Book Description
Four million wasps invade Itching Down, so the villagers make a giant jam sandwich to trap them. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (30)

great value for the book
I love how the paperback version offers a gerat book at an affordable rate for my boys. I remember watching it on "Reading Rainbow" as a child and was happy to share it with my own boys.

Absolutely Fantabulous
I read this book when I was a child and LOVED it.I remember the thrill of seeing that HUGE loaf of bread and the jam.Sent my imagination soaring.Then there was the satisfying end to the bees (I was terrified of bees as a child so you can imagine how thrilled I was at the end. =D) I think it was my most favorite childhood book.

I found this book in the library some years ago and shared it with my son (now 12).I've just bought it to share with my younger son...and my older one is THRILLED.=DWe both can't wait for it to arrive.

My favorite children's book
This was my favorite book when I was a kid, and now my son asks for "Sandwich" as well.I started reading it to him when he was 6 weeks old.We had to take a break to board books when he was in his eat books and turn their pages roughly phase, but now he appreciates having this book read to him.I and my parents, and one day my kids, all know the words by heart.You won't get sick of reading it either.Since I have the words memorized, I can look at the pictures, and even after reading it so many times, I keep finding new details in the pictures!

The Giant Jam Sandwich
This is a wonderful rhyming book fun to read and kids love it.This is the second one I have given away.

Nothing better than a jam sandwich!
I got this book at our local library book sale. It quickly became a bedtime favorite due to its rhythm and rhyme. A truly small-town problem with a truly small-town solution. What a delight! The best 25 cents I ever spent! ... Read more

Book Description

With nothing more than a panini grill, a toaster oven, and a few simple ingredients, Jennifer and Jason Denton bring the fresh, robust flavors of Italy to your home table in Simple Italian Sandwiches.

Customer Reviews (13)

Delicious Panini and Tramezzini
I just returned from Roma. One of the things we ate the most for lunch was Tramezzini, due to the heavy availability of them everywhere. They almost always offer to grill it for you. We also noticed that nearly every one we saw had sliced boiled eggs on it. I had one that was a simple chicken salad with green olives, sliced hard boiled eggs, slice of cheese, and rocket (arugula). The sandwich was fantastic. My girlfriend had one that was just bologna and artichokes and it was out of this world. We don't even like bologna but for some reason in Italy, it's edible. I haven't actually made a recipe from this book yet, for it is a gift for my girlfriend and she will be receiving it tonight. I did however read through it and was very happy to see the way it was written.From the basic ingredients list and the several trips I've taken to Italy in my life, I know that this is one great book. If I can remember that I wrote this, I'll update it in a month or so.

Not many paninis
I was a little disappointed with this book.I thought it would have more panini recipes, but there are other cold sandwiches featured, too.
The ingredients for the paninis are not commonly found and a special trip to the "gourmet store" is required.I did manage to find a few of the ingredients in one of the larger groceries in our area.The sandwiches that I did make, I had to substitute a few of the ingredients, but they were pretty good.

super book
I'd not heard of this panini bar but loved reading the history..
This is an adorable family who follows tradition; can't go wrong with people like that.
Very good recipes, easy to follow,
would make a superb gift.

Great Little Book!
I recently bought a pannini maker from Amazon and I am delighted and having a ball with it!..you can use your imagination and come up with lots of different variations to do what you want and make that special grilled sandwich...this book has some nice recipes for condiments and since I have a cookbook collection..this was a nice addition!..
Thanks Amazon!

The best sandwich book I've purchased!
From the book, "Great sandwiches start with great ingredients, homemade mayonnaise..." The condiment recipes are my favorites (Oven-Roasted Tomatoes (I can eat these everyday), Hot Mustard (awesome), Roasted Garlic Mayonnaise, Lemon Mayonnaise, Balsamic Roasted Garlic--just to name a few). They add so much to the sandwiches.

In addition to the great recipes there is a chapter called "The Basics" in which they explain all the different breads, cheeses, meats, oils and vinegars they use in their recipes. It is quite informative.

I think this would make a great gift for anyone interested in cooking or eating :o)
... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

oh wow...old but GREAT book!

We were just talking about this book! My daughter had it back in 90's and even tried taking a bite out of it! She adored this book. (now 15) she has fond memories of it and wants to order it for her baby brother!

Giggles & Gags
David Pelham's captured the essence of little boys in this book.Sweet, creative, and a whole lot of naughtiness! My three kids were giggling, (i was gagging a little!) and we all enjoyed the awesome pop-ups!!! If you are in question as to buy this book...get off the fence and make the purchase...you won't regret it!

must read
All little kids should have this book read to them.There is a surprise on every page.Just make sure that if your little one makes you a sandwich you should check it for live creatures before eating.

Perfect Boy Book
I just finished reading this one for the bizillionth time to my fourth son, who is six.All four of my boys have loved this book, especially between ages 5-9. The illustrations are super real, and the popups are cleverly engineered in descending layers of a sandwich. My boys love to squeal at each disgusting tiny vermin that has been added to the sandwich Sam is making for his annoying sis. We have Sam's Snack, and Sam's Cake, also, but this is our favorite.

What a rotten brother!
I Love, Love, Love this book!It was given to my son when he was born by a good friend of mine, and while one might think an infant is too young to appreciate a book like this...he was completely enthralled!He is now 6 months old, and loves to hear me read the rhyming text and likes to pick up the flaps to reveal the nasty "surprises" Sam has left for his sister.A great book for kids and really fun for adults as well. ... Read more

Book Description
When Nancy Silverton began serving sandwiches one night a week at Campanile, her and husband Mark Peel’s award-winning restaurant, she envisioned a laid-back and intimate evening when she’d be able to relax, chat with customers, and have some fun devising new and creative recipes. Well, she hasn’t had much time to relax: Sandwich Night became one of Campanile’s busiest nights, a vastly popular weekly tradition in Los Angeles and the place to be on Thursdays. And since then, sandwiches have become the latest craze to hit the American food scene.

The reason for Sandwich Night’s success is easy to understand: the sandwiches are incredible. They’re gourmet meals that happen to sit on bread, the furthest thing away from the boring old sandwiches that we usually content ourselves with. Instead of PB&J or tuna salad, how about Braised Artichokes, Ricotta, and Mint Pesto with Pine-Nut Currant Relish? Or Eggplant, Seared Tuna, and Anchoïade? Or even Bacon, Avocado, and Watercress? These open-faced sandwiches are innovative dishes that taste wonderful, look beautiful, and are perfect for entertaining.

The closed-faced sandwiches are delicious new takes on well-loved standards like the Croque Monsieur, the Monte Cristo, the Reuben, and, of course, everyone’s favorite, the Classic Grilled Cheese. Also included are Nancy’s creative sort-of sandwiches—Fondue the Swiss Way, Snackbreads, and Skewered Mozzarella—and tea sandwiches, wonderful creations that will banish memories of limp watercress and insipid egg salad forever. As if this isn’t enough, there are the mouthwatering sandwich cakes and cookies, like the Open-Faced Berry Brioche Sandwich, Chocolate Cake Club Sandwich, and Almost Oreos.

There are recipes for some truly addictive bar snacks, like Cheese Fritters and Candied Spicy Walnuts, to serve before the meal. And there are also recipes for tantalizing spreads and condiments that go well beyond the ordinary. Finally, for the cook who wants to make everything from scratch, Nancy has included recipes for different breads, from Brioche to Hot Dog Buns, based on those from her world-famous La Brea Bakery.

Written in Nancy’s charming, down-to-earth style, these recipes are versatile and easy to follow. As good to look at as they are to eat, these sandwiches offer a new, creative solution to entertaining and will be a valuable addition to the home cook’s repertoire. The result: Sandwich Night is sure to be a hit in your home, too.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Grill me a cheese!
The author really gets it right.The trick to a good sandwich isn't a trick at all.When you have a food that has five ingredients, every one of them needs to be very good, and very fresh.The recipes in the book are simple and delicious.I especially like the trick of making the grilled cheese sandwich, then opening it after it is finished cooking and slipping in a cool slice of tomato.Fantastic!

Good pictures, too!

Nancy rules...
I love everything that she does. Her cooking style is just what I like to eat. Yes, these are some 'high fallooting' sandwiches.

...Two sticks of exotic butter
WARNING: Consuming sandwiches created from recipes in this book will leave you in the poor house and kill you. The average cost of one is ~$30 and contains 150 grams of fat! Buy a Panini maker and use the enclosed 10-page recipe book--A cost effective, lower fat alternative.

please disregard review entitled "I guess anybody can publish..."
firstly, i want to say that Nancy Silverton is a brillant baker. this book is not for people looking for quick sandwich ideas. i mean, why bother buying a book of sandwich ideas that aren't special? rather, it's a book that attempts to introduce impressive sandwiches to the menu designed to impress, and to inspire the reader to try different flavour combinations in a friendly but tired vehicle like a sandwich.

anyway, i wanted to mention that a review above roasts Ms. Silverton for supposedly not knowing what a croque madame is but the reviewer was grossly misinformed. a croque madame does traditionally include a fried egg, not chicken. in america and the UK, for whatever reasons, the traditional croque madame has transformed in a croque monsieur with chicken instead of ham, but, according to the Larousse Gastronomique, Ms. Silverton was 100% correct. which makes that review incorrect, in addition to being petty and snotty.

A complicated way to get fat
I read through this book in an effort to put a little healthy variety into my lunches. This definitely was not the book for me.
This book is for the gourmet who has the time and resources to put in hours making a SANDWICH. To begin with, it's a good idea to have a special sandwich cooker. Then, many of the ingredients would require scavanger hunts at speciality stores, or even mail order.
Most of the recipes require cooking many ingredients, and sometimes preparations may begindays in advance. And, healthy they are not. Many come with liberal dousings of butter, highly salted meats, eggs, and many other fat-laden ingredients.
A great jazz musician once said anyone can make the simple complex; it takes genius to make the complex simple. Let's just say simplicity is not Silverton's strong point.
I'm sure there are many tasty recipes here if you have the time to scout for the ingredients and hours in preparation for a little meal on a piece of bread; and you are willing to subject your body to highly salted and fat-laden foods to make a SANDWICH, this book is for you. But, I'd rather just eat a Big Mac. Couldn't be any worse for you.
Frankly, with my limited time, I prefer to keep my sandwiches simple and put my energies into making real meals.I gave it an extra star because the photography is good.
Nick Sullivan
(...)

... Read more

Book Description
Whether the occasion is a picnic, lunch, brunch, or late night entertaining, sandwiches, panini, and warps provide a unique alternative to the usual fare. Sandwiches, Panini, and Wraps covers everything you need to create these taste-tempting meals. It begins with an overview of the sandwich from a historical perspective and then it deconstructs these multilayered concoctions. There’s an overview of breads, basic ingredients, and equipment used to create these recipes, providing readers with a knowledge base that they can use to create their own dishes.

This book features 50 recipes for everything from grilled sandwiches to cold sandwiches, wraps, pitas (including vegetarian and salad sandwiches), soups, salads, side dishes, condiments and spreads, and dessert suggestions to top off the savory meals with something sweet. The author also includes plenty of entertaining and serving suggestions.

Sandwiches, Panini, and Wraps is lavishly photographed and includes easy instructions and creative food ideas for the imaginative sandwich maker. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Sandwich book
It's a good book for some different sandwich /lunch ideas but it takes quite a few special ingredients to craft these meals.This is not the book to put some variety in your sack lunch that you take to work. THis is the book you need when you have you mother in law over for lunch and you want to impress her with an exotic sandwich

Delicious!
A fantastic book to use with your panini press.The recipes are bold and delicious.Say goodbye to boring sandwiches! ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (23)

Clever and funny
Very clever book of poems.My two daughters (6 and 9) giggled at the funny vocabulary.The illustrations are are cool and inventive. Every movie monster must be in there somewhere. We liked the son of Dracula drawn as Charlie Brown.Adults will like this one too.

I LOVED Frankenstein Makes A Sandwich--I'm 42!!
Frankenstein Makes A Sandwich is a funny, upbeat, down-to-earth wonderful book about monsters, food, and day to day issues like hunger, hygiene, being respectful to others (the Open Letter to Wolfman from his dog is HILARIOUS!!), and everyday stuff like fear of the dentist.The poetry is easy and unforced, funny and a wonderful experience.I hope Rex Adams writes and illustrates more and more and more.I'll be waiting!!5 stars!!

Adam Rex is a genius!
I love this book. For the past two years, I've read it aloud to my elementary school library classes prior to Halloween. They beg for it. The poetry is so well syncopated, and the rhyming is near perfect. The humor ismature, so I have to explain many of the poems, but a lot of it the kids understand without explanation. They can really identify with the torment of having a song stuck in your mind that keeps going on and on, as happens to the poor Phantom of the Opera when he gets "It's a Small World After All" stuck in his head. And they understand why offering a toothpick to Count Dracula to pick his teeth makes him nervous because it resembles a sharp stake. I love this book so much that I bought it this year for my 54-year old brother for his birthday. Unlike the song "It's a Small World After All," the sophistication of these poems will keep them fresh for many, many, many Halloweens to come. If you're a poetry buff who appreciates a humorous twist on the classic scary characters, do NOT pass this book by.

Scary Illustrations
Nice prose, but the illustrations, other than Frankenstein's, are rather frightening for young children.I bought this book for my grandchildren, ages 4 and 6, after having only seen the Frankenstein illustration and was disappointed when I opened the book to see the other very dark and frightening pictures throughout the book.I don't recommend this book for children under the age of 8.

Best. Kids'. Book. Ever.
Adam Rex is a man after my own heart. He's funny, intelligent, witty, talented, and most of all he likes sharing these qualities with the rest of us. He may be my favorite author for children in years, and this from an arts librarian in the public schools. I've even given to my friends' kids to make sure that they get to have access to it, too. This book is too good to pass by; get copies for everyone you know! Kids will love it and adults won't be bored; win-win for everyone.
And the bit about the Phantom of the Opera having "The Girl from Ipanema" stuck in his head? Priceless, absolutely priceless. I love you, Adam Rex. ... Read more

Book Description
Goodbye, peanut butter and jelly! In this lively, easy-to-use cookbook, author Paulette Mitchell shares 75 recipes for delicious, healthy hand-held meals that will satisfy both vegetarians and omnivores alike. Think a veggie sandwich is just cheese and sprouts? Think again. Try brown-bagging it with Mexican Black-Bean Pitas, wowing a dinner party with elegant Pear Crostini, or satisfying a hungry crowd with Eggplant Parmesan Poor Boys. Plus, youÕll find great sandwich accompaniments such as Herbed Fresh Tomato-Carrot Soup and Potato Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. From tofu and tempeh to fresh veggies and grains, Vegetarian Sandwiches is a must-have for the lunchbox set. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Delicious
This is a great little book - full of commonsense ideas for vegetarian fillings and delicious different fillings as well. I really like it and am glad I bought it.

Good Stuff
This recipe book is beautifully done, easy to read, and the pictures are great, too.I've only made one recipe - the Sweet Potato and Avacado Sandwich- easy to make and waaayyyy delicious!

Yummy recipes; beautiful book; a little pedantic
This is my second Paulette Mitchell book, and if you're an unsophisticated cook I'm sure the "Tips" she puts on every page will be helpful. I often find them somewhat patronizing, however - defining roma tomatoes, or describing spinach (!), or saying freshly ground pepper is better than pre-ground (well, duh), for example - really basic things like that.She seems to assume her readers are novices, as she did in her book "The 15-Minute Vegetarian Gourmet."Her recipes are great, though, and more sophisticated than her writing and those in her previous book. This book is gorgeous, and as a vegetarian I am always on the hunt for creative lunch ideas.She also has great ideas for preparing your pantry so you always have ingredients on hand to use in these recipes.All in all, a winner.

Great!
I had been looking for a book like this for awhile since on the weekends I like to throw together something for lunch but had been running out of ideas. This book got me going again.I love it! Everything I've tried has been great - vegetarians and non have liked everything I've made so far. There are some great spreads in here like the basil pesto, the hummus, the herb butter, the mushroom with almond spread, etc.These can be slathered on the bread and then just add veggies to that or you can do some of the full sandwiches like the Sweet Potato and Avocado sandwich, the grilled eggplant with olive/tomato spread sandwich, the dilled egg salad sandwich, veggie melts etc. Thumbs up on this one!

Not One Bad Recipe
In any cookbook, even the good ones, you can usually expect a few mediocre or outright terrible recipes.Not so with "Vegetarian Sandwiches."Every recipe I've tried is excellent.And best of all, the recipes are easy, quick and the ingredients are easy to find.Delicious! ... Read more

Book Description
In this eating tour of America, the gurus of the road, Jane and Michael Stern, hunt down nearly 100 examples of supreme sandwichery and show how to recreate them in the kitchen. The United Sandwiches of America includes nearly every state, from California (a quintessential Grilled Gruyère with Braised Leeks on multigrain from Clementines in L.A.), to New York (Chopped Liver from the famous Katzs Deli), up to Maine (an overflowing, warm lobster roll from the Maine Diner in Wells), and down to Florida (a Cuban: ham, pork, Swiss, and garlicky salami with pickles, lettuce, and tomato). It embraces the Muffuletta of New Orleans and the Hot Brown of Louisville (white turkey meat under sizzling cheese with tomato and bacon), not to be confused with the Hot Truck of Ithaca, New York (a pizza sub). Julia Childs when-nobodys-looking favourite is here (baked beans on a masterful brown bread), and so is Elviss beloved Peanut Butter and Banana. Each of the legendary heroes, hoagies, wraps, grinders, blimps, gyros, and subs comes with its own quirky story. All in all, it's a giant slice of life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Low Budget Affair
Sandwiches are one of my favorite things in the world, so when I heard that the professors of roadfood were writing a sandwich book, I was thrilled. Like "Roadfood", however, I was disappointed. There are NO pictures at all in this book. What kind of a cookbook has ZERO pictures in it??? Now that they are successful authors (book and magazine, btw), I would expect something a little more upscale from the Sterns.

Pull off the Road! For good.
I love cookbooks, especially books on foods I can actually make, like sandwiches. I know of the Sterns through their website, and TV appearances and previous books and picked this one up because the cover was appealing. I was very disappointed. There were tons of recipes and for each recipe a little story about its origins and where the Sterns had eaten it, but no pictures. I know, you don't need a picture to make a recipe, but I have to say if you are going to do a cookbook on sandwiches you have found throughout the nation wouldn't it be nice to see the establishment? Or even the sandwich itself? Also the color of the pages threw me off, and they were very hard to read. The Sterns have made a living on Roadfood, but I think their journey needs to end if this is what we are getting for their efforts.

Recipes look good, but dissappointed that there's no pictures.
This really would have been a fabulous book if they'd have put PICTURES in it! I wanted to know right off the bat where the recipe was for the sandwich featured on the cover, (that looks like a sandwich I wanna try!) -and couldn't find it. I'm thinking it may be the "Will Special" on page 229. At least on the back cover, (two pictures there)it references the name and page numbers.

Other than no pictures, it looks like a good book. For each sandwich recipe, it gives you a little information about it and where it's from. There are condiment recipes.

There are several things I'm going to try from the book. Pictures would have made the book much easier and more pleasant to use.

Re-hash
I've been a fan of Jane and Michael Stern for 20+ years. I read all their articles in Gourmet up until Gourmet became nothing but a shill for the advertisers. "Roadfood Sandwiches" is nothing but a re-hash (no pun intended) of their last edition of "Roadfood". The new info in "...Sandwiches" is minimal at best. I suggest you skip "...Sandwiches" and instead buy "Roadfood". It contains the bulk of "...Sandwiches" and much more. They really skated on this one.

Home run for the Sterns.....again!!
Whatever the Sterns write, I buy.I wish they would go back to their restaurant books again.They never did one from the Northwest....not fair. ... Read more

Book Description
Its a dark day for Itching Down. Four million wasps have just descended on the town, and the pests are relentless! What can be done? Bap the Baker has a crazy idea that just might work. . . . Readers will love listening to the lyrical, rhyming text as they watch the industrious citizens of Itching Down knead, bake, and slather the biggest wasp trap there ever was! ... Read more

Book Description
Brie and apricot jam on a baguette; spinach and goat cheese on a croissant; blue cheese and fresh figs on crusty Italian bread: this is not your mother's grilled cheese sandwich. In Great Grilled Cheese, cheese expert and award-winning cookbook author Laura Werlin presents 50 scrumptious grilled cheese and panini recipes that range from the traditional to the contemporary. In addition to the more inventive combinations, including grilled cheese for dessert, there's always room at the table for the classics: grilled American on white, or apple, ham, and cheddar on sourdough.

Werlin discusses techniques-nonstick versus cast-iron pan, whether to cover during cooking, how to use the ultrapopular panini machine. Maren Caruso's tantalizing photographs perfectly convey the appeal of creamy melted cheese pressed between two slices of crisp, buttery bread. For cheese aficionados, parents whose kids insist on grilled cheese at every meal, and the kid in all of us who craves comfort food, Great Grilled Cheese will satisfy everyone's cheese dreams. AUTHOR BIO: LAURA WERLIN, who won a 2004 James Beard Award for her book The All American Cheese and Wine Book, is a food journalist and cheese expert whose articles have appeared in Saveur, Cooking Light, and Country Living. In addition to having written two books on cheese, The New American Cheese (2000) and The All American Cheese and Wine Book (2003), Werlin writes a biweekly syndicated column on cheese.

MAREN CARUSO is a San Francisco-based photographer who specializes in food photography. Her work has appeared in Wine and Spirits, Chocolatier, and Taste magazines, and in more than ten books, including Grilling and Barbecuing (STC). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Time is perfect for warm melted cheese
Now that the weather is getting cooler, and with an abundance of tomatoes still available in the backyard, what's better than trying out Laura's melted cheese suggestions? Humm good. Sherry

Outstanding recipes!
This is my favorite of my 5 panini recipe books.I bought it when I got my Cuisinart Griddler with Panini Grill.These sandwiches are truly fantastic.Some of the other books have some really wierd combinations and only a few recipes that sound appetizing, but this book is a real winner.These hot sandwiches are very addicting...delicious and so fast and easy to make!

A cheese addict's bible
The recipes are imaginative, the directions are clear, the results are sublime. My only question is, I look at her photograph and ask, how can the author look so slender?!

Yum!
Some of the most delicious grilled cheese sandwiches and quesadillas I've ever had. I use this book every weekend. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Dope. Smack. Junk. Heroin. No matter what you call it, you can't change the fact that 13-year-old Benjie is on it. Oh no ... he's not hooked, though. He could stop anytime ...really. But why is a young kid like Benjie using at all? Originally published in 1973, Alice Childress's novel remains one of the most profound explorations of an addict's world ever written. What makes this novel different is that Childress points no fingers and offers no easy answers. Her characters' moods and motivations are complex, fresh, unexpected, and courageously real. Woven into Benjie's own ramblings about his situation are the thoughts of those involved by association--his mother, stepfather, friends, the pusher, and teachers at his school. This narrative technique creates a rich, heroic portrait of the social and psychological circumstances of addiction, love, and family. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Distracting Slang and Accent
Benjie is a thirteen-year-old living in the inner city with his mother, grandmother and his mother's boyfriend, who has been like a stepfather to Benjie for years.Benjie had smoked some marijuana with a friend and thought it was cool, but then one day he cuts class and is hanging out with a group of older boys who are using heroin.Not wanting to seem like a scared little kid, Benjie does it, too.Before long, he is a heroin addict, although he insists he can stop whenever he wants.

This story is told from many points of view--Benjie keeps insisting he's fine and complaining about everyone else around him.Benjie's family is overwhelmed by his addiction, especially when he steals from them.Benjie's friend is upset by the loss of his friendship, and one of his drug dealers feels compelled to explain why he is not at fault for Benjie's addiction.Two of Benjie's teachers, a white man and a black man, are both upset but argue over the right thing to do.In the end, the decision about whether to try to kick the drug habit is Benjie's alone.But is a thirteen-year-old kid strong enough to do what's right?

I liked being able to see the different points of view in this story, and to see how one person's drug addiction affected everyone around him.I also liked that there were no easy answers and no real good guys and bad guys.Even the two teachers who had so much conflict between them each had their reasons for what they were doing.

I found the writing itself distracting.The story was written with accents and slang that disrupted the flow.This story was very sad; I wished there was someone who could have stepped in to help Benjie more.

A Hero Ain't Nothin' but a Sandwich
13-year-old Benjie from Harlem has a lot of difficulties in his life. He mad many bad choices by choosing to take drugs. He got addicted to heroin and smoking after Kenny and Tiger let him try a bit. Soon his teachers and principle found out about him and had a talk. He's so stubborn that he keeps on denying that he don't get hooked on drugs. After all, he quits drugs because his stepfather saved him.If you are young and want to read this book, I warn you that at first it'll be quite difficult to understand the language in the book, after a while you'll get use to it.

Urban Idioms
I read this book because my son had to read it and I wanted to be able to discuss it with him. Due to the urban idioms, at first I found it difficult to understand the dialogue.Once I figured it out I found the book rather interesting.A 13 year old boy, Benjie,from Harlem is faced with several disturbing choices.Eventually he puts himself in a situation that he is not mature enough to handle and makes a bad choice, which is to try heroin.Once he makes that choice he struggles with the acceptance of being a heroin addict and repeatedly denies it. Yet, all the signs of an addict exist.Ms. Childress uses other characters to explain the ripple effect that occurs in the boy's life and how it has affected the other lives.I recommend the book, however, it is a tough read for young people.

A Hero Aint Nothin But a Sandwich
i just read this book for the first time and i did not really like it. it is about a 13 yeal old named Benji who is addictied to heroin and under alot of stress. He can stop anytime he wants to but he doesnt.
the language in this book is also very hard to understand. THere are big words, and phrases can be confusing. This book is ment for people who can really comprehend and understand the way it was written.

Tierra aka: scooby
Hi im 13 years old and im from the ghetto but i loved this book this book was good and got my atendtion all my teachers were shock i go to horce mann middle school and this book relate to how i am around that and trying to make and i wouldbecome a lawyer so this is the best book i ever read and keep reading this book. ... Read more

Book Description
Lola Gale has lost her marbles.Literally.Nick Trunk, private investigator, has been hired to find them.He's a very good detective, but this case is a tough nut to crack.The only clues are an ostrich feather and lots of peanut butterdelicious peanut butter.Will Nick be able to solve this sticky crime? Monochromatic illustrations give this hilarious whodunit the dramatic feel of an old black-and-white movie, while endearing animals characters, plentiful P.I. and peanut puns, and a suspenseful but-not-too-hard-to-follow mystery make this a crime story that's hard to put down. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Very Good, But Not Consistent Enough
Very Good, But Not Consistent Enough
Boasting a title more clever than its story, "Mystery at the Club Sandwich" pays homage to the mysteries of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett. The black and white illustrations (against an appealing silvery-white background) the clipped language, and the tough-guy stance all parody the "noir" films and books of the 1940's, and much of it is funny and clever. Unfortunately, Doug Cushman doesn't quite sustain the noir sensibility throughout the book, and the parody flattens somewhat after a promising beginning.

The opening scene is taken from the Bogart version of "The Maltese Falcon." Detective Nick Trunk, an elephant with a slight resemblance to Lee J. Cobb, encounters a pretty, fur-laden kitten in his office. While the private eye's digs aren't shabby enough, there's some angled reflection on the wall, and his client has some `lip' on her:

"One morning, the door to my office opened. In walked a beautiful lady. She looked like trouble.
`My name is Trouble,' she said. `Maggie Trouble. Are you Nick Trunk?"
`That's my name,' I said."

Lola explains --in direct, short sentences-- a nicely convoluted story about how her employer, singer Lola Gale, lost her marbles. Real marbles (for good luck). Trunk replies "I will take your case," but like any two-bit detective he wants his payment up front. The elephant works for peanuts. (He will settle for peanut brittle, however). Witty, clever, and smartly written satire.

The authenticity begins to evaporate when Trunk meets Gale, who looks more like Ms. Dumont in the Marx Brothers movies than a femme fatale. She's staid-looking, with real pearls, and an upscale air. Opportunities for noirish illustrations and biting dialogue give way to a more pedestrian mystery exploring clues, questioning multiple suspects--and repeating jokes and puns about peanut butter. Only the chef (a bespeckled pig) and a walrus working at a diner look like character actors from the films this book tries to emulate. A few clues and an insight later, the mystery is solved, with a final page exploding with puns.

Although Cushman's draws well, and he includes some interesting dialogue and characters, the spoof just doesn't feel authentic enough. A better satire would include and parody more noir elements in a manner that would appeal to a wider age range. Cushman does a good job with some of these ingredients: The snappy dialogue, the drawings of the pig, the walrus, and Lola, the contours of the diner, and, later, a more messy detective office. However, the lighting, the characters (especially Nick Trunk), the names, and much of the whole "look" and tone are not consistently authentic. Younger kids aren't going to get all of the film noir allusions without the help of an older reader. Therefore, the author--more so than in other books--has two audiences, kids and adults, and adults' knowledge of the genre should be satisfied. Still, the book is often snappy, and the kitchen and diner "scenes," and Trunk (when drawn looking weary)fit the style. When the elements are there, there's the possibility of discussion with your younger audience.

Generally speaking, the noir film/book parody is just too easy and overdone. It requires meticulous attention to the details, exploiting them in as many clever ways as possible. While I enjoyed the book, and kids will like the humor and the mystery, it was ultimately a bit disappointing. Note: As mentioned by others, the book is dedicated to "Sam, Phil,and Dashiell": Only the latter is a mystery writer, Sam and Phil refer, as fans know, to the fictional heroes Sam Spade and Phillip Marlowe.

who took my marbles?
Lola Gale is a famous singer who has lost he lucky marbles.She hires Nick Truck who is an elephant and detectiveto find them.Nick collects clues and tries to find out who has taken the marbles.The book includes lots of word play along the way!The book has a twist at the end you will never guess who has taken the marbles and why!


The books illustrations were done in black and white.Most kids will not be drawn to this book due to the lack of color.

This is a good book for kids who enjoy mysteries.They can read it and try to solve the mystery before Nick Trunk does!

An inviting, wonderful story
The very young may not readily understand the meaning of the film noir black and white drawings in Mystery At The Club Sandwich: this caveat aside, it's an inviting, wonderful story of one Nick Trunk, Private Detective, who is the only one to help foxy singer Lola regain her lost marbles. Nick's efforts at solving a sticky crime prove hilarious; especially to picturebook readers with some reading and critical thinking skills behind them.

A fun children's mystery.Good characters, good plot
Written in the style of an old Phillip Marlow detective story but for young children, Mystery at the Club Sandwich is a great story with plenty of amusing word play.Even the pictures are black-and-white like the old movie series.It is the story of Club Sandwich singer Lola Gale (a fox) who lost her marbles - her six lucky marbles.It is up to Nick Trunk (an elephant) to solve the mystery and locate her marbles.With only the clues of a peanut butter smudge and an ostrich feather it will be a hard case to solve.Join Nick Trunk as he investigates the magician entertainer, the cook, and even Ms. Gale's personal employee seeking to solve the crime.Wonderfully written entertainment for adults and children Mystery at the Club Sandwich is a highly recommended book for young children. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (8)

Great moral
Carla has a great imagination.She enjoys creating unique sandwiches for her school lunches.When trouble rises and her lunches turn into a source of teasing, Carla keeps her chin up and continues to eat her fascinating sandwiches all the while maintaining her kindness to her friends.Coupled with adorable illustrations, this is a wonderful story for all children to enjoy.Even adults will identify with Carla."Carla's Sandwich" shows children how they do not need to be like others by showing the heroine being strong as an individual.With so many food allergies, people with different incomes, and others who eat with religious or ethical restrictions, "Carla's Sandwich" is a winner!

Inspires Originality
Carla smiled and handed Buster a Combo Deluxe.
Buster examined the lettuce, tomato, raisin, bean sprout,
pretzel and mayonnaise sandwich carefully.
He looked at Leslie, then Natie, then Carla.
And then he took a very small bite.

Carla loves to invent unique sandwiches and so she creates the Olive-Pickle-and-Green Bean Sandwich. When the other children tease Carla, she offers Buster one of her extra sandwiches. He takes one bit and loves the taste. As the teasers turn into tasters, Carla's classmates start to make their own original sandwiches.

The humorous part of the story occurs at the end of the book when Carla surprises everyone by bringing a very different (than her normal sandwiches) sandwich to school. I do have to wonder if she has tried soy butter or chocolate soy butter.

~The Rebecca Review

A delightful read
Carla's Sandwich is a great book that children will surely love!

With its imaginative text by Debbie Herman, and its vivid and bright illustrations by Sheila Bailey, no child will be disappointed as they turn each page to discover which weird and wonderful concoctions Carla will be eating that day for her school lunch.

This book contains a story of being different - and you feel a little sorry for Carla as the other children isolate her because she brings in such unusual combinations of sandwiches to eat, like sardine and mustard with sunflower seeds. But one day, another boy forgets his lunch, and when his hunger gets the better of him, he reluctantly turns to Carla to beg a spare from her.

He does, of course, find the offering delicious, and the other children change their minds about constitutes an `acceptable' sandwich.

Fantastic, colourful and detailed pictures, with an inspiring storyline for children aged four to eight years old, this book was a delight to read and is thoroughly recommended.

Recommendedfor young readers ages 4 to 8
Imaginatively written by Debbie Herman and nicely illustrated by Sheila Bailey for young readers ages 4 to 8, Carla's Sandwich has a subtle message about the joy of being different woven into an original story of a little girl who brings weird sandwiches to her school and how her classmates respond to her oddly original sandwiches. After considerable ridicule Carla is able to turn her teasers into tasters and then everyone is into creative sandwich making too! Carla's Sandwich would make a popular and "kid friendly" addition to any school or community library picture book collection!

funny yummy ideas
Carla brings weird sandwiches to school & her classmates have a lot to say about her tastes, especially one boy. Then at a school picnic he forgets his lunch & has to accept one of Carla's strange sandwiches. WOW! Now THAT'S good eating.

Rebeccasreads highly recommends CARLA'S SANDWICH as a tasty treat which you & your little ones can nibble through as you discover the fun of doing this your way & turning on your friends to different ideas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Cute...good for rainy days
This book is a little treasure - something that you can consume on a rainy afternoon and will leave you bubbling with creative ideas. I enjoyed "Succulent Wild Women" more but this one is still ranked as one of my fav books!

truly inspirational
it is what the title is...an inspiration sandwich....sark inspires everyone to be who they are, live in the moment, try new things and bring creativity to your life daily. way to go susan for being inspired to inspire the world!

Some good inspiration but...
There are some meaningful messages in the book. But overall I felt the author was not bringing anything new to the table except hard-to-read doodles. She makes herself sounds like a former lazy bum who is now getting rich off doodling and painting. How nice. The doodles and handwriting really mask the message the book is supposed to convey. But hey, it's a shtick.

Great SARK!
This isn't a new book (it was published in 1992).In some ways it isn't even a book at all.Yes it is shaped like a book and comes in a book-like binding.But it is more like a hand written (yes it is produced in the author's hand writing) journal and a collection of water color art than a traditional book.

The book is written by Sark, a highly creative and inspiring woman who shares in this book ways to be inspired and to increase your creativity.Here are the opening lines from the foreword, which seems to capture the essence of the book:

"This book is food for your soul, and a bubble bath for your spirit!It is a guide to keeping your creativity alive, and I wrote it for you."

This isn't a book to sit in read in one sitting, though I have done that.It is a book to pick up, read, ponder, put down and marvel at.It is worth buying for the words, it is worth buying for the format, and it is worth buying for the art.

I picked it off of my shelf today to write this recommendation, and I'm sure I will read some or all of it before it gets back to my shelf.

It is that kind of book.

Buying SARK? Buy this.
I have been a huge SARK fan for as long as I can remember, and have read and enjoyed all her marvellously and divinely coloured works.

So, as much as I am inspired by her and the work she has done, I honestly believe that her earlier works are much more relevant, beautiful and divine than her latter ones. While I would absolutely recommend that everyone purchase a copy of 'Eat Mangoes Naked' and other titles, I can't help but tire slightly of her SARK font, when her actual writing was one of the most delicious parts about her books.I guess I feel that the true beauty of SARK is so much more accessible within her earlier works, such as this, whereas the latter ones are undoubtedly that much more commericalised and repetitive.

Along with 'Living Juicy', I believe that this is the best of the lot. The stories are absolutely divine and inspiring, the drawings and colours vulnerable and lovable.

What a truly life-changing find this work is. ... Read more

Book Description
Hey, Friend–

Do you know what it’s like give to 100 percent and still feel like it’s not–and you’re not–enough for anybody? To be caught between caring for an aging parent and raising young children? I lived in that place for four years.

Ivy Schneider lives in this place, too, and she isn’t at all happy about it. Her husband Rusty spends ten months a year on the road singing in a gospel quartet, and her mom gets sicker every day, requiring increasingly more care and time. Ivy’s dad took off years ago but still comes around–for free meals. Her brother and sister are more than happy to let responsibility rest on Ivy’s shoulders. Maybe she could handle it all if only her darling three-year old terror, Trixie, would just “go” on the potty. Who will take care of Ivy while she takes care of the world?

No one, it seems. Then Ivy runs an ad in the paper to find folks like herself: women of the “sandwich generation,” squeezed between the demands of raising young children and caring for an aging parent. Soon she and the other women of Club Sandwich are building uncommonly deep friendships, witnessing the reality that in fact no woman can be everything to everybody, and discovering firsthand that they can do more than they imagined possible with the help of each another and with a strong dose of faith.

If your life is about caring for others, I dedicate this book to you. Welcome to the club. You are most definitely not alone.

Grace,

Lisa ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Beautiful Story
Sampson can pull a reader into the story so well. The characters are well rounded. It took a me a chapter or two to really get into it- once I was, I was sad it ended.

She writes my heart
I love Lisa Samson's books.Even though her heroines lead lives that are nothing like mine she still manages to find the beat of my heart and put it down in words so I can clearly see my strengths and my flaws.Reading her books is not only entertaining, it is rewarding and cathartic!

EVERYONE NEEDS THIS BOOK!
With a son off to college and ailing parents across the country, the theme of the book hit home. I love Lisa Samson and would purchase a Lisa journal of blank pages if need be.

Go out and pick up this book. Start your own club. But tell everyone about Lisa Samson and her terrific new book!

A humorous, and compassionate tale
In the opening chapter of CLUB SANDWICH, Ivy Schneider is off and running... her mouth.

"No one's ever accused me of being balanced. If childhood maps out future beliefs and actions, it's no wonder I veer to the right when walking down the sidewalk. If I spin, I twirl right. If I dance, my right foot leads. Perhaps my left-handedness dictates this bent, but I know better. I even look conservative with my understated pageboy, my Keds, and my sundresses. Now if I chose orthopedic sandals, I'd look like a member of PETA. And dreadlocks on this stark white woman? That might land me a delegate position to the Democratic National Convention."

In this rambling narrative style, Ivy continues to wax reminiscent about the Cold War, growing up in a fundamentalist Christian church, her mom's virtues, Stephen Tyler, and hot baths. In one fell swoop, author Lisa Samson provides a neatly developed character whose life is anything but. She's a mother of three, part-owner of the family's restaurant, and a columnist for the local paper. Her mother is elderly, her no-good father only comes around for free meals, her brother is a womanizer, and her sister is self-absorbed. Oh yeah. And her husband is never home. For the last three years he's spent ten months of the year on the road as a singer.

"I'm a little mad right now," Ivy tells us, also still in the first chapter. "I haven't heard from my husband, Rusty, in three days. Granted, he's busy singing tenor for a traveling gospel barbershop quartet, Heavenly Harmonies, but would it be so hard to turn on the blinkin' cell phone before the concert begins and just say hi?

Frankly, I'll take anger over dear any day. At least anger buffs you up.

Lemons out of lemonade. Hmm Well, let's see now. Three days incommunicado may just equal that new light fixture I want for the front porch. Oh yeah. Drink up, Rusty. I just won this one."

Ivy may have "won" that one, but her busy (and lonely) life is quickly stretched to the breaking point. Her mother falls and begins to suffer from dementia, so she moves in with the Ivy brood. Then the no-good dad needs a place to stay. And, wouldn't you know, so does Rusty's dad. Before you know it, Chez Schneider is a glorified boarding house and Ivy finds herself firmly sandwiched between serving the needs of her parents and the needs of her children.

It's from this predicament that the book derives its name. Samson says she was inspired to write the book, in part, because she too was caught in this sandwich for four years. But while Ivy does form a support group of women in similar situations, these characters remain in the margins, probably to the detriment of the book. It would have been nice to see and know more of them. As it is, the major players are Ivy and her family members. And Mitch, the old flame she considers reigniting in her husband's absence.

Some will find the narrative flow, which often resembles an ongoing dialogue between Ivy and herself, engaging. I found it scattered, an inadequate shortcut to character development. But the topics that CLUB SANDWICH tackles --- adultery, economic strain on marriages, caring for parents and kids, handling adult siblings, etc. --- are especially pertinent to many women today. Figuring out how to be a servant without getting stepped on is tricky, and Samson explores these tensions with compassion and humor.

--- Reviewed by Lisa Ann Cockrel

Quite Enjoyable!
CLUB SANDWICH is a great picker upper read and discuss with your girlfriends novel. Women everywhere regardless of age or marital status will identify with IVY in this Approval Addiction generation.

Join IVY and the other women of Club Sandwich as they forge a friendship and rock solid faith while learning firsthand the reasons why they all need each other to survive.

Enjoy CLUB SANDWICH today!

Happy Reading!

Reviewed by Marina Woods for [...]

... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Starting & Running a Sandwich-Coffee Bar
I ordered this book thinking it was written by and for use in the United States. However upon receiving it I realized quickly that it was written by and for use in the United Kingdom. Therefore a large portion is related to their terms, currency and their particular health departments. It is probably a great book for their use but not for here in the states. ... Read more

Book Description

Move over pasta and pizza, here come panini, bruschetta, and crostini! The world of sandwiches, Italian style. These heavenly bread-based creations include recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, antipasti, party foods, and delicious desserts and indulgences for any time of the day.

Customer Reviews (23)

Awesome appliance
I love this product and use it several times a week.Whoever suggested getting a paninni machine with flat cooking surfaces was right.You can do so many more things.Imagine french toast done perfectly with no flipping.Reheats pizza, rolls etc perfectally - and makes awesome sandwiches.No fat necessary for use.

Simply put: I'm returning it
This book was incredibly disappointing.Not ONE recipe in it looked worth-while.After reading the reviews of all the books, this one seemed to have the most positive response.But I wasn't impressed at all.In fact, I think I realized that the trick to a good panini is simply coming up with your own creations.You don't really need recipes to tell you how to make a good panini.Don't waste your time with this one.

Not so many cooked panini
We got this because it was a "suggested buy" to go with our Cuisinart Griddler. We were expecting recipes for cooked panini, but very few of these are.The recipes look delicious, the photos are gorgeous, but it wasn't really a good companion for our new appliance.

Outstanding
This was given as a gift to our daughter and at this time she has read through the book and has found a lot of dishes she wants to make.
It is very informative.

Still love it.
I bought this book over ten years ago, after I saw the chocolate sandwich on the cover. Tried it and LOVED it, as did my son. From there I just worked my way through the book and I can't remember being unhappy with anything I made from it. Surprised by the negative reviews posted just under mine but I guess if its not what you're expecting, then you're going to be disappointed.

That said, it's a fabulous sandwich book. ... Read more

Product Description
This hand appliance, owned by more than 2 million households, cooks more than just sandwiches; 175 recipes include wrapper suggestions as well as ideas for turnovers, egg rolls, omelets and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

essential if you have a sandwhich maker
I bought this book becuase i had recently bought a sandwhich maker and it came with very few recipes, hints or instructions.I even searched on the web for only a small amount of info...This book is very good.It is clearly written with alot of good sandwhich ideas ( not only for the sandwhich maker but also just for sandwichs)The book is written for sandwich makers in general so the author tells you where the makers varies... what to try with different types.I found some recipes that sounded very good and others i probably i wouldnt try...but there were many that sounded very good.And since its easy to use, only takes a few minutes to cook in one, and is easy to clean...trying new recipes is easy. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (1)

great for any young cook!
The sandwiches in this book are delicious and inventive.Each step is described fully, but not in a condescending manner.The layout is bright and exciting.I also love the way Dunnington lays out and describes needed supplies at the book's end.I think any child would enjoy working their way through the book and be inspired for further cooking! ... Read more