Williams Books

When young Michael Zwerdling left the University of Vermont in 1965 with a degree in psychology, he was still 14 years away from starting his collection of nursing postcards, and almost 30 years distant from the work he does today as a nurse in a busy emergency room in Washington, D.C.

Somewhere between the milestones of getting his bachelor's degree and RN license, Zwerdling instructed university students in psychology in New Hampshire; worked as a psychiatric aide in a Waltham, Mass., hospital; and taught karate, meditation, and yoga at his own school in Boston.

His considerable life experience seasons the pages of his first book, Postcards of Nursing. The stunning history not only depicts choice samples from his 25-year collection of nursing postcards, it delivers details, many little-known, about people, world history, art, and culture. The 384-page book is broader than even the "worldwide" its subtitle implies. Zwerdling's research spans time as well as place, offering a look at wars, critical nursing shortages, the Depression, art and humor. All the while it provides the history about who/what gave birth to the profession and why.

The basics: Postcards of Nursing exhibits 600 postcards from the years 1893 to 2002. The book's layout offers easy perusal by building a chapter the same way you'd lay out a museum exhibit. The reader walks through the pages just as he would go from room to room in a museum. For readers wanting more information about the pictures, each of the chapters starts out with a brief introduction and ends with detailed notes about many of the postcards. A bibliography and index prove useful for finding more information.

The rare images you see here indeed come from all over the world. Some are romanticized, some humorous, and some tragic. Some tell a story via sequential images and rhymed words. Nurses are not always people in the depictions, and neither are their patients.

Readers will also recognize some of the drawings from other milieu. Remember those round-faced kids on the sides of soup cans? Zwerdling's book includes the whimsical art of Grace G. Wiederseim, the woman who created the familiar Campbell's Soup Kids, except here her familiar kids are nurses and doctors. And here, as in many other areas, the author thoughtfully provides notes about the artist's life and death.

Zwerdling's extensive research also shows how nurses were used to tout everything from War Savings Stamps to stout, from telephones to fountain pens, and even to the danger of spreading tuberculosis by spitting. Using a nurse to sell a product or idea extends even to modern times, with a 1997 postcard from Denmark featuring an attractive blond nurse and the caption "AIDS is Still Here" as a reminder of World AIDS Day.

As is often the case, there's a story behind the story. The book is a product of the Zwerdling Nursing Archives, the author's personal collection of rare art and photographic postcards. Zwerdling selected each piece for its historic significance, artistic composition, and condition. Although nursing cards make up the primary collection, he also collects postcards with themes related to health. His HIV and AIDS postcards number about 300. He's amassed cards on controlled substances and pharmaceutical advertising, and as a sideline he collects greeting cards and other items related to nursing, storing each piece in archival Mylar.

"Were it to be lost, it would be impossible to replicate," Zwerdling says of his archives. "Many of the items are one of a kind, the prices have skyrocketed since I began collecting, and the cards were assembled via hundreds of sources cultivated over a 25-year period, through trips to France, Belgium, Germany and England."

Still, the collection is immortalized thanks to the book and to Zwerdling's belief in sharing. He makes the images available to nurses and people associated with nursing. He also licenses images for commercial use and offers them free to people researching the history of nursing. "Give of yourself," he advises in one interview when asked why he created the book.

Postcards of Nursing would not be out of place in anyone's library, but nurses with a reverence for the profession will treasure this book.

I am a nurse myself and chose this book to give to a recent nursing grad. It is a gift that helps to underscore the diversity within the career of nursing and the "postcards" provide both inspiration and humor.

I am most grateful to Michael Zwerdling, RN for the creation of this heart-felt tribute to the nursing profession. He has compiled a through and profoundly moving volume that details the history of nursing in a unique and beautiful manner. I could not help but be reminded of my own mother who was a dedicated nurse all her life.

The images in this book speak volumes of the loving kindness manifest by nurses in their care for people in sickness, while injured and their tireless efforts at providing comfort. His tribute is an outstanding expression of appreciation for the active compassion of all nurses.

Everyone who has a nurse in their family, or is the friend of a nurse, or who has benefited from the compassionate care of nurses while in hospital, might consider making a gift of this book to their favorite angel of mercy.

This book is an incredibly beautiful tribute to all nurses, our avatars of compassion and mercy.

Michael Zwerdling's book offers a fresh look at a century of nursing history worldwide, focusing on what he refers to as the Golden Age of Postcards (1907-World War I). This 9" x 12" hardbound coffee table book contains 580 full-color images from 65 countries. Opening it is like entering a series of galleries in which you can browse idly or focus with scholarly intent. There are photographs, cartoons, poster art and advertisements. In them, you'll find drama, history, whimsy, romance and, yes, hanky-panky, all of it eye-catching, The seven chapters are arranged more for visual compatibility than chronology or geography. Each is preceded by an introduction and followed by notes on the individual postcards. "Postcards of Nursing" explores new territory and, in my opinion, holds as much interest for the general public as it does for the international nursing community.

I view this book as both an artist and a practicing clinical psychologist. From the artistic side, The richness of the imagery is nothing short of breath taking. Post cards were the media vehicle of the time. The cell phone and internet of all the people. The images that Michael has collected reflect the slice of life and slice of art that crossed all cultural boundaries. This might have been chaotic if the author had not displayed exquisite good taste in his selections. The wealth of images stimulates my creativity and gives me material inspiration for my own work.

As a psychologist, the interest is just as keen. What a fascinating mind the author has! He comes to the work from the vantage point of myth and symbol, pointing to the universality of issues of sickness, injury, and mortality juxtaposed against the equally universal themes of nurturance, service and healing. This comes from a person in the field, working as a trauma nurse in a major hospital.

Just as intriguing is the sociological point of view that places all these images in their political/ cultural contexts. We are told of fashion, war, royalty, advertising, and prejudice. I especially love the little human-interest stories that are sprinkled here and there.

What a first rate piece of work for those interested in the human condition. Nursing, per se, is not something I would have gone out and bought a book about, but glancing though a copy of this book hooked me. I am so happy to spend many hours visiting Michael's world. I would love the opportunity to pour through the cards that didn't make it into the book and get a curated tour by Mr. Zwerdling.

Sumner Silverman, Ph.D.

I found a copy of this book on the table of my room where I was staying during my annual Heritage Seminar at the Wilson House in East Dorset, Vermont. And I was surprised and delighted. To see this kind of material in an A.A. "shrine" was a treasure find. The Wilson House is the birthplace of A.A. cofounder Bill Wilson.The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator's Role in Early A.A.. Fortunately it was founded and managed by two wonderful Christians, Ozzie ad Bonnie Lepper. The Wilson House itself houses A.A. meetings, A.A. history seminars, Big Book study meetings, and talks by various A.A. writers and historians. It is neither a religious retreat nor a denominational haven. But its managers have had the guts to recognize the real A.A.Real Twelve Step Fellowship History. They knew it was a Christian fellowship. They knew that Bill Wilson attended the East Congregational Church next door. They knew that Dr. Bob attended the North Congregational Church in St. Johsbury.Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous: His Excellent Training in the Good Book As a Youngster in Vermont. And they believed that truth about A.A. and its roots was just as important as opinions about its "spirituality." Turning Point: A History of Early A.A.'s Spiritual Roots and Successes. Hence, in most of the guest rooms, one will occasionally find the text Alcoholics Anonymous, the Holy Bible, and a piece of Christian writing such as this William Law book, Oswald Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest, and even one of my books.Making Known the Biblical History and Roots of Alcoholics Anonymous: A Sixteen-Year Research, Writing, Publishing, and Fact Dissemination Project, Third Edition To me this William Law book was a treasure--a pearl of great price. I don't like characterizations like "mystic." I'd rather a reader look at Law's book, study the Bible, and define his own position on the gift of the Holy Spirit, the manifestations of the Spirit, and the gift ministries. It's the kind of resource material some AAs want and many more could read with relish and profit. I did! Pardon my injection of alcoholism and Alcoholics Anonymous into this lofty scene, but, as I've often said at my Wilson House lectures, "Alcoholics may be sick, but they are not stupid." And the more they can learn about the Word of God, the power of God, and the importance of Jesus Christ, the closer they will come to a real knowledge of why early A.A. succeeded.

This book is for those whom God has blessed with "eyes to see". I have purchased and given away many copies to people who have been "born again" {or think they are}, and most comment - "I don't understand it". They can't see.

William Law was considered the greatest spiritual and literary man of his time. He was admired by all the great evangelicals of that era. UNTIL HE WROTE BOOKS LIKE THIS. He had stepped into a higher realm after seven years of studying the writings of Jacob Boehme.

Law states "Regeneration is something entirely distinct, from this first sudden Conversion, or Call to Repentance; ... it is not a Thing done in an Instant, but is a certain Process, a gradual Release from our Captivity and Disorder, consisting of several Stages and Degrees, both of Death and Life, which the Soul must go through, before it can have thoroughly put off the old Man."

He says that only the spiritual Christian can understand the scriptures because they were written by men who were "In the Spirit".

And so the carnal Christian CANNOT comprehend it.

The famous scripture "Behold, I stand at the door and knock" was not written to non believers - it was written to the church in Laodicea.

But for those who can see - this book is a must have. After thirty years and countless books that I have read, trying to find a witness to what I new to be true, the later works of William Law {Boehme was too difficult} have ended my search.

This book is by far the best modern presentation of what real Christianity is - Christ living His life through you. {Gal 2:20}

To the majority of my Brothers and Sisters in the Lord who think they know - I thought I knew - now I do - thank you Lord for William Law.

This book is a modernized, edited version of Law's work entitled "An Humble, Earnest, and Affectionate Address to the Clergy," published in 1761. In the introduction, Dave Hunt notes that Dr. Andrew Murray brought it back into print in 1896 under the present title (The Power of the Spirit) because he didn't "know where to find anywhere else the same clear and powerful statement of the truth which the Church needs at the present day." Murray also said: "I have tried to read or consult every book I knew of that treats of the work of the Holy Spirit, and nowhere have I met with anything that brings the truth of our dependence upon the continual leading of the Spirit, and the assurance that that leading can be enjoyed without interruption, so home to the heart as the teaching of the present volume." This is quite a statement! Nonetheless, Hunt does note that, like Murray, he doesn't agree with all of Law's teachings (considering his entire writings) although he and Murray do believe that the message of this book on the Holy Spirit is soundly based upon Scripture. William Law was a Protestant mystic who delved into many of the classics of Christian mysticism and eventually developed a particular interest in the Protestant mystic Jacob Boehme and later became known as one of his most prominent disciples. Law is best known for his classic "A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life" which was treasured by such notables as John Wesley, George Whitefield, Samuel Johnson, and later, C. S. Lewis. An unedited version of this classic, along with his work "The Spirit of Love", is available in the Paulist Press series entitled "The Classics of Western Spirituality." Dave Hunt notes that although his edited version of Law's "Address to the Clergy" was taken primarily from Murray's edition, he has drawn upon several of Law's other books, including the afore mentioned classic. Since I own the complete works of William Law, I had the privilege of comparing Hunt's version to the original. There are definitely some notable changes and editing although I think it is safe to say that the heart of Law's book is certainly present in this edited, modern version which certainly is easier to read.

Law's emphasis is on the dynamic power of the Spirit in contrast to the stagnant, intellectualism that he found prevalent in his day (and which is, in certain circles, prominent today). It is not enough to be doctrinally correct, to have skill in Greek and Hebrew, to belong to this or that denomination. One must have a living relationship with God through His Spirit which defines what it means to have everlasting life. This life is not defined by a past experience, but a present and ongoing personal walk with God which produces fruits of righteousness. There is no place for Self in this spiritual walk, this divine-human relationship, which is defined as a submissive obedience to the Spirit's guidance. The contrast between Self and the Spirit, the natural and the supernatural, is prominent in this book. I must also add that Law's immersion in the Christian classics, including those penned by so-called mystics, is notable as well. Take this from one who has read many of them. Although I too don't agree with everything that Law wrote, I certainly enjoyed reading this work both in the original and in this easy-to-read and edited format. Highly recommended!

I haven't read the other reviews because I didn't want to be influenced by them. This man was a significant influence on Wesley (prior to his conversion) as well as Whitfield and some time later impacted the life of Charles Finney.

Here's a few quotes in the Chapter on revival: "Seek no revival through reformation of creeds, dogmas, and outward religious forms."

"Everything short of a new heart and new spirit in and through the power of Christ dwelling vitally in a new man may be fully shown to be self-delusion and self-destruction."

"Let God have but a few who will walk in the Spirit and demonstration of a full salvation and revival has begun."

"Until your faith and submission to the Holy Spirit are a practical demonstration in dailly living of the life of Christ manifest through you, there is little purpose in agonizing for revival in the lives of others."

"The only fruitful minister will be he who himself stands in a full dependence on the Spirit of God, as having no good power in himself, yet having proven the triumph of the cross over self and sin in his own life."

I would strongly encourage you to read this book. Law's works also heavily influenced Andrew Murray as well. In short, this man knew Jesus and it's evident from his writings.

This was my first real experience in reading a book by William Law. I found it very moving, very insightful, and along the same lines as the great writers of the past- Andrew Murray, A.W. Tozer, etc. Since purchasing this book I have bought several more by William Law.

This book is all about how important the Holy Spirit is in the believer's life and the life of the Church. I believe it is the #1 thing that is missing from the Church today. It is why we do not see much happening in the Church today. The Holy Spirit will exalt Christ in our lives, and the Holy Spirit will guide us into all things that our Heavenly Father desires for our lives. Without the Holy Spirit, we are powerless to do all that God wants and desires in our lives and in our Church.

I loved reading this book, it was an exciting adventure. It expanded many of my understandings and put me in much deeper awareness of the topic, and I really enjoyed that.

One of the ways I could relate to this book is that some of the exercises resembled Aikido warm up exercises, which made me understand why I feel the way I feel when I practice Aikido and the sense being charged with positive energy.

I gave this book a rating of 4 stars, even though it deserves 5, simply because there were parts that I couldn't tune into or relate to, but it presented a really interesting argument.

I am full of admiration of the writing style and the stories, and I loved the introduction, because I could relate to most of it.

This is a really sound book and gives you extremely good advise. I enjoyed reading it and it is a keeper. I highly recommend it if you want to stay positive and proteted especially in the work place.

I loved this book because it's simple and yet very effective. The author is personable and shares his own experiences. There were more than enough suggestions and meditations to achieve the psychic protection and understanding that I needed.

I recommend this very "easy to follow" guide in the "art" of Psychic Protection!

It covers all the "basics" in the field in an easy and understandable way on how to protect yourself, others and "spaces"...

Also, to its credit is that it does not avoid the subject of evil and fear as some other books tends to do.
Having read this "introduction" book I recommend further "deeper" reading, i.e. the books: 1. "White Light" by Diane Ahlquist; 2. "The Art of Psychic Protection" by Judy Hall etc.

Mats Fondelius - CEO

I bought this book a while back and found that the book is very useful for those who are in search of the basics of learning how to protect themselves. I tried out a few of the ideas in the book and feel that it really has worked especially the bubble and the shield. Many ideas suggested in the book were things I never would have thought up if I hadn't read about it. Overall, this book is very easy to read and very helpful.

This book was a fantastic idea to begin with and lives up to its promise. I can't think of a better depiction of junior high school for anybody, gay or straight. I wish they'd do a Queer 14, 15, and keep on going.

Some of the intent of this collection was psychological investigation. The editor, Clifford Chase was looking for memories of "that key transitional moment." There are certainly many questions that arise from studying the early adolescence of homosexual child.
How does it arise that gay males have constellations of interests in particular fields? Why the liberal arts rather than the physical sciences? Why acting rather than football? Is this really true or is it a prejudiced stereotype? How and why do effeminate or butch mannerisms arise?
Does the gay student need to be protected from peer persecution? Are segregated high schools justified.?
A taboo question is that of "nature or nurture?" Many gays get annoyed if we even consider the possibility of homosexuality being other than inborn, although some transsexuals are liable to insist that sex roles are social constructs and that a chromatin negative person can choose to be a female.
The collection does not answer all these questions or identify a key moment. What is does have, and which may be a homosexual trait, is superb literary merit. Every story is a gem.
Most of the memories are surprisingly benign and many of the childhoods are remembered as pleasant. Recollections of being "scowled and smirked at" in gym class, such as that of Ralph Sassons, are counterbalanced by the titillating voyeuristic pleasures of such settings. The only horrendous abuse, in Justin Chins "The Beginning of my Worthlessness" was not inflicted as a penalty for effeminacy although it fed into a later feeing of homosexuality as a stigma.
(By the way the book "Peace from Nervous Suffering" that Sassons' mother found helpful is by Claire Weekes, an Australian pschiatrist, and I have often recommended it.)

These writers have captured the pain and anguish of being a teen. The collection will bring back memories and stay with you long after you finish the last story. It's a must have for anyone interested in the developing psyche of gay youth. I wish this collection was around when I was 13. Some of the stories are erotic, others painful and uplifting but all of them are well written and offered from the heart. Worth reading!

I am not a fan of the short story form, preferring the long immersion in fiction that novels offer. This book is one of the few exceptions. I received it as a gift and am glad I did. The stories are thematically related and the writing is uniformly superior. These tales so capture the deliciousness, awkwardness, hope, and disappointments of budding adolescence that I imagine anyone could relate.

My first reaction to QUEER 13 was: "Oh god, 13? Seventh grade...What a year that was..." Thirteen was one of those years that only now I can begin to appreciate and laugh at. I don't know if I'd like to relive it though. And this is perhaps why I was so hesitant to pick this book up. But I'm glad that I did. The stories are all beautiful. There isn't one that stands out the most because they are all so good (most are bittersweet--prepare yourself). I found myself crying and laughing and most of all remembering my own experience while reading this book. I highly recommend this collection be read by all.

Henry Shute was a very popular humorist a hundred years ago; some say he rivaled Mark Twain. These supposed diary entries of a young boy recall a more innocent day, when kids could roam all over town without fear, while reminding us that the playfulness, even impishness, of the young still prevails. When our son was 12 or 13, we used to get many giggles and guffaws in reading these tales to each other. Very enjoyable.

I wish I could find "Letters to Beany, or the Love Letters of Plupy Shute" in print, but this is a fine book by the same author. (Actually, I did find a collector's copy of the other book -- for $125.00!)

I have a 1903 edition (7th printing) that my mother (born 1911) read as a girl and passed on to me. I read it as a boy (1950's) and again recently (2004). It is an easy & enjoyable read for any age reader. It is a time-machine that will transport you to to the 1860's through the eyes of a young boy. You get his candid view of life, neighbors, family, events. Get it for yourself, your kids or a good friend. This is reading recreation and an escape from the 20th-21st centuries.

This is a wonderful book for anyone at any age. I have read it four or fives times since may father gave me his copy in 1957. His grandfather gave it to him in 1931, so the book has become somewhat of an heirloom. It is the view of a childhood that is quite a contrast to the video gaming, televison oriented life in which children grow up today. It may even make you wish you grew up with Henry Shute.

My grandmother had this book and it was the first book I had ever read in one sitting (at the age of ten!) My mother, sister and I would laugh about the misadventures of the characters as if they were our own friends.Now that both my grandmother and my mother are gone, my copy of the book sits in the bookcase with scrapbooks and picture albums. I recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

I was given a copy of this book when I was 11. I somehow lost my copy over the years. On my 60th. birthday, my sister gave me a copy that had a 1909 publishing date. After I broke out in tears, I vowed I wouldn't lose track of this one.

Great book. Easy to understand. Recipes are easy. I could have used this book years ago.

I enjoyed this cookbook; the tone is converational, and there is not much pretense (where there COULD be) in what is presented. On a whim I tried the roast brussel sprouts, and though they were better than expected, I will still NOT serve them for a party. (The success was that I was inspired by the book to even buy the brussel sprouts!) Other recipes are good, even great--try the roasted potatoes with whatever you have on hand (I used fingerlings & purples), just as the book suggests. The info contained here isn't rocket science, but entertaining various crowds can be somewhat daunting if you've been out of the loop a while...which I had been. Jennifer Rubell gives good encouragement, and her advice is sound.

I love this book. I bought it because I have a fear of entertaining in my home and always make having guests into too much of a production, I found this book extremely helpful especially the party tricks and real life wisdom. I have repeated the Rustic Chicken Night numerous times. It is the juiciest chicken I have ever made. All my guests rave and ask for the recipes. I also like the one pot meals and the lunch buffets. This book is like a security blanket that has comforted me through many successful parties.

I have made several of these recipes and find them quick and delicious. They are easy and allow you time to enjoy yourself, spend some time with your guests and not spend all your time in the kitchen.
I questioned some of the ingredients in one recipe but followed it anyway and it was delicious. I even bought the book for a friend. I highly recommend this book for someone who loves to entertain but hates missing the party.

REAL LIFE ENTERTAINING: EASY RECIPES AND UNCONVENTIONAL WISDOM isn't for the party-giver who likes stress: it advocates a more carefree method of throwing a party whether impromptu or planned way ahead, foregoing fancy plans for budget-conscious convenience. Techniques for entertaining pair easy yet elegant recipes with ideas for festive themes. Color pictures throughout enhance the displays.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Baxter's time was not too unlike our own. Despite there being a large theological agreement that there must be discipline within the Church, very few leaders in the church are willing to carry it out. Baxter reminds us, and convincingly so, that we must do so for not only the good of the soul of the individual, but for the rest of the Church, and even ourselves. Most of the book rotates around the subject of discipline in the pastoral ministry. It also contains many other details concerning the ministry that would be good for any aspiring, or current pastor to read.

The only reason I give the book 4 stars instead of 5 is because this version is the abridged version of what Baxter wrote years ago. However, there is nothing that would tell you this unless you read the preface. I was a little disturbed upon originally reading the preface that this was the case, and that the original work is closer to 700 pages (depending on margins and type settings). This book has a rather tiny font size, and very little margin, so even though it is only over 100 pages, if it were in the typical type setting you see in most books, it would probably be closer to 3-400 pages.

Also, the ancient Elizabethean english has been revised for the modern reader, which probably accounts for the shorter number of pages.

Don't let any of this distract you from getting this book though, there are still many redeeming qualities to it.

The Reformed Pastor was actually very different than I anticipated, being nothing about reformed theology or even theology at all. "Reformed Pastor" actually means reforming pastors, using the word the same way we would say "reformed hardened criminal." Hmmm. I guess that already tells you this book isn't one of those "feel-good" books.

Richard Baxter was famous for two things: being a tremendous pastor to a town in England, and getting constantly into trouble for being so blunt that he would make enemies of his friends. This book is about being a tremendous pastor, and it is very very blunt.

It is an extended lecture he proposed to give to a local ministerial association in 1656. The book uses as its foundation and framework Acts 20:28: "Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood." The book first deals with pastors "taking heed" to their own spiritual state and life, and then turns its attention to taking heed to all the flock.

As to the topic of taking heed to their own spiritual lives, Baxter starts at the beginning, with making sure the reader is truly a Christian, and progresses through disciplines, qualifications, and indwelling sin. He next emphasizes the reasons why a pastor must be rigorous in his own spiritual life. He expounds reasons such as how many eyes are on the man of God, how difficult the work is, and how the honor of Christ depends on it. He reminds his reader of many practical insights, such as "all that a minister does is a kind of preaching" and to avoid the error of men who "study hard to preach exactly, and study little or not at all to live exactly."

After dealing with the pastor's personal life, he tackles the pastor's responsibility to shepherd his congregation. His most radical recommendation, radical back then and almost unthinkable to American churches today, is for a pastor to personally visit and catechize people (for those unfamiliar with the term, it means to teach a list of several hundred questions and answers of basic theology). Specifically, he says a pastor should catechize each and every family, in the pastor's entire town, each and every year. In Baxter's town that meant 2000 people in 800 families, that he and his associate pastor took two full days every week to go through the whole town every year.

He bluntly states, "If the pastoral office consists of overseeing all the flock, then surely the number of souls under the care of each pastor must not be greater than he is able to take such heed as to here is required." Yea, and I'm sure the pastoral staff of most churches personally know every member of their flock. And yes, I know that we consider Sunday School teachers or small group leaders to be "overseeing the flock"- but how many of those leaders in our churches see themselves as shepherds, have been theologically trained and commissioned as overseers, one-on-one ask them regularly about their spiritual life, and are seen by the members of their class or group as having spiritual responsibility over them?

But it was a radical idea even back then, so much so that Baxter takes dozens of pages to specifically give all the reasons why every pastor should devote himself to this universal visitation and dozens more pages to specifically answer a whole series of objections to the work. In short, he says that he had found that an hour of focused questions concerning a person's spiritual state was often more helpful than years of listening to sermons for their spiritual growth. It's hard to argue with that conclusion, and harder to argue with the marked growth (in both numbers and spiritual maturity) that history shows that his church had under his pastorship.

As to objections to why not do it, he says that they all are variations on the theme of "I'm too lazy or greedy" which he viciously attacks as unworthy of any follower of Christ, let alone a pastor. To laziness, he asks "Are these works to be done with a careless mind, or a lazy hand? O see, then, that this work be done with all your might!"

To greed, he states that if a pastor has too many families in his church for him to visit individually, then he should hire another pastor out of his own salary to help him. He challenges, "What! Do you call yourselves ministers of the gospel, and yet are the souls of men so base in your eyes, that you had rather they eternally perish, than that you and your family should live in a low and poor condition?" Whoa there, Baxter must have never read Your Best Life Now!

The book is chock full with other helpful insights and wry comments, such as "All our teaching must be as plain and simple as possible." "Is it not a pity, then, that our hearts are not as orthodox as our heads?" "It is a contradiction in terms, to be a Christian, and not humble." "We must study how to convince and get within men, and how to bring each truth to the quick." "In the name of God, brethren, labour to awaken your own hearts, before you go to the pulpit, that you may be fit to awaken the hearts of sinners." And my list could go on and on and on. I have already discussed his specific instructions on personal evangelism in another article.

After reading The Reformed Pastor, I have to agree with Spurgeon, Packer, Dever and all the other big kahunas- this is absolutely essential reading for any man called to the ministry, to pin him against the wall and make him take stock of his ministry, his priorities, and his life before God, and to make him deeply consider about how best to "take heed over" himself and all his flock.

It would be silly to say that you NEED to read this book before entering into the ministry. God has used many a man who have probably never even heard of Baxter or "the reformed christian."
However, if you are considering purchasing this book, then I would say dont even think twice. Besides the "pastoral epistles" of Paul (1st & 2nd Timothy, and Titus) I know of no other piece of work that will prepare you and teach you the way that those who lead the church ought to be. I would recommend it to anyone who has a heart for the Lords work, not just pastors.
Richard Baxter was a man full of the Holy Spirit. The words in this book will illuminate your soul, and convict you to the point of crying out to God and running to the cross of Christ. It can be a very painful book in many areas because it will cause you to look at yourself and wonder if you are really walking the life that The Lord wants from those who lead his people.
Its very difficult to find the words to describe how incredible this book is. I have to read it in tiny little sections instead of by chapters because there is so much depth to it. and each small section will bring me to tears.
Physically, this book weighs about as much as any other paper back. Spiritualy, you wont be able to lift it off the ground, much less turn a page

This is no candy or soup for the soul, its solid and challenging real world meat for the work of the ministry. Baxter challenges us to a kind of ministry that exceeds human ability alone. Such a ministry drives us to our only hope for that ability and keeps us returning to the everlasting arms of our heavenly father.

I read this book because so many people have spoken of it as a classic. Having now finished it, I must say I am a little disappointed with the content. I expected profound and striking ideas. In these pages however, were no new principles I have not already learned.

The smallness of Baxter's content however, is far exceeded by the substance of his character. It is his character, his pastoral passion for ministry that makes this book the classic it has become. His single-minded devotion to God and his tender, shepherd's heart for his flock have inspired pastors for over 300 years.

This book is not an easy read. The English language has changed substantially over 300 years, and as a result the essence of Baxter's pastoral passion is undoubtedly distorted. Still, this volume IS a classic, and is a must-read for any pastor wanting to refine and/or restore his motivation for ministry.

This is an absolutely superb book, comprised of recollections of the Jim Crow years in the form of oral histories. It can be read through, or picked up at any part. There is an appropriate amount of historical introduction to each chapter.
This material needs to be read, and remembered. There was a long time in our history when, although there was no more slavery, African Americans were treated as a separate serf class, under constant pressures and reminders of their lower status. Whites used pervasive legal and social downward pressures to keep African Americans out of an equal education, and equal access to public facilities, much less the right to equal jobs and the right to vote -- and then claimed that African Americans' lack of achievement was a racial fault. If an African American violated one of the many social taboos, the sanctions ranged from a beating, to loss of job, and even being lynched.
While whites benefited from Jim Crow, the whites, also, were trapped in the system. They were also forced to abide by legal segregation, and were subject to social pressure if they were too liberal (being called "n* lover," "white n*," etc.).
What led to the mindset that the end of slavery should lead to continued legal and social oppression of African Americans? It was part of white American culture. Lincoln himself said that he was not "in favor of making voters or jurors of negroes, nor of qualifying them to hold office, nor to intermarry.... [T]here must be the position of superior and inferior. I am as much as any other man in favor of having the superior position assigned to the white race." In 1877, Rutherford B. Hayes traded the end of southern post-war Reconstruction for the electoral votes he needed to win the presidency. Southern states then were free to institute the Jim Crow system.
I believe we are more subject to peer pressure than we would like to believe. Although reviewer McInerney asserts that "no civilized person" would benefit from Jim Crow, I feel many otherwise-good people were trapped and/or blinded by their own interests and surroundings. When allowed, and even encouraged, their evil side showed itself. On this topic, see John Griffin's _Black Like Me_, on the different faces that whites showed to other whites, and to African Americans.
While we are certain that we wouldn't go back to that system, we shouldn't be so sure that we, also, wouldn't be trapped by it if we were born into it. Consider that Truman, Eisenhower, and Kennedy (to a large extent) didn't take effective action to end segregation.
This book is excellent. Those dreadful and shameful times -- and the vestiges which still continue -- must not be forgotten.

Any illusions about the freedom and equality that were alleged to have been given to African Americans in this country following the Civil War were just that, illusions. The reality of America's version of Apartheid was legitimized in 1896 in the United States Supreme Court with the case of Plessy vs. Ferguson. When the de-facto segregation that Plessy allowed was added to the de jure laws that followed, whatever emancipation had been promised was firmly repudiated. It is even legitimate to go back to 1877 when Rutherford B. Hayes and his party sold out, and swapped the presidency for the removal of federal troops from the south.

"Remembering Jim Crow", is a brilliant collection of first hand accounts of life under Jim Crow by those who were victimized by its laws. A large cast collected these verbal accounts over several years, and they accomplished no less than the preservation of a sinister part of this country's history. A time that W.E.B. Dubois characterized as, "living behind the veil". Combined with the book, "At The Hands Of Person's Unknown", which I commented extensively on, these two books, and if you choose the accompanying CD of the interviews, provides a wide, if horrific view of these eight decades.

These testimonies are also notable for the speakers who identify by name the people and families that victimized them. This is not ancient history that many would like to forget. These people who survived and speak of Jim Crow are alive, and so a presumption that their tormentors are alive is reasonable. The end of the book includes portions of a documentary that was made as part of this project with National Public Radio. Happily some of the whites that were interviewed in Iberia Perish in Louisiana remember and look with regret on what they did and did not do. Their willingness to speak on the record is admirable. But lest anyone think that all is solved there are also people who went on the record bemoaning their never having enjoyed the privileges that Jim Crow gave whites. A man named Barrow expressed himself thusly, "That was awful nice, you know, you'd go hunting, "Boy clean those ducks", you know, "Skin that dear", uh, "Shine my shoes". I believe I could have gone for that. Yeah I think you could have too".

No Mr. Barrow, no civilized individual from any state could, "have gone for that". However I am sure that many appreciate your confirmation that even now, ignorance, arrogance, and racism are alive and well.

This is an interesting angle to present a sad era in America's history. This book does not give a history book type of fact presentation, it presents the facts from the people who actually experienced it.

This is a vital book if for only one reason, so that the children born after this era know what it was like so it is never repeated.

I enjoyed the oral history that is presentated and I would recommend this book if you want a greater understanding of this time.

REMEMBERING JIM CROW is a colletion of first hand accounts of life in the Jim Crow south. The stories are compelling and at the same time sad.

The stories create the atmosphere that one is sitting in one of the elderly story tellers living room listening to them.

This book is especially worthwhile for non-African-Amercians readers, because virtually all African-Americans that have roots in the south, know these stories all too well.

This slipcased book and 2-cd set supplements the written word with oral history, gathering the voices of men and women who were firsthand witnesses to segregation in the south. Stories by men and women from all walks of life reveal how blacks fought against the system, built communities, and ran businesses in a society which denied them basic rights. Remembering Jim Crow offers the reader a comprehensive, involving, highly recommended presentation.

Baby-steps you through the complex physiology, starting from the VERY BASICS for each topic at hand, just to keep the people who snoozed thru Gen Chem up to snuff (i.e. "What is a buffer and how do buffers work?" for the acid/base chapter), then moves on to more difficult stuff, until you're surprised that you can actually understand the really advanced physiology.
Doesn't only explain what happens, but also WHY the water or particular solute "decides" to be filtered/excreted/reabsorbed/secreted at each part of the tubular lumen/ECF/peritubular capillary. Really methodical and well-organized. Highly recommended!

Read book cover to cover in preparation for your renal exam during nurse anesthesia school. Usually required too.

This is simply the best in its class--a foundation of my medical education. The diagrams are excellent. Text explanations are clear, detailed, precise and, most importantly, succinct. When I die, bury me with Vander's Renal Physiology.

Real Physiology provides the basics needed for a medical school renal unit. By purchasing this book, a medical student is able to focus on the renal system in more detail than in some basic physiology texts.

Very good book, everything is simplified, easy introduction into subject, it is almost like being spoon fed.
Pathologic correlation's are given, it does not have all the biochemistry but major subjects are covered and author has conceptualized that makes everything easy.

If you are a fan of mystery, sci-fi, romance, comedy, and/or adventure - READ THIS BOOK!!! I won't discuss the story line (buy the book!), but I will say that for a Florida girl I enjoyed the fact that the story takes place in the Tampa Bay area. The characters are out of the norm, yet still very loveable and anyone can relate to one of them. The story reads well - the flow of words is smooth, making it an easy read. The plot itself does keep you wondering throughout the book (that's why it's a mystery). It has a taste of sci-fi, but not too much to get in the way of the story. The two main characters have an established relationship, which lends to a fresh kind of romance. The author's sense of humor is the delicious little treat you don't expect out of a standard mystery. The enjoyment of sharing in the adventure of the characters is what makes a person want to pick up a book and read it. WARNING!!! Once you finish reading this book, you will be hooked on the series.

I've never read a mystery in my life until now : ) For some mysterious reason, this book found its way into my hands and I found myself eagerly involved and pleasantly surprised. Monty and Denton provide a passionate power to a story which weaves small threads into a beautiful array of spider-like webs. As a woman who's sported wild, colorful versions of a flat top and worn Levi's most of her life, I could easily identify with the tomboyish, yet heart-centered character of Monty. The spiral dance between Denton and Monty made for a charming yet strained romance which encased a plot that was out of this world. William Mize's beautifully-descriptive style of writing made my mind work and my heart race, and I'd highly recommend "Resurrection Angel" to anyone on this planet, or others.

As a long time fan of the mystery novel, I found that Resurrection Angel both followed some of the general rules of the genre, but also bent a few of those rules and took its own path.

I enjoyed the character development of the two main characters of the book, Denton Ward and Monty Crocetti. By allowing both to have all to human flaws and weaknesses, Mr. Mize creates characters who are multi dimensional, and therefore more interesting than your average, 'hard boiled' private [eye]. As a woman, I especially enjoyed that the character of Monty was intelligent and tough, and not in the book as a plot device with the entire function of making the male character seem more macho.

The secondary characters are also well realized, and well written - there are no cardboard cutter 'bad guys' in this novel.

The plot of the novel is also somewhat different than your average mystery; including such aspects as as psychic abilities and alien abductions, and also has some unexpected twists and turns as it leads towards a very satisfactory ending.

I enjoyed the book very much, and look forward to the next installment in the adventures of Denton Ward and Monty Crocetti

...perhaps he'll do it again. I'm a friend of the author, but have only recently read the book. I was amazed. Bill's writing style is magnificent. I would recommend this book to anyone. I'm not going to bother with telling the story over in my review, because everyone else's reviews have already told you. Instead, I'll focus on the author. Even when he's not hard at work on the sequel to Resurrection Angel, his genius shows. In his personal journal, and in his conversations with friends, his writing style is still amazing. I think he does it without even trying. If you're into mysteries, definitely buy this book. Even if you're not a fan of mysteries, I still recommend this book for its style. Act fast, folks, because Resurrection Angel is slated to go out-of-print in August!

I originally got this book because I've had the pleasure of interacting with the author online and have always appreciated his creativity, wit and writing style in that forum. To read over 400 pages of his fiction was an extension of that pleasure. I don't usually read mystery novels because I get tired of the same old gumshoe approach to storytelling. Knowing Will's sense of humor and unique take on life in general, it didn't surprise me to discover that there's not one piece of gum on this mystery's shoes. Denton and Monty are unique characters that I found refreshingly different from the run-of-the-mill sleuths ~ they remind me of a punk rock/pyschic version of a cross between The Thin Man and The Bickersons. I enjoyed barreling through each chapter as I followed a case that took me out of this world and back to again. I highly recommend "Resurrection Angel" to anyone who likes a good new-fashioned page-turner with heart.