I wish I had this book while studying children's literature! The author, Marjorie N. Allen, takes the reader through the decades of American children's literature by chronologically presenting the books that have continued to haunt us readers, from the nineteenth century to 1996. For example, Allen explains why Stephen Crane's book "The Red Badge of Courage" might be considered the first young adult book and, also, why librarians dislike Baum's "Oz" series. These facts make fascinating reading for us voracious readers who enjoy learning the history of American children's books. Highly recommended for the "child" of any age.

The New England Journal of Medicine (Vol 347, #18, pg. 1459; 10/31/2002) says that this book provides "information not readily available elsewhere" and that it is a "valuable book for younger women physicians struggling to make a life for themselves".

Very well written, thoroughly engrossing. Both fair in that the author does not give specific opinions on the alleged abuse, but gives the reader a feel for what the Farrow-Allen relationship was like day-to-day and what the Farrow family went through during the "trial of character" that took place. I would like to read a follow up on what is going on now and how it has ended, and if it has ended? What is the Farrow Brood and Woody doing now. 2001-Lee

Straight from Woody and Mia's Nanny (Kristine Groteke). She did everything with the family and it shows throughout this book. You will get the inside scoop on what Mia, Woody, and the kids are really like.

Here's a couple fun examples from the inside info: Woody had a special shower built for him in Mia's house but refused to use it because he felt the germs built up inside it. Another one is that when Woody and Mia were not getting along well, Woody would bring a pre-cooked chicken to the house because he was concerned that Mia might poison him with her cooking.

Not everything is so light hearted, as we find out that Woody's daughter Dylan may have been coached by Mia into saying he molested her. Even worse, Woody may have molested Dylan (the charges were dropped). Also, it turns out that Soon-Yi has a double-digit IQ and may have been duped by Woody. Interestingly, Groteke says she does not know for sure about either of these issues but admits that she found it strange that Woody and Soon-Yi wound up together romantically.

Overall, I think the only way we could get a closer look at their lives would be if Woody, Mia, or Soon-Yi wrote a book themselves.

Ever driven down Highway 84 and been amazed by the scenery of the Columbia River?
Ever curious about how the Columbia became the Columbia?
Ever seen a giant bolder in the Willamette Valley and wondered how it got there.
Can you imagine the sea level four hundred feet above Portland?
You think you know, but you have no idea.
Until you read this book! (Or hear about it from a friend.)

This book excellently explains why the eastern half of the State of Washington and the lower Columbia valley are so curiously carved. It also shows how a truly observant scientist works, even though his vindication may be slow in coming. While some persons might wish for more color photographs, I believe the black and white format, particularly in the Grand Coulee region, better shows the power and scope of the floods that carved these otherworldly channels from bare lava rock. The drawing of a typical Bretz flood has to be seen firsthand to be believed. Another exemplary book on the geology of the West. Don't see Grand Coulee or the Columbia Gorge without reading this book.

I've lived in the Walla Walla River Basin for a little over a year. After reading this book, the surrounding area became more alive. This book tells of fascinating events that took place several thousand years ago that created many of the local landmarks. It makes my travels more interesting and personal as I recognize features described in this book. If your a highly educated geologists searching for some real meat, this book is not for you. For the rest of us, this book is written in easy to understand terms. If you live in the Northwest, it's a must read.

With crisp, colorful photographs, this simple book illustrates how plants, seasons, animals and other things take on changes.

Books like this serve to demonstrate specific topics while being somewhat limited in the stories told. It does serve an educational purpose, though.