Michigan Books

I think everyone should read this book. It only serves to make us realise how lucky we are and how we, especially in the West, can have nothing to complain about. The sufferings of the various women who in some cases had to fell trees in -50 degrees centigrade for 600grms of bread a day is inspirational. At some points I felt that I was ready fictional accounts as I found it hard to believe that mans inhumanity to man, or in this case, woman could be so mind numbingly awful - and for what.....truly terrifying. Exceptional read you will not be able to put it down and the strength of character of the women will stay with you long after you have finished the book.

Full of interesting characters, cruel soldiers, vicious fellow prisoners. The physical desolation and emotional desperation these women experienced during their respective prison sentences is unforgettable! This book should be required reading for anyone interested in modern-day tragedies.

This book is, without doubt, shocking, shaming, horrifying and representative of the utter degradation of the Stalin regime but equally, it is filled with courage, strength of spirit, endurance and compassion for one's fellow human beings. A collection of memoirs of women imprisoned in Stalin's purges, reading this is like having a series of intimate conversations with women caught up in something so evil and wicked it defies imagination.

I found myself wondering about the Russian psyche, the nature of communism, the parameters of dictatorship and the increasing obsession today's governments have with political correctness. There are scarcely words to describe the future an ordinary, well-educated, Moscow career girl could face for telling a slight joke, having vengeful neighbours, marrying the wrong man, being the child of the wrong parents or, indeed, doing nothing wrong at all. This stuff makes Orwell's 1984 look like The Simpsons and Kafka like Harry Potter. So unjust and farcical were the bases on which these women were incarcerated in prisons and camps no different than those created by Hitler and the Nazis, that you feel the victims and, indeed, the whole of the USSR was caught up in an indescribable nightmare. Truly, I don't have words to describe how sick and devastated I felt on completing this book. Read it and weep. This truly was Armageddon.

I have not yet read this book, though I have high expectations since Monkey is one of my favorite literary characters. This is not a rating, but a warning: DO NOT READ THE INTRODUCTION. The inconsiderate translator gives away essential information -- spoilers, in other words. Argh! I hate that. I hope I can save other potential readers some frustration.

The latest addition to the outstanding "Michigan Classics in Chinese Studies" series, Tung Yueh's The Tower Of Myriad Mirrors, is ably translated into English for a western readership by Shuen-fu Lin and Larry J. Schulz. Tung Yueh (1620-1686) provides an illuminating example of Chinese literature written to both entertain and enlighten with its mythological cast of characters. This precursor to the modern novel will prove especially fascinating and informative for students and scholars of Chinese fiction as a specialized literary form.

Almost four hundred years before movies like "The Sixth Sense" shocked audiences with surprise endings, Tung Yueh's "Tower of Myriad Mirrors" was blowing away mid 17th century China with its own original brand of psyche-out plot twists. "Tower" was a gripping tale to its originally intended audience, and the story has stood the test of time and is read to this day due to its fantastic imagery and imaginative method of imparting Buddhist theory.

I read "Tower of Myriad Mirrors" for a class in traditional Chinese literature and enjoyed it thoroughly. I have an avid interest in traditional and contemporary Chinese literature, but a serious background in this genre is not necessary to understand and enjoy "Tower..." All that is needed is good concentration and patience, and perhaps a quick online look at background information on Mahayana Buddhism. The story may appear confusing and disjointed at times, but if you persevere, you will find that everything comes together beautifully in the last chapter. Keep in mind that it is imperative to read the forward - it provides the necessary orientation needed to understand the story.

"Tower's" protagonist, a somewhat wayward monk named Monkey (who has, in fact, the outward appearance of an ape) embarks on a fantastical journey in search ways to help his master reach India, where they are to procure Buddhist scriptures to bring back to China. Tung Yueh wrote this 16-chapter novella (most Chinese novels are in excess of 100 chapters) as a supplement to the famous narrative "Journey to the West" as a way to explore the psyche of the Monkey character. It is elegantly written and conjures imagry that is beautiful and exotic as well as brutal and violent.

Written in 1640, "Tower..." is an excellent example of the traditional vernacular stories that were widely used to relate the messages of Buddhism to the masses. To hold the attention and stay in the memory of common Chinese, the stories often involve fantastic imagery, scores of monsters and evil beings, beautiful women, and impossible feats of magic - all of which are evidenced in "Tower..." The Buddhist message of "Tower" is that one must strive to overcome the demons of desire within oneself - and this message is delivered by means of a fascinating journey through a dream world conjured up Monkey's mind.

While "Tower of Myriad Mirrors" is not an easy read, it is a rewarding one. This edition is well translated and provides many helpful footnotes that will enable readers not well-versed in the background of Chinese vernacular religious stories or Buddhism to understand. Approach it with an open mind and perhaps a willingness to look up some information on Mahayana Buddhism, and you won't be disappointed.

These poems will probably change your life. I say probably because poetry is a funny animal that you can declaw just by assuming you won't get much out of it. But let yourself be scratched, even a little. Rybicki has a way of entering the bloodstream and staying there.

Rybicki is a god. There is nothing else to say. His poems are modern, so be prepared - he does things with language that are beautiful and spectacualar and terrifying and enthralling. If you have been taught by this man, they you know that there are no words. Except, perhaps, that the two-headed monster has a lot to teach you. Rybicki is one head. For the other head, go find Pete Markus' books. Buy these together, read, add tears, stir.

There is no real way to review this book without sounding like a fanatic, or to tell you to buy it without making you feel ashamed at not having done so yet. It cuts my breath short to think of ever living without having read this book, so great is the energy I pull from the words. I carry this book with me on long trips, from fear that I might die without having Rybicki's words nearby.

This book is great for identifying trees in my Michigan backyard. I highly recommend it.

Trees of Michigan is a well designed guide for anyone interested in learning more about and identifying trees in the area. It also includes information on some bushes and shrubs. I use this guide in my after-school EcoClub at school. It has enhanced our study of nature.

Trees of Michigan Including Tall Shrubs is a straightforward guide to 254 species from 36 arboreal families. Color photographs and close-ups of leaves, bark, flowers, fruits, cones, or overall shape illustrate every page of this easy-to-use guide, filled with identification tips, notes on edible fruits and human and wildlife uses of trees, name origins and alternate names of trees, range maps and habitat descriptions, and much more. An illustrated glossary rounds out this first-rate Michigan reference for amateur and professional nature lovers alike, and the soft cover and internal pages are printed on durable stock for weathering journeys into the field.

It's great that there's now this critical overview of Harrison. It's also great that other books by and about him have come out recently---his memoir and the "Conversations." Altogether they're an amazing look at a wonderful writer.

(I have to note that in his "Conversations" Harrison repeatedly trashes the academic MFA system and bemoans the fact that a writer can't make a living unless he does something else---in Harrison's case, write screenplays. Do other prominent writers today express similar sentiments or is Harrison a stand-out in his candor in this regard?)

"True Bones" is a fine ruminating overview of Harrison's work. I'm greatly enjoying it (most of the way through). BUT! "Ruminating" implies way too much accessibility. It's extremely academic---intentionally so, but this isn't mentioned in the other reviews. It's almost impossible for a layman to read. I've read a ton of hard stuff and I can just barely manage this one. There are occasional standout paragraphs of direct clarity but most requires heavy digging. Be prepared! Complex, convoluted sentences ahoy!

I guess it also serves to introduce one to some of the values in academia today, such as in the essay that gives a postmodern analysis, but---hoo, that one was over the top. It doesn't give a hint as to WHY one would have such values, except that it, too, did have a few neat insights, again making it worth the work.

Still, it's great to see someone paying such close and literary attention to Harrison's work. And there are indeed insights in it throughout. I wrote this "Reader Review" mostly to note that it's a big effort, but well worth it. (I write, too, with wishes that academia would be more accessible.)

The scattered other reviews of Harrison's work are undoubtedly more accessible. But "True Bones" is sustained, in-depth and references many of those reviews as well as many other academic ideas, explaining and showing how Harrison works in light of them, even though the "light" of academia is a tricky thing and even though academia is a scene that seems out of touch---as Harrison himself often notes.

This compilation of critical essays by Dr. Patrick Smith is the first full-length text to thoroughly examine the scope of Harrison's fiction. Smith's writing is clear and concise and offers itself as an intellectually rich and beautifully written companion to the work of a truly incredible contemporary writer. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates the fiction of Jim Harrison. Thank you Dr. Smith!

If you care at all about Jim Harrison's peerless work and the timeless craft of writing, you will devour the emerging talents of Patrick Smith as he leads you through the rich world of Mr. Harrison's work.
Insightful analysis, thought-provoking attitudes and fresh reasoning pour forth from the new and credible voice of Dr. Smith, who demonstrates complete mastery of his subject matter. I applaud this long-overdue look at one of the great voices in fiction, by a new and worthy writer.
Bravo, Dr. Smith!

Thank You for writing this book. It brought back so many wonderful memories that I had all but forgotten. The great times with Soupy, Milky, The Ghoul and all the others. I will read this book time and time again.
Again thanks for the memories!

Today, local television consists of syndicated shows and news coverage, but this wasn't always the case. Local stations used to have to devise their own programming, and the Detroit area was blessed with an army of talented folks who entertained, educated, and enlightened their viewers. This terrific book contains so many in-depth details of my formative TV-watching years that a slew of happy, incredible memories came rushing back while I was reading it. This wave of nostalgia was balanced by my gratitude that this era has been documented so thoroughly.

I should note that this is not a "dry" historical study. It's every bit as lively and entertaining as the programs (and people) it covers. I don't know if this book will mean much to those of you who don't fall within its target audience, but for someone like myself, who watched and loved Lawson Deming (Sir Ghastly Graves), Soupy Sales, Ron Sweed (The Ghoul), Bill Kennedy, Bob McNea (Bozo, Oopsy), and all the rest, this is a must-have addition to your library. This is a wonderful tribute to what was truly a golden age in local television.

Reading this book was a joy while reflecting on shows of the past. Brought back memories of Detroit icons that I had long forgotten about.....Once I started reading the book, I could not put it down...Excellent!

This is a super book, intelligent and attractive as well. As a child, I loved Vernor's Ginger Ale, and I enjoyed reading this book tremendously! The history of the company is well written and interesting, and the numerous illustrations are varied and delightful. I especially appreciated the chronology and bibliography that balance the cool graphics with authoritative research. Well done!!

This unique and eye opening saga into the history of Vernor's, reveals a facinating evolution from a doctor prescribed tummy soother, to "Detroit's Drink". Lawerence L. Rouch is an increadible writer who brings to life the colorful and amazing history of more than just a soft drink, but of the city of Detroit itself. From "The Original Ginger Ale's" post civil war beginings to its current position in the highly competive soft drink market of today, the Vernor story truly is one of a kind.

Wow! This book takes me back to my childhood in MI. It's so richly illustrated & so fun to read! I love it. I am going to buy it for all my friends and family for XMAS. What a great Michigan read!

As a former Christian clergy who is also Lesbian, I am familiar with those gays & lesbians whose parents could not get past their interpretation of scripture. Often, however, the lesbian/gay adult child did not share their truth out of fear of being rejected. Ms. Taylor's journey with her parents is more balanced than any I've encountered. There is such a theme of love and acceptance in her writing. I have referred it to homosexual and heterosexual friends for personal libraries or as an interesting reference for gays considering international adoption, coming out to parents, dealing with role-reversal with aging parents, finding an accepting church...and I'm sure they'll have other reasons to recommend "Waiting for the Call."

Ms. Taylor has written a beautiful, touching story about her life. As the daughter of a Baptist minister, I could relate to growing up in a southern town, faced with the struggles she experienced. As a social worker, I found her issues surrounding her mother's mental illness, international adoption, and facing her children's challenges in having two mommies and being adopted fascinating. As a human being, I found her story to be touching, beautiful, and a must read for everyone. I applaud your efforts, Jackie. I couldn't put the book down! Thanks for giving us such a beautiful story.

This book is excellent. It has depth and insight on many common human issues; family relationships, international adoption, parenting, therapy, spirituality and religion, and it is all shared with humor and love. It's a page turner!

Patricia Reilly Giff's WILLOW RUN tells of Margaret, whose life is changed by World War II and the fact that her grandfather is German - and suspected of being a spy despite his love for America. Her family's move to Michigan where her father will build planes in a factory takes her away from her grandfather and all she knows in this poignant story of war and change.

Willow Run
Patricia Reilly Giff
Wendy Lamp Books

What would you do if you had to leave your whole life behind you and move away because of war? This great book Willow Run is the story of Meggie Dillon, who has to move because her family needs money. Because Meggie's brother has gone to war. The family moves to a place called Willow Run. Here Meggie faces many obstacles when she finds out her brother is missing in action, then realizes she doesn't remember his face. Meggie also steals some icecreame from the icecream truck and then feels guilty, and wants to pay for the the icecream she had stolen, that means she has to face Arnold, the icecram man, who she and her friends think is a spy. This book is filled with friends, icecreme, letters, war, and truth. You will discover all of this and more in Willow Run.

Meggie (Margaret) Dillon is an eleven year old girl from Rockaway New York, who has to move to Willow Run Missouri, because her brother is fighting in war, so there family doesn't have as much money as they used to. Meggies dad has to work in a factory that makes B-42 Bombers for the war. Meggie is very emotional and she is very brave. Meggie has to face many obstacles in this book. Meggie is very truthful and is always writing to home and writing down her thoughts. She handles her situation very well and she acts very strong.

I definitely recommend this book and its companion, Lilly's Crossing. to kids ages nine to twelve. This book is definitely a page turner. Every time I put it down it was like I was stopping the story and the characters were just waiting for me to pick the book up again so they could continue their story. This book will also interest people who like history. It gave me a good impression of what it was like in that time during World War Two. I felt like I was in the story with Meggie. Does Eddie ever come back? Does Meggie remember his face? You find out what happens....

The year is 1944 when Margaret "Meggie" Dillon leaves her grandfather and her best friend Lily behind in Rockaway, New York and moves to Willow Run, Michigan, so her father can work at a factory building airplanes. Her older brother Eddie is fighting the war in Europe and Meggie misses him terribly. To make matters worse, her new house looks like a long box with few windows and no grass or trees in the yard. Her home in Rockaway had been near the sea; she used to hear the call of seagulls and breathe in the fresh, salty air. All she has to remind her of home are a few seeds from her grandfather's vegetable garden.

Slowly Meggie begins to make friends and rebuild her life. She meets Patches and Harlan, along with other kids who are in a similar situation. Their parents brought them to Willow Run so they could find better work in a factory building war planes. Meggie knows that this arrangement is not permanent because everyone keeps telling her that it is just for the duration.

Patricia Reilly Giff fills the book with vivid details that keep the reader anchored in time. Meggie is always entering wartime jingle writing contests and watching war newsreels at the movie theater.

Giff, a former reading teacher, is the author of many books for children, and several of her novels for young adults were named ALA Notable Books and ALA Best Books, including THE GIFT OF THE PIRATE KING, ALL THE WAY HOME, and NORY RYAN'S SONG.

Meggie Dillon lived during uncertain times, just like many young people today. Readers will learn about the power of friendship and hope to pull us through difficult times when they pick up a copy of WILLOW RUN.

--- Reviewed by Renee Kirchner [...]

Having particpated in some of Linda McLyman's leadership sessions, I was excited to read her new book. Linda presents 8 fundamental behaviors that underlie wise leadership.

Wise Leadership is simply written, yet it is to the point presenting the values and actions that comprise each leadership behavior. I find the discussions and examples are real and powerful insights into evolved leadership.

I now carry with me the 8 fundamental behaviors as a reminder of my personal goals to ehance my leadership style. I have this book sitting on my desk as an easy reference guide when I feel the need for some leadership inspiration! This is a book that I practice and am sharing with my peers and employees.

Wise Leadership is a must read for anyone in a leadership position or who aspires to be a leader. This book is a very easy read, filled with great thoughts and ideas, some of which may stop you dead in your tracks! This isn't the "same old, same old." This isn't just about leadership, it's about "wise" leadership!

Linda McLyman's Wise Leadership reflects her deep commitment to both the practical side of leadership and the emotional/spiritual aspects of the issue. Her voice is authentic, compassionate and no-nonsense, reflecting her vast experience and knowledge. I loved this book for its willingness to be useful, thought-provoking and inspirational. I read it at one sitting and I have picked it up since to re-read and re-consider.