Book Description
Called "The Entitlement Generation" or Gen Y, they are storming into schools, colleges, and businesses all over the country. In this provocative new book, headline-making psychologist and social commentator Dr. Jean Twenge explores why the young people she calls "Generation Me" -- those born in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s -- are tolerant, confident, open-minded, and ambitious but also cynical, depressed, lonely, and anxious.
Herself a member of Generation Me, Dr. Twenge uses findings from the largest intergenerational research study ever conducted -- with data from 1.3 million respondents spanning six decades -- to reveal how profoundly different today's young adults are. Here are the often shocking truths about this generation, including dramatic differences in sexual behavior, as well as controversial predictions about what the future holds for them and society as a whole. Her often humorous, eyebrow-raising stories about real people vividly bring to life the hopes and dreams, disappointments and challenges of Generation Me.
GenMe has created a profound shift in the American character, changing what it means to be an individual in today's society. The collision of this generation's entitled self-focus and today's competitive marketplace will create one of the most daunting challenges of the new century. Engaging, controversial, prescriptive, funny, Generation Me will give Boomers new insight into their offspring, and help those in their teens, 20s, and 30s finally make sense of themselves and their goals and find their road to happiness.
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The Associated Press calls them "The Entitlement Generation," and they are storming into schools, colleges, and businesses all over the country. They are today's young people, a new generation with sky-high expectations and a need for constant praise and fulfillment. In this provocative new book, headline-making psychologist and social commentator Dr. Jean Twenge documents the self-focus of what she calls "Generation Me" -- people born in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Herself a member of Generation Me, Dr. Twenge explores why her generation is tolerant, confident, open-minded, and ambitious but also cynical, depressed, lonely, and anxious. Using findings from the largest intergenerational study ever conducted -- with data from 1.3 million respondents spanning six decades -- Dr. Twenge reveals how profoundly different today's young adults are -- and makes controversial predictions about what the future holds for them and society as a whole. But Dr. Twenge doesn't just talk statistics -- she highlights real-life people and stories and vividly brings to life the hopes and dreams, disappointments and challenges of Generation Me. With a good deal of irony, humor, and sympathy she demonstrates that today's young people have been raised to aim for the stars at a time when it is more difficult than ever to get into college, find a good job, and afford a house -- even with two incomes. GenMe's expectations have been raised just as the world is becoming more competitive, creating an enormous clash between expectations and reality. Dr. Twenge also presents the often-shocking truths about her generation's dramatically different sexual behavior and mores. GenMe has created a profound shift in the American character, changing what it means to be an individual in today's society. Engaging, controversial, prescriptive, and often funny, Generation Me will give Boomers new insight into their offspring, and help GenMe'ers in their teens, 20s, and 30s finally make sense of themselves and their goals and find their road to happiness.
Customer Reviews:
Fine book but doesn't account for some major factors.......2007-09-22
In and of itself this is a excellent source of clarity when one is trying to make sense of the Y generation. They aren't the easiest age cohort to understand or make sense of, in terms of thought processes, motivational factors, developmental forces, values, tastes, needs, or social drives. This often leaves the baby boom generation somewhat baffled by their seeming opacity. After a second reading of Generation Me, with extensive underlining and reflective contemplation, I think I'm beginning to get what makes them tick, and that's a valuable thing.
However, we are perhaps only now gaining an appreciation, and with that a sobering trepidation, of how powerfully medicated a generation the Y people are. This additional factor is all to easy to downplay or overlook, yet a high percentage of younger adults and adolescents are being medicated with strong mood altering medicines. Often these medicines are given for behaviors that would appear to be well within the envelope of adolescent normality 30 years ago, but today are framed as disruptive or antisocial. In my opinion, this is an exceedingly unhealthy trend as we develop institutional habits of "grinding off" any rough edges with pharmaceuticals, leaving nothing but a monotone consensus culture in their wake. Is this the collective form of life we truly desire ? Or have we been merely seduced by the low cost of medicating the young instead of alowing them to work through the discovery process of a rich, varied life experience ?
The second factor which is shaping the young of today is the legacy of the human potential movement, cults, and large group seminars which sought near instantaneous, collective Satori experiences and discounted the long, slow, saturnine process of becoming a fully formed human. We bought into this model of empowerment without reflection, much as we bought into the model that most problems with the mind were problems of chemistry.
In my opinion, it is the dual legacy which is very much derived from Baby Boom lifestyle and attitude, mind medicine and pop psychology, which has had a deep and woeful impact on the life arc of young people today.
I wish the author had devoted a thorough analysis of the origins and impacts of medicalization and psychologizing of the young.
Worthwhile reading, but with a grain of salt.......2007-09-03
I wanted to read this book to better understand the younger people in my life, and it is of value in many ways, as dozens of other reader/ reviewers have noted.
I also agree with some of her conclusions: For example, many of today's young people seem to have a very difficult time accepting criticism, and have an exaggerated idea of their own importance and abilities.
However, there is one area of discussion that I disagree with, and that is that 'Generation Me' has it harder than previous ones. Yes, there is more competition and fewer opportunities, partially due to corporate downsizing and shipping jobs to India, etc. But at the same time, some of the competition is due to the fact that both men and women are in the mix. In earlier generations, men would have had the field more to themselves. In fact, if the author had graduated from high school when I or my mom and grandmother did, she may not have had the opportunity to enter the field of sociology as a professional, let alone have a serious book published, and if she did, fewer would have read it because she's a woman, and women weren't taken as seriously in intellectual pursuits. Women of my generation had very little career or professional opportunities, generally, and fewer people were even able to attend college. (I'm not sure there were even Pell Grants) In addition, immigrants from other countries -- then and perhaps even now -- have a much harder time 'making it' in our culture...In this particular regard, her viewpoint seems as narcisstic as she may feel these kids are.
Great Book.......2007-08-04
If you want to know more about a generation & how to deal with this one, BUY THIS BOOK! She does a great job of explaining issues and citing facts with sarcasm, it's a wonderful read.
Fantastic, engaging review of the generation.......2007-07-20
I thoroughlly enjoyed this book. Dr. Twenge does a great deal of research and presents it all in a non-confusing, non-overwhelming manner. It's an engaging book and gave me quite a bit to think about. I have recommended this book already half a dozen times to collegues and friends who are interested in engaging Gen-Me.
(disclosure: I'm a Gen-Me. I resonated with a lot of the book from that perspective although I originally read it to understand the younger part of the Gen-Me demographic.)
Any person involved in ministry must read this book!!!.......2007-07-20
I am a pastor to young adults (ages 18-35) at a large church in California and I was introduced to this book a few months ago. It really hit home with the trends I was noticing in most of the young adults I was working with (myself included) at our church, and other pastors agreed. I especially appreciated the commentary on the Christian obsession with the self.
I enjoyed the book so much we decided to do an 8-week sermon series in which we're discussing the trends of the Gen Me culture and then reflecting on what Scripture has to say, mostly in contrast to the self focused message of the last 35 years (Jesus - "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23)).
Twenge's book is brilliantly, blunt research which I've found to be extremely useful to churches, who are as much in the sociological field as they are the theological one in an ever-changing culture.
Average customer rating:
- sounded good
- When Am I Going to be happy?
- Easy to read, to the point
- Amazing little book
- Buy This Book!
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When Am I Going to Be Happy?: How to Break the Emotional Bad Habits That Make You Miserable
Penelope Russianoff
Manufacturer: Bantam
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Self-Defeating Behaviors: Free Yourself from the Habits, Compulsions, Feelings, and Attitudes That Hold You Back
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Women Who Love Too Much
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Get Out of Your Own Way: Overcoming Self-Defeating Behavior
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Addicted to Unhappiness: Free Yourself from Moods and Behaviors That Undermine Relationships, Work, and the Life You Want
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Smart Women/Foolish Choices: Finding the Right Men Avoiding the Wrong Ones
ASIN: 0553282158
Release Date: 1997-01-01 |
Book Description
Learn to change the emotional bad habits that make you unhappy.
- Recognize Your Emotional Bad Habits (and start to break them)
- Throw Off Your Security Blanket (and accept that you can have happiness)
- Talk Tenderly To Yourself (and increase self-esteem)
- Use The "To You-Ness To Me-Ness" Technique (and respond to negative comments with firm conviction, not rage)
- Get Rid Of The Imposter Phenomenon (and stop devaluing yourself)
- Accept Praise (and cease being your own worst critic)
- Stop Measuring Your Self
Customer Reviews:
sounded good.......2007-07-28
It just wasn't. the book is for single people who like to party and sleep around... I'm not any of these things. It sounded like a mature book but turned out to be a bunch of stuff I already know about life.
When Am I Going to be happy?.......2006-01-31
Very helpful book. Think everyone should take a look that needs direction in ur life.
Easy to read, to the point.......2005-09-10
This book is very easy to read and gets right to the point. The author is very insightful and really helps you to recognize your emotional bad habits and gives practical, almost simple (in a good way), suggestions to overcome them. It's easy to flip back to the reviews at the end of the sections for the main points to remember. I ordered a 2nd book for a close friend who is now reading it.
Amazing little book.......2004-06-20
This is without doubt one of the best self help books I've ever read, I have been reading self help books for three years now trying to break free from the oughts and shoulds of life.
Its helping me find the authentic me and giving me a spine of self confidence to live life as I believe I'm meant to.
I thoroughly reccommend this book.
Buy This Book!.......2003-09-28
This book has helped motivate me to overcome my shyness and depression. Russianoff is a knowledgable yet understanding author...it's like talking to your ideal best friend! The book relates to so many areas of my life. Almost every chapter has dealt with something close to my heart. I plan to read it over and over again so that I can fully absorb Russianoff's lessons and incorporate them into my life.
This is the greatest self-help book I've read!
Average customer rating:
- My favorite in the series
- The Mill
- A Great Book
- Best one so far. (Caution: Possible spoilers!)
- The Miserable Mill
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The Miserable Mill (A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 4)
Lemony Snicket
Manufacturer: HarperCollins
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0064407691
Release Date: 2000-04-04 |
Amazon.com
"The Baudelaire orphans looked out the grimy window of the train and gazed at the gloomy blackness of the Finite Forest, wondering if their lives would ever get better," begins The Miserable Mill. If you have been introduced to the three Baudelaire orphans in any of Lemony Snicket's previous novels, you know that not only will their lives not get better, they will get much worse. In the fourth installment in the "Series of Unfortunate Events," the sorrowful siblings, having once again narrowly escaped the clutches of the evil Count Olaf, are escorted by the kindly but ineffectual Mr. Poe to their newest "home" at the Lucky Smells Lumbermill. Much to their horror (if not surprise), their dormitory at the mill is crowded and damp, they are forced to work with spinning saw blades, they are fed only one meal a day (not counting the chewing gum they get for lunch), and worst of all, Count Olaf lurks in a dreadful disguise as Shirley the receptionist just down the street. Not even the clever wordplay and ludicrous plot twists could keep this story buoyant--reading about the mean-spirited foreman, the deadly blades, poor Klaus (hypnotized and "reprogrammed"), and the relentless hopelessness of the children's situation only made us feel gloomy. Fans of these wickedly funny, suspenseful adventures won't want to miss out on a single one, but we're hoping the next tales have the delicate balance of delight and disaster we've come to expect from this exciting series. (Ages 9 to 12)
Book Description
I hope, for your sake, that you have not chosen to read this book because you are in the mood for a pleasant experience. If this is the case, I advise you to put this book down instantaneously, because of all the books describing the unhappy lives of the Baudelaire orphans, The Miserable Mill might be the unhappiest yet. Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire are sent to Paltryville to work in a lumber mill, and they find disaster and misfortune lurking behind every log. The pages of this book, I'm sorry to inform you, contain such unpleasantries as a giant pincher machine, a bad casserole, a man with a cloud of smoke where his head should be, a hypnotist, a terrible accident resulting in injury, and coupons. I have promised to write down the entire history of these three poor children, but you haven't, so if you prefer stories that are more heartwarming, please feel free to make another selection.
With all due respect,
Lemony Snicket
Ages 10+
Customer Reviews:
My favorite in the series.......2007-08-21
This book is a jumping off point from the first three books since the kids don't begin the book with Mr. Poe, instead they're traveling off to a place alone and aren't being entrusted to a person at all, but a lumber company. Since the setup is so bizzare, so is everything else. The characters are so quirky and Phil is one of my favorite side characters in the entire series. For once, one of Olaf's accomplices gets one of the most grizzly fates I can imagine. The creative level of this one is what made me finish the entire series since the formula was becoming a bit old after the first three novels and a changeup was needed. What's interesting about that is how it still fits the plot of the first three, but the way it goes about it is different and that makes all the difference in the world to me.
The Mill.......2007-03-28
For the people who love the adventures of children, those people should read this book. It is easy to enjoy the writings because Lemony explains the words that are so hard that you would need a dictionary for. There is no was this book could be boring. There is suspense and mystery within these pages. I recommend this book to all ages.
A Great Book.......2007-03-02
If you like to read books,then read this one.The main characters in the book were Klaus,Violet,and Sunny.The book I read was The Miserable Mill,the fourth book from the Series Of Unfortunate Events,by Lemony Snickets.Lemony Snickets is one of my favorite authors because I really like the way he writes his books.Every one I've read is so suspence thrilling and it makes you want to keep reading until the end of the book.
The book started out with the three Bauldalair children on a train to their new guardians home.The reason they were on the train was because in the first book,The Bad Beginning,the children's parents had perished in a terrable fire.
Ever since that day the were forced to find new gaurdians to take care of them,and every time they would find a new gaurdian,Count Olaf,an evil man who wanted to steal the Bauldalair children's fortune,would try to find them and steal the fortune.In all of the books I've,everywhere the children went,misfortunate events followed.So after the Bauldalair children got off the train,they arrived at a place called Lucky Smils Lumbermill,where they would meet their new caretaker.I'll stop there,because I don't want to spoil the rest,but overal I think The Miserable Mill was a fantastic book.
Best one so far. (Caution: Possible spoilers!).......2007-01-23
Coming from a 17 year old:
I thought this book is the best book so far because Snicket mixes it up a little by not introducing us to who Count Olaf is disguised as this time until over half way through the book. The new caretaker of the Baudelaire orphans does not die in the end unlike Uncle Monty (Book 2) and Aunt josefine (Book 3). Snicket also allows Violet and Klaus to "step into each other's shoes" and experience what each other liked to do instead of Klaus always reading and Violet always inventing. I liked how Snicket mixed up the plot and the Baudelaire's being sent off to Boarding School will also be a nice change from being shipped to another caretaker. I also think I like this book the best so far is because I had gotten the "A Series of Unfortunate Events" movie this past Christmas, and the movie is based only on the first three books. The movie is actually what got me into reading this series, but I think reading this book and having it not been in the movie has made me enjoy it more because I didn't know what was going to happen next, which made it more suspenseful. These books are also light reading; taking me only about two to three hours to finish one of them. I encourage you to continue reading the series and to not give up until you have finished the series. Like I like to say you can't form an opinion on something when you don't know all the fact about what your forming an opinion on.
Thank you for your time,
<3Loran
The Miserable Mill.......2007-01-05
I think The Miserable Mill over all is great. The beginning of the book was kind of boring though. As the book went on it got more interesting. I read the first few chapters and could not put the book down. I read the book for hours!!! When I was finished with the book I was so sad because the book was so good!!!! I decided to read another Series of Unfortunate Events book. So yes I do recommend the book.
Customer Reviews:
A Great Read.......2007-08-24
Les Miserables, when it gets going, is an exciting and emotional read. There are many, many wonderfully intense episodes, the plot is dramatic, the main characters heroic, repulsive, brave, innocent, tragic. There are passages depicting shocking misery (Fantine's downfall) the joys and agonies of a first love (Marius and Cosette), beyond-the-call-of-duty good behavior (the Bishop, Jean Valjean). The measures Jean Valjean takes to secure a stable environment for little Cossette to grow up in are amazing. One of my favorite parts: the 100-or-so pages in which Jean Valjean must decide whether to blow his cover as the Mayor of a factory town in order to save a poor wretch from the galleys, knowing that his moral act will be a disaster for himself and for his town. (For fans of the musical, this is the number that begins `He thinks that man is me") He is wrestling with his conscious even as he is rushing to get to the distant courtroom before the verdict is read.
I have a lot of nerve giving this great novel a mere four stars. What costs it a star is Victor Hugo's many and overlong digression chapters. Didn't they have editors in those days? These essays are fine in the beginning, as Hugo tries to describe human triumphs and suffering in relation to the larger cosmos. The chapters on the Gamin and on the Bourgeois were actually helpful in understanding Gavroche and Marius' grandfather. As the result of another digression, I now know how to erect my very own barricade, given sufficient cobblestones, furniture and student-power. I found the 50-page passage on Waterloo riveting, though it had one brief but vital connection with the plot. I have also decided NOT to enter a 19th-century convent.
But the long chapter on underworld jargon (`argot' ) would have been fascinating--if I spoke French. The extremely long chapter on the history and layout of the Paris sewers would have been something I would have loved-- had this chapter NOT been dumped into the book just as the barricade falls and Jean Valjean makes his harrowing escape through the sewers with Marius on his shoulders. Too many times Hugo stops the drama in its tracks to go on about something that could have waited for a lull in the action. Or sometimes one of the student characters opens his mouth and doesn't stop talking for many, many pages. (Ayn Rand loved this book and you can see where she got her inspiration for her characters' monologues.)
This is another book I would recommend reading with a library or internet connection at hand. I had to do a little catching up on 19th century French history. For instance, did you know there used to be a gigantic plaster elephant statue in Paris?
I read the unabridged edition, but I wouldn't look down on anyone who reads a shorter version.
A departure.......2007-08-18
Hugo's writing is definitely from a different era of writing. The great thing about this book is that it still is accessible to today's reader. While set long ago and across the ocean, Hugo's story of how hard self-forgiveness is rings as true today as when it was written.
a 19th century soap opera.......2007-06-26
Reading Les Miserable takes you back to the 19th century, not just in the content, but as a reader. You can't enjoy the book unless you allow yourself to amble along with Victor Hugo as he digresses from his plot and then digresses from his digressions. It's hard to imagine this book being published today, as marvelous as it truly is.
That's more a reflection on the nature of publishing in 2007, and our impatient reading habits, than Hugo's writing, which is superb. His descriptions of places and characters are all masterful.
Nevertheless, I find that I'm by-passing huge sections where Hugo takes a wide tangent that has nothing to do with the story, even though these are well written - actually, very well written. The section on Waterloo, for instance, is something I plan to return to when I'm reading French history, but it has nothing to do with the travails of Jean Valjean and Cosette, and I've skipped it for now.
When Hugo remembers he is telling a story, the writing is exciting, dramatic, full of unlikely coincidences that you just accept because it's fun. It's a 19th century soap opera for readers who had little else to read and far fewer distractions than a modern reader, and his perceptively drawn characters entertain us even today.
But be prepared to enjoy Les Miserable over an extended period of time, like you do "The Young and the Restless," with a multitude of story lines, often unconnected.
By the way, in contrast to other readers, I'm enjoying Norman Denny's translation, although not having read the other versions, I can't make comparisons.
Having now published two novels --- A Good Conviction, a NYC-based legal thriller which tells the story of a young man wrongly imprisoned in Sing Sing for a murder he did not commit by a Manhattan ADA who may have known he was innocent ... and The Heretic (Library of American Fiction), a historical novel describing the persecution of a family of secret Jews by the Catholic Church on the eve of the Spanish Inquisition --- I have devised a self-education project to help me learn the techniques and styles of other authors, and thus (hopefully) become a better novelist myself.
"Les Miserable" is one of the novels I've read as part of this self-education project.
I'm organizing my thoughts into various categories relevant to writing, such as ... "beginnings" ... "conflict" ... "characters" ... and others, and I'm posting my observations as a blog, which turns out to be a wonderful way for me to organize and retrieve my notes.
This also puts my thinking in the public domain. So if you'd like to see my evolving comments about writing novels, I invite you to take a look at my "Education of a Novelist" blog.
You can reach my blog by searching the web for "weinstein education of a novelist."
LEW WEINSTEIN
Unbelievable.......2007-06-06
I nearly killed myself when my English teacher made my class read this book during our sophomore year. She wanted in-depth notes and analysis, along with answering her 100 questions. The thickness of the book drove me insane! I didn't want to read it at all, and I even asked my fellow classmates to hit me in the head with it so that I can "magically lose the ability to read" and be excused. Of course that didn't work, so I had to force myself to read it.
I quitted after reading about the routines of the bishop the first 100 pages. I found it ridiculous and torture at that time. Thanks to the encouragement of peers and my teacher, I continued reading. After the whole introduction to the bishop, the storyline grew more appealing. By the time that I got to Fantine's miserable life, I found myself crying; her dedication for her daughter is very touching. I am really proud of myself for finishing this book, and I still love it.
After reading the entire book, I realized that each piece of storyline is essential to the story itself. This is a fantastic book. Hugo did an amazing job in addressing the reforms needed in the society (education, criminal justice, discrimination, and sexism). He addressed humanity's corruption in a very powerful way. Give this book a chance, and you will be enlightened.
Simple Story wrapped in a Monumental Novel.......2007-05-29
Those familiar with European literature know the story of Jean Valjean, Victor Hugo's noble character in LES MISERABLE. For those who don't, Jean Valjean is a peasant who is arrested for stealing a loaf of bread and is sentenced to prison; his term is increased due to his unsuccessful escape attempts. The Jean Valjean that is finally released is not the Valjean who entered; prison has taken its toll. But a kernel of goodness exists in him; a chance encounter and an act of kindness by a local bishop becomes the turning point of his life. Through the next forty or so years Jean Valjean lives up to the promise he made the bishop, and is a genuinely good man. Unfortunately, being an ex-convict in 19th century France is a stain that isn't removed. Living under various aliases, he escapes the single-minded Detective Javert, one of the most persistent characters in all of literature, who's determined to return him to prison on a petty charge. There is also Cosette, a child he rescues and raises, fulfilling the promise he made to her dying mother. Valjean's story is the thread that Hugo uses to create this tapestry of salvation and damnation, courage and weakness, perseverance, love, loss and a France that no longer exists.
LES MISERABLE is a simple story but a monumental novel. Hugo writes of kings and emperors, the influential and the inconsequential. He expresses his political views making little effort to conceal them, as he was in exile in England while writing the book. His characters seem unrelated, a collection of thieves, royalists, revolutionaries, students, bureaucrats and an oppressive poverty; but eventually all are intertwined in Jean Valjean's story. The book is an unabridged translation, the writing is superb and it's long. But to not read LES MISERABLE is to deny oneself a masterpiece of Western Literature and the life and times of Jean Valjean.
Customer Reviews:
Entertaining w/ good information.......2007-09-21
I agree with most of the other reviewers - this book tells it like it is without being terribly crude or rude. There are some things mentioned that not every doctor will agree with (the risks of soft cheese, microwaves, hair dye, etc). However, early in the book, Kimes informs readers that doctors are different, just as all women are different. I enjoyed the empathy/sympathy about the fright of bleeding during pregnancy - especially if you've already had one (or more) miscarraige. I bought this book before my 1st miscarriage and just skimmed the part about bleeding and the fear of miscarriage. Then I had one and got pregnant again within 2 months. That pregnancy also ended in miscarriage. When I got pregnant the 3rd time, I read the section about bleeding during pregnancy being normal, but terribly scary for those who've suffered miscarraige. It reassured me that all women have some fear of miscarriage, but once you've been there, done that, your fear is greatly magnified! I'm in my 18th week now and still enjoying the book!
Great Book... for Anyone who wakes up on the wrong side of the bed sometimes........2007-09-08
If you understand humor you will definately get this book. If you always wake up in a good mood and think being pregnant is the best thing that has ever happened to you... DONT BUY IT. This book is not for the cheerleader type who is always smiling. I LOVE THIS BOOK. It is a realistic look at pregnancy without the "being pregnant is a wonderful gift" outlook. I love my child. I am glad to have my child and having a child is a gift. What you have to go through to get the child is not always all roses. This book addresses that with an unyielding sense of humor and makes you realize that you might not be the only one who appreciates the gift (or light) at the end of the miserable experience tunnel but not necessarily the experience itself. I think this book really helped me deal with issues I was having with a rough pregnancy and made me feel better about everything.
Made me laugh out loud!.......2007-09-08
This book is really funny and will make you laugh, while also providing helpful information. I couldn't help but read the entire book even though I was technically in my first few months!
Excellent Book!.......2007-09-07
This book is the most helpful pregnancy book that I have come across. I like it because it doesn't take it self too seriously and it makes me laugh when I am miserable. This is now going to be the book I get anyone who tells me they are pregnant.
A humorous look at a special, yet stressful, event........2007-07-24
I am in my third pregnancy after a space of time. I picked up Joanne Kimes' book because the title was catchy and I wanted a different sort of pregnancy book. This one delivered exactly what I expected.
When I was dealing with my first (who is now a fifteen year old), most of the books on the market were serious, this is what's going to happen to you during That Special Time. Yes, there were "discomforts", but it should all pale next to the fact that you are going through a miracle! Thank goodness that the current slew of books now offer a more lighthearted take on That Special Time-- that yeah, it's a miracle, but it's ok to not feel that it is during the whole nine months.
Joanne Kimes gives a month-by-month format, about symptoms that usually happen (many of which happened to her), and ways to deal with them. Some may work, some are just for laughs, and you may have to find your own way of coping. The narrative is very chummy, girlfriend to girlfriend tone, that may be irritating to some, but what I found comforting and nice.
The reason for the four stars: This is one woman's experience with one pregnancy (and a miscarriage that she endured before her daughter). While she does include information about symptoms and conditions that she did not experience (and is open about the fact that she's talked to others about their experience), this is not a end-all, be-all book that will answer all of your questions or give you all options when it comes to pregnancy and birth. There's little to no information about alternative birthing because the author went to a hospital and saw an OB/GYN-- again, writing from her experience.
Frankly, no book I've read (and I've read many of the pregnancy books) can offer that. So if you are considering this purchase, please keep in mind that you may want to also pick up other pregnancy books (Ms. Kimes gives a lovely resource list in the back of this book). Another good book (albiet more serious) is What to Expect When You're Expecting. This book helps you laugh while you learn that you aren't alone in feeling what you feel and experience-- and it's ok to laugh.
Book Description
Some people really can make you sick!Is there anyone in your life-a relative, boss, friend, even a lover or spouse-who drives you crazy? Are there people who make you feel inadequate, unworthy, or just plain miserable? If there's someone who is not supportive and does not wish you well, then you've got a "toxic" person in your life.Do you recognize any of these toxic terrors?The opportunistic userThe control freakThe meddlerThe arrogant know-it-allThe me, myself, and I narcissistThe instigatorThe emotional refrigeratorThe liarDr. Glass not only helps you identify the "toxic" people in your life, she also provides ten techniques for successfully dealing with them, including:Tension-blowoutUnpluggingDirect confrontationHumor
Customer Reviews:
Fast Self-Help!.......2007-07-12
Excellent, easy to read suggestions for dealing with difficult people. Arms you with ready to use solutions for dealing with toxic personalities. Reminds me of a "Mental First Aid" book. Everyone should read this one!
Toxic People: 10 Ways of Dealing With People Who Make Your Life Miserable.......2006-11-04
No different than any self help book written from the 80's. Human flaws and quirks are just a part of life, and shouldn't be viewed as a constant drama. I interpreted the book as one that perpetuates whining and viewing one's self as a victim. Let me save readers their money: There are no victims, only volunteers. People will treat you the way you let them treat you. If you don't like something, say so and remove yourself from the situation, and if it makes someone mad, they'll just have to get glad at their own pace. Take care of yourself, and everything around you will fall into place.
I gave it a 2 because there were no misspelled words.
Not worth the money.......2006-07-01
The author gives examples that are to specific and, thus, not applicable to the general population. Also, the examples are formulated as little stories.....boring.....better to have step by step procedures. I was looking for something to help me in a work related situation and the book was totaly unhelpful.
UN-ENLIGHTNING READ.......2005-12-30
THIS BOOK READ LIKE A CHILD HAD WRITTEN IT. IT WAS OVERLY SIMPLISTIC AND SOUNDED SO CHILDISH IN ITS SOLUTIONS, I'M WONDERING IF THE AUTHOR IS A PRETEEN.
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE BOOK "IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING" OFFERED REVELATIONS IN IDENTIFYING AGRESSIVE PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MANIPULATE YOU IN A GREAT VARIETY OF WAYS.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO IDENTIFY AND EFFECTIVELY DEAL WITH A MANIPULATOR IN YOUR LIFE, READ "IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING".
A comical book, actually!.......2005-01-17
As I was reading this book I came across some comical information. I thought I was just not understanding so I discussed it with my husband. He also agreed that some things written in this book were somewhat odd.
It did not help me at all. The toxic people discribed were elementary. I put the book down and have never picked it up again.
Book Description
Sensational, dramatic, packed with rich excitement and filled with the sweep and violence of human passions, LES MISERABLES is not only superb adventure but a powerful social document. The story of how the convict Jean-Valjean struggled to escape his past and reaffirm his humanity, in a world brutalized by poverty and ignorance, became the gospel of the poor and the oppressed.
From the Paperback edition.
Customer Reviews:
Les Miserables.......2007-05-25
This is an excellent translation of the classic Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. The section on the Battle of Waterloo makes the reader feel as if he were actually present. This is only one of the memorable parts of this wonderful book. My advise-don't waste your time on an abridged version of this book!
The mind of a genius, the work of a lifetime.......2006-09-10
As close to flawless as you could come, no other author can match the storytelling and characterisation. Describes a turbulent period in France, with incredible political and social commentary. Hugo's monumental work explores many themes i.e. why the Restoration was a backward step, the difference between a revolution and a riot; he describes many life's experiences and emotions: the myriad ways people can fall between the cracks into destitution (Fantine, Montepercy); one of the greatest descriptions of falling in love (Marius and Cosette) and how it feels to be in love, the greatest description of a battle (Waterloo), the desperation of a convict (reminds of Henry Charrier -Papillon), the making of men (Marius), unbounding heroism and selflessness(Eponine, Jean Valjean); explores patience, loss, asceticism, rebellion, fulfillment, nationalism, the administation of justice and the overriding theme is CONSCIENCE. I read this and then discovered that Hugo's own daughter lived in Barbados for a number of years living 'on the edge' of destitution. Small world.
We should be better for reading it..........2006-06-29
... but this was the most popular book, read by soldiers, North and South, during our Civil War. We should be better for hearing democracy in Beethoven, piety in Bach, compassion in Mozart -- and perhaps we do, one person at a time, but I fear we are always running out of time.
I read this book thirty years ago, over two winters, setting it down midway in March 1977 I believe. I had heard a near-complete reading on NPR, spread over at least a month of Saturday afternoons. I always made sure I was home for that; I was a single parent, then, father of a seven year old boy. To use a cheap term of the day, I could 'relate' to Jean Valjean, and I was thrilled by the music that opened each episode: the March to the Scaffold from Berlioz' "Symphony Fantastique." After the final episode, I went out and bought the Modern Library Giant, and began to read.
The radio production was not complete! While I found the details surrounding the Battle of Waterloo truly informative -- the description of the battlefield as a captial A was a vivid model of simplicity -- the long section on the history of the nuns' order where Valjean and his young ward take refuge, and where she is educated, invited a lot of skimming.
Skim where you will, but try to read the complete book. At some later time you can return to those pages you skimmed, and discover what you missed.
Les Miserable, The Brothers Karamazov, War and Peace, Moby-Dick, Joseph and His Brothers, Remembrance Of Things Past (okay, In Search Of Lost Time), Ulysses -- all of these demand much of us, particularly our time. That is a good thing, considering the many ways modern life invites us to waste time, and I could not begin to choose the best among these. Fortunately I don't have to; I might run to "As I Lay Dying" or "Lord Jim" instead.
Meanwhile, I'm glad I devoted a chunk of my life to this book. I do know I emerged a better man for that, and how sad I was when I read the final page, and closed the book.
Be ready for repetition!.......2006-01-20
This book was written before novels were popularized and thus was written in parts. To bring readers up to speed, many sections of Les Miserables are repetitive. Likewise, there are also many drawn-out sections on the French Revolution.
There are reasons this book is abridged over and over again. It has little to do with length!
I do recommend this version, however. It is the original, unabridged edition by one of Hugo's friends (so you know it's accurate with what Hugo wanted). Start from the beginning, and if you hit a repetitive section or a long section about the French Revolution, don't be afraid to skim over it.
Though it is impressive to say "I've read the Whole Thing," swallow your pride--some sections are honestly not interesting unless you are a real scholar of the French Revolution.
Oh, by the way, this is the greatest story ever written--hands down.
Great Story!!!.......2005-10-01
Les Miserables is a wonderful story told in a magnificent manner. Victor Hugo has been excellent in portraying characters, events and emotions experienced at varying levels of human conscience.
At some places, the lengthy and descriptive background information made me feel slightly bored but in the end it all summed up to be an experience for the lifetime.
Finally, as they have written in Editorial Review:
"LES MISERABLES is not only superb adventure but a powerful social document"
Customer Reviews:
How to refuse.......2007-09-23
Some slow reading in some spots, but definitely has some good information to use personally or help a friend with.
How to be Miserable after a book purchase........2007-09-16
I purchased this book on the strength of the reputation of its author, Albert Ellis. This was a mistake as Mr. Ellis apparently dashed this off on his way out the door. I suppose when one has written many books, particularly on one subject, re-iteration eventually becomes one giant summary-which this book is. This is a throw away. Both for the author and the reader. I'm looking at it now on my bookshelf, lamenting the waste of money and time. Mr. Ellis probably regrets the time but not the money. If you are seeking an alternate view of reality, and who isn't, check out David Burns, "Feeling Good". Much more substantive and not a gloss over.
change your mind and change your life.......2007-08-23
I love almost anything by Albert Ellis. He uses rational thought processing. This book helps you see glitches in your own thoughts and ideas that set you up for feeling bad. Read this book if you want to see where you can improve on your legalistic thought processes.
Great book.......2007-07-23
Great insight into the problem of suffering. Ellis gives several methods to overcome negative emotions. However if you read other books of Ellis, there is nothing new although his uses difference clinical examples.He seems to focus on 'Tyranny of Should's' (borrowed from Karen Horney) a lot and feels it as core of neurosis.
Today CBT is developed mainly expanding Ellis ideas (Thanks to David burns). Burns himself acknowledges him with great respect. If only Ellis was not little eccentric in potraying the pot of gold inside him, he would have been probably received differently. Neverthless, that is his style with noble intention to help people instead of rely on religion alone.
Ellis truly is great Humanist ..Buddha of 21st century !
Classic Ellis.......2007-07-18
This book is classic Albert Ellis. I followed the advice he gives in the book and it works for me. If you want to blame others for everything (universal qualifier) in life then you will always get the same thing. Thinking about thinking is one of the fine qualities of higher order learning. Stop focusing on the all of the offensive people you encounter through the day and on what can be done about how it makes you feel. You are the ONLY ONE WHO IS IN CONTROL OF YOUR FEELINGS. The task of this book is not in understanding the ABC's of REBT. It's the work that follows.
Book Description
Two Frenchmen, an idea, and a blank piece of paper. That's how it started. Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg are the creators of the multi-award-winning and much-loved musicals Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre and now an exciting new work The Pirate Queen. Les Miserables alone has been seen by over 53 million people.
The Musical World of Boublil and Schonberg is the first book to offer a comprehensive look behind the closed doors of these intensely private musical theatre giants. Boublil and Schonberg take center stage and talk openly about their methods and the creative processes involved in writing the book, the music, and the lyrics. Additional interviews from collaborators such as their co-writers Herbert Kretzmer, Richard Maltby, Stephen Clark, and John Dempsey; their directors Trevor Nunn, John Caird, Nicholas Hytner, Conall Morrison, and Frank Galati; the choreographer of The Pirate Queen, Mark Dendy; and their long-time producer Cameron Mackintosh gives the reader a full view into their successful process.
Full-color production photographs tell the story of each musical.
Customer Reviews:
Very insightful.......2007-04-11
This book is a wonderfully insightful book to some of my favorite musicals! I really enjoyed the background information as to how some of the musicals came to be, the processes that were followed...everything! I highly recommend this book!
Average customer rating:
- Part 4 to 6 of A series of unfortunate events
- Better than Potter
- The fun is just getting started
- 4th Grade Reader Strikes Gold in Lemony Snicket
- thank you
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The Situation Worsens: A Box of Unfortunate Events, Books 4-6 (The Miserable Mill; The Austere Academy; The Ersatz Elevator)
Lemony Snicket
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Similar Items:
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The Dilemma Deepens: A Box of Unfortunate Events, Books 7-9 (The Vile Village; The Hostile Hospital; The Carnivorous Carnival)
-
The Trouble Begins: A Box of Unfortunate Events, Books 1-3 (The Bad Beginning; The Reptile Room; The Wide Window)
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The Gloom Looms: A Box of Unfortunate Events, Books 10-12 (The Slippery Slope; The Grim Grotto; The Penultimate Peril)
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The Wide Window (A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 3)
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The End (A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 13)
ASIN: 0060095563
Release Date: 2002-10-01 |
Book Description
What could be worse than a book by Lemony Snicket? Three books by Lemony Snicketâall in one foul package. This second Box of Unfortunate Events, contains The Miserable Mill, The Austere Academy, and The Ersatz Elevator.
Customer Reviews:
Part 4 to 6 of A series of unfortunate events.......2007-08-31
I read part 1 to 3 of a series of unfortunate events a couple of years ago and thought all the books were about the same. I didn't expect the story to be developing. From part 4 to 6 new personalities arive and the story develops further making you aware of and curious about the overall plot.
Better than Potter.......2007-07-18
I bought the first set of books for my 8-year-old niece. She read all three in two months (it's the only books she has read without being prompted). Now I get hints to buy more so be prepared to buy then all. What more can I say. These book are well written, explain new words without talking down, so increasing vocabulary. Dark and funny.
I only wish J.K.Rowling could write as good as this. Though that hasn't effected her book sales.
The fun is just getting started.......2007-05-31
The family loves these books from Lemony Snicket. We can't wait for the next ones.
4th Grade Reader Strikes Gold in Lemony Snicket.......2007-04-29
These books are exceptionally great. My son has struggled to find books that are the right speed for him and the right tone, genre, etc. He doesn't like overly scary books, sports books, fantasy, and a bunch of other common genres with anything reasonable at his reading level.
Lemony Snicket has great story lines, great use of humor, and vocabulary that's a little stretch (but always explained, with humor, as part of the narrative). He has plowed through the first 6 books, even reading 3 of them last week alone. I enjoy reading them, too, which is always a good sign for me.
thank you.......2007-01-23
we are enjoying the stories and the quality of the books is more than excellent
thank you it will last a long time
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