Death Books

I neede to buy this book for a class/trip I am taking over spring break. I was very surprised that it was not a dry text book , but a very readable information guide to the entire area. Great book if your interested in the geology of the area.

I read it after I came back from a trip to Owens Valley, so I can't speak on using it for directions, but it is a great book. I began reading to find a few facts to label my trip photos with but found myself reading the entire Owens Valley half, even the places I didn't see. There are some crazy things in Owens Valley! A gravity deficit, piles of rock in neat columns, lava cooling into glass, water issues with Owens Lake... I couldn't stop reading even though I had work to do - bad bad, but so good!

The chapters on each location are longer and geologic feature are more detailed than your average guide book, so you understand the background and science, but there's no technical jargon, so it's very easy to understand. Very clear simple writing by people who obviously have a genuine appreciation for what they're writing about.

Most years we vacation in Mammoth. This book describes a number of convenient and interesting side trips to take with the family. We wander around, sometimes visiting the same features, sometimes visiting a new site. Always appreciating more & more of the world around us. My children have a much better feel for geological processes and their impact on the landscape than do their peers.

The book starts with a five page description of Eastern California's geological history, then jumps into 30 sites of interest, nearly evenly distributed between Death Valley & vicinity and the Eastern Sierra & vicinity. A glossary, "Sources of Supplementary Information," and an index round out the book.

Each site receives its own chapter, replete with photographs, maps, geological diagrams, and even driving directions, as needed. I'm not a serious geologist, but landscape features fascinate me. The explanations that the authors give work well for me: I can understand them well enough to explain them to children.

If you're interested in how the land has been shaped, if you're willing to turn off the tube & make contact with the natural world, then this book is for you. One of the best "field guides" to geology I own. One of my favorites, too. (The companion volume, GEOLOGY UNDERFOOT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, is also an excellent book).

Great to take along any drive through the area. Have your passenger read as you go, stop along the way for a closer look. Easy to read, not too "intellectual". This was my favorite guide to the area when I moved here (and still is)!

The southwest United States is a geomorphologist's dream... There's not a lot of green stuff covering up the beautiful geology! This book details the geologic features of Death and Owens Valley, CA. It gives the geologic history of features while succinctly describing the details of the processes that brought about these features. The Tufa Pinnacles in Searles Valley, the alluvial fans in Death Valley, the interesting history and development of Gower Gulch, the mysterious ascent of desert pavement, the glacial morraines and routes of the Tahoe and Tioga Stade glaciers at Convict Lake, the Mono Craters (Domes), Fossil Falls, the Alabama Hills and more. You'll even get the heebee jeebees when you read about the monstrous explosion of Ubehebe Crater! Certainly one of the most interesting and pleasurable books I've read in ages! Highly recommended for ANYONE who plans a trip to California's awe-inspiring Death Valley and environs! A must have!

A Gift of Mourning Glories details the process of restoring your life after loss. The book's cover reflects the message inside. On the front are the delicate purple morning glories, covered with drops of dew. They remind me of the passion in Georgia's heart and the tears that brought her healing. Loss can be described in many ways. We often associate loss with death, but what about other losses? Have you experienced the loss of a job, marriage, health or income? The secret to recovery is looking for the gifts that are the treasures within the tragedies. Georgia quickly affirms that, "We think we are weak if we don't quickly bounce back". In this fast pace life we live in, she explains the steps necessary to begin restoration. We must clear out the old in order to begin the new. Georgia emphasizes persistence and not making excuses. She describes how God will take us beyond our fears and stretch us. We can all learn from our mistakes if we aren't afraid to make them. Georgia says, "When we slip up, don't give up. A Gift of Mourning Glories tells us how to search for the riches stored in the secret places. Rest and trust in God's divine plan, that is the key. Fill your empty basket with the promises of God and your empty basket will be filled with new beginnings, hope, joy and a new purpose.

A Gift of Mourning Glories addresses the weighty issues surrounding the pain of loss, without being too "heavy" for those already overwhelmed with grief. Georgia shares with warmth and candor the lessons she has learned through her own experiences. She offers suggestions which are practical and relevant. Readers will feel inspired and encouraged by this uplifting book!

I found this book quite comforting after my brother's suicide in January 2001. Ms. Shaffer's use of Scripture along with gardening analogies made it easy to read. I was so inspired by her style of writing that I went searching for morning glory seeds. I began germinating right away and gave seedlings to my friends, neighbors, church family and even people I did not know. Two months later, my family relocated to Nebraska and by late summer there were beautiful flowers of heavenly blue, baby blue, and pink along the fenceline...a gentle reminder of the fragility of life.

In Texas, an elderly neighbor had once planted morning glories. I would wake each morning, draw the curtains and count the blossoms as they unfolded. On one certain morning, there were over one hundred gorgeous blue flowers...one hundred blessings that I may have taken for granted. Thank you, Georgia, for encouraging me to sow those seeds of hope.

A Gift of Mourning Glories could be called a book of encouragement and inspiration. And you don't have to be recovering from a difficult loss to benefit from it. I bought it to give to a friend with cancer but ended up reading it myself. The short chapters gave me inspiration on how to live my life with more awareness of God's presence and guidance. Although I am not a gardener, I found Georgia's illustrations and analogies from her garden very helpful. I also got information on how to deal with my friends who are undergoing difficult times. I must give them time to grieve. I highly recommend this beautiful and inspirational book.

Cancer has become a household word these days, because every home, family and community has been touched, on some level, by its icy grip. In Georgia's book "A Gift of Mourning Glories", she lets us walk with her on her journey with cancer; from brokenness, to restoration of body, soul and spirit. The deeply personal feelings and experiences that Georgia shares, gives hope to the weary and encouragement to the downhearted. Georgia's struggles were not limited to cancer alone, but divorce and single parenting along with losing her job and health. Just as Jesus used the simple daily things of life to teach deep truths about victorious living, so also has Georgia used her garden to help teach the skills needed to restore life after loss. Just like Georgia's gift of morning glory seeds were not a "wanted" gift, not every gift we are given is "wanted" either. Many times, suffering and struggle are not viewed as "wanted" gifts, but God uses the hard times of our life to root us deep in His truth and love, so we can grow up tall and healthy for the glory of His beautiful garden of grace. This book is a must for everyone struggling to overcome life's darkest hours. In fact, I feel it should be in every Doctor's office waiting room, for it is there that we sit with our fears and worries. It is during those times, when pain opens us up, that we are made able to learn the depths of God's love and provisions for our lives. I have given this book to many dear friends who are hurting and discouraged and they have been comforted by it. "A Gift of Mourning Glories" is a great book for anyone that finds themselves in a support role with a cancer patient or huring loved one.

My book is Halfway to the Sky.It is agood book.It is about a girl that runs away from her house because her brother Springer had just died and her parents had just split up.She went on the Appalacain trail,but her mom found her the same day.They would hike aliitle and go get some stuff don at home andgo back.Her brother had some diesease that the older he got the weaker he gotand exercise made it worst.He died at age eleven.Now herparents are split up and her dad has a new wife that she don't like and they are having a baby boy named David.

Do you think you could survive as a 13 year old trying to survive hiking the Appalachian Trails? Well, Dani can. 115-pound Dani is frustrated and angered by her parent's divorce and just wants away from it all.
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley has created a moving story about a girl, Dani that runs away and hike the Appalachian Trails. A story of grief, survival, and hope that takes a refreshingly candid, nuanced look at complex emotions. While Dani is hiking the Appalachian Trails, she meets some friends along the way.
This book is realistic fiction, prequel, and female readers would greatly enjoy this book. A pre group of people would enjoy this book around the ages of 9-13. Also people that are interested in hiking the Appalachian Trails, because it sure gives you a little taste of the woods and trails. Bradley has written other books such as Ruthie's Gift, One-of-a-Kind Mallie, and Weaver's Daughter.

-Callie Fultz

I cried when I read Halfway to the Sky.

Well, heck, I cry when I read most books. But for this one, I really cried.

Dani's story was the story any of us could have; her family torn apart by a tragedy, her life changed forever after a death. It's what Dani decides to do that makes this story magic.

With just her backpack and hiking supplies, Dani sets out to tackle the Appalachian Trail, stretching between Georgia and Maine. This trail is a legend in her family, and she keeps hoping that, between Springer and Katahdin, she'll find herself.

This is billed as a YA title, but I enjoyed it (a lot!) as a narrative of Appalachian Trail hiking (maybe us AT hikers are all 12-year-olds at heart!). Ms. Bradley gives you a good idea of just what it's like to hike the Trail. And you get a feel for what it might be like if your parents met and got married during a thru-hike and named their kids Springer and Katahdin. Talk about laying burdens on your offspring! No wonder the protagonist has issues.... But even as a grumpy old bachelor, I found myself moist-eyed a few times at some of the tragedies here, as well as the final feeling of hope.

This is an excellent coming-of-age book about a young girl who runs away and plans to hike the full length of the Appalachian Trail (AT).

The author is particularly successful in bringing to life the lead character (Katahdin). The character gets her unusual name from the mountain that marks the northern terminus of the AT. Katahdin is troubled by the death of her brother, the divorce of her parents, and the imminent remarriage of her father. She is admirably methodical in her preparation to undertake the hike, and admirably determined to see it through. This is a poignant story; I was choked up reading about Katahdin's memories of her brother, and her difficult but cathartic moments with her mother.

The story is not compromised with gimmicks or sensationalism. Characters and the storyline are patiently developed, adding to the realism of the book and strength of the message: Life can be challenging, often there are no easy solutions, and running from problems does not make them go away.

Dr. Attig's book is an important part of a paradigm shift in our thinking about grief. He has thrown open a door to new thinking about how we can continue to be in relationship to loved ones who are no longer alive. This book is eloguently written with the ring of truth from the lives of real people. An excellent addition to our knowlege and understanding of grief.

This is such an important book that it is required reading in my Introduction to Death and Dying course. It has valuable information, yet it is verty readable. It is presented as a very human book.

Dr. Thomas Attig's book, "The Heart of Grief: Death and the Search for Lasting Love," is an exceptional follow-up to his first book about grieving, "How We Grieve: Relearning the World." Each chapter of "Heart of Grief" begins with a real life situation involving the death of a person and the consequences of that death on those who are still living. His premise is that people who have passed away can still be an important and essential part of one's life. You don't have to get on with your life without them; you can get on with your life with them. Although there is an element of `advice' giving in "Heart of Grief," the book is much more story-telling. It's like a good novel-you can read it for the dramatization of some essential human truths. I recommend it highly.

I'm willing to bet that whoever wrote the editorial review for Publisher's Weekly (above) has never known the crushing agony of losing someone to death that s/he truly loved; or suffered the kind of pain that still drops you to your knees, years, even decades later, begging for mercy. The kind of anguish where you'd gladly give your own life just to make it stop. The kind you bear when you know they are never coming back and there is nothing you can do. I'm very happy for that reviewer. I hope he or she will never know it. But Heart of Grief must be read by those who understand all too well the overwhelming tidal wave of hopelessness that accompanies the loss of a loved one. Where Publisher's Weekly found this book simplistic, I found beauty in its quiet simplicity.

Being of a metaphysical sort, I've read just about all the reincarnation / life after death / love never dies / hypnotic regression / soul mates for eternity / communicating with the dead / type books. I've been spellbound by all of them and will probably continue to read them as they are published because it's a fascinating subject. Besides helping us to understand the process of dying and what comes after, these books pledge that we will someday be reunited. They all assure us that the deceased are still very much alive and well and with us daily, so there is no need to grieve. But they also often come with the stipulation that we must let go so that our loved ones can move forward, and because we want what is best for those we love, we attempt to suppress our grief, no matter how much it hurts us. While the theory seems reasonable, by trying to ignore our suffering, we compound it. We cannot stop the hurt just because we want to. It's not an electrical switch. It's not a water faucet. And it's just not that easy. Grief is complex, binding us with ropes so twisted we cannot seem to find the end that will untangle us.

Heart of Grief shows us that we do not have to let go, and in fact, encourages us not to. With compassion and a comforting voice, Thomas Attig sets forth practical ways to keep and strengthen the bonds of love with those who have died. I found it to be a very spiritually healing and uplifting book that has made a dent in my grief and a difference in my life.

On September 11, 2001, many sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters died. I lost my own son 10 years ago and since that time I have wondered what can really be of help to parents, or other grievers in learning to live with such loss. Now, more than ever, life seems so fragile in this world and the need for understanding grief as important as ever. It is so hard when grief is so great. Our fears of our own mortality spring to the front stage of our emotins nakedly exposed to others. I recently found Tom Attig's The Heart of Grief and it met me right where I was. Using his personal experiences of grieving people, Attig describes a process of learning to love in a new way. He recounts the stories of people's losses and provides a myriad of ways that grievers have found to continue loving the ones they have lost.
Of course, we do not stop loving or forget our loved one. Death does not end our relationshipwith the deceased, but it is different. They are forever gone from this life. Attig suggests that sometimes people fear that when they accept the loss it means they have stopped loving the deceased person. Many people, who are unable to let themselves feel the full impact of their loss, find themselves stuck in wishing for the past and the return of a loved one. Consequently, there can be no real acceptance of the loss. Attig emphaasizes the need to BE SAD because what has happened IS SO SAD. Feeling intense sadness scares many people, so Attig encourages us to find someone to accompany us on this journey, a spouse, a friend, or a professional.
Most importantly, Attig writes that if we do not fully accept and greive our loss, we may have difficulty ever loving again. It is only through acceptance of our losses that we can continue to love those who have died in a new way and to love those who are still with us and love us. The use of real peoples' stories of loss are inspirational and give hope. Attig provides numerous examples and possiblities of ways to learn to love anew. Whether you are grieving a loss yourself or know someone who is, this book is very readable, relateable, informative and comforting. We all will be grievers some day. I highly recommend this book. I has a permenant place of importance on my bookshelf.

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

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

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

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

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

Lessons from a Dead Girl is a suspenseful story that kept me on edge the whole time. I never felt relaxed even after the last page was turned, and the book was tucked away on my shelf. It shows how kids that are abused at a young age can turn around and abuse other kids. The main character, Laine, has to go through her life wondering if she's as messed up as she feels. All because her best friend, Leah, abused her at a young age and continued to do so through-out high school. This isn't a happy read at all. Although there are some glimpses of Laine having moments where I thought she would pull through; these moments are usually ruined by the Leah.

This is a very emotional story that sucks you in and doesn't let you go. My heart ached for Laine's situation. I also felt anger towards Leah, even though her story is just as heart breaking as Laines. This is a great read, and I can't wait to see what Jo Knowles turns out next.

Having read the first chapter of LESSONS FROM A DEAD GIRL before it was published as one of the panel of judges of the PEN New England Discovery Contest (which the book won!), I knew it was well-written. What I didn't expect when I sat down to read the entire novel in its published form was that it would be a page-turner. I started reading and couldn't stop.

Jo Knowles has done the near impossible: written a novel with a gripping, fast-paced storyline, well-developed characters, important themes, and finally a surprising, yet satisfying ending.

I look forward to reading Jo's next novel. She is a writer to watch!

This is a beautifully written book. At first I was hit by pure emotion, but then I couldn't stop thinking about Laine's story. Sure to be thought-provoking, this is a great choice for any discussion group, but especially for teens.

This story is profound and touching, the main character grabs you by the collar and pulls you into her world, and shows you every part of her emotional thought process through her experiences.

This is another fast read that made me want to keep turning the pages, even when I found myself right there with Laine embarrassed and wanting to look away.

Laine hated her, and wished many times that Leah would die and leave her alone. She didn't understand Leah, or why Leah chose her to be her best friend all those years ago. She didn't understand the things that Leah did to her in the doll closet, or why Leah would torment her with that knowledge and the shame that Laine felt. As they grew older, she didn't understand the problems that Leah faced, or the impact that they had on her behavior. As their English teacher told them once, you only hate what you don't understand.

Now that Leah Greene has died, Laine forces herself to try to understand Leah, and the things that Leah taught her about friendship and secrets. Friends are forever, Leah told her. Permanent just like the ink that Leah used to stake her claim on Laine's hand back when they were young. Laine must now face the impact of what "forever" really means, and how it has affected her own aspects of the world.

Jo Knowles has penned a stunning book that takes an introspective look at the scars of childhood abuse at the hands of a child's peers. Laine's experiences will have a profound impact on anyone who has ever wondered about the dynamics of child sociology, and how the damaging effects of abuse resonate from the original victims. For the mature young adult.

Reviewed by: Allison Fraclose

Who knew a book about pumpkins could be so entertaining and exhilarating. This book touches on everything from single-parent families to a young girl's coming of age and determination to make her deceased mother proud.

Mildred's determination, anticipation, and sometimes disappointing attempts at growing the largest pumpkin for the annual festival, grabs and keeps the reader's attention throughout the book. I only wish I could have read this book before I attended the Circleville Pumpkin Festival back in the 1990's. Growing a prize pumpkin such as Mildreds, definitely takes knowledge, patience, and hard work.

A very light-hearted and wonderful read. The characters in this book are truly realistic and well portrayed. We can all relate to having a family member, such as Mildred's Aunt Arlene, that can create drama in our lives as well as having a true friend such as Mildred's friend Jacob, that knows what you're thinking without speaking.

This story is set in a rural community outside of Columbus in Circleville, Ohio. Every year on the third Wednesday of October, one can visit Circleville and see hundreds of thousands of visitors all on a quest to see the largest pumpkin and eat a variety of foods made with, you guessed it....Pumpkins. A fantastic children's book that can capture a variety of audiences! Well done!

Also recommended: Dogku by Andrew Clements. A story writen about a stray dog who finds a loving home. A fantastic picture book written using Haiku poetry. Hence the name, 'Dogku.'

Very glad we picked this up. A great choice. I read it after my 8 yr old finished it. I thought it was warm and touching. What a sweet girl. Great detail on growing pumpkins-- very interesting. I had no idea how much work and special attention growing giant pumpkins required. A great first book by Ms. Kennedy-- thank you!

Mildred dreams big dreams in the shape of a pumpkin. This may seem strange to some people, and it especially does to her Aunt Arlene, who's convinced Mildred should start acting and dressing like girls her own age. It's not normal, according to Aunt Arlene, for 11-year-old girls to spend every single summer cultivating a tiny seed and trying to grow it into a giant pumpkin. Even if it is to win the Circleville Pumpkin Show's giant pumpkin contest.

But to Mildred, it makes perfect sense for her to try to make her mother's wish come true. The former Pumpkin Show Queen died when Mildred was only six, but Mildred still remembers how much she loved those huge pumpkins, and that she'd mentioned a desire to take home the prize for the largest pumpkin.

So, with the help of her veterinarian father and her best friend, Jacob, Mildred once again sets out on her pumpkin growing adventure, with her eye on the prize.

Librarians across the country are already selecting this book as a top choice for young students, and I can see why. The narrative voice is strong, and Mildred's control over her own world is enviable. Some challenges on her road to success bring the story home and have the reader rooting for the little girl with the big dreams.

Look for this genuinely sweet read on the shelves!

Reviewed by: Julie M. Prince

This is one of those books that sneaks up on you. It caught me off guard. Based on some positive reviews I'd read and the back cover blurb, I expected it to be cute. I thought I'd kind of like it. I didn't expect to be so swept up in Mildred's quest to grow the perfect giant pumpkin that I was tempted to ignore my 7th period English class today.

But I was.

Marlane Kennedy captures the voice of a fifth grader who has settled into life with her dad after her mother's death and explores the very real issues that face fifth grade girls - shopping for a first bra, getting ears pierced, and dealing with a bossy aunt. I found hints of Judy Blume in the coming of age parts of this book and big servings of warm humor on just about every page. Add to that one huge issue - growing a HUGE pumpkin, and protecting it from bugs, fungus, drought, and tornadoes - and you have one amazing book.

I was enchanted by the story and terribly intrigued by the process of growing a giant pumpkin. I kind of want to try and grow one myself now. Mostly, though, I want to stand up and cheer for Mildred and for Marlane Kennedy. ME AND THE PUMPKIN QUEEN is a little book with a giant-pumpkin sized heart.

This book left me with a smile on my face, and a tiny tear in my eye. It's about a young girl who is obsessed with growing giant pumpkins. Mildred lives in the small town of Circleville, Ohio, where they have the annual Circleville Pumpkin Show, which more than 400,000 people attend each year. (This story is based on a real-world festival and contest, see here.) Mildred's mother died when she was six, leaving behind an unfulfilled desire to grow one of the giant pumpkins that people enter into the annual contest. Mildred, in an effort to please, or be closer to, her lost mother, decides to win the pumpkin contest herself. Here's the passage where Mildred first realizes her mission:

"Daddy must have been thinking the same thing 'cause he said, "Your mama sure got a kick out of those pumpkins. Every year she would say she wanted to try her hand at growing one." He paused, and then his voice trailed off kind of sadlike. "I guess she just never got around to it."

At that very moment those big pumpkins seemed magical." (Page 13)

4 1/2 years later, as the story begins, Mildred is still trying to grow that prize-winning pumpkin. Tending to her pumpkins consumes all of her spare time for six months out of the year (the amount of work required is truly astounding). Her busybody aunt thinks that she's obsessed, in an unhealthy sort of way. But Mildred's veterinarian father supports her in her efforts, as does her one friend, Jacob.

At its simplest, this is a sweet story about a girl trying to do something big and all-consuming as a way of coping with her grief over the loss of her mother. Mildred tends those pumpkins like they are her children, agonizing over them and loving them. It's impossible not to be moved by her.

But what makes the book a joy is Mildred's impish personality and oh-so-dry sense of humor. She'll say outrageous things in this dewy innocent voice, and this keeps the story well away from cloying. Mildred and her dad have to team up a bit against overbearing (though well-intentioned) Aunt Arlene. At eleven, Mildred sees her aunt clearly, and derives joy from teasing her. Here's a small example:

"After we are done eating, Aunt Arlene asks if I want to go anywhere else, since we are in Columbus.

"No, I have to go home and check on my pumpkin plant," I tell her.

I hear a very long sigh coming from Aunt Arlene, which I do my best to ignore. (Page 85)

Mildred is a kid who goes her own way, and doesn't let opposition or ridicule stop her. If anything, opposition causes her to dig in her heels until she gets what's important to her (in a non-bratty sort of way, as someone who is passionate about their beliefs, and utterly secure in her place in the world). Mildred's security comes from her father, who supports her and jokes with her and only occasionally allows himself to be steamrolled by his sister.

Mildred is not particularly interested in being popular with the other girls at school. She says things like:

"Gloria Mathis, the girl who plasters her notebooks with pictures of her actor crush, is a jabberbox, and not to be mean, but honestly, even though lots of girls hang on her every word, I can only stand a few minutes in her presence." (Page 35)

And this:

"The rest of the week at school most of the girls are nicer than usual to me. I think it's on account of my new wardrobe. But it's hard for me to act interested back at them. For one thing, I figure I gave them a chance way back when, and they really didn't want to get to know me. Truth be told, I think they still don't want to know the real me. Besides, all I can think about are my seeds. First thing I do when I get home every day is check on them." (Page 53)

What a little budding introvert. I love her country accent, too. Don't tell me you can't hear it, because I surely can.

One interesting thing about this book is the line that the author walks in talking about things like neutering of animals, birthing of calves, euthanizing of sick pets, and pollinating of plants. Mildred is the daughter of a vet, and a budding farmer in her own right. She is completely blase about things like neutering. I think that Kennedy does a nice job of making this part of Mildred's world, without getting into too much detail, or portraying anything that will be directly disturbing for younger readers.

All in all, this is an entertaining story, chock full of interesting information about the art of growing giant pumpkins. Me and the Pumpkin Queen positively brims over with heart and humor. Highly recommended for 7 to 12 years olds (though perhaps best suited to the earlier end of that scale), and especially for kids who have an interest in growing things. Although the main character is a girl, I think that the technical details about growing the pumpkins, the veterinary details, and Miriam's personality will appeal to boys, too. Highly recommended for children and parents.

This book review was originally published on my blog, Jen Robinson's Book Page, on October 31, 2007.

In 1987, Charles Atkins was diagnosed with cancer. As with many cancer patients he underwent chemo and radiation therapy, a process that kills cell growth (both cancerous and healthy cells). To say the least, it can be a horrible process.

Years earlier, Atkins had been introduced to the work of Buddhist master Nichiren Daishonin. These teachings focused on the Lotus Sutra, repetition of the words "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo". For Atkins, this became a mantra of healing, to release karmic blockages and reverse dis-ease within the body system.

With nothing to lose, Atkins used this mantra during his illness. Before and during each therapy session, he chanted the phrase. This made the experience tolerable. He also regularly practiced the mantra with imagery techniques to speed his recovery. Atkins now uses the method to help others.

Charles Atkins is a master at harnessing his description of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and how it relates to healing the human body.
Even after being a 10 year practicing Buddhist, it is only now that I truly understand the meaning of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, along with its vibrational power to heal both the body and the mind. Using Atkins' exercise of mantra powered visualization, I have been given new strength and hope regarding my own health issues.
Anyone who deals with any type of chronic illness must read this book and implement it's easy to learn strategies.
This book and it's author has changed my life incredibly! Whether you are Buddhist or not, anyone can benefit from this over-whelmingly encouraging lesson in healing, along with Atkins' miraculous struggle and survival of cancer.
Gayla Preston, Columbus Ohio

After reading the book 'Modern Buddhist Healing' by Charles Atkins I lent it to a friend who has suffered from illness for many years and tried all sorts of therapy. She is already feeling the power of the healing recommended in the book. It is an honest, clear account of how anyone can change their lives and free themselves from disease, this is not a crank book as the method Mr Atkins uses really works. He even cites his own account of how he freed himself from a life threatening illness. It is a book to keep by your bedside and read over and over.

As a master's level clinical psychology student, I appreciate this book on several levels. I was fairly unfamiliar with Buddhism before reading this book, in part because of the anticipated complexity of the subject. To my surprise, I discovered Atkins had written a book comprehensible to those new to Buddhism. For those with a knowledge of Buddhism already, it provides much more insight into the topic. The connections to psychology and therapy are too vast to detail. As a therapist, you are simply a faciliator for the client in his quest to learn more about himself, very similarly to Buddhism. Through sharing his experience, Atkins proves the great power we each obtain through our minds and faith in healing.

This is IT
I recently just happened to be in a bookstore recently when Mr. Atkins was there discussing his book and experiences. I always have my "BS meter" on full alert...suffice to say that this book is not religious froo-froo or dogmatic salesmanship. The principles that he teaches here make sense for anyone and apparently work too. I'm impressed. If you buy it, Modern Buddhist Healing can change your life for the better on every level.

This is a must read for all that do hospice, social, and counceling work.
True stories that inspire hope, love and understanding into the continuum of life.

For anyone searching for answers about the meaning of life and curious to understand what death means in this context - this is the perfect source book. Annamaria Hemingway opens up our awareness into understanding how death helps us to appreciate life in a far more meaningful way and illustrates this fact through deeply moving and inspirational stories. The text material that accompanies the stories draws on a wealth of hstorical, philosophical and mythic perspectives that make fascinating reading. The book also demonstrates how letting go of our fear of death gives us the opportunity to consider the strong possibility that death may only be a transition into another form of consciousness. A wonderful book that I highly recommend.

My Four Stars is ringing the top bell in My library. So think 5. I work with the dying and their families daily. This is a very well researched and documented book on death and dying. A compilation of lives touched by personal loss and continuity of conciousness experienced. It should be in everyones library. I teach several classes on line about concious death and dying, for a private university. I have Annamaria's book listed as a " Required Text" for all my current classes. In my private practice, I take it along to clients homes. It often helps bereaved family members find solace. Also an excellent book for those who wonder "what comes next" and for those who question "if awareness continues after the body dies". I was especially impressed with the integrity and ethical character of Ms. Hemmiingway's book. It is well organized and can be read in parts or sections; especially important for those facing loss. In active grief we can only absorb information in "sound bites" or " one story at a time". This book fullfills that requirement! Uplifting and Solid. A great book for everyone including those interested in the study of Neath Death Experiences.
Katherine Rosengren R.N., M.A.

I absolutely love this book, not only does it share experiences of NDEs but also the difference in the peoples lives afterwards. What I am finding particularly inspirational is the stories of people who have been directly affected by traumas ie Oklahoma bombing and 9/11 and how they have turned around their grief into doing amazing things for the benefit of others to the point where i have been moved to look up some of the charities and learn more about their amazing work. This book stirs huge compassion and shows us how a seemingly simple idea when actioned can have such a positive and life changing effect on others. All this and I still have a bit to read :-)

PRACTICING CONSCIOUS LIVING & DYING takes us where people go when they die, traveling with those who have been declared officially dead and who managed to return to life to share their stories. This refreshing book is a collection of sixteen very different personal accounts of people who have come face-to-face with death in many various ways. There is a rich treasure trove of experience shared in this book which invites the reader to come on a journey each of us cares about, because it's a journey we are all destined to take. I love the way each first person account vibrates with such heartfelt emotion that I feel I'm right there... and the way that many people have found ways to make the deaths of their loved ones richly meaningful.

One of the most surprising and moving stories that touched my heart was the story about search and rescue teams of firemen with their special dogs. After learning of how such close relationships between fireman and dog affect and improve the firemen's other relationships, I will never see the world the same way again. There is a gift in being fully in this moment, right here, right now, rather than mentally or emotionally elsewhere... and I feel immensely grateful to this book for helping me vicariously experience how to go about regaining that sense of childlike wonder and simple heartfelt appreciation with the simple beauty in this world.

There is truly something ennobling and empowering in consciously living one's life, and PRACTICING CONSCIOUS LIVING & DYING helps us discover the secrets of how to better to enjoy the lives we are so blessed to have right now. This book is an extraordinary breath of fresh air for anyone caught up in the minutiae of daily life who longs to catch a glimpse of meaning, continuity, connection, and inspiration beyond the hum-drum everyday.

I am going to start with a legal opinion here. Man law clearly states that men are allowed to have emotions, however they are expressly forbidden from displaying them or {gasp} talking about them!

Well, I am feeling rebellious today so I can only pray for leniency from the man-law judges because I am going to break the law today.

I grew up on a farm and we had lots of dogs. Some of them were my best friends who are all long gone now. Unconditional love is a wondrous and wonderful thing that of all the animals on this planet perhaps dogs along are capable of. That unconditional love from all my old friends got me through many tough times, they helped to shape me and they are part of who I am forever.

Somehow, over the 20, 30 years since then I had forgotten about my dear friends. Can you believe that? They gave so much to me and I simply forgot about them? What a heal I have been.

Reading "Remembering Ruby" helped me to remember all my old friends, as it should be.

Melisa Wells, thank you for bringing my old friends back to me, back to where they belong.

This was a very touching story that everyone should read. Even if you have not lost a pet you may know of someone who has, and it would make a great gift. The pictures were very touching. This story is told through the eyes of a boy who had to deal with his pet being sick and then dying, and then how his family bands together during the process. I recommend it to all!

I just had to read this book as soon as it arrived. Melisa Wells has tapped into a real need. The story was tender from the boy's viewpoint and will give children hope that they can move on with their memories. I'm guessing there will be lots of kids wanting to scrapbook the lives of their pets now. Well done!!

The kids and I loved this book. It was beautiful and tender and not at all depressing. I got all misty eyed at the obvious love this family had for their dog. My kids (ages 5 and 8) were so inspired by it they wanted to go off and write books about our cats. Ruby even made it into their pretend play for the next several days. This book is a must have for any child or family that has lost a pet.

For those who have lost a pet, we know the devastation it can bring, and at times the embarrasment experienced for feeling this way about "just a dog" or "just a cat." Remembering Ruby is a great resource for families to help them not only understand that it is OK to love your pets and experience loss when they leave us, but to give some ideas about how to deal with that loss in a positive way. It is written quite simply, and is filled with photographs. Since we have not figured out how to extend the lives of our pets, and pets continue to grow in importance in the lives of families, this book is a fabulous resource to be added to any household library. We are adding Remembering Ruby to our website's Suggested Readings list and will recommend it to our family of adopters and volunteers, who will go through this loss if they bring a pet into their lives. Director of Cascade Beagle Rescue-East, and Special Education Teacher and Behavior Analyst in NJ public school system