Lee Books

Tolkienýs ýThe Lord of the Ringsý is the first fantasy ý science fiction book I have ever read. It is hands down the best. No one writes with such prose and detail as Tolkien does. Granted, it does not have as much magical pyrotechnics as other fantasy books out there, but it makes up for that in a well-structured plot and the resourcefulness of the characters involved. The magic that does happen in the book is spectacular and well worth the wait. Tolkienýs battle scenes are excellent. He unfolds the story as it happens. There are no chapters that begin with ýTen years laterýý rather the story progresses in real-time. No wonder many people think that this work is the greatest of the 20th century.

This collection features six works of Alan Lee who, along with John Howe, was one of the principle conceptual artists for Peter Jackson's films based on J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings".

The six works featured in this collection are:

1. The Stone Trolls
2. The West Gate of Moria
3. The Battle of the Hornburg
4. The Black Gate
5. Gorbag and Shagrat
6. Mount Doom

The six works are large, stand alone posters on heavy stock contained within an attractive folder featuring The West Gate of Moria on the front cover. The prints--the originals were done in watercolor--have a black border with the name of the work and the artist at the bottom in small print.

These prints are an excellent addition to any Tolkien fan's collection.

In the world of Tolkien artwork, two artists sit at the top of the heap: Alan Lee and John Howe. These two artists have devoted a lot of ink to sketching scenes from J.R.R. Tolkien's masterworks, and in the "Lord of the Rings Poster Collection," we get to see some of Lee's best work.

"The Stone Trolls" shows the three trolls that Gandalf turned to stone in "The Hobbit." Now they're mossy and immobile, as the hobbits and Strider walk by. "The West Gate of Moria" is an exquisite play of light and shadow, showing the Fellowship looking up at the glowing doorway. And the best poster of all is "Battle of the Hornberg," a grimly detailed picture of the orcs flooding through the smashed fortress wall.

On the Mordor front, we get three different posters. "The Black Gate" is a panoramic look at the hobbits and Gollum lurking on a stone outcropping, and watching as troops pass through the spiky Black Gate. "Gorbag and Shagrat" shows a pair of creepy orcs in full armor, waiting against a stained stone wall, apparently in conversation. And "Mount Doom" is a bleak slope of barren rocks, but with a light shining somewhere behind the mountain.

Perhaps the only flaw of this collection is that three of the pictures are from "Return of the King," and only from Mordor. Don't expect any coronations or Grey Ships in this. A little more variation would have been nice, but the posters themselves are lovely -- high quality paper, clear reproduction. As for the pictures themselves....

Alan Lee does "still work" the best -- even when his subjects are in motion, they look very quiet and almost dreamlike. There's a lot of detail poured into these, since even small twigs, cracks and stains make their way into his artwork. They also tend to have muted, faded colours, lots of soft greys, browns and greens. Some of them look like sepia photographs.

Looking at these beautiful posters, it's easy to see why Lee was one of the designers for the "Lord of the Rings" movies' exquisite sets. A wonderful collection of fantasy artwork.

Having never owned any of Alan Lee's LOTR artwork before, I bought this collection on the advice I had found in many places online. Needless to say, I was not disappointed.
It is true what is said about Lee's visual mastery of Tolkien's words. The images are often much like what I pictured from the books . . . even Gollum.

My only issue was with the scenes chosen to be depicted in the collection. Three of the six are from Mordor (Gates of Mordor, Gorbag & Shagrat, and from the foot of Mount Doom), the artwork of which is not at all bad, but it is repetitive, when there is so much more. I'm most anticipatory to find Lee's depiction of the Ents somewhere. ^_^

The paper quality is good & thick, and the posters come in a glossy protective folder with information on the artist, text bits that were the basis for the paintings, etc.

As a collector of Tolkien artwork, I must say that Lee's paintings of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are some of the best in circulation (or out). This poster set is one more addition to a venerable stack of Lee artwork. If you're a Tolkien fan, this is a must!

I thought that this book was an educational yet fun mystery! The map at the front really helped me place what was happening, and relate it to what exists there now. I also found the main character, Sooncy, to be the perfect perspective through which to tell the story! Overall, a fantastic book for anyone looking for a fun and informative read! Best wishes to Ms. Killcoyne on future writing endeavors!

There are few opportunities offered our children to learn an important lesson about both our own past and our nature as individuals than that delivered by Hope Lourie Killcoyne in her gifted story, "The Lost Village of Central Park." Set in mid-nineteenth-century New York City, at the cusp of the construction of that seminal landmark of modern America, Central Park, Ms. Killcoyne's lyrical narrative traces the factual history of Seneca Village, a real establishment in which African-American and Irish immigrants somehow co-existed peacefully in pre-Civil War America. Creating compelling and believable characters, Ms. Killcoyne provides today's pre-teens with an invaluable and unique perspective on an important era in American social development, one which was cut curiously short by the idiosyncratic yet poetically inevitable advancement of New York City, through the creation of Central Park. The Park stands today, a monument to New York civic achievement; what is lost is Seneca Village, perhaps an even more meaningful yet necessarily ephemeral reflection of all that is possible, yet also lost, in the American dream.

Having lived in New York my entire life, I was surprised to find out about Seneca Village. I was never taught about the time, place, and events that surrounded the demise of that area of the city. The author successfully tells the story from the point of view of two young girls, one black and one white, and the strength of their friendship. It's a great way to teach children about their past. There's a lot going on here... plenty to use the characters again and turn it into a series. I'd certainly pick up the next one for my niece!

I had though the art of captivating storytelling in the realm of children's historical fiction was long gone. The last and one of the best was Ben and Me. Not to mention the fact that intelligent prose directed toward but not insulting children has disappeared with the likes of greats like E.B. White, Judy Blume & Madeline L'Engle... until now that is. Meticulous research has allowed Hope Killcoyne to create a captivating historical backdrop that most New Yorkers weren't even aware of including myself. Even as the story unfolded I couldn't help feel a sense of sorrow knowing the timely end to what was probably a fascinating culture within the tapestry of NY. Nevertheless, Killcoyne takes what might have just been an interesting footnote in NY lore and weaves a modern folk tale of ingenious promise and heart. Characters well developed for any novel not to mention one for young adults, add depth and almost tangible realism to a time and era long forgotten and sometimes better off forgotten. Hope Killcoyne places her characters in a small pocket of the American landscape dwarfed by slavery and the dawn of Civil War allowing us to glimpse what might have been and what should be in a world too often blurred with self-interest and prejudice. Although some readers might be wary of the melodrama of a culturally diverse Utopia Killcoyne has pictured, there is nothing contrived about the story and intent behind this book. A highly recommended book for any young or old reader... from any walk of life.

This is a wonderful story and fascinating piece of history for children as well as adults. As with so much in history, the more that is uncovered, the more it tells of the way things are today and why. As with many of the colorful stories from the annuls of New York, The Lost Village of Central Park illustrates a very important chapter in the history of the city as well as the nation. Educational as well as entertaining. The fact that such a place existed more than 100 years ago proves that which makes us the same far outweighs that which makes us different. As former grade schoolteacher, I think this book should be on the shelves of every school and public library.

What a great little story. Would recommend this book to anyone.

I thought this children's book was very well written. The book teaches lessens on how to overcome some fears children may have. It also shows the importance of family love. Excellent book!!!

I thought this little book has everything to keep a little one's interest. It has friendship, love and how to overcome fear as well as adventure. One of the nicest childrens' books I've read.

My little boy had a fear of darkness, after reading this story together it gave me a different veiw of helping him with this fear. Needless to say The story and I helped him, he no longer fears the darkness. What a cute way to get a message across.
Karen

I read this book to my granddaughter and I enjoyed it as much as she did! It reminded both of us how important family is and no material object can replace or show the love we have for each other.
Garry

This is an outstanding book for kids. Shirely Woods has a truly marvelous immagination. The story was filled with positive themes, memorable characters and beautiful artwork. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a great read for kids! It was fantastic.

Shirley Woods has the amazing ability to take a simple life's lesson and express it in such a way both children and adults of all ages could understand and appreciate. The unique style the story is written in allows the reader(s) to "perform" the story and bring it to life. We have this book in our own library at home and it would make a wonderful addition to yours.

This book was an innovative approach to help children read. It is a forward thinking approach to introducing children to screen plays and movie making.

Who would have thought that anyone could come up with something so original to express life lessons and experiences in a way that our young people can understand it. However, this is what Shirley Woods has been able to do. The book is a great outlet for children, as it provides an opportunity for interactive role play and positive discussions. This book is definitely a must-read, and truth be told, this book inspires adults as well, as I can attest to that.

The Magical Mystery is one of the most inspirational and amusing children's books I have ever read. I love the unique screenplay format with illustrations. The Magical Mystery would make an excellent children's movie.

These are great compilation books! My husband is collecting them & he loves them! They are filled with glossy color pages inside & the book is hard cover with a dust jacket. You get 10 comics per book & it is a great way to collect these rare jewels. I will continue to purchase these books for my husband in the future.

Some of the above reviews state that this book contains
annual #2. That is not true, this volume has annual #1
with the Sub-Mariner.

Securely contained in a flat mailer and shrinkwrapped, this hardcover volume arrived perfect and ready to be enjoyed. Oh, and the content is excellent, a genuine Cold War artifact.

Classic villians make their debut in Marvel's second FF Masterworks volume, and as a longtime reader and fan of Stan and Jack's fabulous foursome I thoroughly enjoyed this volume. The FF always seemed like some crazy amalgammation of DC's Challengers of the Unknown and the Justice League to me, and since there were elements of both these titles in FF that appealed to my imagination I have almost never read a disappointing issue collected within the first six volumes of this series.

However, that having been said, the first story in this volume featuring the Impossible Man is utterly ridiculous. Even though it introduces a character that will be handled well by other writers later on in the series, it does not have any of the verve and inventiveness apparent in the nine stories that follow it. Do not let this deter you from buying this collection. It features legendary encounters between the FF and the Hulk, as well as Ant-Man and Spider-Man in later issues. Doctor Doom appears at least twice, as well as the Sub-Mariner, The Mad Thinker and The Molecule Man, not to mention the Super Skrull.

What makes this volume worthwhile is the focus on character development and humour, which certainly makes for some entertaining reading (especially when the FF quarrel amongst themselves). Far better than volume one, this Masterworks collection will not disappoint any fan of the classic Marvel age of comics.

Have to correct the other review here: This is the second volume and as such contains issues 11-20 and Annual 2.
These are the stories you will find:
1. F4 vs. the Impossible Man
2. F4 vs. the Hulk
3. F4 vs. the Red Ghost
4. The Sub-Mariner Strikes!
5. The F4 Battle the Mad Thinker and His Awesome Android
6. F4 and the Ant-Man battle Dr. Doom
7. F4 battle Dr. Doom
8. F4 battle the Super-Skrull
9. At the Mercy of Rama-Tut
10. The Molecule Man!

And the annual story included also features Dr. Doom as the villain.

These are wonderful stories that introduced a lot of long-lasting characters for the first time. It's not the artistic climax of the series, though. Kirby's artwork does not shine as much with Dick Ayers or Chic Stone as inkers, and Joe Sinnot is still a couple of Masterworks away.
Still, it's a lot of fun to read these. If you can't afford the rather hefty price tag and still want to know what happens, look for the reprint collections called Essential Fantastic Four which only cost a fraction. Those are in black and white and on cheap paper, but at least you won't feel the need to wear silk gloves everytime you read them like with this Masterworks treasure.

This book is full of useful tips and tricks which are presented in a clear and concise manner. The Photo-reference for every item is unequalled by any other Maya book I own. It's a new standard showing how important it is that full color graphics accompany the text for a subject based on graphics production.

I think that Kirk guy is way more handsome than Chandler... But they both add some very useful knowledge to an already knowledgably written subject.

Lee Lanier is definitely a Maya wizard. His tips and techniques go across so many components of this powerful software that it's easy to see why they wanted him to write this, his second book. This book is perfect for those who have some Maya background, and I'm sure you will find it to be exactly what your library needs.

A great book to have around for all skill levels. Autodesk Maya is such a deep program, that you find yourself stumbling upon new approaches and techniques each time you use it. This book is a great source to give you a deeper sense of it's functionality. It's packed with years of experience and innovative ideas that can come to life in Maya.

Lee really has this book thing down. I love his second book. And wow is that James Chandler handsom.

Lee does it again with this reference for all us Maya users of various skill levels. He gives practical tips based on experience in everyday film production! It covers an entire production pipeline using Maya. He even covers Mel scripting in an elementary way, but with advanced functionality! If you are getting into Maya, and want to learn some professional short cuts, or if you've been using Maya every day and want to pick up some new tricks.. This is a resource I can't recommend enough as a Maya user myself.

I really enjoyed this book, after I realived the back and forth nature of the stories. Teasers in the beginnng pull you into the different sub plots. Pardoe is one of the few authors dealing with the Mechwarrior Series where the battle scenes were intense, and had less non Mech drama. Some of the Mechwarrior series deal too much with "BS" and government than just Mech combat. He had some of the best Battletech novels involving the Clans which reflects on his current Mechwarrior novels. I hope to see more of his work in the future.

One of the greatest battletech books since the 90's, It brings back the depth and intrigue of the origional series while pushing the series in a new direction. This has got to be the best book of the Dark Age series that I've read yet, I'd Reccomend this to any Battletech or Mechwarrior fan, and even to plain Sci-Fi Fans interested in checking out the Battletech Universe

Blaine Lee Pardoe has been a contributor to the BattleTech universe for many years, first working on sourcebooks and then on novels. SURRENDER YOUR DREAMS is his second MECHWARRIOR: DARK AGE novel, and in my opinion, an improvement on the first.

Where TARGET OF OPPORTUNITY seemed to be divided into two halves, the first plot, the second combat, there was none of that here; SURRENDER was well-paced throughout, doing a good job of interspersing character moments with action. While the chapter organization was... unusual, in the end I think that it was to the book's benefit. Rather than simply being three novellas, it let the reader compare and contrast the different stories, see how each person was affected by similar events.

I liked that we got a deeper look at Damien Redburn; even though he's the former Exarch of the Republic, no longer in power, I've always thought that he needed some fleshing out. Here, after his "retirement", we get that. We also get something that was missing at the end of FORTRESS REPUBLIC: hope that things might just turn out okay after all. Even though we aren't privy to it, there's definitely the feeling that there's a plan at work here. It's not just the Fortress that will be working to save the Republic, but those outside it (as we see over the course of the novel).

SURRENDER YOUR DREAMS is the first book to really deal with the consequences of the declaration of Fortress Republic. Blaine really hammered home just what the declaration meant for the other nine Prefectures now without a nation. With luck, this won't be the last we'll see of the efforts to save the Republic from itself...

Yes, you read the title right, and I'm reviewing MechWarrior: Dark Age #23: Surrender Your Dreams.

I'll get to why this book is actually worthy of an academic review in a bit, but first more on the book itself.

For those who are interested in picking up the MechWarrior books because they've played the collectible figure game or one of the video games out now -- do not start with this book. Go back at least as far as Fortress Republic or before to start, if you want this book to make any sense.

For those who have been with the MechWarrior universe for a while, this is a fantastic book. It is quite different from most MechWarrior books in a variety of ways. Most striking is the use of the postmodernist literary tool of breaking up and re-arranging time, so the author can jump back and forth between the characters and their lives to better tell the story of the character themselves. Chapter titles give a good clue to this and had the author been a literary snob or simply evil, he may have left it at that. Fortunately, he also placed locations and dates (including a reference to the start of Fortress Republic) that allow the reader to keep temporal orientation with the story. Also different from most MechWarrior stories is the focus on politics and strategy more than the tactics of a single battle or set of battles. This allows for the final major difference of plunging the entire MechWarrior universe into one large moral state of grey, as opposed to the usual more black and white outlook prevalent in most of the books in the series. What makes someone a "good guy" or "bad guy" in the MechWarrior usually has been clearer, but this book has turned many prior notions about the MechWarrior universe on its ear. "Morally squishy" is about as good as one gets in this book and to good effect, although redemption is still possible.

If you are at all interested in the MechWarrior universe, you'll want to read this book. Lots of plot lines aren't neatly completed by the end of the book, but there are a few shocking plotlines from the Battletech universe that predated Dark Age that have important new developments. I'd love to tell you more, but it would ruin the surprise....

All of this brings me back to the title with which I started this review. While the plot and writing style are interesting, nothing there breaks new ground. What is interesting is how the series takes plot strands from the Battletech universe (both books and games) that seemed resolved or inconsequential and brings them back to focus in the current series. Thomas Marik is one example of this -- long dead in the universe, one would have expected him to be little more than a footnote in MechWarrior history, a nod for readers that have been with the series for years. Yet, in this book, he becomes a pivotal figure in a new interstellar war. Couple this use of "pop canon," for lack of a better phrase, and note the use of different forms of media (in this case, other books, pencil-and-paper game references, the collectable figures game references, multiple video games on different platforms, the internet, and I've even heard a cartoon was made), you have the basis for an interesting academic review of how stories and mythology are made and told today. One could compare and contrast other similar examples, such as various aspects of the Joss Weadon universe(s).

Overall, and excellent book, but not for newcomers to the Mechwarrior universe and probably a book better suited for adults than other books in the series. 5 stars, with the understanding that it is essentially a pulp sci-fi novel at heart.

I should start by noting that I really, really appreciate the Fortress Republic concept, and I've been thirsty for more of it ever since the last Loren Coleman books last year. So it may not be entirely surprising that I really took to this book, since it is all about the implementation of that plan from the outside.

This book consists of three separate storylines regarding different military missions, connected by a single thread - the Fidelis, an ultra-elite fighting cadre split between the three different forces. Each of the storylines starts in media res, with the Chapters interweaved throughout the book. A framing device, explaining how all of these missions were put together by Damien Redburn, the ex-Exarch, ties them together and gives them a sense of connection that wasn't there in Wolf Hunters.

The writing style is very effective for the first 2/3rds or so, with information revealed early, and the context given later. Sure, it was a bit cheesy, but it helped make the framing device that much stronger - better to see first what the Republic is willing to do to preserve itself, before seeing *why*.

This isn't where I'd start, certainly; I wouldn't recommend this to newcomers to the Battletech/Mechwarrior universe. But for those of us that have been reading for decades now, this is the best book that has come out in a long time.

I actually haven't read this book, but I it's funny because earlier today Mr. Bowen's came into our English class as a guest speaker to talk about American Literature and such. Apparently, he also graduated from my high school(Hopewell Valley Central High School) sometime in the late 80's. I just found all this ironic and a little funny so I thought I'd share.

This book is fantastic. Every fisherman should have this book in his library and read it before the first trip each year. Bowen's work is inspiring. Bring us more!

I picked up this book because I liked the title, and to be honest I was hoping for something more than the usual fishing stories. I was pleasantly surprised. I don't fish much, but all a person needs is a basic working knowledge of fishing, or a good imagination, to enjoy these stories. Bowen's finely crafted tales are about how people live in and out of the habit of being an angler, and how outdoor pursuits like this become layered with our interior lives (indoors and in our heads). The writing style is highly readable, and the stories easily draw you in. Both male and female readers will find characters they can latch on to. As a writer Bowen sits somewhere between Thomas McGuane and Nick Lyons. The best stories are "Jake's Arm," "The Midnight Fish," "The Fishing Son," "Golfing Buddies," and "The Grand Slam."

I'll admit up front that I purchased this book because I am familiar with the author, having grown up in the same neck of the NJ woods as Mr. Bowen. If that makes me bias, so be it. Let me also say that the only fishing I have ever done is for sunnies, and that was many, many moons ago. I think I used a stick with a string and God only knows what kind of bait -- not exactly high tech gear, even back then. Despite my inexperience, I found these stories charming, witty, and down right enjoyable. The "Midnight Fish," "The Fishing Son," and " Mudfish" were my favorite tales. I highly recommend this book to anyone, and look forward to future works from this author.

Scott Bowen has written a gem of a book. The Midnight Fish and Other Stories is more than a collection of tales about fishing. He uses fishing as a base for exploring human relationships, among family, among friends, among strangers. That is not to say that the excitement of fishing is neglected. The author thoroughly knows his business, whether it's surf-fishing, trout fishing, small-mouth-bass fishing, stripper fishing, inlet fishing, or deep-sea fishing: the authentic details are all there. You know the author has stalked these fishes himself. He knows the language, technical and emotive. And fishing provides the line that ties all the stories together. But the reason I prize these stories is for their quirks and twists concerning human relationships and character. There's Uncle Jake of "Jake's Arm," who converts the narrator from Zebco spin casting to fly fishing--but the story is really about how Jake lost his arm, and the consequential complications caused in a family relationship. Then there's the one about John Irving--not the real John Irving, but some folks think he is. There's the animal-rights, neo-hippy of "Mudfish," who throws a hitch into a good day of fishing in the Swamp. Then there's Uncle Seamus.... I could go on--there's a marvelous menage of characters inhabiting the book. But you need to get the book yourself and see just how good it is.

This concise, well-researched and entertaining reference is an engaging and informative way to meet the people behind the origins of some of today's most common words and familiar names.
Written in a clear, conversational and often amusing style, it introduces the reader to more than 600 of the lighthearted, silly, fascinating, tragic or unbelievable stories of those who immortalized the names of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Rambo, Vick's Vaporub, M&M chocolate candies, Firestone tires, James Bond and Singer sewing machines, among others. The sources of some well-known eponyms (words derived from people's names) like mausoleum, academics and boycott, are also explained.
The book is divided in two sections, "The Names" and "Shorts," according to the length of the treatment given to each word's history, and the entries are presented in alphabetical order, which makes this book perfect for either browsing or consultation.
To add to your knowledge of name origins, I would recommend also buying the author's second volume in the series, "The Name's Familiar II." Both are excellent, interesting and fun resources you will keep referring to again and again.
--Reviewed by Maritza Volmar

I met Laura Lee in Michigan when she was doing radio. I knew then that she was going to do great things. She has a great mind for trivia and facts and of course, music. Love her...loved her book. In fact, later I'm ordering 2 more copies.

This is one book that is needed on everyones shelf. Truly an entertaining and creative read. Great gift for that hard to buy for person. I was unable to put it down this summer until I realized I was getting a sunburn! Looking forward to a sequel.

This book is an excellent source for classrooms, from English to History to Science. The stories of words is fascinating and a part of our culture. Students find the information interesting and they end up learning along the way. Ms. Lee's presentation style keeps the reader engaged, so they want to keep reading. My students end up talking about what they learned from her book, and look forward to my posting the next story each day. I also enjoy the book on my own as a source of entertainment as well as knowledge. Her writing style is fun and she has obviously done her research. I look forward to her next book.

This is truly a book everyone can enjoy. From the opening introduction, to the very last page, this book is a charmer.

It's chocked full of names, stories and origins. It's laid out in easy to follow segments. If you've ever wondered why "hookers" are called that, or how a frisbee came into being, this is the place to find out. There are so many names and subjects, it's impossible for me to do it justice in this mini review. But, the story of Aesop (as in fables) is truly sad, and I'm sure he never imagined how long his name/stories would last.

It is wonderfully entertaining and enlightening to learn the lives behind so many of our everyday words, phrases, household items, and even body parts!!

I plan on taking mine to work tomorrow, to see who all I can "stump" :-) It makes a great ice breaker or conversation maker for that first date or just fun reading with an old mate or friend. Some stories are very lighthearted, while others are tragic, and still others unbelieveable. But, as they say, "truth is stranger than fiction" (somebody says that don't they? :-)

Good general-public introduction to deep sea ecosystems from the point of view and experiences of one of the most recognized specialists in this field. Easy reading and entertaining.

Of course, science is itself an adventure, but Van Dover went far beyond the usual. Among other things, she became one of the few dozen people on earth rated to pilot Alvin, the deep-sea submarine. That elite group is almost as small as the cadre of space shuttle pilots, and Van Dover was the first woman to enter that group.

This isn't directly about her science or her adventure, though. It's a bit harder to nail down, but I think it answers a question that many people don't think to ask of scientists: why do you do it? The pay isn't great, the bureaucracy can be crushing, and the rigors of career-building often conflict with family-building. And, I hate to say it, but it's not always a friendly world for a woman - especially the hairy-chested world of piloting the deep-sea submersibles. Some abstraction like "love of knowledge" can't really explain why someone does it.

Van Dover conveys parts of it, though. Science, if you're doing it right, gives a daily experience of awe that defies description. There's an added excitement in the physical challenge of deep sea exploration, and a marvellous freedom in stepping outside the map of what is known. She manages to convey that about as well as words can hope to. Sometimes, her writing doesn't rise to the level of her inspiration. That might be asking too much of any mere mortal, though. She does well enough, and speaks clearly to a non-scientific reader about what it is that keeps her going.

//wiredweird

Although no longer in print, I found a used copy of this captivating book. Join oceanographer Cindy Lee Van Dover, pilot of the Alvin, on an adventure to the deep-sea floor. The book is rich in detail with evocative black and white drawings. Especially enjoyable is the chapter: "A Chorus of Tubeworms" - "crimson plumes bloom atop long white tubes that emerge from cracks in glossy black lava...each worm a prize specimen arranged in a formal garden."

Too bad this book out of print! It is a neat little book on deep sea life, not just (but mainly) hydrothermal vent life. Very readable and while not too technical was very informative, with nice black and white illustrations. It added a very human touch to deep sea exploration, but was professional at the same time.

It is truly an amazing world beneath the surface of the sea, which by some counts makes up something like 97 percent of the biosphere of this planet. Great books help bring this alien but important realm to life. Recommended.

This is an excellent book on deep sea exploration! If you can find it, the hardcover version is definitely a keeper for future reference. In response to the review above...I believe that "Deep-Ocean Journeys" by Cindy Lee Van Dover is the paperback version of "Octopus's Garden" ("Deep-Ocean" is still available in-print). Also, if you enjoyed this book, read William Broad's "The Universe Below".