Massachusetts Books

Great book about the Pilgrims with lots of historical detail about the different families. Cut-away of the Mayflower with labels and drawings of each of the passengers with their names, makes the story come to life.

This is a wonderful and informative book for children and adults that tells the story of the Allerton family as they travel to America. Readers will enjoy both the illustrations -- detailed cut-aways of the ships they sailed in -- and the text which does not mince words about the difficulties of the journey. For anyone who has relatives on the Mayflower, this is a lovely story of how our ancestors first came to this country. It reminds us of how brave they were.

I discovered Three Young Pilgrims by accident and had to have it. Beautifully told believable story that brings history alive for all ages and illustrations are detailed and excellent. I recommend it for ages 7 to 107!

Cheryl Harness has produced the most unusual gem of the Mayflower story that I have yet run across. The story, by adult standards is choppy in its progression, but is quite charming in its childlike perspective of the harshness that the pilgrims must have faced both on the Mayflower and in the founding of Plymouth including the time of the Thanksgiving feast. The story is sandwiched between pages that give interesting details of the ship, the voyage, and the people and events of the time that would be certain to satisfy the curious reader or listener. The artwork was beautifully illustrated in watercolor, gouache, and colored pencil and has been wonderfully reproduced in colored ink. This is both a wonderful holiday and historical book that should please all ages.

Crazy James

I liked this book. It had a lot of good recipes in it and when you make the recipes they are GOOD!

Of all the cookbooks that my wife and I have, this is the one that we treasure most. Filled with traditional and non-traditional New England recipes that make your mouth water by just reading them. I strongly encourage everyone to purchase this cookbook first and then you will have something to compare all other cookbooks with. I especially like the Macaroni and Cheese!

Since life (in rural Vermont anyway) seems to revolve around seasonal events, this cookbook was perfectly arranged for me. The recipes are grouped by month with each month represented by a type of food. For instance July is berries, August is the garden harvest, November is apples and pumpkins. This makes finding an appropriate recipe easy. A must try recipe is the Applesauce Raisin Cake. It is truly delicious! From the lovely cover, the interesting photographs of Ashfield MA, the weather statistics, the tidbits of information about the town, to the terrific down-home recipes, this book is a wonderful addition to my cookbook collection.

"Through the Front Door" is a delightful collection of old-home recipes that bring to mind -- and to the palate -- the good old-fashioned country cooking that was common a generation ago, but has practically vanished since.

I'm not a great cook, but I can handle these recipes, and they remind me of my mother, who passed away a couple of years ago. I made "Mother's Old Fashioned Molasses Cookies" and was hit with nostalgia: my mom in her apron, the kitchen full of sweet aromas, time standing still.

So I guess that's it: I turn to this little cookbook whenever I want to escape the rush of the everyday and slow down the pace.

Kerstin has compiled a wonderful book that is more than "just" the history of the UMMB. The book (especially the photos) captures the true experience of being a member of this amazing organization. Current members or alums of a high school or college marching band can relate to the stories. The book can easily hold the attention of anyone interested in history, education, and/or music (and anyone who has participated in a Drum Major Academy/Band Leadership Training seminar). The Power and Class of New England is a truly unique group defined by its history, with its excellence maintained and improved upon year after year by the band members and incredible staff.

Lisa M., Clarinet/T-bone UMMB, 1989-1993

This book is about the most inspiring part of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the Minuteman Marching Band. Unless you have attended a football game in the past you have not witnessed the Power and Class of New England. At my first football game I was astonished when I saw more people in the stands during the half time show than were present for the entire game. The history of the band is quite amazing and is a story to be enjoyed by all. From the 4:40 practices to sleeping on gym floors the dedication and pride shown by the members of this organization should be enjoyed by all. Two enthusiastic thumbs up, way to go Kerstin.

This book covers the evolution of a marching band that, while hindered by being at Division 1AA Football School (Instead of the normal Division 1 School) still is able to wow audiences and become known wherever it goes as one of the most energetic, profesional, and downright best bands in the land.
The great work done here by Kerstin to chronicle all the ups and downs of how the band grew to become what it is today is a great read, and a great walk through the history of an amazing American Institution, The Marching Band.

Through These Doors: The History Of The University Of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band 1863-2003 is the true story behind an acclaimed, award-winning marching band that has even earned the honor of marching for President George W. Bush in Washington, D.C. at the Presidential Inaugural Parade. Black & white photographs as well as a smattering of color plates enrich this chronicle of an organization grounded in excellence and musical celebration, which delves deeply into the personal efforts of the individuals who shaped, taught, and led the marching band as well as the broader history of the band and the school it served.

Quite coincidentally, the second consecutive book I've read by an author with the last name of Conroy, the first the overstuffed The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy. This is one of a series of slim books on the micro-geography of famous places:

Hallowed Ground: A Walk at Gettysburg (Crown Journeys)
Washington Schlepped Here: Walking in the Nation's Capital (Crown Journeys)

that I've read and reviewed that are not exhaustive or encyclopedic, but instead personal and intimate.

Conroy describes the small and shrinking (literally and figuratively) Nantucket Island on which he has spent some time as a near-native year-round resident, and where he still owns property.

Frank Conroy speaks from the heart. Nantucket Island has gone through some dramatic changes in
the last 30 years, most not for the better. For some of us that still live here, it`s wonderful to be able to read and remember those times when the Island felt like a place of sanctuary from all else. The stories give the reader the felling that the Grey Lady`s Skirt has been torn but her sole has not been touched.
Thank you Mr. Conroy
A Chef from the Rock

I just started this book this morning and am almost done. It made me nostalgic for my old home, the way it used to be, yes, but for those of us who have had to leave Nantucket for one reason or another, it will always be a wonderful place. Reading it I feel like I am on a wonderful visit home. It's one of those books you don't want to end but at the same time can't put down!

I'm one of the author's three sons, so I won't pretend to be unbiased. But listen, this book is great, empirically speaking. Dad light-heartedly provides a fun and fascinating window into the small island so many of us love.

This lovely book is a collector's item. The artwork and intricate design are phenomenal. A real treat for all ages.

To Live A Truer Life is the true story of the Hopedale Community, founded in 1841 by Adin and Lucy Ballou, and others who sought to understand the teachings of Jesus, and called themselves "Practical Christians" because they sought to practice their religion in daily life. Rejecting all authority based on force (to the extent that they did not vote, participate in government, or use the police or courts) the people of this unique and utopian community tested their religious principles by sheltering escaping slaves, guaranteeing jobs to all able-bodied members, and even showing charity to a burglar who tried to rob them. A strong testimony with simple color illustrations by Lindro, To Live A Truer Life was written by Lynn Gordon Hughes as a strong effort to be as accurate as possible in its depiction of history and of the community for young readers.

If parents can teach their children, from reading them this book, about a kinder way to live then the book will have made a great contribution to communities everywhere.

The illustrations are such a delight and ensure we read the book again and again because my nephews see something new in the background pictures with each reading.

Who said history and life's truths were hard to teach? This book makes learning fun.

This charming book offers a lovely, gentle tale of simpler times. It is beautifully illustrated and designed. Reading "To Live a Truer Life" is like paging through a lovely quilt.

In 1962 the appearance of naturalist Rachel Carson's Silent Spring not only sparked debate on pesticide and ecology issues; it helped change the nature and effectiveness of preservation efforts around the world. It first appeared as a magazine serialization, but its book version really reached out to larger audiences. Priscilla Coit Murphy's What A Book Can Do: The Publication And Reception Of Silent Spring isn't just another analysis of the book itself: it's a review of the publishing history of the Houghton Mifflion edition and the prior New Yorker serialization, incorporating the views of her editors as well as Carson herself - and her opponents. An exceptional history which is strongly recommended for any reader of Silent Spring.

Many readers might never pick up this book unless a Media or Environmental Studies professor placed it on the Required Reading List. In libraries, it probably hides behind a multi-digit call number. But lucky students! To find such an oasis in the academic desert! As far as I can tell, "What a Book Can Do" is THE thorough, scholarly, insightful study of the astonishing impact "Silent Spring" produced on our consciousness and our culture. But more than that: the stories behind the stories behind the stories, concerning not just Rachel Carson but also all the other parties affected by her work, are truly fascinating. "What a Book Can Do" is a real page-turner. Read it.

As the sub-title says, this book is primarily on the publication and reception of Silent Spring. It talks about the effort to get it published, the response of the pesticide industry, how the media handled it and so on. But there are a few points the author made that I think worth special mention.

One is the fact that now, 45 years after its publication, the book is still in print. This implies that there is still sufficient readership that the publisher finds it worth its while to keep ordering more when copies on hand run out.

Another is how could one distinguish a book like this which somehow generates such worldwide interest, in fact it could be argued that it created the environmental movement as we know it today with it's accompanying set of laws.

Finally just what is it that makes 'Silent Spring' so effective, while other books on equally important aspects of our future such as 'The Limits to Growth,' or books on Hubbard's Peak (of oil production) be so generally ignored. Was it the writing style? The media attention?

Ms. Murphy has done a fascinating job of looking at 'Silent Spring.' I think she has just scratched the surface about 'What a Book Can Do.' I hope she continues her research in this area.

In 1962 the appearance of naturalist Rachel Carson's Silent Spring not only sparked debate on pesticide and ecology issues; it helped change the nature and effectiveness of preservation efforts around the world. It first appeared as a magazine serialization, but its book version really reached out to larger audiences. Priscilla Coit Murphy's What A Book Can Do: The Publication And Reception Of Silent Spring isn't just another analysis of the book itself: it's a review of the publishing history of the Houghton Mifflion edition and the prior New Yorker serialization, incorporating the views of her editors as well as Carson herself - and her opponents. An exceptional history which is strongly recommended for any reader of Silent Spring.

**Book Description: This story of a Japanese-American show the power of one man overcoming the struggles that he faced. During a time of hatred and judgment, William Fujita found a way endure. World War II was not the best time for him and his family. Each day he faces the cruelty of people around him. But through the friendships with people he came to work with, he was able to love and prevail over evil. **Review: The book takes the reader into the mind of a man that is suffering through a lot and finding the strength to endure. Not only is this book encouraging, but it also shows a life that many chose not to see during World War II. The description shows the truth that had been hidden. However, now it has become a great story of discovery. A discovery of the lives that people tried to block out. It is not an extravagent tale of a man that went on to be famous. The story is about a simple man that still made a difference and had to face the prejudice numerous times in his life.

**Book Description: This story of a Japanese-American show the power of one man overcoming the struggles that he faced. During a time of hatred and judgment, William Fujita found a way endure. World War II was not the best time for him and his family. Each day he faces the cruelty of people around him. But through the friendships with people he came to work with, he was able to love and prevail over evil. **Review: The book takes the reader into the mind of a man that is suffering through a lot and finding the strength to endure. Not only is this book encouraging, but it also shows a life that many chose not to see during World War II. The description shows the truth that had been hidden. However, now it has become a great story of discovery. A discovery of the lives that people tried to block out. It is not an extravagent tale of a man that went on to be famous. The story is about a simple man that still made a difference and had to face the prejudice numerous times in his life.

This is an incredibly fresh and wonderful look at Asian-American issues - past present and future - as well as other issues that are universal to both adults and children of all races

Just read it and hope Mr. Ikeda keeps writing for a long time to come

Compiled and organized by Elaine Morrison Fitch, The 1848 Boston Cultivator: Marriages, Deaths, And Miscellaneous Readings presents articles abstracted from the Boston Cultivator weekly newspaper, carefully arranged in chronological order for the year 1848. A straightforward presentation accurately indexed for quick reference, The 1848 Boston Cultivator is a superb primary source for genealogists, historians, and non-specialist general readers curious to read anecdotes of life and death in a bygone era of American history.

This book is a terrific read for the history buff! Reading the stories truly brought 1848 America to life for me. It was nice to have all the information in chronological order as you read through them. There is a wealth of information in this book. It has a huge index with over 8,000 names making it easy for those people researching family histories. I particularly enjoyed reading the articles concerning westward expansion. It is incredible to relive those moments recounted in this book. An enjoyable and informative read!
Highly recommended to anyone interested in history, society or genealogy. Can't wait for her next one!

This is a truly excellent resource for anyone doing research on this time period, you just cannot find this information anywhere else. There are thousands of names in it. This book has birth, marriage and death announcements for the entire New England area for 1848. I found the stories so interesting, actual accounts of shipwrecks, fires, accidents and crime as they were reported in 1848. I highly recommed this book!

Dr. E. James Lieberman's Acts of Will: The Life and Work of Otto Rank is one of the finest histories of the development of psychoanalysis ever written. His meticulous research provides the reader with an opportunity to look into the personal and intellectual life of Otto Rank,the most overlooked and underrated disciple of Sigmund Freud. What I found to be most informative was Dr. Lieberman's description of the interpersonal dynamics among the Committee, Freud's closest colleagues. Dr. Lieberman's masterful work brings the reader into the every day world of the pioneers in the field of psychoanalysis. His descriptions of the personal agendas, politics,personalities, and disagreements among the "Ring" of psychoanalytic pioneers helps those interested in the field of psychotherapy clearly understand the intellectual and political foundations of modern psychology. Acts of Will is superb in its description of the intellectual, economic, and political milieu of Vienna during the first two decades of this century and the influences of these forces on Freud and Rank. The author's treatment of the issue of Rank's own "birth trauma" before and after Rank's departure (exile) from Freud's inner circle allows the reader to come to his or her own conclusions with respect to the genesis of the controversy concerning Rank's "mental health". Acts of Will should be read by every student of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Social Work, as well as anyone interested in the fascinating history of modern psychology.

Acts of Will is not only a brilliantly written biography, it is a journey of hope for both therapist and patient. As the new century draws near, it is profoundly telling that now more than ever, the psychology of Otto Rank is so relevant to the world today. Obviously, Rank was far ahead of his time. His teachings of "psychological rebirth" and "concept of will" should be mandatory reading for all mental Health professionals and their patients. Rank's honesty in dealing with his own depression and suicidal thoughts will give the reader much hope that even the most brilliant person can face death, choose life, and make living an Act of Will.

Lieberman masterfully illuminates the life and work of Otto Rank, Freud's most brilliant student and co-worker. This book expalins why Ernest Becker and Rollo May consider Rank to be the most dazzling thinker in the early circle around Freud

I have a kayak and live on Cape Cod. this book is a great source to search out places to explore via kayak. Maps, directions, general information are all provided. anyone who likes to kayak, and in search of a places to explore on the Cape will love this book. Great price too !

Adventure Kayaking: Trips On Cape Cod is "user friendly" guide to enjoying safe and fun kayaking on Cap Cod. David Weintraub showcases twenty-five exciting trips from Falmouth to Provincetown with detailed route descriptions for each trip. Also included are USGS topographic maps (showing routes, parking areas, launch sites); travel directions; parking information, as well as nearby scenic and historical attractions. Adventure Kayaking is highly recommended reading for anyone seeking out Cape Cod's impressive landscape, bird sanctuaries, flora and fauna, all within the recreational framework of the kayaking experience.

Adventure Kayaking is "user friendly" guide to enjoying safe and fun kayaking on Cap Cod. David Weintraub showcases twenty-five exciting trips from Falmouth to Provincetown with detailed route descriptions for each trip. Also included are USGS topographic maps (showing routes, parking areas, launch sites); travel directions; parking information, as well as nearby scenic and historical attractions. Adventure Kayaking is highly recommended reading for anyone seeking out Cape Cod's impressive landscape, bird sanctuaries, flora and fauna, all within the recreational framework of the kayaking experience.