5 comments about The Climb of My Life: Scaling Mountains with a Borrowed Heart.

1. Kelly's story is one of humor, laughter, pain, tears, and totally inspirational. Ever feel down and out? Read Kelly's story - it is uplifting knowing that one can reach death's portal, only to turn back and say "I've got mountains to climb." When you think things can't get any worse - read Kelly's story. Life gives each of us obstacles to overcome. Kelly has done so with grace, good humor, determination, with a husband encouraging her every step of the way, and with gratitude for the gift from a donor.



2. Thank you Kelly and Craig for such a wonderful, inspirational account of your lives. This has truly changed me in a very positive way. My priorities and outlook are back in the proper perspective. I do not know that I would have handled everything as positively as you two, and pray I will never have to find out.
   This book should be read by everyone. It provides a very unique perspective into personal motivation, unbelievable drive, and magnificient teamwork.
   WONDERFUL !



3. I have just finished Kelly's book The Climb of My Life and am left truly inspired... It is an amusing, poignant, and motivating read that reminds us all that each life is to be cherished and lived to the fullest capacity. Insightful and inspiring, I have mentioned this book in many discussions, as I feel any and every person can benefit from reading Kelly's story. One of the many sentiments I want to incorporate into my own life is greeting your loved one at the end day with "what was the best part of your day?" automatically creating a positive round of communication as opposed to the typical "how was your day?" which often leads to dwelling on the negative. I have taken Kelly's book to heart - I catch myself referring to Kelly and Craig's attitude "well, it could have been worse" when I encounter trivial irks, and then find myself consciously acknowledging how great life truly is. Kelly's personal narrative left me smiling, my eyes misty, and a genuine tug at my heart. Her emotional and physical strength is truly admirable, as is her adoring husband who never let her give up.



4. This is an amazing story about medical miracles, undaunted courage, steely determination, steadfast love, and ultimate triumph. While most of us won't face the sorts of challenges described here, there are many lessons to be learned. The inspiration of Kelly's story is a gift. If you want an exciting story about real adventure, this book is for you. If nothing else, this book should inspire every one to become an organ donor.



5. It's not every day...
   It's not every day you come across two people with such unconditional love and devotion for each other; it's not every day you come across someone who is able to embrace courage, hope, and determination with death staring her in the face; it's not every day you come across someone who has turned "giving back" into their main mission in life; and it's not every day you come across someone who has not only been given a second chance at life via a heart transplant but has lived a life which most can only dream to attain.
   
   "The Climb of My Life" is a well written, captivating journey that will be hard to put down. It reveals to the reader, through humor and tears, how Kelly has faced adversity and pursued her journey. I am inspired by her courage and strength to step out beyond my boundries. Thank you Kelly for this.

5 comments about American Miler: The Life and Times of Glenn Cunningham.

1. To understand Glenn Cunningham, one must understand more than the runner and the author does just that in his moving account of a life like no other. Not content with just feeding us events and stats from a bygone era when Glenn dominated the oval for a decade, the author over the life of the book layers the philosophy and personality of a truly great soul whose life's work arguably began after his spikes were hung up. While I was amazed at Cunningham's struggle to overcome his crippling childhood tragedy (and in the process become an icon of inspiration for a Depression era population strongly craving a hero), I was moved by his fervent desire to help troubled children on his ranch. In an era of millionaire narcissists who crave the pleasure and fame offered by their craft, Glenn stands out as a humble giant, eschewing money for meaning, and in the process living a life that was both singular and unforgettable. Not just another running book. Be prepared to meet a most noble character who tackled life on his own terms and who defined what it meant to be a tough and sensitive man.



2. Cunningham's perseverance, achievements, and conscientiousness are extraordinary, but the writing is average, and the story bogs down as it chronicles Cunningham's career race-by-race in repetitive detail. As a runner, I tend to enjoy race accounts, but here they lose their drama after awhile--the reader has little reason to care about the outcome of yet another low-stakes event featuring (often) the same participants as previous races. Unfortunately, the races are the most exciting part of the text throughout much of the book, so it gets just plain boring. I might recommend skimming it to get a sense of who Cunningham was, but personally I wouldn't spend any money on this book.



3. Exactly what an online retailer should be. Prompt, well packaged and good value.



4. The true story of the incomparable Glenn Cunningham is one full of extraordinary perserverance and determination. Dr. Keill does a remarkably adept job of creating the world in which Mr. Cunningham grew up. This is the story of a boy so severely burned in a school house fire that doctors feared he would never walk again (his older brother died as a result of his burns in the same fire). He regains his ability to walk and run. His family suffers through depression era Kansas farm life and Glenn never gives up his dream of an education. His quest to become a world class runner is truly inspiring. The life he carves for himself after his running career ends is even more remarkable. GLENN CUNNINGHAM IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!



5. This book is well written and interesting. As a high school teacher I will use it to encourage students to make/reach goals.

No comments about No Ordinary Joe: The Autobiography.

3 comments about Divas Uncovered (WWE).

1. Who wouldn't want this book? If you're a WWE fan or not, 192 pages of great, glossy photos and witty, well written insights into some of the most gorgeous grappling gals in the ring today!! Another winner from Mike McAvennie, the lucky dawg!
   The book's not overpriced, the previous reviewer obviously wasn't shopping at Amazon! It's a snip at $19.80!
   A great gift for Xmas!



2. I found the photography wonderful and refreshingly different than the usual pin-up shots in other books. The design was terrific and I found myself quickly immersed in the book. It was an unexpected treat!



3. Being a fan of the WWE divas, I was really looking forward to this book. Unfortunately this is just an OVERPRICED version of the Divas magazine which comes out once a year. A number of the photos have been seen elsewhere and the cliched quotes like "It's what is inside a person that counts" really don't give us any new insight into what these incredible women are REALLY all about.
   If you DO feel the need to purchase this book, wait until it comes out in paperback. Definitely not worth 30 dollars!!

3 comments about Playing a Round with the Little Pro: A Life in the Game.

1. The Little Pro is both charming and well-written, from Eddie Merrins' heart.
   
   Enjoyed the celebrity tales also.



2. got this as a present for my dad - he LOVES it!! definitely recommend this little book to any man who is a true lover of the game of golf.



3. This book is part autobiography, part social history, part instruction. Merrins has led an interesting life at toney golf clubs in the New York, Philadelphia, and finally LA areas. He certainly could tell more stories about the reality of living with, and under, the rich than he does here. He is loyal to his employers. This is not kiss and tell. Indeed, there are too many bland tributes to millionaires here. Stories about being a pro in the 1950s and about the economic realities of jobs are interesting, however.
   The book is most valuable because it contains much of the script of Merrin's video series. Clearly he is an original and valuable thinker about the swing and game. This book is useful as a companion to his excellent video series. Indeed, it is a must book for Merrin's far away students like myself and not so much a must for other golfers. I do wish Mr. Merrin was more candid about his own changes in swing concepts. In his earlier book, Swing the Handle, he has a page emphasizing the need to roll the forearms replete with illustrations, but in the video and in this book, rolling the forearms is not mentioned and is apparantly now not recommended. Such an essential change should have been confronted. Still, a superb teacher and thinker about golf.

No comments about The Heart of a Champion: My 37-Year War Against Heart Disease.

5 comments about Driven from Within.

1. This is an outstanding book in two ways. It covers branding and building a product but it also deals with motivation.
   
   The book goes into great detail about MJ and his strong desire to have a product that reflected him. His resistance of corporate input to insist his shoes be to his liking...and his success in this.
   
   It is also filled with quotes about what helped make Michael so good in basketball.
   
   A wonderful insightful, motivational book.



2. This book overall was pretty good, the only pitfall are the pages where they talk about brand Nike. They overembellish the brand/product a bit. Other than this there is some good stuff on the MJ persona in this book. I enjoyed reading some of the stories about him and also his personal views on many things. Good read for any Jordan enthusiast.



3. I gave this book to my little brother who loves both basketball and Michael Jordan and he loved it!! It was full of stories, pictures and inspirational quotes. The best part about it is that it was written by Jordan himself. I would highly recommend this book.



4. The product came in a timely fashion and delivery was not a problem. I was a little disappointed in the quality of the book when it came. The inside was nice but the outside jacket looked as if the book had been used. I don't know if it moved around a lot in shipping but it did not have the newest look.



5. Learn about Michael Jordan's life and how his inner drive helped him succeed in basketball, business, and life. You'll be inspired and motivated.

3 comments about Red Faber: A Biography of the Hall of Fame Spitball Pitcher.

1. Brian Cooper's book, Red Faber, is more than just a biography of a great baseball pitcher. It is filled with insights into the baseball world of Faber's era -- the era of the spitball, Babe Ruth and the infamous "Black Sox" scandal of 1919, among other things. Cooper tells a story that begins in the little town of Cascade, Iowa, weaves its way through a baseball career that saw Faber win 254 games, and peaks when Faber was elected to the Hall of Fame. It is a thoroughly enjoyable book that makes the reader realize that Red Faber was one of those "what if" ballplayers. What if he had not been sidelined for the 1919 World Series? Would the White Sox have won, despite the fix? What if he had not played for such bad ballclubs in the 1920s -- would he have won 300 games? One thing is for certain. This book belongs on every baseball history buff's bookshelf.



2. This is an excellent book if a person is interested in baseball and how the game was played years ago. The author did a fantastic job of describing a real baseball talent, Red Faber and his life story.
   It was a walk down memory lane for me as I grew up in the same neighborhood as his family on the Southwest side of Chicago. I loved going over to his house and seeing the signed baseballs, the trophies and the numerous signed letters he received over the years.
   This is a fun read and the book contains some great snapshots!
   Mary Jane Cole



3. I was born in Dubuue where my father was a sports reporter for the Times Journal. In later years he would relate stories, some of which are brought to life again by this story about RED. I also was in Chi town in August 1933 when the Sox and Yankes went 18. I sat through all 18 and often have wished that I could rememder more. I thought it was still light enough for more, but it was called anyway. I am sure that it was a get away day for the yankees and they had to rush to make the train. I also was a batboy for the Guttenberg Gaints in the late 30'3 when they played in Cascade. What great memories from this great story

5 comments about The Sword of No-Sword: Life of the Master Warrior Tesshu.

1. great book... its up there with hagakure, book of five rings ... i like it so much because it gave me a good example of what you can acomplish with budo his story was very clear and understandable at same time admirable and unbealiveable.



2. Other than the constant referances to buddism, this was a great book. I could not put it down for the first few chapters. This greatly inspired my kumdo(kendo) training & teaching. Every traditional martial artist should read this.



3. This is a very well written and entertaining account of Tesshu, one of the last samurai, a retainer in the Emperor's service who lived during the period of Japan's transition from feudalism to a modern, industrialized state. Tesshu was a man of great martial skills and equally great compassion who was always poor because he gave away most of his considerable stipend to support his poor and starving relatives, friends, and innumerable homeless (human as well as animals) that he took in and fed, often saving them from almost certain starvation. As a result, he often went without food one or two days a week, preferring to give it to those in even greater need. A devout Buddhist at a time when most Japanese had long since adopted Shinto, Tesshu was also an accomplished calligrapher and poet. Overall, a very readable account of a great man who remained loyal to the old ways and traditions even as they were crumbling around him.



4. I bought this book used at the recomendation of my sensei. Mine is a tattered copy and I treasure it. I was suspect about buying it initially because I'm not a great fan of John Stevens' work in general he's good but tends to be a bit diefying. But that was not the case with this book I've re-read it so many times that it is truely in tatters...so I am happy to see it has been re printed. I will buy I hope you do to.



5. This is not a detailed biogtaphy, nevertheless, the author gives you a good overview of Yamaoka Tesshu's life. Yamaoka lived during a time when Japan was moving toward industrialization, and we get a glimpse of key historical moments during the transition.
   There are numerous accounts that give insight to Yamaoka's mindset and character. Thus, no matter what art the individual reader may practice, Yamaoka's approach to training will reinforce the ideals of the serious-minded.

   Unlike other books where certain martial arts figures are ridiculously protrayed like gods, Steven's book has humorous stories and Tesshu comes across like a normal human being who achieved everything throigh his diligent search and practice.
   
   The book's strong point...it inspires hard training.

5 comments about Abundant Peace.

1. A must own for all that take Aikido and are interested in the philosophy behind it. I use the principles of Aikido almost every day in my life and John Stevens did a great job of getting to the essence of Aikido's philosophy and the spiritual views of the founder. Thanks John Stevens for writing this book!



2. ABUNDANT PEACE is akidoka John Stevens' rather quirky (coffee table paperback) biography of the rather quirky Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), the founder of Aikido, usually referred to by Aikidokai (but interestingly, never by Stevens himself in this book) as O'Sensei, the Great Teacher.
   
   Stevens unhesitatingly says that Ueshiba was "undoubtedly the greatest martial artist who ever lived" and this claim may well be true. The diminutive (5'0'') Ueshiba was able to pin sumo wrestlers with one finger, evade multiple attackers with such grace that he literally became invisible to them, and could defeat an opponent simply by uttering a "peculiar kiai."
   
   Ueshiba ultimately became a universalist, but very little in the first half of his life indicated that he would do so. Ueshiba was idiosyncratic at best (he was given to pounding his head against rocks hundreds of times a day in order to thicken his skull and enjoyed uprooting small trees barehanded in contests of strength), temperamental, moody, and given to egoistic adventurism (he founded an agricultural colony on barren Hokkaido, later leaving it suddenly and without explanation, and was intimately involved in the Great Mongolian Adventure, a Japanese expansionist incursion into China for which he was nearly hanged by that country's leaders).
   
   The one constant in Ueshiba's life was martial arts, and even here his choices seemed strange. As a young man he came under the tutelage of Sokaku Takeda, a hard-drinking, violent and mendacious street fighter who was also the last Samurai-trained warrior in Japan. Although Ueshiba later broke with Sokaku, early Aikido clearly owes much to the man.
   
   Following his break with Sokaku, Ueshiba became a close disciple of Onisaburo, the founder of Omoto-Kyo, a messianic Shinto sect. The odd Onisaburo was part charlatan, part clairvoyant, part spiritualist, and part Liberace (at least in his theatricality). In the 1920s, Japan was undergoing a spiritual crisis as those who followed the old ways finally died out and modernity and militarism became key. Dime store messiahs seemed to be on every streetcorner, but Onisaburo maintained his credibility. The Omoto-Kyo sect became so popular that it was violently suppressed by the government around 1932. A few selected personages (Ueshiba among them) were spared. In Ueshiba's case, his martial arts prowess was such that he was appointed to teach the Japanese military. It may seem ironic that Ueshiba (whose name means "Abundant Peace") was teaching Aikido ("The Way of Peace") to what was unquestionably one of the most bellicose organizations ever formed, but it was not the first, nor would it be the last, time that irony ruled Ueshiba's life.
   
   In 1942, Ueshiba underwent the second of his three great enlightenments in which he perceived the oneness of all life, soon thereafter resigning his offices and becoming a committed pacifist. Stevens rather cynically points out that his second enlightenment occurred not long after Pearl Harbor, when Ueshiba's retreat from public life would mean that he had little chance of being marked as a war criminal after the Pacific War, a war he knew Japan could not win. Be that as it may, Ueshiba is proof positive that human beings can grow and change throughout their lives. There is no greater difference ever seen than between the dour middle-aged Ueshiba, looking like a Mexican bandit while being photographed in leg irons as a Chinese prisoner during the Great Mongolian Adventure, and the aged will o' the wisp bearded sage who created a kakemono which reads, "The lovely form of heaven and earth lovingly created by the Great God, Father of Humankind."
   
   Stevens rather bizarrely divided ABUNDANT PEACE into three sections. "The Man" is a straightforward, honest, but rather colorless recitation of the facts of Ueshiba's outer life. "The Martial Artist" addresses Ueshiba's development of Aikido over his lifetime from a form of attack and defense into a philosophy of love. "The Message" is a discussion of Ueshiba's inner life, the spiritual underpinnings of Aikido, the importance of ki (life energy) in the practice, and (though Ueshiba was Shinto not Buddhist) Aikido's relationship especially to Zen (Stevens himself is a Professor of Buddhist studies, which explains this otherwise inexplicable focus on a faith not Ueshiba's own). Despite Ueshiba's Omoto-Kyo Shinto practice, so much of his writing is identical to Zen philosophy that the cross-pollination of Japanese culture is completely evident throughout.
   
   The problem with this three-way division of ABUNDANT PEACE is that each section presents us a dynamically different Ueshiba, dividing him into three parts. Unlike Caesar's Gaul, it would have been better if Stevens had given us a unified portrait of this incredibly complex, self-contradictory, earthy and spiritual man, and brought him alive. As it is, ABUNDANT PEACE is a fine if brief introduction to the world of Aikido and it's amazing founder.



3. There is not a more complete work on this subject to be found in the English language. O'Sensei was both enigmatic and cryptic, and this book clears up much of the cloudiness. From rare photos to rare personal insights, it is a must-have in any Aikido collection.



4. Stevens' biography of Morihei Ueshiba goes a long way towards providing the interested student with great information about the origins and philosophies behind Aikido. His examination of the Omoto-kyo religion and Ueshiba's esoteric Shinto beliefs provides a great background on the philisophy of Aikido, while the information on Morihei Ueshiba's teachers and personal investigations into the martial arts shows both the origonality and relation to other arts of Aikido. The book moves reletively quickly over Ueshiba's life, and at times it feels as if a lot of time is being rather quickly skipped over. It would be interesting to know what other information there is to fill in these gaps. The author also makes obvious his own personal admiration for Ueshiba; the many stories of O-Sensei's unbelievable feats are presented uncritically, and with no more concrete attribution than any of the other apocryphal reports of Ueshiba's power. Abundant Peace is perhaps most valuable as a source of information on the martial and philisophical origins of Aikido, particularly for its focus on the origins of the Omoto-kyo movement, Ueshiba's own beliefs in kotodama, and the innovation involved in the techniques of Aikido. As a biography of Morihei Ueshiba it is at times too brief and too uncritical, but serves as an excellent starting point for learning about the life of the founder of Aikido.



5. A wonderful book for Aikido students of all levels