T Books

This book continues a couple of generations after the first in the Genesis Trilogy left off. I quickly got into this new heroine, Keren's, life, though it was hard to say goodbye to the previous heroine, Annah and her husband, Shem. They make appearances, though, in this story.
Keren's life quickly heats up when she's taken captive by Nimr-Rad (Nimrod) and taken to his city. Again, I really enjoyed reading about this ancient time. The author does a really good job at describing the way of life, both in the rural, highland areas, and in the fledgling city on the plain, from clothing, food & its preparation, even to make-up. Again, I really liked the heroine & hero, but was disappointed that the framework allowed so little communication between the hero & heroine. There was very little development of his character, especially, though the author hinted at past traumas in his life. Then there was a sudden 5 yr. jump in time which threw me off, also, b/c suddenly he and the heroine had an unspoken understanding which the reader had no time to enjoy seeing develop. It wasn't until the very end that they can finally talk to each other. Very frustrating for a romance lover!
But other than that, really good story, and I'm looking forward to diving into the last part of the trilogy.

"Keren noticed Nimr-Rada shifting impatiently. She glanced at him; he was watching her closely, his eyes impenetrable. She felt like prey. Was he wondering why she hadn't bowed? Or if she had returned to the ways of the Most High? Well, let him wonder."

"He Who Lifts the Skies" begins several hundred years after the Great Flood and revolves around the lives of Noah's descendents, specifically Nimrod the great hunter mentioned briefly in the Bible. The earth has drastically changed since before the flood, and man has been given another chance to serve God with a pure heart. Once again, man is beginning to turn his back on the Most High and already the story of the flood is considered folk lore. However there is a remnant who stand true.
Keren, a firm believer in the Most High, is taken captive to the Great City of Nimrod and threatened with her life should she refuse to bow to the king. Will she go against her convictions and bend her knee to someone other than the Most High?
Her beautiful yet immoral sister is a constant source of anguish for her, and a forbidden love tugs at Keren's heart. Her years are filled with persecution and trials, which leaves the reader hungry to know how this young woman will handle each difficult situation.
The storyline of He Who Lifts the Skies is captivating and original and one of the best reads around. A continuation in The Genesis Trilogy, by Kacy Barnett-Gramckow, "He Who Lifts the Skies" should be classified as "a book that can't be put down".

He Who Lifts the Skies, second in the Genesis Trilogy, is a captivating follow up to The Heavens Before. I found myself eagerly turning the pages until the very end.

While The Heavens Before tells the story of the great flood, He Who Lifts the Skies picks up many years later, after the sons of Noakh have had time to multiply and begin replenishing the earth. Already, many of the tribes are walking their own paths and refusing to honor the Most High. Nimr-Radr, a mighty hunter, has declared himself Great King (or He Who Lifts The Skies). Those who refuse to pay tribute to him face swift and painful death.

Keren and her sister Sharah create quite a stir when they are born because of their unusual, light-colored eyes. Until their birth, all people had been born with dark hair and eyes. When Nimr-Radr hears of the sisters with pale eyes, he travels to meet them, wanting them for his own.

While Keren ignores his interest, Sharah seeks the power and honor that the Great King can give her. But Nimr-Radr doesn't want just the one sister, he wants both, and Sharah will not let her sister's wishes come between her and her goal. Keren finds herself in the difficult and dangerous position of being the only one with the power to end Nimr-Radr's rule of tyranny, but at what cost will it be to herself, and to those she loves?

Kacy Barnett-Gramckow does an amazing job with her research, not only making it a fascinating part of a page-turning story, but also leaving the reader with plenty to ponder. The romance is quietly woven into the story, and while it is not as prominent as Shem and Annah's romance in book one, it is equally compelling. Next in the series is A Crown of Stars, which I look forward to reading with much anticipation.

Armchair Interviews says: Second in a wonderful trilogy of stories.

I have been looking forward to reading HE WHO LIFTS THE SKIES for sometime. It is the second part of the three-part Genesis Trilogy. I wasn't for sure what to expect from the first book in the series, THE HEAVENS BEFORE, but really enjoyed that book. I was eager to see how that story would connect with this one.

The Great Flood ended over a century before and once again the Earth has begun to be peopled. However, God told the people to spread out across the Earth and multiply, but instead many of them are coming to live together in one place, the Great City. In the Great City there are no wide pastures for animals to roam or large fields for children to play. Instead, everyone lives in close spaces and it seems that the extreme nearness breeds wickedness. Keren and her older sister, Sharah are descendants of Shem and Annah (the heroine of THE HEAVENS BEFORE). They are unlike any people they have seen because of their pale skin, light hair, and bright eyes. Some would claim that because they are so unique, they are the most beautiful women on Earth. As the girls become women, tales of their beauty reaches the builder of the Great City, Nimr-Rada (Nimrod). He wants the girls for his wives. Sharah eagerly agrees, abandoning her husband and son, but Keren protests and is taken to the Great City against her will. When she arrives she discovers that Nimr-Rada is planning even more wickedness--a huge tower he plans on building that will reach to the Heavens, proving once and for all that mankind does not need the fabled Most High. Keren becomes torn as she tries to find temperance between her own desires and the will of the Most High. Something must be done, but who can stand against a man who kills leopards for sport?

Like THE HEAVENS BEFORE, HE WHO LIFTS THE SKIES is a fictional tale that remains true to the Bible. It's full of vivid images and engaging dialogue. However, THE HEAVENS BEFORE seemed to be more of a romance to me. HE WHO LIFTS THE SKIES includes some romantic elements, but the book reads more like a tale of suspense. For instance, Keren's eldest brother Ra Anan is very mysterious and it isn't always clear exactly what he is plotting and what his plans are. In that since, HE WHO LIFTS THE SKIES is a story that appeals to a bigger audience. I also liked how the story connected so seamlessly with THE HEAVENS BEFORE. The stories complement each other nicely.

If you've read the first book in The Genesis Trilogy, then you definitely need to read HE WHO LIFTS THE SKIES. Even if you haven't you can still enjoy the book. Especially recommended for fans of Biblical fiction.

I have almost given up on fiction retellings of Biblical history as very rarely does an author actually stick to what the Bible states on the subject. Therefore, I was tremendously pleased to read this wonderfully, vividly written story! It stuck faithfully to the Biblically provided information, though there really wasn't much there for this period (post-Flood during the time of Nimrod and the building of Babel). This author not only is a talented writer, but she put a lot of time, research, and thought into what the post-Flood world during this time period would be like. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

After reading Eric Whitfield's book, The Job, readers will be forever changed. Eric's story is all of our stories--losing a loved one, not knowing how to deal, not wanting to. Taking Eric's journey will give those in mourning the blueprint for healing. Readers will believe, love and embrace life again, thanks to The Job.

Your book is a masterpiece..incredible. I am so moved by every detail. It will remain one of the most important hours of my life, honestly. I had no idea it would speak to me like it did. The insecurities and web of uncontrollable thoughts, etc. that you describe are almost a blue print of me. The encouragement in this book is so special. Thank you for sending it to me.

The Job is a very empowering book. It illustrates the significance of relationships changing through death, not ending.

"The job" by Eric Whitfield, is a heart warming journey, through Eric's eyes, about the great love between a child and his Grandfather.
If you have ever lost anyone you love......you must read this book! It brings hope, and serenity to your soul and the peace of knowing that loved ones that have left us, are really never to far away. Good job, Eric!

Eric's story had an immensely effective insight into his past, present, and future. The moment I picked up the book and started reading I did not put it down until I was finished.
This very spiritual and poignant story had an ironic parallel to my own relationship with my grandfather and father who have since passed on but will be remembered dearly.
This book has helped me remember them in more ways than one.
Read it and be inspired...

This book contains an excellent compilation of speeches that cover John Bogle's career and philosophy of investing. Investors at all levels will glean important information and motivation from his recommendations and thoughts on indexing. His thoughts give important ideas to keep financial information and markets in perspective. The only limit on the information in the book is that how much more global investing has become a part of the financial markets. However much valuable information is relevant and available which is key to effective investing.

The book has five parts - the first four are speeches, and the last is his famous thesis. Part I is Investment Strategies for the Intelligent Investor, Part II is Taking on the Mutual Fund Industry, Part III is Economics and Idealism: The Vanguard Experiment, Part IV is Personal Perspectives and Part V is John Bogle's famous Princeton Thesis: The Economic Role of the Investment Company. All speeches are well worth the read, however, the book lends itself to a good ability to pick and choose what you are interested in. A clear and interesting read from a brilliant investment strategist.

I thought I was out of luck to own the book with Bogle's thesis...I'm very happy!!

A good, practical, no-nonsense book on investing that emphasizes returning to basics and tried and true approaches that have always worked over the long term. This advice is especially timely coming as it does in the aftermath of the recent bear market. Bogle points out that it's important to implement an investment program that matches your needs and risk tolerance, perhaps the most important thing in an investing program, since if you can't sleep at night, you probably won't be able to maintain it over the long haul. He also emphasizes that investing needn't be, and perhaps shouldn't be, rocket science, and that you can do quite well in the market over the long term just by matching the performance of the market. As many people found out recently, pursuing a momentum strategy in an era of already overheated PE's and buying the latest hot story stock can be very risky. Following a value-oriented fundamental approach with at least part of your portfolio can be a useful way of reducing volatility and improving your performance even if you're a died-in-the-wool momentum investor.

The best to do this is by following a strategy of just investing in a fund that tracks the major indexes, which does two things. First, it minimizes costs, so you won't pay any management fees as you would for your typical mutual fund. Also, most investors don't realized such costs as advertising and sales expenses are minimal for an index, compared to other funds, and those are typically passed on to the investor in the load or management fee. But the most important reason is that 90% of fund managers fail to beat the averages over the long haul. Since there are now more mutual funds than there are stocks on the New York Stock Exchange (which is over 5000) and as I said, 90% of them fail to beat the indexes, it's hard to imagine a more sobering reason for making an index at least a part of your investing strategy. So overall, a good book on investing emphazing a no frills, common-sense, and back-to-basics approach.

A brief side note here. I noticed the forward is by Paul Volcker, the former Federal Reserve Chairman who was succeeded by the present Al Greenspan. Volcker went on to head up the World Bank after that job, and I was glad to see he's still around and working.

John Bugle, one of the brightest minds of our century raises some of the most important financial questions, of the last 50 years. Bogle on Great Ideas in Financing includes four criteria: 1. Simplicity - Buy the whole market haystack, an index capable of matching the market. 2. Focus (Seek the hard crusted but nutritious bagel of earnings, dividends, and interest yields rather than the sweet donut taste of price with its high price earning multiples) 3. Efficiency (minimize frictional costs of fees, commissions, and taxes with an Wilshire 5000 index). 4. Stewardship (keep the interest of the client first). Bogle's index was free of tax, include a small transactional fee, represented 8000 stocks in the market, and matched the market rate of return.

Mutual funds have become a vehicle for short-term speculation, a trend fostered in part by the industries focus on marketing. Today the average fund holds stock for 400 days compared to six years when Bogle graduated from Princeton. Most investors hold their mutual fund for 3 years rather than 15 years. Since 1980 - 2000 mutual fund assets have risen 70 fold from $100 billion to $6.5 trillion and assets of stock funds have risen 120 fold or $4.0 trillion. In a 15-year span there were 426 mutual fund boats and 113 sunken mutual fund boats. Survival was strong because of the generous returns of the market. However, Mutual fund efficiency was problem: 1. Sales tax, excessive fees, spending too much on marketing, failing to share economy of scale with the investors, and 90% turn over of the portfolio each year suggested one thing, "short term speculation" was becoming the norm. Mutual fund sites charge costs included a front-end sales commission of 6%; opportunity cost meaning held cash positions equal to 7% of assets with these asset earning smaller returns than available in stocks; a transactional cost of 1.7%; and operating cost equal to 1.2% per year.

Bogle's outlook of the stock market is brilliant. Bogle states: financial economist cannot predict the future. The DOW may hit 36,000 and it may not. Who can predict accurately what the market will do? The market is not a machine. The market is not an insurance actuaries spreadsheet. However, the market performed remarkable well with price gaining 17% a year and at this rate doubling every four years. To understand the market lets look first too dividend yield and earnings growth because these elements provide the steady underlying force over the long pull. For two decades dividend yield equaled 4.5% and earning growth paced at 5.9% producing a 10.9% return. In 1970, P/E fell 50% from 16 times to 7.3 and dividend yield equaled 3.4% and annual earnings equaled 9.9% producing a 10.4% investment return and Bogle preached "stay the course". By 2000, dividends equaled 1%, earning growth rate reached 8%, and P/E ratios top 30. Again, Bogle preached, "time, risk, and control" raising a cautious outlook and a cry for investors to return back to investor basics of earnings, dividends, and yields.

What were the factors associated with the 87 crash? 1. Stock prices were simply to high to the underlying earnings and dividends in comparison to higher yields available on fixed income securities. 2. Deterioration in economic outlook with no progress to reduce the federal deficit, no improvements in the trade imbalance, and inflation in the air. 3. Program trading in the futures market sparked massive computer driven sales. The impact being 35% of the equity traded out of the market. In 87, if you're a Contrarian, it is a good time to buy or hold.

Thinking about 2000, Bogle observed for growth to remain constant over the next ten years, the P/E ratio would need to move from 30 to 67 an unlikely possibility. If in 2000, the P/E ratio fell too 12 then the market level would be 580 rather than 1400 with a P/E of 30. If the P/E fell from 30 to 20 then market return would drop to 5.5% less than the percentage rate of high yield bonds and such an event would be the first in stock history. Is the market comfort zone, a P/E of 15.5 and this fact suggests the market has moved to a level of high risk and possible correction? Bogle states, "Looking back 70 years, major market highs were almost invariably signaled when the dividends yield on stocks fell below 3%, or price earnings rose much about 20 times earnings". The purpose of any stock investment is cash now with the expectation of future flows of cash. A high P/E ratio means investors are expecting a large flow of future cash. The high prices are based on speculation about the cash flow in the future. If the future cash flow expectations are not rational does this mean short-term profit taking is picking clean the amateur investor?


Bogle was left to reflect on two questions: 1. Will the bagel of investment fundamentals give us its usual sustenance? 2. And will the doughnut of speculation get even sweeter than it is today, or will it finally sour? Bogle concluded, "We are in a new era of investing".

Warren Buffet said, "The art of investing in public companies is ... simply to acquire, at a sensible price a business with excellent economies and able, honest management. Thereafter, you need only monitor whether these qualities are being preserved."

Bogle suggests two principles when dealing with risk 1. Get your asset allocation right, maintaining a long-term horizon, and stay the course. Bogle observed that the long term real return on stock is 7.5%. Assuming one has a million dollars that is $75,000 annual income. 2. Diversity some of the risk away by introducing equities with reliable different correlations with the U.S market. Maybe, we will see the creation of a worldwide index, 60/40 - 60 percent U.S stock and 40 percent other? Bogle stresses investors not too speculate, however, life is short and if one needs too speculate they should limit the amount too 5 percent in the gamble for higher profits. Bogle's is betting on the performance of the whole market index rather than one sector mutual fund. Bogle is saying the market price is too high and a risk at its current levels. Bogle thinks mutual funds should be able to buy bonds and other stable securities as a part of the mutual fund mix.

Thinking about bonds, bond yields drop as the economy moves to a recession because investor flee from stocks into bonds and since money is easy to acquire the rates drop. In this scenerio, short term traders buy bonds now with the anticipation the yields will drop more in the future and investor will pay more for these bonds with a higher yield. Again, a short-term speculation to capture a quick profit. However, if haystack of stocks continues producing 7.5% real returns then stay the course.

A good, practical, no-nonsense book on investing that emphasizes returning to basics and tried and true approaches that have always worked over the long term. He points out that investing needn't be, and perhaps shouldn't be, rocket science, and that you can do quite well in the market over the long term just by matching the performance of the market, and not trying to beat the market. As many people found out recently, pursuing a momentum strategy in an era of already overheated PE's and buying the latest hot story stock can be dangerous to your portfolio's health. Following a value-oriented fundamental approach with at least part of your portfolio can be a useful way of reducing volatility and improving your performance even if you're a died-in-the-wool momentum investor. This advice is especially timely coming as it does in the aftermath of the recent bear market. Another important point that many experts emphasize is that it's important to implement an investment program that matches your needs and risk tolerance, perhaps the most important thing in an investing program, since if you can't sleep at night, you probably won't be able to maintain it over the long haul.

As Bogle points out, since 90% of fund managers fail to beat the averages over the long haul, the best strategy is to buy a fund that tracks the major indexes, which does two things. First, it minimizes costs, so you won't pay any management fees as you would for your typical mutual fund. Also, most investors don't realize such costs as advertising and sales expenses are minimal for an index, compared to other funds, and those are typically passed on to the investor in the load or management fee. Since there are now more mutual funds than there are stocks on the New York Stock Exchange (which is over 5000) and as I said, 90% of them fail to beat the indexes, it's hard to imagine a more sobering reason for making an index at least a part of your investing strategy. So overall, a good book on investing emphazing a no frills, common-sense, and back-to-basics approach.

Although Bogle amply documents and demonstrates that most fund managers can't beat the averages over the long haul, and so the best way to invest in a mutual fund is to buy one that invests in the indexes and avoid the costs of managed funds, this doesn't mean a small investor can't beat the averages. The reason most funds don't is that most own so many stocks, as in the case of the Magellan fund, which used to own 1400 stocks, that they're forced to buy too many second and third tier stocks (or worse), which degrades their performance. The individual investor, however, can cherry-pick and do much better that way, assuming he's successful at it. But the point is that mutual funds have an inherent disadvantage in terms of owning a quality portfolio that inevitably stacks the odds against them, a limitation which small investor doesn't have.

A brief side note here. I noticed the forward is by Paul Volcker, the former Federal Reserve Chairman who was succeeded by the present Al Greenspan. Volcker went on to head up the World Bank after that job, and I was glad to see he's still around and working.

As one who loves adventure travel I rate this as one of the best accounts ever for one chasing through this part of the world. It was especially meaningful as I have traveled the same route...The Shetlands, The Faroes, Iceland, Greenland and Labrador. How much fun to re-live it through the eyes of Lawrence Millman. Unlike Millman, I never had the chance to meet and live with the folks like he did. His encounters with the locals are so funny and engaging that you'll find yourself laughing throughout the book. If you are the least bit interested in this part of the world, read this book first and you'll hardly be able to wait to start your trip. This man is truly a great story teller and the kind of guy you'd just like to sit down with and rehash his adventures. What a great book!

There is a reason why every rating here (so far) is 5 stars - read it and you will find out why.

The best travel book I have ever read. I picked it up becasue I had been in a couple of the places covered in the book. Millman truly captures the sense of place, people, life and environment and is funnier than you can ever imagine travel writing being. He gets involved with the locals and this leads to our discovery of some very interesting local customs. He provides the best description of being sea sick that I have ever read - I could almost feel it!

I have loaned this book to so many people that it is dog-eared. It is the book we always talk about year after year and have great laughs.

The first few pages of this book drove me to my dictionary repeatedly. Hardly a single page left me without the intense need to dive into my dictionary - and an excellent dictionary at that. I found more often than not that the words searched for were not there, or that the meanings that made sense were obscure, or idiosyncratic. I realized quickly that I could not possibly get through the entire book that way and decided to just relax, understand what I could, and forget about struggling with what I could not. Mr. Millman is an independent soul and he makes up words, uses slang I am not familiar with and also uses obscure words in common and sometimes uncommon ways. I think this delights him. His travels delighted me. And Mr. Millman appears to be a delightful, jocular person who is comfortable in strange, lonely places. I am glad to have been taken on this trip with him through his book. I highly recommend this book particularly to people who are not so compulsive as to need to understand every nuance of what they are reading. Unfortunately for me, I am that compulsive person. Like Mr. Millman's journeys, it is often a journey into an unknown place.

A June through October vagabondage in the shadows of the Viking far-farers. Lawrence Millman wanders from Norway to Newfoundland by way of the Faeroes, Iceland, and Greenland. His engaging mix of descriptions of the local color and his own wry humour make for some fine and entertaining reading. Written in a journal travelogue style with just enough history and customs mixed in to tempt you to visit these "last places".
An excellent adventure story. Highly recommended.

Extracts: A Field Guide for Iconoclasts

As a polar regions travel junkie, I devoured Millman's account of his journey through the Faeroes, Iceland, Greenland, Newfoundland, and places in between. I thought he did an admirable job of relaying the harships of life (especially in Greenland) while always coming back to the mysterious appeal that this region holds for many.

Leader Effectiveness Training (L.E.T.)--The Foundation for Participative Management and Employee Involvement
Leadership is the "in" topic with top business schools like Harvard and Stanford. It is basically what students get judged upon. In the masses of books on this subject however, no other book goes to the deep roots of the relational approach generating unimposed leadership (the essence of leadership is that it speaks by itself, when it has to be imposed it is called authority).
This book offers a model for developping the skills generating instntly accepted leadership.
It is a must read not only for every student aiming at an MBA but also for every active business man (already gifted or not).
The beauty is that it is pleasant to read. It is not a boring student type of analysis. It is just lively, practical, based on solid common sense, but far reaching.
An added quality is that the style grasps the reader emotionally, and most people read it from cover to cover (a rare feat with business books).

This was the first training and book that I ever participated in on leadership. And, that was 21 years ago! It is still timely and effective. I was impressed in re-reading the book how much of the practices that I had incorporated and made my own. This training and book made a remarkable impact in my life.

If you want the basics on leadership in one bundle - then you want this book. Read it. Use it. Re-read it. Become a more effective and influential leader.

Good, but since I have already read the Parent Effectiveness Training it was a little redundant, and slow moving.

easy to read, we are using it for our class, communication and conflict resolution skills in our team.

I bought this book to use as a reference for a paper that I was writing on the subject of leadership for a communication class. The class had to do with small group communication. As I read Dr. Gordon's approach to leadership, I found that his participative management style was really what I was looking for and a great fit for how leadership can work effectively in a small group. Although the style of his book is definitely written as a "training" book for effective leadership, it has many thought provoking and practical insights that you can apply in many other areas of your life. We all find ourselves in groups throughout our lives in various and diverse situations and circumstances. This book offers some down to earth, common sense advice that you can take and apply when you find yourself as the "leader of the pack" so to speak.

I particularly enjoyed the section on " Doing it yourself - or with the groups help". I think that many people mistakenly believe that you have to use your power and manipulate people to be a good leader and to get a job done. Dr. Gordon shows the advantages of being a facilitator and drawing upon the strengths and resources of all members of the team.

The principles described in this book will not go out of style, because it deals with people communicating with people. Times may change, but leading people will still be the common factor that spans the ages. It can be a great tool for a new leader or for one who wants to brush up on their leadership skills. As a student, I know I'll be referring to it in future classes. This will definitely be one of those books that I'll keep on my bookshelf for future reference.

The commentary is true to the text and serves the reader well.

Peter O'Brien's outstanding commentary on Ephesians completes his trilogy on the Prison Epistles (see his commentary on Philippians in the NIGTC and Colossians-Philemon in the Word series) and, in my judgment, ranks as first among commentaries on Ephesians. Writing from a solid Evangelical stance, O'Brien defends Pauline authorship and wrestles honestly with Paul's majestic, but often complex, letter. While Harold Hoehner's commentary is broader in its coverage, O'Brien brings an amazing depth of insight to the table, and interprets Paul with skill and clarity. I especially appreciated O'Brien's keen eye for biblical-theological connections, which helped draw out many of the Old Testament references which lie behind Paul's letter. O'Brien is excellent with the Greek (though all Greek words are transliterated in the actual text of the book - actual Greek words are in the notes) and almost always has good reasons for his positions. Also, unlike Hoehner, O'Brien doesn't seem tied to a theological system (like Hoehner's dispensationalism, which occasionally slips in) and lets the text say what it says. I've read most of this book as I've preached expositionally through Ephesians over the course of nearly two years, and it is the main commentary I would recommend to others. Hoehner is a close second. The two commentaries together will serve an expositor well. But if you can only get one technical commentary on Ephesians, get O'Brien.

This is a really great commentary on Ephesians. I went through it with a bible study and it was extremely helpful. It is thorough and academic (others are probably more qualified to talk about the scholarship) but also readable and devotional. O'Brien, of course, is solidly evangelical and very well respected in the academic world. If you are looking for a commentary on Ephesians for use in a Bible study or personal devotions, this is the one, provided your group is already fairly grounded in the scriptures and in theology and is willing to invest some time into their study. Other commentaries in this same series (Carson on John etc) are also excellent.

This commentary on Ephesians is a mainstay in my research on this letter by Paul. I am reading and researching Ephesians for the purpose of writing my own commentary for eventual use in a sermon series, and use this book as well as others as a check on my own exegesis. It is highly readable, very insightful, and contains enough detail without being overly simplistic on one hand and overly academic on the other. This was one of the first commentaries I picked up and just read, and found that it read well, unlike some commentaries that are great reference books but just plain hard to read. O'Brien rigorously defends Pauline authorship of Ephesians, and falls squarely within the conservative evangelical camp. The book is technical, with solid exegesis and transliteration of Greek words in the body text with actual Greek in the notes. I would highly recommend this book on Ephesians along with Hoehner and Stott and Bruce. If you can only get one commentary on Ephesians, O'Brien is a good balance of technical and pastoral insight.

Overall, this commentary is one of my favorites. (I'm a pastor who does exegetical sermons from the Greek text).

He interacts with many scholars on a variety of details without getting bogged down. It's easy to read yet gives substantive arguments that summarize well the opposing views as well as explaining his own view.

One issue I would take exception to is his exegesis in Ephesians 2:1 where he labels the phrase 'trespasses and sins' as a hendiadys. The term is probably simply a synonym use-not a hendiadys. I checked with a number of Greek experts who all concur that he is probably off on that point...not a biggie...but I did remember it for some reason.

One issue I really liked was his handling of Ephesians 5:18 ff. Some miss the linkage of the participles which follow 5:18...but O'Brien nails it. His explanations of the Household Table and it's header/title in 5:21 are more convincing than most I've read. I think coupled with FF Bruce on Ephesians and Stott for preaching/teaching phraseology this commentary ranks right up there as a top notch..ya gotta have it...commentary for the 'prince of epistles'. I highly recommend it and still use this book.

The binding on my copy was pretty cheap. The book started falling apart the first time I opened it...and I am seeking another copy. Hope that was just a fluke.

If you are a pastor or bible teacher who works through Ephesians I think you will find yourself referring to this book over and over. Buy it if you have the funds...you won't be sorry if you are a serious student of Ephesians.

This is one of my favorite books folks. Yes, she dishes up a bit of dirt and gossip about the stars she worked with but, she does it with such class and a healthy dose of sensitive editing. The respect she felt for her co-stars is evident and her life story a pleasure to read. Ms. Russell takes you right along with her through the joy, sorrow, and crazy fun that made up her life. I found this book to be both uplifting and motivating. What a smart,witty,enthusiastic lady! If you don't love her yet, you will after you read this.

Rosalind Russell's autobiography is full of stories about her movies and Broadway career and her friendships with Hollywood stars like Cary Grant and Frank Sinatra. She discusses in detail her breakthrough movie, The Women and all of her early MGM films. My favorite Russell movies came later in her career and sadly, she devotes only a few quick sentences to Picnic (never mentioning Kim Novak), Auntie Mame (nothing about her costars), and Gypsy (not a word about Natalie Wood).

Much of the book is a testament to her long marriage to producer Freddie Brisson, who writes a very loving and revealing preface. She was strong and dynamic, a talented and dedicated actress, but her family always came first in her heart. Although she was quite ill at the end, she barely mentions her problems and indeed, spends no time in self-pity. (She was still editing the book at the time of her death.)

It was disappointing that she glossed over her later movies, but her strength of character and humor shine through on every page and the book is quite inspiring. Many personal and professional photos are included.

I could (and have) read this book over and over. Rosalind Russell takes you through her life as a child in Conneticut, her career with MGM, and her marriage to Freddie Brisson. I found each story engrossing, none of it was disinteresting. She tells the story of her life as if she was speaking to you personally. This book is a must read for any Rosalind Russell fan.

I read this biography years ago, but after reading a recent article about Rosalind Russell, decided I just had to have it. She was the real deal - actress, star, no-nonsense dame. I love her.

Reviewers don't mention the ghostwriter of this autobiography which is told in the first person, the hilarious and wonderful Chris Chase who also wrote Betty Ford's biography.

Anyone familiar with Chase's articles in the NY Times and her book would recognize her voice here.

The book is wonderful but while it's honest about Russell's deep religious feelings and patriotism, it skates over her right-wing sympathies (to which she was entitled) and her friendships with Nazi sympathizers.

Russell was indeed a multi-talented and fascinating woman who had an amazing life. I liked and admired her--- I enjoyed this book immensely, but I wish she had been challenged more.

Little Bit & Big Byte: A Day at the Beach is a colorful children's picturebook with a clever purpose - to familiarize young people to the world of computers and the Internet. Chronicling the adventures of cheerful, anthropomorphic computer parts in Cyberville, Little Bit & Big Byte is a fun read ideal for helping young ones become accustomed to the marvels modern technology. "Assisting Webster is his friend, Kay Board. She has a slender body, a long neck, and a face that looks like a mouse. Big Byte thinks she quite a number and just his type."

On our way to the lake my wife noticed our little girl reading this book. She always reviews her books first so she asked her if she could look at it real quick to fulfill her duty as a parent. Mom had so much fun reading it and looking for the bone that her quick review turned into a complete read, search, and re-read while our child very impatiently begged to have it back. Once at the lake, I wanted to see what all the fuss was about so I read it for myself. Now I see why they both wanted to read it. It is really a fun book to read and even a couple of over-educated adults enjoyed it thoroughly. We're looking forward to the next one but until then we'll keep this one close by. I think it's safe to say all three of us recommend this highly.

Having been an elementary school teacher for over 25 years I have read my share of children's books. This one is one of my favorites. It's just plain fun with great characters and an interactive activity. Getting my youngest students to read was the single most important part of my job before I became a University professor. This children's book is exactly the kind of material more authors should be providing to accomplish that goal. I still love to read children's books for myself and with a new grandchild this one will stand prominent in my library. I hope more of these will be forthcoming from this author.

REVIEWED BY: Wayne S. Walker

This adorable children's picture book is the result of the fact that 80% of Kindergarten students use computers and 32% use the Internet. The author wondered why there were no children's picture books that kept up with the Computer Age, so he has issued this first in a planned series that is designed to entertain and endear young readers by using computer-related characters. The book opens by introducing Little Bit Romie, his dad CD, his mom Nettie, his brother Big Byte, his sister Joy (who is thin as a stick), his pointer Click, and his cat Browser, all of whom live in Cyberville.

Big Byte, Joy, and Little Bit go to the beach to be with their friends Webster and Kay Board. They all see a couple of "nefarious bugs" named Vi and Russ who are going surfing. Big Byte and Kay Board want to go with them, but Joy and Little Bit warn that it is too dangerous. When Big Byte and Kay find themselves in danger, what will happen? Will Little Bit, Joy, and Webster be able to do anything to help them? The colorful (computer-generated?) illustrations on each page are a wonderful aid in helping children to visualize what is going on in the story.

Children growing up in the Computer Age should find Little Bit and Big Byte: A Day at the Beach something fun that will appeal to their high-tech interests. It is also educational. In addition to introducing youngsters to the world of cyberspace with computer-related language, there is also the subtle yet clear message about the dangers of "surfing the net" for those who are inexperienced and unprepared. Caution and parental guidance are certainly suggested! Also, readers are invited to interact with the story by finding a hidden bone on each page. I give this book an excellent rating!

Little Bit and Big Byte is a unique children's book and it ranks as the first of its kind I have ever read. Children's books typical center on themes like family togetherness, friendship, helping those in need, being kind to others, etc. This book is different. It is a computer- themed book that follows the members of a family and their pets as they take a trip to the beach. But this is no ordinary children's book family. No, the characters in this family are named for some common words associated with personal computers. The book's goals are to introduce and/or reinforce some of the important facts about technology and computers to children between the ages of four and eight and teach them a lesson about the threat if viruses.

Little Bit and Big Byte is a cute book, but it also an educational book about computers. Not only are the characters named after various computer components, the shapes and the actions of each are also meant to help kids learn about computers. For example, Click, the dog, is a pointer and is shaped like the arrow that appears on a computer screen, used for clicking. The characters go out to surf where they encounter the evils of Vi and Russ. They escape this time, but a lifeguard warns them not to surf again unless they have had plenty of practice because there are many Vi and Russ's out there just waiting to spoil your fun.

Children's books are often known for having colorful illustrations, but in this book, the colorful component is taken to a new level. The book delivers a knockout punch with its precise cartoon- like drawings and multitude of backgrounds objects and patterns. These illustrations are far more complex than those of other children's books and they rank among the best I have ever seen in a children's book. The pages are overloaded with images in some cases, which may overwhelm the senses of younger children. But they will suit the target age group just fine.

The children in this book learn a lesson about the threat from viruses and they learn not to take chances again. The book ends with the kids and their two pets ready to head out on a new adventure. I get the feeling that, based on this ending, this is going to end up being a series of children's books with each new book offering a new adventure into the world of computers. This is one of the many beauties of Little Bit and Big Byte. It strives to teach kids about computers and when you consider all of the knowledge and risks that go into operating computers, this is the type of theme that can be expanded infinitely. The sky is the limit when it comes to the number of adventures in which this family can partake. I expect to see many more books like this in the future.

Overall, Little Bit and Big Byte is an excellent children's book and it is one of the most creative and clever I have read in a long time. Everything from the characters, to the illustrations , to the book's ultimate lesson about the threat of viruses makes this book a winner and I am anxious to see what adventure the author creates with his next edition.

This book is great in that the part of warfare that all believers ever encounter is that it teaches you scripturally who you are in Christ. It covers your authority and what each part of the armour of God stands for.

After reading this book you realize scripturally there is no thing that the enemy can do as long as you stand. You have authority over the enemy!!!! A must read for those unsure of how to handle attacks and what scriptures you can stand behind.

This makes a great study whether you do this as a group or individually. I highly recommend this book for anyone. It helps keep you encouraged in the midst of a battle or if you are just looking to deepen your walk with the Lord. This book also makes a great gift & will bless others.

Kay Arthur is great at getting you into the Word. As you study and mark the Scriptures, they come to life and you start to see the truths, which challenges you to grow in the Lord.

I first went through this study 11 years ago, it was given to me as a graduation present. When I wanted to focus on spiritual warfare again and didn't have access to my old book, I purchased this. This book is an excellent way to sharpen your spiritual weapons and hone your armor. As I said before, the first time I read this was 11 years ago and I still remember snippets when I am going through rough times. I would highly reccomend this to anyone who is interested in learning how to conduct spiritual warfare. It is a very scriptural look at the battle we face and how to conquer our enemy.

The lessons in this book will teach you to STAND FIRM in the midst trials and turmoil, and will help you understand and apply spiritual truth. Ephesians is the focus of this study and Kay Arthur gives you an overview of the history of Ephesus and how the culture is no different than today's. Kay takes you through the scriptures so you can learn truth inductively and then she guides you in how to apply it. Learn to write your own personal prayers right from the scriptures and activate the power of God's word in your heart and life! It takes diligent study and you need to commit at least 20 minutes a day, but it is well worth the time and effort. You won't want to stop studying once you get into this! I am only on Lesson 4 and am doing this with a group of 7 people and God is already moving in powerful ways. I want to get up on the rooftop and shout the message that EVERYONE needs to do this study! This is a very effective tool for being equipped to do battle, and believe me everyone of us is in some kind of battle, whether we realize it or not. Get prepared!

I was extremely happy with the service I receivec. I requested that this book be sent to the county jail, via Overnight Mail, for my son, and it wzs received the next day. Time was of the essence and you delivered. I can't rate the book myself, because it was not for me. I would definitely use Amazon.com again.

I have been admiring and studying the Art of Boris Valejio since 1988. This is a collection of Art (late 1970s-mid 1980s) from his career PEAK. Details and tones duplicated from a MASTER Painter. If you buy ONE collection of Boris's fantastic Art, IT MUST BE MIRAGE...

There are some beautiful pencil renderings with precision use of the eraser to bring his sketches to life. An added bonus to pages of glorious full color women and men in the god-like exploitation of the human form.

I'm a long-time Boris fan. I actually own this in hardback, purchased over twenty years ago. It still is one of my favorite art books even after two decades.

Okay, why "Mirage" and not some other Boris book? This isn't a just some anthology of book covers. Quite simply, it has the finest collection of sensual fantasy art I've seen. I say sensual and not erotic because there is a difference. Boris paints lots of skin in this collection... plenty of gorgeous female pulchritude, but it keeps to the tasteful side lecherous. Oh, there are a couple of male figures as well, and they're just as well executed as his females, so you can't fault him there, either.

But don't think this is a series of illustrations with some poetry (by the artist's then-wife) thrown in to justify a book full of nudes. There's always a heavy element of high (or sometimes low) fantasy in every scene... that's fantasy as in mythic, not fantasy as in Penthouse Letters, even though Bob Guccione would have jumped at the opportunity to have any of these women grace the pages of his magazine. And to the surprise of some, there are several very humorous images as well.

Yet there is some truly incredible art in this collection as well. There is one painting of a triton and mermaid... uh... "disporting" themselves underwater that still stands out after twenty-plus years as one of my favorite pieces of art regardless of style, genre or medium. That's saying something.

If you find nudity objectionable, skip this book... you'll never get past all the skin to see the art behind it. Some of the images are slightly disturbing. Some are what I'd consider "filler" to add volume to the book, not as appealing or creative as many of the others. Yet there are some that are simply stunning... breathtaking in color, style and subject, and that makes up for any weaknesses the rest might suffer.

And as I mentioned, there is poetry included as well, contributed by Boris' wife (before Julie Bell). As far as open verse goes, she does respectably well. Some of the poems are rather forgettable, but others may appeal to the individual reader. I like Dylan Thomas and a few other modern poets who use free verse, so the style doesn't bother me a bit. Still, on the whole, the art is why I got the book, not the poetry.

If you want art by daVinci and verse by Tennyson, save your money... you'll be disappointed. Personally, I enjoy art by Boris and poems by Doris just as well.

Overall, an incredible collection well worth the acquiring.

If you are a fan of Boris Vallejo, or are thinking about buying a book of fantasy art -- this book should be the first one you buy. This is an absolute must-have for any art book collection, fantasy art or otherwise. Of all of Boris Vallejo's work to date -- this book by far has all his best art.

Boris Vallejo is by far the best fantasy artist EVER! His 1970s and 1980s art is by far much better than his current work, as is evident from the Mirage book. The figures/subjects in his early work in the Mirage book look like they actually belong in the painted scene. Many other fantasy artists draw subjects in scenes that look like models posing for a painting -- and look really stiff like cardboard. Boris meshes the scenes perfectly and transports you into another world with his vivid depictions of fantasy characters.

I recommend buying Boris Vallejo books in the following order:
1) Mirage
2) Fantasy Art Techniques -- buy it even if you're not an artist.
3) Enchantment
4) Dreams
5) Sketchbook

Verdict: Buy it!
Reviewed by Harrison Chua.

This book collects a series of Boris' paintings, plus a few very detailed pencil drawings, done between 1979 and 1982. If you're not already familiar with Boris' work - well, you probably are whether you know it or not. He has done years work of book covers for Edgar Rice Burroughs, as well as reams of posters. The one constant through all his work is passion for the human form and human power, both male and female.

These paintings range from the lush and sensual to humorous or macabre. A hookah come to life has a demonic presence, but a bar of soap come to life (and licking the bather) is more charming and a little silly. Even the simplest pictures have overtones - that bather is truly a beautiful woman, leaving me just a little envious of such close contact. Maybe not envious either, but off in thoughts of my own. And the preface is right, 'erotic' is much too simple a word for all the different feelings and combinations of feelings that come from having or holding a strong, healthy body.

My only complaint is a sameness in the female figures presented. The faces are beautiful, long and elegant, but mostly the same. The figures - the one figure, really is beautiful, but I value the uniqueness of a figure and the differences between figures. Cloning can serve a narrative purpose, certainly, but sameness wears. Even the loveliness of Danielle Anjou, acknowledged as a principal model and collaborator, wears.

Boris is the master of the figure in fantasy art, and has been for many years. This is a great sample from an earlier time in his career. It's almost impossible not to like.

//wiredweird