Nicholas Books

It's difficult to believe no one has compiled a text like this for students of writing. It might be because instructors of writing don't know how to teach writing--in particular, prose fiction. Another possibility is that writing teachers don't have much common sense. Perhaps that is why a novelist put together this clever text: samples of major fiction writers with explications on style, vocabulary, voice, tone, structure, character, etc. As for the plethora of rhetorics, guides, handbooks, readers, etc., they are 'not fit for Christian ear to hear" nor the ears of Muslims, Jews, Jains, Buddhists, Hindus, etc. If you are a college student, tell your teacher about this book.

Delbanco takes us into unpopular waters with "The Sincerest Form," but it is very much worth the voyage. Imitation is one of the most effective ways to learn, and this book can guide you where many, perhaps rightly fearful of [...], would be unlikely to take you. In a progression of exercises of imitation and revision, Delbanco shows how much you can learn from, well, from copying others. Incidentally, this is the only required text from one of my college classes that I have actually found useful. I guess that tells you something.

this book is one of pine's best. the ending is very good but i guessed it pretty early because i am an excellent detective. the characters are drawn out very good.

A great mystery, unlike most young adunlt mystery books, I never guessed the ending. I recommend it for all young mystery lovers like me!!

I realy liked the book as for the first time I have the chance to have a book with more illustrations and pictures and less words . The approach is very practical and there is also a chapter dealing with the equipment for surgery and great chapter for the post op and follow up. STRONGLY RECOMMENDED

Eyal Nachmias DVM BSC Pet Clinic ISRAEL

Yes, this is a very helpfull book, very understandable and easy going one.
I recommend it.
Luis Canelón

The Solutions Focus: Making Coaching and Change SIMPLE (Second Edition) by Paul Z Jackson and Mark McKergow (Nicholas Brealey International, 2007) ISBN 1-904838-06-5

When the first edition of The Solutions Focus came out in 2002 it marked a genuine step forward in thinking about organisational change. It brought the insights of Solution Focused Therapy (developed in the late seventies by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg) into the workplace. The second edition, published in 2007, broadens its usefulness to coaches with the addition of new chapters outlining Jackson and McKergow's OSKAR coaching model, manager as coach, team coaching and solution-focused approaches to management consulting.

The beauty of the solution-focused approach is twofold; firstly, like the compatible Appreciative Inquiry (AI) approach, it focuses on what is working and what is desired rather than on problems and trying to solve them, so it tends to have a heartening and morale-raising effect on individuals, teams and organisations that experience it.

Secondly, and rather unlike AI (or my own background discipline of NLP for that matter), it emphasises the need for simplicity and is refreshingly free from academic or humanistic psychology jargon and what many people in organisations, desparate for practical ways of dealing with ever-increasing demands, may view as "tree-hugging hippy crap" (as one participant at a recent AI event I helped facilitate put it recently).

The book's writing style does justice to its subject. I knew from taking an accelerated learning course with them about 10 years ago that Jackson and McKergow would present the material in an intelligent and brain-friendly way (the "reformed physicist" McKergow in particular is possessed of the proverbial "brain the size of a planet", while Jackson's background in improvisational comedy adds immediacy and lightness of touch) - and so it proves, with each chapter divided into short, easily digestible sub-headings, and plenty of illustrations and practical examples.

The book gives us six principles of what they refer to as `The Solutions Focus', organised under the acronym SIMPLE:

Solutions not problems
Inbetween - the action is in the interaction (between people)
Make use of what's there (the parts of the solution that are already happening in the current situation)
Possibilities - the resources and possibilities that will take us towards the solution
Every case is different

Something like the "Inbetween" principle (the idea that some aspects of the solution exist in the interaction between people or as emergent qualities of the system, rather than being owned by any one individual) must have been present in solution-focused therapy as it applied to families. It was a new one on this reader though, as I had previously only used solution-focus in therapy and coaching with individuals. By emphasising the principle here, Jackson and McKergow build a very useful bridge between using solution focus with individuals and applying it to teams and organisations.

We are also given a clear description of the various tools of the Solutions Focus approach. The present situation, the starting point for change, is described as the `Platform' (with its connotations of somewhere to depart or lift off from). The desired outcome - what it would be like if the problem disappeared completely - is the `Future Perfect'. Resources, things that are already working, and times when parts of the solution are happening already are called `Counters'. This metaphor didn't work quite as well for me. I suppose in some kind of board game analogy. The other tools are Affirming whatever is helping, taking Small Actions (which can make a big difference, and in any case add up), and the extremely useful Scaling (of progress towards a solution, confidence in a chosen option working, or commitment to a course of action) on a scale of 0 to 10.

The part of the book from which I got the most value is the new material added for the second edition. The authors give many practical examples of how to use the Solutions Focus approach in coaching individuals, team coaching, and organisational consultancy. There is also a useful chapter on coaching as a manager.

One of the most helpful insights (no news to experienced managment consultants, I'm sure, but very helpful to someone like me with a background in individual coaching who is increasingly moving into organisational changework) is about the need to find a `customer for change'. This is someone in an organisation who is aware that it is time for a change, and prepared to do something about it. If the consultant can't find one, their change interventions are unlikely to get very far.

Also new to the second edition is the OSKAR coaching model. The acronym stands for Outcome, Scaling, Know-How, Affirm and action, and Review. In some ways this seems to have been bolted on to the rest of the book; looked at from one angle, it seems merely a relabelling of some of the tools described earlier. `Know-How', for example, seems to be much the same as the resources and abilities described as `Counters' earlier in the book.

My other quibble with the model is that it is more a description of tools than a process model; although the authors say it can be used as a process ,the Scaling, Know-How, and the `Affirm' part of `Affirm and action' might be used both when eliciting what is working in the current situation (the `Platform'), and when deciding what to do to get closer to the `Future Perfect'. Also, the authors say that the `Outcome' stage would include both establishing the Platform and envisioning the `Future Perfect', while the sample questions they give are exclusively about the future, which might lead the careless reader to skimp on exploring the current situation. These are however minor caveats, which I hope a third edition will eventually resolve.

The book finishes up with a short history tracing the evolution and intellectual roots of the Solutions Focus model, placing it in a lineage which includes Bateson's work on paradox and levels of abstraction, Erickson's concept of utilisation, and complexity theory.

All in all, The Solutions Focus is an eye-opening book for anyone looking for greater simplicity and effectiveness in coaching, team-building, or organisational change.

When I read the first edition of The Solutions Focus, I compared it to Getting To Yes, a classic that changes the way you see the world and act in it. Well, I can now say that SF has more than survived the test of time. It has become part of "the way I do things" both as a consultant and in my personal life.

So I was curious to see what a second edition would bring.

And the answer: It brought some fantastic "Aha" moments, such as the story of James, a manager who feels his second-in-command is out to get him. Using the OSKAR coaching model, James successfully resolves their differences. WOW, of course, what a brilliant and fresh approach to conflict management! The O in OSKAR stands for Outcome, starting with the desired result and moving toward it...

As a corporate negotiation consultant and trainer with more than a penchant for creativity, let me say bravo and thanks..

Soul Theology causes you to think about what you believe and how your belief system influences everything you say and do. It is groundbreaking as it is a guide into the heart and soul of a people who have survived against the odds and continue to triumph. The definition of "core belief" has become the foundational piece for our health ministry. For we need to know what a healthy core belief is, to possess it, then use it as a point of reference in how we see ourselves in relationship to God and others. This book will be especially helpful for counselors who counsel persons who possess deep religious convictions. In general, it is an easy reading book for anyone interested in the subject matter.

This book broke ground becaused it identified and demonstrated that certain African American core belief could uplift and heal. Soul Theology showed that what was positive and healthy in one culture could be of benefit to others. African Americans can be proud and others can be glad. I may have a small bias. Thank you for reading the book. Nicholas Cooper-Lewter, Ph.D. Expect to read about Black Grief and Soul Therapy in the future. Peace, Health and Soul.

Anyone interested in learning more about caves will want this book. It is easy to read, yet introduces cave science (Speleology) in a clear and logical way. Even a layman like me can understand it. It is beautifully illustrated with detailed diagrams and striking drawings.Both cave geology and cave biology are covered. You will find answers to questions like how caves are formed, why some caves breathe in and out, how stalactites and stalagmites develop, what kind of animals live in caves, and why some cave animals are blind. The authors were pioneers in modern cave research. They have spent a lifetime studying and exploring caves, and write about the subject with style and authority. Main sections are: Caves as Natural Laboratories, Origin of Caves, Characteristics of the Underground Atmosphere, Growth of Stalactites and Other Speleothems, Behavior and Products of Cave Microorganisms, Habits of Cave Animals, Evolution of Blind Cave Animals, Uses of Caves, References and Related Readings, Caves in the U.S. Open to the Public, Index. David McClurg, author of Adventure of Caving, a how-to book on cave exploration.

This book is the classic introduction to cave sciences. Written for the lay person, but with plenty of scientific specifics. Caving is a very young science. This book was written many years ago, and much has been added to our knowledge of caves. Every serious caver starts with this book, though.

This book is absolutly fabulous. The plot is tightly weaven, each character is given a background, and there is no need to kill anyone in the story to inhance the fear. If you are a child or a adult, read it. You'll be glad you did, I bet.

This is an AWESOME book! I definately recommend you read it. Jody is one of the most popular girls at Central. When she was 15 (she's now 17), her boyfriend was attacked. The attacker who's name is Bubba, was sent to a Juvenile Hall for 5 years -- but he's let out after only 2 years! He swore revenge against Jody -- and now he's out to get her! Will she live! Get the book and find out! :o)

If you want to chat, e-mail me: goddess_marissa1@hotmail.com

I have read just about every book that our public library carries on home decorating. I never found one book that could address the issues in such detail with visual aids for every step of a project, until I came across "Step-by-step Home decorating book" by Nicholas Barnard. This is the best decorating book that I ever read. My search for the most satisfying decorating book has ended. It makes very good reading. A must for your library.

This edition is now fully revised and updated. Already half a million copies of this book have been sold worldwide. Now they have included an extra 64 pages of innovative suggestions on how to improve your home with unique decorating discussions.

This book is written in a step-by-step style and is a contemporary and practical guide to beautiful adventures in home decorating.

The contents include:

Soft Furnishings
Basic Sewing techniques
Curtains and Draperies
Shades
Bed Furnishings
Pillows and Cushions
Simple Upholstery
Table Linens
Lampshades
Decorating
Painting
Wallpapering
Tiling
Hard Floors
Carpets and Rugs
Shelving
Lighting
Care & Maintenance

A discussion on the types of fabrics is followed by a pictoral guide to the basic sewing kit. Then you enter the world of hand sewing and machine techniques. It is reminiscent of home economics courses in high school, but they go into slightly more detail.

If you are thinking of putting up curtains, there is a section on hanging systems. While curtains take a bit of work, if you have a sewing machine and a bit of patience, you can create exactly what you imagine. The sewing sections in this book are a real highlight. It seems that most of this book is about sewing!

For the adventurous new decorator, there is a visual list of what you need for a household tool kit. Already I see I should purchase a few more items if I'm going to get any of these projects completed. Yes, I have a wire brush on my "to buy" list now.

Bagging is an interesting technique for painting. Sponging and glazework is also explained in detail. The painting section is less detailed than the sewing section, but
equally useful.

Once you get to the "tiling" section, you have to ask yourself if you really want to attempt this yourself? The flooring and tiling sections look quite advanced and perhaps these sections are more to help you decide on which types of flooring or tile you would prefer to install.

Shelving is not that difficult to install in reality and this section was short, sweet and practical.

If you are up for the challenge or are just looking for more
inspiration, this is your book.

~The Rebecca Review

Nicholas Hopkins has written an entertaining and deep story interwoven with quite accurately portrayed metaphysical concepts. His melange of characters intertwine in their rendezvous at the Sunshine Dream Resort where each discovers something about themselves that they weren't expecting. This book will keep you guessing until the last page. If you like books with metaphysical themes that are subtle yet well-presented, you will love this book. I am rather looking forward to Mr. Hopkins' next novel.

The Sunshine Dream Resort by Nicholas Hopkins is a thought provoking and inspiring novel. I can honestly say I have never read a book that left me feeling so inspired! I found myself wishing to be able to "travel" in the dream world too, and in fact, tried without success. (I'll keep trying) Better yet, I'll watch for the next book to see what Odin and Jon are in for next. I couldn't put it down! I am still mulling it over and finished it days ago...I can't say that about every book I read. Nick, keep writing!!!!!!!!

I bet Mother Goose is turning in her grave. Brett Nicholas Moore, who is a quirky and original writer has written a sophisticated and humorous book called "Tales of Brother Goose," a clever modern day satire on Mother Goose's late seventeenth century stories and rhymes.

Brett is the Prince of the denouements. His story's ultimate twists are superb. He's such a good short story teller that I paradoxically never wanted them to end, but also couldn't wait for them to finish so that I could discover his unpredictable endings.

I loved his post climax in `Puss in boots'. Most of the old fairy tales have an evil protagonist and the violence is dealt in a simplistic manner. Some of the action in this story is explicitly lurid to suit today's reader's jaded palette for gruesome deaths. I hope I'm not giving away too much when this story has a postscript happy ending, a theme reminiscent of the old tales when the good character(s) wins.

All Brett Nicholas Moore's stories are top-notch, but I preferred the ones with human characters to the animal ones. It's hard to decide which tale I liked best in the book, but one of my favourites has got to be Cinderella. It's a salacious hoot! (Like in all his stories), just when I was led into a false sense of security, Brett shocked me into laughing out loud with idiosyncratic nuggets of displaced 21st century life. He really knows how to startle the reader, especially when he uses modernistic slang and lingo, incongruous in his faithfully parodied old fairy tales.

Brett is an incredibly clever and inventive writer, proved by his hilarious and individualistic "Tragedy of Errors." This Old Worlde spoof about the political backstabbing in the court of a king and queen is so unique, it's worth buying "Tales Of Brother Goose" alone. Buy it, but not for the kids.

Copyright: Frances Lynn, 2007

Reviewed by Beverly Pechin for Reader Views (7/07)

As children we all grew up enjoying the sugar-coated stories of Mother Goose. Who doesn't remember the warm, tingly feeling of the great stories the age old feathered friend told, over and over? But now we're grown up. We know the world isn't really like the stories told to us as children. There is no real prince charming out there. People aren't always smiling and happy. Right?

Well, if you've grown up knowing the tales of Mother Goose, you must read what her son, 300 years later, tells us. Having the influences that we all had growing up, such as the real world stories we watched on television or read in the newspapers, Brother Goose gives a realistic version to some of the previously told tales we've heard. Never before have you heard Cinderella told in this version! The new tales Moore spins are much more realistic and definitely a lot more hilarious than those old boring tales of the bygone era!

Witty, humorous and filled with a lot more reality than ever before, these adult fairy tales will give you a touch of reality with a side of humor.