Edward Books

I am upset with myself that it has taken me so long to discover Edward Marston. The Domesday series is a winner! This is the third in the series, and it is totally wonderful! The Domesday Book has taken Ralph and Gervaise to the Welsh/English border, and they encounter a real hornet's nest there. They are dealing with two very dangerous March lords who are trying to establish their hold on the lands that they feel they are entitled to. The problem is that the Welsh also feel that they have a claim, and before the book is done a squaring off is done that has the potential to take a lot of lives. These books are totally wonderful! They are rich with period detail and best of all they are set in a little known period of England's history ( During the time of William the Conqueror). The characters are strong, the story is strong, and the mystery is tight. Altogether a real treat!

Edward Marston is the pseudonym of Keith Miles, a fairly prolific and extremely good writer of mainly Elizabethan and medieval mysteries. He has also written mysteries under his own name with both sporting and golf backgrounds. However it is primarily the books that take place earlier in history that I am interested in. He read modern history at Oxford and has had many jobs, including university lecturer, but fortunately for all his readers, he turned to the writing profession.

After reading the first book in the series, I avidly sought out all the other books by Edward Marston and not a single one has ever disappointed me. They are about a period of history that I love. His Elizabethan theatre series of books were wonderful and he has continued them through from 1988 to 2006. The Domesday series is also a great series and this is the second book in the series.

The Domesday series is about a period in England's history shortly after the Norman conquest , during the reign of William the Conqueror. It was King William himself who called for an `inventory' to assess taxes and survey landholdings. This inventory was called the Domesday book and was a tremendous undertaking, but one that brought stability to England. Edward Marston's Domesday novels are based upon actual entries in the Domesday Book.

Archenfield in Herefordshire is to all intents and purposes a no-man's-land that acts as a buffer between Norman controlled England and the Welsh border. Ralph Delchard and his lawyer associate and friend Gervase Bret arrive for what should be one of their more straightforward assignments for the crown. To settle conflicting claims for ownership of land, but they are shocked to discover the murder of a principal witness, burned alive in his own home. Documents that are essential to the land claim are thought to have been lost in the fire. While trying to sort out the land dispute the pair are drawn into a search for a killer . . .

Edward Marston pens enthralling mysteries during an exciting and intersting time of history, the Norman Conquest of England and the ensuing "Domesday Book" I am only sorry to discover him when all his books are not readily available.

He provides incites regarding the relationships of Normans, Saxsons and Welsh for the history buff. For those who love mysteries he provides an interesting group of detectives a knight - Ralph, a lawyer Gervase, Canon Hubert and Brother Simon. Marston deftly combines mystery, action and romance in a historical setting.

Two civil servants ride into 11th-century Wales on routine business and find themselves confronted with a diabolical murder. In a country chafing under Norman domination, murder turns out to be the least of their worries.

This skillful blend of mystery and action (and romance) held my attention so thoroughly that I finished it in one sitting. Fans of Peters' Brother Cadfael should find themselves at home with Marston's Delchard and Gervase

Best of the series so far. Ralph and Gervase are two of the most full bodied dectives since Leaphorn and Chee. Red Herrings abound as they try to find out who killed a Saxon with claims to contested land. Golde adds a much needed twist to the foursome trying to settle land claims for King William.

While I was superficially attracted to this book because of its stunning reproductions and affordable price, Kranzfelder deserves much more credit. This book is wonderful for amateur Hopper enthusiasts and presents in-depth analysis balanced with connections to contemporary painters and changes in society. Mostly chronological, this book is divided into the various themes such as voyeurism, windows, sexuality, and urban isolation. Another excellent addition to any personal library from Taschen, the best art resource publisher.

Hopper made my favorite painting, "Nighthawks", arguably the most imitated and parodied painting of the past 50 years. Kranzfelder's biography is fairly superficial, concentrating on dates and major events in Hopper's life, rarely attempting to dig deeper into the subject. But that's OK; I wasn't looking for a full-scale appraisal. The reproductions are excellent and in general this is a good introduction to Hopper's life and work.

I have read the FRENCH translation of this book,and i enjoyed it,even if the approach often is on the intellectual side.No AMERICAN art in the first half of the previous century gets near that man, who visualized his country with a personnal perception.The paintings of HOPPER often gets to you in their quest of lonelyness.PEOPLE IN THE SUN for instance is fascinating.The most interesting aspect about HOPPER,is that his paintings are about the persistance of vision;the way one can try to read his mind.

Affordably priced and well written.

Must read for any admirer of Edward Hopper's work.

This is one of the most intelligent and interesting books on Hopper I've read. And I have a good-sized collection of books on this American artist because he's my favorite.

Not only are there rarer paintings and etchings in here not often included in coffee table books on Hopper, but author Kranzfelder shows his influence on photography, and shows the influence of other artists (notably Degas) on Hopper. Kranzfelder puts paintings and photos on one page, and the particular example of Hopper's work on the other so you can see the comparison side by side.

The text is also interesting and full of rare facts and a good analysis as well. If you want a great book about Hopper's work, this is one of the best I have seen. HIGHLY recommended.

The edition of Edward II I read was the New Mermaid Series one, which had a very good and informative introduction, and has the spelling modernized. The spelling modernization extends to place names as well as general terms. I am not sure how I feel about spelling modernization, as it is nice to see how the work was originally spelled, but it made the work very easy to read. The play itself is amazing, very engaging even though it is a history, and is mostly based on things that actually happened. The language is not as flowery as Shakespeare, but is lovely nonetheless. Some of the characters of the play are very fickle, and seem to suddenly change as you read the text of the play. (Queen Isabella goes from devoted and self-sacrificing wife to cunning adulteress.) It makes more sense on stage, and after seeing this play, it was easier to see how good it is.

Marlowe's final play is also his masterpiece. To be sure, the dramatic events in this play really did happen, but Marlowe shows himself at his best when he paints the picture. At first, Marlowe masterfully allows us to detest Edward for undoing all the fine work of his father Edward Longshanks. We also are able to feel sorry for Mortimer and Isabella. (the eventual villains). Isabella feels neglected and Mortimer can not stand to see the fine work of Edward Longshanks undone. Later, we come to have some respect for Edward II when he shows himself to have some of his father's fine qualities and he crushes the first rebellion against him with courage and intelligence. When the second uprising successful, we no longer are lead into any feelings of admiration for Mortimer and Isabella. Once they have power they are more vile and disgusting than Edward II ever was. By Act 5.1, Marlowe gives Edward II moving soliloquies and does not allow our new won pity to slack for a moment. The final scene of this play when Edward II's 17 year old son Edward III flips the tables, crushes his corrupt mother, has Mortimer put to death, and offers prayers to his murdered father is a scene that is almost unsurpassed in literature. To be sure, this did actually happen, but Marlowe not only tells us what happened, but colors it with his superb mastery of the language.

Edward the second, or to give it its full title, 'The troublesome reign and Lamentable death of Edward, the second king of England, with the tragical fall of proud Mortimer', is famous for being an Elizabethan 'Gay play', but this is only one of the subjects contained within the play. Politics, cruelty and the Feudal System are all important themes in this, one of the great masterstrokes of Elizabethan literature. The play itself is a history play, set in the 14th century featuring Edward and his previously basished lover, Gaveston, who returns after the death of Edward's father. This return enrages the barons, who were sworn to Edward's father that Gaveston would never return. This is the catalyst for a plot that races around like a cheetah on speed, culminating in one of the most excruciating deaths ever portrayed on stage. "Shakespeare? Who? Marlowe was far better!"

Christopher "Kit" Marlowe (1564¯1593) has faded into the background over the centuries, little remembered by the common man, unlike his contemporary William Shakespeare. But, in his own time, Marlowe was known as one of the greatest of playwrights.

This play tells the story of King Edward II, who ruled England from 1307 to 1327. Edward shocked medieval England with his openly bi-sexual relationship with Piers Gaveston, and his barons rose up against him in a series of wars, finally culminating in Edward's death. (Rumor having it that he was horribly murdered by having a red-hot iron thrust up through his rectum!)

Now, this play is not entirely historically accurate. The theatre of the day did not specialize in accurate historical portrayal, but strove to entertain. However, that said, this play does do an excellent job of telling the story of Edward and his reign, in an entertaining and informative manner in a mere 25 scenes.

Overall, I found this to be a very interesting read, and I couldn't help but wonder why I have not heard of it being played today. It is still very entertaining, and you would think that modern play producers would want to put it on. This is an interesting play, one that I do not hesitate to recommend.

(By the way, just in case you didn't realize, this Edward was the effeminate son of Edward I, Longshanks, in Mel Gibson's movie Braveheart. That portrayal of Edward was well done by actor Peter Hanly, but was even less accurate than this play. I suspect that the character Phillip was based on Piers Gaveston. Longshanks did indeed hate Gaveston, but certainly never threw him out of a window!)

+++++

(Note that this review is for Dover Classics "Edward II" published by Theatre Communications Group in 1999.)

This play in five acts or twenty-five scenes, written by Christopher Marlowe (1564 to 1593, born the same year as Shakespeare) is a history play that chronicles the reign of Edward the Second. The actual name that Marlowe gave his play was "The troublesome reign and lamentable death of Edward, the second King of England, with the tragical fall of Mortimer." (Mortimer is Edward's nemesis in the play.)

The precise date of this play is not accurately known, but it is generally thought to have been written circa 1590.

Marlowe condenses, omits, elaborates, and rearranges actual historical events in order to gain dramatic effectiveness, and to bring out Edward's character and the results of his weakness. So the action in the play covers a historical period of just over twenty years (near the end of the fourteenth century) even though such a period of time is not suggested by the play itself.

Marlowe effectively succeeds in giving a true, as well as a powerful picture of the character and fate of Edward the Second. This play masterfully shows the delineation of character, the construction of plot, and the freedom and variety of the mostly blank verse.

Readers of Shakespeare's plays (especially "Henry the Eighth" and "Richard the Second") should find it quite easy to read this relatively succinct play. Even those not familiar with Shakespeare's plays or even Elizabethan drama should have little difficulty with this play. Footnotes are minimal.

Unfortunately, this play has been labeled a "Gay Play." This is not quite accurate. Edward was bisexual because he had a queen who he had a son with (the future Edward the Third) and, as well, had a male partner (named Piers Gaveston). Gaveston too was bisexual since he was not only attracted to Edward but also to Edward's niece! Edward's queen is heterosexual because she is later attracted to Mortimer after Edward starts ignoring her.

Sexual orientation is actually a small part of this play. The play is about a king who loses control of his kingdom. Edward's brother says this early on to Edward: "My Lord, I see your love to Gaveston / Will be the ruin of the realm and you."

Finally, the last scene of the play is truly magnificent as Edward's son, now King, gets revenge for his father's murder.

In conclusion, this is a great play that can be enjoyed by those who are heterosexual (like myself), bisexual, or homosexual. Also, in my opinion, this history play closely rivals Shakespeare's history plays.

(this book first published 1999; play written circa 1590; 95 pages)

+++++

Edward In The Jungle By David Mcphail. This story is about a boy that dreams about being in the jungle with tarzan. I like this book because of all of the illistrations and it makes me feel like Edward. I hope you read this book because it is a good book to read. I like it a lot. I hope you do too!

Young Edward loves to read, especially adventure books, and so on this sunny afternoon he takes his set of animals "just like the animals in Tarzan's jungle" out to the "jungle" behind his house. "He spread them out around him, then lay back on the cool moss and opened another Tarzan adventure." Edward was enjoying his book so much that he didn't notice the crocodile creeping silently his way until it was almost too late. "The crocodile lunged at Edward, but at that instant Edward was snatched out of the way by none other than Tarzan himself, and a moment later they were swinging through the trees on a sturdy vine..." David McPhail is back with another reading adventure, and kids who loved Edward And The Pirates are sure to enjoy his latest "Edward" picture book. Mr McPhail's text is entertaining and exciting, and only outdone by his amazing bold and vivid illustrations that transport young adventurers to the deep, dark jungle for an intriguing fantasy filled with danger, heroics and lots of fun. Perfect for youngsters 4-8, Edward In The Jungle sends kids a wonderful and subtle message about the power of reading...You can go anywhere, do anything, and be anyone, when you open a book and let your imagination soar.

Edward In The Jungle By David Mcphail. This story is about a boy that dreams about being in the jungle with tarzan. I like this book because of all of the illistrations and it makes me feel like Edward. I hope you read this book because it is a good book to read. I like it a lot. I hope you do too!

The cover of this book caught my attention as I whizzed by it in the bookstore. I figured it would be too advanced for my 20-month-old son but he has been intrigued by the pictures and story ever since I brought it home! You can be so creative while reading it that children just want to hear it over and over again! It made me pursue other David McPhail books to see if he just had a great one or if he's always this creative!!!

I can't say enough wonderful things about this story - the author is so in touch with a young child's imagination. The illustrations are spectacular and contribute greatly to the books appeal. This is one of the few books I have found that encourages reading and imagination in such a wonderful way. My son will be learning to read soon and Edward shows him that books and stories will take him anywhere. This was the first "Edward" book we bought. We loved it so much we hurried out to get "Edward and the Pirates" and "Santa's Book of Names". "Santa's Book of Names" seems to be the first book written about Edward and is my personal favorite.

It was a nude Weston's photo of Tina Modoti, layed down on a rural house floor, in México, that had put me on the trail of both. Since then I've been delighted with the sensibility and the astonishing "color" of the B&W photos of them, nudes bodies, "nude" nature, what ever... It was the first time, almost ten years ago.

Review Summary: Edward Weston was trained as a portrait photographer and expanded his vision to include many natural shapes, including seashells, nudes, vegetables, trees, landscapes, and eroded rocks. He also did a little industrial photography, where the forms he saw also revealed pure shapes of interest to him. These shapes usually had a modernist feel to them that brings to mind Plato's theory of forms, pure ideas behind what we see every day. This book is fine overview of all phases of Mr. Weston's career, and contains many interesting and valuable essays about his career. The book is improved by having over 80 images that had not been published before this volume. The 320 duotone images are on very fine paper and are extremely well reproduced. Many would have benefited from being printed in larger sizes. If you decide to own only one book of Edward Weston's work, I suggest you choose this one.

Viewer Caution: This book contains many nude images of women, men and children that would surpass what would allow the material to obtain an R rating as a motion picture.

Review: Edward Weston's photography reveals a personal fascination with form, shape and shadow that provide a unique vision into the natural world. He was especially intrigued to see how the shapes of one object or subject could complement another. For example, his female nudes are often posed outdoors in sand dunes or beach settings where the gentle curves play off of one another. Where he focuses on eroded rocks, each one combines with another to express the equivalent of an abstract sculpture, standing out exposed by the erosion around the harder rock that forms the image.

While his landscapes could be every bit as majestic as Ansel Adams's best work, Weston's tastes and interests developed mostly independent of the leading photographers of his time. That independence gave him a greater versatility as a photographer and a more personal style. Few would mistake his ability to locate the patterns within nature and human-made objects for the work of any other photographer. To me, the artist closest to his vision was Georgia O'Keeffe.

My favorite images from this book include: Ruth Shaw, a portrait, 1922; Armco Steel, 1922; Nude, 1925; Dancer, 1927; Chambered Nautilus, 1927; Cypress, Point Lobos, 1929; Bedpan, 1930; Pepper, 1930; Soil Erosion, Carmel Valley, 1932; Church at "E" Town, 1933; Nude, 1935 (first one); Bug Tracks in Sand, 1935; Whale Vertebrae, 1934; Dunes, Oceano, 1936; Nude Series of Charis, Oceano, 1936; Zabriskie Point, 1937; Tree, Lake Tenaya, 1937; Point Lobos, 1940; Dillard King, Monteagle, Tennessee, 1941; Civilian Defense, 1941; and Nude, 1945.

While you look at these works, you will imagine that Edward Weston is at your side . . . pointing out details that you might not have noticed. His photography always has that character of being a reflection of his eye, rather than what the casual observer would naturally see. Both realities have equal validity, but your mind and eye will prefer Weston's.

In the biographical material, you will learn about his weakness for changing partners and how that helped to provide his muse. Many of the models for his female nudes are his lovers (including his second wife, Charis) and his nudes of children are of his son. His passion for Tina Modotti brought him to Mexico and helped draw his attention to many fascinating scenes.

After you finish enjoying this work, I suggest that you think about what inspires you. What would you be happiest and most proud being remembered for as your source of inspiration? How can you express yourself in more personal ways that show your most inner self?

May your passion inspire the goodness in others!

no commen

Anyone curious about Weston or wanting to own a representative selection of his work should buy this book. This IS Weston. This is not a few selected prints of his on a single theme, this is a wide representation of the best of Weston's work. One will find for oneself that ALL of Weston's pictures are about passion, that's what makes a picture a Weston. Here in this book are beautifully reproduced plates of his finest images, every one exuding shape and energy, and exquisite composition, none just ordinary. There are images of factories, fields, sand, wood and also the human body, all of which have been captured in all its glory by Weston. He teaches us that there is energy, art and passion in an amazing number of ways. Don't miss this fine book.

Review Summary: Edward Weston was trained as a portrait photographer and expanded his vision to include many natural shapes, including seashells, nudes, vegetables, trees, landscapes, and eroded rocks. He also did a little industrial photography, where the forms he saw also revealed pure shapes of interest to him. These shapes usually had a modernist feel to them that brings to mind Plato's theory of forms, pure ideas behind what we see every day. This book is fine overview of all phases of Mr. Weston's career, and contains many interesting and valuable essays about his career. The book is improved by having over 80 images that had not been published before this volume. The 320 duotone images are on very fine paper and are extremely well reproduced. Many would have benefited from being printed in larger sizes. If you decide to own only one book of Edward Weston's work, I suggest you choose this one.

Viewer Caution: This book contains many nude images of women, men and children that would surpass what would allow the material to obtain an R rating as a motion picture.

Review: Edward Weston's photography reveals a personal fascination with form, shape and shadow that provide a unique vision into the natural world. He was especially intrigued to see how the shapes of one object or subject could complement another. For example, his female nudes are often posed outdoors in sand dunes or beach settings where the gentle curves play off of one another. Where he focuses on eroded rocks, each one combines with another to express the equivalent of an abstract sculpture, standing out exposed by the erosion around the harder rock that forms the image.

While his landscapes could be every bit as majestic as Ansel Adams's best work, Weston's tastes and interests developed mostly independent of the leading photographers of his time. That independence gave him a greater versatility as a photographer and a more personal style. Few would mistake his ability to locate the patterns within nature and human-made objects for the work of any other photographer. To me, the artist closest to his vision was Georgia O'Keeffe.

My favorite images from this book include: Ruth Shaw, a portrait, 1922; Armco Steel, 1922; Nude, 1925; Dancer, 1927; Chambered Nautilus, 1927; Cypress, Point Lobos, 1929; Bedpan, 1930; Pepper, 1930; Soil Erosion, Carmel Valley, 1932; Church at "E" Town, 1933; Nude, 1935 (first one); Bug Tracks in Sand, 1935; Whale Vertebrae, 1934; Dunes, Oceano, 1936; Nude Series of Charis, Oceano, 1936; Zabriskie Point, 1937; Tree, Lake Tenaya, 1937; Point Lobos, 1940; Dillard King, Monteagle, Tennessee, 1941; Civilian Defense, 1941; and Nude, 1945.

While you look at these works, you will imagine that Edward Weston is at your side . . . pointing out details that you might not have noticed. His photography always has that character of being a reflection of his eye, rather than what the casual observer would naturally see. Both realities have equal validity, but your mind and eye will prefer Weston's.

In the biographical material, you will learn about his weakness for changing partners and how that helped to provide his muse. Many of the models for his female nudes are his lovers (including his second wife, Charis) and his nudes of children are of his son. His passion for Tina Modotti brought him to Mexico and helped draw his attention to many fascinating scenes.

After you finish enjoying this work, I suggest that you think about what inspires you. What would you be happiest and most proud being remembered for as your source of inspiration? How can you express yourself in more personal ways that show your most inner self?

May your passion inspire the goodness in others!

Ed Cline's romantic epic of the American Revolution continues its grand style, dramatic plotting, and intellectual suspense in Sparrowhawk Book Four: Empire. The fourth novel in a six-book series devoted to the founding of the United States, Book Four: Empire portrays American planters Jack Frake and Hugh Kenrick as men allied in spirit and philosophy who disagree over the means to their political ends: chiefly freedom from English tyranny. Set in 1760s Virginia, Book Four begins with George the Third's Royal Proclamation of 1763 that established a vast Indian territory between the Appalachians and the Mississippi River and forbade any use of those lands to colonials. The storyline progresses through the debates over the Stamp Act in Parliament and in the Virginia House of Burgesses and the adoption of the Virginia Resolves of 1765 that sparked the fire of revolution.

Sparrowhawk is an expertly researched work of fiction. Cline recreates the period vividly down to the relevant details in pre-revolutionary history and culture. Hugh Kenrick constructs the first system of indoor plumbing in Caxton. Communications via ship are maddeningly slow, with many months required between the passage of an act in England and the arrival of legislative documents in the colonies. The Virginia House of Burgesses in Williamsburg is populated with contemporary figures: John Robinson, George Washington, Richard Bland, Edmund Pendleton, Peyton Randolph, and Patrick Henry. Hugh becomes acquainted with young Thomas Jefferson, a law student at the College of William and Mary.

The storyline in Book Four: Empire follows the deepening conflict between England and the American colonies established in Sparrowhawk Book Three: Caxton. Upon victory in the French and Indian War, King George and Parliament set out to increase Crown control and exploitation of the colonies through settlement restrictions, higher taxation, and the denial of English constitutional rights to Americans. New Crown policies reverse the Act of Settlement that encouraged the patenting of lands upon which taxes and other levies had already been paid by the colonists to England. These new policies confiscate property from its lawful owners. England already benefited greatly in its regulation of colonial trade, exchange of currency, and collection of tariffs. The newly proposed Stamp Act imposes an unjustified additional burden on the colonials by requiring the purchase of special stamps for almost all documents. To tighten the colonials' chains, Parliament rejects any suggestion that Americans be allowed Parliamentary representation as British subjects in adherence to British constitutional law.

At the center of the Sparrowhawk epic is the story of two heroic men, Jack Frake and Hugh Kenrick, who recognize that any compromise with tyranny will destroy American liberty. Self-assured and confident in their moral convictions, Jack and Hugh part ways only over the strategies necessary to rebuff English authority and preserve American freedoms.

The personal and political issues at stake are enormous and the threat of death and other destruction very real. A challenge to Crown power is no less than "an invitation to tragedy," in the words of one burgess. Both opponents and proponents of the Virginia Resolves foresee the inevitable reaction of the king and Parliament: a punitive military response to subdue the disobedient Americans and to permanently destroy any hope of American political independence.

Hugh Kenrick is a man of tremendous intellect and practical achievement who believes in the power of reason. Reason alone, he believes, can persuade the English of the morality and justice of American independence united in alliance with England. Hugh's speeches in the Virginia House of Burgesses speed the Resolves along to passage despite heavy resistance, aiding Hugh's conviction that men who know reason will act in accordance with it.

In contrast, Jack Frake is just as settled in his conviction that many men do not respond to reasoned principles but act inconsistently and often blindly according to whim, fear, or the irrational desire for advantage and power over others. Though on different roads to their destination, Jack and Hugh recognize the same spirit and soul in one another. For Jack, Hugh is "a self that would never submit to malign authority; a self that was sensitive to the machinations of others, a self trained in the brittle, lacerating society of the aristocracy to be on guard against sly encroachments; a self that was proof against corruption, sloth, and violence; a self that recognized and cherished itself, and so was proud; a self that quietly gloried in its own unobstructed and unconquered existence. A self very much like his own."

Throughout his grand epic, Ed Cline helps readers grasp the vital connection between philosophical ideas and the personal choices and events that arise from them, especially in the birth of the independent new nation and moral political system based on individual rights. American novelist and philosopher Ayn Rand stated that art can be uniquely inspirational in showing us life as it might be and ought to be. Sparrowhawk portrays principled, heroic individuals living consistently and courageously by moral absolutes, men as they really were and might be again.

Sparrowhawk, Book IV: Empire is a joy. This is a thinking person's book. One of the themes of the book is that those who focus on reality, do the hard work to develop a model of that reality, and act on the results of that thinking - even in the face of opposition - will gain glorious rewards.

None of the Sparrowhawk series are easy, mind-disengaged reads. The historical detail is so rich, the philosophy is so deep, and the characterizations are so intricate, that they demand focus. But the effort yields its own glorious reward.

Book IV in the Sparrowhawk series details the politics behind the passage of the Stamp Act in England and the heroic stance of Patrick Henry and his allies in the Virginia House of Burgesses in lighting the flame of resistance to the Stamp Act.

The book makes one realize what a close-run thing it was that the beginnings of the resistance to British rule happened at all. The forces for compromise and acquiescence to encroaching British tyranny against the American colonies were strong, and it took heroic thought melded with action to move Americans to have the courage to resist.

This book makes more clear than any of the series the link between the ideas of the philosophers of the Enlightenment - like Locke and Sydney - and the actions of the American Revolution. The exploration of the intellectual trends in 18th century Britain and Europe is another benefit of reading this book.

Like the first two books in the Sparrowhawk series, this book makes clear the personal emotional benefits of thinking and acting consistently, too. Romantic fiction gives us heroes to emulate, and the Sparrowhawk series is romantic fiction at its best.

I just hope we don't have to wait as long for Book V: Revolution and Book VI: War as we did this one. Edward Cline's web page (www.edwardcline.com) says that Book V is complete and that Book VI will probably be done in early 2005. We just hope that the publisher gets them to market as soon as possible.

This book is another 'chapter' in the Cline series on the ideas and people behind the American Revolution. The series is excellent and the characters are not only truely inspiring, but bring to light the serious lack of principled people that currently lead our nation.

Here's my highest recommendation as a person who loves great literature and as an amateur historian who has been fascinated by the American Revolution and its intellectual antecedents for more than 30 years.

If I have a complaint it's that I would like to have seen the entire series published as a single volume so I could devour it all at once.

Cline has obviously spent an enormous amount of time researching the background for these books. It shows in a thousand little touches and details that give the era life and character for the reader. Some may argue that there is too much background, that it tends to obscure the story. I do not agree. There is neither more nor less background than is necessary to provide the proper context. These are historical novels, after all.

But far more impressive than the detail is Cline's deep understanding of the revolutionary mind. Finally, here is the historical truth of the American Revolution. Religious "freedom" and self-sacrifice are relegated to their proper place as near-nonentities on the list of historical causes and personal motivations. Here is a world peopled by giants of an intellectual and moral stature seldom seen today, who do not sacrifice values but risk everything to keep them. Here men do not oppose England in order to prostrate themselves at the alter of a jealous Christian God. They fight to live as free men, opposing all forms of tyranny.

Cline has a literary style that perfectly frames this story set in the world-shaping era of the Enlightenment. He builds his stage and writes his actors large and heroic as they ought and deserve to be written. The books are full of profoundly perceptive and beautifully poetic writing. The emphasis is on intellectual drama not physical action as befits one of the great intellectual conflicts in world history.

Thank you Edward Cline. Sparrowhawk is a classic in the making.

While the Sparrowhawk series introduces fictional characters, in this book they interact with historical people amid historical events. The result is the best history lesson around - a compelling story that not only makes history come alive but allows the reader to get a unique perspective of the founding fathers. If this were used in schools, many more students would have an interest in history. This particular book is my favorite in the series so far.

As my husband and I read through the book, we realized it made a lot of sense to gather experiences from others. These people have made a work at home career workable. Paul and Sarah show us how to think on our feet, keep things in order, be flexible and get the kids involved too. We really appreciate all of the recommendations throughout the book. These are a huge source of unbelievable resources right at the finger tips. We are very anxious to go to the recommended websties, and of course, read the books. The three books that we have already purchased and are extremely pleased with are Getting Publicity, by Tana Fletcher, How to Raise a Family and a Career Under One Roof, by Lisa Roberts and Mommy-CEO, (Constantly Evaluating Others)5 Golden Rules, Revised Edition, by Jodie Lynn. So far, these three books have helped to pinpoint daily stress factors involving a business and last but certianly not least, kids in the home. There are many others listed which we are sure will be extremely useful in the big picture of things to come. In our experience, we have learned it doesn't matter how successful we'd like to be, but instead, getting the right answers for the right challenge and then making it workable for the family. As the authors say, if there are kids around, get them involved in either the business or other activities so work can be completed. This is a true statement especially if children are underfoot for the biggest part of the day. For the best use of our time on a daily basis, we know it's mandatory that parenting skills are sharp and respect is working on both ends of the spectrum. This book has almost every answer to every question entreprneurs wonder about. If there is any stone left unturned, it can surely be found in one of the many other recommended books or websites. Totally cool and it just makes sense.

Simply said, if you are a working parent, you've got to get this book! Aside from the how to basics, you can tell that Paul and Sarah have really done their homework -- it's loaded with facts. This book features profiles of 111 entrepreneurs who spill the beans of what it's like in their careers including a job description, their industry insight, marketing tips, and top revenue streams. Paul and Sarah paint a real picture of what it's like to work from home. They show that entrepreneurs defined success in terms of quality of life, rather than dollars earned. For many, it's a trade off that is well worth it for more time with the kids and a richer life. They offer extensive coverage of insurance options for the self-employed. Other topics include childcare options, how to handle summer vacations, and involving the family in your business.

I had bought Paul and Sarah Edwards book "How To Make Money in Cyberspace" several years ago when I first had the concept of my business... and I owe it all to Paul and Sarah for passing along their knowledge to make this business the success that it is. I only wish that "The Entrepreneurial Parent" had been published at that time as well. I would have saved myslef a lot of time and mistakes along the way as far as running a business from home with a small child. This book is cram packed full of advice, resources, techniques and real life examples. I can attest to all the book has to offer having gone through the process myself. Thank you Paul and Sarah for publishing such a valuable resource. I highly reccommend buying this book along with their other book "How To Make Money in Cyberspace" if you are thinking of starting an on-line business.

Simply said, if you are a working parent, you've got to get this book! This book is BRILLIANTLY written - what a joy to read! Aside from the how to basics, you can tell that Paul and Sarah have really done their homework -- it's loaded with facts. This book features profiles of 111 entrepreneurs who spill the beans of what it's like in their careers, including a job description, their industry insight, marketing tips, and top revenue streams. Paul and Sarah paint a real picture of what it's like to work from home. They show that entrepreneurs defined success in terms of quality of life, rather than dollars earned. For many, it's a trade off that is well worth it for more time with the kids and a richer life. They offer extensive coverage of insurance options for the self-employed. Other topics include childcare options, how to handle summer vacations, and involving the family in your business.

Finding the ideal work-from-home situation can be daunting, especially for parents. This book breaks down the process from determining whether you're suited to be an at-home Entrepreneur vs. a corporate employee in an outside office, to finding the ideal business. The Edwards and Lisa Roberts, well-respected in their field, provide a thorough listing for all types of business opportunities available to Entrepreneurial Parents. I highly recommend this valuable resource!

Sweet stories that inspire. Short, simple stories that allow you to search for a moral lesson. As suggested by another teacher, I have been reading the short stories to my classes (sophomores) & they write various reflections. Yes, it is possible to hook high schoolers with "story time".

Ed Hays has a rare and unusual gift for story telling. Trained by Benedictine monks, he has lived his adult life in Kansas thought travel ling extensively in the near and far East. The Ethiopian Tattoo Shop is a collection of 12 stories worked round a wonderful frame story which begins and ends in jerusalem . These stories, which are best read one at a time and savored, mix the ordinary and fantasy in delightful and life enhancing way. This is no simple parable book where the message is telegraphed long before the end of the story. It continually intrigues, challenges and surprises the reader. Some of the stories, truly can be life changing. Get the book and find out why it has such an unusual title. These are not just great stories but may be helpful for teacher and educators and preachers in giving a fresh and lively insight to the age old issues of what it means to fully and playfully alive. As a bonus the book is illuminated by Ed Hays in his own inimitable style. If you love stories and story telling don't miss out on this rare treat.

This book was a wonderful venture outside the conventional christian inspiration literature genre. It returns to the basic idea of humanity and compassion that the religion is built upon without becoming boring or repetitive. It asks the questions we all ask ourselves but for every person that reads this book a different outcome is present. The art is also unique and motivational in its symbolism. I recommend The Ethiopian Tattoo Shop for christians and theologians of all types.

Edward Hays was the guest speaker at a gathering in Willmar, Minnesota many years ago. He appeared before his audience at St. Mary's wearing an apron and explaining to his audience that it was the role of all to be of service. Many, especially the women in attendance, were scandalized by his appearance, and said that it was beneath the dignity of a prist to wear an apron. It was his insight of service that drew me to his teaching. I bought The Ethiopian Tattoo Shop that day. It is one of the most remarkable books I have read. Just as the parables of the New Testament provided teaching lessons, the wonderful stories of the tattoo shop provide insight in a delightful way.

Inspiration and solace for the foot sore pilgrim,
this book provides needed nourishment for travelers
of all flavors on the path to enlightenment.
Delightful!

A must for anyone who is interested in learning about this subject

This a book which enables a group of people to have fun following a sport. It teaches you what to look for and how to prepare yourself. It is a book that will help not only the so-so sport fans but also the very hard core sport fans. The one thing that I would have added to it would have been Chapter 23 How to go from 9th place in your league to 1st in the last five weeks of the season, but then again that's me. If you have a group of friends who like sports and don't know how to set up a league this is a great book to buy.

it allows for the whole family to come to the table as one and play the game the way it should be played. the team of gus and jim is outstanding!!!!!! i can't wait for the next version!!!!!

This book covers all the beginner aspects of the fantasy sports game. It offers the necessary steps to beginning your own league and if your a seasoned veteran helpful hints to get the winning edge. I can attest to the George Griefs and the Jermane Allensworths from my own experiences.

The book is an excellent tool that allows all to enter and enjoy the wonderful world of Fantasy Baseball!!!!!

This is the most beautiful text book I have ever seen! With this book I am learning to "key out" fish for identification. A whole new world is opening before my eyes!

This is a very informative book. I would have preferred more pictures and less artists renditions, but one can't be too picky.

This may very well be the best fish guide we've seen yet. The organization and utility of "Fishes of Alabama" has clearly been influenced by the best previous titles which use a similar format (such as "Fishes of Arkansas"). For each species, national range maps are given in addition to Alabama dot localities overlaid on a state watershed map.

Perhaps the most important aspect of this title is the illustration. Some artistically uninclined individuals will prefer photographs, an opinion to which they're entitled, even though photographs are, for most vertebrate groups, inferior to accomplished artwork in both a functional and appreciable sense. Truly landmark wildlife compendiums tend to use quality artwork over photos - that's an historically-substantiated fact. "Fishes of Alabama" is no exception here. Each species account is headed by a beautiful, small specimen painting that showcases important identification features. Each account's painting is duplicated in large plate format in the book's center. The artwork, for those with enough culture to appreciate such achievement and an eye for depiction of important detail , is worth twice the purchase price on its own.

Throw in the consideration that the biological information on each species will help not only sportfishers, baitfishers and ichthyologists active in Alabama, but also in additional states inhabited by the species covered, plus a better-than-average foreward, and you've got yourself a must-have title. "Fishes of Alabama" is likely one of those books for which the timeless esteem and utility that it beckons will cause the price it commands to increase substantially once it's out-of-print.

This book is a great reference for any ichthyologists or anyone who loves fishes and art. It contains a lot of information and citations for each species.

This is an excellent reference book. Joe Tomelleri is a remarkable artist with a talent I have never seen before. His illustrations are so close to looking at the fish in a stream. He is a master at capturing life. The information in this book is very complete and concise. A great buy for the money and just a beautiful book to look at even if you are not extremely interested in fish.