G Books

My 8 yo daughter has dyslexia and we vision issues, for which we are involved in vision therapy. She is doing well with this program and enjoys it.

Phonics Pathways gives students a systematic and WONDERFUL consistent method to learn to read. Each page completed lays a foundation for the next section which guarantees success. I have taught school for 30 years and am a reading specialist. I have seen programs come and go and am convinced this program is the BEST PHONICS PROGRAM I've seen. It's a hidden jewel!

I teach in the resource room at my school and use your program with
grades K-7. My students range from IEP's to just struggling readers. I use both the Reading Pathways and Phonics Pathways books. I have seen HUGE success with my struggling kids; especially the younger ones. Parents are telling me over and over how much better their children are reading! Even the children are excitedly telling me "I can READ!" Needless to say, I am so thrilled at their success!

I just want you to know how much I love your program!! Even though I thought I had the training and resources I needed, I could tell I still wasn't reaching some of my students. So, I went searching and luckily found Reading and Phonics Pathways. I've had some training in Orton-Gillingham and I love Pathways so much better. I do incorporate a little of OG as well as some Morgan Dynamic Phonics, but your books are by far superior to them both. They make teaching and learning FUN!!

I have students begging me to do the pyramids. They can't wait to get
into my room and see what we'll be doing that day. Thank you, thank
you!

I have used Reading Pathways since its publication by Jossey-Bass, and I used its predecessor Pyramid since 2002, so I can honestly say I have considerable experience with this unique and effective method.

I have also taught her larger book, Phonics Pathways. These two books are the best materials available for helping children overcome dyslexia. They are very easy to teach and complement each other. They are self-contained and comprehensive.

Reading Pathways is so powerful that it can almost teach itself. Once I had a fourth grader who could only read on a third grade level and had failed the state reading test (TAKS) the previous year. I was very busy with some other students so I just handed him Reading Pathways, asking asked him to sit quietly and read it for himself. In less than three weeks he came to me and said, "Mr. Potter, I finished the book. It was really cool." Working alone with the book, he had advanced to independent fifth grader on my 1987 Riverside Reading Inventory! On the Miller Word Identification Assesssment for whole-word dyslexia, he reduced his phonics errors from 21 (out of 50 words) to only 5; and he could read all those words correctly when he spelled them, indicating that independent reading of the exercises had dramatically reduced his whole-dyslexia and significantly improve his fluency and comprehension. After seeing his progress, all the kids wanted to read Reading Pathways.

The exercises in the book increase eye span, develop eye tracking, and teach syllabication.

Be sure and see the sister book, Phonics Pathways: Phonics Pathways: Clear Steps to Easy Reading and Perfect Spelling

Don Potter, Odessa, TX

I have just begun volunteer tutoring ESL. I've never done this before. Yesterday I had the first session with my student. After experimenting with a few other books, we tried Reading Pathways. My adult ESL student LOVES it! He was smiling from ear to ear as he began to see how the letters, sounds, and words came together. This is a young man who cannot write and spell even in his native language. After going through several pages, he looked up and told me, "I like this book, let's keep going."

Initially I was a bit nervous, not ever having tutored before, but armed with Reading Pathways, I am confident that we will make excellent progress in terms of reading, spelling, writing and also speaking. Thanks for this wonderful book!

This book is excellent because it is exactly what I needed, that is an account of Edmund Burkes thinking, what it is he contributed to our understanding of government.

This small title is actually a letter that the author wrote to a friend in France. When Edmund Burke wrote this letter about the French Revolution (where the king was overthrown and beheaded by the masses aka Jacobins), English scholars agree that the result was the finest piece of prose in the English language; only a few poets have succeeded in writing something finer. Whether you agree with Burke's interpretation or not is not the point; he penned the finest piece of literature ever in the English language.

As a historian and social commentator, Burke is a "structural functionalist" decades before that term was dreamed up. He recognizes that the French are not only creatures of their culture, but prisoners. And to compare them to the English colonists and other insurgents in the American colonies who revolted against the British government is to compare apples and oranges. Whereas the Yankee revolution of 1776 was Biblically-inspired and the propaganda for rebellion preached from the pulpits, the French were railing AGAINST the Catholic Church for keeping people ignorant and in their Dark Age.

Burke says the French Revolution is a revolution without its moorings, without the necessary principles to guide individual behavior, and without the maintenance of institutions that long provided stability and security. What the French philosophes were writing was mere balderdash, says Burke. Without their traditions, customs, and institutitions that had slowly brought the French out of barbarity and into a civilized manner of living, Burke saw in revolution a rapid decline and fall of the French people into a visciousness of dog-eat-dog.

In short, Burke saw the French Revolution as lacking virtue and descending into terrorism; whereas the Yankee Revolution was virtuous and grew into a democracy.

Whether you agree with Burke or not, and I do not, his writing in this letter to a friend is the finest example of English writing to be found and should be read by everyone simply for that reason alone.

Edmund Burke (1729-1797)wrote REFLECTIONS ON THE REVOLUTION IN FRANCE in 1789 which was four years before the rise of the fanatical Jacobins and the execution (murder)of Louis XVI. This book was not only well written but very prophetic on the tragic events that were part of the French Revolution. Burke showed historical insight and warned both the British and the French what was going to happen.

Burke cited conditions in France prior to the French Revolution. He certainly did not give a false representation of the economic and social conditions in France, but he was clear that, while not perfect, the French had advanced culture and tolerable living standards. He also warned the French that abrupt changes without recourse to tradition and legal norms were dangerous and would end in tyranny. Readers should be aware that Burke's assessment of the French political system was that the French had reasonble politcal freedom and prosperity. To destroy this political system would end in political disruption, social and political violence, lack of law-and-order, and the rise of tyrannical military leaders.

One should note Burke's assessment of the members of the French National Assembly which was vacilating and subject to the whims of any "political interest group" was serious. He suggested that military officers would be among those "pleaders" would be military officers who would be difficult to control. He also warned that when someone who understood the art of command got control of the military officers, the days of the French Republic and the National Assembly were over. The military commander would be in total control, and this is exactly what happened when Napolean I (1769-1821)started to exhibit military genius, he quickly got power by a coup d' etat in 1799 and became the French Emperor by 1804.

Burke's warnings of disaster and tragedy were fullfilled. From at least 1792 until 1815, the French were almost constantly at war with most Europeans. While the French Empire expanded beyond anything prior French monarchs ever dreamed of, the collapse of the French Empire came quickly, and the French empire was ended by 1815 at terrible cost in both blood treasure. Burke warned of these dangers, and his predictions were accurate.

Burke lived just long enough to see the rise and fall of the maniacal Jacobins which included the Reigh of Terror (1792-1794)and the execution of King Louis XVI and his wife, Marie antionette. Had Burke lived a few more years, he could have resorted to remarking, "I told you so."

Edmund Burke has been defined as a conservative which is true. However, Burke was not a reactionary. Burke realized that progress, whatever that may mean, is often slow and within the confines of historical tradition, legal norms, and established law. Burke warned his readers, to use modern parlance, against "wipe the slate clean." Burke clearly understood that to "wipe the slate clean, meant mass dislocation of men and ultimately mass executions (mass murder). Subsequent modern political revolutions vindicate this view.

Readers may wonder why Burke expressed support for the American Revolution but strongly opposed the French Revolution. A careful examination of these revolutions provides the answer. The American "revolutionaries" were arguing for their "Rights of Englishmen" which had a long tradition in Great Britain. Henry II (1154-1189) started the use grand juries. The English had the right of trial by jury by the time of Edward I (1272-1307). The fact is the American colonists wanted to rules of common law and long established legal traditions to apply to them. The British wanted to rule the American colonists with administrative law using clever bureaucrats, as Burke would probably have called them, rather than use British Constitutional Law and the Common Law which many American colonists demanded. The French, on the other hand, wanted to replace a weak monarch with "clever bureaucrats" which Burke knew very well could not work in France.

Readers should note that Thomas Paine (1737-1809)wrote a response to Burke's REFLECTIONS ON THE REVOLUTION titled THE RIGHTS OF MAN. While Paine's views were different than those of Burke's Paine's book was just as brilliant as Burke's. Readers should read both works if they want exposure to profound political thought and excellent writing. This is much preferred to the current political nonsense that is pushed by media talking heads and journalists who cannot think or write. Burke and Paine were well read men and offered readers history lessons as well as politcal lessons.

Edmund Burke's REFLECTIONS ON THE REVOLUTION IN FRANCE is highly recommended regardless of one's political persuasion. This book is not a light read and takes time. However, one will be better informed and wiser for doing so. Again, this reviewer suggests the reader should read Thomas Paine's THE RIGHTS OF MAN to draw comparisons and contrasts.

In 1789, the year of the French Revolution, Burke received a request from a good friend living in France to provide his thoughts on the Revoution. The result- one of the finest pieces of political discourse ever written. For those encountering Burke for the first time, his adament defense of the crown, and of hereditary succcesion, seem to make a hypocrite of this self-proclaimed liberal. Burke, however, was not defending an absolute monarch who ruled under the charter of divine right, but rather, pointing out the danger of a perfect democracy, whose sovereign (the national assembly) was compelled not to a moral authority such as a Church, nor to a fixed consitution. In short, liberty was safer restricted in civil socity, than left unchecked.

Whether you find Burke's analysis, consistent with your political leanings, or more likely, you find his writing very offensive, you can appreciate both the efffect of this work on American and European political though, as well as the reason and intelligence with which it was written.

This is an indispensible essay for anyone who has ever been interested in politics. It is composed of beautiful prose, crisp logic, and perennially relevant material.

You must read Burke to understand the why it is worth being critical of the French Revolution and to understand some major reasons for the counter-revolutionary movement in France.

What a great book. A fascinating subject, fabulous photos and a fun read. The authors give us condom history with a sense of humor. The photographs are wonderful, and the prices helpful.

I saw this book at a small party and immediately orderd six copies. Christmas gifts for my folks and a hard-to-shop-for couple. The tins and packages are beautifully shot and reproduced. As a designer I actually am finding it to be a resource for great retro design and color combinations. There you have it... some really diverse reasons to purchase this wonderful book!!!

I could not believe the quality of this hardback book. Many pricing guide books for collectibles are printed on newsprint, and they are paperback as well. This book is top class all the way! I hope these guys keep coming up with revised additions, as new and yet undiscovered condom tins and boxes surface. Bravo!!!

When I received this book, I was thrilled to see that it was filled with full-color pictures of the condom packages. In fact, 90 percent of this book is pictures, with fascinating bits of history comprising the other 10 percent. It's very difficult to find much information on historical birth control, and this is the first book I've seen dedicated to condoms. It even includes information on "chemical prophylactics" (all I could think after reading this section was "ow, ow , ow"). A great book!

Interesting to find that this is the first book of its kind on the history of condoms and their packaging. Not only does it contain information the average person would never have guessed, it is useful to those into the history of graphic design. The tins are miniatue works of art in themselves, regardless of what they contained! The down to earth style of the text is easy on the reader as well. All in all a great bargain - the hardcover of the book in itself is worth the price of admission!

Dr. Armstrong has produced a document vital to the safeguarding of personal dignity in today's world. In language accessible by anyone reading the book, she dissects complex legal matters and lays them out in plain view for all to understand. This book should be required reading for all people tasked with ensuring our personal rights within the framework of our various legal systems. It should also be recommended reading for anyone when the natural course of life puts them in a position of reliance on the ethics and goodwill of others...even those 'nearest and dearest' to them. When we are vulnerable... that's when we need help. This book gives us the ammunition to help ourselves. Everyone intends to survive the journey to the retirement years; this book exposes some of the ambushes that others have found there and lays out steps each of us should take to avoid those ambushes. As proof that fact can be scarier than fiction, this book will curl your hair quicker than anything King has ever put on paper.

If you are elderly, or even think you may someday become so... then...you need to read this book and keep it close at hand as one of your most valuable reference sources. Dr Armstrong draws on her tragic family experiences with involuntary guardianship litigation and combines that with excellent and scholarly research, to produce a book containing historical background, the law, a broad range of case studies covering most aspects of the subject, and many answers/recommendations concerning this potential problem that we might all someday face. The appendices covering the various state laws and hundreds of resources for the elderly, are alone worth the cost of admission! I found the book to be alarmingly informative and I feel much more knowledgeable and secure now that it is sitting on my research shelf.

This is a must read book about the truth of the rampant fraud and abuse of conservators and guardians. While this author writes about family members trying to get "Granny's dough", she does touch on another perverse type of guardian, that is a "court appointed" guardian. In Florida, and in many other states, they only require a high school education and a 40 hour course. But whether educated or not, from the lawyers/guardians in the recent New York case, to the high-school educated sociopaths here in Pinellas County, Florida, they are getting away with fraud and abuse.
To avoid a guardianship in the State of Florida should be of paramount importance. Find out how to protect yourself and your loved ones with alternatives: health care surrogate, durable power of attorney, mediation and more. Consider that if you leave your parents to fend for themselves, and ignore the deterioration associated with aging, a guardian can gain a guardianship over them and their assets, without informing you. That guardianship will nullify the most meticulous of plans. To really cover your aging parents, make sure they create a "Pre-need" guardianship and name someone they trust, this is the only way predators in the retirement homes will not be able to force guardianship on them. Also create an irrevocable trust.

Retirement Nightmare isn't your typical retirement guide on how to save up enough money or make investments: its focus is on how to protect yourself from heirs, and chapters survey involuntary conservatorship and guardianships with an eye to revealing how incapacitated seniors fall victim to the statutes designed to help them in their old age. Advance planning is recommended as the key to avoiding situations such as the author's own experience and those described in courtroom cases.

As a lawyer, I found this book to be a tour de force compendium of the guardian and conservatorship laws in our country. For both lay readers and lawyers, it is an invaluable reference tool - comprehensive and clearly written. Full of actual stories of actual individuals, it also makes for eye-opening human interest drama.

The stories are great to read aloud to children and all of the children in my reading group were especially intrigued by the illustrations. Hope to see more books by this talented duo!

We made this book are favorit book of the year. The book teaches us new words. It is scary and humorous. In Straw we talked how can things be true if they are not believed and God. In the House of Untold stories we talked on whats fair and being writers and write are own stories. You shold read it to.
Third Grade All Saints Elementary
- The children were drawn in by the thrilling and suspensful stories, and the richness of the language. The book is an excellent primer for moral discussion, and has wonderful applications for Creative Writing and Language Arts.

I liked this book. Five good stories for kids. I liked the first and third the best.

These five stories are wonderful for children ages 6-12. They're truly intriguing and told in a casual, convincing voice. Adults will enjoy reading them to smaller children.

The stories in this book are creative and fascinating. My kids (ages 7, 10 and 13) listened spellbound and repeatedly begged for "just one more" story. The stories are scary without being gory or terrifying. The characters are interesting and just believable enough to keep your interest. Highly recommended!

Prof. Finkelstein gives us a crucial perspective on the effects both of the Israeli Occupation and of the Oslo accords on the people of the West Bank. Finkelstein's book is helped immeasurably by his excellent writing style; clear, concise and easy to read, this book will be attainable and required reading for laypeople and Mideast scholars alike. Rather than focus on the actions of politicians and self-aggrandizing "leaders", Finkelstein instead gives us a view of the Palestinian PEOPLE. We meet a wide array of folks in Finkelstein's book and we emerge, necessarily from the experience far more understanding of who these people are than when we started. Perhaps most important of all is that Finkelstein never lets us forget that he himself is a Jew. He therefore lets everyone know that to be Jewish is NOT to be Zionist and it is most certainly not to be necessarily supportive of the actions of the Israeli government. There are many books that amply chronicle Israeli brutality and the crimes of the Zionist regime (another by Finkelstein that I highly recommend among them, called "Image and Reality of the Israel palestine Conflict) but I can think of no book more important to the understanding of the dilemma of the Palestinian people and to open the door for Jewish opposition to Israel than this one

a brutally honest account of the palestinian intifada experience as written by a jewish american. exposes fallacies in the representation of the case as well as in foreign policy. very necessary in understanding the israel-palestine conflict

This book provides a welcome dissent from typical American Jewish political views, and provides refreshing objectivity towards the Arab/Israeli conflict. Finkelstein portrays West Bank Palestinians before and during the Gulf War: the effects of thirty years of brutal repression on these people, their lives, hope and aspirations--and why they might have cheered Saddam's scud missiles. One chapter is dedicated to Finkelstien's methodical summary of American foriegn policy toward Israel on one hand, and Iraq on the other--Finkelstein refrains from judging either of these two countries during his comparison--and the result demonstrates an undeniable double standard in the application of international law. There is much evidence--much of it taken from declassified Israeli documents--that suggests Israel's 1982 invasion of Lebanon was entirely an offensive operation, the sole purpose of which was to avoid having to come to political terms with the PLO, and Finkelstein touches on this as well. Overall, an excellent, insightful book well worth reading.

Finkelstein's book is that rare gem of a monumental work housed within a slim volume. What makes his ideas so astonishing, in addition to their being meticulously researched and footnoted, is that his parents were survivors of the Nazi holocaust. Based on encounters with Elie Wiesel and the like, one would not expect a Jew of this background to have such a profound understanding of the Palestinian people and of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

This book is a must-read in that it convincingly defies, with powerfully sculpted arguments and towering research, the tired and frequently hypocritical views of the New York Times and other news authorities.

Finkelstein will convince you.

As a Jewish woman living in the U.S. it was difficult for me to hear but one side of the story in the Israeli-Arab conflict. That side was the Zionist perspective. It wasn't until I spent time in Israel (ironic as this is) that I began to understand the fallacies in the arguments I grew up hearing. I read this book after picking it up at a friend's house, and now I'm feeling brave enough to buy a copy of my own. That courage comes from Finkelstein. I feel like I'm in good company. There ARE other Jews who can see and dare to shed some light on the OTHER SIDE--the Palestinian viewpoint. Finkelstein presents us with the Palestinian perspective in the context of the Israel-Arab conflict with such integrity and simplicity. As descendents of a terribly oppressed group of people, I whole-heartedly support all efforts to stop dehumanizing the "enemy." Finkelstien shows us the humanness of Palestinians.

Once I picked up The Road To Forgiveness at our local bookstore, I couldn't put it down. Bill and Cindy Griffiths, having lost an eleven year old daughter and Cindy's mother in a car accident, through their faith, understanding and love were able to forgive and change the life of the American Native woman that was the cause of the crash, while driving under the influence of alchohol. They take the reader on an amazing journey, one that I will try with all my being, now and in the future to emulate. Certainly one of the great examples of true Christianity/Judiasm I have ever read. Bravo, my hat's off to them. It had to have taken an enormous amount of determination and courage to write such a heart rendering piece of literature.

This is the best book one can read to learn to forgive others, in order to have a healthy outlook onthe pitfalls which occur in everyones life.Through this book we can learn to love our enemies as Jesus taught us to do,in his word in the bible.This testimony shows how we can have courage and understanding.I salute Bill and Cindy for their faith in such adversity.If everyone could follow their example there'd be no wars.

The whole world needs to read this book - which will help promote understanding love and forgiveness. We heal our spirits and mend when we forgive others. Holding a grudge only makes us unhealthy. The Lord must be very much with Bill and Cindy. Jesus forgave those who crucified him and all humanity thereby besowing salvation to all who believe and forgive.

In short, The Road to Forgiveness has changed my life. I would recommend it to anyone dealing with their own or someone elses anger and hatred. Pastors will find it a useful tool in counseling anyone who needs to forgive anyone of anything.

Once I picked up The Road To Forgiveness at our local bookstore, I couldn't put it down. Bill and Cindy Griffiths, having lost an eleven year old daughter and Cindy's mother in a car accident, through their faith, understanding and love were able to forgive and change the life of the American Native woman that was the cause of the crash, while driving under the influence of alchohol. They take the reader on an amazing journey, one that I will try with all my being, now and in the future to emulate. Certainly one of the great examples of true Christianity/Judiasm I have ever read. Bravo, my hat's off to them. It had to have taken an enormous amount of determination and courage to write such a heart rendering piece of literature.

This has been one of the most unusual and beautiful tales that I have ever had the pleasure to read. Linda is clearly a writer who sits down to write all the magical and warm feelings in her heart for the joy of writing, not because she wants to write a book. Rose and the Pyramid is a glorious tale of love that is like a bridge between two exotic places, a tale so rich and beautiful that my hair stood on my arm, wondering how this author got in my head and soul and whether she knows all there is to know. For the reader that likes to be caressed with each and every single word this is the tale that will tantalize the senses and leave the conscience hungry for more. I felt deep connection between the written world of Linda's imagination an my own, luckily I am happily in love with the best person on this planet and Mya the heroine is madly and deeply in love with Ben, her other half, the ying to the yang that will melt with her own heart beat to support the future of man kind.

In this tale Mya is a princess on planet Kashmir, watching Ben, an Earthling whom stirs warmth in the deepest chambers of her soul, who makes her skin crawl with desire and her fingers drum out love beats and poems in his behalf. Pure and innocent like glacier snow, Maya is extremely intelligent and powerful, she is the future savior of our planet that chose a mate with whom to make peace on Earth and bring people the end of suffering and eternal happiness. She must travel to our planet and meet with Ben to convince him to join her mission to solidify joy and let humans choose their own fate. Karma is something that the human race let be their stone, the heavy weight they carry around but it is something that glorious Mya wants to change. She loves opulent fabrics, silver and pink, sweet smelling roses, elegant decor, powdery incense and rich marble floors and wants nothing but happiness and harmony to fill the souls and set all the human souls on an infinite quest for ultimate bliss.

I have to agree with other reviewers that his novel is a rich tapestry of love on a quest for ultimate embrace of what life is. Life is a rare gift, for those who are aware enough to realize the precious drops slipping every day , its their time to take the rainbow of good into their own hands and direct their own life story. For the fans of novel and sci fi, fiction and romance and books in general this tale is about the ultimate sacrifices that love takes in order to help everyone else. Mya is a princess from another planet that needs Ben to join her on a quest to open a portal of fusion of colors that will free the souls that suffer and live in the dark. She is the catalyst that will transform the thoughts of thousands, sway millions in the direction of the sun and leave the reader changed forever with sweet thoughts of deep philosophy and a happy outlook on life after the book is read.

This felt like so much more than a book, more than pages with words written on them, I felt deep nudges in my heart as I read the book, so many things true and great were spoken of, that made me think deeper and breathe slower, embracing each day I have as a gift, using my heart and soul to fill with a crescendo of the symphony called life, thank you Mrs. Shelnutt for creating this masterpiece, I only wish it was re-published and available for the masses to drink from, because your book is like the fountain of life and I feel forever changed.

- Kasia S.

I could tell you that "The Rose and the Pyramid" is the story of a young woman from another planet who wishes to be with an Earth man and to live life as an Earth woman.....and this simple sentence can only give the potential reader the most basic structure of the story without revealing the true heart of the story that encompasses the author giving free reign to her imagination in attempting to explain why things here on our earth are the way they are....and how they might one day be changed for the better.

Be aware that this is a book that will stay with you...it is a book that you will think of often...it is a book that will influence the way you look at the world and the people in it. This is not a work of light fiction that one would read to casually pass the time and then a week later have trouble remembering even what the title of the novel had been. This is one you will remember!

Mya Rose Gem, a female on Kashmir, is able to see Ben, an Earth man, in her dreams as she lies on her bed sleeping surrounded by her many pillows. She is determined to travel to Earth and live there as an Earth woman in the hopes of becoming one with Ben. Mya does not understand that she and Ben have met before in the distant past, and that their future relationship will significantly change Earth's future. In spite of the danger that the Earth represents to a being of light and energy such as herself, Mya will not let the world of physical matter known as Earth and the negative energy thereupon prevent her from her attempts to fulfill her destiny by joing with Ben, the Earth man who is an individual mentally basing his worth upon his control of physical matter...so unlike a being of light and energy.

While I deeply respect the author's attempts to address the issues of the basic nature of evil and the complexity of redemption in this novel, I cannot agree with all the conclusions she reaches.... However, I also understand that this does not make it a bad novel, simply because there are conclusions she reaches that I don't agree with. These conclusions refelct a reality that, while fictional, are both thought-provoking and somewhat disturbing in their unconventionality. Even for someone like myself who's read a lot of fantasy and science fiction, the reality of Kashmir and of Earth in "The Rose and the Pyramid" is difficult to grasp without pausing occasionally to mentally process the new ideas and catch up emotionally to what is taking place. This is a novel for those who like to travel to strange and foreign lands and try out new and unusal foods... Those who only want to stick with what they know and don't like to read new ideas should pass on this novel... I'm sure glad I didn't!

I ask you....when is the last time you read a novel that challenged you? When is the last time you read a novel that presented you with even one new idea that made you have to pause to stop and think? This is why I give this novel five stars....because I found it to be original, challenging, thought-provoking, controversial without being offensive, positive, and adding far, far more value to my life than the cost of buying the book and the time spent reading it.....and, what more could a reader ask of a book?

I gradually stopped reading books about 7 years ago. I don't know why, I used to be a big reader. So, although the blub on the back cover (which I'm going to quote) caught my eye and made me want very much to read this book, alas I probably never will. But maybe. I love to read. I ache to read. There are so many wonderful things to be read and reread, but I just don't do it.

The back cover:

The Rose And The Pyramid is a novel of great mystery and enchantment, which occurs on several levels at once. Mya, the heroin, who comes from the planet Kashmir, which bears little resemblance to Earth, decides to pursue Ben, her lover, to our denser world of travail, where the age-old paradigm seems to be suffering, a suffering in part based on a misunderstanding of karma and density.

From her purer world of energy and color, she descends, but not merely as a visitor. Mya must take up a life here, a new person, she must surround herself with harsher and more puzzling realities, as a citizen of our world.

But why is she really here? What is the wider meaning of her attraction for Ben? And what of her deep friendship with Rotar, her mentor on Kashmir? Through undulations of great beauty, the novel expands to include Mya's destiny: the transformation of this planet and its inhabitants.

The ultimate establishment of a new paradigm for consciousness on earth involves a stunning confrontation with that being whom some have called The Devil - its surprises provide startling proof that life on earth has been stunted by a deeply ingrained and flawed conception of reality.

From this moment on, the story speeds to an irrevocable climax, in which the nature of Earth's reality and the quality of Mya's love are transformed forever.

*

I did however read the poems. They are very beautiful. Their form reminds me of "Bridge of Sighs." They are a combination of free verse and rhymes. The rhymes are scattered and random, which make a very pleasant effect. I noticed one identical rhyme (time/wine), but since it is used in several places, I suppose it is not meant to be a true rhyme. Or else has some particular significance. It would be difficult to say what is an identical rhyme and what is not in the style the author uses, what is meant to rhyme and what is just a chance similarity of sound.

The poems are rough and rugged, as opposed to slick and glib, and I like that very much. They satisfy both the longing for form ("order out of chaos") and the contemporary lack of it. (In today's world of modern "art," everyone who can scream is called an "artist," or who can afford a pen is called a "poet." No skill, no intelligence, no talent, no practice, no good.) The poems are warm and interesting. One poem that seemed to have been written by a man seemed to derive from the plot, but it was comprehensible and feeling in its own right. In fact, all the poems could be read and enjoyed independently of the novel.

Many of the poems concerned lovers, either trying to get or to get back one's lover. Many also had much conflict in them, particularly a struggle with whether to say "yes" or "no" to oneself or to someone or something else. The love poems were soothing to me, and the poems about struggle affected me personally for reasons of my own. As well as feeling, these are poems about ideas. But they are not intellectual, and the ideas don't intrude. The flow of the poems is even and smooth despite their lack of formal sophistication, the language is musical, the rhymes are as I said random and scattered and blend in with the general euphony of the songs.

I never as I said read the novel. Probably I never will. But I would very much like to read more poems by this author, perhaps a book of them.

I know sadly I've given only a general overview of the content of the poems, and haven't commented on any poems in particular. That's because I don't feel well today.

The non-corporeal existence of Mya Gem is soon to be brought to an end. Her eons of life on the utopian planet of Kashmir, located near Alpha Centauri, have been ultimately blissful yet, somehow lacking as her desire for an elusive destiny has remained unfulfilled. However, one fateful day, the true desire of her heart is revealed as she looks down to Earth to see Ben, the man with whom she shall revolutionize time, philosophy, and find her true love. From this point forward, this novel takes the reader on a fantastic voyage through the essence of time, meaning of love, and the crucial choices that will alter the very fabric of existence.

The transcendental aspects coupled with the expert characterization, captivating plot, thought provoking ventures, and general ambiance of the story culminated to entrance the reader to the utmost degree. Each aspect of the novel, like a tapestry of great price, interwove to create a sparkling eclectic tale that encompassed a myriad of themes from the bizarre to the astoundingly beautiful. The author never failed to weave the various themes together to create a beautiful creation sparkling with vivaciousness and colorful descriptions. These aspects caused the novel to exceed a mere fantasy/science fiction tale and enter into the realm only available in thought provoking heavily affecting pieces of literature. For those considering embarking upon this journey into a phantasmagorical dreamlike realm, do not expect the typical fantasy novel. Rather expect to be mesmerized by introspective philosophy, relevant issues, symbolic circumstances, and other astounding attributes contained only within serious works of literature.

While I was encompassed by numerous elements of this contemplative work, I found one element so enthralling that I felt it especially worthy of mention. This element was displayed in the highly complex character of Ben and his particular supernatural understanding of the personality inherent within certain structures such as buildings. While this element may at first appear to be another general theme of a fantasy novel, I found it to be most thought provoking to believe that buildings may have a certain aura that enables them to acquire a personality, a certain distinct feeling belonging only to them. How many times have we entered a building that caused us to feel a distinct emotion whether fear, bliss, boredom, or a multitude of other equally effecting emotions? Whether this distinct feeling is due merely to human invention by personifying non-living objects or whether places do actually retain a certain atmosphere may be purely theoretical. However, upon reading further concerning this aspect, I found myself laying the book aside to continue speculating on this captivating philosophy that may indeed have merits within the realistic world. After all, mentions of this phenomenon have been speculated on before most notably in the Bible where Jesus Christ stated that if those who would wish to silence the claims of His divinity attempted to do so, even the rocks would cry out proclaiming that He is our sovereign Creator. Also, the story of Cain and Abel, where the ground cried out that God revenge Abel's death further displays this fascinating concept so interestingly pursued in this novel. Many times, I have experienced moods when entering buildings and I suspect that many others have as well. The author's ability to address this issue that so many feel and to express it so eloquently is certainly note worthy and an excellent example of the type of interesting and thought provoking ideas displayed throughout this literary epic. This element is an accurate demonstration of the conceptual attributes pursued throughout this mesmerizing tale.

As the protagonists pursue their ultimate goal for the revolution of the world, the story follows their adventures through numerous situations ranging from various different philosophies both grand and ordinary ultimately speculating upon a wide range of issues and thus prodding the reader into a contemplative mood. Although the major proponent of the story itself, Ben and Mya's mission to awaken a fairly unconscious world, was unique to the extreme, I found myself most captivated with the side stories where the author so eloquently expressed her thoughtful feelings regarding separated situations that proved most entertaining.

Another note worthy aspect of this avant garde tale is the characters of Ben and Mya not to mention the host of secondary characters, who although not concentrated on solely, never failed to imbue the novel with dashes of their powerfully potent personalities. The protagonists, Ben and Mya, were both fascinating characters, and I found my interest growing concerning their developing relationship. Although their personalities were ultimately different in that Mya was more emotional and introspective and Ben more adventurous and practical, the combination of their differing idiosyncrasies and the ensuing drama proved most entrancing. As the novel progressed leading the reader deeper into the world of light and energy, the characters' beliefs and ideals were revealed in full. Mya's idealism and compassionate nature caused her to be my favorite character overall, and I feel that few will be able to resist her feisty personality and her wild nature that makes her ultimately endearing.

Another attribute of the characters that I found most original was the names chosen for them. The name "Mya" is particularly evocative of the ancient Mayan empire filled with colorful jewels and towering ziggurats reaching toward the cool blue of the sky. The seemingly ordinary name "Ben" was an interesting choice as his personality was far from ordinary thus creating a paradoxical element that leads to much pondering on the reader's part. Other well chosen names worthy of mention are "Syad" and my favorite, "Oliviandra".

Pulchritudinous rainbow colors surround this novel as the author wisely chose to imbue her fantasy adventure with descriptions of the beauty of the planet Kashmir, where Mya originates from. The vibrant use of colors more dazzling than anything ever experienced on this planet further add to the atmosphere of this novel and is a worthy addition to The Rose and the Pyramid.

The writing style is both unique and euphonious. The melodious authorship enables the novel to flow expertly from chapter to chapter expressing complicated philosophies in a simple and understandable form thus expressing thoughts that many have pondered yet been unable to express accurately through the medium of writing. Also, the author includes several poems throughout the story thus expressing details of Mya's existence in an astoundingly poetic language further enhancing the distinctly existentialistic nature of this novel.

The philosophies embraced in this novel are well expressed and delve into the bizarre, poignant, and to some, the sacrilegious. While I do not embrace all the philosophies presented, I found them well presented and thought provoking. It is my belief, that no two people will view this novel in the same way. Each person will come away from this transcendental tale with a different conclusion thus adding to the worth of the novel. This aspect dramatically adds to the personal experience of the individual in a unique manner.

In closing, I feel it appropriate to quote some of my favorite lines from the novel. Hopefully, this will reveal the astounding qualities inherent in this epic tale:

"Have you ever been so sad
You were glad to sleep,
Glad to have someone mad
At you,
So you could cry about something else
For a change?
I'm sure you've been sad too.
You look at the sky
And wonder why
They have so much stuff
To fluff
White misty trees
Or Viking ships afloat,
A white changing boat of mystery. . .
Off white t.v.'s changing
Channels to leaves drifting by up in the high blue sea.
Yet, be careful what you say
To the clouds today . . .
Your mood could be seen as grey.
Then the clouds may say, "Don't watch;
Stay away . .
I don't want to be caught
In your need."
That's pretty bad,
When the clouds have had
enough no of your blues.
Having been rejected at sight
By the clouds tonight,
I begin to write,
Having a fight to see
What's bothering me.
By finding words,
To have myself heard,
My eyes aren't so blurred by tears."

Located on page 80-81 of The Rose and the Pyramid

- Ravenova

This is one of the most unusual books I've ever read, undoubtedly written by an author who is a deep thinker and very intelligent, with the proper credentials for writing this particular novel.

THE ROSE AND THE PYRAMID is the enchanting story of Mya Rose Gem, from the peaceful planet of Kashmir, and Benjamin Michael O'Shea, from the long-suffering Planet Earth. From her purer realm of energy and color, Mya has visions of Ben and falls in love with him.

In this creative author's universe, Mya is pure energy, energy that reaches its apex when she's sitting in her beloved garden of roses beside a huge golden pyramid where all is color and light ... a harmonious atmosphere. She gives it all up to be with the man whom she believes to be her soul-mate, yet doubting his ultimate response to her and her main reason for traveling to Earth.

Will Ben join in her altruistic quest ... or will he fail to understand her and her earth-changing goal? Readers will be eager to know about Mya's goal, but I can't divulge that without spoiling the story-line. Although I can give a clue: it has something to do with the crystal paradigm of both planets, and a lot to do with peace, joy, and love.

Although Mya travels the long, difficult journey to Earth alone, she is not really alone; she has the full, spiritual support of her family and another male friend, all beings of light, back home on Kashmir. Even though they have no wish to be transported to Earth with her (she's the "chosen one" for this fathomless venture), they have mental capacities far surpassing the earthlings, and can visit her spiritually. It's up to Mya to determine whether Ben has this same capacity ... or any outstanding gifts.

As Mya and Ben grow in their relationship, wondrous emotions and spiritual bondings take them well beyond the realm of human love ... into fantastic heights of pure spirit. But that's okay ... this IS a fantasy, one the author created because of her unlimited real-life desire for universal peace and harmony. It's quite far-fetched in philosophy, but becomes believable as you follow the strange courtship of these two marvelous, mysterious beings. The reader will no doubt divine that Ben--who loves buildings as though they had souls of their own--is the PYRAMID of the title, while Mya, a pure being of light and color, is the ROSE.

One highlight for me was when Mya's philosophy transformed the Devil, the most evil being ever created. This is only one twist out of many twists-and-turns in store for the readers of this book.

As this very-much-in-love couple nears their goal, you will be asking yourself these seemingly anti-religious questions: Is Mya a goddess who has been present since the beginning of time? Was Ben there too? Could one of them be THE God who created the universe? The last question is almost like the age-old question: Which came first, the chicken or the egg?

Well, which did come first? Read this astonishing novel and come to your own conclusion. It's a lovely, entrancing story ... er ... make that "song."

The author has also incorporated some inspiring poetry into the plot; at first the poetry distracted me, but as I got into the flow of the story, I became aware that poetry is essential to the harmony of this unique book; without it the book would be incomplete for the particular audience the author had in mind when penning her "love song."

What becomes "crystal" clear as one reads this book is that Author Linda Shelnutt draws upon many years of her personal spiritual, philosophical, and metaphysical quest to understand human nature. And to share what she's learned with the world, she has written this mysterious, very romantic, science-fiction fantasy.

This book is more than a love STORY between Mya Gem, from the planet of Kashmir, and Ben, from Planet Earth ... it's a love SONG for the universe.

There are few books that attain the dynamic freshness of THE ROSE AND THE PYRAMID. Would that it were not a fantasy. ... "Life could be a dream ..." as the old song goes.

(SPECIAL NOTE: The bad news: This book was published in 1987 and is only available on the secondary market. A previous one sold for $99.95, but I was lucky enough to find one for $35.95. The good news: This author informs me that she is hoping to republish the book in the near future. Keep checking this page from time to time. Meanwhile, she has a short story coming up on Amazon Shorts within a few weeks. To sample her style, read COAL AND COCA-COLA, as soon as Amazon Shorts posts it.)

I've used just about every guidebook for Rt. 66 and this may be the best. Excellent photography, detailed text, recommendations for casual drives as well as rough, 4wd only trails. And best of all, half the book is laid out for traveling east, and half of the book laid out for traveling west.

It's a few years old now, but still entirely useful! Highly recommended!

"Route 66 Across Arizona" is a must guide for those traveling across northern Arizona - especially users of I-40, which largely parallels the old Route 66.

As a regular traveler in that area who has already undertaken a fair amount of research and exploration on Route 66, I can personally attest for its general accuracy (not 100% though - time changes most everything) and usefulness. The most substantive update I would offer is to definitely stop at Two Guns - it is no longer fenced, readily accessible, full of history, and quite interesting. The second suggestion is that Route 66 Padre Canyon Bridge (circa 1914) is much more easily accessed by parking off I-40 at the West side of the I-40 bridge, and walking North - don't take too long, though, or the Highway Patrol will tow your vehicle. (Similarly, the Painted Desert Trading Post is more easily visited by parking off I-40 just East of Dead River, and hiking North for about one-half mile.)

Again, great material for both the novice Route 66 traveler, or one who has "been there before."

Best of the best ! If you plan on traveling Route 66 in Arizona...this is a no brainer. Great photos, easy to follow directions...both East to West and West to East, color coded. From folks that live in and know AZ....not just passing thru.

I was fortunate enough to buy this book just before my family's summer drive on 66. I'm definitely glad I did! This book made my family's drive along Route 66 in Arizona into a real adventure road trip.
I have read most of the national and state guides for the Mother Road, but this is definitely one of the very best. The Mangums have included all the alignments of the old Road, have them color coded and dated, and even include journeys for 4WD vehicles and bicycles on Route 66. I never would have found some of these alignments with the standard maps and guides.
One particular favorite was the old 1930s alignment between the Monte Carlo exit on I-40 (149) and the Welch exit (151) farther east. It was potholed and torn up, but I really felt like I was experiencing the real Route 66.
The book's recommendations for hotels, cafes, and attractions were extremely helpful. Also, unlike most Route 66 guides, this book describes the trip going in both directions!

The Mangums have another hit. This is exactly the sort of book Route 66 travellers have been waiting for. "Route 66 Across Arizona" is a very user friendly guide book that gives accurate, detailed directions to the existing sections of Route 66 across Arizona. I have tried several of their tours, and found them to be exactly as described. There are good maps, some history and local color, and perhaps best, recommended stops along the way. "Route 66 Across Arizona" beautifully updates Jack Rittenhouse's 1946 "Guide Book to Highway 66" and provides a practical foundation for many other books about Route 66.

As with all Rumis poetry and Coleman Barks translations this is a goose bump inducing beauty. I love Rumi and this is no exception.

This has been my favorite book for years - it can transport the reader straight into the world of soul. rumi is the best and i love these translations. perfect, definately worth having even for people who are not-so-much-into poetry

Rumi needs no praise from me and Barks' translation is beautiful, mysterious, and urgent. I find his introductions to the many sections especially moving. My only problem is that I ordered the book after I bought Barks' "The Essential Rumi," which changed me. This book has many overlaps. I'd have preferred to see more original translations, but as a first introduction, you can do no better.

Coleman Barks once again translates the words of Rumi with respect, good nature, a bit of humor, and a deep understanding of this 13th century mystic and poet. A renowned poet and something of a mystic himself, Coleman Barks leads us through his book as a constant and caring companion. He begins each chapter with his own touching stories, guidance, and expert explanations for the material he lays out. One simply cannot come away from this book without having some sincere appreciation for the devotion and dedication Coleman Barks has for another poet's words.

In "Rumi: The Book Of Love: poems of ecstasy and longing", we are led deep into the regions of the soul, where love is both Universal and Divine. It is a love that beckons us to shed our own image and concepts of ourselves, in exchange for a love that is so vast and joyful, its eloquence can only be experienced rather than explained.

How can we know the divine qualities from within? If we only know through metaphors, It's like when children ask what sex feels like and you answer, "Like candy, so sweet." (88)

Rumi seems to realize mankind is comprised of many faiths, and he mentions many of them with dignity and respect. Yet Rumi's own experience takes him beyond religion, even his own. He often exchanges the word "God" with "Friend", and refers to himself and others who have achieved his enlightened state as "Lovers".

Rumi's words and sublime wisdom ring true for us, as he shares his knowledge of the God-Friend in a both Universal and personal message. We are extremely fortunate to have the poetry of this selfless and compassionate mystic reach us through the fragile, and often forgetful, span of time. Because through Rumi's poetry, we seem to hear our own soul's call and longing to gently open like a beautiful and fragrant flower, and laugh with a tender and colorful sweetness.

There is some kiss we want with our whole lives,
the touch of spirit on the body (33)

Brian Douthit
Author Of Perfectly Said: when words become art

How can I put into words the absolute wordless dimension this collection of poems creates within me?

The commentaries and introduction sections by Coleman Barks are valuable as well beyond words.

The reader would gain insights simply by picking it up and thumbing to any page and just read, read! My daughter and I tried this, we would bring up topics and then say "And what does Rumi say?" and I would read whatever the first words were that I saw in front of me.

They were always universally fitting.

I loved it, just like I love this book.

Wordless, speechless, love-filled - inspired.