Thomas Books

Lasting success can come from as little as seven intentional decisions - and the author has spent several decades studying some of the success stories that have revolved around these decisions. Andy Andrews' Mastering the Seven Decisions That Determine Personal Success blends profiles of very successful people with exercises designed to help readers translate these successes into action plans. Chapters give plenty of examples of responsible thinking, gratitude, and more in this outstanding survey of life improvements.

A short while back, my boss lent me a copy of The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews. It was one of the best self-improvement books I've ever read, and the seven decisions that were woven into the story were incredibly powerful. Andrews has a follow-up to that book called Mastering the Seven Decisions That Determine Personal Success: An Owner's Manual to The Traveler's Gift. If you were taken by the power of The Traveler's Gift, Mastering is a must-read book that fleshes out the concepts and helps you to apply them in your own life.

Contents:
Introduction; The Responsible Decision; The Guided Decision; The Active Decision; The Certain Decision; The Joyful Decision; The Compassionate Decision; The Persistent Decision; Conclusions; Bibliography; About the Authors

Each chapter corresponds to one of the seven decisions from the original book. After a restatement of the key decision, Andrews goes into more explanation and detail about how that particular trait, that decision you need to make, plays out in your life. Interspersed throughout the chapter are activities to help you determine where you are at and what may need to change in order to get to where the decision can take you. Much of the activities at the start involve some level of journaling as you spend time thinking about your values and goals. Perhaps you've never even *thought* about your values and goals before! Being forced to put these things down on paper is a powerful way to start sorting through your life. As you progress through the decisions, many of these insights you discover become actions you take to incorporate these seven traits into your everyday life. I also enjoyed the end of each chapter, where Andrews shares a letter from some well-known person that illustrates how that particular decision has helped them get to where they are today.

What I most appreciate about The Traveler's Gift and Mastering the Seven Decisions is that the concepts are based on solid choices that are completely within your reach. There's no metaphysical mystery to it all. If you incorporate and personalize these things, such as taking responsibility, taking action, seeking wisdom, and choosing to be happy, you will separate yourself from the mass of people who live life feeling as if they have no input or direction. Granted, you have to work at it, but the results are worth it. Mastering the Seven Decisions should be the absolute next book you read after The Traveler's Gift. And if you're going to buy one, buy them both. The changes that lie in store will be dramatic.

I read almost 100 books a year. This is at the top of my list. Andy's exercises are so practical & thought provoking you'll want to dig right in & grow. On a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give it an 11.

And the DVD goes right along with everything Andy says.

Ed Cerny

I've always been an avid reader with varied interests. Each year, I've always tried to read at least a half dozen or so self improvement books, so over the last 30 years or so, I've taken in quite a bit of information from a variety of sources. About six months ago, however, I found (on the bargain shelf of a local store) something that looked quite interesting called The Traveler's Gift. It appeared to be some sort of self-improvement book told in fictional story form. A unique concept that intrigued me. I'm going to make a very conservative estimate that in the course of my life I've read well over 100 self-improvement books. Not one of them has affected my life the way The Traveler's Gift has.

I'm not going to say Andy Andrews is a much better writer than Napoleon Hill was, or any of the other contemporary writers in this genre, although he does write very well. Perhaps it was just the right message at the right time in my life, but whatever the reason, the book truly resonated with me and touched me in ways other books failed to do. It has led to a complete transformation of where my life is going.

After reading the book, I typed out the seven decisions and taped them on my bathroom mirror, where I have reflected upon them each morning since and they have served as a catalyst to set the day in motion. Reading this book, MASTERING THE SEVEN DECISIONS, was a no-brainer. I ordered a copy as soon as I found out it was available.

All I can say about this is, it is an extraordinary companion to doing exactly what the title suggests, mastering the seven decisions. Here, Andrews takes the reader to the next level and what we have is somewhat of an amalgamation. It is mostly Traveler's Gift, with a few parts The Lost Choice, a healthy dose of Andrew's DVD, "The Seven Decisions", even a few letters from Andrews' early Storms of Perfection books, and a mixture of new material that will enhance even further, the understanding and application of the 7 decisions.

Self-improvement books are just that; they help us to become better businessmen and women, better husbands and wives, better leaders, better people. Few of them go beyond that and actually have what it takes to be life altering. This book does. Though it is not completely necessary, I highly recommend you read The Traveler's Gift first. It will greatly enhance what this book will do for you.

This book takes the seven principles taught in Andy Andrew's best selling parable "The Traveler's Gift" The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success and devotes a chapter to helping you think more deeply about each principle. He provides a short introduction about how these principles were revealed to him through his own difficulties in life; difficulties most of us share at one time or another. Andrews wants you to read these chapters actively and slowly rather than dashing through the book. He suggests that you re-read them and focus on those that resonate most with where you are in your life now.

The chapters are organized so that you get a little excerpt from "The Traveler's Gift" so you can connect it to the principle being discussed in that chapter. The principles are discussed by providing several short stories or essays rather than a philosophical or theological discussion of abstractions.

These seven principles are about: 1) taking responsibility for your life, 2) being willing to learn wisdom from others, 3) being active in living your life, 4) being confident and purposeful in your course in life, 5) being joyful in each day regardless of circumstances, 6) forgiving others and yourself and being compassionate in outlook, 7) live your life with tenacity, persistence, and faith.

This is a book that is unashamedly Christian and religious in outlook, which I personally find refreshing. However, I thought you should know in case you are allergic to faith.

Reviewed by Craig Matteson, Ann Arbor, MI

Readers beware! It's much easier to open this book than to close it. The author's obvious love of trivia, not to mention her love of Montana, is infectious. She is relentless in her pursuit of the obscure. We learn, for example, that the town of Ismay, population 20, changed its name to Joe to honor quarterback Joe Montana. Yes, but did Mr. Montana ever visit this town? And what is the montly salary of its mayor?

The result of this obsessive curiosity is a book full of quirky facts and colorful characters you will find nowhere else. It will put a smile on the face of a transplanted Montanan (like myself), but would also be a great find for anyone planning a trip to Montana. It's the kind of book that would normally be impossible to find for all those with the misfortune of living outside the state. Thank goodness for Amazon!

Packed full of facts and information you never knew you never knew. And now you know! Dazzle your friends with your new facts and accurate information. Good for bedtime, sitting time, waiting time, or just reading time. And a great price!

This is the most complete book of its type I've seen on Montana. I personally cannot believe that all city names in Montana actually start with "B", but it seems nearly so. Read this one and know "stuff" for sure. It is a lot of fun.

This book was a gift to me, and is not your usual trivia. Spencer obviously researches her stuff and puts it together with humor, irony, zest. Here are a lot of laughs and Gee Whiz moments for anyone. E. Malehorn in Illinois

I am a trivia buff and have lived in Montana for 36 years. This is hands down the best book I have read in years. The wit and humor through out the book kept me laughing the whole time I read it and I couldn't put the thing down. Kudos to Mrs. Spencer for researching and writing a book that had so many interesting facts that even an old Montanan like me had never heard. I highly recommend this book, I have read it twice and still haven't put it down.

Very sad, but an honest depiction of a part of Guatemala that we were exposed to during our recent visit. The poverty seemed crippling, and children in work roles were very common.

I love this book. Working in a library, I've been happy to be able to show it to so many people. The hero has a hard life and a mother who doesn't love him. But he has a roof over his head at his grandmother's house, and a simple determination to work, to help, and to learn.

There's an indescribable feel to this book, almost a scent, different from any other book. It really is a masterpiece.

I am from Guatemala City and currently living in the US, I read this book with my daughter and she loved it, this book has helped me to explain some of my culture to her. She knows that "anyplace can be the most beautiful place in the world..."

I have read this book aloud to my first and second grade students for years. It is an excellent story, well told, with all the realities of a different culture in a different situation than USA children. However, it is painted with the strokes of deepest, realistic love that a family can have. This is a great story to teach and talk about the struggles of families everywhere, the world and it's differences, and the importance of character "no matter what". It is the book my second graders yearn to read on their own and therefore is a super motivator. It is rich in geography.

The story that I read was really snappy and cool. It's called The Most Beautiful Place in the World By Ann Cameron. There was a boy named Juan and his grandmother. There was also Juan's mom. It takes place in San Pablo, Guatamala. The problem is she leaves him for ever and his mom doesn't let him visit her. He really loves his mom after his dad left them.Some one would want to read this book because its really sad and who ever loves tragedy or not it's a really good book.I recommend this book to people of any age.

Several members of our golf league have begun a bible study based on The Mulligan and other written material written by Wally Armstrong. This is such a great read all about caring, friendship and of course golf.
I loved it so much I bought another to give away!

This book is a winner for people who like golf and misunderstand the relevance of a personal relationship with God and Christ! It makes great sense and is a perfect read. Thanks Wally and Ken!

This concise book is a story that gives advice, spiritual in nature, that can be applied to golf, business and all other phases of life.

This is a tremendous book for all who play the game of golf and struggle with the game of life. It is been a great conversation piece with all that struggle with improving their golf game. The correlation with the way that we view life is amazing. This is a book that everyone should read!

I only wish I had read this book 10 years ago when my son first started playing golf. As a Christian, this book would have given insights on how to teach about life as we played the game of golf. Now, this book can act as a great gift for someone who needs to learn more about the true meaning of life or for someone you would like to restore your relationship with. How can they refuse your request for a mulligan?
Great read; Great message; Don't pick it up unless you allow time to read the entire book. You will not be able to put it down!

A neighbor (in Long Beach, California) loaned her copy to us--my husband was born in Long Beach--and we went out and bought copies as Christmas presents for the native Californians in our extended family. It's a book of nostalgia and confirmation for them--"I remember that! Yes, it was just like that!"--and one of sociological interest for anyone who likes people and wants to be invited into the lives and homes of a broad spectrum of the ingredients in our state melting pot.

I'm not sure I'd call all the authors "great writers" but most of them were comfortable with words.

Jessica Shaver Renshaw,
Author, Compelling Interests,
Gianna: Aborted and Lived to Tell About It

Generally, I like to recycle, and while I'm reading a book, I'm thinking about who I will pass it on to. The same was true with this book--but I asked the person to whom I loaned it to return it to me, because I wanted to keep it forever. She didn't--so I bought a replacement copy, which I won't loan out again. I really do love this collection by talented writers. I'm a native Californian, and I enjoyed reading about places in my birth state. But the best part of this book is the quality of the writing. Really rich, wonderful stuff here.

I really liked this book! There are many essays written in it, each one about a different area of California. It's really upbeat and interesting, and the authors are top authors who write beautifully. It's fascinating to read about times and places in California that I didn't know about. All the stories are modern stories, in that they are about growing up in California within the last forty years or so.
This book flows very quickly, and before you know it, you've finished it and wish there were more!

This is the book selected by the City of Long Beach,CA for their 'One book read by all' 2006,or something like that.It's a GREAT choice!.

I loved this book too, as I see others have, and this prompted me to write a review. I have tried to give it as a gift whenever possible and will continue to do so, as I think it is a great idea to benefit CAC. I wish local bookstores would display it more prominently. I grew up in California but this book allowed me a personal look at histories from different corners of the state. Fascinating, well written and truly enjoyable.

I just finished reading this book and am hoping to see the television episode again...soon. It's one of my favorites and I'm glad to have the book for anytime. It has the humor, innocence, and special message that the T.V. episodes have. I recommend this book, but regret that there aren't any special pictures of the characters in it! :)

This was one of the best books that I have ever read in my life! I loved the episode and the book was excellent, too! =) Any TBAA/JD/Andrew fan who haven't read this book...here's a suggestion: Buy the book! You won't regret it, I swear! I give it 5 stars, and if I could 10 or more! Hehehe...Way to go, writers! You've made an Androoler very happy with this book!

Erin

Wow, what a great book. Immediately, My Dinner With Andrew took me straight to the heart of Manhattan and I wanted to step right into the story. From the onset, this book grabs your attention and never let's it go. I am not a big reader, but I couldn't put this book down. An easy read that allows you to feel touched by all the Angels. For anyone who is a fan of the TV show....this is another enjoyable journey!

I ran into someone that was looking for a good book to read I would give them this book,because it is a fun book.I think it is kind of like a mystery because at one part you don't know what is going to happen to the main people If in the story until you get to the end of the book. I also thought that it was kind of funny because at the part were Andrew comes into the room were he had plans to take Katie to dinner he started to go crazy! I think that MY DINNER WITH ANDREW is the best book that Ihave read in my life!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was very much like the episode, but went into a little more depth, as far as character development. I recommend it to anyone out there who is interested in Touched by an Angel, and anyone who's not.

This is one of my favorite Bibles. Not only is it reasonably priced, it is also very well constructed, with a better Smythe Sewn binding than the Cambridge Plain text KJV I reviewed a few months ago. The bonded leather is a bit stiffer than the Cambridge example, but, overall, it is very well constructed for an inexpensive Bible.

The pages are pretty thin and the result is a reasonably thin Bible, less than 2" thick. Being a basic Bible, it contains no maps and only a very limited concordance, but also incudes a Counselor's guide which is helpful for the casual reader. While not a reference Bible, it is much easier to read than the usual two column format due to the unique single column format. The typeface is very readable, with one exception: the verse number in many cases, is too close to the leading character of the verse.

In short, though, you can find this very nice Bible, brand new or in "like new condition", for less than $30 at reputable sellers. I have obtained three additional copies for friends for less than $25, including shipping. Now that Nelson owns World Publishing, it will be interesting to see if they continue producing this version of the NASB. If you are a fan of the NASB, I highly recommend this Bible. I have yet to show someone this version who did not "Oooh!" and "Aaah!" over the single column format. I've also noticed that Crossway is publishing a single column format Reference ESV, a translation that I also admire, but I am not a fan of Crossway quality. I don't believe they use Smythe binding at all, which is a shame. The Thinline ESV I bought my wife 6 months ago is already looking quite worn (she does read it every morning, but carries it no where). Again, I highly recommend this Classic Companion edition, if you can find it.

Let me expand on my review title. For a text oriented copy of the NASB, you'd be hard pressed to find a more enjoyable read of the scriptures. The single column, paragraph format is a welcome change from each verse being its own paragraph. Minor quibbles: as other reviewers have stated, giving OT quotations footnote references, in my opinion, would have been a welcome addition to the notes. They hardly take up space. I would have preferred they ditch the introductions. We have plenty of other works like Study Bibles & Bible Handbooks to consult for outlines and introductions. The Counselor's Topical Index could be useful in the right hands in the right circumstances, but I would have preferred some maps. Still, this is an excellent edition and I would commend any NAS reader to pickup a copy.

I agree wholeheartedly with the review below. This is probably the best NASB in print. The combination of Single-Column formatting and paragraph format make it the most readable NASB. (most are two column and the notorious verse format). You will enjoy reading the poetry and OT prophets not oddly chopped in half like most other Bibles do. Bonded leather and gold trim round it out to make it a real winner. It does lack the cross-references, but if you have any other Bible, you can use those. The counselors index is also a nice addition. More useful than a bunch of maps.

As far as choice of translations, the NASB is not the only translation I read, but it is a good one. I teach the students in our Bible classes to avoid translations that have a philosophy of dynamic equivalence-- most notably the NIV. This is not because the NIV is a horrible Bible, but because it removes you one step further away from the original Word of God than you alredy are. You will fine many many places in the NIV that are not actually translated from the original text, but are "interpolated" by the translators. If you find the NASB choppy, try also the ESV or HCSB, which both strive to readable but literal, and do a great job.

All I want is a single-column NASB with minimal cross-references and reverse page see-through - i.e. I just want to interact with the Word in a simple format I'm used to, without distractions. These requirements are actually amazingly hard to find - but this Bible comes closest to it. The pages are thin and there is some reverse page see-through, but hopefully I'll get used to that. (If the publisher is watching, I think a bigger version with less reverse page see-through would sell well).
Burgundy and black covers available, although I think only black on Amazon.

This Bible is wonderful. Not only is it NASB (probably the best translation available), but it also has only a single column! Some Bibles annoy me because they try to squeeze the text into two or more columns, squishing the text. The single column really enhances the readings of books such as Isaiah, Psalms, and Proverbs.

It's a great, inexpensive NASB Bible for casual reading, but definitely not a good study Bible (it wasn't made to be one, I don't think). It's just very nice and simple.

My biggest problem with the Bible was that it did not provide the references to quoted portions of the Old Testament in the New. Even a non-study Bible should have footnotes so we know where Jesus or Paul were quoted from in the Old Testament. They're in block lettering, and that's about it. It's a minor problem, however, and I am still extremely pleased with this Bible. So... buy it, read it, study it, and get to know the Author.

THe greatest book of all time!And you want to know what?It is all true!No doubt.

I received the NSB as a high school graduation gift. It is an excellent tool when studying the Word. The foot notes are pretty good, yet lacking on some important verses. They do not always clarify where needed. Yet with so many verses of the Bible you cannot really complain! Whats is really helpful is the built in concordance; while not exhaustive, still it contains the most widely used words Either way it beats carrying around a Strong's. Also helpful is the "Harmony of the Gospels" which tells all the recorded events in the Gospels and compares where they are documented between the 4 texts. Overall a great tool that has served me well the past few years. A great gift for young and old!

I first bought a Nelson Study Bible five years ago and over this period of time it has played an integral part in the development of my understanding of the Bible and more importantly, of God. I have never seen such detailed, historically valid, and readable commentary in any other study Bible; I haven't seen anything even get close.

The commentary was written and edited by 40 contributors with doctorial degrees in theology from seminaries all over the nation (five from Dallas Theological Seminary), and is nothing short of astonishing to look at and read. The focus is on the historical background behind the text of the Bible, which enables the reader to more fully understand some of the more difficult passages in scripture, especially those concerning symbolism and prophesies and laws in the Old Testament. There are graphs, charts, and summaries sprinkled throughout the book, along with detailed introductions to each book explaining the basics of what circumstances it was written under. In addition to all of this there are "Word Focus" sections that examine words in the original language that they were written in so that we can have better understanding of the English translation.

This Study Bible is written in such a way that it is great for both those who have known the Bible all their lives, and those who have never picked one up before but would like to.

I have bought five more of these Bibles since my first, for friends, and for myself as I love the commentary so much I have worn two Bibles out over this span. If I could give this six stars, I would- and if I had the money and ability to purchase one of these for every person who browsed this page, I would.

Buying this Study Bible is money well spent and with time invested in reading it you will gain a new and deeper understanding of God and his love for you.

This is my favorite study bible and I have several, including the NIV, LAB, Ryrie, Scofield, and others. But this far out surpasses any of them.. I have the NKJV and that also is my favorite version of the Bible.
The study notes at the bottom cover about every verse and is very good at explaining without over doing.. If I only had one Bible this is the one I would pick..
There is a lot of other reasons for liking this Bible, like the beginning commentary on each book, the IN Depth articles, Word focus, Quick View Charts, Concordance, Maps (in-text and full-color) and in the front of the book it tells where to find all of this with the page number.

As a lay bible teacher, I utilize the Nelson Study Bible as my first resource for lesson preparation and personal study. I have found the commentaries and other study aids efficient and sufficient. The economy of language, the obvious scholastic quality, and the breadth of discussion in a most readable and understandable manner make this an excellent reference resource for beginning and advanced bible students. I have recommended it to many new Christians, mature Christians, and non-Christians. This is a bible to pass on to those about whom you care deeply.

For me, reading the Bible has been like listening to one end of a phone conversation. You don't get the full meaning. I have been left with so many questions, like what it means to heap burning coals on someone's head, or why people who spoke in Aramaic read Hebrew and wrote in Greek, although they were ruled by Romans. Without knowing the cultural background, you can't understand the full context of Scripture. This book gives you 'the other half of the conversation.' It is so in-depth that a nerd like me can read for hours. It is simply so interesting that my husband and friends went out and bought copies for themselves. It is a must-have for anyone who is really interested in 'learning' the Bible.

I use this book to teach the youth at our church...it is a great asset!

This book walks you through the streets of Jerusalem in the time of Jesus and helps you to appreciate what family and social and cultural life was like. You also get to walk with the apostle Paul through the streets of Ephesus and Colosse.

But the sections of the book that really opened my eyes was learning about life in Ur of the Chaldees and in Haran where Abram and his family relocated before God called him to leave his father's household to the place where he would show him.

Howard Vos writes in a clear and engaging style that will hold the attention of the pastor and the layperson hungry for more knowledge of the biblical world. I give it my highest recommendation.
Rev. Marc Axelrod

Have you ever read the Bible and wondered why a character did or said something a certain way or why certain events took place the way they did? Like, for instance, why did Ruth lay beside Boaz's feet on the threshing floor or why did Matthew become a tax collector, and why was he so despised? Learning the cultural significance of certain things enriches one's Bible study. If you are not one to just read the Bible, but are dedicated to serious and in-depth Bible study, then this book is a must-have. Knowing the backstory of the people in the Bible lands of Mesopotamia, Syria, Egypt, etc., their cultural habits, and the way they lived their daily lives helps to illuminate the scriptures. For example, in the 4th chapter of the Book of John when Jesus has a conversation with the Samaritan woman, we know by the woman's statement that there was tension between Jews and Samaritans for the woman was surprised that Jesus asked her for a drink of water since the "Jews have no dealings with Samaritans." However, the text doesn't go into detail about why this tension exists, but referencing Nelson's Bible Customs and Manners will tell you that because the Samaritans were taken captive by the Assyrians, they intermarried and adopted many pagan beliefs leading to enmity between the Samaritans and the Jews. This book is an invaluable resource for learning not only the customs and manners of certain groups, but it also presents exciting articles about the political landscape, wars and captivity, socio-economic conditions, how different cultures evolved, and the impact all of this had on God's people and His purposes. It is not laid out in dictionary format; it's more encyclopedic and has a wonderful and comprehensive index. Also, the photographs are very useful and very well-placed throughout the book. This book will certainly help to increase your understanding and appreciation of the Bible.

An appreciation of the history, political climate, trends, and just plain way of life of persons and generations of the times of the Bible is important in the understanding of the potence of the main thrust of it. One needs to ensure that he/she is taking everything within context and divine guidance in his/her quest to understand the Bible with a derived main motive of being more of an accurate servant to God.

Although the Bible can be understood by itself in itself through careful and patient study with humility and guidance, this book is - in my opinion - is an adequate assistant. It goes through the history and meanings of customs as well as the politics and rules of the land. It has accurate maps and drawings and even gives evidence based on secular history of biblical content.

If you are a student or considering purchasing a gift for such a student of the Bible - I say that this would be appropriate.

Thomas Bleier and Eric Steinert's Net.People covers the personalities behind the web sites, from how ideas are translated into Web sites to problems of webmastering and how individuals succeeded in web ventures. A "must read" for cyber buffs and web history enthusiasts!

I found the stories inspiring and was even motivated to start writing my first novel after reading about one of the sites (wordmuseum.com) and the owner of that site. I emailed her and she was extremely nice and helpful with resources to get me started.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in what inspires others to become great.

net.people was such an interesting book for those interested in the personalities behind some of these web sites. It's good reading and I highly recommend it!

Not since college have I read a book overnight, and that was under duress. net.people on the other hand is a delight; a candid, insightful look into the lives and sites that are fueling the web's explosive growth. Bleier and Steinert capture the essense of how some people and sites have taken great advantage of the web's awesome entrepreneurial opportunities. net.people is useful for both the net savvy seeking insights for making their sites more successful and the general public interested in a fascinating glimpse of the internet's grass roots, pioneers and web celebs.

Thomas Bleier and Eric Steinert have brought together in net.people the people, the content, and the work that has gone into a sampling of Websites representative of average people like you and me. The book profiles the lives of men and women who offer a variety of informational services that include budget living, comic books, electronic gaming, horse riding, humor, medical advice, misheard song lyrics, B-movies, movie reviews, software reviews, sports, unusual tourist attractions, writer resources, Website reviews, and even celebrity grave sites - honest!

Readers will learn how the ideas of these people were turned into successful Websites and about the amount of time, labor, expense, and strategies involved in launching them. How did they design their Websites? How did they find financing for their sites? How do they draw increased traffic to them? What were the successes and failures they experienced? How have their lives been changed? The answers to these and other questions are here for all to read and learn from.

Just who are these people? They are people just like you and me. They have real interest in sharing certain information with others for fun, and in some cases, for profit of one kind or another. They have knowledge, skill, talent, ideas, and opinions just like anyone else. What makes them different is they have gone online with their offerings. They have experienced the good times and the bad. Readers may be able to identify with them as they read this highly personal and revealing book.

This book will inspire readers to take their own thoughts and ideas online as well. It will help them to further develop their own ideas, to design their own Websites, and come up with their own marketing strategies. It's highly recommended reading for anyone wanting to go online. Readers will have fewer excuses not to do so after reading this book!