Book Description
In this intimate and uproarious story, two daring New Yorkers convert an ancient, abandoned farm into a world-renowned winery.

Finding your dream house with a vineyard in Tuscany is like searching the woods for porcini mushrooms: a labor of love. Such feats require patience, discernment, resolve, and an indestructible sense of humor.

The Mátés' future home and wine estate lies amid breathtaking scenery in a community brimming with warmth. In Italy's most prestigious wine zone, Montalcino, they restore a thirteenth-century friary nestled on two hills within sixty acres of forest, olives, and potential vineyards. Here they plant fifteen acres of vines, build the winery, and learn from their famous vintner neighbors, like Angelo Gaja, the secrets of how to grow the best grapes and make superb wines. Within the first years, the Máté wines receive international acclaim.

This highly entertaining tale of how two dreamers struggle and thrive in idyllic Tuscany will enrich the lives of travelers and wine lovers alike. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

A delightful taste of Tuscany
This book is a joy to read. It makes life in Tuscany vivid and appealing, and introduces you to two delightful people and their family---Ferenc and Candace Mate. Their adventures and misadventures in finding and then remodeling a house and then creating a vineyard with the help of some fascinating experts is always interesting and frequently hilarious.If you ever think of exploring Tuscany this book will give you the final push.
Highly recommended.

A Vineyard in Tuscany...
This book will transport you to the Tusacn hills. If you are a travel book reader, you will love this book. You can almost hear the stone being cut while the house is being restored. The details about the wine are magnificant. I rushed to his web site to order his wine, so lovingly created! Mr. Mate paints a beautiful picture of life in the Italian hills.

Other reviews
"Muscular prose . . .like Paul Bunyan on a Tuscan holiday . . . cool, robust, determined. Mate has created a wine in his own image."--The New Yorker

"Readers share a feeling of accomplishment and pride when their Syrah is one of the great Italian reds by Morrell's."--The New York Times Book Review

"Rare among expat memoirists: Mate writes well, he's funny and he makes serious wine, consistently scoring in the low 90s."--Wine Spectator

Awesome
My husband and I along with a another couple (whom we share the love of wine with) are planning our first trip to Italy in June. We are staying in the Tuscany region and in my quest to read as much as I can I came across this book. I am not the greatest at putting into words my feeling but I will say that this is an awesome book. I have enjoyed every moment of reading it. I have felt the pain and the joy of the journey that Ferenc and Candace have taken. What amazing people and what a fun book, the humor is to much... Ferenc has away of laughing at himself and you are right there with him. I carry this book with me everyday and dream of being there... I have never been so excited to visit a place in my life and I thank Ferenc and Candace for helping with my journey. Read this book if you have a love of Italy or you are just one of us with the dream of living there and owning a winery... ciao ciao

THERE IS A REASON THAT EVERYONE LOVES THIS BOOK!
Double your pleasure.Spend a few hours spending a few years with the Mate' family as they pursue their dream(s).They are just the kind of people that you would like to linger with over a glass of Tuscan red - maybe the Brunello di Montalcino that they produce - while Fenerc recalls his wonderful tales of how they found, restored and developed their winery.Then, you can order the wines that they produce off their website, if you cannot find them in your local store.If you cannot make it to Montalcino tis year, it is the next best thing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (106)

21 lbs lost
I was disappointed in the book. It did not contain what I thought it would. I would not recommend it.

Awesome DETOX Diet - based on nutrition, It Really Works!!
1st things 1st !!The "21 Pounds in 21 Days: The Martha's Vineyard Detox Diet is a DETOX diet, NOT a fad diet for losing weight.

After a successful detox at Dr. Roni DeLuz's Detox Center, an author by the name of James Hester saw value in marketing it as such, after he himself lost a pound each day on her detox process.A maintenance plan is included for lifestyle change not only to keep the weight off, but to gradually go back to other foods and to make detoxification part of your permanent lifestyle change.

The "official" website is http://www.marthasvineyarddietcenter.com/id1.html
I've found better pricing for the individual products at www.vitacost.com and www.vitaminshoppe.com and here at www.amazon.com as well.

This detox diet is a way to lose toxins AND weight, ... and it really works! I know because I'm on the diet now, and I follow the posts made at the support group website: http://groups.google.com/group/21-pounds-in-21-days?hl=en.Many successful people stay connected to help others go on to following the maintenance diet and the ongoing "maintenance diet" listserve as well.

The book is sound nutritionally.It is certainly not the only book a person needs to read to understand detox and nutrition, as the subject is so broad.What this book is, is an overview of detoxifying the body, and a sharing of what Dr. DeLuz does at her facility in Martha's Vineyard. I think it was a wonderful thing she's done, to make a detailed scheduled plan accessible to the public, many of whom would not be able to afford to check-in!There are some errors and confusion in the book, and going to the website above will help in sorting out the details. Also a google listserve can be joined to get daily support from others on the diet.

A Detox diet means that it is for detoxification of toxins that we intake from our air, water, food, environment.Toxins attach to our fat. Lose the toxins, lose the fat. Toxins affect our ability to think, see clearly, breathe deeply, slow down our digestive system, cause allergies, fatigue, auto-immune diseases.The list is endless.


This book starts with explaining all these toxins.Once you read how prevalent they are and how badly your body is affected, you WILL want to cleanse your body!This will be a difficult change for many who may not be able to give up their addictions to coffee, alcohol, junk food, dairy, pizza, pain pills, etc., but then only you can decide whether you actually want to become healthier, ... or not.

The book then goes on to explain that green vegetables (not fruits or protein foods) are the foods that help to pull out the toxins.It is a 21 day commitment to cleanse your body using vegetables in easily digestive forms. (This book does not promote vegetarianism.)

21 days is what it takes to create a new habit of eating. And most importantly, with each consecutive day that you stay on the cleansing diet, the cleansing reaches deeper and deeper into your organs.If unable to stay on for 21 days, multiple weekend or one week cleanses are recommended.

There are instructions on how to make the juices and purees and which high ORAC value veggie powdered drinks to purchase. There is no chewing allowed! This is to enable your digestive system to take a break and heal. You will learn what supplements and services that will help clean your digestive system, and help move these toxins out, such as enemas, gallbladder and kidney cleanses that you can do yourself.Colonics, massages, seaweed wraps are optional, but will help you remove more toxins and help you feel better.

This diet requires a good deal of planning, because once you start the diet, there is a schedule to follow in order to succeed in ridding a maximum of toxins.Also, when toxins come out of the fat, they enter the bloodstream. These ill effects will be felt until they leave the body. Hence the massages and colonics to help rid the toxins and feel better!Body parts that hurt before will probably hurt worse until the toxins leave, so you will want to have the supplements on hand and that schedule down pat before then!!

I'm on day 10 of the diet as I write this.I have lost 10 pounds!I am female, 5'11 and was 163 pounds when I started and am now 153 pounds. My stomach is flat now and others notice the difference!I was very achy the first 5 days.I felt extreme cravings for food in the beginning (which isn't surprising with all the excitotoxins added to foods today to keep us "hooked"). The cravings do go away, I promise!

Light exercise is recommended to help toxins in the lymphatic system drain.Saunas and soaks with epsom salts help pull toxins out of the skin and soothe aches and pains. Heavy exercise or work is not advised without adding protein shakes. If one only wants to detox and does not want to lose weight, protein shakes are a must.

Don't let aches and pains scare you away from this detox diet - it means you are detoxing AND! ... that you will have rid yourself of future daily aches and pains.Many have not needed to go back on painkillers and anti-depressants after this diet!

For most of us, the 21 pound weight loss is an awesome bonus, in addition to clearer skin, clearer thinking, aches and pains going away, a better working digestive system, more brain energy, happier moods and more. The change is noticeable, instead of feeling fatigued all the time, you will now go to bed tired and wake up early with an increased abundance of energy you did not have before!

Bottom line -- This is an excellent book in which to change your lifestyle to a healthier one, ... and it works!


Note: One of the hard to find supplements are found here on Amazon: Super Phos 30 Liver Flush(1oz.)

Also: Here's another book that will help convince you to stay on track with detoxifying. Awesome Book with very similar theory and methodology:The Cure: Heal Your Body, Save Your Life

You will lose weight - but its a bit extreme
I purchased this book with the intention of doing the program for 7 days, 14 days max.I did the 7 day, did not do the enemas or the dry brushing and still lost 7 lbs.Any longer on any diet without protein you will begin to lose muscle.I have strong willpower, and if I thought it would be a huge benefit for me to do the entire 21 days, or if i didnt have much muscle to lose in the first place, I would totally do it.I did her plan for 7 days and did another detox plan for the other 7 days that allows you to eat solid food. I am an advocate of detoxing - but you should follow Dr. Roni's advice and check with your physician before embarking on such an extreme program.It does work - the weight will come off, but if you don't change your mindset about what you put in your body after you come off the detox, you will gain it all back and then some.I do still use some of the green drinks and antioxidant drinks in the diet, and I love juicing.There is valuable information in there and lots of support groups should you choose to do it.I will do the detox again, but only the 7 day "tune up".

This book is truly awful, but THE PLAN WORKS!
I'm on DAY 6 and I've lost 8.5 pounds!

Having said that, let me add that my success so far has been largely due to my own ingenuity and prior knowledge of the many poorly presented concepts this plan adheres to.

Reading this book, I was amazed at the general negative undertone throughout, especially when combined with the insistently surprising references by both authors to their personal religion and faith. While both authors describe in detail their negative health influences over the years (the book reads like one bad health crisis after another), when it came to the positive elements of their recoveries from these health issues, not much was said. I noticed many opportunities where the authors could have pumped up their dialogue with lively positive feedback to empower their reader, yet did not. It would seem to me, if you want to inspire people to drastically change their habits, playing up the positive would be crucial. By the time I got to the "story" about sisters who died after binging on beer and bar food because they did not come off their 21 day cleanse as prescribed, I was done with the bad vibe this book gives off and was left with the distinct feeling if I ever met the authors in person they'd have dark clouds hovering over their heads.

As well as the book being a downer to read, the majority of the program is presented in a very secretive way. Detailed info on supplements, processes and assured recipes are nearly non-existent (the products can be found on an accompanying website, though what you can expect to get in the detox kits sold here is also vague). Who writes a book to help people, then snatches away all the "help" at the last minute? There's that dark cloud again. Clearly the focus for the authors was on making a buck. Offering up true, accessible healing to their readers seems to be secondary, if at all.

Still, once you figure out where to find the program necessities, the diet does work and I couldn't love the results more. Here's the scoop:

The drink mixes and "cleansing herbs" kit are all from a company called Garden Greens. You can find their products by googling "Vegesplash", "Essential Greens" and "Inner Cleanse". You can also double check this info on the MV Detox Diet website by clicking "Buy Detox Products" and thoroughly reading all the info and links in the kit descriptions. Clicking many of the links highlighted in blue will bring up ingredient and nutrition info for the products offered.

All of the other products listed in the book for the program are easy to find at Whole Foods or Super Supplements. If you tell the store clerk what you are using the item for they can guide you to the right one.

I couldn't find the Garden Greens products locally and chose a different brand (with the help of the clerk at Super Supplements) based on the somewhat vague guidelines given by the author. So far, I feel great and the program works as outlined with these products too!

Many of the concepts here are based on principles found in the raw food movement. If this book leaves you thinking, "ok, but why?", check out the books by Natalia Rose. She empowers her readers with an incredible amount of inspiring knowledge, and her vibrant lust for life and good food is immediately contagious. Her book titled, "Raw Food Life Force Energy" is particularly upbeat, fun and packed with info.

FYI: I am a 165 pound female with 25 pounds to lose.

Don't knock until you try it
I had the opportunity to hear Dr Roni DeLuz and was very impress with the information she provided. I think in no means is she trying to promote an eating disorder program. She is offering an opportunity for the body to be detox. I believe you should find out the fact about a product or book before giving unnecessary advise. ... Read more

Book Description
Each year the pristine beaches, lush pine forests, and picturesque New England towns of Martha's Vineyard draw tens of thousands of admirers to one of our country's most beautiful islands. Some of these visitors have become part-time residents, building contemporary homes alongside the traditional Victorian cottages, sea captains' mansions, and colonial farmhouses that comprise the island's cultural and architectural heritage. Rarely does one find such a concentration of outstanding contemporary designs that complement, rather than overwhelm, the diverse ecology and history of this unique place.

The Houses of Martha's Vineyard presents twenty-four Vineyard homes, built in the past twenty years, by internationally renowned architects, among them Robert A. M. Stern, Steven Holl, and the Polshek Partnership, and emerging practitioners who have produced some of their best work on Martha's Vineyard. Stylistically diverse, the houses featured in this book offer environmentally sensitive designs and innovative solutions that respond to, but do not mimic, the island's rich architectural past.

Glorious color photographs, detailed architectural plans, and project descriptions document the challenges and solutions reached by each architectural firm. Complementing the visual material is an introductory essay by architect Keith Moskow, which sets the historical and architectural context for these gracious new homes. ... Read more

Book Description
From esteemed crime novelist Philip R. Craig comes a scorching new Martha's Vineyard mystery, the latest in a series renowned not only for its beautiful setting but also for its fine appreciation of an extraordinary island's rich heritage.

It's a picture-perfect Vineyard summer, and ex-Boston cop J.W. Jackson finds time for lazy afternoons at the beach with his wife, Zee, and the kids. Nothing could be better, but of course not everything is peaceful, even on this idyllic island. A teenage girl has already drowned in an early-summer tragedy. The more superficial conflict du jour centers on a group of cyclists, led by irascible environmentalist Henry Highsmith, who fervently oppose new construction, including plans for a luxurious new golf course.

J.W. is not part of the golf course battle, at least not until he and a bad-tempered Highsmith come to blows at the local fish shop. The dispute is not over fish. J.W. parked his vehicle too close to Highsmith's fancy bike, an unpardonable offense. Is there more to the J.W.-Highsmith feud than seems to be the case? Some people think so, especially when an SUV suspiciously like J.W.'s forces Highsmith's wife, Abigail, off her bicycle, sending her to the emergency room.

When J.W.'s rich businessman friend Glen Norton invites him to join a golfing foursome at Waterwoods, the island's prettiest club, he's happy to accept. At least he's certain not to run into Highsmith on the manicured greens. J.W. is not much of a golfer, but Zee hopes he'll get some exercise and stay out of trouble.

Wrong. Trouble is waiting for J.W. in the sand trap at the fourth hole -- the sand trap with the human hand protruding from below. The hand is connected to a body, and it's clearly a case of murder. With circumstantial evidence pointing to J.W., he must act fast, peeling back layers of deceit surrounding old Vineyard families in his search for a killer.

Alive with the sights, smells, and tastes of Philip R. Craig's beloved island, Dead in Vineyard Sand includes three classic recipes, featuring the decadent Lobsters, Croissants, and Champagne. Just in time for summer reading, this appealing blend of Vineyard ambiance and intrigue will thrill both beachgoers and city dwellers looking for vicarious pleasure.

Includes three delicious recipes

... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Above average in the series
If one overlooks the minor annoyances and irksome mannerisms in the Martha's Vineyard series, it has been a nice run, and this is one of the better offerings.It is the editorial intrusions that I fine annoying:Craig's (J.W.'s) love of the gun, the cozy cat mystery recipes, the cute things kids say, Zee's sexiness, etc.

That said, this book does evoke the summer sun and blue sea on an island of paradise--with a murder or two thrown in for contrast.The plot is better than average for the series, with the body of a golf course hater turning up buried in the sand trap on hole four at the country club.The characters are well-drawn, certainly above average for the series.Still, it is the atmosphere I found most interesting.

With Philip Craig gone from the world, there will be no more pleasant excursions to Martha's Vineyard.I've never physically been there, but through Mr. Craig's books I have spent pleasant hours on the beaches and on the streets of Edgartown.

maddening, yet fun
This is the most humorous of the Philip Craig books I have read so far.The book starts with a casual reference to a beach drowning in early summer on Martha's Vineyard, and then hits the golf course.Our hero, J.W. Jackson is coaxed into rejoining a game he hadn't played in about 30 years, and by the time he reached the fourth hole - ut oh - a surprise!Shifty looking golf partners add to the intrigue.A gun appears in a most unexpected place!So what is going on?As J.W. becomes implicated in a murder, he fights to clear his name, by poking around all over the Vineyard and asking questions trying to make sense of strange circumstances.All kinds of red herrings abound in this well thought out plot.Bravo Mr. Craig, well done!

really true to the island and its lure
again phillip has done a wonderful job in keeping enough suspense and yet revelaling the charm of this island.
somehow i suspect that mr jackson is phil himself

Vinyard matters...
This latest installment is as good as the others.
I anxiously await the next one.
I also await the next Brady Coyne/J.W. Jackson installment.
It's been awhile.

Another Craig Wonderful Book
Phillip Craig has done it again and delivered a fine book.A must read for the beach or Vineyard visitors. ... Read more

Book Description

There is no room for murder on a honeymoon.

When J.W. Jackson foils an attempt to terminate former mob boss Luciano Marcus on the steps of Boston's Symphony Hall, it puts a definite damper on Jackson's and bride Zee Madieras's newlywedded bliss'especially when the mayhem follows them back home to Martha's Vineyard.

A part-time Vineyard resident himself, Marcus wants J.W. to find out who is behind the botched hit'an assignment the laid-back ex-cop can't refuse, since lady love Zee saw one of the would-be assassins and is now in peril herself. But with everyone from gangland rivals to Wampanoag Indians wishing Marcus harm, keeping the circling island sharks from the kill might be more than J.W. can handle.

Customer Reviews (1)

a honeymoon with a touch of danger
Newlyweds J.W. and Zee are off to Boston, and lo and behold, J.W. breaks up an attempted murder on the street outside the opera house.Luciano Marcus, the intended target, is greatful, and hires J.W. to track down who was after him.Could it be from his past mob ties, or somebody who will inherit his fortune if he dies? Or maybe angry Wampanoags who want the old man's cranberry bog (sacred Indian ground)?

This book has interesting side stories, and fascinating characters.And the ending scene is a thriller.A delish mystery! ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
The Alexander Technique (AT) is a remarkably simple but powerful method for learning to skillfully control how your brain and body interact, allowing you to better coordinate your movements while increasing the accuracy of your mind's thoughts and perceptions.

Now, in How You Stand, How You Move, How You Live, leading Alexander Technique master teacher Missy Vineyard sheds a completely fresh light on this revolutionary method and, in the process, offers path-breaking insight into the mind-body connection. Vineyard thoroughly explains and teaches the central skills of the AT through simple self-experiments, and she offers engaging stories of students in their lessons to show its effective application across a range of disciplines, including the performing arts, athletics, health, psychology, and education.

How You Stand, How You Move, How You Live introduces us to a world within ourselves that we know surprisingly little about--and thereby helps us to understand why we often cannot do what we should be able to do, why we harm ourselves with chronic tension and anxiety, and why our thoughts often seem beyond our control. Vineyard is also the first AT teacher to draw on cutting-edge research in neuroscience and to synthesize those findings with AT theories and techniques. She fully illuminates the benefits to be reaped by mastery of the Alexander Technique, which include:

-Release from acute or chronic physical pain
-Enhanced mental attention and focus
-Reduced anxiety
-Improved balance and coordination
-Relief from tension and stress
-Increased ease and efficiency performing precise movement skills ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

A must read for all who care about their ability to function optimally, physically and mentally
I have had back issues since I was 17 (now I know it was due to one short leg)and when I was about 30 I tried Alexander Technique. Now 30 yrs later I finally have in this book an explanation why this helped and a revelation about how far reaching this technique can be in confronting normal and abnormal body usage. Beautifully written with a deep understanding of much that Neuroscience has learned in the last few years.

Life changing because the explainations align age old concepts with current research on brain chemistry and anatomy
Alexander Technique is often difficult to understand without a teacher and many lessons. Missy Vineyard takes the reader a step closer by correlating current research with Alexander's discoveries about how to make optimum use of ourselves. She suggests ways of organizing what we are thinking with what our bodies are doing in order to achieve radically better results.

The best book on the technique I have read
I was introduced to the Alexander technique by a friend about 15 years ago following a car injury in which I suffered a herniated disc, severe pain in the arm and significant loss of muscle strength. I contemplated surgery which most of the doctors were recommending but decided to opt for less intrusive approaches including physical therapy and lessons in the Alexander technique.

Over the last 15 years I have had numerous lessons and profited immensely from the wisdom of two highly talented instructors. I have also read about a dozen books. This one is the most practical and clearly written one. The author communicates effectively by using lots of real life examples and suggests exercises which, while time consuming, are extremely useful. Like other teachers she makes it clear that the technique is not a substitute for medical advice. But my own experience suggests that it can complement such advice along with other approaches including meditation, tai chi, yoga and others. In that sense the basic tools--inhibition, direction, lengthening of back and neck--can form the core of a holistic approach that can include many of these other approaches. There is nothing in the technique that conflicts with any of these. Indeedmost of the ideas, once explained by a good teacher seem to be just applied common sense. The trick, of course, is in disciplining yourself to practice and training the mind to affect the body before it gets stiff and makes you uncomfortable.

This book is the perfect handbook to help anyone who has some basic knowledge of the Technique become much more effective in using it. Ideally, it should be accompanied by occasional lessons from a skilled instructor

How You Stand Is A Good Intro to the Alexander Technique
As a student of the Alexander technique, I highly recommend this new book on the subject. There are many excellent, detailed illustrations that make this book user friendly and a stand out among books on this topic. Also, there are plenty of self-experiments suggested throughout the book that make it a fine book for beginning students as well as a great review for experienced students.

Engaging and well written.
As a teacher of the Alexander Technique, I found Missy Vineyard's book extensive, creative and inspiring.Vineyard uses anecdotal examples from her practice, interspersed with experiential activities and explanations of the concepts of the Alexander Technique to cover a wide range of aspects of the Alexander Technique while keeping the reader engaged in a variety of ways.Her practical explanations and use of analogies to convey the often elusive Alexander principles effectively and expertly.I highly recommend this book to all students and teachers of the Alexander Technique. ... Read more

Book Description

A Middle Eastern potentate and his entourage are descending on Martha's Vineyard -- and chaos is in the salt air. Ex-Boston-cop Jeff "J.W." Jackson would rather be fishing with his lady Zee, but the island's overtaxed police force needs his help to control the madness their visitor's arrival has stirred up -- especially since the great man will not leave before ceremoniously reclaiming an emerald necklace stolen from his nation a century ago. But when both the jewels and Zee vanish, J.W. is quickly transformed from rent-a-cop to frantic investigator. Because an ill tide has carried desperate men to this idyllic island with murder on their minds. And Jackson suddenly stands to lose everything that he dearly loves.

Customer Reviews (2)

Reprint
Excellent book from an outstanding series. However, I already owned it by the original title. I would have bought it again if not from the warning in another review. Amazon and the publisher owe the customer better treatment than that.

REPRINTS
THIS BOOK IS A REPRINT OF THE THIRD BOOK IN THE MARTHA'S VINEYARD MYSTERIES - "THE DOUBLE MINEDED MEN". IT WAS GREAT THEN-BUT COME ...-LET PEOPLE KNOW THAT IT IS A
REPRINT- GLAD TO SEE THAT CRAIG IS REISSUING THEM THOU. ... Read more

Book Description

Violent crime is a rarity on the tranquil shores of Martha's Vineyard, which is why ex-cop J.W. Jackson turned in his Boston badge to retire to the idyllic isle. And that's what makes a six-month-old murder so troubling to the perplexed locals. But Jackson's got troubles of his own -- including a loving wife, Zee, who's becoming curiously distant ... and the arrival of a mysterious visitor who's searching for a valuable set of stolen statues, and who's certain J.W.'s the man to hunt them down. It's an assignment that plunges the fisherman/chef-cum-private investigator into an unfamiliar milieu: the Vineyard's cutthroat world of art aficionados. And suddenly J.W. finds himself pitted against some of the island's most powerful and unscrupulous figures, uncovering lethal threads that may connect an unsolved mutilation/slaying with those who would stop at nothing -- including murder -- to add rare forbidden objects to their collections.

Customer Reviews (10)

Zimbabwe birds on the loose
And of course, dead bodies along the trail in picturesque Martha's Vineyard.A mysterious visitor from Zimbabwe hires J. W. to help him locate two "stolen" soapstone eagles which are national treasures.The search goes to the upper crust Vineyard art afficianados.Something about the mystery doesn't click well, though.Although the motives for murder were good, the way the solution fell into place was just a bit humdrum for me.But as always, I enjoyed this vacation to the Vineyard.

Life is Full of Distractions...
In the 14th book in Martha's Vineyard Mystery series, J.W. Jackson is content... he fishes for bluefish, rakes clams, and tends to his children and garden.Wife, Zee, is recovering nicely from the unfortunate business earlier that made her shoot two men, and life is idyllic in June on sunny Martha's Vineyard. All of this comes to a screeching halt the day that J.W. an exotic man named Mahsimba from Zimbabwe, who asks his assistance to find some missing art objects from his country.J.W. reluctantly agrees to help find two soapstone eagles that are considered national treasures, and becomes involved in tracking down an illegal art dealer on his beloved island.When Zee becomes infatuated with Mahsimba and begins to act strangely, J.W. struggles to keep his focus on the case and not on the wandering eyes of his wife.Several dead bodies surface, and J.W. races to find the answers to the case before he is the next victim in the search for the illustrious missing eagles.

This has always been a great series, and did enjoy the latest installment.As a few previous reviewers have stated, I was a little shocked by Zee's love-struck attitude in this book, and was surprised that J.W. was not more jealous.The portions with the kids are probably the only annoying portions of these books...I agree with a previous reviewer in the fact that kids aged 3 & 5 rarely go to school all day, and shouldn't be getting on and off the bus alone.I am eagerly awaiting the "aging" of the kids, as they are a distraction at best.Otherwise, I love the series, the wonderful characters, and the beautiful Martha's Vineyard setting.

The first book in the series is called "A Beautiful Place to Die". Enjoy!

Nitpicking
Another day on Martha's Vineyard.I continue to play "catch up" with this series, because it IS something akin to a vacation on the Vineyard---old familiar characters and their exploits.It's relaxing and comforting. I do have to make some nitpicking observations on the Jackson children. If these children are "5" and "almost 4," how on earth are they spending the entire day in school?Maybe Martha's Vineyard is far and away ahead of most public schools, but an "almost 4 year old" in all-day school, riding a bus no less, is pretty weird.Preschool, maybe--but I thought money was pretty tight!And time after time, JW and Zee sit on the balcony with their martinis while they hear the kids pounding down the sandy driveway when the bus lets them off.Wouldn't you go MEET the bus for such young children?Sheesh.OK....I said it was nitpicking.Just really BUGGED me the whole way through the book.

J.W.'s Getting Cranky
This is Craig's 14th Martha's Vineyard mystery (I'm not sure what number it is in the J.W. Jackson series) and the charm of the first few books in the series is fading like a coastline sunset on a rainy day.The nominal plot concerns missing African soapstone eagles and a visiting Zimbabwe-an named Mashimba; a subplot involves J.W.'s improbably named superwoman wife Zee, her apparent fading interest in J.W., and her infatuation with Mashimba.The writing style, plot, and secondary characters are workmanlike contemporaty mystery; unfortunately Craig gives us one to really care about or be interested in.And Craig's descriptions of the Vineyard have become rote - the same sparkly ocean sunrises, jumping bluefish, and annoying tourists.There's little of the local history that enlivened the earlier books. Worse, J.W. himself has turned into something of a grouch.Every chapter (seems like every page) has J.W. railing about everything from people with more money than he (and he seems to this reviewer to have a pretty good life) to cats, small dogs, town ordinances, etc; you name it, J.W. hates it.Luksusowa martinis and Sam Adams are great but I don't need to read about them in every book.And, J.W., while you're crankin' - how about complaining about Sam Adam's "Sex with Sam" ad campaign which led a couple to have public sex in St. Patrick's Cathedral?Seems to me that's more of a matter to rail against than the size of someone's beloved pet. Maybe if J.W. were a little less cranky and a little more open to opinions other than his own, Zee wouldn't have roaming eyes.The book is redeemed somewhat in the end by a lovely exchange between J.W. and Zee about the nature of love.End quote?A (very) quick read - nothing more or less.

He's Losing It!
This the is third book in a row that shows this series' decline. The far-fetched plot is based on two stolen carved African eagles, and Zee makes goo-goo eyes at a studly African from the moment she meets him. The reason, we find out at the end, is that she needed at that moment to love someone other than her husband...and he's cool with that.Puleeeeeeze! Mr. Craig needs to start writing for the reader again, and not for the bank...and we'll all be a lot happier! ... Read more

Amazon.com
You can almost taste the freshly caught bluefish and smell the tangysalt air in Philip Craig's newest Martha's Vineyard mystery, a seasonal delight featuring former Boston policeman J.W. Jackson. J.W. hasn't seen legendary bluesman Corrie Appleyard since he was a child, and when Corrie arrives on the Vineyard for a rare concert appearance, J.W. couldn't be happier.It's almost enough to take his mind off the series of arson fires that have destroyed the dilapidated summer cottages that a local slumlord rents out at outrageously high prices to college kids who've come to work and play in the famous summer colony. But when Corrie's precious guitar is found at the site ofthelatest fire, and an unidentified body is pulled from the ruins, J.W. fears the worst.

Although he's already busy trying to track down a blackmailer who's been threatening Susanna Quick, his wife Zee's close friend, J.W. agrees to investigate the arson fires for the owner of the cottages, which leads him into still another unsolvedmystery: why is Zee so opposed to his newest client?By the time the connection between the arsonist, the slumlord, Susanna, and Zee is unraveled in a surprising denouement, you'llhave worked up an appetite. Luckily, the author has includedthe recipes of Vineyard favorites at the end of this tasty mystery. J.W. is an extremely appealing hero, a man of simple pleasures who's not averse to putting himself on the lineto defend his wife, his family,and his close-knit community of friends and neighbors .The pacing won't keep you from a nap after a day of sun and salt water, but the book moves along nicely, the Vineyard landscape is lovingly and authentically evoked, and the characters are well drawn. Vineyard Blues is another satisfying outing for thisaccomplished writer (who also brought us A Fatal Vineyard Season, A Shoot on Martha's Vineyard, Death on a Vineyard Beach) and his likable protagonist. --Jane AdamsBook Description

A surprise visit from a dear old friend only adds to the joys of good weather, great fishing, warm breezes and loving family for J. W. Jackson this idyllic island summer. The ex-Boston cop is thrilled to see accomplished bluesman Corrie Appleyard strolling up his driveway, guitar case in hand. But days later, J.W.'s elation turns to dread when a rundown summer shack burns to the ground -- the latest in a string of suspicious fires. And when an unidentified corpse is discovered in the ashes, J. W. fears that the charred remains are Corrie's. Now twin obligations to friendship and the truth are leading him into an ugly morass of arson, extortion, secrets, and murder. And he'll go to the dangerous ends of paradise to bring a killer to justice -- because this outrage has slammed J. W. Jackson in the heart.

Perfect summer reading, rich in fishing lore and food, Vineyard Blues is proof that "Craig just keeps getting better" (The Chattanooga Times). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

another fine Vineyard mess
Corey Appleyard arrives on the island, carrying a guitar and memories of JW's daddy from many years ago.The happy reunion is shortlived, though, as an arsonist is setting Ben Krane's shacks on fire on a regular basis.And, a dead body is found inside one of those shacks.Is it insurance[...]?Some connection to Philadelphia gangsters?Is Ben Krane's love life connected to it?You must read it to find out.Enjoy.

Singing the Blues on Martha's Vineyard
Even on Martha's Vineyard, sometimes people have to sing the blues.And that seems to be the case when Corrie Appleyard comes to town to perform.An old friend of the Jackson clan, Corrie is in town to entertain the folks on Martha's Vineyard, and to visit long lost friend, J.W.Even in the midst of a major home renovation, Corrie is asked to stay with the Jackson while he is in town.Despite their invitations, Corrie chooses to stay with much younger island visitors at the rented "slum" cottages rented out by local realtor, Ben Krane.And there seems to be a long line of people truly tired of the slimy slumlord.After his office burns to the ground, several of his rental cottages follow suit.When one of the cottages is set fire, and a body is discovered inside, Ben hires J.W. to find out who is setting the blazes, and who the body is.

This is another good installation in the Martha's Vineyard series.I enjoy the characters of J.W. and Zee, but I agree with several of the other reviewers in regards to his children.At one point, he lets his young son, Joshua go down to the dock and explore a boat by himself, with no mention of a lifejacket or life preserver.J.W, must have the only 2 perfect kids in the world...as most young boys I know would find a way to fall in the water or have some other catastrophe befall them when left to their own devices.I do really like the characters and the story, however, and get a chuckle out of how "perfect" the children are.

The first book in this series is called "A Beautiful Place to Die".Enjoy!

An enjoyable, light read.
This series has always been on the cozy side, and I've enjoyed previous books, but there is no development of the supporting characters and even the uniqueness of Martha's Vineyard is lost here.I'd like to see better dialogue and the word "delish" disappear completely.But it's a quick, light read in which there are no "evil" bad guys, just humans driven by greed, revenge and curiosity.

May know MV but he doesn't know kids
Perfect Z breeds perfect children. Ech! I wonder if it's a generational thing--Craig doesn't know how kids actually behave because if he had any, it was from an era when he wasn't expected to do any of the child-rearing? I mean, "Pa"?
The story itself was interesting and believable, but as soon as Craig started discussing JW's home life, I had trouble reading, what with the involuntary eye-rolling those passages set off.

Vineyard Blues
Having enjoyed visiting Martha's Vineyard a few times, I was intrigued to read Philip Craig's books after reading an article about him in the Boston Globe. To date I've read nine of his stories and have thoroughly enjoyed each one.I pass them on to my Son who owns a home on the Vineyard and he appreciates them, too.In Vineyard Blues, the inclusion of Zee and the children are a natural-seeming progression of "J.W.s" journey.It is refreshing to read how he and Zee realize that their children are their #1 priority and adjust their lives accordingly.I look forward to each new installment.Keep them coming, Mr. Craig. ... Read more

Book Description

Wayne Jacobean relates the imagery of his years of growing up on a vineyard in central California to the lessons Christians can learn from the biblical parallels of bearing fruit and remaining on the vine.

Customer Reviews (5)

Beautiful Gift Book, Full of the Riches of God
This book is one of the most beautiful gift books...great for any household coffee table.More than that, it is full of the beauty and riches of God and how He works in the lives of His children. The author's personal experience growing up on a Vineyard gives him the expertise to help the reader understand the spritutal aspects through the explanation of the practical. It is most definitely one of my favorites and a great gift to give to anyone...whether a believer or not.For the believer it will enrich and enhance his/her walk with God.For the unbeliever it will give a glimps of the God who loves him/her.

Insight.
I absolutely love this book.I don't read a lot, but this is a book that I belive will help people who want to, to understand more about the Lord Jesus Christ and The Father in the role of Vinedresser...It is wonderful.

The vine must be carefully tended in order to bear fruit...
The message in this book touched my heart, If you struggle to understand God's perfect plan read this book. The analogies are so beautifully illustrated. You will know how beloved you are by our Father, and howcarefully He tends to us, throughout the stages of our spiritualgrowth.We need tending in order to bear fruit!

"In My Fathers Vineyard" should be in every library
Wayne has beautifully captured the Love of our Father in his book "InMy Fathers Vineyard". The book should be strategically and prominantlyplaced on every persons coffee table who calls him or herself a"Christian" of virtually any denomination or persuasion. Wayneuses the example of a vineyard to show God's love for all of us. Theseasons, natural growth progress and grape harvesting processes are allused as warm examples of things that might or do happen in the life of anyperson.

A deeply insightful book
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is searching his heart for ways to grow closer to God.The book primarily revolves around Jesus' teaching in John 15.Like most people, however, I do not have much experience with or knowledge about vineyards, so this author's profound insights taught me many wonderful things about my Father that I would have never otherwise learned.The author does a wonderful job using the situation God placed him in to teach his fellow Christian family. ... Read more

Book Description
Award-winning photographer Nancy Ellison offers an intimate glimpse of America's most fabled vacation island-Martha's Vineyard. Her romantic photographs capture landmarks such as the beautifully colored Gay Head Cliffs, the bustling farmers' market, weathered clapboard houses, haunting sunsets, and picturesque lighthouses. Ellison also explores unexpected views of the changing landscape that have often been overlooked.

Accompanying the photographs is text by Cape Cod resident and renowned travel writer Paul Theroux. His evocative essay reflects on the changing moods of the Vineyard. Diverse Island personalities including year round residents such as the shipbuilders and lobster men as well as celebrities Art Buchwald, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Walter Cronkite, Carly Simon, Bill Styron, Mike Wallace, and others come together in Vineyard Days, Vineyard Nights. There has not been a Vineyard book in many years. And now, Ellison's collection of photographs fills that gap and makes the perfect souvenir of the Island. The book is not only a wonderful treasure for visitors but is an intimate portrait of the Vineyard that residents will recognize and embrace as their own. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

GREAT GIFT!
GAVE THIS AS A GIFT TO A FRIEND WHO LIVES ON M. VINEYARD. SHE LOVES IT AND DISPLAYS IT AND WE ALWAYS LOOK AT IT. GREAT THOUGHT! JOYCE

WELL DONE!!
I am a resident of Martha's Vineyard and I find Nancy Ellison's book the best photography book ever done on the island.She treats her subject matter, be it people or landscape, with great integrity and respect. Her composition shows a wonderful artistic talent and her use of matted paper gives the reader a sense of paintings not photographs.It is a book no lover of the Vineyard can be without.

REALLY BAD
I live on Martha's Vineyard and I have seen many books of photographs of the island. This book is just not very good. The matte pages are an unnecessary affectation and they tend to make the photos look like old postcards. The author drops names of boats and celebrities, but some of the pictures are blurred or show their subjects from the back. Surely these folks didn't pose for these obviously quick fan snaps. Not the quality one would hope for from a professional photographer. Oh, by the way, the romance of this book also escapes me. Please think twice before spending so much money on such a slapdash enterprise. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
From the seventeenth century to the early years of the twentieth, the population of Martha's Vineyard manifested an extremely high rate of profound hereditary deafness. In stark contrast to the experience of most deaf people in our own society, the Vineyarders who were born deaf were so thoroughly integrated into the daily life of the community that they were not seen--and did not see themselves--as handicapped or as a group apart. Deaf people were included in all aspects of life, such as town politics, jobs, church affairs, and social life. How was this possible? On the Vineyard, hearing and deaf islanders alike grew up speaking sign language. This unique sociolinguistic adaptation meant that the usual barriers to communication between the hearing and the deaf, which so isolate many deaf people today, did not exist. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Love this book! (a deaf reader)
This is the right attitude toward the deaf people in Martha's Vineyard back in the 17th and 18th centuries. I only wish it was true in USA and elsewhere today but it isn't.

This book also talk of people that aren't deaf, were using sign language to talk to each other - for example, from one boat to another or from the cliff down to the beach or because the high wind was drowning out their voices. I can think of many examples that people can use sign language today. Scuba diving sign language is so limited so why not use ASL? A person can tell a minister of an emergency problem quickly from the back of the church without having to go up to whisper in his ear. One could 'talk' to another person in the next building without opening windows. (Windows can't be opened in some office buildings) I could go on and on.

Today, parents are using sign language with their babies (not deaf). Some researchers are saying that it enhances language, cognitive, and social-emotional development. However, I am sure that at the same time, there are some parents of deaf babies, are being told not to use sign language. There are few schools that are pro-oral. Those deaf babies need sign language even more. Where are their language and social-emotional development?? This is irony and sharp contrast to this book. This book prove that all deaf babies need to be exposed to sign language everyday by comparing the Vineyard Deaf people to the Mainland Deaf people.

I am keeping this book to show others because it does support my view of point on the education for the deaf.

Excellent Book!
I read this book a couple of years ago after reading Oliver Sack's book "Seeing Voices". I read many books each year and I must agree with the other readers here in stating that this is one of the books that has stuck with me. The sense of community and integration encountered by the deaf people on Martha's Vineyard are truley lessons to us all on acceptance and normal treatment of disabilities. I only wish it had a follow up edition.

A book not to be forgotten
There are about 10 books I've read in my life that are vivid years later.This is one of those.We're given the chance to see what it might be like to live in a place without prejudices about people being different because of something like deafness. I learned a tremendous amount about deafness, sign language, and life on a New England fishing island community in bygone years. Don't miss this wonderful book.

An interesting look at a unique deaf cultue
"Everyone Here Spoke Sign Language" is a look at the effect of a large deaf population on Martha's Vineyard.Though a dry read at times, this book gives an interesting look at how for once in the history of deaf culture the *hearing* adapted for the deaf instead of vice versa.While most people might assume that the large deaf population would force a hefty amount of deaf people to adapt to hearing life, the opposite was actually true; the brilliance of Martha's Vineyard was that nearly all hearing people knew sign language to some degree.

The book analyses cultural impact of the large deaf population within the Vineyard's communities, which was biologically caused by the genetic predisposition for deafness.The book, largely written like an anthropological study, focuses on both physical and cultural aspect of the deafness in the communities.However, the most interesting implications within the book are those discussing deaf and hearing interrelations.

Inspiring and interesting
This is one of my favorite books of all time.Originally written as an ethnographic study, it is also completely readable for a non-professional popular audience.Basically, it is the story of the islanders of Martha's Vineyard, a large island off the coast of Massachusetts.The islanders originally came from the same 2 or 3 boatloads of colonists from England, by way of Boston and Scituate, from a region in Kent which already seems to have had a high incidence of hereditary deafness.Due to the geographic isolation of the island, recessive genes for deafness, which were already prominent in the original Kentish colonists, came increasingly to the fore.As the proportions of islanders who happened to be deaf gradually increased, what was the islanders' answer?Not shunning the deaf.Far from it.Rather, atradition arose that EVERYONE on the island, deaf or hearing, simply learned sign language as children!

This book is full of fascinating little anecdotes, about how island society worked to include its deaf members.For example, we learn about families and friends, some deaf and some hearing, who would regularly sit next to each other in church.The hearing members would sign the sermons to their deaf friends.Or, sometimes groups of people who could hear perfectly well might be together, for whatever reason, and they might happen to converse by signing just as much as in spoken English.Everyone spoke both languages.

Some of my favorite parts of the book focus on the benefits of signing.For example, perhaps two neighbors wanted to converse, while being separated by 200 yards of noisy space, made vocally impenetrable by sounds of surf and sea.Whether they were deaf or hearing, they could get out their spyglasses (this was a 19th century whaling community, where spyglasses were in every household) and sign to each other across the distance while viewing each other through the magnification afforded by the spyglasses.One entertaining anecdote tells of two young men, who could hear perfectly well, who would use their signing ability to pick up girls off-island.They would pique the girls' interest in them by signing amongst themselves, and would claim that one of them was deaf.After they had secured the girls' interest, they would put on a lengthy, well-practiced charade of deafness to keep the gils curious about them.Do they ever let on that they can really hear?You'll have to read the book to find out!Bwa ha ha haaaa ( that's the sound of an evil laugh).

Those are a few minor anecdotes.The whole book is packed with stories like that, and it's endlessly amazing.The last couple of chapters make excellent, general points about the human issues raised in the book, and about how we as a society think about the "handicapped" -- perhaps, as Dr. Groce points out, we should not use the term in the first place.

Anyway, I'm really pleased to call attention to this book.I wish it were more widely known.If you're reading this because you linked to my reviewer's page from my review of "Jeepers Creepers," or something at a similar level, then, well, I'm just happy you're reading about this valuable story as well as "Jeepers Creepers."Two thumbs up. ... Read more

Book Description
J. W. Jackson, the ex-Boston cop turned fisherman, cook, and jack-of-all-trades, delves deep into the mysterious depths of his beloved Vineyard in author Philip Craig's most compelling caper yet.

With his wife, Zee, and two kids visiting relatives in "America," J.W. is alone and quickly tiring of his temporary bachelor status. A request from Carole Cohen comes as a blessed diversion. Carole wants J.W. to find the person who's stalking her brother, Roland. Known locally as "The Monk" for his reclusive ways, Roland lives on a beautiful piece of Vineyard real estate that he co-owns with his cousin Sally Oliver. A number of people, including Sally, would do almost anything to convince Roland to sell his valuable property. But does that include violence?

J.W. is happy to take on what looks like a short and easy assignment, though he soon realizes that Roland may lead a more complicated life than his austere living arrangements suggest. And when a body turns up near Roland's land, what seemed like a property dispute takes a detour into murder -- with J.W. in the midst of the action once again.

Featuring a rich mix of money, lust, pride, and jealousy, spiced with a little poignant regret, Vineyard Stalker is a page-turning and deftly plotted addition to this popular and engaging series in which Martha's Vineyard itself is always the star.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Classic Craig
I've read each book in order and his writing of the lead character, JW Jackson, has grown over time.I'm a little sad that its all over....

Not as good as the other Vineyard mysteries
I've read all of Philip Craig's mysteries set on Martha's Vineyard and have enjoyed them, except for the author's frequent insistance that guns are good things to have handy.What made the books enjoyable to me was the setting.I've never been to that trendy island, but the books took me there, to the beaches, Edgartown, the fishing fleet, etc.

Somehow this book just didn't do it.At least, it wasn't as scenic as the other books.The mystery plot was rather humdrum, and the outcome wasn't satisfactory.The characters were not especially interesting.In fact, they are pretty much one-dimensional.But where the book failed for me was in the atmosphere.The juices just weren't there.

Other reviewers have described the plot in considerable detail, so I won't go into that or give away the denouement.Suffice it to say, from a visceral standpoint this mystery novel just wasn't up to the usual from Craig.Perhaps he was not up to his best level when he wrote it, since he was ill for a time and has since died.Apparently there are a couple of his unpublished books to come.I hope so and I hope they are better than this one.

Another Great Book
What a fun book, quick read great for summer and always on the mark.I've gone through four of his this last month...keep them coming!

The last vineyard Mystery
Sadly this will be the last vineyard Mystery from Philip Craig. He died this past May and will be sorely missed by those of us that have read every one of his books. I totally recommend starting this series from the beginning and you will get to knowall of the characters that are repeated in each book. Watch JW fall in love with Zee and watch their two children grow. JW is always able to figure out the mystery and the reader can never figure it out before he does. Philip Craig will be a hard act to follow.

Obit
We lost the author, Philip Craig, on May 8.Those of us who love mysteries will miss him very much. ... Read more

Book Description

Escaping the city and its violence, ex-cop Jeff "J. W." Jackson found solace in fishing, cooking, and simplyenjoying life on Martha's Vineyard -- and nothing, he figures, will ever entice him to leave. However, suddenly there's a very real possibility that his lady love Zee will be departing the idyllic island forever. And when a young student commits suicide, and a girlfriend-abusing thug starts spewing vicious threats, J. W. seriously considers a temporary escape from paradise. But it's a failed trio of attempts on his own life that ultimately propels him off-island -- and onto the trail of a stalker that's leading Jackson to the perilous peaks of the Colorado Rockies, where he quickly learns that, thorns and all, there's no place quite like his Vineyard home.

Customer Reviews (5)

Another Keeper
As always, Philip Craig kept me enthralled.I have never been to the Vineyard but based on the author's descriptive writing I know I could find my way around the island.The ending is always a surprise.Craig's books never disappoint me.Definitely a keeper.

Title Change
I absolutely agree with Mr. Wells!Changing the title of the book is sneaky - if I hadn't read the reviews, I would never have known that this books is actually "Cliff Hanger" which I just finished reading.While the book is quite good, I am very annoyed that the published appears to be trying to pull a fast one!

Cliff Hanger
This book is also known as Cliff Hanger.it says what it was published as at the bottom of the book.Great book got me hooked on the series!!!

A great read!
I would like to say that this is an excellent book--as are all of Craig's books I've read so far.They make me feel as though I'm right there on the island with J.W. and Zee, and it gives me a glimpse of what life is like on the East Coast.
And this book is a RE-issue--the author is NOT merely trying to pass off a previous book as a new one."Cliff Hanger"--the 4th book in Craig's Martha's Vineyard series--is out of print, and has been re-issued as "Vineyard Fear"--it says so right on the front cover of the book.
If you love a protagonist who's a bit of a wiseacre and a book that will keep you guessing AND make you chuckle, then Philip Craig is the guy for you.

Duplicate Titles
I have a real problem with the author changing the title of a book and then trying to pass it off as a new book!!! Show me any difference between the book called Vineyard Fear and the original book called Cliff Hanger. This is the third time he has done this. I really enjoy Philip Craig,s books but find this practice disgraceful. ... Read more

Book Description
In this radiant new collection, Franz Wright shares his regard for life in all its forms and his belief in the promise of blessing and renewal. As he watches the “Resurrection of the little apple tree outside / my window,” he shakes off his fear of mortality, concluding “what death . . . There is only / mine / or yours,– / but the world / will be filled with the living.” In prayerlike poems he invokes the one “who spoke the world / into being” and celebrates a dazzling universe–snowflakes descending at nightfall, the intense yellow petals of the September sunflower, the planet adrift in a blizzard of stars, the simple mystery of loving other people. As Wright overcomes a natural tendency toward loneliness and isolation, he gives voice to his hope for “the only animal that commits suicide,” and, to our deep pleasure, he arrives at a place of gratitude that is grounded in the earth and its moods.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Lovely, Simply Lovely
In the book of poems titled Walking to Martha's Vineyard, Franz Wright will surely ponder reader's minds everywhere. There is a constant theme involving spirituality throughout his poems. Often you will find his poetry calling out to a higher power or demanding faith through fear. He provides a sense of something that is hidden to the outside world that only he will ever fully understand. He keeps secrets from his audience. The spirituality woven throughout this collection of poems can be compared to Rainer Maria Rilke's poetry, although it is not as heavily demanding in the spiritual sense. Wright's actual prose can better be compared to Some Thing Black by Jacques Roubaud.

Franz Wright was born in Vienna in 1953, and grew up mostly in California. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Walking to Martha's Vineyard and was a also finalist for his work titled The Beforelife. He currently lives in Waltham, Massachusetts with his wife Elizabeth and works for the Center for Grieving Children and Teenagers.

His poems are all connected in an orderly fashion that slowly moves the poetry forward with a subtle taste of satisfaction. There is no set form to his free verse and he uses punctuation for a reason, never taking it lightly. In his poem "Fathers," Wright beautifully discusses and compares his own father and a higher power, or a heavenly father. He calls out to the creator of the stars to create a new heart in him. I believe the most beautiful stanza in the poem is right after this when he writes, "Homeless in Manhattan, the winter of your dying." It flows so beautifully on the page. There is a constant sense of wanting to belong and to be loved. The last line reads, "and how often I walked to the edge of the actual river to join you." It is so wonderful because it is so real. It is not known to whom he is calling out to. It could be his real father that passed away when he was a child, or the Heavenly Father. It could be both.

His poem titled "June Storm" speaks about a sad journey through life - always living with a question and never knowing any answers. He always ends