One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd

Book Description

One Thousand White Women is the story of May Dodd and a colorful assembly of pioneer women who, under the auspices of the U.S. government, travel to the western prairies in 1875 to intermarry among the Cheyenne Indians. The covert and controversial "Brides for Indians" program, launched by the administration of Ulysses S. Grant, is intended to help assimilate the Indians into the white man's world. Toward that end May and her friends embark upon the adventure of their lifetime. Jim Fergus has so vividly depicted the American West that it is as if these diaries are a capsule in time.

Customer Reviews:

Wild story from the wild west.......2007-10-08

May Dodd is the daughter of a wealthy family in Chicago who humiliates them by running off with her lover and having two children by him without marrying. Her family has her committed to an asylum as her indiscretion could only be caused by insanity. But she is ultimately given an opportunity to gain her freedom from the asylum - she must relocate west and become the bride of a Cheyenne Indian.

Little Wolf is the Cheyenne Chief who proposes to President Grant that the two nations trade 1000 white women for 1000 horses. It is Little Wolf's belief that by having children with the white brides that the offspring will bring the Cheyenne closer to the white world and thus begin the process of assimilation. The US Government takes the Indian Nation up on its offer in secret sending only those women who volunteer or want the freedom to escape their current lives, such as women in asylums and jails. May Dodd jumps on this opportunity and becomes a leader amongst the other women who believe the west has something to offer.

This novel is comprised of the journal entries of May Dodd and letters that she writes to loved ones back home understanding that they will never be mailed. Her writing chronicles the daily life of the Cheyenne from the elaborate wedding ceremony the white women experience, to the everyday chores and friendships that are born on the vast prairies. It is a unique look at how the Native American life may have been in the late 1800s, but also provides a sharp contrast between that life and that of the whites. The story is not without conflict and does a good job of presenting the perspective of the Native American as the white man trampled over their lands and customs.

Something about this book just didn't grab me and hold on. It was interesting and informative, but I had trouble buying into the May Dodd character. She was a bit too strong willed to be plausible. While others around her experienced terrifying fear, she almost brushes her own experience with fear and danger aside too callously. Not to say that she didn't acknowledge the people and circumstances that scared her, but it was minimized in such a way that it became hard to read her as a believable character. The story is moving, but was missing something that is hard to put a finger on.

Engrossing read.......2007-10-06

I loved this book! At the very beginning I was a bit skeptical but once I got into it I couldn't stop listening. I read some other reviews that mentioned finding men writing in a woman's voice not believable but I disagree. An author is a story teller and can tell a story from many perspectives, you need to use your imagination... it's fiction! After only a little way into the book I was immersed in the time, place and beauty of the setting. I loved the characters, a lot of variety and different peronalities. The Native American way of life was quite interesting and although this book was written in a plain spoken way it really came alive for me. I would highly suggest this book to anyone. It's an easy read and I think a "page turner."

Loved it.......2007-10-03

I loved this book and am so sad that it ended. I hope his other books are as good as this one because I really liked his writing style. I read all the time and this is the best book I have read in a long time. Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I would highly reccomend it!

Great read with unexpected story line.......2007-10-03

I asked some friends what was the best thing they'd read lately. When they mentioned the title of this book I could not imagine what it was about and visualized something like the Million Man March...in reverse? :-)
Even when they told me a bit of the plot line I wasn't sure about "One Thousand White Women". But they said they couldn't put it down so I gave it a try. I loved it - so much so that I bought it as a gift for someone else. The book intertwines a bit of a real story with 'what might have been'. I found myself so engrossed in the book that I forgot it was fiction...and wished it wasn't.

one of the best.......2007-10-02

One of the best books I've read in a long time! Right up there with Memoirs of a Geisha, from the point of view of a man writing as a woman and getting it so perfectly. Also because, like Geisha, the book transports you to another place and time and you feel like you have met a whole bunch of new friends. Read it!!!!

A Crazy Little Thing Called Death: A Blackbird Sisters Mystery

Average customer rating:

Nancy Martin and the Blackbird Sisters
Easy Read
Always entertaining
Fun
A Crazy Little Thing Called Death

A Crazy Little Thing Called Death: A Blackbird Sisters Mystery
Nancy Martin
Manufacturer: NAL Hardcover
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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Women Sleuths | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0451220412

Book Description

Impoverished Philadelphia heiress Nora Blackbird has agreed to wed Mick Abruzzo, son of New Jersey's most notorious mobster, leaving the city's bluebloods in shock. Then Nora and her sisters get some ominous news-Sweet Penny Devine, ex-Hollywood starlet and daughter of the Philadelphia Devines, has mysteriously disappeared. Even stranger, her family wants her declared dead pronto. Could someone have plotted her final act? Now it's up to the Blackbird sisters to snoop among the snooty-until they uncover the truth.

Customer Reviews:

Nancy Martin and the Blackbird Sisters.......2007-09-12

This book was a great book in this series. I loved reading it and can not wait for the next book.

Easy Read.......2007-08-14

I enjoy the Blackbird sister books - they're an easy, fast read when I don't want to think to hard about what I'm reading. I would recommend them to anyone, but would caution you to read them in order.

Always entertaining.......2007-06-27

Great writer, great story. The relationships are so interesting, always dynamic and intertwined. Love this author's point of view. The mystery was a good one too.

Fun.......2007-06-11

All of Nancy Martin's books are fun, fast and easy reads. They are entertaining, will make you laugh, and great summer books for relaxing. It is enjoyable to try to figure out Who Done It. Great characters.
Enjoy!

A Crazy Little Thing Called Death.......2007-06-08

Love all of Nancy Martin books and this one was great

Average customer rating:

Well-written but boring
A LIE!
Devil Wears Prada? NOT.
Well-written, but NOT based on Rosie
Charming Novel.

Little Pink Slips
Sally Koslow
Manufacturer: Putnam Adult
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Comic | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0399154159

Book Description

On the towering stilettos of The Devil Wears Prada comes a biting, mordantly funny debut novel about the extremely unladylike business of publishing a very ladylike magazine.

Once there was a little girl from Fargo, North Dakota, named Maggie Goldfarb who grew up, moved to Manhattan, and morphed into Magnolia Gold, the highly paid editor in chief of Lady magazine. With a corner office, a designer wardrobe, and dozens of loyal employees, Magnolia has been hired to update the dowager of women's magazines. She's on her way to giving Lady a face-lift when she is ignominiously replaced by Bebe Blake, a brash television personality who remakes the magazine in her own hilariously inappropriate image. With her ketchup-red hair, skintight clothes, and penchant for "boy toys," Bebe is more out of control than a speeding limo. Maddeningly unpredictable, she confounds everyone at the newly christened Bebe with her personal vision of what a women's magazine should be, and baffles them further with her bawdy sense of humor and over-the-top generosity.

Shunted off to the darkest corners of executive purgatory-an overlooked back office she shares with a cockroach or two-Magnolia seethes from the sidelines as Bebe turns her beloved, once-profitable Lady into a sideshow. As things go from bad to worse, Magnolia fears that her career will never recover, but even she can't predict how deeply satisfying her eventual triumph will be. And not just at work: amidst the frenzy of backstabbing at the office, Magnolia finds Mr. Right in a city of Mr. Not-Quites.

Inspired by real-life events, Little Pink Slips is about the fall, rise, and sweet revenge of a woman who witnesses corporate shenanigans at their most flagrant. Filled with gossipy revelations about celebrity obsession and behind-the-scenes details of the media business in all its malfeasant glory, this novel is delicious, can't-stop-reading fun.

Customer Reviews:

Well-written but boring.......2007-09-24

t is unusual for a book to be this well crafted and yet so uninteresting. Her characters were flat and not very realistic. I never found myself caring about the main character, Maggie Gold. Her villains were even worse; I could not understand their motivation for acting the way they did. A waste of my time and money.

A LIE!.......2007-09-17

Anybody who thinks or has alluded that this book is a tell all about working with Roise O'donnell is sadly mistaken. Sally Koslow was fired by the owners of "McCalls" when it become "Rosie". Hence, she NEVER worked for Ms. O'Donnell in any capactiy for any period of time. EVER.

Devil Wears Prada? NOT........2007-09-15

This is a book that verges on silly. A multi million dollar magazine says to its succesful editor, "your out"! And replace her with a "Talk Show host" with No editorial experience? I think Not! Its not devil wears prada or even close in fact its different altogether. However, its not bad. It isn't exceiting and has you chomping at the bit for more.

Well-written, but NOT based on Rosie.......2007-07-22

I was going to say that this book was decent, and recommend it as a good choice for a casual summer read on the beach. It has the usual mistakes, sure, as if no one at the publishing house bothered to read it before sending it to the presses, but it's suprisingly well-written. But there's one question that automatically comes up: How much was based on Koslow's experiences with Rosie O'Donnell, who, like the book's Bebe Blake, takes a venerable woman's magazine and attempts to turn it into a star vehicle? It turns out, not much, and if you manage to google this little factoid hidden under all the hype, you the reader feel deceived.

The basic premise: Protagonist Magnolia Gold is ousted from her enviable position as editor-in-chief of the venerable women's magazine Lady when the publishing company decided that it will be a bigger moneymaker if it's handed over to brash TV talk show host Bebe Blake, and turned into Bebe. Similarly, Koslow (who I usually call "coleslaw" before catching myself and inverting the letters) was given the boot as EIC from venerable women's magazine McCalls when the title was handed over to Rosie O'Donnell and turned into Rosie. Both magazines fail. See a pattern? But it turns out, this marketed-as-a "roman a clef" is basically complete fiction. According to the New York Times, Koslow and Rosie never actually worked together. Instead, the author penned this little expose from things she'd heard. Seriously? Things she'd heard?

She's trying to sell some books, okay, and one could argue that it's a conclusion drawn from her bio, and not explicitly stated. Perhaps I can accept that. But then do a Google. Koslow tried to start a mini-duel on the Huffington Post over some dismissive comment Rosie had made. It didn't work -- and seems a cheap cry for just a little more publicity. The whole thing really changed my opinion of the book. It's like both the writer and the publishing company is content to ride on someone-way-more-famous's coattails, hoping you won't figure it out.

Charming Novel........2007-07-02

Little Pink Slips is a charming novel about Magnolia Gold's travel to hell and back when a buxom, loud mouth, uncontrollable celebrity takes over the magazine where she (Magnolia) was editor in chief. According to the inside cover, this novel is based on a true story. You can make your own conjecture.

I just know that Magnolia Gold wielded her way into my heart. It was a slow start, but by the end I could not put this book down. Magnolia feels like a real person with insecurities and doubts. Through her journey, she learns that in the end good conquers all. :-)

Overall, This is a stylish, poignant tale that leaves you wanting more. Bravo!

All You Need to Be Impossibly French: A Witty Investigation into the Lives, Lusts, and Little Secrets of French Women

Average customer rating:

Interesting Stories
If this book doesn't "tweak" you, you are in bad shape
don't waste your time
Amusing bit of froth, but that's all
entertaining light read- very true!

All You Need to Be Impossibly French: A Witty Investigation into the Lives, Lusts, and Little Secrets of French Women
Helena Frith-Powell
Manufacturer: Plume
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Women | Specific Groups | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Memoirs | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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Chic In Paris: Style Secrets & Best Addresses

ASIN: 0452287782

Book Description

The allure of the Frenchwoman—sexy, sophisticated, flirtatious, and glamorous—is legendary. More than an eye for fashion or a taste for elegance, the French je ne sais quoi embodies the essential ingredients for looking and feeling beautiful.

With wit, whimsy, and wonder, British expatriate Helena Frith Powell uncovers the secrets of chic living in All You Need to Be Impossibly French, a cheeky guide to releasing your inner Frenchwoman. Delving deep into a mysterious realm of face creams, silk lingerie, and shopping- as-exercise, Powell reveals how French women stay impossibly thin and irresistibly sexy by achieving the maximum effect from the minimum amount of effort. Forget diet and inspiration books and style guides—this is all you need to embrace the wisdom of French living, and learn how to turn every day into la petite aventure.

Customer Reviews:

Interesting Stories.......2007-08-28

Interesting stories, but of course not all of it is true. The author tells amusing tales of her "fish out of water" experiences with French women; it's a wonderfully interesting culture. That the French women never leave the house looking grungy seems to be the main focus of the book, however, as the author focuses mainly on the fact that Parisian women refuse to "let themselves go" once they're married or when they grow old.

I wasn't mystified and awed by the concept of women who wished to look put-together at all times, I was more interested in the bits about their love of art, intellectuals, celebrity, etc.

Still, this book was a great fun read and though it's a broad generalization, I'd still recommend it to anyone looking for a good afternoon book.

If this book doesn't "tweak" you, you are in bad shape.......2007-08-25

I am too old for all this but I enjoyed it no end. I bought three copies for my girls (they will truly love this book. I guarantee it) it makes one feel "alivea' again and it makes you want to go out immediately and purchase matching underwear.

don't waste your time.......2007-08-21

This book is not funny as many readers have said. It gets very boring in a number of chapters. It basically describes French women as self absorbed, jealous, shallow, and uppity. The author seems obsessed with her own looks and weight. She paints all other women in comparison with the French as ugly, frumpy, dispassionate, and totally out of touch with their sensual selves. If you are looking for a boost to your self esteem and you aren't French do yourself a favor and Don't waste you time with this one.

Amusing bit of froth, but that's all.......2007-06-13

This reads like a typical article in Cosmo (the Doxy's Digest) puffed up into book length. Frith Powell is witty, and occasionally sharp-eyed. She doesn't mince words about the Frenchwoman's self-absorption, competitiveness, and lack of interest in female friendships; these qualities come across as quite cold. But Frith Powell also blathers on obsessively about the Frenchwoman's thinness, disciplined cultivation of her appearance, "waxed legs," perfect haircuts, and all the other surface adornments whose fault is just that: they're surface. Frith Powell adds that Frenchwomen regard their intellects as further tools of seduction. Frith Powell's own intellect seems all over the place, as she adds a number of dubious (or sometimes just plain false)historical details about long-dead Frenchwomen to prove her theories. The writer Colette, for example, did not "dance drunk on tables" in her sixties. By that time she had severe arthritis and would have had quite a problem clambering up there. Nor did Colette "marry her son-in-law." She had an affair with her stepson, which is bad enough, but not quite the same. Frith Powell makes a number of other careless mistakes. If she was going to bring up these examples, she should have bothered to get them right.

entertaining light read- very true!.......2007-05-13

Helena Frith Powell's book is a lighthearted glimpse at how real French women live. It's fairly true to life. Having lived in France for 9 years, I felt like there were passages I had experienced myself first hand. I particularly like the part about getting fitted for fancy lingerie. The section on sex and adultery actually went way beyond what I had imagined it to be. Her vision really is very elite and she interviews some of the power players in French society, fashion and political life. I kept wondering how it might have been different if centered more on 'regular' French women.

Average customer rating:

a classic piece of beautiful writing.......
Little Women
The Best Louisa May Alcott Novel!
A Classic
Quiet surprised

Little Women (Signet Classics)
Louisa May Alcott
Manufacturer: Signet Classics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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March
The Secret Garden (HarperClassics)
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Little Men

ASIN: 0451529308
Release Date: 2004-04-06

Book Description

In picturesque nineteenth-century New England, tomboyish Jo, beautiful Meg, fragile Beth, and romantic Amy come of age while their father is off to war.

Customer Reviews:

a classic piece of beautiful writing..............2007-08-30

I must have read LITTLE WOMEN when I was about ten years old, yet, it is one of those exceptional examples of literature that stays with you years after you've first come to know the March sisters, their trials, triumphs, joys and sorrow. This beautiful book truly captures the strength of family, the courage one must exercise in the face of great adversity and the wisdom we are lucky to acquire if we get through it in one piece. Jo March is the epitome of the irrerepressible, hot-headed and adventurous tomboy. Her character was actually based on the personality of the author, Louisa May Alcott. Meg is the eldest and the most traditionally-minded, Beth is the more retiring, shy and selfless one and Amy is the selfish and strategic one. Together, they all are devoted to and have great respect for their mother, Marmee March, and await the arrival of their father who is serving as a chaplain for the Union Army.

LITTLE WOMEN is the first book in a series chronicling the lives of these intriguing and well-developed characters. Even more than one hundred years later, this book still presents timeless themes of friendship, courage, dedication, faith and determination. It's not difficult to see why this story was retold so many times in film.

Little Women.......2007-08-08

It was such a pleasure to meet the sisters as they were created by the aurthor. At first you feel like it was written to teach young girls their morals, but it is so much more. Ms Alcott's reflections on relationships still hold true today. For a period book, the writing is very smooth and clear enough for our generation to understand. In fact, it actually helps you to get closer to the era.

The Best Louisa May Alcott Novel!.......2007-07-28

I read this book when I was a little girl and I love it as much now as I did then. The neat thing about Little Women is how I connect more with different characters during different points in my life. Romantic Amy, Rebellious Jo, Homemaker Meg, I love them all. This is a definite must read!

A Classic.......2007-04-05

Girls of all ages should read this book and come back to read it again as women. This novel is truly a treasure.

Quiet surprised.......2007-03-08

Was very surprised in that I received this so quickly...one day before stated. Since was purchased for a grandchild, she will have way before Spring Break and be able to finish before returning to school.

Average customer rating:

GETTO GIRL !
Not Another Ghetto Story
amazing
straight fiyah
Ok I get the point!

Little Ghetto Girl: A Novel
Danielle Santiago
Manufacturer: Atria
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Family Saga | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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Thug Matrimony

ASIN: 0743297474

Book Description

After a successful life in the drug game, twenty-one-year-old Kisa Kane plans to retire -- settle down, find a good man, and raise a family of her own. Done with the thug life, she has everything a ghetto girl would want: plenty of money, drop-dead-gorgeous looks, and two thriving legitimate businesses. Until she falls in love with Sincere Montega, a powerful drug dealer whose down-and-dirty money pulls Kisa back into the world she is trying so hard to leave behind. With lies, cheating, and conflict, Kai, their newborn, may be the only reason for this couple to stay together, but their lives are inevitably changed in the most unexpected way, the only way the streets of Harlem can.

Customer Reviews:

GETTO GIRL !.......2007-08-22

This book was okay i was a little tired of hearing about what they where wearing. The writer spent more time talking about there clothes then the plot of the book. Other then that it was a good read. I hope there will be a Part II because there was a question at the end that i would think need answered.

Not Another Ghetto Story.......2007-07-27

This book was okay, not one of my favorites. I got tired of reading about every article of clothing Kane bought, wore or wanted. All the designer name dropping took away from the story line and got on my last nerve. This book really could have been converted into a short story if we didn't have to read about every characters clothes, jewelry, shoes, purses, etc.... Just Okay for me, tired of reading about the "Lifestyles Of The Ghetto Fabulous." And can somebody please tell me what was up with the author using the "N" word in every other sentence, was that necessary?

amazing.......2007-07-26

I LOVE THIS BOOK I THING I HAVE READ IT OVER 15 TIMES NOW I'AM READING HER LATEST GRINGING AND SO FAR LOVING IT TOO DANIELLE keep writing and you have a fan that will keep reading

straight fiyah.......2007-07-19

Oh my god this is defiantely one of my favorite books hands down Kisa Kane was that chick who stuck by her man no matter what. This book had me screaming out loud on some parts but this book was definately worth the money and one of my top 5. i can't wait for the sequel. Ms. Santiago keep doing ya thing cause u kilt it with this one.

Ok I get the point!.......2007-07-03

The book overall was good but I could do without the description of what clothes they had on all the time and how much they cost. What the author failed to do was verify the characters complete backgrounds. Yeah I know that Sincere's grandpa was Italian and a made man but what else was Sincere? Was he also black or what and who was black his grandma or his daddy? There's also not enough info about Kisa's father. Where was he when she went home to her momma? The book does not give enough information or explore the pasts of the characters.

Average customer rating:

A beautiful, bubbling, but bittersweet book
Each little Bird That Sings by:Deborah Wiles
Each Little Bird That Sings
Each Little Bird That Sings
Each Little Bird That Sings

Each Little Bird That Sings
Deborah Wiles
Manufacturer: Harcourt Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Worth
So B. It

ASIN: 0152056572

Amazon.com

Death is a way of life for the Snowberger family, since they run a funeral parlor out of their Mississippi home with the motto "We live to serve." Still, when 94-year-old Great-great-aunt Florentine Snowberger dies in the vegetable garden, no one can truly be prepared, even though she'd been bidding "good night and good-bye" to the family every night since she turned 90. Florentine's death is hard on 10-year-old Comfort, since the two were so close, even co-writing the Fantastic (and Fun) Funeral Food for Family and Friends. It's no surprise, then, when the annoyingly overwrought emotional displays of her young cousin Peach Shuggars and the sudden iciness of her alleged best friend Declaration Johnson send Comfort over the edge. Thank goodness for her shaggy "feel-good" dog Dismay who can eradicate all bad feelings with a single slobbery lick.

When a dangerous flash flood comes to Snapfinger on the day of Florentine's funeral, Comfort learns again that life is full of surprises, good and bad, and that, ultimately, it's just good to be alive. This warm, witty novel, told in Comfort's voice (and a mix of letters, recipes, articles, and helpful hints), celebrates the joys of family, of prune bread, of freshly sharpened pencils, and of "each little bird that sings." The fairly constant philosophizing about life and death, the unusual character names (Tidings, Comfort, Joy), and the narrator's oft-precocious voice may fray a nerve or two, but readers will find more than enough humor and good old-fashioned storytelling here to make up for it. (Ages 8 to 12) --Karin Snelson

Book Description

Ten-year-old Comfort Snowberger has attended 247 funerals--her family owns the local funeral home, after all. And even though Great-uncle Edisto keeled over with a heart attack and Great-great-aunt Florentine dropped dead--just like that--six months later, Comfort knows how to deal with loss, or so she thinks. She's more concerned with avoiding her crazy cousin Peach and trying to figure out why her best friend, Declaration, suddenly won't talk to her. But life is full of surprises. And the biggest one of all is learning what it takes to handle them.

In this heartfelt and quintessentially Southern coming-of-age novel, Comfort will charm young readers with her wit, her warmth, and her struggles as she learns about life, loss, and ultimately, triumph.

I ncludes reader's guide and a biography of the author.

Customer Reviews:

A beautiful, bubbling, but bittersweet book.......2007-09-02

While organizing books in my basement, I came across a hand-me-down with a cool-looking cover. I read the back and was attracted to the content. I decided I would start reading it to my kids--6, 8, and 10--before bed each night. The author has a very cute way of writing and created such great characters that amused my kids right from the beginning. They especially laughed out loud at everything Merry said.

SPOILER WARNING:

During a flash flood that nearly kills Comfort and Peach, Dismay--funeral dog extraordinaire--gets swept away by the rising water's current. I stopped there for the night and came down to find out what happens. After reading the other reviews and finding out that Dismay does die, I was so sad. I decided to tell the kids the next morning so that they'd be prepared when I read before bed that night. I didn't want to upset them before bed! They took it pretty well and wanted to go on reading that night.

Parents, if you're going to read this book aloud to your children, I hope you can get through it better than I did. I actually had to have my husband take over at certain parts because I couldn't get the words through the lump in my throat nor see for the tears in my eyes! It was a little embarrassing and my daughter said, "Mom, you're weird." LOL

My 8- and 10-year-old enjoyed this book more than my 6-year-old. He lost interest here and there and wasn't interested in hearing the end.

All in all, this book was wonderfully written and was tender and sweet. Death is a part of life and it was nice to talk about the subject with my kids after our nightly sessions. I'm really glad I found this book and got to share it with my babies.

Each little Bird That Sings by:Deborah Wiles.......2007-06-04

Have you ever been to a funeral? Have you ever know someone that ruins everything? Well those things happen in Each Little Bird That Sings.It is about a girl named Comfort that surronded by death and all the drama that comes with it.But when her best friend turns straight mean and her annoying cousin Peach comes all she wants to do is hide in her closet and make all her troubles go away. I would recemond this book to people who like drama and suprises.

Each Little Bird That Sings.......2007-06-04

This book is about a girl surounded by death and all the drama that comes with it. I recomend this book to anyone who likes alot of drama and excitment. I also think if you like to read this would be a great book for you. The author of this book really expresses them self, and makes you feel like you were there too.
This book isn`t very hard to read but some of the words are a little tricky, and they are sometimes unfamilar and new too. So if you would like to read this book I hope you enjoy it as much as I did too!

Each Little Bird That Sings.......2007-06-04

Have you ever been to a funeral before?Well Comfort has been to 247 funeral.Her father owns the town funeral home and she's been to all of the funerals.So she's surrounded by death.

She can tell you which cassorole to eat and who to sit by and not to sit by.And number 1 on the not to sit by is Peach.He gets on Comfort's nerves.Peach is Comfort's little cousin.Comfort hates Peach.

This book reminds me of myself because sometimes my little cousin gets on my nerves.

I give this book 4 stars.I give this book 4 stars because I thought it was going to be more intresting.I thought Comfort was going to run away with her dog Dimay.

I recommend this book to someone that likes sadness.

Review By: Tatiana Age: 10

Each Little Bird That Sings.......2007-04-17

Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles is a young adult realistic fiction novel. The story takes place in Snapfinger, Mississippi in present times. The main character, Comfort Snowberger, is a ten year old girl who lives at a funeral home right near the cemetery. Her best friend is Dismay, her wonderful, "feel-good dog". Wiles writes about Comfort's challenges with death, fear, anger, and her ever-so-annoying cousin, Peach. Meanwhile, Comfort's old best friend, Declaration, seems to be getting meaner by the second. So when worst comes to worst, friends are lost, yet the future still holds promise.
I liked most of this book, but I'll have to say this part was one of my favorites. In one scene about 1/5 of the way into the book, Comfort is making her way up to Listening Rock and describes everything. After just one paragraph you get a crystal clear picture in your head. "A thick stand of rose of Sharon bushes guarded the path with strong woody branches full of wide pink blooms." is one of the descriptive sentences from the novel. This section made me feel as though I was actually there. I felt calm but excited to see what would happen next.
This is my evaluation of the book. Overall I thought Each Little Bird That Sings is a pretty good book. I think there are two morals to this book: 1) don't judge people immediately and 2) to forgive. This book was little bit easy for my reading level, but I still enjoyed it. A lot of this book was sad or scary so I will probably remember it well. I would have to think about whether this book should be on my favorite bookshelf, but in the end I would probably add it to my favorites.

A Little Book of Manners: Courtesy & Kindness for Young Ladies

Average customer rating:

Great book
Sensitivity in text and illustrations = charming book
I wish she would write a book for boys too.
Lovely and effective!
The girls loved it!

A Little Book of Manners: Courtesy & Kindness for Young Ladies
Emilie Barnes , and Anne Christian Buchanan
Manufacturer: Harvest House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Ethics & Morality | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

General | Etiquette | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Reference | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

A Little Book of Manners for Boys: A Game Plan for Getting Along with Others
Let's Have a Tea Party!: Special Celebrations for Little Girls
365 Manners Kids Should Know: Games, Activities, and Other Fun Ways to Help Children Learn Etiquette
Be The Best You Can Be; A Guide to Etiquette and Self-Improvement for Children and Teens
Manners Made Easy: A Workbook for Student, Parent, and Teacher

ASIN: 1565076788

Book Description

Following in the footsteps of the popular Let’s Have a Tea Party! Book, Emilie Barnes introduces children to good manners. Fascinating facts explain why we follow certain rules, and helpful hints demonstrate courtesy in a child–friendly way.

Customer Reviews:

Great book.......2004-12-21

This is a very cute book. It is more for older kids than preschoolers (I bought it for my daughter who is 8) It was worth the money and my daughter enjoyed it very very much, she even brought it to school and the teacher loved it as well.

Sensitivity in text and illustrations = charming book.......2002-07-05

Dear Ms. Barnes,

Thank you so very much for A LITTLE BOOK OF MANNERS: COURTESY AND KINDNESS FOR YOUNG LADIES. It has made all the difference in our lives.

One evening my husband and I experienced one of the most embarrassing moments of our entire lives when we took our granddaughters out to dinner. I suddenly realized that they simply had not been taught some pretty basic manners. Modern parents are so busy with two careers and hectic schedules, I suppose.

Imagine how thrilled I was to find this book and how even more delighted to discover that when they read it, both girls took the lessons to heart and began to practice them. It saved me the further embarrassment of telling their parents about the painful incident. You back me up on that one: "Don't point out other people's bad manners," -- remember? Of course, grandmothers have special advantages in that area, but tact and sometimes even reticence is often the better part of valor.

"Five good reasons to write thank you notes!" and
"The heart of all good manners is the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." What brave and wonderful things to write to youngsters in a society that sneers at manners and religion as "sentimental" and "old-fashioned."

Because of the lessons here -- from thank you notes to how to entertain friends to telephone manners to introductions and party manners and more -- we are now proud to take the girls anywhere. Their introductions (which we had fun practicing) are truly graceful.

Another very important point you make is to treat brothers and sisters like friends. That is, with respect. Practicing that one little idea can change the entire atmosphere in a home.

Thank you, Emilie Barnes, for a very important book. This one was so successful for us that I bought the companion volume, A LITTLE BOOK OF MANNERS FOR BOYS and look forward to seeing equally triumphant results among our grandsons.

Michel Sparks's illustrations are colorful and delightfully whimsical. The visual appeal and emphasis they add to the text makes this a very special book indeed.

Thank you again for the lovely and sensitive addition to our children's library and to our lives.

I wish she would write a book for boys too........2000-07-15

Excuse me, could I please tell you about a book I just read? Well, this is what Emilie Marie would say if she could walk off the pages and into your life. She also believes that the heart of all good manners is the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This is a little girl you would happily invite over for a tea party!

This is just an enchanting book for helping young ladies learn courtesy and kindness. Emilie Marie introduces herself in a most polite way, then explains how her Aunt Evelyn has been helping her practice her manners.

This book helps girls to learn how to meet people, shake hands, answer the phone, be a good friend and so much more. I loved the section on the heart of Good Manners. I must say we adults could learn a few things from this book. Emilie Marie learns how to write thank you notes and how to answer invitations to a party.

To give this book to a little girl is also a way to give the gift of happiness to all those who know her. Michal Sparks has illustrated the pink and yellow pages in the most charming way possible. The blue bow on the cover is just adorable.

Thank you for reading my review and I really hope you will buy this book for someone you know. I bought it for my nieces and they love it. I must say they are turning out to be polite little ladies themselves.

It was so nice to meet you.

Lovely and effective!.......2000-05-30

My child went from exhibiting the most atrocious of table manners to conducting herself at table with perfect grace! After reading this book, she was eager for opportunities to practice her new manners on the telephone and at the table. Knowing "the rules" made her feel confident. Framing the need to be respectful of grown-ups as an issue of manners rather than power has made her rethink her behavior at school as well. Granted, this book takes an old-fashioned approach to proper behaviors (it is, for example, gender-specific, as the title clearly shows), but it has affected the way my behavior-challenged 6-year-old (though it's geared toward a slightly older audience) thinks about her actions. The illustrations are beautiful, and the prose -- from the perspective of a fictive childhood Emilie Barnes -- engages the socially-conscious child's mind. I only wish there were more, and that boys could be privy to this way of thinking about social interactions as well.

The girls loved it!.......2000-03-18

Manners are such a lost art! I used this well-written (and very cute) book to teach a class on manners to a group of girls. Needless to say, they had a blast while learning valuable information. I would highly recommend it for the little girls in your life.

Mama's Little Baby: The Black Woman's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Baby's First Year

Average customer rating:

A Must Have for any mom
OK, but not what I expected
Excellent book for Pregnancy for Black Perspectives
Excellent book for The Black Family
a must read for african american women

Mama's Little Baby: The Black Woman's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Baby's First Year
Dennis Brown , and Pamela A. Toussaint
Manufacturer: Plume
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Motherhood | Family Relationships | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

The Mocha Manual to a Fabulous Pregnancy
Having Your Baby
Proud Heritage: 11001 Names for Your African-American Baby
African-American Baby Name Book
Your Pregnancy Quick Guide: Women of Color (Your Pregnancy)

Accessories:

philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer
Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer

ASIN: 0452274192

Book Description

Created specifically for the needs of the AfricanAmerican mothertobe, this wonderfully comprehensive reference contains everything the pregnant woman needs to know about conception, prenatal care, labor, delivery, and baby care. Wonderfully conversational in tone, this intuitive stepbystep guide provides the latest information on:
Health risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes and sickle cell anemia, which blacks suffer from disproportionately
Adapting traditional down home cooking recipes to provide healthful eating for mother and baby
The special needs of single mothers
Spiritual, emotional, and mental health during pregnancy
Cultural information passed down from generation to generation
Interviews with midwives, doctors, fitness experts, and nutritionists. Mama's Little Baby is the first book to provide complete, accessible, and reassuring information for all expectant black mothers (and fathers) looking forward to a healthy, happy baby.
Fully illustrated with more than 100 photographs and drawings
The What to Expect When You're Expecting for the African-American audience

Customer Reviews:

A Must Have for any mom.......2002-02-11

I was surprised to learn that there aren't more books of this type available for black mothers. But this book may be the only reference guide you need! A very easy read, and so full of useful information that I read it chunks at a time! The historical information is invaluable too. This would make a great gift for a special mom-to-be.

OK, but not what I expected.......2002-01-19

I have learned just as much from "What to Expect When You're Expecting" and could really have done without the African names/meanings and tips on how to use kente cloth in a nursery. "WHat To Expect..." is much more thorough, although a lot of the information overlaps. The pictures in "Mama's Little Baby" are great, but not sure that you'll really learn how to bathe a baby based on these pictures...Get "what To Expect" and save the money...

Excellent book for Pregnancy for Black Perspectives.......2001-08-02

This is an excellent book for Pregnant woman from a Black perspective. From the interesting history side stories to the added stories of black woman any black woman will find this useful throughout their pregnancy and through the first few months with baby.

Key things I liked, the section on single moms, down to earth section on going back to work, negotiating leave, creating a budget for the new baby in your life, baby names, and 100% accurate medical information. Paritically on the choices for childbirth, from birthing centers to hospitals and the medications you available now.

This a great book I will keep in my reference for my second child.

Excellent book for The Black Family.......2000-05-30

My wife & I had our first child 15 months ago. We find ourselves referring to this book on many different occasion. From what to do when the baby gets an ear infection to what to expect when weaning baby off of the bottle. A must buy, trust me, you will be glad you did!

a must read for african american women.......1998-12-24

This book offers information needed for pregnant women but it specifically relates to the african american woman's needs. You can relate to the stories told by these women. The pictures are wonderful. mostly it prepares the woman for what to expect during each month of her pregnancy and birth. Highly recommended.

God's Wisdom for Little Girls: Virtues and Fun from Proverbs 31

Average customer rating:

God's Wisdom for Little Girls
WISDOM AT IT'S BEST
Amazing
A Tough Subject to Simplify...
Wisdom in easy to handle pieces

God's Wisdom for Little Girls: Virtues and Fun from Proverbs 31
Elizabeth George
Manufacturer: Harvest House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

God's Wisdom for Little Boys: Character-Building Fun from Proverbs
Princess & the Kiss: A Story of God's Gift of Purity
A Little Girl After God's Own Heart: Learning God's Ways in My Early Days
The Squire and the Scroll
The True Princess

ASIN: 0736904271

Book Description

Sugar and spice and everything nice—that’s what little girls are made of¼and so much more! In her first children’s book, bestselling author Elizabeth George draws from the wisdom of the book of Proverbs to encourage young girls to apply the positive traits and qualities illustrated in each verse.

Judy Luenebrink’s charming illustrations complement the text, which emphasizes that there is more to being a girl than simply being sweet and nice. God desires for them to be helpful, confident, thoughtful, eager, prayerful, creative, cheerful, and kind—one of His little girls!

A wonderful read–aloud book and perfect gift for parents or grandparents to give to their favorite little girl!

Customer Reviews:

God's Wisdom for Little Girls.......2007-10-05

Beautiful pictures and borders. A great gift to give to parents of newborns and to preschool and primary children. God's Wisdom for Little Boys is equally wonderful.

WISDOM AT IT'S BEST.......2007-08-14

This beautifully illustrated book is full of wonderful prose and rhymes that could be read to any little girl old enough to know right from wrong. The stanza format is excellent, and if you were to work on and apply each page a week at a time (with repetitive reviews) it will turn into a lasting treasure.

Amazing.......2007-05-05

This book is excellent. It aligns the Proverbs 31 scripture along with daily life that little girls understand and can apply.

A Tough Subject to Simplify..........2007-03-10

Written by best-selling author Elizabeth George, God's Wisdom for Little Girls has a lofty goal: To help children understand Proverbs 31 and how it applies to their life today. Each page of this book (charmingly illustrated by Judy Luenebrink) deals with one character trait; through pictures and rhyming text, it shows little girls how that trait might apply to their life. The last page of the book breaks down some of the bigger words used in the book (like "diligent" and "gracious"), saying what they mean, and where moms can find the corresponding text in the Bible. God's Wisdom for Little Girls says that "God's little girl is:" priceless, kind, eager, helpful, cheerful, busy, hearty (giving it our all), diligent, caring, prepared, creative, prayerful, artistic, confident, gracious, careful, thoughtful, and cherished.

What I Like: The concept; Proverbs 31, while an important passage to all women, isn't always easy for grown-ups to understand. But the author does a fine job breaking down each concept and applying it to modern life. (Moms may learn something, too!) These virtues are things we should try to instill in our daughters from an early age, and God's Wisdom for Little Girls really help mothers do that. The illustrations vary in color intensity (some are vivid, some are pastel) and are quite detailed. They depict little girls playing, working, and loving.

What I Dislike: These aren't dislikes so much as cautions. I think it's important for mothers to tell their daughters they may not be able to live up to all these virtues - especially at first. It's also important to stress that we can only be a Proverbs 31 woman (or girl) if we lean on the Lord. Initially, I also questioned some of the named virtues; for example, "artistic." I couldn't recall a Bible passage that said Godly women should be artistic. But when I checked the last page of the book and saw how the author defined artistic ("a skillful expert"), my objection disappeared. Some parents may also object that God's Wisdom for Little Girls is sexist; it doesn't depict little girls romping around with cars and tools; they are mostly shown doing traditionally feminine things. There is certainly room for romping in every girl's life, but romping isn't one of the virtues mentioned in Proverbs 31. (There is a little girl shown digging in the garden, however.) Yet, overall God's Wisdom for Little Girls takes a pretty difficult subject and makes it approachable for preschoolers.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 5 - 8

Kristina, Editor at "Christian Children's Book Review"

Wisdom in easy to handle pieces.......2007-02-13

All of my 4 girls, ages 11 to 2, love this book. My three year old wants to hear it over and over. It has beautifully illustrated pages which they love, and it holds their attention to hear the content of what is being read to them. This book provides an excellent break down of Proverbs 31 for many ages. You can read it as is to the younger ones, or use the framework to delve deeper with older girls.

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