Rich Books

The thing that I love about not only this, but but both of Taylors books is that he has a great sense of humor. I tend to think that in real life, Taylor and I would clash rather strongly on some issues, but that's OK. I will buy every book he comes out with (and here is hoping it isn't just these two) simply because the man has a gift for telling stories. I have read tools of the trade probably 25 times since I bought it years ago at a B&N, and I anticipate reading it another 25 times!

I was given this years ago, read it in a week and loved it, then forgot the title when trying to describe it to a friend. It is a shame it is out of print.

Everyone should read this book, and anyone you know who likes to build things should get this for Christmas.

I picked up this book about 6 years ago at a B&N store...and finished reading it in one sitting in my yard. Trust me when I tell you that it is not often when I feel overwhelmed by anything. But this book, with its simple prose, made me gulp several times. Keep in mind that it is not a depressing read. On the contrary, it can be funny as heck at times!

It's a shame that this book is now out of print and likely to become scarce, as I have given it on several occasions and have always received many thanks in return.

The author fills the reader, even a reader with minimal knowledge or interest in carpentry, with a true respect for the tools, their usage, and the history behind them. Not just the history in a greater sense, but also the history these tools have in the author's life.

I'm now reading this book for the third time. I usually like to pick it up when my office job is making me dream of a life building and remodelling houses.

Being a huge Big & Rich fan I had to get this book. When I got the book it was even better then I could have expected. There are detailed biographies on the entire Muzik Mafia as well as candid and personal photos that have never been seen before. This is a great way to get connected even deeper to a great band. Also I think that even if you aren't a fan you will enjoy this book and possibly become a fan.

Tells a great story about how Kenny Alphin and John Rich became Big and Rich. Not only does the book tell about Kenny and John, it also talks about other members of the Muzik Mafia. Even if you are not a fan it's a great book and it makes you feel real good inside. As a fan of Big and Rich I knew I would not be disappointed and if you are a fan neither will you. Besides the great story the pictures are really awesome from younger photos to candid shots with their families. And who can resist Kenny's son Lincoln...cute as can be!!! A must have for all fans of Big and Rich be huge fans or passer by fans.

very good good reading about the two singers, not sure why they added the dvd with just clips , they should have had earlyer music of them, but the book was really good

I expected this book to be just a chronology of what I already knew about this duo - and I was pleasantly surprised that there was much I didn't know. Their diverse personalities and backgrounds certainly come out and makes the beautiful blend they do in music even that much better. I was unaware that the book existed until I opened the newest CD which was also great, and have really enjoyed reading it. Great pictures, not ones I had just seen over and over on websites. It was interesting to "meek" those who supported the union, those in the background and others in the Musik Mafia. Gread read!!

I just love this book, and it's not just all about the great pictures (which there are many of, including some exclusive private ones), but it's the stories behind the pictures, told by Big Kenny and John Rich from their hearts.

I feel like a very uneducated fan, having never had the experience of seeing them on stage. My only dealings with Big & Rich have been through their CDs, videos and TV appearances and from my fellow Mafia Soldiers. This book really gives you alot of insight into who these guys really are and how they got to this point in their lives.

You really have to read it to understand it. And I hope, in say, 10 years, there is another book to share the next decade of their lives with us as they get even bigger and better.

There's a fair few of these sorts of books out there these days, a few are good but most are pretty average. Can a Guy Get Pregnant although not the best book in this genre is still one of the good ones!

In Can a Guy Get Pregnant the authors answer heaps of weird questions you've probably wondered yourself and if you haven't you definitely will once someone else asks them. Something that differentiates this book from its competitors is that the authors have also drawn little rough drawings beside most questions further lightening the tone of the book but too be honest probably also padding it out a little. The other thing that differentiates this book is the psychology and philosophy chapter Part 2 Love. I would have preferred more of the other type questions myself but there's still enough of them to make this a great book.

Some of the questions asked and answered inside include -
Can people commit crimes in their sleep?
Are there people who don't have flatulent moments?
Can dreams help you stop smoking or lose weight?
Can a guy pregnant? (Title question of the book)
Can a body live without a head?
Can you drink your own urine if you have to?
Why is it so hard to talk to someone your attracted to?
Can a person die laughing?
Will a guillotined head feel itself hit the ground?
Can a body live without a head?
Can humans and chimps interbreed?
When lightning strikes water, do fish die?
Does a human year equal 7 dog years?
Will your pets eat your corpse if you die alone with them?

The best entertaining books that teach you stuff too are [ASIN:0099505266 How Slow Can you Waterski?]] by Simon Rogers, (also released under the title Can You Drill a Hole Through Your Head and Survive?) Dr Karl Kruszelnicki's Great Mythconceptions: The Science Behind the Myths, Q & A with Dr. K, Pigeon Poo, the Universe & Car Paint: And Other Awesome Science Moments and the rest of his books. Do Blue Bedsheets Bring Babies?: The Truth Behind Old Wives' Tales, Why Do Men Have Nipples? Hundreds of Questions You'd Only Ask a Doctor After Your Third Martini, Shocking Science, So Gross (Over 100 Gross-Worthy Facts) and Everything You Need to Know About the World by Simon Eliot.

the book contained interesting facts. The book contained notes that were written between the two writters there were ment to be funny, which was rather stupid... but the facts were interesting. If you like strange facts, you will probably enjoy this book.

I thought this book was funny and insightful. If you are looking for a quick read about stuff that you never knew you wanted to know ~ this book is for you =)

This book has been a wonderful read. Not only does it contain humor, but you will learn some neat facts. Trust me if you read it you will always have something unique to add to almost any conversation. I whole-heartily recommend this book to anyone.

This book answers some of these questions that you really wanted to know the answer to, but were afraid to ask somebody. 'Can A Guy Get Pregnant?' answers oddball question on the Body, Love, Death and Animals through scientific reasearch with a good dose of humor. Questions range from 'Do Dogs watch TV?' to "Could A Black Hole Kill Us All?'. You'll have to read the book to find out. I smell a sequel, folks!

Some highlights:

1) Compassion is the ultimate goal of capitalism.

2) Capitalism is the economic reality which drives us as individuals to excel and maximize our talents and potential. However, money is not everything. It is just a tool.

3) Albert Schweitzer said, "The purpose of life is to serve and show compassion and the will to help others."

3) Question: So, why do we work? Why do we need money?
Answer: Unless we have, we cannot give.

5) The reality is that most people live their lives very defensively. They are always afraid that someone will take some of what is theirs. They are too busy protecting ~ to give to anyone.

6) Question: So, how do you succeed?
Answer: Be an entrepreneur. Start small, and inexpensive. Be creative, believe in yourself, find a good mentor, have a dream, make a goal, do the basics everyday, learn from mistakes, work hard, care about others, put people before products,don't make excuses, never give up.

"Never give up, never give up, never give up"
-Winston Churchill

"Success is going from one failure to another failure with great enthusiasm."
- Winston Churchill

"One man with courage is a majority."
- Thomas Jefferson

"The best portion of a good man's life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love."
- Wordsworth

This book was written by one of the most prominent businessmen in the world. He and his partner started with just an idea, as with many other large corporations we are familiar with, and turned it into one of the only debt free companies in the U.S.. Producing billions of anual revenue. Rich Devos has a huge heart and he is more generous than most, for he is willing to share with the world what beliefs and habits put him into the positions that he is at now. Rich Devos has been able to help milliions of people find hope and rekindle their dreams by using a direct selling method that many other companies alike can only wish they had. This book has great stories about success and failure alike, for one does not come without the other. If you are looking for a book with strong priciples and beliefs then this is the book for you. I would recommend it to anyone building an amway business or not, simply because of what it will teach. This book will make you feel proud to be in a FREE country and make you think "why am I not doing my part to help out?"

In the mid 1970's I was an Amway Distributor and one thing that always stuck with me were the tapes by Mr. Rich Devos. To this day, even though I am no longer associated with Amway, I enjoy listening to "Four Winds", "Selling America" and other audio tapes recorded by Mr. Devos. This man has a voice and something to say! He is great. An outstanding businessman and an outstanding American.

In Compassionate Capitalism, Devos explains that the "dog eat dog", law of the jungle and every person to himself rat race mentality is not only not necessary to achieve success but in fact, impedes success.

Devos offers a completely different vision of capitalism. A vision of capitalism as the finest tool yet known to help people become all they can be for others as well as themselves.

In Compassionate Capitalism, Devos offers more than just a vision, it is a plan--a practical plan--a proven plan. And it is not just about Amway and it's incredible success stories. It's about you and me and everyone. How we can all become more by helping others help themselves in a nation of free enterprise.

Compassionate Capitalism spells out clearly and eloquently the guiding principles and concrete steps to take to make your life and your world better. Devos shows how your energy, your ambition, and your spirit of enterprise can travel together down a path in which the spirit of capitalism and moral values inextricably merge.

Devos illustrates both how success is achieved and what it really means. He demonstrates how compassionate capitalism is the only solution to the most crucial issues of our time---poverty, homelessness, hunger, the enviroment, and the many other challenges that face us in the new millenium.

Whether you are the owner of a huge corporation or a worker on a assembly line, a student about to graduate or a homemaker ready to enter the job market, this important guide to success the compassionate way can be the most inspiring and enlightening book you ever read.

Highly recommended. AND to repeat, I am not an Amway Distributor. Just someone who appreciates Mr. Devos and what he is doing to create a stronger nation, the compassionate way.

There are lots of wealthy people out there but most aren't truly happy. This is largely because they aren't fulfilling a higher purpose with their businesses, they're simply out there trying to survive in the often cutthroat business world. DeVos explains what it takes to make your business a positive force in the world; "positive" by virtually any standard.

Contrary to a lot of advice you may have heard out there on how to successfully build a prosperous business, DeVos claims that integrating compassion for your fellow man with lucrative opportunities is the real secret to security and happiness. It's the knowledge that what you're doing is making a difference that makes you feel worthy of the privilege and comfort of wealth. And even before the wealth comes, having a compassionate attitude along with sound business acumen (which can be learned) goes a long way towards increasing your chances of attaining wealth and influence.

A great book written in a language anyone can understand. I don't have any complaints, but I refrain from giving it five stars because it didn't "knock my socks off!" Highly recommended reading for anyone looking to understand the attitudes and principles necessary for *true* success.

I am not involved in Amway (Rich de Vos sure is!), nor am I an ardent Christian (I believe Rich de Vos is), yet I have no hesitation in recommending this book. I suppose I'm always on the lookout for new ways of doing things and new ways of thinking. "Compassionate Capitalism" provides some real meat for a hungry world in need of just that - new ideas. Economics is a complicated field (so I've been told - I'm no expert), yet Rich de Vos has managed to demystify it, at least as far as this reader is concerned. His ideas seem to be free of any real political ties or religious taints (religion doesn't enter into the book at all) - he seems just to be genuinely interested in people (I wish I couldn't hear the sneers, but unfortunately I do). I also admire him as an American. Goodness knows America has the driving force and energy to influence the whole of this world one way or another, but it doesn't really seem to have the will (nor, perhaps, the imagination) to do anything really creative (sure they have introduced fuel efficient motors - a relative concept at the best of times - but have you seen the size of the 1999 and 2000 models? ). So learning that there are ideas out there which do not just mean more of the same, and bigger and meaner (whether from the auto industry or the rest of the military-industrial complex) is somewhat reassuring.

One thing I'm sure of: every American (those who can read) should digest this book. It doesn't try to convert. It simply tries (very well) to make sense out of the current madness.

My fiance had seen this book recomended in one of his fishing magazines, so I got it for him for Christmas. He LOVES it. He said it is a great and easy read.

Reading this book has given me a new perspective on fishing; the memories with family, great friends or even the solitude when alone in the quiet of the winding rivers. I marvel at the stories of Bob's closest friends, many of whom are famous through their accomplishments and others including Bob who have demonstrated the importance that fishing with family and friends have on a prominent business man. I enjoyed the stories, the awesome pictures especially that beauty of a 13 pound brown trout "caught" by President George H. W. Bush while fishing with Bob and Mindy Rich. The retrospect of his thoughts in his conclusion conveyed all the feelings we as anglers have when we think of our passions for fishing and sharing those fond memories with our closest friends.

Well done Bob!

This book is a classic, a quick read full of great tales. It's fascinating to read the life of the anglers featured in this book and Bob did a fantastic job keeping the reason for the love of fishing until the very end. Anglers and non-anglers can easily connect to the reason we love sports and other hobbies. This book is inspirational, thought provoking and a lot of fun. A MUST READ!

Not that author Bob Rich asked, but to me fishing is about dreams: the dream of catching a fish, and the dream about it after I do.
"The Fishing Club" set me to dreaming about fishing past and future through his cast of famous (and near famous) anglers. Rich's characterizations of the fisherfolk and their fishing DNA is fresh and thoughtful stuff, hence this new book is a very enjoyable read.
Enjoyable enough, in fact, for me to hope for more.

Really cool book. I was intriqued by the different backgrounds and stories of the fisherman profiled. It really hits home how universally loved fishing really is. Bob seems to be able to capture the essence of each of the anglers. There is hope for us amatuers afterall!

Dan Holthaus

I have been reading Ride the Ark Through Armageddon and I am energized by the words, I think Rich Kelsey has done an extraordinary job, very comprehensive, meticulous, insightful, challenging, thought provoking, forewarning, and inspired script.
What ever your view of polemics may be, you will be challendged, weighing carefully matters you thought you had settled, I say DARE to read Ride the Ark, you will not be disapointed.

His references to chronological figures, dates, times, philosophies of the era; etc, is remarkable and underscores years of research and study.

I think Rich did a great job; it is a work that frankly amazes me. His knowledge of scripture is profound, he is very well studied, and I am really in awe of the way God has blessed him with this ability -- what a gift.

I appreciated Rich Kelseys well conceived, easy to read writing style.His particular appreciation for Gods word, old and new testaments and how they intricately combine to culminate in the writing of "Revelation". Kelsey is not one to leave out Gods word as he insightfully includes scripture throughout the entire book and relies on the guidance of the Holy Spirit for his well crafted conclusions.The last chapter of the book covering the "millerite" predictions were particularly interesting.

Whether one is familiar with revelations or looking into it for the first time Mr. Kelsey paves the way for everyone with clarity, simplicity and straight forwardness. This book is a must read for anyone searching for answers, clues and/or spiritual knowledge regarding what may pass in the days ahead. I applaud him for all his hard work and how well researched Ride the Ark Through Armageddon is. Thank you!
Michael George

This is by far the best book I have read on end-time prophecy. What I loved about Ride the Ark Through Armageddon is that I got totally lost in the story. I found myself forgetting that I was reading a book and my heart and mind merged right into the time age that the book speaks of.

Along with the explanation of Revelation this book includes interesting side topics that help bring a fuller understanding of end-time events together. For example, there is a chapter about Israel's feast days, one on Roman history, and also a chapter about failed prophecies on the return of Jesus Christ from a movement that turned into the Jehovah's Witnesses. I know this might sound odd, but those off topics made the book special, and in my opinion extremely well balanced, because they acted as building blocks on which the book's main storyline rests.

Also, there is an online treatise from the author that's linked from that chapter in the book about the failed predictions of Christ's return. The online treatise is called, "Two Claims of Jehovah's Witnesses Examined." I really liked the story of the online piece and I think everyone should read it whether they read the book or not. Just do an Internet search on Two Claims of Jehovah's Witnesses Examined. It's easy to find.

I found the same type of logical reasoning in the online treatise as in the book, which leads me to say that this author's writing style is very clear and to the point. This author has a gift. Kelsey makes learning about history and prophecy fun. I am asking all of my friends to read the treatise, because it's free. I'm also recommending the book, "To everyone who loves the truth," which is how its dedication reads.

Ride the Ark Through Armageddon has a lot to say! If a person reads it and parallels it with the Scriptures they will learn much. The background of creation and the falling of Satan; how he envied humanity and set out to destroy it; what he did to the world with deception and why we live in such a fallen world today, are questions we all want and need to know. This book sheds light to those questions.

To sum things up, this book was a blessing to me and shed light to a number of questions that the Bible arises. It all made sense and came together very well. It was easy to read and understand due to the breaking down of the Hebrew language and definitions. It flowed well with titled sections and small chapters. I never needed a dictionary:)
I LOVE THIS BOOK!

As difficult and improbable as it might seem to match the excellence of Think & Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill accomplished the task with this book. If Succeed & Grow Rich Through Persuasion has any weakness, it is that it followed Think & Grow Rich that already introduced us to may of these fine principles.

Napoleon Hill has the astounding ability to communicate success principles in a resounding nature. He uses real world illustrations that provide timeless examples to justify his points. Hill follows his book of principals with a full chapter on motivational epigrams that will leave even the most lethargic of people energized.

Napoleon Hill was a visionary in the self help industry and Succeed & Grow Rich Through Persuasion represents yet another dynamic and fulfilling example of his work. This book easily stands on its own merits yet is also the perfect compliment to Hill's earlier works. I highly recommend this book to all seeking to achieve at any endeavor.

you positively must.

Rarely have I ever come across anything as uplifting and inspiring as this book. If you have a dream, whether it be to own your own business, or to help starving children around the world, or simply to have a healthy happy life, the keys to finding and unlocking those things within yourself are contained in this book.

I'm still in the middle of this book. Some of it is a little silly, and I gleam over those parts in a rush. They are relatively few and far in between, and the wealth of useful knowledge and insight throughout the rest of the book is worth it. I am beginning to apply many of the principles for the first time... its not a magic formula, but it has initiated noticeable progress where before I was stagnating for some time. Its small and easy to carry around to read when you only have one or two minutes available.

The only strange thing about this edition is that authorship is credited to Napoleon Hill, but much of the book speaks of Hill in third person, as if the revising author (who I think is W. Clement Stone) takes liberty to speak on behalf of the original author.

The first batch of significant books that had the greatest influence on me in terms of attaining personal achievement includes mostly Napoleon Hill's books:

- The Law of Success;
- Think & Grow Rich;
- The Keys to Success;
- Success through a Positive Mental Attitude;
- Succeed & Grow Rich through Persuasion;

The others were from Clement Stone, Dale Carnegie, & Earl Nightingale.

That was the early 70's when I had just started work as a young engineer.

The author, Napoleon Hill, had impressed me most by his relentless dedication in spending some two to three decades of his life in pursuing & researching the success secrets of the rich & famous...with a little help from Andrew Carnegie, of course.

As matter of fact, many of the famous people he interviewed were also favourite role models of mine e.g. Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, just to name a few

Till this day, I have never forgotten what he said:

"The most powerful instrument we have in our hands is the power of our mind."

I have never ceased to be fascinated by the simplicity & the potency of his ABCs of personal achievement: CONCEIVE, BELIEVE & ACHIEVE!

It is certainly enlightening to note that even Stephen Covey had drew inspiration from Napoleon Hill's work even though he never made that credit. He only admitted that the
7 Habits had its origins from "200 years of success literature in the United States." That remark itself is self explanatory.

Anthony Robbin's Mastery program as embodied in his books as well as his audio/video resources is no exception, even though he has been influenced in larger extent by NLP.

If you look at & compare the 17 principles of personal achievement in 'The Law of Success' &/or the 13 Steps to Riches in 'Think & Grow Rich', one can obviously see the uncanny resemblance of the 7 Habits & the Mastery principles...in one way or another.

At this juncture, let me outline the principal theme of each book:

The Law of Success: the original course on the fundamentals of success - all the seventeen essential principles of personal achievement;
Think & Grow Rich: The seventeen essential principles are reframed & condensed in terms of thirteen concrete steps to wealth creation (in actuality, this is a condensation of the Law of Success);
The Keys to Success: a further elaboration of the seventeen essential principles with concrete suggestions, exercises & advice;
Success Through Positive Mental Attitude: joint authorship with Clement Stone, with a further emphasis on developing a positive mental attitude;
Succeed & Grow Rich Through Persuasion: joint authorship with Clement Stone, with a further emphasis on developing master salesmanship & networking;
[It is pertinent to note that Clement Stone actually built his insurance business empire with these principles.]

My most productive, personal learning experience from Napoleon Hill's work is the understanding - & application - of his success principle #1: Develop Definiteness of Purpose.

[Very surprisingly, J Y Pillay, former Chairman of Singapore Airlines, - who had been credited for building the airline to what it is today, A GREAT WAY TO FLY! - also credited his work axiom to this same success principle, but he attributed it to an ancient Hindu scripture known as Bhagavad Gita.]

I am certainly gratified to note that Napoleon Hill's work had casted so much influence on - & empowered - so many people in the world, including myself.

I have to admit that I am a confirmed fan of Napolean Hill. I love Think & Grow Rich, have bought many copies and recently added the new and revised hardback to my library.

Succeed and Grow Rich Through Persuasion was one of those books that was collecting dust on my library shelf. I had browsed t his book a couple of times, but never read it completely. In fact, I have been doing that with a lot of my books recently.

The principles in Succeed and Grow Rich are like the principles in Think & Grow Rich. They are timeless. And they work. If you want to master persuasion, read this book.

Why do people post who have NOT read the book they are writing a review for?! Like the poster below. Don't bother seeking Dorothy Parker's review of Technique of the Love Affair, like I did, thinking Parker maybe wrote more, because it's IN THE BOOK! And is, like, a paragraph long, at best; more than half is quoted on the very page you're reading!

That rant aside, I love this book. While one should take its advice as lightly as its tone, it has invaluable tips for relating to men, especially the majority who, as Moore describes, are conformists congratulating themselves for being exceptional individuals, ie, supremely attached to the particular status symbols and labels of their class. Which, as an influence in paramour/mate selection, is NOT to be underestimated, personal experience has shown me. Moore's advice has been especially enlightening during some perplexing encounters with the male species; I am increasingly indebted to her as I get older. Doris Langley Moore deserves more appreciation!

Wonderful book, not very politically correct though. What I really loved about this book is that it provided a framework on how to be, rather than a detailed list of rules. It seemed to recommend easing into ones natural state with time rather than a indefinite charade. I regularly re-read it to help with my dating practices.

I have NOT read this book! However, if you can get your hands on "The Portable Dorothy Parker" (available through Amazon), you might want to read HER review of this book.

This book is so elegantly and beautifully written that the words just jump off the pages. The good sense that is written is self-evident - i.e you don't read it thinking "oh thats not how I feel" but simple truths, well-written just resonate with the reader. Like other books of simple truths this book is timeless and can be applied easily to the "modern male" - I'm sure men would not be overjoyed to realise how predictable they are, but my friends, you are, but then women are too. This shows a woman how to play the dating game. However, I do think it is interesting to note that it was written when Miss Langley-Moore was 22 and she later divorced her husband of twenty years and ended up remaining single for the rest of her life. She seemed to find her greatest interest and joy in the fashion world and in writing. So, perhaps, on a human level "playing the game" isn't spiritually satisfying in the long run - even the author admits it is "hard to do but worth the candle". She seems to have decided in her forties it wasn't worth the candle after all. However, in terms of staggering effectiveness this works. I can attest to that and it also gives a woman some good boundaries to work within so one doesn't end up a victim of their emotions. Its also really good guide for getting those men you may previously have thought were out of your league. I can assure you they are not - in fact the more successful and intelligent the more they seem to respond to these techniques!

The top book on male-female relationships ever! Originally published in the 1920's it's the great great great grandmother of them all.
Yes. This clever, intelligent, honest, ray of light should be required reading for all girls and women!

I may start buying stacks of copies and handing them out to strangers, it's that good.

With "Cut My Hair," Jamie Rich has recreated the mythos of the early '90s music scene as seen through the eyes of one who had lived during the time. (No, it's true... there was some good stuff going on back then, though coming on the tail of the Decade of Greed, those who lived during the time are characteristly cynical over any reminder of said years.)

Mason, the narrator/protagonist of the novel, could concievably be a real-life person. None of his insights, emotions, or actions are one-sided. In fact, he most resembles a modern-day depiction of J. D. Salinger's Holden Caulfield, though somewhat more adjusted to the life in which he lives. And a life of glamour and rock 'n' roll it is not! Mason abides with parental apathy, poverty-line conditions, and a super-heated drought-stricken California, while discovering that life holds none of the Hollywood-esque promise made to his generation. In Mason's life of change and uncertainty, the only possession to which he places any trust and security is his leather jacket - his shell.

This book delves into the alternative music scene, and successfully captures its heart and soul. It doesn't apologize for retroactive weaknesses, because it doesn't feel it has to. It's merely presenting a backdrop which is as rich and vibrant as Mason and his inextricable band of friends and associates.

Most of the sporadic artwork contained therein equally displays a good feel for the characters and their times (Andi Watson's efforts especially accomplish this; Judd Winick's, not so much), and give the book a considerable amount of character.

Fantastic book, well-deserving of multiple readings.

Cut My Hair is written by former Oni Press Editor Jamie S. Rich with illustrations by such noted comic book artists as Judd Winick, Chynna Clugston-Major, Scott Morse, Mike Allred and Andi Watson, with the title taken from the Who song of the same name off of their Quadrophenia album. As I am a huge fan of both comic books and The Who, Cut My Hair sounded like it was right up my alley. Cut My Hair is a smart, well written, coming of age story. It's also about being in love, not only with another person, but with music. Specifically, Punk rock music.

Set in the early 90's, Cut My Hair is narrated by 19-year old Mason, who lives with his best friend Jack. Jack isn't just his best friend, but also his protector and as close to family as anyone he knows, as Jack hasn't spoken to his abusive, alcoholic mother since he moved out after High School. Nicknamed "Jailbate" (incorrect spelling intended) because of his small size and stature, Mason's life consists of working full time at a comic store, going to Punk rock shows and pining away for Laine, his High School crush. As with all things in life, nothing stays the same. Mason's life begins to change, as he meets and falls passionately in love with Jeane. Before Mason can fully enjoy his newfound happiness, an event occurs which sends him over the edge into a deep, alcohol-fueled despair, from which even the music he loves cannot save him.

Cut My Hair, filled with the longing and heartache of teenage angst, explores both the lifestyle and the music of the Los Angles Punk rock scene of the early 90's with authority and affection. Regardless of whether you're a Punk or not, you'll be quickly drawn into this fascinating, often violent world that, in it's own way, is infused with an underlying sense of romanticism, hope and love.

OMG! This book was amazing. I read about this book a few years ago in some music magazine. Somehow, I remembered the title and decided to look it up on amazon. I found it and ordered it and I am greatful I did. Jamie S. Rich did an excelent in developing the character of Mason. The way he uses the first person and really captures what it is like to be a teenager who feels like he doesn't fit in. He finds a way to really show the ups and downs in a teen's life. I could not put this book down. I would recomend it to anyone. I could not have agreed more with the musical taste in this book. And I was able to see myself through Mason. If you are a teenager or not, this book is definetly one to read!!!

I bought this book on a whim. As many of the people who have read it, I first heard of it through Oni Press. And I was not disappointed one bit.

My reaction was surprising most of all to me, since I've made the analysis of literary works my life (and my degree). There's nothing about this book that makes it astoundingly unique compared to all the other coming-of-age novels out there. But that's the beauty of it.

For different people with different experiences, certain elements of this book resonate on a deeper level than can be described. For those who cannot live without their music and all that's connected therein. For those who have the small store job and find happiness just fine. For those yearning away for the "Eternal Girl."

For me, who suddenly recognized a very close friend and was delighted at last to know who he was. I showed my friend this book and he wondered how on earth this author had picked up scenes from his life like they were pennies lying face-up on the ground. He started telling me about concerts he'd driven half the day to get to, fights he'd been in wondering who he was fighting... life's realization. Music. Friendship. Love.

So, for me, up to my neck in all the Shakespeare, Hemingway, and Palahniuk I can stand-- and this is my favorite of them all. There's something about it that just resonates deep inside. I *know* Mason. I know him even better now. His name may not be Mason, but he's got all the bad haircuts and scars to prove otherwise.

I bought this thinking it was a graphic novel, after enjoying Blue Monday and Scooter Girl.

It's not. Just a novel.

Caveat Emptor.

This book was a tremendous encouragement to read, as it championed the role of a man as adventurer and leader. It wonderfully challenges the typical gutless advice of balancing your responsibilities. I've never thought that passion was well served by limiting everything. This book retells the rediscovery of a man's calling with the real and allegorical view of mastering a mountain, not as a loner but as a team leader. The bumpersticker, media, and movie catch phrases are far from timeless, but this is today's challenge.

Reading this book didn't completely negate the wise advice of my mentor, who, when I first arrived at Harvard Medical School, holding up his hand to count fingers would say you could, 1. Be a doctor, 2. Teacher, 3. Professor, 4. Make money or 5. See your family, but you could only have two. In reality it is only in part true that we can have everything, but not all at once. Like Jim Elliot, `Wherever you are, be all there' (pg 26)... you can't be elsewhere.

It is absolutely true that we have to shake off the drive to succeed and take on the call to purpose. What is written on your heart? (pg 20) Can you acknowledge God as its true owner? (pg 26) Will you pursue it to the end, and live a life worthy of that calling [Eph 4:1] (pg 115). I pray, as I'm sure Rich does, that you will ask for the necessary courage, as you face the tasks that only you can do. You are irreplaceably made in God's image, as you.

Richard Penson

I have been a leader of Men's Ministries for over 10 years and I'm delighted to recommend this book. 'The Expeditionary Man' addresses many of the issue facing men today. Rich brings adventure and excitement back into the fatherhood arena. This book is a must read for all dads Christians and non-Christian, every dad needs to understand his powerful role in leading the family. Discovering the purpose and passion every dad needs as he directs and distills wisdom & leadership to his family. Every father will shape and mold the destiny of the next generation. Rich, motivates and illustrates the unique role of the dad, guiding fathers to keep the main thing the main thing. THANKS RICH!

Contemporary illustrations (ranging from hillarious heights to the depths of serious reflection)mixed together with sound Biblical wisdom on manhood made this book captivating. I loved the adventure theme and excellent quotes from a variety of sources. You can't avoid finding yourself opened for examination at some point in the book. You also can't avoid having your heart returned to your family. I've read multiple books for Christian men and this one is unique. It speaks to men who are trying to do the right thing, know they need to do the right thing, but find it difficult to keep it all together. This book is meant for all men who want to be great husbands, fathers and providers.

This book will challenge and motivate every man as they look at "structure" of their life. Rich's book has challenged me to examine my life and what I place as my priorities.

I would highly encourage every christian dad to read this book. Many of us lose perspective along the way about what it truly means to be a husband and a father. Rich's book challenges us to re-think career, hobbies, and even ministries in light of the greatest priority and adventure God has placed before us - our family.

Rich's writing style is rich in metaphors and stories that most men will be able to immediately relate to. I loved his use of movie quotes throughout his writing. Yet the most significant and appealing aspect of Wagner's book is that he writes from his own experience.

A timely, refreshing and bold challenge for 21st century christian dads. Highly Recommended.