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Books to read if you're planning a vacation in "States", sorted by average review score:
Don Troiani's Civil War
Published in Hardcover by Stackpole Books (September, 1995)
Average review score: 
Wonderful art work from America's best Civil War artist!This a a wonderful presentation of Don Troiani's art. The added bonus here is text written by Brian Pohanka. As a Civil War and an art enthusiast, I have seen no finer book. The research Mr. Troiani goes through to ensure the accuracy of his paintings is impressive. I find that this an invaluable source for "what it was really like" during the depicted events in the Civil War.
Fantastic paintings, and eloquent text!If there is one art book that should be in every Civil War buff's library, this is the one! It's a beautifully done and wonderfully written chronology of the war, as seen through the eyes of artist Don Troiani. These impeccably researched and incredibly detailed paintings make one feel they are witnessing the actual events! The text by noted Civil War historian Brian Pohanka is a perfect compliment to Troiani's artwork; it is both informative and moving at the same time. Highly recommended!
A collection of this masterful artists' Civil War paintings.Those with a casual or serious interest in the American Civil War will thoroughly enjoy this collection of beautiful paintings by Don Troiani. From dynamic battle scenes to homefront portrayals, this book captures the full scope of the artist's popular glimpses into Civil War life. No where else can all of Troiani's masterful artwork be seen in one place. Highly recommended.
Elvis: In the Twilight of Memory
Published in Hardcover by Arcade Publishing (August, 1997)
Average review score:
The True ElvisI totally loved this book. It gives you a glimpse of the true Elvis before all the pressures changed him. And you get a glimpse of what his life was like with his mom and dad.It was a wonderful true love story. I could actually picture myself in the story, June gives such good details!! I think any Elvis fan will come a way with a truely good feeling after having read this book.It's GREAT!!!!
Excellent!I first borrowed this book from the library when i need to do a project about a famous person.I found it by chance because i don't know any thing about Elvis Presley at first.But after i read this excellent book, i was so attracted by the Elvis that June wrote about, and i rushed to the bookstore to buy this book.In this book, you can find that you are with the king of rock'n' roll.
a refreshingly new insight looking back at a golden time.A refreshing, affectionate, funny and ultimately sad look back at what in Elvis' own words were 'the best years of my life'. June takes us on a golden trip down memory lane to a place that we all sometimes like to visit which is what gives the book such a hold...we can all relate to it on some level. Coupled with that June gives a new humanity to a man who has been picked at and slandered from almost every angle over the years. We see them on a day to day level facing the almost impossible rollercoaster ride that was everyday life for Elvis. June conveys so well the enormous pressures that Elvis must have been under for so long without being at all judgemental. The story ends too suddenly with no insight into the feelings that were and must still be left behind. June mentions briefly her sorrow at hearing 'Unchained Melody' being played on the radio the night he died, a song he had sung specially for her 20 years previously and one that she had been waiting for to appear on a record for all those years between. You are left with the feeling that maybe June Juanico, had she stuck around, might have been one person who cared enough and had enough clout to have made a differnce to a man who was so talented and yet lived such a lonely life with no one to really guide him through the turmoil that was his every day existence until the day he died.
An excellent book. A very valuable addition to what must be by now an enormous library of books on the King.
Glasgow, March '99
Disturbing the universe
Published in Unknown Binding by Harper & Row ()
Average review score:
An interesting book, but not a masterpiecesome reviewers say this book is a masterpiece,and the greatest book written by Freeman.Dyson, I really can't agree with them.
I read the book twice, I find it is an interesting book. Dyson is undoubted a successful scientist, this book ,I think it as autobiography of Dyson. of course, it is very interesting and full of stories. But just like other autobiographies, it is just a story book, not a masterpiece. for these resons, I give it four stars.
F.Dyson wrote some popular book, they are all excellent, but the greater work of Dyson is about scientific research, such as QED.
I also like his "infinite in all directions", because it give me a special viewpoint about science, society and universe.anyway, The book,and others by dyson is worth of reading.
I read the book twice, I find it is an interesting book. Dyson is undoubted a successful scientist, this book ,I think it as autobiography of Dyson. of course, it is very interesting and full of stories. But just like other autobiographies, it is just a story book, not a masterpiece. for these resons, I give it four stars.
F.Dyson wrote some popular book, they are all excellent, but the greater work of Dyson is about scientific research, such as QED.
I also like his "infinite in all directions", because it give me a special viewpoint about science, society and universe.anyway, The book,and others by dyson is worth of reading.
This book is not disturbing at allThis book is much more autobiographical than Dyson's other works. This is also, in my opinion, his greatest work. His eloquent words bring to us the sense of wonder and the thoughtful nature of a truly magnificent scientist and person. Dyson reveals to us how his life has been influenced by his reading children stories. We get the opportunity to read his reflections on World War II, the relationship he had with Robert Oppenheimer and many other biographical tidbits which all somehow melt into an almost unexpected thematic unity. His adventures with Richard P. Feynman as well as his relationship with Edward Teller are also discussed. This amazing book explains this man's humble outlook on such subjects as nuclear war (and its impending probablity), poetry and his own unique interpretation of the inner-workings of the machinery of the universe. This is a must book for all scientists as well as people who have a passing interest in science. I would also recommend it to anyone who could not care less about science; the book is that good. Trust me.
EvocativeWhile browsing the physics books in my local Borders, I picked up this book on a whim and read the first few pages. Those pages were so powerful I immediately bought it.
Dyson begins by writing about his childhood, but even then, the reader can sense that Dyson's perspective encompasses far more than childhood events, as he mentions a favorite children's story in which the hero finds that his toys have come to life and run amuck; a constant theme in the book is that of responsibility for one's scientific discoveries.
Dyson continues with stories about his involvement in RAF Bomber Command during WWII, where he learned the ineffectualness of strategic bombing. But soon Dyson begins branching out from his personal life to address issues such as the search for extraterrestial intelligence, nuclear disarmament, and the role of science and religion.
His words are laced with compassion, as he speaks of the wrongs he has seen committed, very rarely with anger, although he has certainly more than earned that right! One thing that especially struck me over and over is the profound wisdom that this man has. This is a man who would appear a paradox: a seeker of peace yet utterly realistic, a rational scientist yet devoutly religious. You will not be able to resolve this apparent contradiction unless you read this book! And then you will want to read it again. I certainly did.
DoubleTake
Published in Paperback by HarperCollins (paper) (January, 1998)
Average review score:
Incredible transformations, a bit slim on the detailsThis book is an incredible photographic documentation of the power of makeup, etc; and you will understand how much you can transform yourself when you see Devon Cass turn himself into Cher. Many of the transformations are just incredible--in particular my jaw dropped at Cher, the guy who did Marilyn, and the woman who did Mariah Carey. And there is lots of information on how to get there, with fascinating half-face makeup shots, advice on wardrobe, and even famous lines of the stars to give you something to say once you've gotten there. I dare say, though, that this book is, for most people, going to be something to gawk at rather than a guide to a halloween costume. Too often necessary details are missing--you are told what to get, then sometimes it is kind of "then go ahead and put it on the way Cher does"....not all that helpful all the time. But still, there's tons here, and lots of people will enjoy this book--I'd heartily recommend it for all you crossdressers out there; buy two and give one to a friend!
FASCINATING MAKEOVERS!This book is an amazing compendium of information and inspiration. The photos are remarkable, as are the effects of the makeovers on every model! Devon Cass REALLY knows his stuff, and he shows and demonstrates it ALL in this book! He's elevated celebrity impersonations into an artform, and chronicled every single step for the reader. Buy this book and be AMAZED at the transformative powers of makeup, clothes, hair, etc. to create indelible images.
A great book!Devon Cass looks so much like Cher it's frightening. He has done a wonderful job of bringing Hollywood glamour to everyday people, a skill which should be appreciated in our star-struck culture.
Cass's photographs are beautiful and John Filimon's commentary is very engaging. One of the best books I've seen this year!
Facts of Life, The : And Other Lessons My Father Taught Me
Published in Hardcover by Multnomah Publishers Inc. (September, 2001)
Average review score:
AN AMAZING WOMAN EMERGES...I can remember Lisa Whelchel well from watching the television series, "Facts of Life" with my daughters. Lisa, who played the role of Blair Warner, was the spoiled, pampered, snobby rich kid who made a point of showing the others how great she really was, if only in her own mind. Yet, there was also a very insecure side to her lingering beneath her character's surface.
The real Lisa Whelchel is about as far removed from her television role as Antartica is from the Sahara Desert. I was totally amazed to read about Lisa's life as a pastor's wife and the homeschooling of her three children. She is also a gifted singer and songwriter. Lisa's life, for all it's glitz and glamour, has not been without challenges. However, through all of life's experiences, Lisa appears to have found strength in her faith in God and comes across as a mature, inspirational and a woman of great inner peace and beauty. Fans of "Facts of Life" will certainly enjoy this highly recommended book. Now, can anyone tell me what happened to the rest of the cast?
Another one of her "Brilliant Ideas"!!A huge Facts of Life fan, Blair was always my favorite. I still love to catch reruns of the show instead of watching current programs. I was thrilled to find Lisa's book and read it in a matter of days (a true challenge when you have two toddlers and reading time is scarce). The book tells us of the down to earth Lisa, so unlike the arrogant Blair. Lisa's faith in God is inspirational. Facts of Life fans will enjoy her reminiscing here and there throughout the book.
The day I finished this book, I went out and bought Creative Correction, her parenting book. So far it has been another one I can't hardly put down. Lisa is a very gifted writer. I follow her daily journal of her year long trip across the country with her husband Steve and their three children, in a motor home. [....]
The Facts of Life : And Other Lessons My Father Taught MeI recently purchased this book because I am a huge Facts of Life fan and Lisa Whelchel was doing a book signing in my area. I brought the book home and read it cover to cover. She has found a new calling. This book is informative and makes you think and may give you the answers your looking for. I recommend it for young and old alike.
Family
Published in Paperback by Picador (February, 2002)
Average review score:
My favorite, my absolute favoriteI've been thinking about this, and I've decided this is my favorite book, at least my favorite that I have read in the past 5 or 10 years.
It's pretty hard to say why, but let me give it a shot: the way his writing conveys his affection for his near family and his ancestors without losing his sense of humour about them. (Ian Frazier started out as a humor writer.) His beautiful descriptions of the countryside he travels through, country you might otherwise think was much worth looking at. His wonderful details about his family history make you feel like everyone's family is important.
Since I first read this book, I have developed a true genealogy fixation, trying to recapture the feeling Frazier invokes in this wonderful book. I wish he would write more.
A beautifully written family saga and history of the USThis is a remarkable book. Frazier did a monumental job of researching his family history and produced an eloquent family history that parallels the country's history as well. The book can be read as a beautiful and fascinating family history, a meditation on the role of religion in U.S. history, and as a portrait of many memorable figures both within and without the author's family. His descriptions of his brother, father and mother brought tears to my eyes.
Frazier's "Family"truly functional as history and biographyIn "Family," Ian Frazier manages a literary coup seldom
attempted, much less achieved:the telling of a personal tale
with such sensitivity and imagination that the personal is
transcended to become, quite possibly, the universal. The
story -- of his family's migration, settlement and
flourishing in America -- is at once both epic and
allegorical. Equal parts history, autobiography, and
geneaology, the story takes us from Frazier's family's early
haunts in colonial Connecticut (and a host of other places)
all the way into the contemporary interior lives of his
parents, siblings, and of course, himself. Along the way, we
are treated not just to stories of family life, but to
grand meditations upon the meanings of history, family, and
the ever-longed-for (in our time) "community." A generous book
from a brilliant writer ("Great Plains," "Dating Your Mom")
and regular "New Yorker"contributor, "Family" is a work of
American narrative that should take its place alongside other
masterworks such as Alex Haley's "Roots"and Norman Maclean's
"A River Runs Through It"as an offering of passion and insight
on the notion of belonging -- to our own families, and to the
often fractious and ever elusive "American family."
--Bronson Hilliard
Boulder, CO
May, 1996
Fighting for the Confederacy: The Personal Recollections of General Edward Porter Alexander
Published in Paperback by Univ of North Carolina Pr (March, 1998)
Average review score:
A must read for the Civil War student or buff.One of the most enjoyable memoirs I've ever read. I disagree with the reviewer who said Alexander tended to bragg about his accomplishments. If anything, I thought this book rather modest. However, Alexander is not shy about sharing his opinions, but this did not impress me as bragging. His vignettes of the leaders he had personnal dealings with are priceless and add a dimension to my impressions of men such as Lee and Longstreet. The book left me wanting to know about Alexander the man. No good biography of him exists to my knowledge. I read one account a number of years ago in 'Civil War Times Illustrated' that stated he had a rather nasty temper. I was unable to form a mental picture of the man from reading his book because the narrative is that of a good-natured fellow teling the openly honest story of his war service. I was left wanting to get to know this person a little better. This is a must read.
This Is One Fantastic Book!E.P. Alexander, Longstreet and Lee's Chief of Artillery, wrote two books. This book, his first, was written while Alexander was in Central America, without access to
the Official Records, etc. Thus, he wrote primarily
from memory. Alexander started the work at the urgings
of his children and did not intend the work to be published.
It was meant for his family only. As a result, it is a
very personal account of his life during the Civil
War. He does go into detail regarding battles in which
he participated and freely offers his opinions
about various strategies, tactics and leaders.
(If no one but his family was to read it, then there
was no one to offend.) In his opinions Alexander
comes across as scrupulously honest and
straight-forward, not to mention intelligent. Later Alexander
decided to write a 2nd book; and at first he used
these recollections as the basis for that book (whose title
I forget). He then gave up this tactic and wrote his 2nd book
from "scratch". So now, Gary Gallagher has once again come
to the rescue and pieced together Alexander's first
writings - which is this particular book......Overall, I found this to
be one of the most interesting and enjoyable
books I have read. It is very funny at times; then often sad.
It contains much information about battles; and also
insights into the leaders of those battles. But while his
2nd book is a strict military tract about the Civil War, this 1st
book also gives the reader a "feel" for the people involved.
It was a joy to read - one great book!
Finest personal memoir of the Civil War I have readI think that as time goes by, Porter Alexander's personal memoirs, written for his family and thus very candid, will come to be seen as an outstanding work both of historical reminiscence and of 19th century writing. The Introduction, in which Alexander tells of some incidents from his boyhood, is worth the entire book. But, there is more. Alexander worked either as signals officer, ordnance officer or artillery commander for virtually everybody in the Army of Northern Virginia, including Beauregard, J.E. Johnston, Stonewall Jackson, Longstreet, and Lee. He participated in virtually every major battle. He has the rare ability to desribe events in a fresh and modern manner, so that the reader is there with him in the thick of things. I can only imagine the thrill that the editor must have had when he found these papers at UNC in 1989. Alexander apparently wrote a more formal history of the Civil War published in 1907 with which I am not familiar. Although the frontispiece shows an unremarkable face, the writing shows the glowing intelligence and enthusiasm that must have impressed his superiors and led to his being given one responsible assignment after another. By being present, but a generation younger than the ANV leaders, he is able to give both intimate, but also critical pictures of them. This book is indispensible to anyone with an interest in the Civil War in the Eastern Theater. A true classic.
The Foxfire Book: Hog Dressing, Log Cabin Building, Mountain Crafts and Foods, Planting by the Signs, Snake Lore, Hunting Tales, Faith Healing, Moon
Published in Paperback by Anchor (March, 1972)
Average review score:
The best begining is a simple one.My father tried to teach me from the moment I would pay attention, until the time I "knew it all", about simplicity. When I was in boy scouts, I read all kinds of books. The problem with most is that most people have no kind of base to start from. The whole foxfire series tells a story of the way life used to be. If you are into "outdoors" type books or life style, it captures the wonder of it all. Most books of this nature tend to get technical leaving what was interesting behind, fun. Around the time I was getting burnt out on tech books, my father found original foxfire books. Now all of the tech books mean more to me than ever before. They approach simple living "camping" from an entirely different vantage point. Now it's time to get my own set.
A heapin' helpin' of good readingIf you've never heard of the Foxfire series, then you are in for a treat. By all means, you have an interest in the lore of the Smokey Mountains, Appallachian culture, or if you just want to learn the "way it was", then start reading these books.
Subjects ranging from folk medicine, ghost stories, cooking, woodslore and much more. If you are involved in "living history" or you work for a recreated farm/museum, these books are a gold mine of information. The text can be a bit difficult to follow, but this is because it is written the way these people still speak. If anything, it adds to the authenticity and charm of the series. Even if you never attempt to build a log cabin, or make "leather britches beans" you're sure to find a "heapin' helpin' of good reading.
Subjects ranging from folk medicine, ghost stories, cooking, woodslore and much more. If you are involved in "living history" or you work for a recreated farm/museum, these books are a gold mine of information. The text can be a bit difficult to follow, but this is because it is written the way these people still speak. If anything, it adds to the authenticity and charm of the series. Even if you never attempt to build a log cabin, or make "leather britches beans" you're sure to find a "heapin' helpin' of good reading.
How did Americans get food before the Supermarket?
Thankfully, the old ways of Appalachian country living are preserved in these interesting and relevant instructional books. If you've ever been interested in how rural Americans survived before the days of Wal-Mart and Shoprite, you only have to look to the Foxfire books.
These books are very useful and informative. They come with plenty of diagrams and photos to teach you how to live off the land. Before the advent of trailer homes and double-wides, rural Americans had to build log homes. Before satellite TV and Playstations we had banjos and ghost stories. And before welfare, people were self-sufficient and could live off the land.
Not only can these books teach you about country living, they are handy for any writers or researchers who want details on Appalachian mountain life. There are lots of monologues and stories told by old-timers here. In many cases the living language of these folks is preserved quite well, and by reading their stories you almost feel like you're with them.
-- JJ Timmins
Every Knee Shall Bow : The Truth & Tragedy of Ruby Ridge & The Randy Weaver Family
Published in Hardcover by Acacia Press, Inc. (1995)
Average review score:
Well written and detailed report on the Ruby Ridge Incident.This is a well written book. It is as exciting and easy to read as a novel. All sides of the controversy get a fair hearing. The beliefs of the Weavers, the White Separtist Movement, Christian Identity and others involved in this controversy are explained. The author definately had his point of view but covered all points of view fairly.
Well-written and Spell-binding!This was a well-written and well-researched report of what happened at Ruby Ridge and it explained how the government failed in its duties to protect and serve. Had it not been so tragic -- a pre-teenage boy killed by U. S. Marshalls, a mother with her baby in her arms killed by an FBI sniper, a U. S. Marshall also killed -- one might refer to this incident as a comedy of errors. Jess Walter was fair to all sides and expressed the frustration felt by the Marshall whose duty it was to bring Randy Weaver in but who felt his hands were tied until the whole situation overwhelmed him and his team.
Horrifying tale of Government murderFirst: This book is not a right-wing diatribe. It is an objective history written by a journalist. The book is well-written and researched. The story is horrifying. I recommend this, or Alan Bock's book, Ambush at Ruby Ridge.
Freedom Train
Published in Paperback by Scholastic (June, 1991)
Average review score:
Presentation is excellent. Subject matter is unforgettable.In 1960, at age 13, I read a book by Dorothy Sterling, and I recall the title being "Slave Train." The synopsis of "Freedom Train" seems to match what I remember. If they are indeed the same book, I can only say I was deeply impressed by this work and have never forgotten it. Bravo! Dorothy Sterling for keeping the youth of our nation aware of the greatness of Harriet Tubman!
An unforgetable masterpiece.A wonderful book. When I say masterpiece, I mean masterpiece. A brillent true story of a brave young woman who lives in the hearts of children as a role model. When I read the book I felt like I was really there. It is very realistic. Harriet Tubman is an exellent book. Read it!
FREEDOMIn the beginning of the book Harriet Tubman was planning how to escape from slavery. She worked on a plantation in the south like so many other slaves. Harriet Tubman escaped with another slave and they got caught a white man hit Harriet in the head with a heavy object which caused her to have a concusion. When she got better she tried it again and made it to the north, were she got a job. She went back and got her family and friends. Harriet started making friends on the way that would help her and other slaves escape to the north, so Harriet started going back to the south and freeing slaves. She freed more then 300 slaves over the year.
Also Harriet fought in the army, became a nurse in an Negro hospital and trained other women to be nurses and founded the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. She was a very tall black women that could not read or write. But she did so much for the slaves and to help free them.
Also Harriet fought in the army, became a nurse in an Negro hospital and trained other women to be nurses and founded the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. She was a very tall black women that could not read or write. But she did so much for the slaves and to help free them.