Islam: A Short History (Modern Library Chronicles)

Amazon.com

The picture of Islam as a violent, backward, and insular tradition should be laid to rest, says Karen Armstrong, bestselling author of Muhammad and A History of God. Delving deep into Islamic history, Armstrong sketches the arc of a story that begins with the stirring of revelation in an Arab businessman named Muhammad. His concern with the poor who were being left behind in the blush of his society's new prosperity sets the tone for the tale of a culture that values community as a manifestation of God. Muhammad's ideas catch fire, quickly blossoming into a political empire. As the empire expands and the once fractured Arabs subdue and overtake the vast Persian domain, the story of a community becomes a panoramic drama. With great dexterity, Armstrong narrates the Sunni-Shi'ite schism, the rise of Persian influence, the clashes with Western crusaders and Mongolian conquerors, and the spiritual explorations that traced the route to God. Armstrong brings us through the debacle of European colonialism right up to the present day, putting Islamic fundamentalism into context as part of a worldwide phenomenon. Islam: A Short History, like Bruce Lawrence's Shattering the Myth and Mark Huband's Warriors of the Prophet, introduces us to a faith that beckons like a minaret to those who dare to venture beyond the headlines. --Brian Bruya

Book Description

No religion in the modern world is as feared and misunderstood as Islam. It haunts the popular imagination as an extreme faith that promotes terrorism, authoritarian government, female oppression, and civil war. In a vital revision of this narrow view of Islam and a distillation of years of thinking and writing about the subject, Karen Armstrong’s short history demonstrates that the world’s fastest-growing faith is a much more complex phenomenon than its modern fundamentalist strain might suggest.

Customer Reviews:

A great introduction to the history of Islam........2007-09-27

This is a really great book to understand Islam. I truly loved this book, and because of its small size, I was able to devour it within two days!

The most interesting chapter as far as I am concerned was on the present conflict between the Jews and the Muslims.

Muslims never hated the Jews. In fact, Muslims and Jews lived together side by side in peace since the beginning of time (so to speak). Prophet Mohammad ordered Muslims to respect Jews and live with them in peace since they are `people of the book' (meaning they have had their own revelations and are thus believers in God). Prophet Mohammad ordered Muslims not to try to convert Jews to Islam against their wish. In fact, Muslims believe in all of the prophets of Judaism, and most if not all are mentioned in the Muslim holy book known as the Qur'an.

Prophet Ibrahim, the father of both Muslims and Jews, had many children. The Jews come from the lineage of one of Ibrahim's sons, while the Moslems come from another of Ibrahim's sons. Therefore, Muslims and Jews are cousins.

Throughout history, Muslims and Jews have fought together side by side. During the crusades they fought together to protect the holy land. During the Muslim occupation of Spain Muslims and Jews fought together side by side against the Europeans. During the British occupation of Palestine, both Moslems and Jews fought together against the British. There has never been any enmity within Jews and Muslims throughout history. It is only after the invasion by the Jews of Palestine, and the formation of the State of Israel on Palestinian land, that the aggression between Muslims and Jews started. That started the flame of hatred between them, and Muslim clerks twisted the sayings of Prophet Mohammad and the Qur'an for political reasons. In other words, they put words into the Prophet's mouth. Things he never said or did not mean were suddenly attributed to him. The Arab world, being uneducated, would blindly follow the teachings of the clergy, and this is where we are today. The hatred between Jews and Muslims is political. It is the same hatred the French had towards the Germans when they invaded Paris during World War II. If the United States were to be invaded today by the Russians or Chinese (or any other nation), the Americans would have the same hatred towards their aggressors as the Muslims have today of the Jews. Like the Muslims, the American citizens would be fighting the aggressor to regain their land by any means possible, even if it means twisting the words of Jesus Christ. For example, love thy neighbor, but only if he loves you. If someone slaps you, turn the other cheek, but then beat the hell out of him! You get the point. The conflict in Palestine is man and woman against man and woman, not Judaism against Islam.

This book will really give you a crash course on Islam. It starts off by explaining why a new prophet was needed in the Arab World. According to Armstrong, the Arabs felt left out for they did not have a prophet of their own. The Jews had many prophets, and there were manuscripts left to them from past prophets. The Arabs did not have monotheistic religious texts of their own in the Arabic language, and thus felt left out. Thus the arrival of Prophet Mohammad, an Arab, was a great welcome to many Arabs. The Qur'an, the holy book descended to Prophet Mohammad, was in the Arabic language, and thus directly accessible to all Arabs, unlike Jewish texts.

Prophet Mohammad did have Arab enemies, of course. Not all Arabs embraced his religion at first. As is so well known today, self-interest and politics plays a big role.

A very important point Armstrong makes is that Islam is a religion of peace. In fact, Islam is derived from the Arabic root "Salema", meaning peace and purity. Prophet Mohammad was against wars. In fact, he made an important treaty with the Meccans to prove his point. Prophet Mohammad preached non-violence. All the Muslim wars and conquests that took place after the death of Prophet Mohammad were politically motivated, not religious in any way. It is very easy to twist the words of a prophet, and all religions have done that with their prophets (look at how many different versions of the Bible are out there). Furthermore, there were many wars waged between Muslims themselves as to who should succeed the prophet. Most of the Prophet's friends and close relatives were eventually murdered as a result. All these actions would have been condemned by the Prophet. Again, man was fighting for his own self-interest and ambition and not in accordance with the holy teachings of Islam (again, as has happened in all religions).

The book then goes on with the history of Islam after the era of the Prophet (632-661). Armstrong explains the era of the Umayyads, the Abbasids, and the esoteric movements. The Muslim world had reached its height in glory, and the whole known world feared the Muslims. The Muslims contributed to philosophy, science, mathematics, and medicine, and Arabic texts were translated into Latin and Greek. The Muslim empire at the time was what the United States is today to the rest of the world.

The Crusades are also explained, as well as the interesting era of the Mongols (1220-1500). The chapter on the Mongol was very interesting, filled with facts and stories I never knew. For example, the Mongols contributed a lot to Islamic art and architecture as well as to the strategies of war. After the Mongol conquests, the Mongols and the Muslims lived together in peace, and were even integrated together. Many Mongols later became Muslims.

Armstrong then moves on to the era of imperial Islam (1500-1700), and introduces the reader to the Safavid Empire, the Moghul Empire, and the Ottoman Empire.

The book ends with a chapter on Islam agonists, and explains how the west finally conquered the Islamic world starting in 1750. This chapter is extremely interesting and entertaining, and will give you a glimpse at the present state of the Muslim world.

Armstrong mentions the book `The Satanic Verses', by Salman Rushdie. Even though the Ayatollah Khomeini condemned the author, and issued a Fatwa (a decree) to have the author killed (with a million dollar reward), all the Islamic clergy of other Islamic nations were against the Ayatollah's decree, citing freedom of speech and expression as an Islamic right. Now isn't this interesting? Again, for political reasons, Muslim citizens are stripped from their freedom of expression, speech, and thought. Outsiders looking at the way of life of Muslims should realize that the way Muslims live is not according to the teachings of their Prophet Mohammad, but according to the selfish greed of their leaders! This is really a very important point for westerners to understand.

This is a very important book and should be read by everyone interested in knowing more about the state of the Arab world and Islam. I highly recommend this book!

Good book for general explanation.......2007-09-04

This book will explain the basics of Islam, which is all I was looking for.

Islam: A Short History is very good.......2007-08-31

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have since given it to several people, including some military folks with responsibilities in the area. I think this book, better than any other I've read, makes it clear why the Middle East is in the state it is.

Politically correct lies.......2007-07-29

Why defend a religion who's holy book hates and despises Jews, Christians and Pagans, and commands husbands to beat their wives.
Of course there have been cases of brilliant people even under Islamic domination, e.g. Omar Khayan, but to attribute their achievements to Islam, is like attributing Galileo's achievements to Catholicism.

Concise but sufficient.......2007-07-05

I'm going to take exception to all the criticism of the majority of the reviews I see here. While it is a compressed history (one reviewer noted that the middle was "dense") I found the book very enlightening. Another criticism is that she presents an Islamic point of view. Well, if one wishes to understand another culture, religion or whatever, one must 'walk a mile in their shoes'. I know some Muslims and she is quite correct that Islam in not inherently violent. I can only assume that those reviewers are reading the book with their blinders on and refusing to accept that there is any other way to see the world. This book is an attempt to show another world view. If you read this book and miss that, shame on you.

Whispering in the Giant's Ear: A Frontline Chronicle from Bolivia's War on Globalization

Average customer rating:

Important true-life on environmental front lines
Informative book on an important topic.
Great book on environmental efforts, relationships in Bolivia
An Era of a Revolution Encompassing the Whole Planet
Simply a must-read

Whispering in the Giant's Ear: A Frontline Chronicle from Bolivia's War on Globalization
William Powers
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1596911034
Release Date: 2006-05-16

Book Description

An intimate and powerful account of living in Bolivia during a time of crisis and change.

Long the obscure “Tibet of South America,” Bolivia emerged as a world flashpoint during the four years William Powers lived there as an aid worker. CNN and the New York Times have shown images of Aymara women in bowler hats standing down tanks; citizen protests have ousted multinationals and two pro-globalization presidents. In A Natural Nation, Powers breathes life into the recent struggles of the Bolivian people. When he arrives in the rainforest, he meets an extraordinary Chiquitano Indian named Salvador who is fighting the extinction of his people. At the same time, the clock ticks for three multinational energy companies forced to curb global warming. Both goals depend upon the survival of a stretch of pristine jungle. But as Indians and oil giants join to launch the world’s largest Kyoto Protocol project—using forests to absorb dangerous planetary greenhouse gasses—Salvador’s life is threatened by loggers collaborating with a racist Bolivian oligarchy. The quest for a single rainforest is subsumed in a movement of national liberation. A Natural Nation goes beneath the headlines, gracefully weaving memoir, travel, history and reportage into an unforgettable chronicle of a “poor little rich country” attempting to engage the world without losing its soul.

Customer Reviews:

Important true-life on environmental front lines.......2007-08-05

So much good writing is being done about the need to develop sustainable life styles that it's difficult to sort out the best. This is a very important and readable book in that context. William Powers was there in Bolivia struggling with the tension between an indigenous Amazon tribe and the attempt of apparently well-meaning nonprofits and industrialists to change the natives. For those who think we can go back to living in the pre-industrial world, and for those who are looking for a better answer, this is an engaging story of great importance.

Informative book on an important topic........2007-03-09

I learned of the concept of carbon credits when I read Big Coal. It seemed like an interesting idea, but I was curious about investigating it from the perspective of those countries participating on the other side of things. Whispering in the Giant's Ear was an excellent choice to reveal the conseqenses of our exploitation of non-renewable resources on "less developed" nations. Powers does an outstanding job of providing an interesting narrative with which to educate the reader about the role carbon credits are playing in the struggle of indigenous people to gain political power in a nation that is caught up in the process of globalization. The number of characters is not so many as to cause confusion, but enough to provide insight into several segments of Bolivian society. A sympathetic portrait of the indigenous peoples of the poorest of South American nations.

Great book on environmental efforts, relationships in Bolivia.......2006-09-12

I have to say, I'm envious of Bill Powers' writing abilities and his experience in Bolivia. Thanks to his detailed descriptions of character conversations, speeches, emotions, reactions, etc., I feel like I could easily recognize any of his Conservation International colleagues - Salvador, Smithers, Len - if I saw any one of them on the street...or deep in the Bolivian jungle. I did wonder whatever happened to the author's relationships with Daniel and Anaí - two of the author's close friends - but at the same time both side-stories were pleasantly left open to the possibilities. This book provides a highly readable, history of Bolivia and it's current political and environmental challenges. In addition, it provides a detailed look into the relationships between a "gringo" do-gooder and his Bolivian counterparts.

An Era of a Revolution Encompassing the Whole Planet.......2006-06-16

Now I have a better appreciation of Bolivia-its geography and culture. WHISPERING IN THE ELEPHANT'S EAR extends my understanding of globilization beyond our Western concerns of the East. It makes me equate the impact of globilization similar to that of the Industrial Revolution. In retrospect, the progress of that revolution ultimately involved all nations without particular attention to geography and culture. Now we hope to integrate the two without paying the price environmentally.

Powers' descriptive writing is powerful. I could have used a glossary of Spanish words. Although his personal anecdotes are entertaining they seem secondary in a book of such importance. Perhaps more anecdotes on indiginous people would have been more significant.

WHISPERING IN THE ELEPHANT'S EAR is a must read for those interested in our complex planet.

Simply a must-read.......2006-06-02

I thought I'd just grab a primer on Bolivia, but got a whole lot more when I picked this book up. This guy is so multi-faceted, you never know what he's going to write next. Nearly every passage in his work make you angry, make you take sides, make you pause with a sense of befuddlement. Sometimes I folded it in front of me just to let a particularly beautiful revelation or moment sink in.

For anyone who is eager (or compelled) to learn about the actualities of Bolivia's incredible past five years, its "war on globalization", this is the book to read. Powers, who was one of the few "there", talking and sharing with those involved and wholly understands what occurred. This is apparent in his telling of the Indian road-blocks, impending rain-forest catastrophe, and the stories of real people that you can relate to.

After reading William Powers, the world becomes a far stranger, grander, mythical, more intriguing--and puzzling-- place than ever before.

Roreys Secret: A Novel (Country Road Chronicles)

Average customer rating:

My Secret
Love Leisha Kelly's style of writing
The Power of Prayer
I expected so much more...
Great read

Roreys Secret: A Novel (Country Road Chronicles)
Leisha Kelly
Manufacturer: Revell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0800759850
Release Date: 2005-08-01

Book Description

The Worthams and Hammonds are as close as two families could be, sharing almost everything on their Depression-era Illinois farms. So when a raging fire breaks out and threatens to destroy the Hammond farm, both families are affected by the tragedy. But how did the fire start? Several of the kids know the truth, but no one is talking. As the families try to overcome aching loss, misplaced blame, troubled relationships, and an upsetting secret, they once again find themselves clinging desperately to their trust in God. In this compelling tale of faith, hardship, and community, acclaimed author Leisha Kelly continues the much-loved story of the Wortham family, who with courage and determination discover the power of forgiveness to restore and heal.

Customer Reviews:

My Secret .......2007-03-30

After the fire almost destroyed all they had, the Hammonds and the Worthams pulled through with the help pf each other. At night a fire broke out at the Hammond's farm. The Samuel and Robert Wortham rushed to help out. In an attempt to save his animals, one of the Hammond boys ran into the barn. Samuel ran in after him and managed to save his life, but not with out almost killing himself. After managing to put the fire out the whole family of Hammonds plus the others went over to the Wortham's house to house for the night. Rorey Hammond, who actually started the fire with her not supposed to be boyfriend by knocking over a lantern while dancing, blamed Franky, her older brother who wasn't very bright, because her boyfriend, Lester Turrey, said to. As a result, everyone believed Rorey until Sarah told the family about Rorey's secret plans with Lester Turrey. Meanwhile, Samuel wasn't getting better because he suffered from a head concussion, a huge gash in his foot, and possibly broken ribs. In the end everything works for the good and Samuel is fun in no time and the Hammond family pulled together even closer. Rorey's Secret was an exceptional book and worth the read.

On reason why this book was so good was because it was very emotional. Some examples from the book are when, one, Franky's dad always got mad at him for no reason and would punish him unfairly and yell at him constantly. Two, Sarah yelled at Rorey until she confessed it was her that started the fire. This was emotional because Sarah and Rorey had been friends for seven years and know Sarah had to set things straight. Three, in the end of the book Samuel's mother, who had a bad reputation of being a drunk, came to visit the family for the first time.

Another reason was because the book was full of suspense. One example was when Samuel ran into the barn and came out unconscious and Julia Wortham, his wife, was extremely worried. Another was when Rorey miss treated her brother, Franky, after he followed her to one of her meetings with Lester by placing the blame on him for the fire. The last example was when Rorey and Mr. Hammond didn't talk to or come over to the Wortham's even though all his kids were there.

The last reason why this book was so good was because it had interesting characters that told the story from their point of view. One of those characters was Julia Wortham. She was a worried wife and a good hostest. In the book the thing that makes the most interesting was when had over 20 people at her house and they all need special attention. She managed to see to it all but she got next to nothing in hours of sleep and got up the next day ready to the same thing. The other character was Sarah Wortham, Julia's daughter. She was the only one besides her mom who believed him when he said he didn't start the fire, Because Sarah had inside information, she was the one who figured out that Rorey started the fire. The last character is Franky Hammond; the kid who everyone believed started the fire. He was a boy who dropped out of school on account of that he had trouble reading and doing math and other things. He worked with Samuel and was taught by Julia, who was like his second mother. Because he had the learning disability, everyone didn't like him and blamed all their trouble on him.

The most important reason why I liked this book was because it was very moving. It was moving to the fact that God could pull all of them through something like that and end in a good note. One reason why was so moving was because everyone had already been through one crisis and hadn't completely gotten through it when they had the fire. Another reason was because Samuel's mother came back to apologize for the way she acted from when he was little and turned her life to the Lord. I recommend this book in the highest regards.

H.Wissmann

Love Leisha Kelly's style of writing.......2007-03-18

It is not often that I write a review but Ms Kelly's books are such a comfortable read. I love her style and rarely see it in other books. I found her quite by accident in a used book store. After reading the book I quickly went to [...] and ordered all of her books. I am just about to begin my last one "Rachel's Prayers". None has been anything but a wonderful read. Following the Wortham's & Hammond's families has been interesting. Watching the kids grow older in each book, following them through many trials and tribulations. Ms Kelly has a great way of allowing us to see into their lives and how they deal with life in general. Julia and Samuel are wonderful people and she makes them come alive for the reader. When a writer has that ability, they have my interest. I look forward to many more wonderful books from Ms Kelly.

The Power of Prayer.......2007-03-08

This story demonstrates how important it is to talk to someone about your hurts. By keeping the hurt inside, Rorey hurt herself more than anyone. But those who loved her kept praying for her and trying to encourage her and guiding her in the right direction. It also shows the power of prayer. And love shows throughout this story. I loved this entire series and would love to see more of them. This is a must for my church library, which is where I put it.

I expected so much more..........2006-10-03

after really enjoying the first three books in this series, I expected more than this terribly insipid work. It seemed rushed, poorly thought out and I was extremely disappointed.

Great read.......2006-08-10

All of the books in this series have been excellent. This one was no exception.

Rachels Prayer: A Novel (Country Road Chronicles)

Average customer rating:

Confusing and predictable
Rachel's Prayer
Very good book
insightful Americana historical

Rachels Prayer: A Novel (Country Road Chronicles)
Leisha Kelly
Manufacturer: Revell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0800759869
Release Date: 2006-07-01

Book Description

The Wortham family has been tested through hard times of injury, illness, and loss. But with the world on the brink of war, they are about to be tested again. And this time, they'll face the ultimate test: one of courage and survival. Just days after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Robert Wortham and Willy Hammond enlist. As they head off to fight, their families are left behind to deal with fears of what lies ahead for their beloved brothers and sons. Armed with their faith in God and a bold prayer from Robert's girlfriend, Rachel, the Worthams and Hammonds can only hope for peace, strength, and a greater understanding of God amidst this cruel conflict that could forever change the future of both families. The continuing story of the Wortham family and book 2 in the Country Road Chronicles, Rachel's Prayer is a powerful saga of courage and faith during the Second World War.

Customer Reviews:

Confusing and predictable.......2006-11-02

Rachel's Prayer by Leisha Kelly examines the struggles of two close families during World War II, as young men from both families leave to fight.

The story tends to go off on tangents that appear to have no other purpose but to further over-emphasize the difficulty and pain that these families--the Worthams and the Hammonds--are besieged with. Apart from that, this book can be difficult to read because the narrator of this first-person tale changes with each chapter. It is true that this technique significantly opens the story and allows the reader to see important details from the eyes of the character most deeply involved, but it is also confusing and challenging to read. However, if the reader can overcome this nuisance, several interesting characters will be discovered within the tale.

Sarah Jean Wortham and Franklin Drew Hammond are the two main characters in this story. Sarah's brother Robert is fighting in the war, as are Frank's three brothers, Kirk, Joe, and Willy. Frank walks with a limp and is, for insufficiently explained reasons, illiterate. Because of this, he was unable to go to war and, instead, stayed at home with his verbally abusive father. Sarah is a quiet and gentle girl who struggles with her emotions while her brother is at war, and begins to wonder if her Christian faith is lacking.

Julia Wortham is Sarah's mother, and the third narrator of the story, though she doesn't feature as prominently as Franky or her daughter. Julia's point of view is mostly used to provide the reader with thoughts that are more mature than what would naturally come from the younger narrators. Rachel, though she is mentioned in the title, is barely even mentioned in the book. She is Robert's girlfriend and is waiting for him to return in the hope that he will propose to her.

Overall, this book was a decent story. If I had read Leisha Kelly's other books and had already known these characters, I may have found the story more interesting. At the least, I likely would not have gotten so lost in the opening chapter when there are too many characters running around and it is nearly impossible even to tell which ones are the protagonists. After the difficult first chapter, however, the story picked up and seemed promising for a few chapters before settling into a steady, but somewhat dull, saga. I would recommend this book to anyone who doesn't mind a rather predictable story that is highlighted by interesting characters. - Sarah Haines, [..]

Rachel's Prayer.......2006-08-26

Rachel's Prayer is the fifth in the series of books that chronicles the life of the Wortham family and their friends and neighbors. It retains fresh storylines while keeping the characters true to their original personalities. Each book has expressed messages of faith while exploring the frailties of the human spirit. I will read about this group of characters as long as Leisha Kelly writes about them.

Very good book.......2006-08-10

I have enjoyed all of the books in this series. This is the last of the series. For some reason, I didn't enjoy this book as much as the others but it was still a very good book and I would recommend it.

insightful Americana historical.......2006-07-05

Not long after Peal Harbor, many Americans from all parts of the country enlisted. In Southern Illinois, Robert Worthem, his best friend Will Hammond, two of the latter's brothers, and other townsfolk join the army. By the third week in January, just over a month since the sneak attack, the new soldiers are off to war. Robert's parents and the Hammond's widowed dad are proud of their respective offspring but worry and pray for their safe return.

As if he knows his mom Julia needs solace Robert sends a letter home that includes a special prayer from his girlfriend Rachel. She shares the prayer with her spouse Samuel, her daughter Sarah and Willy's family especially his dad George and brother Frank. Each turns to God for comfort and pray that their loved ones will come home alive.

Four years have passed since RACHEL'S PRAYER with a new test of faith being WWII and its impact on the young males of the Worthem and Hammond families that are of an age to fight. Readers actually see the effect on those left behind praying for the safe return of their loved ones as perspective is rotated between Rachel, Sarah, and Frank. Americana historical readers will appreciate the inspiration and hope found in the message that belief and prayer enables those left behind are able to cope with their fears.

Harriet Klausner

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The Caxley Chronicles
Miss Read
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0618884297

Book Description

Set in Caxley, the quiet country town neighboring the village of Fairacre, The Caxley Chronicles follow two intertwined families, the Howards and the Norths, through the tumultuous first half of the twentieth century. The first Caxley tale, The Market Square, introduces the deep-rooted camaraderie of Septimus Howard and Bender North, whose friendship survives misunderstandings, the tragedy of war, and the bitterness of loss. The story of their families continues through the generations. The second tale, The Howards of Caxley, tells of Edward Howard, grandson to them both. Edward flies for the Royal Air Force Reserve as England prepares for another war -- and Caxley braces itself for overwhelming changes.

Chronicles of Faerie #1: The Hunter's Moon (The Chronicles of Faerie)

Average customer rating:

Enjoyable... for a Tween or Young Teenager
Interesting start, but feels incomplete, like it's just the author's draft copy...
Compelling and beautifully written novel for any age
A well-written, entertaining, novel
Predictable, but entertaining all the same...

Chronicles of Faerie #1: The Hunter's Moon (The Chronicles of Faerie)
O.R. Melling
Manufacturer: Harry N. Abrams
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0810958570

Amazon.com

An Irish Canadian author's lauded fairy fantasies are updated and introduced to U.S. fantasy readers for the first time in O.R. Melling's Chronicles of Faerie. The first volume, The Hunter's Moon, follows two cousins, Gwen and Findabhair, as they backpack around Ireland in search of the country's magical past. But the girls go too far when they dare to spend the night in a known fairy mound. Finn is stolen away by the dark king of Faerie to become his bride sacrifice to the Great Worm, or Hunter. It is up to timid Gwen to rescue her intrepid cousin, and she wonders if the task will be too much the first time she catches a glimpse of the Little People at play. "Gwen quaked inside. This wild abandon…was beyond anything she could imagine…Exquisite chaos." But with the help of a fairy doctress and her handsome grandson, Gwen assembles a rag tag team of heroes determined to bring Finn back -- even if it means the destruction of Faerie itself.

Melling's scholarship is evident. In fact, some readers may wonder why she just didn't write a nonfiction book about Ireland's rich folklore, as her characters often step clumsily out of the narrative to spout a factual, yet hyperbolic speech about a particular cave, lake or legendary creature. But while Melling's writing is less successful when her characters are on this side of the Veil, her descriptions of Fairie are sweeping and romantic. Fans of writers like Midori Snyder or Clare Dunkle are sure to enjoy them. (Ages 10-15) --Jennifer Hubert

Book Description

Finally available in the U.S., this Canadian bestseller is a romantic and atmospheric tale of two teenage girls caught in the world of Faerie.

When she arrives in Ireland to visit her cousin Findabhair, American Gwen expects a fun backpacking trip to sites of the fairy lore they're both fascinated with. What neither cousin knows is that it's the summer of the Hunter's Moon, a dangerous time for mortals to meddle in the kingdom of Faerie. The girls camp out, and deep in the night Finn is kidnapped by the handsome Faerie king! In Gwen's quest to save her cousin, across beautifully evoked settings of modern-day and mystical Ireland, the spunky heroine's biggest challenge may be convincing Finn she needs to be saved! This is the first in a much-lauded and best-selling series from Canada by O.R. Melling, praised as "great stuff, beautifully told" by the Toronto Sun. It's been updated and expanded and is perfect for teen girls who like the work of Anne Rice, Holly Black, and Annette Curtis Klause.

Customer Reviews:

Enjoyable... for a Tween or Young Teenager.......2007-07-28

While I enjoyed some of the moments of the book, the flow seemed awkward and there were times when I felt the characters were a little too one dimensional and contrived.

Once I was finished reading the book, I gifted it to a girl who attends the same ballet school as my daughter. She later said she absolutely loved the book. Perhaps the teenage girls in the book were more "realistic" to a twelve-year-old than a thirty-something-year-old. Or maybe free books just read better than $8 books do.

Overall, good brain candy for a quicky read and an interesting and fun look into the world of the fae, but nothing that drove me to wanting to read more of the Chronicles of Faerie books.

Interesting start, but feels incomplete, like it's just the author's draft copy..........2007-02-17

The idea of "The Hunter's Moon" is that two cousins age 16), one Irish and the other Irish American with a shared love for folk lore are meeting up for the first time in years to back pack Ireland. During thier back backing the more rextroverted one is kidnapped by the fairy king and her cousin sets out to save her, despite her wishes. What follows is a endless tireless account of her journey (predictable in her personal changes: she steps out of her shell and learns to accept herself) and Celtic mythology.

As an Irish American teenager who traveled to Ireland last year, the book was extremely amusing to read with the constant references to tourist atttractions in Dublin, Irish music by Dropkick Muprheys and so forth. The mentions of Irish landmarks like the Hills of Tara and various other locations were fun and the portrayal of Irish culture were certainly interesting to read about (though the wide spread use of hitchhiking as transportation is disturbing...)

The characters were interesting to read about, but weren't exactly believeble (the romance between Finn and the fairy king seems forced and false, but we're meant to belive that it's true love; the relationship between Gwen and her leading man is similar). Furthurmore, I felt that the characters had the potential for me to identify with them, but the author's failure to give them any kind of past (Siblings? Gwen's home city? Childhood? Even a disticnt age?) detracts majorly.

However, my problems with the book is that up to the last quater of it, the time line didn't flow very well. The events occurring (another interaction with the fairy, another friendly stranger) could be the climax or an introduction: the styles and writing were extremely similar. Also, I had trouble decided if the characters were stereotypes or jsut actually how the Irish were. The beautifully handsome fairy king, wise woman with history, spunky Irish teenager with fantasy obsession.

Compelling and beautifully written novel for any age.......2007-01-17

Two cousins from two different parts of the world who share the same name and a passionate belief that faery exists, set out on a summer vacation in Ireland. Gwen, the US cousin, is tentative and dreamy. Findabhair, the Irish native, is passionate, beautiful and impulsive.

At Tara, they dare to spend the night in a Faery mound. Finn answers the call of the Faery King. Gwen is left behind to rescue her.

Time is running out--Hunter's Moon approaches and if Gwen can't get her cousin back, Finn will become the annual sacrifice to the Great Wyrm.

"The Hunter's Moon" is an amazing fantasy adventure told by someone who really KNOWS Irish folklore. Melling's education qualifies her to write non-fiction, yet she's choosing instead to educate us with enchanting tales of Irish folklore.

I highly recommend "The Hunter's Moon" for fantasy lovers of all ages. The story itself is delightful. The guides included relating to Gaelic language and Irish folklore are amazing.

A well-written, entertaining, novel.......2005-09-01

I really enjoyed O.R. Melling's novel. It's a fun coming-of-age adventure in which the main character, Gwen, develops her own strength and learns how to outwit the fairies. At first she is overshadowed by her beautiful cousin Findabhair. But when her cousin is kidnapped, Gwen must go on a quest throughout Ireland to recue her. Melling does an excellent job weaving in traditional fairy myth with beautiful descriptions of modern-day Ireland. Though the plot is thin in places I found the novel as a whole to be entertaining and enjoyable.

Predictable, but entertaining all the same..........2005-07-03

'The Hunter's Moon' has an interesting enough plot-an Irish girl is stolen by the faeries, and her visiting cousin must save her. This book is somewhat educational, providing the reader with interesting info on Ireland. O.R. Melling, according to the 'About the Author' thingy on the flap, was born in Ireland and studied Irish history.
Anyway, back to the story. I especially like the characters...the heroine, Gwen, is by no means perfect. She's short, slightly overweight, and has an *interesting* personality. The faerie king is the kind of person you're unsure about, not knowing whether he's good or evil.
One thing I didn't like about this book was the plot itself was extremely predictable. I won't say much, so not to reveal the ending, but let me just say you know exactly who's going to fall in love with who(the summary on the front flap gave most of that away...), and you pretty much know how it's going to end, or at least close to it. This book occasionally got boring, but I noticed after I read it that the only times it was boring was when the faeries weren't around, heh heh.
All in all I think this is a wonderful choice for fantasy lovers, or people who are interested in Ireland. Although it's a predictable sort of fairy tale, it serves as an enjoyable read.

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History at its Best
Amazing Stories
Details the history of the African safari from its first expedition of 1836 to modern times
Safari: A Chronicle of Adventure by Bartle Bull
Safari - A journey through African history

Safari: A Chronicle of Adventure
Bartle Bull
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0140168850

Book Description

In this magnificent book, Bartle Bull charts the history of the African safari from the first great expedition of 1836, when Cornwallis Harris crossed the Transvaal with an ox-wagon, to the guides of today, carrying on the tradition in the swamps of Tanzania and the forests of Ethiopia. Capturing the timeless beauty of the African bush, Bull tells of the men and women who made this land their home from Frederick Courtenay to Beryl Markham, the legendary expeditioners who brought fame to the safari; from Teddy Roosevelt to the Prince of Whales, and the native Africans who made the adventures possible.

An active environmentalist, Bull examines the ethics of hunting and the apparent dilemma of the hunter-conservationist. Against a rich background of tribal and colonial history, he documents developments in weapons and transport, in literature and film, in game control and conservation, and conveys the attraction that has never changed—the magical freedom of the African bush.

Customer Reviews:

History at its Best.......2007-01-09

Excellent book steeped in history and written with great style. One can almost feel Africa and how Safaris changed people as well as a country.

Amazing Stories.......2007-01-06

This book, Safari, is one of the best books I have ever read. The
chapters can be read individually yet read perfectly as a whole.
I bought a number of the books as gifts. They were VERY well received.
Thank you for this excellent product.

Details the history of the African safari from its first expedition of 1836 to modern times.......2006-07-05

Safari: A Chronicle Of Adventure details the history of the African safari from its first expedition of 1836 to modern times. Bull is an environmentalist, so his survey Safari isn't your typical gun-hunter's celebration of good old days, but a survey of conflicts between hunting and conservation, weapons and transport, game control and more. From economics and financers of the safari to mishaps, adventures, and famous personalities involved in safaris, vintage black and white photos pair with wide-ranging personal and political stories for maximum effect.

Safari: A Chronicle of Adventure by Bartle Bull.......2003-10-02

A wonderful book covering the beginnings of the African Safari to the present. Many current authors use this book as reference for their own books such as Peter Beard, Bibi Jordan, Kuki Gallman, and Mirella Ricciardi. If all of these authors use this book as a reference and quote it throughout their own books it has just got be good. I recommend it highly for any African Safari book collection!

Safari - A journey through African history.......2002-07-25

This well written book documents the evolution of Safaris from the early Boer settlers through the modern camera hunters.

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If you love anything British, this is for you
Village School
lady disdain's citicism is quite inane
As always, a well-written, pleasant book
A Gentle Story

Village School (Chronicles of Fairacre)
Miss Read
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 061812702X

Book Description

The first novel in the beloved Fairacre series, VILLAGE SCHOOL introduces the remarkable schoolmistress Miss Read and her lovable group of children, who, with a mixture of skinned knees and smiles, are just as likely to lose themselves as their mittens. This is the English village of Fairacre: a handful of thatch-roofed cottages, a church, the school, the promise of fair weather, friendly faces, and good cheer -- at least most of the time. Here everyone knows everyone else's business, and the villagers like each other anyway (even Miss Pringle, the irascible, gloomy cleaner of Fairacre School). With a wise heart and a discerning eye, Miss Read guides us through one crisp, glistening autumn in her village and introduces us to a cast of unforgettable characters and a world of drama, romance, and humor, all within a stone's throw of the school. By the time winter comes, you'll be nestled snugly into the warmth and wit of Fairacre and won't want to leave.

Customer Reviews:

If you love anything British, this is for you.......2007-05-02

Village School was first published in 1955 by Dora Jessie Saint (Miss Read), a British school teacher turned author and is the first in the beloved Miss Read series. If you think the novel is dated, you're wrong. Village School is a return to a gentler time. Miss Read can make shining the school's pot belly stove sound interesting. She is, as far as I'm concerned, Jan Karon's predecessor.

Miss Read is the schoolmistress in the English village of Fairacre, where she's lived for five years. She is charged with the older children's education and Miss Claire teaches kindergarten and first grade--the 'babies.'

Village School is an intimate look at the inner workings of an English village and its inhabitants. School lunches come packed in pails, the children are loved and disciplined, and Mrs. Pringle, the elderly woman who cleans the school, doesn't approve of much, but she can make the old stove shine.

Village School takes place one fall and introduces the reader to humor, drama and a touch of romance. There are thatched roofs, trials and tribulations and unique characters that will touch your heart and make you long for the 'olden days.' You're introduced to jumble sales, fetes and festivals, and all things that represent British rural education.

There's young Joseph Coggs, (his father spent an evening at the Beetle and woke most of the village with his fervor), Eileen Burton (who suffers a 'knicker' calamity), Linda Moffet (a newcomer to Fairacre and immaculate in her dress), Mrs. Pringle (who has an opinion about everything), the lovely Miss Claire, Reverend Partridge, and then there's Miss Read herself.

Our world is fast-paced, confusing, stressful and frightening at times. Village School is a delightful respite from the 'now.' This series is my all-time favorite, and I highly recommend it for a visit to a time and place we all long for. Once you enter Miss Read's world, you'll want to stay.

Armchair Interviews says: Start with Village School and then take a journey with Miss Read through more village life adventures with Village Diary.

Village School.......2007-01-14

I have read miss read for nearly 20 yrs. Togehter with her being the late HRH Queen mothers favourite author too. She shows how it was in the 1950's. Her pithy wisadom cuts across todays image /media based concerns and puts responsibility for ones wellfare firmly back on your shoulders. Instead of being concerned with School psychs,welfare workers and the like a child from a poor background is given the tools and education to effect a change in himself to be able to control his adult life better. Education is the key to effect change in ones life. Work Hard at whatever you are asked to do , always do your best. No one can ask more of you That is her maxim in life ignore this at your peril.

lady disdain's citicism is quite inane.......2006-08-03

Dora Saint's books are engaging, wonderfully well written and are genuine--not at all a malicious. They are a candid reflection of the period and culture of the depicted people of contemporary middle England. Get over yourself you silly harpy and try to acquire a sense of humour and an appreciation of people who have different sensibilities from yours, you narrow-minded simpleton. Most likely your very own family members and relatives shared similar views and ideals, so try to absorb and learn from this as someone who is wiser and less of a moralizing prig would do. Yes, many people have progressed from the worldview described in these books, but it can in no way be attributed to small minds like yours. I myself, and many others may not agree with the ideas espoused by the charaters in these novels but neither does Ms. Saint if you, dearest Lady Disdain are capable of reading the text carefully and without the bias you accuse others of exhibiting. Only extremely foolish, silly people take themselves as seriously as you do. The only things one need be disdainful of are reviews like yours. Just feast your eyes one previous reviews by lady Disdain her choice of reading material. For shame, silly miss--the title of lady is quite erroneously associated with you.

As always, a well-written, pleasant book.......2006-03-02

I've read the majority of this author's books, including the entire Fairacre and Thrush Green series, and still keep coming back to reread them.

Miss Read writes well, and describes the experiences of a rural schoolteacher in Britain, with much detail about the conditions under which her characters live and work, as well as the local countryside. Her depictions of characters are well thought out, and interspersed throughout the book are humor and bits of wisdom, many pertaining to knowing when not to say anything. I highly recommend her books, although I prefer the Fairacre series to the Thrush Green series (although I once read that the author herself preferred the Thrush Green series).

A Gentle Story.......2005-08-26

It took me a while to get used to the novels of Dora Saint (Miss Read), as I felt that there were no pressing problems for the protagonist to solve, other than an occasional leaky skylight in the schoolroom, the grumblings of cranky old Miss Pringle, and the like. Yet I found myself reluctant to put Village School down, just because it was like spending a pleasant quiet afternoon with a dear friend with no problems pressing on you. I love how Miss Read in the story feels all the same irritations we do with people who annoy us -- hypochondriacs, mettlesome busybodies, etc. -- yet always she manages to act with dignity and kindness and humor. These books document a way of life and sense of community that is rapidly disappearing from present day life.

Chronicles of Avonlea (L.M. Montgomery Books)

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Anne Shirley, Old Lady Lloyd and Montgomery's other folks of Avonlea
Another Heartwarmer by Lucy
a good read!
Delightful reading when you want to relax
Short stories to warm your soul.

Chronicles of Avonlea (L.M. Montgomery Books)
L.M. Montgomery
Manufacturer: Starfire
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0553213784
Release Date: 1988-08-01

Book Description

On Prince Edward Island, where Anne Shirley grew up in the sea-sprayed town of Avonlea, there was no shortage of wonderful stories. There was the case of Ludovic Speed, who wouldn't propose to the woman he had courted for fifteen years until Anne devised a plan to "speed" him up . . . if it didn't backfire and break his heart. But no one could blame mischievous Anne for the hilarious battle of the sexes that erupted when a man-hating woman and her cat got quarantined in the same house with a woman-hating bachelor and his dog. From sprawling Penhallow Grange, where a family waits nearly forever for two quarreling lovers to break their stubborn silence, to the tumbledown farm of Old Man Shaw, who awaits the retum of his beloved daughter, L. M. Montgomery has written twelve tales of secret hopes and hidden dreams, filled with enchantment and humor.

Download Description

In which Anne Shirley of Green Gables and Avonlea plays some part, and which have to do with other personalities and events, including The Hurrying of Ludovic, Old Lady Lloyd, The Training of Felix, Little Joscelyn, The Winning of Lucinda, Old Man Shaw's Girl, Aunt Olivia's Beau, The Quarantine at Alexander Abraham's, Pa Sloane's Purchase, The Courting of Prissy Strong, The Miracle at Carmody, and finally The End of a Quarrel. Please Note: This book is easy to read in true text, not scanned images that can sometimes be difficult to decipher. The Microsoft eBook has a contents page linked to the chapter headings for easy navigation. The Adobe eBook has bookmarks at chapter headings and is printable up to two full copies per year. Both versions are text searchable.

Customer Reviews:

Anne Shirley, Old Lady Lloyd and Montgomery's other folks of Avonlea.......2006-01-05

"Chronicles of Avonlea" is a collection of short stories by L.M. Montgomery, "In which Anne Shirley of Green Gables and Avonlea plays some part, and which have to do with other personalities and events." First published in June of 1912 when Montgomery had published "Anne of Green Gables," "Anne of Avonlea," "Kilmeny of the Orchard," and "The Story Girl," it is my understanding that the author revised some of these stories to work in references to Anne and Avonlea, which would make them more palatable for her growing audience of readers.

This volume contains my favorite Montgomery short story, "Old Lady Lloyd," which is actually set in Spencervale. The title character is thought to be rich, mean and proud but is really only the last that is true. But then she hears of the plight of young Sylvia Gray and Margaret Lloyd finds there is something more important than her wicked pride. Montgomery does some nice twists with what is basically a fairy godmother story. "Old Lady Lloyd" also provided the basis for one of the first season episodes of the television series "Road to Avonlea," as did the comic romances "Aunt Olivia's Beau" and "The Quarantine at Alexander Abraham's" from this volume.

Although "Old Lady Lloyd" is a love story of sorts, many of the dozen stories found here are more traditional romances. "The Hurrying of Ludovic" is about Anne Shirley's plan to help the ironically named Ludovic Speed to hurry up and ask her friend TheodoraDix to be married. "The Winning of Lucinda" and "The Courting of Prissy Strong" follow suit as well, although with Montgomery's wry sense of humor coming into play. But another strong theme in these stories starting with "Old Lady Lloyd" is the love of music, which comes into play in both "Each in His Own Tongue" and "Little Joscelyn." "Old Man Shaw's Girl" fits into neither camp, but is one of the better stories here as well.

This collection was followed by a second, "Further Chronicles of Avonlea," and if you take these two, "The Story Girl" and its sequel "The Golden Road," then you have the four books that served as the basis of various episodes of "Road to Avonlea." But if you are a fan of Montgomery's writing then you already know that even in her novels she often worked in various short stories and might even have come to the conclusion that she was better at short stories than at novels. Still, for those who found seven Anne books to be far too few, this collection is the first place to turn to find her in other stories.

Another Heartwarmer by Lucy.......2000-08-04

This book is an endearing collection of short stories. The first time I read the Anne series at age 10, I refused to read this book because it wasn't about Anne. However, at age 21, I have grown up and recently read it. Read this and become enmeshed in other Avonlea lives. Also, look forward to references to our favorite heroine, Anne Shirley! I promise you won't be disappointed!

a good read!.......1999-05-31

every story is enlightening! it helps u stay in a good mood after reading! it teaches u about love! and yes...i like it very much!

Delightful reading when you want to relax.......1998-03-31

Another one of Lucy Maud Montgomery's entertaining short-story books. Each story will have its twists and turns, and the author brings such amazing personality into each of the characters that you will not want the outcome to come in anyway that they, the characters themselves do not.

Short stories to warm your soul........1997-12-23

Perfect for sitting in front of the fireplace and reading. These stories are all about love-- with all its twists and turns. It'll make you laugh and cry. Each story takes you into a different world where you care about the characters and want their dreams to be fulfilled.

Awe for the Tiger, Love for the Lamb: A Chronicle of Sensibility to Animals

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Awe for the Tiger, Love for the Lamb: A Chronicle of Sensibility to Animals
Rod Preece
Manufacturer: Routledge
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0415943639

Book Description

Respect for animals has always been a part of human consciousness. Poets, thinkers, philosophers, scientists and statesmen have long celebrated our compassion towards Earth's other beasts.

Awe for the Tiger, Love for the Lamb compiles the most significant statements of sensibility to animals in the history of thought. From the myths of the ancient world to the Middle Ages to Darwin and beyond, Preece captures the most telling and fascinating accounts of humankind's relationship to the wild world, placing them in historical context.

Jung called it "an unconscious identity with animals," while Wordsworth saw it as the "primal sympathy which having been must ever be." Linking the diverse chords of human experience that are touched by the animal world, Preece shows that despite a historical thread of cruelty, there still remains in all humanity a constant underlying concern for other beings as an integral part of the moral community.

With musings and meditations from Lao Tse to Mohammed, from Plato to Jane Goodall, from classical religion to parliamentary proceedings, Awe for the Tiger, Love for the Lamb is an original, superbly researched history that deepens our understanding of all living beings.

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