Reed Books

Having grown up in the Cleveland area myself, I was partial to this book right away since it's set in a suburb of Cleveland. That in itself is what made me first pick up the book actually. But I think the story here will appeal to anyone who ever had to endure the trials and torments of adolescence (and of course we all do). Ben Farkas's portrait is painted in soft colors at first, but they soon darken. This turns out to be a very tense, gritty and powerful picture of a boy walking a tightrope across an emotional abyss. When he seemingly makes it safely to the other side at the book's end, it will bring a real sense of satisfaction to just about every reader I have to think. That was certainly true for this reader anyway.

This is quite simply one of the best coming-of-age novels I've ever encountered, especially in its unique explorations of what it feels like to be a young athlete with good but not exceptional ability who has aspirations of stardom. The scenes between Ben and his father are so frank at times they're almost too painful to read. The author is also right on target in each and every relationship he depicts between Ben and a coach or a so-called "male" adviser.

Fantastic novel! I read it once quickly and then had to reread it to savor the exquisite subtleties. It caught the trials and tribulations of a boy growing up in the mid-1950s perfectly. Ben's story brought back the poignancy of my high school years all too clearly: the yearning for those cute coeds that I was too painfully shy to talk to, much less ask for a date, and that secret longing for a mysterious older woman of the world who would initiate me into the wonders of manhood. Well done.

Nemec is one the most unappreciated fiction writers we have. Every one of his books is gutsy and passionate and full of strange twists. This book combines accurate, unsentimental pictures of growing up in the 50's in tight concentric circles with the drama and risk of breaking out of those circles into manhood.

Mike Kearby writes in the forceful, gritty style of popular Western novelists like Max Brand and Elmer Kelton.

In "The Road to a Hanging" ex-slave Free Anderson becomes the victim of a grudge held against him by a man named Jubal Thompson. Thompson was a cowardly soldier in the same regiment as Free, but by 1868, he has become the sheriff of an outlaw town in North Texas. Jubal and his cutthroat gang ambush Free, frame him for a cattle-thief and throw him in the calaboose. The rest of the novel is taken up with Free's friend Parks Scott coming to break Free out of jail and prove his innocence.

Anyone who wants more should buy the entire trilogy. Excellent for young and adult readers alike.

The adventures of Free Anderson and Parks Scott are just beginning. "Road to A Hanging" finds Free ready to swing with one man able to save him, but where is he? Historical figures Wild Bill Hickock, Charles Goodnight, and George Custer help in the quest, and the only sure thing is that survival will never be taken for granted!

Kearby writes like a man on a mission. His prose flows freely, and powerfully. I appreciated the short snippet/chapter structure and realized very quickly that this is a man who could very well write the next great western movie!

Tim Lasiuta

A young Negro slave by the name of George Anderson dreamed of being free, and when the advance of the Union Army brought them close to where he lived, he grabbed his chance and ran away to join them. He was made a member of the 62nd United States Colored Infantry, First Regiment, and was known as "Free" Anderson. He became friends with Parks Scott, a white Lieutenant who had offered to teach any man from the 62nd to read and write.

Now the Civil War was ending, and Anderson was at the Boca Chica in Texas. A confrontation makes an enemy of the cowardly Corporal Jubal Thompson. They are destined to meet each other again, only this time Thompson is a rogue Sheriff carrying out his vow of vengeance against Free. Jubal and his cohorts frame Anderson for cattle theft, and Free is convicted of the trumped-up charges, then thrown into jail to await hanging. Thompson hadn't counted on the young black woman, Clara, who was attracted to the prisoner and brought him food. Then Clara, along with Parks Scott, who now rounds up and sells mustangs, helps Free to escape. Jubal Thompson vows to re-capture Anderson and carry out his hanging sentence along with prosecution for anyone who helped him -- and the action kicks into high gear as Thompson chases Free across the Texas frontier.

Kearby includes a glossary of terms and words in Indian, western slang, and Spanish languages, and a page of questions for classroom use. THE ROAD TO A HANGING is the first book in a trilogy that follows the last battle of the Civil War when ex-slaves realized that freedom was often an empty word, and a state that was hard to gain.

The accuracy of the historical detail in this fast-moving saga, with Wild Bill Hickok, George Armstrong Custer, Charlie Goodnight, and other real-life characters joining the fictional Free Anderson and Parks Scott as they contribute their legends to western lore, make this an educational as well as an exciting read. Mike Kearby is a master at characterization and plotting and keeps the suspense sharp right up to the satisfying ending.

Reviewed by: Grandma Bev

An 1860's "Band of Brothers" adventure, this novel depicts the bond that two men have when they've saved each other's lives. Could not put it down.

I am excited that this book is available. I can remember when I saw some of my first artistic photographs of men in the 1970''s. The men were "perfection", and the images were those of people who represented the idealized man of the time. Awe struck by those pictures, an entire generation of men proceeded to redefine the male image and liberate the American male from the constraints of the generations that preceeded that generation. As a 20-something in 1970, I was permitted to redefine my concept of masculinity, and the images of Blakey helped to solidify that concept. I adore this book. I wish there was more of Blakey's work available.

Being born in 1970, I missed out on the natural men of the 70's. I can remember crushes on the natural looking men of the era, but was much to young to realize the erotic value or to even see many nude. This book showcases the wonderful men of a time that I missed out on! The average, but very hot, bodies of Blakey's models are wonders of real life and not the bulked up gym bunnies so overwhelmingly predominant in art photography of recent years. The photos are extremely well done with a variety of types of men from street looking to professionals...all with a relaxed and casual attitude that shows through in the pictures. I enjoy this book a lot and will surely be going back to look at it repeatedly many times in the future!

What a refreshing addition to the study of male nude photograpy! The men have nice, natural bodies without being "buffed and waxed." And believe it or not, they have hair, both on their heads--some actually have tresses to their shoulders-- and bodies. For that reason they look very 70's. They also look very innocent and appear to be having a good time. Some of them smile directly into the camera. I couldn't help but ask the question though-- there is no information given about who these models are-- as to how many of them are still alive today.

All the photos are shot in a studio with incredible lighting. Some of my favorites are found on pages 53,54 and 104.

Reed Massengill, who edited this book, remembers the first time he saw a Blakey photo in a short-lived magazine of the 70's called "After Dark." I remember fondly my first enconter with that magazine as well. I still have all my copies somewhere. (It was the rag that the now Governor of California chose for his full monty spread.) Mr. Blakey to his credit was shooting male nudes when almost nobody else in the U. S. was. This book, however, is much more than just a nostalgic picture of life before the awful 80's. These beautiful photographs will endure.

As Roy Blakey states in his forward, "BLAKEY'S RESURRECTION, just at first glance, might have made an arresting title for this book of male nudes, or perhaps the even more intimate "ROY'S RESURRECTION," and he further states, "Nevertheless, I definitely have been resurrected." He thanks photographer Reed Massengill, now a close friend, who helped him to secure a gallery exhibition and with the publication of this book. These male nude images from the 1970's have been stored away for many years. If you were coming-of-age in the 70's, you may be familiar with Blakey's work and the publication HE. I think it's great that his work is being exhibited, published and now is being introduced and made available to a whole new generation.

If you liked the look of the men in the 70's, you will likely enjoy these photographs as much as I did. They bring back many memories of that era, the long hair, the light bodies, the innocent looks and poses, and good-looking boy next door type male models. I think these photographs are beautiful for the simple reason that Blakey is a "Master of Light and Shadow." All of these black and white images are posed with no props. I believe the starkness of these images make the models more intimately sensual. Roy Blakey was a former professional figure skater and as you view these photographs you can clearly see the influence that this has had in the way he posed his models.

If the publication of this book is a dream come true for Blakey, then it is a dream come true for us as avid fans and collectors of male nude photography! I sincerely hope he continues to browse through his storage boxes and releases more of his photographic images for us to enjoy. A stunning collection!

Joe Hanssen

This book is for those of you out there who are yearning to go a little more out there in your explorations, truly challenge your thinking, and are ready for a major shift into the true joy of your life.

Written by wisdom teacher Sri Ram Kaa and angelic oracle Kira Raa, Sacred Union is a journey and dialogue of total transformation. Rather than presenting themselves as the ones, with the one right way, we travel along with them on their path of self-discovery, transformation, and stepping into their shoes of healing and teaching. We meet Kira Raa when she is "Shakira" at a cross roads in her life, facing her second bankruptcy and going through a lot of things that many of us will relate to. Her commitment to her own unfolding is inspiring, and we are there with her in spirit as she questions the new direction her life is taking as a channeler of an archangelic being, like any of us would, and is able to come to a place of acceptance and surrender with the help and support of her partner in sacred union Sri Ram Kaa.

Reiki master, minister, and psychotherapist Sri Ram Kaa (formerly Jerrold) meets his future flame over the internet, and the two immediately hit it off. They do spiritual work together, and go through some of the normal things all couples go through, especially after failed marriages, multiple career paths, and in our society. He too must come to a place of acceptance and surrender to the bliss their life will soon embrace.

When Kira Raa begins channeling Zadkiel, Sri Ram Kaa asks the questions we all want to ask: give me a sign that this is real, is she psychotic, what will this all mean? The core of Zadkiel's message is that peace, love and joy are available right now, in this instant, and that what we perceive as lengthy, painful, and time consuming processing for working through our problems is unnecessary, and in fact, entrenches us more deeply into a belief of their reality. Freedom, true freedom, is a choice, and we make it every second.

As the book progresses we see the visits of Zadkiel not only transforming these two lives, but offering us information and a new way of being for our own lives. Their example, a and their success in becoming who they envisioned being, is not only inspiring, but personally empowering. They don't claim to have the answer, but one way of awakening deeper, and in practical terms, how to actually bring more joy and balance into our lives, from suggestions on what to eat, how to be, and most importantly, how to see the world, the universe, and ourselves as we really are.

Beyond being another new age tome for healing your life, this book engages us, challenges us, and frees us from our own preconceptions and blocks to reality. We are rocketed into what they call the 5th dimension, while being real people.

After reading the authors' 2nd book " 2012, Archangelic Answers", I ordered this one and pretty much ate it up. It's about their own spiritual awakenings, finding their highest work, communing with their guides and finding each other, all of which are interconnected.

Written in two voices, the honesty about their feelings in the early days of their relationship is poignant and striking, and for the story factor alone, it's engrossing. Woven into their story is continuous commentary from a third voice, the Archangel Zadkiel, who guides and chats with them like an old friend.

For anyone on a conscious path of their own, this is a super-inspiring read whether you are ready to meet your own "beloved" or deepen communion with an existing one...or for anyone interested in the fascinating, arduous path these two spiritually-developed people have taken.

I finished reading it two days ago and it's lingering with me...very affecting!

Sacred Union - The Journey Home, by Sri Ram Kaa and Kira Raa, their official, spiritual and legal names, is an extraordinary book. The book is really dangerous, beware! It will change your outlook for the rest of your life. Anyway, don't worry! Nothing happens by chance. If you are reading this book review and then buy the book, you are ready. To go on board a vessel that would take you on the most important journey ever undertaken by you, viz., to discover your true authentic self.

In eleven chapters, spread over 4 sections, the two authors and their spiritual friend, philosopher and guide, Archangel Zadkiel, Kiel for friends like us, reaffirm many of the spiritual truths. The journey home is turning towards our real self and seeing our ego to be what it is, our shadow, which we have been following. When we turn towards light, the shadow goes behind us and thus follows us, not leading us!

We accept every soul as divine since it contains the same essential divine spark as all of us. There is nothing which is not divine, which is not perfect. Even the worst, ugliest thing in the world has a role to play, if nothing else, to remind us that both Good and Evil, Beautiful and Ugly are two faces of a coin and knowing that every coin has two sides is the Sacred Union.

Through Kira Raa's mouth and recorded by Sri Ram Kaa, Archangel Zadkiel, (OK, OK, I understand that you want to be referred as Kiel), guides the reader gently, lovingly and yet firmly, to the truth. And the message that comes through is clear: Trust, trust in your true authentic self. If doubts come, ask yourself, does it give joy? If yes, do it. If not, don't. Simple isn't it? The joy that Kiel is referring to is not the temporary pleasure of sensual nature. Joy is Bliss, it is eternal.

The book touched me to the core of my heart at places and made me cry. We all feel the pain of separation, separation from the beloved, which is our true Self. And the Sacred Union is not just Sexual Union, though Sexual Union too could lead to the Sacred Union. In Sanskrit, the word Yoga is the closest to what Sri Ram Kaa, Kira Raa and Kiel are trying to convey. Yoga is related to Yoke, the cross bar that makes two oxen to go in unison to plough the field. Thus Yoga unifies two. Sacred Union, like marriage, also unifies two bodies and souls into one or makes the individual ego-soul one with the Higher Self from which it emanated.

If you are interested in spirituality, if you are interested in the journey of self-discovery, and if you are ready to undertake a journey which can only end in the 'death' or 'dissolution' of 'you' (ego), go ahead and buy the book. Read and re-read. Follow the diet etc., if moved by heart. Do the exercises given as Appendix.

I heartily recommend this book for true seekers.

Swamy

Sacred Union is a book of living a more authentic life and happiness. It conveys a way to live as a couple with greater clarity and understanding. It shows us of what and where we are supposed to be in our lives and how to achieve it. I found myself relating to their tale of meeting, as my husband and I met the same way. This book helped me know I wasn't alone or crazy, for loving someone so completely in such a short time.

As you read Sacred Union you will be lead to see life in a different way. It brings the meaning of what we are meant to do and who we are meant to be in a different, and unique way. The authors have written this book with love and compassionate they experienced through enlightenment.

Much of the book is filled with translations of Archangel Zadkeil. He helps the authors understand how they should be living. The authors through their love for everyone wrote this book.

This book teaches readers how to have greater joy, of how to simplify their difficult lives. It illustrates the power of healing and love, and how to love your mate deeper then ever before. Sri Ram Kaa and Kira Raa dedicate their lives to teaching others of self ascension. Their book is second in a series, with more to come. They offer workshops and retreats in hopes of helping others to experience Sacred Uinion.

After reading this book it has improved my relationship with my husband. The authors reassured me through their words, that I'm with who I'm meant to be with and I'm truly blessed to have the joy I do. Also, in my search for authentic living this book taught, I've began living my life differently. I'm able to experience the joy and feelings of belonging, for the first time in my life. I anxiously await the next in their series.

Reviewed by Cherie Fisher of Reader Views (2/07)

Congratulations to Barry Goldstein for writing "Scared to Leave, Afraid to Stay," a book that gives hope to women caught in domestic violence that they can successfully leave. Goldstein, an attorney in New York who has become an expert on domestic violence issues and long time board member and past chairman of My Sisters Place, certainly has the experience and background to write this book.

The information is broken down into ten real-life case studies of heroic women who had the courage to leave their abusers and start over. The lack of support that the women received through the courts, and the quagmire of red tape that the women had to go through in custody cases, was shocking in several of the case studies. I was appalled to read in one case where a report of a father inappropriately kissing his four and six year old daughters on their vaginas was allowed unrestricted visitation. He had full sexual relations with one of the daughters on their next visit. I was also amazed at how often the abusers were allowed to get away with continued harassment. The author does show that the laws are finally getting better for protecting women, but we still have a long way to go.

Goldstein did a great job of breaking the cases studies down into sections on the history of the divorce, the divorce itself, custody issues, financial issues and many more topics. He takes a very caring approach to his cases and really goes the extra mile to ensure the women and children's safety. These stories really show that people can get away from these awful situations and find safety and happiness for them and their children.

The final chapters of the book give great advice on how to get help and find the right people to get out of a bad situation. I highly recommend "Scared to Leave, Afraid to Stay" for people suffering from domestic violence and those that are trying to help them get out of it. It may not be an easy road, but definitely worth it at the end.

From the dungeon of misery in abusive relationships, ten women and their children broke their way to the surface and found light.

The process was not easy, as Barry Goldstein, an attorney specializing in helping battered women find hope, demonstrates in this straight-talk book.

But in "Scared To Leave, Afraid To Stay" Goldstein also reveals in user-friendly legalese that behind the mountains of paperwork and lengthy court appearances, callous judges and biased experts, there are people like him who care. Mostly, in the follow-up to each case Goldstein tells how these women were able to rebuild their lives and the lives of their children. They found happiness, they found meaning, they found themselves. They found hope.

They gave their children the future that their fathers were intent on robbing.

The book also contains practical information and resources.

I recommend SCARED TO STAY, AFRAID TO LEAVE to anyone who is living the hell of abusive relationship or has a loved one that is scared to leave. I recommend the book to all others who should learn to understand the secretive dark side of love gone awry--and our society's failure to respond and treat it.

If you think you know about marital abuse the true life stories in this book will shock you. It gives the inside story of judicial crimes against abused women from an attorney with years of experience in the field, as well as sensible recommendations for reform.

Scared To Leave, Afraid To Stay is a book that shows what it is like for a woman to leave the man that is abusing her. While there are many good domestic violence books, none combine an understanding of domestic violence with knowledge of the law like this book does. I found myself caring about the women described in the book and wishing all women could have an attorney as caring as the author. This book will be popular with domestic violence victims and their advocates. I only hope some judges read it also.

John, Lord Chamberlain to the Emperor Justinian in Constantinople, pursues a rather personal murder mystery when a girl claiming to be "Zoe" seeks to meet with him and then is found murdered. "Zoe" is John's name for a girl depicted in a mosaic on the wall of his study, whom he sometimes talks aloud to in order to think things out, so he's quite surprised to find that a real girl is claiming to be Zoe--particularly since he recognizes that she could very well be the model. He first needs to find out about the mosaic (created for the house's previous owner), and also who has gossiped about his private habit... and of course who the body actually is, and why she wished to speak with him.

The mystery is intriguing... involving the past and the various nobles banished from the Palace, and possibly an old rumor about the Empress and maybe a plot against the Emperor. There is also a nice twist at the end.

The setting of ancient Constantinople is particularly fun in this outing, since John is exploring the alley-ways of the Copper Market, full of beggars and merchants and prostitutes and actresses and holy men living on pillars.

The truly Byzantine politics and intrigue and lifestyle of the city makes this series interesting.

In mid sixth century Constantinople, the lord chamberlain to Emperor Justinian, John the Eunuch, has found a confident whom he shares his concerns and issues though she does not speak back to him. Instead she is a young girl painted on a mosaic on his wall. He calls her Zoe.

One day John is stunned as he sees his Zoe on the street. He introduces himself and she says her name is Zoe and that she was the model for that mural. John is stunned by her revelations and has doubts about her name; he ponders who overheard his discussions with the wall Zoe. However, before he can confront the woman, someone brutally murders her. John assumes to silence her so he investigates not realizing his past and the Empress Theodora are intermingled with the death of Zoe.

John's investigation is clever and fun to follow, but like the previous six numbered tales, it is the insightful look at ancient history that makes SEVEN FOR A SECRET (and its predecessors) a great reading experience. John is at his best as each step he takes is dangerous and increasingly personal as he begins to unravel ties back to himself. Ancient historical mystery readers know the John the Eunuch tales are one of the best series on the market; and though the verse is finished with SEVEN FOR A SECRET, hopefully Mary Reed and Eric Mayer will write number eight for their fans.

Harriet Klausner

This is the seventh mystery in the highly acclaimed John the Eunuch historical mystery series. But it can be read as a stand-alone novel, which is what I did. The series takes place in Constantinople during the turbulent reign of the Christian Emperor Justinian. John, who is indeed a eunuch, is Justinian's highly placed Lord Chamberlain. He's also a secret pagan, and he leads a precarious existence because the Empress Theodora, a psychopath of almost unlimited power, has taken a personal dislike to him. John is an interesting guy with an interesting military background: not your typical eunuch.

In this book, he has another murder to investigate: a young woman who tried briefly to contact him. Could it connect to a possible conspiracy to overthrow Justinian? The mysterious woman is a possibly an actress-prostitute with connections to the disenfranchised demimonde who despise Justinian.

Even more unsettling, the murder victim resembles a mosaic portrait on the wall of John's study of a little girl who was the daughter of the unfortunate tax-collector who owned the house before John did. Over the years, John has come to think of the little mosaic girl as almost a surrogate daughter to whom he confides his thoughts as he sits at night in his study, analyzing the complexities of his life in Justinian's court. So he has a personal motivation to solve this mystery.

All of the strengths of this mystery series are evident in this latest book: the streamlined, concise writing; the vivid sensory details; and the colorful characters including irrepressible lawyer Anatolius, gruff captain of the imperial guard Felix, jaded brothel owner Isis, and Peter the disapproving but fiercely loyal servant to John. Those of you who enjoyed the recent Edgar-winning historical mystery The Janissary Tree by Jason Goodwin may even like this series better. Don't miss this latest book in a highly entertaining series.

Take a look at the wonderful cover of this book, and consider this quote from Ezra Pound: "The eyes of this dead lady speak to me." That's John the Eunuch's experience, too: the Lord Chamberlain to Justinian and the toxic Empress Theodora has found a safe and reliable confidante in the mosaic portrait of a girl he calls Zoë. Through the first six books in this series, Zoë--more than just a picture on a study wall-- has become real to the reader as well. So imagine how disconcerted John is to run into a young woman who claims to be the model for Zoë-- and how even more disconcerted he is to find her painted red and floating in an underground cistern, quite dead.

Finding the truth about Zoë becomes first a quest and then something of an obsession with John, and obsessive quests seldom go smoothly. As always, authors Reed and Mayer weave a fund of information about religion, politics, and life in Byzantium and a vivid cast of characters into a story that will draw you in and leave you thinking. John's servant Peter, his beloved Cornelia, and his conflicted excubitor friend Felix (among others) are real and plausible to a 21st-century reader, yet consistently true to the understandings and assumptions of their time and station. And anyone who remembers their college days can probably call to mind a pedantic poet....

One definition of a good mystery is that it leaves the reader in dialog with the characters even after the book ends. Using that definition, after the strong and poignant ending of this story, I still have a few choice words for Theodora. I join other reviewers in hoping that there will be many more chances to enter the world of John the Eunuch.

Stonesifer is a voice we really have to heed. He seems so much your average disappointed middle-aged guy at first. But after being in his head awhile I really started to get very tense. This might have been what Ted Bundy would have sounded like if he had ever told his own true story. The thing is Stonesifer makes such a powerful case for why he's become what he has. Thankfully this isn't a true story, but you certainly get the feeling it could be.

I have to admit I get suspicious when I read so many great reviews online about a book I've never heard of or seen reviewed in major publications. But in this case the reader reviewers are really right. Stonesifer is a wonderful book of its type. I guess I wouldn't really call it a mystery, but it certainly is a mystery why it doesn't have tons of readers. I would think this author would have a huge audience if people just knew about his book. It really has some amazing insights about the present state of affairs in the battle between the sexes. Plus, a lot of fascinating takes on San Francisco and the New York publishing scene.

I happened to buy this book in San Francisco while I was there this July. Whee!!! Does it ever capture what it's like to be in SF in the summer. It also captures what it feels like a lot of the time now if you're a man approaching middle age without nearly as much as you'd hoped for to show for your years. This author really knows San Francisco and his character. I actually read part of this book on Ocean Beach on a day so cold it was nearly empty. Just about every day while I was there was like that, but I hardly noticed what it was like around me while I was reading. The author really pulls you right inside his character from the get-go and keeps you there the whole way. A great read.

One of the things that makes this book very unique is how the author puts the reader inside of the mind of a very intelligent, even sensitive killer. We are able to view not only Stonesifer's sordid actions, but all the intimate thought processes...the motivations, rationale, and even the self-criticism with which he flogs himself. This is a thriller for the thinking reader. We are able to look at murder from the standpoint of the perpetrator and understand--if not condone--the act. This is the best introspective story I've ever read on this subject. I believe it is a must-read for anyone interested in the psychology of violent crime.

This is a clear, well written explanation of just about everything you need to know if you run into unmanageable debt. More specifically, how to handle yourself when you are in the difficult position of being hounded by collectors.

Many readers will find the sample ready-to-use letters listed in the appendix to be invaluable by themselves.

Knowledge is power and this is an empowering book. Easily read. No fluff. Just good, solid advice.

"Stop Debt Collectors" is a comprehensive, practical set of instructions on how to deal with debt collectors. This is a valuable book for anyone who is being hounded by collection agencies.

It's stressful enough being in a financial bind, without the additional worries caused by debt collectors, some of whom use a variety of questionable tactics to add to the emotional toll of a debtor. If you find yourself in this situation, you would undoubtedly benefit from what this book can teach you: exactly what debt collectors can and can't do, and what you should do if a debt collector violates your rights.

The book offers concise advice on your debt collection rights, how to respond to debt collectors, getting negative information removed from your credit report, and many other important matters.

As the economy grows worse there will surely be a growing need for good advice like that contained in this book.

This book is the best and most thorough I have read on Debt Collection. The sample letters are helpful and most of all it lets me know the info I have been missing on how to handle debt collection. Knowing I have rights is what makes this book better than the rest. Highly recommend to anyone dealing with debt collection. Couldn't give it a higher rating! A++

This is an excellent book! It takes you through the in's and out's of the credit and debt collection laws and makes everything simple. How to handle debt collectors, your legal rights, and even sample letters! This really has it all! If the debt collectors want a war, blind side them with your legal rights!!!

The Ten Committments of Networking is a college course in human relations, and a bottomless pit of information for success in business --specifics,not generalities--detailed guidelines for progress whatever your goal. Included also are two special bonuses for aspiring authors: a list of up-to-date websites for networking, and a "must read" list of books by recognized leaders in the game of life.
In compiling this book from his extendsive experience in all areas of
communication, Larry James makes a significant contribution to progress in human, as well as business, relations.

I thought I was only going to read about how to best network my business at my local Chamber of Commerce functions. Instead, I was treated to a mature man's wit and wisdom for living a successful, happy life. In the Acknowledgments! I was surprised to find Werner Erhard, one of my personal champions, mentioned. I knew then I was in for some surprises and I wasn't disappointed. Larry James has distilled his own experience of a lifetime, hundreds of books and thousands of sayings into clear and helpful advice that, if followed, can lead one out of inertia and into the successful arena of winners-neatly summarized as his chapter titles: Blueprint Your Life! Accept Responsibility! Be Coachable! show Up! Be Yourself! Pay Attention! Contribute! As for What You Want! Say "Thank You!" Stay Connected! Landmark Education, another of Erhard's brainstorms, is also beautifully and creatively encapsulated in James' book. The principles taught here can take a lifetime of study and investigation. Buy this book and get it all quickly, follow it to the letter, and you will be excited about every day of your life, creating it consciously, from now on.

Larry James has used a direct approach in this easy to understand guidebook for maximizing your personal connections. The book is a challenging adventure in self discovery.

After completing the recommended exercises at the end of each chapter, you will be surprised at the amazing results. I recorded my life purpose and goals. I then established dates for accomplishing a few action steps to complete these goals. I was rewarded with a definite sense of immediate achievement. I am now ready to tackle my next goal.

The "Hot Ideas" page at the end of each chapter allows the reader to jot down personal lessons learned. As you record these summaries in your own words they become personal and indelibly printed on your mind.

I found the chapters on coaching and listening to be packed with important pointers for fitting together the author's networking concepts.

Throughout the book James provides thought-provoking quotes, from well known contemporary and historical leaders. There is an entire chapter called "PostQuips." These delightful, profound, quips and quotes are good for reflection and become a ready reference for ongoing motivation and inspiration.

An additional feature is "Larry's Booklist". This is a virtual treasure trove of recommended reading to aid you in your commitment to maximizing your personal connections.

This is a book for individuals seeking a new sense of balance and achievement. Larry James has introduced countless beneficial applications for every area of life. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for closer relationships, a fuller life, for personal growth, or success in business.






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Reviewed by Stephanie Rollins for Reader Views (12/06)

I really do not think that Larry James' book, "Ten Commitments of Networking," is aptly named. Maybe it should be "Networking to Self-Actualization." Regardless, it is a great book. All who are in sales should read it. Even those who just want to better themselves should read it.

"Ten Commitments of Networking" was a breeze to read. The first 1/3 of the book discusses maximizing your potential. I loved that part. James explains that self-actualized people know their purpose. They have passion.

James discusses goals or "specific intentions" as he calls them. He stresses the importance of writing them down. Even more important than goals are purposes. Goals are means to achieve a purpose. Everyone should have a purpose in their life, but James point out that 87% of the public does not have a purpose to their lives.

"We all live our lives like a movie." That statement made me think. Remember the books that would have several different endings. You were able to choose which one you preferred. Life is like that, according to James. "Consider the fact that your life is the way it is because of the choices you have made up to this point."

James defines networking as, "using your creative talents to help others achieve their goals as you cultivate a network of people strategically positioned to support you in your goals.....expecting nothing in return!" He does not mention the golden rule, but it is the underlying point. Get people to remember you and like you by being nice. What a great concept. Don't you wish more people believed in it?

James mentions practical ways of increasing one's networking skills. I will be sure to use many of the suggested tips. The chapter "Post Quips" was inspiring. It was a few pages of quotations from James and others that are thought-provoking.

All-in-all, "Ten Commitments of Networking" is a great book. I loved it. Anyone in sales will benefit from the practical tips. Self-employed people will find means to increase their brand. Larry James is like a coach for those who have to promote themselves. As he has written, "Good coaches bring out the best in people."

Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (4/08)

"Things I Know Now That I Wish I'd Known Then: 150 Tips for Living Smarter" is filled with practical advice to help you live a better life. In the Author's Note at the beginning of the book Newman informs the readers that this book is a compilation of lessons learned from his own personal mistakes. He is sharing the knowledge that he has acquired throughout the years in hopes of steering others down the correct paths.

The book is divided into nine different sections: Dollars and Sense, Traveling Smart, Relationships, Life Skills, Your Health, Business, Time Savers, Buying Houses and Investments, and People Skills. Within each section there are multitudes of tips with one to two pages explaining each tip in detail.

A lot of Newman's advice will help you stretch your hard-earned dollar. He recommends that when you are purchasing big ticket items to ask for a cash discount. Instead of buying a new car every three years he proposes buying one every ten years and just maintaining your existing one well. Rather than taking your banking business to a large nationwide bank, shop around and you will find that a lot of the smaller banks will have lower fees.

Other tips are included to save you time. If you have an option, instead of traveling during peak rush hour times, travel during off times. Instead of leaving a voice mail message for someone to call you back just leave a message saying what you would have said if the person would have been available to answer the phone.

Some of the advice I found to be obnoxious. One tip in particular that I didn't care for was how to obtain those "Hard-To-Get Appointments." In this section Newman gives advice on what to do if you have to wait months to get a doctor's appointment. He says to take whatever appointment you are offered no matter how far out it is and then ask that your name be placed on the waiting list to be called if there are any earlier cancellations. This advice is fine but then he proceeds to tell readers that you should then continue to call the doctor's office once a day to check if there are any openings. He says that you will "have a good chance of getting someone's cancelled appointment, if for no other reason than the office staff realizes they won't have to answer your daily calls any more." In my opinion, that is just being annoying and a waste of the receptionist's time causing delays for everyone else.

"Things I Know Now That I Wish I'd Known Then: 150 Tips for Living Smarter" would be ideal for someone who is struggling financially or someone who feels the need for more practicality, sensibility or common sense in their lives. The advice is basic and presented in a very easy-to-read format. While I found a lot of the tips given to be advice that most practical people would already know, I definitely could think of a lot of people who would benefit from this book!

I am happy to report the book I was proud to publish has been featured in the September issue of Bottom Line Personal with a full page article. Great recomendation! Wow

Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (11/06)

"Things I Know Now That I Wish I'd Known Then" by George Newman shares his hard gained wisdom so that other may benefit and not make the same mistakes he has made.

Much of Mr. Newman's advice will save you money. Such as: Never pay the bank monthly fees. He shares how to find a bank that does not charge fees or only a small fee for your checking account. Take a list with you to the grocery store and try to go only once a week instead of twice. Lump your errands into one trip and save gas and time. Shop on the day after Christmas to get great bargains. Don't be afraid to ask for discounts.

I like to travel and was particularly interested in what he had to say about travel. His vacation checklist is particularly intriguing. Staying in a small town may save you big bucks. Turn off the water to your toilet while you are gone. You will save time and irritation if you request advance-driving directions from whomever you're going to call on or visit.

His advice on relationships is common sense that we rarely exercise. Look for more than looks and never think you can change some one. This one was my favorite: When you meet someone ask quality questions. You should always listen to what the other person is saying. Ask yourself if you share interests.

At heart I'm a very practical person. The information in this book is practical, logical and down to earth. I found it useful and interesting. It is written in a simple, easy to read format. There are 150 tips divided into 9 categories. The cover is to the point and explains what you will find inside. I like this book. I like the information inside and how it's presented. I highly recommend "Things I Know Now That I Wish I'd Known Then: 150 Tips for Living Smarter" to everyone. The practical will rush to buy it and enjoy knowing they already knew some of the tips and will relish learning the new ones. The unpractical need this book; lets hope the practical will purchase it for them as a gift. I can already think of several people that will benefit from this book. It is with great honor that I highly recommend this book for everyone.

George Newman has combined illustrations, personal experiences, and words of advice. He has condensed them into 150 practical down to earth tips for living smarter. He has tips to help you raise your income, tips to help you avoid high priced penalties, and tips to help you eliminate everyday hassles.

He has included tips on banking, shopping, traveling, relationships, and life skills and health. These short chapters are succinctly written and arranged for easy reading and assimilation. As a business administrator I found his tips on business, real estate, investment, and time management especially helpful.

George Newman is well qualified to write this book. He is an award winning journalist, an educator, an entrepreneur, and author. He is active in numerous volunteer organizations and founder of the One Hour/One Child, volunteer tutoring program for low-income and at-risk children.

Newman's writing is clear, direct, fast moving, practical and often profound.

This book is for the novice or the expert. The book is for everyone who wants to live smarter and capture opportunities that others miss.