Customer Reviews:
I thought I would hate it! .......2007-07-26
I have 4 small kids and am a fairly recent convert. When I heard about the Popcak's radical anti-spanking stance I thought I would find their book mushy and liberal, so I borrowed it from a friend. But I liked it so much that I actually bought 2 copies, one for me and one for my sister (who is not even Catholic).
The Popcaks speak from experience, and they really showed me in this book that attachment parenting, and even a no-spank mentality, does NOT mean permissiveness. The way to reach your children is to form their consciences through love and example. Loving them and having expectations of them inspire them to obey from the heart. This ensures that what we really want for our kids -- for them to be happy, loving, productive adults -- is going to happen.
Some features of the book are "quizzes" that give you a more concrete sense of what they are talking about when they speak of having rapport with your child, etc. I think their suggestions for building a loving home are great, their discipline suggestions and explanations are very useful, and also their section that walks through each stage of childhood and describes parenting issues, suggestions, and what virtues the child should be learning at each stage.
When you are focused on behavior modification, you tend to look for mere outward compliance. The Popcak's way is a LOT more labor- intensive, a lot more parent-involved, and a lot more rewarding in the short and long term.
The hardest part about being a parent is being a good example. Learning to model charity and other Catholic virtues is much harder than simply requiring it of your kids. If you want an easy button approach to parenting, a way to keep your kids quiet so you can watch TV, or a magic wand to fast forward through the early years, this book is NOT for you.
The Popcaks have a live radio show weekdays as well. [...]
This Book is BOTH Theologically Sound AND Effective!.......2007-04-26
For Catholics (and other Christians, heck, for anybody!), psychotherapist and author Gregory Popcak provides here a great deal of sound theological, psychological and practical support for the attachment-style of parenting, not just in the "baby years" but all the way through! He has written a book for Catholic parents ("Parenting with Grace"), but also promotes on his radio show and blog secular authors whose work backs up with sound science the principles he embraces, including Margo Sunderland (The Science of Parenting), Dr. William Sears (of course) and Gordon Neufeld (Hold On to Your Kids).
Popcak is able to articulate a real theological basis for making parenting decisions AND has many extremely useful practical strategies for improving connection between parents and kids which enhance behavior. His work has the approval of his bishop, and is supported by many Catholic theologians, priests and lay experts.
Popcak has taken some flak in some Christian childrearing circles for being anti-spanking, but I support him. He has a better way. And if you think that YOU have a situation where you REALLY need to spank your kid, call Popcak up on his weekly radio program and ask him. I guarantee you he will have an effective AND loving answer. Call my bluff on this.
A recent study showed that children of religious parents behave better. I believe those who read and follow Greg Popcak's work here must be skewing that sample! Contrary to popular belief, not all religious parents use an authoritarian style of parenting to improve short-term behavior. In the case of this Catholic author, the love of Christ and our reflection of that love calls us as parents to demonstrate love radically through self-giving to our children. This doesn't mean permissive parenting, but radical love and being willing to inconvience ourselves to meet our children's needs, along with having the guts to set limits when we are "working for our children's good."
If there are Catholics, other Christians or seekers out there looking for gentle religion-based parenting that WILL improve behavior through love, I recommend Popcak's work.
This Author is Awesome.......2007-03-26
I really love Gregory Popcak's way of explaining every facet of life in the light of Christ and the Church. He is very doctrinally sound and is the best Catholic author/counselor around today. This book is so thorough and helpful. I put off reading it for so long because, of course, I would rather read novels than have to improve myself as a person and a parent, but when I finally got around to reading it, I wished that I hadn't put it off. I've gotten to the point with my children where I just didn't know what to do anymore and I needed some serious encouragement, from someone I could trust, and let me tell you, if you are a Catholic, you can trust Gregory Popcak in every way. He is the author of many other books on other subjects ie: marriage and teaching sexuality to your kids, so check them out if there is any part of your life that you are struggling with and need some Catholic answers.
Great help to Raise KIds.......2007-01-09
Practical, fluent and clear.
Great Book
A wonderful and important book.......2006-11-02
I loved this book!!
Popcak begins with a general overview of his approach to parenting, which is attachment-based. He does a good job of explaining why attachment parenting is the most evolved approach to parenting, b/c it corresponds to the Church's (as developed by JPII) emerging understanding of love as self-donative. He presents one chapter on "everyday" techniques of parenting which are positive, relationship focused techniques, then follows this with a chapter on techniques to use in emergency situations only -- included here are time-outs and the other "technique-y" approaches most of us are familiar with.
I found it refreshing that Popcak thinks there IS a place for traditional techniques like time-outs, natural consequences, etc. but emphasizes that these shouldn't be our daily techniques, and that without a strong child-parent attachment, any technique is of limited use. A child simply has no motivation to restore harmony to a relationship that is non-existent or which brings him mostly loneliness and pain.
The book then lays out separate chapters on each of the 5 stages of development: Infancy, toddlerhood, early school years, etc. I appreciated having this commentary on how to parent effectively at each stage, b/c each stage is so different in terms of challenges (and joys!) and what can be expected of the child.
I was looking for a nice Catholic parenting book, and a friend loaned me a few. I was alarmed that spanking was advocated in them. I purchased Popcak's book because I am a traditional and faithful Catholic, but also practice attachment parenting. I am relieved to have this resource for my parenting vocation.
Book Description
What can a woman do to improve her husband's life? That's the question J.S. Salt asked more than a thousand husbands (ages 18-82). Engaging, funny, honest and revealing, here's the definitive guide to what men need from their wives. Finally, men reveal:
* What to do when he wants to go off with the guys
* How to criticize (if you must)
* What to do when you KNOW he's wrong
* How to deal with his shortcomings
* Two little words that can make life a lot easier
* What to do once in a while
* What to do a lot more often
Like its companion book, How to Be the Almost Perfect Husband by Wives Who Know, this insider's guide will surely serve as a catalyst for conversation leading couples to deeper understanding, better relationships, and improved ... everything!
Customer Reviews:
great book!.......2007-03-08
I just received this book today and have already read completely through it. I had my husband go through it and highlight all the things he wanted me to work on. I think this book is going to be great for my marriage. Great book!
Fuel for the Newlywed Soul.......2007-01-04
This book is by no means a wonderpill for awful relationships or a bible for the newlyweds, but no book really is. What this serves as is more of a running start for people who plan to stay together forever. The advice is sound and badly needed, although some of the "experts" have been divorced several times. Other than that, it's a solid four out of five as far as good advice for long, loving relationships. And the reader doesn't feel like they're being psychoanalyzed by a book. This is the healthy marriage book for people who don't want to be therapied to death.
good ideas.......2004-09-02
There are many good ideas throughout this book. Some are obvious, but still a good bit of information. You can learn how to be the wife your husband desires. There is not a lot of depth, however. It is a collection of quotes and nothing more. Why not ask your husband how you can be his perfect wife?
Filled with gold nuggets for improving your relationship.......2004-04-23
As an Author, Coach, and Motivational Speaker I read alot of books about people, their motivations, and their relationships. Wow, How to Be the Almost Perfect Wife is a guys version of a relationship conversation. It's short, direct, and impactful.
Ladies, please read and act on the items listed in this book. Some of the most important for me are:
** Be my cheerleader. Believe that I have the talent to achieve my dreams, even if it takes longer than I ever imagined.
** I love it when you just listen to show you understand. I also love it when you challenge me with a different perspective.
** If I want to go to bed later than you it doesn't mean I don't love you. It means I want to go to bed later than you.
** Pounce on me unexpectedly
Get a copy of this book and use it in your relationship for fun, for passion, and for romance.
Wonderful!.......2003-07-21
This book and the companion book, "How to be the Almost Perfect Husband" are absolutely wonderful. As a couples therapist, these are the things that often come up that men and women want one another to know about. This is great for men to read, to better understand women and also to understand how universal their needs are. I recommend both of these books highly! These are both my new gifts for bridal showers, weddings, and anniversaries. I just love them!!
Average customer rating:
- Caution, whining ahead!!
- Guys, it's almost perfect!
- Fabulous!
- "The Woman Call It As The See It!
- A perfect gift
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ASIN: 0966715616 |
Book Description
What can a husband do to improve his wife's life?" That's the question J. S. Salt asked more than a thousand wives ages 19-78. It's a simple question, yet the answers promise to do more for man/woman relations than chocolates, flowers and all the sweet nothings a man can muster. Honest, revealing, wise and funny, the answers are compiled in this priceless collection. This guide instructs, amuses and provokes as it finally answers the question that has dumbfounded men since Adam bit the apple: "What does a woman want?" Wives tell all: *
What to do when your wife is stressed *
How to get what you want without raising your voice *
What to do before you blow up *
How great sex really begins *
What to do daily and what to do weekly *
The one thing you must never do on Valentine's Day-and more! This delightful-yet telling-glimpse into what women are REALLY thinking is a catalyst for better behavior and, then, better relationships. At last, husbands can get a clue. And it just might save a marriage or two.
Customer Reviews:
Caution, whining ahead!!.......2005-03-03
This is a good book to keep in the bathroom magazine rack. Be careful and just read one or two pages at a sitting.
I made the mistake of reading most of the book at one time .... Whaa, whaa, whaa, blah, blah, blah.
When I finally threw it down I felt like I had been beaten up. Husbands are insensitive, brutish louts!
A lot of the quotes (complaints) are from divorced women, married 2 or 3 times.
Don't get me wrong, there's some good advise here, just ration it out slowly otherwise you might feel like singing the blues.
Guys, it's almost perfect!.......2004-04-23
As an Author, Coach, and Motivational Speaker I read alot of books about people, their motivations, and their relationships. How to Be the Almost Perfect Husband is a cliff notes version of all the relationship books for guys that are out there. Every guy should have a copy as a quick reference guide.
Each of the 100+ pages has a thought, principle, or practice that is short, sweet, and impactful. Not every one will work for every woman so you'll need to try a few out and see the results you get. Some that work for me in my relationship with my wife are:
** I know you want to help, but please don't jump in with a solution before I've finished telling you my problem. Sometimes all I need is a sympathetic ear. - Linda
** Always kiss me good morning and good night. - Penny
** Now and then, let her have a day to herself. It's a wonderful gift that won't cost you a thing. - Suzanna
** Praise your wife, even for the little things. - Susan
Husbands, buy a copy of this cool little book and take action. You'll be very happy with the results.
Fabulous!.......2003-07-21
What a great book! What every man should know - this is what women are really thinking and what they really need. As a couples therapist, these issues are dealt with everytime a couple comes into therapy. It is so important for men and women to understand one another. This book, and the companion book "How to be The Almost Perfect Wife" are great for couples to begin a dialogue into what they need from one another. Highly recommended!!
"The Woman Call It As The See It!.......2003-06-02
Wonderful--- very funny, poignant. In one sentence you can almost sum up the woman's relationship with her husband. What's wrong... and what is right.
I have suspected woman have had these thoughts about men since the beginning of time. J.S. Salt has done his homework. Every man will think his wife is talking about him.
A perfect gift.......2000-02-08
This and its companion book "How to be the perfect wife" are a great gift for Valentines day. They are fun, clever and easy to read. I wish I had read them sooner!
Book Description
He's Just Not in the Stars is a sinful combination of He's Just Not That into You, Sex and the City, and The Secret Language of Birthdays. If all is fair in love and war, this is the right ammunition. . . .
Hindsight is 20/20. Love is blind. With all that good and bad vision out there, who's gonna give you some serious insight?
Sex columnist and love astrology expert Jenni Kosarin is taking names and kicking astrological butt. . . . Flirt. Crush. Boyfriend. Ex-boyfriend. Husband. Whatever. What's his potential? What's he looking for? How do you fix things once you've messed up? Which sign will give you another chance and which won't? Find out his idiosyncrasies before you date him. Find out who's ready for a relationship and who'll still be hanging out in twentysomething bars in fifteen years. (Uh. Creepy.)
Here, get the scoop on how your man stacks up. Decipher. Crack the code. Get stellar advice.
The concept is revolutionary: Combine his Sun Sign with his Venus. That's all. No "rising signs," no tricking his mother into telling you what time he was born. No cookie-cutter generalizations. This book is frighteningly specific. Filled with sixty easy-to-follow combos, it's illustrated with ironic, gossip-filled, shocking real-life examples of famous celebs such as:
- Colin Firth (Virgo, Venus in Libra): Virgo + Libra = sexy and subtle combo
- Orlando Bloom (Capricorn, Venus in Pisces): Capricorn is all for security, Pisces is a full-on romantic = good guy
- Chris Rock (Aquarius, Venus in Capricorn): Aquarius can be about partnership when Capricorn grounds it
- Ethan Hawke (Scorpio, Venus in Scorpio): Ladykiller double sign combo
- Antonio Banderas (Leo, Venus in Virgo): Hint: the Virgo makes him stay
. . . plus many, many others. By defining him in a way that's never been done before, He's Just Not in the Stars gives it to you straight. No tiptoeing around. No hugging and sharing. No coddling. Deal with it.
(Cue drum roll.) This is for the woman who wants to take charge of her own destiny. Is he in the stars? Time won't tell. Jenni Kosarin will.
He's Just Not in the Stars is the last hip, irreverent relationship book you'll ever want. Throw away the rest . . .
They're taking up space where your happily married pictures should go.
Customer Reviews:
It was so good I bought 3!.......2007-08-10
I hate self help books. I hate relationship books. I hate fluffy new ager books.
And so on a trip to a New Age-y Bookstore I randomly found this book and flipped to the section of the guy Im after. Dead on. I laughed out loud and was surprised to find this book was none of those things I hate; it was actually funny, blatantly honest, and accurate.
How do you know its accurate? Try yourself. I looked mine up and I was like 'If this said 'she' it would have me spot on!' And trust me its not something one would aspire to (being flakey, being paranoid, etc).
I picked the book up again and switched to the section on someone I'd had issues with for years. Boy if only Id had this book back then because it was SPOT ON!!! The best thing is that even though it tells you HOW your guy is; it tells you how to get him, drive him crazy, and win him back. Basically mess with his mind. Excellent.
I loved this book so much I bought myself a copy, my sister a copy, and my best friend a copy. I've never been so excited over a book! I hope to spread the word. Good stuff. I hope Miss Kosarin writes another book like everyone said Id love to hear what she has to say about the women!
My friends and I really enjoyed this book.......2007-05-19
Other than entertaining, it was extremely accurate! I loved it!
Oh, you are a dear, Kosarin.......2006-11-17
I think this is the second book I have by Kosarin. This one made me laugh my self silly on a rather awful day. Nothing like pining over a man for years, wondering what is wrong with myself and then finding out that he was a Kevin Federline anyway.
When I finally bought the book, I went through my entire collection of astrology charts to read about all the men in my life, past and present. This book really hit it on the head, in quite a refreshing, hilarious way. Extremely insightful.
Buy it if you love astrology. Buy it because of men. Buy it for yourself. Buy it because The title is so much more inviting than, "He's Just Not That Into You." Maybe he's just a jerk that you cannot astrologically put up with and be sane.
Funny, incredibly written, and dead-on true.......2006-11-15
Prior to reading this book I didn't know much about astrology, but it was one of the BEST BOOKS I'VE EVER READ. Like most guys, I went to the section that described me based on my sign, and I felt like I was reading my autobiography! Kosarin is a phenomenal writer and her pop culture references are hilarious, but ultimately, what makes this book so great is that it's ACCURATE. I can't see how anyone interested in love, astrology, dating, or human nature, could go without reading this book.
"Wickedly" Fun Astrological Advice.......2006-11-14
I bought this book on a whim and found it to be a lot of fun. Now I know why my ex-boyfriends didn't work out, among other reasons. I brought it to lunch with my girlfriends and they're hooked too.
Book Description
Healing prayer, although central to the Gospel, was diminished by Christians until it almost disappeared. Reviewing the history of healing prayer, MacNutt calls for its restoration.
Customer Reviews:
Healing ministry.......2007-07-03
Francis Mc Nutt is an ex-roman catholic priest that is now married and devoted to a healing ministry. It is very interesting how the charismatic movement over the years has been interpreted as a bridge between the catholics and the protestants. As an evangelical pastor I have to warn you that the opinions of this author are quite conflictive with the Biblical Teachings because he integrates too much Psychology in the matter of Healing and Liberation from demonic influence. Second, I don't believe that a person that have not devoted his WHOLE life to Christ, and none else, can help anyone be free from the influence of the demons, because this person himself is still under their influence.
Insightful History, Hopeful Expectation.......2005-04-17
Francis MacNutt has written an insightful book about how the ministry of healing has been greatly diminished in the Church for centuries (almost 1600 hundred years!). Healing was a major part of the ministry of Jesus and His disciples, the record of which takes up about a third of the Gospels, not to mention the book of Acts. Throughout, MacNutt emphasizes the importance of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, not just for healing ministry, but for EVERY ministry.
MacNutt shows how healing ministry flourished for the first three centuries, and was then sidelined by nominal Christianity beginning with the Constantinian era. He details how ecclesiastical structures and the developing clergy/laity distinction quickly began to remove healing ministry from the hands of the people-it became a work for the "super-spiritual," and few could qualify to perform it (some of the Desert Fathers, for example). Healing shortly became the province of relics and shrines-and the clergy no longer had to deal with embarrassing questions when healings did not occur at their hands.
He also talks about how the purpose of God's love and compassion in healing had been severely neglected in the intervening centuries. Healing ministry became viewed strictly as a validation of truth, but was no longer necessary for faith. "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe" became the watchword, and interest in the display of God's love through healing fell by the way.
MacNutt discusses how the Platonic split between body and soul, and the severe doctrines of the Manichees (i.e. the intrinsic evil of the flesh, and especially of sexuality) further eviscerated the ministry of healing. During the middle ages, the development of the "divine right of kings" generated "the Royal Touch," and healing ministry was limited, by law, to the monarchs of England and France.
Although a committed Roman Catholic, MacNutt believes that the Reformation did not extend far enough in its scope-the Reformers continued to ignore the reality of healing ministry. Oh, they recognized that there had once been such a thing in Jesus' day, but now that time was past, and the ministry had ceased. So much for reformation!
But all along the way, there have been healing ministers and ministries among the people, arising in times of revival and when people were desperate for a healing touch from God. In the last 300 hundred years there have been some glimpses of healing ministry arising again, then faltering. Then it began trending upward in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, mostly among the pentecostally inclined. These came to include the charismatic and "third wave" movements late in the mid-to-late 1900s, about which MacNutt writes from personal experience (the appendix is a testimony of how he received the baptism, or "release" of the Holy Spirit, into his life and ministry).
In all, Francis MacNutt brings us understanding about the decline of healing ministry, but also a hope and a challenge to welcome the release of the Holy Spirit and healing ministry back into the Western Church-just as it has been increasingly been experienced in the Third Word Church.
Jeff Doles
Walking Barefoot Ministries
Author of "Healing Scriptures and Prayers"
And "Praying With Fire: Learning to Pray With Apostolic Power"
(both are available at Amazon.com)
Book Description
Maddy, Christine, and Amy find that an old college roommate has written about them in her new self-help book-and they're furious that she's used them as examples of how women screw up their lives. And the worst part is, it's sort of true. Together they make a pact: they'll face down their fears-and maybe show Miss Perfect a thing or two!
Maddy rejected her high school sweetheart's marriage proposal for art school years ago. Now her friends challenge her to rediscover her lost passion for arts. In doing so, she crosses paths with her old flame, Joe, at an art camp. Perhaps it's about time that Maddy reignites another old passion.
Customer Reviews:
Quick Read...Good!.......2007-09-29
Almost Perfect is the first of the "perfect trilogy" and is a good, quick read.
This is Maddy's story and centers around her desire to get her artwork accepted at a gallery and her fear to do so. All three books surround the premise of conquering fear, a feeling that we all share in different quantities!
Maddy's love interest is Joe. Her childhood sweetheart who proposed to Maddy and has never gotten over the rejection that she handed to him. He is now the director of the camp that Maddy has gone to work at for the summer (on the invitation of his mother!). Maddy now widowed is still extremely attracted to Joe and interested in "picking up where they left off" if only Joe can take the risk of making himself vulnerable again. We learn throughout the book why this is difficult for him and come to love both characters vulnerablilites.
If you are looking for depth and multiples layers of a storyline, move on past this one, but if your okay with a quick read with some clever dialogue, this book will satisfy. A four course meal is lovely, but sometimes a quick McDonalds french fry is what your craving. Consider this fast-food romance. Quick, fun, addicting, and predictable.
Wonderful Story ...........2007-08-28
I have to say that Ortolon outdid herself on this trilogy. I love the premise of this story about three college roommates going out and conquering there insecurities, doubts and fears in the world. It's real true to life stories of three young females trying to overcome there worst fears.
Ortolon has done a terrific job developing all of the characters in this trilogy. All the characters are real life people, with real life issues..... which I think is starting to become rare in romance novels. The last few books I have read and looked over reviews on all had the same complaints of the story line not being realistic enough.....well your in for a surprise because Ortolon has put an end to that!
This book was so refreshingly simple and real that I have to say it's one of my favorite series to date. Maddy's story isn't just focused on love, but conquering her fears and getting her artwork published. The love that Maddy finds with Joe is just a bonus, and is so well planned out in the story line. Once you read this story you will rush out and by the second part and get ready because that book is 5 stars too!
Great.......2007-03-26
This book is wonderful and very.................interesting especially in chapters 13 and 21 .Maddy is a person that every on should be able to relate to see is so conscious of what people think she lets it hold her back.Joe is so like...........sensitive and he is always {cant find a word for it}.Over all this book is very good it is simply texas fabulous
I am from Barbados in the Caribbean and everyone who gets a chance fly down here and get some relaxation.
Bye and big Barbados
simply the best.......2006-07-28
i love the perfect trilogy by julie ortolon
at the end of the day it's not about romance at all, it's all about conquering your fears which i find really interesting and intriguing when ortolon explore more about each person's fear..
there's more than meets the eye behind their fears which at the end of reading the book, i was thinking more about fear than romance which is ok for me..
it's the perfect book if you like the kind where what you expect is totally different from what really happens..
this book is categorized as romance but i would say in the end i think it's more a self help book being told in a story where every one can relate to
all of the three books, this is my favourite because of two people who once love each other as teenagers didn;t realized for the past 15 years that the feelings was still there sounds really cool
Three Great Texas' Girls.......2005-12-21
Almost Perfect by Julie Ortolon is the first of the three fantastic contemporary romances. The three novels tell the story of Maddy, Christine and Amy who find themselves as examples of want not to do in their university roommate `how to book.' They decide to show old roommate that they can face their fears. Maddy is first with `Almost Perfect' and must get her art into a gallery and move past her husband's death. Christine is second with `Just Perfect' must face her fear of chair lifts and her problems with always wanting to please her family. Amy in `Almost Perfect' is the final novel and Amy must travel outside of Austin TX and face her fear of always getting lost and leaving her protective home. All three novels have strong men who encourage and support the changes and choice the female character must conquer. Buy them all and take a weekend for yourself and Enjoy!
Book Description
Bestselling author Patricia Rice shares her most treasured novel yet– a warm and witty romantic journey of a single mother running out of second chances, and the irresistible man who dares her to believe in miracles. . . .
Celebrated cartoonist Jared McCloud is plumb out of laughs. So he rents a secluded beach house for the fall to unblock his creative juices–and ends up falling for the reluctant landlady whose beautiful green-eyed glare reads like a “No Trespassing” sign against the world.
Cleo Alyssum isn’t exactly a recluse, though living on an island and avoiding people aren’t the actions of a social butterfly. Cleo simply has more important things to do than to chat with the sexy, artistic, impossibly bullheaded hunk living in her guest house. Yet somehow Jared and his devilish charm inch their way into her life, reaching the warm places her cold exterior cleverly hides. Will Cleo open her heart to a man who falls short of her expectations? After all, it wasn’t her intention to fall for someone who is almost perfect. . . .
Customer Reviews:
Slow and Plodding.......2002-04-05
I finished it, but it took some time. I found the all the characters dull and their motivations unbelievable. And I know I had read Cleo's sister Maya's story a while ago, but for the life of me couldn't remember one bit of it, so that book obviously had the same impact on me as this one. Hard to finish and easily forgettable.
An anti-heroine to root for and a hero who's worth the risk.......2002-03-10
Almost Perfect is a story which steps on a lot of taboos and twists some conventions into pretzels. I'm a supporter of all trailblazing, whether it's 100% successful or not, so I really liked this book.
This book picks up where Ms. Rice's Impossible Dreams left off (I recommend reading them in order, but it's not necessary), with a heroine who is possibly the least heroic character you could imagine. At least, so it seems.
Cleo Alyssum is a reclusive recovering addict who has lost her son's custody because of her past history and is struggling to rebuild her life so she can be worthy of having him with her again. She has zero interest in men, little interest in most people at all, and really just wants to be left alone to renovate her isolated house on the South Carolina coast. This is an anti-romance heroine for the ages and I liked her a lot, even when she did a couple really stupid things (they're in character, so I forgive her).
Enter the hero, Jared McCloud, who is a down-on-his-luck cartoonist with a history of swimming in shallow emotional waters and running when the water starts to get deep. At first he just wants to rent Cleo's beach house. Then he really wants Cleo too, who wants absolutely nothing to do with him. General conflict and mayhem ensue, including a hurricane.
Despite having a cartoonist for a hero, this is not an airy, light book. There are many funny scenes and moments, but this novel deals with some major issues, and for the most part handles them sensitively and honestly. To me, Cleo is a fascinating character of great depth, and Jared surpassed my expectations by turning into a man worthy of her trust. I found the emotional journey these two took - along with the two abused/neglected teenagers they take under their wings - to be affecting and real.
I've read several of Ms. Rice's previous novels, and Almost Perfect is my new favorite work by her. As Cleo and Jared learn, the risks in becoming emotionally involved with each other (and others) are great, but so are the rewards. It a lesson we can all stand to think about now and then.
superb relationship drama.......2002-03-09
With her record, Cleo Alyssum knows she needs to remain perfectly clean if she is to regain custody of her seven-year-old son Matty. Thus, she finds contentment and isolation from her past on a secluded South Carolina island until renowned cartoonist Jared McCloud of Scapegrace fame arrives asking to rent the dilapidated guesthouse. Cleo refuses until a teenage neighbor playing a prank causes an accident involving Jared. To keep thirteen-year-old Gene out of trouble with the law, Cleo rents the property to Jared.
Jared is very attracted to Cleo, but she rejects his advances, as she does not need a new man in her house except for her Matty. However, she admits that Jared is nice and seems to care about others when he begins to help Gene and the lad's sister with their personal problems. Still his efforts to reach Cleo constantly fail leaving it up to a natural disaster like the hurricane that descends on the island to show her that Jared is nothing like her deceased husband was.
ALMOST PERFECT is a superb relationship drama that stars two strong lead characters and a deeply wounded but a bit over-characterized support cast. The story line predominantly spins around Jared and Cleo, but also provides a deep look at other relationships especially when a caring adult gets involved with teens. Patricia Rice has written an angst laden relationship drama that hard core fans will fully relish.
Harriet Klausner
Book Description
At the time Stella Blake meets Richard Fallon, she is nearly broke. Her semi-famous father, who has always neglected her, is dying. Her job at a San Francisco newspaper is only tentative. Richard, on the other hand, is wildly successful as a commercial artist, even if both his marriages to bosomy blondes have failed. Of course, he immediately notes that Stella is not his type, being small, dark, and exotic-looking. For her part, Stella thinks Richard is far too sure of himself, and vain. Naturally they fall in love. Theirs is an almost perfect relationship -- except for the violent fights followed by passionate reconciliations. And there is Stella's suddenly ascending career...and a shimmering San Francisco whose dark side is AIDS.
Something is terribly amiss with this golden couple, something one of them is only beginning to suspect. In Almost Perfect, Alice Adams creates her most searing account of modern relationships when illusions crack, secrets seep out, and women face the consequences of falling madly in love.
Customer Reviews:
A LOVE STORY.......2006-03-19
"Richard arrives, bearing wine and sometimes bourbon, often flowers, and after an endless languishing kiss at the door, they settle in the living room for several drinks. For talking, for kissing."
I just had to read this book, having just completed Superior Women by this author. I found this book rather entertaining with a multitude of characters of the art a literary world.
The couple in the story, Stella Blake and Richard Fallon seems to have the world at their feet for them, and they are compatible in many ways. They both love cooking for each other, dining out at exotic restaurants, and they truly seem to love each other very much. But do they really? For Richard Fallon is a dificult man, sometimes hard to please and poor Stella finds herself sometimes trying too hard. That's the mystery of it all and the reason this book is called Almost Perfect, so you must read on and see what happens when the party decorations come down and life challenges are thrown their way.
Almost Perfect held my interest and attention, and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Heather Marshall Negahdar (SUGAR-CANE 18/03/06)
Not exciting...but made to savor slowly.......2003-09-18
I found this book very easy to read. Indeed after picking up the book for the first time I put it down at the 6th chapter. I think that I enjoyed Superior Women more, although this book was also good in its way. It is far more personal with only one main character. And doesnt really draw out on more themes other than male-female bonds and rich-poor bonds. It is a study in to the needs-wants and what makes them up especially in love. I enjoyed this and would recommend this to anyone who likes character portrait books rather than a plot driven novel. I think I will remember this book for a long time.
Almost Perfect.......2003-06-14
Story of a dysfunctional romance, compelling at times, but eventually tiresome.
Good writing, not her best work.......2000-01-07
I read Almost Perfect right after I read Adams' Superior Women. Almost Perfect is not as good, but still display's Adams' talents: character studies, touching upon the protagonists' motives, describing the ambiance and politics to romance and keeping it all readable and engaging. I walked away from this book still not really knowing the characters and I know that Adams does better at getting inside her characters' heads.
Read it anyway. Then read Superior Women.
An indepth look at a woman questioning love with Adonis.......1998-08-07
The beauty of this book is the author's inside the mind of the woman who knows what she's thinking and why, but continues to continue. The ambiguity of loving the wrong man in the right way at the right time. Positing her own development as a personality and a published author against the neediness of the beautiful man who loves me; therefore, I must be beautiful and lovable even if my famous, important father did not think so. Reveals the male character as well as the female character by balancing the power plays of his success vs her success and his neediness and her neediness. The triumph of the strong woman while her friends still search for the male completeness is an ironic ending. You just can not have success and love? The descriptions of place and how they fit the yuppiness of the Bay Area add to the ambience. The characters recreate their environments and themselves. I loved the angst...
Average customer rating:
- Wonderful Book
- If only all schools could be this fun!
- A "Perfect" book
- What a great story!
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Russ and the Almost Perfect Day (A Day With Russ)
Janet Elizabeth Rickert
Manufacturer: Woodbine House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Fiction
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| Ages 4-8
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ASIN: 1890627186 |
Book Description
Russ is having an excellent day-his Mom makes his favorite breakfast; he gets ready for school in time to catch the end of his favorite TV show, and he finds a 5-dollar bill on the way to school. It doesn't take long for Russ to decide to keep the money and treat himself and his friend Adam to ice cream at lunch.
Good things keep happening to Russ. He's invited to a birthday party; he rides a scooter during gym; and his science class visits a very cool exhibit of cold-blooded animals. After lunch, Russ and Adam are standing in line for ice cream when they notice a girl who's crying. She's upset over losing the five dollars she'd brought to buy a special lunch that day. Uh-oh think Adam and Russ, could this be the same five dollars they found? And, just when they were about to take their first lick!
Young readers will sympathize with Russ's difficult decision. Should he give the girl the money or not? Here's a clue: Russ continue to have an almost perfect day though it doesn't include ice cream.
Kids will want to read all the Russ books, including: Russ and the Apple Tree Surprise and Russ and the Firehouse. All three picture books show how much Russ is a typical kid, rather than focusing on his special needs. The full-color, large-format photographs make it easy to follow along on his adventure. Russ and the Almost Perfect Day is an excellent tool for the classroom that includes a child with Down syndrome, and enjoyable reading for families with young children.
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful Book.......2005-03-29
I give Russ and the Almost Perfect Day a very positive evaluation in terms of inclusive children's literature. It describes an interesting series of events, centred on a character who happens to have a disability, but this disability is not the focus of the book. Russ is similar to other students in his interests, activities and problems. The storyline is simple yet interesting as it presents a wonderful school day for Russ. All children would love to imagine a fun filled day similar to his experience. He must make a difficult decision that other children can relate to, and several of his emotions are expressed through the colourful, appealing photographs on each page. There are no stereotypes or labels used, all settings are inclusive of someone with a disability, and all situations show Russ in valued roles, as an active and contributing individual. I highly recommend it as a valuable example of how inclusive children's literature should be written. It would be an asset to any school or home library.
Joan McHale
If only all schools could be this fun!.......2004-02-15
This is just one in a series of lovely stories about the adventures of Russ. In this one, Russ is having an unbelievably amazing day. It seems nothing could go wrong, until he is faced with a challenging decision that could impact others in a big way. Through the book's photographs, we learn that Russ, an energetic and popular young boy, has Down syndrome. This book is a sensationally casual look at inclusion and kids will delight in this fun school! If only all schools could be as exciting as the one Russ goes to!
A "Perfect" book.......2003-07-22
I have all three of the Day with Russ books and they all deserved the 5 star ratings I've given them but this one is my favorite. I appreciate the fact that Russ's DS is never mentioned in the book, it's just a fact. The pictures are beautiful and the story itself is lovely. I love the lesson Russ gets about doing the right thing and the fact that he is an example to his friend Kevin. I just wish that Janet Rickert would write more Russ books. Because my own son has DS I tend to look for books that feature children with it but the wonderful thing about the Russ books is that the stories are good, the pictures fun and Russ's DS is just part of who he is! I love it!
What a great story!.......2001-06-06
Kids will really connect with this book. Russ and his friends are so believable and likeable. The vibrant color photos practically pop off the page. What I love about this series is that it isn't specifically 'for' kids with Down syndrome--any reader will appreciate Russ' spunk and the story's message.
Average customer rating:
- Welcome to CondoWorld! ...where life is almost perfect
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Welcome to CondoWorld! ...where life is almost perfect
Jordan I. Shifrin
Manufacturer: iUniverse, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
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ASIN: 059578108X |
Book Description
This is Jordan Shifrin's second book on the "Corpus Condo" or laws and procedures governing Associations. Sprinkled throughout are his own philosophies, jokes and a few favorite quotes. When he is not writing, he provides legal advice to Associations, rides a motorcycle, plays golf and tennis and dusts off his toy soldiers. Jordan Shifrin grew up on the north side of Chicago, attended Senn High School, graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's degree in history. He was a clothing salesman, insurance adjuster and a teacher before he went to law school, but always wanted to be a writer. This book is chock full with a wealth of valuable information but also keeps the interest level of readers who do not take themselves too seriously.
Download Description
This is Jordan Shifrin
Customer Reviews:
Welcome to CondoWorld! ...where life is almost perfect.......2007-03-09
This should be a "must read" for prospective Board Members and newly formed Property Owners Associations. While the author resides and is experienced in Illinois, there is a lot of insight that applies across the board. This book is easy to read and very helpful to our ownership.
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