1 comments about Barron's IELTS with Audio CDs: International English Language Testing System (Barron's Ielts: International English Language Testing System).

1. This book is highly recommended! Two thumbs-up from me. Price is good as the book also contains two cds for me to listen and practice my English proficiency. This book really encourage those people who wants to improve their English language. Really worth the price!!!

5 comments about How to Make Colleges Want You: Insider Secrets for Tipping the Admissions Odds in Your Favor.

1. This one book is exactly what I needed. It actually helps you, and guides you, from a person who understands what teens go through! Best college guide Ive bought; and ive bought many. Good investment. Amazing tips!



2. Many of my SAT Prep and senior English students have borrowed this and have told me it helped them. Several said they wished they had read it earlier in school.



3. I liked this. In a world full of doom and gloom about how hard it is to get into college, the author offered a different and creative approach. I think many of his examples are those that might help an extremely small minority (such as a rejected student showing up the first day of classes and being admitted) but his insight and optimism might spark one's imagination and keep the process light. Worth reading.



4. The book cover is colorful and has illustrations inside and it is not very imposing in terms of size, thus making it more likely that high school students will read it. From the start the author gives proof that he is not a super student as his GPA is below average and his SAT is little above average rounding out to an approximate average student (he also mentions later that he got accepted to Northwestern and the University of Chicago). This is the exact type of student that would be most likely to read this book.
   
   
   
   The first section: Understanding Admission -- is short, funny and interesting. In fact it quickly lays out how the admissions process works in terms of how do you decide if you have a good chance of getting into a University? Another interesting point that he makes clear is that colleges are looking to create a diverse body of students, not only those who can perform academically. He then points out that students should make decisions not only based on the rating of a university but based on the university's fit for them. Unfortunately, he does not go into depth to delineate the different types of Universities and what may best fit different types of students.
   
   
   
   The second section: Understanding the gatekeeper is not interesting or as humorous as the previous section as it seems disengaged from the Mike Moyers' life and story, in which the previous section was connected. But this section does shed much light on how others can help students gain admittance into college. He also gives an insiders view of the price and cost of each scholarship that colleges extend to students. I feel that the most important part of this section is the realization of the role of the dean of admissions and how important that position is in striking an equilibrium between the various possible groups of students he could have on campus. Other interesting points were the fact that parents should ensure they are not nagging the dean of admissions and that students should take advantage of the high school counselors but not fully depend on them.
   
   
   The Third section: The best section that is available, the core of the book lies in this chapter. A teenager that read only the third section would have an excellent chance of succeeding in getting into the college of his or her choice. He explains the difference between teenager and non-teenager activities and distinguished this difference by using a story. He also makes recommendations as the sort of activities that would qualify as NTA's to give students an example of activities that they should start to engage in.
   
   
   
   The Fourth and the Fifth section: The fourth section is the most original section in the book and is indeed a smart way of increasing one odds of getting into a college. This strategy works by applying outside of your zone or geographic areas thus making you more unique since less students similar to you would be found in that area. This is a way of competing without having to "break" a sweat, but he does not give the very important warning that although it may be a successful strategy, it can have important ramifications. For example, a student may find him/herself so out of his/her zone that you may not know how to cope in such an environment, where there is a drastic weather changes or an entirely different culture.
   
   The fifth section focuses on finding the nerve of the institution that you are applying for. This is an interesting concept as he encourages the student to do more research to find at the core what the institution is about and focuses on hitting that point. It's not a new concept, but he provides great questions to help students to dig deep to find out the heart of the institution that they are trying to get in.
   
   
   
   Sections 6, 7, 8: Make interesting points that some students would not think about on their own such as coaching their reference how to respond when they are called upon. Although this is a good suggestion, many high school teens will not take this advice very seriously. His stuffing the ballot box idea is also very interesting and helps to distinguish the students from others since "impartial" parties are calling on that students behalf. He counsel that students should never give up is well taken, as he points out that students have nothing to lose in "breaking the rules" (re-applying again) if have already been rejected. He further instructs students to analyze their grade patterns and have an adequate story to explain any (negative) fluctuations.
   
   Section 9 and MY Conclusion: Chapter 9 wraps things up and summarizes that good students can get rejected and getting accepted does not mean that you have to attend. Although these chapters add interesting dimensions to this book I feel that it was too late in the book to adequately develop the themes, since the book is about getting into college not necessarily how to choose the best college out of many. I feel that a good conclusion to the book was missing as there was no summation of the main points discussed. But overall I feel that the book is great (8/10) and would recommend it to any student interested in making colleges want them.



5. Whether you are a freshman or a senior in high school, this book is an eye-opener for you! Mike Moyer tells you the way to dramatically increase your chances of getting into the college of your choice. In How to Make Colleges Want You, he provides fresh approaches to getting your college application out of the maybe or no stacks, to the yes we want you stack. The book also contains references to Mike's website: http://www.collegepeas.com where additional information and additions to the chapters are contained.
   
   Mike tells you what he did to get accepted to the college of his choice by describing his unusual activity of raising homing pigeons while in high school. He took a homing pigeon to his first interview with the admissions counselor and sent a message to himself from the counselor! This NTA (non-teenage activity) got him recognized as special.
   
   Getting into a competitive college requires a lot more than grades or regular school activities; it is a question of planning. Moyer makes suggestions to accomplish the goal of getting into a prestigious college with his inside secrets. A few are, attending a community college for a year or two to obtain better grades, transfer in to fill one of the vacancies left by someone who has moved on, and start in mid-year instead of competing with the freshman entry class.
   
   Consider there are 43,000 high schools and an equal number of valedictorians who apply to highly competitive colleges. Their applications are your competition for admission to these colleges and even with good grades, you still are not in their strata. The techniques in this book are designed to raise your chances for admission by 10 to 20 per cent. When you apply Mike's ideas during your high school years, the odds are even better.
   
   Mike Moyer is unique, as he not only provides this fairly inexpensive blue print for success, he lectures at high schools giving students a great heads-up on obtaining admission to choice schools. He has a highly informative lecture on CD.
   
   Clark Isaacs
   Reviewer

No comments about Complete Book of Colleges, 2011 Edition (College Admissions Guides).

5 comments about Frankenstein: A Kaplan SAT Score-Raising Classic.

1. Bought this book for my son's summer reading for high school. This edition is nice because it has many of the SAT words defined on the facing page of the context. Kills 2 birds with one stone. Now to get him to read it.



2. I thought I was helping my son. He was assigned to read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley for his English class. I found this copy on-line and it contained a glossary of words as you read. That seemed like a fantastic way to keep him reading and not stop to look up the words. What we found and rather late in the assignment was that the story was changed slightly in various places to accommodate the SAT words. If you are buying the copy for your child to read along with a class you may not want to purchase this copy of the story. If you want to improve your vocabulary, it would be a good purchase.



3. This is one of the best ways of learning SAT vocab, or simply vocab for your own personal gain. Read the classic work on the right, SAT words are in bold and defined on the left. The real kicker is that words are repeated throughout the book. After seeing words over and over you learn them extremely well. Great Concept, Great Study Aid, Great Book!
   
   These Books are better than other SAT Score raising books. Most of these books are written for the sole purpose of raising your score. Their stories tend to be boring, the writing style is usually adequate. Instead Kaplan, defines SAT words inside great literary works. They are perfect for any student. You can now read a classic book, and Study for the SAT at the same time!



4. I initially decided to read this book for three reasons: 1) I thought it seemed like an interesting story, 2) it appeared on my school's required-reading list, and 3) I was able to find this SAT-prep version of it! 629 essential SAT words appear in bold throughout the main text and are defined along with synonyms on the lefthand opposite page. Other useful vocabulary words that aren't part of the SAT-vocab are underlined as they appear and are included in a glossary at the back of the book. For me, reading vocabulary in context is much more helpful than studying hundreds of words separately through flash cards.
   
   Other reviewers have mentioned that this version is different from other editions of "Frankenstein" that they have seen before. This could be because the 1831 edition of the book is one of the most widely read versions; this SAT-prep version appears to be derived from the original 1818 edition. There are a some key plot differences between the two, but I don't think that Kaplan's use of a lesser-read (and earlier) version of "Frankenstein" detracts from the main purposes of the book: to entertain and to educate.
   
   (Miniture Plot Synopsis): The story opens with a series of letters from a ship's captain, Walton, to his sister Margaret. He is sailing north of the Arctic Circle and his ship becomes surrounded by ice. He notices a man travelling across the ice pursuing a bizarre creature. The man, Victor Frankenstein, ends up coming onboard the ship and relating the strange tale of his life. Walton records Frankenstein's dialogue, which then becomes the narrative of the story.
   
   Frankenstein was a bright and intelligent youth and deeply interested in alchemy. He left his family in Switzerland to study modern science in other countries of Europe. Through much research and effort, he discovered the method of constructing a human being. As to what he created the human out of, Frankenstein keeps these details vague (only mentioning various bones and parts). He specifically intends his creature to be handsome, but once his work is complete and the "creature" wakes up, he is horrified by its disfigured appearance and Frankenstein flees his laboratory. After this, the monster wanders off and later teaches himself how to speak and understand human conversation through observing a group of villagers.
   
   When Frankenstein is hiking in the mountains, he is confronted by the monster. The monster tells him of all of his suffering and confusion and begs him to create a female counterpart that would be just as disfigured as he his, so they could live happily together in seclusion and not bother with humanity any longer. Frankenstein refuses this request, and then the monster plagues his life and the lives of his dear friends and family.
   
   Shelley's style is incredibly descriptive, making it an obvious candidate for Kaplan's series of SAT-prep books. In fact, it's a good thing that I read this version, because I would've been fumbling around with a dictionary the whole time if I read an edition without a vocabulary guide!



5. This book is great for those that need to review vocabulary for the SAT's. On the left side is the vocabulary and the definition, on the right is the story using the vocabulary in bold.

2 comments about 5 Steps to a 5 AP Calculus AB and BC, 2010-2011 Edition (5 Steps to a 5 on the Advanced Placement Examinations Series).

1. Came quickly, perfect shape, now I can't wait to start AP Calc .. (kidding.) :)



2. When I first got the book I had good hopes but they were immediately vanished after I started reading it. The explanations provided are limited to almost nothing at all. The entire book is basically 10 examples for each concept provided with no explanations but only shown work that sometimes does not make any sense because of the mistakes in it. Also constantly contradicts what it does and does not write anything about why they did that. I want my money back.

3 comments about Cracking the AP Physics C Exam, 2010 Edition (College Test Preparation).

1. The Princeton review prep book for ap physics c has been very helpful. As a high school student taking ap physics c, this prep book simplified the hardest concepts into easy to understand words. However, sometimes the material may be too broad and not too in depth. Therefore, if you are looking for a supplement to a textbook, this is the choice for you. If you are looking for in depth, but harder practice tests, then go barron's.



2. My son has taken both the SAT Subject Test in Physics and the AP Physics C exam this spring. We got a study guide for each, since the SAT Subject Test covers some information that is not on the AP exam.
   
   But it would not have been enough to get just one book; he needed the AP book for the level C test, since it involves use of calculus (unlike the SAT Subject Test and the B level AP test). We don't have his scores yet, but he thinks he did well and found both Princeton Review books to be helpful.



3. This book was a cheap way to get prepared for the AP Physics Test. It doesn't have as much info as a real textbook so it's not as interesting, but it has all you really need and presents it pretty clearly.

No comments about Cracking the AP Statistics Exam, 2011 Edition (College Test Preparation).

5 comments about Math SAT 800: How To Master the Toughest Problems.

1. This book was recommended to me by a math major at Yale (just to be clear, I do *not* think she used this book herself...she's probably just looked at it), and it has proven its worth. Although (as some of the other reviewers have pointed out) the book does seem to expect the reader to learn on his/her own, the hundreds of practice problems are more than worth the price. The explanations for the each of the problems are also mostly correct, and they're fairly concise.
   
   For me, personally, this book has really boosted my confidence. Many of the problems here are harder than anything I've seen on an actual SAT (or any practice SAT, for that matter), so once you know how to approach these, the real SAT math is a breeze. That being said, this book can become very frustrating. I have literally thrown the book down and cried on a few occasions.
   
   But it's worth it, especially if you work through the problems and read the explanations carefully. Over the summer, I spent about...thirty or forty hours on the whole book; most students can probably just look over their weakest areas, since the book is conveniently organized by topic.
   
   Anyways, enough with the description and on to the actual numbers: before this book, I usually made around a low 700s score on practice tests. My real score on the math section of the June 2009 SAT was a 700. I've yet to re-take the SAT, but so far, my scores on practice tests (I've been using the Princeton Review practice test book, as well as the CB official one) have consistently been in the high 700's to 800 zone. Since I haven't really looked at any prep book since this one, I'm sure the majority of this point increase is thanks to Math SAT 800.



2. This book is meant to help one perfect their skills for the SAT math test. The problem is, the book is full of mistakes! Some of the solutions are just wrong, and for some questions, the correct answer does not even appear as one of the answer choices! Unfortunately, it is not a matter of spelling mistakes or typos, but some solution methods and definitions provided are simply incorrect. Students using this book may end up learning an incorrect method as a result. It is a complete waste of time trying to sort it all out when there are plenty of well-reviewed SAT books to choose from. I am a math teacher with a degree from the Mathematics Department of Princeton University, and would NOT recommend this book as a study tool.



3. MAT SAT 800 has a lot of medium and difficult math problems to help study for the SAT, so you can skip over all the easy stuff and work on the problems you're getting wrong. They go through the answers for each problem so you can check everything that you don't get right, and there are some good tips for doing the different kinds of problems.



4. good book if you're looking for "medium" and "hard" type problems to practice for the SAT, which make the difference between getting a 600-700 and getting an 800. You don't have to waste time solving the easy problems that you already know how to do, or leafing through the official practice sats to find good practice problems.
   
   the book is divided into 11 sections, so you can focus on the type of problems you want (e.g. word problems or geometry). also, there are two practice exams with a mix of all different kinds of problems. And you can look up the answers and detailed explanations to every problem at the back of each section/exam.
   
   this book is also good for the math sat 2 subject tests in math (IC and IIC)



5. As a math tutor, I have had students whose SAT math target scores range from 600 to 800. A friend recommended this book to me about 3 weeks ago and I decided to do an experiment right away.
   
   First I used the diagnostic test at the very beginning of this book to test my students and divided them into several groups, then chose different combinations of math topics from this book for those different groups. The examples and detailed explanations under each topic are very well written and organized. The students who were already at the 650-level responded really well--most of them are at the 700-level right now after just 2 weeks of reading and practicing. Several students who started at about 550 also pressed me again and again for harder problems from this book.
   
   Everybody wants a little bit challenge from time to time!

5 comments about The Best Business Schools' Admissions Secrets: A Former Harvard Business School Admissions Board Member Reveals the Insider Keys to Getting In.

1. Chioma really knows the admissions process! And I say this from not just having read the book, but from having a personal one-one-one session with her where she identified exactly where I stood. She knew before hand which schools would select me and why! ( I can say that now after the fact).
   
   I would recommend her over the other counsellors that I have talked to!



2. I am an HBS grad, who has helped numerous individuals get into business school. Chioma really gets to the heart of what it takes to put together a great MBA application and stand out based on your own unique qualities and brand. Definitely a well-written book, which I have recommended on countless occasions to MBA candidates.



3. Anyone even thinking about applying to business school should read this book. Ms. Isiadinso provides first-hand knowledge of how application committees view applicants and great advice on putting together a cohesive application.
   
   Just as importantly, the book helps you define who you are--not just for your application, but so that you have a clear picture and can learn to project that same picture to others. After reading this book, without question you'll be more prepared to start a business school application (and more likely to get in after crafting a quality application based on the advice in this book), but if you complete all of the recommended exercises you'll also be much closer to finding yourself.



4. I went to the book store and piled all of the business school books up high. I have been through just about all of them and this was clearly the best one. It takes a big-picture approach to the admissions process, and helps you understand that you are creating a brand for yourself. Everything must fit within a cohesive story. That idea is a simple one. Figuring out what that story is - who you are - is not so simple. Chioma does a wonderful job of helping you think through the story of yourself. Highly recommended.



5. This is a very sound book focused on the admissions to the top 8 MBA programs. The only regret I have with this book is that I wish I had read it earlier.
   
   The author provides deep insights into how each applicant is evaluated. MBA admissions to the top business schools is not all about GMAT and GPA.
   
   In order to be admitted to the top 5 business schools in particular, one needs to show tremendous leadership and other WOW factors. One needs to foster good relationships with potential MBA recommenders. And don't forget the arduous preparation for GMAT.
   
   Unfortunately, one can't just build a MBA WOW factor in few months. It may take years to build extracurricular credentials and leadership experience that an MBA program would find compelling and credible (it is too late to join the Peace Corp 3 months before the application).
   
   This would be an ideal book to read for those who just finished their undergraduate program and would like to attend an MBA program in a few years. It will provide quite helpful tips on how to prepare for the grueling and challenging MBA admissions process in a top school. DO NOT think high GMAT and GPA will guarantee you admission into a top MBA program (although they will surely help).
   
   To summarize the book, one needs to build a compelling personal brand and allow other parts of the application,interview, and recommendation confirm that brand. DO NOT write boring and trite essays that will put admission officers to sleep. Make your essays interesting and compelling with a touch of humor. The book also outlines a list of things an MBA applicant should never do in the essays, interviews, and recommendations.
   
   Other suggestions from the book:
   1)Valid reasons why you would want an MBA (money and intellectual challenge should not be emphasized).
   2)Choosing between Fulltime, partime, executive, and accelerated MBA programs. (They are NOT the same).
   3)Writing proper and effective Essays (Writing boring essays that do not foster strong personal brand is a sin).
   4)Choosing and prepping the recommenders.
   5)International student challenges (visa, obtaining financial aid, language barrier etc).
   6)Financial Aid
   7)How to handle interviews, open houses, and information sessions. Note, you WILL be evaluated in all 3, so be nice and professional to everyone.
   
   My main disappointment with the book is that the author provides deep insights into only top 8 MBA programs. Clearly, most of the suggestions are focused on the admissions to top 8 programs. The school I am targetting, which is a top 12 MBA program, was not dealt in any level of depth.

5 comments about Career Paths in Psychology: Where Your Degree Can Take You.

1. The book I ordered was in great condition, just like it had been described and it arrived quickly. I am happy with the purchase and I will definitely come back and buy more.



2. I have been thinking about going back to uni to study psychology and since there are so many fields, I decided to buy this book to see which field would best suit me or be most interesting.
   Many people major in psychology these days but this book is definately for those who are looking to obtain a MA/MS or higher, working as 'psychologists'.
   I read a review saying how it was not in-depth enough and that it lacked in details but how much of one profession can ever be squeezed into a book, yet alone most of the career paths in psychology.
   It covers all the basic areas and environment where a psychologist can work and each chapter is written by a psychologist working in that setting. It definately gives you an idea of what it's basically like to be working in that particular field, highlighting most expectations that you are likely to come across.
   It can get a little confusing after reading five different chapters but if you're looking to see which profession in psychology might suit you or like best, then this book is the way to go.



3. A great book to read what are your options are for your career. Great information source.



4. What a great book this is. It really helped me figure out what to do and in this difficult eceonomy, what I can do right now.



5. I found this book to be very useful because each chapter describes and discusses a different field of psychology and includes current opportunities and pay ranges. At the end of each chapter first-hand experience is shared by a Psychologist that is currently practicing or formerly practiced in the specific area of psychology being discussed. This book is a valuable resource for students pursuing or interested in pursuing a career in psychology; assisting in clarifying areas of specialty, expectations, and opportunities.