Hall Books


Books-Under-Review-->Reference-->Biography-->H-->Hall-->30
Related Subjects:
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250
Hall Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Hall
A Comprehensive Etymological Dictionary of the Hebrew Language for Readers of English
Published in Hardcover by Prentice Hall College Div (1988-02)
Author: Ernest Klein
List price: $100.00
Used price: $185.00

Average review score:

Excellent book on looking up Hebrew words
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-22
I purchased this book at the recommendation of Brad Scott of Wildbranch Ministries. It is an excellant book having most biblical words that one would look up. Most words also have the 3 letter root derivative and the root defined. It is a great book for those that do not know how to extract the 3 letter hebrew root from a word (like me), I use it in conjunction with the programs Dvar3, InterLinear Scripture Analyzer 2 and E-sword all freeware and the Etymological Dictionary of Biblical Hebrew by Matityahu Clark which only contains hebrew roots. Rick

Extraordinary Hebrew learning and study tool
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-13
Felix Klein's masterpiece of scholarship is an unmatched resource for connecting Hebrew words to each other and to sources in other languages. I have found no other dictionary, either in Hebrew or English, of comparable scope and quality. Particularly useful to me has been Klein's coverage of words with Greek origins, something that has helped me find surprising links between Hebrew and English. Hebrew-Aramaic connections have also helped improve my Aramaic. I've used Klein to lock in vocabulary found everywhere from classical rabbinic commentaries to Hebrew editions of Harry Potter. Because the dictionary is printed overseas, for years it was available new only through relatively obscure specialty sources (if you could find it at all) or as a used book for hundreds of dollars. I am glad to find it in the Amazon catalog. The book isn't cheap, but you get much more than you pay for.

PRAISE ISNOT ENOUGH
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-16
This dictionary contains may child words other dictionaries donot making it easier to find a word. This dictionary states the time period for the word and where the word comes from. I have seen nothing better.

Essential part of the library
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-12
This is a must-have book alongside Reuben Alcalay's dictionary and Matityahu Clark's Etymological dictionary of Biblical Hebrew. With these three dictionaries, I consider my collection of Hebrew dictionaries complete.

A concise and indispensible pleasure from Alef to Tav
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-09
I purchased my copy of Klein's masterpiece about 15 years ago, and it has remained a true and trusty friend over the years. I view it as a standard reference which falls somewhere between Reuben Alcalay's straightforward _Complete Hebrew-English Dictionary_, and Wilhelm Gesenius's technical _Hebrew and English Lexicon_. Klein usually compares Semetic roots or terms (primarily Akkadian, Aramaic and Arabic), although he will sometimes turn to Egyptian and/or Greek. Each page is comprised of three columns of text, and the layout is very clear and easy to use with very legible type.

Hall
Daddy Was a Number Runner
Published in Hardcover by Prentice Hall Trade (1970-06)
Author: Louise Meriwether
List price: $8.95
Used price: $0.42
Collectible price: $25.00

Average review score:

A very GOOD read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-04
This was given to me by my mother when I was a teen. I still have this book today and I read it over and over. This book is really good.

Some Ole' School Truths
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2001-11-28
Daddy Was A Number Runner provides a horrific historical and sociological picture of Harlem during the 1930's post-Renaissance era. The reader travels throughout the daily trials and tribulations of Francie Coffin, an adolescent girl living with her brothers, mother and father, who is a number runner.

Statistically we know of the crime, deviance, poverty, fatherless homes and emerging welfare system but what we do not read about is the human elements; the feelings involved. Through Francie's own words and her dreams we are able to feel and capture Francie's plight. While Francie appears to be somewhat naïve she is also able to navigate the streets and people within Harlem. Francie serves as an errand girl for her father, gets into scuffles with her friend and is a victim of molestation. On the positive side she is an obedient daughter and sister, attends school and she loves to read. For Francie, reading and attending movies at the theater is her salvation from the madness.

The book goes one step further to examine Black and Jewish relationships. These relationships are presented in the form of tenant/landlord, student/teacher, customer/business owner and domestic/employer and in each, the black characters appear to be the victims. While not harboring resentment towards Jews as a group, the characters demonstrate a dislike towards the individual because in each example the Black character is shown to be subservient towards the Jewish character for survival.

The characters portrayed are captivating and one of the books largest strengths is the ability of Meriwether to show some positive aspects of the inhabitants. Through all of this despair we find love, kindness and support of family and neighbors, male pride, the importance of education, and compassion. The word community resonates throughout this story and the women are the backbone of this community.

There is no happily ever after and everything is not neatly fixed at the conclusion for there is no conclusion. What we have is Francie's acceptance of her life and her community but also her ability to still dream of a different life. Meriwether has provided the reader with an assessment in the life of a small community but does not place blame on one entity. We, the reader, are able to empathize because Daddy Was A Number Runner offers a lesson in history that is relevant today. This is a story of family and the survival of it.

A Timeless Treasure
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2001-05-14
Reading Daddy Was A Number Runner for the second time as an adult was like visiting an old friend. I first read the novel when I was in junior high and the only thing I remembered from it was this freaky movie theater scene. That and the fact that it was good. Now that I am grown, I took a lot more away from it this time.

Francie is twelve and growing up in 1930's Harlem. She has two older brothers who have totally different aspirations in life. One wants to be a hoodlum and the other wants to quit school to become an undertaker. Her father, a number runner of course, is too proud to go onto public assistance and that causes a lot of turmoil between her parents. She has a best friend that likes to beat her up most of the time. Old white men try to feel her up whenever they get a chance. Francie really endures a lot for a person her age. If you are into period novels, this is a must read because it gives insight in a generation we know nothing about.

Love it
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-30
I have a 1970 copy of this book, and I love it, absolutely love it. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to get lost in a book for hours. You feel like you're walking beside Francie, and Sukie on the streets of Harlem. This book is a thumbs up.

Impressed...
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-03-17
From beginning to end, the book was enjoyable. Brutally honest and very mature, but an excellent read. Many times hit close to home, others were a learning experience (like the use of rags, the electric hair on juveniles, etc.) It was a quick read that I didn't want to finish!

Hall
Dark Water (Fog Point Series #1)
Published in Paperback by WaterBrook Press (2006-04-18)
Author: Linda Hall
List price: $13.99
New price: $4.65
Used price: $1.89

Average review score:

Masterful!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-13
Linda Hall is an excellent writer who combines just the right amount of suspense, mystery, and a pinch of romance with the foundation of faith woven through the whole.

Lots of suspense
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-14
Wesley Stoller is out of prison, and that spells big trouble for Elise St. Dennis. On the day he was sentenced for murdering his brother, Wes threatened to find Elise and kill her. She knows her ex-brother-in-law, and is sure he intends to make good on that threat. Running scared, Elise hires Jake Rikker and May Williams, private investigators to locate the ex-con and make sure he can't find her. Jake is attracted to Elise, which gets in his way, but as the investigation turns up secrets he never expected to find, he discovers she's not all she claims to be.

Linda Hall is a new author for me, and I enjoyed her writing. Dark Water is a tightly woven, exciting blend of death and deception where nothing is really what it appears to be.

Dark Water makes for a great read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-10-02
Linda Hall is one of the best contemporary mystery writers and each year she gets better and better. Dark Water offers far more than a genre novel, though it certainly has mystery galore, danger and some fascinatingly creepy characters. Hall captures voice and paints complex characters with literary precision and great insight. I sure hope to read more about Dark Water's odd couple PI team, who run a whale watching business on the side out of a purple-painted building in fictional Fog Point. Hall's left room for the villain Moon to re-emerge in a subsequent book because he was never caught. AT least I hope that's what she's planning. What an amazing character.

Intricate Mystery with a surprise ending
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-08
I love Linda Hall's newest book, Dark Water. I love the people she's created in Fog Point.
As the mystery unravelled, I was riveted, and couldn't put the book down until I found out exactly what was going on.

Fantastic!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-25
Linda Hall is an incredible writer. This mystery captured my attention on the first page and kept me guessing through the twists and turns. Great insight on whales and a powerful, surprise ending. Can't wait to read the next book in this series!

Hall
Dressing & Cooking Wild Game (The Hunting & Fishing Library)
Published in Hardcover by Prentice Hall/ Simon & Schuster (1987-01-01)
Authors: Hunting & Fishing Library and Teresa Marrone
List price: $12.95
Used price: $1.99

Average review score:

pretty good book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-04
it covers a wide varity og game and has some interesting ideas

Gift for my husband
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-16
This book has realy been a great help for my husband. It gives him a quicker technic for cutting wild game meat. The book was received in great shape. Thank you very much.

deer on the living room table
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-22
When I came home there was a dead deer on my living room table (yes I was shocked because it didn't belong there) and my husband was looking at it holding a knife. He didn't look so sure what to do. I got this book from the library which explains in very detailed pictures how to "disect" the animal. It worked so great I bought him the book for xmas and we have used it several times for deer, turkey and the great recipes.

Dressing and Cooking Wild Game
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-18
The book contains excellent photography making it most helpful; the problem I found with it however was the example shown for field dressing the deer. In my opinion opening the carcass from chin all the way through the crotch area is absolutely wrong. A much better way is discussed in the book entitled, "Butchering Deer" by John Weiss.
Dressing and cooking wild game is an excellent book in all other aspects and would have rated five stars if this area was correct.

One of the best!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-30
One of the most comprehensive books I've ever owned on the subject. This book covers everything from how to sharpen a knife to skinning and butchering deer, rabbit, squirrel, pheasant, quail, and coon. There are also several recipes in the back for each of these animals. Good pics, good information, good book.

Hall
Environmental Management Strategies: The 21st Century Perspective Volume 5 (Environmental Management and Engineering Series)
Published in Hardcover by Prentice Hall PTR (1999-02-06)
Author: Gabriele Crognale
List price: $59.99
New price: $23.95
Used price: $20.95

Average review score:

A "Must" for the Manager's Bookshelf
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2000-04-20
If your company hasn't already tapped you to be involved in its environmental management effort, your reaction to the mention of ISO 14001 may range from dismissal (What's it got to do with me?) to dispassionate interest (I guess it's a good idea, but my plate's already full.). Gabriele Crognale explains in simple terms why many companies have embraced the concept of environmental management -- and why today's managers need to be aware of what's happening in this field. The book identifies opportunities, management practices, methodologies, and innovative strategies that organizations can implement to improve their environmental management performance. The logic is that if organizations display a strong commitment to sound environmental practices, they can defuse the traditional "command and control" enforcement applied by regulatory agencies. In a total quality organization, sound environmental practices are a shared commitment that makes good business sense. This book explains the issues and provides solid, hands-on guidance for helping your organization as it takes the next step in improving environmental quality.

Advice still timely, good links even to Sustainability
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-11
Many environmental management books in print today, and even some books on the new wave of sustainability, lack the depth and detail that the author provides in his book. His choices of co-authors are a good blend to the mix and depict practical insight into their operations and how they address environmental management and sustainability issues. Practical insight can be gleaned from such diverse companies and industries as HP, Gilette, IBM, ST Microelectronics, Chevron and Texaco, and how each of them addresses environmental management issues as well as how they applied their lessons learned to improve.

Of note, one local university uses excerpts of the book in one of its environmental maangement classes, and was impressed with how specific chapters lend themsleves well to these classes, here in 2007.

Environmental Management Strategies:21st Century Perspective
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 1999-12-28
Very interesting! A must-read for an environmentalist

Jessica Hehl, Environmental Engineer
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-07
Environmental Management Strategies, The 21st Century Perspective, Volume 5 is an asset to any environmental managers' bookshelf. It is very readable while being stuffed with applicable information pertaining to environmental management. It offers a good picture of recent business trends that incorporate environmental practices that often go beyond straightforward compliance. The book also illustrates the possible benefits of companies applying forward thinking regarding environmental management using case studies of successful companies. In addition practical information pertaining to OSHA, EH&S, and EPA requirements are included.

In-depth view of environmental consideratins
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2000-06-08
This book offers a unique look into the issues and responsibilities that environmental professionals in companies face on a daily basis. The Editor used finesse in weaving the case studies of other environmental professionals into a smooth flowing book where each new chapter complements the previous chapter. So what you get is good reading instead of dry, dull technical reading. The Editor also includes extensive additional material in the endnotes, references, etc., brings rich value to this book as a suitable reference source for all readers, whether students like me, or professionals in the workplace. It's VERY conservatively priced for what you get, and is easy to read. I enjoyed the book for what it offers, and I recommend it to you.

Hall
The Essential Guide to Computing: The Story of Information Technology (Essential Guide Series) (Essential Guide Series)
Published in Paperback by Prentice Hall PTR (2000-08-11)
Author: E. Garrison Walters
List price: $39.99
New price: $23.00
Used price: $0.67

Average review score:

Unbelievably Good
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-20
Walters' comprehensive knowledge of the world of IT and incredible ability to explain complex concepts make this book a fascinating read for any gadget geek interested in how stuff actually works. And he doesn't settle for simple, surface level explanations. Instead of shying away from the details and tech-speak, Walters takes you one step further than you thought you could ever go through insightful examples and meaningful analogies.

In addition, his ability to put technological developments in context allow the reader to see the larger factors and trends that have and continue to drive change. A seemingly chaotic and overwhelmingly fast-changing industry suddenly seems logical and "trackable" after reading Walters' book. In this way, it's easy to forgive the fact that the text is a bit out of date. Everything I've read about today's technology I've easily been able to connect back to the ideas I learned here.

Truly one of a kind.

Pretty cool book!
Helpful Votes: 18 out of 18 total.
Review Date: 2005-07-22
It is very cool book, I would say valuable book to build up your understanding of IT in general. It converges many technologies into one coherent pattern so you start to understand many things. I combined reading of this book with "UNIX Essentials" DVD and it nice to explore many of the conceptions in action. If you are lacking some evenness with your IT knowledge pick this one it is nicely shape your vision of it.

Review from an Experienced Marketing Manager's Perspective
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-14
With 6+ years marketing management experience and an MBA, I feel this book was very helpful in understanding the many facets of technology and its evolution through time. The book is a must read for anyone who needs to build or brush up on a solid but basic understanding of technology. However, many of the newest trends in technology are only briefly covered. This is due, I believe, to the fact that many of the pervasive technologies and collaborative applications now being pushed in the marketplace didn't make the editor's draft of the book even though the published date is 2001.

A REMARKABLE FIND !
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-14
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO COMPUTING is simply an extraordinary achievement. It reflects a breadth of knowledge and clarity of presentation that is remarkable. It makes every effort to distill knowledge about computers and computing in an easy, reader-friendly, memorable way. For computer users everywhere -- in organizations, schools, colleges and universities, and individuals -- this volume gives multiple ways of getting to know more about computing in its fast changing environment. First, you get to know the foundations of how computers and computing works in practical, everyday language. Second, you get a reference book that explains key terms, key workings, and key interconnections among the parts.

The most noteworthy aspect of the book is its superb coherence in presenting vast amounts of computing knowledge arranged in for easy understanding. Information and explanations in one chapter are referenced in subsequent ones, never failing to explain connections among them, with a view to present an overall picture of how computers and computing works.

Each chapter highlights technical terms related to computing and information technology, provides an overview of specific aspects as for example "An Overview of How Storage Works" (Chapter 2, p.40), and highlights in grey explanations of widely used terms such as "Disks From a User's Perspective" (p. 56). Each chapter also ends with a summary list of questions that focus on self-evaluating one's grasp of the chapter's contents.

E. Garrison Walters' book will continue to enrich the understanding of all who enjoy working with computers at work or for pleasure. I wish this book had been available to guide me in computing long before I found it, and, that I had written it ! It is a remarkable achievement!

Great coverage of the IT field
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-12-07
There is a great breadth of information presented in a very lucid fashion. The material is easy to understand, and the author adds a great sense of humor.
However, with the rapid advancements in technology, the book is a bit dated. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a gain a great breadth of knowledge in the field of Information technology, in a short period of time.

Hall
Five for Sorrow, Ten for Joy (Portway Series)
Published in Textbook Binding by G K Hall & Co (1985-05)
Author: Rumer Godden
List price: $11.95
Used price: $4.04

Average review score:

First time reader of Rumer Godden
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-09
Not sure of how I came upon this author, but I had put this on my Amazon "wish-list" and was given this book and "House of Brede" for Christmas. I just dusted the book off last week (only took me 5 months) and am now having a hard time putting it down. Wonderfully written, although it took a bit to understand the writing style, it is now an easy read. Highly recommend and now looking forward to reading more books written by this Rumer Godden.

Mercies within mercies
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-05
Having read "In This House of Brede" by Rumer Godden I was expecting a fine quality novel out of this book. I was totally blown away.This may be the most powerful novel Ihave ever read. This book is not for everyone and some material may not be suitable for younger readers, as the main characters and some secondary characters are prostitutes.
Basically this book deals with the human condition and our need for redemption, and abov all Christ's mercy and love for the least in society (prostitutes).
The main character is Lise,a former prostitute who, as the novel begins is being released from prison for murdering the man who was her pimp. There are two secondary characters that are important to the story, one who becomes redeemed by Love and one who seems to be corrupted to the point of perdition. The realism with which the author portrays the less pleasant characters is sometimes shocking and slightly graphic but not terribly so. I found this to be an inspriational and uplifting book and I recommend it to anyone interested in genuine Catholic literature.
My estimation of Ms. Godden's rank as an author was immensely improved after reading this novel. Also, her portrayal of religious life is one of the most accurate that I've read, and to me, this added greatly to the book.

5 for Sorrow, 10 for Joy
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-06
This story touched my heart and held my attention throughout. It reveals a unique side of a special ministry, in a very personal way. I have already recommended it to several friends and will continue to do so.

The convent revisited
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-30
This is a beautifully written account of one woman's journey to the fulfillment for which she has always been searching.The descriptions of France and the French countryside are evocative and lyrical. I detected many echoes of "In this House of Brede", her earlier work, and her subsequent comments on that and the opinions voiced by various religious sisters on it. To some extent I found the ending anti-climactic ; although hints of evil are cleverly suggested,I regretted a final confrontation between Vivi and Lise. Perhaps the author wanted to say that we are never completely free from fear and danger. But a good read, nevertheless.

a joy to read
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-13
Often I give away a book, especially fiction, once I've read it. Not this book. I have bought aeveral to give to my friends and without exception, each of my friends had to get the book to give to their friends. This is a story packed with reality, mercy and new beginnings - it overflows with hope even when things for the central character seem at the worst. I so appreciate Godden's sensitivity in conveying the truth about human nature and, as I am a member of a monastic community, amazed at her ability to portray life in a convent without romance and with great regard. Powerful read.

Hall
Forfeit
Published in Audio Cassette by G K Hall Audio Books (1985-06)
Author: Dick Francis
List price: $53.95

Average review score:

Hostage to Greed
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-25
James "Ty" Tyrone writes sports columns for a "rag," but his excellent salary supports the tremendous medical expense of his wife who must live in an iron lung, a victim of polio. FORFEIT is a masterful thriller from Dick Francis.
Ty meets Bert Chekov, a fellow writer, on the street. Bert is drunk, but warns Ty not to sell his column. A short time later Bert falls or is pushed to his death. Thugs demand Ty's support for their race fixing scheme and resort to intimidation through his wife's frail grip on life. A must read for Dick Francis fans.
Nash Black, author of WRITING AS A SMALL BUSINESS and SINS OF THE FATHERS.

Tiddley Pom
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2006-12-09
This was my first Dick Francis novel. Took a while to get into it, but it was a page turner by the end. 3 stars for those who aren't racing fans.

Dick Francis
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-14
I've probably read all of Dick Francis' many books and always await the next one happily. In between the advent of his new books, I occasionally re-read some old ones with pleasure, which I rarely do except in the case of classics. He writes literature equaling, for example, Eric Ambler's writing in quality.

My first Dick Francis novel, won't be the last
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-10
Forfeit, by Dick Francis, tells the story of sports writer James Tyrone beginning when a drunken colleague, Bert Checkov, warns him not to sell his column. Making vague allusions to blackmail and bribery, the man is so drunk that he's all but incoherent and then goes his own way. Chalking it up to the booze, Tyrone leaves his friend only to learn minutes later that the man has just fallen out of a window and died. A short while later, we learn that Checkov has been heavily touting a large number of horses that end up getting scratched from their races shortly before post time. This is the tip of the iceberg that leads Tyrone into conflict with bookmakers who will stop at nothing to continue a scheme that has already netted them a small fortune.

Tyrone is a remarkably strong character who deals with a home life that could only be called difficult, an editor who doesn't mind risking his life to get a story, and a gang of thugs that don't mind dishing out a beating or even murder to get what they want. He is not perfect, but he does have a good heart and readers can't help but root for him. Most of the characters are interesting and portrayed uniquely enough that they remain distinct and not just cardboard cutouts put in place to fill their assigned roles. The story builds momentum as it goes. In the beginning, I found it mildly interesting but as it progressed it became a real page-turner.

This is the first novel by Dick Francis that I have read but he has been one of the most respected mystery writers for many decades. His writing style is very clear and crisp, easy to read and understand. Some English novelists use language that can make it hard for Americans to follow but I didn't find that to be the case here. I am not particularly interested in horses or horse racing but I do like good stories with interesting characters and there was a healthy dose of that in Forfeit. After reading this book, I'll be ordering more Dick Francis novels soon.

Intelligent, memorable
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-21
I had been thinking: Do I really want to read about horse races? I only watch the Kentucky Derby and sometimes two more races, if there's hope for a Triple Crown.

My friend had been urging me to read Dick Francis, and recently recommended Forfeit, which finally I read.

In the book, Francis is always low-key and, as a former jockey, knows his stuff. Suspense is permanent, the plotting intelligent and flawless.

In Forfeit, we follow journalist James Tyrone, as he and his London newspaper colleagues investigate racetrack fraud. The highly profitable criminal organizations pressure racing writers to mislead England's legitimate bettors. The perpetrators are not hesitant to inflict serious bodily harm and worse.

Francis draws his characters carefully. We know them all, sometimes gaining our affection, identifying with their personal struggles. Tyrone cares for his mostly paralyzed wife Elizabeth, who could not survive without a breathing machine.

A major plot mover is a relationship between Tyrone and an attractive university professor, leading to extended complications and threats.

We also meet a stable owner who is dealing with his spacy wife and troublesome sons. We see the bad guys. We are introduced to the horses, especially a central one named Tiddely Pom.

We are in the British racing world. The writing is memorable.

Hall
Golden Urchin (G K Hall Large Print Book Series)
Published in Hardcover by G K Hall & Co (1988-06)
Author: Madeleine Brent
List price: $18.95
Used price: $0.97

Average review score:

Romantic, poignant, wonderful!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-07
Oh my God- this book is wonderful! This ranks right up there with my favorite Victoria Holt titles. I will not summarize the story- other reviewers have done this. The story is told in first person narrative, by our heroine Mitji/Meg. It is poignant, wonderful and romantic. The guilt Luke feels in his attraction to Meg, her bewilderment at his mood swings, their growing love for each other (*sigh*), just fantastic. No graphic sex, just a lovely story well told. How refreshing in todays era of paranormal romance. You will not regret purchasing this book, it epitomizes the meaning of romance.

A story you don't forget. Totally unique.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-10-13
I loved this story and the adventure was top rate. Brent writes the best heroines and this girl was tops. You also get the tortured but honorable hero in this story. Every character is written exquisitely! I have rarely read such a charming tale.

I loved this book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-03-31
I couldn't put this book down. It had everything I love: shipwreck, romance, and danger.

One of the best stories I've ever read!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2004-05-24
I was totally involved in this wonderful story. I've never been disappointed by Madeleine Brent, but this must surely be her best work ever.

The somewhat slow beginning is probably not for everyone, but it helped me get into the story. By the time Mitji found Luke and rescued him, I already felt that I knew her. Her life and adventures as Meg were never completely free of the Mitji period, and when Mitji was needed again, she was up to the task.

I bought this book used, which apparently is the only way to get it, but I would have paid the cover price just to have it.

Excellent
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-05-04
I have discovered Madeleine Brent's novels recently and liked those so much that I have tried to read all of them. Two of these novels I have not managed to find yet (for a reasonable price), but so far Golden Urchin is my favorite of Brent's novels. Mitji is a white girl which has been raised by aborigenes and as the novel starts she is leaving her tribe to go search for the tribes of more white people. And Mitji's personality is fascinating, she looks at things very differently than expected because of the way she was raised and it is touching to watch her adapt to Western civilization. The love story is also believable and touching. Excellent novel, very recommended.

Hall
The Grasshopper Trap
Published in Hardcover by G K Hall & Co (1986-06)
Author:
List price:
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

On of Pat's Best
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-09
Of the many books I have borrowed from my dad, this was one that I have read repeatedly. Unlike some humor, I still chuckle every time I read "A hunker is not a squat" or the one about the grasshopper trap. This is one of three of Pat's books that I regularly give as gifts to those young men of impressionable age in their pre-teen and teen age years. Hopefully reading this book will enlighten both their minds and hearts.

Hilarious!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-03-14
I picked this book up at a liquidation sale at a used book store mainly because I liked the title and not knowing anything about the author. This was my first reading of Patrick McManus and now I just have to read more of his works. My better half was trying to watch TV while I was reading this and I kept interrupting by reading sections of the book. His comment was "I can relate to that." I got to the point where I couldn't read any more until I wiped my eyes. This is a must-read for anyone who needs a good laugh.

A Delight!
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2000-05-23
A book filled with humorous stories, this compilation of experiences was a treat to read! The Grasshopper Trap is only the second book I've read by Patrick McManus but now I want to track down all of his stories. McManus writes humor without the obscene, offensive language that seems so common everywhere these days. It's a refreshing, fun read with stories that entertain as well as remind us of a simpler, less frantic way of life.

Strange Encounters of the Bird Kind
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2003-01-21
The title of these comments is from one of the tales in this third collection of short stories I have read by Mr. Patrick F. McManus. The author has been writing the yarns and his versions of his childhood "true" stories for decades, and has now produced 12 collections of these essays in book form. Many of the stories are about being outdoors and failing miserably as a hunter and fisherman, but one gets the impression that to the extent he fails, he does with seeming intent. It's the outdoors he loves, not harming it or its inhabitants. When he does speak of a successful outing with his friends he complains so much about the "success" that again you can tell coming home empty handed is his real goal. A collection of stories is what he is after.

The best stories here range from his childhood when speaking of why an 8 year old is perfectly competent to own his first knife, while even one day short of the 8th anniversary would be nothing less than a felony were a knife to be given to such an infant. He goes on at length as to how men delude themselves in to their thinking they have convinced their wives how their gun collections multiply without a single purchase. And in a story entitled, "A Hunker Is Not A Squat", he explains how with the correct posture, a stick and a dirt floor, The United Nations would be unnecessary, and world conflicts would end.

Mr. McManus writes for everyone who enjoys a good laugh, uncontrived humor, and just simple observations about human nature. He does not preach about the solutions to world problems, claim a cure for the common cold, or how to get rich. He just gives the reader the gift of laughter, an invaluable gift.

'Pass out laughing' funny
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-01-09
I have always thought that Patrick McManus is the funniest writer on the planet. I read his stories when I need to laugh or relax. Sometimes I irritate my wife by reading it in bed. I try not to laugh out loud, but I only succeed in sounding like I am trying to muffle continuous sneezes.

However, not everyone gets it. I have been shocked by watching people read McManus without so much as a smile (though most start snorting like wild pigs on acid) . My only guess is that getting McManus requires a couple things. First, it requires some understanding of his experiences. He absolutely nails all of the stupid things 'outdoors men (outdoors people)' do and think, but don't want anybody to know about. Second, you have to see the self-deprecating aspect of his humor. Third, you can't look for great literature in integrated books. Patrick McManus is an excellent writer, if you see these as independent stories simply collected in a volume. They are meant for adults who want to laugh at themselves. So, If you are willing to or already meet the above three criteria, you will love this book.

By the way, I am a professor of clinical psychology and (other than worrying a little about McManus) I sometimes recommend this and other McManus books. I do this with people who have racing thoughts and anxiety at bedtime, and when I believe they have the necessary experiences to find it funny. It often works quite well. I think of his stories as little pieces of happiness. (Oh, that even makes me sick to hear. Sorry)


Books-Under-Review-->Reference-->Biography-->H-->Hall-->30
Related Subjects:
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250