5 comments about Shot in the Heart.

1. It's a big call, but Mikal Gilmore's heart wrenching memoir of his family has to be one of the most moving reading experiences I have ever encountered. To tell you the truth, I found this book in a second hand store here in Melbourne, Australia without a cover! I could not put this down as Mikal's words just ripped me to pieces. It drowns in sadness and despair at times, but there is a flicker of hope and redemption in it's conclusion.
   Amazing stuff.



2. This is an extraordinary book. Gives tremendous insite in to why some crimals lead the path they do. Phenominal read.



3. Unbelievably well written. This is the best book I have ever read. The story is gripping Mikal Gilmore seems to capture the reader from the first sentence and never lets go. I found myself trying to read less pages as I finished the book in fear of ACTUALLY finishing the book:) Immediately after I read the last page, I went back to the first page and started reading it again. I would suggest reading it twice, it is better the second time around.



4. This book stays with you. In telling the story of his own troubled family Mikal Gilmore manages to tell a story about families themselves- all the love, guilt, loyalty and anger that define them. This is a book about searching for meaning, about the toll poverty takes on the human spirit, about broken dreams, the violence of faith, and our terrible hunger for something to believe in. It's uniquely American in the same way books like Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood" or Jean Stein's "Edie: an American Biography"
   are- as much about the society around its subjects as the subjects themselves. I wholeheartedly consider this book a masterpiece.



5. I first heard about Shot in the heart several years ago, on a tv show. The last thing I wanted to read was an apologist for Gary Gilmore making excuses. That's about the last thing Shot in the Heart is. Instead, Mikal Gilmore explores how family myths and mysteries shape our sense of self and of our family, and how this affects our vision of our place in this world. He also explores how you can love someone, even if they are incredibly dysfunctional. Gilmore writes with tenderness and courage about his family, the kind of family that made mine seem relatively normal. They were wretched, miserable people, in many ways, but they were his family.
   I have always been puzzled by the editing problems I noticed in the book, however. It's not just the mixup on when Bessie Gilmore died. There are two other date discrepancies, one of which has to do with Gary's execution. I'm from Utah, and I picked up on that error right away.
   My sister lives in Portland, and Mikal Gilmore's description of a Northwest Portland neighborhood is dead on. Gilmore knows what he's talking about-- he just needed a better editor, I think

5 comments about The Puppy Papers: A Woman's Life and Journey into BDSM.

1. i am very surprised to see this book on amazon of all places, i got my copy from the author herself a few years ago at a fetish fair..if you enjoyed the movies 9 1/2 weeks and The Secretary you will find this book to be a very good read, i would've preferred it to be more explicit but don't let that deter you from getting this book..it is as close as you'll get to reading someones diary that lives a very kinky life...



2. This book was great. It offers insight into her thought processes and how she learns. I had my sub read this book so she could get an idea of what the lifestyle is like. She came away with things she liked and didn't like about it. So it was great book for her to understand the joys of bdsm and also express some of her concerns. Great book and should be in any BDSM bedroom library.



3. I loved this book. It was a real to life look at a womans entrance into BDSM. I think it is a must for anyone looking to see how a Dom and sub think and feel.
   
   Fantastic read!



4. I purchased this book on the recommendation from a friend of mine. Most books about BDSM are "How To" or fantasy books, the puppy papers wasn't either. The puppy papers was a fascinating book, it took me a while to realize that this book was non fiction. To confirm this I went onto the Internet to see if this Steven person was real, he certainly is, which made this book that much better. Also there are references to nationally known people in the BDSM community who Steven is friends with. Another thing about this book is that it does not have flowery descriptive words or phrases, it is written in the moment in letter conversation form. Their conversations are about life, their relationship, puppy's work, family, even when her husband accuses her of having relationship with another man, her past play partners and Master, her need to be with Steven, her need to serve and a lot of kink.
   
   I was surprised when the story took a turn when Steven started to ask puppy questions about her life and told her that he may be putting a book together from their emails. At this point, Steven becomes an interviewer and puppy continues to reveals open and honestly all aspects of her life. I haven't found a woman that is this comfortable with herself, that can speak so openly about her life, as for myself I don't know if I can be so open and honest about myself either.
   
   I was fascinated by puppy's letters answering Steven questions and that they don't always follow the normal pattern of conversation, but life doesn't always flow smoothly. In one of the letters she brings up about playing doctor/patient with her girl friends, describing how girls learn about their body, I was surprised to say the lest, this is a subject that is never discussed. When asking about her first BDSM awakening, experience which took place in a Hotel room with a stranger, you can take safe and sane and throw that out the window. I found puppy a very erotic kinky masochist who is very devoted to her Dominant and open to all types of play.
   
   The progression of their relationship from Top/bottom to Dominant/submissive is evident in how puppy address's Steven, I found that very interesting. I do wish that there was more about Steven in the last part of the book, he took a back seat to puppy's story which was a good thing, but so is he. In researching Stevens life on the Internet I found it fascinating that he is in the adult porn sex business and his involvement with the police and federal government. I wanted more of him in the book.
   
   I thoroughly enjoyed the Puppy Papers, Puppy writes very well in the moment and has a wonderful sense of humor. If their relationship lasts and evolves I want to read about it, they certainly do have an interesting life.
   
   By the way, the title has nothing to do with puppy play, this book is about puppy's life in her letters. For myself, I have been involved in the BDSM for many years.
   
   Ken Ballard
   Mr. Iowa Leather 2005



5. I couldn't decide whether to call this book a biography or an autobiography. It is through a series of emails, over a period of six months, in which Steven Toushin asks puppy sharon probing questions about her past and her understanding of sexuality (in particular hers) that sharon's story comes out but it is through her writings that we get to know her. It could be thought of as an interview as well. Perhaps structurally it is a hybrid. Personally, I like that I can't easily classify this book. It allows it to function as all of the above and creates the ability to enter the material in a variety of ways.
   
   Conceptually it is interesting to find myself (as the reader) participating as voyeur in the budding relationship between Toushin and puppy. To observe as she slowly opens up revealing a fascinating sexual life from childhood to the present. Steven stays out of the way, revealing very little about himself, creating plenty of room for her to divulge her sexual awakenings. The correspondence between the two plays out much like life. There are the mundane emails, the "how are you. I'm fine" aspects, but tucked in between those are treasures of information. Some of which most women growing up in rural and suburban middle America will surely recognize and others that are truly unique to sharon; her openness to exploration reveals a woman self-possessed enough not to be bogged down in the guilt and shame of a slow but maturing understanding of her sexual desires and needs.
   
   sharon's descriptions of her introduction to the BDSM world are absorbing, typically awkward, and sometimes funny as she talks about the pitfalls, as well as the satisfying encounters. Her point-of-view is adventurous and sometimes reveals a naiveté that is inevitable when entering a new world of experience. It is encouraging for those new to this sexual realm to read from a woman's point-of-view who remains intact despite unsuccessful experiences. A woman who handles the situations with calmness, self-possession and a sense of humor not allowing others to defeat or discourage her from continuing her quest to find sexual satisfaction. She seems to know this is all a part of her sexual education, which she is clearly in charge of. It's refreshing to read a woman's story that does not revolve around exploitation.
   
   For those like me, if you begin to become suspicious of who this Steven Toushin guy is (especially after sharon reveals stories about some of the creeps she's encountered) never fear. Check out the appendix. There is plenty of information about him there. Though I do wish he would have included more about himself within the context of the email exchanges I understand the attempt to stay out of the way of sharon's story. It is sometimes successful, sometimes not. There are times when I begin wondering more about who he is which becomes a distraction from sharon.
   
   
   This book is open-ended leaving the reader with many questions, particularly regarding sharon and Steven's growing relationship. It's some of the most titillating aspects of the book and if you want arousing material then you'll be clamoring for more details regarding their intense sexual interactions. I smell a sequel, which I'd buy. My curiosity has been piqued. The reader is given enough information to keep interested but there is still plenty that is to be explored. Again it is a strategy that points to one of life's conundrums, the inability for one person to fully know another person's mind and the desire to probe their lives all the more intensely. It also reminds us that one cannot judge a person by the way they look. There are plenty of professionals, suburban mothers, and other "normal" everyday people who have interesting and even amazing hidden lives. Makes you what to stop and find out what lurks behind the façade of normalcy that so many exude. It's good to know there are people from all walks of life waking up sexually and being brave enough to follow their inner desires.

5 comments about The Ditchdigger's Daughter.

1. In my introduction of Dr. Yvonne Thornton, for our interview about her memoir, The Ditchdigger's Daughters, I gave this synopsis of the book:
   
   "It's the story of five girls born into a black family as World War II came to a close and America looked to its next challenge: the Civil Rights movement. Donald and Tass Thornton loved each other and they loved their children. That's it. He was a laborer and she was a housekeeper. But, as often is the case, what we do isn't always the true measure of what we are. They saw a country on the verge of change. Through astounding dedication and love, they wrung more hours than there are to be had out of a mere mortal's day and boosted their daughters to regional musical fame and to accomplishment and security via the highest achievements in education. They ended up with two doctors, a dentist, a court stenographer, a teacher, and a nurse. Yeah, I know that's six, but the plan only got bigger as this family pulled together and sent strong, successful woman out into the world, one-by-one, until the nest emptied."
   
   And, indeed, that is what happens in The Ditchdigger's Daughters. But as we talked, I was no longer sure that was what the book is about.
   
   This week in my own little corner of the world, I titled my work-in-progress, a novel that I hope to present to an agent soon. To do so without a title feels like the hallmark of a rank amateur, so I've been tearing my hair out in avoidance of such a fate. I kept milling over what happened in my story, but I realized that the `what' may not be as important as the `why'. This is how I came to my title and also how I came to the conclusion, by something she said during the interview, that Dr. Thorton's memoir is a parenting book. And it's about parenting with a goal in mind, about parenting in hard times, and about parenting with the conviction that education trumps all. The book's not been out of print in thirteen years and it's never been more relevant.
   
   They had a hard time, and a long road to run, in getting this book published. It was said that it didn't have enough conflict. Rubbish. It's fascinating and enthralling and inspirational. And the Pulitzer Board thought so too, enough to consider it for the top prize in literary achievement in 1995.
   
   Our interview can be heard at PsychJourney dot com.



2. My wife and I saw Brian Lamb's interview with Dr. Thornton on CSpan and were inspired. I thoroughly enjoyed every word of the book and recommend it to all our friends. I felt like I was walking 4 feet off the floor after finishing this wonderful book. Good parenting does not depend on education, money, or anything else but determination to set good and easily understood rules and sticking to them.
   
   The New Jersey ditch digger was a great man and a master parent. All parents of children need to read this book and follow its precepts. It is fun to read so don't worry about being bored.



3. This was a great read. I heard about this book on a book panel hosted in the Harlem book fair this past summer. The story of a man who wanted all of his daughters to become doctors was definitely off the chart, but that doesn't mean it shouldn't be tried. This author presented her story in a matter that any family can relate to especially when it comes to hardships. I enjoyed the spiritual meaning in this story, especially knowing that God is always there no matter how hard the task. The author was also impartial, she able to show members of her family without having any negative or positive extremes. She just showed them as they are with a little humor. Overall, this was a great read that showed that Black Americans paved the way for many people especially immigrants of different ethnic backgrounds coming into this country.



4. This is a wonderful book about a wonderfully talented group of women. I had the pleasure of seeing The Thornton Sisters at Cornell University many, many years ago. I was completely blown away by their talent & stage presence. I am also a former road musician, and these women made a gigantic impression on me. Knowing their story makes it even more impressive! Read this book!



5. This book was great the movie was awesome they need to put it on vhs and dvd. must read book to who ever didnt read this book u need to read it its very good.

5 comments about Hear All Creatures! The Journey of an Animal Communicator.

1. I was really looking forward to reading this book.It started out fairly good but as it continued,it became a little over the top for me.I believe people can communicate with animals,but this lady just seems to get carried away.After a while I started doing the eye rolling thing--sorry- this just didn't do it for me.



2. The day I recieved this book I read the entire thing in one night. I just couldn't put it down. Karen takes you on an incredible journey of her life and experiences with animal communication. The sessions in this book are not only fasinating, but also very helpful for people who have always wondered what there little pals are feeling or thinking. This book shows you that animals are willing to share their feelings with with us in a way that is very touching and comforting, it is a must have for every animal lover.



3. This book is great for every animal lover who wishes to understand thier furry family members. I had tears in my eyes after the first chapter. What a touching experience Karen had with the Dove and her journey since. I envy her gift and wish I could share the thought's and feelings my animals have for me and other's in our family.



4. I was enthralled with Karen's book. She did a fabulous job! I found the book entertaining, informative, sad, apprehensive. It envoked many emotions, which is a sign of a great book. The best part about the book and all the emotions it brings out, is, it is True. They are our animals. These are real stories, real sessions, real situations. It was a pure pleasure to read!



5. Fantastic stories from animal lovers - for animal lovers! If you've lost a pet this book will help give you peace and give you a better understanding of what happens next! I only wish the book was bigger! A very quick read - with lots of happy endings.

5 comments about Inside A Thug's Heart.

1. I bought this book for my son, and he couldnt put the book down once he started to read it. He was continually showing me stuff 2pac had written that he really enjoyed. He really enjoyed reading this one. I highly recommend reading this book.



2. I have read almost every book written about Tupac Shakur and though this book does not appeal to me as one my favorites, Tupac's poetry and conversation kept me intrigued. Though I did not think it was necessary for the author to include her fantasies in the book, it can only be confusing to an occasional reader, fortunately for myself, my reading is constant so I didn't get lost in superfluous talk about daydreaming in between telephone conversations and letters, about discussions with him, sex with him, and all the other contrived things that happened only in her mind. The exciting part of the book is Tupac's poems and letters which allows the reader to really get a feel for who he really was.
   
   
   Angela Ardis really tried to give readers a chance to know Tupac on a level most did not know him, however, her attempts beyond actual letters and poems were really poor as she tried to spice the book up with her fantasies which turned out to be really boring and unnecessary. The biggest disappointment for me was the end of the book when Tupac supposedly shows up at her house unexpected, and they begin kissing intensely, and somehow ends up in her bedroom. She abruptly leaves the reader hanging, trying to decide whether or not this "surprise visit" from Tupac actually took place or if it was another one of her fantasy/daydreams. I was left wondering what happened and a bit angry that she didn't reveal it. I was disappointed, I thought it could have been much better. Buy this book only if you are interested in Tupac's thoughts about woman, love, and relationships, everything else leaves a lot left to be desired.



3. Tupac Shakur was shot again on September 7th, 1996, but instead of recovering from his injuries this time, a week latter he died. In this book, "inside A Thug's Heart with original poems and letters by Tupac Shakur" you will explore the emotions, thoughts, feelings, and out looks Tupac has for Angela Ardis or `Ms. Lovely' as he calls her. When at work one late night, Angela and he co-workers are playing around. One of the co-workers asked, " If you could have a `ruffneck' who would it be?" Angela says she would pick Tupac. Everyone laughs at her choice; for at the time he was in jail and everyone also thought he was no good. So a bet was made that she couldn't get in touch with him. Well it just so happens she did. She sent him a letter that stood out from the rest, one that smelled and looked nice. Inside the letter she gave him her number so he would be able to call and a picture so he would know what she looked like. With in one day he replied to with a phone call and soon followed by a letter. Now they're writing to each other. In Tupac's letters he expresses himself in so many ways you never hear the media talk about before. He is forward and honest, plus he wrote wonderful poems. What you read in this book you would never expected from Tupac. You think by the way he raps and acts on T.V. and/or magazines is the way he acts 24-7, but its not. There's another side to him. In fact there are seven as he explains in one of his letters.
   
   My favorite part of the book is each and every time you get to read his letters and poems. It's my favorite part because I get to see the other side of idol. I get to know more about Tupac then what the media portrays. Also get its my favorite part because when I was reading his poems and letters I could feel what was getting at. You get to take a look into a real thug's heart. To show you what mean, below is one of my favorite poems written by him called " 4 those nights when u r alone".
   
   U ever share your love with a stranger
   Only To realize he was a long lost friend?
   Ever Talk 2 A Man like u talk with a woman
   And share what you can't with other men?
   
   Can u picture your love being given
   2 A criminal stuck in this hell
   Can u promise 2 hold off from Judging him
   Until the day when you know him well
   
   Can u close your eyes and imagine
   If everything went Right
   The power of passion finally possessed
   After all those sleepless nights
   
   I bet you think I'm gaming you
   Just like all the men in your past
   Cuz' all of them promised u heaven on Earth
   But none of them seem 2 last
   
   After All, What can I offer u?
   Besides lonely nights & sweet words
   Promises of pleasures 2 come
   And lines you've already heard
   
   All I, can say is have faith in me
   And in Time maybe you'll come 2 c
   The definition and true meaning
   Of friendship can be discovered in me
   
   In my opinion this book is one of my all-time favorites and I would most recommend it. I recommend it mostly to Tupac fans because you get to see that there is more to him then what you hear from the media. Also because when you read it, you feel as though you where there when it was written. So if your looking for a good book to read I would recommend you read this one.



4. I feel blessed that we are able to have access to these letters between Ardis and the late Tupac A. Shakur, and I thank Afeni Shakur (the executor of her son's estate) for allowing Ms. Ardis to publish this correspondence.
   
   Some folks will question the motivation behind releasing these letters, an understandable criticism in this age of vapid kiss-and-tell celebrity culture. What does Ardis stand to gain from this? Is she exploiting her relationship with Shakur solely for personal gain? Fair questions yes, but in light of the fact that Shakur is no longer with us, the only connections that we have to him are through the artifacts that he left behind: his music, films, and personal documents. Collecting and preserving these artifacts is important for understanding the context of Shakur's life, his profession, and the society that he lived in.
   
   The historical significance of this correspondence between Ardis and Shakur cannot be overstated. Here, we are exposed to Tupac Shakur as a human being, away from the exploitive glare of the media spotlight, during what was perhaps the most difficult time of his life, when he was imprisoned in upstate New York for sexual abuse. Confined in a place where he had only himself and his thoughts, he is compelled to reach out to a fan who decided to send a letter to him on a dare. For those of us who think we know all there is to Mr. Shakur, the intimacy and vulnerability displayed in his letters to Ardis is a real eye-opener.
   
   Readers see multiple sides of Pac: friendly, inquisitive, erotic, humorous, frustrated, angry, depressed, reflective, obstinate, and self-critical. He reveals himself to be what astute observers knew all along: a deeply intelligent, spiritual, and complex human being. His uninhibited communication style allows the dialogue between him and Ardis to develop fully, and these two strangers share passions and secrets that most people would conceal from close loved ones. From reading this book, I gained tremendous insight into this person who is no longer with us.
   
   My one criticism of the book is the title. Obviously the publishers saw the marketing potential of the "thug's heart" reference, being that Shakur's public image is defined by this term. However, I do not nor have I ever believed that Tupac Amaru Shakur was a thug. This word was thrown around by Shakur, his record company, his fans, his detractors, and the media as both a term of praise and an epithet. It's loaded with so many contradictions, namely racism and hypermasculinity, and it's a label that too many young Black men are saddled with, for whatever reason. The fact that Shakur was a Black man killed in his youth makes calling him a "thug" even more egregious.
   
   More than just a kiss-and-tell memoir, "Inside a Thug's Heart" is a strongly recommended resource for any serious student of hip-hop and American cultural history.



5. I would like to thank Angela for allowing us (the readers) inside the intimate relationship that she shared with Tupac. With each letter I felt the sincerity of Tupac's words. Even though many reviewers felt she got played, I didn't feel that AT ALL! He was honest and upfront with her. Initially, she didn't set out to fall for him. BUT, who can blame her?? I was mushy after reading every letter. So many WISH they could have shared a little piece of Pac. Angela had more than a little piece of him... she had his mind. Who cares if it was temporary?
   
   Angela, thank you sooo much for sharing.

5 comments about Waiting on the Weather: Making Movies with Akira Kurosawa.

1. Teruyo Nogami, "script girl" to Kurosawa-as of this writing is still alive-and is one of the last close associates of Akira Kurosawa to be able to tell us about the man, his working methods, and the conditions of making some of the 20th century's finest films.
   
   This charming book is written with respect, and the conviction that Kurosawa was a great filmmaker. There seems to be a lot of repetition in the stories told about and by Kurosawa, but there are some new bits and pieces, too. It is fascinating to hunker down in the cold with Miss Nogami, as she helps in the filming of "Dersu Uzala", for example. She is able to make you feel as if you were there, with her simple, clear descriptions.
   
   An absolutely delightful book, and a necessary part of your Kurosawa bookshelf!



2. This book is obviously quite useful to studying the personality of one of the most influential filmmakers in the world. The author is sincere but somewhat naive by Western standards. A devoted assistant to Kurosawa, she was with him throughout the most significant years of his long career and certainly knows more than anyone else could of his personality and professional behavior. There is an extraordinary amount of repetition in the text, so that one is constantly feeling one is rereading the same pages over and over. Still it is essential reading if one is offering a course on his films - as I am - or preparing a report for a class.



3. This is a biographical book by a Japanese woman who worked with one of the greatest directors of all time,Akira Kurosawa. She was his script girl and friend, so she saw him at work, as well as in the midst of intimate moments.
   
   In other words, she was poised to tell us some profound things about the man, but she fails to do so. There are some funny moments, some touching moments, but the supposition that this book gives you an in-depth look at how he actually worked is a lie. It only recalls a few different anecdotes from his sets, out of a possible million.
   
   On the technical side, this is light reading, so those of you who want to start exploring Kurosawa could start here. On the other hand, this could bore you because a lot of this is about Nogami's feelings. Also, be prepared to be surprised by the Japanese sensibility: as his subordinate, she really viewed Kurosawa as being better than her.
   
   If you really want to understand HOW Kurosawa worked (multicamera set-ups, telephoto lenses), read the books by Stuart Galbraith IV and Stephen Prince, not this one. Shut up, Martin Scorsese. I hate you and your recommendations.



4. My Kurosawa library is pretty full. Heavy, academic tomes like Stephen Prince's "The Warrior's Camera" and informative and personal showcases like Donald Richie's "The Films of Akira Kurosawa" can do a lot to deepen one's appreciation for the master filmmaker. Only "Waiting for the Weather" can make you smile, make you feel like you are sitting right there, caught up in the whirlwind of genius holding on for dear life and enjoying every minute of the ride.
   
   Teruyo Nogami is a familiar face to most Kurosawa fans, having appeared in the 2001 documentary "Kurosawa" as well as lending her insights to the various Criterion Collection releases of Kurosawa's films. I can't picture her as anything else than a pleasantly smiling elderly woman, little realizing the will-power and strength that must have been necessary to serve as an assistant for the fierce personality of Kurosawa for so many years. Nor did I realize that she helped raise Juzo Itami, one of the greatest of Japan's modern filmmakers, best known for his comedy "Tampopo".
   
   In "Waiting for the Weather", Nogomi, or Non-chan, as Kurosawa called her, waxes nostalgic about all the trials, tribulations, exaltations and boring down-times that went into creating some of the greatest moments ever caught on film. Her entry into the film world came through correspondence with Mansaku Itami, a famous director in his time although now somewhat forgotten, and then continued organically until her being hired on for an experimental new film called "Rashomon", which would change her life forever. From then on, she was a constant presence on Kurosawa's set, staying with him even during the dark times of "Dersu Uzala" and all the way until his final film "Madadayo" and his death. She was never a great mover or shaker, just someone who helped get things done, and was an essential piece of the Kurosawa machine.
   
   There are so many scenes and memories in this book that put a human face on Kurosawa, and that are so pleasantly described, that it would be impossible to pick out a favorite. Imagine Kurosawa and his team taking a break from intense work of filming "Rashomon" to climb nearby Mt. Wakakusa and engage in some impromptu late-night dancing and stripping down to their underwear. Imagine sharing a laugh when the cages holding the crows for the climatic scene in "Dreams" were thrown open, and the black birds just sort of wandered around instead of taking off dramatically. This is the kind of nostalgia that Non-chan shares, and every word paints a vivid picture of affection and love for the human being behind the legend.



5. What do you do when you stand next to greatness? And? You are possessed of an unassuming wit and courage, strength, loyalty and passion? Why you wait until the Master is gone and then write your memoirs to share with the world and you get the single greatest Western observor of your nation to write the introduction, thats what you do, then you get a super cool Canadian to get a wonderful small press in California to publish it in English for you!
   
   That is what No-Chan, as The Sensei always called her, has done and anyone who loves film and or Japan must be deeply grateful to her and the peerless Donald Richie for bringing her recolections of Kurosawa to us in an excellent translation. Run, do not walk, to purchase this warm, honest, intelligent, funny and sad volume!

5 comments about The Earth is Enough.

1. This is an unfortunate book. Based on reviews and the very interesting/ moving author bio I had big hopes for this one and it fell short. Middleton is clearly a gifted word-master; however, he fails to present a cohesive novel. The book is billed as both quality nature writing and literature, but in reality it exists in the undefined and, thus, unfortunate space between the two. That is, it falls short of, say, Rachel Carson's social portent, but also of the graceful emotive power of Maclean or Hemingway (both of whom also base novels around fly fishing, for whatever that is worth). Let it be said also that this book succumbs to the most consistent flaw of nature writing--it is often effusive. If you just want to read an account of the good ol' days in the rural south where life consisted of witticisms and outdoor activities, then go for it; otherwise, keep looking.



2. I finished up The Earth is Enough last night. It left me feeling both sad and at peace. It's a book that's in the niche genre along with the Travers Corners Books in that it's not a pure fly fishing book like a collection of Gierach essays but it's built around a type of fly fishing philosophy and a current of fly fishing is in every part of the book. Like Travers Corners it is also based on a true account with the names of the people and places changed. The author Henry Middleton has a beautifully rich style of writing. This is a story of a child who is sent to live with his eccentric grandfather, great uncle and crazy Indian (Elias Wonder). Their down to earth philosophy runs counter to the wordly progress that the other residents of the town seek. The philosophy of the grandfather and uncle has a beautiful and compelling simplicity that will leave you questioning who we relate to the world.



3. I picked up a paperback copy of this book on the eve of my daughter's wedding. It was to be something to occupy my mind in between the things that Bride's fathers are required to do before and after the hectic push and pull of a wedding; In the first few chapters I was immediately overcome by the book's characters.
   
   The book reached out to me. Reached into my heart and soul. I related to the childhood loss of a friend, being sent off to be raised (for a time) by my grandparents and meeting odd but colorful old sportsmen who baffled me with their dry wit and country philosophies of life. Although I went through these experiences in Northwestern Connecticut, I could appreciate the descriptions that Harry Middleton provided of the farm, the steam, the fields and woods in which Emerson and Albert molded his young mind.
   
   Although I do not believe this book to be a "flyfishing" book I do believe that one must have experienced the individual early development of the craft to appreciate the words in which Middleton describes his introduction, and early education in flyfishing.
   
   He handles well the loss of his elder mentors, a fact that many of us older sportsman had to deal with and still recall now and then. Upon finishing the book, I realized that had gone through an emotional journey. While reading Middleton's words, I recalled old memories - happy and sad - and when I set the book down I was glad that I had made the choice of this read at this point in my life. It was good to go back in time again, it makes me appreciate all the more what the future will bring.
   
   A must read for an older sportsman!!!!!



4. Five stars is a modest rating, it deserves ten. This book is what life is all about- simplicity, devotion, respect, and love for those things the earth has given these two old men. Being from this same Ozark mountain area, I have known men like these. It drew me back in time when I was youthful and the simple old men who impacted my life. Thank you Harry Middleton for a journey down memory lane.



5. I read a lot - probably 3 - 5 books a week and this has to be in the top three books I've come across.
   
   I have bought this as a gift for people not interested in fishing, confident that the style and characterization will carry it through. I have yet to be wrong!
   
   Sam

5 comments about Gangsters and Goodfellas: Wiseguys, Witness Protection, and Life on the Run.

1. I bought this book aprox. 3 yrs. ago at Boarders, and although the price has dropped from aprox. $25.00 for the hardcover price this book is a worthy read. If you are a fan or like the movie Goodfellas, and wonder where he continued his life as a "schmuck" then this book is worth your while. Again it has been 3 yrs. since I have read this title, but if you want to know where Goodfellas leaves off, and what "rat" mob-life is truely about than this title is for YOU. I don't glorify snitching, but this is one of the last GREAT mob-life first person stories you will ever read. Not great, but not awful dispite what the reviews say.



2. A fun sequal to GOODFELLAS, this book trips you merrily through the underworld but makes you glad not to be a part of it! Nice "members eye view".



3. In a review of his children's book it was stated that Henry comes off well in this book, Wiseguy and the Movie. Just to let people know I thought he comes across as an arrogant, narcisstic jerk, who cares nothing for other people.



4. Was good to hear what the rat has been doing since he was freed for giving up the people that protected him and taught him how to make a living.



5. People basing this book on the movie "Goodfellas" would be very disappointed. If you looking for the inspiring book of the screenplay for "Goodfellas" should look for Wiseguy by Peligio

5 comments about Why My Wife Thinks I'm an Idiot: The Life and Times of a Sportscaster Dad.

1. I am only halfway through reading this book, however I am surprised at how little Greenie talks about sports and how much he describes his experiences with his wife, child, and family...and I actually don't mind it! For those guys who prefer reading auto-bios on Dick Butkus' punishing style of football play, this may not be the book for you. What makes this a good book is that it actually appeals to both men and women, as I have been sharing excerpts from the book with my wife because Greenie's opinions and experiences sometimes relate to our own lives! I recommend this book...it's not a Pulitzer-caliber book, but worth reading nonetheless.



2. Confession: I'm a sports radio junkie. Not being a cable-TV subscriber, I rely on sport-talk radio to slake my thirst for football news. So when Mike Greenberg, the self-described metro-sexual half of ESPN's "Mike and Mike in the Morning" show, released his first book "Why My Wife Thinks I'm an Idiot" I took notice. And when it quickly charted on the New York Times best sellers list, I rushed to the local bookstore to get a copy of my own.
   
   I wasn't disappointed. With his impeccably-timed, deprecating humor and wit, Greenberg makes reading his memoirs an entertaining and enjoyable experience. The story of how becoming a father forced him to reconsider his priorities as a professional, a sports fan, and now a dad. Greenberg weaves a fantastic story and allows the reader to full access to his foiliables and his at-times narcissistic tendencies.
   
   WHY MY WIFE THINKS I'M AN IDIOT is presented to us as Mike's personal journal to aid his therapy sessions. However, book is equal parts journal, memoir, and stand-up comic routine. Mike presents himself as an everyman--a sports enthusiast, a dad and a husband. And for the most part, Mike connects. He struggles to meet his wife's emotional needs, change his daughter's diapers, and somehow squeezes in time to watch a golf tournament on TV.
   
   Unfortunately, Mike occasionally breaks the "everyman" illusion and reminds us that he is really a multimillionaire part of the entertainment elite. For instance, when he discusses how his infant's runny nose destroyed a $600 sweater (yes, that SIX HUNDRED DOLLARS for a shag of cloth to cover his upper torso!) or when his wife catches him ogling Ellie McPherson trying on blue jeans at a high-end department store (honestly, when was the last time you went shopping with a supermodel?). It's almost as if he can't help but let the reader know he's "arrived," and in those moments the book loses some of its luster.
   
   Still, in spite of those momentary breaks from being a regular guy, Mike Greenberg paints a captivating picture of his experience as a modern male. He's desperately in love with his wife, but continually finds himself frustrating her (a section about his wife's disapproval of the way he handled his best friend's marital crisis is with the price of the book alone!). Entering an NBA locker room to get the interview doesn't faze our hero; but managing his child's play date while his wife is away is a monumental task.
   
   And, at its core, WHY MY WIFE THINKS I'M AN IDIOT is a book about life's purpose. Mike Greenberg struggles with significance of his life's work--sports casting--as he contrasts it with the wonders of parenting. He honestly struggles with the questions whether or not his work matters, and what's truly important. It's these questions that give the book its tenderness and poignancy between the side-stitching one-liners.



3. I bought this book for my nonreader husband. He loved it and quoted from it so much that I had to read it for myself. Mike is fun, lighthearted, and says everything that everyone else is thinking, but never say. He is refreshingly honest. We couldn't put the book down. This is a must read for newly weds, new parents, sports fans, or any woman who thinks her husband is an idiot!



4. This book was excellent. I acctually bought it on kind of an impulse buy, but when I got it I couldn't put it down. Finished it in about 2 days. Never gets boring. Inspirational for someone like me who wants to go into sports broadcasting. The stories where he talks about meeting starts such as Michael Jordan will leave you in awe and you can acctually relate to his everyday stories with his family(just funny as hell). One of the best books I've read in a while. His personality on his radio show matches exactly to what is in the book and if you love sports and lots of stories, you'll love this book.



5. I've listened to Mike and Mike a lot over the past few years and very much enjoy their program. This book is a quick little insight into the life of Greeny and the format make the book a very quick read (I completed the whole thing on a round trip flight from Hartford, CT to Washington, D.C.). I think the overriding theme of dealing with being a minor celebrity and what it took to get to that point made it quite interesting and in the end I would recommend it for anyone looking for a pseudo-sports book without getting into a lot of technical aspects.

5 comments about Ines del Alma Mia.

1. This book is ok for someone who has no idea about the history of Chile.
   The book was entertaining, but not believable, although the author says she did tons of research... that's questionable.
   Rather than reading fake stuff about those years, I recommend to read another book, which is based on true facts and tells you a lot more of what people from Chile has gone through, and that's "Adios al septimo de linea", although is not intended to narrate the same historical period.
   Enjoy!!



2. An interesting novel on the conquest of Chile. How learning about history with pleasure and suspense with the usual epic style of Isabel Allende.
   A good idea for a present for Mothers' day!



3. This book is not only entretaining. The novelist took her time to do research to portrait accurately historical facts. Her account of the lives of Pedro de Valdivia and Inés Suárez take you to a trip to the past. You will feel like you are witnessing how the Spaniards came to America (the continent) all their struggles and suffering and also all their cruelty and greedyness. Superb !



4. It is a wonderful story conceived by the author about the biography of a woman during the conquest of Peru and Chile by the Spaniards. Some of the story is fiction but events surrounding the story is historical. She weaves history with fiction. Since historical events are true, it gives us an interesting way of learning about the conquest of the new world and the birth of new nations. Very interesting and well written.



5. What a powerful story! Descriptive, and engaging from the begining. Some of the war scenes get a bit drawn out.
   
   Ines' point of view is always refreshing.