5 comments about Treasury of Ironwork Designs: 469 Examples from Historical Sources (Dover Pictorial Archive Series).

1. This book is chock full of illustrations! It has gates, doors, door arches, stair railings, and fence sections. It runs the gamut from simple to very intricate designs. If you are a designer, this is a great resource. If you just appreciate design, you will enjoy browsing through it.



2. I enjoyed this very much. I wish there could have been more photographs, but that would have been a different book. This is almost exclusively line drawings.

   Very helpful and informative. Warning: trying to duplicate these in decorative metal today is *expensive*. Architectural salvage might be more affordable than starting from scratch.




3. I have a different use for this book than perhaps the typical buyer. I bought it because I love adapting these iron designs into borders or patterns for my pen and ink drawings and paintings. Each page was such a delight when I discovered this book I bought it immediately. You need not use it as a home furnishings book. It works just as well as an inspiring art book.



4. I've worked in the Ornamental Iron business for 3 years as a designer and business manager. I use this book more than any other for generating some fresh, usually more elaborate design ideas. There are a number of styles represented in the many drawings. If you are interested in seeing unique and interesting wrought iron designs you will not be disappointed.



5. This is the most comprehensive collection of beautiful designs for gates, rails, fences, walls, pillars etc. From my personal opinion, there are some designs within the book that might be even more beautiful than the ones shown on the front cover. The various styles range from quite simple to very complex (flowery type). With over 400 designs, one is sure to find a few that matches his or her own tastes. A great book for homeowners and others. Probably some of these designs could even be used in graphics and other works apart from architecture.

1 comments about Pictorial Encyclopedia of Historic Costume: 1200 Full-Color Figures.

1. its a good book, it was exactly what i was looking for. thank you

3 comments about The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps 34th ed (Postal Service Guide to Us Stamps).

1. This is the book to have if you are identifing US Commerative Stamps. It has a "lay flat" coil plastic spine, and large colorful pictures with full item details. I've had the other books with the glued spine, and this is the best improvement I've seen. Amazon has the right products for all your needs, and at great affordable prices.



2. This book is a necessity to the serious stamp collector. Its ease of use when trying to identify stamps makes identification quick. The colors are bright and images are clear. This is my third year purchasing this item. A certain must!



3. When I first started looking for The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps.
   I found that there were a lot of choices to choose from. However this is complete with all the information needed for a Stamp Collector.

No comments about The Compleat Talking Machine.

2 comments about The World of Wade Figurines And Miniatures (Schiffer Book for Collectors).

1. I'm not a Wade collector but needed to research a 1950's figurine given to me by my aunt. I couldn't find anything like it on eBay, so I ordered this book. Within minutes of opening it I had found my piece and enough information about it to list it successfully for sale. As with any reference book on antiques and collectibles, the values must be treated with skepticism since prices change with shifts in collectors' interests. But for basic background information, including illustrations and dating of backstamps, it is excellent.



2. I love the Wade Whimsey figurines, but I was flying blind until I got this book. I am now a much more informed collector. I highly recommend this book to any collector.

3 comments about Gun Digest Book Of Beretta Pistols.

1. To call this book an 'Advertorial' would be too kind. To reprint official Beretta press releases would be only slightly less objective.
   I bought the book to learn more about the 92, decide which model to buy, and what to do to improve it. Ayoob wastes way too much ink and pages in basically a bar room style of dialogue ("I heard" "someone said" "some people think" etc.) of testimonials and countering negative comments abot everything from the stopping power of a 9mm to the integrity of the testing peformed to approve the weapon for the US military.
   Oddly enough, the only model he doesn't like (the 9000) he shot only one -an early production model and never did any follow-up testing.
   As far as suggested mods to make the 92 (his favorite gun in the world, it seems) a better shooter, he spends very little time with no useful pictures.
   There are lots of pictures of Ayoob and his daughter posing while shooting, but none that show internal mechanical changes in the firearms that might be helpful in deciding which gun to buy.
   Many, many words about the style of safeties used on the guns and why a police officer should carry a gun on 'safe'.
   Bought the book. Am buying (and planning on keeping) a Beretta. Will throw out the book.



2. Not a Berreta fan but shoot alot of different handguns so I bought it anyway. Excellent book so if you are a Beretta fan this is a must have. Also check out Ayoobs Sig-Sauer book which is very good as well. Maybe you'll do the right thing and buy a Sig instead of a Beretta. ;)



3. Perhaps the definitive Beretta modern handgun book. Written with exceptional clarity and depth from a true expert's perspective. Massad Ayoob is a veteran police officer, gun writer & editor, shooting champion, and self-defense guru. His book covers Bobcats, Tomcats, Jetfires, Cheetahs, Cougars, 92s, 9000s, Neos, and revolvers (PX4 not yet released to the public at the time of publication). It also includes handling, equipment, shooting, customization, and maintenance tips.
   
   The legendary 92 series is heavily emphasized and the author does a good job of counteracting all the popular hate, myths, and rumors point by point. For example, the author agrees that 9mm ball is not a particularly great man-stopper, but he also knows that modern 9mm +P hollowpoint is, and moreover the Beretta 92 can handle it with ease. It would be almost foolish to not take advantage of a proven firearm with this much firepower, stopping power, and reliability. In fact, the author's own trusty bedside gun is a modified 92 loaded with high performance ammo; a solid endorsement if there ever was one! Beretta handgunners rejoice, this the one of the best feel good books ever written!

5 comments about Allied Aircraft Piston Engines of World War II: History and Development of Frontline Aircraft Piston Engines Produced by Great Britain and the united (Reference).

1. A must also for automotive and racing engineers. The roots of actual racing engines and technology... 60 years ago.



2. This book has been highly touted, but does not live up to its hype. Any number of books are as interesting, and much cheaper. "A History of Aircraft Piston Engines" (Smith) comes to mind, as well as many of the books by Bill Gunston. Don't buy this book without seeing it first. For the same money you can get two or three other books that will together contain much more information. However, it is a very good one-volume source on the subject.



3. While there are hundreds if not thousands of books devoted to World War II military aviation, only a handful cover with any detail the critically important aspect of aero engine development. This is one of the few books available on this topic and Graham White generally does a good job covering in detail the principal (as well as obscure) British and American aircraft engines. White begins his book by describing some of the challenges faced by aircraft piston engine designers before diving headlong into the specific histories and technical aspects of key British and American engines. His descriptions of each engine are highly technical and he displays his talents as an engineer and mechanic in terms of his detailed description of engine parts and systems. White also brings us back to the bigger picture with vivid descriptions of the personalities who played a role in the design and manufacture of each engine as well as descriptions of the aircraft that used them.
   
   White admits that by only covering British and American (as opposed to Axis) engines he is only telling "half" of the aircraft engine story, and one hopes that White chooses to take up the challenge of telling this other half in a future second book. In the meantime, some areas where White's book falls short include a much-needed glossary explaining the terminology he uses for those aviation buffs and historians not steeped in the field of engineering or engine mechanics. Furthermore in some cases White's descriptions of World War II aircraft can be found in sources elsewhere or are simply inaccurate-he should have stuck with what he knows well by focusing on the technical aspects of how each engine related to a particular aircraft rather than waste space discussing each aircraft's development and operational histories. Finally White's conclusion-a tirade against 21st century corporate capitalism-is too opinionated and frankly out of place in a work of this nature.
   
   Despite these small flaws White's book remains one of the few available authoritative sources on the topic of aircraft piston engines, and is an important acquisition for anyone interested in World War II military aviation.



4. They don't come much better than this. Along with his volume on the R-2800 Mr White provides fans of aircraft engines with a very good read.



5. This books treatment of the technical aspects of WWII aircraft engines is nothing short of fantastic! Mr. White appears to be very knowledgeable (right down to the nuts & bolts level) in the development of these engines and their service histories. His use of contemporary references adds great authority to the work.

   My only criticisms are that Mr. White puts emphasis on some of the relatively obscure engines of British manufacture while neglecting some of the more important subjects.
   Also (in my opinion), he unfairly downgrades the performance of the Allison V-1710. He seems to attribute its' lackluster performance in such craft as the P-39 Airacobra to a shortcoming of the engine itself, while virtually ignoring the fact that some blockhead in the military saw fit to eliminate its' supercharger. And there is little emphasis placed on the spectacular performance of the same engine (with supercharger) in the P-38 Lightning.

   Having said that; except for these shortcomings, I would rank this book amongst the 2 or 3 best books ever written on the subject! You cannot be well informed on this subject until you read "Allied Aircraft Piston Engines of WW II"!

5 comments about How to Have a 48-Hour Day.

1. A solid time management book. Not a lot of fluff. Plain straightforward language from an old farmer and janitor. I'd recommend it to anyone.
   
   Kind of what you'd expect to hear from your grandpa talking to you.



2. This was the first of Don Aslett's books I ever read, and it is the book that made me want to read more. It is an easy to read book with plenty of illustrations and it has such a powerful message.
   
   If you follow the advice Aslett presents in this book you will most certainly accomplish more than you ever dreamed possible. There are some things I disagree with. I often wear shirts with button down collars, so I think Aslett maybe goes a bit too far when he suggests not having collars that button down so you can save time getting dressed. However, he makes a great point. Many little things we do each day that take time add up to a lot of time. So, if we learn to cut a minute here and a minute there off of ordinary routines, we will have more minutes for accomplishing our goals.
   
   Besides containing a lot of excellent time management advice, this book is also very motivating. Why Do More is a great chapter if you need convincing that accomplishing more makes you feel better. If you need some motivation, this book will give it to you.
   
   Page 66 has two words on the page in huge font - BE EARLY. The advice and reasons Aslett presents for being early are priceless. Just incorporating this strategy can save you tremendously.
   
   As I said, this was the first of Aslett's books I ever read back in 1996. Since then, I have read it several times when I needed a kick in the pants to get back on the productivity train. I just recently read a couple chapters again to assist with a presentation I was giving and to motivate me to do even more in 2008.
   
   Read this book and then put the strategies to work and you will accomplish more and feel great about getting things done.
   
   As someone else posted, this book was reprinted with the new title "Done."
   
   Reviewed by Alain Burrese, J.D., author, speaker
   Hard-Won Wisdom From The School of Hard Knocks, Hapkido Hoshinsul, Streetfighting Essentials, Hapkido Cane, and The Lock On Joint Locking series



3. THIS WAS, AS ALL DON ASLETT BOOKS, VERY GOOD. HOWEVER, IT IS VIRTUALLY (EXCEPT FOR A FEW SENTENCES) THE SAME AS 'DONE'. I READ 'DONE' FIRST, AND ENJOYED IT VERY MUCH. I WAS VERY DISAPPOINTED TO READ THIS BOOK. BOTH BOOKS ARE GOOD BECAUSE THEY ARE THE SAME. TIP: IF YOU READ ONE, DON'T READ THE OTHER.



4. This is one of my favorite time management books. It's written in a straightforward, to the point manner, and focuses on not on cliches, complicated lists or 'feel good' fluff but offers some sound techniques ('be early' and dejunk' being a couple of them) and is interwoven throughout with good values and ethics as well (do right, read the scriptures, taking care of others is one of the most productive things on earth, etc.).
   
   I'll admit I'm still working on incorporating all these principles into my life with more or less success, but think this is one of the best basic expositions of the work ethic and how to have a fulfilling life (hint: you won't get one watching TV every night after work).
   
   I like too that he focuses not just on top tier executives or athletes, but on people from all walks of life showing that everyone can make the most of what they have.
   
   Recommended.



5. I checked this book out because I'd bought How to Lose 200 Lbs in One Weekend on a friend's recommendation and got a lot out of it. I wasn't just disappointed -- I was amazed at what Aslett considers reasonable in the quest for productivity. If we followed Aslett's guidelines, we'd never stop to chat with a friend, would work through meals even if we were hungry (not that the meals would be worth stopping for -- Aslett considers spice to be "food clutter" and recommends sticking to unspiced food), eschew coffee breaks because lifting that cup to your lips takes time, time, time, rise earlier, work later and generally keep our noses to the grindstone at the expense of relaxation, recreation or pleasure of any kind.
   
   This book reminded me of the old joke about the man who asks his doctor how to extend his life, and the doctor tells him to give up alcohol, women, and rich food. "You won't live longer, but it will seem like an eternity." Aslett may be able to cram forty-eight hours into one day, but what a miserable day it is.

No comments about Comics Values Annual 2008 (Comics Values Annual).

5 comments about TV Guide The Official Collectors Guide: Celebrating An Icon.

1. Enhanced with more than 3,700 full color covers from America's most popular, iconic, and widespread weekly magazine, "TV Guide: The Official Collectors Guide" compiled by Stephen F. Hofer (Curator of the Philo T. Farnsworth Television History Center, Auburn, Indiana, and who himself is the owner of one of the largest collections of TV Guide magazines and memorabilia in the United States) covers all the national and regional digest size covers from April 10, 1953 to October 9, 2005. Included are TV Guide foldout covers, holographic covers, and multiple covers. For the antique dealer and hobbyist collector, each issue has the current secondary market prices listed. Featuring memorable quotes from TV Guide and from television shows, "TV Guide: The Official Collectors Guide" is more than a price guide compendium, (and a superb history of the magazine itself), it is also a very highly recommended tour of American television programming through more than fifty years of popular culture.



2. This book has several major flaws. For a start, there is no index. The only way to locate covers with your favorite stars or shows is to browse the pages year-by-year.
   
   The price guide only gives values for "mint condition" issues, with no guidelines for how to adjust value for copies in less than mint condition. (Most collectors' guides give a range of prices based on condition.)
   
   It would have been nice if they had included some lists, such as: the most valuable issues; issues with multiple covers; people who have appeared on the most covers; etc. All of these things are mentioned in the text, but there is no way to look them up except by browsing every listing.
   
   Despite these flaws, this is still an invaluable book for collectors, because of it's comprehensive checklist.



3. I was so happy to receive the TV Guide Official Collector's Guide, it is a great publication!! It has a lot more information than I expected - comments by stars over the years and much more!! It is very colorful and I will enjoy reading it for years to come. My 45 year old son has a collection of TV Guides and I know he will be interested in seeing the publication to see if the ones he has are valuable! Thank you



4. The episode of Seinfeld where Frank Costanza was noted to be a collector of TV Guide pretty much cemented that publication's place in the lore of pop culture. Now, from Bangzoom publishers comes "TV Guide" the official Collector's Guide. A lot of collector's books claim to be the only book you'd ever need to own but this one truly fits the bill. With over 3700 pictures, and every national and regional TV Guide cover pictured from 4/10/1953 through 10/19/2005 this is truly the ultimate resource for not only collectors, but fans of the magazine as well.
   
   With a foreward by senior TV Guide editor Michael Davis, the book provides info geared towards the collector on where to buy, grading, and preserving your TV Guide collection. The cover subjects are what drives the price of back issues with the very first issue featuring the baby Desi Arnaz Jr. being the most valuable. While I've never collected TV Guide I was a long-time Comic Book collector and basically TV Guides should be kept and stored the same way...in protective bags and ideally in acid free storage boxes.
   
   The guide provides a 19 page history of the magazine as well as a look at TV shows and trends by decade from the 40's through the 2000's; everything from Milton Berle and Howdy Doody to Lost and American Idol. I was born in the 1960's and love many of the shows from that era even though I didn't watch many in their initial runs. It wasn't until syndicated re-runs in the 1970's that I came to adore shows such Bewitched, Gomer Pyle, and Green Acres. As noted in the book, The Brady Bunch was never a top-rated show, but you'd hardly know that since it has gone on to become one of the most syndicated shows in history and a true TV legend.
   
   Next up is 213 pages which show each of those covers from 1953 through 2005 in full color and it's like a trip on a wonderful time machine to page through the decades to see many of the actors and shows that you remember so fondly, and many you may have forgotten such as The Governor and J.J. One TV Guide trend that seems to have ended some time in the early 80's was featuring Santa Claus on the cover of a December issue. The book concludes with a 68 page index and value guide for each issue and doubles as a handy checklist for collectors.
   
   Whether you are storing issues away chronologically like Frank Costanza, or just have a life long love of TV, you are certain to find something to enjoy in this fabulous book.
   
   Reviewed by Tim Janson



5. A mind-bending, if not surreal, parade of TV trivia presented week by week, year by year, era by era. Every single TV Guide cover is shown in true color, from April '53 to the first mag-size issue from autumn of last year. They're arranged as text would be on each page, left-to-right, top-to-bottom and IN ORDER on each page, dated and readily viewable. They even include full displays of all fold-out covers, as well as every version of each multiple cover, such as the one which had to be updated at Michael Landon's death, different regional sport-season previews, and the 25-cover tribute to all the Star Trek cast.
   
   The book is in 3 main sections:
   1) A 26-page section of blurb overseeing the history of TV Guide and background trivia of many of the covers
   2) The section displaying the covers themselves, and
   3) A listing of all covers (with dates and captions) and their collectible worth in mint condition.
   
   It is bound in durable yet manageable paperback binding.
   
   Anyone can invent their own TV trivia diversions just by scanning through this book (i.e. what are the earliest covers featuring people who are still alive? or Who has appeared the most times? or How did TV Guide handle documentarial times and issues [JFK's assassination, 9-11, the advent of cable & PBS etc.], or When did one televion era end, and another begin? and the like). The price list section also serves as an easier-to-count ready-reference of all the cover headings.
   
   Mad Magazine presented a similar, also top-rate, timeline of all their covers a few years ago upon the advent of their 400th issue. The first such resource to incorporate all the TV Guide digest covers certainly doesn't disappoint.