A Books
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A Books sorted by
Average customer review: high to low
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Where the Wild Things Are
Published in Hardcover by Harper Collins (1988-11-09)
List price: $17.95
New price: $9.00
Used price: $7.49
Collectible price: $17.95
Used price: $7.49
Collectible price: $17.95
Average review score: 

Forgiveness without remorse
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-05
Review Date: 2008-10-05
Look into the mind of a child
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-05
Review Date: 2008-10-05
I just read this the other day to my first grade class, and it turns out I had forgotten just how gorgeous this book is!
It's the story of a boy named Max who imagines himself to another world: an island dominated by monsters, aka "wild things". No, it's not freakishly complex, but it is a kids' story.
It tells of one of the most important things we have: the power of imagination.
It's the story of a boy named Max who imagines himself to another world: an island dominated by monsters, aka "wild things". No, it's not freakishly complex, but it is a kids' story.
It tells of one of the most important things we have: the power of imagination.
A Timeless Classic
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-28
Review Date: 2008-09-28
Monsters, monsters....children this age are obsessed with them. Every night this is the top book requested to be read by my children. Another delightful story about a caterpillar named Cyrano is also a big request... Life's Little Lessons: An Inch-By-Inch Tale of Success. The misadventures of a caterpillar going to school make the kids laugh and giggle.The bonus parent reading guide is an incredible plus. All children's literature should come with one.
They love it, you'll love it.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-10
Review Date: 2008-09-10
Your 5 yr old will stay on your lap for the whole book and ask again tomorrow.
Where The Wild Things Are - For Two Generations
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-01
Review Date: 2008-09-01
This was my son's favorite book when they were toddlers and I loved reading it to hem. I
just purchased again for my 5 month old grandson. This book helps children tap into their personal power within through the use of likeable imaginative monsters. Ce Ce
just purchased again for my 5 month old grandson. This book helps children tap into their personal power within through the use of likeable imaginative monsters. Ce Ce

The Complete Calvin and Hobbes (Calvin & Hobbes)
Published in Hardcover by Andrews McMeel Publishing (2005-10-04)
List price: $150.00
New price: $92.67
Used price: $79.95
Used price: $79.95
Average review score: 

excellent product
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-04
Review Date: 2008-10-04
I think I would not have wanted to know anything. The all experience of buying for the first time a product that I have always wanted was extremly special. I can't say anything else, only that if I had the opportunity I would buy it again
Awesome book for a Calvin and Hobbes fan
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-03
Review Date: 2008-10-03
Bought this for my son, age 11, who has read and re-read every Calvin and Hobbes book there is. This is a beautiful set that will be a keepsake for him for years.
brilliant!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-29
Review Date: 2008-09-29
really enjoyed reading it and was nice to see the complete c&h all in one box set. I've always been a big fan. i like how its printed- almost looks like the strips are stuck on. the only complaints i have is that its too bulky and there are no finger holes in the box to pull the individual books out. nevertheless, i highly recommend it for anyone who has, over the years, enjoyed c&h- its brilliant!
the complete calvin and hobbes
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-29
Review Date: 2008-09-29
If you have a child, especially a boy, you have to buy this.
If you love good cartooning, you have to buy this ... it is a fantastic blend of six year old boy wisdom and great art.
This will be passed onto my son who has just turned six and I know he will love it.
The presentation is amazing, one of the best books I have ever bought !
If you love good cartooning, you have to buy this ... it is a fantastic blend of six year old boy wisdom and great art.
This will be passed onto my son who has just turned six and I know he will love it.
The presentation is amazing, one of the best books I have ever bought !
RECEIVED A DAMAGED PRODUCT
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-27
Review Date: 2008-09-27
Product, I already knew about it. Edited blah blah, I can live with it. That's why I ordered.
HOWEVER, a huge dent and a slight rip right in the middle of the slip-cover was not something I expected.
Slight dent around the corner, I can let it go, but this, I was just simply not happy with. It's a heavy book but the problem was that the damage wasn't by the shipping. How do I know? Because the side that was damaged was covered by an extra cardboard which wasn't dented. That means Amazon sent a damaged product in the first place. Box didn't have any damage either. I did not pay $67.50 like everyone else. I actually paid around $100 for it. Shipping to Canada, too. And what did I get? A product that should be categorized as USED product.
I'm not going to bother exchanging the product because I don't want to repack this heavy book and ship it back and wait for another 2 weeks. But this will definitely make me think twice from now on when I shop from Amazon.com.
I loved the book when I was a kid, and I would love to give it a 4 star at least (-1 because of the edit), but I just can't do that because of Amazon. It's a shame.
HOWEVER, a huge dent and a slight rip right in the middle of the slip-cover was not something I expected.
Slight dent around the corner, I can let it go, but this, I was just simply not happy with. It's a heavy book but the problem was that the damage wasn't by the shipping. How do I know? Because the side that was damaged was covered by an extra cardboard which wasn't dented. That means Amazon sent a damaged product in the first place. Box didn't have any damage either. I did not pay $67.50 like everyone else. I actually paid around $100 for it. Shipping to Canada, too. And what did I get? A product that should be categorized as USED product.
I'm not going to bother exchanging the product because I don't want to repack this heavy book and ship it back and wait for another 2 weeks. But this will definitely make me think twice from now on when I shop from Amazon.com.
I loved the book when I was a kid, and I would love to give it a 4 star at least (-1 because of the edit), but I just can't do that because of Amazon. It's a shame.

Brown Bear & Friends (Unabridged)
Published in Audio Download by audible.com ()
List price: $14.95
Average review score: 

Repetitive, but that's the idea. Young kiddos, remember?
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-27
Review Date: 2008-09-27
There are days when I am just thoroughly annoyed by this book.
And yet it remains a classic, and I grudgingly agree.
How can anyone not love the awesome repetitive rhymes and varying colors and animals? And how can you not get chills at how these animals are all staring at each other?
The original of interactive books and still probably the best.
And yet it remains a classic, and I grudgingly agree.
How can anyone not love the awesome repetitive rhymes and varying colors and animals? And how can you not get chills at how these animals are all staring at each other?
The original of interactive books and still probably the best.
Great book for young readers
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-26
Review Date: 2008-09-26
Great book. My son's favorite. At 9 months of age he knew it by name.
a must have!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-20
Review Date: 2008-08-20
I started reading this book to my son when he was 12 months old and since then he has always loved reading it. The words are flowy and interesting enough to capture his attention. A definate must have in a toddlers bookshelf!
FAVORITE
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-29
Review Date: 2008-07-29
This was one of my son's favorite books!
It brings back a lot of memories!
It brings back a lot of memories!
almost hypnotic
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-26
Review Date: 2008-07-26
I read this to my hyper-active 3 year old daughter. The repetition of the rhythm helps calm her down before going to bed as if hypnotizing. If that sounds a bit weird-out, don't worry, it doesn't really hypnotize your kid but I'm sure many of you parents might think that might a good idea at around bed-time.

James Cameron's Titanic
Published in Hardcover by HarperCollins (1997-12-31)
List price: $50.00
New price: $24.47
Used price: $0.83
Collectible price: $50.00
Used price: $0.83
Collectible price: $50.00
Average review score: 

Is This It?
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-20
Review Date: 2008-02-20
I hope this is the right book, I just love the story, and the music, and the movie too!
Great Book!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-14
Review Date: 2007-08-14
The book is fantastic! Great pictures! I would highly recommend this book for any fan of the movie or a Titanic fan in general! The making of the epic movie is something to see and you can definitely see it in this book.
TITANIC!!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-07
Review Date: 2007-03-07
This is a MUST have for any Titanic collector. I waited for about 9 or so years for this book and I am so extatic that I finally have it!!
Titanic Fans
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-12
Review Date: 2005-10-12
Great book for the titanic enthusiasts!!!!! If you loved the movie, you will enjoy this book.
TITANIC REDEUX
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-25
Review Date: 2005-10-25
The scope of this majestic book truly befits the epic effort by James Cameron with his cinematic masterpiece "Titanic". Much great information here for the movie buff who likes to see how it is done. Incredible sets including the dining salon, complete even to dishes and decor. I was amazed to see how this particular set was pulled underwater by hydraulics to provide a very realistic feeling of sinking. Page after page of photographs and stories about the magnificent sets that brought this film to life. Lots of info about the stars and other cast members as well the production crew. This book is a perfect companion to the movie as well as a testament to the filmmaking genius of James Cameron.

The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches (Keeper Martin's Tales Series, Book 1)
Published in Paperback by Reagent Press (2002-02)
List price: $14.00
New price: $7.55
Used price: $2.25
Collectible price: $14.99
Used price: $2.25
Collectible price: $14.99
Average review score: 

Self promotion
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 13 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-05
Review Date: 2008-08-05
I got fooled by the reviews for this book. It's pure fantasy! Just do some research on the web for yourself before you buy these books. If an author is so good why does he not register on wiki? Come on Amazon, your review system is being exploited.
Good But Continue on to the other books
Helpful Votes: 14 out of 26 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-04
Review Date: 2008-07-04
I first read The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches as a ninth grader and remember loving it. I then continued on to books 2, 3, and 4, which were excellent. I decided to re-read The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches books this summer since I found I had forgotten the majority of the story. After re-reading it now as a college freshman, I enjoyed it even more.
Clearly it's a remarkable story. Though it lacks the nonstop action of Stanek's In the Service of Dragons books, the story is full of wonder and adventure. There are mysteries and thrills around every corner.
I maintain The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1 is an effective introduction to Stanek's writing style and works well as an entryway for the original books to build upon. I recommend Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1, but I strongly also suggest continuing on to read the books in order to appreciate the full value of Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1 as it works with the rest of the series. When you finish the kingdoms books don't forget the best is yet to come with the In the Service of Dragons books.
Clearly it's a remarkable story. Though it lacks the nonstop action of Stanek's In the Service of Dragons books, the story is full of wonder and adventure. There are mysteries and thrills around every corner.
I maintain The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1 is an effective introduction to Stanek's writing style and works well as an entryway for the original books to build upon. I recommend Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1, but I strongly also suggest continuing on to read the books in order to appreciate the full value of Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1 as it works with the rest of the series. When you finish the kingdoms books don't forget the best is yet to come with the In the Service of Dragons books.
Wonderful, heart-warming stories by a wonderful author
Helpful Votes: 14 out of 27 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-03
Review Date: 2008-07-03
My boys have read all the books by this author and they love this book! As a mother I was happy to find the story is well written and does not have sex or violence. Bravo Mr. Stanek on a job well done!
Excellent, Beautifully Written and Wonderfully Illustrated!
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-21
Review Date: 2008-08-21
About a year ago I decided to start reading 'The Kingdoms and the Elves' series because I had heard so much praise about them. When I read the first one, I was totally amazed and by the second one Robert Stanek was my new favorite author.
In this opening volume, Stanek takes you into the unforgettable fantasy universe of Ruin Mist. Ruin Mist was once ruled by mighty dragons and titans, but now ages have passed and most have left the world of men and elves.
His writing is so descriptive that you can imagine everything perfectly in your mind's eye. It has something for everyone, including action, adventures, battles, deception, intrigue and will make you care about the characters you are reading about.
I definitely see why this book has become a classic. It really is one of the best books of all time. If you haven't read it yet, I highly suggest you get a copy and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!
In this opening volume, Stanek takes you into the unforgettable fantasy universe of Ruin Mist. Ruin Mist was once ruled by mighty dragons and titans, but now ages have passed and most have left the world of men and elves.
His writing is so descriptive that you can imagine everything perfectly in your mind's eye. It has something for everyone, including action, adventures, battles, deception, intrigue and will make you care about the characters you are reading about.
I definitely see why this book has become a classic. It really is one of the best books of all time. If you haven't read it yet, I highly suggest you get a copy and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!
Great listen AND a great read!!!
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 17 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-17
Review Date: 2008-07-17
My library carries this book on Playaway and it was recommended to me by the librarian as "an entertaining, well-written fantasy story for all ages." I found out the book was also highly recommended by Voya and is something of a pop phenom as it is also mentioned in "Complete Idiots Guide to Elves and Fairies" and "Ancient Art of Fairy Magick".
I enjoyed listening to the story so much I decided to buy the book. The audio was wonderful and I loved how the characters came to life and the reading was excellent. Like the audio, the book is of exceptional quality with its dozens of full-page illustrations and illustrated end notes.
The story revolves around three central characters: Adrina, Vilmos, and Seth. It tells their story as the story of their imperiled worlds unfolds. Adrina is a young princess who has everything and nothing. Vilmos is a mischievous village boy. Seth is a powerful warrior elf.
Stanek has a strong command of language and his prose flows well. I liked that he doesn't bog the story down with unnecessary detail. Because of this wonderful book and its sequels, Stanek is now my favorite author. I highly recommend The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 1) (Keeper Martin's Tales) and the sequels
The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches II (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 2) (Keeper Martin's Tales)
The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches III (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 3) (Keeper Martin's Tales)
The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches IV (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 4) (Keeper Martin's Tales)
Over all an excellent series and like C. S. Lewis's Narnia this is one story everyone should read at least once in their life. If you are looking for a good read or listen, I don't see how you can go wrong with this one.
I enjoyed listening to the story so much I decided to buy the book. The audio was wonderful and I loved how the characters came to life and the reading was excellent. Like the audio, the book is of exceptional quality with its dozens of full-page illustrations and illustrated end notes.
The story revolves around three central characters: Adrina, Vilmos, and Seth. It tells their story as the story of their imperiled worlds unfolds. Adrina is a young princess who has everything and nothing. Vilmos is a mischievous village boy. Seth is a powerful warrior elf.
Stanek has a strong command of language and his prose flows well. I liked that he doesn't bog the story down with unnecessary detail. Because of this wonderful book and its sequels, Stanek is now my favorite author. I highly recommend The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 1) (Keeper Martin's Tales) and the sequels
The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches II (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 2) (Keeper Martin's Tales)
The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches III (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 3) (Keeper Martin's Tales)
The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches IV (Reader's Choice Edition, Keeper Martin's Tales Book 4) (Keeper Martin's Tales)
Over all an excellent series and like C. S. Lewis's Narnia this is one story everyone should read at least once in their life. If you are looking for a good read or listen, I don't see how you can go wrong with this one.

The Ultimate Hitchhiker's Guide
Published in Hardcover by Wings (1996-01-17)
List price: $14.99
New price: $7.25
Used price: $0.80
Collectible price: $14.99
Used price: $0.80
Collectible price: $14.99
Average review score: 

In one word, great.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-15
Review Date: 2007-11-15
I am going to make this simple. I read an old paperback copy of the original "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy". Having enjoyed reading the original, I found the "Ultimate" version in the discount section at Barnes and Noble. What a great buy for ten dollars.
Not all may like the series. For those that do, I highly recommend all additional books to the original. You will not be let down, as (the late) Mr. Adams continues to entertain again and again as things move on. Just about any science fiction fan with a sense of humor will love these books.
Not all may like the series. For those that do, I highly recommend all additional books to the original. You will not be let down, as (the late) Mr. Adams continues to entertain again and again as things move on. Just about any science fiction fan with a sense of humor will love these books.
Great collection...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-23
Review Date: 2007-08-23
Great read, I didn't even know about the Zaphod short story (my own words) that was included in this book. Happy to have all of the stories all in one book and makes it easy for me to go back and reference parts from the earlier stories, especially since I enjoy noting the really good lines.
So long Douglas, and thanks for the all the laughs
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-20
Review Date: 2007-08-20
I've lost track of the number of times I've read the Guide novels over the years. This compilation of a 'trilogy in 5 parts' makes it nice and easy to read them all as one continuous story. I don't really need to elaborate on how good these stories are as those who have read them will already know. But to the uninitiated I strongly urge you to purchase a copy, prop yourself up against your towel, and eat plenty of peanuts. And most importantly, Don't Panic!
Imaginative, brilliant, uneven
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-28
Review Date: 2007-07-28
If finding out your house is about to be bulldozed to make way for a highway bypass is unnerving and life changing, imagine finding out the same is about to happen to your planet. Thus begin the adventures of human Arthur Dent in The Ultimate Hitchhiker's Guide by Douglas Adams.
Of course Adams is not the first writer to use science fiction to satirize the foibles of the human race and its institutions and culture (including science fiction), but he does does so with a rare combination of sophistication, style, and humor. His description of why the bypass is being built and why Arthur doesn't know about it alone starts the series off on a scathing note. In the universe of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (the book within a book), people sometimes survive government and corporate bureaucracy and personal greed and thoughtlessness, but more often destruction and waste seem to result.
Throughout his post-Earth adventures with Ford Prefect, the two-headed Zaphod Beeblebrox, fellow human Trillian (Tricia McMillan), and Marvin the perpetually downcast robot who takes lows to new highs, Arthur is the proverbial Everyman, whose struggles to make tea (and thus achieve some sense of ordinariness) in his new life result in near-destruction. At one point, he happily serves as "Sandwich Maker" on a pre-technological world that views this skill with awe.
Adams is perhaps strongest in his numerous asides in which he talks about The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, the publication for which Ford Prefect researches and writes, and the Encyclopedia Galactica; the nature of improbability; the humorously and seemingly invariable and inevitable tragic histories of various planets and races; and various theories surrounding such things as time, space, and infinity, almost always with a slyly serious wink about the absurdity of it all. These digressions allow his imagination and his intellect to soar and in many cases are more interesting than the story itself. This may go back to how The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy begins--that people want to move between Points A and B very fast, and that people at Point C in between (Everyman Arthur Dent) "often wish that people would just once and for all work out where the hell they wanted to be." There seem to be no Points A and B in Arthur's new universe; there are infinite points and lines and continuums, most of them absurd in one way or another.
With the exception of Trillian, Arthur's fellow travelers are well drawn. The most amusing is, sadly, Marvin, whose programmed depression is annoying and whose perception is accurate.
There are ingenious ideas scattered throughout the six stories, including the irony of a lorry driver who hates the perpetual rain that follows him no matter where he goes because, unbeknownst to him, he is a Rain God.
The problem is that many of these ideas, like life events, crop up randomly, play themselves out, and then seem to fall flat in the end. Undoubtedly, this is part of the universe as Adams sees it; it is made up of absurdity upon absurdity, which may not have neat Point A to Point B progressions. Some of this lack of cohesion also may be the result of transforming material written for episodic radio into book form; a certain sense and continuity may have been lost as the author diverts his tale to Points E, M, and T.
The first two books, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and The Restaurant at the End of the Universe, are the best in the series. Life, the Universe and Everything is, almost as the title promises, too contorted and meandering. So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish, which takes place on Earth, lacks an engaging focal point, which makes it seem long and tedious at times. "Young Zaphod Plays It Safe" appears to be a throwaway story reflecting the author's views. Mostly Harmless, written at what Adams admitted was a bad time in his life, lacks the élan of the earliest books; it is more downbeat in attitude than its predecessors and borders on determined and grim. Marvin is long gone as comic relief; the weakest character, Tricia/Trillian, now moves to the forefront but without further development; and even Ford Prefect has sobered up, quite out of character. It as though Adams wanted his characters, most notably Random, to reflect his anger and depression and his universe to end without possibility of resurrection--in the same way that Arthur Conan Doyle tried to kill off Sherlock Holmes.
Underneath the satire, the humor, and the bitterness, The Ultimate Hitchhiker's Guide is imaginative and thought provoking, revealing a rare story-telling and writing gift that is brilliant both on the surface and in the depths.
Of course Adams is not the first writer to use science fiction to satirize the foibles of the human race and its institutions and culture (including science fiction), but he does does so with a rare combination of sophistication, style, and humor. His description of why the bypass is being built and why Arthur doesn't know about it alone starts the series off on a scathing note. In the universe of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (the book within a book), people sometimes survive government and corporate bureaucracy and personal greed and thoughtlessness, but more often destruction and waste seem to result.
Throughout his post-Earth adventures with Ford Prefect, the two-headed Zaphod Beeblebrox, fellow human Trillian (Tricia McMillan), and Marvin the perpetually downcast robot who takes lows to new highs, Arthur is the proverbial Everyman, whose struggles to make tea (and thus achieve some sense of ordinariness) in his new life result in near-destruction. At one point, he happily serves as "Sandwich Maker" on a pre-technological world that views this skill with awe.
Adams is perhaps strongest in his numerous asides in which he talks about The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, the publication for which Ford Prefect researches and writes, and the Encyclopedia Galactica; the nature of improbability; the humorously and seemingly invariable and inevitable tragic histories of various planets and races; and various theories surrounding such things as time, space, and infinity, almost always with a slyly serious wink about the absurdity of it all. These digressions allow his imagination and his intellect to soar and in many cases are more interesting than the story itself. This may go back to how The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy begins--that people want to move between Points A and B very fast, and that people at Point C in between (Everyman Arthur Dent) "often wish that people would just once and for all work out where the hell they wanted to be." There seem to be no Points A and B in Arthur's new universe; there are infinite points and lines and continuums, most of them absurd in one way or another.
With the exception of Trillian, Arthur's fellow travelers are well drawn. The most amusing is, sadly, Marvin, whose programmed depression is annoying and whose perception is accurate.
There are ingenious ideas scattered throughout the six stories, including the irony of a lorry driver who hates the perpetual rain that follows him no matter where he goes because, unbeknownst to him, he is a Rain God.
The problem is that many of these ideas, like life events, crop up randomly, play themselves out, and then seem to fall flat in the end. Undoubtedly, this is part of the universe as Adams sees it; it is made up of absurdity upon absurdity, which may not have neat Point A to Point B progressions. Some of this lack of cohesion also may be the result of transforming material written for episodic radio into book form; a certain sense and continuity may have been lost as the author diverts his tale to Points E, M, and T.
The first two books, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and The Restaurant at the End of the Universe, are the best in the series. Life, the Universe and Everything is, almost as the title promises, too contorted and meandering. So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish, which takes place on Earth, lacks an engaging focal point, which makes it seem long and tedious at times. "Young Zaphod Plays It Safe" appears to be a throwaway story reflecting the author's views. Mostly Harmless, written at what Adams admitted was a bad time in his life, lacks the élan of the earliest books; it is more downbeat in attitude than its predecessors and borders on determined and grim. Marvin is long gone as comic relief; the weakest character, Tricia/Trillian, now moves to the forefront but without further development; and even Ford Prefect has sobered up, quite out of character. It as though Adams wanted his characters, most notably Random, to reflect his anger and depression and his universe to end without possibility of resurrection--in the same way that Arthur Conan Doyle tried to kill off Sherlock Holmes.
Underneath the satire, the humor, and the bitterness, The Ultimate Hitchhiker's Guide is imaginative and thought provoking, revealing a rare story-telling and writing gift that is brilliant both on the surface and in the depths.
Oh, the irony
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-12
Review Date: 2007-05-12
As usual the movie can't live up to the book. This is a must-read -- one of those points of cultural brilliance that will still be read three hundred years from now. Be prepared for very dry humor, British-style...

Midnights with the Mystic: A Little Guide to Freedom and Bliss
Published in Paperback by Hampton Roads Pub Co (2008-05-16)
List price: $16.95
New price: $4.17
Used price: $5.30
Used price: $5.30
Average review score: 

A Book for Everyone!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-10-06
Review Date: 2008-10-06
Definitely Read this Book!! This is a book for every person. You don't have to be into yoga or meditation or spirituality to read this and LOVE it. Cheryl's conversations with Sadhguru are vibrant, funny, touching, and will most certainly alter your perspectives, whatever they may be.
Since reading this book I have begun practicing Isha yoga and I cannot believe how much I am changing already. I owe it to this book and a few good friends for encouraging me to read, to open my mind, and to try out this new way of life. Even if you don't think Isha is for you, give this book a read-through. As an English major I can attest that it is well-written, thought provoking, and just a darn good read! :)
Since reading this book I have begun practicing Isha yoga and I cannot believe how much I am changing already. I owe it to this book and a few good friends for encouraging me to read, to open my mind, and to try out this new way of life. Even if you don't think Isha is for you, give this book a read-through. As an English major I can attest that it is well-written, thought provoking, and just a darn good read! :)
If a book could be life-changing, this one is a great candidate...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-15
Review Date: 2008-09-15
I read this book after I attended a couple of Sadhguru's courses, and I found this one to be very well-presented by Cheryl - clear, succinct yet comprehensive. Discussions with Sadhguru are presented by Cheryl within the context of her own questions, and her experiences that provoked those questions. The details of settings and locations are woven in very nicely, so that I could almost visualize the crackling fire and the moon as I read this.
I have presented the book to others, who have relayed very similar feedback to me in person. If I could do things over, the only thing I would change is to make this the first Sadhguru book I read :)
I have presented the book to others, who have relayed very similar feedback to me in person. If I could do things over, the only thing I would change is to make this the first Sadhguru book I read :)
'Explosive'
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-27
Review Date: 2008-08-27
This book rocks: it explodes several myths about life, some of which we tend to hold on dearly. To put it mildly, this book will have a positive impact on the reader. Since life on earth is all about action, if the actions recommended - i.e., 'Inner Engineering' yoga practice - are taken, it will have even better impact. In fact that is likely to be an effect of this book: to spur you into positive action. Doing it is not difficult. You only have to give yourself a chance. And it is most likely that you will not be disappointed. For its health benefits alone it is worth doing. I speak from my experience practicing a similar kind of yoga. As a big bonus, the book reads like a racy novel (peppered with humor), that is also thought provoking. Any which way you see it, this is a 'must read'!
What a great glimpse into the other dimensions of life...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-17
Review Date: 2008-08-17
What a great look into an American success story and how even creating such external life comforts still cannot create the joy we are all meant to experience. Cheryl has a real talent for sharing her experience and Sadhguru's wisdom just blew me away. I plan to buy this book for friends and family and take some of Isha Foundation's courses. Thanks for writing and sharing this work.
Skip the first few chapters
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-25
Review Date: 2008-08-25
I had hoped the chapters to have more Q & A sessions with Sadhguru but the first few chapters were about Cheryl and her life...
She often writes her chapters like a novel(why do I have to know which way the breeze is blowing?)...she needs to skip all the niceties and just focus on her questions with Sadhguru and share his insight with us..
She often writes her chapters like a novel(why do I have to know which way the breeze is blowing?)...she needs to skip all the niceties and just focus on her questions with Sadhguru and share his insight with us..
Dealing With Dragons
Published in School & Library Binding by Topeka Bindery (2002-03)
List price: $14.60
New price: $14.60
Average review score: 

One of my favorites
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-09-26
Review Date: 2008-09-26
This is an enchanting story that once again captures the spirit of the perky princess who had no desire to be the traditional damsel-in-distress. So, what's a contemporary woman trapped by royal traditions to do? Offer herself up to the dragons in the first place.
It's a whimsical tale that gives fairytales sly winks and twists at every corner. The characters are rich, and move the story along with their quirks.
This is not just parody, either. Ms. Wrede had managed to create her own intelligent, dragon-and-knight infested tale that creates as much fairy tale as it borrows.
It's a whimsical tale that gives fairytales sly winks and twists at every corner. The characters are rich, and move the story along with their quirks.
This is not just parody, either. Ms. Wrede had managed to create her own intelligent, dragon-and-knight infested tale that creates as much fairy tale as it borrows.
Well-written, Unique YA Fantasy World
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-29
Review Date: 2008-06-29
I enjoyed this story, and the sequels, as a young girl. Wrede creates a magical world that has a unique feel while incorporating common elements from fairytales. I've read in several times since and still enjoy it. Dealing with Dragons is very much a girl power book - almost all of the good main characters are female, Princess Cimerone rejects the staid life society thrusts upon her and charts her own course, and the King of the Dragons ends up being a female (King is just the title of the job, designating nothing about gender). It is well written, something that can certainly not be said of all fantasy novels written for this age group, and the story is fun and engaging.
Delightful
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-22
Review Date: 2008-06-22
An excellent book for young children that enjoy fantasy with an odd twist. Highly recommended.
Childhood favorite
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-08
Review Date: 2008-06-08
I loved this series in middle school and would highly recommend it as a fun leisure read for children in that age bracket.
on audio
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-16
Review Date: 2008-05-16
Princess Cimorene is tired of embroidery, etiquette, and protocol classes. She wants to take Latin, fencing, magic, and cooking lessons instead. But, that's just "not done." So to avoid a betrothal to a handsome and charming (but not particularly bright) prince, she runs away to become housekeeper for a dragon. As a dragon's princess, Cimorene gets the freedom to cook and clean and to organize libraries and treasure rooms. She also has to fend off persistent knights who come to rescue her, and investigate the actions of a couple of sneaky wizards.
Patricia C. Wrede's Dealing with Dragons is a refreshing change from some of the more recent fantasy epics aimed at teenage girls. It's light, fun, and often hilarious as it pokes fun at several fairy tales and fantasy clichés. The plot moves rapidly and the writing is clear and precise. The dialogue is particularly good.
I listened to Dealing With Dragons on audiobook. Listening Library does an excellent job recording this with a full cast of actors; I highly recommend this format. --FanLit.net
Patricia C. Wrede's Dealing with Dragons is a refreshing change from some of the more recent fantasy epics aimed at teenage girls. It's light, fun, and often hilarious as it pokes fun at several fairy tales and fantasy clichés. The plot moves rapidly and the writing is clear and precise. The dialogue is particularly good.
I listened to Dealing With Dragons on audiobook. Listening Library does an excellent job recording this with a full cast of actors; I highly recommend this format. --FanLit.net
House Of The Scorpion
Published in Turtleback by Topeka Bindery (2004-07-30)
List price: $16.80
Average review score: 

The House of The Scorpion
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2008-08-11
Review Date: 2008-08-11
I made Scorpion part of my advanced summer reading program because of its description and the awards it has won. The story is about the life of a boy who is a clone of a drug-lord. I think the book won the awards for the issues it raises such as morality, cloning, and prejudice rather then the quality of story or writing. I found the characters uninteresting especially the dialog. The writing did not transport me to this foreign location and time period. Overall I found the book a chore to complete. I recommend some of my other summer choices: The Book Thief, Octavian Nothing, To Kill a Mockingbird and Skellig. I really felt House of the Scorpion was a waste of my time.
A nice break from heavy
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-10
Review Date: 2008-07-10
This was a nice one, a fast, easy, interesting read that I got to after reading a few heavy, slow-moving books. When it's taken me a week to read each of the last two books, I really need a one-day read as a pick-me-up, and that's what this was. The House of the Scorpion is a very interesting little dystopia: the drug lords of Mexico, led by one Matteo Alacran, managed to swing a deal with the US and Mexico whereby they were given the area around the border between the two countries as their own sovereign territory; in exchange, they agreed to stop completely the flow of illegal immigrants, and also promised not to sell their drugs in either nation, but go to Europe, Asia, and Africa with their product. So now, 100 years later, Matteo Alacran is still alive, owing to the fact that he keeps growing new clones of himself in order to harvest their organs. He's not unique in this, the other drug lords do the same, but what is unique is that Alacran allows his clones to retain their minds, to learn and experience life until he needs to cut them open and take their still-beating heart, so to speak. The novel is the story of the last of these clones, who goes by Matt.
The author does a nice job of portraying life as the complete outsider. She also created excellent characters for El Patron, who is the original Alacran, and Tam Lin, the IRA terrorist-cum-bodyguard who befriends little Matt. It's a nice little idea that Alacran gets his security personnel from other countries, since, as he tells Matt, that means it's harder for them to plot against him; his most recent hiring was a group of English soccer hooligans. There's also a nice idea of how the country turns the captured illegal immigrants into mindless slaves to work the fields, and I love the depiction of the Alacran family and its infighting and scandal and hatred of themselves and pretty much everyone else.
The problem, if there was any, was in the last part of the book; it's a nice little chapter in the story and it has a good resolution, but the only problem with it is that it has no connection to the rest of the book: the last section is about Communist oppression and government corruption, and the first parts of the book are not. It disappoints because the themes in the first section are so strong, so immediate -- drug cartels, illegal immigrants, cloning; it is about what makes one a human being, what makes people into a family, and also gets deep into the purpose of a nation and a government. These were all explored, all fascinating, all done with an adept touch as the book never got too profound or preachy -- and then they were all abandoned as the setting shifts. I suppose we could see the last section as offering an alternative to the nation of Opium, and trying to show that every nation has its problems, but that is rather a different idea, and not one that connects well with the other main points.
Despite my henpecking, however, the ending of the book was fine, and the first three-quarters of the book were excellent. This is a great recommendation -- especially for boys who aren't big readers, as it was recommended to me by one such. It's science fiction and action, but both are thoughtful, and neither is overwhelming.
The author does a nice job of portraying life as the complete outsider. She also created excellent characters for El Patron, who is the original Alacran, and Tam Lin, the IRA terrorist-cum-bodyguard who befriends little Matt. It's a nice little idea that Alacran gets his security personnel from other countries, since, as he tells Matt, that means it's harder for them to plot against him; his most recent hiring was a group of English soccer hooligans. There's also a nice idea of how the country turns the captured illegal immigrants into mindless slaves to work the fields, and I love the depiction of the Alacran family and its infighting and scandal and hatred of themselves and pretty much everyone else.
The problem, if there was any, was in the last part of the book; it's a nice little chapter in the story and it has a good resolution, but the only problem with it is that it has no connection to the rest of the book: the last section is about Communist oppression and government corruption, and the first parts of the book are not. It disappoints because the themes in the first section are so strong, so immediate -- drug cartels, illegal immigrants, cloning; it is about what makes one a human being, what makes people into a family, and also gets deep into the purpose of a nation and a government. These were all explored, all fascinating, all done with an adept touch as the book never got too profound or preachy -- and then they were all abandoned as the setting shifts. I suppose we could see the last section as offering an alternative to the nation of Opium, and trying to show that every nation has its problems, but that is rather a different idea, and not one that connects well with the other main points.
Despite my henpecking, however, the ending of the book was fine, and the first three-quarters of the book were excellent. This is a great recommendation -- especially for boys who aren't big readers, as it was recommended to me by one such. It's science fiction and action, but both are thoughtful, and neither is overwhelming.
Amazing book for even the most conservative readers
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-14
Review Date: 2008-06-14
This book is simply amazing--fluidly well told, with none of the typical "coming of age" tawdry sexualization, no offensive language, just an interesting take on contemporary issues. The realistic characters and well-paced story make this book worthy of all the awards it garnered. Buy your kid this book--then read it yourself!
bizarre but compelling
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-04
Review Date: 2008-06-04
I found the storyline in this book to be very bizarre to the point where at times it gave me the creeps. Yet, I could not put it down. The characters were compelling as were their struggles in life. The book was packed with moralistic sub stories and character twists that all seemed to come together to make this book a fantastic effort from the author. Highly recommended.
Timeless
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-02
Review Date: 2008-04-02
A real page turner, I can see why its now on many schools summer reading lists.
Mossflower
Published in Paperback by Red Fox ()
List price:
Average review score: 

Not my favorite, but definately one of the best!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-30
Review Date: 2007-09-30
I don't know what it was about this book that made me want to read it over and over again. It didn't have any colosal {I don't know if I spelled that right} battles or anything. I guess it was just the amazing storyline! The adventure was fantastic, but I honestly like whats going on with the woodlanders better than Martin the warriors journy, more action happens with them. In all, this is one of the best Redwall books, complete with an awesome one on one battle at the end. Read this book!
Mossflower Review
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-28
Review Date: 2007-07-28
This is about Martin the Warrior , a heroic mouse, the self-appointed Prince of Mousetheives (and best friend to Martin), Gonff, the totally evil wildcat Tsarmina, and sundry other animal characters. The plot is that (1) Martin is (after a sidetracked problem) questing for Salamandastron, (2) the woodlanders defending themselves from Tsarmina until Martin returns, and (3) what's happening in Kotir, the moldy, falling-down castle where Tsarmina and her horde of vermin (stoats, rats, foxes, weasels and so on). This is a good series because it never ends on a cliffhanger at the very end. Mr. Jacques is a wonderful author, and I've read all his books except Eulalia!, because it isn't out yet. :(
A True Gem of Fantasy
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-20
Review Date: 2007-05-20
The Redwall series was recommended to me by my own readers, who recognized a similarity between the writing style, animorphism, and medieval setting of my own debut novel "The Other Side of Yore" and of Brian Jaques' famous books. As I learned more about the books, I was amazed that the books had escaped my attention for so long. Sure I had heard the name in passing, but I really didn't know what the books were about, and had probably passed them over as too child-oriented when I was a young blossoming fan of fantasy. Boy, had I been missing out!
Mossflower may be the best YA fantasy book I've read since "The Hobbit," maybe even surpassing "The Chronicles of Narnia" for imagination, superb writing skill, literary worth, and sheer reading enjoyment!
Far from being just a book for young adults, I am well over thirty and highly critical of most fiction books, and was unable to put the book down. Not only does Jaques write in an incredibly skillful and beautiful style, but his plots and subplots are nothing short of genious. The character developement of the animorphed creatures is far superior to even the average bestselling book of fiction starring realistic human characters. Jaques is a master of dialogue and dialect, and I especially enjoyed the strange coloquial mole-speech;
"Hurr, Oi be liken it moiself better'n any deeper-n'-ever pie oive et, stan' on moi hole!"
The triumphs, determinations, and gallant speeches of Martin the Warrior actually brought tears to my eyes a few times during the tale, and the antics and humorous songs and poems of Gonff made me laugh out loud more than once.
What's more, Jaques created a complex villian to be copied by fantasy authors for centuries to come in the characterization of the wicked cat Tsarmina, and painted a thoroughly believable array of personalities and attitudes in the various soldiers of her army.
Like Tolkien's work, Jaques has also done his homework thoroughly, and has created a vast history to support his tales, which I think is a trait missing from many of the more fly-by-night and commercial fantasies of today.
By the end of this novel, you will have forgotten that mice can't talk and that badgers don't wield swords, having become intimately familiar with some of the most realistic personalities ever to grace the pages of literature. I cannot recommend this book enough, and am sure that the others in the series will be equally delightful!
J. Lyon Layden
The Other Side of Yore
Mossflower may be the best YA fantasy book I've read since "The Hobbit," maybe even surpassing "The Chronicles of Narnia" for imagination, superb writing skill, literary worth, and sheer reading enjoyment!
Far from being just a book for young adults, I am well over thirty and highly critical of most fiction books, and was unable to put the book down. Not only does Jaques write in an incredibly skillful and beautiful style, but his plots and subplots are nothing short of genious. The character developement of the animorphed creatures is far superior to even the average bestselling book of fiction starring realistic human characters. Jaques is a master of dialogue and dialect, and I especially enjoyed the strange coloquial mole-speech;
"Hurr, Oi be liken it moiself better'n any deeper-n'-ever pie oive et, stan' on moi hole!"
The triumphs, determinations, and gallant speeches of Martin the Warrior actually brought tears to my eyes a few times during the tale, and the antics and humorous songs and poems of Gonff made me laugh out loud more than once.
What's more, Jaques created a complex villian to be copied by fantasy authors for centuries to come in the characterization of the wicked cat Tsarmina, and painted a thoroughly believable array of personalities and attitudes in the various soldiers of her army.
Like Tolkien's work, Jaques has also done his homework thoroughly, and has created a vast history to support his tales, which I think is a trait missing from many of the more fly-by-night and commercial fantasies of today.
By the end of this novel, you will have forgotten that mice can't talk and that badgers don't wield swords, having become intimately familiar with some of the most realistic personalities ever to grace the pages of literature. I cannot recommend this book enough, and am sure that the others in the series will be equally delightful!
J. Lyon Layden
The Other Side of Yore
Mossflower
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-09
Review Date: 2007-04-09
"Mossflower" is the epic prequel to "Redwall". Written by Brian Jacques, it is a book full of adventure and surprise.
The peaceful woodland creatures of Mossflower are forced to live under the tyrannical rule of the evil wildcat queen, Tsarmina. That is until the coming of Martin the Warrior. Martin brings hope and promise to the animals of Mossflower. With the help of a mighty weapon, the habitants of Mossflower will ban together to take back what is rightfully theirs and put an end to the evil reign of Tsarmina.
I highly recommend this book. It is full of action that draws the reader in and keeps him/her reading.
The peaceful woodland creatures of Mossflower are forced to live under the tyrannical rule of the evil wildcat queen, Tsarmina. That is until the coming of Martin the Warrior. Martin brings hope and promise to the animals of Mossflower. With the help of a mighty weapon, the habitants of Mossflower will ban together to take back what is rightfully theirs and put an end to the evil reign of Tsarmina.
I highly recommend this book. It is full of action that draws the reader in and keeps him/her reading.
GREAT FOR ALL AGES!!!!!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-16
Review Date: 2007-07-16
It is all you want in a good book.It has just the right amount of action,
peril,valor,and humor. If you want a book that is good for everyone, you just found one!
peril,valor,and humor. If you want a book that is good for everyone, you just found one!
Books-Under-Review-->Sports-->Basketball-->Professional-->NBA-->Players-->A-->3
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This story strikes an interesting balance between the real world of Max and his family and Max's dream world "where the wild things are". Whereas in the former world his actions are seen as naughty and are decried, the dream world provides Max not only with the ability to act in the way he wants but also to have those actions sanctioned and praised by those around him.
Beyond that, even, is the amount of control Max can exert in each world. The real world limits him and he is almost totally at the mercy of his parents who send him to his room. In the wild world, even before he becomes king of the wild things, he is able to control the other wild things and his power is unlimited. An interesting question to ask is whether Max would be as naughty as he is if he believed himself to have more power in the real world.
The conclusion of the story seems to come mostly as the author stumbles over himself to wrap up the story. It is unclear why the angry parents would reward Max's behavior or why they would negate the punishment meted out at the beginning of the story. I found the warm supper waiting for Max upon his return from the wild world to be somewhat out of place. I understand, perhaps, that even bad kids are loved and that may be the moral being taught here, but it is strange that Max just receives the food out of the blue with no remorse on his part.
The book is a fun story and holds the attention of my 3 year old. He loves when I improvise the roaring and gnashing. Throwing in a little Troggs "Wild Thing" during the rumpus makes story time a little bit more fun too. I don't think the strange lesson at the end ruins the story, and I'm not sure that the target audience of this book would be able to figure it out in the first place. 4 stars for a fun book that holds kids' attentions.