I read this book in 1980; at the time I was chairman of the democratic party in my county. I really began to do some serious soul searching. I finally concluded I was going to leave my party, as It no longer represented it's founder Mr Thomas Jefferson. This small simple easy to read book totally changed my life That same year I met Jim Hansen, he was making his first run for congress from the state of Utah, I made a deal with him, I would vote for him if he would read The Law by Bastiat. He promised, and I did. I received a nice letter from Jim after he was elected. " Never read a book that has so impressed me". P.S. "Find Yourself another copy, Im keeping Yours". Jim.

Best three dollars ever spent. Ron Steele Moab, Utah

Though written in 1850 the ideas expressed by the author are so true today. Unfortunately, we have a government today dominated by liberals, who believe they need to use the law to take from the producers and give to the lazy, and conservatives, who, while claiming to stand for many of the things in this book, in reality join with the liberals to keep us in a strangle hold of big government-using the law to control us rather than using it to prevent injustice as intended. This should be required reading for every congressman. It is a short, easy read that could be referred back to often.

Fredric Bastiat was a 19th century French law-maker, economist and author. He wrote a number of highly technical works of economic theory, books that are still considered valuable contributions to free-market economic thought. But his least technical work, a pamphlet called The Law, has proven to be perhaps his most enduring from a modern political standpoint.

Written in 1850, just two years after the French Revolution of 1848, the Law is part treatise and part polemic, an appeal to the French people reminding them of the proper sphere of the law and government and begging them to turn away from their descent into socialism. The Law is also a summary of much of what Bastiat considered to be important from his own work; at the time The Law was written he was very sick, and he would be dead within a year of its publication. As a French patriot, Bastiat was deeply moved by the disintegration he saw in French society.

As the last vestiges of the class-society were replaced and the new "democratic" order was being instituted, the State was more and more being used as a means by which groups of citizens (special interests) could plunder one another through taxes, transfer payments, tariffs, etc, committing what Bastiat calls "legal plunder." As he saw it, the law was being perverted into a so-called "creative" entity, through which controlling groups would seek to enforce their particular agendas at the expense and through the pocketbooks of the people in general.

Bastiat argues that the law should be properly viewed as the formal embodiment of Force. That is, human laws should be the organized and formal construction of justice. Just law, he says, is nothing more than the organization of the human right to self-defense. This is a surprisingly narrow definition, perhaps almost too narrow to be truly useful. But I can imagine that Bastiat wouldn't have seen much moral value in the philosophy of pragmatism; he certainly would have made a bad present-day politician, a "flaw" which I find highly admirable.

Bastiat is revered by many modern libertarians as one of the founding fathers of their ideology, and rightly so. But it seems to me that his work is more accurately anarcho-capitalist than libertarian. To say that Bastiat is arguing for "limited" government is a gross understatement. In fact, Bastiat seems instead to be arguing for the abolition of most all of what today we would call The Government. Many libertarians, for example, probably wouldn't argue the abolition of all forms of taxation on moral grounds. Personally I appreciate his definition of plunder as "...tariffs, protection, benefits, subsidies, encouragements, progressive taxation, public schools, guaranteed jobs, guaranteed profits, minimum wages, a right to relief, a right to the tools of labor, free credit, and so on, and so on..."

Obviously although Bastiat may not share the views of modern libertarians in every respect, they have much to respect in him. And of course, the average economic and social liberal won't care for him at all, as he makes a special point of going after the vast majority of liberal sacred cows. But more surprisingly, the Religious Right should be wary of taking Bastiat on as too great of an ally. Although Bastiat and his book have been instrumental in forming many right-wing/libertarian ideas about free markets and the proper role of government, Bastiat argues forcefully against the use of the law as a tool for the shaping of moral values. Jerry Falwell and Bastiat are notably out of step with one another. I can imagine that Bastiat would not have much use for the Congressional institution of days of prayer, or for teacher-led prayer in the public schools he so despised, for anti-drug and pro-abstinence programs, or for the ministerial functions that many politicians have sought to usurp.

Conservatives have an unfortunate habit of revering political figures. But as Bastiat says, "There are too many 'great' men in the world--legislators, organizers, do-gooders, leaders of the people, fathers of nations, and so on, and so on. Too many persons place themselves above mankind; they make a career of organizing it, patronizing it, and ruling it."

Bastiat didn't believe in the inherent value of rulers of men. Many conservatives hope that their sons will grow up to be leaders in a political sense. Bastiat believed that we would be better served if more people sought to be useful, productive, inventive and moral, instead of trying to lead all the rest of society. Society will function much more desirably when we relinquish the desire for power over our fellow men, and instead seek power over our own actions.

Although Bastiat's views on law and government may be too simplistic and dated to be implemented literally in a modern society, I believe that there is still much instruction to be had from this book. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in developing an understanding of the roots of modern libertarian thought.

I bought this book as a gift for my 3-year-old cousin. She enjoys it when I read it to her, but it is even better to watch her 7-year-old brother read it to her. This book tells a tale of three trees that dream of what they want to become when they grow up. All three are cut down and used in purposes far from what they had envisioned of themselves. However, by the end of the story, it is clear that the way they were used is not only exactly what they dreamed of, but they were used in the way that God wanted them to be.

This book serves well when speaking to your child about what he or she wants to be when all grown up. It will serve as a reminder to them that whatever they do, God will be with them and guiding them. God will use them in the way that he (or she) sees fit.

My first reading of this book was to a group of 6 and 7 year olds at bedtime at a Christian summer camp. I had never read the book before (not something I normally do) and I was so moved by the story and beautiful illustrations that I began reading every night to every group of kids that I had.

I know read it to the kindergarten class in which I am an aide for at a small Christian school. This is their favorite rest time story.

Why 5 stars?: This book, teaches an enduring lesson through its words and wonderful pictures. It is on a level that second-graders can read. Perfect for them to read by themselves or possibly to a younger sibling. I would recommend this story to anyone who has ever had trouble seeing God in his or her life. His work is not always evident to us, but it is always there. I would also recommend the leather-bound edition for a niver presentation of the story.

I heard this story spoken one year during a summer camp evening program. When you hear this story it hits straight into your heart and stays there.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to buy this book for all the families I work with. Now whenever "Auntie" is around the children request "The Tree Story". This book is always in the car to be read to any child.

I read the other recommendations, and yes, it does bring a lump to your throat. No matter how many times I read it, this book never fails to bring tears to my eyes.

This book belongs in every library and is a great influencer in the lives of young and old. The campfire I where I first heard this story took place years ago - yet I remembered the story long before I purchased the book.

A story for the ages......

I wasn't even looking for a childrens book the other day when I accidentally happened upon "The Tale of Three Trees". I was brought nearly to tears by this touching little tale. I took it home and read it to my children that very night at bedtime, and even they were touched by this story. The sysnopsis above really tells it all. It is a story of Gods love for us, and his own unique gifts to us all in this world. I plan on giving it as a gift to friends with children, so they may share this special little story with them as well.

I read this book shortly after my own personal attack and rape and I have to say, it got me through some of the worst times.

This books tells you a story of a woman whose right to her body is taken away, and the horrible aftermath it leaves. But it also leaves you feeling connected through similiar experiences, and educates you about common misconceptions and falsities in rape statistics and information. Reading this book helped me feel less alone, and also gave me information to empower me to try to go out and help fight the terror that is violence and rape against women, or anyone for that matter.

Rape survivors and non-rape survivors alike should read this book. It's gripping, heartwrenching, and will certainly open your eyes, as well as your heart. You're definitely not the same after having read this book. Incredible.

Reading this book will show you that you are not alone. Nancy Venable Raine talks extensively about the damaging effects of being silenced, and of keeping the secret. She expresses that rape is a death and that healing is a discovery of who you are. My sexual abuse began so early in life that I cannot remember who I was before the sexual violation started. Each rape that I endured was another death, and now I am seeking to find life. I was thankful to read the story of a rape survivor who knew a life before rape (It helped me to better understand myself, and the effects sexual assault has had on my life and development).

Nancy writes with such poetic detail that you feel the depth of terror in her experience, but you also feel incredible joy that she survived to be the person that she is.

At times, the way Nancy describes her experiences of PTSD it was like reading my own story. It is amazing the way that trauma effects us so similarly, and altars our brain structures and who we are. By sharing our stories, we understand that we are not alone. By seeing ourselves in another person we realize that these strange feelings are common reactions to trauma, and we are not crazy, stupid or failures (as I would sometimes conclude about myself). Seeing that the perceptions that I have of my own trauma are shared in other people's experiences I realize that I also already know the way out of my own trauma. Nancy Venable Raine offers fabulous insight into PTSD, and it's effects on brain chemistry.

In addition her telling and understanding of the Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone (Originally "The Hymn to Demeter") was one of the best and most touching that I have ever read. Another great book about women's journeys to sexual healing (including a telling of the myth of Demeter and Persephone) is "Aphrodite's Daughters" by Jalaja Bonheim.

On Page 243 of "After Silence" Nancy Venable Raine says, "The way back from victimization is not triumph over adversity. It is transformation through grief, rage, and loss." I feel that transformation is a very accurate description and it is within our hands to achieve.

This book was fantastic. Not only did he help me understand what I am going through, but it also helped my fiance. I just can't explain some of my thoughts and feelings to him and by him reading them in the book and asking me if I felt or did not feel the same it helped us to talk about it and this helps me a lot beacuse it is hard for me to talk about --- not just with him but in general. Raine helps the reader to realize they are not so alone. I had read several books and seen many movies about rape before my rape, but I still feel so alone sometimes. Raine made me realize that this is normal and will probably be my normal for a long time. I HIGHLY recommend this book to all survivors --- and possibly their loved ones if they feel comfortable sharing the feelings this book will reveal.

I enjoyed the book The Flag We Love. I found out by her, and Ralph Maseillo the true meaning of the book. It's about the history of the Flag. It's a very sad book, but also very interesting, fun facts, and just great to feel how many lives were lost so we could have our freedom! My favorite part in the Flag We Love is when I saw the wall of all the soldiers that died in the Viet Nam War. I just don't think elementary students would like this book, but also a higher grade! It's an educational book, but it is also a very wonderful book! I think if you have not read The Flag We Love then you should try it!!

The creative book The Flag We Love is a well-written and a well-illustrated book. I think that author Pam and illustrator Ralph had an excellent partnership creating this book. The Flag We Love tells why America is soooo special. My favorite page in this book is when Ralph drew Betsey Ross sewing the beautiful American flag together. I think every child would enjoy reading this interesting book. It shows us the history about the flag. I like how it tells you information below the poem.I rate this book 5 stars.

I read The Flag We Love. I really enjoyed it. The cover caught my attention because it had a flag and fireworks on it. This book is an amazing way to show patriotism. My favorite part out of the book is how Mrs. Ryan set it up as a poem. Also, I like the drawing that Ralph Masiello did of the people showing patriotism by holding a flag in their hands. I would say that this book is for all ages. The Flag We Love is one of my favorite books! I gave it five stars!

Culinary Artistry is a book some may passover or leaf through in the bookstore for the likes of the Joy of Cooking or a Martha Stewart volume 20 cookbook. But look closer, the charts and the what-goes-well-with-what sections of this book alone are worth the price if only to give the food lover an inspired moment to create a dish with ingredients he or she may love. If you find yourself saying, "gee, I'd really love to have salmon tonight but I don't know what to put with it", pick up this book, find Salmon and refer to the extensive list of items that the interviewed chefs prefer with it and an idea is born. After that, all it takes is a little know-how in the kitchen and you've created your very own gourmet meal. If you choose to read from front to back you'll also discover page after page of insightful information from some of the nation's top chef's. Take your time, it's not a novel but it can be read like one and used as reference even after you've reached the last page. For the money, this is a book that will stay on your shelf for years to come and still manage to provide a new idea each time. So put down the Martha Stewart Haloween cookie issue and give Culinary Artistry a try, "It's a good thing". Sorry about that last one, she's infectious.

"CULINARY ARTISTRY receives Honorable Mention as one of the year's best culinary reference books...[It] offers insights into creative cooking."
--THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE

"Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page go where no culinary writers have gone before, exploring what inspires great chefs to create new flavor combinations, dishes and menus."
--INTERNATIONAL COOKBOOK REVIEW

"CULINARY ARTISTRY chronicles the creative process of culinary composition and explores the architecture of flavors, dishes and menus."
--NATIONAL CULINARY REVIEW

"One of the best culinary books of the year."
--TIME OUT: NEW YORK

"A great achievement."
--Chef Daniel Boulud

"Fascinating...A philosophy book on the culinary arts."
--Arthur Schwartz, "Food Talk" on WOR RADIO

"A wealth of information."
--Lindsey Shere, pastry chef, Chez Panisse

"Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page have set me free...The sequel to 1995's BECOMING A CHEF, this fat volume offers limitless ways to compose dishes using the idea of food matches and menu plans from 30 of America's top chefs."
--Patty Stearns, THE DETROIT FREE PRESS

"I unconditionally recommend the book CULINARY ARTISTRY. One afternoon won't cut it with this book -- this is a definite buy. It tells when different fruits, vegetables, fish, etc. are in season, and how to make them taste good without the expense of a culinary school education. It will save your family a load of money, and greatly improve your own creativity with food and flavors."
--Liz Tarditi, chef and columnist, TODAY'S GOURMET

I am a self-taught home cook who enjoys the activities of the kitchen. I entered the cooking arena one of the standard ways, using cookbooks. Collections of recipes familarized me with the techniques and ethnic cooking styles. Gradually, my cookbook collection included reference books that provided some of the theory behind tastes and preparation styles. Gold's 1-2-3 series, Peterson's Sauces, and others introduced to me the philosophies that allow a cook to go beyond mimicking a recipe to improvising and even creating a dish. Culinary Artistry is perhaps the best available reference for learning about the traditions of combining flavors and food groups.

It contains vital information that I suspect is taught only in some of the culinary schools. It provides valuable charts of information about cooking and menu planning. The book contains sections on Menus, including a seasonality chart and a chart explaining successful seasoning combinations. There is a section for Composing Flavors, the highlight of which is a chart showing successful food contrasts. Another section involves Composing A Dish. Here there is a chart showing great food matches and one showing seasoning matches. The Composing A Menu section offers a chart showing frequent accompaniments to meats and paragraphs presenting theories about Hors Douevres, Cheeses, and Desserts. This was a sparse and incomplete passage in an otherwise comprehensive book. Finally, there was a fun section addressing the Evolution of Chef's Styles. Here the authors provide sample menus comparing chef's offerings from earlier decades to their present day productions.

The volume offers multiple anecdotes, quotes, and side bars concerning the views of popular chefs. Various recipes are interspersed to illustrate the principles. My one criticism was that the book was laid out like a college textbook. Photos, captions, quotes, highlighted lines, sidebars, and other areas compete on the same page, magazine style. The book serves as reference, frequently glanced at rather than read straight through as a narrative.

In doing research for a journalism assignment, I was recommended Fouts' "Next of Kin." I read the book as I prepared for a trip to the Center for Captive Chimpanzee Care, a sanctuary of hope in southern Florida for chimpanzees rescued from labs and similar monstrosities, funded by Jane Goodall and other good people. It was a superb introduction to what I was about to witness, and I ended up using a lengthy quote from the book as an epigram to my article about the sanctuary.

Fouts has given an incredible and heart wrenching insight into a world we too often choose to ignore - the world side by side to our own "civilized" one, the world of the animal kingdom. It is, perhaps, our view of it as a separate world from our own that first gets us into trouble. The human being is an arrogant being. We like to think that we are the superior beast - the thinking, feeling, building, progressive being that rules the earth - but so often the human being is not so superior at all, but only... a beast. Fouts takes that arrogance down several notches. He reveals the remarkable intelligence of the chimpanzee mind. He reveals the astounding emotional depth of the chimpanzee heart. He unveils the tragic suffering of the chimpanzee life when we forget these emotional and intellectual capacities. In a time when scientific strides in all fields - space exploration, medical, or other - can easily be made without the torment of our animal brethren, this book bears witness to our human cruelty and argues effectively for an abandonment of such treatment forever. We are not, after all, a superior creature on this planet. We are only one among many, sharing a global environment to which all of our varied species have a right to live in, enjoying our freedom to live our lives without the threat of enslavement by others - human or animal.

I read this book in a day, though I didn't plan to--as soon as I began reading, I found myself unable to put it down. This is the story of both Dr. Fouts' study of chimpanzee language abilities, and his struggle to find a home for the chimps where they will be treated with the respect they deserve. Engagingly written and humanely told, his story is a direct challange to the cruel legacy of Descartes, one that will change your view of our primate relatives forever. Frequently funny, oftentimes heartbreaking, this book will leave no reader unmoved and unchanged.

After reading Fout's Next Of Kin I was speechless. I can express how wonderful it is to learn from an indivdual whose humility, concern for life and compassion is his life work. I simply could not put the book down! It was one of the most thoughtful, eye-opening, and educated books that I have ever read. Having the opportunity to listen to Roger Fouts speak on booktour, my heart opened to his message of compassion; his willingness to express his feelings and experiences to a group of strangers further enhanced my view of this incredible individual. A book that will change your life and the way you see our next of kin and the fellow animals of this world.

My husband died 4 weeks ago after a long illness. My priest gave me a copy of this book to read. It was as if I were reading my own love story. In the days that have followed, I have struggled with the concept of the severe mercy, the loss so great that words cannot define it. I saw no mercy in it, only the severity. But the message is that this horrible, unfathomable loss came as a result of the most exquisite and profound love - truly a mercy - that, by the grace of God, I was allowed to have if only for a short time. My husband and I often described our coming to Christ and our faith as a journey. God allowed us to go to the depths of despair in preparation for this time, almost a cleansing that we might better understand His infinite wisdom and mercy. I recently watched "Shadowlands" for the 2nd time and found it said so much more to me - a reference to CS Lewis's own journey and discovery are a part of this story. I look forward to now reading "A Grief Observed" as I continue my journey without my husband. This book gave me a place to start.

A Severe Mercy is a masterfully crafted autobiography and the story of an intensely deep love relationship, a profound introspective on their path to finding God, and the utimate bereavement the author experiences as his thirty-something wife dies of a terminal illness.

Along the way, their paths cross with C.S. Lewis; personal correspondence with him peppers the book, as does a collection of superb poems written by Vanauken. It explores complex theological, philosophical and aesthetic issues with deep insight and profoundly sharp perspective. I can't recommend it highly enough, it's truly one if the best books I've ever read - a work of art which crosses many dimensions.

Practically speaking, A Severe Mercy explores a number of crucial life issues with breathtaking clarity. First, the second chapter, "The Shining Barrier" distills more insight into the true workings of a wonderful marriage relationship than a dozen garden-variety relationship books from the self-help section of a bookstore. Anyone who wants to understand why their romance has cooled off after five or ten or twenty years of marriage (including myself) could use this chapter alone as a manual for re-kindling the fire.

Secondly, it explores the nature of a difficult spiritual journey in a most articulate way - the emotional, philosophical, theological and personal implications of the claims of Jesus Christ. This book is not in any way a Bible-thumping promo for Christianity; rather it examines the claims of Christ and their implications from logical, historical, aesthetic and personal viewpoints -- in a way that no thinking person can easily dismiss.

I gave this book to friends of mine, a highly educated married professional couple, before they went on a camping trip. They were struggling mightily to reconcile Christianity with their modern worldview and the book was instrumental in helping them accomplish a breakthrough.

Third, it delves into the difficult interior world of a person who is bereft of the love of his life and who must feel the sorrow and loss and yet go on.

A Severe Mercy plumbs the depths of all of these issues via beautiful prose, expertly crafted perspective, and provocative poetry. Highly recommended.

After several readings of this book over the past few years, I can conclude without any hesitation that it is the most moving and unforgettable memoir I've ever read. It is relevant to note that all 29 of the other ... reviewers (at the time of my own writing) rate it a solid 5 stars... it really deserves a sixth. Not only for it's amazing true content, but for the beautiful way in which the author lays it all out. This book will literally captivate your imagination, sweep you away, and tug you towards a deeper understanding of the depths of "inloveness" (a Vanauken term) possible in God-ordained marriage.

Sheldon and Jean Vanauken were living the dream of togetherness that most people only.... well, DREAM about... until they came face to face with the fact that perhaps "perpetual springtime is not allowed." Those words were from their personal friend, the Oxford don C.S. Lewis and addressed to Sheldon as he tried to make sense of his overwhelming grief.

This is the story of a profound love between two people... a love that has its genesis, consummation, and terminus in heavenly places. If your eyes are dry all the way through this book... well, never mind... they won't be.

This is an absolutely fantastic inside look at the design process of Disney Imagineering. The book details the past, present and future projects along with great anecdotes from the Imagineers themselves. The book is also filled with rich pictures, illustrations, and sketches from projects both built and left on the "shelf". As one who wishes to pursue a thempark design career, this book acts as a great reference tool and both inspires and motivates your creative juices.

-Ken G.

Let me start off saying that I am a Disney fanatic. Particularly anything that has to do with the construction and design of the disney parks. This book has it all everything from the idea of a ride right up to the installation process. I keep this book with me at all times, constantly rereading it time and time again.

I was lucky enough to purchase it (in hardcover) 2 years ago in Walt Disney World, and I have not stopped reading it since. I only wish there were more imagineering books out there. To the Disney Imagaineers- Thank you for giving us a peek at what must be a very rewarding job. A job I hope to have someday.

I absolutely cherish this book and reviit it time and again just to look at the photos and drawings. Contains detailed information about how the Imagineers go about creating the Disney theme parks and hotels and shows all of the imagination and attention to detail that goes into that process. No wonder these are some of the most magical places on earth. Everything is engineered to the human experience.

Contains photos from WDW, Disneyland, Disneyland Paris and Tokyo, and sketches and models of some attractions never built. Shows the entire process from conception of an idea to developing color schemes, to building models, to actual contstruction.

This book that Pastor Mason Betha has written for the world to read, felt more like a personal blessing that was given to me.
I was one of those lost saints who did not want MA$E to leave the music industry, because I enjoyed his music and his persona so much. In April 99 when I first heard MA$E was leaving indefinietly, I wanted to know what was his next step, was he going to succeed, did he really give up everything and was he going on this path alone. I was fortunate enough to speak with Pastor Betha over the phone for about an hour, and he began to tell me things that helped me to understand his decision and also that helped me to look deeper within my own spiritual being. At that point, most of my questions became answered and I felt relieved because I knew that Pastor Betha was in wonderful hands, he's in GOD's hands. He is painfully honest yet his words are powerful and very inspirational. He is straight forward, yet very easy to talk to. He appeals to our younger generation and relates to what we are going thru without compromising his committment and beliefs. After reading "Revelations", I realized that this man is focused and his heart is sincere and GOD has prepared him to captivate the world again, but not as MA$E. This time as a man of faith, obedience, and strength; As a man of GOD.

R.I.P MA$E and GOD Bless Pastor Mason Betha.

Revelations was an excellent book. I remember when I bought it. It took me one day to read it.It was incredible,I really gained a whole new level of respect for mase. His book made me realize that you don't need to have all the money, cars, and other material things to be happy. I am really proud of his decision and I pray that he continues to do well in Gods work. For any one who is thinking about reading this book, don't think no more and just buy it. He did an excellent job and I would recomend it to any young person.
Especially all the fellas who want to be in the "game", Pastor Mason Betha makes you see that everything that glisten don't gleam.I love you and God Bless You Mason!!!

When I bought this book I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I was curious about the change MA$E had experienced. I have to admit I was a fan of MA$E music and style. When I opened the book and started reading, I was truly impressed with what I was seeing the words were talking to me as if I was in church and Pastor Mason Betha was at the pulpit telling his story. I felt that close! It’s amazing what GOD can do with his children; I never once took this whole Paster Manson Betha drama seriously didn’t even care until now. This book tells the experience MA$E went through with the money, cars, girls, drugs, and sex. He tells the life of when Mase was an average person determined to make it big as a rapper or ball player. When he turned to rap he was known as MA$E the moneymaker down for whatever kind of guy. It’s funny how people change when you become globally known, well Mason tells his experience in this book. After being lost, GOD calls on MA$E and uses his soul to teach the word of faith and to save as many people who come in contact with him. Imagine GOD telling you to give up everything sin produced for you. Your house, cars, jewelry, clothes, furniture, women/men, sex, money, job, friends - in order to walk his way of life! Could you do it? Mason Betha did. I truly respect Mason; he’s a determined individual who knows what he wants. There’s no limitation to what Mason Betha can accomplish when GOD is at his feet to guide him. Mason Betha is a dangerous man in a spiritual way!

Writing at its best, is lived rather than read. Occasionally we have the privilege to be drawn into someone's experiences with such power and clarity that we are possessed by their history and translated into it. Barbara Moss' story makes us members of the family as she weaves gripping tales of poverty, alcoholism, sickness and neglect into a book that you can't stop reading. As difficult as the circumstances are, the story is never without hope. The characters are in many ways ordinary and flawed and in spite of that, are amazingly appealing, interesting, funny, and often heroic as they struggle with the situations that compose their existence. In her writing she is able to depict seemingly ordinary events, turning them into the human essences that touch our deepest emotional levels, where we live and laugh and cry and love.

This wonderful book has so many surprises. First among them is the undaunted spirit and strength of a girl who suffers through a hellish childhood and can write beautifully about it without wallowing in regret and elegiac gloom. The humor and apparent lack of bitterness is truly amazing as Ms. Moss relates the horror of an abusive alcoholic father, a numbed but loving mother, and the suffocating poverty of her rural South. This is not a depressive book. And there is no request or undertone for pity.

Simply put, this is a must read for those who were moved by Angela's Ashes or similar books. This is America. This is a woman. This is a disadvantaged girl who perservered. To have written this book without a sense of loss or regret is an astonishing feat.

The writing is clear and uncomfortably descriptive. You will feel her hunger, pain, fear and shame. And you will learn her incredible ability to cope and triumph.

This is a wonderful book.

Change Me into Zeus's Daughter is not just about poverty and alcoholism, it is a story of a young girls metamorphosis (along with her brothers and sisters)and the love of a courageous mother. It is a story about the resiliency of the human spirit. Barbara Moss's life is so vividly written that we are lonesome for each and every person presented once the last page has been turned. Change Me into Zues's Daughter made me laugh and cry and laugh and cry and laugh again. I couldn't put it down. This book is the best memoir I have ever read and possible the best book I've ever read.