F Books

What a great read, just a pleasure to read the works of Sigurd. His stories give a real feel for what it is like in nature and gives a desire to enjoy the outdoors! His writing style is inviting and detailed, Truly a classic!

Every small story in this book seems to bring us peace & serenity. Sigurd brings out the part of a person that is called to nature and is connected with the earth. Every time we read from the book it seems to recenter us and put us back on track for better more fulfilling living.
The only semi-negative comment would be that his writing is very male dominated. This is not totally surprising since it is written in the early to mid 1900's.

This book consists of 28 essays, each a few pages long. The essays discuss general themes related to the outdoors, with reference to the North Country from Minnesota to Alaska. Olson is a marvelous writer, and the essays are captivating.

The book is divided into three parts: "Primal Heritage," "Search for Meaning," and "The Imponderables." The first group of essays ruminate on themes such as nomads, hunter-gatherers, silence in the woods, and the implications of these themes for modern life. The second group on meaning concerns one-word themes such as harmony, aliveness, beauty, and simplicity. These essays would provide an excellent basis for discussion in a book group or a classroom setting.

The third group is the least successful, and moves to a poorly-developed religious climax. In earlier essays in the book, Olson revealed himself as a Christian who sees the beauty of God's creation in the great outdoors. In the third part he moves toward a more synthetic position, finding common ground among many religions. That's fine, but it leads him to two essays on an "emergent God," which don't really work. He is a nature writer, not a theologian, and it shows.

Though many of his themes are timeless, such as the need for people to discover their true nature away from their urban lives, Olson discusses many anachronistic practices. When he would arrive in camp, his chores might include cutting pine boughs for a mattress, chopping down a tree for firewood and tent poles, and other destructive practices. Those are no longer possible.

Olson also reveals himself as a man living in a patriarchal time. He would disappear into the woods for weeks or months at a time, leaving his family behind. In this book, he mentions his son Sig several times but never mentions his wife, who presumably raised Sig and managed other household chores. Olson also sings the praises of his canoe-makers, and the joys of simple food in the backcountry such as rice, beans, and meats, but he does not raise any of that food himself. This reveals him as being connected to a wider economy and to people such as farmers who cannot disappear into the woods as he can.

Would Olson have been able to live his life in the woods without his wife, farmers, canoe-makers, and others living their lives in a house? The thought never crosses his mind, but we should ponder it.

This is the best book ever written on wilderness.

This book compiles some of Olson's best writings. In it, his last book, Olson further explores the concept of self-reflection and self-discovery through wilderness solace. His writing will be of interest to anyone who enjoys the outdoors (especially canoeing), but also readers who enjoy general contemporary philosophy.

I receipt the book very quikly and in excelent conditios of use, as a new book.

Reinforced Concrete: Mechanics and Design (4th Edition) (Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics)

I think this book is very good quality, and shipping is not bad...

I have the 2nd edition of this book which I loved. This edition is excellent and is easily the best text on Reinforced Concrete there is anywhere.

This book is the best for those who want a deeper understanding of reinforced concrete design.Since the author presents a step by step way to introduce the concepts,the reader is able to get a more detailed information and retents more concepts instead of procedures

This book was already one of the best concrete design texts and is even better with the addition of the new co-author James Wight, who adds valuable information on the design of concrete structures to resist seismic forces. There are a few minor errors in the examples that still exist from the 3rd edition, but they are minor and the examples are detailed enough that the corrections are usually forthcoming. I recently finished a MS in Structural Engineering focusing on concrete design and this book (3rd edition) was one of the 2 or 3 that I found myself referring to most often.

Reviewed by Kim and Sean Peterson for Reader Views (5/06)

Karen Greene gives in to peer pressure. Wanting to be accepted, she agrees to ride a horse that demands more skill than she possesses. When she and the other teens ride the trail, Karen struggles to control the uncooperative horse, Comet. Her poor choice and the sudden appearance of a dirt bike on the trail place horse and rider in danger. When the frightened horse bolts, Karen and Comet suffer injuries in a traumatic accident on the nearby road. Although her body recovers, nightmares and lack of confidence plague her. Karen fears riding her own gentler Morgan horse, Robin.

Karen's parents decide to move Robin to a different training facility, Gallant Morgans, with the hope that their daughter will find a way to overcome her fear of riding horses. The less intimidating atmosphere exposes the teen to new friends, including Heather Richardson who helps the owner Chauncy train horses for show and for the trail.

As the humans, horses and other animals at Gallant Morgans help her overcome the apprehension about riding, they also encourage the redeveloping bond between Karen and Robin. The mare doesn't take advantage of Karen's trepidation, but is the essence of patience as her young owner strives to re-master the skills that have seemingly abandoned her.

As volunteer horse caretakers at a local therapeutic riding facility, we feel that Feld accurately portrays both the responsibilities of caring for a horse, as well as the special bond developed through time spent together. Girls (and guys) who long for the full equine experience will savor this fourth story in the Morgan Horse series.

All I can say is, I wish I were a teenage girl again, because this series would have been on my bookshelf right up there with the Black Stallion series, the "Flicka" series, Marguerite Henry, and all the other horse books that were close to my heart. I recommend starting with "Blackjack" and reading the series through in order, as you can see the characters, both human and equine, grow and learn, and new characters add a new dimension, just as they do in real life. The best part is, as I can testify as an owner of 5 Morgans, the equine episodes in the books are realistic. Morgans really ARE like the horses in the books. And as a mother of 3 teenage girls in the past, I can also testify that the girls in the books are very much like the adolescent girls that filled my house all those years ago. Even though I am WELL beyond my teenage years, I can't wait for the next book in the series - I hope it is as exciting and uplifting as "Robin". Knowing this series, I am sure it will be!

This is a great book for horse crazy people, children and adults. Well written. Ellen keeps getting better and better, her Morgan horse books are something any teenage girl would want, and adult horse lovers too. Highly recommended. All three books in this series are EXCELLENT!!

Once again Ellen is right on the mark when it comes to a believable story with the delicious overtones of whimsy and fantasy that horses conjure up in all of us. All of Ellen's books are worthy additions to any library of children's classics, and are a recommended read for all ages and genders. We await more additions to the trusty list!

Ellen Feld zooms me back to my childhood and memories of riding with my friends. Yep, we did some crazy things with our horses...and so many times it was a result of peer pressure. Our horses, like the Morgan horse Robin, seemed to know better and were there to help teach us so many valuable lessons. Ellen's story takes hold of this reality and addresses it with a mature hand and detail that floods the senses with the smell of horses and leather, the sounds of hoofbeats and laughter, the sight of green grass and wonderful Morgan horseflesh, the feel of the reins and a freshly-curried coat, and the sheer bliss of spending time with horses and friends. I have to wait (somewhat impatiently) while my son finishes each new book that Ellen writes!

SOUTH: THE LAST ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION

Here is a list of equipment that Sir Ernest Shackleton did NOT have for his memorable Endurance expedition: GPS location finders; radio ; RADAR, SONAR; computerized navigation; professional medical care; thermal clothes; MRE'S (Meals Ready To Eat), double steel hull; air and logistical support, public relations agents; marketing proposals; lawyers.
Shacketon's crew navigated with a sextant; traversed the icecap with dog sleds instead of ski-doos, and ate canned herring, tinned meat, pemmican, biscuits and occasional seals.

What he did have was an old ship, a strong crew, an incredible work ethic, classic British stoicism and unerring sense of the right thing to do.

His book reads like a Robert Louis Stevenson or H.G. Welles story, but it is the unvarnished truth. His matter -of -fact account is brilliantly illustrated by Frank Hurley's dramatic black & white photos of The Endurance encapsulated in ice, its masts and spars dripping frozen water like the maritime apparition in Melville's "Benito Cereno."
I seriously doubt whether a modern expedition equipped with all the bells and whistles and sponsored with corporate money could duplicate what Shackleton's Endurance accomplished under the most adverse circumstances imaginable.
Because the Endurance expedition occurred in 1914-15 at the start of World World War I
Shackleton's accomplishment was largely overshadowed, and the Antarctic was all but forgotten until the `fifties and `sixties when its scientific and strategic value was rediscovered.
Now, as the Antarctic ice cap melts from global warming, one wonders at Shackleton's accomplishment.

When the Antarctic explorer ship Endurance became trapped by ice in the opening days of World War I, Sir Ernest Shackleton and his companions found themselves stranded for the winter. Months later, when the ice floe that had been their "home" became unstable as spring breakup began, the party - with their ship long since broken apart - took to their three open boats, and made their way to Elephant Island. There they set up a precarious camp, where most of the group waited while Sir Ernest and a few carefully chosen companions struck out for South Georgia. That South Atlantic island, 800 miles away, was known to have year-round British inhabitants.

Those are the bare facts of one of the great true adventures, a story told here by Sir Ernest himself. His dry writing style may take some slogging, at first, for contemporary (especially American) readers; but his wit is equally dry, and his descriptions vivid. I was especially interested to note the differences between the Shackleton party's attitudes and those of today. Not only is this a magnificent survival tale (NOT ONE of Shackleton's men died!); it's also a snapshot of how those quintessential English explorers of another era thought about the world they were discovering. For better or for worse, how times and attitudes have changed!

After more than a year of seeing pretty much nothing but ice and snow, and living in, at times, sub-zero temperatures, Sir Ernest Shackleton writes about his camp's current conditions; "Drifts four feet deep covered everything, and we had to be continually digging up our scanty stock of meat to prevent its being lost altogether... On this day, and for the next two or three also, it was impossible to do anything but get right inside one's frozen sleeping bag to try and get warm. Too cold to read or sew, we had to keep our hands well inside, and pass the time in conversation with each other." He's so matter-of-fact... no fluff here. He just tells it like it is. I love that about this book. The conditions worsen by leaps and bounds as the story continues, but I'll leave that for you to explore on your own. Anyway, the first few chapters are very informative regarding how the expedition was planned, where they were headed, how they got there, etc... for me, it started a little slow, but I understand why the writer wanted to include this information. So, then you get into the "meaty" survival stuff... and is it ever so fascinating. And for me, it's especially fascinating because it doesn't seem to be sugar-coated, as so many writers are proned to do when telling their story. In fiction, I don't mind so much the way a writer gives you every detail, written ever so eloquently, but when it comes to true stories... especially survival stories, I personally just want to hear the straight talk. A GREAT SURVIVAL STORY AND PERFECTLY WRITTEN for this reader.

What an expedition! There is a lot to be learned about leadership and survival by the adventurers on this journey. If you like men against the elements, who survive by their wits and never ever give up, this is the tale for you. A great winter read.

Shackleton was an amazing man full of true grit and true leadership. Among the many things that stand out in his story of survival is the importance of keeping a journal. Even after many supplies and equipment were left on the ice, the men were instructed to continue to carry their journals. And what if they had not? Where would be the true story that outshines most fictional adventure stories in the minds and imaginations of many, including myself?

If you want to read more about Antarctica, I suggest T.H. Baughman's "Before the Heroes Came."

This book is a typical Og Mandino book. It is a real page turner. It is very difficult to put it down. You just want to keep reading to find out what happens next.

If you have not read any Og Mandino books before, then I suggest you start with The Greatest Salesman in the World. I personally like that best of all I have read.

After you have read a few of his books, you come to expect the unusual twist that all his books contain. Even though you have a good idea of what is coming, it is still spellbinding.

The book is well written and draws you into the book. The story is great but the lessons for living wrapped within the story are even more important.

You will be moved, inspired and enlightened. You can always count on Mandino to deliver a great story with some real lessons for better living.

I have read everyone of Og Mandinos Books and all I can say is that he writes with brilliance, clarity, enthusiasm, and spirit. You can never go wrong with any of his books. He points out the path to success and motivates the spirit within to achieve all that we as human beings are capable. He helped me to tap into my innate genuis and create a life of prosperity and creativity. If you havent raed his books, start now and your journey of the spirit will begin. He was a born writer and even after his passing continues to have a great influence on many people old and young. He truly lived a purposeful and divine life. Go buy all his books and enjoy the growth and enlightenment. After that Buy my Book " Your daily Walk with the Great Minds of the Past and Present". Enjoy and rememeber you are capable of great things in your life.

I love Og Mandino and this is typical Og style. Good feel good book, predictable.

...and what a 'GIFT' it is!

I have read several motivational/inspirational books that take you on a rollercoaster ride and this is one of them.

OG is a master at weaving you like a homemade basket. He skillfully places words and moments in specific places so you feel like you are gently being carried in and out of a world that is so real. You find at the end...that it is REAL!

I am presently reading Mr. Mandino's 'The Greatest Salesman in the World'. I so-called read it many times before, but this time, i am paying attention and doing exactly what the book says. I am up to the 7th scroll and I won't be finished with the scrolls until the beginning of 2005. You have to start somewhere! I will keep you posted on my progress and pray that you are progressing as well from all books that propel the human spirit to soar.

'Spellbinder's Gift' will definitely keep you SPELLBOUND.

WHEN YOU FINSH THIS BOOK. MR DUNNE WILL BE A VERY SPECIAL FRIEND

Mr.Gurudas has created a very informative decription of the corruption of america.Bush is not impeached because the coporate state,big and small business do not have to pay tax,or be regulated.This includes anyone who benefits from the selling of america.The supreme court,senate,congress are corrupt and bought by industrialist and commercialist.Big and small contractors less not forget.Free Trade circumvents the laws of the U.S. and the constitution.The senate and congress let this happen.CAFTA fast tract vote.Dubai 6 ports,sell oil company to china,sell technology to china that can be used by military.The coporate state and our representatives are in violation of the constitution they are commmitting treason,violating the security of U.S.Illegal immigration,violation privacy act,and allowing coporate to get around the constitution,also not following constitutional law for the congress resulting in subverting the U.S.for Greed and corruption,blackmail,etc.The war we are in is illegal because there were no weapons of mass destruction.The war is for Isarel,U.S.,England,for security profit and control of oil.Coporates benefit at expense of the people,senate and congress support the coporate state which buys them.This is update since Mr.Gurudus wrote this book.The book title Treason The New World Order is appropriate and the references are available for research 833 foot notes.The statements in this book are true.The coporate state is a thing of the past,but does not know it.They will not succeed in the NWO.Federal Reserve is in violation of constitution,we would not have deficit if the government was in control.We would not be paying interest.The bank of england is a city unto itself.It rules.We have a constitution.Why did they let the feb be private,so
they could ripe us off the elite and rich.it works for them.Thats why.People are affraid to say anything.Power corrupts.The governments need to take back their banks.International bankers need to stay with their merchant banker friend.International bankers are the controlers of the world.They control by shares and front men puppets.

Mr.Gurudas uses term multiculturelism,which means immigration legal,elegal.He states that this is used to destroy our culture.One of the means to overthrow the constitution for the new world order.Education another The U.S. is amoung the lowest in the west in science and math.Student today do not know their history.They do not know who they are.Civis,physical education,english,being proud to be an american are not encourage especially if you are western european.Mexicans say they are taking back southwest.We have foreigners from all over the world telling us what we can do in our country,and the U.S.government supports them,they have more rights than a U.S. citizen.Welfare benefits,school,elegallly working.Protected by police.The tax payer pays.You have company unions,jewish organization,protestant,catholics,bishops,and others crying let them come in even if it cost your job, security,culture,and bankrupts the states.We should be ashame to be western european.

The banana republic are the fault of the coporatesThe coporation exploit these countries so they come to U.S. to work.These people who come here gererate 25 to 35 percent of revenue for their country.You the tax payer subsidize the elegals country,and support them when they need help here.Look at outsourcing by U.S. to boarder towns.At last count there was only 10 million industrial jobs left in U.S.El salvador contra were given green cards and now are worst gangs in LA.Compliments of U.S. governmentThis is the way you destroy the european culture in U.S. and western europe.Immigration.

Back to education.we have to go back to prior 1963.If a person does not have the ability to learn there is no point in keeping them in school.They need to go to tect school or to work.This can be done in government programs age 14 8 years of school.They can work in programs to help the country until 18 yrs.50 percent probably do not have ability to finisn high school.Allowing people to be in school that cannot perform is crazy and a disruption to those who have ability.Everyone has the right to opportunity,and to be treated fair,but,you are born with your IQ,and it will influence your life greatly.This does not mean you have to do demeaning jobs.All should do what they do best.The military uses IQ test,and the have been proved to be a good gage of ability,there are always exceptions,you can retest at a specified later date.

Multiculturelism is not working,and everyone knows it,but greed pravails.Third world people need the world bank and IMF to help them at home.The coporates have to be regulated.We support dictators all over the world.Shell oil in Africa now with uprising of people that shell totally exploited,gave the country nothing.Slave labor.General Butler in thirties stated that the coporates are criminal.It is worst now.Those university grants,and rich families,no wonder the educated are worthless.Brainwash and stupid like the rest of us.They have the knowledge to change the government.Batra The great Depression 1990.Gives method to control the coporations.Alternatve energy,a just distribution of the wealth.Take care of the environment.Did someone say I love those excessive profits to much,let them eat cake.That is what the King and Queen of France said,the aristocracy took a fall too.You know last man standing,with elite every body can go down.

Westpoint Mr.Gurudas hopes you will help us you are suppose to uphold the constitution.The other military schools as well,you are not stupid,you are well educated now.Of course the elites buy those with potential.It could be necessary to kill your family,and friends.Mr.Gurudas says government people a military installations were tested and ask if they would fight for UN ,and do what they were order to do.No UN forces should be in america that have authority over our own military,or for any other reason.The UN will be the international army,and you will do its bidding.Are you getting alot of floride in your drinking water.Marine base San Diego,NOV,DEC 2005 had dangerous amount of lead or some poison in their water,Maybe it help the jarheads.WE need a draft for brotherhood.Let everybody do two years no university exceptions.

Mr.Gurudas wants us to form organizations,join the minutemen,
boycott,have marches,report elegals,form unions,voteout those who support immigration,Free Trade,out sourcing,importing,and selling the U.S.

HR4437 stop immigration and take back america.The coporate say they have to have slave labor,the upper classes need them to,baby sitter, maid in the garden.Do not feel sorry for anyone.The coporate will hurt if it can.It is infantile.It needs to go to the wood shed for a talking to.The gang of four B,C,R,L should be in jail and Blare,straw,Isarel has to stop being on land that is not theirs.Fox guards hen house,bring in U.N. troops .A terroist is a terroist.Stop spying on U.S. Start paying back all that money you owe U.S.POllard,USS liberty.Who is a racist,anti,Dubai.we are racist because we do not want 6 ports.Veto.

Brainwashing police tactics coporate games,NWO end.There are people that imply that we are quilty even if not born.A nation is quilty for what the government of their country brainwashed them to do.These people use this tactic to stop any criticism.There are laws to stop people from talking about the subject.These people commit acts every day that are criminal,yet it is okay.The UN said they were racist they had it remove with help of U.S.What do you see on TV,they say stop the terroist,which ones,which side.No you are not responsible for the past crimes of your country,if that were so we would all be in jail.Human nature is bad,pain is the normal state,pleasure is abnormal,happeness is very temporary.Hobbs said we are liberated in the second we acknowledge our wrong,and are sorry.Hume said character is fixed,and to change it would cause damage,and when you were not on guard,the old self would return,mans nature is one.We are of the same making.Do not expect other wise.WE know that if Hitler was in charge we would do what he said,he would be the authotity.Cornel University,or other proved that people will on a percentage do what authority says.Also they will kill you if you do not do what they want.Would you say kill me,or would you comply.Do you want to go to Russian Front,or be hanged.

Mr.Gurudas talks about government,military experiments.Biologica
l,chemical weapons,radiation exposure.He gives many authenic cases.Aids,smallpox,Gulf war illness,agent orange.LSD,and other mind experiencements.many of these studies were without consent,or they were not given correct information.They also put agents in the air in towns no warning.Hypnosis and drugs to have a fall guy,VA has cause many veterans problems,refusing to acknowledge the problem,agent orange which resulted in many defects,and long term suffering,as did the Gulf war illness that is causing same suffering.Gulf war injection was past by FDA without before full trail was completed.People who did not want injection and refused were in trouble.They did not follow up in many programs so they did not no ramifications to individuals.

Restoring Constitutional government.Democratic socialism is solution.The government has to have power over the coporation,they must be regulated.The people have the right to full empoyment with a decent living wage.Free medical.Government
car insurance,and pensions.The reason why you do not have this now is your stupid.The profits of the coporates and business you would not believe.It an employer cannot pay decent wage he should not be in business.Did you not know that France the work 35 hrs maybe 6 weeks vacation,Germany very good benefits.England and U.S are worst for social benefits,and england has socialize medicalEngland the want them to work long hours.Has anyone wanted to know why germany is doing okay now,but was in a depression.The vote no for EU did the bankers and coporates depress the economy until the no vote.They will do anything.They want slave labor.The elite care nothing for the people,we should treat them in kind.The governments have the money,or they can get it start taxing the coprations and make the rich pay there fair share.Stop free trade,immigration.The coporates will fight,but we will win,if they violate the laws they can go to jail,they can get out of the country and stay out.International Bankers these are not the people we want in our government.

Mr.Guruas talks about the CIA,FBI,NSA,ets These are the police for the elite,Police work for business interest all over the world and do the dirty work.There are no limits.morality does not exist.There is no compassion,explotation is the game.What mr.Gurudas says about them is sufficient,the real world.

Mr.Gurudus would tell you hr4437,stop immigration,no free trade.No compromise,SAVE AMERICA,VOTE THEM OUT

Brilliant synthesis of hundreds of books detailing the Establishment's deadly war against the American people, their liberties, and their families.

My highest recommendation!

This book covers pretty much everything in a well documented fashion. If you only read one book on the new world order, this should be it. The author doesn't just spout out claims and expect the reader to believe him, he backs them up with reliable footnotes that you yourself can use to corroborate his info. This is a far cry from books from people like David Icke, who while he writes interesting books, I just can't take him seriously. This book goes into the Oklahoma city bombing, Ruby Ridge, Waco, the militia movement, CFR, bilderburgers, etc... This is a book written by a serious, entirely sane NWO researcher. If you're looking for UFOs and reptilians, look elsewhere. It's a shame he is no longer alive to write more.

I ordered it 5 months ago, and STILL haven't received it.
It MUST be good!
I'll give it a 5 star rating, since apparently it's inaccessible.
I mean if Amazon can't get ....
THAT tells me something!

Book is a Tour de Force in revelations ! I can understand now why he was executed. This man was a brilliant writer and this book is a crowning achievement. This book triumphs None Dare Call it Conspiracy !, which should be the 1st conspiracy book you read.

10 thumbs up on this one !

This is a well researched and written book about the Indian wars on the New York and Pennsylvania frontiers during the American Revolution. It tells the stories of the Wyoming Massacre, the Cherry Valley Massacre and the Sullivan campaign providing the details on each but in a very readable format. It also provides some details on other not so well known events on the frontiers like the situation around Pittsburgh and in western Pennsylvania. Consequently, this book fills in a gap in the American Revolution and worth the purchase for any individual interested in reading more about that period.

After two years of fighting in America with limited success, the British felt they were, to coin a popularized modern term, in a bit of a quagmire, and sought a new strategy for their overseas war. The new strategy involved moving the war away from the more populated northeast and into the western frontier. This move would not only disperse the already diminutive American forces, but would also allow Britain to utilize its strongest North American allied force, the Iroquois Indian Confederacy.

Glenn William's book, THE YEAR OF THE HANGMAN: WASHINGTON'S WAR AGAINST THE IROQUOIS chronicles the events that took place in those western frontier skirmishes and battles. The book derives its name for the year, 1777, which had become popularly known at the time as the `year of the hangman' due to the three sevens appearance of gallows when written, though the majority of the events actually occurred in 1779. Though using that title for his book was too good of an opportunity to pass up, William's title is slightly misleading as to the dates of the primary events.

The Iroquois, though primarily located in Western and Central New York, were quite possibly the strongest Indian nation of North America for a span of over 500 years. Their control reached across the Great Lakes into Central Wisconsin and their rise to prominence came at the cost of driving out, and driving to extinction, numerous other Indian tribes of the region. They were, to be sure, a force to be reckoned with.

Both the Americans and the British had heavily lobbied allegiance with the Iroquois, but in the end, the Indians felt their best chance for future lay at the hands of the British and consequently, four of the six main tribes of the Iroquois sided with the British. This error in judgment would prove fatal to the Iroquois nation, when, as a primary result of the Sullivan Expedition, the Iroquois nation would virtually lose all of its military and political power.

While the Sullivan Expedition is the primary focus of William's book, other major events are deftly chronicled as well, such as the Battle of Oriskany and the Wyoming Valley attacks. By 1979, Gen. Washington had successfully developed the army making it capable of taking the fight to the Indians and literally destroying their economical stability and rendering them harmless, not just for the remainder of the revolution, but into the subsequent years of frontier settlement into the traditional Iroquois homelands.

That Washington was able to develop a force the size of the Sullivan Expedition (5000 men) is in and of itself, a testament to Washington's military leadership abilities and, though today, only an afterthought in Revolutionary history, stands as one of the General's greatest military accomplishments.

This is good reading. Glenn William's had put together a readable and valuable presentation of a rather forgotten aspect of America's fight for independence.

Monty Rainey
Junto Society

Mr. Williams recent book describes in excellent, understandable detail what caused the Americans to invade Iroquois territory and the effects of the invasion. His book is an excellent companion to another book I have read titled History of Wyoming, by Charles Miner that was originally written in 1845. Miner interviewed people who survived or were connected to the Wyoming Massacre, while Williams had access to all the archives. The two books fill in details and each makes the other more rewarding to read.

I read this book because I have Loyalist ancestors who were members of Butler's Rangers and almost certainly participated in the battles described in such detail. My ancestors, William Pickard and his 2 sons James and Benjamin, two privates and a drummer boy, did not get mentioned in the book, but that was not a problem since around 900 people were in Butler's Rangers. They survived to move to Canada after the war and they started large families after leaving their homes in Tryon County.

The book has a nice section on the key personalities that I found useful since there were Butlers on both the Loyalist and Patriot sides. The book would be improved by detailed maps. Unless you can imagine where places like Tioga, Unidilla and Stone Arabia are, you will read the book in front of your computer with Google Maps open as I did. The book would also be improved with contemporary photos of the battle sites; some of these, like the Battle of Newton, were easily found on the web.

I learned much from the book and enjoyed it. It was very interesting to see that the Rangers contained a good number of Black soldiers who lived with the rest of the Rangers and the Indians. It was also interesting to see how both sides courted the Indians and tried to win their support. The book really makes the Revolution look much more like a civil war than people typically think.

The book was well written to the point that the book rich in detail was not lost by the tremendous amout of utilized quotes and reference points. More detail on the life style and pressures (for survival)of settlements along the frontier border would have been benefical.

In this final entry of the Blood Ties series by Jennifer Armintrout, we have a final showdown with Jacob Seymour, the Soul Eater. The Soul Eater consumes other vampire's blood and their soul. He has every intention of becoming a god. Carrie, Nathan and Max once again re-unite to bring about the destruction of the Soul Eater. I did not realize that this would be the final book. Jennifer, according to her website, is of the opinion that she would like the series to go down in a blaze of glory, not fizzle out. I have to agree that she definitely went down in a blaze of glory with this final installment. She took all the stories from the previous books and melded them into a fantastic last book. Carrie seems to finally come to a final decision as to whom she really loves. It is hard for her to separate the Sire/Fledgling relationship from the Man/Woman relationship. Does she love Cyrus because he sired her and later she sired him? Or does she love Nathan because she is his fledgling? All of the stories throughout the previous three books are nicely resolved. I never saw the ending coming. This book had a captivating story, wonderful action scenes and a touch of humor that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to her new series that will be out August 2009. If it's half as entertaining as the Blood Tie series, it will be good.

I've read a lot of paranormal romance and urban fantasy, and this ranks up there as one of my top favorites. First of all, I think it's great that Armintrout decided to end this at book 4 instead of dragging it out in an endless amount of installments, like some other authors do. It is the perfect balance for me of romance, action, and horror. This book had a satisfying and climactic ending which wraps everything up quite nicely. I won't give anything away in terms of plot, but if you have enjoyed books 1-3 then you must read this one, which I feel was the strongest of them all.

Carrie and crew are ready for their final showdown with the Soul Eater. Many people don't escape unharmed and their is carnage and twists aplenty. This story finds a way to wrap up all the loose 'blood' ties and I was completely satisfied with the conclusion. I have wavered with these books and found them to be quite uneven. This book made it worth the entire struggle (sometimes) and joy (sometimes) to get here. Carrie finally gets her head on straight and sees herself and others as they are and how they need to be. She sees what is truly important to her and has to make some tough decisions. The other characters we have seen throughout the series play out their stories to a mostly concrete ending as well. Armintrout really gave her characters a chance to stand out and many of her side characters are more exciting and dear to readers (at least to me) than Carrie, Nathan, or even Cyrus. The action really builds and its interesting to see how they prepare for battle physically and emotionally. Its also almost funny at times to see Carrie's powers grow. This is the book that could have blown the whole series for me, but instead, its the book that will ensure that I will not hesitate to recommend it to others.

I just finished All Souls' Night today, and I was quite satisfied with it! I'd rate it 4.5 stars.

Carrie is back, packing more power and out for the Soul Eater. Max and Nathan also return, as well as a few characters you might not have expected (unless you read the reviews without spoiler warnings)! Magic plays a bigger role this time around, and I had several moments of surprise, horror, sympathy, anger, and joy.

The book is well-written, with maybe only one typo (think it was "laugher" instead of "laughter"). These days, that means a lot, especially considering all the popular UF out there with countless errors ("diety" in a certain popular series, anyone?). Although I enjoyed the content, the changes in point of view were a little uncomfortable sometimes. Although I appreciate Carrie's insights, I almost wish it had been done in 3rd person or omniscient if the other characters' stories were to be included.

***spoiler***


Also, the rising from the dead again and again lessened the impact of certain earlier scenes (in this book and previous ones) for me, but it made a lot in the book possible, including a great HEA. =)


***end spoiler***

Anyway, my only real complaints were the changes in POV and the rising from the dead, which are minor complaints about a well-written, interesting book that grabbed me and didn't let me go. I hope to see Jennifer Armintrout write another vampire series... It was great, and I've recommended it to friends who've never read any vampire books besides Anne Rice's, and they've liked Blood Ties a lot!

All Soul's Night is the satisfying conclusion to a series that has reinvented itself with every book. Vampires Carrie and Nathan are taking a breather before the final battle to stop the cunning Soul-Eater whose powers grow with each vampire soul he 'drinks, a battle that they are ill equiped to fight. After withholding his love for three books, Nathan is finally ready to love Carrie, but Carrie is now the one holding herself apart. Frustrated Nathan runs out of patience, calling Carrie on her pettiness and selfishness, forcing a little introspection on Carrie who at long last sees the cost others have paid for her selfinterest. Unfortunately this revelation comes a bit late and Carrie may loose Nathan for good when he willingly walks into a trap baited with his foster son Ziggy - the son who died in Nathan's arms but who is somehow `alive' but tied to Soul-Eater through the fledgling/sire blood tie. Believing his sire's lies, Ziggy delivers Nathan into torture and certain death -- Nathan is intended to be the sacrifice that will fuel the Soul-Eater's transformation into a dark god. Given Armintrout's willingness to sacrifice her characters in previous stories, I was definitely on the edge of my seat for a good portion of the book wondering if Nathan was going to survive the torture that make Armintrout's books fall on the `Horror' side of urban fantasy/ paranormal romance.

Most of the players in the story are ones that we've already met in the series. The magical Dalia who continues to revel in her depravity plays her evil part with glee but pregnant werewolf Bella is mostly on the sidelines. And even though the main thrust of preparing for the battle against the Soul-Eater lies with Carrie, dual natured vampire/werewolf hybrid Max who has his own struggles, Ziggy with his divided loyalties, and newcomer to the series Bill an ex-Marine blood supplier -- the only human amid all the vamps but whose acceptance may help to win Ziggy back his soul -- also play important roles. I could rave on about the character development and the great plot. I was impressed by the way that Armintrout builds the characters up for the final confrontation and actually gives them the skills to have a hope of winning.

I really enjoyed the final journey to Armintrout's Blood Ties world where sacrifices are always required, death is not always permanent and endings are not predictable - who'd have thought that a series so dark could end with a promise of light.

The Turning (Blood Ties, Book 1)
Possession (Blood Ties, Book 2)
Ashes to Ashes (Blood Ties, Book 3)
All Souls' Night (Blood Ties, Book 4)

Each area of Appalachia has its own specialities. The food of this region is absolutely wonderful; especially Kentucky and West Virginia. Overall, I can think of no culture that has better food than that of the Appalachian mountain people. Mark Sohn has does his research and it appears to be most accurate as he tells the history behind the many dishes and now they were and are now prepared. Some of the dishes seem heavy on the fat and calories, but many men and women have lived to advanced age eating this comforting food everyday of their lives. Still to this day, when we gather for holidays and celebrations, Appalachian dishes are high on the request list by family members.

I have not been able to read the entire book yet, but what I have read is very interesting. Some of the foods I have never heard of or seen. The food that the mountaineers have prepared seem very comforting. Will review more when I finish the book.

Appalachia is one of the poorest areas of the country economically but one of the richest areas in terms of heritage, culture, scenery, and food. This cookbook is much more than a collection of old-timey recipes, it is a glimpse of the cuisine that nourishes the people of this unique American region.

Culinary histories like this one don't come along every day. I have read this book several times, and I never cease to enjoy it. It is well written and is both informative and entertaining.

My older sister, who is a very good Appalachian cook from eastern Kentucky, received a copy for Christmas and she said it has helped her reminisce about her childhood days. She still cooks many of the basics but she had forgotten about some of the foods we used to eat when we were growing up, so she is happy to have this collection of recipes on her shelf.

Mark doesn't leave out anything. He tells us everything we could possibly want to know about the foods he shares. If you have any connection to the Appalachian area, whether you were born here and have lived here all your life or you left early in life and have only a grandmother still residing here, this book is a must-have. It doesn't even matter whether you want to cook (though, believe me, you will want to try many of these recipes), you will want this book for the food descriptions themselves.

If you have no connection at all to Appalachia, then you will want to buy the book because you can learn a great deal about our foods and our culture--as well as enjoy the recipes. Vegetables, side dishes, school lunches, herbs and game, chicken, lamb, breakfast foods, sauces, salads and soups, and sweet treats--they're all here, waiting for you to get into the kitchen, alone or with your family and friends, and whip up something delightful.

The book is wonderfully indexed and has gorgeous pictures of tantalizing foods. You will find mail-order sources and a glossary of terms to help you understand anything that is new or different to you.

This book is a treasure. I would suggest you click on "Add to cart" now! And for further information about the book, click on Sohn's web page at www.marksohn.com .

Luckily for twenty-first century cooks, the trend in cookbooks is to contextualize. Where is the recipe from? How has it been adapted for the American cook? What is the history of this food? As a fan of Mark Sohn's food writing, I can attest to the fact that he's been doing this for fifteen years. His most recent book takes contextualization to a whole new level. By the end of the first section you feel like you've walked up the hollers of Central Appalachia and tasted the food made over the years.

In addition to the food culture and history, the book is packed with signature Sohn recipes-easy to follow and concise. There are no extra steps in the Chocolate Gravy recipe and you know just how long it is going to take from start to finish.

As an avid cookbook reader and lover of Appalachian culture, Appalachian Home Cooking adds a whole new layer to my understanding of the region.

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