Stone Books

I surprisingly enjoyed this book. I purchased a few other stone wall books with the intention of building my own wall. I originally did not buy this book because other reviewers indicated not any pictures & a few drawings (this is true). But it is a easy read & tells of the pleasure of building in addition to techniques.

This is a wonderful book...it's about stone walls, and about building stone walls, and all the things stone walls have meant and done for 350 years, and what it feels like to live and work in a place where just past the urban sprawl every one of those 350 years blends with this one (and if you look out the corner of your eye there're older times than that hiding in the shadows.)

It's not a homeowner howto, though it's got everything you can learn from a book. It's a book for masons who love their craft, New Englanders who love their home place, and anyone who likes good work. Whatever that means to you.

Of the half-dozen books I bought in preparation for recycling some of the old stonewalls up through the woods on our farm into a new retaining wall, this is my clear favorite. It is more detailed than John Vivian's Building Stone Walls, particularly when it comes to retaining walls. Because it is not as glossy and illustrated as Haywards' Stone in the Garden or David Reed's Stonescaping (which are, by the way, both excellent in their own right), I'm not as wary about taking it out to the project with me.

The text is clear and concise, and includes a healthy dose of stone philosophy and the index is detailed enough to help the do-it-yourselfer find what he needs, but short enough so that he can find what he wants, even if he does not know the proper name for it.

However, the main reason I like this book so much is Gardner's assurance that anyone who puts his mind to it -- which includes me -- can build a stone wall. While his respect for old stone walls and the art of building them is obvious, he also has a healthy dose of practicality. "The notion that all, or even most, of the old stone-work we see around New England is the result of concentrated applicaion of arcane skill," he write, " is demonstrably false." Once that sacred cow was out of the way, my confidence level went up and anything seemed possible.

The black & white drawings that illustrate the text are clear and very helpful.

The Granite Kiss is an endearing look at the practical and esthetic aspects of creating and repairing stone walls. The book has an artistic quality with its extra wide pages with pen and ink drawings of walls under construction or old walls still standing. There are no photos.

There is a feeling of working alongside the author while he idly rambles about the task at hand and jobs he has completed in his career. I especially enjoyed his nicknames for the various rock shapes likely to be found in any imperfect rockpile and the relationships the shapes may have to each other in a completed wall. All in all, stone wall building is a task of patience and persistance - which the author relays in topics such as: spreading the "good" rocks out; working with rocks that are not perfect blocklike shapes, time management; and what is likely to stand the test of time.

This is a book to get you into the slow and methodical, but contemplative mood for learning and practicing this dying art.

Green Stone of Healing is a fast-moving, complex fantasy series that follows four generations of strong women and the mysterious green stone that binds them to their people and culture as well as to each other. First in a series, The Vision nimbly covers the political, religious, and societal forces that converge in one person: Helen Andros. A very human heroine, Helen is trapped by forces from within as well as without. She struggles to understand who she is and her fate, while impacting nearly everyone around her. Her desires and best intentions often run afoul of her temper and her fierce stubbornness not to conform.

Snared in other people's webs of fear, deceit and power-grabbing, she becomes the loci of negative attention from the priests, rulers and military officers of her society. The Green Stone of Healing is destined to change her entire society, not just Helen.

Some readers will relate to her wild, compassionate heart and struggle to realize her destiny while keeping body and soul intact. Others will appreciate the fast action, complex political machinations and sometimes shocking violence of a society on the edge of implosion. There's magic woven in with the mundane realities. The author explores the concept of grand human cycles as represented by the multi-generational nature of the series and the reincarnation of the primary characters.

As a journalist and professional writer, Talmadge knows how to tell a story. This first book will hook you for the others to follow.

This is an intriguing book, and one showing considerable imagination. The plot lines maintained my interest throughout. The story never dragged and that is quite an achievement Not many authors nor books can lay claim to that. I quickly lose interest when I continually have to uncross my eyes. That never, ever happened with "Visions".
The author weaves a tale of moral fortitude,disturbing venality, hints of past wars and portents of future strife. Sexual aspects and tensions are appropriately presented as undertones, but do not go unnoticed.
The setting is somewhat futuristic and is cleverly presented what with skimmer and rotor vehicles. The author allows the reader to make what we will with this aspect of the story. This is a good way to do this.
I strongly advise studying the Glossary first. I didn't and had to play catch up. The Glossary is very interesting in and of itself. It is further evidence of the imaginative scope of the book.
The writing is excellent. It is very, very clearly written. This attribute cannot be overstated. I am sure I have read books as well written but none come to mind just now.

I am looking forward to an early release of the sequels and I hope they tie up some of the deliberate loose ends (hooks)left unaddressed. I heartily recommend "The Vision" to any thinking adult reader.

This first book in a projected multi-book saga introduces us to Helen Andros, a feisty and appealing military physician in a world ruled by malign reactionary theocrats and riven by racial distinctions -- a world vaguely reminiscent of the contemporary US of A. Lieutenant Andros goes through more trials, both literally and figuratively, than the perils of Pauline, and, while she doesn't always come out on top, she makes for good company, with an irrepressible, wise-cracking style that blends elements of heroines from film noir and screwball comedy. The writing is solid, and a glossary at the back of the book helps readers keep track of an extensive cast of characters which includes virtuous, conflicted heroes like Lord James and Lord Matthew and hissable villains like Prince Enoch. Despite the bleak world of Azgard conjured by the author, the book feels humanistic and warm, and its concluding vision (the vision of the title) whets reader interest in future installments.

The Toltecs dominated the island, narrow minded and set on power and domination their rule and their say so was law. They especially were against the Turanians, blue or green eyed people, their hatred ran deep for them, and there was a reason why although we are not fully aware of what it is in this first book of the series.

In the beginning of this read we meet Helen, a doctor in the service of the military, and one of great knowledge, but one that has little respect in the world she lives. Although few can deny her ability in healing; her independent rebellious nature causes anger in some and fear in others.

Helen Andros, daughter of Miriam Andros, a healer, is considered a half-breed, a beautiful woman with green eyes.. A woman who at the beginning of the read does not know who her father is, nor if her mother is alive or dead, after being sent away from her at a young age. The only thing she has is a necklace her mother gave her, one that has a green stone. This stone was given to her mother by Helen's father years ago, and has healing and protective powers, although Helen is not aware of that fact.

Despite the dislike of Helen, her abilities as a physician cannot be denied, and when the Prince falls ill, she is secretly ushered to his side. During this time she is arrested for entering the city without permission and her life begins to change due to one man, Lord Mordecai.

Lord Mordecai holds the title of Lord Protector and is respected among his people, but seeing the green stone that is now the property of Helen and her striking resemblance to her mother he knows she must surely be his daughter. Although he was never aware she existed. A confirmation is also given when a letter is read from Miriam naming him as the father.

A decision must be made by him; does he acknowledge that Helen is his daughter, for if he does it may well be the end of his career or even his life. Yet, he is a man of honor and the love that he still holds for Miriam spills over to his daughter and he saves her from certain death.

In this book you begin to taste the start of the supernatural; powers that some seem to have yet also seem to be hidden. You are given the knowledge that people of different civilizations that are at odds with one another will soon have their lives altered, although you are not sure how; but you realize that good is desperately trying to override the evil that is present.

I believe this first book is to introduce you to all the characters, their position in the series and their relationship one to another. The author includes a glossary of who's who at the end of the book, and also information of the different areas you will be reading about. This is a great help, because the story is complex and the characters and locations can be confusing, however they all are needed and flow together to begin a somewhat mystic tale.

Did you ever see a movie that has several parts and you have to wait until the next night to see what is going to happen? You sigh, because you say within yourself, " Oh it was just getting good!" that is how I felt when this work ended. The groundwork being laid, the author begins to uncover some secrets, but the answers await you in book two.

Those who love deep intricate stories, full of mystery and action, dripping with power struggles and battles for dominion, this work is for you. Just what is the secret behind the "Green Stone," that Helen wears proudly around her neck? What is the history of this stone; and how will this effect an entire civilization? The answers are in the future.

Shirley Johnson

Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (7/06)

Traditionally, haiku is Japanese poetry that is written on three lines. The first line and the third line are composed of 5 syllables and the second line has seven. "The Haiku Apprentice," written by Abigail Friedman, takes us through her journey of discovering how to write Haiku well. It is really more than just those three lines. The Haiku Society of America defines Haiku as, "A short poem that uses imagistic language to convey the essence of an experience of nature or the season intuitively linked to the human condition." Through Friedman's experiences, she not only learns how to write haiku, but she also learns about the culture and the lives of other haiku writers in her group. As you read her story, you also learn about the richness of the culture. Friedman is able to convey how the Japanese people are able to connect their writings to their lives. As a people they work hard on doing everything well. When you are in their country, you really see this. It doesn't matter what their jobs are, or how menial a task might seem, they do it well. From my personal experience, they are very gracious people. Friedman conveys this in her writings. It adds to the richness of her memoirs. Just reading her story alone is enjoyable, especially when you are learning about her experiences as a diplomat in Japan. I really think that a haiku writer who is not well versed in the Japanese culture will be able to write much better after reading "The Haiku Apprentice". I enjoyed learning about haiku by reading her story, rather than a textbook. This is also a great book to read if you are interested in writing haiku or starting a haiku writer's group. At the end of the book, she offers information and advice on how to start a group. She also has a list of questions to stimulate discussions for a readers group.

Ms. Friedman's first literary work is a delight to read and most helpful to anyone interested in learning about Japanese poetry. She painstakenly explains her journey into the Japanese culture necessary to appreciate the feelings and emotions expressed through the Haiku.
It's refreshing to read how this remarkable woman can balance her devotion to her family, her diplomatic career and yet develope an interest in the Haiku.
It's a good relaxing read at anytime and in any place.

The Haiku Apprentice: Memoirs Of Writing Poetry In Japan by Abigail Friedman is not a standard poetry collection, but rather the personal memoir of an American diplomat in Tokyo who discovered that anyone can enjoy the pleasure of writing haikus. Learning to express herself in haiku introduced her to a literary and cultural world in which poetry was more than a vehicle of expression; it was a means by which neighbors and friends could form a connective bond and see the world in a new way. The Haiku Apprentice is a warm and inviting autobiographical story, and also a kind of loose blueprint for forming haiku or other poetry-writing societies in one's own backyard in order to better foster communication, understanding, and a fresh perspective ready to absorb the wonders of life. A unique and thoughtful memoir, The Haiku Apprentice is enthusiastically recommended reading.

The Haiku Apprentice is the joyous story of an American diplomat's journey into the realm of haiku while living in Japan. More than that, it is an account of spiritual and political self-scrutiny. Abigail Friedman is a marvelous narrator, and I find it easy to enter her world. Friedman's descriptions are vibrant, while her down-to-earth wit spices the narrative, which is consistently intelligent and sharp.

This writer is careful not to leave linguistic stumbling blocks. She opens doors for less experienced readers, with lucid explanations of Japanese words, pronunciations, and traditions. As Friedman describes her haiku education under the tutelage of Kuroda Momoko, one of Japan's most esteemed haiku masters, readers will surely find it impossible not to learn along with her. Every haiku student should read her discussions of kigo and Zen. She features contextually relevant haiku throughout, including some written by her fellow poets in Japan and a few by the author. Her translations of well-known haiku by the Old Masters invite readers to rediscover their timeless appeal. When seen again through Friedman's eyes, long-familiar poems are newly inspiring.

After the author joins a haiku group, she shares a new awareness regarding haiku poets: "Perhaps all these people had discovered something I was just now learning; that survival in an increasingly complex world requires each of us to tend to our souls, our individuality, more than ever. I needed to nurture my ability to see the world as I saw it, not as others might see it."

Abigail Friedman ends the story of her haiku quest with perhaps her most important insights: "My new name was a reminder to me that haiku is not just about writing about beauty, but is a path of self-discovery. I could not expect to write good haiku if I was not seeking to be true to myself."

This book is delightfully accessible, regardless of the reader's experience (or lack of it) with poetry or Japanese language and culture. I recommend The Haiku Apprentice, not only to haiku aficionados, but also to anyone who enjoys a good read. - Ferris Gilli, Associate Editor, The Heron's Nest

Hannah fifteen has lost her father to the war and her mother to a heart attack. Hannah is the oldest of four children and is determined to keep everyone together. She takes her siblings to Nashville and finds her Aunt dead. They live on the street and than in a refugee camp. This is a great book for adults and teens seeing the Civil War through the eyes of the youth. Read about Hannah's adventures and how she becomes a woman. By Ruth Thompson author of "Natchez Above The River" and "The Bluegrass Dream"

Travelers Qualifying Laps: A Brewster County NovelSins of the Fathers: A Brewster County NovelWriting as a Small BusinessNatchez Above The River: A Family's Survival In The Civil WarThe Bluegrass Dream: A Wilderness Adventure of Early Settlers

Hannah Cameron was just fifteen years old when her father was killed fighting for the Union Army in the Civil War. As residents of Tennessee, his decision to fight against the Rebels in the South caused his family to be hated by most of their neighbors. Shortly after their father's death, Hannah, her nine-year-old brother Jasper, and her five-year-old twin sisters Mary and Maude are left orphans when their mother suddenly passes away after bushwhackers attack them. As the oldest, Hannah must find a way to care for the children, and decides to travel with them to Nashville in order to try to find their only remaining relative. After making the two-hundred-mile journey, the children are devastated to learn of Aunt Ellen's death only six weeks earlier. With nowhere else to go and too worn out to return home, they live on the streets, eventually finding their way to a refugee camp. They remain there for some time, suffering through more trials and hardships, longing for their home in Cumberland Mountain.

Hearts of Stone is a fantastic coming of age novel for young readers. Historically accurate and completely engaging, this dramatic book has won numerous awards. Kathleen Ernst used her knowledge and love of the Civil War era to write this remarkable novel, taking ten years to complete the task. Hannah is a determined young woman with the weight of her family's needs on her shoulders, which can quite readily be felt by the reader with Ms. Ernst's descriptive prose. Prejudice, hatred, forgiveness, and strong love for family combine to make Hearts of Stone a novel not soon forgotten. Incidences of stone throwing, stealing, death, and cigar smoking are present, but are needed to show the true circumstances of the time period.

Review courtesy of Sherri Myers and Christian Library Journal

Reviewed by Hannah Helm (age 13) for Reader Views (3/06)

In the book "Hearts of Stone" Hannah, a 15-year old, and her brother Jasper, and her twin sisters, Maude and Mary, lost everything besides each other. Their father went off to war and three months after he left, they got a letter saying that he had died. And that left just her and her siblings along with her mother, but not her mother for long. Her mother died from a heart attack because she got scared by the Army because they came in the house and took a lot of things from them. It scared her so she had a heart attack and dies.

So now that just leaves Hannah and her brother and sisters. And Hannah has to be the older one and take care of the younger ones. Sometimes she just cannot do it because her brother would get mad at her and not listen to her. She knows that she cannot take care of them herself. She knows she has got to do something. There are these families that were friends of their parents and they said that they could take them, but they would have to split apart because they did not have enough money to feed all four of them. She did not want to do that, because the one thing her mother wanted was for them to stay together. So she has to decide what to do.

They have an aunt that lives in Nashville, and Hannah decides to go to Nashville to find her. She thinks it is the only way to keep the family together. Hannah knows that it will be a long and dangerous journey all the way to Nashville. There was this one guy that they meet and they think he is all nice and everything; he was not very nice because he steals their horse. So they have to take only the things they need now and that is food and they cannot take most of that along. Then they meet this guy named Willie and he takes them the rest of the way to Nashville because that is where he was going anyways.

They get there and they ask people if they know their aunt. And then they find someone that knows her. They tell Hannah where she lives and they go there. But they soon find out that she is died. Hannah does not know what to do now.

What will she do???

"Hearts of Stone" is for teenagers and adults, or for really anyone. It is a good book.

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, Hearts of Stone is a multifaceted coming of age tale.


Hannah Cameron is fourteen when her father joins the Union army, making enemies of the family's closest neighbors. Less than a year later, Hannah, younger brother Jasper, and five-year-old twins Maude and Mary are left parentless when their mother dies during a bushwhacker raid on their Eastern Tennessee home.

As Hannah grapples with her new role as caretaker, she must also deal with the very real horrors of war. After leading her siblings in an arduous two-hundred-mile journey to Nashville, Hannah must regroup when she learns that Aunt Ellen, her only living relative, died of a fever six weeks earlier. Alone in the world and demoralized, the Cameron children live on the streets, doing everything they can to stay together. Eventually they end up in a refugee camp, which is both a blessing and a curse, leading to even more trials for Hannah and her siblings.

Inspired by a Civil War reenactment of a civilian refugee camp, award-winning author Kathleen Ernst has crafted an historically-accurate novel that gives insight into the deprivations of war, the fallacy of prejudice, and what it means to be a family. Hearts of Stone is as memorable as it is hard to put down. Its plot has enough dramatic twists to keep even adult readers engaged. And, while protagonist Hannah is Ernst's most fully-drawn character, the other characters in the novel are far from one-dimensional.

Young readers will have no problem relating to the novel's spunky, stalwart protagonist and the lessons that Hannah learns throughout the novel are very appropriate for its target audience. In fact, Ernst seems to construct the story around Hannah's revelations, making them some of the most moving moments of the novel.

Of interest is Hannah's relationship with neighbor Ben, who is subtly cast as her soul mate and helpmeet. In a novel for a different audience, Hannah and Ben would be star-crossed lovers. In Hearts of Stone, however, their relationship is a testament to the importance of overcoming the divisiveness caused by things like the Civil War.

In the end, Hannah's coming of age is less about taking responsibility as it is learning how to forgive. It is only when Hannah forgives her father for leaving -- and forgives Ben for siding with the Confederacy -- that she discovers the true meaning of family and the foundation on which to build a hearth and a home.

Chet Raymo's Honey From Stone is a heart-warming collection of essays. It shares deep and thoughtful ideas with the generous grace of a dear friend. By using the monastic hours as the framework for his essays Raymo gently reminds us of the sacred nature of the universe. By discussing the this universe through the awesome display of its skies he reminds us of the dramatic grandeur we are part of. And he uses the rocky Dingle Peninsula of Ireland to tell us that this awesome splendor, this grandeur and these miracles are right here beneath our feet. In his search for God, Raymo finds it revealed in the stones, the skies and the hedgehogs that delight and inspire his musings. The amount of science that informs his delight is impressive. He teaches geology, astronomy, history, botany and zoology on these rambles as easily as lying on great stones, watching a brilliant meteor shower silently illuminate the skies.

Raymo provides one more well written and often sought answer that bridges the gap between scientific paradigms, religious beliefs and basic human curiosity. The one talent that underlies all of human evolution's ebbs and flows is curiosity. Curiosity drove the first humans to ask the questions, Why? What? When? Where? and our own creative talents answered those questions with scientific explorations into the natural concrete world as well as with more ineffable, spiritual answers of Religion. However, some time ago, as Raymo explains, religion and science suffered a rift and that rift has grown wide . . . losing the recognition of their common beginning. Raymo moves between the vastness of the universe and the equally vast human need for "God" and ties them together again, promoting an appreciation for the big bang, evolution, creation, the unknown recesses and reaches of the world, and the undeniable miracles of life. A sit down, curl up by the fire, read aloud piece that eases all mundane frustrations!

This book is a beautifully written exploration of the Irish coast, the mystery of the stars and the potential meeting of science and spirituality. After reading this book I always look at the night sky with a greater appreciation of the mystery and wonder of the starry night

Chet Raymo's book beautifully reconciles the traditions of mysticism and science. In a form which follows the monastic hours, he uses the natural environment of the Dingle Peninsula in Ireland to discuss the wonder of the Universe. He makes it clear that the more we understand about how the Universe works, the more mysterious and wonderful it is. The prose is simple and clear.This is a graceful and heartening book. I highly recommend it

I was given this book by a patient. The people in the stories are the same as today. The truths he tells and the antedotes are priceless. A must read for medical students and young professionals.

When I first picked up this book, I was interested in it because it was so old. As I read it, especially the first few chapters about his adventures in elementary school (I teach fourth grade) I was pleased. I feel better about the antics my students have gotten into. The rest of the book is an entertaining, yet infomative first hand account of the growth of the medical profession. We have come a long way. I am looking forward to seeing where we go.

I just finished this book last night. I have an interest in medical history, particularly american. The author gives a detailed insight into early american medicine. He was truely a wonderful man and physician. I am a physician and am surprised how many problems he experienced that are still currently problems in medicine. This book is a must read for anyone interested in early american medicine.

This book is excellent for understanding life in the mid to late 1800's, for understanding the speed with which the "practice of medicine" has grown, and growing in honesty with oneself. The humor and joy is the best! And I empathized with the pain and difficulty.

Written for HR Professionals, this book will help you to measure the results of HR initiatives and communicate them effectively to executives. In the world of Human Resources, this book is well organized and useful. This book is practical and tactical, and contains interesting case studies and useful templates. Phillips adapts his ROI methodology for corporate training and applies it more generally to all Human Resources initiatives. Measuring so called "soft" subjects like training and HR has been a difficult and ongoing issue for practitioners who need to convince executives that their work contributes to the bottom line and adds value to the organization. Phillips provides a framework for measurement which, while not perfect, will give you results that executives can understand and help you build the case for why money spent on developing employees is not money thrown away.

Super reference guide. Case studies are well organized and meaningful.

As a former director or vice president of human resources in three different large companies over 14 years, I can't remember the number of times my bosses and peers challenged me to provide the business case for one hr program or another, either when developing a budget for the coming fiscal year, or defending a budget during hard times. For years, I lost more of those arguments than I won because I didn't always hold myself accountable to the same standards to which other functions were held, nor was I expected to. Over time, my staffs and I got better at measuring the impact of our strategies on various measures of organizational performance, and with that came budgetary "victories" and greater respect as business partners. That's what The Human Resources Scorecard is all about, and by reading and using the wisdom it contains, newcomers to the hr function and late adapters of hr measurement, can enjoy in relatively short order success and respect, which are the "price of admission" to the "executive suite". Having achieved that credibility, we then have the challenge of elevating our conversations with our bosses, peers and clients regarding the intangible dimensions of human and organizational soul, but that's another book in this series.

This is a comprehensive guide for evaluating any type of Human Resource Development (HRD) program. Even if you do not have a background in measurement and evaluation, you would be able to pick up this book and begin to understand the important aspects to consider in evaluation and how to plan and conduct an effective evaluation. The case studies in this book are valuable because they go into detail - you feel you have been a part of the program described. The authors are experienced practitioners who have alot to share and they do a terrific job providing the reader with the benefits of their experience.

Being a fan of Irish history and in particular the life of Michael Collins I was very impressed with the content of the book.This book show's the man as he really was to the Irish people.A hero who died in the persute of freedom for his people.

Ever since I saw the outstanding 1996 Neil Jordan film "Michael Collins", I have been fascinated in the story of Collins and the violent early years of the IRA. This excellent pictorial history gives a brief but concise summary of his life, along with dozens of extraordinary and rare photos. From his growing up in West Cork, Ireland, to his tragic death at the age of 31, this book explains his amazing life in a simple, straightforward way that will please both experienced Irish history buffs and "rookies" who're looking for a good place to start.

What I find most tragic about Collins is that after years of fighting the British to achieve Irish independence, he was ambushed and killed by his own countrymen during the Irish Civil War of 1922. There are photos of his fiancee Kitty Kiernan, his best friend Harry Boland, and various IRA associates, and of course photos of his enemies, both Irish and British. There's a particularly chilling photo an R.I.C. Constable alongside two Auxiliaries (known for their brutal methods), all with evil grins and guns drawn. This book is an absolute must for any Irish history buff!

For anyone interested in getting to know more about Michael Collins and Ireland's finally successful struggle for freedom from Britain, this book is an excellent, easily read introduction. It depicts in words and photos a terrible and critically important period in Irish history and introduces the reader to one of the most fascinating and compelling figures in that history or any other. Highly recommended.

Everyone has heard the cliche "A picture's worth a thousand words" and Connolly proves it is true. History comes to life beautifully as the reader is enveloped in headlines, photos, drawings and letters of the time. As well as eye candy, The Illustrated Life of Michael Collins provides an accurate, easy-to-read biography and a palatable political analysis. Unlike some other historical profiles, Connolly stays away from melodrama and hero worship, telling the facts as they were and leaving the observer to make his own choices. A worthwhile purchase for anyone interested in Michael Collins and/or Irish history.

Any fostering an interest in Irish history, culture and peoples will relish the gorgeous blend of color photos and cultural insights to be had from IRELAND: STANDING STONES TO STORMONT. From names and places to Irish legends, mysticism, and peoples, IRELAND captures all this during the author's personal journey through the country, surveying both links to ancient history - architecture, ruins, heritage sites - and modern landscape alike. The author's first-person insights contribute a lovely blend of travelogue and survey. IRELAND could've just as easily been featured in our arts or travel sections, but is reviewed here for its wide-ranging appeal across boundaries, defying categorization.

Diane C. Donovan, Editor
California Bookwatch

The Irish people thrive in two worlds: the earthly and the divine, folklore and the present. To understand today's Irish, one begins in the past with their rich world of mythology. Ancient stories shaped the landscape, as much as they were wrought from it, and remain integrated into the everyday lives of a people who are unalterably tied to their land and generations. Kumpf retells the old stories, while revealing their modern-day form with superb photographs. Like all good art books, you may open it to any page or absorb it from cover to cover. It's a history lesson, cultural survey, and a bit of a tour book rolled into one.

Ireland: Standing Stones to Stormont is more than a "coffee table book." It's a reference filled with dozens of gorgeous photographs of Ireland. But it's also a collection of legends, lore and personal experiences of author Kumpf. I was compelled to read every page, astonished by the incredible pictures and entertained by stories about Irish history, faeries . . . even hazel nuts (my favorite story in the book). Yes, I proudly display this book on my coffee table. And I visit it a lot!

I have read several books on Ireland and this one is my favorite so far. He not only gives you information about Irish history; but, does so in a way that really makes you feel as though you were there. His respect for the heritage, traditions and legends was what I found most enjoyable. Ireland is a country rich in so many ways. It's beauty and stories I never tire of reading or hearing. Tom Kumpf has created a fabulous book which brings out the magic of this wonderful place.

These stories offer insight into the ways people interact. Skillfully and vibrantly written, they will appeal to anyone who wonders what lovers, children and parents are really thinking. Rosenthal's insight into the human heart is stunning, and her quirky sense of humor is an added benefit. I would recommend this collection to anyone who enjoys fine writing, a great sense of humor, and is looking for insight into the ways we live and love.

As Carole Rosenthal exposes the semi-disastrous relations between women and men, one feels as if too bright a light came on over the bathroom mirror: uh-oh, I really do look like that. But exposure of disaster, if sharply poignant, is often comical as well. You can laugh at the sight in the well-lit glass. The sly title, It Doesn't Have To Be Me, also says it IS "me," the ego--everyone's ego--deluding itself the more it tries to rationalize. But delusions secretly recognized and indulged create an absurd triumph of intelligence in these stories. Utterly clear and deadpan in style, right-on in observation, they'll do more for your elusive psyche than an hour with your analyst. Give this book to friends--after all, it doesn't have to be them.

This is a book you should check out if you are interested in stories that are funny, outlandish and filled with trenchant observations about our vulnerabilities--particularly about the gap between what we appear to be on the surface and how we are actually feeling. One of my favorites was "Sweeping the Future Clean"--a story about a newly married woman who clears out her old apartment for her new husband and soon meets a shopping-bag lady, her mirror opposite, wearing the very clothes she has thrown away. Then there is the story about the old college boyfriend which is great too; infact, there are too many good ones to list. Buy or borrow a copy and see what I mean.

Startling and surreal, outrageous and outspoken, Carole Rosenthal's collection of short stories is also hilarious--fun to read, yet serious. I haven't read any collection this rich in a long time.