"My Name's Friday" tells the story of producer-director-actor-writer Jack Webb. Fans of "Dragnet" will be surprised by the sheer volume of Webb's work in radio, television, and motion pictures. The scope of Michael Hayde's engrossing book goes beyond "Dragnet" and discusses all things Webb, with plenty of color and numerous "exhibits": first-person recollections by those involved in production, radio and TV episode guides, dozens of photos, transcripts of Webb's most memorable on-air speeches, even samples of "Dragnet" merchandise from the 1950s. The author takes pains to show the various facets of Webb's personality: intense workaholic, perceptive critic, enthusiastic jazz aficionado, loyal friend. Best of all for curious readers, the author has done a terrific research job, admirably placing the "Dragnet" phenomenon in its proper historical context. A fine book: Sgt. Friday would salute this one.

WOW! What a treat to read! This is THE book about DRAGNET that I was waiting for! If you're a fan of either the radio or TV version you MUST get this book!! It's not a biography of Jack Webb, but has enough background on his formative years to understand where he came from, so to speak. It goes into much detail about the DRAGNET industry that Webb created. Michael, it was well worth the long wait....an EXCELLENT job! Thanks!

While any television buff would enjoy MY NAME'S FRIDAY, it is a MUST read for Dragnet or Jack Webb fans. This book documents exactly how Jack Webb came up with the idea for Dragnet and how it evolved from that moment on covering scripts, writers, stock players, and every aspect of the show. It gives us an idea of what kind of man Jack Webb was and what it was like to work with and for him. It is not, however, dry reading, but a fast moving, interesting, colorful and smoothly written account of what happened. I found the book definitely hard to put down and give it a five-star rating.

After devouring Beverly Cleary's first memoir "A Girl From Yamhill" I couldn't wait to read My Own Two Feet. The only thing to complain about is that there isn't a sequel to this one! Picking up where Yamhill left off, we share in Beverly Cleary's journey through college and into her adult years and the writing of her first book, Henry Huggins. Reading Cleary's Memoirs, I was taken back to my own childhood and my love for Ramona & Beezus. Cleary has a unique gift of simple writing that readers of all ages can enjoy, whether you are 8 or 80. I lover her writing as much today as I did when I was in the 3rd grade.

I read a lot of Beverly Cleary's books as a little girl and loved them. As an adult, I loved her autobiographies. This book not only described her college life, how she met her husband, and became a writer, but what life was like during the Depression and WWII. She described her battles with a difficult mother without being overly resentful. I am amazed at how well she gets along with kids and how she can write so well for kids, considering her own mother didn't really express her love for Beverly when she was growing up.

From this book, I could also see little anecdotes in her autobiography, which showed up in her books. She described how when she was a librarian and when kids applied for library cards, one kid mentioned that her dad mowed the lawn when asked what he did. I remember reading this as Ramona's response in one of the Ramona books.

Is Beverly Cleary still alive? She must be up there in years. At any rate, I loved her autobiographies, and when I have children, I will not hesitate in encouraging my kids to read her books.

A must-read for all Beverly Cleary fans. Picks up the story where "A Girl from Yamhill" left off and takes us through her college years and her career as a librarian. A book that will inspire you to become a librarian or a children's book author. As well writen and accessible as all of her children's books about the gang on Klikitat Street.

The authors have created an absolutely perfect and delightful work on Nabokov's butterflies and all the resulting interfaces. Nabokov has always preoccupied me and, fortunately, I also have a deep interest in nature - particularly in butterflies and birds. Thus, this book, which develops everything from Nabokov's biography and literary use of butterfly and other nature motifs to their place in modern science and today's biodiversity crisis, was wonderfully eye-opening and informative. It's my bet that few people appreciate how big a story Nabokov's science actually is. It is not only a major part of his biography, previously untold, but also a linkage of his life's scientific work to major questions confronting scientists today. As with his literature, Nabokov turns out to have been a pioneer. It is only a pity that Nabokov did not have two lifetimes, one for literature and one for science.

What is intriguing about this book is that it has taken an entire volume of previously untapped material-- Nabokov's scientific work and the stories of and from the scientists who have studied and completed Nabokov's pioneering work in science and woven an entirely new story about a personage who might have been considered previously well-known. Who would have known this story was around? It reminds of Sobel's Galileo's Daughter which also uses the same tack-- takes the correspondence with his daughter, previously untapped, and weaves a whole new story about Galileo! The authors of Nabokov's Blues have extra luck in that, since they are demonstrating for the first time Nabokov's acumen in two very different fields, science and literature, they can take the opportunity to interweave these two worlds, which they do in a fascinating and intriguing way. What is so compelling about this book is that its story has just not been told before. Just when you thought you knew something about Nabokov, here comes his science! and, with gusto. A great book.

I had heard about this book before its release and I was not disappointed. The authors seem to have an uncanny sense about Nabokov's oeuvre. I have long had an interest in Nabokov's writing but was fascinated by the prospect of a book that would finally tell the story of his work, and its importance, in science. What is great about this book is that it reads with a plot, from the beginning-- which tells Nabokov's story as a scientist before his fame in literature-- to its end, which tells the story of the scientists who completed Nabokov's work nearly 50 years later. The latter includes exciting treks across remote areas of Latin America in search of Nabokov's Blues. The authors also tell us about Nabokov's fascination with butterflies within his own literature and, at the end of their book, provide what appears to be the first major assessment of Nabokov the scientist. In their opinion his contribution was far more important than ever previously appreciated. A great book.

[Backcover Review]: "PEOPLE OF LEGEND by acclaimed photojournalist and author John Annerino is a stunning and evocative portrait of Native America and the mystical landscapes they call home. "This largely photographic essay...offers a rare glimpse of coming of age ceremonies and feasts, and vivid re-enactments of ancient dances."-San Francisco Chronicle. "Contemporary Native American culture is revealed by a photojournalist who spent over 20 years exploring the Southwest...a stunning visual display of modern tribes and people: a blend of cultural history and art book."-Reviewers Bookwatch. "Annerino's work is outstanding." -Arizona Daily Star. "PEOPLE OF LEGEND tells a history, in words and pictures, that we all need to know." -American Photo Magazine. "Extraordinary."-Sandia Review." [Backcover Bio]: "Praised by Newsweek as one of the finest photographers of the West, John Annerino has worked in the frontier of Old Mexico and the American West for two decades. The Washington Post has lauded his "reverant and ravishing photographs," The Denver Post described his work as "fabulous," Publishers Weekly calls it "stunning." Represented by Gamma-Liaison, Annerino's credits include Time, Life, Newsweek, and Scientific American, among many prestigious publications worldwide. The author of nine books, Annerino's works include the critically acclaimed 1999 border saga DEAD IN THEIR TRACKS and his new photo/art book on American cowboys and cowgirls, ROUGHSTOCK: THE TOUGHEST EVENTS IN RODEO."

Acclaimed author and photojournalist John Annerino is known for his high-risk journeys through the frontiers of Mexico and the American Southwest, seeking stories untold and photos unseen. For the past two decades, with his pen and his camera, he has told the stories of indigenous people -- their struggles and triumphs, their political strife and quiet dignity. His chronicles about the Tarahumara [WHERE SPIRITS STILL DANCE, in press] and Inde [APACHE: The Sacred Path to Womanhood, Marlowe & Co.], and his journeys across the desert with Mexican citizens looking for work in the United States [DEAD IN THEIR TRACKS: Crossing America's Desert Borderlands, Four Walls Eight Windows], can be found in several books as well as in frequent articles. Annerino share[s] his journeys and experiences, reflecting on how indigenous cultures have retained their traditions while dealing with outside influences. -Heard Museum

PEOPLE OF LEGEND. Annerino's book examines Indians' ties to land...A dozen figures raise crooked sticks toward the twilight sky. In the shot, Annerino manages to bring an almost monumental quality to the circle of students at San Simon High School, on the western edge of the Tohono O'odham reservation, as they play the ancient stickball game. At first glance, it appears to be some ancient ceremony. In a way it is. "I wanted to show the spirituality of the game of toka for the Tohono O'odham," Annerino said. -Daily Star

Breaking into Television is a MUST HAVE book. Thisbook focuses on the do's and don't's of interning, with helpful and funny advice from top Exec's like the VP of MTV and Leeza. The book is cleverly broken up into "Channels" instead of chapters in which a large variety of important issues are discussed. Among these are how to go about getting an internship, sexual harrassment and the "almost die for your internship daily" attitude. I wish I would have had this book while interning- I would probably be a lot further in my career if I had! This book also stresses the importance of networking and establishing contacts! If you are a high school or college student- start doing this immediately! This book is the perfect guide to bettering your life by starting EARLY! Breaking into Television tells you how to become part of the most competetive business around- and with advice from the people in television, how can you not become a success? Run, don't walk, and buy this book NOW! Parents- this is a must for any high school or college kid. Help them get a jump on the next person!With this book, you can't lose!

Anyone can get an internship... However, it is what you do when you get there that distinguishes you from every other intern fighting for a paid position! The text is a guide written to help interns (and prospectives) get on the right track to career success. Most importantly, the authors fill the pages with tales from hundreds of former interns who--with alot of hard work--reached the top, for example: Brian Graden the Executive V.P. of MTV or Brad Besey the Coordinating Producer of Entertainment Tonight! It only makes sense to get advice from such highly recognizable sources, which Weaver and Siegel have done. Although directed towards the television industry, an intern from any area could find this book to be a valuable resource in advancing his/her career possibilies!

The title of this book may mislead perspective readers. It is a how to book for any intern, not just those trying to break into television. There are over 100 media, pr, and advertising executives quoted in this book. However, the anecdotes and advice they offer should help secure an internship and probably a job in any field. This is the bible for prospective interns and no student should be without one.

As someone who is fortunate enough to be involved in the behind the scenes activities of stock car racing, I can tell you without hesitation that this is by far the best look into the inner workings of not only Roush Racing but of the entire sport of NASCAR. Miller has written an informative, exciting book about one of the most fascinating seasons our sport has ever known.

Miller was there when Earnhardt tragically died at Daytona and the controversy that followed. He was there when Kurt Busch, now a star in the sport, got his big break. He shared victories with Jeff Burton and anguished through the tough times with Mark Martin and Matt Kenseth. He witnessed first hand the trials and tribulations of Kevin Harvick. And he got to fly in a vintage WWII plane with Jack Roush. In other words, G. Wayne Miller was there and he takes you with him on an amazing journey over the 2001 season that you will long remember.

'Men and Speed' examines the true personalities of those obsessed with speed from one of the most interesting, entertaining, investigative writers I've ever had the pleasure to read. I highly recommend it to every fan of Roush Racing, NASCAR and especially to those who are only now discovering one of the most popular sports in America today. Buy this book!!! You won't be disappointed.

Just when you thought you knew just about everything that goes on in a NASCAR racing organization, Mr. Miller throws another card on the table. There are several books about NASCAR in general, and a handful that details the lives of only the highest profiled drivers. All of them are good books, but none have masterfully captured the heart and soul of the subjects like MEN AND SPEED.

The attention to detail is astonishing. So much so that the reader will feel like they are right there during the moment. I constantly had to remind myself that this is NOT a fictional account. It is not often that you find a book that won't let you put it down. MEN AND SPEED can easily be added to that prestigious list. Mr. Miller has found an ingenious way to bring this amazing year of Roush Racing's triumphs and struggles to all levels of readers. If you have never followed NASCAR, this is the perfect introduction. If you have been a fan for many years, this is the perfect companion.

Mr. Miller superbly takes his first hand experiences with the Roush Racing organization and paints a no holds barred picture of what goes on beyond what the television cameras show us each week. Through this book, one cannot help but feel closer to Mark Martin, Jeff Burton, Matt Kenseth, Kurt Busch, Jack Roush and all who support them, in a way that could have never been imagined. I found myself laughing at Jeff's comical antics and comments, feeling Mark's anguish over the fans and journalists who called him a quitter, calmed by the quiet, mild mannered Matt, agreeably frustrated along with Kurt about his performances and lack of meeting his own expectations, and left in absolute awe over this incredible machine that Jack has built and nurtured. I now have a better understanding of the addiction to speed.

If you have ever had any doubts about reading a book about NASCAR, let those doubts dissolve with MEN AND SPEED! You will not be disappointed! This is definitely a book that has been long overdue for NASCAR fans, Roush Racing fans and those just now discovering America's fastest growing sport! Kudos to Mr. Miller for a job well done!

I am a new Nascar fan and looked to this book as a way to get behind the scenes of one of the sport's best teams. It was great! A highly entertaining read, the reader gets "backstage" passes into the life and times of the Jack Roush racing team. You get an inside look at what it takes to be a driver, the highs and lows, and also learn that being a driver is not all roses. This is a particularly tough year for the Roush team and the reader can feel the unfulfilled expectations and frustrations. In fact, not one of these talented drivers had the kind of year that was anticipated.
A superb book for both Nascar fans and people who enjoy going behind the scenes and learning about how an industry works.

This book is very informative, whether you are an officer, investigator, or just planning to enter the field. The book tells about different types of homicides, and different ways to solve the cases. It has taught me alot of different ways to approach the suspects, and different things to look for in the cases. It has also taught me different ways of investigating cases, and finding out if the cases are actually homicides, accidents, or suicides. It is very helpful for anyone that is thinking of going into the field, or even the people that are already in the field of homicide investigation.

Being in law enforcement and involved in homicide investigations, I have found the contents of this book relevant to modern day homicide investigations. Even though each case presented and some of the techniques used are now outdated, this book overall is a very good source of information on homicide investigations. If you are involved in any aspect of homicide investigation, this book is highly recommended

This book is a must for any law enforcement professional.It is graphic, with a number of color and black & white photos. It should be used during the "Investigations" section of the police academy. I feel this would give cadets a better understanding of not only homicide investigation, but investigation in general.

We are so disconnected from the natural world, we can't see the damage we are (maybe) permanently doing to our own backyards and other common areas. Sara Stein examines our disconnected state, and proposes some ways to reconnect and salvage our place in the natural world. This book is a breath of hope- read it and restore your own Eden!

Being a writer of similar book on the same subject I've read many books of ecological gardening. When I was researching for my latest book which would be called in english "THE WILD GARDEN-a gardening guide for the lazy" I drew extensively and benefitted greatly from Ms. Steins book. Of all the books I've ever read on the subject this one is absolutly the tops. Ms. Stein has a way of making the reader aware of the disastrous muck-up we've done to ecology blissfully ignorant of our actions. At the same time she refrains from preaching and her prose is fluid, easlily understood and fun to read. It is my opinion, and I truly believe this, that Ms. Stein has done more for the conservation of nature than many national and international institutions.

Noah's Garden is a lovely, gentle book that all home gardeners should read. I thought our over grown garden was an eyesore until I read this book. We now not only leave the "weeds" that grow next to our creek, we also do not mow the big patch of clover in the middle of our lawn. This is for the butterflies and bumble bees. Thank you Sara for a wonderful book.

I must reveal I'm a life long Braves fan. I've rooted for and respected Tommy Glavine since his rookie season pitching for 7,000 people at Fulton County stadium. I enjoyed this book just as I have enjoyed watching Glavine's career.

However, the book doesn't reveal much insight into the Braves or the game of baseball-just Tommy Glavine. It reads like a book rushed to print in order to capitalize on the 1995 World Series MVPship of Glavine; while the marketability of Glavine was high. Its a standard baseball auto/biography. The 3 stars isn't to belittle this book: its an average book getting an average rating.

This book is a must for Atlanta Braves fans, baseball fans, or sports fans. Tom Glavine tells his whole life story including times when the Braves were the worst team in baseball. He tells about expierences in the Minors and life growing up as a hockey player in Billerica, Massachusetts. This book is a must if you are looking for something great to read.

To be honest, when I bought this book I barely knew who Tom Glavine was. Of course I lived in Atlanta, and went to a couple of Braves games but after I read this book my concept of Tommy and the Braves changed. The man who always seems so serious is quite funny. You understand the "man" not just the "pitcher". After I read the book, I actually felt like I knew Tom Glavine. I compare this book to the movie Forrest Gump, which is my favorite movie of all time. Like the movie, this book made me feel all my emotions, but it made me laugh hysterical which I truly appreciated. You will have a whole new perspective on the game and the men behind it.

Enjoy, I certainly did.

The great value of this book as a "good read" or as an aid to sorting one's collection of old time radio recordings is covered very well by other reviewers on this site. I want to point out its use as an educational tool. Social Studies classes are all too often made boring by reliance on textbooks (which are either outdated or too politically correct to be of any use) or on films and tapes, which are better but still pretty factual (whatever the bias) and dull to many students. I have always in my classes used the music of the period to liven things up a bit; but what about using radio broadcasts? Each one of them is a reflection of the people and events that shaped these shows and so many of them are available on tapes and CDs from such catalogues as Radio Spirits. is a fantastic resource manual for a teacher who wants to see what is appropriate for any particular class and to provide the background information for the students. Oxford University Press might want to consider this angle in their advertizing. But even all this aside, it does make for some fascinating reading!

This book is an exhaustive works which contains complete information on just about every old time radio show that was ever on the air. It's written in an entertaining style, which not only brings back fond memories but which makes it fun to read. It's sure to become a collector's item.

From the A&P Gypsies to the Ziegfield Follies of the Air, the entire spectrum of radio in its heyday (1930's 40's, 50's) is all here, with as fabulous a cast of characters as were ever gathered into one industry.
The 1500 entries detail the broadcast history of each show (including dates, times, network, and sponsors), cast members major and minor, announcers, musicians and singers, producers and directors, sound effects technicians, and more.
Shows of special significance, such as "Gunsmoke" (1952-61) are treated in extensive essays describing their history and development, with background information derived from numerous interviews and meticulous research. There are also special categories, or "umbrella entries", covering concert, news, and religious shows, and the remote broadcasts of the great bands, such as Glenn Miller and Woody Herman. For hardcore radio buffs and collectors information on the availability of tapes of old shows will be a special treat. With its fine bibliography and generous index, Dunning's work is a first rate production, essential for anyone interested in old time radio.

(The "score" rating is an unfortunately ineradicable feature of the page. This reviewer does not "score" books.)