this story remarkable. Worth every sent!

Wow is the only words that can penetrate the ranging emotions that occur when this book is read. Awesome. A must have for any Michael Jordan Fan. I want to be so much Like Mike Right Now.

I would say that this is a well written and indepth looks at Michael Jordans return to profession basketball with the Washington Wizards.

For 13 brilliant seasons Michael Jordan danced the dance of greatness across hardwood floors of basketball arenas from New York to Los Angeles to Barcelona and Paris. With a warrior's heart and an artist's grace, Jordan long ago transcended the sport to become one of the 20th century's global icons.

On the court, his almost mythic flair for the spectacular prompted former Los Angeles Laker superstar Magic Johnson to say simply, "There's Michael, then there's all the rest of us"Off the court, Jordan's ability to alter markets and drive the business of his marketing partners is unprecedented.

Through it all, Jordan showed the world that greatness, true greatness, comes from the inside out. He remains perhaps the greatest practice player in the history of sports, his desire to improve upon his own example legendary. When critics questioned his all-around ability, he became the game's most dominant defensive player at his position. When teams decided to close down the lane and eliminate drives to the basket, he became a deadly jump shooter. Larry Bird and Magic Johnson had the most successfully teams of the 1980s but never won more than two consecutive championships. The Bulls won three straight--twice.

In Michael Jordan Returns to the NBA Again, the writer pulls back the curtain on one of the most remarkable sports figure of the 20th century and delves into the question of why he returns to the NBA after going out on top in 1998.

In "Mining Sacred Ground," David Knop delivers full helpings of character, plot and nuanced human interaction in an economical narrative that lurches swiftly ahead into a violent, narcotic, desert nightscape. You can't help but feel the dirt under the nails of a flawed and sympathetic protagonist as well as the harsh burn of whiskey that's as antithetical to this hero's cause as it seems necessary to his character and (we hope) eventual redemption. There is a bit of a magical effect at work here. The reader is pushed forward at an extreme pace into a place where few would choose to enter and yet these pages turn effortlessly. There's no going back, just an involuntarily headlong plunge into a reality more reminiscent of David Lynch's "Blue Velvet," with which Mr. Knop's work seems to share an ethos, than of Tony Hillerman's "Coyote Waits," which just happens to reside in the same geographic space. In a few short pages, the story's main plot line and seeds of secondary complications appear well into development. My greatest hope moving forward is for a level of story complexity that matches the vivid, inspired quality of the uninhabitable but vital world Mr. Knop has created with these deft initial strokes.

Just a small taste of what appears to be tantalizing fare. Author Knop cleverly introduces us to Romero, a hard headed, hard drinking egg averse cop. The start of a riveting tale with vivid and descriptive prose. I want the whole story David.

What strikes me most about David Knop's Mining Sacred Ground is the authenticity of his characters and the Arizona setting. The sharpness of the detail given in the story makes its people and places come alive.

Mr. Knop has an interesting, descriptive writing style that captivated me from the first page and had me wishing for more. In reading this I was reminded of works by Tony Hillerman: similar settings with a Native-American as the protagonist. In my opinion though, Mr. Knop's writing is faster-paced with a better command of the English language. I hope someday to learn how Romero solves the case and his personal problems.

I want to know more about Sal, about Romero, the bikers, the Apaches, and why Romero's wife stays with him. How do the bikers fit in? Did they (the bikers,) assassinate Sal? What's the connection with the Corps and Quantico? Will putting the assassins spent casing in a plastic bag as opposed to a paper bag influence the outcome of the investigation? What drives Romero other than friendship? In thirteen short pages, the author has grabbed my attention, piqued my curiosity and as I turned the page at two in the morning, pissed me off because there is not more grit to chew on. I want more.

As a new business owner (Goosie Cards), I am always interested in other ways to market my business. The cover of PNI is refreshing...its how I feel about myself, my brand and my company. Having built my company on my personality, it was exciting to celebrate that with Rohit. Part One of the book is wonderful because Rohit gives you a lot of examples of what to do and what not to do based on real life scenarios. You can quickly understand how a company can benefit from being true to their brand's personality. Part One gets you fired up and ready to take action in Part Two! In Part Two, Rohit shares his marketing techniques which helped me take my brand's personality to the next level. These techniques helped guide my creativity in the right direction for my brand's personality. I also gained insight to the power of social media which made the process easy to understand and apply to my business. I loved PNI...it's straight forward and a great tool for entrepreneurs!

In my 13+ years of career as an advertising professional I've had the chance to read some of the greatest books in the field, from which I've learned important theories and concepts. Books written by famous thought leaders who are recognized world round, however because of that very reason, you cannot help to feel (if ever so slightly) that these concepts will remain a theory and will not completely be grounded in the real world.
That's why a book like Personality not included becomes so relevant to professionals today. Not only does it covers very important concepts, thoughts and lessons; all illustrated with real life, up to date examples that help you think about your brand in a more real way, you get inspired by the fact that these ideas and thoughts come from a thought leader that also happens to be a professional like you, who even in some cases, manages the same brands and clients that you do. And this can make all the difference. It's like having coffee with a colleague who can help you think about your company or brand in a new or different way.

Kudos to Rohit Bhargava for writing a handy guide to marketing in what he calls the "social media era."

Gone is the era of one-way communication in which corporations conveyed carefully scripted brand identity to consumers. The advent of internet and the proliferation of social media have facilitated the dialogue among consumers and between consumers and brands. Consumers are now active drivers behind the formulation of brand identity. This paradigm shift from a one-way communication to collective dialogue among brands and consumers is forcing brands to adapt by embracing "personality," the main topic of this book.

From leveraging the power of "accidental spokesperson" to crafting compelling back story, the author explains how brands can become "unique, authentic, and talkable" to thrive in the social media era. The strength of the book lies in the clarity with which the author illuminates the concept and application of "personality" while seamlessly incorporating an abundance of examples. Reading the book felt like listening to Bhargava share what he gleaned from his experience as a consultant over a cup of coffee: the book is easy to read and never repetitive or pedantic.

One of the great points Bhargava makes is that, while many corporations are apprehensive about losing control of their brand amidst the din of social media, it is not about their giving up control to consumers but sharing control: participating in the conversation with the consumers and guiding the collaborative task of shaping the brand.

Part Two of the book introduces guides, tools, and techniques for implementing successful marketing plans. Like Part One, the content is easy to follow. What I personally would have liked is an in-depth look at some of the techniques he cites, as this part of the book may be too brief for those who are seriously thinking about implementing them in real life; perhaps Bhargava could offer bonus chapters/resources on the book's website that are accessible only by those who purchased the book (like Tim Ferriss did with his book, Four Hour Workweek).

Overall a great read: 4.5 stars

"The moment that organisations lose their personality is when their employees become "people" rather than individuals...".

As many of my readers and friends know. I'm very much in touch with the "human side of business", especially forming a connection with people. Revealing, the honest, sincere and human side of your business to your customers has repeatedly proved to be a good thing. It's the key to delighting them and making sure they stay with us for a very long time.

Rohit Bhargava as an author is right up there with the likes of Seth Godin and Guy Kawasaki. Why? Because he tells it like it is. Jargon is left at the door and the book uses great worldwide examples of excellent personality branding. It's nice to see an American author who shows a refreshing awareness that we all don't live in America!

Wow. I must admit, Rohit actually had me at "hello" with this book. The book brings together, my own personal experiences of business differentiation. Learning, from companies such as Moo and Innocent Drinks (Also mentioned in the book). Rohit did an excellent job of drawing me in with his great writing style and a clear passion for the subject.

Throughout the book he provides many examples of businesses which are successfully using the techniques within the book. The case studies were almost enough to sell me the book alone. However, learning about each technique and then being given an interesting and detailed example of how each idea can be implemented in real life was fantastic. It was was great to see Steve, Hugh and the Blue Monster also getting a mention - Rock On!

Personality Not Included successfully leads the reader through the process of building a company personality. Rohit's approach impressed me in a number of ways. Firstly he outlined all the key elements. I especially liked his "UAT Filter"- the three core qualities of a company personality:

1. Unique
2. Authentic
3. Talkable

Spot on. Secondly, he presented great examples from several companies for each element.

As I finished reading Part 1, Rohit did something that many marketing writers do not usually do. He wrote a "Part 2?. The second part of the book focuses on how to put the discussion in Part 1 into action. To further guide the reader through the process, Rohit provides a number of tools and frameworks to help. The book is broken down into the following chapters:

Part One

Chapter 1 - Faceless used to work because big meant credible. This is no longer true

Chapter 2 - Accidental spokespeople are speaking for your brand - Embrace them

Chapter 3 - Uniqueness plus Authenticity plus Talkability equals personality. Use the UAT Filter

Chapter 4 - Backstories establish a foundation of credibility. You need onq.

Chapter 5 - Fear of change leads to barriers. Finding your authority overcomes them

Chapter 6 - Personality moments are everywhere and unexpected, but you must spot them

Part Two - (Putting Personality into Action)

* New Styles of Marketing (Ten Techniques are Described in Detail)
* Taking Theory Further (Tools and Guides to Accompany Chapters 1 - 6)

The key theme from the first half of the book is that personality matters, because it is the element of your brand that inspires loyalty more than any product feature or element of your service ever can.

Rohit reminds the reader, that consumers aren't just buying a product or service from you. They are buying "into" a whole experience. If they find the experience positive, they are very likely to purchase again, and/or recommend your business to others. As a text book, Personality not Included could also be used to boost your own "Personal Branding".

If you love Seth Godin, or Guy Kawasaki then you'll love Rohit Bhargava. If you are looking for a refreshing and up-to-the-minute business read, then you could do no better.

To conclude, Bhargava's marketing experiences with the world's leading companies has produced the definitive book that explains "Personality Branding", in a practical, understandable and actionable way. I can't recommend this book highly enough for any entrepreneur, business person, or anyone who wants to better understand how `personality' can impact a business.

I recommend this enlightening book on a number of counts. In an increasingly crowded (and sometimes superfluously smelly) elevator of social media and marketing how-tos, Rohit Bhargava sets himself apart: one of the most noticeable distinctions Personality Not Included has is its non-linear, self-referential structure, which makes it easy (and rewarding) to skip around if you're compelled. I didn't, but the option is there, which can't be said for less adventurous texts.

The book largely deals with personality (of course) and the looming ennui of "faceless" companies that don't connect with their customers, which benefits no one. It sounds obvious, but as staples like The Consumerist hammer home time and time again, even the glaring gets forgotten. I suspect this is due to "idealogical incest", the echo chamber of corporations copying each other on the WRONG things, compounding their screwups by being over-cautious and de-humanizing themselves!

Why did I pick this up?

I read PNI to do some professional development at my job as Resident Enlightenment Manager at Linden Lab, since just about everything I do in Second Life is avatar-centric, and hence, personality-driven.

In solidarity with Seth Godin's teachings, PNI makes a strong case for the benefits of storytelling to compel and intrigue your customers. What I learned within wasn't entirely new, but it did affirm, and reaffirm some independent ideas I had been cooking up for some time -- and now feel more confident about, knowing I'm far from alone here.

I especially found comfort in the overall presentation of PNI: from the colorful cover depicting a unique, rainbow-mohawked rooster who stands out from his peers to the fresh, well-spaced typesetting inside, these details all add to the overall readability and value. These are in themselves aspects of personality which a lot of people experience, yet have a difficult time articulating. Even if you can't put your finger on it, they make a positive difference in aggregate!

Other benefits include valuable numbered lists (e.g., types of company spokespersons) which are punchy, clear, and non-trite (an all-too-easy trap to fall into) and the practical exercises found in Part Two (intriguingly, Part One ends after Chapter 6 since Rohit reasons where this is where the "sweet spot" is). Also see his fresh approach to a non-bibliography, while still backing up his claims. It's rare to see such a self-aware "breaking the 4th wall" perspective in a serious-yet-fun business book, and I must mention the well-designed companion website, which may in itself serve as inspiration for future campaigns you'll do.

It's also nice to see Rohit practices what he preaches: I emailed him with kudos and a correction (he misspelled "Jaron Lanier" as "Jared Lanion"... what a spoonerism!), and he warmly contacted me back, encouraging me to review and spread the word -- here I am!

Love love love this little book of end-less information. I have the HUGE regular DiPiro which isn't a joy to lug around. This handbook is the perfect reference for any pharmacy/med student. It covers the same topics as DiPiro 6th edition, but in a much more condensed, straight-forward way, including foundation & therapeutics. Very happy I purchased this book!

I bought this book hoping that it would serve as a shorter version of the larger and more detailed textbook. It turned out to do just that. I have used this book on many occasions to review the key things about certain conditions without having to read the lengthy chapters of the textbook.....this is a must have for anyone in the medical field....it provides a concise summary and key points from the bigger version.

Great therapy book to have in your pocket, but doesn't discuss much on etiology of diseases. Basically it's good as a review, but it's not helpful if you are trying to learn the disease for the first time.

much more concise than Depiro; it's like ESPN for therapeutics, all the best highlights... but if you have a very picky professor they might bring up something specific enough that it isn't included in this book.

gives a detail summary of the book... a must have for all pharmacy students.

I read this book because it was a book club choice. I don't know what I was expecting however the first line of the book totally turned me off. I thought, "Why are we picking such bad books to read?" (the last few book club selections have not been very well received) However I kept on reading and was so glad I did. Throughout the book I kept thinking I really don't like this book, but I couldn't put it down. I found myself bringing it with me while I was doing errands in hopes I would get a few moments to read a little more. The writing is compelling, if not a tad transparent. I was able to guess what was happening as I was reading along. Except for the ending. The ending is a twist I never expected and was chillingly well done.

This is a book I would have never read if I had not been in my book club but I am so glad I did. It is a well written mystery/love story/western type book that is vibrant and dark at the same time.

In our book club we rate our books from 1 - 5 (5 being the best). The book received an average 4.8 - the highest of any book we have read in a very long time. I would highly recommend reading it and it makes a most excellent book club read. Our discussion about the book was one of the best we have had, with many different opinions and observations being shared.

I am stunned by all of the wonderful reviews for this book. I thought it was by far, the worst book I have read since high school. It could not have moved any slower. The thing I did like about it was the ending and things turn around to get you. Just so much of it was completely out of left field. Boring! Boring! Boring!

This is an unbelievably wonderful novel to sink your teeth into. A page turner of high literary merit, accessible and intelligent. Fabulous craft and language, a most diabolical villain who drives even saints to wish him ill.

Yes he is intelligent, arrogant, rough, caustic, poisonous, and evil, all to hide one tiny chink in his armor that nonetheless, one person manages to find.

Read this book! My one regret is that Thomas Savage doesn't know how popular he is today.

The afterword by Annie Proulx reveals even more about Savage's motivation for the novel, and provides an extra ounce of satisfaction to to novel's end.

Read this novel as slowly as you possibly can, for every paragraph is painted with no fewer than two rich coats of molasses-thick paint, and sometimes silver paint in one layer reflects off of another.

Hunted by a dog, chasing prey as a dog, or dog pursuing dog?

Savage leaves nothing to chance, for this novel will speak to all three.


Skip the after-word, initially.

A completely unexpected and disturbingly powerful character study of a small group of characters in the West, circa 1940s. The prose here is incredible, and the plot unfolds slowly and myteriously. Palpable tension-- the author knew precisely what he woas doing-- with an ending I truly didn't see coming. One of the most remarkable books I've ever read.