5 comments about Modernist Jewelry 1930-1960: The Wearable Art Movement (Schiffer Book for Collectors).

1. Up until a few years ago, I knew next to nothing about Amercian jewelry modernists, yet I have shared their passion for manipulating metal for decades! My then limited knowledge changed when I received this fabulous book. Ms Schon's extensive knowledge of these modernist jewelry makers' work and bios, makes this reader and jewelry maker feel as if the Modernists have come to life! This book is a must for collectors of vintage and contemporary Made in USA signed studio jewelry. What a joy to own this book. Buy it, own it and enjoy it for decades ahead!



2. This book undertakes an interesting era in jewelry and brings information together in an interesting and easily understandable style. Lots of pictures which always makes a book more interesting for me. I recommend it for people who want to learn more about contemporary jewelry from the 1940's on.



3. I am a collector of American mid-century jewelry and this is the most informative book to date! Marbeth Schon is an authority on topic and has generously shared her knowledge with us. View of signatures of artist in back of book is also a great reference!



4. My wife makes me read most of her dozens and dozens of jewelry books so I can help her out occasionally, but this one didn't need more than a quick browse to get me started.
   
   Modernist Jewelry, it seems as though there has never been enough information. Christie Romero's Warman Jewelry and Messengers of Modernism were great aids. The Author's online Modern Silver Magazine has provided insightful information on dozens of Modernist artists, as as her webpage.
   
   Now we have the most complete source of information available anywhere. Studying the art, the histories, the influences, and especially the artists has finally become possible from this scholarly work. The photography is top-notch, the values are reasonable, timely, and well researched, and the writing is clear and concise. All-in-all it is simply a Masterpiece!



5. Finally, we have a compendium of history, facts, photos, and values. Marbeth Schon has done the research for us, and now we can put this wonderful information to work. For collectors and dealers, this is a must have work of beauty and scholarship. The organization makes it a valuable reference source, while the photographs make it an invaluable reflection on the 'Art Movement' of 'American Modernism'.
   
   From the well known to the obscure 'Modernist Artists', their works and their place in history has now been beautifully documented by this wonderful research author.

5 comments about Warman's Sterling Silver Flatware: Value & Identification Guide (Encyclopedia of Antiques and Collectibles).

1. This is an excellent guide for the identification of sterling flatware for the collector or the dealer.



2. This book happens to be laying on my business desk at this moment because of the frequency of its use. It is an invaluable resource and guide for Sterling patterns and values. My business sells a lot of silver and couldn't do without this research book.



3. This book is a very useful resource if you deal in sterling silver flatware as it provides actual photographs, not drawings of the handles of each patter. The other benefit this book provides is that you can identify the pieces based on size -- and accurately call a piece by the proper name. Each pattern has a list of many available pieces and their value. I use this book alot and bought one for by business partner -- anyone who deals in sterling flatware should have a copy!



4. easy to follow and while this does not have hallmarks or much history, does carry clear pictures of standard patterns and makers. Good for a start and considering how little is out there, not bad.



5. I wish I had read the above review before I spent my money on this book. I think if someone is going to sell an identification "guide" for a specific category of goods and they are only going to cover a representative selection of that category, they should at least be honest about it on the cover. The cover of this one should say "If you only need a few photos from each manufacturer and you don't need makers' marks to help you IDENTIFY your silver, then this book is for you!!!"

1 comments about Corvette Masterpieces: Dream Cars You'd Love to Own.

1. I gave this book as a gift to a Corvette lover and it was very well received. Great pictures and well written.

1 comments about Erte's Theatrical Costumes in Full Color.

1. The Russian born fashion and costume designer Romaine de Tirtoff was known as Erte for the simple reason that was the French pronunciation of his initials "R.T." Erte was one of the most prodigious designers of the twentieth century, known for his colorful and audacious Art Deco designs. Even if you do not recall his name, I bet your remember having seen his work before. "Erte's Theatrical Costumes in Full Color" offers 49 plates from 1911 to 1975, with captions, of the work Erte did for theatrical productions, where his imagination was most unfettered and where his popularity lasted considerably longer than it did in the real world of high fashion. Erte was designing costumes for Mata Hari way back in 1913 and was still designing costumes and sets for a production of the opera "Der Rosenkavalier" in 1980. From a worshipper of Horus and the wife of Russian boyar to Aladdin and Faust, Erte displayed a wide array of exotic and historical styles in his dazzling costumes. The only real complaint with this collection is that there are only 49 gorgeous plates of some of his most stunning creations.

5 comments about Fifth Chinese Daughter.

1. I first read The Fifth Chinese Daughter in about 1963 when I was 13 and living 30 miles south of San Francisco. Visiting Chinatown was my first exposure to a foreign culture. It was mysterious and exotic, and I wondered what went on behind the building fronts lining the narrow bustling streets. This book gave me my first glimpse into this other world; very heady stuff for a 13 year old girl. Fast forward 45 years, and I'm looking for a book to recommend to my book club. I had never forgotten The Fifth Chinese Daughter but assumed it was out of print. Imagine my surprise when I found two copies on the shelf of our local bookstore. I snapped up both copies and jumped in. The Fifth Chinese Daughter was just as captivating and poignant to me at age 57. I can now appreciate it from a new perspective, viewing this work as a precursor to the wonderful Chinese American literature that followed. I could go on....but suffice to say, read this book.



2. I became interested in buying this book after reading the author's fascinating story in the L.A. Times last year. Since reading Fifth Chinese Daughter a few months ago, I have given it as a gift to three friends who also found this young woman's story as heartwarming and courageous as I did. Side benefit: I learned a great deal about Chinese-American culture and about American history, circa 1930s - 1950s.
   
   It's also a great book for teen girls. Reading about Jade Snow's sometimes difficult youth and teen years and how she met her goals will be very inspirational to that age group.



3. I usually don't write negative reviews, but I really was surprised by all the glowing reviews here. I truly think this is a terrible book and here is why.

   1). The characters are only skin deep. We never really get to know them beyond their attitudes toward Jade Snow. And Jade Snow herself is very opaque as well, we don't get to know more of her except that she is filial, hard-working and eager to please people. The insides of these characters are not alive and they resemble dull automatons carrying out the actions of a pre-determined script.

   2). The prose is very flat, so the end result reads like a very long summary of the plot rather than the book itself. The author crammed in many minutae of her life into the writing, with a emphasis on the details of food preparation. but most of the details are not evocative and fails to enrich the world she is trying to portray.

   3). A streak of very patronizing attitude to Asians Americans run through out the book. It culminate with a cringe-inducing climax of self-hate at the very end of the last chapter, in a scene meant to be the big emotional pay-off for the whole book. Jade Snow's father tearfully confess that he had done wrong by raising her under the backward Chinese culture, and that he should have raised her in the superior, freedom-loving Christian way.




4. "You must have confidence that I shall remain true to the spirit of your teachings. I shall bring back to you the knowledge of whatever I learn." Fifth Chinese Daughter is an inspiring autobiography that traces the life of Jade Snow Wong from childhood to adulthood in San Francisco's Chinatown. In her book, Jade Snow describes the numerous hardships and rewards that shaped her life. Through her vivid descriptions, the reader is immersed in the Asian culture of early twentieth-century America. Looking through Jade Snow's eyes, the reader is able to experience the conflicting cultural experiences of the middle daughter of a large family of Chinese immigrants.
   Conforming to Chinese tradition, Jade Snow felt that her worth as an individual was dictated by her family. Although Jade Snow's father took pride in educating his daughters in both Chinese and American customs, he valued the future potential of his sons over that of his daughters. Jade Snow's childhood is tainted by unjust punishment and suppressed emotion. Such experiences led her to pursue independence and acknowledgment in a country that offered numerous opportunities for well-educated young woman. However, from her difficult childhood, Jade Snow learned discipline and respect, qualities that allowed her to succeed and gain respect from her family. It is fascinating to witness her transformation from a submissive child to a woman of integrity and perseverance.
   As Jade Snow tirelessly worked her way through college, she came to understand the injustices of Chinese tradition. Ironically, at this time, she also developed a greater appreciation for her Chinese heritage and through it discovered her life's passions. Despite the heavy skepticism and criticism of her family, Jade Snow pursued her dreams with optimistic determination, suffering many hardships along the way. In each of her life's stories she proves to us that great rewards come from hard work and unfailing belief in one's self. If you ever feel hopeless or just want to be inspired, Jade Snow's story will lift you out of your darkness.



5. In the book Fifth Chinese Daughter by Jade Snow Wong, the author tells readers about her childhood as a Chinese girl living in San Francisco. Ms. Wong gives readers a chance to see what life was like growing up during the early 1900�s as a Chinese girl. Throughout the book, you learn many things Chinese-Americans do which are different from American customs. Readers are given an idea of how Chinese-American�s raised their families during that time. The author shows in vivid detail what happened to her and what she had to work for in her childhood.
   Jade Snow was brought up in a household that made sure their children knew their native culture as well as the culture around them. Since an early age, Jade was given Chinese lessons by her father until she was old enough to attend Chinese school everyday after her American classes were over. The book chronicles Jade�s life from her early childhood to when she becomes a young woman living on her own. Throughout the book, you see Jade learn to do the shopping for the family, cope with problems in school like discrimination, get into college on her own, and find jobs for herself.
   There were many things I liked about this book. Even though, this book isn�t like the books I normally read, it was very hard to put down. The author writes her story in
   graphic details, which pulled me into the book. I loved how she talked about her father in many ways, how some days he believed in her and others, he had no confidence in her. Also, I believe that Jade was a strong girl throughout her childhood. This is because she had to live with such strict rules in her household like respecting her elders, and how if she or her siblings did anything wrong, they would get punished by getting whipped.
   If I were to compare this novel with others I have read, I would have to say that this novel is in my top 50 books I have ever read. I found that every page I turned in this book, I was wondering what would happen next. This novel was very fun to read because I liked learning about what life was like for a young Chinese-American Women growing up during the early 1900�s.
   I would most likely recommend this novel to another, unless the person did not like autobiographies. I would recommend this book to people who like reading about people of different cultures. Jade Snow�s book is geared more to people who like to read about people�s cultures, but I think many would find this book very interesting.

1 comments about Fireworks: A Gunsite Anthology.

1. Fireworks is Cooper at his best; with tales ranging from battles and hunts to tequila making and returning home from war. Cooper knows how to tell a story right; leaving in the details that breath life into every sentence. Whether making a carbine exciting or describing some of the best history of the twentieth century, Cooper draws the reader in with his masterful use of the English language. Originally purchased for my husband, now one of my favorites!

5 comments about Ancient Coin Collecting III: The Roman World - Politics and Propaganda (Ancient Coin Collecting).

1. Wayne G. Sayles knowledge of Roman coins comes out in his amazing series. Wayne's book's are fun to read. His book's are easy to use. Ancient Coin Collecting III is nicely researched. The third volume focus's on coins from the Roman Imperial Age from Augustus (27 B.C.-14 A.D.) to Anastasius (491-518 A.D.).
   I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in Roman coins.



2. But, you really should have all six volumes of the series, plus his guide to counterfeit coins. You must have volume I, and volume II is very highly recommended. My advice: Get vol. I first, then III, then II, then go nuts. You can surely buy them over time.



3. This book has a lot going for it, it has over 300 illustrations, it is still only about 200 pages and is in the familiar format of it's two predecessors. The helps are good, it has a comprehensive portrait gallery and is written in Mr. Sayles usual easy to understand and engaging style - that of a writer who loves and cares about what he is describing. The one drawback is that the author felt it necessary to give at least a short bio for every emperor and to read it through can get redundant after a while as much of their history overlaps and repeats, particularly for those with short reigns.

   However, if you decide to skip over the emperors who don't interest you and use the portrait gallery as more of a reference section than something that must be read - then it is a great and easy read. If however you really do love the regnal history of Rome - this might be a section of great interest to you and you may love it. Each emperor comes with his own brief bibliography and abbreviated family tree.

   Like volume II, the section on "masterpieces" is beautiful and the focus on the coin as artform is a valuable contribution. If you enjoyed either of his previous 2 books this will not disappoint. This is a nice reasonably priced and accessibly written introductory work. It should prove enjoyable and useful for the newbie and experienced collector alike.




4. Mr. Sayles has written a beautifully presented introduction and reference to the hobby of ancient coin collecting. Any book on coins should have photographs and that's what's included in this book, along with terrific written explanations of the coins. Since ancient coin collecting is about history, Mr. Sayles spends a large part of the books detailing the backgrounds of the emperors who appear on the coins. There is also a section on "Masterpieces of Roman Coinage" which presents wonderful photographs of individual engraving art. All in all this is a "must" for anyone interested in ancient coins.



5. This is a good introduction to the fascinating world of ancient Roman coins, aimed at the general reader and beginning collector. Contains a useful photo gallery of Roman emperors and major usurpers as well as tips on how to attribute coins, read inscriptions and figure out the various images that may appear on reverses. Highly recommended.

4 comments about A Pictorial History of Costume From Ancient Times to the Nineteenth Century: With Over 1900 Illustrated Costumes, Including 1000 in Full Color.

1. This book is pretty useless. the drawings are too simple, with few lines with poor quality coloring. I bought this book simply because it was cheap if I buy this with the one I wanted to buy originally. And even if this book cost $5, I wouldn't buy if I knew (and paid more than that, and caanot return since I'm living in overseas and shipping cost would be higher than this)
   I would NOT recomment this book to anyone, unless they want to waste their money.



2. Okay, so I bought this book thinking it would be a useful reference book. It's not. Yes, it has a bunch of illustrations, but it gives no reference information to go with the plates--which, by the way, are simply awful line drawings, some of which are badly colored in to the detriment of the pictures.
   
   Do not buy this book if you want to learn what things are called, the time periods in which they were used, or any specific, detailed information about variations in the general styles for a specific period in time.
   
   On the other hand, if you just want some reference pictures for designign your kid's Halloween costume, then you have plenty to go by.



3. Although the pictures do not go into great detail, this book has a wealth of information for the costume designer. For kid's halloween costumes, school-play costumes, and general information on style and period, this book can be invaluable. Included are full colour and black and white sketches, as well as reproductions of statues and paintings. It is an excellent book for the casual costume designer, though a serious historical re-enactor would need something that provides greater detail.



4. Gives a basic and brief coverage of both male and female costume from different periods and cultures. mixture of both colour and black and white sketches. no great detail but good enough to present a general idea.

5 comments about Mego 8" Super-Heroes: World's Greatest Toys!.

1. I came into the Mego world a bit late as a wee lad in the early 1980s. But I still remember having the Batman, Stretch Spidey, Dukes of Hazzard, and Incredible Hulk Mego action figures. This book really takes me back to those glory days!
   
   This book is a Mego collector's dream guide! Full of charts, checklists, rare photos and more. Extremely thorough and well researched, if you are a Mego fan, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!



2. A good looking and very informative book full of great photos of the Mego super-hero figure toy line. It's a must for any Mego toy collector and well worth the price of admission!



3. This book does not cover everything Mego, but its a wonderful collection of photos and important information. I recommend the book for any Mego collector.



4. Simply put this is a fantastic book. It is a walk down memory lane for Mego fans who had the pleasure to grow up with these wonderful action figures in the 1970s. The photographs are splendid and bring to life Mego's WGSH line. The author's attention to detail cannot be matched by any other book out there that purports to touch upon this fine line of Mego action figures. If you are debating between Mego books to buy, please don't pass this book up. It is a decision you will regret a year or so from now when you are trying to track down this book from online auction sites, etc. For anyone looking for a wonderful trip into the past, jump on and enjoy the ride!!!



5. I had all of the items shown in the book as a kid so paging through it was a big trip down memory lane. It reminded me of a lot of fun times.

3 comments about Scott Travers' Top 88 Coins to Buy and Sell: 44 Winners and 44 Losers.

1. I would have given the book four stars but for one issue (and it's minor.) The winners should have been in one part and the losers in another. But there was a winner on the left page and a loser on the right page.
   
   I found the book highly useful. I'm not a coin collector. To the extent that I love history and money, I love coins. They have a history. They are a part of history. Some are indeed beautiful. But my interest is that of an investor. And this book is great for either the collector or the investor.
   
   It gives a brief glimpse into each coin. It shows a picture of the coin and tells you why it's either a winner or a loser. Also, it tells you the approximate price you can expect to pay for it. You probably would want a more up-to-date guide as to buy and sell prices to accompany the book.
   
   Be sure and note the condition of the coin. The book makes clear what condition you should buy. You would want to avoid anything but those in most cases.
   
   Also, a most valuable glossary is at the back of the book. I find all the terms used in coin collecting completely offsetting as I know so little about it. This glossary is a great guide that you can quickly go to.
   
   I promise you, this book will help you to avoid the many mistakes that we all make in buying coins.
   
   Highly recommended.



2. I enjoyed the book, however the author is obviously an expert in coin collecting. Several things were mentioned that really don't apply to the "NEW" coin collector.



3. Should you buy the second edition of this book? At $13.95, YES! Is it well written? Yes. If you are planing to spend serious money and are looking for specific advice on what coins to buy or not buy, this is the book for you! It covers all price ranges. It's easy to read and fun to read! It's a popular book and at this writing 40 new and used copies are available on Amazon.
   
   However, it needs an aggressive editor who knows coins! Hopefully, a future third edition will include that! Unfortunately, there is no Table of Contents and no Index in this book. The pairings of Winners and Losers could be improved upon. Winner #17 Better-date silver dollars and Winner #38 1885-CC Morgan dollars graded Mint State 65 should have been paired up with Loser #18 Generic Morgan dollars graded Mint State 65, 66, or 67, Loser #25 Common date Peace dollars graded MS 63 & 64, Loser #26 Picked-through rolls of uncirculated silver dollars, Loser #35 1887/6 Morgan dollar graded MS 64 and higher, and Loser #44 1924-S, 1925-S, and 1928-S Peace Dollars graded MS 65. The explanation for the last loser alone is worth the price of this book! Needless to say, Scott Travers is not advocating that you complete your sets if you are investing in coins!
   
   Another example of the need for editing is Winner #9 Proof 66 nickel three-cent pieces could have been combined with Winner #35 Nickel three-cent pieces certified as Mint State 66 or 67.
   
   Commemorative coins are also scattered throughout the book. Examples are Winner #2 Lafayette dollars graded MS 65 and Winner #15 Isabella quarter MS 65. But, one wonders why not MS 64 coins at half of the price? Examples of losers are Loser #2 Iowa commemorative half dollar MS 65 and Loser #34 Sets of 1946 through 1951 Booker T. Washington commemorative half dollars. Given the explanations, one wonders whether MS 66 & 67 coins would be worthwhile? And there goes the idea of owning a complete collection! There's also worthwhile advice on Buffalo nickels and gold coins.
   
   One controversial loser. Loser #24 is Proof coins priced excessively high because their business-strike counterparts are scarce. It gives the example of the 1877 Indian cent with 900 issued as being excessively priced at $15,000 in Poof 65 RED. However, why not recommend an 1877 Indian cent in PF Red/Brown for $6,500 as opposed to paying $28,500 for the 1877 in Mint State 65 RED or $11,000 in MS 65 RB? It appears Scott Travers is advocating that we don't mix uncirculated and proof coins in our collections. But how does that advice against proofs match up with his Winner #5 1856 Flying Eagle cent in Proof 63, 64, or 65? Or Winner #12 1936 Walking Liberty half dollar in Proof 65 currently priced at $6,000, a much newer coin with more than four times as many coins issued (3901) as the 1877 Indian?