Product Description
This popular book shows readers how to take advantage of the iLife '08applications that to many are the coolest parts of using a Mac. Throughtutorials, tips, and techniques readers will learn how to use each ofthe powerful applications -- individually and as part of an integrated,interactive suite. Robin and John also cover the features of theimmensely popular .Mac Web Gallery, which enables you to share youriPhoto library with family and friends with just a few clicks.Friendly, practical instructions will have new and veteran Mac ownersusing all that's new in the suite in no time. They'll find everythingabout getting on the Internet and using email; using the way-cool iChatAV, which adds audio and video to instant messaging; using iTunes,including access to the iTunes Music Store; the new video libary iniMovie; new organization and editing tools in iPhoto; new animatedthemes in iDVD; and much more! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Cool Mac Apps
This is a very concise but well explained book. It is easy to read and follow.The illustrations are clear and accurate. An excellent book for anyone, especially those of us who are not well versed in computer usage.

Good Over-view of Applications
As a new Mac owner I needed something to help me navigate through the jungle of options, widgets events and albums which differ from folders for filing pictures, menus and much, much more.
I have had my new computer for 1 month and now I feel comfortable thanks to the information garnered from this book.

Good book, but not Robin's best work
Robin Williams (the writer and graphic designer, not the actor) has rightly earned her crown as Queen of the Mac. Her writings on Macintosh software is simply outstanding. While "Cool Mac Apps" isn't her best work, it's still a great book and compliments other books on how to use Leopard. In fact, this book should be seen as a companion to her other books on Leopard, most notably her "Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard: Peachpit Learning Series." "Cool Mac Apps" expects a basic understanding of how to use the Mac and the Leopard operating system.

The book assumes you have iLife '08 and Leopard installed, and while focusing on iLife, it still covers such Leopard applications as iCal, Mail, Address Book, Safari, iChat and Time Machine.I would have suggested calling this an iLife book, but with the addition of some of the more practical applications that don't fit into the iLife series, that wouldn't make much sense either.

Overall the book is a competent overview of iLife and other Leopard applications.The book was lacking in some of Robin Williams' trademark design.In fact, this book read like most other books on computers.The writing was a bit dense and lacking in full color photos and white space that increases readability.Dare I saw the book was a bit boring?The writing in individual chapters consisted mostly of features, menu commands and preferences and was lacking in practical applications or exercises.

After reading this book, don't expect to become an expert in any of these subjects, but if you feel you want to "dabble" a bit more and don't want to buy a whole book on iPhoto or iDVD, this may be a good book for you.This might be a good "in-between" book to help a reader determine if they want to explore iLife further. I would recommend this book to a Mac beginner who understands the basics of their new Mac, but wonders what all those programs that came with the computer can do.

Pros:Broad coverage of programs that come with new Macs
Cons:Lacks readability and practical application

Greatest author in the world
This author is just excellent. I cannot say enough about her. She takes the technical out of technology and speaks to us like a friend. She is the Pulitizer-worthy author of computer books. What can I say to convince you. She is very cool as well as being totally informed about the software and hardware she writes about

Many missing pages. Poor quality printing and figures.
I got this from Amazon with 46 pages missing. The print looks like it was run off an old black and white 1960's era Zerox machine and stapled in a binder. I told Amazon about the missing pages and they sent a new one quickly. Apparently no one read my note and Amazon sent another copy that had exactly the same missing pages. I returned that one too and asked for a refund. Wasted time!
I liked Robin William's books, but quality control is lacking at both the publishers andAmazon. ... Read more

Product Description
The Wood Boy is an adaptation of the short story by fantasy master Raymond E. Feist that first appeared in the Legends anthology (edited by Robert Silverberg) and offers a unique side story to the events depicted in his beloved book, Magician. The Wood Boy is an exciting story that offers readers an excellent introduction to Feist's Riftwar Saga. The Burning Man was written by world-renowned science fiction and fantasy author Tad Williams (Otherland) and originally appeared as a short story in the anthology Legends as well. A ghostly coming of age tale rendered in a beautiful, ethereal style by popular comic book artist Brett Booth (Thundercats: Dogs of War), The Burning Man is an exciting and thought-provoking story about life and death, love and fear, and innocence and betrayal. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Graphic novel and not novel
Purchased this thinking it was a novel with two stories, but to my surprise it was graphic novel. Interesting to see Feist's stories drawn out. And this story was the reason for the purchase. Other story ok, but I would not have read it on its own.

50% good art, 25% good storytelling
As a long-time fan of all sorts of literature--from sci-fi/fantasy and graphic novels to literary fiction and contemporary poetry--I came to this book with high expectations and a definite willingness to suspend disbelief.Also, the raw elements of these two storylines--betrayal, love, and doubt--SHOULD have appealed to me... but they didn't.Really, it's impossible to review this book without breaking it down into four parts.

"The Wood Boy", story: Without spoiling the "twist" ending, I have to say that I was shocked by how cliche-filled and unrealistic this story was!For example, the story opens with a heartbroken, half-starved young peasant speaking in long, lordly sentences!Talk about unrealistic!And the "twist" of the ending is extremely predictable, at best.

"The Wood Boy", artwork: To call this artwork mediocre would be a compliment.The characters look extremely goofy and unrealistic, with poorly disproportioned poses and badly exaggerated facial expressions.For example, there's a scene wherein the main female character (who is supposed to be beautiful, but looks more like a box with breasts) charges someone in a fit of rage.But her face and flailing arms are so badly drawn that I burst out laughing--which drew a strange look from the person sitting next to me on the plane.

"The Burning Man", story: OK, this is hard to write, because I really liked every inch of this story... until the very end, which is frankly insulting and awful.Why?BECAUSE THE AUTHOR FORGOT HIS OWN STORY!!Beware any author who has no respect for his own audience.At the risk of spoiling this, suffice to say that the story revolves around a grieving, exiled warlord who summons a kind of demon to answer a metaphysical question inspired by the warlord's tragic losses and spiritual doubts... a question that the entire story has built up to... which the author then forgets!!This story makes not even the slightest attempt at closure.The demon simply disappears.Did he answer the question or not?If so, what was his answer?If not, why--and when--did he disappear?We don't know these crucial details, because the author just decided not to tell us.Furthermore, the narrator--who up until then was giving detailed descriptions of the entire story--doesn't appear to wonder about this, either!That's such a huge breech of trust between author and audience that the guy who wrote this had better hope he never meets me in a dark alley.I like stories in which the author allows the reader to fill in some gaps, but this author apparently decided to just leave out the whole last chapter!

"The Burning Man", artwork: fantastic!Seriously, the artwork of "The Burning Man" is the ONLY reason to pick up this book!It easily runs circles around EVERY other element of this book, both stories combined!

amazing illustration
I was not aware that I was buying an Illustrated or Graphic novel when I purchased this. I was greatly pleased at the illustration to go along with the story. I had read The Wood Boy in the Legends Series but to add the illustrations made it come to live. As for the Burning Man, reading this graphic novel urged me to read more of Tad Williams also. I would highly recommend this.

Falls apart, horrible production value
This book is half good.Half of the Wood Boy story is really well illustrated, then the second half is drawn by some amateur.Same thing with the second story, the first half looks like the artist took his time to craft a lovely visual, then the second half it looks super-rushed, and half-assed.

Then the production value, filler pages flood the middle of the book advertising another series.ADVERTISTING.In a GRAPHIC NOVEL.Then at the end of the book you get a bunch of low resolution sketches that look like they were taken off a website at 72dpi.

Whoever ran the production and editing on this book should be kicked out of the comic book world until they have a clue how to put a decent book together.

WonderfulAdaptation of Two Novellas
This graphic novel combines two stories that were adapted from two stories that originally appeared in Robert Silverberg's mammoth anthology LEGENDS in 1998.

This graphic novel collects:
Raymond E. Feist's THE WOOD BOY (a Midkemia story) and Tad Williams's THE BURNING MAN (a Memory, Sorrow and Thorn story).

I think that the WOOD BOY actually improves the story, because it adds visual depth to an otherwise rather lame tale. I have not read the story in a long time, but I remember that it was rather average. But the adaptation was very good and I am looking forward to MAGICIAN.

I think BURNING MAN must have been much more diffcult to adapt because it does not have a lot of outward action, but rather a lot of introspection. A lot hinges on atmosphere rather than plot. But I enjoyed the adaption quite a bit. It was very faithful to the text, but also added a couple of lines of dialogue here and there to make the story livelier. I think that worked rather well.

One little caveat though. When Sulis finally asks the Burning Man his question that he so desires to ask, the answer of the Burning Man is left out and the action resumes with the attack of Tellarin. Is that the point where the other two artists took over from Brett Booth? That was an odd moment, and I think that something is missing there.

But it is a nice book. The characters looked "right" enough to me and I would definitely like to see more of them.

Unfortunately, the Dabel Brothers have currently no other Tad Williams projects in the works (as far as I know), but I hope that that will change soon.

Meanwhile, I am looking forward to MAGICIAN, RED PROPHET and THE SWORN SWORD. ... Read more

Product Description
This design and style sourcebook shows how to make beautiful gardens in which every element fits harmoniously into the whole. With numerous examples and plans, it shows gadeners how to make the right choices, both aesthetically and practically, explaining how to make the best use of the materials and space available. Every garden element is represented in a full range of types, materials and styles. Garden plans and three-dimensional design sketches show how best to place them, while full-colour cutaway drawings shows how they are designed and constructed. Robin Williams is the author of "The Garden Planner". ... Read more

Product Description
Tim Drake fights crime on the streets of Gotham City as the adolescent sidekick of Batman, Robin the Teen Wonder, and leads his fellow teenaged heroes into battle against the forces of evil as a member of the Teen Titans.

In this latest volume from the graphic novel series, Robin goes solo to take on a group of villains who take an entire hospital ward hostage.The only problem is that the gang is led by his former friend, Dodge.Can Tim save the day and turn his friend from the dark side? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

The Big Leagues
Tim Drake deals with his fresh adoption by Bruce Wayne and Robin deals with a bunch of baddies trying to do him in for good!

What Comics are all about imo
Before you read this you'll want to pick up Robin: Wanted and Robin: Teenage Wasteland and believe me you should. Adam Beechen scripts a Robin that is not a sidekick in distress but a fully actualized teen crime fighting hero. Robin interacts with all the characters you'd expect and couple you didn't, but no one rescues him. Completely competent but not a Batman clone, Tim Drake is written just like he should be.

A better choice couldn't have been made than Freddie Williams II to pencil the series. His clean, bright but still gritty pencils are a perfect compliment to the Boy Wonder. This "young" style certainly owes something to animation, and I think it will grow to be the industries new standard. I can't say enough good things about Freddie William II. Hopefully he'll be working on a lot more bat-family books in the future.

This is the kind of TPB I love to read.

The Big Leagues packs a big punch!
I have to admit, I am very new to comics, and I am even newer to the Robin series, but I must say, this graphic novel impressed me greatly.

A more kid-friendly environement than his mentor's current comic book iteration, Robin's world is alive with much more comic book-ish elements, such as other super heroes and villains actually having super powers. The few joke attempts that are thrown in here along the way are a bit on the chesy side, but it's all in good fun, and the main plot (which takes place between two unrelated chapters that serve as goos openers and finishers) is very bloody and intense, with no real sense of where it is going.

Dodge, a teenager with the ability to teleport, has a bone to pick with Robin, and he decides to make a point by leading a group of ruthless villans in an attack agains the boy wonder. While Dodge only wants to put a scare into our feathered friend, the rest of the evil team have other plans, and before long, the original plan is subsituted with a bloody attempt on Robin's life.

Meanwhile, on Tim Drake's side of things, he longs to get back together with his beautiful ex-girlfriend while trying to balance out his hero life with team tryouts at his school as well as his life with newly adopted father, Bruce Wayne. The whole thing feels very uplifting and at the same time puts you on the edge of your seat as you watch Robin make narrow escapes from Dodge's out-of-control team.

Anyone of teenage years or older can enjoy this story, as it isn't nearly as dark and adult as Batman's own comics tend to be these days. Ideal for parents who aren't sure as to what comics to allow their children to read or not.

wow batman!!!
You train your sidekicks very well. Almost gave it five but a sidekick shouldn't be in the same league as a superhero like Batman but ... Robin is coming dangerously close. ... Read more

Product Description
Ever since his days as "Mork" on Mork and Mindy, Robin Williams has captivated the hearts and funny bones of audiences everywhere. No one will forget his performances in such classics as Good Morning Vietnam, Awakenings, and Dead Poets Society, or his hilarious roles as the nanny in Mrs. Doubtfire and as the zany doctor in Patch Adams.

The Life and Humor of Robin Williams offers his millions of fans a lively, thorough account of Robin Williams's life and career. Chronicling the early years, from his supportive Chicago childhood to his first college improv class, the book goes on to describe the actor's rapid descent into Hollywood's fast lane. But Williams cleaned up his life and made a breakthrough into serious acting with his extraordinary performance in The World According to Garp and the steady climb ever since to his more recent, Oscar-winning triumph in Good Will Hunting.

For the countless fans of Robin Williams, this biography is a fascinating and comprehensive look at the star's inspiring history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Biography misses the Mork.
A 2007 summer reading list mini review.

I have been an ardent fan of the humor of Robin Williams equal parts manic and cerebral since his debut on Happy Days some 30 years ago.So, when I saw this book at my local library, I checked it out thinking that I would be treated to some of his crazier routines like this one from Mork and Mindy:

Mork: (reporting to Orson) They even have a religion that worships O.J. Simpson.
Orson: The Juice?
Mork: Yeah, and the gentiles too.

What I got instead was a biography that after a good glimpse of his childhood years focused too much on the obvious and also on unneeded periphery from his work.

Examples of this are an approximately two page plot synopsis of Mrs. Doubtfire, and a penchant from listing at least 3 other films for each director Williams ever worked with.Aside from unnecessary, some of the periphery is also inaccurate.When speaking of the immense popularity of Happy Days the author tells us that Laverne and Shirley ran for 4 seasons, it ran for 8.

I will have to give the author, Jay David, some credit.It takes a certain kind of talent to write about such a colorful figure as Williams and make it come out dry.

A Very Vanilla Biography
It is difficult to write a biography that only goes for 200 pages unless it is the Reader's Digest version of the person's life.Jay David essentially has written a stripped down biography of Robin Williams.After reading the book, I feel I have only scratched the surface of this talented actor/comedian's life and talents.

Much of Robin's early life is cited from previous interviews with other sources.While this is acceptable, it makes the early part of the book seem like a "cut and paste" job.The book journeys into his early career and family life with similar techniques.When the book arrives at the point where Robin Williams' career really takes off, the author becomes consistent with the layout of the chapters.The first part is how Williams came to work on the movie/project with various antidotes.The second part of the chapters is a documentation of the critical reviews of the movie.I felt a lot was omitted from the book.Nothing is mentioned about his hosting Saturday Night Live.Similary, little is mentioned of his stand-up work or Comic Relief.I would have thought they would have included more of Robin Williams' humor in here since the book is called "The Life and Humor of Robin Williams".

The book does have strong points.I did learn about Williams family and marital life.Few people are aware that Williams came from a privilaged family background.I also believe that the insight provided on many of the movies is well documented.One must keep in mind that the book was printed in 1999 so it is not entirely up to date.With this being said, fans of Williams will enjoy learning about the development of his career.Despite being an easy read, the book has too many weak points to be enjoyed by the casual reader. ... Read more

Product Description
With Batman gone from Gotham City, Robin must stop the gang warfare that threatens to overrun the city. And what does the mysterious Red Robin have to do with the situation? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Keeper
The essential storyline is: Where is Batman?Batman disappears, leaving Robin and Nightwing to keep a lid on Gotham.Robin has reason to be concerned over Batman's mental state.(The Robin in this book is the Tim Drake version. Yippie!And a double yippie for Nightwing being in the book.)

SPOILERS AHEAD:

The subplot involved the Spoiler, Robin's ex-girlfriend.This was my first encounter with her and I ended up massively disliking her.Her idea that the best way to build up someone she supposedly loves (Robin) is to create as much additional trouble for him as she can at a time when that he is already under lots of pressure. That's such a completely idiotic thing to do.Her implied excuse seems to be that she's apparently very immature and not much for thinking stuff through.Her stated excuse is that Batman Told Her To Do It.

You see a few flashbacks where Batman tells her that she's supposed to make Robin a better and stronger man.She takes that to mean she should create trouble to manipulate and pressure Robin. That's one of the things in the story that seems unBatman to me.Maybe there's a relationship between Batman and Spoiler that I'm unaware of that makes this make sense. On the whole, I can't see Batman going to his protégé's girlfriend and essentially telling her that she's in charge of molding Robin's character.No one, but Robin is responsible for who Robin chooses to be.I would think that Batman would understand that.

I can't say that Batman disappearing without a word is out of character since he is highly secretive person, but it seems very irresponsible to do that without arranging any sort of orderly transition or discussing his intent with Nightwing or Robin, and on the whole, Batman never struck me as an irresponsible character.

Another thing that seems strange is that Robin is never shown discussing his worries over Batman's mental health with the two people best equipped to give him an opinion on the subject.Alfred and Nightwing are both in the book.They both know Batman very well.They are both on good terms with Robin.And yet, Robin never raises the subject with Nightwing or Alfred or gives any reason why he doesn't.Instead, he talks to Spoiler about it.And while, I can see him discussing his concerns with a girlfriend, it makes no sense to me that he doesn't talk to the two people who know Batman best.

I loved the fast pace of the story and all the action.It's the kind of book that would translate very well into a movie of some sort.I liked the artwork in the book very much.I liked Robin's dramatic red and black costume; it looked more adult and fitted well with the book's story of Robin coming into his own as a hero.I loved that one of my fave characters, Nightwing, had several scenes in the book.I very much enjoyed the big brother-little brother dynamic between the characters.On the whole, this book is a keeper for me, and I will be looking for more books by the author.

This comic is not necessary
You should save your money and not buy this comic unless you are a big Batman comic fan.If you pass up this book it will not hurt your knowledge of Batman and what is going on right now.I am a big batman fan but was somewhat disappointed with this book.The art is nice,pretty descent.The writing is not so bad but the story is more or less. Not worth the money if you are not a big batman fan.This comic is mostly about Robin even though it all about batman.I know that that doesnt make sense but if you read it you'll know what I mean.If you are not a fan of Robin(s) don't pick this up.If you pick this up don't go into it expecting for it to be a really good book.Point is if you really like Batman you should pick this up if you are not tight on cash. If you like batman but are not a big fan don't pick this up.I jope this helped.

Good Solid Stand Story that you really you really Do not Need to have Read all of the past issues.
First Off let me say I haven't read a Comic or GN about Robin in about 6 or 7 years and saying that I was not lost once or had to have read any back issues. So If your Looking for a stand alone story about Robin this is it , but it does hint to other story lines but gives enough back story to stay in this Book. I am a big fan of the writer Fabian Nicieza.. He was always my favorite writer and after reading this Trade I will buy more of his works.. ... Read more

Product Description
Real-Life Reader Biographies present the lives ofcontemporary role models for young readers. These are the stories ofreal men and women who, despite many obstacles, followed their dreams.

Robin Williams has been called "the funniest man alive." It isnot an exaggeration. Though he grew up in a wealthy home, his comedyroutines began as the result of loneliness when he was a youngster. Hewas the only child of older parents, who each had a grown son fromprevious marriages.

Robin's favorite comedian was Jonathan Winters, whospecialized in creating different characters with funny voices. Robinwould practice all the routines that Winters did. He then created hisown characters and his own voices, often to make his mother laugh. Itis not surprising that his claim to fame would be in a TV show about anutty extraterrestrial named Mork. Garry Marshall's hit show Mork andMindy during the late 70's gave Robin just the vehicle he needed tocreate his fame.

But, Robin is very serious about his comedy: "You're onlygiven a little spark of madness," he says. "You musn't lose thatmadness." ... Read more

Product Description
For most non-designers, especially beginning desktop publishers, the scanning, prepress,and printing process isn't an intuitive one. Trial and error is often the only way to learn the technical basics of producing professional-looking documents.

If you're tired of learning the hard way, The Non-Designer's Scan and Print Book is for you. Using the format that is so popular in Peachpit's best-selling Non-Designer's series, this latest offering, fully cross-platform,provides a multitude of tips, techniques, and design, prepress, and production principles to help create professional-looking documents. Clear instructions and numerous examples cover the entire process of scanning, prepress, and printing.Amazon.com Review
The Non-Designer's Scan and Print Book (Non-Designer'sSeries) is an excellent guide for beginners who want to learn theessentials of scanning images and printing professional-lookingpublications. Authors Robin Williams and Sandee Cohen are twowell-known desktop publishing (DTP) experts who have written a numberof acclaimed computer-graphics books, and here they do an outstandingjob of distilling the core elements of scanning, manipulating, andoutputting images from high-tech, esoteric details.

Williams andCohen commence their tour of scanning and printing by explaining howto plan your project. They begin by encouraging you to choose yourpaper, colors, graphics, binding, number of folds and copies, andprinting methods. Then they introduce you to basic DTP and businessissues like resolution, paper size, print area, cost of goods, fonts,and PostScript. Their highly rudimentary approach even includes adiscussion of the type of printing device necessary to complete yourproject and whether you will need to use an inkjet, laser,dye-sublimation, or thermal wax printer. From there, they look to theessentials of commercial printing, finding a print shop, workingwithin a budget, and using processes such as letterpress, flexography,and gravure.

Subsequent chapters delve into computer issues likesoftware applications commonly used for DTP projects and how theyhandle color modes, raster images, resolution, vector images, and fileformats. You also tackle color issues such as process color printing,using spot colors and duotones, and specifying the number of colors ina publication.

Image acquisition plays a big role in completing anyproject, and the authors provide helpful tips for using scanners,digital cameras, Kodak Photo CD-ROMs, stock photography, and clipart. Finally, you study printer topics such as using high-res output,working with service bureaus, determining output specs such as clientand delivery information, writing film specs, using printer's marks,understanding resolution and linescreen issues, trapping, and proofingyour job. There's also a preflight checklist to help you determinewhether you've thought everything through. At the end of the book, youget quizzes or projects for most of the chapters as well as a list ofresources for more information. --David Wall ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Great book!
I teach a graphic design class and use this book in my classroom. The subject matter is misunderstood by so many "designers" in this day and age and this book covers all the essential information. I recommend it to all my students as the one book they HAVE to buy.

Non-Designer's Scan & Print Book
This is a great book for anyone interested in Graphic Design. I purchsed this book for a Graphic Design class and read almost the entire book before the class started. It has very helpful information for dealing with print shops. It is easy to read and understand.

should be updated
It`s good to have around but this book made on a Powermac 8500 (using Pagemaker!) does feel dated in every sense of the word..PDF - the professional print standard nowadays - is poorly covered. Just one page with useless basic information. The writers do not mention anything about Open Type fonts or Indesign. There's not much about dia scanners, sizes and resolutions either.
All in all there's a lot to learn here but the information given often stays a bit on the surface or is simply not up to date. Especially for people who have some experience in the field and are not living in the past..

Not Just For Non-Designers
The non-designer title is actually a bit of a misnomer. Don't let this title dissuade you even if you have spent years in the industry (like myself). Unless you are very very knowledgable of the print-production process, this book will have a lot to teach you.

Don't let the hokey design of this book make you believe that it does not contain a wealth of knowledge...it does.

Great book!!
I was a technical trainer for four years and was in charge of teaching classes such as color theory, digital printing, scanning etc. I really loved this book because it put everything together for me after about 10 months of scraping information from a lot of different sources.You can't go wrong with this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Sprawling cartoon artwork, offbeat humor, and continuous action add up to a fresh and lively retelling of the folktale of Robin Hood, his merry men, and their battle against the wicked Prince John. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Read to Pieces
This was a huge hit with both our 2 year old and 4 year old.The illustrations work like a comic book, so non-readers can figure out most of the story.Every 2 pages is a single "chapter" with blocks of text under each frame (about 12 frames per page) with narrative and dialogue in the frames themselves.The narrative was perfect for our 2 year old to hear, and our 4 year old enjoyed the dialogue, which was mostly simple humor about the story or frame. It's by far the most accessible Robin Hood we've found, giving the entire Robin Hood story arc rather than just Robin meets Marian, or Robin meets Little John.Candlewick is an excellent publisher and the paperback is pretty sturdy (although we have read ours to pieces, and so I'm looking for a replacement!)

A Big Disappointment
We were searching for a simple Robin Hood adventure story to introduce our children (ages 5,6, and 9) to the whole Robin Hood legend.We ordered this based on the rave reviews we read.What we received, however, was very disappointing -- v-e-r-y tiny text, written on absolutely horrible cartoon drawings.The stories were unintelligible without a magnifying glass and an appreciation for the author's rather lame attempts at humor.This was not the book we were expecting, especially for kids who were unfamiliar with the story and the characters.The pictures were just plain ugly, the text too small, and the storytelling abominable.Not a fun family read!

Wonderful!
This book is absolutely fabulous! I was very interested in learning more about the famous tales of Robin Hood, but all the books about him were very advanced and I didn't understand many of the phrases. When I found thisbook, I read it and I was so pleased beause it is exactly what I wanted tofind:tales about the adventures of Robin Hood and I was too happy todescribe that I could understand every word! If you want to read aboutRobin Hood but cannot yet understand the advanced vocabulary of the writersfrom long ago, then this is the book for you! ... Read more

Product Description
Now that these popular lessons are on CD, it's easier than ever to start harmonizing! Complete beginners will learn the theory behind harmony singing and get the ear training they need, while those with some knowledge will hone their skills and build repertoire. The vocal parts are recorded on separate channels for singing along with Cathy, Marcy, Robin and Linda. Songs: Stay All Night * Down by the Riverside * Bury Me Beneath the Willow * Broken-Hearted Lover * Red River Valley * Trouble in Mind * Careless Love * Leavin' Train * Down in the Valley * Turtle Dove * Little Darlin' Pal of Mine * Keep on the Sunny Side * Blues Stay Away from Me * Gold Watch and Chain * Amazing Grace * Goodnight, Irene * I'm Going to Sit at the Welcome Table * Long Journey Home * Good Old Mountain Dew * Hand Me Down My Walking Cane. THREE CDs * INCLUDES SONGBOOK * LEVEL 1 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The content is excellent
I listened to these CDs (on tapes) about ten years ago during a 55-hour drive from Berkeley California to Toronto Ontario, and I thoroughly enjoyed learning how to sing harmony from them.The best feature is how the different parts are recorded on separate sides, making it easy to learn one part at a time, and then singing along with another part once you're ready.I don't know about the packaging; I just know that the content is excellent for those who want to learn how to sing in harmony with others.

Disappointment. Not worth the money.
____________
BOTTOM LINE:Don't buy this "book".

This is a very cheaply made pamphlet (see note below) with three CDs of not-that-good singing. The only valid musical idea contained herein is - learn intervals. To sing harmony you must know your intervals. Specifically 3rds, 4ths, and 5ths. That is covered in one page (page 3) in the "book", and 1 track (track 5, cd 1) in the 3 CDs.

NOTE: The quality of this "book" is very similar to that of a 3rd grade student's book report, bound for $.35 with a plastic comb at ... copy center. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is about the increasing significance of DNA profiling for crime investigation in modern society. It focuses on developments in the UK as the world-leader in the development and application of forensic DNA technology and in the construction of DNA databases as an essential element in the successful use of DNA for forensic purposes. The book uses data collected during the course of Wellcome Trust funded research into police uses of the UK National DNA Database (NDNAD) to describe the relationship between scientific knowledge and police investigations. It will be illustrated throughout by reference to some of the major UK criminal cases in which DNA evidence has been presented and contested.Chapters in the book explain the scientific developments which have enabled DNA profiling to be applied to criminal investigation, the ways in which the state has directed this and how genetic technology has risen to such preeminence; how DNA evidence moved from its use in individual prosecutions to a major role in intelligence led policing, and saw the development of the UK National DNA Database; how legislative support for the NDNAD was mobilized, enabling the police to obtain and use genetic information on individuals. Finally, the authors examine the ways in which the DNA Expansion Programme, built on the supposed potential for the NDNAD to contribute to criminal detection, has been incorporated into a broader crime reduction strategy, and explore the implications for policing, governance and security of the continued expansion of the range and scope of the NDNAD. ... Read more

Product Description
Robin Williams, stand-up comic, actor, and Grammy winner, possessor of a razor-sharp wit, has been in more financially successfully movies than any actor in history. The Robin Williams Scrapbook includes details on Williams' early years in stand-up, all of his film and TV work, his development as a serious actor, and his role as a devoted husband and father. With dozens of photos, many in color, and a trivia quiz, this is the ultimate tribute to an eclectic and brilliant comedic mind. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great Fun! Very highly recommended
Robin Williams is only eleven years older than I am, so I guess you could say I grew up with him. Mork and Mindy were primary staple when I was in high school. So when I found THE ROBIN WILLIAMS SCRAPBOOK on sale, I couldn't resist. And in only the first couple of pages, I knew it was a bargain at any price.

Intersperses with the necessary "place of birth" type information, Stephen Spignesi recounts Williams' life from the perspective of Williams' body of work. The book's chapters each represent Williams' work in chronological order as it relates to his life. Written in an engaging, immediate tone, the reader can't help becoming a part of the flow of the text, and the "legalized insanity" of William's life.

As I read, the book's humane, honest, and humorous tidbits that kept my emotions engaged. Learning of Williams' support of actor Christopher Reeve following the accident), his perchance for sexual humor and play, and his favorite joke. Filled with photos, stories of performances, and peaks into his personal life, THE ROBIN WILLIAMS SCRAPBOOK is a fascinating, must read for Williams fans. Very Highly recommended.

A very informative book, with great photos.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes Robin Williams. It is very well written, with lots of great pictures - and not just the ones that you always see. The book deals with a lot of what Robin has done on stage andon television, as well as his movie career. It also has chapters on ComicRelief, several interviews, and even a puzzle.

These are some of thethings I really enjoyed in this book:
The highlights from An EveningWith Robin Williams and the summary of An Evening at the Met.
Theshort descriptions of all the Mork and Mindy episodes, and the extensivesummaries of the very first episode and the episode called Mork Meets RobinWilliams.
The account of Mad Magazine's parody of Mork and Mindy:Shmork and Windy.
The long, interesting interviews.
The comments toeach of Robin's movies, from Popeye in 1980 to Hamlet in 1997. FirstSpignesi says what the movie is about, and what he thinks, then comes whatthe critics said. Often we also get to hear something Robin said about themovie.
(This review is part of my comment on the book on my homepage.)

Best book available on the Funniest Man Alive!
Steve's really done a great job with this book.It covers anything and everything you could ever want to know on Robin's work up to "Hamlet."Lots of great photos, too.If you're a fan of Robin,a fan of one of his films, or just like movies in general, this is afabulous book to have. ... Read more

Product Description
A brief biography emphasizing the career of the star of the television show "Mork and Mindy." ... Read more

Product Description

No matter how many bells and whistles a new operating system offers--and with Mac OS X 10.3 Panther the list is a long one--using that new OS can be an intimidating process. Unless, of course, you have Robin Williams in your corner: In this volume she once again works her magic by providing a gentle and friendly introduction to Mac OS X Panther. In these pages, Robin covers not just the basics of using a Mac under Mac OS X--printing, sending e-mail, exchanging files, surfing the Internet--but all of the important new and improved features as well: working with Panther's all-new Finder, using Expose to work with windows, getting started with iChat AV, expanded coverage of networking, improved Web access with the Safari browser, working with Mail, and lots more.

Topics covered: The complete capabilities of Mac OS X Panther, with the significant exception of the Darwin command-line environment. This is a beginner's guide, with sections on basic file management and mouse usage in addition to more advanced subjects like network setup and printer sharing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

just what i was looking for
before i purchased this book,i read all the reviews and they helped me out tremendously!!i just purchased my mac and was totally lost! this book takes you step by step which was very helpful for a first time computer user. now i'm excited about my computer now that i know how to use it. if you're a first time user and know nothing about macitosh then this is the book for you.

If you know anything about computers, do not waste your time
I have now read seven Mac OS X books (and reviewed several), and I struggled with how to rate this book. Here's why:

5 stars : if you have never, ever used a computer before. This book will teach you about a "mouse", how to click and double-click "the button" of "the mouse", and even how to do what is called "drag-and-drop". Whole chapters are spent on concepts such as this. So if you've never used a computer before, this will be a great book for you to finally learn.

3 stars : for overall information. Nothing of importance is provided that 15 minutes of clicking around wouldn't. Seriously. I'd estimate over half of page space is used for pictures and descriptions for pictures. If you've already used your Mac for 15 minutes, you know 95% of what this book will describe. And even if you haven't, the Apple site (www.apple.com) provides as much if not more info than this book.

0 stars : for how much use I got out of it. I used a Mac earlier in my career (until 1997, System 7.5), and I'd consider myself a "power user" on Windows. This book literally offered me nothing, not even enough value for a single star.

And thus, the struggle of rating the book. For another type of user, the rating would have been different. But I decided to rate the book as it applied to me personally while providing insights for other potential users.

If you're a user like me, I highly recommend Mac OS X: The Missing Manual, Panther Edition instead of this book. Read my review there for more details about that book in particular.

I hope this information proves useful.

Helpful to Me
This is a huge book, but I won't be using it as a doorstop as it has been so useful to me for looking up problems and finding answers.
I'm new to Mac and this book puts an end to the Mac mystique.Mac IS easier to use than PC, but it seems confusing to new users.This book uses everyday language to
help with problems and gives a good overview of "how to".
Mac, like MS, now has it's user's guides online.If you aren't online while working, or if you find it tedious to take notes or print the manuals, this book will handle all your inquiries.It doesn't include specific application manuals, but then what computing how to book does?But there is enough contained within to get you going.

Annoying Guide
I am new to Macs, and rusty with computers. I needed a good basic book, but even I found this book baby talks way too much. As I work through it, I'm finding it to be very annoying that there are endless instructions to go to another page for continued information. She has me flitting around from beginning to back to middle to beginning, etc. With writing like that, of course there is going to be constant repetition of information. Besides putting you to sleep, it makes you wonder if you've already read that section. You'd need a map and a highlighter to know. I don't have time for this.

Useless paperweight of a Book
I remember a critic once said of a John Updike book, "One, don't buy this book. And two, if you do buy it, don't drop it on your foot." Though Robin Williams gigantic OS X book is quite large, and the table of contents goes on for more than a dozen pages, there seems to be a stunning lack of information. For example, I spent 45 minutes leafing through the book, trying to find out how to restart my Mac without loading any of the startup items. In case you're wondering how, you simply hold down the "shift button," but try as you may, you will not find that very simple --but possibly vital-- bit of information in this book. Strangely enough, you will find sections on how to "shift-click" (as though the phrase "shift-click" is not enough instruction), a section on "When to Use the Return key", and a section called "What your Fonts look like." Now, maybe I missed the whole point. Maybe you are the sort of person who has never ever seen a Macintosh computer before, maybe this will help you. But if you are looking for a book full of nuts and bolts info on how to use your system more fully, this is not the book for you. ... Read more

Product Description
Robin Williams DVD Design Workshop provides a clear, accessible introduction to the world of DVD menu design and authoring. If you're an amateur video artist, home-movie buff, or professional designer, you can use this book as a great introduction to learning how to create DVDs for your personal use or professional projects. John Tollett, David Rohr, and Robin Williams make it easy by presenting necessarytechnical information and design inspiration in the classic informaland friendly style that has made Robin's books continual best-sellers.

Robin Williams DVD Design Workshop provides all of theinformation you need to understand the DVD authoring process and to get started with your own DVD projects. You'll learn about the advantages of the DVD format, applications of DVD technology, hardware requirements, and the pros and cons of various consumer vs. prosumer DVD authoring tools. The book also includes overviews of leading Mac and PC DVD authoring software tools, such as iDVD, MyDVD, DVD Studio Pro, DVD Producer and more. To get you inspired, the authors includeexamples of successful (and sometimes unusual) DVD interface designs from professional designers and major Hollywood studios. Valuable outsource resources for packaging and distributing your own DVD are also included. ... Read more