Ohio Books

Wanda McGee uses beautiful prose to evoke images of nature. From these images she draws analogies to our daily lives, teaching us that our external world abounds with lessons for those willing to quietly observe. Her book has encouraged me to take notice of my surroundings -- of beautiful trees, birds, landscapes --which I otherwise would have rushed right past.

I find her poignant descriptions of nature relaxing to read. I have really enjoyed unwinding with this book at the end of the day.

In a world that most often pushes velocity, this book emphasizes the direction part of the velocity equation. It gently and effectively pulls us back into ourselves to look at where we're going.

Wanda McGee's little book with evocative illustrations by Cindy Mueller is like a spring that begins by nourishing you as an individual. When used with a group it joins other springs, creating a new flow, potentially moving the group to a new destination.

Composed of brief, simply illustrated descriptions of nature observed, and a provocative pattern of questions with each, the scenes evoke associations and spark light onto our own subterranean flows. The underground streams of our own lives get brought to the surface with the questions.

They all start with queries that tap into us at the individual, reflective level, appropriately since that's where the scenes evoke a reaction. Then they weave in questions about the meaning of our associations with the scene, flowing to questions that ask us to sense implications for our lives in groups and organizations. One is left, after flowing down this very gentle stream and around several bends in the river, with a clearer view of where to steer next, or what needs a closer look.

As an individual tool for reflection, the book gives one a wonderful view of the world. Used with a group it can work magic with creating a strong dialogue using inquiry and reflection. The secret is that they start with a place far away from the here-and-now and metaphorically work our spring of discovery towards the edge of a clear brook, running into other streams.

In a world that most often pushes velocity, this book emphasizes the direction part of the velocity equation. It gently and effectively pulls us back into ourselves to look at where we're going.

Wanda McGee's little book with evocative illustrations by Cindy Mueller is like a spring that begins by nourishing you as an individual. When used with a group it joins other springs, creating a new flow, potentially moving the group to a new destination.

Composed of brief, simply illustrated descriptions of nature observed, and a provocative pattern of questions with each, the scenes evoke associations and spark light onto our own subterranean flows. The underground streams of our own lives get brought to the surface with the questions.

They all start with queries that tap into us at the individual, reflective level, appropriately since that's where the scenes evoke a reaction. Then they weave in questions about the meaning of our associations with the scene, flowing to questions that ask us to sense implications for our lives in groups and organizations. One is left, after flowing down this very gentle stream and around several bends in the river, with a clearer view of where to steer next, or what needs a closer look.

As an individual tool for reflection, the book gives one a wonderful view of the world. Used with a group it can work magic with creating a strong dialogue using inquiry and reflection. The secret is that they start with a place far away from the here-and-now and metaphorically work our spring of discovery towards the edge of a clear brook, running into other streams.

After reading this very creditable biography I donated it to the local public library.

I recall many rather cryptic remarks made by my grandmother years ago during Sunday trips to Cleveland about the Public Square and the Terminal Tower. She remembered the Mall project and other aspects of Cleveland that were obscure even in the fifties. These rather hazy recollections have now been re-examined inder the considerable light that Mr. Harwood has brought to the Van Sweringen brothers who were averse to publicity, even though they figured so much in the development of Cleveland in the 20th century. And their reach went far beyond that--these facts were not widely known. Excellent source.

I read a lot of books on train history. Once I started this one I could not put it down. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in railroad history during the glory days.

I grew up on the border of Cleveland Heights/Shaker Heights off Fairmount Blvd.A gradeschool classmate was Bernie Bernet. As a boy I rode my bicycle over to Shaker Blvd. to watch the Rapids go by. AtCWRU a colleague was Ian Haberman and my fellow members of NORM are Tolman and Wayne Hayes. I walked the East Cleveland Rapid line when it still stood empty. I was making notes for this history in about 1950. Except for the buying and selling of the various railroads, this book is a part of my life. I know every inch of it and except for a very few very tiny slips (in the maps mostly)it is a masterpiece. And the very book itself, without the contents, is a first class production.

In the contemporary professional world of academic writing current history professors have unfortunately succumbed to falling back on the traditional stereotypical role of pretentious writing, utilization of uncommon vocabulary, complicated imagery relating to their historical subject, and hard to understand primary evidence that the general public can not relate to in their own lives and era.
However, Jonathan Earle effectively demonstrates in his book with superlative ease how past U.S. politics, its parties, and the era in which they were at it's apex, can indeed be interesting to the general public again. Jonathan Earle counter poses the traditional stereotypical role by using interesting primary evidence through out his book, in which he makes you feel like you were actually participating in the events and conversations that took place almost 182 years ago.
Earle uses fascinating historical imagery that not only correlates to what he writes about, but makes you want to explore the images away from the fascinating and important emergence of the Free Soil Party, which defied the traditional system of U.S. politics up to that point in our brief history as a nation. With just a brief emergence of a new century this book shows that our young nation was already facing dire dilemmas that would eventually divide a nation into half for four bloody years. With more men, women, and children who were murdered on both the Union and Confederate sides, then both World Wars and contemporary wars that the U.S. has been involved in to this day.
This is an outstanding read that will take your imagination on a wild adventure back to a time period and political party that is too often negated in U.S. history. In my view Jonathan Earle's book and his writing has triumphantly pounced the traditional stereotypical role. That historical subjects and academic writing can not only appeal to the general public again, but more importantly Earle's book shows just how significant past key historical events and U.S. politics have shaped our lives to this very day.
Erica Hare

Jonathan Earle's deftly written, lively account of the Free Soil Democrats' role in the antislavery effort challenges traditional interpretations of the movement, showing these politicians played a critical role in this country's push toward equality. But more than that, Earle makes you feel like you were at the dinner table with these folks as they debated the central issue of the day, and that's worth the price of the book alone.

I picked up this pounder in hopes of gardening on the cheap, but little did I know what pleasure I would find delving into this well-written account of a fertile time in our nation's history that doesn't get much play in the schools. And, so informative for any one interested in history, and history of the US. Even the garderner in me was gratified: I never knew that hickory needed a split to thrive. What's the sequel?

I purchased this book on a whim years ago when I saw it on sale in a bookstore. It was the best cookbook purchase I have ever made! Every recipe I have tried has become a family favorite. Recipes are simple, healthy, and delicious! No fancy, obscure ingredients required, no lengthy preparation or complicated instructions! Recipes are reminiscent of traditional Southern cooking, but with twists that make them delightfully different and fresh. Mr. Hadamuscin's comments and tips are charming and helpful. The book is hard cover and has remained in great shape after MUCH use! Photos are beautiful and useful. Love this cookbook!

Simple, delicious, American and proud of it. Hadamuscin revels in his Ohio farm roots and shows gracious hospitality and creativity. I love this book and have used it repeatedly over the years. Especially the cookie recipies.

Great recipes. Easy. His cookbooks offer stories along with the recipes. Looking forward to new one. Own all of his!

The Lundberg's book "I Don't Have to Make Everything All Better" has been a great resource to me as a church leader and counselor. When their new book "Married for Better, Not Worse" was released I bought it without hesitation. It is well researched and they have carefully integrated their own ideas with concepts and articles from many others. The real test of any book is if it can help stimulate a positive lasting and permanent change in behavior and understanding. In order for that to happen it must be easy to read, offer hope that conflict relief is achievable, and contain common sense solutions to everyday problems. Although there are many books available on this popular subject, it has become my book of choice when counseling couples in trouble. I have already witnessed some very positive results with its use.

I was having problems in my marriage and a friend recommend The RoMANtic's Guide and this book. I read them both and it was as though a light bulb was turned on in my head. I finally began to understand why my marriage wasnt better, even though my wife and I try.

Thanks.

The Lundbergs first book, "I Don't Have To Make Everything All Better" has been a great resource to me as church counselor. When ths new book came out, I purchased it without hesitation. It is written in the same easy to read and common sense approach. The chapter on improving communication reminds the reader the importance of validation and teaches this important skill. The chapter on sexual intimacy is very direct and to the point. Other chapters address specific tasks and exercises to help restore romance and nurture each other. It is well researched and carefully integrates important material and ideas from many other articles.

There are countless books out there on this subject. The real test is if it has the capacity and content to help troubled couples make permanent and lasting changes in their relationship. I have already used this book several times in counseling settings with members of my congregation, all with very positive feedback and results. It has become my book of choice when couples ask for reading material to help solve conflict or enhance their marriage.

This is a lovely story set in a town in Ohio during the '40s. Lentil learns to play a harmonica and there are sweet scenes of small town life as well as a marching band. My 3.5 year old son loves this book, along with all of McCloskey's books. What has been wonderful for us about this book is the character of "Old Sneep", who grumbles and does mean things. This has really hit home with my son regarding our teaching of having a joyful heart and not complaining. Great literature at its best.

As a retired preschool/ daycare administrator I never hesitate to say that McCloskey is one the all-time great writers . Lentil has always been one of the best books to read at story time . You can't go wrong with buying this story for your favorite 4 or 5 year old, but even my 9 year old grandsons love this tale, and it got them interested in playing a harmonica!

This is an excellent book for the musically inclined child whose singing voice is a little less than melodious. In the book, the vocally challenged Lentil finds his mantra through the harmonica and ends up saving the day with it. My father gave me this book along with a harmonica when I was seven years old in response to my wobbly warbling, and I've been playing harmonica and many other instruments ever since. I just can't 'harp' enough on how great of inspiration this book was to me and could be for other vocally vexed children. -stephen

I loved the raw honesty of Margaret Charles Smith's story. She tells about catching babies in a time when birth was not considered a medical crisis. As one of the last granny midwives, Margaret has much to tell us about how African-American midwifery was stamped out in particular, and how hospital birth gradually became the norm in this country. I devoured this book in a matter of hours, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the history of birth in the United States.

Once I started reading this book, I could hardly put it down. I was impressed by Margaret Charles Smith's honest way of telling her extremely interesting story. She is a courageous person and devoted her life to helping mothers; most of them so poor, that they couldn't have afforded to give birth in a hospital. But given the choice, surely they would've chosen her,anyway, as she cared so lovingly for the mothers and their babies, in a way hardly possible in a hospital. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about midwives and births. There is also a lot that can be learned from it about the history of midwivery in the U.S.

The only thing I dislike about this book is that I did not write it myself. I grew up in South Alabama during the depression years, the daughter of a country doctor. I have been with my father to deliver babies in little houses that had no floors, no electricity, no plumbing. Often when he could not be two places at once, my father sent one of the midwives to do deliveries, and he had total faith in them. I can vouch for the authenticity of every word of this wonderful book, and the heroism and skill of these wonderful women.

If you love tomatoes, I mean not just eating, but raising collecting, and learning about them, this is THE book to own. A.W. Livingston was an instrumental force in the breeding and popularizing of tomatoes in the late-19th and early 20th Century. His varieties were perfect, copied and some are still available today.

If you love tomatoes, I mean not just eating, but raising collecting, and learning about them, this is THE book to own. A.W. Livingston was an instrumental force in the breeding and popularizing of tomatoes in the late-19th and early 20th Century. His varieties were perfect, copied and some are still available today. We hope to have at least two of his varieties listed in our catalog next year.

Andrew Smith deserves great credit for making Alexander Livingston's book on tomatoes available for all to read. The varieties described in this book - Paragon, Acme, Beauty, Stone, Golden Queen, Buckeye State and a few others - are very likely to be varieties that your grandparents and great grandparents grew in their garden. Some diligent searching led to the location of quite a few, thus even today's gardeners can grow and enjoy these varieties. Alexander Livingston made the critical observation in creating improved tomato varieties - plant a field of a particular variety and look for PLANTS that produce superior fruit, rather than saving seed from a particular tomato on a plant as a basis for improvement. This technique - single plant selection - led to all of the improvements in tomatoes right up until the advent of hybrid varieties in the 1940's. This is a great read, and is a centerpiece item for the current popularity in growing heirloom vegetables.

Jeff Mann's book has been the most challenging works I have spent time with in a long time.The beauty of language lured me into the author's life. The simply poetry of existence that infuses he book certainly adde d to the mix that lead me deeper into this piece. As a gay man living in the city I learned a great deal about gay men in mountain regions of the south.His telling story of himself and his life and family was most inspiring.
The gift of Jeff Mann offers us is priceless. He offers us as clear of a view of his queer life as a poet can make it. I feel privileged to have shared Mann's deep exploration of spirit and flesh. I am grateful. I would encourage folks to take the time to read this book with intent, paying close attention to the stories one tells oneself as Mann skillfully weaves his within the readoer's own heart and mind.

I cannot say enough about how much this book inspires me. The writing is sophisticated and highly compassionate. He is the first writer to put me to tears while reading. As a gay man in the mountains, I have identified so much with his life. I believe anybody who has ever been in love will be moved by his words. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up immediately!

Talk about dual crosses to bear, in a small West Virginia town, if you cared what people thought........ [we had] the most colorfully freakish family in Summers County. Only my mother, bless her, was normal."
"
Jeff Mann's "­Loving Mountains, Loving Men" is as enjoyable as it is painful. I grew up in small town Appalachia as a confused and lonely lesbian. I can relate to all Mann says in his memoir, needing only to replace names and places. It is a scary place to be when you know you are "different" from your peers. Mann's transformation from teenager to the man he is today is one that I am sure many of us or someone we know can relate to. And if you can't, then you need to read this book to understand.

Mann's writing is humorous and colorful. Just when I feel his anger, he gives me a chuckle. When he makes me cry at a loss, he feeds my hunger with a new passion. I cannot help but think of all the "Brokeback Mountain" stories like his there have been, are, and will be in this world. I can only hope that more of us will become strong like Mann in our convictions and struggle to stand up for what is right and good in this life

One of the best books I've read in a long time. Beautifully written and inspiring. Mrs. Scott-Payne has an amazing grasp of story telling and so intelligently weaves her history using a thoroughly poetic voice. Her descriptions of the hills she grew up in, the hard work on the farm and her mothers relentless problem-solving and faith are really quite wonderful and heartfelt. A great American document and an even greater human story. Bravo!

This American Classic is deftly written by Essie, Scotty, Termite, and Kathryn! Her word pictures far exceed the brilliance of an exquisite photograph. The joys and sorrows faithfully capture true heroines from a hill. This gem should be read by every American
(especially Oprah and Imus)! Thank you Mrs. Payne

I think that memoirs are the most honest form of writing. This book is an excellent memoir. So many published memoirs are written by the famous or those that think that they are especially important. There is nothing wrong with this if such authors are actually good writers. This person is an accomplished teacher, though I gather not a "famous" teacher, who is also an excellent writer. She has a fine story to tell about perserving, and acknowleding that such perservance comes from the strength one gathers from others; in this case from the wisdom and strength of the author's mother. This book isn't going to sell like a memoir by Alice Walker, but we are talking about the same kind of rare territory. I like to find good books. This book is a find.