Smith Books

This four-part story that spans the entire "Star Trek" universe (until the fifth show arrives, that is) begins spectacularly, continues well, and almost peters out before returning with a bang. The first segment, "First Strike," takes place in the 23rd Century and depicts Kirk as a hero in both his accomplishments as a warrior (impressing even the Klingons) and in his determined efforts as a diplomat who wants to avoid the war in the first place. "First Strike" could easily stand on its own. But "Soldiers of Fear" fortunately avoids the danger of becoming just a remake/sequel to "First Strike." The added element of new technology for the villainous Furies -- a weapon that strikes at the very minds of the Enterprise crew -- creates an interesting element that maintains our fascination with the story. Then the whole thing goes south in "Time's Enemy." The initial premise -- involving time travel and the mysterious appearance of a centuries-old Defiant -- is certainly intriguing, but the story itself is rather dull and turns out to have very little to do with the Furies story as a whole. In my opinion, it is completely unnecessary, especially considering that the fourth segment, "The Final Fury," picks up exactly where the second segment left off. I wasn't much of a "Voyager" viewer at the time, but I became interested in the series when "Invasion" so fluidly continued the same story from the original characters to the Next Generation to Voyager. I would definitely recommend "Invasion." But skip the DS9 segment, which is as boring and pointless as the other three segments are exciting and epic. Well, three out of four ain't bad.

This was an immensely spellbinding and interesting read... The concept of having such a wonderfully continuous storyline is great, and extremely well thought-out. The stories blend nicely, and tell different parts of the complete story in each book. The characters, especially in the last two books, are portrayed very lifelike and true to their roles in the TV series -- they had me laughing at quite a few occasions! I had to put down everything else to finish this book first!

If you're like Trek then you will like this book. The 4 novel saga spans the centuries and does so with the greatest of fluidity. The basic premise is simple, an epic war took place in our little piece of universe before we got here. The loser of the war wants the universe back and the winners are nowhere to be found. The first novel introduces the losers and reveals that their presence has actually been well documented in the history of our quadrants aliens through mythology, from the Vulcan mythology to Human mythology and so on. The second novel finds Picard and the NG crew fight the FURIES off again in a true epic. The third novel gets a little more technical but finds us finally introduced to the victors in that epic war fought so long ago. These creatures are just plain cool... If not a bit gory... LoL. The 4th brings us back to the FURIES as they attempt to simply transport their entire planet into the alpha quadrant! This is by far the best of the 4 and completes the saga perfectly. I read this installment in a day. All and all it took me 10 days to read the 958 pages and that's saying a lot for me... You'll enjoy this..

Diane writes them well, whether it is the war between the states or Trek, she seems to add the human factor into history and the future. My personal opinion is that she does best with ORIGINAL stories that she creates but she does a very fine job with a adaptation. A writer of detail she seems to bore some but to each their own. She adds color and impact to the picture of your imagination while reading the words. Some readers tend to be too critical, Lighten up and enjoy. Ship of the Line was fun and she interacted a character from 2 shows. That story needed at least 100 more pages. Thanks Diane, From ZC (ghost from the past)

This great first crossover series and great first Star Trek Omnibus contains at least three out four of Star Trek fiction's best tales. First encountered in the twenty third century by the Klingons, the Furies sent a vanguard in the form of a nearly indestructible starship where it was met by the venerable Captain James T. Kirk and the USS Enterprise. Some one hundred years later, the Furies became an issue once again where they were dealt with by first Captain Picard and the crew of the USS Enterprise NCC-1701-D and concurrently by Captain Sisko and the crew of the USS Defiant in an extraordinary time sweeping tale. The conclusion to this massive Star Trek tale is wrapped up perfectly by Captain Janeway and the crew of the USS Voyager, lost deep in the Delta Quadrant.

Included both with "The Final Fury" and this Omnibus is fantastic section titled "A Word from Our Authors," where there are some great insights into what the authors were thinking when writing these novels.

Overall, I'd highly recommend this "Invasion!" series to any and all fans as, with one exception; it is a highly intriguing and epic tale that sweeps across all four series. Listed below is the premise for each tale!

Star Trek #79 First Strike, Invasion #1:

The premise:

"Across time and space comes a fury...!" A quote directly from the cover and yes, it is an extremely accurate and telling statement. For many years the Federation has dealt with the Klingon Empire from either open war or cold war but never has the Federation received a call for help from them. That is exactly what they receive and the Federation sends their very best to deal with whatever the situation may be.

The Klingons have found themselves dealing with a massive starship that they're unable to destroy. Captain Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise come on the scene and discover that this ship and its leader, Vergo Zenner are but the mere vanguard of a massive invasion fleet that is headed to reclaim what they believe to be there territory since time before memory and that territory happens to encompass the Federation, Klingon Empire and the Romulan Star Empire.

What follows from there is an extremely interesting and intriguing tale that is also a bit rare in Star Trek fiction where it deals more with Captain Kirk as the negotiator. Of course, when comes time to revert to the creative combat leader that he is, he steps right up to the plate.

Star Trek The Next Generation #41 The Soldiers of Fear Invasion #2:

The premise:

After a century of peace and no sign of the Furies, they return with a vengeance to reclaim the territory they believe is rightfully theirs. To make matters worse for Starfleet and the rest of the Alpha quadrant, the Furies have returned with a massive fleet of even more deadly ships than the one that came a century before. To add to that, they learned something from their first encounter and are now employing a weapon of fear upon their enemies, literally crippling them and then moving in with their physical weapons to destroy them.

What follows from there, as stated above, is novel that was wrought with potential that is ultimately unrealized in its execution. I would still recommend this novel and the other three in the series as this is only a bump in the road for the series as a whole.

Star Trek Deep Space Nine #16 Time's Enemy Invasion #3:

The premise:

Captain Sisko, Dax and Bashir are called to Starbase One, which is at the fringe of the Terran system by Admiral Judith Hayman. Once there she asks them to review some data chips, which they do and it doesn't take them long to discover that they're from the Defiant under his command, and these data chips describe in some detail, the destruction of the Defiant. They soon learn that these chips were found aboard the Defiant, which had been encased in a comet in the Oort Cloud surrounding the Terran system for over five thousand years...

What follows from there is nothing less than one of the most spectacular and intriguing novels ever written in the Star Trek line of fiction. I highly recommend this novel either as a stand alone in the Deep Space Nine series or as the third in the "Invasion!" series as it furthers that series extremely well, for it is here where we finally get some of the history of the Furies and the why behind their invasion today.

Star Trek Voyager #9 The Final Fury Invasion #4:

The premise:

While the battle rages on in the Alpha quadrant between its inhabitants and the invading Furies, the USS Voyager and her gallant crew are steadily making their way home when they receive a distress call from a Starfleet vessel, something of which they thought they'd never hear again. They soon discover the source of the distress call and massive Fury invasion fleet on a constructed planetoid containing twenty seven billion Furies. As the novel progresses, Captain Janeway finds herself in one heck of a quandary as she comes upon the realization that in order to save the Alpha quadrant, she must destroy the twenty seven billion Furies who are bent on invading the Alpha quadrant and a possible way for her ship to make it home quicker, if there is to be a home to return to...

What follows from there is nothing less than a impressive and decidedly compelling Star Trek Voyager novel and a brilliant finale to Star Trek fiction's first crossover series. I highly recommend not only this novel but the entire "Invasion!" series, whether you procure the individual books or this fantastic "Invasion!" Omnibus. {ssintrepid}

Leading at a Higher Level is an excellent book that really "puts it all together" related to leadership and Blanchard's principles. I highly recommend it for a comprehensive book about leadership. I am using the book with our management/administrative team. Each person is reading the book and then facilitating the discussion of one chapter. The website resources are an added bonus. I am very excited about the individual and team development possibilities. Thank you!

Dramatic changes have altered the workplace over the course of the past 25 years, but many executives stick to outdated scripts even as corporate directions shift. Fortunately, The One Minute Manager guru Ken Blanchard offers insightful coaching exercises that give leaders new ways to proceed. Using straightforward language, Blanchard provides templates, examples and guidelines for employee education, performance reviews and promotions. The reader may become impatient with the repetition of key points and with Blanchard's slightly jarring habit of referring to himself in the third person, but despite these minor annoyances, this book is an excellent primer about modern leadership roles. In fact, Blanchard says that it "pulls together the thinking from the Ken Blanchard Companies for the past 25 years." We recommend this leadership overview to managers, board members, team leaders and every employee in a cubicle who aspires to reach higher levels.

I've been reading Dr. Ken Blanchard since The One Minute Manager came out. Perhaps you have been, too. While I haven't read all of his collaborations, I've usually read the books where the title seemed relevant to my interests.

More than once, I've wondered how I should fit all the pieces of his views on leadership into one finished jigsaw puzzle. Clearly, the views are humanistic, idealistic and inspiring. But how do we combine them all? My confusion was eliminated by reading Leading at a Higher Level which does an excellent job of integrating three decades worth of writing into one coherent set of ideas and directions for implementation.

If you tried to boil down this book into one idea, it's that of having the right target . . . what Dr. Blanchard and his partners and associates call the triple bottom line -- being the provider of choice for customers, the employer of choice for employees, and the investment of choice for investors. I'm not inclined to quibble, but in the rest of the book it's clear that other stakeholders are supposed to be considered (people who use the offerings, partners, the community, suppliers, and those affected by the company). I wonder if the triple bottom line doesn't need to be expanded to have more bottom lines.

Here's how the book is organized:

I. Set Your Sights on the Right Target and Vision

1. Measuring leadership performance -- the HPO SCORES model which is:

a. Shared information and open communications
b. Compelling vision
c. Ongoing learning
d. Relentless focus on customer results
e. Energizing systems and structures (ways of getting things done that fit with the vision)
f. Shared power and high involvement

As you can see, this is a highly participative concept of leadership where everyone has a role.

2. The Power of Vision

II. Treat Your Customers Right (Raving Fans created by Gung Ho people)

III. Treat Your People Right (Direct, Coach, Support, or Delegate depending on how prepared your people are for the task, and use one minute praisings and redirections and apologies)

IV. Have the Right Kind of Leadership (Servant leadership and diagnosing your own leadership perspective and style)

The bulk of the book is focused on the third topic, treat your people right, which is Dr. Blanchard's key operating philosophy.

The most interesting aspect of the book for me, however, was Dr. Blanchard's occasional revision of his philosophy. For instance, I could never understand why Dr. Johnson and he emphasized one-minute reprimands as much as one-minute praisings in The One Minute Manager. Dr. Blanchard makes a long-needed shift in that view to point out that one-minute redirections and one-minute apologies are needed much more often than one-minute reprimands.

Who will gain the most from this book? Someone who wants to see a process spelled out that can be used for being a humanistic leader and who hasn't read many books on the subject. If you've already read everything that's ever been written and feel comfortable with how Dr. Blanchard's many books fit together in application, you probably won't gain much additional knowledge from this book. But if you would like a friendly review of books you've enjoyed, you'll find the reading to be a pleasant experience. I enjoyed learning more about Dr. Blanchard's various colleagues.

If you haven't read anything by Ken Blanchard, just buy and read this book. It tells you everything you need to know about the other books. You could then expand your appreciation selectively by reading the fables that go with those books where you want to have a deeper understanding . . . by adding a story to go with the leadership lessons.

Be the leader you would like to have! That's the advice of Norman Schwarzkopf. I'm sure he would approve of this book.

Management expert Ken Blanchard has spent more than 25 years helping individuals and organizations become and stay great. Known for his co-authorship of The One Minute Manager, for the first time Blanchard combines his collective wisdom to show managers and leaders zero in on the right target and vision.

Blanchard argues that in high performing organizations everyone's energy is focused on three issues:

1. Being the provider of choice. To keep your customers, you must go beyond satisfying them, you have to turn them into raving fans.
2. Being the employer of choice. Workers seek opportunities where they feel their contributions are valued and rewarded.
3. Being the investment of choice. Money flows to organizations that provide viability, visibility and performance over time.

To achieve these goals, Blanchard argues, your organization must become a HPO - a high performing organization. The author employs the acronym SCORES to illustrate the six elements found in every HPO:

1. Shared Information and Communication.
2. Compelling Vision.
3. Ongoing Learning.
4. Relentless Focus on Customer Results.
5. Energizing Systems and Structures.
6. Shared Power and High Involvement.

In an HPO, Blanchard writes, every thing starts and ends with the customer. Each organization member is passionate about developing sophisticated knowledge of customers and sharing the information throughout the organization. This is accomplished three ways:

1. Decide. If you want raving fans, you do not announce it. You plan for it.
2. Discover. After you decide, it's critical to ask your customers' for suggestions to improve their experience with your organization.
3. Deliver + 1 per cent. Excite your people to deliver this experience, plus.

Enablement is the key to beating your competition day-after day. Allowing your people to pit their brains and allowing them to use their knowledge, experience and motivation is critical. To guide this transition to an enablement culture, leaders must use three keys:

1. Share Information.
2. Declare the Boundaries
3. Replace old Hierarchies with Self-Directed Individuals and Teams.

This requires a special leader: the servant leader. Leadership has two parts: vision and implementation. They need to find out what their people need to be successful and they make a difference in the lives of their people and in the process, their organization.

Ken Blanchard, co-author of The One Minute Manager, and his colleagues at The Ken Blanchard Companies have spent more than 25 years helping good leaders and organizations become great and stay great. In this book, they describe how leaders can empower people and unleash their incredible potential. This book must be required reading for everyone who wants to become a better leader.

A better definition of leadership, according to the author, is the capacity to influence others by unleashing the power and potential of people and organizations for the greater good. Leadership should not be done purely for personal gain or goal accomplishment: It should have a much higher purpose than that. Leadership can be defined as the process of achieving worthwhile results while acting with respect, care and fairness for the well-being of all involved. When that occurs, self-serving leadership is not possible. It's only when you realize that it's not about you that you begin to lead at a higher level.

Being a successful leader is not only about leading your organization, but your customers as well. According to the author, to keep your customers, you can't be content just to satisfy them; you have to create raving fans. Raving fans are customers who are so excited about the way you treat them that they want to tell everyone about you. A good example of how this works is Domo Gas, a full-service gasoline chain in Western Canada, cofounded by Sheldon Bowles. Back in the 1970s, when everybody was going to self-service gasoline stations, Bowles knew that if people had a choice, they would never go to a gas station. But people have to get gas, and they want to get in and out as quickly as possible. The customer service vision that Bowles and his co-founders imagined was an Indianapolis 500 pit stop. They dressed all their attendants in red jumpsuits. When a customer drove into one of Bowles' stations, two or three people ran out of the hut and raced toward the car. As quickly as possible, they looked under the hood, cleaned the windshield and pumped the gas (p. 42).

A successful leader must also have a workable vision, and be able to clearly communicate and share this vision with his organization. When Louis Gerstner Jr. took the helm of IBM in 1993-- amid turmoil and instability as the company's annual net losses reached a record $8 billion -- he was quoted as saying, "The last thing IBM needs is a vision." In an article in The New York Times two years later, Gerstner conceded that IBM had lost the war for the desktop operating system, acknowledging that the acquisition of Lotus signified that the company had failed to plan properly for its future. He admitted that he and his management team now "spent a lot of time thinking ahead." Once Gerstner understood the importance of vision, an incredible turnaround occurred. In 1995, delivering the keynote address at the computer industry trade show, Gerstner articulated IBM's new vision -- that network computing would drive the next phase of industry growth and would be the company's overarching strategy. That year, IBM began a series of acquisitions that positioned it to become the fastest-growing company in its segment, with growth at more than 20 percent per year. This extraordinary turnaround demonstrated that the most important thing IBM needed was a vision (p. 24-25).

Leaders must also know how to lead their workforce. Giving people too much or too little direction has a negative impact on people's development. Situational leadership is based on the belief that people can and want to develop, and there is no best leadership style to encourage that development. You should tailor leadership style to the situation. This is pretty much common sense. But leaders should also train their people in self leadership. For example, Bandag Manufacturing experienced the value of self leadership after a major equipment breakdown. Rather than laying off the affected work force, the company opted to train them in leadership. The company began holding their managers accountable and asking them to demonstrate their leadership capabilities. They were asking managers for direction and support and urging them to clarify goals and expectations. Suddenly, managers were studying up on rusty skills and working harder. When the plant's ramp-up time was compared to the company's other eight plants that had experienced similar breakdowns in the past, the California plant reached pre-breakdown production levels faster than any in history. The determining factor in the plant's successful rebound was primarily the proactive behavior of the workers, who were fully engaged and armed with the skill of self leadership (p. 104-105).

Leaders must also encourage team work, and be part of the team themselves. Teams provide a sense of worth, connection and meaning to the people involved in them. A study of 12,000 male Swedish workers over a 14-year period revealed that workers who felt isolated and had little influence over their jobs were 162 percent more likely to have a fatal heart attack than were those who had a lot of influence in decisions at work and who worked in teams. Data like this -- combined with the fact that teams can be far more productive than individuals functioning alone --provide a compelling argument for creating high involvement workplaces. Furthermore, according to a 2003 Gallup study, "actively disengaged" people -- workers who are fundamentally disconnected from their jobs -- are costing the U.S. economy between $292 billion and $355 billion a year. The Gallup survey found that 24.7 million workers (17 percent) are actively disengaged. These workers are absent from work 3.5 more days a year than other workers, or 86.5 million days in all. Statistics show an even less engaged work force worldwide.

When people lead at a higher level, they make the world a better place because their goals are focused on the greater good. Making the world a better place requires a special kind of leader: a servant leader. Robert Greenleaf first coined the term "servant leadership" in 1970 and published widely on the concept. Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela are examples of servant leaders. Servant leaders feel their role is to help people achieve their goals. They try to find out what their people need to be successful. They want to make a difference in the lives of their people and, in the process, impact the organization (p. 249).

Research shows that effective leaders have a clear, teachable leadership point of view and are willing to teach it to others, particularly the people they work with. If you can teach people your leadership point of view, they will not only have the benefit of understanding where you're coming from, but they'll also be clear on what you expect from them and what they can expect from you. They may also begin to solidify their own thinking about leadership so that they can teach others too. Some say that learning, teaching and leading should be inherent parts of everyone's job description.

The world needs more leaders who are leading at a higher level. Perhaps the day will come when self-serving leaders are history, and leaders serving others are the rule, not the exception.

I like teaching this novel, but I don't have time to teach the full text. This abridgement does a good job of capturing the fullness of the story and the characters in about 40% of the pages. I like the historical timelines at the beginning and the Notes sections at the end. My students find the novel easy to manage, too.

If you ever thought Hey, it must be easy to be an actor, just pay attention to Michael York, who's using only his voice! He keeps separate several characters, male and female, with nuances and accents that we can understand instantly.
Pity about this abridgement is that the translation was never edited. There is no distinction between that and which, for instance. "Which" is used exclusively.
But I'll keep listening to M. York, c'est formidable!

If you are the kind of person thirsting for the image of Man as a being to whom nothing is impossible - and to whom everything great is possible, then "Les Miserables" is the novel for you.
With a few exceptions, such as Ayn Rand, there is no writer in world literature who has portrayed such a grand, noble, sublime and inspiring image of man as Victor Hugo.
In "Les Miserables", Hugo has given the best expression that his genius could to this element.

The theme of this masterpiece is : "The projection and glorification of a moral-spiritual force based on Love, Compassion and above all Conscience, aimed at overthrowing the existing order of human existence and establish a new world where these cardinal values will guide human life."

Such an important, profound and philosophical theme could only have been selected by a visionary such as Victor Hugo - whom I consider the greatest novelist of the 19th Century.

Other than Ayn Rand's "Atlas Shrugged" I do not know any single novel in world literature which seeks to present a unique philosophy to change the world and give a new direction to human existence.

According to me, the plot-theme is : "The step-by-step purification of a man's soul and his achievement of spiritual perfection."

Jean Valjean is the hero of the novel. The best years of his life have been wasted because of the iniquities and injustice of the prevailing social order. Emerging from prison after 19 years, his soul is immersed in anger, bitterness, hatred and a feeling of vengeance against society. How he acieves spiritual perfection, as viewed by Hugo, is what the story is all about.

However, this point has not been recognised by many. While most say that the theme is : "The injustice of society towards the lower classes", Hugo's intention was to dramatise "Man's struggle against the laws of society".

Keeping this in view, the accepted plot theme is (as best defined by Ayn Rand) : "The lifelong flight of an ex-convict from a ruthless representative of the law", this representative being Javert.

However, the struggle of Jean Valjean continues long after his conflict with Javert is resolved.
Victor Hugo is not just showing that Conscience is above Law, but this: what is the highest level of selflessness and self-sacrifice a man is capable of and what makes it possible.
As far as I can see, the accepted plot-theme has been identified the way it has been, because it defines a specific purpose(i.e., Javert's pursuit of Jean Valjean). Perhaps critcs would dismiss my point of view because neither is it Jean Valjean's explicit goal to become perfect nor does he set himself an objective which would symbolize his attainment of perfection.
But I look at the plot to have been construsted in a manner which inevitably leads Jean Valjean to perfection.

Bishop Myriel is the guiding image for Jean Valjean:his role represents how love and compassion can resurrect a man's conscience.

Fantine is the symbol of the woman and Cossette is the symbol of the child who are the victims of social evils.

Javert-the implaccable, ruthless and awe-inspiring policeman who shall never compromise on his values - is the symbol of blind conformity to the existing legal and social order.

One of the greatest achievements of "Les Miserables" is its sweeping sense of drama. What I love most about Hugo is the superb dramatic situations - suspenseful, thrilling, emotionally intense - he creates.
The scenes are so breathtakingly grandiose and mind-blowing that one can only think : "How did he get such a brilliant idea??!!"
The best part of the novel is the fighting at the barricades during the July Revolution in Paris - led by, perhaps the most admirable hero in 19th Century Romantic fiction - Enjolras.
Enjolras - despite a minor role - made a greater impact on me than the two central characters - Jean Valjean and Marius. One also cannot forget the lovable, heroic, 12 year old Gavroche.

The greatest drawback of "Les Miserables" is the plethore of esssays on various social, historical, religious and other issues, which are exasperatingly long, which interrupt the plot, make the novel cumbersome and the reader impatient.
However, they give the reader a picture of the world which Hugo had in mind (and which he wanted to revolutionize-and how) while writing the book.
They may not be directly related to the plot, but are certainly related to the meaning of the novel.

Further, the plot tends to become loose at times. The coincidences are rather naive and force the reader to conclude that they are meant solely to bring coherence in the story or to present a particular aspect of Hugo's philosophy.
Some may find the descriptions unnecessarily meticulous, though in poetic terms they are stunningly beautiful.

However, all this seems irrelevant if we concentrate on the profound pschycological analysis of the value-conflicts of Jean Valjean (and Javert) rarely matched in world literature; the scope and intellectual value of the novel; its immense social and philosophical significance and its wonderful portrayal of man as a heroic being.

But above all is the unsurpassable dramatic treatment rendered by Hugo's genius : the sheer artistry, the incomparable ingenuity, the soulful emotional content, the startling originality and compelling suspense-there is NO OTHER SINGLE WRITER IN THE WORLD who has equalled Hugo in this aspect-make, in addition to its numerous merits, "Les Miserables" one of the greatest achievements of the human mind.

I have had the CD of the Original London Cast Musical of Les Miserable for about 10 years and have been a huge fan but nothing could prepare me for the book which although a long and hard read, is the most amazing book I have ever read. Everyone has something to learn from it and if you are looking for a reason to read it heres a reason: in the words of the great Victor Hugo himself : "As long as ignorance and misery remain on earth, books like this can never be useless."

You look at this book cautiouly, circling it warily. 1,260 pags?!! (Do not even consider an abridgement, for that is wicked) To read this massive work, you must be brave and determined. It is not easy or light, and, although it is far and away my favorite book, there were many times when I would lay it aside and blink with that slow, "God give me strength" air. Yet what epic journey worth its scratch is fluffy, over-in-a-day fun? Jean Valjean has hardship, so does the reader. One doesn't so much read as inhabit Les Miserables. I lived with this book for an entire semester, and had been dipping my toes into itt for over a year. When I finally read the last pages, there were tears streaking my face. That is a rare compliment to Hugo. My tears were not only for the sad fate of the convict-saint, but for th completion of such a long journey. I never rea Les Miserables to finish it. Perhaps this is merely an indication of insanity, perhaps an accurate reflection of the mind set necessary to read and enjoy Hugo. Get lost in his page-long sentences and revel in the vrebiosity! Be brave, and don't give up.

Should be titled, "Lessons from someone who attends to the Dying."

Mr. Smith is up to something important. I was expecting, and left hoping for more reportage style writing. Most of the writing is editorial which makes its value to the reader dependent on how the reader likes the authors style. It is too preachy for my taste, however others may like it.

I am hoping Mr. Smith writes a sequel and focuses on the stories and insights of his clients. With his background and his exposure to hospice clients, it is enough simple to report back from the field.

-this book is written with the heart. Every word is necessary and chapter by chapter it all falls into place. Each sentence can be the subject of hours of meditation. Read it and practice it every day.

Rodney has articulated a way for all of us to live. Through the lives of the dying we gain insight into our own fears. Are we willing to learn these lessons or continue to fear every ending we face?

This book is a compelling and inspiring read for anyone willing to be introspective about the way they live their lives. Rodney Smith writes a very readable book that guides us into appreciating the very profound yet simple concept of being alive. Once we truly face the fact that our lives will come to an end and we will die - then we become free to experience the joy of life.
And he gives us some case studies of people facing imminent death in hospices. In the final days and moments of life many of those people come to recognize what life is really about - and it's not about the stuff they've accumulated, nor about the power and prestige they used to enjoy. It's about the quality of life itself and the love they've shared with people, animals and nature.
He shows us that life is a journey, not a series of destinations. Reading this book has made a profound impact on my life.

Rodney Smith has such a calming voice, there is a peaceful reflective tone contained within it. He spent a total of 8 years in monastic life, both at the Insight Meditation Society in Massachusetts and several years as a monk in Asia. He was ordained a monk in Burma, then practiced for 3 more years in Thailand. In 1983 he left life as a monk to come back to the world and, after coming back to the West, started working in hospice and teaching vipassana meditation. He is currently the head teacher of The Seattle Insight Meditation Society, whom you can find on the web and listen to a plethora of online dharma talks he has given. Truly magnificent site.

Rodney has dedicated much of his life to helping those who are dying, a point made clear considering his work in hospice management for the last 16 years. This book is wonderful in it's presentation. As another reviewer points out, this is a book about living above all else. Rodney has pulled together here several eye opening accounts about the diverse ways folks have handled their last moments. Here Smith relates us all to death with reflection on becoming unguarded and vulnerable. On learning from our experiences while living so that we can overcome this fear of the unknown. So that we can listen to others more clearly, more succinctly and perceive their suffering as well as our own. Purchase this book, it's a Dharma Gem.

What a wonderful change - a book with "soul" and a great story to share. I found myself asking if I could have adapted to this wonderful adventure as well as Gary and Pam. But I thought I might like to try. Enjoyed this book and each and every word and wanting more.

I first read this book when I was training for my first marathon. The letter, "A Complete Game" really hit home. In the book, Gary's son Daniel professes, "We made it." After reading that story, I knew God would help me finish the race (and He did!). What struck me the most is how simply this book is written. The letters are so easy to read, yet so profound--reminding us of God's love and presence in every day life. Gary can tell a story as well as the original Storyteller ... the letters in his book are like parables in the Bible. The book emphasizes the important things in life ... love of God, friends, and family. No matter where you are in the world, those three connections keep you close. Letters from Boerdonk reminds us all of the importance of those connections in so many ways.

Memories! This is a wonderful book. We lived this book: Gary Smith was our chaplain during his years in the Netherlands. He has warmed my heart with many happy memories, and gives such a wonderful picture of the Dutch. He reminds you to enjoy life's blessings, small and large.

Captivating, funny, poignant, Gary's book will hook you in the Introduction! I alternately laughed out loud and was teary-eyed with the adventures and misadventures of this totally real chaplain/husband/father/author. Read this book and give it to all the people you love!

I couldn't wait to get my copy of Letters from Boerdonk. I have read many of the "great" christian authors and Gary Smith ranks with these. He writes in a very accessible way. No matter who you are or what your background Gary's stories of everyday life will touch you. His gentle self mocking humor will warm you to your toes. These are the new parables for our time. Once you have read this book you will want to buy one for everyone you know.

I have read this book several times, and it never fails to make me smile...and make me think. My dachshund, Pirate, gives it five stars, and so do I.

This is an extremely clever book of philosophy derived from the observations of a dog owner. The delightful illustrations add to the book's appeal.

"If it makes your tail wag it's good" is only one of the thought provoking words of wisdom in these colorfully illustrated lessons that dogs can teach us about unconditional love and happiness. Every time I turn through these beautifully written pages my tail wags harder each time. Thank You Amy Jordon Smith for sharing your biscuit.

As a dog owner and lover of animals in general I found this book to be a must! Smith is very keen to remind us that our pets are not just animals but members of our family and their loyalty has no boundries.

LIFE IS SHORT; EAT BISCUITS is beautifully illustrated, and through the eyes of a puppy, reinvents so many of life's "words of wisdom"...sayings we've repeatedly heard, but unfortunately seldom apply. This book is truly Puppy Chow for the soul; especially for those of us that have experienced the unconditional love bestowed on us by our own "Calvin" puppy. Life is indeed short, so take the time, and share a biscuit with someone you love while enjoying this book. Kudos to the author and illustrator!!!

Howard Blackburn accomplished a feat of endurance and spirit that equals any. This is a well told tale of the man who froze his hands to the oars of his dory to row 100 miles in January off Newfoundland. Gripping and substantial, this book stays with you.

It would be too easy to simply say that Howard Blackburn rose above his adversity. I should like to have known more about, or even known him - fisherman, retailer, sailor and philanthropist - here is a man of legend among men of iron. Howard's tale is marvelous; a testament to the pioneers and explorers who follow their restless dreams without compromise. Lone Voyager is a fascinating and enlightening look into the industry of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the men who fought long odds and the compelling draw of a man possessed of his visions.

Though I live in Gloucester and have spent a good many evenings in Howard Blackburn's establishment with his pictures and newspaper articles hanging on the walls, I only recently discovered this book. What a wonderful adventure! The first chapter, which tells the story of the fishing trip during which Blackburn lost his fingers and toes, sets the stage well for the rest of the adventure. And what an adventure it is! Here in Gloucester they talk of the days of "iron men in wooden ships" and Blackburn was the toughest and most indomitable of all those iron men. After surviving the trip that opens the book, he goes on to start his famous tavern in Gloucester, cross the Atlantic twice on his own, sail around Cape Horn and up the Pacific Coast bound for the Klondike, and undertake a perfectly fascinating trip up the Hudson River, through the Erie Canal and the Great Lakes and down the Mississippi.

Because I wrote a book based in the seafaring history of Lake Erie I was particularly gratified to read that Blackburn wrote that of all the waters he ever crossed he considered Lake Erie to have been the worst --- even worse than the Grand Banks in the Atlantic.

Author Joe Garland is well known both as a historian and a sailor and both those skills are well used in the telling of this tale. This is an extraordinary story of an extraordinary man told by an extraordinary writer. What more does a reader want?

I found an old copy of this book and read it a year ago. An incredible true story. I`m glad to see that it is available in paperpback again.

Howard Blackburn was one cool dude! I mean the guy gets caught away from the mother ship and rows for 5 days to live but it costs him all his fingers and that's just the first two chapters! You've got him going off to the Yukon on a gold rush jaunt, a couple of single handed trips across the Atlantic. A circumnavigation of the Eastern US via the Great Lakes and the Misissippi River and around Florida. He just won't quit.

Anyway I bought the book because of the stories about dories, and was hooked by all the other adventures as well.

BTW there is a rowing race of 22 miles in open Atlantic called the "Blackburn Challange" The folks of Glouster loved him.

What more could you want from a book? Collard's LOVE, LUST AND A WHOLE LOTTA DISTRUST gives you entertainment and teaches you the valuable lesso of loving yourself and walking in that truth. She gives you characters that are no different from the person sitting next to us or looking at us in mirror--and she allows you to see what comes from now being honest with yourself and others. Throw in the social issues of sexuality, abuse and putting others before yourself, and you have a book that will stand the test of time.

Love, Lust and A whole Lotta Distrust by DeiIra Smith Collard. For this novel I think the author and I must have met somewhere down the line. Because I know all the people featured in her novel.

Nicole, NaTina and Kendra and all the encompassing drama associated with these ladies. Cheating spouses, cheating lovers, about the only consistency with the characters is all the cheating going on.

At any rate this was a good book. Definately keeps you involved in the story and the characters.

DeiIra Smith Collard's book "Love Lust & A Whole Lotta Distrust" started off with a band and ended with a bigger bang!!!! She told a tale of four women who work together and some of them even play together. Then comes the betrayal and the decit. It keeps you on your toes and wanting more from the start. Just wonderfully written!

Thanks for sharing DeiIra!

Breakups, cheating spouses and plenty of sex are found between the pages of Love Lust & A Whole Lotta Distrust by DeiIra Smith Collard. Synegy Wireless is the home-away- from-home for these four vivacious, sexually-charged women. Nicole and Kendra are best friends, but Nicole is a ruthless, loveless, manipulating woman who will stop at nothing to get the man of her dreams. Even if that means hurting and destroying her best friend's marriage.

Carmell and Natina are hired at the same time, and build a quick friendship but Natina has ulterior motives and crosses the line as far as Carmell is concerned. When will these women grow up and stop fighting over men; men who do not belong to them or who are only interested in them for sex?

There are a lot of secrets and lies hidden behind the walls of Synergy Wireless. And Natina and Nicole are out to share everyone's hidden lives. Take this wild ride with four crazy, deranged, depressed and in denial woman as they make you double check yourself. Did I ever act like that? Or, I know someone who acts just like that!

I found myself trying to predict what was going to happen next and if they would continuously keep making the same mistakes. This is a very entertaining book and you will keep asking yourself why as you turn the pages to see the outcome.

Reviewed by:

Cheryl H
APOOO BookClub

Thank you for calling Synergy Wireless. If it's drama and scandal that you want, it's drama and scandal that you'll get.

Employees Nicole, Kendra, Carmell and Natina all crossed the line of co-workers to friends, but it's a decision they all may come to regret.

Nicole Neatherly wants what she wants and what she wants is call center cutie Jason. Despite the fact that he has bedded practically everyone in their department, Nicole thinks she is the woman for him. The woman that will change his whorish ways. The one woman he will want to settle down with. And Nicole wants him at all cost and is willing to do whatever it takes, no matter what or who it hurts, even a friend.

Kendra Dubois has a secret; a dirty little secret. She has her cake and wants to eat it, too. Trouble is, she won't be the only one affected by her crave for something sweet. Just how far reaching are the effects of Kendra's explosive secret?

Carmell Devereaux is head over heels in love. She has found the man she is going to marry, the man of her dreams. Little does she know that he may not be the man of just her dreams. Will the best woman win?

Natina Mayes doesn't get mad, she gets even. When her advances toward a fellow employee are rejected, all is fair in love and revenge. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

True to the title, there was plenty of love, lust and distrust. Drama was good and plenty. I hated to see it come to an end. Newcomer DeiIra Smith-Collard has delivered an impressive debut. This very entertaining and emotionally charged novel is a gem. DeiIra is definitely an author to watch.

Thank you for choosing Synergy Wireless. Have a nice day!

Reviewed by: Toni

thanks to this book! Wow! I took vanilla and chocolate marshmallows to my brother's wedding this weekend in pretty apothocary jars. Everyone thought I was amazing. I tried to tell them how easy it is to make your own marshmallows but noone would believe me. :-)

This week I'm on to orange marshamallows.

I have made several recipes and they all came out great. I will never buy marshmallows again! The mallomars were delicious - even though I used a british biscuit instead of making my own. Similar to a graham cracker but sweeter, round in shape. Very clear directions and easy to follow.

This book delivers a modern, delicious perspective on an old, boring confection! The wonderful photography is only outdone by the detailed, easy-to follow recipies themselves. I will never buy another comercially-made marshmallow knowing how easy it was to make these delicious treats. My personal fav were the brownies topped with fluff. They were absolutely delectable! I recieved the book as a gift and I intend to gift one to all my loved ones who enjoy cooking. This book is a MUST for anyone who likes to eat!

This is a well designed and beautifully photographed book that has made me the culinary genius of the family. The marshmallow treats are the talk of every party. But the hidden gems in this book are Eileen's Deep Chocolate Brownies and her Sweet Cream Dessert Biscuits. And once you get into the fluff, you never return.

Can't wait for the next one from her.

I didn't know where to start! So many great photos and intriguing ideas. I wound up making
the banana marshmallows on page 42 to give as Christmas gifts to the friends and neighbors who were probably cookied-out. I put a half dozen marshmallows in cute little red foil boxes. They were a total hit and nobody could believe that I had made them myself. Hard time finding the banana nectar. I finally found it at Whole Foods. Can't wait to try a few more of the flavors. I hear the lemon is spectacular.

Jeanne Smith has written a book so fascinating that it is hard to put down. The blending of two worlds, 1400 years apart, and two souls (or is it just one?) from each time period is masterfully done. It is a time travel adventure, a love story, a King Arthur fable, and a book full of fantasy creatures all rolled up into one. There is never a dull moment. I recommend it wholeheartedly! Can't wait for the sequel to come out!

J M Smith's book takes threads from the tapestry of Authurian legend and weaves them into a classic but modern tale of a struggle between good and evil. Set across several continents with vivid characters and magical, mysterious forces, the natural and supernatural elements conspire to produce a thrilling climax.
Put work and chores aside for a while. You won't be able to do either until you turn the very last page.

This book, MERLYN, is destined to become a classic, a story foir all time. It is a marvel. I loved the plot. I loved the people. I hated to see it end. I hope that Merlyn's story will go on and on, and I will read and re-read every volume. Don't ask me to part with these people; I can't. It's funny and scary, tender and ruthless, with a villain who will chill your marrow, a heroine you will love, a hero who will make you laugh, and most of all, the Enchanter, who will make you hope.

This book, Merlyn, is destined to become a classic, a story for all time. It is a marvel. I loved the plot; I loved the people. I hated to see it end. I hope that Merlyn's story will go on and on, and I will read and re-read every volume. Don't ask me to part with these people; I can't. It's funny and scary, tender and ruthless, with a villain who will chill your marrow, a heroine you will love, a hero who will make you laugh, and most of all, the Enchanter, who will make you hope.

I could not put this book down! It has fantasy, excitement, an "otherworldness" that is so exciting and absorbing that it will be one of my favorites for years and years. I could hardly wait to have a copy of this fascinating tale to read over and over. Just writing this review has made me anxious to read it again... NOW. I am so pleased to know that others now have the opportunity to enjoy this wonderful book and love it as much as I have.