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Book reviews for "Aleshkovsky,_Joseph" sorted by average review score:

Theology for Beginners
Published in Paperback by Servant Publications (August, 1982)
Author: Francis Joseph Sheed
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READ THIS BOOK
If you want to know God in a more profound way, this is the book to read. Sheed really delivers with his easy-to-understand, explanations about the mysteries of God, the Trinity, Mary and the Catholic faith. There were so many "lightbulbs turned on" in reading this book that I now feel immensely closer to God and more knowledgeable of His plan and His works. This book is invaluable as an introduction to Theology.

I am now reading Sheed's "Theology and Sanity", which is a deeper study of the subjects found in "Theology for Beginners".

"Theology for Beginners" is a MUST READ for anyone who wants to know God better.

The Perfect Introduction to Catholic Theology
This book is of immeasurable value to anyone who wants to begin learning the essentials of Catholic theology. Mr. Sheed wrote this book in such a way that anyone can understand. As Scott Hahn writes in the introduction, "Frank Sheed never composed an incoherent sentence...he wrote simply, but never simplistically." This book is an invaluable resource. I find myself going back to the pages I highlited when reading more complicated works.

The book is at its best in discussing some of the more complicated issues, such as the soul, the trinity, and grace. I learned a great deal from reading this book, and it gave me the impetus to read more advanced theological works.

I really can't praise this book enough. If you are a Catholic who wants to learn more about your faith, or someone from outside the church who wonders where Catholic practices come from, definitely read this book.

Buy the Book
A great recap for lots of areas. Worth buying for the trinity discussion alone. Very useful and clear. You will find yourself referring to the material in the book to explain things to your friends. Highly recommended.


Words That Hurt Words That Heal: How to Choose Words Wisely and Well
Published in Hardcover by William Morrow (April, 1996)
Author: Joseph Telushkin
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Words That Hurt
In 'Words That Hurt, Words That Heal', Joseph Telushkin talks about the tremendous power of words and the negative effects we could unravel if we don't choose them wisely. He also talks about positive and effective ways to deal with anger. Although the book is written by a Jewish spiritual leader, I highly recommend it to any person regardless of creed. I believe that as long as we could grow spiritually and could bring peace into our lives, it does not matter which religious background the teaching is coming from. I highly recommend this book.

Amazing...it really changed my life!
This book is very effective; it's simply written yet deeply transformative at the same time. It's really amazing how little effort it takes to change your verbal habits. I read the book, recognized myself in so many of the examples, and started making a subconscious effort to change how and when I used certain words. First, I began to notice all the situations I was in on a daily basis in which words were abused. I started to merely refrain from joining in gossip, insulting and other hurtful talk when I was around it, and it felt wonderful. It never occured to me that my (in)action could affect others, until a good friend told me after a few weeks of this that he'd noticed it, and was really moved. Just goes to show how one person really can make a difference. Get it, read it, live it! It's so easy, and so meaningful!

Sticks and stones break only bones but words.....
Old children's rhyme:
Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me.

Real life:
Sticks and stones break only bones and bones they heal so fast.
But words destroy and kill the soul till nothing's left at last.

Written by a Jewish rabbi and based on his years of experience and study, this book starts with the problem of how we hurt others everyday with our words even when that is not our intention. He discusses the obvious damages of slander, propaganda and gossip and also other ways that we hurt others. For example, if we know something to be true about someone then do we tell someone else? Well, that depends on the circumstances. Is there an issue of someone else's safety involved? Will it help another to avoid financial or other mistakes? If it is just something that you know but will do nothing but cause humiliation to the other person then it is best to keep it to yourself, even if it is the truth. If the only reason to tell someone else is to lower their opinion of the person then it is unethical to disclose the information.

Can people change? I'm sure that each of us knows at least one person who has made a complete change in their lifestyle. Some for the better and some for the worst. As for me, I would not want to be judged today based on all of my opinions, words and actions as a teenager. The author looks at several ways that the press and others have ruined people because while a person can change their life, they cannot change their past.

This is a guide for all those who want to change or improve their relationship whether personal, in business, or other circumstances. This is a guide for those who want to improve their marriage or move it up to the next higher level. This is a guide for those who want to know that all their communications are ethical and moral.

You can't remove hurtful and damaging words from your vocabulary until you understand what they are and what they do. Read this book and build a better tomorrow for yourself and your family today. Don't just remove the bad ones, trade them in for new ones.... Words that heal. Inspirational, motivating, encouraging, moving words that bring your relationships into a new focus and positive balance.

This book should be given to every parent and spouse that wants to have the best relationship they can with their siblings, parents, or children.


Home waters : fishing with an old friend
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Author: Joseph Monninger
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A charming story about a fly fisherman and his dog
"Home Waters" is a charming story about a fly fisherman and his dog. It is Monninger's memoir and tribute to his dog, Nellie, an eleven-year-old Golden Retriever, who he has recently learned has cancer. He decides to take a road trip from his home in New Hampshire to visit some of his favorite fishing spots in Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. Monninger takes the reader along for the ride, describing the details of his fishing trips -- where he sets up, which type of bait he uses, how he adjusts his technique to the circumstances -- and how Nellie accompanies him in all he does -- how she sniffs at each stick and stone as she explores a new area, how she snuggles into his sleeping bag on cold nights, how she taught herself to dive under water after him. As he makes his way through the trip, he reminisces about earlier fishing trips and other experiences he and Nellie have shared.

I loved the tone of this book. Monninger has a pleasant, matter-of-fact way of telling a story. I especially liked how he conveyed his simple love and respect for Nellie just in the way he interacted with her and in his reports of their conversations: "I told Nellie we were done for the night. She seemed grateful." Or, "I told her she was a good dog." When Nellie encountered a harvested potato field, she gave her best shot at retrieving the hundreds of potatoes left on the ground, only to be defeated by the magnitude of the task. Monninger says, "I consoled her on the walk back to the truck, telling her we all have such days, then fed and watered her. I told her to lay down on her dog bed and she did." After he returns to his hotel: "When I unhooked Nellie's leash inside the room, she put her nose on the edge of the bed, asking permission to get up. I told her to go ahead, but not to hog the whole thing. She curled at the foot of the bed, tail to nose. I sat besider her and gave her a rub. In a little while she began to snore. I read for awhile, then turned out the light." I especially related to his dilemma when he went fishing at Yellowstone. "The hard part was explaining to Nellie it is against park regulations to take a dog into the back country.... Nellie wasn't pleased with it... and when I locked her in the back of the truck, she whined to come with me. I was firm with her and caved only enough to give her a biscuit." I've never been fly fishing, but I enjoyed Monninger's equally droll explanations of how it works, the strategy (and luck) that goes into it. I think I now understood why "the one that got away" haunts every fisherman.

Great book - I couldn't put it down!
I originally bought this book for my sister, who has golden retrievers, but thought I could never read it because I don't fish and I'll cry for sure. We'll I was wrong! I said I would only read a few pages but once I started I couldn't stop.

The author has such a wonderful relationship with his dog Nellie and his outlook on life is great. I really enjoyed his descriptions about fishing and thought afterwards maybe this might be something to try. I also loved the fact that he let the fish go after he caught them.

One of the most touching parts was when he had Nellie get into his sleeping bag with him so she would stay warm. This man truly loves his dog as much as she loves him.

Very well written and I didn't cry after all. I just wonder where Nellie is today.

Anyone who loves animals in general will love this book and don't worry about the fishing part. It's a great book!!!

P.S. My sister loved it too!! And so will you.

Deeply Moving!
This story is a tribute to life and the comfort and fine comapnionship our animals give us. It's also a refreshing read on flyfishing. Monninger's tone is avidly unpretentious. I absolutely loved his flashback on his first fishing experience as a young boy. Another scene that will remain in memory was when he was lobtser fishing with Nellie off the coast of Maine. His description of light, color and bouyancy is marvelous.

This is not a book about cancer! In fact, I believe the publishers made an error on the coverleaf of the book when they said she was diagnosed as having cancer. Monninger did not want a diagnosis. Nellie is very much alive, and stays that way.

Anyone who pays particular attention to their relationship with animals will be deeply moved by this tremendous story. Home Waters is the best story I've read in years, and to think I almost didn't buy it!


A Joseph Campbell Companion
Published in Paperback by Perennial (June, 1995)
Author: Diane K. Osbon
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Much better than I anticipated
When my father, a Humanities professor, first gave me this book to read, I thought that it would just be one more over-idealistic study in eccentricity. I was wrong! The book is very educational and even somewhat practical. Most importantly, it has given me a new philosophy about why some cultures have developed countries and why some don't. The traditional socio-economic division in the world is between the east and west, that is, the "liberal" western tradition and the more convervative and subservient cultures of eastern and southeastern asia (Campbell divides them at the country of Iran). But he also brilliantly realizes that there is another, possibly even more important socio-economic division in the world---north and south! The reason for this is that cultures who live north of the tropic of cancer usually have cold winters, where nothing grows, and they must diligently plan for the grain harvests each year. These northern cultures, which include Japan, Korea, and northern China as well as Europe, must be very organized to deal with the harsh climate, and with this organization eventually came developed nations. This is in contrast to the cultures of the world that live between the tropic of cancer and the tropic of capricorn (with the hot equator in the middle). These warm-climate cultures do not need to worry about seasonal changes nearly as much, and spent their free time pursuing other, less organized activities such as superstition and tribal warfare. Thus, in the race to develop their nations, they fell behind by several hundred or even thousands of years. I think that there is nothing politically incorrect about this statement; it is just simply ironic that a culture blessed with a good climate is cursed with a lack of motivation to organize and develop their country. Campbell's hypothesis explains a great deal about the state of world affairs today, and why the northern cultures have generally toned down or abandoned religion, while the warm-climate cultures have embraced superstition and religious fanaticism to the point of world crisis (ex. the middle east).

A GREAT BOOK!!!
I have read my copy three times now, and each time I have gained new insights, and uncovered more of my self. Joseph Campbell has said that the hero's journey always begins with a call. For many, this book may help you hear that call.

Light bulbs will go off when you read this book. For those of you familiar with Campbell's work, you know what I mean. For those of you who don't, find out!!

"We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us." -- Joseph Campbell

"The heroic life is living the individual adventure." -- Joseph Campbell

Like listening to a wise and trusted friend
I was hooked after the first sentence: "The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are". Campbell talks to us about work and love and the meaning of life with such clarity that we can't argue, or say "Yes, but..." When Campbell is just talking (and not in college professor lecture mode) he gives tidbits that are reminiscent of Lindbergh's "Gift From The Sea". "Let the world be as it is and learn to rock with the waves." And maybe you can learn something about people in your life. "In choosing your god, you choose your way of looking at the universe. There are plenty of gods...The god you worship is the god you deserve." This is definitely a book to keep and re-read. My favorite thing about it is that you can flip through it, or let it fall open, and you'll find something worthwhile. You don't have to read the whole book all at once to 'get it'.


Joseph Lowery's Beyond Dreamweaver
Published in Paperback by New Riders Publishing (25 October, 2002)
Authors: Joseph Lowery and Joseph W. Lowery
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Wow! I didn't know that!
Joseph Lowery has done it yet again! 'What has he done?' you ask.

He's showing you how to go that one step farther with Dreamweaver in the book entitled Beyond Dreamweaver that you may only be dreaming of. This book covers the topics of Techniques to employ Section 508 Accessibility, Custom Tag management as applied to CMS & SMIL, but that's not all! He delves into the far reaches of extending Dreamweaver with the integration of extensions that call other Macromedia products such as Flash MX & Fireworks MX.

This book also goes into Templates on the programmatic side of things to import dynamic data into static template pages as well as using the new template features in Dreamweaver MX to build a sequential navigation system.

There is no CD for this book, but the downloads are only a browser session away which include sample pages and the extensions that Joseph has created to extend your productivity with Dreamweaver.

A great read for the intermediate to advanced user or for the beginner wanting to know more about templates, sequential navigation and Accessibility.

Think you know everything about Dreamweaver? Think again.
I must admit this is the first Dreamweaver book that I have purchased since 2000. During the past two years, I couldn't find a Dreamweaver book worth buying. I have been using Dreamweaver almost daily since 1997 and I found that I have reached the point where I didn't need to buy a book with each new release. I just read about the new features in the Dreamweaver manual.

Now, like this book's title suggests, Joe Lowery has taken Dreamweaver far beyond the information found in any previous book or manual. Like a skilled mechanic, Lowery opens up Dreamweaver MX's hood and takes us on a journey through the program's vast javascript and xml classes and libraries. He shows how to use Dreamweaver to import and export XML templates, cascading style sheets, and how to template navigation systems. This is information that you won't find in any other book or even on Macromedia's manuals or website. If you are an experienced Dreamweaver developer and want to know more, this is your guide to all the nooks and crannies in this great program. No where else can you read about extending Dreamweaver with javascript interfacing with C++.

Still, this book isn't perfect. I wonder why Lowery bothered to devote a chapter to SMIL. SMIL is a multimedia language that has been around for years, and it has never gained a following. SMIL's biggest drawback is that it requires the user have either a RealMedia or QuickTime player installed. Most developers who are serious about multimedia will use either Flash or DHTML, which doesn't require a special player (Note that the Flash player comes standard on newer Microsoft and Apple operating systems). Yes, the Dreamweaver editor can be used to create SMIL applications, but this chapter should have been used for something more useful.

Nonetheless, this is a great read for the experienced Dreamweaver developer who is looking to expand their knowledge. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down.

Extend Yourself
Beyond Dreamweaver MX is for designers and developers looking to take full advantage of the power of Dreamweaver MX. Instead of attempting to be a complete Dreamweaver reference, the book focuses on providing experienced users with tools to solve some common real world problems. In addition to addressing specific issues such as integrating with a content management system (CMS) or creating accessible sites, Beyond Dreamweaver MX provides so much great general information concerning customization, extensibility, templates and Flash/Fireworks integration that it seems certain to be useful to almost any user who is looking to increase productivity. This makes Beyond Dreamweaver worthwhile for developers who have specific needs as well as anyone just looking for ways to make their workflow smoother.

What makes Beyond Dreamweaver different is not so much the features and topics it discusses, but that it covers them from a developer's perspective and places them in a real world context. There are other books that touch on the features mentioned in this book, but Beyond Dreamweaver presents some compelling real world reasons for utilizing these features as well as some helpful examples of how you can put them to work to make your life easier.


McGraw-Hill Telecommunications Factbook
Published in Digital by McGraw-Hill ()
Authors: Joseph A. Pecar and David A. Garbin
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MUST HAVE REFERENCE
The New McGraw Hill Telecom Factbook 2d Edition by Joe Pecar and Dave Garbin is one of the best reference books I have ever used.It is long overdue and a must have reference on your shelf. It addresses subjects that other authors seem to treat only slightly if at all. The authors ability to explain complex subject s in a clear easily understandable manner is unique. The many illustrations and diagrams are usable by both lay persons and engineers alike. This would have been an excellent text to have had available for my college courses. This book is a key reference in my program office and I continually need to add more copies.I recommend the reading and use of this factbook to all professionasl and laymen alike who are serious about understanding the modern complex world of Telecommunications and Information Systems. Norman D Jorstad, Telecom and Information Systems Engineer and Program Manager.

Great book for quickly getting up to speed in Telecom
Pecar and Garbin have the rare ability to convey a complex technical subject in an easy to understand manner. The New Telecom Factbook can be read from cover to cover, piecemeal, or be used as a reference manual. This book weaves the confluence of Telecom Network Architecture, Technology, Regulation, and Services into a story of amazing clarity. If you need to rapidly come up to speed in Telecom, I highly recommend this book. If you are getting started in Optical Networking this book will be an important tool to help you place the current optical build-out into perspective. I will refer to this book often. -Brad Boersen, MIT System Design and Management Program

New Telecom Factbook Clearly Technical Success
The New McGraw Hill Telecom Factbook, 2d Edition, by Joe Pecar and Dave Garbin is a technically exact and easily readable guide for students, managers, and other non-technical readers.

As a senior manager for a major IXC, I found The New Telecom Factbook succinctly provides industry-accepted terminology in a useful way for both telecommunications managers and engineers. This book will help acclimate many non-engineering people entering the telecommunications field by providing simple and precise definitions of emerging technology and terms that are technically exact, yet easily understandable for non-technical readers. The New Telecom Factbook provides telecommunications managers, users, and professionals with a single, up-to-date reference with for new technology, performance metrics, and market alternatives.

Having previously used the earlier edition of The Telecom Factbook to teach telecommunications courses, it's clear that the authors have again produced an excellent tutorial that is easily suitable for graduate-level courses in information technology and telecommunications systems tracks. Thorough presentations of complex material will systematically allow students to become familiar with industry terminology and key concepts. Detailed figures and excellent technology taxonomy charts further provide those without prior engineering or mathematical backgrounds with easy-to-follow roadmaps that cover all telecommunications fundamentals. The book also introduces many complex capabilities including DS1/DS3 (T1/T3) asynchronous multiplexing; SONET synchronous multiplexing; modulation schemes used in digital subscriber link (DSL) and cellular wireless services; Internet technologies; and many other technical topics essential for success in our emerging and converging telecommunications environment.


The New Iraq: Rebuilding the Country for Its People, the Middle East, and the World
Published in Hardcover by Basic Books (25 March, 2003)
Author: Joseph Braude
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Iraqi-American Writes a Wonderful Book about The New Iraq
As a fellow Iraqi-American, I thank Joseph Braude for writing his excellent book, The New Iraq. I bought my copy and read it cover-to-cover with glee and rapt attention.

Not only does Braude write well and demonstrate the fruits of deep research, but he also engages the reader with humor, vivid stories, and cultural insights that lead the reader to the heart of the Iraqi people. From the amazing stories of Tanukhi, the medieval judge and storyteller, to the resillient adventures of ingenious modern Iraqi businessmen, Braude weaves a delightful tapestry in The New Iraq.

As an Iraqi-American, Braude's love for the Iraqi people and their culture is evident. It's also evident that Braude is an appreciator of the best of America and is an ambassador who bridges the gap of understanding between Americans and Iraqis. He has degrees from Yale and Princeton in Arab and Islamic studies and has lived in Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and throughout the Middle East. With the media coverage focusing so much on the details of war, the punditry of retired generals, and the mechanics of invasion, Joseph Braude's The New Iraq takes a step back to admire the past, present, and potentially bright future of the Iraqi people.

As an Iraqi, I want Americans to learn more about my people. I believe, as Joseph Braude does, that it is essential for Americans to engage the people of Iraq who have lived in Saddam's shadow for years. "This book is not about Saddam Hussein," writes author Braude. Indeed, this book is about the exciting yet underreported and repressed accomplishments of the Iraqi people - a people who have the potential to build a great country. In the introduction to his book, Braude offers a call to action for Americans and others throughout the world in the public and private sector to join in supporting the rebuilding of Iraq. Braude calls on Americans to contribute their talents and energies toward one of the Middle East's most talented peoples. As Braude argues in his introduction, rebuilding Iraq after the war will benefit not only the people of Iraq, but also the Middle East and the world. The transformation will take time, Braude warns, but the benefits are immense. I am so proud of the idealism, balanced with a practical streak, that 28-year old Braude radiates.

In rebuilding Iraq, Americans will show my brothers and sisters in the Arab world that the U.S. is serious about bringing civil society and the best of our values to the Middle East. Read Braude's The New Iraq for inspiration.

The New Iraq is THE Book to Read
After reading Joseph Braude's The New Iraq, I am now inspired to find ways that I can help the people of Iraq build the country of their dreams. Now that the war is over, rebuilding Iraq is the top priority. Those who want to understand Iraq's past and where Iraq might be heading ought to read The New Iraq. Braude sets a positive course for the future, packing his prose with exciting stories, anecdotes, and cultural flavor (I loved the chapter on Iraqi cinema and entertainment!). The "Teachers and Judges of Truth" chapter paints a compelling portrait of the kinds of change that will be needed in Iraq's legal and educational system, so that the country can one day bloom into a democracy. This book is a winner.

An Uplifting, Humanizing Book, with Breadth, Warmth, and Wit
Believe it, folks! The New Iraq is possible! Say 'no' to the naysayers who predict only gloom and doom and say 'yes' to The New Iraq! Think positive and read Joseph Braude's The New Iraq.

This nifty book has it all: a description of Iraq from ancient and modern times, interviews with exciting Iraqi personalities (Iraqi TV executives, refugees, diplomats, storytellers, torture victims, Baghdadi burger flippers,[] common folk, spies, technocrats, businessmen, and musicians). Braude delivers in-depth cultural analysis written with a warm, humanist touch, plus a dash of irony. The book's stellar economic analysis and forecasting are reasons enough to purchase the book. Braude reveals the strong economic assets that Iraq has beyond oil: the Iraqis are an industrious, highly competent people with great business savvy; in the past, the country was a leading manufacturer and agricultural importer in the Arab world.

Above all, I appreciated Braude's compelling story-telling and cultural descriptions that humanize Iraqi people living throughout the world. Also, the chapter on the potentially stabilizing role the Iraqi Islamic movement can play within a rebuilt Iraq is quite encouraging. Braude blends anecdotes and data quite nicely as he discusses plans to rebuild the Iraqi army, revitalize the economy, and revamp the educational system. The chapters on cultural, artistic, and journalistic revival are very unique. Even if you don't buy every argument in the book, you're bound to learn a lot and perhaps get juiced to help rebuild the country. There's really no book like this. Go for it! I bought a copy and am now buying one for my college-age niece.


Keys of the Kingdom
Published in Hardcover by Buccaneer Books (October, 1979)
Author: Archibald Joseph Cronin
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Catholic Missionary to China
AJ Cronin (author of Citadel and Hatters Castle), tells the story of a Catholic Missionary to China. If you're not Catholic and, therefore, think this book is not for you, guess again. Father Francis Chisholm is an exemplary Christian of any genre. Though he faces trial, tribulation and persecution from early childhood through late adulthood, he stands firm and unwavering in his faith. As is always the case, AJ Cronin makes his characters come alive right off the page.

A Work of Love, Crafted From the Heart!!!
I've been an admirer of A.J. Cronin since I was a teenager in the early 1960's. He was an author who knew the meaning of his craft. Starting with Hatter's Castle in the early 1930's and concluding many books later in the 1970's, Cronin just kept improving and expanding as a writer.

The Keys to the Kingdom is one of my favorites of his works. It is the story of Francis Chisholm, son of Alec Chisholm a Catholic in Presbyterian Scotland. Francis is orphaned at a young age when his father and mother are killed in a wave of anti-Catholicism. After his boyhood love commits suicide, young Francis decides to be a priest.

His vocation is an example of humility, love, compassion and tolerance--virtues which are contrasted with the worldliness and superficiality of the ambitious clergyman, Anselm Mealy. Cronin is a master at portraying the character of Scottish people whom he loves in spite of his succint insight and commentary on their faults and foibles.

I highly recommend this book to those who want to know more about Catholicism at its best.

An unforgettable story
This is an unforgettable story whose message will stay with you long after the last page has been turned. Father Francis Chisolm is truly the epitome of someone living their faith. This was a beautiful book with a main character that I came to love.


There's a Customer Born Every Minute: P.T. Barnum's Secrets to Business Success
Published in Paperback by AMACOM (January, 1998)
Author: Joe Vitale
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Successful business starts with this book.
P.T. Barnum was living proof that to be big you not only had to think big but you had to act big. He was the master of showmanship and Joe Vitale brought his secrets to life. If you want to know how to explode your business you have to be willing to be bold and step out of your comfort zone. This book will show you how...

Long time Barnum fan, Instant Vitale fan!
This book is an absolute must for adding to your business library. But it's more than a book it's a marketing tool kit. If you doubt that PT's techniques apply today just read page 7, Vitale's ideas on copywriting in chapter 7 should be posted above your computer every time you attempt to write.

The punch in my gut though was 'the best marketing tool on earth' which you can find on page 120. I highly recommend this book no matter what type of business or service you are marketing. Read this book with pen and paper ready...you'll need them!

Joe's a proactive marketer who brought Barnum's wisdom to us
Once you've read any of Joe Vitale's marketing books, you are hooked - AND - they are all worth it. I started out as an engineer, so marketing doesn't come easy. But Joe "Mr. Fire" Vitale is helping me to think like a marketer. His proactive style really mixes well with mine; I think he has a knack for writer to each person as if you happen to be the one he intended the book for.

Needless to say There's a Customer Born Every Minute has played a huge role in helping me to be a successful businessman. Ever since reading the first book of Joe's, I have considered him to be a success mentor. His wisdom is easy to follow - but more than that, it is right on! I guarantee that if you read this book, you will have tons of business and marketing ideas - it's that incredible.

In his books and tapes, Joe always covers all of the proactive bases: smart thinking, system thinking, futuristic thinking, and positive thinking. If you are truly seeking the kind of success and abundance that makes your life 100% livable - you must read this book. Some of the ideas Joe promotes are found in SUCCESS BOUND, another book built on learning how to live a proactive life that is God centered and fulfilling.

Joe's research of P.T. Barnum is fantastic! He seems to cover every aspect of the great P.T. Barnum's business acumen, plus a lot of what made him such a great person. I hope that I might be as well read and thorough some day.

My recommendation to you is, take a few minutes each day and ponder the wisdom and truths of this book and let them seep deep into your subconscious mind. Then, move out confidently towards fulfilling your dreams and goals, knowing you are one with the Creator and are truly success bound.

Best wishes for a successful and proactive future!


The Slate Roof Bible: Everything You Wanted to Know About Slate Roofs Including How to Keep Them Alive for Centuries
Published in Paperback by Chelsea Green Pub Co (July, 1997)
Author: Joseph Jenkins
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List price: $35.00 (that's 30% off!)
Used price: $19.75
Collectible price: $26.42
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Warning: Joe Jenkins' love of slate is contagious!
This book is a tremendous resource on the benefits of slate and why it creates a beautiful roof. The color photographs alone make it clear why all hard slate roofs should be maintained as local/regional treasures. After reading "The Slate Roof Bible" the roof moves to the foreground whenever evaluating a building's appearance. Unfortunately too few understand the long-term asthetic and function of slate roofs, and many beautiful older homes have been downgraded with installation of asphalt roofs. This fine book not only covers all aspects of slate roof installation and maintenance, but also provides help on other projects (gutters, chimneys, etc) while you're up there :-) Read this book and discover the "secret" of slate...

Extraordinary document on the fine art of poetic roofing.
This book by Joe Jenkins is one of a kind. It's a comprehensive, kalidoscopic, multi-faceted tome that everyone interested in architecture, construction, or design must read. One is duly impressed by the encyclopedic knowledge and obvious love and care Mr. Jenkins has brought to his subject. The photos are outstanding and lead you to the conclusion that slate roofs are truely a work of art. This book not only explains the history of slate (as if that weren't enough), but it also devotes the last half to giving practical instructions on how to preserve slate roofs. It argues convincingly that the loss of slate roofs in favor of inferior materials reflects a lowering of aesthetic (and economic) values. After reading this book, you'll want one yourself, and if you already have one, you'll know how to preserve it. The writing is folksy, down home, and humorous, as if Jenkins were pontificating to you from the top of a cathedral as he's replacing a tile. As an example of Jenkins' elevated taste, he opens the book with a phenomenal poem that encapsulates in musical language the poetry of slate. Leaving no slate unturned, the poem artfully recreates the spiritual and aesthetic resonances that slate suggests. The poem is worth the price of the book itself, as is the creative cover by Tom Griffith. All in all, no house with a roof should be without it.

The One to Own
This book is a comprehensive compilation of slate roof information. It provides a great synopsis on the history of slate roofing as well as ideal information on the preservation, repair, and application of slate roofs. After reading just about everything out there on slate roofing, this is my favorite because it not only provides excellent information on what to do, it also tells you what NOT to do and why. -E.J. Sandquist, RoofHelp.com


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