Howard Books

Great book, has lots of detail. Especially like the instructions for making your own carving tools out of popsicle sticks.
My 6 yr. old grandson carve a soap owl and it came out good.

This book is a gem in the rough. It is not slick or up-to-date looking, but it contains excellent instructions on carving soap as a prelude to carving wood. The author, an engineer, shows you how to create carving tools out of popsicle sticks. This is the one of the coolest craft ideas I have ever seen and it worked very well with a group of children from my church. Not only does he describe how to make a basic carving tool (by cutting a diagonal and then sharpening the "blade" on sandpaper) but he shows how to make a gouge and other tools too.

The main part of the book contains detailed instructions on how to carve several different objects (a heart, a turtle, a dolphin coming out of water, and more), with a picture showing each stage of the carving process. These were great instructions for me; the children I worked with (ages 5-10) could have used easier models/instructions. This book is great because it shows how to introduce a new fun craft activity, carving, in a way that works for groups of kids safely and without much expense. The kids loved it!

I am a teacher and I carve in my free time. I have always regretted that the tools for carving are too sharp and dangerous for kids to use , so sharing my hobby with the children was out of the question until I read this book.
What a nice idea, tools made out of popsickle sticks!!
I made a class set of the tools and my kids happily carved some of the figures suggested in the book.
I did it with a grade three class when the kids learned about Inuits carving soapstone. The kids enjoyed it a lot. Children in higher grades will have as much fun doing it and hopefully they will be as proud of their creations.
I can recommend this book for anyone who would like to carve with kids but is afraid to do so.
One suggestion. Have the children bring a serving tray, or baking sheet and have them carve on that so the chips of soap will stay in the tray rather than fall on the floor!

Excellent book for carving. The kids enjoyed it. Well written and illustrated.

Many of the pastiche works are letdowns in comparison to Howard's immortal stories, though there are exceptions. What most of the books miss is faithful adherence to the established character of Conan, as opposed to some fellow who does X, Y, and Z and happens to be named Conan. This is not the case with these delightful tales by de Camp, Carter, and Nyberg. By sticking to a shorter length tale, they have succeeded in packing more emotional punch into the individual adventures. I was most struck by the entry called "Shadows in the Dark"--because it represented the real Conan, the one I know, better than any other non-Howard work. In the span of only a few short pages, Conan (in addition to the major plot elements) abuses an arrogant young king; knocks said king senseless because he blabbers and could thus disclose their position to the enemy; considers murdering him (but relents); steals his purse, minus a handful of coins; and, finally, leaves the king stranded on a ship to Lord-knows-where. Now, that's the Conan we all love!

This book includes these pastiche stories, de Camp, Carter and Nyberg in various combinations :

Legions of the Dead
The People of the Summit
Shadows in the Dark
The Star of Khorala
The Gem in the Tower
The Ivory Goddess
Moon of Blood

and also a piece by De Camp on the naming strategies that Howard used in his work, and also gives an dictionary style listing of them, and where they are used.

A young Conan is fighting in the North, and against the Witchmen. He rescues his jarl's daughter from captivity, but the Queen sends an undead band of their former warriors to stop them. He manages to get the girl to freedom before being taken captive.

3 out of 5


Conan and companions are attacked by weird apes with ropes, killing one of them. He fakes being strangled, and is drawn up to the remants of a strange people with no irises. He manages to save the girl, and kill the many legged monster.

2.5 out of 5


After Black Colossus, Conan is still serving Yasmela. Not servicing her enough is his problem, even though he has a general. She is too busy with the duties of a queen. If Conan can get her captive brother back, this may change.

After betrayal by a travelling companion and rescue of the king, who doesn't think much of a barbarian in the family, and offers Conan a lesser post. Conan takes money in payment, and starts to go back. He changes his mind, and decides to leave, and seek adventure elsewhere.

3 out of 5


After Shadows in Zamboula, Conan arrives in Ophir. He sees things are not right, and soon finds out why. The king and others plot against the queen, and problems abound. Conan rescues the female noble head, but ends up under siege.

No mean shot with an arbalest, the queen uses the Star of Khorala to summon aid, allowing Conan, the Guard Captain and herself freedom. She leaves for Aquilonia with her military man, and Conan goes on his way.

3.5 out of 5


Following Drums in Tombalku, Conan ends up serving under another Captain. One night, he dreams of a bat-man, only to awaken and find he is real, the product of a dead sorcerer.

3 out of 5


Conan is still travelling with the actress Muriela after Jewels in Gwahlur. He thinks that her skills could be put to use in a similar scam.

However, an actual goddess has a suse for her body in a lot more pragmatic a manner than impersonation.

She spares the Cimmerian and says she will look after the girl when she is finished.

3.5 out of 5


Conan is still beyond the Black River, fighting the Picts with the Aquilonians. Serpent sorcery and a traitorous General are causing lots of problems.

Conan's axework and fast thinking puts paid to this, and gets him a promotion.

In fact, he does so much damage with the aforementioned weapon that both Kull and Druss the Legend would be more than a little impressed.

4 out of 5

CONAN THE SWORDSMAN, the latest reprint of the now legendary 1970s-1980s Conan revival, is a marvelous short story collection. Each story holds its own with the overall Conan mythos and most add depth to the celebrated character and his world. The delightful eight stories are well written with each tale co-authored by L. Sprague de Camp (had to be a Howard clone) with either Lin Carter or Bjorn Nyberg. Especially good is "Legions of the Dead" that Robert E. Howard would have believed he authored because it reads so much like his original works. Equally fascinating to readers is a seven-page essay that provides plenty of insight into Conan and his world as well as Robert E. Howard from the late L. Sprague de Camp's perspective. Fans of Conan will want to read this wonderful anthology that showcases one of fantasy's most endearing and enduring protagonists.

Harriet Klausner

Though nothing compares to Robert E. Howard's original Conan stories, these additions to the canon by Carter and de Camp and Nyberg are welcome newcomers to the mythology. Those unfamiliar with Conan should begin by reading the originals-- several good editions now exist of Howard's seminal stories. Once competed, there are lots of these volumes of stories based on the originals, and this is among the best. de Camp and Carter have a real flair for mimicking Howard, and they clearly revel in the fun of creating new fixes for the barbarian to escape from.

The book also includes a nearly 70-page (!) addendum with all the names Howard made up in his stories, everything from Abdashtarth to Zyras, with notes from de Camp on their derivation. Fun stuff for fans!

As a Mexican and a professional, I think this book is invaluable. Deepa Fernandes's level of understanding not only of the Mexican immigration phenomenon but of the crude and harrowing Mexican poors' reality is astonishing. Midwest Book Review states "Targeted will reach college-level holding". The U.S. should not let this book just freeze on colleges. This is a book to take action; immediate action.
Firstly, criminalizing otherwise innocent "non-citizens" (or non-citizens who have served time and purged any prior felony or crime), many of whom see themselves as Americans, is distorting the law and freedom of speech into crimes of hate and greed. Decent USAmericans (and I know they're majority) should think of the implications of the melting-pot being lost, the implications in science, technology and the arts, the implications on just accepting diversity, seeing the commonality instead of the differences.
Secondly, "Targeted" points out situations otherwise not though about by U.S. citizens. I used to think prison should be used to reform the prisoner when possible, or to keep them apart from society but in humane conditions. The privatization of the prison system is unconscionable. How will prison private owners, who think of the bottom line first, care or even want to know how to take care of other human beings in their prisons? This, to me, portrays the inequality and Class War by other means in U.S. system. As Greg Palast says: On one side there's the wealthy prison owners. On the other side there are the prisoners, often not sufficiently taken care of as guards are being kept scarce, and more than one has been stabbed by their charges.
Finally, Has anybody stopped to think seriously on the long-term implications? Why the rush in immigrant detainees (Black & Brown) deportations? Seems the rulers have everything planned. How do Blacks and Browns usually vote? It seems to me ACLU chapter and human-rights-for-immigrants groups in every U.S. state should Act Now to stop this disenfranchisement.
Why do I worry as a Mexican? Of course we Mexicans must be decent enough to create jobs for our jobless. However I think prolongation of the current U.S. unbalanced government will hurt us Mexicans still more than our people has been hurt to this date. It seems to me that factual, nor feigned, acceptance of diversity and the inherent legality of every human being must be accepted everywhere.

Targeted: Homeland Security and the Business of Immigration will reach college-level holdings and comes form an award-winning journalist and radio host who here examines the latest debates covering American border security. History, political and social analysis, and first-person narratives blend to cover not only known facts about immigrants and illegals, but reveals some shocking facts about corporate profits made during the business of Homeland Security. An excellent pick for any college-level survey of either immigrant or terrorism issues.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

This book is well-researched and well-written. Fernandes is an investigative journalist, and thus does not give the deep, theoretical viewpoint of an academic. Nevertheless, this book really packs a punch and certainly opened my eyes to important realities. For example, a young Haitian man who came to the US when he was two was arrested for smoking a joint. After serving his 30 day sentence in the US, he was deported to Haiti, where, sadly, he will likely die in prison. This is just one of the many shocking stories Fernandes tells in her account, as she indicts US courts, policymakers, corporations, and the military for the humanitarian crisis that our current immigration policies cause.

Deepa Fernandes has done this country a huge favor by exposing the business interests, and the nefarious ideology behind the crack-down on immigrants. Some prefer to call them "illegals," but to many, these undocumented people are family, friends, fellow Christians, essential workers, etc. Now these economic refugees of the catastrophe of neoliberal economics are becoming objects of revenue in the growing immigrant detention and deportation complex.
Fernandes provides all sorts of facts and stories that are informative, heart-breaking and infuriating. Some will avoid her, since they are so emotionally invested in the anti-immigrant rhetoric that has been drilled into our heads by politicians like Tom Tancredo, and countless right-wing radio hosts. Even progressive radio hosts, like Thom Hartmann, are calling for the punishment of US employers who hire undocumented workers. To cut off that source of income from Latin Americans, who have suffered under the boot of our corporate and military empire for generations, is unconscionable.

I was so pleased to hear Fernandes interviewed recently on "Radio Nation with Laura Flanders." She is so deserving of the publicity, and the American people are deserving of the truth of the lives of immigrants and those who are persecuting them - persecuting some of "the least among us." During Flanders' dialogue with Fernandes, someone called in and spoke of the "blowback" immigrants are experiencing due to their recent efforts to organize and pressure for their rights. Immigrants, or the citizen children of immigrants, who have marched or boycotted for immigration reform are finding ICE agents at their door.

At some point, especially if we experience another militant attack in retaliation to our state violence, those who are calling for these raids and detention centers may see this police state turned against their fellow citizens (just as the DEA currently throws countless lower class people into cages). I guess those who have been trained to accept, or who have a career in our system of crime and punishment, are always glad to see more spending going their way. Fortunately, there are those who do value freedom and decent relations with people from other countries. For them, "Targeted" is an invaluable resource.

I gave this as a gift, and it was enthusiastically received, but I am not able to review it.

If you live in Texas and want to garden organically....this is THE book for you. I have been gardening (as organically as possible) for decades, and found tons of information in this very thorough tome. LOVED IT!

This book is an excellent source for anyone wanting to start from scratch on gardening. I am a very visual person, and the pictures of plants and illustrations on how to plant make this book excellent! The book I got is hard-back so I know it will last a long time!

It's a great book as it covers subjects from planting, caring for, and choosing which plants will do well. The book also covers Texas' bugs (which we have plenty of) and pest control. Garrett is my gardening guru in Texas...but if you have his previous books, then this will look like a review.

No book by Ghislain De Diesbach is likely to become a best-seller in this country.The subjects of his non-fiction are rather esoteric and his fiction must be one hard nut to translate. For a contemporarty (he is twenty years younger than this reviewer) reading his stories reverts one to long forgotten times, when fiction was just that - a product of fantasy.
These well translated stories, dealing with absolutely fictive persons and events, are a pure delight. They take the reader back into times, when chivalry ruled, when sad facts were just that. They are highly recommended particularly for a reader overfed with infantile fantasies of writers who aim at youth, but are careful not to step on any or most facts of life.
A book to be read for its pure pleasure.

I can't even remember why I bought this book, but I'm glad I did. Entertaining short stories, with a touch of innocence that reminded me a lot of H.P. Lovecraft, without the gruesome details. A great discovery, highly recommended.

In a collection of stories best described as enchanting, Diesbach opens up a space of history without resorting to artifice. These anecdotes twist and turn in delightfully unexpected ways, making us aware of timeless human nature.

Ghislain de Diesbach is one of the great short story writers of all time, on the weight of these stories. His vignettes of fantasy set in the exuberant and elaborate world of the thousand and one small kingdoms of Eastern Europe, with their Baronesses, Countesses, Canonesses, Dukes, kings and queens, and lords and ladies, are overwhelmingly nasty and yet at the same time wonderfully addictive. With a controlled hand, Diesbach paints sweeping pictures of small kingdoms, of mystical occurences and the supernatural. He scarcely has a happy ending for anyone, yet his endings satisfy. There is only one weak story in the whole book - The Divine Baroness. Yet this story is rich in imagery and language as well. Read it. You'll feel enriched and overwhelmed by the strange stories, the cruel and biting humour, and the strange beauty of this book. The greatest story is Iphigenie of Thuringe, though The Canoness Vanishes, The Apparitons of Kurmunster, and the title story are also worthy of particular notice. A book composed of miniature masterpieces and overwhelmingly memorable yet appropriate endings. You wouldn't have them any other way, even though you may feel saddened or exultant. Inevitability is the key word.

I have read a dozen parenting books. This one is by far one of the most helpful, but you have to be consistent. If you like this, try Becky Bailey's works too.

Thank you to these authors for helping me see my contribution to my son's difficult patterns of negativity. He responded almost immediately to his "successes", and we're working towards building consistency in our home, with consequences. My son is very sensitive, but prone to angry outbursts and meltdowns when stressed. This workbook is helping both of us to bring some peace back to our relationship.

BRAVO!

A no-nonsense approach that is all about positive parenting. Who wouldn't rather use a "carrot" than a "stick"? Gave me lots to think about. Will be especially helpful with my one daughter who is difficult and feels every criticism go right to her heart.

This workbook presents nurtured heart philosophy and techniques in an easy to read format. The exercises are great, and I love how celebrated parents and caregivers are. Nurtured Heart gives us a way to exercise our greatness as parents and teachers. We have techniques to rest upon whether the going is easy or tough, and a clear idea of our goals in building up our children. I can't recommend it highly enough!

I'm going through the book with my pastor. Eugene Peterson has some amazing insight, and it has short chapters so you don't have to stress over reading one chapter at a time. It is a great read and It's hard to put down.

Excellent book! My Bible class has been using it as a guide.

Mr. Peterson is so great at modernizing the words of Paul. As a result of reading this book, it would be difficult to misunderstand the truth intended in Paul's letter to the Galatians throughout the centuries. These pages exemplify freedom upon freedom. Truly, I believe Mr. Peterson is one of the best Christian authors of our time.

Peterson develops his devotional commentary around the relevant central theme in Galatians of FREEDOM. Contains simple and powerful insights to aid any who feel pressured to conform to external religious standards in order to find acceptance with God or the religious community. Peterson delivers with conviction and passion. Full of excellent illustrations and applications. An aid both to understanding each passage and flow of this Bible book (notable are his well thought out chapter divisions and contemporary textual paraphrase), but also grasping and applying its central theme. Very readable.

My copy is well worn for my frequent return trips. Buy it! You won't be disappointed.

I found this book very interesting. As a small boy in the late '70's I met and befriended Mrs. Jennings who as a person, and with stories of her and her husbands adventures, had a great impact on my childhood on Roatan. I personally have a strong connection to the stories. However, I am sure I would find it interesting if I did not. Mr. Moore is lucky to have been able to participate in these adventures.

I found this book very interesting. As a small boy in the late '70's met and befriended Mrs. Jennings who as a person, and with stories of her and her husbands adventures, had a great impact on my childhood on Roatan. I personnally have a strong connection to the stories, I am sure I would find it interesting if I did not.

If Howard Jennings wasn't George Lucas's inspiration for the Indiana Jones movies, he very well could've been. This book documented by one of his treasure hunting cronies gives novelistic descriptions of everything from found pirate hoards to emerald gems discovered in South America by Jennings. Seems both the author and this modern-day swashbuckler were also first-rate ladies men throughout their years of treasure hunting adventures together which adds even more spice to the true tales. Danger, intrigue and adventure are the key elements of this book whether you're a treasure hunting couch potato or a serious treasure hunter yourself. Practical advice abounds and the book even closes with some known and not so well known sites for aspirants to follow the leads of. While this book is out of print, the good news is that several cheap copies are available online at places like abebooks.com. Discover for yourself why this book is a treasure all on its own!

After spending a while locating this book I found it marvelous, it excites the imagination its realism is refreshing and keeps dreams of adventure and fortune alive.

This is a perfect book on perspective. I've recommended it to a career networking group to which I belong, where many people are between jobs and are worn down by being unemployed or burned out. A quick read, it was a great compliment to my morning "quiet time"--normally a half-hour during which I am still, sip my coffee, and prepare for my day through meditation and prayer and reading from my Bible. Beth includes stories of real people who have had to "wait" for one reason or another, who've struggled with doubts and fears. How does one tie a knot in the rope of hope and hang on? This book helps you do just that. You'll get a fresh perspective on God, His great faithfulness to us, and His incomparable goodness during some of the most agonizing times of our lives.

Reading TWO DAYS LONGER was like knowing I had a box of Godiva chocolates in the cupboard. I wanted to savor each chapter one at a time! Beth Lueders' skill at bringing Biblical illustrations to life, and helping the reader apply their truths to present-day situations, is unsurpassed. Read this book and you'll understand why waiting on God is so hard--and so completely worth it!

Lueders has hit a home run with this book. I've waited for God's answers many times, frustrated and angry. The author answers many of the questions I've had about God's timing and his plan. I put her in the same category as Max Lucado easy to read and full of wisdom. You will do yourself a favor if you buy this book.

In a style reminiscent of Max Lucado, Beth Lueders writes warmly of what we can discover of God's character in TwoDaysLonger. Reading this book is like sitting across the table from a friend enjoying rich conversation about things that matter deeply. The relaxed tone, however, does not take away from the seriousness of the subject. When life is difficult, it's hard to wait for God to show up.

In the opening chapter, the author uses the story of Lazarus's sickness to reveal our timely God. Those familiar with the story will remember that when Jesus was informed of his friend's sickness, "He then stayed two days longer in the place where He was" (John 11:6 NASB). A wise friend once shared with the author that the two most powerful words in the Bible are "But God!" "When situations look their worst and we are weary from waiting, God steps in and proves that he is all-powerful, loving and wise."

A thought that follows sets the stage for the rest of the book. "Through waiting, God wants to open our nearsighted eyes to the vivid depths of his immense character. He invites us to nestle into the assurance that he is loving, faithful, all-powerful, and trustworthy. On the other hand, he wants us to consider him punctual and not a latecomer. He wants us to delight in Jesus-on-the-spot and not Jesus-come-lately."

Each chapter features an introductory quotation followed by a gripping story that leads to a retelling of a Biblical narrative. The collection of stories is as good as you will find anywhere. Lueders effectively mixes humor, personal experiences, Scripture and practical applications to highlight one aspect of God's character in each chapter. Like Lucado, she makes profound truths accessible. Those in need of comfort will find it here.

This is devotional or inspirational writing at its best. It's a pleasure to read and a great encouragement to wait with patience.

When you read this book you think it's some sort of fictional story about a man with magical power. The truth is, it is a magical story about a man who relies on God's power! Pastor Caver's account of real-life events that seem to provide a "no-win" scenario that are transformed into modern-day miracles through the power of prayer and belief in Him are nothing short of incredible. A must read for anyone wanting reinforced evidence of God's sovereignty or anyone struggling with the question of whether or not God exists. It is both entertaining and enlightening for every reader. It has provided me with guidance and instruction on ways to release God's power by completely submitting to Him and turning even the smallest of problems over to Him. Definitely a "5 star" book!

The book unhandcuffing God, by Howard Caver is one of the most inspiring tools for Christians today. Pastor Caver's faith and trust in God, is a wonderful and exciting commodity in the skeptical and fearful world that we live in. Unhandcuffing God is a must for the serious Christian who desires to truly follow and please God.

As the former National Director of Reconciliation for the Promise Keepers Men's Movement, and collaborator with the Billy Graham Evangelistic His Presence in the Workplace National Leadership team, I highly recommend Unhandcuffing God, by Pastor Howard Caver.

If you are suffering or experiencing a power outage or brownout as it relates to your faith, this book will jump start your trust and dependence upon God.

Thank You Pastor Caver for giving the World help in the area of faith in Christ.

Your Adolphus In Christ

Ronald R. O'Guinn
Presiding Minister
Sonset Baptist Fellowship &
Allofus Christian Ministries

"Unhandcuffing God" became the inspiring nudge I needed to take some steps of obedience I had previously avoided due to stubborn fear and pride. God used this book to encourage me to trust Him and allow Him to work the miracles in my life He has been waiting to perform. Like many believers, I was unaware I was even capable of handcuffing God in my life. This book opened my eyes and my life.

In his book, Howard Caver takes the reader through his own real life times of choosing to believe God is who He says He is. You will read about trusting God with your life, reputation, money, family, career, ministry, time and more. You will read the dramatic results of one man's persistent and consistent trust and obedience in his Lord Almighty. There are too many powerful examples to ignore. The book seems to shout with a smile, "God can and will, if you allow Him."

This small 146 page book is an easy read filled with life changing truths and written in a style that leaves the reader feeling loved and encouraged. What a blessing! I have given more than 10 copies to friends. They are now asking for copies to give their friends. WOW!

I think this book could be one of the miracles God has worked through this man's choice to unhandcuff God in his life. Thank you Howard Caver!

Review: Unhandcuffing God

Author: Howard Caver

For anyone who has wondered if God still uses ordinary people like yourself to accomplish extraordinary things, Howard Caver's "Unhancuffing God" is a must read. The pages of this book are filled with real life experiences of a regular man in North Texas, who does the extraordinary.

Impossible mission after impossible mission is documented in a strait forward manner that draws you into wanting to know what is going to happen next. However, this is not just a history book or an autobiography. For every principal Caver presents, he joins its application to a real life victory that God brought together for him and his small congregation.

As I read through the book I was most impressed by the fact that Rev. Caver seemed to have discovered the secret to answered prayer as well. Although this is not a book on prayer, you become comfortable knowing that he relies time and again on prayer to unhandcuff God's hand in his life.

His non-preachy writing style allows you to assess your own usability by God in relationship to the clear principals outlined for acquiring God's provision and direction in every area of your life.

This book will both comfort and challenge. It leads the reader to feel good about the fact that God wants to use each of us to accomplish the impossible if we will just "unhandcuff" Him and allow Him to work. Great Read 5 Stars

By James M. Brown

Fort Worth, Texas