5 comments about Ambling into History: The Unlikely Odyssey of George W. Bush.

1. After having read several books and listened to hundreds of hours of TV dealing with President G.W.Bush;I almost passed up this book. For one reason,it was published in 2002 ,and certainly most people feel they know all there is to know about him.So,how do we know all this? We make up our minds based on our politics or on what we are fed by the media;and that is hugely biased on the editorial slant and agenda of the media we are listening to or following. It seems to me, that the reporters and op.ed. writers only ask questions for which they hope to get a reply that fits their political leanings ;or write a piece on something negative even when there is much that is positive that is more important.In my humble opinion,it should be the medias role to report the whole picture and to let the political hacks do the biased politicking.
   The author,Frank Bruni,covered Bush's presidential campaign for the New York Times, and in this book he has done an excellent job of giving the reader a remarkable insight into the real character of the President.The thing that really surprised me,was that I expected this book to more reflect the "thinking" of the NY Times ;and that would not be a balanced or conservative approach. I was hardly into the book when I realized that Bruni was making a genuine attempt to really show what kind of a person G.W. Bush really was.This did not change as he kept true to that principle from the time he closely followed him from before the Primaries till well after 9/11.
   Bruni spent endless hours with Bush and his family while on the campaigns,travelling ,press conferences,in his homes,and during a lot of down time and "off the record" conversations.He gives us endless verbatum quotes from Bush and you will be amazed at the openess with which Bush and his family talks.
   Where most politicians are consumed by unrelenting blind political ambition;you will see that Bush is an exception.He has his deeply held values and convictions that are far more important to him than political agendae.These beliefs can be troubling to many on both sides of politics,but as far as Bush is concerned,that is their problem;not his.When he found himself occupying the office of the President of the United States;he knew it would be difficult,but more important ,he would give it everything he had,and with the help of God and any other resources he could muster;he would try his best to serve and protect his country.
   One would think that in the world of politics ,a book like this would be dated by now, Not so.You may or not "like" him,agree or disagree with his politics or party;but after reading this book;you can sure see why he operates in the way he does.He knows he may not always be right and if he is convinced that an alternate path is correct,he will take it.
   The fact that Bush does not "fit" the Washington Beltway mold for a politican;is the reason that the media has such a problem with him.
   The reason I would recommend this book is that,regardless of your politics;Bruni has cut through all the fog and exposes the Bush's real character.
   Bruni gives us numerous personal quotes from Bush.One I liked was;
   "Well,there are some things over which I have no control and some I can influence, and I'm able to distinguish between the two."
   When you understand where Bush "comes from";you can see why he believes his prime responsibility with The War On Terror is the security of the country,and he will do whatever it takes "On My Watch!"



2. This book is a politically-motivated libel. The author tries unsuccesfully to hide his aversion to the Bush family, not only toward the President, but also toward his parents and his wife Laura. The book is not worth its weight in paper.



3. I liked this book because it paints the good and bad about George W. Bush. Bruni covered the Bush Campaign for the New York Times. In this book, he reveals the real George Bush and the close election of 2000. There were lots of colorful insight and also jokes played during this campaign. What this book revealed was an uncomplicated man who was seeking the presidency. Bush also could laugh at himself, including his fumbling of the English language. The Presidency was not his all consuming passion as it was for Al Gore. This knowledge validated my vote for Bush.
   Bruni covers only the campaign and the aftermath of the election. There is only a little background history of Bush before his presidential run. There are no photos in this book. The book is strictly a look at Bush's run for the White House in 2000.



4. Frank Bruni, a New York Times reporter, wrote a perceptive and eloquent book about the candidate whose campaign he covered in 1999-2000 and the president of the months previous to 9/11, when he was part of the White House press corps. With eye for the big and the small details, he tries a search for George W. Bush. But, as seems always the case in this kind of books, he succeeds, but only partially. Nevertheless, the answers to these failures stand clear in the book itself. I think it has to do something with misunderstimation.
   
   Analysts, journalists and all kinds of pundits, it seems, start at the wrong place: they measure Bush against the traditional political standards and, when he just doesn't fit into them, well, the problems begin. "In many regards, the Bush I knew did not seem to be built for what lay ahead. The Bush I knew was part scamp and part bumbler, a timeless fraternity boy and heedless cutup, a weekday gym rat and weekend napster, an adult with an inner child that often brimmed to the surface or burst trough". What Bruni and others see as limitations, I think, could well be the essence of the success behind George W. Bush in the eyes of many people. In a time where professional politicians are always so self-righteous and pretend to have the right answers to all the problems around, Bush and his unpretending and fallible human nature are a breeze of fresh air.
   
   So, when reading this book, you have to look for the real Bush, the one whose own self and voice keeps joyfully and intelligently jumping out here and there troughout the text, no matter what his disciplinarians (like Karen Hughes) do to enforce him, or the journalists (like Bruni himself) think about it.
   
   Bruni's book deserves five stars because he tries really hard to measure Bush against those all traditonal standards and, in the way, inadvertently discovers Bush to the reader. Another plus is his exceptionally intelligent assesment of the role the press plays in "constructing reality" and not just reporting it. Sure it does. And it's part of the misunderestimation of George W. Bush.
   
   Read it, you won't be dissapointed.



5. On the 3 July 2004 Fox News Watch member Neal Gabler implied that Frank Bruni was something of a cheer leader for George W Bush in the 2000 election.

   That is not something a dispassionate reader would claim after reading Bruni's account in this book, essentially a campaign journal of Bruni's travels on the 'Zoo plane,'and elsewhere during that frantic presidential election.

   Overall Bruni is mildly critical of his subject, but often in a funny way, particularly with the then Republican candidate's mangling of the English language -something that Bush is able to laugh at himself over (a good trait).

   The book is not a must-read, and is now dated being published in early 2002, but it does give some idea of how manic and maniac campaign life is for both journalists and candidates.

   Bush is revealed as a man with an impish sense of humour but also one that developed newfound gravity after the horrific attacks on his country, in September 2001, and a leader who takes the trappings of the presidency seriously. On one occasion he forgot to salute a marine as he boarded his helicopter, Marine One, to go to Camp David but once inside he remembered his failure and so returned to salute the startled guard!

   If you like a gossipy style account of elections then this book is an enjoyable enough light read

3 comments about How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else (Thorndike Press Large Print Biography Series).

1. HOW STARBUCKS SAVED MY LIFE by Michael Gates Gill is an interesting autobiography about a man born to privilege who struggles to recover after losing his job in the ad industry after 25 years. After a slow 10-year slide caused by being downsized, divorced, and diagnosed with a brain tumor, he is offered redemption by a 28 year old manager at a Starbucks' recruiting day. His employment at an Upper Westside NYC store becomes the foundation for getting his life back together.
   
   Gill is the son of a prominent writer for the New Yorker, and was essentially born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth. He grows up in the best neighborhoods, attends the best schools, and uses his Yale contacts to land a cushy job with a large advertising agency when he graduates. His life is peppered with encounters from legendary figures, including Jackie Kennedy, Frank Sinatra, Robert Frost, Andy Warhol, and Earnest Hemingway. In fact, at times he seems to drop more names than a one-armed man delivering phone books. One of my favorite anecdotes is when he is strong-armed by Prince Phillip, after accidently jostling Queen Elizabeth when reaching for a cucumber sandwich. So, it becomes humbling when in his sixties, his contacts have deserted him.
   
   What follows is an inspiring tale of an old white male finding new life among African-American partners who were not born with his advantages. At times, the book almost becomes a glowing commercial for Starbucks, but he backs it up with stories about the camaraderie between Starbucks partners and guests, and the genuine display of respect that they have for each other. I've read other books written by employees of Microsoft, Amazon, and other technology firms, but never felt the spirit of the people in this book.
   
   I read the Large Print version published by Thorndike Press. It is set in 16 pt. Plantin which makes it easy to read by most people.
   
   Charlie Maze
   
   September 5, 2008



2. This is an inspirational book for everyone and offers something special to people who've made big mistakes. It is story of redemption and a life changing event for Mike, a former advertising executive. Interesting side stories dot the book. I learned something new about respecting the people you work with, and while I've always tried to be respectful of my customers Mike's experiences were an eye-opener for both of us.



3. How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else
   
   Loved this book. A wake up call to what passes for leadership in corporate America today. These aloof shyster's don't know the meaning of the word partner.... RESPECT YOUR PARTNERS.... ceo's and executive's are WAY overpaid.
   
   The stock market in 2008 should tell all.... GREED, GREED, GREED.....! It will work for awhile but not forever!
   
   Wake up America!!!

5 comments about A Year by the Sea: Thoughts of an Unfinished Woman (G K Hall Large Print Book Series).

1. I could identify with many of the issues that Joan Anderson was facing; the life changes, my choices and life fulfillment. It is a beautiful book at times, but at other times the author comes off a bit whiny. Still, overall, I give Joan Anderson a thumbs up for having the courage to leave the familiar and to take risks in finding something more and ultimately in the end, finding yourself and your own voice.



2. As a woman who just turned 30 years old, I found this book incredibly relevant to my life even with the distance in age and outward life circumstances from the author. The book is beautifully written... poetic, moving, deeply meaningful. I read it over two days and look forward to reading it again. There are many passages that resonated with my so deeply, I look forward to going back and highlighting. I would recommend this book to any woman at a point of transition or questioning in her life - surely it will be like a lighthouse for your rocking ship.



3. I bought this book after reading a raving review and I was totally disappointed. The style is bland and common, the topic - finding and understanding oneself, which I believe is one of life most important feat - is treated in a shallow manner. In our day and age, I also found it difficult to relate to a fifties' American housewife type of issues. But, it could have all been bearable if the book had been well written. It isn't, and it never managed to stir a bit of passion, beauty or compassion. I was bored from beginning to end, and I only kept reading the book in hope that it might improve. There are many better books out there that deal with introspection, meaning of relationships, being oneself, or surrounding oneself in nature and discovering life.



4. This was a well written book with many ideas that resonated within me. I especially liked how she started each chapter with a quote, a poem, some bit of writing from another author. I feel this book can help any woman looking to "find herself". While I've learned there is no treasure map that leads us to the "X marks myself", there are several good books that are guideposts, and this one could be counted as one of them.



5. It was the year 2000, I'd been married almost 20 years -- the kids were pretty much grown and I stood at the edge of my marriage - terrified that I'd jump off and terrified that I wouldn't. Okay, maybe terrified is a dramatic term, but that is how I felt. I truly did not know WHAT to do with my "self" even after many years of intentional inner growth, happiness and many blessings. I didn't know if I needed to be REALLY alone or how to be the ME emerging AND be married. There was no other man - no big outer change I sought...I just felt trapped. Thankfully, a friend told me about this book and I devoured it with gratitude. Joan Anderson is a ballsy, brave wayshower -- she's HONEST about the details I wondered about and I can't begin to say how grateful this wasn't a story about another man. Eight years later, I am HAPPY in me--my life and my marriage AND I am still learning - still growing. And now, Joan has THE SECOND JOURNEY out -- her story about the 10 years after writing her first book. Again, she helps so many as she helps her own life. For those who have found A YEAR BY THE SEA inspirational and helpful, please write to Meryl Streep (or her agent/publicist) or your favorite strong 50's actress to consider pushing this story to be made into a movie. This book has helped so many women, men and their marriages! Thank you Joan Anderson!!

5 comments about The City of Joy.

1. An outstanding book. Highly recommended as essential reading for any thinking person and any person who truely cares about the world and the plight of humanity.



2. One of the best boooks of Dominique La Pierre, makes you see reality as is, the acceptance with joy of the life you are to live.



3. One of the reviewers below described the book as "cardboard cut-out disease porn" and that is the most apt, succint way to describe "City of Joy". The book dives into rampant filth, disease and raw physical suffering with about as much preamble and relish as any porn video dives into sex. It is about as uplifting as self-flagellation, and as inspiring as Fear Factor.



4. "...The 'City of Joy' shall be remembered as the best account of the life of the people in Calcutta's slums; of the city's never-say-die attitude. The book presents a very emotional account of the daily lives of the poor in the city, and makes the reader fall in love with these little heros, who daily fight the battle of life to mete out a subsistence existence. The book is an eye-opener to the people who have never faced the adversities of life. The author has done a brilliant job in portraying the poor with compassion and empathy. A true masterpiece..."



5. No other book I had ever read has ever made me more proud about the fact that I am an Indian or importantly, a human being. The moving story, that the author claims is based on facts is probably based on a true one. What is truly remarkable though, is the fact that this is probably not an unusual story or for that matter even an uncommon one! It happens, more so in India that anywhere else, despite 200 years of British rule the Western had not been able to take from these people what they prize most, their dignity. People trying to live a decent life, who hope to live with at least an ounce of self-respect going to great extremes to attain it.
   
   It doesn't surprise me to know this today, nor does it surprise me to know it took so long for the world to know this. What amazes me is that so many Indians have written such bad reviews about this book. It seems ironic that a book that tells a story about the majority of Indians who are uneducated is not appreciated by the minority that are. It makes sense though. This book doesn't directly attempt to glorify India's culture, its traditions or values. Instead it speaks about the bitter realities of a ghetto that almost all educated Indians with a modern outlook likes to pretend don't exist. These are the people that Westerners mostly interact with, these are the people who want to impress India to the rest of the world, and the truths in this book are not what they would think is impressive. It still impressive none the less. In fact it is more than impressive that even at the lowest of low of economic degradation a man can still try to live a life of dignity - the kind that every human being deserves to live with.
   
   IF AFTER READING THIS BOOK YOU SHED A TEAR, either of joy or sorrow, GO TO THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE MOST AND TELL THEM HOW MUCH YOU LOVE THEM, thank them for who they are and after that thank God for the beauty that is your life and lastly thank yourself because you are a wonderful human-being.

3 comments about Demon of the Waters: The True Story of the Mutiny on the Whaleship Globe.

1. I read a glowing review of this on Salon. Later, looking at the Amazon website, I read a less flattering editorial review. I'm not sure either reviewer actually read the book. The story that it is ostensibly about is that of the mutiny on the whaleship Globe. The author of the mutiny was a sort of 'romantic' sociopath type (they're never particularly romantic when you know enough about them) whose plan was to go ashore and make himself king of some savage tribes. This story was scandalous in America when it happened; sort of the O.J. Simpson trial of the 1820s. There are easily a half dozen or so books on the topic.
   
   This one is by a rare book dealer who found a new manuscript relating to the mutiny; quite a lot of the book is dealing with his discovery of the new manuscript, and checking out various supporting pieces of evidence. It was the author's "find of a lifetime." He also had a fascinating interview with a tribesman of the island where the mutineer hoped to make himself king. This interview was appropos of nothing, really, but it made me happy to be an American (which is probably why it was included). Anyway, this book was quite fluffy; serves me right for buying something because Salon magazine said so. The magazine was never for mighty intellects, but post IPO, it has become pretty horrid. This book probably had the material for a couple of amusing magazine articles, but it wasn't worth the $25.



2. Grab this book! You're in for a wild ride!
   
   Demon of the Waters stands out from the rest of the books I've found in the whaling adventure genre. Gibson's research is unsurpassed. He provides such varied information on whaling to satisfy anyone's appetite for adventure and knowledge, providing background on how he came across the story of the Globe mutiny and what he discovered during the course of his quest to get to the root of the story as well as the history of whaleship making in Nantucket's heyday. Unlike many other books of this type, the author doesn't bog you down with chapter after chapter of excruciating biographical detail of every crew member aboard the ship. He skillfully chooses to include the relevant information that is pertinent to the story. The mutiny on the Globe is strikingly depicted; the story is unfathomable and never lacks for an unexpected twist. It will haunt you for many days after you finish the book!
   
   I much appreciated the chapters on the nitty-gritty of whaling terms and slang, and what went on step-by-step in felling a whale. Gibson merges thorough research with an incredible tale to create a must-read for any fan of whaling and adventure.
   
   Advice to future readers: notice that the middle section of the book contains illustrations and pictures. I discovered this a little late and would have liked to have noticed it earlier to aid my understanding. I wish Gibson would have referenced them in the text. Overall, an EXCELLENT whaling book. I HIGHLY recommend it. If you enjoy true tales of whaling adventure, I also recommend Nathaniel Philbrick's In the Heart of the Sea, Neil Hanson's The Custom of the Sea, and Robert Blackwood Robertson's Of Whales and Men.



3. I highly recommend this book to all who like to read about toll ships and see adventures.
   Painstakingly, masterfully written, book embraces detailed description of whaling ships and their role in making many Nantuckers rich, as well as many aspects of human life during the "golden" era of whaling for oil industry. But not only this.
   We have many historical details about early Pacific navigations and about competition for dominance in this region between France, Britain and Americans.
   We will learn with fascination how white sailors encountered first time and clashed with other cultures and tribes of Pacific islands; also, how the toll ships were build on Nantucket Island at the beginning of the 19th century and who was involved in those projects.
   And of course the main theme - gruesome events on the deck of the "Globe" and on the Mili atoll (Marshall islands), where two cultures met suddenly by surprise and got stunned - beautifully woven into the whole text.
   Masterpiece, Mr. Gibson, no doubt. It should be considered as continuation of "In the Heart of the Sea".

5 comments about The Sacrifice of Tamar.

1. I absolutely loved and HIGHLY recommend this gem of a novel!
   
   The story of a young ultra-religious girl in 1950s Brooklyn having to deal with having been brutally raped by a African American man and unable to tell anyone or deal with the consequences, was gripping, intriguing and an extraordinary premise. Yet this book is about so much more....it is about friendship, beliefs, tradition, family loyalties, truth, honor and love.
   
   It is a book that will stick with you a long time after reading it and hopefully you'll feel as compelled as I to pass it along to friends/family.
   
   Despite its predictabilty, I would consider this a "must-read" and recommend it highly. For those of us who grew up Jewish, or at least familiar with Jewish culture/traditions, it will be extremely compelling and relatable....(I was proud to recognize/understand all those yiddish words I heard growing up!) However, I hope it finds a universal readership, across cultural and religious lines, as I believe it is through learning about other people/cultures, that we become a more tolerant society.



2. From the first page to the last I found this book to be a wonderful yet sad story. I'm generally not a fast reader, but this one went very quickly - I just didn't want to put it down. There were a few slow parts, but all in all I think it's a wonderful choice.



3. This was the very first book that I've read by the author, and I thought that it was absolutely amazing! This was such a compelling story, I read it all in one night. I've read other reviews here, and I totally disagree that Tamar's rapist was black simply because the author was trying to re-enforce the image of a "black criminal" or because she is racist herself. I think the fact that he was black was very essential to the plot. Had he been white, then Tamar would have had an option to pretend that the baby was her husbands. No one would question it, her husband would never suspect it, Tamar alone would know the terrible secret. Because he was black this was obviously no longer an option.
   In the begining of the book Tamar is seen as good but extremely weak woman. Ever since she was a child the decisions which directly affected her life, were made for her. First, by her parents, then by her husband. She has choices when faced with pregnancy, but can't decide herself, and still choses to do nothing. Her faith seems to be rewarded at first, but we see how that affects the rest of her life. I loved her transformation into a woman who truly accepts herself and takes control of her life. I would highly recommend this book.



4. 
   Tamar Finegold has a secure and predictable life , as wife of one of Brooklyn's leading ultra-orthodox rabbis , but when she is violently raped by an intruder , all of this is thrown into turmoil.
   She turns to two childhood friends , but keeps the secret from her family , until years later , a strange turn of events forces her to confront her past.
   
   Naomi Ragen's books deal with the struggle of Jewish communities and the various threats and dilemmas that face them.
   I had previously read The Covenant and The Ghost of Hannah Mendes.
   
   This book shows both the tranquility and beauty of religious life and the dilemmas faced. It is beautifully written and shows how Tamar deals witht he trauma of her rape by an intruder and how her life and that of her family develops, as well as that of her two friends, one who has wisely embraced all that is good in Judaism , and one that has divorced herself from her roots.
   A very compelling and easy read , that gives us a rare insight into ultra-orthodox communities and their ways of being and thinking.



5. the book in itself has a good story line yet it is too predictible and also has some parts where you just "get lost" in it...
   being from israel also didnt help me understand some of the complex terminology of the book which made the reading a bit more harsh then fun.

5 comments about Lincoln - Volume 1.

1. We all know how the story of Lincoln tragically ends. Therefore it is a testament to the biographer's consummate writing talent that one still feels a sense of emotion and loss when he describes that night at the Ford Theater. In the six hundred pages that come before, he so perfectly captures Abraham Lincoln the man, his strengths, his sometimes surprising flaws, that you feel in some way you know him. That is David Herbert Donald's singular achievement. With a style that avoids stuffiness and prolixity, this is a great read for both the casual reader and the more serious student of history.



2. I read this book a couple of years ago. I've heard it described more than once as the "definitive" Lincoln bio, but it's not the most readable. I don't insist that the history I read be easy and light, but this book was a bit too dense and detailed for me. Parts were interesting, but I got majorly bogged down in the middle. There have to be Lincoln bios out there that would be of more interest to the general reader.



3. This is a biography of Lincoln. The problem in writing a biography of Lincoln, of course, is that so many thousands of books on Lincoln have already been written. How do you say anything new and useful about the man, about whom more words have been written than anyone else in American history?
   
   Donald deals with this problem by adopting an unusual biographic strategy. In most biographies, of course, the writer is writing both the life of the subject and at least to some degree larger history. To put the life into context, as a rule, the writer needs to explore the larger issues with which the person was concerned.
   
   Donald very deliberately does not do this. He says in his introduction that is not a general history of 19th century America and it is not. He says that he will focus only on Lincoln himself, and he does. He does not, for example, give us a detailed description of any of the Civil War battles. Lincoln was not present at those battles, so they are not described. His focus is exclusively on Lincoln, the people around him and the events in which he was directly invovled.
   
   The result is odd, but it works. You get very little about the overall strategy of the Civil War. You get next to nothing about Congressional politics in the Civil War. You get virtually nothing about the Confederacy. Instead, you get this kind of reality-TV approach, where you feel as if you were following Lincoln around.
   
   In line with this approach, Donald offers a minimum of interpretation. He presents no arguments about Lincoln's signifigance or role in history. The thesis of the book, if you can call it that, is a very understated argument that LIncoln saw himself as the passive instrument of events, rather than the active shaper of them. It is more a theme, a literary device, than an argument.
   
   The book, in short, takes a minimalist approach to the subject. It works, simply because there is so much written on LIncoln. Out of the vast oceans of material that one could cover, and out of the oceans of argument one could make, Donald sticks tight to the subject and lets events speak for themselves. The end result is that he is able to write a very full biography, on his own odd terms, and keep it just under 600 pages of text. I found the book kind of cold emotionally, but nonetheless very gripping and very informative. I would not call it a definitive biography of Lincoln -- it is too short and self-consciously limited for that -- but, as one volume biographies go, it is very, very good.



4. I have a read a lot of biographical works on Abraham Lincoln. I found this to be the best and most balanced view. If you read biographies or other works related to Abraham Lincoln, you must include this book. It is required reading and was written by one of the - if not the - preeminent scholar on Lincoln.
   
   I would also recommend you to other books, in addition to this one, if you desire to learn about Abraham Lincoln. Reading a variety of biographies about Abraham Lincoln will give you an overall and better picture than one book can alone.
   
   However, having said that, this is the best Lincoln biography. It is excellent.



5. David Donald's Lincoln is packed full of relevant (and irrelevent) facts. I was surprised that a biography of 600 pages on anybody, especially Abraham Lincoln, could contain so much information. It usually takes authors two or three volumes to say as much as Donald does in one.
   
   Just like life on the western frontier, this biography begins slowly. This provides a good place for those interested in getting the author's take on Lincoln as a person. A portion of other people's lives that is usually covered in two to three pages is covered in great depth. In approximately 150+ pages, Donald gives us a look into Lincoln's early life, his time as a moderately successful Lawyer in Illinois, and his unsuccessful political career. For those looking to learn more about Lincoln's Administration, I would recommend skipping to Chapter Eight, where the book gets much more exciting.
   
   Once begun, Donald sets an exciting (and still fact-filled) pace that does not let up until the end.
   
   While this is a great biography, the subject will always be fiercely debated. Lincoln's Administration led during the greatest upheaval our nation has ever seen. Therefore the literature will vary immensely. For some (like Mr. Donald) Lincoln was mostly passive, and reacted to events as they came; for others he was a great leader with some less than great subordinates; and to still others he was a usurper who limited individual rights and constantly ignored the constitution.
   
   Mr. Donald does an excellent job of providing a balanced review of Lincoln, both as a person and as President. Too many biographers prefer to keep out negative aspects of their subjects, hurting the overall integrity of their work, but Mr. Donald is willing to admit fault in his man.
   
   I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the American Civil War era. I must again warn the reader that this is a hotly debated subject, and taking one opinion is not sufficient. I strongly suggest looking at other writers' take on the subject as well.

5 comments about The Sacred Journey.

1. This book talks about Mr. Buechner's life. It is a bit scattered at times as he can take one sentence and make an entire paragraph, but overall is a good look at how places and memories make up our lives.



2. check out doug thorpe's comments on this book; he's a Seattle Pacific University muse, so his words must be golden. here's my two cents:
   
   the writing style of the sacred journey seems deceptively simple, even hypnotic, and buechner has done a masterful job at piecing his memories together into a meaningful (and occasionally preachy) message. in fact, he provides a first-rate example of how to do exactly that which he suggests, pour over one's past for surprising glimpses of God's grace-filled touch. if nothing else, buechner sure knows how to write a stirring introduction.



3. I have read The Magnificent Defeat, Godric and the meditation book, Listening to Your Life. I've read other books by Richard Rohr that have blown me away in how they've illuminated Christianity for me but I've never read anything quite so beautiful, so rich with humanity as this slim little volume.

   It is rare that words fail me but it seems that anything I could say about this work wouldn't do it any justice at all. It's not about Christianity, it's about looking into your life, listening to all the strangeness, horror and wonder and perchance finding what God might be saying.

   and still my words fail. Read this and take the journey yourself. You'll see what I mean.




4. The mystery of our lives. The oddity of memory. The things that make us who we are. Frederick Buechner explores all of these topics in the first volume of his autobiographies, "The Sacred Journey."

   Slowly--word by word and line by line, Buechner has won my respect as an author. How he unravels the story of his own life, how he makes the past breathe, gives it life...it has all combined to deepen my esteem for him. He is one of the greatest living authors.

   Buechner's honest search for something universal in his story has captivated me. We all stand, in one way or another, in the shadows of our own lives. Alone, we cannot even comprehend the whole of our own journeys. The value of Buechner's excavation of his past is that when others view it, it may help them see the importance of their own journey.

   In spite of the author's uncertainness about writing them, I have found Buechner's autobiographies to be of great value. I am thankful for the man's openness, courage and skill (they are fun to read).

   I give "The Sacred Journey" my wholehearted recommendation.




5. Perhaps the best thing about Rev. Buechner's book is that, in reading about his early journey toward finding Christ, it really will, as so many have noted, help you reflect on your journey. Buechner writes about how our lives are like novels, that they have a structure and a meaning, and indeed, they do, if we take the time to delve into them and try to process them. God, of course, is the Author of that meaning, and as Buechner finds meaning in his life, so too can we find meaning in ours. This is one I am sure I will read again and again. (Fair warning -- the cover photograph will come to haunt you as you read about what happens to Buechner's father!)

5 comments about I Ain't Got Time to Bleed: Reworking the Body Politic from the Bottom Up.

1. Jesse Ventura has had an interesting life, and he wants to tell you about it. He has been a US Navy SEAL, a professional wrestler, and surprisingly, a Governor of Minnesota.
   
   Ventura is a six feet four inches tall and has been an athlete for a long time. He seems to be physically imposing. However his autobiography makes him seem like an intellectual light weight. He became Governor as part of the Reform party. Ross Perot had caused a surge of interest in an alternative to the Democrats and Republicans.
   
   Despite having served as a Governor he offers us few political insights. We learn that there are too many laws, and that people need to be responsible for themselves. I don't think we needed Jesse for that. You would think a political outsider might be able to offer some fresh perspective. The only thing I found surprising about the book is that Ventura seems astonished by gotcha journalism. What did he expect?
   
   I was hoping for more. In the end there is nothing much to the book.



2. Jesse the Body had an unconventional career before being a politician, so he's able to take risks in disclosing his background and ideas in a manner very refreshing in today's political arena. Jesse starts with his background in the Navy, moves on to his life as a wrestler, and lastly the motivation behind his entrance into politics. The pop-autobiography shows a few more warts than most in the genre, perhaps due to Ventura's security with his persona and life. All in all it's a very fun ride!



3. The Jesse Ventura story is an example of the American Dream where an average man can push himself into places that he never would have thought that he would go.
   
   Ventura was a Navy SEAL in Vietnam, then became a professional wrestler, wrestling commentator, radio host, Mayor and then Governor of Minneapolis.
   
   Ventura writes pretty well and tells it the way he thinks it is (which is ok, everyone should have an opinion).
   
   Perhaps the only point that I would like to make is that it appears a very political book - not as in discussing politics (from which he makes some good points) but the rhetoric about not running for President. He mentions it a few times throughout the book, almost as if he wants us to think about him in the role and to start to generate support for the White House bid. It just seemed to me to be a little self-serving. That is a minor point though and could be just my imagination.
   
   All in all, a readable book and worth the time.



4. This work is written in a simple and uncomplicated conversational
   style. The author discusses the desirability of raising money
   modestly and the judicious use of television time in campaigning.
   Governor Ventura is in favor of term limits, legal reform,
   low taxes and the consumption tax. The beauty of the consumption
   tax is that it penalizes excess consumption and frivolous
   purchases. The author would have the government refund budget
   surpluses. In addition, people should not be driven off their
   land due to increasing tax valuations. New York's Harlem is
   becoming unaffordable to people who've lived there for generations.
   
   The author urges us to improve public education and basic
   literacy. He asks that we make math/science relevant and
   involve parents in the schooling process. Reduced class size
   and student work-study programs provide additional enhancements to the learning environment. The internet is a tremendous
   tool for learners according to the author.
   
   Ultimately, Americans are pioneers and visionaries. This is our
   basic strength as a country. To continue prospering, we should
   build upon these strengths.



5. The title of Jesse Ventura's memoir is taken from his famous line he delivered in the movie Predator. It is a great mantra for a former Navy SEAL, pro-wrestler, and man-of-the-people elected official. Once you get through the first chapter that explains Ventura's views on the issues of the day, the rest is an absorbing, humorous, truthful, and motivating memoir of a true tough guy who can put his money where his mouth is.
   
   Jesse tells all in this memoir. When he was a young man, he worked hard, and played hard. Drinking and sex are included here. My eyebrows went up a few times. It is clear he is not covering anything up in order to look squeaky clean.
   
   Anyone who reads this book will wish there were a million more Jesses holding political office, instead of the Democrat/Republican factory of career politicians who are addicted to power. I never seriously considered the validity or need for a third political party until I read this book.

5 comments about Edith's Story.

1. I read this book in one sitting! I have read many books on the Holocaust and this is one of my favorites! Edith gives a detailed look into the life of a young girl who survives WWII, this book made me very emotional, which I think all great books should do. Enjoy!



2. Edith's Story written by Edith Velmans is a true story about courage, love, and survival during WWII. Edith's family is Jewish living in Holland during WWII. Her eldest brother Guss moves to America before the start of the war. The rest of the family does not want to leave. They don't believe Hitler will actually start rounding up Jews. They soon find out they were wrong. They first have to sew the yellow stars of David on all of their clothing. Then they are not allowed to go to the same school with non-Jews. Things keep getting worse and worse. Especially when Edith's mother has to go to the hospital and get her hip operated on. Her family soon decides to find places where Edith and her older brother, Jules, can go into hiding. Jules goes to live with a farmer up north and Edith goes to live with a family were she plays the part of Netti. A friend whose parent's have fallen ill and cannot take care of her. The rest of the story is about how Edith takes all of her courage and love to survive the war and worse the braking apart of her loving family.
   I loved the book Edith's Story. It is the most loving heartwarming book I have ever read. For someone to have that much strength in such an awful part of history like Edith is amazing. This was a very good book. I normally do not like to read Holocaust books but I enjoyed this one a lot. This is a truly moving book with so much great hope in it. I recommend this book to any one because it is a wonderful story.



3. This book is an absolute treasure. It is a very moving account of an adolescent Jewish girl's life in Holland as the Nazi regime moved in and took over. The book contains some of her actual diary entries written as a teenager along with her present-day adult comments to help put the entries into perspective. I would highly recommend this book to everyone, but most especially to young people. It's a gripping story of a girl from the past with great courage and love of life.



4. This book may not have the deep poignancy of Anne Frank's diary, as its author tells her story from an adult vantage point. But it does offer a vivid picture of day-to-day life as a jew in hiding in Nazi-occupied Holland. I readily felt Edith's anxiety, as she attempted to pass for a gentile, far from friends and family, and not knowing what had become of those she loved. The story also has a deep honesty -- it is clear, for example, that she often found the family who saved her difficult, and that she felt resentments as well as gratitude. I'm sure that this is, in fact, how it felt, and am grateful to Edith Velmans for the straightforward telling of her story.



5. I've read a number of accounts by Jews who were hidden by heroic friends and strangers during the Holocaust. But Edith Velmans' story stands out. I found myself totally drawn into her idyllic teenage life in the Hague as war slowly began to overshadow the sunshine of her youthful pusuits. She lovingly paints a warm but realistic picture of her community and family. I was especially touched by the letters she shares from her parents. Velmans also relates her psychological adjustment of going into hiding and taking on another identity, something other accounts have rarely mentioned. Yet through it all, Velmans captures the fact that despite the agony of going through such a painful experience, she emerged with her courage intact. I highly recommend this book, especially for teachers in search of good reading material for high school students studying the Holocaust. But anyone would enjoy this book. I read it one evening, unable to stop.