T Books

Roger von Oech is one of the power houses in creativity books. This particular tome is an example itself of a creative endeavor. Perhaps some of these ideas are expressed elsewhere by Oech or others but the presentation here is what makes a difference. I found myself ruminating and thinking of how each of these sayings can help me out of current conundrums and I did find myself at least seeing situations from different perspectives, which can sometimes be the way to start finding a solution. The book is a very quick read and should be a reference in anyone's creativity book collection.

Seems to me a different approach and format with the same recommendations as his other books. Read the authors other stuff along the way and this one is creative in its layout and approach but found it more of the same. Had trouble staying with it.

I am a raving fan of Roger von Oech's creative work as embodied in his books & card decks, namely:

Books:

- A Whack on the Side of the Head;
- A Kick in the Seat of the Pants;
- Expect the Unexpected;

Card Decks:

- Creative Whack Pack;
- Innovative Whack Pack;
- Ancient Whacks of Heraclitus;

I have used all his creativity stuff ever since I started my own strategy consulting (& book store) business in late 1991.

From my personal & professional experience, I would like to say that the entire collection of Roger von Oech's creative work has been designed to serve three strategic purposes:

- understanding - & removing - your mental blocks;
- breaking your habitual patterns;
- shifting your focus & changing your paradigms;

As a matter of fact, once you appreciate & commit to these three strategic purposes in your life, you will soon realise that there is nothing in this world to stop you from getting rid of old ideas & getting new & fresh ideas.

Allow me to quote Edward de Bono: "...the mind is habitually uncreative - it is usually preoccupied with organising masses of incoming data into convenient patterns. Once this pattern is established, then the mind tends to rely upon that pattern in future situations, in order to facilitate decision making & action in an otherwise complex world..." (The Use of Lateral Thinking).

Breaking old habitual patterns is definitely the first & foremost priority in your journey to creativity!

Once your shift your focus, you begin to change your paradigms or the way you look at the world around you. Always remember this: Your brain follows the direction of your dominant thought. Once you focus on something, that thing becomes the foreground. Everthing else will fall into the background. Most opportunties are unfortunately hidden in the background. The moment you begin to shift your focus, you are pushing the 'foreground' into the 'background', & pulls the 'background' into the 'foreground'. Get it?

'A Whack on the Side of the Head' will help you to break through your mental blocks. They will open up your mind for innovation. This book is filled with provocative puzzles, exercises, stories & helpful tips.

'A Kick in the Seat of the Pants' takes you on a guided tour through the four stereotype roles of the creative process - Explorer, Artist, Judge & Warrior. Understanding - & applying - these roles will fire up your personal & professional creativity. Tactically, they will change your mental focus as you change to play each of the four roles. I would like to add one more role from what I have learned from the Japanese creativity experts: Antique Dealer. This singular role will allow you to combine all the four roles into one.

'Expect the Unexpected' uses thirty of Heraclitus' (the world's first creativity master) epigrams as creative springboards. It has intriguing questions designed to topple old habits of thought & fire up your imagination.

All the three card decks are basically extensions of the three books, to allow convenient usage during brainstorming sessions.

From my strategy consulting experience, these three card decks have proven to be inexhaustible sources of inspirations.

In fact, the Innovative Whack Pack combines the creative power of both the 'Creative Whacks' & 'Ancient Whacks of Heraclitus'.

I strongly urge readers to seriously consider having the entire collection of Roger von Oech's creative work added to your Creativity & Inovation Library, & all the three card decks placed permanently on your desk top at all times.

Roger von Oech, the founder and president of a consulting firm that specializes in stimulating innovation and creativity, has written a very enjoyable and mentally invigorating toolbook for unleashing the power of thirty of the passed-down paradoxical sayings of the ancient Greek philosopher, Heraclitus (500 B.C.E.). If you want to improve your ability to "think outside the box," then this little book may be just the right tool for you.

Why Heraclitus, and what is his connection to creative thinking and innovation? According to von Oech, "I've been consulting Heraclitus for many years, and he rarely lets me down. Indeed, if creative thinking involves imagining familiar things in a new light, digging below the surface to find previously undetected patterns, and finding connections among unrelated phenomena, then I believe that Heraclitus is the world's first creativity teacher. His ideas not only inspire us to think in these ways, they also provide us with strategies to understand our problems in a fresh manner. For these reasons, Heraclitus is the guide I turn to whenever I need a new perspective."

The book is well researched with a lot of good supporting stories, examples, and historical anecdotes that brought to life the meanings of Heraclitus' sayings. Von Oech did a great job of showing how these sayings can be applied to everyday situations when creative and innovative solutions to problems and challenges are needed. The book also contained many thought-provoking sketches and good introspective questions to further stimulate individual creative thinking.

Von Oech identified three ways to read and use the book. The first is to read it straight through like a creativity workbook to find some ideas you can apply to your life. The second way is as a source for daily meditation by reading and focusing on one saying each day for the next month. Lastly, you can consult it like it was an oracle to help you break out of your normal thinking patterns when you need a shot of creativity. I read it like a workbook, liked how it made me think, and now I am using it for daily meditation. I will also use it as an oracle to help me deal with some challenging issues.

I believe that this book has the ability to unlock the potential of my creative spirit, and I believe it can do the same for anyone who reads it.

A number of years ago, I read Roger von Oech's A WHACK ON THE SIDE OF THE HEAD. It was fairly early in my career, when the mold is still unformed but the message was poignant. Recently, when I ran across EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED and saw von Oech was the author, I decided to pick it up and renew myself to von Oech's teachings. What a breath of fresh air he offers with EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED.

von Oech draws heavily upon the ancient wisdom of Heraclitus, the Greek philosopher. Heraclitus, like Parmenides, postulated a model of nature and the universe which created the foundation for all other speculation on physics and metaphysics. The ideas that the universe is in constant change and there is an underlying order or reason to this change-the Logos-form the essential foundation of the primary Heraclitean view. Everytime one walks into a science, economics, or political science course, at most any level, significantly all the teachings originate with Heraclitus's speculations on change and the Logos.
Despite this and the fact the ancient Greeks considered Heraclitus one of their principal philosophers, precious little remains of his writings. The passages remaining are tremendously obtuse, not because they are quoted out of context, but because Heraclitus deliberately cultivated an obscure writing style (one that makes one THINK!). However, thanks to von Oech's passion for all that is Heraclitus and his teachings, we are presented with many the ancient 'riddles' and a modern day correlation and translation of each. von Oech recalls being struck with "the Heraclitean bug" while studying in Germany many years ago. Now, he has written a book in which he brilliantly and entertainingly examines concepts such as symbol, paradox, and ambiguity in relation to creative thought.

At the beginning of EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED, von Oech provides the reader with 30 creative insights to consider and explore our creative psyches. von Oech goes through each of the thirty selected epigrams, provides his interpretation along with examples, parables, and questions-the kind that make you go "Hmmm"- all the while stoking the creative being within. von Oech does not attempt to inform the reader that his interpretation is the correct one; to the contrary, he implores the reader to step outside the boundries of conventional thought to find the "correct" answer.

As he was in A WHACK ON THE SIDE OF THE HEAD, von Oech is immensely entertaining. He is an individual who has spent his career assisting others to think creatively. As a byproduct of this career, von Oech has proven himself to be a prodigous creative thinker in his own right. Those in the 'concrete' professions-attorneys, consultants, accountants-will find this book extremely insightful. Thinking in the abstract is incongruent with the 'concrete' professions (I know, I'm one of them). As such, having the fodder to stoke the creative juices, particularly when problem-solving, is a boon to any professional.

At it's small physical size and only 190-odd pages, this book is perfect to keep handy at your desk or any place one engages in thought. I plan to keep it nearby just to refer to when a problem presents itself in an ostensibly unsolvable manner.

Highly recommended.

Reading books about cats to a preschooler, you come upon many books with more wishful thinking than actual knowledge of how cats behave. I'm thinking of those sweet, sweet books in which cat 1 happily accepts cats 2, 3, 4, etc. and they are all best buddies. Alas, that is not how real cats interact. But Charlotte Voake obviously knows cats better than that. Her story of captures the territorial instinct of a cat confronted by a newcomer as perfectly as her illustrations capture the marvelous range of expression in feline posture. Despite the realism, she manages a plausible happy ending that made me laugh out loud. A little gem for cat lovers aged 3 to 300.

I have read many books to my two children over the years (we love to read together) and this is one of our favorites. It is especially good for the younger ones. The story is sweet and gentle and yet full of humor. The illustrations are really engaging -- for both adults and children. Charlotte Voake draws the best cats ever! Funny and warm, this is the perfect bedtime book.

Here is another good book by Charlotte Voake, a woman who obviously knows something about cats.

In this book Ginger gets a new 'friend'. The kitten though proves to be more friend that Ginger can handle and Ginger stocks off to pout.

As a mom I like that this book can be used to teach sensitivity to the needs of others. And though it's not a problem we have, I could certainly see using this book as a segway to discussing certain impending family changes... such as a new child coming.

Four Stars. [B+]. Artwork is even better than in "Ginger Finds a Home". [Ginger is a fat cat now.] Very good read-aloud. Very good art. My two children (boy and girl) love this book.

This is a book about Ginger, a lovely orange tabby who belongs to a little girl who loves him. However, she rocks Ginger's world by bringing home a new kitten, who wants to play with Ginger, eat his food, sleep in his basket, etc. Ginger takes the slightly implausible way out of going and hiding in the garden in the rain (behind the refrigerator is more like it.) But all's well that end's well, with everyone friends.

This book is often pigeon-holed as the book for introducing toddlers to the idea of a baby brother or sister, but it also speaks to the cat lover in all of us. We have a cat and a 21-month old, and this book is right at the top of her list. The illustrative style is whimsical without being saccarine, and the kitten's penchant for muscling in on Ginger's food, bed, etc. is true to cats as well as babies everywhere. We both love this book, and look forward to its 101th reading. You will too.

This book is so sweet and the illustrations so simple that I enjoy it as much as my son. It is also a very calm and tender read, perfect for bedtime!

I really appreciate the fact that this book is research based and advocates complementary medicine. I feel it really helped me sort through treatment options and show me how I could help my mother after she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She's currently doing cyberknife therapy, and now I know which supplements can help her with radiation therapy, and what I need to give her now (I chose curcumin or quecertin, vitamins, Ip6 and Maitake mushrooms, and am a Reiki practicioner so I do Reiki on her every night. Even Reiki is mentioned in the book!).

If you're trying to figure out what to do, get this book first. It's also approved by the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, which practice allopathic along with naturopathic medicine in treating cancer.

This book is a must for people with cancer or people trying to prevent. Easy to read and follow, you can start from the beginning or use it as a reference. A keeper for your health and medical library!

This is a great book, tons of information, really helpful and very informative regarding alternative treatments to cancer and things you can do long with conventional treatments.

I found this book to be very informative. As a Pharmacist, I do believe that certain medications are beneficial. However, I also believe in nutritious foods and exercise to be the foundation of a healthy body. This book is an educational tool, but not difficult to read. Enlightening!!

I highly recommend this book if you are interested in preventing or supplementing your cancer treatment with natural medicine. It will save you lots of time in research. I also own and love Michael Murray's Encyclopedia of Healing Foods, another really great, well researched book.

A very good piece of work with some precious pearls of wisdom. An excellent read. Great for newlyweds and seasoned couples alike. Highly recommended.

I am reading this book now. I wish I would've read this book before I got married. Unfortunately, I am divorcing, but I can say that this book is a real pick-me-up. I am now understanding the role of a man and a woman in a marriage and now I know what to look for when I do get married again. The responsibility of a man in the household, How men and women are different, how to get past hurts and how not to be manipulitive. God wants relationships to have order. Work as a team under the guidance of the Almighty. Women and men are the same in the spirit, but they provide a different function. If one person doesn't fulfill their role, the marriage will not work. The love emotions will fade and it will end in disaster! Amen! I went through it. I haven't finished reading all the chapters yet, but I can't put it down. Decide for yourself, it is a real blessing to me. Thanks Bishop Long!!!

Eddie Long presents a book attempting to teach people about Godly relationships and what both sexes require in them. While his intentions are certainly noble, they fell short of pleasing or helping me in several important areas. Before I start my ranting, let me say that he does make some very good points about marriage and the sexes. Heck, the man even points out that Delilah wasn't all bad, and you gotta give him gutsy points for that! I applaud him for certain comments, such as telling men not to blame their wives for their problems and to listen to and value their opinions; he also gives women some good advice about men. So what's my problem with him? Well, in spite of all his seeming understanding of the female spirit, his ideas of a woman's role in society are nothing short of old-fashionedly sexist.

First of all, he began with the fatal error of telling me that wives should obey their husbands. Not submit to, but obey, as though wives are children. Now, I believe that a wife should love and honor her husband, submitting to his needs as he submits to hers (hey, I've read the Bible and I know what a Godly marriage requires). However, the word "obedience" is an absolute no-no in the marriage vocabulary as far as I'm concerned. This obedience thing honestly surprised me, since he had claimed that women are equal to men. Apparently, someone should have explained to him the meaning of equality, because several of his other comments contradict his supposed belief in it.

When he talks about female obedience, he doesn't draw the line at marriage alone, but indicates that a woman's lot in life is to be obedient to a male force: "her father before marriage, her husband after marriage, and possibly a pastor in an intermediate period." So, where's the equality? As an independent woman, there is hardly anything that offends me more than a man presuming to tell a woman that obedience is best for her (isn't that similar to what Southern whites used to tell Africans about slavery?) Other contradictions are visible in his writing; for example, in spite of saying that it's okay for a woman to be single, he indicates that women were made for men, both to give them companionship and to bear them babies. Men NEED women, he says, and women so need to nurture their men. He even pulled the age-old trick of saying that a woman can influence a man by submitting to him. He basically seemed to be saying that we're supposed to obey our husbands and be their mommies at the same time.

Maybe Long realized that he sounded sexist, because he went way out of his way to praise women's strengths and to emphasize how much men need us, so much so that he actually made me wonder why men SHOULD be in charge if we're so great and they're so needy. The final straw for me was his comments about women having jobs. He said, "I think I understand why women take on men's jobs. Either they've been abandoned and forced to work, or abused in the past and would rather work than rely on a man." Um, you forgot a third possiblility, buddy: Maybe we take on "men's" jobs because we're perfectly competent and capable of doing so! Why imply that a woman only works if there's something wrong with her? With this comment, his claim of belief in equality flew out the window once and for all. But then, I should have seen this coming when he said wives should be obedient; how are women to be equals in society if our own husbands don't treat us as such? Marriage is about two people coming together, NOT about the wife morphing into the husband.

I suppose Long and his wife have the right to practice one-sided marital submission, but he doesn't have the right to pass this off as God's will and attempt to cram it down our throats repeatedly. His agenda is clear when he calls disobedient wives "ungrateful" and tells women that if they don't obey their husbands, their marriage will be miserable and their children will be dysfunctional because they won't know how to deal with male/female relationships. Whatever, fella; I fully intend to get married without obeying my husband. I guess I'll just have to pray that my heinous ingratitude doesn't drive my poor family into therapy. Don't be fooled by his sweet talk, ladies; what his message really boils down to is this: it's perfectly okay for a woman to be strong, but only if she stays in her place. Which, in case you weren't paying attention, is consistently under a man's control.

This is an excellent book on relationship within the family and the body of christ. It helps woman and men to know there place and function in the physical and spiritual.

This book helped change my life. The Lord works in wonderous ways!

Almost every parent wishes happiness upon their children more than anything else. "I Just Want My Kids to Be Happy!: Why You Shouldn't Say It, Why You Shouldn't Think It, What You Should Embrace Instead" is a guide to help parents accomplish that goal and plant the seeds of the traits that bring happiness - the seeds of optimism, kindness, and more. A must for any parent striving to promote a good psychological future for their children, "I Just Want My Kids to Be Happy!: Why You Shouldn't Say It, Why You Shouldn't Think It, What You Should Embrace Instead" is highly recommended for community library parenting collections.

This book could not have come at a better time. I was panic-stricken about getting my 15 month old daughter on the wait lists for all of the 'best' pre-schools in my area. I was writing checks, completing forms, filling out more paperwork than I did for graduate school. Why was I doing all this? So she would be happy, of course. As a new parent, I am guilty of saying 'all I want is for her to be happy' but with no thought as to what that means, or why I even say it. This book took my vague concept of happiness and helped me understand what 'authentic happiness' really is, and how to work toward acheiving it, not only for my daughter, but for me as a parent.

I found it to be a very easy read, well-researched, and I really appreciated the fact that the book gave real-world examples on how to apply the theory into our busy parenting lives. I can't recommend this book enough, both as a parent and as a clinical social worker.

I am certain I will refer to this book often as a guide to good parenting as my child grows older.

Helpful, insightful, and filled with great advice, "I Just Want My Kids To Be Happy!" is a book today's parents must read...While parents are more committed than ever to their children's happiness, kids today are more worried, more anxious, and more depressed--a fact the authors point out so well through the use of statistics and examples...If I could afford it, I would purchase a copy of this book for all expectant and new parents. It sheds light on how changes in the focus of what is important have created a society of children who aren't prepared for the realities of life..."I Just Want My Kids To Be Happy!: Why You Shouldn't Say It, Why You Shouldn't Think It, What You Should Embrace Instead" shows parents in an easy and helpful way how to bring up children who are truly happy, not ones who experience short-term pleasure at the expense of long-term happiness...I highly recommend this book to parents, grandparents, and caregivers everywhere!

Many parents confuse happiness with short-term pleasure. Instead of allowing their kids to work through unhappy times, they feel it's necessary to make sure kids never experience disappointment, sadness, and other unpleasant emotions. What parents don't realize is that those feelings help kids grow up to be emotionally mature adults.

Just because your kids appear to be happy doesn't mean they really are. Kids try to please their parents, and you might be surprised to find they're wearing a smile because you've told them you just want them to be happy.

If you're truly concerned about your child's long-term happiness, I'd encourage you to pick up a copy of this book. Both you and your kids will benefit from these suggestions.

Reviewed by: Alice Berger
Bergers Book Reviews

What? We shouldn't want our kids to be happy? Not really, say Aaron Cooper, Ph.D. & Eric Keitel, M.Ed. Instead of focusing on their being happy all the time (causing them to pretend to be happy when they really aren't), we should teach them to accept the full range of feelings so they can handle disappointment, fear, anger, etc.

The authors say that this "...want them to be happy" mantra makes us captive to our kids' moods, feel guilt when they aren't happy, and prevents their learning to cope with adversity.

As co-author of THE COMPLETE SINGLE FATHER, I've heard how single dads who often have their kids part time, every other weekend, or just on holidays, feel they need to make their kids happy to "prove" that they're still a good parent. No doubt single moms feel similarly.

Rather than focusing on our kids being happy, we need to let them know that it's important to be healthy, caring, find meaning in their lives, have fine character, practice acts of loving kindness, and be spiritual.

I JUST WANT MY KIDS TO BE HAPPY is a most unusual and thought provoking book. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, spiritual advisor, etc., this is a special book to open your mind to what really matters in your life and your children's lives and to prepare them for whatever life brings.

I highly recommend this book.

Elaine Fantle Shimberg
ElainesBooks.com
TheCompleteSingleFather.com

I loved this book. It really gives you a feel of what it would have been like to be one of Jesus' deciples. It helps you to understand that even they were not perfect. Highly recommended.

I love and have read several Christian Fiction books. This book "John" is the best I've read. The biblical facts seem very accurate, and what she adds to this character seems very plausible. I found myself referring to the Bible and digging deeper. I love this author! Although this book is Biblical "fiction", it gave my commitment to Christ a little deeper meaning.

Most of us think of John as the lucky disciple - the one who didn't die a martyr. Ms. Traylor makes the point that his lot may have been the hardest of all in this fictionalized account of the life of the young man who stood at the cross with Mary and the old man who wrote the book of Revealation.

Living to be an old man meant, for John, the horror of seeing everyone he ever loved die - not only Jesus but his earlier mentor John the Baptist, his brother James, best friend Peter, adopted mother Mary and even the young disciples following Paul. It isn't until the end of his life that he comes to understand, through what he learned from Christ, that it's our souls and not our bodies that count. Only then is he given the rather dubious gift of the vision of the Apocalypse, ad he finally understands why he was meant to survive his loved ones.

The book is quite biblically sound, with the possible exception of the notion that Mary sister of Lazarus was the love of John's life - and althought it's not mentioned in the Bible there's no real reason why it couldn't have been true. All the characters are well written, so you feel awful when John looses them even though you know what's going to happen (I especially liked the charming portrait of Peter's brother-adoring and painfully shy "little" brother Andrew and the powerful, heartbreaking depiction of John the Baptist's last thoughts). A good addition to your biblical fiction library

I just recently made a decision to read and turn off the TV. The first book that God led me to was John Son of Thunder. I know it's a fiction book and that certain liberties are taken, but Ellen does an awesome job of sticking to the Bible. I really felt like John. I felt his love for his two mentors (John the Baptist and Jesus). I understood why he got the title "Son of Thunder". I felt his horror and confusion at the crucifixion, and his important part in the first church.
I was in tears the last few Chapters feeling for John and praying that I might know what it means to give as much of a sacrifice for Jesus.

From the banks of the river Jordan-to the End of the World on Patmos Island! This story of an angry Jewish teenager who becomes best friends with the Son of God is a monumental work. Filled with action, danger, romance, sorrow, and the everlasting friendship with Jesus of Nazareth, this is an epic for all ages. Please, read it and enjoy!

great purchase for any kid at heart who grew up in th 80's. could've been more inclusive. may i suggest a part 2?

I am a big 80's fan and this book seemed interesting so I figured that I would give it a shot. I am soo glad that I did. I love the writers sarcasm and memories about the toys mentioned in this book. The book is like a trapper keeper, with the opening on the side. There are 32 toys mentioned in this book. I think I'm a little to young to remember some of them , but I know most of them. I showed the book to my brother who just flipping through it was laughing. It was so fun to talk about the toys.

After buying this book for my brother for Christmas (which he loved too btw) I Got this book yesterday for myself and read it all last night:):):) it's exactly what I was looking for a great nostalgia filled trip down memory lane....I thought I was a complete 80's geek but some stuff in this book I hadn't even heard of.....even though it's written by two guys and has a lot of "boy" toys....there were still all the major "girl" toys in there too....and I loved the candid stories they shared especially the babysitters club and punky brewster doll (sorry action figure) too cute:):):)it is nicely set out and presented really well.....a great gift for 80's children everywhere:):)I hope they will do another one from the 80's tv shows/fads etc.....and even the 90's too:):):)good job guys:):)

There's a certain innocence about the 80's that seems very transparent by today's standards. But in the 80's... we all thought that we were living a revolution of cutting edge pop culture. Little did we know that those years would pale in comparison to the childhood trends of the 90's & 2000's. I really believed that I had dismissed from my mind most of the decade and rightly so, it seemed so 20 something years ago. But honestly this book made me really appreciate what I had forgotten. Being a kid of the Reagan Era, I lived through the 90's thumbing my nose at most of these pop culture icons (and listening to grudge rock). I bought "Just Can't Get Enough" as a passing fancy (being a follower of vintage toys), not knowing that the personal stories and memories of the authors would be the gems within.

The Book Itself - It's pretty neat really. The chapters are each a certain 80's icon, divided into small subsections with titles like, "The Story" or "The Products" or "What Does It All Mean?" All of this wrapped up in a suedo-Trapper Keeper style cover with a velcro clasp. When reading the chapters, you begin to appreciate how much time and effort was put into this book. With chapters devoted to Transformers, He-Man, Madballs, Scratch N' Sniff stickers, Garbage Pail Kids, etc., the book gives equal focus, regardless of obscurity. I particularly liked the toys that I remembered fondly from childhood, but also enjoyed the great details about toys I never knew - i.e. Pogo Ball or "Pogo Bal" as the writers note humorously. The authors treat us to most of the usual suspects of the decade, but there are a few rarely honored candidates such as Crossbows And Catapults, Choose Your Own Adventure books, and Hit-Stix among others. Also, there are some obvious misses such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, Gremlins, Get Along Gang, Shirt Tales, Smurfs, Pound Puppies, etc. Hopefully these oversights make way for a follow-up volume. But what you do get makes up for anything not included. First thing you will notice is the great writing style. I particularly like the sarcastic overtone that seems to permeate from every page, pure "Gen X" humor at its best. These authors go to great lengths to make each chapter witty and nostalgic. In fact, if you are unable to feel an overwhelming sense of nostalgia after reading this book, then you most likely were born after Operation Desert Shield... or during the hay days of Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. Whether you relive the 80's regularly or haven't looked back since 1990 - this book is going to trigger fond memories... or at least jar something loose from the painfully hidden recesses of the mind.

My Personal Reaction - I found myself on several occasions laughing out loud. My girlfriend seemed frustrated with me continually interrupting her TV watching by loudly exclaiming, "listen to this" as I read aloud large passages time and time again. Finally she picked up the book, which was a big mistake for me... since it took me quite a while to get it back. She appreciated different sections (the My Little Pony, Strawberry Shortcake, Rainbow Brite). It was like going to Toys 'R Us from your childhood; you either were in the boys section or over in the pink section if you were a girl - no matter which, it was fun. So I can say, there is something for everyone, boys and girls alike. Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by my fascination with chapters like the game Guess Who?, which I actually hated as a child. The more ridiculous the idea the funnier the commentary became as the authors put it all in perspective. And when I say perspective, I mean being a 20 something or 30 something adult. There is some crude humor in here that is not at all pointed to the young kids we once were. But honestly, do we expect any children today to even bother reading this? I can plainly put that to rest - kids today would never "get" what this book is about. Once you start reading, remember this isn't just a book about the items; it's a book about how they all relate to us - the children of the 80's. So don't get caught up expecting a long treatise on the history of everything 1980's, that's not what it's about.

Final Thoughts - I read this only wanting more. The only fix for your "jonesing" would be to share this with others. If you buy this book, then don't forget to invite your other Gen X friends or siblings or whoevers to a fun filled day in the way-back machine. I highly recommend this book as a fan of humor and 80's pop culture. But, if you only want to see details of 80's toys - minus the nifty sarcasm, then check out Action Figures of the 1980s (Schiffer Book for Collectors) - it's loaded with great pictures. But be warned, that book doesn't have a one-tenth the laughs of "Just Can't Get Enough." If the authors do nothing else, then this book is still a masterpiece in its own right and worthy of a notable writing career. I hope this isn't the end though; there are plenty of unvisited pop culture products still lurking in our memories for "Just Can't Get Enough"... Volume 2.

I bought this book before Thanksgiving this year and after reading it through myself, I had to take it back home with me for the holiday. My cousins and I sat around reading out loud many of the hilarious comments about all the toys we loved growing up and laughing at all the ridiculous (or should I say redonkulous?) toys from our youths. The book jogged our memories on all the toys we couldn't remember on our own now and really made us long for the silliness of the toys of the 80s. It's a hilarious book and really fun to sit around with friends and just remember the good times with the redonkulous toys of the 80s. (and for the record, I STILL want the U.S.S. Flag!!)

Reviewed by Katherine J. Turcotte

When a little girl named Lauren questions the belief in leprechauns, two leprechauns, Maddy and Be-bub, from a land faraway called Shrilannon, answer her letter and head off on their magical flying shamrock to visit her just in time for St. Patrick's Day.

What a magical tale this is to share with your wee ones just in time for St. Patty's Day!

Laura and the Leprechauns reinforces the use of imagination and creativity - something that children need more than ever in these days of high tech.

Author Amber Kingston writes and illustrates this charming book. Amber enchants the reader by using a variety of mixed mediums which include real photographs, lots of glitter (that children adore) and delightfully colored pencil drawings.

Let Laura and the Leprechauns be a stepping stone to planning a fun-filled day of imagination and play with your children!

Armchair Interviews says: This is a book your children will come back to time and time again!

Reviewed by Eric Zeda (age 9) for Reader Views (1/08)

This story is about a little girl named Laura who believes in leprechauns. Her friends tell her that leprechauns do not exist, so she writes a letter to find out if this is true. Two leprechauns, named Be-bub and Maddy, receive her letter and decide to pay her a special visit. They travel a long distance on their magical shamrock to find Laura and prove to her that leprechauns are real. When they get to her house, they leave clever notes and clues. Laura wakes up on St. Patrick's Day and finds a wonderful surprise. She makes special friends and has a wonderful time.

I really enjoyed this book. The illustrations and pictures are great. I like the way some of them sparkle because they are covered with glitter. I also liked pretending that leprechauns are real and that magical things exist. I recommend "Laura and the Leprechauns" to anyone who likes to believe in magical beings, and likes to use their imagination.

Great book that is well illustrated and edited. Everyone should read this book even if it is not St. Patrick's Day. It is well written book that parents should share with their children.

This is a beautifully illustrated children's book. Laura is a little girl who writes to the leprechauns because she believes in them, but her friends don't think they exist. Two friendly leprechauns receive her letter, and decide they should go visit. They take their magic shamrock and fly day and night to reach her. The leprechauns leave hints for her to figure out they are there. When they finally meet, they enjoy a lovely St. Patrick's Day tea party together by the lily pond.

The story is well written, and moves quickly. The lovely illustrations bring the story to life; my favorite is the one where they are riding their shamrock in the night sky. Many of the illustrations that include the leprechauns are enhanced with glitter, a refining touch. While their meeting occurs on St. Patrick's Day, I would read this story to my boys any time of the year. We are of Irish descent, and leprechauns are always welcome in our house!

"Laura and the Leprechauns" by Amber T. Kingston is an imaginative story and captures the magic of the world of leprechauns. The story is appropriate for reading during any season, and will soon become a St. Patrick's Day favorite.

Amber skillfully used both visual and written communication mediums. The radiant colors used in her stunning illustrations bring life to these legends. Amber uses captivating photographs in overlays with her beautiful paintings depicting the bushes and hedgerows where the leprechauns hide. Twelve of the pages feature sparkling glitter, which will stir up and enhance the creative imagination of the young reader and add to the sparkle and magic of narrative.

Inspired by the imagination of a seven year, Amber takes the reader on an amazing journey as Laura's wish come true. The author's word choice is age appropriate. The illustrations and dialog communicate the wholesomeness of children, through their facial expressions, and the sense of emotion they project. The book reminds the reader, whether young or old, anything is possible when you believe hard enough.

"Laura and the Leprechauns" is a timeless story of belief in Leprechauns and is destined to become a classic in children's literature. This is a book that will endure time. It should be added to school libraries. It will make a perfect gift of any occasion.

Poignant, powerful stories. Beautifully written with a distinctive and important design. This book's not to be missed--by you, your friends, your business colleagues. Bravo!

Within his book A Leader Becomes A Leader, Kevin Sheehan delightfully illustrates the essence of true leadership. He poignantly definies a diverse group of past and present leaders; while exploring their life events and characteristics of greatness. Encourage your friends, family and coworkers to read this motivational book!

The author does a phenomenal job of breaking the topic down into small manageable and inspiring readings; also covers a great cross-section of leaders and the characteristics that made them successful. I ordered a dozen copies as executive and motivational gifts.

J. Kevin Sheehan presents a celebration of what's possible in his biographical snapshots of great leaders. By focusing on the unique character traits of outstanding leaders the author transforms the mysteries of leadership into something very real. He answers the question "what made them great?" in an extremely concise and inspirational style. Great as a corporate gift or graduation present. My children have used it for school projects and I have found inspiration for my own business. No home or school library should be without this most valuable tool.

What I love most about "A Leader Becomes A Leader" is it's timeless simplicity. I can take this book (turn off the television) and spend quality time with a young child, parent, teacher, grandparent or peer and connect on a visual, thoughtful and emotional level. These inspiring stories remain simple, true and steadfast in their messages of perseverance (and are told with grace). A thoughtful journey through and towards what is really important in life. A great exploration on human potential. This must be shared!

Used this book in the core MBA course - excellent summary of class lectures & very helpful supplement.

I am currently attending an MBA program and we are using this book in one of our operations classes. Highly recommend this book to schools and students who would like to learn how to solve the supply and demand problem!

First, this book is very easy to read. Throughout the book, the authors used different examples to illustrate the various challenges in realistic settings such as the patient waiting and serving time at the interventional radiology unit. The readers can easily extend and relate the examples in real life.

Second, this book is good for the classroom setting as well as the self study setting. The book is organized in a way that each chapter is focused on one operations management problem and shows the systematic ways to solve the problem. For self learner, one can easily select the topics and chapters of his/her interest.

Also, I found the summary at the end of each chapter especially useful for me. To prepare my exams, I use the summary of key notions and equations in each chapter to make up my "cheat sheet".

Again, "Matching Supply with Demand" is a great book and I highly recommend it.

A fantastic book for operations management!

The book cleverly combines real-life examples with relevant concepts to introduce core principles in operations managmenet.

It is well-organized, easy to understand,and highly relevant.

I found this text book to be extremely helpful in understand and applying operations management. It includes a comprehensive introduction into topics like process flow, estimating and reducing labor costs, batching, the impact of variability, projecting uncertain demand, reactive capacity, risk pooling and several others.

More importantly, the models and examples used are not only practical, but actually interesting. Class discussions were drastically improved due to an increased interest in the cases. I'm sure it took a monumental effort to develop models and cases that make Operations Management interesting to the common student.

I am an MBA student who has used this course book for our first year operations class. The book tackles difficult topics in a very easy to read way and is extremely well integrated with the associated case book and lecture notes. It provides the right level of detail, enabling students to pick up the tools or delve more deeply into the underlying mathematical constructs. The book does what it says on the label, teaching how to match supply with demand through analyzing process bottlenecks, queuing, lost customers, optimal inventory and yield management and supply chain management issues, such as the bull-whip effect and tackling double marginalization. This is a great introductory book to operations management.