1 comments about Telling Histories: Black Women Historians in the Ivory Tower (Gender and American Culture).

1. These so-called histories tell more about the black authors than about historical events. What it tells is that that at the root of their characters is a virulent form or black racism. They blame every personal and racial setback on whites. If a college did not admit them, it was because a white admissions officer discriminated against them, not because they had low grades. If a dean did not admit them to the history faculty, the cause was racial discrimination, not incompetence. If a faculty advisor did not approve their thesis or dissertation, the cause was discrimination, not lack of historical evidence and perspective. And on and on. These so-called black historians are totally passive. They refused to help themselves. They did not start their own history journal or publishing house that would publish their "histories". Most are employed by white financed "Historical Black Colleges" where the standards of historical scholarship are low or nonexistent. Like "Roots", Alex Haley's so-called personal history, their personal histories are historical rubbish. Save your money by reading Michelle Obama's racist senior thesis online for nothing.

5 comments about A Walk with Jane Austen: A Journey into Adventure, Love, and Faith.

1. Self-absorbed, emotionally immature, (imho)too dependent on her religion - I learned altogether more than I wanted to know about the author in the first few chapters, and never read the rest.



2. A Walk with Jane Austen is like listening to a dear, graceful friend tell you about her trip to England with wit and wisdom. Smith is humble, full of faith and a joy.



3. This book goes to show you that adding a reference to Jane Austen is one way to sell a book, and I'm out of excuses for why I keep buying them. This book is much less about walking with Jane - and when the author does try to draw parallels they are weak indeed - and much more about poor pitiful Lori. Lori has made life choices, and then expects us to feel sorry for the consequences. Lori is also an emotional roller coaster in a way that I was at 16, not 33, and when she laments that single men are single for a reason, I can't help but think the think the same could be said of her.
   
   I have been to England to see Chawton and Bath and walk where Jane did; while they brought me significant joy (much more than I expected), being your average tourist (which Lori basically was, sans car) hardly qualifies as adventure. Climbing a stile does not induce terror (at least not the ones I climbed in England, perhaps she found a different style of stile?). Yet I knew my vacation didn't make a book, and somehow Lori's vacation is this lightweight. She had no profound life changing experiences or revelations, though the reader does learn all about her outfits (poor thing - she had to put on a clashing red fleece in the cold!). Seriously, are Jane Austen fans supposed to care about this?
   
   I've already attacked the "adventure" part of the title, and unless you think falling in love over a couple of days with someone who honestly tells you early on that he is seeing someone and wants to be true to that - if you think that that is a journey into love - because really, that's all there is - then well, maybe you can find the journey into faith part, too. Prattling on about your doubts and insecurities but not coming to some conclusions or altering your views or learning something about yourself does not a journey into faith make, in my opinion.
   
   Lori really comes across as insincere - "I don't care if I'm not beautiful (please tell me I am)" is how it reads over and over - all in ways that not only have very little to do with Jane Austen, but probably in ways that Jane herself would make fun of if she were so unfortunate to be reading this book.



4. I went to the bookstore one night looking for 'something'. I found what I was looking for when I stumbled upon this book. I am so suprised and delighted by this book. I have never even read a Jane Austen book, but I have always been fascinated by the time and place in which she lived. I found Lori to be very interesting and I can relate to her in many ways. I'm glad she shared her story and her feelings in such a warm and friendly manner.



5. "Poor Lori." At least I assume the author wants the reader to feel this sentiment by the end of the book. Does the author create an appetite to read or re-read Austin's books? Sadly,no. I only found this book interesting as a possible indicator of how some young women think - their own self-importance being worn as a badge of freedom from anything "evangelical" or assumed. Lori Smith's "A Walk..." assumes equal footing with Jane Austin's writings which have been proven by untarnished character,reputation,excellence, and time. I'm quite sure this book will not survive the same scrutiny. I gave this a "one star" because it is mistitled...possibly "A Journey With Me" would have been more appropriate instead of capitalizing on Jane Austin's name.

5 comments about Every Woman In The Bible Everything In The Bible Series.

1. Every Woman in the Bible is an excellent companion reference to any Bible study. The authors not only discuss each specific woman, but also delve into the culture and religious practices of the times in which these women lived. Everyone in my Bible study joins me in recommending this book!



2. I received this book as a Christmas gift from my sister-in law and fell in love with it so much that I bought several copies for several of my close friends. All of my friends feel the same way about it as I. It goes into excellent details of each woman's life and is backed up by scripture. The author really does lots of research on each of these women's lives and presents the information in such a way that is neither boring nor documentary-like. I recommend it for all women, not just Christian women.



3. This has alot of women that are in the Bible. It does not have alot of information about them. I was expecting more information on the women.



4. condition geat
   recommended if you are interested in the subject
   highly recommend



5. Every Woman in the Bible is an eye opening book on the use of women's stories in the bible. Richards does an excellent job of explaining and guiding the reader. I would highly reccommend this book for anyone interested in studying women in the bible and how their stories apply to us today.

4 comments about Lady's Hands, Lion's Heart- A Midwife's Saga.

1. I couldn't put this book down. From start to finish a beautifully written love story for any woman, but especially for a birth junkie! A truly remarkable lady.



2. I know nothing about midwifery and, being over 80 years old, I also have no interest in it. However, I am a New Hampshire resident and felt that I'd like to read a book written by a fellow-New Hampshire-ite! What a surprise I got! This book is so well written, it fairly sings. I literally could not put it down. This is a courageous woman who has lived her passion. She is an inspiration to women everywhere especially those breaking into male dominated professions. She makes our state proud.
   Roni



3. The writing style is lovely and the stories true to life. For those who enjoyed BabyCatcher and A Midwife's Story- this is a must read!



4. I just finished reading this book! It's FABULOUS! I couln't put it down. (Would make a great movie!)
   I've known the author, Carol Leonard, seems like - all my life! She is an exhilarating woman and excitement and fabulousness just follow her around!
   I can totally see these things happening to her, thru her, because of her. She is a catalyst and well known in our State for all her work - pioneering midwifery and bringing it to the forefront of our legislators and the lay people.
   I didn't know much about midwifery and STILL this book is a wonderful read.
   You don't have to be a midwife to enjoy this story of love and life. You just have to have a pulse.
   Wendy

5 comments about killing rage: Ending Racism.

1. I picked this up in interest. Then I got to a particular paragraph. She says that she doesn't understand why white people think that black people are eager for revenge and bound to explode in violence. Well, maybe these fears are overexagerated, but then look at the title of your book Ms hooks. I couldn't take her seriously after that. Moreover, I think she uses the language as shock value, because by the end of the book she is saying that she rages for justice, and not for killing. QUite frankly, I think this is a very poor choice of tactics of communication. I think that books like these damage race relations more than anything else. The only enlightenment you can expect out of it is if you read it as a case study in anger. I would not expect any insight on her part.



2. This was my first bell hooks book and, while I wouldn't say I am anywhere near as militant as she is, it gave voice to so many concerns I'd had over the years but didn't have the words or insight to explain. What a magnificent work.



3. This book packs one hell of a wallop. Ms HOOKS first essay titled Killing Rage put my teeth on edge, for I have had a similar experience, only because I can pass for white it didn't happen until my Black father appeared at my side, need I say more? However what is brilliant about this particular book is that it does not lower itself to bash white people and point out their zillion faults, I know there will be some who disagree with me, but reading each essay I got the sense of someone who has an uncute understanding of racism, its roots past and present and why sometimes so many people of colour are defeated by a system of institutional racism that is at times so covert we are accused of lying about it!
   
   Bell HOOKS book pulls no punches, but it is a candid discourse that is well argued, well written but most all incredibly easy to read and understand.
   
   This is a book that if you can't get your hands on a copy, go out and beg, borrow or steal, it is that good and that hard hitting.
   
   You go Ms HOOKS!



4. 
   Very rarely can I sum up a book in two words. On this occasion, I can.
   
   "Racist drivel."
   
   Miss (or is it Ms?) "bell hooks" looks for racism in every situation she can possibly find, and--even though these situations are told through HER point of view--she often comes off as barking mad. Very few of these situations portray racism. It's almost like she's anticipating the slightest of racist actions from a white person, ready to pounce with her ridiculous "Killing Rage." Is THAT not racist?
   
   0/10



5. It wasn't long ago that I despised "racism", which I felt meant oppression, exclusion and generally dislike of peoples with different skin color attributes.
   
   It took me a while to realize that in the world of uber-Politically Correct Leftist activism, "racism" basically translates to "evil white people putting everyone down".
   
   A few days ago one of my Latino college professors referred to me as a "Anglo Saxon". I'm not sure if she knows this, but it is a known fact that Anglo Saxons are actually one ethnic group of caucasians among many, and I myself am Slavic. Can I play the race card too and become a victim? It sure looks fun

5 comments about Women of Spirit: Stories of Courage from the Women Who Lived Them.

1. This book is a wonderful find for any woman in your life that needs a bit of inspiration. My favorite short story was written by SARK, in which she discusses her troubled childhood and how she came to terms with it.
   
   The women tell stories that are heartfelt and poignant and are perfect for reading before bed. I bought a used copy and was happy to find it was autographed!
   
   Read it and then pass the book on to someone else. We all deserve a little pick me up now and then. :)



2. I like reading the stories of these women. I also like the individual books about specific women. I highly recommend MY LAST REMAINS by Jill, the girl who was raised by mentally ill parents, in a culture that was twisted.



3. Katherine Martin's Women Of Spirit gathers stories of courage and spiritual insight from the women who lived unusual lives. Stories of spiritual guidance and how these women made a different in their worlds prove inspiration and absorbing, with the book providing sections based on the type of spirit exhibited by each.



4. This book is full of stories from average women who decided to take a stand for themselves or for someone else and suddenly found themselves making a difference in the world. Julie Su was one year out of law school when the slave like conditions of an El Monte sweat shop were uncovered. No one wanted to take the case of illegal Thai immigrants against big business so she did.
   Kathy Buckley was born deaf, misdiagnosed and placed in an institution of the mentally retarded. She didn't start learning to speak until she was 8 yrs old - She now is a motivational speaker for others who are often "unseen and unrecognized." Most of the women in this book live average lives like me and I found their acts of courage very inspirational because I could relate to them. It makes you want to cheer for women who color outside of the lines, "good girls" who don't always behave as they are told. These women face fear and keep going. The chapters are short, inspiring to read, and there are contact numbers for each women in the back of the book. Very cool. It's a inexpensive gift that packs a wallop.



5. In a time of terrorism, violence and uncertainty, Women of Spirit showcases courageousness, spunk and fortitude - true American attributes. The stories are both uplifting and fascinating. A great gift for the person in your life who is seeking inspiration.

5 comments about Dijiste Que Me Queras: Como Sobrellevar lo Impensable.

1. I really enjoyed this book. I could not put it down! It teaches you about love, and loyalty through the worst of times. I cried three times while reading it. I also liked that it came quickly and that the price was very good. I am saving it for my mom to read when she comes to visit for the holidays. I know she will love this real life story. One of the best stories I have read! I highly recommended this book to all my friends.



2. Este es un gran libro basado en la realidad de los hechos, y que nos hace reflexionar profundamente sobre nuestras relaciones de pareja.
   Se lo recomiendo a todos.



3. I have been watching Maria Antonieta Collins on Spanish television for a long time now--first as an anchorwoman for Univision and now as the presenter on Cada Dia, a popular morning variety show on Telemundo. She seems like a very nice person, all smiles and joviality in front of the camera. But no one knew what was hiding behind her smiles and perkiness. As her career skyrocketed, her personal life got worse and worse. She finally revealed everything during a very emotional interview with Maria Celeste Arraras on Telemundo. (Collins, who considers Arraras her friend, reported that she was "hurt" and "dismayed" with some of MC's questions. As a fellow journalist, she should understand that Arraras had to put friendship aside and ask the hard-hitting questions.) She talked about her husband's battle with cancer, and how she'd been his rock and strength throughout his illness. But that was the least of it. She revealed that her husband had been unfaithful and committed bigamy. He was married to a woman in Colombia while he was married to her! In Dijistes Que Me Querías: Como Sobrellevar lo Impensable (You Told Me You Loved Me: How to Survive the Unthinkable), she writes in detail the entire thing she had to go through after she found out, and about her decision to stay with him after he discovered he had cancer. This is one of the most heartbreaking memoirs I have read, but it ends with a hopeful tone. Collins gives advice on what to do after you discover your spouse has been cheating and how to pick up signs of deceit. This is a self-help book as well as a memoir, and it pulls at the heartstrings. I have nothing but respect for this Emmy-award winning journalist, and I wish her the very best. She deserves it.



4. Nunce crei que leer este libro me hubiera abierto los ojos a lo que puede vivir cualquier mujer. El libro esta escrito con tanto dolor que termina uno odiando a tipo y hechandole porras a una excelente mujer. Es de mucho aprendizaje. yo solo lo habia comprado para que mi mama tuviera algo para leer durante su recuperacion y terminamos leyendo mi tia y prima y yo. Bravo por la senora Collins y su leccion a la fortaleza y el perdon. La pregunta que me hago es que si yo me hubiera dado cuenta de una infidelidad Perdonaria?



5. The product arrived before the time that I expected even though it was during the holidays and I thought it would be delayed. The product also arrived in excellent condition. Thank You.

5 comments about Strength of a Woman: The Phyllis Hyman Story.

1. Strength of a Woman is the best book I've read in a longgggggggggg time. It answers a lot of my questions about what her troubles were all about. After reading the book I realize what many of her troubles were. The author Jason Michael probably only captured a part of what she was dealing with. What we do know is that it was too much for her to bear. For that I'm sorry ! She was an awesome entertainer !Her music will continue to entertain us for many years to come !



2. Mr. Michael's book is an objective telling of the highs and lows in Phyllis Hyman's all too brief life. Aside from her undisputed incredible talent, Miss Phyllis could be warm, funny, loving and sensitive. But there was this deep unhappiness inside of her that eventually nothing could soothe. Her struggles with others were nothing compared to her struggles within herself. Finally when she'd had enough of those struggles, enough of searching and trying to find her way, she decided to leave. Thankfully we have her magnificent voice and that singular style in recordings that are timeless and always will be. This is a great read for all Phyllis Hyman fans. If you've been wondering for these nearly 13 years why someone so beautiful and so talented would choose to end her life, this book may not fully answer your questions. But it may make her final choice a little easier to understand.



3. ************** anyone with a copy of the book that would like to sell it please let me know....its out of print and cant be found * * * * * * *



4. I must say that Mr. Jason Michael did an excellent job on this book about Ms. Phyllis Hyman it touch every part of her life from the beginning to the end I know she is looking down from heaven with a smile on her face to still know that she is still loved and I would recommend this for all of the Phyllis Hyman fans



5. 
   This really is the most wonderful book. I eagerly devoured it - it reads so well and is absolutely fascinating. I have been constantly engrossed, amazed and thrilled at the level of detail Jason Michael was able to go into in this truly no holds barred account of the amazing Phyllis Hyman who is still so sadly missed. His book is the absolute bible of her amazing and tragic life and yet told with maximum respect. Strength of a Woman allows us to live with her again and through her life quite intimately.
   
   As I finished the book this morning, I have been feeling a sort of grief today - although the end was inevitable, it's all just so terribly tragic.
   
   In a beautiful writing style, here is a story which definitely needed telling.

5 comments about First There Is a Mountain: A Yoga Romance.

1. Many 10 to 15 year practitioners of Iyengar Yoga categorize themselves as "rank beginners." What many Western students have to learn is that the practice of Yoga demands humility. There are cultural distinctions so foreign to the way in which we learn in the West, that one has to be open. Under a gifted and disciplined teacher, requirements include a deep surrender of the self. Kadetsky's study of the Iyengar's and her effort to delve into the richly complex background of Yoga in India are hampered by her own obstacles regarding self-understanding, humility and a surrender to discipline. She has skills of research, of following leads toward interesting discoveries in the evolution of Iyengar Yoga and the gradual refinement of the Iyengar family's present school and method. But, one reads this text feeling that she fails to see (or partially perceives) what some can gather from what she does not finish, from where she does not go. Her written experience is like watching someone encounter a breathlessly beautiful rose, which holds up the whole universe, inside and out, to the viewer. You can feel that she is drawn, entranced, yet torn by conflicting, unresolved problems of the self. She loves the beauty she experiences - even though eyes may be color-blind and the fragrance is barely registered. She knows this and exposes her limitations to all: as Iyengar pushes this realization into her, fully extending her into pashimotanasana - "the pose of the West."



2. I will most likely never travel to India. But, as a student of yoga, I was able to catch a glimpse of what a western yoga practitioner might expect and ultimately experience in India. Having read and studied about Iyengar, Krishnamacharya and Pattabhi Jois as yoga icons, it was fascinating to read of them as humans and sometimes tyrrants/rivals. Kadetsky's personal story lingered in the background...oozed out as honey from between the printed lines. I enjoyed the imagery and the human quality that Kadetsky imparted the reader.
   
   Surprisingly, after the read, I felt new inspiration for my personal yoga practice. I am so grateful for the masters that have given us a sense of history, but am overjoyed that the practice ultimately becomes our own. Kadetsky illustrated that wonderfully.



3. excellent exploration of the history of hatha yoga, with emphasis on the 20th century, and the author's own experiences. Fascinating - I could not put it down.



4. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in yoga. A wonderful memoir which includes some interesting highlights of the history of physical yoga.



5. First There is a Mountain, by Elizabeth Kandetsky,
   Reviewed by Malcolm McLean, RYT
   
   Here is a powerful tale of a yogi's quest for truth - the truth of her own life, revealed in her own body, accessed and then uplifted though yoga. The truth of her guru BKS Iyengar, clouded in legend and rivalries, and here pierced with the eye of a conscientious journalist. She has woven a rich tapestry from the threads of her own life, her yoga practice and experience with Iyengar, and the story of yoga.
   
   Kandetsky paints an intimate and candid portrait of life at the Iyengar school in Pune. She describes the tremendous power of yoga practice in this setting, as it worked on her own life at every level. She does not flinch from showing the tyrannical, often capricious attitudes of Iyengar and his daughter Geeta, and son Prashant. She shines light on the petty rivalries between Iyengar and other great yoga masters, on their roots in nationalism and other struggles for patronage and prestige. She investigates the origins of yoga, and raises sincere doubts about the legends of its antiquity.
   
   From this clarity of unrelenting objectivity combined with the understanding in her own cells, she offers a powerful validation of yoga. Despite the contradictions and falsehoods around yoga, she shows how it meets her needs -- and the different needs in India and the West, as it continues to grow, mutate, and reach millions of people.
   
   Towards the end of the book, she describes her last class with the master -- after she had admitted learning another system - the Ashtanga system of Pattabhi Jois, his lifelong rival. She was challenged to perform the scorned series in front of Iyengar, who nevertheless could not resist, as she went along through the despised "jumpings", teaching it to her as he saw it might be done. She described the experience as a great healing of her own sense of fragmentation, as a child of divorce and family rivalry, knowing that her great teacher still loved her even though she had, as one person put it "danced with another and then told him he liked it."
   
   I remembered the highly criticized error of placing my hand alongside the foot in triangle (Iyengar style) rather than grasping the big toe in Ashtanga class. Or breathing ujjayi in good Asthanga style, to the complaint of an imperious workshop leader, about "this business of breathing like a horse!"
   
   Yoga, like every other human endeavour, shares the human attribute of yawning political divides, insufficiency of otherness.
   
   Though I have never met him, I thought of how BKS Iyengar had cast his light and his attitudes into my life, since 1986, through teachers who learned from him directly, or indirectly. Now, thanks to this lucid and powerful book, I feel privileged to know Iyengar more deeply than I ever thought possible.

No comments about Women Who Changed the World: Fifty Inspirational Woman Who Shaped History.