Book Description
The kitchen window at Nanna and Poppy's house is, for one little girl, a magic gateway. Everything important happens near it, through it, or beyond it. Told in her voice, her story is both a voyage of discovery and a celebration of the commonplace wonders that define childhood. It is also a love song devoted to that special relationship between grandparents and grandchild.
Customer Reviews:
Happy mood and wonderful grandparent relationship.......2007-09-10
It can be hard to find books with positive depictions of relationships with grandparents -- there are so many stereotypes of the elderly as being unfriendly or aloof, as well as what it means to be a grandparent (i.e. that being a grandmother is synonymous with a 90 year old knitting in a rocking chair with her white hair tucked in a bun). These seem outdated and inapplicable to most kids' lives these days, and I enjoyed a book that presented a fresh, positive look at the grandchild/grandparent relationship. "The Helo, Goodbye Window" shows the most important aspect of all: true warmth between a girl and her grandparents. She has a wonderful relationship with them that seems to benefit all three of them, and the happy mood created by the words and the pictures makes this an enjoyable reading experience.
The matter of characters' ethnicity(ies) is infinitely more noticeable in the discussions of the book than in the book itself; "Black, white, just right!" this book is not. As in real life, all the characters are brown, and you can draw your own conclusions on what "race" you'd like to classify them as (or not), based on how much that matters to you.
My son was crazy about this book before it won the Caldecott, and that's what matters in my situation. I disagree with those who found the pictures to be inferior, but I see no reason to argue about it. Those who enjoy any book can continue to do so, while others can move on to find others that suit them better.
Nice.......2007-01-15
This is a really nice story about grandparents. My kids and I really enjoy this story.
Calldecott Medal again the best.......2007-01-15
This book was a delight and could be enjoyed by children Young and old. I am a retired librarian as well as a teacher and a grandmother of seven.
This book brought smiles, giggles, and much comment from my grandchildren. I would strongly recommend it to anyone. Many of the situations have taken place with my grandchildren, my husband and myself.
Delightful and Endearing.......2007-01-03
My daughter is 6 years old, and this is one of my all time favorite books we have ever read. It captures the sweet and magical love between children and grandparents. I loved the illustrations and the text is like something taken right from a child's mouth, in the most simple and poignant way. In my mind it is a classic and something I will be buying for children for many years to come.
The Hello, Goodbye Window: A Familiar Experience with Grandparents.......2006-12-01
As a teacher, I used The Hello, Goodbye Window during our family theme to discuss grandparents and the special relationships children have with them. My Pre-K students did not connect with the symbolism of the window, but enjoyed the pictures of the grandparents' house. This book launched a great discussion of the children's experiences with their own grandparents.
Author Norton Jester uses simple events and experiences, such as running through the sprinkler, to describe a child's magical experience at her Nanna and Poppy's house. Chris Raschka's illustrations are colorful and imaginative - almost as if one of my students drew them. However, this open and artistic style did not detract from my students' interest in this text.
This text is a great launching point for a discussion about grandparents for the early childhood and primary education fields. Educators with primary age students would be able to discuss the significance of the window. Relevant for all ages, this text highlights a child's special relationship with her grandparents - a relationship children treasure.
Book Description
"After-death communications," or "ADCs, " occur when someone is contacted spontaneously and directly by a deceased family member or friend, without the help of any medium. The authors' research shows that these spiritual experiences offer hope, love, and comfort for thousands of people. Included are more than 350 first-hand accounts of those whose lives have been changed and even protected by messages or signs from the deceased.
Customer Reviews:
Real life accounts.......2007-08-23
The writer compiles real life stories in the words of the person experiencing the "visit", message, etc., from beyond. Very touching.
we dont die.......2007-04-27
knowing there is life after death is a great comfort this book will help you if you have lost someone close well written another great book which will give you comfort is the calling of your true self elizabeth anne bell both well worth reading these spiritual people have been in touch with the other side so much truth in the readings
Interesting.......2007-04-12
Although this book gets bogged down sometimes in explaining an account of an ADC (After Death Contact) after you have just read the account, it is very interesting. If you are open to such experiences, this book will bring you comfort in confirming that life goes on in other forms.
Very good reading..............2007-04-07
This book will inform and inspire
you so I would recommend this book to
anyone who is searching for truth
and meaning in life. Very useful.
Boring.......2007-03-18
Page after page, after page of the same old same old. Story after story of after death encounters from different people.
The book could have been only one chapter and made a huge hit with me. It could have just said there were this amount of people that had ADC's and here are a just few of those encounters. Believe me a few would have been enough (I already believe).
On the back of the book it states: "comfort and emotional support for those who are bereaved", among other false statements. I believe this book was an annoying, let down and a waste of both time and money, to the bereaved and everybody else.
Don't waste your money buying this book. If you think you want to read it (you really don't), get it from the library. The book was a waste of money! It was so bad, I will not buy anything from these so called authors again.
Also, the star ratings are misleading as 1 star means you hate it 2 stars means you don't like it. Therefore, it's getting stars for being disliked and hated.
Amazon.com
Joshua Harris follows up his bestselling I Kissed Dating Goodbye with Boy Meets Girl, the story of how he met and married his wife, Shannon. Where Harris's first book encouraged readers to throw off modern ideas of romantic fixation, Boy Meets Girl goes to the next level and urges single Christian men and women to pursue courtship, and ultimately marriage, thoughtfully and prayerfully. Knowing that many readers will balk at the idea of premeditated courtship, Harris insists that dating should not be emotional recreation but rather a careful decision rooted in obedience to God. While the anecdotes used to reveal true-to-life scenarios about dating pitfalls are somewhat elementary (and geared to those in their 20s), Harris succeeds in hammering home the point that obedience to God's word, selfless love, community, purity, and satisfaction in God are the most important aspect of any relationship. The last section of the book is particularly practical, discussing forgiveness of past sexual sin, questions to ask before tying the knot, and how an understanding of our sinful nature can lead to conflict resolution. For Harris's mere twentysomething years of life experience, his maturity and devotion to God are sincere evidence that he has indeed practiced what he has preached, resulting in a passionate relationship with the love of his life. --Jill Heatherly
Book Description
Purpose Driven Romance
The last thing singles want is more rules. But if you’re looking for an intentional, God-pleasing game plan for finding a future spouse, Joshua Harris delivers an appealing one. A compelling new foreword, an all-new “8 Great Courtship Conversations” section, and updated material throughout makes this five-year revision of the original Boy Meets Girl a must-have! Harris illustrates how biblical courtship—a healthy, joyous alternative to recreational dating—worked for him and his wife. Boy Meets Girl presents an inspiring, practical example for readers wanting to pursue the possibility of marriage with someone they may be serious about.
Are you ready for “romance with purpose”?
If you’re fed up with self-centered relationships that end in disillusionment, it’s time to rethink romance. Finding the loving, committed relationship you want shouldn’t mean throwing away your hopes, your integrity, or your heart.
In Boy Meets Girl, Joshua Harris —the guy who kissed dating goodbye—makes the case for courtship. As old-fashioned as it might sound, courtship is what modern day relationships desperately need. Think of it as romance chaperoned by wisdom, cared for by community, and directed by God’s Word.
Filled with inspiring stories from men and women who have rediscovered courtship, Boy Meets Girl is honest, romantic, and refreshingly biblical. Keep God at the center of your relationship as you discover how to: Set a clear course for your romance Get closer without compromise Find support in a caring community Deal with past sexual sin Make the right decisions about your future
[Pull out section or starburst]:
New! Courtship Conversations
Eight ideas for great dates that will help grow and guide your relationship.
Story Behind the Book
“I wrote I Kissed Dating Goodbye to challenge singles to drop the worldly approach to serial dating and reconsider the way they pursued romance in light of God’s Word. Since then, I’ve received letters asking questions like, So, what comes between friendship and marriage? and, How can you know when you are ready for marriage? Boy Meets Girl answers those questions. Now as a happily married man I can look back on my courtship with Shannon and see from personal experience that God is faithful. If you trust Him enough to wait on romance in dating, He will lovingly guide you as you pursue it in courtship…right to that wonderful moment when you kneel together at the altar.” — Joshua Harris
Customer Reviews:
Healthy, biblical, sensible, christian suggestions for pure relationships.......2007-09-03
This book is worth your time spent reading it. If you are a Christian and you wonder just how to have a pure relationship, in a world where there seem to be few, I recommend it.
This is an easy reader that runs smoothly, well written and well laid out. This is a young brother speaking to his fellow men and women about his own testimony of relationships, and what he has learned. He doesn't give a set of rules, but gives beautiful guidelines and counsels (and practical ones, more than only: 'Date Christians and don't have sex before marriage! Period!'). He is well aware that there is no 'one size - fit all' when it comes to relationships.
The red line that runs through it all is, that God is the creator of romance and longs for his children to experience it. That to live to the glory of God is to live for him, his way and reflecting him - even in our way of relationships.
Some might find faults with chapter 7 and find it to be a patriarchal, or narrow minded - but what I like about it is that he does call us men to stop being the wimps we have become in this age and be real men!
I found this a challenging book. When I read that "We glorify God in our relationships when we put our needs aside and base our decisions on what serves the interests of the other person" (Pg 36) - I was challenged! That might mean asking yourself, 'Is starting this relationship now what's best for her?' And that is a question passion many times does not allow to be asked. Therewithal this is a romantic book, the story in chapter 3 was wonderful, and a beautiful testimony of the rewards of thoughtful, selfless relationships. Chapter 10 'When your past comes knocking' is also precious and valuable for dealing with past errors in former relationships.
For us in Europe (or other places where the dating game is not played), this book is more practical then 'I kissed dating goodbye'. For who doesn't want the perfect relationship? Who says it is a myth and non-getter today? I think there is a reason for why most girls have fantasied about there wedding since they were small girls... for it is there inborn wish for a good relationship and marriage, and may it also be their fortune.
Go and look at the chapter's titles on the table of contents, they will give you the best overview of the contents of the book.
Say Hello to Courtship.......2007-03-28
As a young adult in my 20's, within marriageable age, this was a wonderful book. I think this was better than "I Kiss Dating Goodbye" that it addresses to people a bit older and the writing is much more mature in this one since Joshua Harris has acquired a bit more wisdom on this matter. Again, I do not agree with some things mentioned in this book (it could be a bit more conservative), but overall, a good book. I really like how it addresses what singles should be doing such as: wait on the will of God, do His work while you are single right now, prepare yourself for marriage by serving those in need.
I've recommended to many of my friends with marriage on their minds at the moment. Nothing was really new in that these have been addressed to me in the past, but it's a wonderful reminder.
Awwww, too cute!.......2007-03-17
My husband and I read this together while we were dating. It helps get your mind going in the right direction to have a wonderfully healthy courtship. Ironically, I finished reading "I kissed dating goodbye" just a week before I met my husband. So of course I recommend reading that one, too!
A bit disappointing.......2007-01-22
I was really enjoying this book and then I read the sad chapter about Shannon's past. It just broke my heart and made me cry. However, I felt more admiration for Joshua Harris, although I'll always think he kinda let himself down.
great book!.......2007-01-20
This book is incredibly well-written. My husband and I read it while dating and engaged and it brought out a lot of good things in our relationship that we may have struggled through blindly otherwise. I've passed it on to a few friends already and plan to continue to do so.
Book Description
This tutorial offers help to improve every telephone interaction a company has with its valued customers. Drawn from Davis' experiences, the book includes exercises, stories and examples of how attitude, telephone etiquette, communication styles and listening skills impact the bottom line.
Customer Reviews:
Timely.......2005-06-13
As comprehensive as it is, 'Beyond Hello' needs an immediate update. According to Russell Crowe, there is only one word needed for complete mastery of the tool: 'DUCK!'
Amazing information on Customer Service.......2005-04-17
I have been in customer service for a few years and got away from it until I started my newest position. Some of the things I learned before and now are in the book. But it contains a lot more great information. It is so well organized and I enjoyed the examples she uses and the way she tell it. It was easy to read and I learned so much from it. If everyone can't have a personal copy it should be in every workplace to use as a text book for training.
Older Workers Benefit From Beyond "Hello".......2002-06-03
With your permission, we're using Beyond "Hello" as our basic text for our course curriculum , which teaches older workers Customer Service Skills. Your book has been an excellent platform for this training. It's clear, concise, understandable, and easy to relate to. I constantly reinforce to our students that they should use your book as a resource and reference on the job.
Great Tutorial.......2000-01-30
This tutorial offers help to improve every telephone interaction a company has with its valued customers. Beyond "Hello" includes exercises, stories and examples of how attitude, telephone etiquette, communication styles and listening skills impact the bottom line.
Each chapter contains tips to help make a great first impression, enhance customer interaction and retain and strengthen client relationships through excellent customer service over the telephone.
A "must read."
Fantastic Guide.......2000-01-21
I've had the opportunity to work with Jeannie while printing a recent copy of my newsletter on professional conduct. Beyond "Hello" is an easy to read, comprehensive guide that can help anyone improve and sharpen his or her phone skills. I highly recommend this book and include it as required reading for my entire staff. Congratulations Jeannie on a book well done!
-- Clint Greenleaf
Book Description
Veteran reporter Richard Ehrlich and Dave Walker unfold a tale of love and lust in Bangkok's notorious red-light district. These interviews and correspondence with prostitutes and their patrons draw an intimate and touching portrait amidst the blaring lights and pounding music of Bangkok.
Customer Reviews:
Not Great But A Classic.......2007-09-29
I first visited and fell in love with Thailand when I was 19. It was not till 1994 when I was 30 that I decided to go native. While helping out at my friend's travel agency, I discovered an interesting letter translation service that was offered in almost every other travel agency. When tour guides had no work, they translated "love letters" for Thai women who had foreign boyfriends. All letters told virtually the same story. Mother sick, brother in jail, buffalo died ... these are the bargirls. In the case of students and office workers, course fees, computer went caput, want to set up own business because boss is abusive and exploitative ...
It takes an insider to appreciate the size of this love letter industry. People who say that it's the same everywhere else in the world ain't seen nothing yet. It's quite amazing that authors Dave Walker and Richard Ehrlich dared to make these embarrasing letters public. I nearly tripped over my own toes when I saw this book in the bookstore back then.
Highly controversial but totally honest, this book reproduces the letters that bargirls sent to their foreign boyfriends. It's definitely a project that took more legwork than keyboard hours, but the authors did include interviews with insiders and also a foreward by a Thai sociologist.
The moral of the story? The line between true love and mercenary prostitution is sometimes blurred in the Land of Smiles. Prostitutes don't just charge a fee for service. They create an illusion of romance. It would be good if the suckers could read this book. It would be even better if they could watch a video of a Thai woman weeping in the phone booth telling her Western boyfriend how much she misses him and then smiles to her Thai boyfriend beside her immediately after hanging up. Still, those who think with the wrong "head" are often impervious to reason.
But anyone who has dated traditional Thai women would also have noticed that even good girls will ask for money. The root of the conflict lies in the difference in "money culture". The Westerner thinks that a woman who truly loves him will not ask him for money. The Thai woman thinks that a man who truly loves her will show it with money.
It's not a great book, but at a time when there was no other material on this subject, I thought it was a very good and courageous attempt by the authors.
Confessions of a Bangkok Private Eye: True stories from the case files of Warren Olson
Thai Girl
Wondering into Thai culture, or, Thai whys, and otherwise
great read.......2007-03-12
This one a must if your going to Thailand for R and R or I&I. The interviews with the woman are the best, wish they would have had more.
Hello My Big Big honey.......2006-06-28
A very well written book which is an excellent insight into the letters written by foreigners to thia ladies, primarily bar girls.
This book also includes the thai girls point of view in interview form.
Plus a few bar owners experiances.
A must for all travelers to Thailands bangkok streets, particularly Patpong but also relates to Nana and soi Cowboy with some referances to Pattaya.
Maybe if you travel to these areas of Thailand you will see something of your self in this book, you will surely see something of those you know whe travel there.
MISLEADING.......2006-05-09
Having been to Thailand on a number of occassions, I can say that this book is completley biased, and most of all, without any humanity whatsoever.
Rather than just parody or riducule the extreme of romantic or sexual attachement (which you can find in Los Angeles or Kansas as easily as Bangkok), it would have been useful to actually look at the people, their hopes, fears, joys.
Stereotypes are quite useless and misleading in this regard. There is a very wide range of people, both working girls and their customers. But in general I found the former to be very sweet, honest and good-hearted woman. And the later to be generally polite, respectful men, seeking care and affection. For both, there is suffering and sadness, as their is in married life, single life and geriatric life! The authors are so shallow and unintelligent themselves, that no real insight into the people and their liffe struggles and victories ever emerges...
truly one of the strangest and most telling documents of our time.......2005-09-26
Romance, pathos, despair...all these and more human frailties are on parade in the incredible, weirdly moving, sometimes pathetic and utterly unputdownable collection of love letters from customers to Bangkok bar girls.
At the core of this amazing document are the interviews with the bar girls themselves, whose attitudes toward their clients range from the rankist capitalist contempt to the most tender compassion.
Witness this sample from a 29-year-old veteran wearing bright white lingerie inside a Patpong bar. Question: Do you ever say to the men that you love them? Answer: "I say, 'Love! Love! Love! But not. I feel nothing. I say 'love,' but in my heart, nothing."
..."Hello My Big Big Honey!" is truly one of the strangest and most telling documents of our time.
-- Jerry Stahl's first book, the dope fiend memoir Permanent Midnight, was made into a movie starring Ben Stiller. His 1999 novel, Perv -- A Love Story is now available in paperback. His latest novel, Plain Clothes Naked (William Morrow), was recently released.
Average customer rating:
- Hello, my name is Braggart....
- Too dysfunctional
- A Perfect Fit!
- Great gift for a new mom!
- A Must Read...
|
Hello, My Name Is Mommy: The Dysfunctional Girl's Guide to Having, Loving (and Hopefully Not Screwing Up) a Baby
Sheri Lynch
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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The Mommy Chronicles: Conversations Sharing the Comedy and Drama of Pregnancy and New Motherhood
Accessories:
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philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer
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Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer
ASIN: 0312318324 |
Book Description
Hilarious, true, and inspirational, Hello, My Name is Mommy is for every pregnant woman and new mother who ever felt helpless and out of control instead of confident and aglow. Lynch taps into her own dysfunctional childhood and fears of becoming a mom to honestly talk real-girl to real-girl about what's really bothering many moms-to-be: -Does a woman's own screwed-up past doom her to repeat the cycle? -If a mommy was raised on raw hot dogs and second-hand smoke can she still be a good mommy? -Kids are kind of germy and gross, but thinking that doesn't make a person a bad mommy -Can a working mommy actually get back to it with Cheerios falling out of the old nursing bra? Dr. Spock may tell moms to trust their instincts, but a Misfit Mommy wants to do everything but. Mommies-to-be who feel like frauds and imposters won't feel alone anymore with this insightful and laugh-out-loud guide.
Customer Reviews:
Hello, my name is Braggart...........2007-02-21
Sheri Lynch's book is more a display of her achievements with a baby in tow rather than a humorous look at motherhood. I kept waiting for the funny, humorous one liners or stories to make me giggle, but instead found myself bored by Lynch's "look at me and what I have achieved" dribble.
Too dysfunctional.......2007-01-19
We're all a little dysfunctional and hope to not screw it up, but this book put so much emphasis on Mom's dysfunctionality that it became not relevant to us "normally screwed up" Moms. I was hoping for humor and good tips, this was not the book.
A Perfect Fit!.......2006-11-29
This is one of my favorite pregnancy/motherhood books! The first time I read it (yes, I've read it more than once in the past month) I laughed out loud the entire time. Sheri has a great ability to talk about serious matters in a lighthearted but helpful way. You won't find a four page list of essential layette items or a step by step guide to changing a diaper but this book has so much more to offer. It will help you discover some pretty profound things about yourself as a woman and a mom, especially if you feel that your own parents fell somewhat short in raising you. It will also help prepare you for the experience of pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood. I definitely recommend!
Great gift for a new mom!.......2006-11-10
Great book for during pregnancy or right after the birth of a baby. A funny look at motherhood!
A Must Read..........2006-06-07
for any expectant mother from a dysfunctional background, even if your father never held you at gunpoint, he just wasn't around, I think you can relate to the feelings Lynch describes and it's entertaining, hilarious at times!
Average customer rating:
- A brilliant book that I appreciated
- AN ACTOR REVIEWS AN ACTOR/DIRECTOR
- The singer not the song
- Really Good Follow-Up To A Great Biography
- The Beginning of the End...a Vivid Portrayal of Welles in the Throes of "Citizen Kane"
|
Orson Welles: Volume 2: Hello Americans
Simon Callow
Manufacturer: Viking Adult
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination
ASIN: 0670872563 |
Book Description
Simon Callow's celebrated first volume of Orson Welles's life concluded with the brash young director unveiling what would prove to be his—and arguably American cinema's—greatest achievement: Citizen Kane. But instead of embarking on an illustrious career in Hollywood, as Callow vividly details in Hello Americans, Welles became increasingly unable to function within the structure of the moviemaking industry.
Hello Americans offers readers a critical look at the years after Citizen Kane up to Macbeth (1947), from his difficult and self-defeating temperament to some of the monstrous personalities with whom he was involved. Callow fully illustrates each film of the period—The Magnificent Ambersons, Journey into Fear, The Stranger, The Lady from Shanghai—as well as Welles's off-screen activities—his dedicated but ill-fated attempts to be a radio comedian and stage magician; his fervent desire to revive spectacular theater single- handedly; his newspaper columns; and his political interests, which he pursued passionately. The result is an expertly researched and elegantly written portrait that will remain the final word on this larger than life genius for generations to come.
Customer Reviews:
A brilliant book that I appreciated.......2006-10-24
For me, this was as much an introduction to a witty author as a way of tracing the fall of Orson Welles' career. I had never read any of Simon Callow's previous books, I was more familiar with his work as an actor, but only sightly.
I've missed something. His voice in prose is bright, and the light he throws on Welles here (and presumably in the first volume, which I intend reading) doesn't allow his subject to hide.
He's clearly sympathetic to Welles, but he doesn't let that sympathy overwhelm his perceptions. His observations on acting and directing have the added weight of someone who has, shall we say, dipped a toe or two in that pool...
AN ACTOR REVIEWS AN ACTOR/DIRECTOR.......2006-10-13
HURRAH FOR CALLOW! A long and rewarding read with actor/author Callow in fine form as he reviews Welles from within the man himself, while weighing every scene and line-reading of Welles's works from The Magnificent Ambersons to Macbeth. This includes a close survey of all of Welles' radio and theatre works as well, which are weighed from within the art of acting. This is a book Welles himself would enjoy though it often takes him vastly to task. If the book has a problem it's that Callow spent ten years writing it and, now at age 78, I fear I may not be around to read the concluding volume(s)--and I'm sure two volumes will emerge from Callow's fine sifting of research materials at the Lilly Library's Welles Collection at Indiana University. As an aside, while reading this bio, I happened upon Callow's brief but inspired appearance in Howard's End as the pompous lecturer on Music & Meaning at the picture's opening where Boham Carter "steals" an umbrella, and caught him bouncing about bareassed at a country swimming hole in A Room with a View. Finally, Callow's work on stage and film sets (and his fine earlier biography of Charles Laughton) gives him special insight into each of the Welles works he studies: lighting, editing, makeup and so forth. Hey, he writes well too, no academese. Now if only Criterion would bring out Chimes at Midnight.
The singer not the song.......2006-09-27
Appropriately for a book on Welles, there is some nifty sleight-of-hand here. Simon Callow's excellent writing and meticulous marshaling of facts distract us from seeing what should become plainer and plainer with each chapter: Welles is really not worth this kind of extended treatment. One great film, a handful of interesting clips thereafter, and a personal life not especially to be differentiated from that of many a spoiled, "infante terrible" hardly justifies 1200 pages...and counting. With ten years between volumes, the pushing-60 Mr.Callow will readily be exonerated if he abandons the project, and taxes his finite resources no further therein.
Really Good Follow-Up To A Great Biography.......2006-09-12
Well, I just finished reading HELLO AMERICANS, Callow's second volume in his Orson Welles bio series, and I have to say, it's a good read.
Thanks to a vast amount of research, Callow really details what happened to Welles after CITIZEN KANE. Particularly good is the section on THE MAGNIFICENT AMBERSONS and IT'S ALL TRUE. Up until now, I've read a lot about this time period in Welles' life, but never has it ever quite made sense; Callow finally manages to do that. He also has cogent things to say about THE STRANGER, THE LADY FROM SHANGHAI, MACBETH, Welles' political aspirations (which were all-consuming from about 1942 to 1947), and the various theatrical presentations Welles attempted (including AROUND THE WORLD).
Callow doesn't flinch from describing Welles the man, either, a figure capable of inspiring both devotion (Korda, Wilson, Wallace) and hatred (McDowell, Koerner, Fier). And Callow is the most insightful biographer in that he sees both the Wellescentric point of view and that of the studios (paticularly good passages can be found on p. 364 of the 1st edition).
My only complaint is that some of the quotes Callow uses from Welles' films are inaccurate (is he writing from memory?), and, once or twice, he describes things in the films that I don't remember ever happening (but maybe that's me). However, in summarizing Welles ("Confinement, whether personal or professional, was unbearable to Orson Welles"), I feel he has hit the nail on the head, and such insights more than make up for any small errors that may be present.
In short, this is worth reading, and I look forward to Volume III.
The Beginning of the End...a Vivid Portrayal of Welles in the Throes of "Citizen Kane".......2006-09-02
Calling Orson Welles a Falstaffian figure seems like an understatement when reading Simon Callow's second of what he envisions to be a trilogy of books he is authoring on the life of the wildly eccentric, painfully brilliant filmmaker. That Welles is a subject worthy of a trilogy is almost beside the point as his epic fall from grace after the artistic summit of "Citizen Kane" has been fodder for a number of biographers and film historians. Published almost a decade after his first book, the fascinating "The Road to Xanadu". Callow's treatment in his second book is significant is that he portrays the film auteur as the victim of neither insensitive Hollywood studio moguls nor Welles' own megalomania. Rather, in a balanced, professionally-oriented book, Callow shows both factors coming into play time and again throughout his subject's career. What is particularly enlightening about Callow's research is how he concludes it was Welles' political preoccupations that took his attention away from his creative energy.
The author paints an intriguing portrait of a young New Deal liberal strictly anti-Fascist and very pro-Roosevelt. In fact, his political causes were so engulfing that they it would make his film productions often interminable and obviously uneconomical. The book covers the period between 1941, the year "Citizen Kane" was released, and his self-imposed exile to Europe in 1947. In that relatively fruitful period, Welles produced five films, three stage shows and worked consistently in radio. He was also a prolific journalist, a much sought-after public speaker and an enthusiastic political activist constantly supporting Roosevelt's issues. The most interesting part of the book is that first year when the 26-year old Welles made the much-maligned "The Magnificent Ambersons"; produced and acted in the dark mystery, "Journey into Fear"; and traveled to Brazil to scout locations for two months before coming up with the story for his soon-to-be-aborted film, "It's All True". The key turning point occurred when his patron and protector, George Schaefer, was ousted as production chief of RKO and Welles' legendary Mercury Theatre started to fall apart.
Callow vividly describes how RKO cut "The Magnificent Ambersons" by over a third, eliminated Bernard Herrmann's music score and inserted a ludicrous happy ending. The result was a film no one liked no matter how brilliant individual sequences were, and unsurprisingly, it failed miserably at the box office. While the RKO studio executives had an excuse to minimize Welles after this fiasco, it remains that the filmmaker had a degree of accountability in letting these lapses occur while having moved on to his next film in Brazil. This pattern would repeat himself throughout the filmmaker's career with an almost necessary inevitability. Callow, however, falls short in accusing Welles of allowing his genius overwhelm him in such a destructive manner, and that seems appropriate given the textured portrait the author provides here. A fascinating read even if Callow carefully avoids much of Welles' colorful personal life.
Customer Reviews:
masterpiece.......2005-05-25
My only complaint is not about the book but about publishers that will NOT reprint this great book. I don't get it. If they reprint this book I promise to buy 10 copies!
Transactional Analysis treasure.......2003-03-21
This masterpiece, from the writer of "Games People Play" as well as several other books dealing with the subject of interpersonal relationships, is excellent in its presentation and scope. The late author, Dr. Eric Berne, guides the reader through a clear understanding of how we inter-relate with others, as well as ourselves. His depth of understanding of the "human condition", presented with eloquent wit and charm, make this a volume that is difficult to put down. Dr. Berne's approach and skills at explanation make this a must read for anyone interested in this area of psychology. While the book could very well be used as a college text, the language is straight-forward and clear for professional or layman, alike.
A must read for those interested in psychology.......1999-11-04
Simply one of the best psychology books I have ever read. It's fascinating. I loved his interpretation of the story Cinderella. I will never be able to think of the fairy godmother as as a good-natured woman again!
It dissects your mind to reveal your dark side........1999-05-18
This is the best book that I have ever read on the subject of pschotherapy.It shows how `parental influence' becomes your conscience and determines your destiny and ultimately what is written on the epitaph of your tomb.The illusion that a human being is a free, autonomous creature is shattered. One need not find this distressing as there is hope.To find out more read it, go through it again, unwind the tape on which the holes have been punched to make your program (Life script) and possibly try to reprogram yourself! Not a easy task, mind you.
A great book by Eric Berne.......1999-02-04
"What do you say after you say hello"- is a great book that introduces theries about scripts, and how we can live our lives to the very fullest. There are many intersting refrences to well-known Fairy Tales, that illustrate the authors point. This is a great book to read for anyone who is intrested in knowing more about themselves.
Book Description
Dr. Bozarth show us how to make grieving a positive action that's part of the healing process.
Customer Reviews:
An all-purpose book........2003-03-04
I purchased this book after the sudden death of a friend. I was at a complete loss as to how to deal with it, and had never experienced this type of loss before. I was shaken.
I can't believe my good fortune to have this book. It taught me so much about the role Grief plays in our lives, as well as it's not just limited to the lose of a person or relationship. Grief can come in all forms from all things. I found it very comforting to discover this and it actually helped me to embrace grief as a natural precursor to healing.
This is definitely a great book to have around, and did give me some tremendous insights. I highly recommend this book for anyone having experience a loss or a feeling of loss that you can't seem to attach to anything. I really feel like this book was a sanity saver in a sense, as it helped me identify something I would have never recognized as 'grief-worthy.'
Best book ever on grieving over anything!.......2003-01-03
This book has helped me so much during a very rough time in my life where I've split from my husband, lost my house that I dearly loved, and moved to a place that I hate. It helps you understand what you're going through, and it gives you things to do that can help. An amazingly good book!
A guide to help you through lifes ruff spots.......1999-10-23
This book was an excellent guide for me when my husband came out of the closet. I felt like I was lost, floating in space. I was so scared to face what was happening to me. This book gave me the courage to face my worst fears and continue on. This book helped me at the worst time of my life by giving me a map to follow to get through. Thank you Alla writting such a read able book.
An excellent guide for all kinds of grief jouneys!.......1999-10-18
I read this book in 1994 to help me with the loss of my grandmother to cancer. As I was reading the book, I began to understand how many other ways I had experienced grief in my life and never even knew it because "we don't talk about things like that". I understood how changing jobs, moving to a new state, and giving birth are all moments in my life when I experienced change, and as a result, grief. I learned/understood that my emotional responses to each of these situations were not crazy but normal, and that awareness allowed me to work through the grief process much better. I was also better able to support myself in healthy ways. Because of the chapter on personal illness or the illness of a loved one, I have been sharing this information with the patients at my hospital ever since. The patients (and their loved ones) are experiencing grief as they learn to cope with a temporary or permanent disability as the result of illness, accident, or surgery. I am truly grateful that I found this book so that I can heal through my own grief, as well as support the people I meet on a daily basis. Many of the patients and their loved ones have thanked me for sharing this information with them and commented on how much the information has helped them to begin healing through their changes.
Excellent tool for processing grief........1999-10-14
I discovered this book in the early 90's after my Father passed away from cancer. There had been many deaths in my small family - a sister at 19 (auto crash) and 3 weeks later my first husband committed suicide several years ago. This book enabled me to work through the grief that had been unresolved for a long time and regain self-esteem which tragedy destroys. I was so impressed that she didn't "preach" - she shared her own experience. I have used this book through the years for reference and have passed it on to friends. I have bought 3 copies just for myself because no one wants to give it up after they read it. My present copy is dog-eared and highlighted throughout. My husband and soul-mate died almost 2 years ago - also from cancer. Once again, this book is helping me, especially when I learned that Bozarth-Campbell had lost her husband after writing it. She had added a prologue describing the additional grief she suffered. I am now ordering a copy for a friend who is also going through grief. I highly recommend Life is Goodbye for anyone experiencing grief of any kind. It doesn't have to be a death. Thank you Dr. Bozarth-Campbell for saving the sanity of many.
Book Description
British actor Rupert Everett charmed his way into moviegoers' affections with his scene-stealing performance in "My Best Friend's Wedding." Everett is also the gifted writer of this scathingly funny novel of a down-and-out actor's zany misadventures amid a wildly colorful menagerie of madcap trendsetters.
Fame is a fleeting thing, as ex-soap opera star Rhys Waveral discovers. When he loses all his money in the stock market and no new acting jobs are forthcoming, eviction from his elegant hotel suite looms large. Stripped of all his assets, Rhys realizes he has only one thing left to sell: himself. And a pair of jet-setting dowagers couldn't be more thrilled. From staid English country houses to flamboyant Parisian nightclubs and an outrageous costume ball in Tangiers, Rupert Everett spins a raucous and irresistible modern farce.
Customer Reviews:
Everett's HOT, the book IS NOT !.......2005-05-28
This book appears to have been written for a British audience. It is typical British farce, and left this reader flat. Unless you truly adore this type of humor, avoid it.
Brilliant Satire!.......2003-07-08
It has to be doesn't it? Contrary to the book jacket this can't be a thinly veiled life of Rupert Evertt, but instead a ruthless commentary on the "jet set."
I found the book in the library and had to read it. Everett is an amazing actor so I thought I'd give his fiction a try. Absolutely phenominal! I was reminded of Evelyn Waugh or Oscar Wilde throughout the book. The only disappointment was the ending...I want more of Rhys, Adrienne, and especially Peach! What a super scream!
It's the written equivalent of "people watching"..........2003-05-30
Filled with colorful characters, funny situations, and a surprisingly strong narative thread, "Hello Darling" is a real treat & a great summer read. There's a sick joy in watching a newly broke character still having to mingle with his still high-in-the-hog living friends. Great concept! Great characters!
I didn't find all the drug use THAT disturbing because these characters are hardly role models in any way shape or form in the first place. My ONE critique came at the end, where I feel that Everett kinda wimped out...any book that ends with a question mark is well...questionable.
My Favourite Book ever!!.......2002-02-10
This is my absolutely favourite book ever and I've read it a million times and plan to read it again. It's hugely entertaining and hilarious and it's so true to life (although my life is, thank God, never that chaotic all at once!). It's a must-read for anyone with a good sense of humour and the absurd!
Fluffy but amusing.......2001-04-15
This is an extremely light read from Rupert Everett. I've always loved his acting - he does a marvelous job playing droll English aristocrats. This is more of the same, and even though it doesn't live up to the caliber of his acting, Everett's fans will enjoy it. Parts of this novel are clearly autobiographical (not all, one hopes), and those are the parts that are the most successful. Especially adept was his portrayal of the vain neurosis of a semi-young, handsome actor. All in all, I prefer Stephen Fry's take on the modern English comedy of errors novel, but that only seems fair since I prefer Everett's acting.
Books:
- The Metamorphosis (Norton Critical Editions)
- The Microbial Challenge: Human-Microbe Interactions
- The Oxygen Revolution: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: The Groundbreaking New Treatment for Stroke, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Arthritis, Autism, Learning Disabilities and More
- The Physiology and Biochemistry of Prokaryotes
- The Politically Incorrect Guide to Global Warming (and Environmentalism)
- The Reef Aquarium: A Comprehensive Guide to the Identification and Care of Tropical Marine Invertebrates (Volume 1)
- The Science of Orgasm
- Throne of Jade (Temeraire, Book 2)
- Tree of Knowledge
- Tropical Nature: Life and Death in the Rain Forests of Central and South America
Books Index
Books Home
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