Watson Books

Torpedo Junction is a very educational and interesting book about German submarines destroying numerous ships and their cargos and many deaths. It is historically accurate and enlightening. Once you start this book, it is difficult to put down.

I recommended it to anyone interested in history, WWII and what happened on the East Coast of the U.S., particularly from New Jersey to North Carolina.

The U-boat war off America's coast "Operation Drumbeat" was merely one of Germany's U-boat operations. This book is an interesting read. I, like others, wasn't aware of the magnitude of U-boat operations off America's coast. It's a great account. It's limited to that operation. There's hardly anything beyond Operation Drumbeat...but that was the book's intent. It's a good account.

I've read a number of books over the years, both about WWII and other topics. I can say that Torpedo Junction is the most fascinating book I've ever read. Even though the author gives lots of details about the attacks, he keeps it moving along at a steady clip. I didn't want to put the thing down. It's very well-documented (albeit with some secondary sources), but also provides a lighter narrative style along to way to break up the "action reports."

Ultimately how good I like a book is if I'm committed to finish it. Torpedo Junction by Homer Hickman is a book I had to finish, but I was so interested in what it revealed I hardly wanted it to end. Many factors were at work here. First, Mr. Hickman's writing is so clear and linear that it belies the painstaking research such an easy to read factual narrative requires. Thank you Mr. Hickman for doing the work so I could both be reviled and astonished!

This little known yet very tragic part of World War II played out right at our doorstep. Because of Japan's audacity to hit us with one massive surprise salvo the even more insideous U-Boat war on the U.S. coastline played out largely unknown to the general public. For months that seemed to drag on and on the Germans sank boat after boat after boat. Maybe for our protection or maybe because we couldn't quite get a handle on how to stop the German U-Boat threat the mounting damage was kept quiet. It was a tremendous tragedy which caused great loss of life as well as massive destruction of resources. With Torpedo Junction we can finally see how close to home death truly came. Also, we get to know the true courage of those who protected our home shores so we could both support the war effort as well as keep that all important semblance of a "normal life" at home. To know the facts surrounding the North Atlantic U-Boat war helps to rectify those long years of not talking about it.

I recommend this book as both educational and entertaining. As with Rocket Boys I was pulled inside a time and place as if I was there. Storytelling really doesn't get better than this.

As the U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Dione's lead soundman during period of Hickman's book I can attest that he did a wonderful job telling our story about some real hazardous duty. Homer's collaboration with our Radioman 1st, Swede Larson really paints the futility and danger of our sub chasing before and after convoys. I'm so glad Homer wrote about us. Now maybe we won't be forgotten.

This book is a great addition to the student of drawing's library. The author does a superb job of analyze some excellent examples of classical drawing and elucidates the formal and structural concepts in each. Although this book does not provide very much in the way of "step by step" style technical instruction, it does provide the reader with a way of conceptually approaching a drawing.

The author demonstrates where the great artist used a cylinder, or a sphere to conceptualize a part of the subject's anatomy. He shows how lines are modulated to give varying degrees of tone and shape to the figure. Many of these ideas will stew around in your head as you approach your own drawing projects. Eventually, you will notice that you are more aware of certain parts of the form and that these are being incorporated into your work. Overall, this book is a very interesting and enjoyable way of delivering basic drawing concepts to a student reader.

This is an excellent text/reference for drawing enthusiasts, or students of drawing. Both the way it is broken down, and uses examples from the masters to illustrate the concepts offer a really solid grounding in how line is used to describe space, shape and tone.

This is one of the "timeless" drawing reference books every artist should look at when he/she needs inspiration. Hale picks some of the most dynamic life drawings by the old masters--Leonardo, Ingres, etc.--and disects them in terms of composition, tone, thrust, etc. He is right on in his suggestions that artists should study human and animal surface anatomy to understand the figure. I found his discussion of light and shadow especially instructive.

More of a philosophical approach to drawing than instructional. But, often i find it enlightening to learn HOW to think...more so than WHAT. A great artist can synthesize his ideas rather than simply comprehend them. This book exemplifies and necessitates this philosophy.

I like that he has a full page to show the drawing and on the facing page he has a smaller version with commentary. He places capital letters on the drawing so you can see exactly which line or shape he is discussing.

What started as a project to print every single Spy Vs. Spy strip Prohias did (plus some that were done by his successors) evolved into a tribute to their creator.

The strips are all here, but there are also a couple of nice essays and rememberences detailing Prohias flight from Castro's Cuba and life in America. Plus they printed some of his pre-Spy Vs. Spy strips.

These strips were meant to be read once a month or more. I've noticed if you read too many in a row, they lose their edge. Still, that's no knock on the work. If you remember these strips from childhood or liked the animated Mad TV segments, this book is well worth a look.

Spy vs. Spy has always been my favorite section in MAD magazine since I first started reading it many years ago. Each new issue I got, I would immediately turn to the "Joke and Dagger Department" which is specifically reserved for this strip. It was not until I was much older however did I realize that Spy vs. Spy were really a parody of the cold war. This book is the complete collection of Antonio Prohias's iconic creation including every Spy vs. Spy he ever illustrated. Additional biographical and bonus information on Prohias is another amazing feature of this collection and his immense contribution to MAD magazine is truly shown. The Spy's elaborate methods of destroying one another will keep you laughing for hours with this book! Which Spy will win next? Black or White?!

I loved the unexpectited endings. I liked seeing them beet up each other. They also tell abought the auother`s life in the begening.

"Spy vs. Spy: The Complete Casebook" collects the complete run of the late Antonio Prohias' comic strip from 1961-1987, published by MAD Magazine. The title characters are two equally sinister agents--one dressed in black, the other in white--who constantly war against each other with many a different scheme.
On occasion, the Spies are joined by the Gray Spy--a female operative who always triumphs over the Spies, who are blinded by their love for her. This book also contains artwork by Bob Clarke and Peter Kupfer. There are also extras in this book, including photographs of Spy merchandise, unpublished sketches and essays by Prohias' friends at MAD.
This book has a secret agent, film noir feel to it. It appears that the comics were easily inspired by The Shadow--but to a greater extent, the Cold War.

Classic book with background information. Creative, imaginary, entertaining & impossible enterprises detailed. Great for adults to younger teens. Originally purchased for my 12 year old and so popular he and his friends that we gave several as gifts to his friends. My 8 year old also picked up the book and spent time studying the pictures and laughing at the absurd lengths these spys go to.

One of my favorite parts of this book is called 'meet the colors', and it deals not just with the primaries, secondaries, and tertiaries, but also with neutrals, earth tones, white, gray, black, and metallics. Each section discusses the characteristics and affinities of its color(s) as well as symbolism, emotional associations, and so on. A budding jewelry designer would find this a gold mine of ideas not just for mixing and matching bead colors, but also for creating dynamic and enticing product descriptions that are more than just a drab recounting of the item's colors and traits.

Once the reader has gained something of an understanding of the colors themselves, Ms. Deeb discusses various ways of creating color schemes. She delves into both theory-based color schemes and more fluid designs based on seasons, emotions, and symbolism. Ms. Deeb includes a handful of things that make these discussions more than just theory, and more than just another lesson in artistic color theory. First of all, the book is filled---and I mean FILLED---with photographs of beaded artwork that make abundant use of color, and the author discusses the use of color in each one.

The author is also remarkably good at including beading-specific information, and not just as asides. For instance, she always takes into account the addition of different types of metal or colors of cord or thread when working with beads. She discusses which metals fit into which seasonal color schemes. She details the ways in which thread, cord, and beading wire coloration affect the appearance of bead colors. She takes into account whether beads are faceted, rough, or smooth, as well as their shapes, and in particular what sort of finish is used.

Most of all, her passion for beading and color shines through on the pages, giving them a vibrant energy reflective of her subject. I can't imagine someone coming away from this book without at least a dozen ideas spinning around in their heads.

This book is a absolute necessity for anyone working with beads. This book is sure to be a vital and well-worn fixture on all bead tables - it already is on mine! Margie clearly understands the magical and complex interactions of color and light and she presents her knowledge to the reader in glorious and vivid detail. The book rates a top review just for its eye-candy value alone but it is much more than that. If you have never worked with a color wheel before you will gain a thorough understanding from this book. And if you have worked extensively with color for years, you will still come away from this book with new insights and inspiration. The book is written in a user friendly manner and the illustrations and artwork combine very cohesively with the text. The result is an absolute treasure of a book.

_The Beader's Guide to Color_ by Margie Deeb is not just for beaders, it is for anyone (sewers, interior designers, quilters, or jewelry makers) who wears or uses color.

The major sections of the book are:
- Color Theory & Design
- Theory-Based Color Schemes
- Emotional & Symbolic Color Schemes
- Inspiration & Technique

Each section has numerous subsections, such as "Blue & Cyan", "Color & Design", and "Color Harmony" (and others) in Color Theory & Design; or "Natural", "Luxurious", and "Clashing" (and others) in Emotional & Symbolic Color Schemes. Each subsection typically covers 1-4 pages, making this an excellent book to browse through or to read in smaller parts.

And I am quite glad that the book is broken up into so many subsections, as there is a HUGE amount of information, with a lot of depth to it too. I still find something new to think about or consider each time I read it, and I've owned my copy for at least two years now.

Some of the things that I am personally very grateful for are:
- Explanations of both the artists' pigment color wheel and the ink color wheel, the differences between the two, and frequent reference back to the color wheels in the Theory-Based Color Schemes.
- TONS of very professional and detailed photographs of beading projects done by Deeb and many other artists. There are wall hangings; jewelry with glass beads, seed beads, stone beads, metal beads, and combinations of those; loom-woven and freehand seed bead projects; tabletop pieces such as vases or bowls. Some projects are center on a single large bead or stone, some revolve around a certain type of bead or stone, and some focus not on the feel of the overall piece. Some pieces are very structured and geometric, some are organic and portray flowers, leaves or animals, and some are very freeform. Whatever your particular style or project, you will probably be able to find a palette or a photograph that you can relate to.
- The pages devoted to some of the individual colors. While you may not always agree with Deeb in what emotions and connotations each color evokes, it will still be worth your time to consider WHY you don't agree and what the color mean for you.
- Demonstrations of how the mood and feel of a piece can change just by going to warmer, cooler, brighter, or dimmer colors, and why it's important to decide at the beginning of a project if you want something that is eye-catching all on its own, or that will blend well with something else.
- Numerous Delica seed bead palettes as examples of what can be done with each color scheme. While I don't use seed beads myself, the examples help me understand how to take theory and turn it into something real.

The only criticism I have of the book is Deeb seems to have a preference for purple; purple, mauve, and lavender seem to be in a disproportionate number of the example palettes. However, that is a very minor criticism.

I would probably have had to take at least one or two college color-theory classes to gain as much as I have from this book. I would recommend it without reservation to anyone who uses color for personal adornment (clothing, jewelry, etc.) or for their surroundings.

A definite must have book for all Delica beadworkers AND for those that really want a useful, classic book on color theory applied to beading. Deeb's book uses Delica beads (and their appropriate numbers) to provide stimulating examples of the best uses of color for a multitude of designs. However, you don't have to use seed beads to appreciate the HIGH quality of this book when in comes to color wheels and color theory. What I learned in one or two semesters of fine art in college design classes is in a few well-written pages of this book followed with examples that you can apply directly to bead/jewelry art. Deeb's writing style keeps you interested and clearly describes how the color wheel works. Plus her beadwork designs are exciting (so are those from her other books - a few pieces of her artwork from those bead books are in here) and tempting to try in other color combinations using her recommendations for producing stimulating beadwork. This book is an excellent reference or guide to help make your own projects sizzle with color.

Last month during a beading class, both the instructor and a classmate mentioned this book when I said something about how I always struggle with color. I was eager to purchase it, and am really pleased with all the information it gives!

As other reviewers mentioned, Margie Deeb spends a great deal of time talking about color theory, and she does so in an easy-to-follow way. She also talks about how certain colors evoke certain moods and feelings, and provides many color photos of examples so you can see what she means.

She also provides a fantastic overview of how to use a color wheel. For instance, I knew about using a color wheel by looking at the squares and triangles where three or four colors meet, but I didn't realize all the other ways you can use a color wheel to find complementary colors. For me, this information alone was worth buying this book for.

Another strength of the book is that she provides bead numbers for Delica color palettes. This was very interesting, but I tend to use size 11 and size 15 seed beads more frequently, so I'm not sure if the color numbers will help me as much as a future reference. Her inclusion of these color schemes is still great, though, since they give me something to base a design around.

The only downsides (and they are small ones) is that the sample projects are not really to my liking (they tend to be things like wall hangings) and that the writing can be a bit overkill when she describes the moods that certain colors evoke. Overall, though, I would definitely still purchase this book since it contains so much information and is reasonably priced and because I bought it more for the color theory than for the included projects (and I know we all have very different tastes). It's definitely worth the cost of the book!

This book is a nice journal about the events of Episode l through Padme's (a queen in disguise) eyes. The book keeps you interested from beginning to end and! leaves you wanting more. It's a very quick read, and I've read it several times and still like the story. The pages are photo quality, with faded images of events in the background of each page. The text is a larger print and is very easily read. I wish they had journals by Padme from Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith.

Queen Amidala is a brave young lady who must rise up to an evil Phantom to save her people, in this book it has pictures of most of her costumes and lots of fun reading for children 9-13.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I first bought this book. I can say now that reading it was a most pleasurable experience. Jude Watson has done an admirable job with this journal. It is the deep introspections of a young girl, told shrewdly with a great deal of empathy, not only for Amidala, but for all the characters that she interacts with. The journal displays Amidala's keen insight, and sharp mind, and examines her motives and decisions with great sensitivity. It tells us a little about her background, and her relationships with the people around her. At the end, I felt as though I had discovered a real person.

Though Luke's journal was my personal favorite of the Journal books, this one was definitely the best written. It was better than Anakin's especially, since this one truly got into the mind of Queen Amidala, whereas Anakin's wasn't as good at bringing out his character (what little he had) or anyone elses. This one however, not only lets us get to know Amidala, but also brings out the other characters in a way that made Episode 1 seem much more interesting than it actually was. It was fascinating to find out more about Amidala,(I didn't previously realize she was only fourteen, in the movie she seemed older!) who I found a very intriguing character in the movie, though I was confused about where and when she was Amidala/Padme. This book answered my questions about that also, tying everything together in a satisfying knot. Also, I found Anakin's character much more interesting in this book than even in his own journal. In the movie especially he irritated me, because he just seemed too cute and sweet, but here he is much more likable. This book would be good for any Star Wars fan, especially those twelve and under.

Relive the movie "Star Wars: Episode I" through the eyes of the newly elected Queen Amidala. This young teen begins this journal before the movie began. Readers see the training Amidala went through in preparation for her future post. In the book we find out WHY Amidala puts lipstick on her upper-lip fully, yet only a slash on her lower-lip. We see the defenses that were made by the guards, such as a decoy, but never dreamed would ever have to be used. (Oh come on, you did not HONESTLY think those handmaidens were there for LOOKS, did you?)

**** Not as magnificent as Princess Leia's journal, but just as enlightening! In the movie, Queen Amidala had to keep her face blank so her adversaries could not read her. In this book, we see all the thoughts, fears, and strategies that went on behind the royal mask. In fact, this book made Amidala's character more impressive than the movie did. It can also be used as a quick refresher before you flock to see "Episode II: Attack of the Clones" in the Summer of 2002! Very good reading! ****

Wow! Irene Watson you must have been living in my house! A truly tremendous memoir of being raised by immigrant parents in an era where the "eye" gave you the discipline rules. Irene takes us through her life from childhood to adulthood being raised by the "old rules." In a life that didn't include saying "I love you" or hugs, kisses and resulted in a woman who was ruled by taking care of others.

I the reader lived the same life being brought up by a mother from England- my mom, as Irene's didn't have to say a word- she showed it through body language. We were to be perfect- dad was the breadwinner and didn't participate in parenting. Irene's thoughts about how she would always show she was perfect led with much disappointment by her critical parents. Struggling for their lifestyle- moving around and never being able to develop those social skills- oh- what a life we led.

As an adult, Irene struggled with who she was and whom she was going to rescue. Co-dependency in all of us. We always strive to save others before ourselves. She finally went to a treatment center, which most of us in the helping field attended. They built you up and tore you down. I had vivid memories of my own time in treatment as a developing counselor when I read this account. You think you are helping and then you ended up questioning your own existence. Unlike Irene I wasn't married at the time, but I have questioned my marriage as she did- how much can we do?

As a psychologist and college professor this is a book I have recommended to all for their library- we think we are infallible but we all have hidden ghosts- even as therapists.

Irene you could be my sister- you have truly given me the ability to see how my childhood not only directed my profession- but also made me really look at who I am. I have read, cried, vowed to change and feel completely at peace after reading this. You are my angel.

Insecurity! All of us have encoutered it in our lives at one time or another. The question I pose is this,how many of us have the courage to face it openly? How many of us have the strength put it out there to be seen,shared,and observed by the rest of the world? Author Irene Watson was unfortunately exposed to the following in her life; Tortured by mother and ignored by father; physically abused by her cousin,controlled by her husband Bob; and refused to trust women due to the dysfuctional relationship she and her mother shared. Despite the series of uninfortunate events she was exposed to Irene chose not become a victim to it all. For prevention purposes, she voluntarily checked herself into the Avalon clinic for 28 days. Skeptical about Counselor Gille and his healing methods at first, she comes to find that attending the Avalon clinic provided exactly what she needed to become the successful wife, mother,friend,author,and business woman she is today. The Sitting Swing is a prime example of how successful you can become spiritually from the inside as well as the outside if you deal with your issues at hand appropropriately. More imporantly, as stated by Author Irene Watson, forgiveness plays a vital role in getting it going. I would recommend this book to all rehablitation clinics that place emphasis on healing from a spiritual standpoint.

Adra Young:Author of The Everyday Living of Children & Teens Monologues

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2DEDQ2T0CBDMN This short video is a great introduction to the story of The Sitting Swing and Irene's reclamation of self.

Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads.com (8/08)


In this powerful memoir, Irene Watson shares the story of her sheltered and painful childhood, how it shaped the person she became, and the steps she took to heal her wounds and to change her life for the better. The book begins on day one of her twenty-eight day stint in Avalon, a recovery center. On the surface, her reason for checking into the center was to fit in, as she had numerous friends who had graduated from the program and raved about how it had changed their lives. Also a practicing therapist, Watson thought that putting herself through the program would provide her with more insight into the issues of her patients. Deep down, however, she knew that there were different reasons for her stay.

After the introduction to Avalon, Irene presents to us the events that took place during her childhood that molded her adult life. One of the first things that would have an impact on her happened before she was even born and this was the birth and subsequent passing of her brother Alexander. The death of 2 ½ month old Alexander definitely had an influence on the way that her mother raised Irene. Although her mother really never had a chance to know Alexander, she envisioned him as the "good child" and held Irene to the high standards that she believed he possessed. Irene's mother sheltered her from so much, but failed to believe her or protect her when she was being abused by cousins and by bullies. Irene was not allowed to think for herself as her mother pretty much dictated whatever she did.

The story of Irene's past continues through her marriage to her husband Bob. Then the setting shifts again back to the Avalon center and the treatment process. We watch as Irene delves deep into her past through a series of exercises in an effort to recreate herself and change her and her family's life.

I found "The Sitting Swing" to be a very honest and inspiring memoir. I applaud Irene's willingness to share with us her journey, and I think that everyone reading this book will be able to take something away from it. As a parent to two young boys, her issues with her mother opened my eyes to a lot of things. I learned to not be too overprotective of my children, to be sure to listen to them, and to be honest when explaining things to them.

Irene's style of writing draws you in from the first page and the book flows smoothly until the last page is turned. She is an extremely talented writer and her experiences are very touching. The last half of the last chapter even gave me goose bumps. I highly recommend "The Sitting Swing;" Irene's words are so real that you cannot help but to be inspired by her journey.

Reviewed by Tyler R. Tichelaar for Reader Views (8/08)

Childhood trauma. Honesty about one's personal faults. A dramatic recovery program. These elements all add up to make Irene Watson's "The Sitting Swing: Finding the Wisdom to Know the Difference" an eventful, meaningful, and poignant tale of one woman's struggle to overcome her repressive family background, the anger that arises from her treatment in childhood, and her own deepest inner faults, so she can become whole, successful, positive, and ultimately a resource of help to others.

The story begins when the author, Irene Watson, attends Avalon, a recovery center. As a practicing therapist, Irene goes to Avalon to learn more about addictions and codependency. She wants to help her clients, but she has no idea how the experience will help her personally. When she arrives at the center, she soon realizes she will be spied upon by cameras, the counselors are aggressive and in her face, and she has issues she did not want to admit before. This unexpected situation causes her to question why she has come at all. The narrative then flashes back to Irene's memories of her childhood to explain what ultimately brought her to Avalon.

Irene begins telling her story by detailing her family background. Her parents and grandparents were Ukrainian immigrants to early nineteenth-century Canada. Their culture and language make Irene isolated when she begins to attend an English-speaking school. She tries to melt into the crowd by befriending the other children, but her family continually stands in her way when she tries to have a "normal" childhood.

Irene's biggest struggle is with her over-protective and irrational mother. Irene's brother, Alexander, died before she was born. The loss of this child and her mother's sense of guilt over his death cause Irene to live a protected life. The memoir's title refers to the swing Irene could barely move because of the rose bushes surrounding it. This forced confinement is a metaphor for her life with a mother who denies her playing with other children or even allowing her to be herself.

As Irene reaches her teenage years, the narrative becomes quite frightening since the very real possibility exists that Irene could have become a juvenile delinquent, and some of the angry actions she contemplates taking toward the narrow-minded people of her town could have had irrecoverable consequences. Fortunately, Irene had one friend, Margie, to confide in and who helps her see the irrationality of some of her proposed actions. I found this section painfully honest because it suggests how badly children need attention and role models and the consequences to a society that mistreats its children. Eventually, Irene finds the strength to stand up to her mother when she falls in love and gets married. However, even when she has moved out of her parents' house, the trauma of her childhood continues to haunt her.

Irene's experiences at the Avalon Center are told with equal frankness. She finds herself forced to confront her deepest shortcomings, realize she must forgive her mother, and take responsibility for herself, rather than blaming her past. She also finds the courage to make changes to her marriage. The final chapter of the book is not a warm and fuzzy conclusion but rather a very honest and realistic summary of how she has grown from the frightened and repressed little girl she was into a mature woman.

"The Sitting Swing" is an inspiring story. Readers will empathize with Irene, and they will be motivated to begin their own spiritual journeys of recovery. While the path is not easy, Irene is proof that serenity is achievable. More than anything, readers will be impressed with Irene Watson's honest voice and her straightforward colloquial writing style that makes us realize we are a lot like her, and consequently, if she could recover from her past, then anything is possible for us as well.

This revised edition of "The Sitting Swing" also includes a new afterword and appendices to provide additional resources for people seeking to recover. Anyone, whether a recovering addict or co-dependent, or victim of abuse, will find strength in this narrative. "The Sitting Swing: Finding the Wisdom to Know the Difference" is highly recommended!

This book is recommended for all art fans--you don't need to be familiar with the Sandman character to enjoy McKean's gorgeous covers. The commentary is also very interesting, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the thought process behind many of the works. McKean progresses from producing physical pieces of art to digital manipulations as the series progressed, and although some of his initial digital effects are now dated, it's still fascinating to see a modern master at work.

is there any difference between the Watson-Guptill edition and the Vertigo edition? i noticed one says '1989-1996' while the other says '1989-1997', the size also seems to be differnt, althogh the page numbers are both 208. what i want to know is, is there any difference as far as the artworks go inside? and if so, which is the better one? (one's also more price than the other, it seems).

I bought this book as a gift for a Friend, I was familiar with McKeans art from the comics and she had recently gotten into his work... So i thought it'd make a good gift.

It was a great gift! I looked through the book thoroughly myself and was amazed at not just the artwork but the presentation of it throughout. McKean and Neil Gaiman's Commentry and Notes throughout are both Fascinating and sometimes hilarious. (Ah the Fish...)

I'm gonna pick up a copy for myself, as this really is an Amazing book... ArtFans or ComicFans alike will appreciate just how Beautiful Mckeans Art is.

I don't know why I haven't gotten around to reviewing this collection of work before, but it is amazing! As the title suggests, it is the collected covers of the Sandman comic book series that ran from 1989-1996. There are no Sandman stories in here, just the collected covers of all the issues and some commentary on the covers and The Sandman series by Neil Gaiman himself.

"Just." I love this book. It's "Art" with a capital "A." So many different styles, forms, and moods. It's beauty and magic captured on paper. It calls to mind art as diverse Edward Gorey, Salvadore Dali, the movies of Tim Burtn, and on one startling cover even H.R. Geiger (in a non-Aliens way).

The introduction is very nice too.

I recommend this for any fan of the Sandman series.

When I had collected the original Sandman issues, I was always intrigued by the cover art as well as the story and illustrations inside. Sometimes, I would find myself staring at the covers for minutes before reading the actual story. This was the only time I had ever really done that. And now you can own this book full of those intricate, detailed, and amazing art pieces, along with commentary by McKean and Gaiman.

And there's a Sandman story that I have never read before! If you're a Sandman fan, buy this book.

This book details the life of Suenaka Sensei and his martial accomplishments
including his relations to some of the greatest martial arts teachers of this century, most importantly his relations with Morihei Ueshiba and Hohan Soken, I don't think there is anyone else out there that has the martial knowledge and lineage similar to that of Suenaka Sensei. This is a excellent book and should be read by anyone who has interest in Aikido.

As a person who recently started training in Aikido, this book was suggested for me as a handy reference. As a beginner I didn't care much about the martial history or the various political factions - I simply wanted to learn Aikido - so I skipped right to the second half.

Of course the book will never replace actual hands-on instruction but as a supplement to training I've found the second half of the book to be extremely valuable. Using it to learn the various Japanese terms, the order of the Taiso, and to see the written descriptions of things I had learned in class, allowed me to retain what I had learned faster, and to begin to see the overall pattern evident in the art.

While this DOES NOT contain an exhaustive collection of Wadokai techniques, it DOES contain a large collection of pieces that the reader can use to discover new techniques on your own. Close study allows the reader to notice the similarities between various techniques, and to apply those principles in techniques not included (except in pieces) in the book. If the reader approaches the book as less of an encyclopedia of possible techniques, and more of a dictionary of individual linked components, he/she will not be disappointed.

After a couple of months, I decided to read the first half of the book. I found it well written and highly entertaining. Despite my initial disinterest in the topic, I ended up reading the first half in less than a day due to these qualities. A good read for anyone who has trained for a while and is interested to learn more about the history of the art.

Complete Aikido? No, of course not. Such a book would be 10 times as long, cost $200, and still omit various combinations and special waza. As a reference for people new to the art, or for people who have been training for years, it still has a lot to offer. Especially if you are creative!

This is another great work. Sensei Roy Suenaka gives a no-nonsense narrative of his history with aikido as well as basic technique and training tips. There is also reference to Seunaka's friendship with one of the founders of the Shorin Ryu style of karate and Suenaka's experiences with Sensei Saotome. Great history, Great technique advice and overall entertaining reading.

Having been involved in Aikido, Judo and Karate for more than 20 years. I am glad that Suenaka Sensei gave his insight into what really happened between Doshu and Tohei Sensei. After practicing with the Federation for sometime I always wondered what happened that caused the split between the Doshu and Tohei. Suenaka Sensei's account has brought all the missing pieces together for me and has answered all the questions I had about one of the most monumental events in Aikido post O'Sensei's passing.

I also found Suenaka Senseis credential very impressive and wish that he had a school in Canada as I would love to have the opportunity to train with someone that has studied with all of the masters he has.

It seem that Suenaka Sensei's Technical part of the book is much more real life oriented than the Aikido that I am used to practicing and teaching. I was amazed to see him actually using a kick in one of his techniques. I have never seen anyone at Hombu do that and I will start to combine my use of kicks as atemi in my own techniques as it really makes sense. Also the use of punches seems to be used in every technique that Suenaka Sensei does which has really made me think about having to combine atemi with everything I do if I want my Aikido to work in the street.

I especially liked all the stories, and I agree that aikido can be very useful in real life self-defense situations, if you learn and apply it in certain ways. Unfortunately aikido as it's mostly taught today, has lost some of it's practicality. But the potential of aikido is great. Just decide what you want out of it. I also recommend The Robert Koga DVDs (Practical Aiki-do) or his biography, for those in doubt whether aikido can "work" on the streets. Also David Dye's DVDs have that approach (Aikido Self Defense for the Modern Warrior). Both of these senseis are ex police officers and have tried and tested their techniques in the world outside of the dojo.

Ink and pen was pretty much perfected around the turn of the century and the benefit of that expertise is captured quite well in this book. You still get the best and most expressive lines from a steel pen. This seems like a perfect book for a beginner or an experienced artist interested in all the nuances of the pen.
My only real issue with the book is it seems to be focused heavily on architectural themes and technical issues and less on art. So I give it 4 stars.

This is the Bible.
That's the long and short of it. To my knowledge, there is no other tutorial that is as complete and exhaustive as this 60 year old text on the then prominent art of pen and ink drawing. Arthur Guptill begins with a detailed exploration of the nature of pen and ink rendering as well as its limitations. Pen and ink is never intended to create photographic representations of the subject and so any comparison between the photograph and the ink rendering is fallacious. He then goes on to explain how the results of pen and ink are achieved. Some of the material will be superfluous to the artist who uses the Rapidograph pen because it illustrates the different techniques that are specific to the various flexibilities of the dip-pen nibs and how varying the pressure can produce different line effects. These techniques are the reasons I prefer the flex-tip nibs over the modern technical pen. (Or it could be that I'm just and old fashioned cuss.) Guptill stresses the importance of practicing pen-strokes much as a pianist must practice scales. Neither the instruments nor the lack of skill in the basic techniques should stand in the way of the artist in the midst of creating the picture. Practicing strokes is the surest way to freedom of expression when it counts most.
Many methods of producing grey scale with the pen and one value of black ink are also presented exhaustively. When this book was written, newspapers relied less on photographs and more on the pen primarily because printing techniques had not been developed that could inexpensively reproduce on newsprint the subtle shading of a photograph. Only the most important stories warranted a print photo. Artists had to rely on pen techniques to suggest them. That, more than any other thing, makes this text invaluable, for even though we have mastered the art of photographic printing, yet there is a charm to the pen and ink rendering that will never be replaced. It is good to have a ready reference to how these effects are achieved.
Also valuable are the principles of composition, light, shade and texture that are common to most art texts, but here these are presented with the specific ways they are achieved in monochrome ink and various pens. And, there are ample illustrations of works by the greatest illustrators of the time, showing how each one achieved results. Copying these artists is probably the most valuable experience an artists can get from a book.
Much of the work, in fact, the majority, is in the area of architectural rendering, and it seems that architects may be the ones who will get the most use of this textbook, but illustrators are well represented too, and the techniques are the same for both.
I have found this book essential in my own illustration work and recommend it highly to anyone in the graphic arts.

I bought this book to learn pen drawings but as this tome was written several years ago, it talks about a different set of instruments, principally a quill/or quill type pen. The uniqueness of this pen is that the width of the line varies with the pressure you put. These pens are now available only in specialty art stores. If you are planning to use the technical pen (available in a number of gages) a better and more apt alternative is The Technical Pen.

This book however, still rates 3 stars from me because of the depth of material. Some of the illustrations are very, well illustrative :) and the overall coverage of material is comprehensive.

This book is essential. I am a pro illustrator and I still find myself cracking it open. Through out your career in art you will have a hand full of books that amaze you and keep teaching you. This is it.

TJ Walkup

This book is all that the other reviewers say it is. The text is clear and informative, if dated... but the illustrations! The illustrations are worth the price of the book. Even just the basic exercise illustrations in the first part of the book are beautiful, and demonstrate what is possible with this medium.

I have to admit, I'm a Rapidograph person (and if you are too, please see The Technical Pen in addition to this book) rather than a flexible nib person, but the lessons and examples in Guptill's book are priceless anyway.

Highly recommended.

This story takes place in a mountainous region of rural Kentucky around 1881. For our main character we are introduced to Copper, a red-haired sixteen-year-old girl struggling through her teenage years. After causing the readers to become familiar with the current setting and family structure, Ms. Watson transports the readers back in time using a wonderful technique called flashback. Through this process, we become over-filled with emotion as we meet Will (Copper's father), Julie (Copper's mother), and Grace (Copper's step-mother). We are then returned to the current time and place with a strong emotional attachment to all characters in this book and then the story continues...

From the moment I opened this book and read the first paragraph I was captivated and knew that this book was to be refreshing. Full of love, heartache, laughter, and tears. Boy, was I right! Troublesome Creek is the best fictional novel that I have had the pleasure of reading in a very long time and I could not and would not put it down until I reached the end.

This novel was full of plot-twist, family devotion, faith, humor, tragedy, forgiveness, and romance! I found myself crying & spontaneously laughing out loud. Not only do I recommend Troublesome Creek, but I can not wait to read the following two books in this series. Willow Springs and Torrent Falls.

I was very happy with this book and anxious to read the next two. I was not disappointed. This series was excellent.

This first book by Jan Watson is enthralling, heart warming, and just plain great! You get so involved in Copper's life that you can't stop reading. Jan totally nails the language of the people in the hills of Kentucky and describes the area so well, you think you're there with Copper and her family. I loved this book and can't wait for Jan to write more!

Everything is in this book: romance, faith, tragedy,danger.

A coming of age story taking place in the late 1800s in the mountains of Kentucky at Troublesome Creek. The story centers around Copper, a teenager who lives with her Dad, Stepmom, and younger twin brothers.

There are many funny happenings in this story especially because of the young twins, Willy and Daniel. They are quite humorous.

Copper loves living in hese mountains and is very close to her young brothers and very helpful to the whole family. These people have a great faith and always looking for ways to live the way God wants them to.

Copper faces the biggest crossroads of her life when she meets young Dr. Simon Corbett. Her passions run as deep as Troublesome Creek, but will her heart lead to calmer waters?

This is the first of a trilogy. Book 2 is "Willow Springs" and Book 3 is "Torrent Falls".

Looking forward to reading these books as soon as I can.

This book has touched me in such a deep, incredible way. I'm not one to cry in books, but this one had me crying all the way through! The characters are so alive and so real. The stories are so sweet and so tragic and so incrdibly touching. The book touched a spot in my heart that hasn't "felt" in a long time. I HIGHLY recommend this book, and I cannot wait to begin reading the swquel.