Dance Books

Step By Step Ballet Class is an excellent book. Very clear illustrations and comments full of insight. I would highly recommend this book to anyone teaching or studying the RAD syllabus. FABULOUS!

This is really nice. It explains the steps "step-by-step". The drawings are nice and easy to follow.

Everything is explained thoroughly and well illustrated. Its definitely a good book to have if you're starting ballet or getting back to dancing (like me).
A must have for every parent, student and teacher.

I really enjoyed reading about the different levels and what they encompassed. I had been through these levels but couldn't recall what each offered. As an instructor, it was a great review.

This is great for the first time dance teacher to break down things by age. Super if you are having a time trying to remember what the basics were! Great book with pictures :)

I first read this book when it was newly acquired by our local public library. I was all of 11 then, and while I'd read a fair amount of books (I was a precocious child), this one stood out. I never forgot it. Ten years later, I wanted my own copy. I had to search high and low for it, finding it only through special order (and it took WEEKS to get).

At the age of 21, I was just as affected. This book transcends the original story of Swan Lake, grabs you by the throat and insinuates itself into your soul. I'm not kidding, either. Helprin tells the truth about humans and love in profoundly simple, poetic language. I'm not even sure it should be called a child's book.

I don't know what else to say. Read it. Make them publish more of these books.

These were the images. The ability to heighten your senses. To smell the sunshine on the grass. To be alive in the breezes. Awaken to love and loyalty. Heart stopping and heart wrenching. A tale for all ages.

This is one of the best books I have ever read! I have read it several times over and the story never grows old. It holds me captivated to the very last page through every reading. (I also cry every single time.) If you are the kind of person who loves the story of Romeo and Juliet I garentee that this book is for you.

I still remember the first time I read Swan Lake; I was in tears. I was not sad, exactly, but deeply moved. This book is timeless, and the prose is beautifully balanced. The story itself is strong and very well-written, with some very neat characters. This book could be read to slightly older children, and there are clear-cut 'villains' and 'heroes', but the heroes are human, they can fall and make mistakes, and this story is not for those who love unambiguous happy endings. Helprin is too aware of the world for that. I would also not recommend it for people who greatly dislike reading fantasy. It has a vague feel of a fairy tale, though it is too real and vivid for that. The pictures, by Chris Van Allsburg (known for The Polar Express), are extremely beautiful and fit the writing style. I would highly recommend this book, as well as the other two in this series, A Veil of Snows and A City in Winter. Swan Lake can stand alone, but the other two complement it very well. I don't even know how many times I have read these books, but I found them rewarding every time.

Swan Lake is a beautiful book. The story of the old man, the little girl, the true prince and the beautiful Odette is told with simple elegance through the eyes of the wise old grandfather. I read this book out loud with my friend, and we could have stayed up all night, caught up in the beautiful, heartbreaking tale of love and life and learning. We laughed and cried, and sat stiff with suspense. We were filled by turns with sorrow and joy, despair and hope and sometimes a mixture of them all. Everyone should read Swan Lake, for this book is truly a treasure, a gem that will shine brightly for years to come.

my 6 year old loves this book. my 8 year old loves this book. i love this book.
its droll wit engages us all. when it's 'swine lake' he/she chooses as our bedtime read, mommy is just as thrilled as the picker-outer.
i certainly can't say that about all my children's books, even the many i respect.

Hilariously melodramatic monologue, generous, engaging narrative and classic Sendak illustrations make this theatrical romp a favourite of adults and children alike.

If wolves went to ballet, they wouldn't go to Swan Lake, they would go to Swine Lake! We think 4th and 5th graders would like this book because it is more challenging. You should read it a couple times to really understand it and have fun reading it. It's a very good book. It has action in it. We thought it would be rated 4.

Swine lake, was absolutely wonderful, and it brought back memories of my childhood years. I reccomend it to those who are young at heart. I found it a very tasteful, and enjoyable piece of literature. So read it i say...thankyou

Swine Lake is a wonderfully creative story. It takes a twist that my daughter (age 7) nor I expected. The art of Maurice Sendak is as wonderful as ever. Great fun to read.

A bout with leukemia left me unable to read because of the drugs. A friend sent me the book and I decided to read it in spite of the fact that I had not been able to read more than a few words. Perserverance paid off and I read the book while confined to my bedroom for 2 months. I was blessed to have time to contemplate the "different type of relationship" the author had with Jesus. The author was bold, he was irreverant according to my "religious world" and yet he didn't seem to apologise for it. I found myself questioning if I had pushed into knowing Jesus as the author obviously had done. To date I have reread the book and absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants to know how to search out new ways to get to know Jesus. I'm sure Jesus loves the book!

George has written the interview we all dream of having. He asks the questions we all have, along with biblically sound answers. It is quite apparent that the Holy Spirit inspired George throughout this entire book! You, too, will find yourself asking questions and thoughts being evoked at a depth you may never thought you'd go. It's a quick read... or not, depending on how you ponder over the meat within not only the answers, but the questions as well. A very relevant book for such a time as this. I also HIGHLY recommend the accompanying study guide that Karen Pettingell wrote to enhance this interview. You just may find the interviewee will be interviewing YOU! Or, you may find yourself dancing...

Sit back and get ready for one of the greatest conversations ever, as if your sitting right there in the room with George and Jesus. The questions are relevant and the answers are in layman's language, modern and based on age-old Bible references. This presentation really brings to life the Bible stories. This is one of kind book written for the novice to the expert, it is one that you won't put down until the end and then it will open your mind and thoughts to a modern perspective about the Bible. I love this book, Thanks George.

I loved this book, it made me feel so good when I read it. It clearly reminded me of the book Joshua, that I have liked forever. It asks questions and gives answers that are easy to understand and helpful in keeping your faith. I would highly recomend this book to add to your library.

By Sofia Steryo-Bartmus, Author "Paws of Wisdom" Valuable Lessons We Can Learn From Our Pets

If you interviewed Jesus, what would you ask? And what would He answer?

George Pettingell has done a thorough job in introducing to us who Jesus is. He makes Jesus come alive as you turn each page, as if you were sitting there with him asking the questions. In this unique interviewing style Jesus give us answers from the easiest to the most uncomfortable questions. This book is great for believers in Christ, old and new, who still have many unanswered questions, as well as for non-believers; those who are seeking and those who are trying to disprove Christ.

Although the answers are mostly based on Scripture and Bible stories, they are written in a simple, current and easy to understand language. I enjoyed the book very much. I found it interesting, informative and thought provoking. What if Jesus is who he says he is? Then what? What are we to do next?

If you have never had a personal relationship with Jesus, you certainly will want to have one by the time you finish this book.

"Teach me Lord, to dance" is a timeless reference book for everyone's library (including the reference material in the back of the book for future study).

This is good reading with lots of layers and characters who seem very real--I have read it twice because I needed to see how each character was necessary to one of the others in the plot--heavy reading.

This is one of my very favorite books of 2007! It's lyrical yet intense, moving yet realistic. A must read for everyone.

Kathleen Popa has written an insightful book called "To Dance in the Desert". It is a wonderful tale of loss and a quest for identity and God. It made me want to dance.

Am reading this book now and I have to say It is wonderful. Not sure but I think it parallels with Dance in the Desert by Madeleine l'Engle. I can't wait to finish it to see if it does, and i get shivers realizing who is calling out to her spirit. It's magical...i wonder how it will end!

This story is amazing. Strange in some ways, yet incredibly insightful in others. Have you ever met someone who was very guarded and stand-offish, almost skittish? The main character, Dara, is this type of person. As you delve into her life you begin to understand the complexity of her issues and her need for a savior. Dara is so lost. Then she meets Jane, the wacky earth-mother who is not as crazy as she seems at first. I loved experiencing Dara's quest for her biological mother. Her deep pain and misplaced guilt shows how truly devastating abandonment can be to a child, especially if the person who left is the mom. Dara learned a lot about herself and grew through the course of the story. She set aside her own needs to help others, yet still had this wall around her heart. But a nagging voice in the wind would call to her, especially when her pain seemed the most out of control. That still small voice is one we all need to tune into. It just might turn our lives around if we do.

this book is actually one of the best of its kind. It documents quite well the music of the New Wave era and is a nicely done update of the previous edition.

I got hooked on the TP Record Guides in the mid 80s by luck browsing a cool bookstore. Love at first sight. Ira A. and crew approached a gigantic task with a process and a great sense of humor. Their reviews are amazingly complete for some amazingly obscure bands. [I actually feel honored to know music of obscure underground bands that were somehow unbelievably, under their radar. I wonder what ever became of the "Cache Valley Drifters"? I sure hope Pete and Lou Berryman are still out there too.] They treat most bands with respect, excepting bands of the "Frankie Goes to Hollywood" ilk, heck I trash them too even if I don't know any better! How's that for loyal?

A couple examples of the wonders that drift among the pages. One of my favorite reviews is Simple Minds. The reviewer carefully goes over the bands' brilliant first releases and then lashes out at an apparent total sell out after they got sucked into big production movies.

This book, plus the 1990s edition following it up, will give you an enduring look at the rise and fall of underground music.
Try this at your local library, open this book to Nirvana...read the terse review of the band printed shortly after "Nevermind"s release. Now thumb to Nirvana in the New TP Guide to 90s Music, written many years later, but right next to it in the stacks (dream on). It says things like "every generation has events like hula hoops and Nirvana, they explode out of nowhere" The book is a look at what is important to young people at an important time when their brains desire to look beyond the mirror, even farther outward than the next meal, and they turn to music. It's all-together mindbending and probably important.

This book is a quest giver. Ever hear of the Morels? Me neither, but from what Ira says in his review in this book, I've been on a quest to find some of their musical legacy and so far I've failed. But I'm persistent, they're out there somewhere on some dusty shelf. I'm zealous about this book because in this world you've got to edit.

I love this book. I have to say that I didn't always agree with Robbin's et al views of the music on display. One reviewer mentions their treatment of Simple Minds, and I could make a case for the Silencers. a great Scottish band of the mid to late 80's.

What makes this book great isn't the reviewing they do (concise and well written, always), but rather the fact that Trouser Press provides histories for each band before jumping into their material, and traces the progression of bands through their careers (read the Sonic Youth entry if you don't believe me).

This book leaves all others I've ever read far behind for that simple fact. If you want little info on the bands and sketchy histories and lineups, then by all means, run to Rolling Stone and Dave McKean. But if you want to understand the individual formations of bands, their original vision, how and why they changed, and a full critical accounting thereof, buy the Trouser Press guides.

Magic, I tell you. Magic.

Before there was such a thing as P2P music downloads and other ways of getting ear candy for free (hopefully just to listen before you buy the real CD from the artist you like) you had to rely on word of mouth or radio. Since radio did not play most of the great music listed here, take it from a Suicidal Tendencies/Thin Lizzy fan, this was the one way I KNEW the music I risked my money on was worth it. As far as guides go, this one surpasses them all.

I got hooked on the TP Record Guides in the mid 80s by luck browsing a cool bookstore. Love at first sight. Ira A. and crew approached a gigantic task with a process and a great sense of humor. Their reviews are amazingly complete for some amazingly obscure bands. I actually feel honored to own music of obscure underground bands that were somehow unbelievably, under their radar. They treat most bands with respect, excepting bands of the "Frankie Goes to Hollywood" ilk, heck I trash them too even if I don't know any better! How's that for loyal?

A couple examples of the wonders that drift among the pages. One of my favorite reviews is Simple Minds. The reviewer carefully goes over the bands' brilliant first releases and then lashes out at an apparent total sell out after they got sucked into big production movies. And this book, plus the 1990s edition following it up, will give you an enduring look at the rise and fall of underground music.

Try this at your local library, open this book to Nirvana...read the terse review of the band. Now thumb to Nirvana in the New TP Guide to 90s Music, written many years later, but right next to it in the stacks (dream on). It says things like "every generation has events like hula hoops and Nirvana, they explode out of nowhere" These books are a look at what is important to young people at an important time when their brains look beyond the mirror, even farther outward than the next meal, and they turn to music. It's all-together mindbending and probably important.

This book is a quest giver. Ever hear of the Morels? Me neither, but from what Ira says in his review in this book, I've been on a quest to find some of their musical legacy and so far I've failed. But I'm persistent, they're out there somewhere on some dusty shelf. I'm zealous about this book because in this world you've got to edit.

This is a 100% recommended novel! Especially if the movie is not available in your area, this is to die for!

I devoured this in under two hours! Not only do you get a wonderful read, and stunning photographs...you get a terrific interview with Mr. Haynes. Real insight into the world of glam! If you loved this film half as much as I did, you must have this. It is fantastic!

I read the screenplay in one sitting, it's just as engrossing as the movie! What I really loved was seeing some of the parts that were edited in the movie version and seeing some of the written words. The screenplay also helped to answer some questions and made things more clear; everytime I watch the movie or read the screenplay I see something new - it's amazing. The screenplay also includes quite a few black and white stills as well as a few color stills.

The interview with Todd that is included in this book provides tremendous insight into the creative process that took place when he was writing this film. I loved the movie before I read this......now I'm awestruck.

The screenplay leaves you almost more empty and desperate than the movie.

I love it.

This screenplay illuminates many details in the movie that are sometimes missed by the bright glittering images. It is busy, no doubt. In reading the screenplay, it is much easier to slow down and read through pieces overlooked in the movie, no matter how many times you watch it. Somehow reading it, not just hearing it, will completely shatter your heart. This was definitely done beautifully. Vision can be distracting when played against such poetry. Watch The Velvet Goldmine, read this screenplay, and watch the movie again. You will be completely sucked in, and transformed for that period of time. The movie was fun; the screenplay will break your heart.

I highly, definitely, suggest this piece of art to you.

This is a great reference movie/DVD book for all those far out films of the Psychedelic Era. From GET SMART to AUSTIN POWERS. A little flare for the 50's and 60's, CASINO ROYALE, Peter Sellers, VALLEY OF THE DOLLS and BEYOND...If you collect films from the likes of BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S or IN LIKE FLINT, you'll need this reference book to see what you're missing.

Fantastic! Haven't been able to put it down.

I keep this book near. Its a great read front to back, or to just randomly flip through. Lots of insight into the wonderfully weird world of film. A must for all cinephiles.

I was attracted to this book after recognizing the author from his movie reviews on the radio. It is the perfect beach companion. I was amazed at the movies Mr. Slifkin included, many obvious selections with new insight. Others were obsure titles that I had all but forgotten seeing. Perhaps best are the movies that I have never seen, but feel compelled to do so after reading this book. Any fan of this era will love this book. In addition it introduces the unique charm of these groovy pics to a whole new audience who weren't even around the first time they hit the screen.

This book is so Groovy! If you lived through the Psychedelic era or would have loved to, this is THE GUIDE to those movies that were the center of it all. From Bond to Shaft to 2001, from Fearless Vamipre Killers to Top Secret it has it all. This book not only has those movies from the 60's and 70's but those that spoofed that Far-out time. 5 Stars

Ever so often I find something that is relative to my life and my struggles that lifts me up. An understanding that others have gone through the pain of divorce and heart-wrenching decisions that need to be made regarding your children future...possibly without you. I applaude Ms.Benjamin for writing this book and thank her for sharing her life so that we all may acheive a little better understanding of how one's life can be improved by searching for happiness through hope. I will share this with all my friends!!!!

I recommend this book to every woman...because we all are, or know someone who is, struggling to overcome all that life throws at us. Amy Benjamin writes with honesty and humor and with a voice that touches your heart. The Waking Dance is Amy's story of how one woman faces the difficulties of a bad marriage and cancer and emerges stronger and wiser. She is an inspiration to all women everywhere. Read 'The Waking Dance' and be inspired. You won't be disappointed.

I just finished the book The Waking Dance this weekend and I came here to give a review because I fell in love with this book and the author. All the previous reviews (that I've just read) are correct ... right on track. This book moved me. It completely engrossed me ... I can't wait to see how Amy Benjamin's life is going after this. Please continue with your story...

Amy Benjamin draws you into her world immediately, and makes you feel like she is speaking directly to you. Anyone who has struggled through a difficult relationship, a life-threatening illness, or intense personal introspection will have no trouble relating to her. She manages to eliquently depict feelings every woman has experienced, but may not be able to verbalize! I hope this is the first of many writings by this author. I loved it! I want more! Debs-Boulder Colorado

Amy Benjamin writes with a thoughtful precision that captivates your heart, motivates your spirit and inspires your soul.....I could not put The Waking Dance down.....she guides you through a personal and practical journey of self discovery, survival and satisfaction with humor, blatant reality and her eloquent writing style. RUN, do not walk, to the nearest bookstore and start reading now....this is welcome additon to anyone's library.....

This book has absolutely gorgeous pictures. I bought this book as an aid while teaching the water cycle to my classes. This book is perfect for helping children to understand the water cycle!

Wonderful read for the whole family. This is a book we look forward to reading to our little one, over and over. The art work is fantastic, the words are entertaining and has a section at the end of the book to educate about all the cycles of water. Do not hesitate to add this to your library!

Thomas Locker's beautiful oil paintings make "Water Dance" a work of art and a wonderful way for kids to learn about the water cycle.I decided to see what's out there for kids about water and began with "Water Dance," "Where the River Begins," and "Cloud Dance," all by Locker. I fell in love with his art and . . . also bought "Sky Tree" and several others.
I just published a review of approximately 20 kids water books titled "Teaching Children about the Hydrologic Cycle." To read, go to www.ndwc.wvu.edu and click on the current issue of "On Tap," a magazine about drinking water in small communities.

This is probably one of the most useful books I have come across in recent years. It is a delight to the ear and the eye. The author teaches us the story of water, or more specifically, the water cycle. He does this with simple, lyrical prose and combines this with some wonderful, original art. The paintings in this book are breath taking. This is a wonderful way to teach children about rain, water, streams, lakes and nature. It can be read to the class and then discussed page by page (it is amazing to hear the comments of the children)and at the same time each painting can be admired and discussed. I have watched our art teachers use this one in class as well as the reading teachers. But just as importantly, I have observed quite a number of children just setting along, reading and carefully studying the pictures. (I must admit to picking up this one my self, quite often, and just gazing at the wonderful art). This is a pretty good indorsement for any children's book. This is certainly one that should be added to any children's library, either at home or at school. Highly recommend this one.

I bought this book as a gift for my friend's son. He wanted to read over and over again for days (and it looks like this will continue for some time!) The pictures are absolutely beautiful, the poetry soothing, inspiring and educational, and this 3-year-old insists on reading the scientific explanations at the end of the book every time. I can't imagine a child (or an adult!) who wouldn't enjoy it!