Book Reviews | Source for Reviews of Books

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 14:34:00 +0000

The circus came to town and excitement was in the air in many small towns across America. It was the 1930's in Jacob's memory. Even when Jacob was living in a home for the aged in his nineties, the circus was still traveling to a town nearby. That year was no exception. He remembered vividly how he had been a part of the circus. The other retirement home residents were excited too, remembering from their childhood days. For Jacob, it was different. He was really there.

When the Great Depression had struck and then suddenly his parents died in a car accident, his class days as a veterinary medical student were over. There was no money to pay for his expenses and he needed to find work just to survive. He was now flat broke. He joined the hobos on a freight train and headed out of town. He didn't know where he would end up. Well dressed but penniless, he soon discovered that he was on a circus train.

The train was part of the Benzini Brothers circus. They were known as the Most Spectacular Show on Earth if only by their own estimation. He was able to get hired on for a menial job until it became known that he was just shy of his degree in veterinary science. Suddenly, he was put in charge of caring for the circus menagerie. While there, he saw this most beautiful girl on a horse and was taken in by her. Marlena was an equestrian circus star but was married to the animal trainer. Jacob Jankowski is invited to join Marlena and her husband August for dinner in their private railway car. There is nothing that would have stopped him. He was excited to go and had a fine time.

The circus lifestyle was exciting to a twenty three year old in the company of a pretty circus star and an interesting trainer. They were the privileged set with the circus and had the best food and drink available just like the owners had. Jacob was now in good company. His budding romantic relationship with Marlena was done quietly and August didn't seem to suspect their interest.

Uncle Al, who owns the circus, doesn't always run the business well. He does some cruel things to keep the circus solvent. Occasionally, he would have some workers thrown off the train at night. He'd feed his dead animals to the lions. Sometimes he wouldn't pay his workers. When other circuses went out of business, he would buy parts of their operations for little money and then not have enough for his regular payroll. He did pick up some interesting additions. One purchase brought a huge elephant named Rosie to the menagerie. Al was delighted that now he not only had a vet with a Cornell education but his own elephant too.

Rosie was a smart animal but stubborn. The animal trainer was mean to the elephant but Jacob could get her to do a lot with his kindness. Marlena was also good with animals and recognized the abuse her husband was giving Rosie. August became suspicious one day of their relationship and beats up Jacob and abuses Marlena. Then she leaves him and goes to live in a hotel when she is not performing. Al tells Jacob that Malena and her husband need to get back together for the sake of the circus's survival and he was holding Jacob responsible. He told Jacob that if they didn't reunite, he would throw his roommate Walter off the train as well as Camel, another friend. They would be red lighted.

Jacob continues to visit her in her hotel room and it wasn't long before they were sleeping together. They then declare their love for one another. When Marlena returns to perform her act, she refuses to let August near her. Al is disappointed and becomes angry. He needs them to get back together. His circus depends on it.

One night, Jacob carried a knife between his teeth and jumped on top of the train. He was going to go along the top of the moving train to Augusts' train and then try to kill him. Jacob couldn't go through with it. He returned to his train and discovered that his friend and roommate had been red lighted. Probably he would have been thrown off, too if he had been home when the men came to do the dirty deed.

When the story is nearly over, some of the "red lighted" circus hands come back. They are now seeking revenge upon the owner. They release the animals and cause a stampede during a live performance. There is panic in the aisles; August is killed by Rosie the elephant. August split his head when the stake was pulled out of the ground. Jacob witnesses the incident and can't save August. Uncle Al is also found dead. The circus is then shutdown.

Marlena and Jacob leave, taking Rosie and some of the other animals with them. They begin their life together. Jacob and Marlena married and had 5 children. Seven years were at the Ringling Bros. circus and then Jacob got a job as a vet for the Chicago zoo.

At the end of the story, Jacob is at the retirement home, waiting for his family to pick him up and take him to the circus. He finds out no one is coming for him after all. He can't go to the circus. Then, Jacob goes to the circus, on his own. He meets Charlie the circus manager and asks if he can help by selling tickets. Charlie agrees to even let him come with the circus if he wants. Jacob accepts the offer and believes he has finally come home.

John Sprague is an American currently working in the mideast. He enjoys writing and working on his websites in his free time. He has a new site at http://www.marketingkindreds.com. His website has photos of the mideast and marketing articles that you may be interested in viewing. There are also website analysis tools and articles on genealogy and DNA.

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The Killing Circle by Andrew Pyper

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 14:34:00 +0000

Don't be put off by the title of this book, as it is written by a very good young Canadian author who has become much respected for his work both in Europe as well as America.

This is a compulsive read about a journalist named Patrick Rush who is also a single father and a failed novelist. Patrick decides to join a creative writing circle in Toronto. At the same time there is a murderer loose in the city who attacks his victims at random, leaving cryptic notes beside the bodies for the police investigators.

The circle meets each week for four weeks under their organizer, Conrad White, a strange but influential man who does not teach writing, but rather, facilitates it; the idea being to get the seven members to think and maybe write about their own lives, or a variation thereof. Each week the members will read out loud their new additions to their ever growing work.

It may be more than a coincidence that one of the circle named Angela starts to write a story about a child abductor named Sandman. Could the murderer who is at large in the city be the Sandman? Each time the circle meets, the more Patrick finds fiction blending with reality and he begins to believe that maybe he is being stalked by the Sandman. It isn't until his son, Sam, is snatched, that he realizes that he has to become much more involved in the murky lives of some of the seven members, if he is to find out about this mysterious character.

As the characters' secrets are exposed, so the twists and turns of this well written novel begin to make sense. It naturally becomes a page-turner as Pyper cleverly controls the tension. Without giving away the ending, suffice it to say that we have an individual in Patrick who for lack of a life story cannot write a good novel, but somehow ends up involved in a fascinating story that literally takes over his life.

This is a writer to watch for if you enjoy a good mystery/thriller. This book I would not classify as a thriller, but an excellent mystery; a fact which pleases me as we do not have to plough through the endless Hollywood style gruesome details of the victims.

It is exciting to find a really good Canadian mystery writer with a style that is readable and compelling, who does not rely on any silly grammatical antics to sell his work.

This book review has been written by Jeremy Moray who is the owner of the website http://www.jeremysbookreviews.com a site that has over 150 reviews of books from different genres. This site will be added to as I read more books that I enjoy.

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My Review of The Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 14:31:00 +0000

Amir and Hassan grow up together in Afghanistan. They are from totally different backgrounds. It doesn't matter to this boy but once in a while, Amir will talk down to his friend who is a Hazara. Then he catches himself and feels bad about it. They are like family and grew up together. Amir is the privileged son of a well to do Pashtun business person. Amir is educated and can read. Hassan, whose father is a servant, is illiterate and has a harelip too. One thing that they have in common is, neither of them has a mother at home and they both are excellent kite runners.

In Afghanistan, kite running is a very competitive sport. Hassan is a very good runner and helps his friend many times, since he has the gift of being able to calculate in his head exactly where the kite will land. He doesn't need to keep his eyes glued to the kite like most need to do. He is Amir's trusted assistant and friend and very clever at the game. Amir, knowing where the kite will land is a valuable asset and helps them to successfully win races and beat out other competitors. This lucky day, Amir and Hassan had won the local tournament by working together. Baba who rarely gave his son praise, gave much praise to Amir that day. He couldn't stop bragging about him for a change.

Meanwhile, Hassan goes to fetch the cut kite that is their main prize. Unfortunately, Hassan runs into the local bully who was always picking on the two younger boys. Assef didn't like Hassan mainly because he was a Hazara. Their tribe and religion was considered inferior to the proud Pashtun's. Of course, he didn't like Amir either because he hung around with the Hazara boy.

That day, Assef and two of his friends caught Hassan as he was about to retrive the trophy kite. Hassan refused to turn the kite over to him so Assef attacked the younger boy. He was assaulted and raped by the mean bully who was also a pervert. Wondering where his friend was, Amir ran into the rubble of Kabul to find him. He searched everywhere. When he hears the voice of Assef, he hides in fear. He is a witness to the assalt of his friend but he is too scared to do anything. Amir felt ashamed.

Amir's father loved both the boys although he usually puts down his son for not being brave. Amir also fears his father's blame is because his mother died giving birth to him. Rahim Khan, his father's friend, better understood how Amir acted and tries to compensate and make him feel good about himself. He supports his interests in writing which had been another source of his father's disappointment. Right then, he was receiving the praise from his dad. This was something that he always had hoped for, but on the inside, he was feeling really bad right now for other reasons. He had seen a horrible act being done to his best friend and he did nothing. He was frozen. Assef, the notoriously mean and violent older boy who had sadistic tendencies, had violated his friend. He also remembered a day in the past when Assef was going to hurt him. Hassan stood up for him that day with his trusty sling shot and threatened to shoot Assef's eye out if he touched his friend. Assef backed off that day but promised to get his revenge.

For some time after, Amir couldn't look his friend in the eye and Hassan doesn't mention the incident. Amir feels ashamed and unsure of himself and also can't understand why Hassan said nothing. Amir begins to wonder if Hassan may know that he knows just what had happened. Amir starts to avoid him. He is also annoyed that his Baba pays so much attention to Hassan. He secretly decides Hassan needs to go away and he then works up a plan.

Amir frames his friend as a thief and Hassan confesses to the false charge. His father still forgave the boy and didn't want him to have to go away. Hassan and his father named Ali, leave the property anyway. Baba had previously told Hassan and his father that there would always be a place for them there. Once Hassan leaves, Amir no longer is reminded of his being a coward but the guilt remains.

In a few years, the Russians come to Afghanistan and Amir and his father go to Peshawar and eventually to California and freedom. Amir always remembers what he did back there. They miss their nice home in Kabul but they surround themselves with other Afghan people who have also gone to America. Their housing is now a rundown apartment building. His father works at a filling station and they supplement their income with sales at the Sunday flea market where they see other countrymen. Amir takes classes at a community college to build up his writing skills. One Sunday he meets a girl there and eventually it develops into a romance.

Soraya and her family are kind to Amir and his father. Amir's father is then diagnosed with a terminal illness and goes down fast. Nearly on his deathbed, he tells his son that he will ask Soraya's father for permission for his son to take her hand in marriage. This is how it is done back home in Afghanistan. Amir is delighted that his father is able to do this for him before he dies. Soraya's father accepts the arrangement and the two of them marry. Not long after, Baba dies. Still later, Amir and Soraya discover that they can not have children.

Amir then becomes a successful author. Years later, Amir receives a phone call from Rahim Khan, who is also near the end of his life. His one dying wish is that Amir will come to see him one last time in his native land. He tells Amir that he will tell him how he can be good again. Amir goes, not knowing exactly what he meant by that.

Rahim Khan fills him in on all the things that have happened back in Afghanistan and about Ali and Hassan. Ali was killed and Hassan had a wife and son. The son is named Sohrab. Rahim returned to his father's house to care for it and invited Ali and Hassan back. The Taliban made him leave and took over the house. Hassan refused to give up the house and both he and his wife were killed. The son was the only one who survived besides Khan.

Rahim then tells him that Ali was not Hassan's real father but Baba was. Hassan was your half brother. He thought he should know. Amir felt terrible. Then Khan tells him the real reason he called him to come back there.He wanted Amir to go to Kabul and rescue Hassan's son, from an orphanage. Amir's head was spinning by this time. Khan assured him that since Sohrab was his blood relative, he needed to do the right thing. He also told Amir that he knew what happened to Hassan and this was his chance to make things right and feel good again. He knew it bothered Amir all these years. Amir went reluctantly although he knew it was the right thing to do.

Amir returns to Taliban Kabul with a travel guide. Farid and Amir search all the orphanages looking for Sohrab. They finally find where he had been. He discovers that a Taliban official had taken him from the home. Amir had to go to a soccer match to look for a man who took the boy. The guide Farid had managed to get an appointment at the official's home and said they had business to discuss.

Amir came wearing a fake beard and a pair of sunglasses. Amir met with the official who recognized him even in his disguise. The official is Assef from his childhood. Assef asks about Hassan, Ali and Baba. Sohrab is being held captive at his house dressed like a little girl and Amir wondered if he was being assaulted by the man. Amir asked him to set the boy free and he would take him out of there. Assef agreed to let him go provided Amir could beat him as they would fight over the child. Amir fought hard but was losing at it. Sohrab used his slingshot that his dad had taught him to use. The rock knocked out Assef's left eye. Amir and the boy escaped and drove away with Farid.

Sohrab and Amir head to America. He promises the boy that he will never have to go to an orphanage again, following a long adjustment period, Sohrab refused to speak or even look at his new mother. He was finally coming around. They had had a terrible time. Sohrab had been emotionally hurt deep inside and it took a long time before he felt good about himself again.

Amir had spent a great deal of time talking about his father and one day, he started to respond to them. He finally had a chance to be renewed and whole again. During their kite running in America, Sohrab began to interact with him. Amir takes the kite one day and looks at Sohrab and says "For you, a thousand times over." This is a phrase that Hassan had said many years before and more recently to his own son. Almost a smile came to the boys face. Now there was hope. Amir now had a son and he felt good again.

John Sprague hails from Hampden Maine. He is presently in Iraq working as a contractor. They say it is safe over here now but only time will tell. In my free time, I do a lot of reading and enjoy writing. Please let me know what you think of my writing and if you enjoy any of my work. Let me know if I can be of help to you. Please email me or visit my picture website at http://johnsprague.ws.

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A Review of Maudiegirl And The Von Bloss Kitchen by Carl Muller

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 14:29:00 +0000

Maudiegirl Esther Kimball's first husband, Campbell, died on the voyage to Ceylon. Her second, Kimball, succumbed to malaria. She then married Cecilprins and became his tower of strength. This is how Carl Muller describes - for want of a better word - the heroine of Maudiegirl And The Von Bloss Kitchen.

The book continues the story the author began in the award-winning The Jam Fruit Tree, a tale of Burgher life in Sri Lanka. If "heroine" was a slightly inappropriate description of Maudiegirl, then "story" is certainly not a description of this book's plot. Simply put, the book presents a picture of life within the Burgher community, an island within an island. It illustrates, but does not lead. Read it for an experience, not a journey.

Nominally Dutch, but Sinhalese-speaking, Asian born but with European aspirations, the Burghers are a wholly integrated race apart. The names survive - Van Der Poorten, Caspars etc - but the identity is merely confused. Whose isn't?

Most of this Burgher family's life revolves around food and sex, not always in that order. Sustenance and procreation occupy most of the time, with recreation - usually in the form of sex - taking up the rest. Maudiegirl is the pillar of the household, probably of the community. She brings people together, solves problems, disposes wisdom and occasional rebuke via her cooking. She has a recipe for every occasion. Her meals can cure ills, solve problems, offer advice, and her cooking skills are recognised throughout the Von Bloss family, even the community. The cooking's unfamiliar and complex mix of influences, European, Asian, Dutch, English, Sri Lankan, Indian and American, reflect the community in which they live and its place in the world.

A woman who can't conceive eat too much fish. Need something stronger. Stewed eel works wonders. Only wonder what. Dunnyboy expose himself in public. Big thing. Worries sisters. Eat pork pie. Daughter need baby. Need hammering. Make plum pudding (dried fruit only, butter a pan, boil or steam for four hours). Problem solved.

Carl Muller's style is pithy, occasionally playful, often funny, always earthy, sometimes vaguely embarrassing. He sails metaphorically close to winds and occasionally obfuscates via the inclusion of unexplained, un-translated Sinhalese words and phrases. He makes no excuse for this, and invites the interested reader to find a Sinhalese speaker to help translate this world language and explain, and thereby intensify the experience and promote communication between races and cultures. So there!

Maudiegirl And The Von Bloss Kitchen, this part novel, part cookbook, thus records the day-to-day, reflects life and opens a window onto a perhaps unique culture that is in no way special. There is no plot, no obvious sequence of events, only everyday life as it predictably and unpredictably unfolds. It is also a superb cookbook, recording the recipes of an expert cook. And refreshingly, whatever she cooks and in whatever style, no-one ever seems to dislike anything, pick at their food, question its authenticity, count its calories or even mention omega-3. It's the food of a living culture.

Philip Spires
Author of Mission and A Fool's Knot, African novels set in Kenya
http://www.philipspires.co.uk
Migwani is a small town in Kitui District, eastern Kenya. My books examine how social and economic change impact on the lives of ordinary people. They portray characters whose identity is bound up with their home area, but whose futures are determined by the globaised world in which they live.

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Bestselling Books For Business And Entrepreneurship

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:21:00 +0000

David Brooks writes the novel called The Social Animal: The Hidden Sources of Love, Character, and Achievement. In this novel, you will discover ways in which emotions and character are shaped and affected by all of the various factors in life. Brooks merges the scientific facts of the brain and biology with the intersection of social effects in order to perform a kind of map quest into your mind. Reading this book will help you discover the ways in which these things affect how you love others, live, eat, and make the choices that you make, as well as how you interact with others around you. Also, the book will help you figure out ways to form your moral decisions as well as your wisdom and overall character. With this kind of rich understanding, you will be able to have the tools that are essential to starting your own business.

Another book that is great if you are thinking of starting a new business is by Jim Collins who writes a novel called Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...and Others Don't. This is a novel that explores the behaviors of a variety of other companies who made daring moves by embracing a spirit of change. This book is a good one if you are thinking to start a company or if you have already started a business and are at the helm and want to start some changes that will help you make that move that will take your business to a whole other level. You can not only see examples of what to do, but Collins includes tips through examples of businesses that failed, too, so you will have a comprehensive picture of what tactics will work best.

How To Be The Luckiest Person Alive! By James Altucher is another novel that can help you with your business as it focuses on helping you create luck, and figure out how to have the health, the success and the happiness and dreams that you succeed. You will be able to learn techniques and tips that will help you get lucky in the places where it counts, but not in a fashion of disarray, but rather one that will behoove you in your business ventures.

Patrick Lencioni writes The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, is a book that provides useful information that is easy to read and follow by following a story that happened in Silicon Valley and the way it chose an unlikely leader to lead the company. It shows how the unit of staff failed to connect and how the unlikely boss decided to pull everyone together and create a workplace with a special dynamic that helped fuel the success of the team. Finally, Alexander Osterwalder writes Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers, a book that strives to help you abandon old models and embrace new visions that will take your business to new heights and wonderful heights. For books that help you reach your potential and take your business to new heights, you will benefit from these books.

Roberto Sedycias works as an IT consultant for PoloMercantil

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Review - The Skinny On Time Management

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:20:00 +0000

The Skinny On Time Management: How to Maximize Your 24-Hour Gift, Jim Randel, 2010, ISBN 9780984139392

Here is another in a series of books that attempts to boil down a large subject area into an easy-to-read format. Intended for busy people who want just the bullet points, this book looks at how to best manage your time.

Write out a time journal for an entire week to see just how you are spending your time. You may think that you are being efficient and productive, but seeing it on paper may change your mind. Can changes be made in your schedule, with more time given to more productive activities? You need to set goals for yourself, whether long-term or short-term. Then you will know how to get from where you are to where you want to be. If your goal is important enough to you, then some other thing you are doing may have to be dropped totally. Choices were never meant to be easy.

The book then covers many ways to maximize your time. Fight the urge to procrastinate. Touch a piece of paper, or email, only once; either respond to it, get rid of it or put it in your file to be worked on later. Are there gaps in your day, like when you are sitting in a waiting room, when you could be working on your Blackberry? Are you a "morning person" or a "night owl?" Work on your hardest and most unpleasant tasks when you are most alert and awake. Learn to plan your day, but don't go overboard with the planning. Prioritize your tasks; which ones come first, and which ones can wait. Break a huge task into smaller, more manageable pieces. Can you batch several appointments, for instance, and get them done in one day? Doing crossword puzzles is a good way to improve your memory. Learn how to focus when you are on a task, and not let distractions get in your way. De-cluttering your office, and your email inbox, will always help. The act of writing a daily To Do list helps focus your mind on what you need to do that day.

Instead of reading a bunch of books on how to manage your time, read this book. It can be read in an hour or so, and does an excellent job of telling the busy person just what they need to know. It is a gem of a book.

Paul Lappen is a freelance book reviewer whose blog, http://www.deadtreesreview.blogspot.com, emphasizes small press and self-published books.

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The Leadership Book of Numbers (Volume 1) - A Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:19:00 +0000

How is leadership related to service excellence? Some might consider that a rather easy question, but I'm constantly amazed at how many leaders, and even some very large industries, just don't get the connection.

In The Leadership Book of Numbers (Volume 1) Theo Gilbert-Jamison and Vivian Bright provide a very simple roadmap to help leaders connect the dots. The book contains an extensive series of short lists along with tips and techniques that will help them become more effective leaders while helping their organization in the quest for service excellence.

The authors emphasize a point that is often overlooked, to the detriment of many organizations; there must be a vision and mission as well as a clear statement of values. The leader must clearly and effectively communicate these to the organization; everyone must understand them if the organization is truly striving for excellence.

Although they don't describe their studies in any detail, Gilbert-Jamison and Bright have developed six principles of service excellence from their studies. While high levels of customer service are often not expected of any but large or very high-end companies, that doesn't have to be the case. Any company can provide excellent service to the customer and these six principles provide a solid foundation for success.

The authors understand the importance of employees in the service equation and dedicate several of their lists to methods for leaders to engage employees in excellence. Employees must know the expectations of their leadership and understand how they help meet those expectations. Employee engagement happens when leaders engage with the employees.

The Leadership Book of Numbers (Volume 1) is a short easy read but also provides leaders with a useful quick reference guide to basic leadership principles. It's a quick read but also a lasting compendium that leaders will want to refer to again and again.

Bob Mason is a speaker, trainer, and author of "Planning to Excel: Strategic Planning That Works." After 30 years of leadership experience he founded RLM Planning and Leadership to transform leadership by developing great leaders. Bob works with organizations that want to excel by training managers to lead and creating great strategic plans to keep leaders focused. See what he can do for you at http://www.planleadexcel.com.

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Lovemarks: The Future Beyond Brands

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:18:00 +0000

What makes some brands inspirational, while others struggle? The answer - Lovemarks: The Future Beyond Brands. Lovemarks, for those of you who are not familiar with Kevin Roberts, CEO Worldwide, Saatchi & Saatchi is a book that came out in 2004. Roberts was the inventor and promoter of lovemarks and became quite the fire-starter, when in 2006 he blew new life into JC Penney contract to the tune of $430 million.

We can talk about brands all we want. Back in the day it used to be that the manufacturers held all the cards. Then the retailers became the big power brokers, but now, no question about it, it's the consumer. The consumer has had the power for years. That's nothing new. Consumers are highly intelligent, they will not be manipulated. They know what they like. No company today can hide behind their brand. These days, brands have to be authentic and true. If your corporation is not socially responsible, ethically responsible or environmentally responsible (green), you are going to be challenged. Period.

If the America is the land of entrepreneurship, innovation and ideas where did all the love go? How can we even think about love? Isn't the business world all driven by numbers? Apparently it is, or should I say it was. We took a lot of well-known brands that made us this country great and exported them. Among them are McDonald's, Starbucks, Hollywood and Disney. Is there anything that we haven't exported? GULP!

When asked what is the difference between a great brand and one that's merely good? Roberts said "I love the concept of it. Great brands are ones you can really trust like Tide. You can always count on Tide. It will never let you down." The way advertising works has really changed. It's changed so much you can't even recognize it. It's all about the attention economy now. The Attention Economy is a marketplace where consumers agree to receive services in exchange for their attention. Examples include personalized news, personalized search, alerts and recommendations to buy. It's about consumers having choice - they get to choose where their attention is 'spent.'

Another key ingredient in the attention game is relevancy. What I mean by this is as long as the consumer sees relevant content they are going to stick around. And that creates more opportunities to sell. In the attention economy consumers want something new, and personalization is everything. When a company does their research, and crafts a personal message - it must be one that is detailed and sincere at directed at the consumer. After all we are the ones who are buying it.

Whatever happened to finding the "sweet spots," you know what I'm talking about... it's the place where marketers develop meaningful connections with interested consumers? If the true purpose of social media is to use new technology to facilitate the exchange of ideas, promote new products and foster brand, then who has actually mastered this? Finding these sweet spots takes time, but this type of investment can pay long-term dividends in trust and increased sales.

For many successful companies, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is no longer just a boardroom buzzword, but the key to a business that is thriving. CSR has also helped with major PR problems, think about BP's oil spill. It's great to know that companies are finally being held accountable. It's about time.

It can be easy to deny or ignore the value of ethical responsibility in business, but more and more often, signs of the value stakeholders place on ethical business are being revealed. Businesses have been hit hard by the weak economy, but many companies on have managed to outperform other companies on the S&P 500. Deere & Co. has been in business since 1837, and currently operates in three areas: agriculture and turf, construction and forestry, and credit. It's winning financially when it comes to outperforming the competition.

Environmentally responsible (or green) companies include ones that have an actual environmental footprint, a management of that footprint (including policies and strategies) and a reputation among environmental experts. The best example of this is Dell. Michael Dell, the chairman and CEO believes "The efficiencies we can all achieve through the use of greener products, solutions, services and programs should be an integral part of every corporate culture." It's no wonder the energy efficiency of its products, has helped customers save more $5 billion in energy costs since 2006.

So it's time to get back to basics and stand out from the crowd, get noticed, zig when others zag, Kevin Roberts is glad he did. Isn't it about time you followed suit?

Kathy Batz
kathy@globalinternetsuccess.com
http://globalinternetsuccess.com

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Book Review for "White Tiger"

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:42:00 +0000

Book Review for: White Tiger
Chronicles of Kassouk, Book 1
Written by: Vijaya Schartz
Desert Breeze Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-936000-31-9
Ebook Format
5 Stars

Reviewed by: S. Burkhart

Schartz has created a world rich in futuristic mythology with "White Tiger," Book One in the Chronicles of Kassouk. Tora is a human soldier whose loyalty to the Emperor is without question. As she follows Field Marshall Killion to war, she meets a man called Dragomir who challenges all that she knows to be true about the world.

The novel is set on the plant of Kassouk. The plant's natural climate is Arctic. Humans settled there after leaving a decimated Earth. They know the planet as New Earth.

The Godds have also come to Kassouk, but it's obvious they are an alien race. There are no female Godds so they mate with human females called Valshas. Their children are known as mutants. The Godds provide for the humans, but they also have enemies - the Reptoids. When the Reptoids shoot down the weather satellite that controls the weather, the climate on Kassouk becomes frigid. The Godds prepare to leave, but only after harvesting their female mutant children's eggs.

Tora, daughter of a great general, realizes there is change in the air when the satellite is shot down. The Reptoids and Zerkers pursue the humans of Kassouk, and so Tora takes her company White Tiger, and follows Field Marshall Killion's army into battle.

Along the way, she meets Dragomir, a man who ignites the more passionate, baser emotions in her. Dragomir confesses to be a mutant, but harbors secrets. He warns Tora of a human traitor and leaves after the couple share a forbidden night of passion.

Can Tora find the traitor to the human race and rekindle the love she shared with Dragomir.

Schartz's writing is crisp, original, and filled with creativity. The plot is smooth, action-packed, and moves fast.

"White Tiger" uses a good economy of words to explain the rich mythology and exotic locales of Kassouk without weighing down the reader.

The novel has a strong supporting cast that quickly endears itself to the reader. Driana is a loyal friend, Leah is a clever and beautiful mutant, Phaleg is the fierce Reptoid leader, and Khor and Kasil are the heartless Godds.

Dragomir is honest and loyal, brave in the face of adversity. His only weakness is his love for Tora. Tora is also loyal to her beliefs and exhibits a courage to be admired.

The love scenes are sensual and tasteful. From the first page to the last, "White Tiger" will take the reader for a breathless ride filled with action, adventure, myths, and love.

StephB is an author who likes to read many books and a variety of different genres. StephB is an author at http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steph_Burkhart

Prince William and Kate Royal Wedding Books Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:41:00 +0000

Have you up to speed with the great excitement in London? Prince William and Kate Middleton are getting married! After their engagement in October, the couple has finally decided to exchange "I do's" on April 29, 2011. This royal wedding is going to be the most celebrated event in London that at this point in time a number of William and Kate books have already been published to narrate their romantic story.

Certainly, it is only fitting for both to finally tie the knot after eight long years in the relationship. They are two people in love who stood the test of time while getting to know each other fully and better. Their relationship was in a hiatus in 2007 but this only proved how strong their bond is and was found back in each other's arms shortly.

The most famous book written about the couple is William & Kate: The Love Story: A Celebration of the Wedding of the Century. Written by the royal journalist Robert Jobson, is an full insider account on the latest scoop and events leading to their most awaited day. The book narrates about Prince William and his soon-to-be bride and future Queen Consort, Kate Middleton. Both 28, William and Kate first met at the University of Scotland. This William and Kate book is filled with plenty of photographs on the couple, interesting tales or anecdotes and analysis about their relationship.

Another book dedicated for the couple is the William & Kate: A Royal Love Story. It is a factual publication on hardcover that tells the story of their fairy tale love affair. It is written by The Sun's Royal correspondent, James Clench with 150 never-seen photos and narrations about Will and Kate. The book called William's Princess: The Love Story that will Change the Royal Family Forever is another heart-warming and inspiring revelation of the young couple's early beginnings. It dates back to the time when Prince William was pursuing his career at Sandhurst Royal Military Academy. Suddenly, rumors broke that William will get married after the Queen's 80th birthday when he ended his army training. He was to become future King of England and he must have a Queen! This hardcover is written by the award-winning journalist, Robert Jobson who exposed the marriage between Prince Charles and Camilla to the public in 2005. You can collect all these books today at a very affordable price. These Will and Kate books are timeless collections that are worth keeping. Also available is the book focused on Kate's life is Kate: Kate Middleton: Princess in Waiting and also another one called William & Kate: A Royal Souvenir.

Collect all Will and Kate books as a momento of the royal wedding of the decade. Visit the William and Kate Royal Weddinglens where you can also get the latest news and check out the latest royal souvenirs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karina_Stewart

Barefoot Books Review - The Animal Boogie

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:40:00 +0000

The Animal Boogie is now famous, maybe even infamous as a bestseller at independent publishers Barefoot Books.

So what makes The Animal Boogie so popular?

It is so addictive!

Even as I write this I can hear myself humming the tune and jiggling my foot. It is an instant addictive hit!

It Is Such Family Fun

Barefoot recommend this book for children aged 3 to 7. This is not true. My daughter had this when she was 2 and still loves it at 6 ½. On top of that 3 generations have been up and doing the 'boogie, oogie, woogie', including a 70+ great grandmother!

Be warned though that once played it will stick with you for a very long time. Be prepared to play it in the car on long journeys to pass the time. It certainly beats arguments and the eventual boredom of I spy. The miles just fly by.

Great for Parties and Groups

Whether you are planning a party or are involved in a group or nursery, the Animal Boogie is perfect material. It has a musical score for the brave at the back and everyone can get involved doing their own actions for each animals. Stamp like an elephant and slither like a snake using whatever part of the body you want.

If you have a group that has instruments you can get those out as well, or make your own. Again an extra plus to this interactive sing along

Colourful, vibrant and all inclusive

The book is filled with full colour illustrations that are bright and beautiful. Each animal is accompanied by a different child. Each child is from a different ethnic background or culture. The publishers have really thought about this as well as there is also a girl in a wheelchair. You really can boogie and have fun whatever your race, creed or physical situation. There is something for everyone.

The Animal Boogie is really one of the most fun books I have come across. No one is left out and everyone can join in with their own brand of boogie.

Find out more about The Animal Boogie and Barefoot Books and read an extended review at http://www.my-barefootbooks.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Faulkner

Book Review: Fahrenheit 451 By Ray Bradbury

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 04:00:00 +0000

Ray Bradbury's dystopian novel Fahrenheit 451 tells the story of Guy Montag, a fireman whose job is to burn books that are considered dangerous. One night when Montag meets his neighbor Clarisse McClellan, she wakes him up and forces him to think about his life, happiness, ideals and why the society he lives in looks the way it does. He starts to realize what an empty life he has been living and begins to question why books are considered dangerous and burned. Montag's boss, Captain Beatty, notices his guilt and comes to visit him one day when Montag has called in sick. He explains why they burn books, how they bring all kinds of unwanted emotions, feelings and rebellion. Beatty claims that it is better if society conforms to collective thought, because it will be much less dangerous.

One day at work the fire crew is sent out to a house where a woman refuses to give up her books. When they burn down the house with all the books, the woman is still inside. Montag feels responsible for this and the event changes his life completely. He seeks the help of an old English teacher named Faber who he had once met. While Clarisse had helped him see how the world works, Faber is responsible for his full awakening. Faber teaches him what books really mean, the importance of literature and offers to guide him to take action towards his new ideas. Montag decides that he will never burn a book again. After a while his boss begins to suspect that he is hiding and collecting books and one day he is called out to burn down his own home. Montag refuses to follow the orders and tries to escape. The story continues with Montag on the run as a fugitive while the chase is broadcast live on television.

Fahrenheit 451 is an amazing book about the pitfalls of a society without individuality or reason, where people have lost their ability to think for themselves. Maybe what is most remarkable is that we may not even realize that society has become that way, or that we have become part of it, as is the case for the protagonist of this novel, Guy Montag. This book has been compared to George Orwell's 1984 and there are a lot of similarities. Both novels describe a society where individuals have little control of their own lives and thoughts. But I think that Fahrenheit 451 feels less dark and has a slightly more optimistic view, which makes it a more enjoyable read.

LitBlog.net - Novel reviews, suggestions, summaries and news.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christian_Nilson

Tinnitus Miracle Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 01:04:00 +0000

Since its launch Tinnitus Miracle has been 1 selling tinnitus cure electronic book for a number of real reasons one thousand's of males and females of nearly every age have totally reversed any tinnitus issues they'd and disposed of ear ringing naturally, with no drugs, dangerous surgery or sorcery potions just by using the medically proved, step-by-step methodologies within this Tinnitus treatment electronic book. Thomas Coleman, an authorized diet consultant, health consultant and author hasn't just pumped out one more Tinnitus Treatment into an already over-saturated market. Thomas's Tinnitus Miracle can be more correctly described as an Tinnitus Bible. It is reasonably simply one of the most elaborate, complete, and exact guides to tinnitus treatment you may ever read. What makes it so much different than other Tinnitus publications on the market? Well first off, it's not only a tinnitus help program, it's a tinnitus cure program. This could appear like semantics or wordplay initially, but once you have read just the 1st chapters, there'll be without doubt in your consciousness that chasing help with your Tinnitus is not just the incorrect goal, it could be the fact that you have did not dispose of the ringing sounds in your ears till now. Tinnitus Miracle shows you precisely why you need to fix the internal problem that is obstructing your odds of shedding the torturing sounds in your ears and then goes on to show you how to do it. Second , what makes Tinnitus Miracle different is the quantity of attention that's paid to every part needed to dump the sounds in your ears the natural way.

Tinnitus Miracle not only entirely debates the lies, legends and misconceptions surrounding a particularly confusing subject, it is simply the most complicated book about Tinnitus and holistic health ever written. The Tinnitus Miracle book is reasonably in depth ( 250 pages of rock solid content ) which concentrates on 100% natural technique for disposing of the sounds in your ears swiftly. That implies there are not suggestions for tough prescribed drugs, white noise, or surgeries with evil complications. In Tinnitus Miracle core formula section ( The three step system ) Nothing is held back.

In this section, Thomas gives an exhaustive helicopter view of every step, and then dives into the specifics in an ideal chronological order. There also are excellent charts and checklists which make it so easy to know where you are at in the program and follow it.

As the Tinnitus Miracle program isn't a quick solution 'fairy tale' cure but a total holistic solution directed at getting shot of the real cause of tinnitus issues ( irrespective of your age ) and guarantee your will lose the sounds in your ears quickly, it does take work and endurance to finish. The compendium is the one place success comes before work claims Thomas, as he emphasises the no fast fix philosophy behind the whole book. If there's any flaw to the Tinnitus Miracle ebook, it's that it contains so much info, that some readers could find it a bit overpowering.

People who are on the lookout for a fast start kind of Tinnitus program, could be a bit intimated initially. The good part is that even these sorts of readers can feel assured and guaranteed that it'll be worth the effort because this can literally be the last book they ever have to buy on the topic. Who shall benefit most from Tinnitus Miracle? In the broadest sense, anybody who wants to get rid of the sounds in their ears naturally and regain their natural inner balance will find advantages in Tinnitus Miracle. This PDF is truthfully for everybody. Even people without tinnitus issues. This is a total health rejuvenation program better than 98% of the nourishment and alternative health books on the market. Apropos design, Tinnitus Miracle is a clean and professionally formatted PDF PDF. It is well arranged and superb for printing and reading in the pleasure of your own house. This provoking and unique publication has modified many lives and the tons of inspiring testimonials and success stories are found on the Tinnitus Miracle internet site archives as explanation. The Bottom line? Any one looking out for an easy solution solution to dumping the sounds in their ears, anybody looking to learn fairy-tales, and anybody looking out for a sorcery bullet, tablets, over the counters, 'cure tinnitus in two weeks' hyped up programs shouldn't waste their time with Tinnitus Miracle.
Click On The Link To Read A Reviews the Tinnitus Miracle Guide

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Author of http://www.cafeworldguide.wordpress.com/

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A Review of "Adsense Revenue Exposed" by Michael Rasmussena

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 22:17:00 +0000

Are you exhausted from servicing your clients, struggling to find work or overwhelmed while paying the bills? Then you need to invest some time in developing passive income. Passive income is money you make even when you are asleep or working with a client. One avenue of passive income is to partner with Google.

Thousands of businesses are paying Google to carry their advertisements on search results. You can profit from this fact by partnering with Google even if you know nothing about internet marketing. You can create content rich web sites about any topic including your hobbies, your business, current events, a blog and much, much more.

If this sounds interesting you need to read "Adsense Revenue Exposed" by Michael Rasmussena and Jason Tarasi. This e-book is a mere 29 pages and a quick and easy read:

The main chapters included in the e-book:

*Make Sense of Google AdSense - and make money!
*How much can I make with AdSense and how do I get started?
*Join the AdSense Program
*The 5-Step Plan To Success
*Summary and Additional Resources

Some of the topics covered are:

*3 reasons your website should be using Google Adsense (and nothing else) right now.
*How to keep your competitors ads from showing up on your website.
*How to let visitors search the web from your site (and profit while they do it)
*The simple mathematical formula behind Adsense that makes you cash. (And makes some Google Adsense users up to $25,000.00 a month.)
*The trick to creating a website Google will love (and will end up making you the most profits with).
*How to format your ads to get the most clicks (and cash)!
*Where to place your ads for maximum exposure (there's a technique to it).
*5 tips to selecting super-keywords that bring in visitors that are ready to click.

The authors begin with an overview of Google Adsense and Google Adwords. Next you are lead through the steps necessary to set up Google Adsense and install it on your site to create income for you. This e-book highlights the technical aspect of setting up Adsense and getting it installed on your site. I wish this e-book had been around when I set up Adsense on my site. I would have saved so much time!

The next chapter of the e-book is a five step plan for success covers do's and don'ts, Google rules, Adsense options, tools, scripts and additional resources. The language is non technical and there is very little jargon making it easy for everyone to read.

This e-book will help with both the inexperienced and experienced AdSense publishers. I've read a number of e-books lately about Google Adsense and this is one of the best.

(c) 2006, Davis Virtual Assistance. Reprint rights granted so long as the by-line and resource box are reprinted intact and all links made live. You may not use this article in any type of spam or sell it alone or with other articles.

Information on chameleon cages can be found at the Chameleon Lizard site.

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Book about approaching women? The Art of Approaching review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 22:13:00 +0000

The Art of Approaching ebook has caused quite a stir and there have been a lot of people talking about it.
Naturally, I wanted to immediately review this book that apparently teaches men how to approach women!

What I liked the most was that this book is one of a kind as it is the only one in the seduction world that goes into detail about approaching women. When trying to meet women, this approaching aspect is the biggest sticking point for most guys.

I know how most guys feel. Heck I've been there and know what it's like when you want to approach an attractive woman to attempt to start a converation with her. Picture this situation, your heart beats faster, you start becoming nervous and your adrenaline kicks in. It sounds like you're going to war doesn't it!

This ebook, The Art of Approaching talks about approaching women in comprehensive detail, and is a great guide for this purpose. The book has several chapters and they include the topics relating to:
- The Art Of Body Language
- The Art Of Confidence
- The Art Of Approaching
- The Art Of Flirting
- The Art Of Storytelling
- The Art Of Being Social

Even though the book does cover other aspects of dating and seduction, the focus is mainly about the initial approach. Clearly I had no idea how complicated the topic of approaching women was until the author showed me in precise detail the mechanics involved.

It was interesting to see how you can in fact directly open a woman and telegraph your interest in her without being a creepy guy. I like how the author points out 3 additional ways to approach women that I didn't even know about. For example using indirect or situational conversational openers. The best thing is that Joseph Matthews in the Art of Approaching talks about how to deal with the psychological pressure when it comes to apporaching women.

To learn what to do when you meet women and stand out from the chumps, check out Art Of Approaching. Or check out: http://yourownwingman.com/joseph-matthews-the-art-of-approaching-review.php. You will learn things you never knew existed!

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_891455_39.html

The Lotto Black Book Exposed - Winning Numbers

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 22:08:00 +0000

After 8 years of thourough research into the many existing lottery systems Adam Blair a mathmatics professor wrote The Lotto Black Book.

The result of this research was a formulae for picking the winning numbers in lotto using number combinations and systematic patterns.

Of course his ability to pick the winning lotto numbers which resulted in Three million five hundred thousand in winnings from his first few lotto entries has had both a negative and positive affect on him.

On the positive side increased wealth and an enhanced reputation, on the negative side unwanted attention by criminal minded thugs wanting to know his secret formulae at any cost.

Larry was actually shot in the leg by one of his would-be kidnappers while making his escape after they failed to get him to disclose his winning formula. The Lotto Black Book reveals there is a pattern to choosing the winning numbers in lotto. This pattern can be figured out by using Larry's formula. This is the basis of what The Lotto Black Book is all about.

It shows how to map out a pattern and figure out the winning numbers using his formula. It's not surprising that many will be incredulous when reading The Lotto Black Book and otherallied lottery systems that purport to have cracked the code to picking the winning numbers in lotto.

The testimonials of others however who have used his formulae and won fortunes themselves are facts hard to ignore.

I have asked myself why is Larry Blair selling his book, when he can make all the money he wants by playing lotto. He may say that it's his way of giving something back to those less fortunate than himself or he just wants to share his success with as many people as he possibly can.

Does it even matter, the fact of the matter is, does the formulae work and one will never know unless they try it for themselves. It dosen't matter to much what others have to say even if it is in support. Books of this nature always have some sought of mystique about them and are the topic of lively debate.

Purchasing the book will produce one of 2 obvious results:

1. The winning lotto numbers will come in and you will be the happiest person in the world.

2. Your numbers won't come in and you may feel yourv'e been cheated out of the cost of the book. Or you can keep trying. You know what they say if at first you don't succeed!!

Get your FREE Lotto Black Book Report now CLICK THIS LINK

About the Author:

Hi My name is Maurice and I enjoy writing articles on a range of topics and also enjoy doing program and book reviews.

The Secrets to Acupuncture Insurance Billing: A Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:47:00 +0000

Elie Goldschmidt, a fellow acupuncturist, has recently come out with an e-book that I think all acupuncturists should have if they want an easy way to more effectively monetize their practice.
The e-book is called The Secret to Acupuncture Insurance Billing: The Secret to How I Earn Up to $300 Per Treatment and So Can You!

This is a short, to-the-point manual that you can read in about an hour and start making money from pretty much right away. The e-book is about $30, but could easily add thousands to your bottom line year in and year out in your private practice.

Normally I encourage my coaching clients to do as much as possible to build a cash-based private practice. But if you can eliminate most of the negatives of dealing with insurance AND you can ethically and honestly make $3-400 per treatment, I say, why not??

The beauty of this approach is that it works best if you are out-of-network with the insurance companies. That is perk #1 because being in-network is pretty much an awful ordeal a lot of the time. Perk #2 is that you can outsource your medical billing to an expert who will only take a small percentage of paid claims. This will eliminate all of the hassle involved in paperwork and follow up, which can be tedious and very time-consuming.

Perk #3 is that you really can make this much per treatment! I used to bill as Elie recommends when I took some insurance in my practice and it definitely works.

Check out Elie's ebook and learn how to monetize your practice more effectively. This will help you bring more new patients in the door and make quite a bit more money in the process.

You can learn about acupuncture insurance billing on my blog by following this link. You can also learn more about acupuncture marketing at my membership site. Kevin Doherty, L.Ac. is a practice-building coach for acupuncturists around the world.

Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1320947_15.html

Pregnancy Miracle Book Review - Pregnancy Miracle by Lisa Olson

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:45:00 +0000

I being one of them who was not convinced and when I dug further with a friend who successfully conceived after a lot of pain, I was astonished to hear that they are taking the advice of a lady called Lisa Olson thorough a e-book called Pregnancy Miracle. Since this arose a hope as well as suspicion in me, I decided to delve further.

Once I got home, I switched on my computer and went on to the e-book's website. At first, it looked like any other web page that sells wares on the internet. As is a habit I scrolled right to the bottom and found the price of the e-book was $39 and it comes with a lot of bonuses as thought it was not selling. After going through numerous experience testimonials and speaking to a few of them myself, I was convinced that this was not a scam or a hoax.

The longing for a child got the better of me here. I have been married for 12 years and after all the efforts could not conceive a child. All our visits to the doctors have turned out no evidence as to the reason. This instilled hope and I began at the beginning to read the e-book. It took me the better part of my time everyday to read and understand what Lisa was trying to say.

It all made sense and then I began to look at Pregnancy Miracle by lisa olson is different light. All the points discussed were relevant and Lisa would not know a lot of these things unless she has sailed in the same boat. I found out that she has and has been researching this field for about 14 years, in fact she has dedicated her life to the cause of women who are infertile, to cure them and get them to conceive.

After reading, understanding and following her advice, I followed the five step process and in a very short period of four months and in fact, three years down the line, I am a mother of two healthy children, a boy and a girl. As parents, me and my husband have been thrilled.

To Download Pregnancy Miracle Book by Lisa Olson Visit Website Below:

Click Here to Download Pregnancy Miracle Book By Lisa Olson

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Three Cups of Tea - A Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 22:09:00 +0000

Author: SusanO

Three Cups of Tea

One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time

By Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

VIKING Hardcover 2006 ISBN 0-670-03482-7

PENGUIN Paperback 2007 ISBN 978-0-14-303825-2

TANTOR Audio 2007 ISBN 1-4001-0251-0

TANTOR MP3 Digital 2007 ISBN 1-4001-5251-8

WHEELER Large Print 2008 ISBN 978-1-59722-624-0

You're stranded in the bitter cold of the Karakorum mountain range in

Pakistan. You're separated from your guide and friends, alone, and without proper gear. What do you do? You keep moving! "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin is the story of how one man kept moving.

When Greg Mortenson failed to make the summit of K2, he was devastated, but worse than that he was lost. He had been separated from his guide twice, but managed to make it to the tree line alone. Once there, he soon wandered into the village of Korphi. Hospitality is not an option in this part of the world. You take in strangers. In spite of extreme poverty, Mortenson was taken into the village and nursed back to health in the home of the village elder Hajii Ali. Little did he know that Hajii Ali would become a close friend and a type of mentor as he did his work in Pakistan.

Living among these simple people, Mortenson was impressed by their friendliness and fortitude in the face of a difficult existence. Even though he was a nurse, the people of Korphi and surrounding villages began to call him Dr. Greg because of the basic medical care he dispensed. The people suffered from goiters, cataracts and malnutrition. One out of every three children died before reaching the age of one. And the nearest doctor was a week's walk from the village.

Dr. Greg was also impressed by their hunger for knowledge. Although the teacher only visited Korphi three days a week, the students gathered every day for their lessons. Seventy-eight boys and four brave girls gathered to practice multiplication tables with sticks in the dirt. The village couldn't afford a teacher of their own so they shared with a neighboring village. It cost one dollar a day for a teacher! When Mortenson left, he promised to return and build them a school.

As in many other parts of the world, the only way out of the desperate life of village survival is education. This was an option for a few fortunate boys, but for girls it was not an option in Pakistan. At least not in the mountains. For a girl to be educated, not only did she have to have money to leave the mountains, but for a male relative to accompany her. But girls, unlike many boys, if educated would return to the village and help improve the life of the villagers. This is what Mortenson wanted to see.

Three Cups of Tea is also about our approach to the world. In accepting the villagers exactly as they were Mortenson gained an acceptance that is very rare for a westerner in an Islamic country. This acceptance comes from the fact that he got to know them, their desires and needs, in the context of the life that is precious to them. He didn't try to change them, just added value to what they already had.

Mortenson kept his promise. He did return, and the journey back to Korphi was in some ways as challenging as the ascent of the mountains. Through raising money, arranging for materials, and negotiating physical and political obstacles, Mortenson didn't give up. And once the school was built, the need was still there, so he didn't stop.

Beginning in the village of Korphe, Pakistan and continuing today in both Pakistan and Afghanistan, Morentson and the organizations he founded, Central Asia Institute and Pennies For Peace, have continued to build schools. As of 2008, they have completed 130 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan, many of which are specifically for girls.

The writing in this book is excellent and the story inspiring. In my

opinion, this is a must read for anyone who is interested in making our world a better place.

For more information see the following:

http://www.ikat.org (Central Asia Institute)

http://www.penniesforpeace.org

http://www.threecupsoftea.com

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1089281_22.html

I have been in education for many years, from technical instruction in telecommunications to high school math. Currently, I am trying my hand at internet marketing. I love learning and trying new things.

http://www.gogreendyi.com

The Buffett System - Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 22:05:00 +0000

Author: Stock Market Success Online

The Buffett System

The Buffett system is developed to show exactly how Warren Buffett invests. This man is an investor who has gained the respect and awe of the entire investment community with his soldier like discipline, rocketing success and his constant battle with Bill Gates as the richest man in the world.

The Introduction of this book boasts that it is a “step-by-step guide – complete with a worksheet to assist you” which will show you “exactly how to invest like Warren Buffett… RIGHT NOW!” This sets high expectations from the start, but it does exactly what it says on the tin. It does focus on the US with American sites to get info. However, the actual system could be replicated on any market in the world.

The book starts off with some concepts including visualising your stocks as companies, not just symbols and prices, diversification and your company’s “moat” as well as the three biggest mistakes investors make. There were a number of “value screeners” offered so as to find a place to start. This is extremely important as a journey is difficult to end if there is no starting point.

“Crunching the Numbers” covered the actual roadmap of picking out the important numbers lending to fundamental analysis and processing them. This was the part that really did it for me. There absolute clarity as to where to find these crucial “numbers”. Due to the importance of this section, several screen shots are included to hold your hand completely through sifting your way to find the information required.

“Valuation “ summed up the preceding chapters and led us right to the decision of whether or not to invest with some minor computations, with the aid of a particular online calculator designed to facilitate us.

With reference to selling, I quote “we won’t be offering any vague advice here” and it’s true – the book gives another simple process to make it possible for you to decide whether to hold or sell. The book finishes with some appendices i.e. a worksheet which provides the template for one’s investments, suggested reading etc.

For the advanced investor, I would suggest writing far out of the money calls to increase your income and perhaps do better than the Buffett System.

Overall, I found this an excellent book and would highly recommend it to either a novice or experienced seeking a worthwhile, profitable system for picking out stocks to include in your portfolio.

The team at stockmarketsuccessonline.com are dedicated to spreading the word about how the greatest investor in the world chooses his stocks - this great man deserves a legacy! If you would like to learn more about the book, you can do so at www.stockmarketsuccessonline.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1004084_19.html

Astral Projection Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 22:01:00 +0000

Author: Rin

If you are looking for an astral projection book that will teach you everything you need to know about astral projection, then you need not look any further after reading Astral Projection Underground by Abhishek Agarwal. In this 350 page book, he reveals some of the most closely guarded secrets from India about astral projection. In fact, what he teaches in this book is so powerful that you are guaranteed to have your first astral projection in 30 days or less.

You may be wondering what exactly does Agarwal teach in this book that makes it so special? Well I will try my best to break it down for you.

The first thing I thought I should mention is that this astral projection book has been written based on 15 years of research and experience. It is not based on myth or any personal beliefs, it is based on the author's personal experiences and the techniques he has used to master this almost lost skill.

Just a few of the things you will learn include:

*The basics of astral projection (covered in Chapter 1)

*There are actually benefits from astral projection that you might not have been aware of. (covered in Chapter 2 )

* In Chapter 3, all the myths and misunderstands regarding astral projection are set straight for the record.

*8 Tips that will help prepare you and get you ready for astral projection

*22 techniques for astral projection

and much more! I have just covered a few of the things included in this astral projection book.

If you would like to learn more about Astral Projection Underground, you can download the first 2 chapters for free at AstralProjectionRevealed.com.

Also, you can read another review of this book by visiting Astral Projection Book

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_880497_51.html

Book Review: The Shack

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 01:02:00 +0000

An associate at work insisted I read "The Shack." He wouldn't give me many details of the book but did say it revealed God's grace in personal tragedy. After a few false starts, I was able to finally start the book.

Not being a great fan of Christian novels, I was immediately disappointed but endeavored to continue reading. I confessed I was entertained by Young's prose in that he gave so much detail in visualizations of descriptions. I did become distracted as I begin to analyze his style and forgot about the message. However, all authors have their own distinct style and I should leave it at that. In chapter 7 he became C.S. Lewisesque with the transformation of the lead character's reality (Mark) into a fantasy land. Ugh..., Lord of the Rings here we go. (I enjoyed the movies but just couldn't hang with the books.)

If you have ever read C.S. Lewis, "The Chronicles of Narnia" or John Bunyan's "Pilgrim Progress," you understand how the authors use the power of metaphor and association to illustrate the character and attributes of God. Young uses contemporary metaphor to reveal God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. He lets the dynamics of the family relationship describe his understanding of the trinity. The reader can immediately identify the three persons of the Godhead by the roles Young has assigned to them. I'll admit that God cast as an Aunt Jemima type threw me for a loop at first. However, "God" explained that "She" appeared in the form that Mark identified with or needed most, i.e., a nurturing mother. Jesus was portrayed as handyman fisherman good ole' boy. I never did figure out the Holy Spirit.

Leaving Young's entertainment value behind, I began analyzing his theology. I easily concluded that Young believes in classic Pelagianism. Which is what, you ask? Let me quote from Wikipedia, "It is the belief that original sin did not taint human nature and that mortal will is still capable of choosing good or evil without Divine aid. Thus, Adam's sin was "to set a bad example" for his progeny, but his actions did not have the other consequences imputed to Original Sin. Pelagianism views the role of Jesus as "setting a good example" for the rest of humanity (thus counteracting Adam's bad example). In short, humanity has full control, and thus full responsibility, for its own salvation in addition to full responsibility for every sin (the latter insisted upon by both proponents and opponents of Pelagianism). According to Pelagian doctrine, because humanity does not require God's grace for salvation (beyond the creation of will) Jesus' execution is devoid of the redemptive quality ascribed to it by orthodox Christian theology."

Young unfortunately in his attempt to personalize the Godhead did so at the expense of the Godhead sovereignty. Young's god is similar to the one theorized by Pelagius. God created the world and sits back and observes life as it acts itself out--only occasionally intervening, but doing so as to not interfere with man's so called "freewill." Of course, God often resists the temptation to intervene because of His love for His creatures. This is not unlike a clockmaker who winds up a clock, places it on the mantle, and watches time go by. The clockmaker’s only chore is wind it up from time to time.

Young’s casual approach to illustrate the sovereign God described in the Bible leads me to think he was influenced by Harold S. Kushner's book, "When Bad Things Happen to Good People." This little book was published in the early 1980's and was a big seller. In it, Kushner trashed God’s omnipotence and omniscience. Kushner stated, "If God can't make my sickness go away, what good is He? Who needs Him? God does not want you to be sick or crippled. He didn't make you have this problem, and He doesn't want you to go on having it, but He can't make it go away. That is something which is too hard even for God." Of course, I have no idea if Young ever read Kushner, but the thought did pass my mind.
I'll give Young high marks for his description of lead character’s encounter with the judge. Young captured the key cause of our character's continued remorse and brooding over his personal loss. Our hero was blaming God for his loss and angry at God for not intervening. People murmuring and complaining about how life has "dealt them a bad hand of cards" is a stab at God.

In my counseling ministry most people seeking solutions for their problems are unhappy that God didn’t give them a better break. Whether it is a better set of parents or a more loving and responsible spouse, counselees are disappointed with God that He hasn’t given them a hassle free life. They fail to see the purpose of suffering, and certainly don’t appreciate Romans 8:28-29: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren." How can "all things work together for god to them that love God?" I believe trials and tribulations ("things") help us to be more Christ like in our character and behavior.

I've met several people who have read or are currently reading The Shack. Young's talent has captured the minds of many and some are riveted to his book. It's unfortunate that they will be left with an image of God not of the scriptures. For instance, why did God create Pharaoh of Egypt? What was the purpose of the book of Job? How did Judas Iscariot glorify God? What is Romans chapter 9 talking about? The scriptures are loaded with themes and illustrations that demonstrate God's power. These events display His attributes and how they interact to create His perfect plan.

For whatever reason, Young seeks to feminize the Godhead by making two of the persons of the trinity women. On page 93, Papa says, "I am neither male nor female." That is a great stretch especially when you consider that of all the appearances of a deity to a human, or to a divine disclosure in the Bible (known as Theophany for God's appearance and Christophany for Christ), not one is feminine. If God made man in His own image, why was Adam created a man? Why not something else?

So why did Young want God to appear as a female? It’s possible with his exposure as a missionary, Young wanted to introduce diversity; whether it be in sex, races, or culture. It’s also possible he wanted humankind to identify more with God if Young could be successful in making God appear more human. If God used Christ’s appearance in the Bible as Middle Eastern man to build the His bridge, why not introduce African and Oriental women to enhance the identification? Let’s not quibble. At least when CS Lewis created the lion, Aslan, to personify Christ, the Lewis reader had no problem comprehending the comparison of a Lion to Christ.

My greatest problem is with Young’s lack of understanding of sin and salvation and the Gospel message. Let me quote on page 225, Papa says "I have forgiven all humans for their sins against me, but only some choose relationship." And later, "When you forgive someone you certainly release them from judgment."

Then what condemns a person to eternal damnation? In context, Young apparently is teaching it is the lack of a relationship that sends a person to hell. If this be true, then a relationship can only exist when one believes. So, if a person doesn’t believe, then it must be the sin of unbelief that condemns a man.

The Puritan John Owen (1616-1683), posed the following question, "For Who Did Christ Die?"

1. All the sins of all men.
2. All the sins of some men, or
3. Some of the sins of all men.

In which case it may be said:
1. If the last be true, all men have some sins to answer for, and so, none are saved.
2. That if the second be true, then Christ, suffered for all the sins of all the elect in the whole world.
3. But if the first be the case, why are not all men free from the punishment due unto their sins?

Some may answer, "Because of unbelief (or lack of relationship)."
I would ask, is this unbelief (i.e., lack of relationship according to Young) a sin, or is it not? If it is, then Christ suffered the punishment for it, or He did not. If He did, why must that sin condemn them more than their other sins for which Christ died? If He did not, He did not die for all their sins."

The Bible clearly teaches that grace is what saves and uses faith as the means. Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches that even the faith is a gift of God so we can’t boast. Furthermore, Young’s theology leaves no room for the doctrine of Justification by Faith. How is a person declared righteous before God? Young needs a clear reading of Abraham’s account in Romans.
Overall, The Shack is an entertaining read and I would put it on a shelf next to the Christian romance novels genre which my oldest son refers to as "Christian smut." It certainly doesn’t belong near Pilgrim’s Progress or near any good books on the nature of God.

If one is looking for a solid Biblically based book on how to deal with personal suffering, I strongly recommend Jerry Bridges book, "Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts" Bridges shows how we must learn about God's sovereignty, wisdom, and love if we want to know Him better. You won’t be disappointed.
Johnny is an instructor and counselor at the Gateway Biblical Counseling and Training Center, located at Edgemont Bible Church, 5100 North Illinois, Fairview Heights, Illinois, 62208.

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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_952290_51.html

Occupation: Counselor

Mr. Johnny Kicklighter has served as a lay counselor for over 15 years. He obtained an Associates Degree in Weather Forecasting from the Community College of the Air Force. He earned a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Liberty University and a Master's Degree in Biblical Counseling from the Master's Divinity School. After serving in the US Air Force for 26 years, he retired as a Chief Master Sergeant. Johnny is Certified by the International Association of Biblical Counselors. Johnny and his wife have four grown sons and 5 grandchildren.

http://www.gateway-biblical-counseling.net

Book Review of West's Time Machine, A Novel for Youth.

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 01:05:00 +0000

Foreword Magazine called it, "a fascinating adventure through time." West's Time Machine is an exhilarating novel that is jam packed with 187 pages of never-ending action. For those who love the thrill of time travel and those who love Einstein, this book combines the two to create the adventure of a lifetime.

A year after the tragic car accident that killed West and Gina's parents, the kids come across some old boxes in a shed. The boxes belonged to their parents and to their amazement, one of them contained the parts of a 1955 Harley Davidson. West felt that his parents would love to have put that old bike together, so as a tribute to them, he and his baby sister begin to piece together the motorcycle until they at last finish it in all its glory.

The old shed that contained the box of motorcycle parts also held many other boxes with the bold white letters ‘Property of NASA,' written across them. The kids catch sight of these and asked their grandmother about them. As it turns out, their father bought them long ago at a NASA auction and thought he could build something useful from all the parts. West and Gina decide to search through the boxes to see what fun treasures they might find. They find a mysterious brown folder marked TOP SECRET. They opened the folder and found the plans for building an actual time machine. They quickly set upon themselves to build this machine from the parts in the boxes. Once built, they attached it to the side of the motorcycle.

When trying out the motorcycle, they accidently activate the time travel box, which transports them back in time to the August 5th, 1948. Here they meet Albert Einstein. He becomes fascinated by the motorcycle and takes it for a joy ride. West and Gina jump on behind him and shoot through time until they find themselves safely back at home in 2008.

The two kids teach Albert Einstein about the many technological marvels of today, like laptop computers and on-line chatting plus much more. When West's teacher takes a small break to have her baby, Einstein gets the chance to take over. Albert takes the time machine box off the motorcycle and brings it to class with him in hopes of learning more about it. When Albert isn't paying attention, one of the students begin messing with the time machine and in avertedly ends up sending the entire classroom and its contents into the past to 1875. The students are taken aback at first, but then decide that they should take this opportunity to look around a bit at their surroundings.

West encounters Billy The Kid in a jail cell window and gets talked into reaching in the adjacent window to grab the jail keys off the desk. He hands them to Billy, not wanting to leave a kid behind bars. After some interesting interactions with the local towns folk, Einstein leads them back to their classroom and turns on the time machine taking them all back to the present. This causes the students to go home, raving about the great Mr. Albert and how he caused them to become more interested in science and history. The school principal is so taken aback that he offers Mr. Albert the chance to teach West's classroom for the rest of the week.

Gina and West beg Albert to help them rescue their parents who died in a devastating car crash one year earlier. When Albert is certain that he has learned how to control the time machine, all three of them get on the motorcycle and begin traveling through time. Suddenly West and Gina's argument breaks out into a hitting and kicking fight while on the bike. They accidentally hit some of the time machine controls, sending them not to the past, but sprawling forward into the future! More than 2300 years into the future, where they find the last city left on Earth, Atlantis. The three of them get shrunk down to size of raisins so that they can enter the miniature city of Atlantis, where they find the only food sources are insects and fungus. Trying to save the people of Atlantis, they strap the time machine box to both the motorcycle and the tiny city in an attempt to bring them back to the year 2007, when food and life on Earth is plentiful and their parents were alive. When they arrived, they had only minutes to prevent their parent's car accident. The people of Atlantis offered to pay back his kindness by helping to save his parents.

It is a captivating book with adventure around every corner. They travel through time not once, but many times, encountering many oddities and wonders that stimulate the creativity and imagination of the reader. This is a must have for any library. This novel can be found at any on-line bookstore like Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com.

--
Please have a look at novels West's Time Machine, and George's Pond.

West's Time Machine Novel:
http://www.amazon.com/Wests-Time-Machine-Scott-Waring/dp/0595418872

George's Pond Novel:
www.amazon.com/Georges-Pond-Created-Tradition-Charlottes/dp/0595421350

Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_799510_32.html

A Book Review: Great Resource for Group Facilitation

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 01:03:00 +0000

Anyone who is a leader or member of a group and wants to get things accomplished knows that there are many issues and challenges that groups commonly face as they seek to find creative solutions, launch new initiatives, and create high performing teams.

The Book Leading Groups to Solutions addresses how team leaders and team members can collaborate, problem solve, plan, organize, and make decisions by exploring models and tools that enable facilitators to help groups achieve their goals.

This book is not about meeting management, nor is it about how to present or speak in front of a group. It is not about how to train or teach people, though this can be part of the process.
This book is about the collaborative process of building consensus, creating synergy, and harnessing collective energy to create innovative solutions. The practical ideas guide group facilitation through combining the best individual thinking into one focused effort and creating shared commitment so that the implementation of solutions is supported and sustained long term.
With 55 combined years of experience, in research and client work, we've observed group facilitation and behaviors in many situations and have learned a few things about what makes an effective team. We also put our own facilitation skills and process to the test as we discussed, debated, and argued the merits of various approaches and theories. Even the writing and editing of the book required that we "walk our own talk" as we resolved differences, defined priorities, and created a coherent message.

We believe that the principles and suggestions in this book will help everyone who spends time in teams. Whether leading, participating as a team member, or both, you will find that this book provides a practical framework for facilitating effective teams.
"A solution is the result of many ideas coming together."

To order the book "Leading Groups to Solutions" or learn more about group facilitation and other CMOE programs, visit their website or phone one of their Regional Managers at (801)569-3444.
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_2104_22.html

Review Piano Online Books

noreply@blogger.com (BooksRev) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 22:52:00 +0000

There are number of ways to learn to play piano. You can hire a personal teacher, or go to music schools, or buy piano study books and DVDs/Videos. Whatever your preference is, there is plenty of opportunities for you to learn the piano. Here I would like to discuss and review online piano books that I came across while learning to play.

1. Rocket Piano review
As with any other new skill the best way to learn is from a live instructor. That’s why I prefer online books that are accompanied with video and audio materials. This is like taking lessons with top instructor. Online piano book Rocket Piano was developed by a top piano expert Ruth Searle. She is classically trained to Grade 8 in Solo Piano and has more than 15 years experience playing. So what will you get with this course? The following is in this course
1) 218 lessons in 3 printable E-books
2) 57 video lessons
3) 133 audio lessons
3) Rocket Jazz Piano Book
3) Rocket Piano Gospel, Spiritual and Hymns Book
4) New Rocket Piano Quizzes
5) The Chordinator teaches you to read chords in interactive game format.
6) Jayde Musica Pro is another software game that is cleverly designed to develop your ability to quickly identify the pitch of a note with its musical symbol and its letter name.

2. Piano by Pattern review
This course was developed by Scott Jordan. He also has 15 years of experience. However in his own words “it wasn't until about 5 years ago that I actually was good enough to turn some heads! (The other 10 years were wasted on piano lessons, trial and error, and just plain frustration).” The most interesting thing about this online piano course is that it teaches you to learn playing by ear. In my opinion this is a very important skill for any musician. Here is what included with this online piano book.
1) Video download course that show you how to pick and play any song.
2) The course that teaches you to "play by ear"
3) The "advanced" patterns that that makes your learning experience much more rewarding.
4) Video “Secrets to Explosive Songwriting” that teaches how to write songs using the patterns taught in this course.
5) The book titled “Read Music Now” teaches you the simple way to read the sheet music.

There is more detailed review of piano online books. I believe I found the best ones while was learning to play piano. The techniques in the courses are straightforward. Even if you think you are not talented they will help you to master playing piano. The most interesting part of these courses I found that they require minimum amount of practice time.

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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_688975_48.html