Customer Reviews (1)

Wonderful book!
I have two-year-old twins, and they are absolutely entranced by this book! After reading it to them the first time, they became and have remained simply delighted to shout out the animal names as we flip open the pages. Our copy is a library book; I'm ordering it right now and plan to see if this author has others. Again, great book! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bedtime & Dreams   2. Children's 4-8 - Picturebooks   3. Children: Kindergarten   4. Family - General   5. Humorous Stories   6. Juvenile Fiction   7. Performing Arts - Dance   

Customer Reviews (8)

Chiaverini's Latest Effort is Masterful
Jennifer Chiaverini's Elm Creek Quilts series has drawn readers in for five books now, and the sixth, THE MASTER QUILTER, will be no different.

The beloved characters from the previous books are back. This time, the Elm Creek Quilters are trying to arrange a wedding quilt as a surprise present for newlyweds Sylvia and Andrew. To help make the quilt, the Elm Creek Quilters contact various minor characters from earlier books to have them contribute quilt blocks.

Meanwhile, Sarah's ability to keep a secret is tested, especially by her husband, Matthew. But both she and Sylvia seem to have minor roles in this book compared to some of the other characters. Bonnie is having financial problems with Grandma's Attic and, even worse, marital difficulties. Diane is feeling unappreciated by her fellow quilters and suspects that her son has begun his bad ways again. Gwen is trying to deal with her peers at the college who tell her that quilting is not a serious academic subject; she feels pressured to stop studying what she loves and concentrate on what is "in." Summer, Gwen's daughter, is moving in with her boyfriend without telling her mother, and she's juggling career choices as well.

Agnes is there for Bonnie, but her role is minor. She's her usual self: helpful, loyal and a good friend. When she does some investigation work to help out Bonnie, we see a different side of the usually reserved Agnes.

The prose here is wonderful, much like the images of quilts throughout the book. The characters are more fleshed out in this latest installment; it is interesting to see them struggling with decisions that any person could face in real life. The history among the characters is respected, which adds to the power of the story. Past relationships are brought in; the nicest was the hostility between Diane and her neighbor Mary Beth, the President of the other quilting club. The messages of friendship and loyalty are still there, and the fact that, six books later, these characters are still interesting is a testament to Chiaverini's writing abilities.

This is a series that can continue for the foreseeable future, and that is a good thing. These characters have a lot of stories left in them, and Chiaverini is bringing them to life in a wonderful way.

--- Reviewed by Melissa A. Palmer (melissaenglish72@yahoo.com)

Best Yet!
Jennifer Chiaverini's writing continues to improve! I received and read this book on the same day. The chapter style she used in this edition of the series, using each character's view point of the same time period, was refreshing and not over-done. It is SOOOO nice to enjoy a book that has been proof-read and edited as well as this one! My kudos to the publisher.

Can't wait for the next one!
I loved Jennifer Chiaverini's latest Elm Creek Quilts novel. The book tells the story of the same several month time period from the view of different characters. Each chapter is another character's experience. It was very interesting to read what each person was thinking at the time and how the actions of others, which seemed unusual, were explained when the next chapter was told in their voice. Once again, Chiaverini has wrapped her readers in the warm storyquilt of friendship that trancends age and geography. Some characters are moving on to different places in their lives, and I look forward to the new characters that will fill their places at Elm Creek Quilts and the stories they will bring with them.
On a side note: Oooohhhh! I hate that man! Bonnie Markham's husband Craig is one of the biggest turd's I've ever read in a novel! Just wait, you'll hate him too. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Compson, Sylvia (Fictitious ch   2. Compson, Sylvia (Fictitious character)   3. Fiction   4. Fiction - Mystery/ Detective   5. General   6. Mystery & Detective - Series   7. Mystery & Detective - Women Sleuths   8. Popular American Fiction   9. Quilters   10. Quiltmaking   11. Quilts   12. Fiction / General   

Customer Reviews (2)

Most useful; Most enoyable
Hysterical and practical! The book was easy to read and actually has come in handy in the crazy years of college

What teachers' don't tell you.
I felt this book was a fairly quick read. I read it in one night.
Its funny, and gives you many good tips from how to choose the perfect mattress to how to avoid the walk of shame.
A lot of it were some good points how to know if your school is right for you, when are the best days for visiting.
If you were to read this book I would reccommend spending an hour at Barnes and Nobles and reading. I mean its good, but that $14 could have been spent somewhere else. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. College Guides   2. Education   3. General   4. Humor   5. Personal & Practical Guides   6. Reference   

Customer Reviews (10)

Well-written, well-organized howto
The first thing I noticed about this book is the logical organization. It starts out with basic CVS functions and uses, then progresses to more advanced tasks and configurations. It is clear and concise, and so well-organized it's easy to look up specific tasks without having to wade through gobs of irrelevant verbiage. It includes many common pitfalls, and what to do about them. It covers logging, scripting, security, local and remote access- this is the best reference for CVS. I recommend it highly all users, beginners to intermediate especially.

Very informative, but not very well organized
Essential CVS by Jennifer Vesperman is a very informative book on CVS ever published. Most developers working with CVS - Concurrent Versions System - will appreciate tips, tricks details provided by the author. It covers all the aspects of managing projects using CVS that most of us will ever need.

I especially appreciate the author's discussion on tagging and branching strategies. She compares available branching strategies, talks about pros and cons of each in details to help you pick the one you see more fit.

She also provides tips and tricks, ranging from absurd (such as switching your sandbox by editing your CVS/Repository file) to intimidating (such as playing with the repositories directly). These tips will help you understand the system's internals, which hopefully will result in productivity (if not in disaster).

At first, I found her discussions a bit redundant - you can read the same point repeated several times on the same page or the same chapter over and over. Although it annoyed me to some extent, people not familiar with CVS may appreciate this feature of the book.

She assumes her audience to be familiar with UNIX systems. Although I'm fine with it (I live in Linux), others may not be. Most of the UNIX-related chat are found in her file-utility commands, as well as bash scripts, in addition to some user account/group management.

The organization and writing style of the book is far from ideal. CVS itself is a very exciting topic for software developers. The author of Essential CVS fails to reflect this in her discussions. Her discussions are close to manpage-style, with some detour onto tips and suggestions from time to time.

I believe ideal style for a book on CVS would be a scenario-driven style, which introduces a project, a problem related with managing it, and advances into the features of CVS one solution at a time. Realize, that is it different from cook-book style, which is a Question & Answer styled writing.

Good examples of scenario-driven styled writing are "Apache The Definitive Guide" by O'reilly, which builds a server with a tiny configuration file, and advances to more feature-ful implementation; "MySQL" book of New Riders, which introduces a conventional grade book and advances into more complex RDBMS implementation of it; "DNS and BIND" of O'reilly and etc.

Great start to CVS
I administer our CVS server at work. We use CVS in the traditional way, to manage source code from a group of people working together on multiple projects. Before this book, I didn't have a single reference that explained all the basic functionality of CVS. Now, when someone has a question, I can pass along this book for a quick answer.

Most of the things you'll do with CVS are covered in sufficient detail in this book. I do agree with the reviewer who mentioned this is not the perfect reference for some tasks - like merging branches. This book will, however, give you all the background information you'll need so that you can effectively research complex topics like this on the web. The title is appropriate - 'essential CVS.' It's not 'everything there is to know about CVS' - and that's a strength of the book. It makes it small enough that the average developer can read the 'quickstart,' and have a basic understanding of how things work. They can then use the more detailed chapters to gain further information. Only the CVS administrator will need a little more. Even for them, this book will be a handy reference. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Computer Bks - Operating Systems   2. Computer Books: Operating Systems   3. Computers   4. Networking - General   5. Operating Systems - General   6. Operating Systems - UNIX   7. Programming - General   8. COM051230   9. Computer Programming   10. Computers / Programming / General   11. Unix, Unix Linux & Unix TCL/TK   

Customer Reviews (25)

Funny, sometimes useful, but not required
As a book of humor, it's great. It has interesting scenarios and some good tips I wouldn't have thought of. I use it to decorate my coffee table in my dorm room for friends to flip through while they're hanging out. Not a serious read, though.

One scenario is something like What To Do If You Wake Up In Bed With Someone Whose Name You Forgot. One suggestion is to look through medicine cabinet and find perscription meds with her name. Kind of funny scenario, but the tip is actually helpful.

The recommendation for having too much gas on a date is to go in the bathroom, get on all fours, stick your bottom... in the air, and it'll help you get it out. Kind of hard to do even in your own room, much less a dirty public restroom.

If you want humor (with some good real tips), this is a good book, but if you want real advice, spend your money on a real dating tips book.

NO JOKE! Serious advice on funny situations!
This is my favorite "Worst-Case" book and probably the most practical. I think it will make a great gift for the holidays. It makes for interesting reading and is a conversational piece. If you wanted to, I'm sure that you could read the whole book in a couple of hours.

Some of the advice is very practical, helpful and important for serious dating like: How to Determine If Your Date is Married, How to Deal with Bad Breath, How to Deal with a Drunken Date, How to Survive If You Are Stopped by the Police, and How to Survive Snoring.

Others are mostly amusing (especially the diagrams!) like: How to Determine the Gender of Your Date, How to Escape From a Bad Date, How to Spot a Fake (Boob job and hair pieces), How to Fend Off Competition For Your Date, and How to Remove Difficult Clothing...and of course the faking of the Big "O".

Some things that are in the book may not be such a good idea in the first place like How to Have an Affair and Not Get Caught. Maybe you can avoid the whole problem by not having an affair, right?

And the bit about How to Determine if Your Date is a Con-Artist...the entire thing about the eye patterns is such a bunch of neuro-baloney. Trust your intuition and if he seems kind of weird then he probably is.

All in all this is a fun read, a great gift, a practical guide to a few situations that may apply to you or one of your friends, and if you live on the dating "edge", this probably can save your behind....at least temporarily until you wise up.

Like a professional baseball player, this book helps an enlightened woman anticipate rare situations so that she can respond with action instead of react in panic. And for this, we can be thankful that this book exists.

In today's pop culture society, I'm sure this is destined to be a National Best-Seller.

Useful and humorous!
Some books come along that I regret having not read much
earlier in my life . . . such is the case with THE WORST-CASE
SCENARIO SURVIVAL HANDBOOK: DATING AND SEX by Joshua Piven, David Borgenicht and Jennifer Worick . . . it contains much useful information (often presented in humorous fashion) that would have helped me over the last 35-some years.

But that said, I still learned and laughed from short but insightful
chapters as:
How to Survive Snoring;
How to Determine If Your Date is an Axe Murderer;
How to Have Sex in a Small Space;
How to Deal with a Cheating Lover;
How to Remove Difficult Clothing;
How to Fend Off an Obsessive Ex;

and, of course:
How to Survive If You Wake Up Next to Someone Whose
Name You Don't Remember . . . the key, if you're at their place:

Do not panic. Evidence of your partner's name exists somewhere
nearby. Your task will be to find it before she awakens or before she starts any sort of meaningful conversation.

You can go the bathroom. The bathroom is a normal first place to visit first thing in the morning, and it is also a place where you might discover her name.

Look through the medicine cabinet for prescription medicines with her name on the label.

Sort through magazines, looking for subscription labels with her name and address.

Go through a wastebasket to find discarded junk mail addressed to her.

Return to the bedroom. If she is awake, ask her to make coffee for you. Use the time alone to search the bedroom for evidence. Look for: wallet, checkbook, ID or name bracelet, photo album, scrapbook, business cards (a stack of cards, not just one), or luggage labels. If she is still sleeping, look for these other items throughout the house.

I was impressed by the fact that while some of this material
might sound frivolous to those never having encountered such
situations, the authors nevertheless did a thorough job of searching their work . . . they consulted a wide variety of experts, including directors of violence-prevention programs, doctors and sex educators.

In addition, the illustrations by Brenda Brown greatly added to my enjoyment of this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Dating (Social customs)   2. Family & Relationships   3. Family/Marriage   4. Interpersonal Relations   5. Love & Romance   6. Love / Sex / Marriage   7. Man-woman relationships   8. Miscellanea   9. Sexuality   

Customer Reviews (3)

Skip it unless you are a born-again Christian!
If you're looking for an entertaining Hollywood bio, this ain't it. I guess she covered most of the Hollywood stuff in her earlier book, "Surviving Myself." This one is all about the beauty and wonder and glory of being "saved" by Jesus, and is laced with passages of scripture. Since I'm completely non-religious, I flipped through it for just a few minutes and gave it back to the library.

Here's some reviews from Jennifer's Book!!!
"From Fallen to Forgiven is the incredible account of a life transformed by Jesus Christ. When you read everything Jennifer has experienced in her life's journey you will have two surprises: first, that anyone could endure the pain and suffering she has known, and second, that through her faith she has been transformed into such a beautiful person. Jennifer's book will strengthen your own faith and encourage your heart. I highly recommend it."
Dr. David Jeremiah "Turning Point" Radio & Television Senior Pastor, Shadow Mountain Community Church

"From Fallen to Forgiven is for everyone who feels that their life is beyond repair. Her own struggle and subsequent renewal through her commitment to Christ, and her faith in God's love and His willingness to heal, will be an inspiration to readers."
Patricia Heaton Emmy Award Winning Actress, "Everybody Loves Raymond"

On the screen, Jennifer O'Neill has brought her characters to life with amazing energy and talent. Now, after a lifetime of personal struggles, she reveals how God brought character and renewal into her life. This book is a no-holds-barred journey of faith and hope that will inspire every reader.
Mark Larson Chairman, Media Fellowship International

I appreciated From Fallen to Forgiven not just as a writer and Christian, but as someone who found this work tremendously encouraging toward deepening my daily walk with the Lord. Ms. O'Neill's presentation of her message'including her own song lyrics and scriptural references'is a comfort and source of strength to which anyone can turn. And return."
John Tinker Creator & Producer, "Judging Amy"

"As in our recent women's conference, Jennifer beautifully communicates her love for God and people in the pages of this in-depth, Biblically based study. You'll appreciate her refreshing honesty and be changed forever by God's message of forgiveness."
Dr. Robert Schuller Founding Pastor, Crystal Cathedral Ministries

"Jennifer has lived many lives in her few years. She shares how her amazing walk with the Lord has healed many wounds. Everyone reading this book will find a common struggle in their own life and they will receive ministering testimony. Her honesty and openness are refreshing."
Marilyn McCoo Singer

"Jennifer O'Neill's deeply moving book From Fallen to Forgiven is a beautifully written chronicle of one Christian's journey from self-destruction to healing through the power of forgiveness. Learn from her words and know the power of moving beyond our own trespasses and giving those who have trespassed against us back over to God where they rightly belong."
Michael A. Adamse, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist, Author, Radio Host

"Jennifer O'Neill writes with candor and conviction about the transforming power of forgiveness and the blessings of God's tender mercies. Her compelling story proves that there's no cause so lost, no fear so great, no relationship so bruised that by God's grace it can't be rescued, calmed, and sanctified."
H. Jackson Brown, Jr. Author of Life's Little Instruction Book

"All those who are Christians, weak and strong, should read this book. My reading renewed my faith and love affair with Jesus Christ, Son of the living God!"
Don Phillips Academy Award winning Producer & Casting Director

"Jesus said of a certain woman that she loved much because she had been forgiven much. Jennifer O'Neill can say the same. Anyone who thinks she or he is beyond forgiveness should read Jennifer's life story. It is encouraging, uplifting, and beautiful as she is!"
Cal Thomas Syndicated Columnist

"From Fallen to Forgiven provides reminders of the importance of letting go of past indiscretions and letting God work in our lives."
Marsha Blackburn Tennessee State Senator

"This book is much more than an amazing testimony. Jennifer provides practical application through God's Word and her own experiences of how to come out of bondage and pain into a brand new life. Jennifer is a frequent guest speaker at Mercy Ministries of America to hurting young women, and her impact on them is immeasurable."
Nancy Alcorn President and Founder, Mercy Ministries

"Jennifer O'Neill's life story reminds us that healing is not only possible but promised. Jennifer's journey will enlighten the reader to the fact that God has a plan! A plan of purpose and provision to any and all who seek and offer forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ."
Dudley C. Rutherford Pastor, Shepherd of the Hills Church

"Jennifer O'Neill has invited us to embrace the experience of forgiveness and the journey towards wholeness with elegance and a healthy sense of humor. Her penchant for writing is only matched by her passion for God's love. From Fallen to Forgiven is a gift at the threshold of the doorway of hope. You'll walk away from this encounter knowing that what was done can be undone.
Dr. Mark J. Chironna The Master's Touch International Church

"I am absolutely convinced that one of the most important experiences we must endure to become comfortable in God's presence is what Jennifer's book is all about. Jennifer exemplifies the beauty of honest and transparency. I am truly grateful and acknowledge the value of her contributions to the body of Christ as a writer."
Stephen S. Sawyer Christian Artist, ART for GOD

"By opening up the depths of her own pain and brokenness, she allows us to see the nail-scarred hands of Jesus tenderly pick up the broken pieces of her life, cleansing the shame and healing the pain in a way that moves us all to trust Jesus with our darkest secrets and most painful memories."
Rev. Tommy Hays Messiah Ministries

"Readers will discover an intimate and moving account of a soul's unfolding. For all who wrestle with disappointment, distrust and rejection, this book offers words of encouragement and spiritual insight into the power of forgiveness as a way to calm, to reconcile and to heal."
Carla Archuletta Marketing Consultant

An Inspiration!!!
"From Fallen to Forgiven is for everyone who feels that their life is beyond repair... An inspiration to readers." ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1949-   2. Christian biography   3. Christianity - Christian Life - General   4. General   5. O'Neill, Jennifer,   6. Religion   7. Religion - Christian Living   8. Spirituality - General   9. United States   

Creamy bisques, fresh vegetable purées, hearty meat-and-potato potages--soup delights one and all. Recognizing its primal appeal, The Culinary Institute of America Book of Soups provides over 100 exemplary recipes for the adored dish as well as detailed technical information all cooks can use. The book concentrates on the whys and hows of soup production; over 50 step-by-step photographs display basic methods for preparing a complete range of soups, from broths and cream soups to bisques, chowders, cold soups, and more. The soups themselves are enticing and include supper specialties like Purée of Split Pea, elegant specialties such as Cantaloupe Soup with Lime Granité, refreshing cold soups like gazpacho, and down-home treats including Cream of Tomato Soup and Seafood Gumbo. Soups from the global kitchen are well represented, too, with recipes for the likes of Thai Hot and Sour Soup and Leblechi, a delicious Tunisian chickpea soup. With recipes for dessert soups--one made with strawberries is particularly pleasing--and for accompaniments like Cheddar Rusks and Sage Dumplings, the book is a completely informative exploration of a dish much loved but too often neglected. --Arthur Boehm ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

If you only buy one cookbook, this should be it!!
I cook extenstively and own a wealth of cookbooks but when I want to make a failsafe recipe, this is THE ONE. Not one dud to date (there is no other cookbook I can say that about). Always worth the effort.

If you only buy one cookbook, make this it, you'll never be sorry.

Wow!
Let's face it: most cookbooks have maybe two or three recipes you incorporate into your repertoire. I must admit the Culinary Institute of America imprimatur put me off (I'm a *cook*, not a chef, and I associate the CIA with the Arugula Heresy and the California Cuisine Abomination). This, along with Beard on Bread, the original troika of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Marcella Hazan, and various Louisiana and Chinese cookbooks has definitely got a permanent place on my shelves. I've tried 10 recipes so far from the various categories (Broths, Hearty Soups, Cream Soups, Pureed Soups, Bisques & Chowders, Cold Soups) and not only haven't found a dud, but have been brought to food overjoy. I admit that I've chosen with an eye to avoiding stuff I don't like (like split pea, which traumatized me as a child, or puree of carrot & orange, which simply sounds vile to me, rather than intriguing -- the California Cuisine Abomination again).

With a Cuisinart or similar appliance, none of these things are very hard, especially if you keep stocks around. If you don't, buy a package of stock at your grocery store, which I do when I don't have the time to roast and simmer. I've seen more specialized books (there's one very good one devoted to chowders, whose name escapes me right now), but this is the best general-soup book I've used.

My new favorite cookbook
I haven't tried many of these recipes yet, but the ones I have were fantastic. The Potato and Fennel Chowder, in particular, was exceptional. My husband, to whom little is better than "pretty good", asked for a double batch the next time!

The instructions are pretty clear and easy to follow, and it's just generally a nice book to have around. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cookery, International   2. Cooking   3. Cooking / Wine   4. Courses & Dishes - Soups & Stews   5. Soups   

Customer Reviews (8)

Great for Latin Students
I am a Latin minor at a California University, and have studied Latin for about three years. This book was part of my class curriculum of Latin poetry, and was a nice break from the works of Ovid and Virgil! It is a simple book to translate, though some of the gerunds can be a little tricky. This book is a lot of fun, and is helpful in learning new vocabulary. If I remember correctly, all of the words used are given English meanings in the back of the book. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is learning Latin. Though you may get annoyed by comments made by bystanders who think you are reading "The Cat in the Hat."

Appeals to any audience
Having studied Latin throughout high school, I could appreciate the innovation and creativity necessary to translate Dr. Seuss' classic story while still preserving rhyme and meter. However, my little sister, who has just recently learned to read on such classics as "The Cat in the Hat," perhaps enjoyed "Cattus Petasatus" even more than I did. Not automatically looking to identify subject and verb, she giggled with delight at the new words that roll off the tongue with the catchy meter and bragged to my parents that she was able to speak Latin! Because the pictures are the same as the English, she was able to follow the storyline and give expression to the words.

Whether as an introduction to Latin or an amusing twist of the Dr. Seuss classic, "Cattus Petasatus" is a wonderful variation that will make the reader and audience smile.

A new spin on a classic
It's well known that Dr. Seuss wrote The Cat in the Hat in response to a challenge to write a children's book only using 40 basic vocabulary words. Now a new spin brings basic vocabulary to another language. Latin, often thought to be the "dead" language, is brought alive with something other than the so called "dead guys." Here the reader can have a basis in the book, and verse, beforehand and see it and Latin anew in this translation. The translators do a marvelous job of mimicing the rhythm and meter of Seuss's charming tale. And with the Seuss drawings intact the connection between the text in Latin and the story is there to help you along. It makes Latin accessible and that's not a small feat. Read it aloud and you feel so very intelligent. Try this book - it's fun. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Animals - Birds   2. Cats   3. Children's 4-8 - Fiction - General   4. Children: Kindergarten   5. Fiction   6. Humorous Stories   7. Juvenile Fiction   8. Latin   9. Latin language   10. Readers   11. Readers - Beginner   

Customer Reviews (34)

HUNT FOR THIS BOOK! QUICK!
MANHUNTING is stupendously hilarious with Jennifer Crusie's fast quips and great one liners from the characters. It shows how miraculously how our fates could intertwine and blossom into unexpected romances. Ms. Crusie gives romance a bone-tickling tag to it with sweet poignancy and emphathetic sensitivity to the character's development. Kate is the modern independent hard-edged career woman who insists on embarking her plans to a wonderful life, but little did she know her match was to be one of the most incompatible - Jake Templeton, a man embittered by divorce and the manipulative and cold business life he once was engaged to.

MANHUNTING churns out humour fast and vigorous with enough slapsticks to entertain during Kate's visit to Cabin Resort - but this only encompasses half of the charm in this book. The characters are wickedly flawed yet true-to-life and makes the reading even more genuine with a sparkle. The insecurity and vulnerability of Kate marks the tombstone of every woman's nightmare and Jake as a sensitive new age guy is deliciously endearing. It's this kind of romance that hauls back rollicking fun with nostalgia and effervescent chemistry.

Ms. Crusie has never been better before and this time after the rejuvenating read - it better send woman going hunting not for the men, but this fabulous book to keep you through the festive season.

Book hunting? This one's a keeper!
As my first taste of a Jennifer Crusie book, I think I ordered well. While not a book for those who enjoy stories that require heavy brain use, readers of all types can gain pleasure from this book. For the serious in you, Manhunting touches on commitment and career issues. For the practical person, the orderly list-making and the perfecting art of finding a suitable mate will appeal. But most importantly, for the romantic reader, Manhunting will have you climbing up the wall with anticipation -- like any good romance book should.

Kate Svenson has what she thinks any woman would want: beauty, money, a successful career, and an apartment full of French Provincial furniture. Unfortunately, she also has too much time and lonliness on her hands. Tired of the single life, Kate and her best friend, Jessie, come up with the plan to beat all plans. Thus begins Kate's search for the perfect man. Armed with her list of qualifications (tall, distinguised and successful), Kate heads to Toby's Corner, Kentucky, home of The Cabins Resort and vertical golf -- a magnetic haven for the suave businessmen of Kate's desire.

Well, it started out a good plan... Within the first few days of her arrival, Kate has managed to attract men that meet her requirements but with disastrous results. The only thing decent out of the whole trip? The two new friendships she's made: Penny, gorgeous and engaged, who feels she needs to do a little harmless dating before she's tied down for good, and Jake, the rugged resort handyman and exact opposite of the man of her dreams. Hopeless and exhausted, Kate is on the verge of giving up. But wait...is there a light at the end of this tunnel after all?

Manhunting is a delicious romp of a novel, full of sexual tension and too much pride. And while readers can guess the ending before cracking the spine on this book, it does not deter whatsoever from the sheer pleasure of reading. Contains writing that veers toward inexperienced during the first few chapters, but soon Jennifer Crusie hits her groove and takes off like a woman on a mission. Excellent debut from an author worth reading again.

A Fresh and Funny tale...
Kate Svenson is a highly successful, financially comfortable businesswoman, who stands to inherit a truckload of money from her rich father. Somehow, none of that makes her the least bit happy. Her life is missing something important....Mr. Right.
With the uninvited help of her best friend, Kate makes a plan to find that perfect man. He must be distinguished, intelligent, aggressive and successful. So her friend convinces her to spend some time at a golf resort in Kentucky, a place that should be crawling with men of those qualities. Once there, she forces herself to mingle and date. But calling her dates "bad" would be an understatement. She pushes Lance in the pool, gives CPR to Peter, and it doesn't improve from there. Her escape is fishing on the lake with the resort's silent partner and groundskeeper, Jake Templeton. Jake, a former tax attorney, has left the fast lane behind in favor of daily naps in his rowboat floating beneath the willow tree. It's not long before Kate throws her plan out the window, in favor of the mutual attraction developing between her and Jake. But how will these polar opposites ever find a common ground for a life together?

I'm quickly becoming a fan of Jennifer Crusie. I started with "Welcome to Temptation", which was a riot, and this is now my second read by her. This was such a sexy, fun story, full of witty dialogue. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters of Kate and Jake. Definitely a must-read. I'm working on reading Ms. Crusie's backlist, and I just can't wait to start my next book by her! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Fiction   2. Fiction - Romance   3. Humorous   4. Romance - Contemporary   5. Romance - General   6. Romance: Modern   7. Fiction / Romance / General   

Customer Reviews (19)

Hair product advertisers beware: She's gotcha covered.
Anyone who has hair should read this book. Not only does she include an extensive product analysis of what's on the market, including chemical analyses and descriptions on why certain chemicals are bad for the hair, she also extensively explains what hair "is," the cuticle and other parts, and how we damage it every day and can learn not to. She has suggestions on how to care for your hair for every type of hair, from thin to thick. She also describes which products on the market are the best buy for the money. Oh, yes, and don't listen to those hairdressers who tell you only salon products will do. "Uh, uh, uh," says Paula. A consumer reporter, you will find Paula is fair in her reviews and gives companies many a chance to reply to her criticism. She will save many women a lot of money and probably will cause change among the market as a whole.

AMAZING AS HER COSMETICS BOOK!
I can't understand how she has the time for all this research but I am sure glad she does! This is a very helpful book especially with all the claims made by the hair care companies! Going thru this book trying to find a product that is good for your hair can be daunting sometimes because there are just SO many products reviewed! BUT if you take your time and go thru the book and look thru her suggestion,,, you will find a good product at a great price. Paula has a real issue with over-paying (G-d Bless her :O) This book has saved me mega-bucks trying everything new that promises to cure my frizzes! Well worth the money at twice the price!

Another useful reference guide from Paula Begoun
Paula Begoun, author of the infamous DON'T GO TO THE COSMETICS COUNTER WITHOUT ME, takes a look at another segment of the beauty industry, hair care. As in her cosmetics book, Begoun reviews hundreds of products using her simple rating style. In this book, her best buy categories are arranged by hair type, making it easy to find the exact product that is right for you. Begoun also includes a wealth of general information on hair care, from how to blow dry to choosing the best hairstyle.

Although this book is clearly a great resource, I didn't find it to be quite up to par with Begoun's cosmetics guide. First of all, Begoun has decided not to produce updated editions of the book, which means that newer hair care products released in the last 5 years are not included. In addition, I found the information on individual hair products is more repetitive and less detailed than what she offered for cosmetics. Furthermore, this book is not as well-organized as her cosmetics bible--Paula's Picks are not listed in the product entries, there is no glossary of product ingredients, etc. And finally, I would have liked to see reviews of hair coloring products.

Despite its flaws, this book is still a useful reference tool and is definitely worth a look. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Beauty & Grooming - General   2. Beauty & Grooming - Hair   3. Consumer Buying Guides   4. Cosmetology   5. Diet / Health / Fitness   6. Health & Fitness   7. Health/Fitness   

Customer Reviews (7)

Cashmere for the soul !
This is a wonderful little gem of a book! Because it's a collection of tips, it's great to read in stolen moments of solitude - even 5-10 minutes at a time - although the author's style is so engaging, it's hard to put it down. I'm not one to consider myself a princess, but I loved the tips for making an ordinary life more exotic and fun. No matter who you are, or what your style is, you'll find ideas you can use. Don't overlook this book as fluff because of it's title - it's a great find and so cleverly presented that it's also the perfect 'signature gift'.

Let The Pampering Begin!
I enjoyed most everything about this book, starting with the clever cover design which contains a "pop-out" insert which reveals below it --what else?-- a cashmere sweater! Cute, and an enjoyable bit of sensory pampering right off the bat.

I found myself agreeing with author Jill Sanders that being a princess is NOT about "being some helpless thing who can't turn on a light switch", but rather, it's about being a woman who knows she DESERVES to feel special and well-cared for.

I didn't try all the tips, but the inexpensive ones I did sample had me thinking "Why haven't I done this before?!"

This book is a fun escape for you, or for a friend, and a good way to remind yourself to treat yourself well.

Reviewer: Linda Painchaud

A delight!!!
Great book and loads of fun. Has a lot of practical ideas to pamper yourself in this hectic world. Some of them are a little pretentious (buy a vintage mercedes to tool around in; name your house) - but hey, if you know it's pretentious and do it anyway - why not? Gotta go - my hot bath and champagne await! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Beauty & Grooming - General   2. Diet / Health / Fitness   3. General   4. Self-Help   5. Women's Health - General   6. Self-Help & Practical Interests   

Subjects:  1. Children's 9-12 - Reference   2. Children: Grades 4-6   3. Juvenile Nonfiction   4. Reference - Almanacs   5. Reference - General   

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies   2. Crafts / Hobbies   3. Hobbies/Crafts   4. Patchwork   5. Patchwork quilts   6. Patterns   7. Quilting   8. Quilts & Quilting   

Customer Reviews (7)

The Good News and The Bad News
I taught classes of adults with this book. I had many complaints about the fact that it was difficult to follow. Some of the exercises were ambiguous and some were over wrought with typing. It did have poor planning on the organizational side. While it built on the previous exercises, sometimes it was ambitious on some items and lacking on others. A similar amount of time was spent on 'opening' a document as was spent on creating a 'table.' On the positive side, if you already know what you are doing, it was easy to follow. If you already know what you are doing, you probably don't need this book.

Random organization, separates the teaching from the doing
I teach computer applications to 8th graders, and this book is a disappointment to me and my students. It is geared more toward the business worker. The order in which it teaches skills is completely random. For example, it teaches advanced operations such as how to create envelopes and labels before it teaches the most basic functions such as how to format text. It also focuses too much on the Internet capabilities of MS Office 2000 (useless "bloatware" if you ask me).

Another problem is the presentation of the lessons. It lists the steps to complete a task, then has an exercise to be completed. It would be much more helpful if the students were able to DO the steps while the book explains them, THEN have exercises to do on their own. Instead, the book separates the teaching from the doing. This is a very ineffective way to learn.

Finally, the confusing language it sometimes uses doesn't help either. My students constantly ask for clarification. Stay clear of this one. There must be better books out there.

Thankfully there's DDC around!
Mary Wright, Tech Editor: "For the past 7 years, I have been developing and administering computer skills courses to adults who are both educationally and economically disavantaged. It has been extremely challenging to locate computer training textbooks that can be geared to the functionally illiterate. DDC Publishing is the only publishing company that truly understands and meets the computer educational needs of this market." ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business Software - General   2. Business Software - MSOffice   3. Computer Bks - Integrated Software   4. Computer Books: Integrated Systems   5. Computers   

Customer Reviews (5)

Classic story of inspiration
Having been read by children of all ages and even made into a movie, the story of the Grinch is a familiar and beloved tale. The timeless triumph of love and goodwill retains all of its charm in Latin, especially because the authors retain rhyme and meter, even throwing in new wordplay.

The pictures from the original Dr. Seuss book help the reader follow the storyline, and the glossary in the back has every word in the book. Especially in modern context, the Grinch in Latin appeals to us by giving hope when even a grinch can be won over by sincere faith. Thus, while this book is wonderful as a gift to those studying Latin or looking to study Latin, it is also perfectly suitable for those who simply want a good story.

Latin alive and fun!
The glossary included in this book is awesome. You will not find a word in the story that is not included. The classic favorite has all of the illustrations we remember from childhood - while the Latin text allows you to practice, and keep building your vocabulary and reading skills. What a wonderful way to bring Latin to your children!

First Pooh, and now the Grinch?
Imagine my surprise when this showed up one day from a friend of mine. He gave it to my wife and me because she was a religion major and I'm a theology student working through my latin. There is nothing quite as fun as trying to make sense of something you already know, and the Grinch is a story I've known for years! The flow and cadence are even preserved, making the translators into linguistic artists beyond compare! Just be sure to pick up Winnie Ille Pu as well, and read to your kids in a language that is, to quote Python, "not dead yet!" ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's 4-8   2. Children: Grades 4-6   3. General   4. Juvenile Fiction   5. Literature   6. Latin   

Customer Reviews (28)

A beautiful story about friendship
The small peaceful town of Waterford in Pennsylvania hosts the Elm Creek Quilters, a group of eight women dedicated to passing on their quilting skills to any interested person. The octet runs a quilting camp inside the Elm Creek Manor. The group makes it on national TV, starring in a segment of America's Back Roads.

Two participants, Sarah and Sylvia happen to be two generations apart, but have found a love and support neither one previously knew. Sylvia has known a life of pain and sorrow and desperately wants to spare Sarah from any suffering. She invites Sarah's estrange mother to the manor in hope of reconciling the two estranged family members. Though Sarah fails to open up, the seven other members adopt Carol. Their kindness alienates Sarah until a tragedy makes her realize how fragile and precious a strong relationship is.

The characters of ROUND ROBIN are memorable folks who enrich the story line in many ways. Jennifer Chiaverini has shown in a simple but beautiful plot that people need the support of loved ones to survive a crisis. The tale focuses on the human condition and offers up the hope that, no matter how bleak the situation is; good times are near as long as good friends stand by you. Similar in tone to Jan Karon, this novel is a spiritually uplifting reading experience that serves as the sequel to the wonderful THE QUILTER'S APPRENTICE.

Harriet Klausner

delightful
In her second book, Chiaverini picks up the story of Sarah McClure, Sylvia Compton and the Elm Creek Quilters. The Elm Creek Quilters have decided to make a round robin quilt for Sylvia. A round robin quilt is pieced together by several people; one person makes the center and each person in turn adds a border. A new story unveils with each person who works on the quilt and each border added reflects the conflict that person faced. I particularly enjoyed this book because we got a chance to meet the other members of the Elm Creek Quilters who were only briefly introduced in the first book (The Quilter's Apprentice). I would have given this book 5 stars except that the ending was a bit flimsy.

Wonderful!
I came across these books (I bought the Sampler- the first three books) while looking for something to read on vacation. These books are exactly what I have been looking for. I loved getting to know each of the Tangled Web quilters. Their stories were rich and varied. What a wonderful group to be a part of and I am part of their group each time I pick up the book.

This is not just a book for "crafty" women. It's a book for mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, and anyone who has (or has not) ever picked up a needle. Also, there is nothing objectionable in this book - no crude language, no violence, no sex - a very pleasant read. (You can share it with your grandmother!)

I have to warn you though - this book will spark another interest besides reading! When can we find time to learn to quilt and can we get together at Elm Creek? ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Fiction   2. Fiction - General   3. General   4. Sagas   

In 1998, Jennifer Niederst wrote the first edition of this very successful book after she found herself spending way too much time chasing down the solutions to HTML problems. From hexadecimal color specs to mouseover scripts, the answers are all out there, but finding the exact one you need can soak up a whole day. "I wrote Web Design in a Nutshell because it was the book I needed--one place to find quick answers to my questions."

With all that's changed in the meantime, an overhaul is welcome. This is the rare book for designers that is almost completely nonvisual. It doesn't show what's hip in navigational bars or what the coolest colors are. Rather, it gives readers the kind of know-how that can make a difference between someone who just whips up pretty pages with WYSIWYG applications like Dreamweaver and someone who can make those pages cross-platform, cross-browser, fast loading, and accessible to all.

The clear organization makes it easy to locate any specific topic. There are six sections. "The Web Environment" discusses the realities of browser compatibility, display-resolution problems, a useful bit of Unix, and tips for print designers looking to move into Web design. "Authoring" shows how to write accurate and up-to-date HTML, cascading style sheets, and Server Side Includes (like putting the current date and time on your homepage).

"Graphics" brings together all you need to know to make effective use of images (GIFs, JPEGS, PNGs, and animated GIFs). "Multimedia and Interactivity" helps with adding audio, video, or Flash to your site (including some succinct tips on optimization and publish settings). And "Advanced Technologies" covers JavaScript, DHTML, XML, XHTML, and WAP and WML. And there are six useful look-up tables in the appendix, which include HTML 4.0 tags, deprecated tags, attributes, and CSS support across browsers. Web Design in a Nutshell could easily have been titled The Web Designer's Companion--it's mighty handy to have around. --Angelynn Grant ... Read more

Customer Reviews (90)

The Return of the Least Weasel
When a book is as good as this one, later editions can't improve it; they can only update it.

That's what this one does. The second edition of Jennifer Niederst's comprehensive reference on web design now takes account of HTML 4.01; the stuff on browsers takes account of Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 and Netscape 6.

And what else is there to say? Just like the first edition (but with a handful of additional topics and updates to the existing ones), this volume provides a thorough "desktop quick reference" on the entire spectrum of web design -- a general introduction to and overview of the Web itself; authoring using HTML, cascading style sheets, and server side includes; graphics (GIF, JPEG, and PNG formats, colors, and animation); multimedia (audio, video, Flash, Shockwave, and introductory Synchronized Multimedia Integration Language); and advanced topics like JavaScript, DHTML, XML, XHTML, WAP, and WML. The appendices still provide easily-thumbable tables of HTML elements, attributes, tags nobody officially likes anymore, proprietary (i.e., browser-specific) tags, a chart showing which browsers support which CSS features, and all the special characters you can use in HTML (you know, &#these; &#things;).

And you probably also already know who Jen Niederst is; if not, go read my review of her book _Learning Web Design_, which you should buy first anyway if you're new to the subject. Anyway, she's a terrific writer with intimate knowledge of all the little details you need to know in order to do web design effectively; guides just don't come any better.

You know all of this already if you have the first edition. If not, then all you need to know is that this is an updated version of -- no contest -- the best available single-volume reference on web design, written by -- no contest -- the person best qualified to write it. It's complete; it's accessible; it's well-designed; it's O'Reilly.

Oh -- and the "least weasel" is the species of weasel pictured on the cover.

The most useful web development reference available
(Review of 1st Ed.)
Web Design in a Nutshell is well organized, the index is excellent, the writing clear, and there are plentiful examples of the various concepts discussed. It contains charts covering almost every set of function/browser compatibility, as well as reference tables for everything from colors (including an excellent discussion on the use of websafe colors) to ASCII elements.

It covers the basic elements of web design, ranging from basic design principles to browsers and types of displays; basic html elements to image formats; and Cascading Style Sheets to JavaScript and basic server background.

In four years of building web sites, this is the best overall reference I've found. It summarizes the basics well enough to be a good overview for the beginner; covers a wide array of web elements to help the intermediate user expand their knowledge; and is an excellent quick reference for the experienced.

If I could have only one web development book on my desk, this would be it.

(Comments on 2nd Ed.)
Still the best single-volume reference for developers.

Niederst has added sections on DHTML, XML, XHTML, WAP/WML, updated information on browser compatibility, added to the information on graphics, audio/video, Flash, etc. There is also more information on accessibility, internationalization, and servers. The Design Principles section has been expanded, while other sections, especially under "html", have been broken out into smaller segments with their own side tabs. The character entity chart has been moved to the back as Appendix F, and the CSS compatibility chart, html elements, depreciations, and proprietary codes appendices have been enlarged.

As with the 1st Ed., the index is excellent. The new organization is logical, but if you're used to the 1st Ed. layout the changes may take a little getting used to, as many things aren't where you left them. For example, the color code chart has been moved from near the beginning to the middle of the book in a special section on "Color in HTML".

While it doesn't cover every web development topic as thoroughly as a shelf full of specialty books would, Niederst has culled the most important information and used it to create an excellent (updated) quick reference. Especially handy for contractors and people who find themselves working on the road.

A reference for all seasons
If you design web sites, even just for your own personal use, this is a book to keep by your computer. In it you'll find the answer to just about any designing problem you face.

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of web design is how to make a site not only attractive but accessible to a variety of browsers and to have it look the way you want it to in each. Niederst begins there. She explains browsers (most people seem to use Navigator rather than Explorer)and a variety of design strategies. To design for the lowest common denominator (for instance), splitting the difference or something for everyone --the choice is yours.

Chapters are divided into Designing for different browsers, for a variety of displays, Web design principles, a guide to the server. She includes a great overview of HTML, tags, text, links and adding images, tables, forms and frames. Under graphics she explains GIF, JPEG, PNG and teaches designing graphics. There's also lots of information on animated GIFs, audio, interactivity and javascript.

In a section titled Emerging Technologies she explains cascading style sheets, DHTML, XML, embedded font technology and internationalization. In the appendixes you'll find HTML tags and elements, list of attributes, deprecated tags, proprietary tags and CSS compatibility.

This book is basic and thorough, but it's going to have to be revised for Windows XP. That aside, it's a useful reference because it's easy to find information and Niederst seems to be able to anticipate problems, explain them and provide useful solutions. So far the answer to every question I've had has been easy to find in this book. I give it the highest recommendation. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that I've recently decided to reserve those for exceptionally beautiful writing. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Computer Bks - Internet   2. Computer Books: Web Programming   3. Computer Networks   4. Computers   5. Design   6. Desktop Publishing   7. Desktop Publishing - General   8. Handbooks, manuals, etc   9. Internet - Web Site Design   10. Web sites   11. COM012030   12. Computers / Internet / Web Site Design   13. Internet languages   14. World Wide Web (WWW)   15. Computer Graphics - Design   16. Programming Languages - HTML, SGML, VRML, XML   17. HTML (Document markup language   18. Cascading style sheets   19. Multimedia   20. Computer Bks - Desktop Publishing   

Subjects:  1. Anthologies (multiple authors)   2. Fiction   3. Fiction - General   4. General   5. Fiction / General   

Think Caramel Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting, Strawberry Banana Muffins, Lemon Meringue Pie, and Sour Cream Coffee Cake. These old-fashioned comfort sweets are among those that Jennifer Appel turns out at her Buttercup Bake Shop. And while The Buttercup Bake Shop Cookbook evokes lazy afternoons in small towns, white picket fences, well-worn aprons, and warm fruit pies cooling on the window sill, the Buttercup Bake Shop is actually in Manhattan. Appel has included 80 bakery favorites in this little gem of a book, and the recipes are easy to follow and easy to make, and read like a list of favorite American desserts: Rice Krispies Treats, Gingersnaps, Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pie, Glazed Pumpkin Squares, and Rice Pudding. Keep this wonderful cookbook in the kitchen, close at hand, so that with just a moment's notice you can whip up a special sweet something that'll make everyone smile. --Leora Y. Bloom ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

This book never fails me
I was somewhat skeptical when I first purchased this book. I'm an amateur, "weekend" baker and for some reason I thought that these recipes would be difficult. I was so happy to find out that not only are they relatively easy, they are absolutely delicious. I've made almost everything from this book and nothing has failed me. Now this is my "go-to" dessert book. I made the carrot cake this past weekend (I've never made carrot cake before) and it was wonderful. All of the cakes I've made have turned out moist and just like my grandma used to make. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for some good old-fashioned desserts that aren't too difficult to make.

The Buttercup Bake Shop Cookbook
Ms. Appel's recipes for her treats are very easy to follow. She provides "good-to-know" tips for baking and creating these delicious desserts. These treats are far better than any other cookbook I've tried. I really enjoy creating these goodies found in Ms. Appel's delightful & wonderful cookbook. I highly recommend it to anyone that enjoys baking or is just getting started. Try these recipes at your next bake sale or when you want to impress someone. Ms. Appel runs the Buttercup Bakery in Mid-town Manhattan and is always creating awesome treats. I look forward to her next cookbook.

My favorite baking book
This book is fabulous; it's full of old-fashioned, butter-laden, comforting treats that are easy to make, and a pleasure to devour. Lots of people seem to be wondering where the cupcake recipes are: you just make the regular cake recipes in cupcake wrappers and bake for slightly less time! The buttercup golden layer cake recipe is to die for when coupled with the american buttercream frosting, by the way. The recipe for fresh peach pie is dreamy as well. Everything I've made in this book -- and I've made many things -- has turned out wonderfully. My copy is all warpy and dog-eared from constant use... maybe it's time to buy another... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Baking   2. Buttercup Bake Shop   3. Cooking   4. Cooking / Wine   5. Courses & Dishes - Desserts   6. Desserts   7. Methods - Baking   8. Regional & Ethnic - American - General   9. Cooking / American / General   

Customer Reviews (7)

Geography Bee Boost
This book has been an invaluable source, crammed with information, for me. By using it to study, it has greatly improved my chances in the state bee(April 2).

Great Prep.
This book was definitely a much better help than the Official National Geographic Study Guide. It included tons and tons of questions (some of them, however, are easy) and terms and a general overview of every state in the U.S. and pretty much every country in the world.

I is a great book to study for the Geography Bee, as I am. I would say that this is 10 times better than the "Official" one.

I would buy this even if you aren't preparing for the Geography Bee. If you are on an academic team, BUY THIS. It definitely helped my team. A great prep for social studies in general not just geography.

In conclusion, if you are thinking about buying this book over the "Official" one,
BUY THIS ONE!

Great help for Geographic Bee
We found this book a great help in our son's preparation for the National Geographic Bee. This book gives a great start to understanding the basics of geography. We only got through part of the book before the school's bee. Next year my son will have completed the book, and the other book of Matt's, "The Handy Geography Answer Book". The combination of these two books will definately increase your childs knowledge of the world. Matt gives some tips on how to do well in the bee, but most of the empahsis is on learing the material. There is no simple way to study for the bee. His advice on narrowing the answers was very helpful. We spent some time on learing the "superlatives". My son did not get any of those questions during the bee, but the knowledge of knowing the tallest, longest, biggest etc... is invaluable. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Competitions   2. Education   3. Geography   4. Handbooks, manuals, etc   5. National Geographic Bee   6. School contests   7. Study Guides   8. Study Skills   9. United States   10. Education / Study Skills