Suicide Books

Flowing color paintings by Ronald Himler add a moving touch to The Best Cat In The World is a poignant story by Leslea Newman about a young boy named Victor who loses his beloved feline companion Charlie to old age. When a new cat, Shelley, comes to the household, she is different from Charlie in almost every way - she doesn't do the things Charlie used to do, or respond in the same way. But in time Victor learns that his new friend is unique and special, and every bit as much "the best cat in the world" as Charlie was, in this profoundly compelling picture book about grief and the slow process of healing. The Best Cat In The World is especially recommended reading for young people who have lost a treasured animal companion.

The Best Cat in the World is well written and deals sensitively with the loss of a pet. My preschooler fell in love with this book after checking it out from the public library. I had no idea that it was about the loss of a pet, but it was well timed as we had lost a beloved hamster just a couple of months previous. We had the book so long that we had to either return it or pay for it! That's when I purchased it from Amazon.com. The book is simple enough for even a young child to understand but yet not so babyish as to be unusable with older children. I highly recommend it to any family with pets and children!

A boy has lost his friend and companion-an orange cat named Charlie-to old age. He cries inconsolably for two whole days, and cannot even eat the favorite supper Mom prepares for him. He and Mom plant a rosebush with orange flowers at the burial site, and the boy sits by it after school and tries to talk with Charlie. Listen as hard as he may, however, there is no reply.

When the vet calls to ask if Victor would provide a home for Shelley, a brand-new tortoiseshell kitten, he is hesitant. Perhaps he won't like the kitten, or the kitten won't like him.

Victor brings home the multi-colored bundle of fur, and gradually adjusts to her ways, which often differ from Charlie's. She does not like to be scratched between the ears while she eats, as Charlie did. She prefers the windowsill to the special pillow on Victor's bed where Charlie used to sleep.

Soon, however, Victor begins to delight in Shelley's unique behaviors-how she plays with the water while he brushes his teeth and how she chases her own tail.

Himler's pencil-and-watercolors capture Victor's full range of emotion-concern and worry, grief, amusement, and joy--in this book that demonstrates how the human heart can have many rooms.

I am a softie for any books with cats on the cover. The title of this book, `The Best Cat in the World' reminds me somewhat of Cleveland Amory's book (`The Best Cat Ever'), but this is not a book like that - this is a children's book. It tells the story of two cats, really - one named Charlie, who passes away early in the book, and one named Shelley, who finds a new home with the young boy Victor after Charlie is gone. It is a wonderful tale about letting go and starting anew. One of the good things about children having pets is that they learn love and responsibility; one the sadder parts about children having pets is that they die, and the children have to deal with the loss.

Charlie was a special cat for Victor, with set mannerisms and patterns Victor was used to. After Charlie died, the family buried him in the back yard, and Victor was nearly inconsolable. However, Victor's mother and the vet brought Victor together with another cat, Shelley, who had been dropped off at the office. At first Victor is very resistant, comparing Shelley to Charlie in somewhat unfavourable ways. `Charlie never did that,' Victor would think, as Shelley would do (or not do) as Charlie had done. However, felines have the kind of magic that works on a willing soul, and Victor comes to love the individuality in Shelley, without diminishing his love for his lost companion, Charlie. Shelley becomes heir to the title `Best Cat in the World', and rumbles purring in response in the same fashion as Charlie did.

The text is simple, sweet and very readable by children. The author Leslea Newman has penned several children's books, some with cats and some without. Ronald Himler, the illustrator, has provided his wonderful graphic pen for some seventy-five books; the drawings are charming and engaging, and enhance the story with a softness watercolours provide and detail that pencil can add.

This is a wonderful gift for children, particularly those who need to learn to deal with the kind of separation that a pet's death brings home. It does not make light of its subject, but does not dwell on the tragic, nor does it dishonour the cat who is gone by simple replacement. A wonderful book!

As a book reviewer for Funseeker's Radio Network I read a lot of books for children. This one helps with the process of saying goodbye to a treasured pet and getting used to another, sometimes more different, pet. In this case Charlie has had a long and happy life as "the best cat in the world" for young Victor. The boy is devastated when Charlie dies and doesn't think he will ever want another cat, but Charlie's vet, Dr. Levin calls him and offers him a new kitten. He accepts reluctantly and soon finds that Shelley is a different cat altogether. Her habits and ways are not like Charlie's, but he finally realizes that he again has the "best cat in the world." The story is well-written and the illustrations by Ronald Himler are excellent. I would recommend this book highly to anyone who has lost a pet or as a gift for someone who is dealing with the death for a pet.

Highly recommended reading, Beyond The Lie: Finding Freedom From The Past by Alice Smith is an outstanding guide for Christians caught up in terrifying feelings of shame and distrust, and who are searching for an escape to a personal world less susceptible to the all consuming evils promoted by the broader culture of the world today. Providing an informed and informative mapping of the proper pathway to a spirituality healthier lifestyle, Beyond The Lie helps the reader to avoid being victimized or otherwise lapse into behaviors that would disgrace themselves and their families. Above all else, Beyond The Lie gratefully speaks to Christian readers of the glorious sacred love of Christ redeeming them from the bonds of their past, the temptations of the present, and the promise of the future.

All people, including Christians, have traumatic events that keep them in spiritual and emotional bondage. Alice Smith is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and trauma. She began her life journey as a victim, but through the healing power of Christ, she emerged a victor.

Smith's book, Beyond the Lie: Finding Freedom from the Past offers help to all who struggle with past abuse experiences. Through personal and victim stories, biblical stories, statistics, a bibliography of suggested reading and victim resources, Smith provides readers with the necessary information to rise up, gather hope in God and walk out of the darkness.

Smith's book is laid out in a manner that makes it easy for the reader to gather the information necessary to help themselves. She discusses forms of abuse and typical responses by victims, systems of thought that can impact how you view yourself and the world, warning signs that victims send out, positive self talk and healing through Jesus Christ.

Armchair Interviews says: If you, or someone you know has suffered abuse, Beyond the Lie: Finding Freedom from the Past is a valuable gift to give.

I really liked this book. It's easy to read and her stories are real clear. Alice shares in a way that hurting people of this world can be set free of their past. First Alice shares how as a child she was victimized and how she struggled with her abuse for years. But she doesn't stop there she goes on to skillfully explain how we can be free from the torment that has kept us bound all of our life. It really is a lie you know, we don't have to remain a victim! We can be set free. This book will help change your life.

I am thrilled to recommend "Beyond the Lie" to anyone who has suffered at the hands of others, experienced traumas or ever asked the question of how to turn suffering and difficulties into something better vs years of repeated pain. The transparent stories, biblical principles and step by step instructions are the result of over 35 years of counseling and ministry.

In almost 15 years of working alongside Alice's ministry, I have seen thousands of lives impacted and changed by the insights shared in "Beyond the Lie". Personally my life is completely different than where I was years ago when I first met Alice. "Beyond the Lie" can make a difference in your life as well!

Debbie Walker
Houston, TX.

No wasted words here! I found this book easy to read, succinct and to the point. It demonstrated how childhood rape or molestation can be overcome through prayer, with graphs and charts that were very helpful. The author made clear how to overcome a victim mindset. Especially helpful were definitions of spiritual warfare terms, how demons find ways to attach themselves, and how to get rid of these parasites. ("you've got worms?") Yes, this book helped me gain confidence and put away fear. Highly recommended!

This book is rather short, a mere 128 pages, yet insightful and well-written. Learn realistic methods to identify and subdue suicide bombers before they can carry out their deadly missions, escape from and/or disarm gun or knife-wielding attackers, recognize and respond to homicidal drivers, and react properly to hostage situations. This is hard-hitting and much needed information in today's dangerous world, useful for martial artists, law enforcement officers, security professionals, and every day civilians alike. The Madrid train bombings on 03/11/04 and the London subway/bus bombings on 07/07/05 are graphic reminders that this information is relevant and sorely needed. The author is a retired Israeli counterterrorism expert who founded a security training firm. You can't learn all his secrets from this short book but it's a great place to start.

Lawrence Kane
Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction

This is a fascinating little book that outlines truly realistic ways to handle yourself in unspeakably frightening and intense situations. The authors do a great job of tailoring their advice for average people--their point is that you do NOT have to be a black belt in karate, soldier, or police officer to protect yourself in a hijacking, suicide bombing, or other typical forms of modern terrorism. An eye-opening and valuable book for average American citizens who might someday find themselves in the midst of a terrorist incident and who want to learn about various ways to respond to save themselves and others.

After having spent 15 years in Security and 20 years in Defensive Tactics training and teaching I was so blown away by the effectiveness and simplicity of the techniques, tactics and concepts of survival that I arranged for Itay to come to Australia and train Military, Law Enforcement and Civillians in a number of courses. At the end of the courses I was amazed at how much progress I and all the others had made.Itay Gils book is something for every thinking Citizen, Law Officer or Military person who may have to confront extreme violence in their day to day existence. After September 11th, Bali and Madrid it only high lites how valuble this infomation is.

This book is an investment in your safety.

Finally, a book that equips the Average Joe with the means to fight off 9/11-style terrorism -- but without building up false expectations of what an individual can do in the face of the biggest threat of our times. I found Itay Gil's no-nonsense and pragmatic teachings most refreshing. He advises safe precautions to limit risk as well as last-ditch, all-out lethal confrontations. The techniques he teaches, once practiced at home, are novel, but amazingly simple and effective. The Citizen's Guide should be standard for the self-defense bookshelf. Anyone know if Gil is planning a sequel, perhaps with more detailed tactics from his SWAT days?

In a world where freedoms are being stretched to their extreme; a world in which the word "innocent" is becoming synonymous with "victim", here is a book that re-addresses the balance in favour of you and me - the good peace-loving citizen.

I found the book a most useful and practical guide that dispells many of the myths surrounding this subject - including the most prevalent... "I cannot do anything myself to stop this".

One always hopes that such techniques never have to be employed - but I feel a lot more secure knowing that if i need to ... i now can.

Well crafted... A must buy.

This is an intensely practical, very valuable guide to spiritual warfare. The Lord Jesus Christ has given us the power to overcome all the attacks of the enemy! Demolishing strongholds means you have to repent of your sins (or overcome the curse against you) which allowed access to your life and then go after the strongman. But many make the mistake of not recognizing that there are other spirits of bondage connected with the strongman which make him even stronger. (This book gives detailed lists of these associated with common strongmen.) The author directs the reader to bind the strongman, cast out the other spirts, THEN cast out the strongman. She includes prayers to use, stories of victorious battles, and her own personal experience. Even if you don't believe in demon deliverance, think of this book as a way of using truth encounters to confront strongholds and what kinds of strongholds tend to happen together.

The book came very quickly and was in excellent condition. And to top it off the book was great.

The book is the ultimate handbook for deliverance ministry. The keys to identifying and breaking off demonic strongholds are identified clearly. As this life is a battlefield, then this book is a war room strategy guide. This book brought me immense help in identifying how demons work to intimidate and harass people, and how to fight on their behalf. As usual, this author has taken a complex subject and put it into simple, concrete terms. Indispensible reference book for anyone serious about setting others free.

If you are like most Christians, you have times when you may feel "hemmed in" by something that isn't readily explainable.Other times you may lack the freedom in Christ that you have had in times past. Delivering the Captives is a well written practical guide to deal with issues before they get a foothold in your life. This is a book every library needs to have, and hopefully the reader will review from time to time. It is a very compatible book with the author's Beyond the Lie. Though the specific issues may be differerent, both of these books deal with life isssues that affect our functioning ability. Make no mistake about it, the strongman will do his best to defeat you quickly or with a slow burn. With God's help we can be victorious.

This is a great "how to" book with amazing stories about everyday people who experience relief and freedom from fears, tormenting thoughts, addictions and overpowering sinful habits by resisting sin and evil through drawing near to God. Salvation, personal freedom and deliverance from demonic spirits, is the work of Jesus in and through our lives.

Alice Smith in "Delivering The Captives" shares how we can obtain personal freedom and effectively help others with their greatest struggles and pain. "Delivering The Captives" renews our faith that the love and power of God is more than enough to live changed lives and experience God's peace.

Debbie Walker, Houston, TX.

This is a great book for learning and opening up your mind. There are two parts in the book that are my favorites. Reading about the people he cared so much about. Part Two in the book "Spiritual perspectives ", ...where ever you are with God this whole book will lighten your Soul and even surprise you. If you need help with pronunciation go to www.m-w.com

There's a reason Dr. Peck is one of my favorite authors, and this book once more demonstrates why. Denial of the Soul is a brave and important book that carefully and objectively explores the entire issue of euthanasia from both a medical and spiritual standpoint. Frequently touching and always well reasoned, once again he has produced a masterpiece that should give the thoughtful reason plenty to digest as he or she struggles to decide for themselves how they feel about the idea of terminating a human life-especially their own. This is much more than simply a book about the pros and cons of "pulling the plug" on the terminally ill, but explores a whole range of questions regarding hospice care, suicide and mercy killing, doctor assisted euthanasia, pain management, and quality of life issues (his chapter on pain management alone should be required reading for every first year medical student and nurse trainee.) His spiritual perspective on the issue-which he covers in some depth in the second half of the book-is more subjective and problematic, but he does manage to successfully bring God into the debate, for which I consider him among the bravest of medical professionals. His no-nonsense approach and personal antidotes make this one of those books you'll be thinking about long after you've read the last words.

As is true of all of Peck's books, however, I found myself enthusiastically agreeing with 95% of everything he wrote and vehemently disagreeing with the remaining 5%. He approaches the spiritual aspect of the debate from a purely liberal Christian perspective (and the political elements of it from a similar perspective) and so makes some statements that I couldn't help but challenge. For example, he considers the purpose of life to experience the emotional and physical pain necessary to mature us spiritually and, hence, considers any effort to end ones own life an attempt to short-circuit the process. He considers the dying process to be an important part of the learning process and gives many examples from his personal experiences that show the positive results of doing the "hard work" involved in dying. However, he admits himself that many people-in fact, perhaps most-seem to gain nothing from the experience and leave this world kicking and screaming, seemingly challenging the notion that the process of dying is inherently useful as a tool of spiritual growth. Also, his contention that the soul "belongs" to God since he is its creator not only clearly betrays his thoroughly Christian perspective, but is unsubstantiated by anything more than his own assumption. I was a co-creator in the creation of my sons but I never considered them my property because of it. As a consequence, I don't follow his logic in this regard.

My only significant criticism of the book is the ending, in which he seems to waffle all over the place. After 200 pages of building his case, I was disappointed to see him retreat with the excuse that he was going to let the reader decide for themselves on the issue, but then I guess that's the point of any work of this nature. The decision when and how to end one's own life is a personal choice that can be made only by those who find themselves in that situation. It can't be made by religion or government or even by science, and that, after all, is the truth of all life. Peck gives us something to think about, but we must ultimately make the final decision which is, I suspect, exactly the way God wants us to play it. In any case, thank you Dr. Peck for another little gem of light to help us illuminate an otherwise horribly confused world.

This book addresses the question of euthanasia in America. It presents the spiritual issues surrounding death and life - issues which the Peck feels are not fully considered when considering euthanasia.

He distinguishes between pain and suffering - how pain can and should be alleviated, and why it should not be the cause of seeking a quick death.

His book is important for those who will face death, either themselves or in others. It is a brave attempt to clear the conflict regarding euthanasia.

Do you fear death or the dying process? This book will address that. Are you young and in relatively good health, and have a hard time feeling compassion on people who are older and/or less agile? This book can increase your compassion and patience. Are you entering the last few years of your life and want to "finish well"? This book can help you do that. This book is for everyone; because everyone will deal with death and dying in their life. Denial of the Soul demonstrates Peck's medical knowlege combined with his understanding of people and how we deal with and fear physical pain, and this book forces its reader to think about their own mortality, grapple with it, and hopefully come to accept it. Peck shows that death isn't something to live in fear of, but that the dying process is a beautiful way to learn how to depend on other people and on God--and that the dying process doesn't have to be wrought with physical pain. It's really worth it for everyone to read this book at some point, and I would agree with the other reviewers that it should be sooner rather than later.

Denial of the Soul is a must read for every person and it is one of those books you must read before you need the information. The first third of the book is devoted to taking a cut at the medical profession for not providing 'proper pain contol' of terminal patients. The last two thirds deals with the subtitle in an interesting way that will keep me thinking about it the rest of my life. He starts with a definition of the soul which is complex (typical of Peck) and requires considerable discussion to make it "real". He goes on to explore the subject but, for me, the most interesting part of the book is his "side trips" into death and dying and life! I found the wisdom great for a man that is trying his best to face his own death in the not too distant future. (Peck is about 63 or so) Included are some "gray rules" for deciding if the plug should or should not be pulled that are very useful. Every person that is alive will face the issues in this book for yourself or your loved ones. It is a must to help you decide many answers and there will be some you can not answer till you have to. Peck says that some of the greatest learning for you and for loved ones can take place in the process of dying. I know this to be true from what I experienced with my own father's death. Scotty has done a great service to mankind, again, with this book. Jerry Hampton

This book may be small but it is a memoir packed with information. It was a very good read on many levels..family relationships and death and dying; those two are the main themes. The author writes with a hint of mystery and I liked that touch to the memoir.

( )...The only words that miss the mark of literaryexcellenceare on the cover of T.M. Shine's remarkable tale.

Thisain't no how-to anything or a cry on Oprah's wide shoulders. This is something wonderfully other.

If Elizabeth Kubler-Ross met Carl Hiaasen, T.M. Shine would be their bastard child. This book is laugh out loud funny, except when it's ripping your guts out.

Bill Moyers sells Shine short when he alliterates in his testimonial that "Fathers . . ." is "marvelous, moving and memorable."

It is marvelous and moving. Quite so. But there are whole pages you'll hope aren't memorable, because feeling their wrenching impact once is as much as a person ought to bear.

Nice going Mr. Shine. Now please remind the folks at Amazon.com that people who read shouldn't be judged by their books' covers. END

I bought this book shortly after the death of my own father, and the subsequent reawakening of my friendship with my sister. I found the emotions and the passions in this book to resonate very deeply within my being - helping me to heal, since I learned that my feelings are common, valid and shared.

This is a poignant, compelling story that those of us who are baby-boomers will soon experience ourselves, if we haven't already. Mr. Shine bears all - his personal pain, frustrations and annoyances - dealing with the inevitable death of his father and realizing the experience is bringing him close to his brothers once again and the past they share. He indicts the medical community that, he felt, treated his father as a temporary occupant of a hospital bed. Like impatient FAA air traffic controllers, nurses and doctors were unwilling to be inconvenienced by adult children who were reluctant to let the scheduled departure take off on time. A quick and fulfilling read.

I've read Shine since he wrote for The Miami Herald's Tropic Magazine. He's an undiscovered master. This book takes his readers on a painful but rewarding journey--the death of his father. It's entirely worth your time, even at double the price.

Naeem Murr, a story-teller extraordinaire, speaks to the reader so directly it's as if he's sitting at your elbow, whispering into your ear. The feeling that the author is carefully constructing his tale, which is so often a part of literary novels, is absent here--the construction being more subtle and hidden in the background, as if the author and reader together are "discovering" the story--the mysterious events from childhood about which Daniel Mulvaugh still feels guilt as an adult and which ultimately threaten his sanity.

Growing up in a "council estate" as a child, Daniel and his best friend escaped into vivid, imaginary worlds in an effort to cope with their bleak and frightening lives. Neurotic and timid, Daniel suffered from panic attacks and acrophobia, sometimes fainting with fear, constantly worrying about his mother and the friend on whom he depended. As Daniel's story moves back forth between childhood and his life as a thirty-eight-year-old social worker, we see that he still suffers from acrophobia and panic attacks and that he is unable to "feel" and respond appropriately to the needs of his adored wife Sally, who suffered a breakdown three years before. Now recovered, she has chosen to remain in the caretaker's cottage on the grounds of the hospital, rather than return to Daniel.

Then, into his life comes Amos Radcliffe, an elderly client living in the apartment that Daniel and his mother once shared. Amos tells him stories of his life as a sailor, the people he's met, the sins he's committed, and the guilt he's felt, and the parallels between his own life and that of Daniel are unmistakable. As the nature of his crime is revealed to Daniel, the reader observes their parallel searches for love and communication and their mutual need to confront the past and themselves. While some readers may question whether Amos is "real" or a figment of Daniel's imagination, Daniel himself believes he is real and acts on that assumption. The parallels between their lives are unmistakable, the coincidences are extraordinary, and the similarities in their relationships with others are clear.

Murr stirs the reader's immense sympathy for his characters, showing their humanity as they deal with the past. His observations are acute, and his descriptions, sometimes appearing almost as "throw-aways," are unique. A group of men has "simple lizard brains; they had to blink to swallow their food," and a woman is "an impeccably maintained cul-de-sac of feeling." The dialogue, through which Murr reveals much of the story, is lively and natural, sometimes filled with black humor. The ironies of plot and character are striking, and Murr's comments about the nature of imagination and the nuances of language are insightful. This is a beautifully wrought, carefully constructed, and totally absorbing novel about selfhood, our need to deal with our pasts and our guilt, and the role of imagination in making life bearable. Mary Whipple

The Perfect Man: A Novel
Boy, The
Biography - Murr, Naeem: An article from: Contemporary Authors Online

An outstanding novel! Murr's writing style took me a little getting used to, and frankly I was not pulled in to the book as fast as I would have liked. But before long I found myself thoroughly engrossed, and found myself immensely appreciating Murr's style, story, and insights.

Reading over the other reviews, I would agree wholeheartedly and could not say it better myself. I recommend this book very highly and agree that Murr has a very promising career ahead.

"The Genius of the Sea" by Naeem Murr

This troubling, yet compulsive, novel traces the life, dreams and fears of a thirty-something social-worker as he comes to terms with his life as a son, a best friend, and a disappointing husband. He realises his truths through the tales of Amos, a social-security (...)/sailor who has travelled the seas from the English coast to Bangkok and all ports inbetween...or has he?

A comparison might be to the film "Sixth Sense." Not from a thematic point of view, but because in the same way the ending of "Sixth Sense" sent me racing for the rewind/replay button, Murr's book is back on my "read" pile. One read is not enough to understand the Melvillian layers that play out through this whale of a book.

For Brits, or anglophile's or those who like mental pressups, it's a great read.

I loved this book. It is strange and compelling, enertaining and beguiling. I first discovered Murr when I read his first novel, "The Boy," which is an utter knockout. This is a substantial, important writer at the outset of what will be an important career.

Naeem Murr, a story-teller extraordinaire, speaks to the reader so directly it's as if he's sitting at your elbow, whispering into your ear. The feeling that the author is carefully constructing his tale, which is so often a part of literary novels, is absent here--the construction being more subtle and hidden in the background, as if the author and reader together are "discovering" the story--the mysterious events from childhood about which Daniel Mulvaugh still feels guilt as an adult and which ultimately threaten his sanity.

Growing up in a "council estate" as a child, Daniel and his best friend escaped into vivid, imaginary worlds in an effort to cope with their bleak and frightening lives. Neurotic and timid, Daniel suffered from panic attacks and acrophobia, sometimes fainting with fear, constantly worrying about his mother and the friend on whom he depended. As Daniel's story moves back forth between childhood and his life as a thirty-eight-year-old social worker, we see that he still suffers from acrophobia and panic attacks and that he is unable to "feel" and respond appropriately to the needs of his adored wife Sally, who suffered a breakdown three years before. Now recovered, she has chosen to remain in the caretaker's cottage on the grounds of the hospital, rather than return to Daniel.

Then, into his life comes Amos Radcliffe, an elderly client living in the apartment that Daniel and his mother once shared. Amos tells him stories of his life as a sailor, the people he's met, the sins he's committed, and the guilt he's felt, and the parallels between his own life and that of Daniel are unmistakable. As the nature of his crime is revealed to Daniel, the reader observes their parallel searches for love and communication and their mutual need to confront the past and themselves. While some readers may question whether Amos is "real" or a figment of Daniel's imagination, Daniel himself believes he is real and acts on that assumption. The parallels between their lives are unmistakable, the coincidences are extraordinary, and the similarities in their relationships with others are clear.

Murr stirs the reader's immense sympathy for his characters, showing their humanity as they deal with the past. His observations are acute, and his descriptions, sometimes appearing almost as "throw-aways," are unique. A group of men has "simple lizard brains; they had to blink to swallow their food," and a woman is "an impeccably maintained cul-de-sac of feeling." The dialogue, through which Murr reveals much of the story, is lively and natural, sometimes filled with black humor. The ironies of plot and character are striking, and Murr's comments about the nature of imagination and the nuances of language are insightful. This is a beautifully wrought, carefully constructed, and totally absorbing novel about selfhood, our need to deal with our pasts and our guilt, and the role of imagination in making life bearable. Mary Whipple

This is one of my favorite books,my dad bought it for me. Though my mom can't figure out why I like so much to her even thought she never read the book it sounds terribly depresing. But it's not at all it's very uplifiting and funny. Well diveloped charictores, the ending of the storie is happy, well about as happy as it can get without sounding like a fairy tale. It's funny that my dad picked the book up for me and that I liked it but when I pick books I end up hating them.

I would highly suggest this book to anyone. It is one of those that you can't put down. you are drawn into Grace's life and problems from the first sentence.

Grace, sixteen-years-old, lives within the tyranny of her emotions, mind, and environment. She develops a severe depression after the death of her father, which later blooms into Schizoaffective Disorder from outer sources. She also carries a deep fear of the 'Surely People', a group of hoodlums who cluster in her neighborhood that are cruel, degrading and evil. Finally, it also defines the bond between her and Luke, an antisocial patient labled as psychopathic. Together, they struggle through trying to release themselves from their internal hell, while also realizing that although they are hospitalized, they are as normal as the outside world.

High-strung, remarkable, engrossing and tender, "I Can Hear the Mourning Dove" reflects the true self barricaded within every person. It is a bipolar item, for many of its subjects are abstract and powerful. It clearly pulls you into the suffering of the main character from the first sentence, and never lets go, even after it has been read through. It is my favorite novel, and will always be remembered.

I Can Hear The Mourning Doves is one of the books that you start reading and you just can't put down until you have finished reading it. It is the story of a young girl who struggles to survive after her recent suicide attempt. Grace is put in the mental hospital, where she meets a boy named Luke. Luke is the type of person Grace fears. Luke is dangerous, rough, and he has no respect for anyone or anything. However, he is the only one who is able to connect with Grace, and he is the only one who can help her. I highly recommend this book.

I read this book in 8th grade and I've been trying to find it again ever since...and i'm in my twenties. This is one of those books that you'll never forget. Even though its description sounds depressing, its actually a really great and funny book.

Do you know what the voice of God sounds like? Would you like to hear Him speak to you in every circumstance of life - from the seemingly trivial to the truly important? Do you want to experience miracles in your everyday life? In her delightful book, "It All Began... When Jesus Gave Me Sneakers," Carrie Lynn Jones doesn't just tell you how to do these things; she does something much better. By sharing her heart, Carrie demonstrates to the reader how one can have a walk with the Lord that is both intimate and extraordinary.

Carrie has the God given ability to express a childlike wonder and awe for the things of the Spirit. Her book had me chuckling one minute while tears were welling up in my eyes the next.

This small volume can be read in one sitting, but you might want to go back and read the individual stories again, savoring each one, and meditating on the lessons that are profound in their simplicity. I promise that reading this book will increase your faith, encourage your spirit, and inspire you in your walk with the Lord.

I think It All Began... When Jesus Gave Me Sneakerswas an intense but easy to read book that explained the wonder of God in terms anyone can get. I have a new outlook on God now. He is everywhere and in everything. This author has an intense child like faith and excitment for the Lord ever since he made himself real to her. She never let go of that. It is obvious that He is still the God who makes his presence known in wonderful ways. That didn't go away with the old testiment. I recommend this. Would make a nice gift for someone in your life who needs to know God.

I learned a lot from this small book. The God of the Old Testament is alive today! He hasn't changed. He is still mighty, awesome, indescribable. He still does miracles today! In fact, He longs to do signs and wonders in your life. He will make Himself real to you in breath-taking ways; He yearns to exhaust you with mind-blowing, thrilling, all-encompassing acts of love on a scale you cannot comprehend.

This book will give you a glimpse into just how big our God is. He is bigger than you could ever fathom; this book will give you chills up your spine and an excited hunger for more and more and more of Jesus.

Ms. Jones shares how Jesus became real to her during a troubled childhood and has remained so throughout her life. The best part of this book is that it leads the reader to discover how he can have the same vibrant, eternal relationship with Jesus.

It is honest. It is sweet. One cannot deny the true stories that are passionately declared. You will begin to look back on your own life and re-examine those little "coincidences" that you have forgotten about, and suddenly see the Savior standing next to each one.

This book was one of the best books I have ever read. Jordan starts out as a very depressed kid. His dad committed suicide and he thought it was his entire fault. The setting of the book is mainly his school and neighborhood. Also a few specific roads in the town. It takes place in present time. Then, a few years later, his mom meets this guy...Don Luger. And he just happens to own a 76' corvette stingray. Jordan was never a fan of cars, but as soon as Don takes him for a ride and goes 110 mph he realizes that he needs to feel that rush again. He says that it is the first time everything felt like it was going to be okay after his dad dies. So when Don goes out of town, he steals the car. He loves it and he starts doing it more and more. And this one time he meets this girl, Becka Thorson, who is drawn in by the car. They start going out. And it's off and on relationship.

Jordan eventually gets caught stealing the car. This book has a somewhat abrupt ending. Now that doesn't mean it's a bad ending. I love the ending. It makes you think a little. I recommend this book to people who like cars, well actually anybody who likes a book that you can't put down. I recommend this book to these people because it's just a great book that you wont regret reading and it's defiantly worth owning. Terry Trueman is a great author. This book has drama, action, and even some adventure. It's a must read. I give No Right Turn five stars. Thank you for reading my review on No Right Turn by Terry Trueman.

It isn't that our children can not read, but that until an author writes a book that CAN'T BE PUT DOWN, they don't know that they love to read. Terry Trueman is one of the best authors I have to offer these students. Mr.Trueman gives us an opportunity to know what it might be like to have or to love someone who has a disability. His book, Inside Out is incredable. No Right Turn is just another outstanding example. THANK YOU TERRY TRUEMAN.

Terry Trueman is a friend of mine. I read No Right Turn in its infancy. Jordan and his angst are real and right on. The twists and turns are all authentic. This book is Terry Trueman. Look at his penchant for fast automobiles and anyone could picture his own '76 Corvette roaring around Spokane, his home town.

Terry was Jordan, a very long time ago. But Terry's fertile mind is in a place where Jordan has developed and Jordan's quandry is now able to find voice, dealing with fears and desires of all young tees.

Terry is a wonderful pervayor of teen angst. He has lived it for quite awhile. Once again, Terry has touched the teen soul, and in doing so, has touched his own. We all know Jordan and root for his deliverance.

Brave novel, brilliant mind, dashed with reality.

When Jordan came home from school one afternoon, he and his dad had a conversation that was puzzling. Why was his dad apologizing? Later, when he heard the gunshot, Jordan knew that his father had killed himself. He still ran down and attempted CPR, but could not save him.

Three years later, Jordan is 16 and still trying to avoid thinking about that terrible day. Everyone but him seems to be moving on. He's become totally numb, with no friends except the somewhat strange Wally, no sports, and no one to talk to. His mother is starting to date again, a neighbor named Don with a really cool Corvette.

The car starts bringing Jordan back to life. First he helps Don with the constant maintenance and polishing it requires, and then they take it to an auto show. The next thing Jordan knows, he's planning to steal the vehicle on the nights when Don isn't home. On his first trip out, he helps Becka, a gorgeous cheerleader who loves "his" car. Author Terry Trueman describes the car and its rides so well that readers will feel like they're right there; even non-gearheads will appreciate this fine automobile.

But soon it becomes easy for Jordan to take it out all the time. He realizes that the thrill he has while speeding around road curves is the first emotion he's experienced in three years. And now the feelings he has for Becka, as they see more of each other, really help him come alive again. He just doesn't know if Becka likes him for himself or for his cool ride.

There is a price for these thrills, and eventually Jordan has to pay it. But getting caught may be just what he needs to help him start recovering from the shock of finding his lifeless father.

NO RIGHT TURN is intense and fast-paced, and just like with Trueman's previous titles, STUCK IN NEUTRAL and CRUISE CONTROL, readers will be left thinking about the main protagonist for a long time.

--- Reviewed by Amy Alessio

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Terry Trueman's books, so I won't waste time praising his virtues. Although come to think of it, he might appreciate that. Still, the story of sixteen-year old Jordan, the main character of NO RIGHT TURN, should hopefully be praise enough.

Suicide is never pretty. But when you're a teen, and the last thing your father says to you before he shoots himself is "it's all such bull***t," suicide becomes something bigger than a simple death. It's the thing you think about all the time, and yet never talk about. You wonder, almost constantly, why your father would apologize, then take himself out of your life forever. You wonder which part of life was bull***t--the fact that he was married to your mother?; that he had you as a son?; that his life was boring and predictable with a job and bills and a family to weigh him down?

Several years later, Jordan still doesn't have any answers. All he knows is that his dad is dead, and by his own hand, and that there's no joy in his life. Actually, Jordan doesn't have much of a life at all. All of that changes, though, when his mom starts dating Don Lugar, a guy who owns something that Jordan suddenly can't live without--a 1976 Corvette, a Stingray with a custom paint job, tinted windows, big tires, and a cool canister of nitrous that will really make that baby go.

The first time he goes for a ride in the 'Vette with Don, Jordan realizes that going 110 mph in that car is the first time in a very long while that he can remember feeling alive. The first time, in fact, that he doesn't feel like a walking zombie. So Jordan comes up with the brilliant idea of taking the 'Vette for a drive--by himself--one Wednesday night when Don is out of town. Just one time, one drive by himself, is all he needs to recapture that feeling of being part of the world.

But one time isn't enough, of course, and it doesn't help matters when he meets cheerleader Becka Thorson, one of the most popular girls in school, during one of his clandestine drives. Now the girl of his dreams thinks he's some cool guy with a custom 'Vette, and Jordan's desperate to keep up the image he's created. Once wasn't enough with the car, and he doesn't know what will have to happen to come clean to Becka--and to Don and his mother.

NO RIGHT TURN is another winer from Terry Trueman. Heartfelt, emotional, and full of true-to-life characters, this is a story for anyone who has ever felt like their world has been turned upside down--and for those who don't know how to put it back right-side-up. Definitely a recommended read.