Smith Books

My daughter saw this book at the library. She's five and recognized her name on the cover so we had to get it. Although my daughter is not considered biracial, she looks a lot like the Carrie in this book. The story is fun to read and my daughter loves the fold-out pages. I plan to purchase it and save it in her keepsake box.

This children's book is one of my child's favorite books.
He absoutely loves the pictures and colors and points at an object on every page. It's a great read for all children. Mine truly enjoys it.

For those of us who are tired of the heavy-handed and politically correct, here is an alternative: a charming and subtle picture book that gently exposes children to a multiracial family. Drawing on her own personal experiences, the author allows a child to discover and feel entirely comfortable with a family in which the Mom is Caucasian, the Dad is African-American and the kids look like Barack Obama. Beautifully illustrated with kid-friendly "lift-the-flaps", this book strikes exactly the right tone. Hats off to Lois Smith for this wonderful new children's book.

Carrie and Carl Play: A Flip-Flap Book is a must read for every pre-schooler out there! Educational, interactive, and inspirational are the words that come to mind when a parent and child read this book together. Lois T. Smith's love for her children and grandchildren shine throughout the pages of this book which is sure to enhance the mental development of any child!

Carrie and Carl is a book with pretty bright colors and simple fun. The flaps add a note of gentle humor. The "what's there?" question will intrigue the little ones.

I am myself the mother in a mixed-race family, like the family in the book. I like the fact that this is just a family doing ordinary things and the colors of the people are presented without special notice. But it isn't an "issues" book. It's for all little kids. It's playful.

The footnotes in this book are extensive and as insightful as the contents. The legal actions and procedings surrounding the trial are given attentive details. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to know more about Mormon history, American legal history, or history of the 1840's in Illinois.

I found this book to be thoroughly researched and documented. Oaks and Hill have written this book in a way that the reader can understand the legal process of the trial of the alleged assassins of Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith. With many footnotes to back up their research, Oaks and Hill have effectively given the reader a clear picture of the events that led to the assassination of Joseph and Hyrum and the subsequent trial, without getting too carried away with "legalese" language. My complements to the authors on this excellent book!

I recommend this book to anyone who has interest in Trial Law, as well as Mormon History.

First of all, this is not a Mormon-propaganda book. It is a scholarly work, a study of law. It is an account of the legal proceedings that took place as a result of the murders of Joseph and Hyrum Smith at Carthage, Illinois in June of 1844. This book makes no attempt to convert anyone to Mormonism--in fact it doesn't even focus on the Smiths. Instead, it critically examines the trial of five men accused of participating in the murder of these two men.

I cannot praise this book enough for its objectivity. The authors remain completely aloof from bias, and focus instead on an analysis of the trial. One should not read this book with the intent of learning every detail about the Smiths' murder. For those interested in knowing about the legal proceedings that followed their deaths, however, this book will be a valuable tool.

This book is an invaluable resource--it unearths many facts and circumstances that I have not encountered anywhere else, and manages to make sense of just what happened inside the Carthage jail on that fateful summer day. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Mormon history.

Highly documented, as are all Mormon writings, it tells what happened at Carthage, Illinois. The murder of Joseph Smith and his brother Hiram told minute by minute, identification of many personalities, and clear reporting of the courst case. The atmosphere and surroundings of this incident has been repeated before and after, within societies that feel threatened by something they do not understand. Reading of this book will bring sorrow to your heart, and a rememberance of Waco and other unfair reactions to supposed threats. Very good book, reporting in detail what happened.

Governor Thomas Ford came to Carthage. Joseph Smith expressed concern about personal security for Hyrum, Richards, John Taylor.

Why did Governor Ford dismiss Joseph Smiths warnings of danger?
Governor Ford feared increasing numbers of Mormon immigrants in the state of Illinois. Governor Ford feared Mormon control of the political machinery because the Mormon influx represented the possibility of a power shift: new political leaders, democrat controlled state shifting to another party (whigs,republican), and new state laws submitted and ratified by Mormons.

Governor Ford promised the prophet Joseph safety telling him that a state militia would be disposed to ensure the safety of the prophet. The prophet expressed grave concern because of the persistent nature of the anarchist, mobs, or enemies of the prophet too take his life.

The prophet foresaw the incompetency of the militia to protect him correctly. Poor communication and undisciplined military response by the militia suggests they were under order, not to be in the vacinity of Carthage, at the time of the murder of Joseph Smith. Even as the enemy was forming a logistic line and coordinating an attack, the militia did not respond appropriately. The militia seems too have no intelligence or counter offensive plans against an attack.

Did Governor Ford conspire with Thomas Sharp to allow the Marytr of Joseph Smith?

No legal prosecution was charged against the governor, no committee was formed to research foul play, and no confessions record to implicate the governor in the plot. However, Governor Ford had opportunity and motive to assist in the conspiracy.

Joseph Smith was given a hand pistol by a Member during a visit. With it, Joseph Smith shot one attacker in the face, one in the arm, and one in the shoulder. Why were these men not found and brought to trial? What is surprising is the amount of evidence ignored by the court. The court was not following constitution law nor was it following rules of evidence. The court was following common or customary law rules. In fact one man was shot, managed to walk into a tavern, tell his story, and witnesses saw the bandages protecting the bullet wound. The evidence was not used to press charges against these men.

Bracken testified "He saw Wills, Voras, and a man named Gallaher, all wounded on the road between Carthage and Warsaw. The wounds he described matched those mentioned by Daniels - Gallaher was wounded in the cheek. All three men were indicted for the murders of Joseph and Hyrum, but they were never arrested, nor did they appear at the trial." Why were these men indicted? The seems to have usurp constitution law. Additionally, the adversarial forum of the court room broke down as the prosecuting attorney failed to perform competently, a mistrial should have been ordered and a new case submitted. The court seems to have rejected the federal mandates and guarantees provided by the U.S government. The court symbolizes rebellion against the union and possed the potential for seeds of the civil war.

Why didn't Worrel stand trial for his involvement in the conspiracy? Worrel used business connection and personal influence to avoid being cross examined by the court. Sufficient evidence existed to indict Worrel and bring him before the court to have him examined. Worrel not standing trial was a great injustice.

During William Daniels testimony, Daniel put Sharp and Williams at the scene of the crime; and Eliza Graham's testified about Sharp's boasting in at the Warsaw House; why did the prosecution build on these facts and cement the argument for a verdict of guilty? The court was not following constitutional law. Instead, it create a customary law, convenient to exonerate these men. The evidence was convincing enough to bring minimal punishment against them and circumstantial enough to bring capital punishment against these men.

How did the defense team make Daniels testimony seem uncreditable? The persecuting attorney was incompetent. The defense team immediately picked up on this fact and exploited it. This further weakened any chance for justice to prevail.

Should have Jacobs been prosecuted for conspiracy to kill even though he did not directly participate with the mob attack? Jacobs should have received punishment for his involvement. Even though Jacobs did not participate directly, he was an accomplice to the crime. Jacobs was stained by his association and involvement in the crime.

Did the fact William Grover, Mark Aldrich, Thomas Sharp, Levi Williams, and Jacob Davis belong to the masonic society influence their political ambitions and desire to kill Joseph Smith? The Masons were not directly involved in the conspiracy, however, the Masonic lodge provided opportunity and means for these men to meet and conspire against the prophet Joseph Smith.

The fact Lamborn dismisal of Daniels incriminating testimony against Levi Williams, Thomas Sharp, Mark Aldrich, Jacob C. Davis, and William N. Grove is outrageous!

Why did Benjamin Brackenbury's testimony that Grover boast he killed Joseph Smith had him acting for the community as a theme of rebellion of civil law? The greater tradegy of anarchy was the lose of life incurred in the civil war. The civil war divided a country and turned brother against brother in a contest to establish supreme sovereignty.

Why did Mark Aldrich gain back most his land for pennies on the dollar after he declared bankruptcy? This was pure theft and reflected the moral and legal decay in the community politics and legal system.

Why did Lamborn dismiss three of his most important witnesses? Lamborn was probably bribed to throw the case. Lamborn was known to accept bribery and could be swayed by an angry community not to vigorously prosecute the accused. Was Lamborn paid to throw the trial into confusion?

Why did captain Grover not hasten his pace to rescue Joseph Smith from the Mobs? Captain Grover should have been force on threat of court martial too justify his actions. The integrity of Captain Grover came under question because he could have raced his men, double time, too Carthage and rescued the prophet and the apostles from the mobs.

Why didn't the Carthage Greys purse the fleeing mob members? Captain Grover did not seem too be compelled to protect the life of the prophet nor capture the prophets assailants. Captain Grover seems have followed a precise strategy of being late and too exhausted to persue.

Given the testimony of Eliza Graham and the testimony of Daniels; why did defense attorney Browning claim even if his Sharp, Williams, and Grover had opportunity to comit the crime, no admitting they did, however, they would be justified because it they were acting on the old citizens desire to kill Joseph Smith?

Levi Williams lead the mobs into a civil war against the Mormons. Why did William seditious and traitorous actions not go unpunished by the law?

Why were gun shots heard but none of the mob members injuried?

Who killed Joseph and Hyrum Smith?

What was the political tension between the whigs and the democrats? Joseph Smith would have been the President of the United States of American. Business men in the East like the prophets political views. Popular polls indicated the Prophet Joseph Smith would have easily once the presidency.

The acquitals of these men marked the beginning of civil war. Rebellion against law. Great is his glory and endless his priesthood. Ever and ever the keys he will hold.
Faithful and true, he will enter his kingdom, Crowned in the midst of the prophets of old.
(Hymns, 1985, no. 27)

I purchased this book in Carmel, California. We then moved to Florida and my sons rabbit basically ate the book. I was so upset and thought I would not be able to replace it. I found it on Amazon and purchased it. Of course it was used because you cannot buy it new, but it was in great condition. I collect these types of books and would have been heartbroken if I could not replace it. Thanks Amazon!!

"Earth was used to create farmhouses in France, cottages in England, castles in Germany, and missions in California and Arizona. Eighteenth- and nineteenth-century adobe buildings still stand today in New York, Boston, Virginia, and South Carolina." ~ pg. 35

The cover picture is a picture of Mision de Sol, a resort and spa with vibrant colors, dramatic waterfalls and beautiful adobe walls. Throughout the pages we are introduced to textures, interiors, surroundings, traditional adobes, modern adobes, adobe escapes and building materials needed to create a rugged home with romantic appeal.

The decorative iron sconces with glowing candles are inspiring and the use of reflective pools and lush plantings adds artistic appeal. I loved the bookshelves in a room with a chandelier, table with a vase of lilies and rough terra tiled floor covered with a beautifully textured red carpet.

~The Rebecca Review

Casa Adobe depicts homes, haciendas and holiday getaways that have blended handcrafted details, natural materials, and cross-cultural furnishings to express the elegant simplicity of adobe homes, from their humble beginnings to their current renaissance.
--Natural Home Magazine, December 2001

Casa Adobe is a terrific source book for those contemplating living in an adobe or any other earthen style home. Photographs with informaive descriptions tease the casual reader, while those already familiar with Mexico, Arizona, and the Southwest immediately jump head first into the well-written, beautifully illustrated text. Joe P. Carr and Karen Witynski take you to Sante Fe and the surrounding areas with early photographs of adobe structures. Then you are taken to country and contempory homes and structures that best reflect what Casa Adobe is all about. The last chapter of the book is especially helpful foranyone interested in adobe, stucco, or rammed earth homes. It gives sources and individuals to contact as well as galleries and suppliers. My next purchas will be Casa Yucatan, written and photographed by the same collaborative authors.

Many people find the lines and textures of an adobe building at once seductive and compelling. This book is all about the unique aesthetic of houses made of mud. Third in a series of four books on popular residential design in Mexico and the Southwest, this book contains photos of spectacular adobe homes, inside and out, in New Mexico, Arizona, Texas and various places in Mexico.

The book documents the evolution of adobe from its historic past to its most modern applications, including interior details and architectural elements. The authors chose well the buildings they use as examples for their premise that "adobe is an old tradition with a new future," the recurring theme of the book.
--New Mexico Magazine, May 2002

Stephen Hanan played Gus, Growltiger, and Bustopher Jones in the original Broadway production run of Cats. Fresh from the London stage there was only an inkling that the show would be a great success and no true idea that it would be the longest running show in Broadway history. During the time he auditioned and through the rehearsals and opening week Stephen Hanan kept a very detailed diary of his experience as part of the first Broadway cast of Cats. A Cats Diary details Hanan's thoughts and experiences as he auditioned and the rigorous work that went into rehearsal and the production. He details the changes the show underwent as the cast, choreographer, and director tried to find what would work best for all involved and give the best possible show. As a fan of the show (I saw a very well done production at a regional dinner theatre and then the national touring production, the dinner theatre was superior), I found the behind the scenes look at one actor's experience of Cats to be fascinating. Unlike what I would expect from most diaries, Stephen Hanan is very detailed and writes out complete events and complete thoughts and writes well that there is a narrative that forms over the course of the hundred pages of diary entries.

My only real quibble is that footnotes are printed in a cursive font, as if Hanan had handwritten the footnotes into the book to explain people and things that wouldn't be obvious to the casual reader. The footnotes were difficult to read.

Hanan's strength is in the descriptions and that his personality comes through in the text of the book. A Cats Diary is a wonderful resource to those who are seeking to learn more about what goes on to produce a Broadway show and what some of the actors go through.

-Joe Sherry

This book is defenitely a must-read for any CATS lover. It answers questions such as "Why wasn't the Italian aria in the Original London show," as well as giving insights into the preparation, rehersal and immense effort that was put into the original Broadway production. Also wonderfully written are the relationships between the author and the rest of the cast and production team. This book is a CATS fan's dream!

This is a specialty item for the fans of the Broadway production Cats: A Cat's Diary follows the author's daily involvement with the popular production, from rehearsals to finished audience product. Especially involving for drama students, who will receive specific insights into the making of a Broadway production.

Thoroughly enjoyable. The pages flew by. You get a real appreciation of how close the company grew, and how grueling the rehersals were. It is amazing how much was done in a relatively short rehersal period. I saw the show and loved it. I do not know if that made difference, but I would think that for anyone interested in the theater, this would be a wonderful book.

    Seven Tony Awards. Box office receipts of more than a billion dollars. A Broadway run of nearly 8,000 performances. And yet, if I asked you to name the actors and actresses who became stars because of "Cats," you'd probably be stumped.
   Okay, Broadway buffs, so you recall Betty Buckley, for singing "Memory."
   Next?
  In fact, although this was the ultimate ensemble piece, there was one cat who outshone the others. His name is Stephen Mo Hanan, and in the original Broadway cast, he played Bustopher, Asparagus and Growltiger. "Hanan is fantastic," purred Clive Barnes in the New York Post. And the Times, Wall Street Journal and New Yorker agreed.
    Hanan's had to wait two decades for his next plum role --- this Spring, he stars as Al Jolson in an off-Broadway production --- but he's going to be immortal for a slim little book that he never intended to publish: "A Cat's Diary." Written during the rehearsal period, these nightly entries are l00 pages of delight and insight.
    DisneyWorld has spoiled us --- people disappear into animal costumes and goof around and we find them charming, in a sentimental, how-can-you-not-like-this way. But being a cat in a musical inspired by T.S. Eliot and directed by Trevor Nunn?  Not so easy. Hard physical work, in fact. And that's just the outside preparation --- as Hanan tells it, there's immense psychological inquiry and tons of improvisation.
     Although the diaries tell us a great deal about the technical challenges of mounting this musical, there's a strong human narrative (the march toward opening night) and one heroic figure (Trevor Nunn). Mostly, Nunn stands on the sidelines, watching. When he makes a comment, it's rarely what you'd expect --- before an actress does a song in rehearsal, he asks, "But are you having fun?" And, as it happens, that innocent query opens her up to deliver a terrific performance.
      Hanan, for his part, also serves up terrific little insights: "What is the acting approach? Everyone had an opinion, and I began to understand why it took so long to set up the protocols for the Vietnam peace talks." He doesn't shrink from self-deprecating anecdotes: "Trevor said, 'You've got to look like nothing anyone has ever seen before, which is easy if you're Steve Hanan, but for the rest of us....'" And, boy, does he ever show us how the griity, unglamorous work of acting takes its toll: "I come home so tired I can hardly find my way to bed."
      As the cast becomes an extraordinary performing unit, Hanan --- who is pre-disposed to a lovely hippie-esque spirituality --- doesn't fail to get the larger point. He's amazed at how far he's come, he's constantly on the verge of tears. Trevor Nunn makes the spiritual lesson less overtly. "You must remember what the greatest power in the theater is," he tells the company. "It has nothing to do with sets and special effects. It's what's going on in your minds, and how that affects the minds of the audience."
     Hanan's account of opening night is appropriately triumphant. And, because this actor is as emotional as he is analytical, you'll tear up when it's time for Nunn to leave New York and go on to his next production. Fifteen months later, with a Tony nomination on his resume, Hanan also left "Cats." To the indelible performance he gave during his stint can now be added this slim but potent book. "Cats" lovers will enjoy it. Actors, if they are smart, will turn it into gold.

I can't wait to read another one by Thrasher.

Despite being "amiably pro forma", as the Kirkus review puts it (and I generally tend to agree with the Kirkus reviewers), this is a fun, well-written mystery, with a charming, believable hero who has made something of his life and overcome some major hurdles yet continues to make occasional mistakes, all of which makes him very human and made me want to meet him again in further installments. Interesting characters, some witty dialogue and some thoughtful insights make this a balanced story, surprisingly lighthearted even though a lot of it takes place among the sad, bleak world of street children. A thoroughly satisfying read.

I literally could not put this book down. Characters where well developed and new twists to the plot kept me at the edge of my seat. Can't wait for the next one!

I read this book about two years or so ago and immediately added Thrasher's name to my list of favorites. Loved the characters and wanted to - needed to visit with them again. Nice to know another's on the way.

it's been a few years since I read the book. and it ranks up on the top of my list to reread. Cant wait for the next one by LL THRASHER . Keep up the good work. thanks for my two cents worth.

If you are a great fan of deep purple or Ian gillan this book is a must have

It tells in details the life of this marvellous singer, known by many people as The silver voice ! Ian Gillan is well known as the character of Jesus Christ Superstar in the record of the opera in the early seventies. Ian tells his career in full details, his family, his passion for music and drink !! Deep Purple is part of his life (most of it) and you can see it well detailed over here. A magnificent job by Ian. A complete biography of one of our most loved singers of all time: Mr. Gillan from Deep Purple. Hope you can enjoy it as I did.

Child In Time is the autobiography of Ian Gillan, best known as the singer behind Deep Purple's legendary Mark 2 lineup (responsible for such hard rock classics as "Smoke on the Water," "Highway Star," "Woman From Tokyo," and yes, "Child In Time.") But he's also fronted his own band, Gillan, and Black Sabbath (on one album), not to mention sung the role of Jesus for the original Jesus Christ Superstar. All the while he has lived an interesting life, from his humble beginnings as the child of a divorced marriage, through his early singing days (inspired because he wanted to get into the movies like Elvis), through becoming DP's hard-drinking but always affable singer--and developing a love/hate (some would say hate/hate) relationship with the guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore. In fact the main reason I got this book was to try to get the "dirt" on their relationship. There are some juicy tidbits here, including the time Ritchie smashed a plate of spaghetti in Ian's face because he thought that the singer had put ketchup in the pasta. "Come on!" Ritchie taunted, but Ian just walked out of the room, almost in tears. Eat your heart out, MTV's Real World! But seriously, Ian acknowledges that they're like apples and oranges even if some of their musical collaborations have been magical. Elsewhere, Ian documents his views on drugs, sex, business dealings, and how to deal with traveling in unfamiliar countries. Not to be missed is the hilarious section on his year-long stint with Black Sabbath--pure Spinal Tap if it's to be believed. While there are some egregious mistakes in the book (concerning certain dates), I believe a recent edition has corrected them. Also, some feminists might not cotton to some of his views regarding male/female relationships, even if he seems happily married. Check out Child In Time and learn more about Ian Gillan (and Deep Purple!) than you'll ever see in one single book again (unless the 1983 Deep Purple Illustrated Biography is ever updated and re-released, that is).

I bought the book for a friend after the death of her 9 yr old son. Am not sure how I came to know Rosemary from online, but found out she had bereavement packets as well. Because a friend and I run a website of about a thousand kids with cancer, I have had numerous families seek out solace, and asked Rosemary to send them her bereavement packets. She never asks for a dime, and spends so much time and effort on it. She's an amazing person and the book helps you realize you are not alone in your tragedy and suffering.

This is really wonderful that people are willing to share their grief with others. I know one of the mothers who shared her story. I know how torn apart her life was due to the lost of her son.I have read her words many times in our local paper. I know nothing will ever take away her pain but hope this woman and many like her have helped many others and for that I am sure alot of people will say Thanks for your time and stories.

My name is Tiny Warner, and I am a sibling to one of the children of the dome. Shelby Warner was, well, will always be my baby brother and Rosemary did an excellent job with this book. She has helped so many people who are dealing with the loss of a child, when they feel that they have no where else to go. It helps so much to read of others who have gone through an ordeal like this. I know Rosemary personally and there is no finer person than her, she is a woman with a heart of gold. I know what strength and courage it must have taken for her to share the pain of losing her sons, but she did it with such grace and I take my hat off to her for the wonderful job that she did, not only with my brother's story, but with all the stories of the "CHILDREN OF THE DOME." God Bless You Rosemary Smith.

As a father of two children, I cannot imagine the total devastation of losing a child. Rosemary Smith has compiled a group of unbelievable stories of courage! Reading about these families and how they have turned their incredible loses into stories of triumph and inspiration was a truly uplifting experience. This is a must-read for anyone who has expereinced or knows someone who has experienced the loss of a child.

Rosemary is for remembrance.....Rosemary Smith lives up to her name with this beautiful, inspiring book featuring the stories of families who have found a way to cope with the deaths of their children. The book is illustrated with inspirational artwork featuring a cherub representing each child. Whether the children are lost to accident, illness, suicide or murder, the survivors are left to face a world that will never be the same. A common thread in all these stories is the need to keep the memories of these children alive, and this book serves that purpose by making the personalities of these young people come to life for the reader. The families will, of course, never forget these children, but now the readers of this extraordinary book - along with Rosemary - will also remember.

My 8-month old loves this book. It is a touch and feel book and she loves exploring the different textures. The numbers book is great too.

My 14 month old son loves this book. The colors are so bright and he loves to scratch the touch the textures.

I got this book because I thought the colors and the sea creatures were cute, but it seems like my baby thinks that this is the best book ever. She is 10 months old and she can dig in her book's basket until she gets this book, it is her favorite, and she can read it and play with it all day!

This book caught my eye in the store right away. I bought it for my 9 mo. old daughter and I love it and so does she! The reading level is actually for ages 3 and up, but even babies can appreciate the bright colors and big pictures in this adorable book. For each color, there's a big removable piece in the shape of a different sea creature, and when you take it out, it reveals a fun picture. My baby loves to hold the pieces and chew on them. Great board book!

My daughter is 1 and she loves these simple yet colorful books. The tactile additions really make a difference in keeping her excited about the books. We're trying to teach her colors and shapes right now so its perfect.

This book is fantastic! Anyone who is interested in the stem cell research debate from a secular point of view. There is no mention of God or religion or the bible. Just clear, rational thinking about the debate. Smith, I believe, is the pioneer of the "human exceptionalism" philosophy, which I very much admire him for.

I found this book to be extremely informative and learned quite a bit from reading it. Prior to reading this my exposure to the issues inherent in some of the biotechnological initiatives discussed here was what is presented/argued about in the mainstream media. Mr. Smith has done an admirable job in describing the details associated with cloning and stem cell research , embryonic as well as adult. His arguments regarding the scientific and ethical dilmma that these potentially powerful technologies represent are thought provoking and logically presented. There is a tremendous amount of misinformation out there regarding these issues on both sides of the argument. This book lays out the conservative viewpoint in scientific terminology and I beleve that Mr. Smith has made a valuable contibution to the debate that our society is engaged in on which direction to take with these technologies.

Wesley Smith is a leading voice in the public debate surrounding the hottest issues in bioethics and biotechnology. His latest book, "Consumer's Guide to a Brave New World," is essential reading for those who wish to better understand many of these important issues and what is at stake.

Smith makes abundantly clear the ethical dangers involved with embryonic stem cell research (ESC) and human cloning. The creation of human life in laboratories purely for the purpose of destroying it and harvesting it as raw material is a frightening prospect. And Smith makes a strong case for the banning of human cloning.

All the while, he is careful to draw a distinction between research involving ESCs and research involving adult stem cells (ASC). The latter procedure is NOT controversial and to this point has proven the most promising in terms of positive medical breakthroughs. In fact, Smith goes on at length in describing all the many wonderful benefits that we can expect and should actively seek through biotechnology.

Biotechnology is very exciting and quite promising. Government funding for biotech is entirely appropriate and should continue. Private R&D should likewise be promoted. But, like in any industry, there must be at least SOME ethical guidelines that should be adhered to if we value the equality of all human beings. When the genetic makeup of humanity is itself altered--like through the creation of clones or human-beast chimaeras--the equality of all human beings is eroded.

What Smith warns against is scientific research completely unhinged from ANY sort of ethical bounds or considerations. He speaks out against a new eugenics that would allow human life to be treated as a resource for harvesting, as if it were a scene right out of "The Matrix."

Smith also provides insight behind the radical ideology driving many cloning advocates (scientism, elitism, transhumanism, etc.) Very important is Smith's discussion of the PR campaign waged by Big Biotech, which seeks large infusions of cash from governments by making lofty promises about the sorts of immediate medical breakthroughs that can come from cloning and ESC research. Such promises play upon those who find themselves or their loved ones in desperate situations, offering imminent miracle cures, when serious medical progress remains years or decades away.

This book is very readable, highly engaging, and strongly recommended!

(This reviewer works for the Discovery Institute, which the author has an affiliation with. Yet, I had zero input or involvement on the book and these views are my own.)

The title is tongue in cheek: This is the ordinary person's guide to how NOT to end up in the nightmare scenario of Aldous Huxley' "Brave New World." The author is a non-scientist, which actually helps, as he explains terms like "somatic cell nuclear transfer," "embryonic stem cell" and "regenerative medicine" so the generally educated reader is enlightened rather than turned off. Smith's argument is that these new biological powers have implications that are far too important to be left to the scientists, the biotechnology companies, and the tame ethicists who work for them -- they pose dangers to our very idea of human equality and human rights. The book closes with sensible recommendations for things society should oppose, and things it should support, to advance medical progress without losing our sense of humanity. A very timely must-read.

In 1932 Aldous Huxley wrote his prophetic and chilling novel, Brave New World. In it he mapped out a future in which science, instead of being a great help to mankind, becomes the undoing of human nature and personhood.

Seventy years on one has to ask where we now stand. Smith thinks the picture does not look good. While we can all be grateful for advances in science and technology which have extended life, healed diseases, and made us all much more comfortable, there is also a dark side to this progress. It is this negative side, and its potential, that this volume addresses.

Smith looks at many of the recent and controversial issues in biotechnology, chief among them, genetic engineering, human cloning and stem cell research. He does a good job of explaining where we are with these developments, and the various possible shortcomings they may raise.

But of real value in this book is the author's concern to not just focus on the biotechnologies alone, but to look at the bigger picture. Where are these developments taking us as human beings? How are these new advances impacting on our understanding of humanity and human worth? Are moral and ethical concerns being swept under the carpet as we race ahead with scientific breakthroughs?

Smith reminds us that it is all too easy for prudence and ethical interests to be sidelined in the chase for fame and fortune. Careful, objective science can easily be compromised and marginalised when so much is at stake.

Smith notes that we now see the rise of a new scientific-industrial complex, every bit as worrying as past alliances with the private sector. Both academia and the scientific community are becoming increasingly cozy with the profit-making community. While that may not be bad in itself, an unduly cozy relationship may well mean trouble ahead.

Thus the reality of Big Biotech is now a genuine concern as much as is Big Oil or Big Tobacco. As but one indication, in the past quarter century $100 billion has been poured into the biotech sector. As a result biotechnology companies today are largely research and fund-raising machines. And the old adage of `those who pay the piper call the tune' is very much a real concern.

And the money trail flows in all directions. Not only does Big Business drive much of the biotech agenda, but the latter in turn spends billions each year in public relations and political campaigns. The industry has many staff working full-time as paid-lobbyists and PR wizards, actively seeking to influence not only public opinion but the flow of tax-dollars.

Of course many of these biotech companies have ethical advisors who are meant to act as a safeguard against any untoward influences. The real fear is that this is just a case of ethics for sale. Many of these bioethicists are simply putting the company spin on things. Few are genuinely objective, neutral and independent. Most are in the pay of their masters and will happily do their masters' bidding. After all, if the main concern is to get a good return on investment to stockholders, what company will hire an ethicist to work against that concern?

Smith documents numerous cases of such questionable ethical advice, and how financial concerns very clearly determine much of the direction of the biotech industry.

Another major concern highlighted in this book is the transformation of objective science into scientism. Scientism is the idea that science alone, unclouded by any moral and other input, can decide what is best for us. Science is seen as saviour and the sole source of truth. The humility and objectivity needed for good science are jettisoned for an ideology that eschews other considerations.

This of course is a real concern, since much of the new bioscience is dealing with issues that have profound consequences for humanity and society. With so much at stake, other influences need to be brought to bear. Philosophical, theological and ethical input is crucially needed, but is often rejected altogether. Science begins to be seen as an end in itself, instead of a means to an end.

Thus science itself is becoming tainted in this process, and any concerns about how humanity may suffer as a result are seldom discussed. But Smith certainly raises the issues. He knows that the political and financial pressures brought to bear on the biosciences are having a very real negative effect.

One clear negative effect is the return of eugenics. This can especially be seen in the rise of Transhumanism. This philosophy states that any means available could and should be used to enhance individuals and their progeny. A very well funded and organised Transhumanist movement is quite clear about its goals: the transformation of human evolution by means of bioengineering and other emerging techniques. The aim is to create a "posthuman" species, free of the defects and limitations of mere humanity.

But the pursuit of human perfection always comes at a price. We should have learned our lessons years ago. But we are ignoring those lessons and repeating those mistakes. All the warnings of Huxley and others are falling on deaf ears.

Thus this book serves as a wake-up call. There are tremendous goods and benefits to come from the new technologies, and Smith is quick to point those out, but there are very real fears as well.

The future is very much in our hands, and Smith reminds us that it is not enough to have science alone or the marketplace alone determine how we proceed. The advances of science and technology need to be counterbalanced by advances in ethical and social reflection. And this volume very nicely serves that purpose.

Yep, I'm a boot wearin' Jewish cowboy! (A doctor, in fact!) I started Country & Western line dancing a couple years ago, and from there I got into boots. Been wearin' 'em ever since!

That said, I was totally blown away by the unbelievable hand-made boots in this book. Spectacularly photographed, they appear as works of art. (I see that the same authors are publishing a book later this year called "The Art of the Boot". You know I'll be buying a copy!). I personally have a couple pairs of wonderful Tony Lama boots that fit like a glove, but the boots in this book are in a different class entirely - we're talking ten times more expensive than anything you might find on the shelf at a western wear store.

It'll be a while before I can afford any of the boots in this book, but it's nice to admire them, and appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that went into making them.

This is a book that works on many levels making it a great introduction to the history, art, and craft of cowboy bootmaking. It quotes Jack Reed, the only owner of a one-man boot shop left in Texas, saying it takes 372 steps to make cowboy boots, but is not detailed enough to list them all. Until I read this book, I had no idea that there was a market in vintage cowboy boots. I found out that original ornate tops can be fitted with a replaced foot to bring old boots back to life. Jim Arndt's photographs of boots, bootmakers, and boot collectors are outstanding throughout and really bring the book to life. The beginning of the book does an admirable job tracing the history of cowboy boots back to the old Texas-to-Kansas cattle drives of the post-Civil War era. This is followed by a great A - Z directory of the various skins that have been used to make the boots including characteristics, care, and current availability. The next section is a great history of the major boot making factories and the people behind them with chapters on Justin, Nocona, Tony Lama, Lucchese, and Rocketbuster. The rest of the book covers the rest of the cowboy boot business and personalities. Included are descriptions of individual bootmakers and cowboy boot collectors. Each is lavishly illustrated with pictures of them and their boots. The author and photographer are avid collectors and their collections are covered in this section of the book. The book ends with an outline of the retail side of the industry. Major sellers of new and vintage boots are described and a state-by-state Store Guide is included. Of course, not every state has a custom bootmaker or a vintage cowboy boot store, but you can still find the nearest one if this book has convinced you that you are ready for the next step above looking in the Yellow Pages under Western Apparel. The only place where I felt this book went too far is when they say in the caption to a photograph: "the details of this pair of boots could be compared to a fine oil painting." But if you want a basic knowledge of cowboy boots, or love to look at cowboy boots either in a store or on other people's feet this is the book for you.

This is Tyler & Jim's first "boot book" and it has turned more people into boot collectors and bootmakers than any other.

I think it's because of the great personal stories it tells ...and the portrait Jim took of each maker. This book has the look and feel of a treasure map.

Originally printed in 1992, it's remarkable that it's still in print. Get it while you can.

If your're looking to buy this book then you've probably heard of the legendary book titled "Texas Boots" now out of print. Don't fret--this book is better. Whereas the older book was mostly black and white, this one has beautiful color pictures, and most of the bootmakers listed here are still alive. In fact, if you buy this book don't bother to consider "The Art of the Boot" by the same author as the two books are about the same, except that Art costs more and has a few more pictures, but the Cowboy Boot Book has a much better history of the cowboy boot.

Filled with great photographs and lots of info, this book is a visual kick in the butt as well as an interesting look at wearers and makers of boots. (Surprise inside - Imelda wasn't the only one with a problem.) The author's interest in the fancy, short boots of the 40's is apparent in the book; after all, they are fascinating to look at. On the other hand, there is not a lot of history associated with the development of the cowboy boot as an article of working clothing, or how it became a touchstone of American culture. In a nutshell, the book is a magnificent coffee table work that is much too informative to leave in the living room. There is nothing else quite like it in print and it is a must have for anyone into things Western.