May Books

May is American Studies Prof. at U. of MN,& wrote: "Screening Out-the-Past" He dislikes Bob Hope-Bing Crosby's.."mindless' Road pictures,also Ronald Reagan,(head, Screen Actors Guild)for stifling emerging "left-wing",independent producers,& all those who were not 100% anti-communist. Hopefully, he'll prove his points by updating with coverage of post 60's Hollywood....

This book is a well researched account of Hollywood during the Depression, World War II and at the beginning of the Cold War. It is a must for everyone interested in the history of Hollywood.

"The Big Tomorrow" depicts Hollywood as a 'populist and progressive world that offered a vision of an egalitarian and humanitarian world in film' before the 1950s. The author demonstrates this on the example of actor Will Rogers, a Cherokee Indian, director Frank Capra, and others. May shows that not only film content had changed but the theatres as well. The central themes were gangsters, fallen women and ribald comics while the language and dialects of the folk were used. The theatres underwent a change from lavish, sumptuous ones, where seating was divided between the high-paying and low-paying, to democratic movie houses. The author uses several photographs to illustrate the changes. Inside Hollywood actors, directors etc. formed unions that supported New Deal reforms. The second part of the book explains why World War II and the Cold War reshaped politics and moviemaking in Hollywood. May discusses censorship and the role of CIA agents in Hollywood. Films presented a 'new' woman now. Female characters focused ultimately on a home life that preserved traditional gender roles, symbolized in the rise of 'patriotic domesticity' while during the Depression female characters of 'empowered women' fulfilled themselves. May also points out the change in the portrayal of African Americans and Asians. The rise of anti-communism and its effects are dealt with. Those who wouldn't or couldn't prove their belonging to the communists were suspended. However, they found a new market for a dark 'film noir' that challenged the consensus and set the stage for a youthful counterculture in the 1950s and 1960s.

This is one of those books that is difficult to over praise. Over and over while reading this book, May helped me gain new insight into aspects of Hollywood cinema from the thirties, forties, and fifties, and continually suggested to me new areas of research to undertake. In the long run, I believe that his book is going to have a profound effect on the way that I view movies from those decades.

Before I move on to the considerable praise I want to heap on this book, let me dwell briefly on a couple of negatives. I think this book has a much broader appeal than the author might believe. The book takes an essentially popular subject, and couches it in an overly academic style. As someone with a strong graduate school background (albeit in philosopher rather than cultural studies), I managed to always make sense of his argument, but sometimes only with difficulty. There was also a too-heavy reliance on statistical data for my taste. Clearly he feels that the data gives greater force to and to a degree validates many of his arguments. But I feel that it also caused the book to drag at points.

But overall, this book is a stunner. The thesis of the book is a complex one, and any attempt to state it briefly will distort it to a degree. I will try to minimize my distortion. May begins by arguing that there was a radical shift in social and political outlook in Hollywood in the 1940s. The effort in Hollywood to eliminate political dissent and to promulgate a monolithic vision of America is well known. May argues that this was a break with the legacy of the thirties, in which the Hollywood talking film had developed as a mode of expressing an egalitarian, anticapitalist, and multicultural affirmation of the New Deal. Thirties films were highly critical of big business, with representatives of big business frequently appearing as villains in films. As America entered WW II, however, and began to unify in order to oppose first Hitler and Japan and then the Red Menace, movies reflected a different order, which was nonegalitarian, pro-big business (with big business disappearing as a villain in films), and nondissenting.

May attempts to tell this story in several ways. His brilliant first chapter dwells at length on the movie career of Will Rogers, who articulated a vision of America that varied greatly from the Anglo-Saxon dream that looked to Europe for models of success and social ordering. As May quotes on several occasions, in response to the New England social elite, Rogers, who identified with his Cherokee heritage, wrote, "My ancestors didn't come over on the Mayflower--they met the boat." The second chapter of the book continues this to display many example of multicultural republicanism that permeated 1930s filmmaking. He then proceeds, in perhaps my favorite chapter in the book, to demonstrate how this egalitarian vision of America profoundly influenced American movie theater design. Rejecting the theater palaces that dominated 1920s theater design and which represented an affirmation of the social layering of the European model--with different prices of admission for various areas and separate entrances--American designers moved to a conception where all viewers paid a uniform price and seating was not restricted, with all viewers entering through the same entrance.

The second half of the book deals with the undermining of the egalitarianism of the thirties by a new vision of Americanism in the forties. The first of two chapters devoted to this displays this by articulating the vision of a white consumer culture, where individuals look for freedom in a private realm emphasizing family and material comfort. The second chapter deals with the politics in Hollywood to help eliminate all those who dissented from this vision or who had a political history that did not conform to this vision. These were painful chapters to read, with the ruthless suppression of political dissent. May deals in some degree with the history of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), which in the 1930s strongly affirmed the ideals of the New Deal and egalitarian ideals. In particular, the career of the first appointed president of the SAG (in the 1930s, the president of the SAG was elected by the membership), Ronald Reagan (i.e., he was not elected by the membership at all) is dealt with at length. May ends his book with a discussion of film noir and its attempt to express dissent from the accepted and sanctioned cultural norm.

Anyone interested in cultural studies, the political climate and culture of the US in the thirties and forties, or the history of Hollywood should read this book. Easily one of the more compelling books I have read on film in the past two or three years.

Very impressed. I am glad I read it again after all these years. The story of the Mad Man is very funny. I was cracking up while reading it.

Did you know that free schooling was only briefly offered in Nigeria? There's a poignant story about it here.

I learned a lot about Nigeria from these stories. Sometimes, the stories seemed to end a little too abruptly, but I guess that's part of the story format: it has to end sooner than a short novel, anyway.

Mr. Achebe is a fine storyteller and he has many interesting things to say about the people and customs of Nigeria. I recommend this book, but only after first reading his classic novel about 19th century Ibo tribe people, Things Fall Apart.

After reading these stories, I was both attracted to Nigeria and repelled by it (I've never been to Africa). Achebe does a good job of capturing the ambivalence aroused by Nigeria's exotic nature (to Americans) mixed with its societal dysfunctions.

Diximus.

This is an impressive collection of short stories that covers a twenty-year period of Achebe's writing. They also cover a period of history in his native Nigeria that spans from the late colonial period to the Biafran war. In them Achebe explores various aspects of a predominant theme in his work, i.e. tradition vs. modernism in his country (as introduced by British colonial administration). The various stories offer glimpses into the lives of people from various classes and walks of life. Achebe has a concise and eloquent writing style; he has an almost singular talent for making very pertinent observations in an extremely pithy fashion. Thus, for example, in the few pages of a story like "Dead Man's Path," Achebe brings to life the problems which ensue from the drive for quick modernization, the desire to adhere to tradition and the hypocrisy of Nigeria's colonial administrators. Also impressive is Achebe's mastery of narrative styles, i.e. first person, omiscient, etc. These stories can be read on their own, or as a supplement to Achebe's similarly powerful novels.

Of the books I read when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001, this was the one that seemed most objective. It was also most challenging to blind acceptance of what the medical establishment might have us believe. Cancer treatment is NOT a black-and-white process, and this book shows why. Patients have the right and responsibility to participate in decisions about their health care, and this book gives information to help in the decision-making process. I very much hope that Steve and Cathy will soon publish an update, as the statistics, surgical options, drug regimens, etc have changed dramatically since 1994. Notably absent is mention of DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Nonetheless, this book will never be totally irrelevant, since the process of acquiring knowledge, and the concept that we ARE free to choose our health care, are timeless and liberating.

As a naturopathic physician, I have never seen any book on any type of cancer as well thought out and executed as this. What a fantastic resource. I have found answers to questions I've had about this disease over and over again. I can only hope that they'll do a 2nd edition to update the research.

The husband and wife team give an excellent view of he treatments and follow up of what to do after treatment. He is the doctor who does the research. She is the person with breast cancer and her choices, and why she chose as she did. And what she is doing now to try and prevent a reoccurence.

This story is another of society's rejections! Zoe Jesnik survived society's rejection! I commend her spirit and her will to survive! I admire her courage and tenacity in getting her life back!

After reading the e-book, I can say that I have taken the journey with Zoe. I have never read a book before that made me feel the same emotions that the author felt. This book will help many people who are recovering from abusive situations to see that there is life after your struggle.

I thought that this story was sad, but it also inspired me. I know of a woman who is in an abusive relationship and I will be passing the book onto her. I wonder if there will be more books by Zoe Jesnik? I hope so.

While reading `Butterflies In May' I learned more than my previous knowledge on how hard teenage pregnancy is and how many difficult decisions you have to make, and that those decisions even from the very beginning will stay with you forever in life. I loved the way the characters seemed real. In high school everyone thinks they are in love and will stay with their partner through anything, but `Butterflies in May' showed how a loved one may not be everything you hoped for. This book has opened my eyes to how even when being careful accidents do happen, it's part of life, and that they can happen to anyone at anytime. I recommend this book to any teenage girl interested in reading about a heartfelt life changing story, or any high school girl looking for a good book to read. `Butterflies In May' takes a teenage girl on a totally different path than she ever planned, and she will keep you interested during the whole book.

The above paragraph was written by my 15 year old grandaughter, Sadie. As a 68 year old, this book is not what I usually read, but the first page caught my attention and I finished it the same day. 'Butterflies in May' is for all ages!

Butterflies in May was a very strong and powerful book for a 13 year old girl, as I am. After reading this book, I thought how hard it was for Ali Parker to have a child and lose her boyfriend at the same time. I think all teenage girls as well as boys should read this book so they know the things that can happen in their life and be aware of their decisions for their future. When I was reading this book, I could simply not put it down, Miss Karen Hart is a wonderful author who is smart and cares about what goes on in the world. I hope she continues to write fabulous books as this one was.

~~Emiley from Texas

High school senior Ali Parker has always been careful about sex, but she has never been in love before. Now a seventeen-year old and applying to nearby Northeastern, she has met her soul mate Pratt Institute bound Matt Ryan, a talented artist. Since Matt is planning on attending school in New York, Ali applies to Columbia and NYU, noted journalist schools as is her interest, so they can be a subway ride away from each other.

However, objectives change when Ali becomes pregnant. She must decide what to do. The choices are obvious but none simple. Her loving parents want the best for her, but they also want to make that choice. Her boyfriend Matt is confused and bewildered; one moment feeling they can do it if he gives up his artistic dreams and she her journalistic endeavors to raise the child as a married couple; the next just wanting to attend college with no responsibilities except grades. Her best friend Monica is there for her, but Ali knows in the end everything is up to her.

BUTTERFLIES IN MAY is an insightful look at teen pregnancies through the eyes of an intelligent, cautious female who abruptly finds herself needing to make difficult adult decisions, Ali holds the tale together as she struggles with her world reversing polarity from a somewhat carefree existence to making complex adult choices. Karen Hart provides a deep character study-family drama in which the emphasis is to provide teens with honest education, information and knowledge instead of sound bites, shrills, and platitudes. Parents and leaders need to be there not preach as sometimes even a careful person can land in a sticky situation.

Harriet Klausner

Fortunately, more and more people are learning about the value of AEDs in saving lives. "Challenging Sudden Death" is essential reading for members of any community interested in starting an early defibrillation program. The basic steps needed to launch a successful program are outlined very simply in this book. Having launched a successful AED program, Bartholomew County HeartSavers, Inc. has a "first step" piece of advice for other communities: read "Challenging Sudden Death".

This book impressed me beyond words. I highly recommend this reading for anyone who values life in general. It is very easy to read as well as succinct in subject matter. My hat goes off to the editor who compiled this information.

Challenging Sudden Death is extremely thorough with a step by step approach that addresses every question or concern that one might have about implementing an AED program in their community. In my research for resources I feel assured this book should be referred to as the "Gold Standard" for implementing an AED program in all communities. It is indeed, a wonderful tool you've designed and I strongly recommend anyone interested in implementing AEDs in their community to read this book.

Thank you again, for developing such a wonderful and needed tool. Success in saving lives and making a difference in our community will be achieved once we implement the model so expertly outlined in your book.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Mayeaux Program Director

Dr. Chuck Wyatt Medical Director, Acadiana AED Task Force

This book is great help in understanding the difference in cultures of Me, an american, dating a Chinese girl. I understand the Chinese family unit better and will ease problems that arise. Also great explaination of Chinese names and family tree.

~In searching for resources for my Asian American Studies paper at B&N, I found this book. I wish I had found it earlier because it explains many things. May Tung knows Chinese culture and she knows Western-American culture. She knows how they conflict, and can explain it so well to one caught in it all. Many times, it felt like she was describing my life and my parents. It has made me thoughtful about my actions - what is from the Chinese influence? what is from the American influence?

~Most of all, because I grew up Americanized, it helped me understand the Chinese aspect of my life. It helped me understand my parents' actions and helped me understand how to deal with them.

In addition to this book, I'd like to recommend Maxine Hong Kingston's book, The Woman Warrior. It's another great look into growing up American with Chinese parents.~~

I found this book to be extremely validating of my experience as a Chinese American. The book strikes a nice balance between the traditional cultural influences which affect the social behaviors of Chinese and Chinese Americans, and how such behaviors can come under pressure and become identity issues in an Euro-American dominated society, with its mythologized notions of cultural superiority and racial entitlement. Important reading for any Chinese American who honors self-respect, and refuses to accept her or himself as a second-class American; a compliant and passive "model minority".

I enjoyed reading this book. If you like history, you'll enjoy this one. This story makes the history of the dust bowl come alive! It shows how one family, one girl in particular, survived a harsh time in our country with love, humor, and determination. You'll find a little bit of adventure and romance too.

This is an excellent book that captures the flavor of a time that is now history. It is the saga of a family that lived in Oklahoma before and during the time that it became the "Dust Bowl." This true story is told through the eyes of Chloe May. It is a good description of the events as they happened, and of how a family grew, lived, and survived when Oklahoma turned into the dust bowl. It is a very human story. I felt like I was with the family when they were starving and traveling to a new life. I understood Roosevelt's efforts to help the country better because I saw what it did for this family.

The book brings history alive and makes it real. It was written from notes left by the author's mother. The book moves smoothly and swiftly along. It is hard to put down. This family history helps you live history. It's alive! I highly recommend it.

This is a great read! The book reads quickly and smoothly and the story line is GREAT! This story also is interesting because history of the dust bowl is interwoven in the story. You won't be sorry you bought this book! Be prepared to set time aside to read the whole book!!

With its well-written introduction, this marvelous book is a great way to read about one aspect of life during the American Civil War.

These recipes are taken verbatim from a magazine that was fairly widely read by the ladies of the North and South. They are all dated with the year they were published, in some cases more than once. There's a glossary and notes to help you read the somewhat antique language. There's also a wonderful reference list, with lots of titles for the Civil War historian to look for.

I wanted this book because I love being in the kitchen. I also wanted to improve my knowledge of history, as seen through the eyes of the wives, mothers and daughters. As a genealogist, this book enhances what little I know about my female Civil War ancestors. As an added bonus, many of these recipes sound recreateable in the modern kitchen! This is a great read, even if you're not a cook.

Interesting history on the diets of the Civil War soldiers as well as authentic recipes from the home front. Many are the basis of our recipes today. I had a lot of fun trying some of them and they were delicious. The historical section at the beginning was well researched and very interesting reading.

I have an interest in civil war history since my grandfather fought in the civil war (union side). This book was well researched and well written. It adds a new perspective to the times.

Excellent pictures, beautiful book and fun to see all the different sizes, areas, and ideas about those homes that were around me in my childhood in Pacific Palisades/Brentwood. Loved the book - it was very well presented! I certainly didn't appreciate how inovative Cliff May's architecture was.

I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to all Cliff May owners and prospective owners. Gregory does a wonderful job of balancing academic research and analysis with colorful anecdotes about the man behind the homes. The photography is top-notch, especially the archived images brought to life from the past.

I bought this as a gift for my son and daughter-in-law as they live in a Cliff May that they need to update. They need to make changes to the kitchen but want to maintain the integrity of the design. They have both told me that this is a wonderful book and it has given them many good ideas. So, based on their recommendations, I would have to rate this highly. I am looking forward to a visit with them so I can actually see the book in person!!