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When it comes to singleness, Holly Virden and Michelle McKinney Hammond have been there, done that. These two amazing women don't regard the single life as a cross to bear, but rather an amazing opportunity to take advantage of all life has to offer and to discover their God-ordained purpose. While acknowledging the pitfalls singles sometimes face, they celebrate the advantages that also come with singleness and validate it as a true gift from God. Tackling topics such as lust, loneliness, discouragement, and bitterness, the authors use humor and sound biblical teaching as a point of reference. Unique features include aDating 101 section, a Q&A format on hot topics, and an open, honest dialogue between the two authors.

Customer Reviews (2)

Singleness is NOT a gift...no exchange policy necessary
If the cheesy "sassy-sis-whackin'-you-upside-the-head" tone of this book doesn't make you sick, the outmoded "gift of singleness" theme probably will.

Assisted handily by McKinney-Hammond, Virden self-flagellates about her struggle with being grateful for her singleness, a "gift" she admits she'd rather exchange for marriage. A few years after this book is published, it turns out to be in vain -- singleness isn't a gift after all.At least, not biblically speaking.The New Living Translation they quote from has since taken the "gift of singleness" out of their version of 1 Cor 7:7!What's more, it was never meant to be a reference to ALL singleness, wanted or not -- only to those who are, as Christ said in Matthew 19, "so given to be able to receive this teaching" to "make themselves eunuchs", or rather, CHOOSE to remain single, for the sake of doing kingdom work.In other words, we can stop bashing each over the head with the notion that all singleness is a gift and leave it those who want to forfeit marriage for the sake of the kingdom to receive Christ's endorsement of the single life.

Christians of the past never considered circumstantial singleness to be a "gift", least of all prolonged singleness.It's a modern term coined by modern bible editors that has unfortunately led to a whole genre of books for singles that, like this one, join with the reader in commiserating about how their involuntary singleness makes them suffer -- and then admonish them for their lack of contentment!It's one thing to learn to be content in your circumstances as exemplified by Paul, and quite another to call that which causes suffering a gift, which the Bible never does.In over-stating the contentment message to singles, we end up superficially skirting any discussion of the reasons for the widespread singleness we see in churches today -- something that's been going on for years.

Fortunately, there are newer books that take seriously the issues that confront Christian singles today, providing genuine direction for individuals and church communities alike, in order to restore the ordinariness and accessibility of marriage:

Getting Serious about Getting Married: Rethinking the Gift of Singleness, by Debbie Maken

Get Married: What Women Can Do to Help it Happen, by Candice Watters.

These are the ones that are truly on the side of singles who desire a godly marriage -- do not be fooled by wolves dresses in sheep's clothing!The tide is turning, and teachings are under reform. At last, we no longer have to accept lumps on the head from those who brandish the club of contentment.Genuine support is out there!

Worthwhile Read
Generally, I am not a person that likes self-help books; I find them to be boring, long winded, and not worth the effort. But, this book is different. It's interesting, funny, and easy to understand.

Because I'm single and almost thirty I'm constantly reminded by family/friends of my single status. I developed a of stress and self-doubt. This book helped me focus on the important things in a Christians life and to know that my single status is not a curse, but a blessing.I found out that the thing I thirst for is not marriage, but a better relationship wiith God.

In no way is this book a "stay single forever" book, but a enjoy where you are now book. Both authors are single and satisfied, but also open and anticipating a human husband.

If you're single, stressed, and confused this is a good book to read. It will help you see the importance of your single life and look forward to the blessings to come. ... Read more

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Partners Tori Roche and J.B. Kale set out on a madcap adventure to a medieval inn where they are invited to solve the famous nursery rhyme murder mystery surrounding the 1785 massacre of twelve women--"pretty maids all in a row." As they begin gathering evidence to write a best-selling novel to save their publishing house, Tori finds her family lineage has more to do with the present than she anticipated. When more dead bodies keep falling in their path, it becomes obvious that the ancient murders are tied to a treasure that people are still dying to possess--and it's not the heirloom diamond that the guests of the inn are searching for. What happened on these old sacred grounds? Will Tori and Kale escape the secret passages alive? And why is the notorious Mary-Mary still quite contrary? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Nancy Drew meets Andy Hardy
Pretty Maids all in a Row is the kind of mystery novel I read as a kid back in the fifties. For those who've never had the pleasure, these novels typically featured a straight-arrow hero, wholesome, ultra-virginal heroine, and slimy bad guys who never actually did much harm. In this version, the old stereotypes are all there - on the deeper level too; the men do all the thinking and the heroine is there to look gorgeous and supply the rash acts that only complicate things for the hero.
While a sophisticated adult reader might find this one too light to carry interest, I feel this book would make a good Christmas or Birthday gift for a budding reader - say age 11-14 give or take. For the most part, the lead characters exhibit traits we'd like to see today's kids imitate. There are a few lascivious thoughts on the part of the hero - but they lend just enough of an adult edge to make the read more likely to make young readers feel "all grown up".
Art Tirrell - author of The Secret Ever Keeps ISBN 978-1-60164-004-8 March 2007 from Kunati Book Publishers
... Read more

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Customer Reviews (3)

Great read
Love their books...can really relate! These 2 authors need to write more novels. China Dolls is a good one too!

Not just another summer chick lit
Sarah Cho has always wanted to be an actress, but the rigors of life in New York City have always meant few opportunities to break into the business, and a subsequent need to work multiple menial jobs just to make ends meet.But then Sarah meets famous soap opera producer Daniel Wong and makes an abrupt decision to relocate to L.A., to pursue her dreams of acting and possibly a steamy relationship as well.Could this move lead to the big break she's been hoping for?Or is she destined to carry out her "starving artist" lifestyle in a new city?

Written with warmth and wry humor, //Young, Restless & Broke// is more than just another entry into the ranks of summer chick lit.Blossom Kan and Michelle Yu have created a novel that is smart and truly funny, despite having a plot that looks horribly cliché at first glance.Sarah is talented and driven, and her relationship issues will resonate with many readers.Her best friends provide comic relief, and her perfect sisters and supremely overprotective mother are endearing.The subject matter is light, and this novel makes for a refreshing escape from the real world.

Reviewed by Holly Scudero

EXCELLENT READ!
I was so pleased to discover that Michelle Yu had published another book. Her first book was a great read and the 2nd one did not disappoint. I know they say this all the time, but I really could not put it down.The book does an excellent job of weaving story telling with entertainment. No doubt, it's a book I will read again and that's saying allot.

I wanted to get to her book signing in New York City but could not, maybe I'll get to meet her when the 3rd book is published.

Anyway, it's a great read and would make a great gift for both men and women. ... Read more

Product Description
Chapters: Michelle Wie, James Yun, Hines Ward, Sonya Thomas, Richard Park, Jane Park, Anthony Kim, Christina Kim, Ann Patrice Mcdonough, Naomi Nari Nam, Jeanette Lee, Anthony Kang, Kevin Na, Lily Lyoonjung Lee, Alex Yi, Tabitha Yim, Pilar Bosley, Toby Dawson, Terrmel Sledge, Sammy Lee, Eric Kimble, Tiffany Joh, John Lee, Wendell Kim, Daewon Song, Simon Cho, Eugene Chung. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 127. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Michelle Sung Wie (pronounced ) (Korean: Wie Seong-mi Hangul: Hanja: , born October 11, 1989) is an American professional golfer who plays on the LPGA Tour. In 2006, she was named in a Time magazine article: "one of 100 people who shape our world." At age 10, she became the youngest player to qualify for USGA amateur championship. Wie would also become the youngest winner of the US Women's Amateur public links and the youngest to qualify for a LPGA tour event. Wie turned professional with an enormous amount of hype and endorsements. Wie was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her parents are both natives of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) who came to the United States in the 1980s. Her father, Byung-wook Wie, is a former professor of transportation management at the University of Hawaii. Her mother was South Korea's women's amateur golf champion in 1985 and competed in a Miss Korea pageant. Her paternal grandfather, Dr. Sang Kyu Wie, a native of Jangheung, Jeollanam-do, was an emeritus professor at Seoul National University. When she was born, both her parents had still Korean citizenship, so Wie had been a dual citizen of both the Republic of Korea and the United States automatically. But the Republic of Korea doesn't allow dual citizenship after the age of 21, Wie abandoned her Korean nationality. Wie graduated from Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawai...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=432402 ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (9)

Too little happens in book
I think this should have been a short story instead of a novel.This author seems to spend a lot of time writing about very little.The story is interesting at times, but overall isn't a very satisfying read.

Blackout
I loved Wildgen's first book, "You're Not You" and am anxious to see the film.I had hoped this second novel would measure up to my expectations. It seems to have fallen under the sophomore curse.

This is a short book that took me a fairly long time to plow my way through, not with enthusiasm. In "But Not for Long," I give Ms. Wildgen a ten for characters and a two for plotting.

The character I found most interesting was Will, the alcoholic husband. However, "A Fragile Peace" by Jonellen Heckler (very old book) is a far more emotional journey through the lives touched by an alcoholic. Hal, Karin, and Greta,the other protagonists, are all searching to make the world and their own lives bettter by working in non-profits: food distribution, a dairy newspaper, and a college respectively. Wildgen excels at developing the interior lives of her characters, their thoughts and actions and betrayals.

Action begins well in chapter one with a dock floating by, occupied by only a dog. Where's the owner? My problem with the opening is that is does not clearly seem to connect with the ending (is that a spoiler?) The dog seems to be a "save-the-cat" character device, in which case, Will should have been more involved.

During a blackout, the characters wander around Madison and environs, looking for ways to pass the time and avoid the reality of food going bad, relationships souring, and people acting badly under duress.I liked the idea of a non-functioning co-op.

Wildgen makes good use of the blackout and the Wisconsin setting, especially the cheese farm. I simply did not observe rising stakes for her characters, except for Will.

truth in fiction
Wildgen created people I believed, people I trusted, people i wanted to follow around in the dark with no ice or honey or perishables. Read this book. It will make you understand the people in your own life better. And the strange, small, quiet mysteries of life.

great read
i love the company of a great book and this is indeed one of them. it went straight for my amygdala and held it captive for many hours. it's earthy, lusty, and sad at the same time. characters are deeply and carefully developed and surroundings vividly brought to life. thank you ms. wildgen for making all of us in madison, wi even a little bit immortal.

Beautifully written, skillfully executed -- another great Wildgen title
But Not for Long is one of those books that still haunts me, but in a good way. In this book, Wildgen has created a situation that we can't help but identify with, but her artful prose manages to make what would otherwise be preachy or plain depressing into engaging and thought-provoking. This book constantly delivers unforgettable scenes of beauty and death, hand in hand, with a few nuggets of humor to keep us reading. This is a book I'm eager to revisit, as I know I'll uncover another thought or image to ponder and probably laugh a bit along the way. ... Read more

Product Description
Faced with multiple choices regarding school, friends, and activities coupled with the ever-widening influence of the outside world, parents of 6-12 year olds need help. America's nanny is back to offer a large dose of healthy parenting advice with secrets for raising happy, secure, and well-balanced children. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

great read
This book is a fun read and I think has very useful tools for dealing with your children in a positive, encouraging way.I've noticed I've been short with my children lately, so it's time to pick the book up again and put things into perspective so I don't get so stressed out.

Surprisingly Wonderful
Nanny To The Rescue Again! doesn't speak down to parents. Instead, it speaks to parents with a true heart filled with compassion and love for children. This book will teach parents, and parents-to-be, how to be better parents, how to use positive reinforcements, and how to handle tough situations that need a little more disciplining. ... Read more

Product Description
Sweetly neurotic waitress Annie Lee Fleck is prone to obsessions. Shes got a loving husband, plenty of good friends, and a home in a charming Colorado townbut in spite of all this, she aches for a child of her own. While Annie Lee and her husband devote plenty of time to trying, their fruitless attempts combined with her overly fertile imagination begin to take a toll on their marriage. When Lucas overhears her seeking safety advice for her imaginary toddler, all hell breaks loose. It is only after a series of off-the-wall encounters that Annie Lee can finally turn her snow-globe world rightside up again. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Postcards from Route 1-800
My favorite novels are the travel stories; Huck and Jim down the Mississippi, Gus and Call up the Montana Trail, the Joads across Rte 66. "Wait and See Annie Lee" is right in that roving tradition, but with a sly dada-ist twist.Although bodily rooted on the Continental Divide Annie Lee wanders the network of 1-800 emergency phone lines.Her adventures in this land of dis-embodied voices are laugh out loud funny, as is her stream of self-consciousness travelogue. Told with a light touch, a sharp eye, and a warm heart. A *very* good read; you'll be glad you made the trip.

I laughed, I cried. It was better than "Cats"!
Annie Lee is my new heroine, and so is Michelle Curry Wright. This novel gives us a funny and insightful look at the neuroticisms of a quirky thirtiesh waitress trying to live and breed in a funky little ski town. Alternating moments of hilarity and deep introspection kept me turning the pages, half expecting the familiar characters to walk out and join me for a cup of coffee.

After reading this book, you will forever wonder about "the woman behind the waitress". ...And don't forget to tip!

A good beach read
Obsessive Annie Lee Fleck is a perfectionist pessimist, a fatal combination when she sets her mind on doing something.Not only does whatever she wants done must be 200 per cent flawless regardless of cost, she performs a complete Murphy analysis to determine what could go wrong to insure that never happens.

Annie Lee wants a baby in the worst way.She begins her overkill to insure this happens, driving her beleaguered spouse to seek shelter and comfort elsewhere.Even worse, Annie Lee begins to call the local Poison Control Center on a daily basis and sometimes more than that.She acts with the counselors as if she already has a baby though she is not pregnant and her husband has moved from Pike, Colorado to Seattle to escape her latest obsession.This marriage appears busted unless they can find a common peak like the restaurant they both want to open.

WAIT AND SEE, ANNIE LEE starts off as a hilarious satire that rips the basic tenets of society.However about half way into the tale, the plot takes an unnecessary turn to cuddly capriciousness and loses some of its edge.The story line overall is amusing due to the eccentric and likable characters including Annie Lee (as long as she is not part of the reader's household).Michelle Curry Wright shows the right stuff for those readers who want something completely different.

Harriet Klausner ... Read more

Product Description
From the South - East corner to the Flinders Ranges, the walks included in this book cover widely different terrain ranging from coastal scrub to mountains and arid desert.Like the other books in Tyrone Thomas' series, the walks have been divided into seasonal walks, and classified according to difficulty, length and region. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Exploring the grampions
If you have ever dreamed of hiking through mountains without all of the rugged turain that goes with them , then the grampions are for you!

50 WALKS IN THE GRAMPIONS is an excellant way to discover the many secretsthat hide within the mountains. Good description of fifty different trialsfor the hiker/walker within you !

A brilliant buy for every keentraveller! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (39)

Interesting subject
It's a good novel, but not a great one.It has an interesting subject (paid caregiver) and the main character evolves quite a bit during the course of the story.I enjoyed the novel, but I'm not sure that I would recommend it to others because it moves fairly slowly.Part of the reason that I liked it is that is takes place in Madison WI, where I live.

Carefully written
Michelle Wildgen, author of You're Not You, is senior editor for Tin House magazine, which impressed me before I even began to read.The book is a slow read, but not in a bad way.The pace of this novel appeals to me in the same way that the slow food, slow living, and slow bicycle movements appeal to me.

Although I'm not the narrator's age, I was easily able to identify with her, and to root for her.I was also enamoured with Kate, her employer, and enjoyed dissecting the dynamics among characters.The segments written about food and cooking were mouth-watering!

Wildgen neither shies away from nor sensationalizes sex scenes, recreational drug use, or masturbation.These matters are a part of the novel just like they are a part of life.

I look forward to reading more by this author.

A Triumphant First Novel
"You're Not You" was a very detailed, intricate story between a young, reckless 21-year old girl who falls into the role of caregiver to a 30-something woman who is dealing with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).

Bec, the college party girl, has a tangled life.She is no longer close to her parents (since she moved out to college), she is happily involved with a married college professor (luckily, not HERS), and doesn't mind working at a deadend waitressing job (she doesn't typically stay in one job for more than a few months anyway)Until one day, she is sipping coffee and stumbles upon a "wanted" ad for a caregiver- no experience necessary.She knows by hearing stories from her nursing best girlfriend that caregiving pays decent wages and thinks it will be something "new" to tide her over the summer break from college.

Meet Kate, a thirty-something woman with grace and elegance, regardless of her confinement to her wheelchair and little to no movements from her body parts.On Bec's first day, she watches Kate's husband, Evan, put on her make-up, put her in and out of chairs and beds, as well as feed her through a tube in her stomach.It doesn't seem so bad, watching Evan do the work.Seems to have a rhythm.

Until Day Two, when Evan and Kate tell Bec that she should really be "thrown in" and Evan sits back to watch Bec navigate his wife through rising and putting her to bed, feeding, make-up and even washing Kate in the shower.Kate has basically no movement abilities.She can slur her words, but cannot move her legs or arms or even her neck at times.She has the ability to eat regular food, but since she has such limited muscle movement, it takes quite a bit of time to chew one bite.

Throughout about half the story, we seehow attached Bec becomes to Kate over the course of a few months.She is at Kate's side throughout all dinner parties, weddings, etc- translating what Kate says to her friends and family.When Bec is with Kate, she is almost not "even there".She is a "part" of Kate, speaking for her- showing emotion for her... living for her.

Eventually, Bec starts to lose a sense of who she is- and even starts to mimic Kate's desires and actions into her own life.Can she handle having a dishonest relationship with her professor?Can she allow her mother to disrespect her beliefs?Can she cook?Can she handle living alone?

"You're Not You" was a very good story.At times it was too focues on the whole eating thing.I don't care to read about how food is prepared over and over, so sometimes I skimmed over those parts.I think it needed a little more inner dialogue on Bec's part regarding her OWN life.She seemed to think a lot about Kate and Evan's lives, but not nearly as much on her own.Bec and Kate grew too close too quickly- I couldn't believe that part quite right.Bec's mother needed to be smacked- for always second guessing her.

"You're Not You" is very detailed for what I'm impressed to learn is Wildgen's first novel.Great job!The story stayed with me for a few days!

Kinda blah
The characters in this book didn't make sense.Kate and Bec never really formed a true bond like I'd hoped. Bec is somewhat heartless through the entire book then all of a sudden ends up with some morals at the end? The husband is pathetic/ the boyfriend even worse... Jill is the good and decent friend who has little influence on Bec and is rather boring. The book flowed ok, aside from a few unneccesary scenes that frankly grossed me out a little.

Lost
I really did not get the great reviews on Amazon.I have just recently lost a loved one to ALS and I can assure you this book is far from real.I am sure Ms. Wildgen meant well to explain Kate's illness and her life with her husband Evan, but this was more of a cooking lesson and a college aged girl making bad choices.ALS is a very horrible disease and having lost someone to this, books like this make me angry.There are many good novels out there, but this is not one of them. ... Read more

Product Description
Chapters: Thomas Ambrose Tschoepe, Stephanie Umoh, Frank Cornish, Mike Williams, Michelle Merhar. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 18. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Thomas Ambrose Tschoepe (December 17, 1915 January 24, 2009) was the second Roman Catholic bishop of San Angelo, Texas and the fifth bishop of Dallas, Texas. Tschoepe (pronounced ) was born on December 17, 1915 in Pilot Point, Texas and was ordained a priest on May 30, 1943. On March 9, 1966 he was ordained Bishop of San Angelo, and on October 29, 1969, he was installed as Bishop of Dallas. During Tschoepes administration, 21 counties in East Texas were split off into the new Diocese of Tyler, reducing the Dallas Diocese to 9 counties and a little over 7,000 square miles. Tschoepe retired on July 14, 1990 and was succeeded by Charles Victor Grahmann. During the early part of his retirement he lived and served at St. Joseph's parish in Waxahachie, Texas. In his later years he lived at the St. Joseph Retirement Center in south Dallas, where he died on January 24, 2009 at age 93. ...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=6060006 ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from The Australian Library Journal, published by Australian Library and Information Association on February 1, 2010. The length of the article is 435 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Using Technology to Teach Information Literacy.(Book review)
Author: Michelle McLean
Publication: The Australian Library Journal (Magazine/Journal)
Date: February 1, 2010
Publisher: Australian Library and Information Association
Volume: 59Issue: 1-2Page: 67(1)

Article Type: Book review

Distributed by Gale, a part of Cengage Learning ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (11)

fascinating storytelling
Chinese Americans M.J., Alex and Lin are best friends and have been so since they met as children.Each encourages the others to seek their dreams.Thus M.J. is a sportswriter hoping to make TV broadcasting; Alex has become a successful lawyer; and Lin has succeeded as an investment banker.

Each of their parents is concerned with the Americanization of their offspring, as the only acceptable roles for an Asian female are wife and mother.However the three musketeers want more from their lives and plan to prove to their respective families that Asian women at least in the United States can be all they want to be.

The American assimilation that divides the third generation from especially the first (the second is caught in a tug of war) is aptly described in CHINA DOLLS.Readers will see the Grand Canyon in beliefs as the acceptable Chinese norm (brought from the old country) clashes with the desires of women to be all that you can be in a society that encourages much more flexibility.Although none of the three young professionals are fully developed, the clashing lifestyles make for an interesting tale as each ahs to decide between gratifying their family by staying inside the narrow cultural restraints or satisfying themselves by taking advantage of the wider opportunities America offers.

Harriet Klausner

don't bother reading this book
"China Dolls" is racist and sexist.The vast majority of male characters of all ethnicities are portrayed as chauvinist cavemen.This is especially true of all of the Asian American characters.

The female protagonists accept the glaring faults of the white men they encounter, such as Josh's arrogance and obvious Asian fetish, and Drew's blatant racism and sexism.The Asian male characters are harshly criticized and are not allowed second chances.

The female characters lament how being Asian American makes them feel marginalized in their careers and unhappy with their bodies.I don't understand how I am supposed to feel any sympathy for them since they themselves have such low regard for Asian men.

Toward the end of the novel, Lin realizes that she has unfairly judged her Asian ex-boyfriend Stephen.But this leads nowhere, and I get the impression that she would rather just wait for a nonracist white man.

I also found it interesting that the Asian mothers in the book are by far more domineering and controlling than the Asian fathers, which goes against the stereotype that Asian men are too controlling to be good romantic partners.

I actually emailed the authors and they responded that the "book is more about the women than the men."Apparently, they think that they are not responsible for their minor characters.I think that the authors just are not good writers and are simply benefiting from the public's interest in Asian women's stories.

I would love to say that this novel represents a very biased Asian American female perspective, but unfortunately, I suspect that many Asian American women feel exactly the same way as the authors.

China Dolls stereotypes not just in the title.
I just read the new novel China Dolls . . . .
On the surface, I really liked it. Well written, very funny, Fast fun read. Upon further reflection, I found it to be one of the most racially stereotyped and demeaning books I have read of late.
Yu and Kan do the exact opposite of what Alisa does in her books. Alisa presents a broad spectrum of different types of Latino people, with positive and negative qualities. With regards to the men in Dirty Girls, we have a Cuban Jew wife beater, a Mexican philanderer, a Puerto Rican nice guy, an idiot white guy, and an Aztec with a superiority complex. I am not suggesting that Yu and Kan represent other Asian groups, but all of their Asian American male characters are shown as weak, dorky, effeminate, or controlling.
The characters call the Asian men names like "Asian Warrior Man." p 136
p 129 "Haven't you ever gone out with an Asian guy before? "Oh yeah, in college, Mike Tang. He was a nice guy. He told me he loved me five minutes after we sat down for dinner."
All the white guys are described as tan, gorgeous perfect bodies. When any of them make rude degrading comments, their actions are excused but when the Asian male characters say something offensive, they are lambasted for being "traditional male chauvinist pigs."
I just find it so sad that it is bad enough that white media desexualizes Asian American men, but that Asian female writers do it as well. In the history of primetime television, there has only been one Asian man that has kissed a woman (Jin and Sun from Lost) That was the main reason that I created the Tim Lee character in my book was to show a gorgeous Asian man that all the girls are in love with.
I have been reading everything in the chick lit genre I can get my hands on while I revise my book because I am learning so much by reading. In China Dolls, I found that I couldn't distinguish at all between the three characters and they all seemed to have the same voice, so I am really trying to make all my characters distinct.

So-So
This novel attracted my attention for a number of reasons.First, it is a novel about young, Asian-American women trying to be successful in challenging careers in New York City.(In this case, sports reporter, attorney and stockbroker.)My wife is a young, Asian-American woman trying to build a successful career as an accountant in New York City.In a closely related second, this novel shows relationships between these Asian-American women and non-Asian men which also strikes close to home for me.Finally, China Dolls is a first novel and I always make an effort to read first novels that seem interesting in a long-standing attempt to support new writers.

So, given all that, how did I like this novel?To be frank, I have to say it is only "so-so."

But I should be fair.Even with my connections to the themes of this novel, perhaps I am not the right audience and my judgement is therefore somewhat suspect.Perhaps it would resonate more with women and, more precisely, Asian-American women.Still, whatever its audience, there are some weaknesses here.

Most importantly, it is not particularly well written.The prose is pretty flat and cliche-ridden.There are no real surprises to the plot and the concept of fate that often resonates in novels by Asian writers is watered down to the point of tastelessness.I also felt their portrayal of many of the Asian characters (mothers, fathers, grandparents) was surprisingly stereotypical.I am basing this on my encounters with my wife's family which made these characters ring untrue for me.

The three lead characters did offer some depth and insight, most likely because they are based on the experience of our two authors (a sports reporter and an attorney) but it wasn't enough to really carry me through the novel.What this bodes for their next novel (which the dust jacket says they are "hard at work on"), I don't know.

Exchange stereotypes from one group to another.
While I found that this book was a decent read in one afternoon, it's particularly disturbing for the authors to try to break stereotypes of Asian women by unnecessarily reinforcing stereotypes of Asian men.

Halfway through the book, all the Asian men in the book seem to exploited by turning them into stereotypical caricatures and using them as a catalyst to push the development of the female protagonists.In order to break from stereotypes as young Asian women, they projected an image of the stereotypical Asian male and culture.

It's truly tragic when in order for Asian women to move up in society, they have to push Asian men down. ... Read more

Product Description
When Lily Connor takes a job as interim chaplain at Tate University, an all but Ivy League school just down the road from Harvard, she's happy to discover that an old friend of hers from seminary is now there as well. It's clear, however, that something is wrong with Samantha-she is thin and skittish and, more important, she looks scared. And when Samantha asks Lily for her help, it becomes something more perilous than Lily could have ever imagined.

Someone has been sending Samantha photographs, purportedly of an ancient scroll known as the Book of Light, believed to contain the transcribed words of Jesus himself. No one has ever seen it-no one even knows if it really exists. As Lily begins to investigate, it becomes dangerously clear that that is exactly the way someone wants to keep it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

From dark to light
There are a few other books which explore the topic of newly found words of Jesus or "Q" specifically.The subject lends itself nicely to intrigue and suspense.Blake adds the edge of spiritual angst. She also has a few passages which are great for sermon fodder.

Way back in seminary I found the idea of text criticism fascinating.If my ancient language skills were better it would have been even more interesting.Blake's book may be a good one to help explain to lay people about how the Bible came to be.It would certainly create some serious questions.

The use of present tense, while incredibly annoying at times, gives a distinct impression of Lily's detachment from her present life.I expect the next book will have something to do with her relationship to her parents and deepening (I hope) relationship with Tom.

All in all the book was good.I'm looking forward to the next one.

Another interesting plot with religious undertones
I enjoyed this book better than the first two of this series. The plot is very interesting and I think Ms. Blake did a fine job of weaving in all the characters introduced to a logical end. It would be great to see more of the psychic trait of Ms. Conner in the next novels as well as her suerpior Bishop Spencer.
As with the first two novels, the characters are interesting and the plot unique. Religion plays a great part but doesn't overwhelm if you are squeamish about reading anything remotely religious.
I look forward to the next novel! Thank you Ms. Blake.

Good story - awkward style
As a clergywoman of the same theological bent as Lily, I was looking forward to enjoying a mystery story set in an appoximation of my world. However, I found Michelle Blake's style of writing in the present tense was very distracting and I found that I couldn't get past the second chapter. I tried to ignore the "she goes..." and "he says...", and mentally put everything in the past tense, but had to give up. I might check out further books by this writer but if I found them to be in the same style, I would not bother to read them.

Interesting concept
Lily Connor has temporary position as a chaplain at a Boston university when she encounters a classmate from Lily's own school days, Samantha.Samantha seems to need more than Lily is willing to give, and presumes on a friendship Lily is not sure ever existed.

Samantha soon reaches out to Lily for help--Samantha is receiving photographs of what appears to be lost, pre-biblical text called "Q"--words of Jesus never before seen.The plot twists and double twists with appearances of Samantha's assistant, the assistant's boyfriend, and Samantha's ex-husband, all of whom have some nefarious involvement with Q.

The Book of Light starts strongly, and the author's biblical references add wonderful authenticity to the story--the reader can sense the awe of this work.Unfortunately, in the last few chapters the novel falls back to a cliched resolution not worthy of the characters or writing.Still, an enjoyable read for mystery lovers.

creative theological mystery
After graduating from Cambridge Theological Seminary, Lily Connor becomes an ordained Episcopalian priest.At present she is the interim pastor of Tate University located a few miles from Harvard in Cambridge, Massachusetts.One day while counseling a student in her office, Samantha Lamb-Henderson walks in and says she want to get reacquainted with Lily.Lily feels the professor has a hidden agenda because when they attended seminary school together they were just acquaintances, not friends.

Lily's suspicions soon prove right when Samantha confides in her.Samantha's assistant, Francine, has been getting photographs in the mail that look like they could be the mythical Q document, the second source document for the Gospels of Luke and Mark.If it is proven to exist and is authenticated it will be the most important religious revelation in over a millennium.However, Lily, Samantha, and Francine are all being followed and it is clear that these individuals want the photographs and will go to any lengths to retrieve them.

Readers will absolutely adore the protagonist who knows that she doesn't have all the answers and at times, her faith, the foundation of her life, can be shook.She is believable as she is willing to go the extra mile to see if the photographs could be the Q source and is even willing to accept the danger that goes along with that mission.Michelle Blake writes a creative theological mystery that will enthrall readers with its insights into the realities of organized religion.

Harriet Klausner ... Read more

Product Description

America's nanny offers a large dose of healthy parenting advice with secrets for raising happy, secure, and well-balanced babies and toddlers.
Babies don't come with instructions. And since today's parents are so overwhelmed with schedules and demands, they have little time to bone up on their parenting skills. Often removed from grandparents and relatives who in times past lived next door or just down the street, they have no one to guide them through the disorienting world of raising children. Enter Nanny to the Rescue! Michelle LaRowe, 2004 International Nanny Association "Nanny of the Year," gives her tried and true solutions to childcare. Her expertise with chapters titled "Who's the boss?" and "Discipline is not a four letter word" gives confidence to parents who need specific ideas for real day-to-day problems. A proud member of Christian Nannies, Michelle offers foundational truths sure to help encourge moms and dads.

Customer Reviews (13)

Would prefer a "secular" version
Most of the information in this book is really not earth shattering and is basic common sense. Also, this book is NOT for non-Christians and should really mention the fact that it is very Christian-based in its title or description-- I was completely taken aback by it and frankly, put off.

GREAT BOOK!
I could not put this book down! Michelle LaRowe did an awesome job!

Great book
Being a new mom, I needed a book to guide me in toddler parenting w/o compromising discipline and love- this was the book I needed.It was a great plus to know that the author is a Christian (my faith also), thus she explains parenting from Christ's perspective.

Must read
Informative and useful.A great book with practical advice you can use right away that actually works.

Essential!
I'm a nanny with over 5 years of experience with multiples. You wrote the book I've always wanted to! Way to go! I plan on getting one for my employers when I leave this job and will also be purchasing one to keep for myself at home. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document is an article from Science and Its Times, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 1114 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.The histories of science, technology, and mathematics merge with the study of humanities and social science in this interdisciplinary reference work. Essays on people, theories, discoveries, and concepts are combined with overviews, bibliographies of primary documents, and chronological elements to offer students a fascinating way to understand the impact of science on the course of human history and how science affects everyday life. Entries represent people and developments throughout the world, from about 2000 B.C. through the end of the twentieth century. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document is an article from Australian Journal of Outdoor Education, published by Thomson Gale on July 1, 2007. The length of the article is 632 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: A Teachable Moment: A facilitator's guide to activities for processing, debriefing, reviewing, and reflection.(Book review)
Author: Glyn Thomas
Publication: Australian Journal of Outdoor Education (Magazine/Journal)
Date: July 1, 2007
Publisher: Thomson Gale
Volume: 11Issue: 2Page: 64(1)

Article Type: Book review

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more