This travel guide, published by Fodor's, was a purchase I made at the VNSA book sale in Phoenix a few months ago. We'll be doing an Alaskan cruise thi...moreThis travel guide, published by Fodor's, was a purchase I made at the VNSA book sale in Phoenix a few months ago. We'll be doing an Alaskan cruise this summer and this book is about the exact area we'll be visiting. I have avoided buying other books on the subject because I know they'll be out of date quickly; since this came out in 2006, I knew that would be an issue as well, but it was also 25-cents with the money going to charity.
I've already done a lot of online research on ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. What I really wanted was a different perspective--a bit of history, maybe some insight into a place I'd gloss over when I skimmed a web page, but might like if I knew more about it. This book accomplished that. One of the advantages is that the author, Ann Chandonnet, is a local; most online material is by tourists. The narrative is highly readable, gentle and intelligent all at once. I appreciated her emphasis on buying native art. The history sections were especially nice, brief as they were. And the photography--wow. Don Pitcher's work is worthy of wall prints. He really captured the majesty of the state.
Towards the back is where the publishing date became more of an issue. There's a section on recommended restaurants and shops. I Googled a number of the restaurants and found many were closed. This is not a fault of the book; I knew what I was buying an older edition.
In all, a nice supplement to online research.(less)
This blue leather-bound pocket-sized manual was written and published by a US Army Brigadier General. He received a Medal of Honor for Valor in 1879 n...moreThis blue leather-bound pocket-sized manual was written and published by a US Army Brigadier General. He received a Medal of Honor for Valor in 1879 near White River, Colorado, and served throughout the west. This handbook, published in 1901, is subtitled "A Simple and Easy Method for Becoming An Expert Revolver Shot"; my in-laws gifted me with it for research purposes because I write steampunk. I am quite pleased with the book as a historical work that places pistols in the proper context of the period.
I must say, for such a short book (43 pages) it's very impressive. I expected more... bias, I suppose. Other books I have read from that time are steeped in racism, sexism, and other passing remarks that wouldn't have garnered a second look at the the turn of that century. In contrast, I finished this volume with considerable respect for Colonel Hall, because he came across as such a respectful figure. His approach is very common sense and he speaks of men and women as absolute equals: "We believe that there are few men or women in our country who do not or will not at some future time own a revolver..."
But what truly earned my respect was how he spoke of horses. He served in the 5th Cavalry, and in succinct words he comes across as a horseman in the finest sense of the word. "We believe that a gun cannot be discharged very close to a horse's head without producing the same painful effect upon the ear drum that is made by its discharge near the head of a man. Many good cavalry horses are ruined for service by carelessness on this point." He goes into great detail about how horses should be conditioned to handle gunfire, by having them grow accustomed to the sound at a distance and then gradually moving closer.
Of course, he details how to use a gun on foot before trying it mounted. He recommends the Cal. 38 hammer-less Smith & Wesson as the best in the market. Instructions include how to practice drawing a pistol, common errors such as shifting to the left or right, and much more. (less)
I bought this book so I could read up on Alaskan history before our cruise this summer, and I was worried I made a poor choice. Klondike Fever is a br...moreI bought this book so I could read up on Alaskan history before our cruise this summer, and I was worried I made a poor choice. Klondike Fever is a brick of a book at about 450 pages. If it was in hardcover, I could use it as a weapon. It was also written back in the 1950s. I started reading, already half expecting to find it to be a dry, dull read not worthy of finishing.
Wow, was I wrong.
The book is extremely long, true, but Berton's storytelling prowess is absolutely engaging. He knows his stuff. His father came to the Alaskan goldfields over the Chilkoot Pass, and Berton was raised in the ghost town of Dawson City. As this book was published in the 1950s, he was able to talk to many survivors of the rush or those who knew them, and preserve their stories.
It took a certain personality type to survive the long trek to Dawson City. Thousands tried; thousands more failed; untold numbers died. At times, I was angered by the gross exaggerations in advertising and the swindling that led to so many deaths. The simple truth was, people dashed off for Alaska without any concept of the distance or geography. They thought they could get on a boat, disembark, and pluck gold nuggets off the ground. They didn't understand that it was thousands of miles by land alone. The route through Edmonton was 2,000 miles in length and took two years to navigate--for those who lived--and to add insult to injury, they arrived when the rush was over.
As a student of history, I vaguely recalled some of what I read of Alaska as a kid, back when I read Jack London's stories. Berton's book was an education. It brought the gritty reality of the time period to life, from the joy of discovery to the criminal syndicate of Soapy Smith in Skagway that made the city into the Mos Eisley of Alaska.
This is a book that I'll absolutely be keeping on my shelf for future reference, and it's made me all the more excited for my trip.(less)
I purchased this book, published in 1973, for research purposes. I wanted a comprehensive look at the mythology around earthquakes. I found some new i...moreI purchased this book, published in 1973, for research purposes. I wanted a comprehensive look at the mythology around earthquakes. I found some new insights here, but the book was uneven, frustrating, and incredibly dry. It makes me all the more thankful for how creative nonfiction has evolved in recent years.
Vitaliano knows her geology. That's without question. She also brings in many lesser-known legends, such as those from the Maori, and a chapter on floods and the adaption of the Noah story was incredibly fascinating. However, a large focus of the book is on Atlantis, Minoans, and Crete, and while other parts of the books (the ones I need) are not cited. For example, she makes a passing reference, "According to the Indians of southern California, the earth was held up by seven giants." What tribe? Where in southern California? This left me incredibly frustrated, especially when other sections are so well cited. It's like she did a thesis on the other parts and threw the rest together to make a complete book.
As noted, it's also very dry. At the beginning she says she wants the book to bridge the gap between scientist and nonscientist. This isn't done in a balanced way. There are points where it feels patronizing about simple terms, and then pages at a stretch where it goes into extraneous, technical details on geology.
I will keep this on my shelf because it offered some help, but it really didn't provide what I hoped.(less)
I'm a native Californian. From the time I was young, I had a keen interest in history. The experience of Chinese immigrants was largely glossed over i...moreI'm a native Californian. From the time I was young, I had a keen interest in history. The experience of Chinese immigrants was largely glossed over in school. The emphasis was, "Chinese built the railroad. A lot of them lived in San Francisco. They dealt with racism and laws prevented immigration for many years, and there weren't many Chinese women. But things are better now!"
The Barbary Plague should be required reading for any Californian. Heck, any American. This book made me so angry at times, and so sad, but it also educated me. I read it for research for my novel, and while I did get relevant data for that purpose, I came out with a whole lot more.
When the plague first settled into San Francisco in 1900, it struck Chinatown first. And almost no one cared. The federal government sent in Quarantine Officer Dr. Joseph Kinyuon. The whites scorned the plague as being an Asiatic disease, something that could only infect inferior peoples; the politicians, from the corrupt city mayor all the way to the governor of California, undermined the investigation because they only saw the potential millions lost due to quarantines and trade blockades. Some went so far as to accuse Kinyuon of planting plague evidence for the sake of his career.
The Chinese themselves thwarted medical officers at every turn. They didn't trust white doctors--with reason--and were horrified at the blasphemy of autopsies and cremation. When Kinyuon was shoved from the city, Dr. Rupert Blue came in and fought tooth and nail to stop the epidemic--and was only taken seriously when whites began to die. It was Blue who read theories from overseas and realized the plague spread by fleas on rats, and he orchestrated a massive campaign to slaughter rats and save the city from devastation. His efforts became all the more vital after the 1906 earthquake, when the ruins and refugee camps created a rodent paradise.
It's nonfiction that makes for a compelling read, as it delves into the complexities of racism, corrupt politics, and the nascent United States medical program.(less)
I received this Advance Reader Copy through NetGalley.
The title of the nonfiction book is whimsical and light; the reality is not. I have read quite a...moreI received this Advance Reader Copy through NetGalley.
The title of the nonfiction book is whimsical and light; the reality is not. I have read quite a bit on the Civil War, but I hadn't heard of the terrible plight of Browne and Richardson. These two reporters were left to wallow and die in a series of Confederate prisons, all because they worked for the Tribune, a famed abolitionist newspaper out of New York. Other Yankee reporters were quickly released. Instead, their ordeal dragged out for almost two years.
Carlson does an excellent job of creating a tense, compelling narrative. The two reporters begin their reporting on the war with a flippant attitude. They gripe about the boredom and lack of action, so they write up absolutely fictional accounts of battles like Pea Ridge, when in truth they were over a thousand miles away. Then they are captured, and they enter hell. I won't go into gory details. Andersonville is the most infamous of the Confederate prisons, but places like Castle Thunder and Salisbury weren't cushy by any means.
However, the story isn't all negativity. The men endured the best and worst of humanity. They only survived and escaped due to the kindness of blacks willing to do anything in their power to help Yankees, and the pro-Union guerrilla fighters of Appalachia. After the war, the ordeal still isn't over, and it's very heartbreaking to see how much these men really lost in their time of captivity.
I highly recommend this to anyone who's a student of history with an interest in the American Civil War. (less)
I approached this book as someone who has written several novels and has an agent. As I prepare to work on more novels, I wanted more insight into the...moreI approached this book as someone who has written several novels and has an agent. As I prepare to work on more novels, I wanted more insight into the process so I can do a better, more efficient job. I am familiar with Donald Maass and the fame of his agency, and I had this book recommended to me by other writers I respect.
Did I get what I wanted out of this book? Yes, I think so.
Many writing books out there are for beginners--something I know well, as I bought many of them as I started out! This book's strongest point is that it's approachable by writers at various stages; it can be used by someone who is committing to write their first novel, or someone with an established midlist career who wants to "breakout" in the way the title implies. I'm at a weird point somewhere between those extremes. Selling a book is a good goal--selling an excellent book that will continue to sell for years to come? Even better.
Maass uses many examples from bestsellers and his own clients to illustrate this "breakout" phenomenon; it should be noted that these references are dated since the book came out in 2000, but the majority of the titles are still quite recognizable, which says a lot about how breakout books linger. He shows how to dig deeper and complicate plots and characters, and each chapter ends with a checklist. I can see why Writer's Digest Books has created a workbook to go along with the volume, as there were many points where I stopped reading to ponder how Maass's observations applied to my own writing.
In all, a very thought-provoking book, and one with staying power for my reference shelf.(less)
It's only in the past while I have started to try more types of alcohol. I may not be a big drinker, but I am very curious about the stuff. The Drunke...moreIt's only in the past while I have started to try more types of alcohol. I may not be a big drinker, but I am very curious about the stuff. The Drunken Botanist hits all the right notes for me. It's fascinating historical facts, brewing information, advice (and warnings) on growing the stuff yourself, and recommendations on brands and breweries. Essentially, I should be set for any alcohol-related Trivial Pursuit questions.
The sense of humor is dry (or should I say secco?) and livens up the narrative. The book's listing on Amazon contains a short book trailer that sums up the humor quite well. A few times it made me giggle, but more than that it's the sort of book that balances information and amusement in a way that begs to be read out loud to others. Unless you're going to play these people at Trivial Pursuit. Then you may want to hoard the information for yourself.
I received an advanced release ebook through NetGalley, though after reading only a short way, I concluded I need to buy a copy for myself and for a family member. I have also been eyeing Stewart's other books for a while, and now I definitely want to seek them out for my reference shelf.(less)
As a child, I was obsessed with Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series. I read them each over again times beyond count, but my very favorite was T...moreAs a child, I was obsessed with Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series. I read them each over again times beyond count, but my very favorite was The Long Winter. It accounted how Laura's family and the town of De Smet, South Dakota, struggled to survive a brutal winter of low food and fuel. A morbid book, to be sure--I guess it's no surprise that I've grown up to write post-apocalyptic tales of survival, and I still have a keen interest in historical tales of survival as well.
As I began to read The Children's Blizzard, I wasn't surprised to find that Laskin was also inspired by Wilder's The Long Winter. Wilder's terrible winter was the one of 1880-1881; the titular blizzard of this book took place January 12th, 1888 and was truly a freak storm.
The media stories a century ago often called the incident 'the School-Children's Blizzard,' because so many of the dead and maimed were children and teachers. They died in the grip of a suffocating, sub-zero storm, or froze to death in their school or home. Hundreds, across Nebraska and the Dakota Territory. Laskin takes a very thorough approach and begins by talking about these pioneers and where they were from: Norway or Germany, Mennonite or Quaker, they came west seeking a promised land of plenty. He focuses on several particular families, and in doing so, creates terrible tension because it's impossible to guess who will live or who will die. This is creative non-fiction at its finest. The science is a tad daunting as it describes the unique elements world-wide that come together to create such an unusually powerful storm--measurements state that the temperature dropped eighteen degrees in three minutes--and the manner that freezing kills the body; while the science is important, overall this is a tale of humanity, and that's the real story here.
I am most definitely keeping this book on my shelf and will be referring to it for years to come.(less)
This anthology of 101 stories evokes the nostalgia and triumph of ice hockey, from frozen Canadian pond...moreNot a review, as I can't write an unbiased one.
This anthology of 101 stories evokes the nostalgia and triumph of ice hockey, from frozen Canadian ponds to the devoted parents in the bleachers to the NHL pros; my own story, "Numbers Game," is included on page 317.(less)
This is a humor book for journalists. I'm a writer and an avid news reader, so I was able to enjoy much of the humor even though I've never endured th...moreThis is a humor book for journalists. I'm a writer and an avid news reader, so I was able to enjoy much of the humor even though I've never endured the newsroom slog. I have enjoyed the posts by "the Bureau Chiefs" (aka the authors) on Facebook and knew I wanted to read their book. The wit is consistent, enough to make me smile as I read, but there were only a few times I laughed out loud.
Many of the chapters featured a glossary, and this was often my favorite part. There were definitions such as the one for "firewall" in the internet chapter, "Magical spell that protects computer from intrusion by setting intruding computers on fire. Requires a mage of third level or higher to cast." In the sports chapter, "hat trick:" When a hockey player makes a bunny appear on the ice out of NOWHERE!" There's actually a whole section on understanding hockey penalties, which I need to have my hockey-loving husband read.
However, with my books shelves as crowded as they are, I don't think this is a keeper. But would I gift it to journalist friends? Absolutely. (less)
I won this signed anthology in a blog giveaway over two years ago. It has just been sitting on my shelf, passed over time and again. I couldn't help b...moreI won this signed anthology in a blog giveaway over two years ago. It has just been sitting on my shelf, passed over time and again. I couldn't help but think political equaled boring. However, all the recent political stupidity regarding women's bodies has had me rather pissed off, so I decided to give the book a try. If it turned out boring, I'd just stop reading.
I didn't stop reading until the very last page.
I was pleasantly surprised at how engaging the anthology turned out to be. The voices varied in tone and topic, ranging from Benazir Bhutto balancing family and policy (all the more sad considering she was assassinated) to Barbara Kingsolver comparing herself to her daughter at thirteen. Some of my favorites included "Adoption in III Acts" by Kathy Briccetti, an intimate tale of how subsequent generations of her family had been adopted and the ordeal she and her partner were enduring to have them both listed as the mothers of their child, and "On Receiving Notice of My Stepdaughter's Pregnancy" by Mary Akers, in which she balances her love and frustration at her stepdaughter's choices.
The one weakness of the anthology is that it skews left--in some cases, far left. There's a lot of mourning over John Kerry's loss. A few essays verge on being outright antagonistic to Republicans, and sometimes the self-righteousness could be irritating. I consider myself an independent, and after reading so many liberal-themed essays in a row, I really yearned for more balance. My favorites essays were the ones that avoided those Republican/Democrat labels. Fortunately, there were many, and it's not as if any of the essays were "bad." I may not have agreed with the authors, but I found their arguments compelling and insightful.
I'm a fantasy writer, and for years I have heard of this book and how amusing it is. This is a book any reader of fantasy will appreciate because it m...moreI'm a fantasy writer, and for years I have heard of this book and how amusing it is. This is a book any reader of fantasy will appreciate because it merciless explores the tropes of the genre. For example, the section on Horses notes that mares never come into season during the Tour (as it calls the events in Fantasyland) and that stallions never show interest in mares; therefore, it's likely that horses breed by pollination.
The problem with the book is that it IS so exhaustive. When it comes down to it, it's like reading hundreds of pages of the dictionary; mind you, it's a funny dictionary, but it's a tiresome read after a while.(less)
Germs. Viruses. Nasty little things made even nastier by scientific manipulation. This book, published in early 2001, explores the United State's effo...moreGerms. Viruses. Nasty little things made even nastier by scientific manipulation. This book, published in early 2001, explores the United State's efforts in germ and biological warfare from the 1950s onward. Special attention is paid to the little-known food bar poisoning attack by the Rajneeshees in Oregon in the early 1980s, Soviet advances and the subsequent degrading of their program after communism's collapse, Iraq and the first Gulf War, and battles in Washington D.C. over funding and ethical problems.[return][return]I was reading this book for novel research, and I did place sticky tabs on various points of interest. However, I was more interested in the science itself and the creations and preventative measures more than the battles for funding or the see-saw regarding weapons inspectors in Iraq in the 1990s. There's also the issue of the book's timing of publication in mid-2001. The final chapter on the future had ominous notes about the potential for attacks by figures such as Osama bin Laden. I have a feeling this book would have had a different focus if it had come out six months later, after the 9/11 attacks and the anthrax mailing scare. Still, it made for an interesting (in parts) if slow read--it took me two weeks to finish it.(less)
Do you have any interactions with people of the opposite sex? Read this book.[return][return]Do you ever wonder why even your own gender acts in such...moreDo you have any interactions with people of the opposite sex? Read this book.[return][return]Do you ever wonder why even your own gender acts in such a particular why? Read this book.[return][return]Seriously, I thought this book would be a very dull, dry, read. Gender and linguistics aren't the most exciting of subjects, usually - but in Tannen's expert hands this becomes a fascinating and balanced read. It's not anti-woman or anti-man, but tries to study the reasons - cultural or otherwise - why we communicate the way we do. It gets to the very root of gender differences. Most women seek commonalities with other women (one complains of an ailment, the other sympathizes with a similar tale of woe) while men tend to one-up the other in a hierarchcal scramble for dominance (a guy has an ailment, so the other guy ignores it, dismisses it, or elevates his own standing). The book cites studies of children and shows how they show many of the same communicative patterns of adults. The author also refers to a variety of literature and personal anecdotes to illustrate situations.[return][return]My husband even picked up this book and flipped through and said he was impressed by it. My husband rarely reads books.[return][return]As a writer, I think this book will be an excellent source for honing dialog and creating conflict. This is a keeper.(less)
I first read of this book back when we subscribed to Experience Life Magazine, and I was glad to find it in a thrift store earlier this year.[return][...moreI first read of this book back when we subscribed to Experience Life Magazine, and I was glad to find it in a thrift store earlier this year.[return][return]Hyman's basic theory is this: Americans are obese because of widespread misinformation about diets (especially low fat and low calorie diets) and how our DNA is programmed to gain weight. Many pre-packaged foods contain additives and fats that are not natural and our bodies don't know how to process them. Therefore, Hyman's Ultrametabolism Prescription advises that people eat as their ancestors did a hundred years ago with lots of raw fruits and veggies, ancient grains, nuts, and lean meats, and avoiding white flours, sugars, and many pre-packaged products.[return][return]I've tried various diet plans before to dismal results. Even though I exercise six days a week for 30 minutes to an hour, my weight stays at the same plateau. Hyman's theory does have merit, I think, in citing that a lot of cheap and easy foods are actually rather toxic. I don't agree with everything he espoused; one thing he said is that we need to eat as we did a hundred years ago, but at the same time he says we need to avoid flour. Um, flour has been pretty important for a long time. I can't afford to dump out all of my gluten-y foods (or buy all organic), but I do plan to try out his recipe suggestions and read labels more carefully. Moderation seems to be the key, as with anything. I've been eating a lot of produce this year, and I hope to increase that intake, stop buying frozen Lean Cuisines, and see if I really can boost my energy and metabolism.(less)
I bought this for research purposes for my novel. I didn't end up getting any information out of it in that regard, but it was a fascinating read. Thi...moreI bought this for research purposes for my novel. I didn't end up getting any information out of it in that regard, but it was a fascinating read. This book was published in 1996 in the heyday of the TV show ER, and is an anthology of different bizarre, funny, or sad incidents submitted by doctors and nurses from across the U.S. I felt rather voyeuristic while reading, but the material was so intriguing that I couldn't resist reading more. The stories range the regular drunks that filter through the system to some outright insane stories that I'll remember for a very long time.[return][return]In all, a good book that only raises my respect for those who work in emergency medicine. It's no wonder these folks burn out so quickly.(less)
I received this book through the Library Thing Early Reviewers program. I do not have MS, but I wanted to know more about the disorder and I have an a...moreI received this book through the Library Thing Early Reviewers program. I do not have MS, but I wanted to know more about the disorder and I have an acquaintance with MS can pass the book along to. I do, however, suffer from fatigue.[return][return]I approached this book with complete ignorance. I knew MS was a Bad Thing that caused pain and fatigue, but not why or the extent of the problems. This book doesn't go into that in detail, which is good - the basic audience is for sufferers of Multiple Sclerosis, and there's no point in preaching to the choir. Even though I can't fully appreciate the book, it does strike me as a practical and realistic approach to coping with fatigue. There's no magic cure. Their approach is straightforward and completely personal: look at your day. When do you have the most energy? When do you feel the worst? What activities are the most taxing? What do you really miss doing? The book is filled with simple charts that can be copied (or replicated in Excel) to help a person focus and figure out patterns and solutions on their own.[return][return]The language is basic, but never patronizing. The voice in the book is that of a therapist or a friend, suggesting alternatives, but never griping or saying you must do something this way. The chapters are short with large font so that someone suffering from fatigue or eye strain can read without difficulty.[return][return]Everything about Fighting Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis is about rethinking your day so that you feel better, physically and mentally. They don't suggest radical changes, but gradual steps. Do a ten minute walk several times a week to create an exercise routine. Ask for help with grocery shopping or use a motor scooter. Use a laundry bag to throw laundry from the second floor down to the first so you don't need to carry a basket of burden. Slowly modify your behavior, use the included charts to set goals, and bit by bit, you'll get there.(less)
This is absolutely NOT the sort of book I would ever buy or pick up on my own as 1) I use a bare minimum of make-up 2) I find cosmetics rather intimid...moreThis is absolutely NOT the sort of book I would ever buy or pick up on my own as 1) I use a bare minimum of make-up 2) I find cosmetics rather intimidating, and I'm self-conscious about shopping for them. However, I won this in a gift pack earlier this year, and after a few days of feeling like I look bleh, I figured it was as good a time as any to read it.[return][return]Actually, I was pretty impressed with the book. It lives up to the title, emphasizing that THINKING positively will reflect in a person's face and empower them more than make-up alone ever could. True, that. Carmindy (who does make-up on the show What Not to Wear) also emphasizes focusing on good facial features rather than covering up the bad. The book has chapters on each part of the face - lips, eyes, skin, cheeks - and shows techniques on how to handle different shapes/textures/colors. I especially liked the examples of how to apply eye shadow for different shapes and times of day; it makes me feel like actually trying out eyeshadow for the first time in, oh, three years. There's a chapter on tools, explaining different sorts of little brushes and thingamajigs. The back of the book shows real women of all ages and ethnicities and how they look before and after. Carmindy is very good at her job.[return][return]That said, sometimes the positive-emphasis was a bit overdone. Almost ever paragraph had sentences like: Fabulous! Gorgeous! The book also isn't bound for friendly use in a bathroom. It's hardcover and oversized like a coffee table book. Pages don't stay open on their own. As far as functionality, it would have been more prudent to make it glossy and spiral-bound. Those are the only gripes, though. It's a nice book for gals like me who might want to dress up every now and then, but don't exactly know how. I actually went out and bought a lip liner and pencil eye liner today. Whoa.(less)
In this collection of essays by Gerald Haslam, he explores what it means to be from the San Joaquin Valley of California, a massive stew of cultures a...moreIn this collection of essays by Gerald Haslam, he explores what it means to be from the San Joaquin Valley of California, a massive stew of cultures and people. As an Oildale boy and a product of Okie and Hispanic heritage, his perspective is entrenched in valley dirt and hard work.[return][return]I seek out books on my home region, and I now count this among my favorites. Haslam shows the valley as it is. He speaks with pride about the labor of Okies struggling to emerge from the poverty of the dust bowl, and the Mexican migrants working the fields today. He explores the racism of Taft in the 1970s, and the grief of his mother's slow decline and death. It's a moving work. Haslam struck me as someone who I could simply sit near for the joy of hearing him speak about the old days and the promise of the future.[return][return]I found this comparative to David Mas Masumoto's Letters to the Valley, the sort of work that makes me proud of where I come from and homesick to return. This is a keeper.(less)
Temple Grandin is autistic and brilliant. She is known for her work with animals, in particular cattle; she's designed half of the livestock-handling...moreTemple Grandin is autistic and brilliant. She is known for her work with animals, in particular cattle; she's designed half of the livestock-handling facilities in the United States. In this book with Cathrine Johnson, she explores the viewpoints of animals themselves in contrast with autistic and normal people. The results are astonishing. The subject sounds dry, but the writing is not. Through citations of scientific studies and personal experience, Grandin makes the case for animal brilliance. I could note any numbers of especially intriguing information in this book:[return][return]- Rapist roosters are becoming more prevalent because as chickens have been bred for bigger breasts, they have lost other important genetic material such as mating dances. Some roosters also murder the hen after the rape.[return][return]- Albinos are highly unusual in nature, and with reason - they have more flaws and nervous problems. This is becoming more prevalent with Dalmatians, which are being bred to be as white as possible, but are having increasing health issues that are harming the integrity of the breed.[return][return]- How animals handle pain, and why: if a prey animal shows pain, it makes them likely to be culled by a predator. Certain breeds are more tolerable of pain, such as Labradors, because they are a type of dog designed to jump into ice-cold water. This pain tolerance is why they handle young children so well.[return][return]- A leucotomy is similar to a lobotomy but only severs the connections to the frontal lobe instead of removing it entirely. The 1949 Nobel Prize winner developed the procedure to assist people dealing with severe, chronic pain. These patients still felt the tremendous pain, constantly, but after the operation they no longer cared. They could finally function in their daily lives and the pain just didn't matter anymore.[return][return]In case you couldn't tell, this is an awesome book to completely geek-out with. I couldn't wait to share facts like these with my husband and my mom. In addition, since my son is autistic, I learned more about seeing the world through his viewpoint, something that presents a daily challenge in my household. I can only hope he grows up and experiences as much success as Temple Grandin.(less)
Every year I like to read at least one nonfiction book that educates me about an era or people I'm otherwise ignorant of. Last year I read Nathaniel's...moreEvery year I like to read at least one nonfiction book that educates me about an era or people I'm otherwise ignorant of. Last year I read Nathaniel's Nutmeg, a book that has forever changed my perspective about paying $2 for a jar of nutmeg at the grocery store. This year I selected Galileo's Daughter. I admit, I didn't know much about the man other than that he was the father of modern sciences and was censored by the Catholic church, but I didn't know the details of that.[return][return]This book takes a fascinating approach to Galileo by studying him through his eldest daughter's eyes. He had three children--all illegitimate--with the two girls placed in a convent. The eldest, dubbed Suor Maria Celeste as a nun, had all of the intelligence and wit of her father. She managed many aspects of her convent, and while her father was imprisoned by the Inquisition, she also ran her father's household--even though she could not leave the convent grounds. This book delves heavily into Galileo's Dialogues, a volume that earned him the acclaim of his fellow scientists and the scorn of the Pope (his former friend), and resulted in his prolonged captivity during a time of virulent plague.[return][return]I'm very glad I read this, though at times it was challenging for me. I do not share Galileo's scientific mind, and I'm awed at the discoveries and observations he made with the tools at his disposal. I adored Maria Celeste's letters. Her voice is delightful and bright, always drawing heavily on her faith while supporting her father to the utmost. It's no wonder that Galileo was crushed by her death at age 34. Galileo's own long life of 77 is quite remarkable; up to the very end, despite blindness and incapacitating pain, he dictated new theories to his apprentice.[return][return]I highly recommend this book.(less)
This book features a compilation of bad customer stories, all told in script form. One hundred are from their website, http://notalwaysright.com/, and...moreThis book features a compilation of bad customer stories, all told in script form. One hundred are from their website, http://notalwaysright.com/, and another hundred are brand new.[return][return]I won't waste time quoting or summarizing; just go to the website to see why this book is so extraordinary. Some of these people need to be removed from the gene pool and others... well, maybe they were just having a bad day. Reading this brings back fond memories of my own time in retail. Also, when I was battling a migraine and unable to stare at the computer monitor, I could read the book version and giggle the pain away.(less)
This book was a quick, hilarious read last night, and was just what I needed after a day of stress. These actual pictures signs from around the world...moreThis book was a quick, hilarious read last night, and was just what I needed after a day of stress. These actual pictures signs from around the world try so hard to master the English language and fail in delightful ways:[return][return]SPEEDO CHECK AHEAD NEXT 5KM[return][return](less)
The Midnight Disease: The Drive to Write, Writer's Block, and the Creative Brain is written by Alice Flaherty, a neurologist. Her medical training has...moreThe Midnight Disease: The Drive to Write, Writer's Block, and the Creative Brain is written by Alice Flaherty, a neurologist. Her medical training has a profound impact on the book, but even more so weighs the event that changed her life: the premature birth and death of twin boys. Her subsequent postpartum disorder brought on depression and mania, including hypergraphia--the constant need to write. But this isn't a memoir, even though her voice and experience are integral. This is about the very nature of the human brain and how mental states and trauma impact our ability to read and write, causing crippling writer's block or the inability to step away from the pen or keyboard.[return][return]I loved this book. It's not an easy read, though. You need a basic understanding of the brain and what does what, though Flaherty does a wonderful job of elaborating. The temporal lobe is essential to the writer. I was amazed at how conditions such as epilepsy and bipolar disorder directly impact how prolificly a person writes. It also delves into depression and autism, issues within my own family.[return][return]If you write and want to understand why, read this book. It won't give you direct answers, but you'll have a lot to think--and write--about.(less)
When you have a special needs child, the psychological implications are hard enough. Having a child who can't talk, who can't handle being in public.....moreWhen you have a special needs child, the psychological implications are hard enough. Having a child who can't talk, who can't handle being in public... that's hard. But to make it even worse, there's the bureaucratic nightmare of getting services for your child. The process is contradictory, frustrating, and sometimes downright dangerous for the child's welfare. That's where this book steps in. I can't help but ask, where was this resource three years ago when my son was first diagnosed with autism? About the first half of the book is fantastic for people just starting out on their journey. It shows how to advocate with friends and family, and to know when a fight is worth fighting.[return][return]But for me, the true golden section of this book involves several chapters on IEPs (Individual Education Plans) and legal rights when dealing with schools. My son just started kindergarten. So far, the local public school system has been good to us. I've read many nightmare stories though--enough to make me leery that the future may bring some pretty unpleasant battles regarding my son's rights for a fair education. This book is a good starting point for parents to educate themselves, and if need be, to get a lawyer to advise them the rest of the way.[return][return]There are a few negatives regarding the book. At times, it feel like Martin's own organization is mentioned too much. She's also a lawyer with a Harvard education, obviously a person with incredible resources a normal parent can't access. I do appreciate her positive approach and that she has created a book that is accessible to parents of all income levels. There is a definite need for this material.(less)
This book surprised me on many levels. I bought it and expected a dry yet useful commentary on the publishing industry and what writers must do to sur...moreThis book surprised me on many levels. I bought it and expected a dry yet useful commentary on the publishing industry and what writers must do to survive. Instead, I discovered something that was highly readable--as smooth as fiction--and comparable to someone taking a writer by the hand to offer them advice. The Forest for the Trees is a gentle book. Lerner's approach is that she understands writers, with all their angst, writer's block, and depression, and that it takes more than talent to succeed in the business. She's blunt in her assessment of the rapid changes in the industry and that publishers never know what will be a hit or not. It's nice to see the viewpoint of someone with experience as an editor and an agent; the information is familiar from other writing and author blogs and books, but the angle is different and appreciated.[return][return]It's a useful read, but I admit it didn't resonate with me as much as Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. Still, it's a solid read and a recommended book for any writer who is just starting out or has become disillusioned along the way.(less)
To make things clear from the start: I'm a dork.[return][return]The book appealed to such a high level of dorkiness that I couldn't help but love it....moreTo make things clear from the start: I'm a dork.[return][return]The book appealed to such a high level of dorkiness that I couldn't help but love it. The title is exactly what you get - a detailed, full-color book showing the placement and condition of various shopping carts with a detailed taxonomy of class and type. It is 176-pages featuring over 250 pictures of shopping carts in various states of disrepair, imprisonment, and modified use. Most of the images are from around the Buffalo, New York area; being from a warmer climate, I had no idea that snow plows could destroy carts in such a way. Since the book is mostly pictures, there is little to read but the captions are very informative. For example, from page 142:[return][return]This B/3 FRAGMENT, B/12 SIMPLE VANDALISM, B/14 ARCHAIC specimen was found in a creek that runs through an urban area. At the time of documentation, the SOURCE of origin had been closed for five years.[return][return]Yes, all shopping carts are specimens, and their stores of origin are the source. The delightful thing about this book is that it is dead serious. You could go anywhere in the country - or indeed the world - and use Julian Montague's system to identify the location and condition of carts.[return][return]There is an especially interesting section in the back devoted to the unique vandalism in the Niagara Falls River Gorge, complete with a map featuring zones of carts shoved off the cliff and the varying condition and age of the carts within each zone.[return][return]I highly recommend this field identification guide to all fellow dorks who are amused and intrigued by wandering shopping carts. It's a true classic.(less)
The title IS a summary of the book, which is an ideal read if you're a history and geography geek like me. It's 304-pages of maps, historical notes, a...moreThe title IS a summary of the book, which is an ideal read if you're a history and geography geek like me. It's 304-pages of maps, historical notes, and outright warfare between states. I've always wondered why many East Coast states remained small; yes, they may have been colonies originally, but why not combine eventually? That question and many others are addressed. Sometimes it can get confusing because of the sheer amount of terms, but Stein set aside a special section at the front called DON'T SKIP THIS that shows the territories and treaties so you know your Adams-Onis from your Mason-Dixon.[return][return]The biggest surprise/shock was how intelligently Congress handled the divisions of territories during the 19th century. Many of their decisions early on were based on the need to balance slave and non-slave states, as reflected in policies such as the Missouri Compromise. However, even after the Civil War, they did they utmost to keep things balanced. If there was a body of water nearby, they let nearby states have access, however small. They tried to break apart western states along even divisions of degrees. Considering the buffoons we elect to office, I was pleasantly surprised at their foresight throughout a century of turmoil. And it never ceases to impress me how accurately they surveyed lines with their current technology.[return][return]If you're a United Stated geography/history geek, get this book. Watch the TV series based on it. I'm sure it will pay off in a Trivial Pursuit game at some point in the future.(less)
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