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O
The air campaign: Planning for combat
Published in Paperback by For sale by the Supt. of Docs., U.S. G.P.O (1988-01-01)
Author: John A Warden
List price:
Used price: $3.69

Average review score:

Update of classic book on warfare
Helpful Votes: 10 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 1999-03-07
John Warden was the strategist of the air campaign in the 1991 Gulf War. In 1998, he updated his influential book. A must read for anyone interested in the military, its past, present and future.

A very good synthesis
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2004-10-25
John Warden's book earned high praise because of its author's role in planning operation Desert Storm, but although the book is a very good synthesis of air warfare theory it is not either groundbreaking or revolutionary. In fact most of its arguments were presented for the first time by the pioneers of air power of the 1920s and 30s like Giulio Duhet and William Mitschell. Warden's contribution has more to do with the revival of those forgotten theories and the presentation of a complete picture of aerial operations instead of inventing new methods of war. Central to his thesis is the idea that air superiority is crucial, that a campaign will be lost if the enemy has it, that in many circumsatnces it alone can win a war, and that its possession is needed before other actions on the ground or in the air can be undertaken.

Warden also places emphasis on thorough training saying that if something is going to be done in war, it ought to be practiced in peace, and if it has not be practiced, losses are likely to be high and the plan is unlikely to go as expected. He analyzes the three kinds of inderdiction (distant, indermediate and close) and he gives an interesting definition of the term "close air support": "It is an air operation that theoritically could and would be done by ground forces on their own, if sufficient troops or artillery were available".

The author repeats often the great value of striking the enemy's center of gravity, that timing is everything in the commitment of air reserves and that ground and naval forces can serve as an adjunct to air forces in the battle for air superiority. His opinion that fighting defensively is the worst way to fight an air war is uneiversally accepted as is his thesis that numbers are important, so important that a primary goal of the operational commander ought to be to make sure that his forces outnumber the enemy every time they meet. Modern research using the Lancaster equations has also proved his argument that the large force almost always inflicts greater absolute casualties on the smaller force and thath it also suffers less in the process.

John Warden also explains in the Epilogue how his concept of ideas was implemented in the Desert Storm campaign of 1991. In that case the enemy was visualized as a target system of five concentric rings (leadership, key production, infrastructure, population and field forces) with the leadership ring at the center. In the case of Iraq, the US goal was "to reduce the energy level of the entire system enough to reach our peace objectives" which were to eject "Iraq out of Kuwait and an Iraq that would not be a strategically threatening regional superpower for the next decade".

On the minus side of the book are the extremely poor black and white pictures.

Just outstanding and and very easy to read.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1998-09-29
A fresh and renovated review on a complicated topic such as Strategy. Interesting and updated points of view with a simple and easy language. A must for any military aviator.

A Brilliant "Must Read" Synthesis of Air Power Thinking
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2003-06-24
Colonel John A. Warden III was one of the most distinguished officers of his generation. A veteran fighter pilot, he was--is--as well a true defense intellectual--not the sort of individual often touted by the so-called "defense reform movement," but a true warrior-scholar in the classic image of, say, a J. F. C. Fuller--or a George Patton. Not one to shy away from controversy, Warden was convinced in the 1980's that the United States Air Force--had strayed away from its first principles. It had become a stove-piped, tribal organization, riven by discord and confusion between its "strategic" and "tactical" communities. Warden, in this brilliant work (written as a thesis at the National Defense University), posited an exciting new vision of the centrality of air power in national defense. This book served as an important departure point for the service's subsequent "Global Reach--Global Power" strategic planning framework issued in 1990. By that time, Warden was running Checkmate, a key office in Air Force planning. Through his own initiative and vision, he and a small team of "weapons officers" planned Instant Thunder, the first major response to Saddam Hussein's aggression in the Gulf. Warden briefed Instant Thunder to the Air Force Vice Chief of Staff (the Chief was away), and then on his suggestion to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Gen. Colin Powell. Powell sent him to CENTCOM to brief Norman Schwarzkopf. His reaction was enthusiastic, and Warden was directed to brief Instant Thunder in the Gulf, to the CENTAF air component commander, General Charles Horner. Horner, brilliant in his own right, accepted much of what Warden said. But the personal chemistry between the two men was bad, and Warden returned to the States, leaving behind a small staff of acolytes and experts, most notably Lt. Col. David A. Deptula. It was the partnership of Deptula, Gen. Buster Glosson, Gen. Horner, and (back in Checkmate) John Warden that made the Desert Storm air campaign a success. After the war, Warden became commander of the Air Command and Staff College, making notable (and badly needed) changes to its curriculum. This book is a "must read" by anyone who would consider themselves a military and/or air power professional. There are Americans alive today because of John Warden's work. Warden never made general, largely because of petty jealousies by senior people above him. He was--is--a consumate professional and true patriot: never complaining, never self-advocating, always keeping true to his core beliefs. But his truest legacy is this book and the thinking it has inspired--thinking that has lead to five notable American victories over the last decade. Buy it, read it, keep it, use it!

A must for the business or military strategist!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 1999-01-07
Col. Warden adds new material to this important work on strategy, especially new material on what happened after the Gulf War. This book is many things. It is a history of airpower. It is a fresh look at the application of airpower. It is a guide for anyone in the military or business world who wants to compete or attack a system. Very readable. With Col Warden's reputation as the architect of the Air Campaign against Iraq, he has demonstrated that he can apply his ideas in real world situations. Outstanding read.

O
All About the Angels
Published in Paperback by TAN Books and Publishers (2008-09-15)
Author: Fr. Paul O'Sullivan
List price: $6.00
New price: $4.35
Used price: $0.01

Average review score:

I really liked it!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-11-03
I really enjoyed this book. I would suggest anyone who is considering conversion read this book. I also found another great book you should think about reading if you are considering converting or strengthening your faith. It is entitled "The Enlightenment, What God Told Me After One Million Prayers, a Message for Everyone" by John H. Eagan. This book will bring you closer to understanding who God is and what the meaning of your life is [...]

great!!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-09
This is a wonderful, easy to read book about angels and their work on earth, great for kids and adults alike, inspirational, gives much hope and consolation.

A theologian shows us how angels bolster mankind.
Helpful Votes: 21 out of 21 total.
Review Date: 1999-01-19
A wonderful book that deals often with Angelic appearances in recent times and generally offers a bracing up for those who would like a positive approach to angels and what they do for humans. The book covers examples of stories of angels in scripture. Both old and new testaments. Great reading particularly for the younger or more sensitive individual. When ready perhaps the reader may want to go on to another book by the same publisher but more serious called "The Angels" which offers more detail on their actualy abilities as viewed by the Roman Catholic Church. "The Angels" by Pascal Parente which is more detailed, however covers angels in a more technical aspect. For instance how they move about and how they communicate. All categories of angels are discussed. All About Angels is a very positive book aimed at bolstering humans.

What's Not to Love About This Book? Let's Hear it For Our Protectors!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-30
This is a charming book dedicated to the often forgotten and unsung heroes assigned to us for our protection through the love of God our Father. Jesus, himself talks about angels in scripture in Matthew 18:10 and in the Garden of Gethsemene and so Christians have no excuse but to believe in these spirits whose love of us is only surpassed by that of their Creator. Highly recommended!

Helpful book about our friends, the angels
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2000-12-30
Father O'Sullivan writes an excellent book telling pretty much everything you have ever wanted to know about angels. He speaks of apparitions of angels and stories of various Saints who have been blessed with seeing the presence of their angels at all times. He tells us of the greatness of our angels' love for us, and that they are willing to help us with ANYTHING we want if we ask them. Great book for all those seeking the truth about angels and for clearing up common misconceptions the world has.

O
American Gargoyles: Spirits in Stone
Published in Hardcover by Clarkson Potter/Publishers (2001-05-15)
Author: Darlene Trew Crist
List price: $24.00
New price: $12.70
Used price: $7.88

Average review score:

American Gargoyles
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-06-20
Having read this book, I have a new outlook on American Gargoyles which truely are spirits in stone. This book is very educational, picturesque,informative, well written and I simply love it!

Wonderful Book
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-12-05
I bought this as a gift for someone and now I wish I would have also bought myself a copy! The pics are great, as is all the information regarding gargoyles. Only drawback for me, I thought it was going to be bigger, it's no bigger than maybe 10x10 or so.

American Gothic
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-03
This book is one of the best books I got from amazon. I got the two books Holy Terror's and American Gargolyes... it was a great deal. The book is loaded with pictures of gargoyles from across america and desrcibes what type of gargoyle and where it is located in america. The photographs are beautiful and descriptive through out the book. If you gargoyles get the two books for the price of one. Highly Recommended!!!!

Quality Book on Odd Subject
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 10 total.
Review Date: 2001-11-22
I was a little skeptical when I first picked up "American Gargoyles: Spirits in Stone" but a friend had reccomended it so I decided to read it. Boy, am I glad I did! If I hadn't I would have missed out on the wonderful details, breathtaking pictures and an all around fascinating history of American Gargoyles. The pictures are well shot, and I have to admit, were the first thing that caught my eye. But, when I sat down to read the text the author shared all these captivating little details about the gargoyles which I loved! The author tells you the story behind a particular gargoyle and if there is anything special you should look for when you see it. This book was so fascinating that I was inspired to take a trip to some of the sights mentioned in the book and check out the gargoyles for myself. I reccomend this book to all readers, it appeals to all audiences.

Monstrous Stoned Fun
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2001-11-12
Gargoyles have gotten to be very popular recently, and any gargoyle fan ought to get the book _American Gargoyles: Spirits in Stone_ (Clarkson Potter) by Darlene Trew Crist, with photographs by Robert Llewellyn, because American gargoyles are fun. It wasn't the original job of gargoyles to be fun. One of the explanations of how gargoyles got into their exalted positions in churches is that they were placed there to entice pagans to come and worship at Christian locales. Those who ran the churches thought that pagan symbols, and scary ones at that, were a good marketing ploy. Perhaps we American moderns are simply amused by carvings of fearsome dragons, but there are plenty of gargoyles shown here that are deliberately humorous caricatures.

The pictures are a treat. This is not a big, coffee-table book, but there are scores of pictures from many American sacred, commercial, and academic buildings. Though American gargoyles reflect the traditions of Europe, many are truly American. The University of Pennsylvania, for instance, has a strictly medieval style of quadrangle, complete with gargoyles, but one of them is a football player. At Washington National Cathedral, there is a gargoyle showing a crooked politician; he has horns, a big belly, a cigar, and a pocket full of dollar bills. There are a pair of gargoyles there which were given by a grandmother in thanks for her two grandsons. One is angelic and one is demonic, and she never said which is which; the grandsons are now grown up and still don't know. A weeping sea turtle is there as a statement of environmental protection. Out of the mouth of a monstrous duck stares a tourist with a camera, a payback from the carver who was the subject of thousands of pictures as he worked.

_American Gargoyles_ could have been a lot bigger, but Crist has included a reading list for those who want to see more. It is a good-looking and informative book.

O
Anatomy of The Human Grey Body Grey Anatomy
Published in Kindle Edition by BookSurge (2007-11-26)
Author: Gregory Nolan O'Dell
List price: $9.99
New price: $9.99

Average review score:

East & West
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-13
Highly recommended! Unique, well-researched and a great read. It has wonderful illustrations & 3D images to illustrate a unique concept that binds both eastern & western fascination with our inner/outer world. A good coffee-table book for conversations, will look forward to the DVD of the characters in the near future!

O'Dell explains an unearthly subject in a down-to-earth way
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-20
Anyone who shies away from "alien theories" because they seem flighty or out-of-touch with reality will be gratified to discover this excellent text about the possibility of extra-terrestrial life. Both the origins of alien beliefs (including Indian mystical texts, which include respected yogic systems such as agni yoga) as well as modern, physical encounters with alien forms are explored. Technical evidence is presented without losing the wonder and sense of the mystical. Highly recommended for anyone who is interested in reading more about what might exist beyond Planet Earth.

A Must Read!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-15
One of most interesting books I have read in quite awhile, Anatomy of The Human Grey Body takes you through the concept of Greys, abductions, and how we perceive the reality around us.
Rather than simply being a book of one person's opinion, this book uses several examples about Greys and consciousness through history, with all works cited, going into great detail about the Jivatma, as the Grey is called in the East through many religions, including Hinduism.
Anatomy of The Human Grey Body takes an interesting and unique look at the extraterrestrial beings people claim to have seen, that are typically referred to as Greys. As well, the book takes a brief look at some of the anomalies witnessed by people around the world. Whether the greys are actually a separate being, or an extension of our selves in some way, is discussed throughout the book, as well as further discussion into whether we actually create the images in our own minds and then transpose them onto photographs.
While the author is discussing other possible answers to many of the questions that plague many of us today, he is careful not to completely discard some of the possibilities that already exist. This book is simply another's personal speculation and debate on what some of these anomalies might be, based on his views and on the historical beliefs of different people in the eastern hemisphere. The book talks about how western belief tends to focus more on what it might be in terms of extraterrestrials, while eastern belief tends to focus more on what it might be in relation to the self and how these two different views have come about.
Greys could be any number of things; it depends on the individual and their beliefs that determine their view of what Greys really are. Anatomy of The Human Grey Body simply gives another view of what Greys could really be.
The book is short and concise, yet it does not short change the reader on any topic, delving into detail on easy topics like the existence of extraterrestrials and hard ones, like multidimensional planes.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in knowing more about the world around them and have always wanted to pick up that curtain of reality that separates us from what we perceive and what truly exists.
A great read!

A definitive look
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-17
This ia a definitive look through pictures and text on the deeper meaning behind grey body morphology. The pictures are fantastic and the text is insightful, providing new ideas behind such a mysterious subject.

An Anotomical Review of The Grey
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-15
O'Dell's metaphysics is a good explanation for paranormal events such as alien abductions and UFO phenomena. What a refreshing UFO publication that never mentions government conspiracies which is just an absurd notion of military intelligence! Original work from a maverick philosopher! Hope to see more from this author.

O
The Angel Messages
Published in Hardcover by O Books (2004-02-25)
Author: Jenny Boylan
List price: $22.95
New price: $6.00
Used price: $5.40

Average review score:

A guide to your joy
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2004-02-18
I love this book. I carry it with me in my backback, and I routinely read these little pearls of wisdom. They are constant reminders of what's possible for me and that I can't be complacent about my quest for seeking my joy.

It's a Keeper
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2004-01-24
I am an avid reader of books. This book hasn't even made it to my bookcases because I keep it on my desktop. I frequently open it to gain an insight or message that helps me to look at and live my life differently. Because the messages are so thought provoking and timeless I give this book as gifts to friends & family members. That's a five star rating in my book.

Daily Inspiration
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2002-11-12
This is the kind of book that never makes it to my bookshelf because I use it every day. It has become a daily source of inspiration to me to guide me to reaching my highest potential. I am always surprised at how accurate each message is for me. I'm sure that like me, you won't be able to go through a day without seeking guidence from these messages.

A superior inspirational book
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-12-10
In an imperfect world, we all need guidance. Sometimes we can't navigate through life's problems on our own. This book has never failed to lift my spirit. In beautiful language, Jenny Boylan has put down on paper these inspired messages. And in the process she has given all of us who read The Angel Messages a priceless gift. This book is filled with wisdom and hope. If you want to feel better about yourself and improve your spiritual life, read this book!

Powerful!! Filled with angelic wisdom!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2003-01-19
When you feel the need for a friend who is filled with inspirational and comforting words, then just pick up this book and open it to any page. I guarantee you, that the page you begin reading will be exactly what you need to read. This book is confirmation that there are angels among us...just look at the cover and read the incredible story behind the photo. If that isn't enough to convince you- open the book and look; read the loving messages. After you've read only a few- you will believe it must have been an angel who wrote all these angelic words of wisdom.

Also, I spoke with Jenny at a book-signing and she told me that she wrote this book in a matter of hours in one night...the messages just came through her! That is incredible...awe inspiring... angelic...proof that angels are among us. There is hope and love in this world...in all of us...just take the time to look!

O
Art as a Way of Life
Published in Perfect Paperback by Heron Dance Art Studio (2006-11-01)
Authors: Ann O'Shaughnessy and Roderick MacIver
List price: $12.95
New price: $9.49
Used price: $9.50

Average review score:

Beauty and Inspiration
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-17
This book is a marvelous collection of inspirational writing and enchanting images that combine to create a treasure. It's one of those volumes I keep close at hand and pick up to enjoy a page or two, especially when creativity wanes...

Heron Dance Publications
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-27
I ordered Art as a Way of Life from Heron Dance (along with several other items as gifts) around the holidays. This book is spectacular and an inspiration for all who are creative or searching for their creativity! It is a pleasure to read and see. The layout is as superb as the quality of content. One item I ordered as a gift was slightly damaged. I called and they sent a replacement out same day with postage paid envelope for my return.....AND I got a real person (pleasant and helpful to boot) on the phone. I plan to order more from them. I highly recommend them for their product and what they stand for. Laura ~ Arlington VA

Art as a Way of Life
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-17
Some of us are working/living in high stress situations. When I return to the sanctuary of my home, reading here and there in "Art as A Way of Life" and loosing myself in the wonderful watercolor pictures by Rod MacIver is a wonderful way to unwind.

Jan Penney
California

A beautiful gift
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-03
"When this old world starts getting you down," open this book of beauty. Rod's exquisite watercolors take you to a place of quiet and contemplation, while Ann's well-chosen quotes and her own words of truth will lift you into your own possibilities. And...the format and presentation make this book stand out above others of its kind. I will give this as a gift to all my friends. But I will always keep one for myself.

Wow! A Great Compilation
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-03
Great words, wonderful art -- a marvelous combination. The art needs the words more than the words need the art. A great compilation, whether you're a lover of words and ideas for your wild soul, or you appreciate nature watercolors -- or both.

O
Atlantis: The Lost Empire Essential Guide
Published in Hardcover by DK CHILDREN (2001-05-07)
Author:
List price: $14.95
New price: $2.76
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $24.99

Average review score:

Disney Animation just keeps getting better.
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 2001-05-14
I bought this book for myself, not my children. As an artist, animator, and Disney fan I wanted the book as a reference for the artwork used in the film. All I can say is I love the look of this film and I can't wait to see the movie. However, this is not an art book and in fact is not approved by Disney. It gives a little background on each of the characters, vehicles, and equipment used in the film, accompanied by gorgeous artwork from the movie itself, but is not a narrative story. Be aware, if you have not seen the film, this book gives away almost all of the plot. It also has none of the creative process behind what went into the movie. It is simply a very nice picture book and, in my opinion, worth the price.

Great Book on ATLANTIS: THE LOST EMPIRE from DK
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-26
Dorling Kindersley makes great looking books. This book for Disney's ATLANTIS: THE LOST EMPIRE is very nice. It covers each character and hardware used in the film and is both captivating and educational. Excellent!

Atlantis Movie Guide
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-04
If you have seen and enjoyed the movie, you will enjoy this guide. It actually sheds some light on the reasons why the artists featured various items and artifacts.

If they had included some of the facts in this book in the movie, it would have made it way more interesting for me. I'm almost wondering if you read the book first, you would enjoy the movie more.

In this book you can find out more about your favorite characters, explore the underwater royal chambers and secret caves, see detailed pictures of the amazing fleet of vehicles and travel to the magical world of monsters, giants, princesses and kings.

~The Rebecca Review

Very Interesting and Enjoyable
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-03
I think this book is a must have for any Atlantis: The lost Empire fan. It thoroughly describes just about everything in the movie: from characters to places. I love it and I highly recommend it.

A Complete Biography that amazed me
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-17
This book has a wide range of hidden facts about the movie It's also full with awesome pictures and fantastic guidelines for a collector to know .There's also some speciality in this book that amaze me like a complete data and knowledge of each and every single character,maps,about vehicles,history of Atlantis and much more.It's simply a must have for all the disney and atlantean fans out there.

O
Twelve o'clock high! (Bantam Book)
Published in Unknown Binding by Bantam Books (1949)
Author: Beirne Lay
List price:
Used price: $35.00
Collectible price: $48.00

Average review score:

One of the greatest war novels of the twentieth century!
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 12 total.
Review Date: 1999-08-07
Twelve O'Clock High! is the story of the 8th U.S. Army Air Force in England during World War II. Written by authors Beirne Lay and Sy Bartlett, both original staff officers of the 8th Air Force, this novel draws heavily from actual experiences of airmen in battle and their commanders on the ground. This is "must reading" for any serious aviation enthusiast or historian, as the book weaves a spell-binding and realistic tale of drama, action, and human suffering. A chronicle of patriotism, Twleve O'Clock High! is the novel of America's "Gettysburg in the Sky."

THE Airwar story of World War 2
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-12-26
I have read this book two to three times a year since 1968, and just finished it again. The one copy I have had over the years has fallen apart, and the book is rubber banded together.

This title should be required reading in Jr Hi to teach children what americans have been through to become the people we are today,as will as to salute this "Greatest Generation". The characters are three dimentional, and touch you like no others will again. When I read this book, it is like sitting down and visiting with an old friend. I will never get tired of this tale. This story is one that will live forever in your heart.

Twelve O'Clock High: Still Relevant After All These Years
Helpful Votes: 20 out of 20 total.
Review Date: 2000-04-20
Twelve O'Clock High is, of course, one of the best works of fiction about the air war in Europe ever to be published. But that is not why it's still required reading at America's service academies. The book is a fascinating study in the psychology of command and commanders. It explores the satisfaction of command - taking a dispirited air group and turning it around to become the point of the 8th Air Force's aerial spear, and changing a group of crybabies into a disciplined, proud unit. It also shows the price in human lives and mental anguish inflicted upon a commanding officer who must, time and again, order his men into battle with the certain knowledge that some of them won't be coming back. It further offers hints on how a commanding officer can deal with the stress he must needs inflict upon himself, and shows clearly the fine line a leader walks between familiarity and emotional disassociation. In some ways the book is almost a roman a clef, particularly in the characters of Savage, Bishop and McIlhenney, with the action itself a composite of various air actions, including the notorious "Black Thursday" raid of October,1943 on the Schweinfurt ball bearing works. But for all that, it's still a compelling read for all who are interested in what makes miltary leaders tick. This book cannot be recommended too highly, and it is so superior to the movie that there is no comparison. I rate it as a "must-read."

12 O' CLOCK HIGH
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2000-03-23
Lt.Col.Beirne Lay, Jr. USAAF flew B-17 combat missions in the European Theatre in World War II. He created the 918th Bomb Group by putting together his unit the 91st Bomb Group and the 8th Air Force. Brig. Gen. Frank Savage was based on the real Brig. Gen. Frank Armstrong. After World War II Lay and writer Sy Barlett wrote the novel and the 1949 Screen Play 12'O CLOCK HIGH. This book is excellent.

12 O' CLOCK HIGH
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2000-03-23
Lt.Col.Beirne Lay, Jr. USAAF flew B-17 combat missions in the European Theatre in World War II. He created the 918th Bomb Group by putting together his unit the 91st Bomb Group and the 8th Air Force. Brig. Gen. Frank Savage was based on the real Brig. Gen. Frank Armstrong. After World War II Lay and writer Sy Barlett wrote the novel and the 1949 Screen Play 12'O CLOCK HIGH. This book is excellent.

O
The Battles of Armageddon: Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley from the Bronze Age to the Nuclear Age
Published in Hardcover by University of Michigan Press (2000-11-07)
Author: Eric H. Cline
List price: $29.95
New price: $6.96
Used price: $5.50

Average review score:

interesting book, well written
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-09-18
I had to do a presentation on megiddo for a class. This book was the most useful and interesting one that I had at my disposal.

An Excellent Book for Wargamers
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-16
There is little to add to the some of the excellent reviws previously listed. The documentation and bibliography is impressive as well as the author's willingness to discuss alternate interpretations of key historical events. The book is well written; but it is the numerous and well-drawn maps that I found particularly impressive.

My hobby is wargaming; and for those that share this hobby, this book is a gem. Think of it; 35 possible scenarios complete with maps ranging from Ancient Egyptian vs Ancient Syrian to Mondern Israelis vs Arabs...and even Armageddon itself. This can be considered either a "future" or a "fantasy" battle based upon your preferences. All of these battles could be gamed upon one large map or playing area stretching from Megiddo in the West to Mts Tabor, Gilboa, and Moreh in the East,\.

History in miniature
Helpful Votes: 33 out of 34 total.
Review Date: 2001-03-15
History is a slight of hands artist of sorts. It tends to focus ones attention on the flashy action center stage while more important events are often happening in the wings. Its spotlight brings out in high relief the massive endeavor of the pyramids, the power and grandeur of the Roman empire, the longevity of Chinese culture, or the blood rituals of the Aztecs. In doing so it tends to neglect the margins, places where cultural synthesis and mere survival of local polities brings the real issues of life during the time into sharper focus. Eric Cline is a master at redirecting ones attention to precisely these issues of history. In The Battles of Armageddon he chronicles the "life" history of a region that was for most of that history on the margins of the action in the Middle East and in the world.

The Jezreel Valley and ancient Megiddo, the Armageddon of Revelation, are brought to center stage in this well researched and thoroughly entertaining book. Here the armies of the world have fought battles deciding the course of human history, and here too it is suggested that the final battle between good and evil will be fought in the future. All tolled, some 34 major battles have been fought in this valley, often if not usually between combatants who are foreign to the area.

In documenting the drama of conflict that has played itself out on this valley floor, Professor Cline has examined a wide variety of data recording human events in the area. He discusses the records of ancient Egypt, the Biblical texts, the cuneiform documents of Anatolia, Assyria, Babylonia, and Persia, the written material of both the Moslem and the Christian participants of the Crusades, French documentation of the Napoleonic wars in the Middle East, the Allenby diaries, letters, etc. for the World War I conflict with the Ottoman Empire, and the more recent evidence for the Arab-Israeli conflicts in the area. In short, he addresses an impressive collection of data and with it constructs an absorbing "biography" of the region, and in doing so brings the history of the world itself into sharper focus.

I found Cline's willingness to entertain alternative proposals for events of the Israelite conquest of the Levant particularly impressive. He does not seem wedded to any particular theme or version of early Biblical history, a fact which gives one confidence in his critical judgment with respect to early documents, both Biblical and extra-Biblical. Where he is uncertain of the order of or veracity of events or their documentation, he is willing to say as much. There is no effort to make the evidence appear more concrete than it is. He also seems to have no preferred "side" in the Arab-Israeli conflict at least as a historian and archaeologist--whether he has one as an individual is his own business. The author also sticks to historical information and its interpretation and only introduces archaeological data where it is pertinent to the discussion. He doesn't burden the amateur enthusiast with more detail than they are willing or able to imbibe. In short he doesn't slow down the "story" of the Jezreel which makes the volume more readable.

Although I certainly found the earlier history of the Valley of interest--my degree is in ancient history--I actually found Professor Cline's treatment of the era of the Crusades more engaging because I learned more. I also enjoyed the discussion of General Allenby's possible foreknowledge of the war between Thutmose III and the Canaanites at Megiddo an excellent demonstration of good historic detective work. (It was definitely a good illustration of the value of a thorough knowledge of history.) The bibliography of The Battles of Armageddon is a veritable who's who of historical and archaeological research since the 19th century, including authors of topical works, of edited collections and encyclopedias, and of journal articles. For anyone with a specific interest this would definitely be a good starting point for the pursuit of information on tangential topics. I will probably use it to help fill in my knowledge of the Crusades. Without doubt this book would appeal to anyone with an interest in history, particularly that of the Levant or of peripheral areas in general, or in political and military history. One might even use it to teach world history, as so many of the main "players" in the events of human activity have passed through this valley and left their mark on it. Definitely a work worth reading.

Good short book on Megiddo's History
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2005-01-07
Professor Eric Cline's book here is one of the best works on the bloody and conflict ridden history of the City of Megiddo and its accompanying region, the Valley of Jezreel. Cline demonstrates how easily the name Megiddo had already been corrupted into Har Megiddo(or Mount of Megiddo) by the Roman era. This explains how it was later transcribed as 'Armageddon' by John The Apostle, who wrote the Book of Revelations. Cline documents the more than 30 battles which have raged in or around the Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley and chronicles many of the most decisive wars in history that occured here such as Napoleon's defeat of the Ottoman Turks at Aboukhir(July 1799) in the vicinity of..you guessed it! Megiddo, Sheshonq I's(the Biblical Shishak) assault against, and capture of, the Ancient Israelite cities of Beth Shan, Taanach and Megiddo in 925 BC which are all located in the same general area, Pharaoh Tuthmose III's stunning victory over the Prince of Kadesh at Megiddo in 1458 BC, and how more than three thousand and three hundred years later, the First World War British General Edward Allenby proceeded to virtually copy Tuthmose III's battle plan at Megiddo, catching the Ottoman Turks completely off guard in September 1918. The happy result, for Allenby, was the complete destruction of the Turkish Army in Northern Palestine and Syria, just 2 months before the end of World War One.

Professor Cline's excellent prose helps to explain why this book won the Biblical Archaeology Society's Award for the best New Book on Archaeology in 2001. Cline's view of the main reason why John decided to locate the Final Battle between Good and Evil at Armageddon--the same site where the last 'good' king of Judah, Josiah, fell in battle against Pharaoh Necho II in 609 BC--is quite persuasive. Equally intriguing is Cline's observation that the battle at Armageddon between Good and Evil was actually the penultimate(second last) battle in this series since a thousand years after this aforementioned battle, the Forces of Good and Evil will arise once again to do battle for the last time. However, this time the location was Jerusalem itself, as John writes in Revelations.

Cline's book makes an invaluable contribution towards our understanding of the strategic location of Megiddo as the gateway into both Syria and into the heart of Israel/Palestine; hence, its troubled history. As an Aside, Cline also documents the desperate struggles between Modern day Israel and the Arab states for control of this same area during the Wars of 1948 and 1967 where a breakthrough by the latter would have spelled disaster for the Jewish state.

Read It!
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2001-02-27
For anyone interested in battles, ancient and contemporary, this book is for you. Cline invites those interested in the site of Armageddon as well as military history buffs into the world and circumstances of the Jezreel Valley. Destined to be a classic on ancient battles.

O
The Beast Within: Living With Ocd
Published in Hardcover by Xlibris Corporation (2005-06-29)
Author: Angela Todd O'Neal
List price: $32.99

Average review score:

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-18
I Never thought anyone else would understand what was going on inside of my head. Now that I've read The Beast Within - Living With OCD, I have not only a better understanding of my condition, but also my daughter's. Thanks for this book - so much! It has taken a great weight off my shoulders.

What a Wonderful Author!!!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-25
Why have we not seen more of this author? Why are her books not on the shelves of local bookstores? I have read all three of her books and I had to order each one (two online and the latest one from the local Borders here). I was told by each store that they do not mass-order from her publisher, but to tell you the truth, you are doing your customers a DISSERVICE by not doing this!

I could not put it down!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-11
Once I opened up to the first page, I was hooked! It definitely helps you to understand what other people go through. Anyone who deals with these kinds of issues needs to read this book. I would reccommend it to anyone.

What a Terrific Read! :-)
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-11
I bought this book because OCD runs in my family. And all I could think was, "Wow! This sounds just like us!" The author's complete honesty is refreshing. She makes a strong point of letting people know that it's okay to be different. You go, Girl! :-)

Wow!!!!! It's about time somebody wrote this!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-10
It's high time that somebody wrote a book dealing with chemical imbalances! These conditions are very real, and for those of us who live with them day-to-day, learning that we are not the only ones out there makes life a whole lot easier! Tom Cruise -- You need to read this book. Maybe it will educate you!


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Related Subjects: O'Brien O'Connor Owens Owen O'Neal
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