It seems that authors have pictures unrelated to content of the text repeatedly printed. It does not cover major topics, such as .gif/ graphic file compression. On the positive side it is well-written, organized, multiple equation in some chapters, descriptive in others. Very little mathematical proof.

An essential book for researchers and engineers working on vector quantization. It provides a (nearly) exhaustive description of the available VQ methods, with analyses and discussions. The book concentrates on VQ, so don't buy it if you're not interested in that only. Most math tools explained. Could be a little bit outdated on some aspects -> things are moving fast in the field.

Many useful concepts of digital compression can be found in this book. It is easy to read and understand, especially for students and engineers in EE.

The description of Mrs. Mary McCray as an adult in Montclair, New Jersey and her struggles for "full freedom" are truly inspiring. I felt as if I was sitting in that kitchen listening to the anecdotes as they were told. I found the early part of the book, however, to read like a research paper with the footnotes included.

It seems to me that this book, along with Edward Ball's Slaves in the Family, offers a new and important look at the history of race relations in America. Both of them deal with situations that were not unique, but carefully swept under the rug. I applaud both authors for their work, and since Mrs. McCray has said she's writing another book, there is at least one reader, here in the nation's oldest city, who is anxiously awaiting it.

Ms McCray's ability to put us back in time is timeless, a true depiction of how life was and is for so many African Americans...Her ability to convey the innocence of childhood and reality through the eyes of her mother and through her own experience is something extrodinary. A warm and compassionate story of love, triumph, and struggle through one of the darkest times in American history. Written very tenderly so you can smell the warm pies and cakes baked in the Allen home, the flowers that she nurtured. Her legacy? Her children who were reared with self respect and taught to be proud of who they are as a people. Freedoms Child is a must read for all, black or white, it will grip you leaving you laughing, crying and ulitmately wishing we could have been there. A story of a mother and the love she gave her children. A story of a woman in the "Red Hat" who would not lie down. A story of coming of age. A story that every American should read. When you finish this book you will just sit back and smile! I know because Carrie Allen McCray is my Grandmother!! Lane McCray

Overall a very good read. A little slow and wordy out of the gate but once the action starts it goes through to the end. Reads like a blockbuster movie script. Found myself thinking about a career change midway through the book.

Following the modern day swashbuckler, Allen Long, on his adventurous trips in the smuggling business gives the reader a lesson in how North America's appetite for marijuana was fed for the decade after the 60's.

The author Sabbag concentrates on the fast-paced smuggling business, denying the reader insight into the characters risking life and limb to become the Kings of Pot. As a result, the whole book is a sustained flurry of activity. This isn't a bad thing, as the lack of character development creates the atmosphere I imagine the protagonist Long lived in - one of many contacts, and never being sure who they really are and who is going to play an important part later on in the story.

I walked away from this book with the distinct impression that smugglers, perhaps more than anything else, are adrenaline junkies. Stepping up drug interdiction efforts is to people like Long what one more school bus was to Evil Knievel; the bigger the risk, the bigger the rush.

I'm not giving anything away when I say the book ends with the quote "this would make a great movie." Perhaps that is why over half of Americans still support this War on Drugs - it's so entertaining.

Surely no review is going to do justice to this fairly insane, eminently thriulling book. Sabbag goes back to the halycon days of the early 70's, and recreates drug smuggling with the most erudite of novelistic verve! That's a feat- this is 30 years later we're covering, and to place us, the bored and incompetent reader, back in that perfervid time is a feat of highwire journalistic daring. Like "Blow," that good movie and even better book, this is a hale and debonair look at that most Aemrican of enterprises, the upright white guy's ascent into and then descent out of the murky, sinister, yet grievously partying world of international big-stakes durg smuggling. Sabbag is clear that Long is our protagonist, our stand-in for all the pusillanimous white boy dreamers who toked but never sold, and his style is pure Boy's Life, rippling adventure and shifting fortunes interspersed like a Hollywood thriller. Corporate America, that global behemoth, is a study in amoral, unethical gamesplaying, so spare the world any qualms about the ultimate worth of this bad boy's bucaneering. The drugs many imbibe in this country are a mark of our depravity, yet also a condemnation of our listless and purposeless social inertia. Sabbag's book will fail to register a single sine wave as social commentary, since it is too kinetic and jargon-free to qualify as stolid academic commentary, but this is our ultimate failing as a society. This book is directly connected to our vital communal adrenaline, and stands as a wholly pleasurable celebration of human initiative, and then earned senescence (Long is an unjailed, unmarked family man at the end, unlike the haunted hipster of "Blow"). Whatever your moral positioning, this is a male beach read for the ages.

The writings themselves are excellent. The print is often hard to read and the typeface varies from section to section. The introductions and footnotes show the editors biases and are best skipped -- let the writings speak for themselves.

This 10-volume set is a treasure trove of the writings of the early church translated into English, from the Apostolic Fathers to the Nicene Council. The problem with it is that it is only a reprint of a collection originally published in 1885. Because of this it carries over many of the pruderies Alexandria's Miscellanies (in volume 2 of this set) is printed only in enters upon the refutation of the false-Gnostics and their licentious tenets. Professing a stricter rule to begin with, and despising the ordinances of the Creator, their result was the grossest immorality in practice. The melancholy consequences of an enforced celibacy are, here, all forseen and foreshown; and this Book, though necessarily offensive to our Christian tastes, is most useful as a commentary upon the history of monasticism, and the celibacy of priests, in the Western churches. The resolution of the Edinburgh editors to give this Book to scholars _only_, in the Latin, is probably wise." In other words, because it may corrupt our Christian morals, we won't print it in the venacular, but instead keep it only in the hands of professors. This editorial decision was disgustingly illiberal; a scholar should make all information accessible. Besides, Clement of Alexandria isn't considered a heretic; he's one of the official Church Fathers. Now a decision like that may have been acceptable in 1885, but it can scarcely be defended today. I do not see what could have kept this set's reprinters from providing a translation of Book III, if only as an appendix. I have not noticed any other example of suppression in these volumes, although the fact that there is even one instance is disturbing. This only serves to convince me that a new, fresh edition of these writers is needed. Many new writings have been discovered in the century since, including complete books by Irenaeus, Hippolytus, Melito of Sardis - this alone makes a new collection desirable. In the late nineteenth century all kinds of collections of these early writers were being published - why not now?

This is the (basically) complete set of the Early church writings up until 325 A.D. These 10 volumes contain quite a lot of material. Volume 10 is actually an index of all of the earlier books. The complete works of Justin, Clement, Athenagoras, Ignatius, etc are found within. I agree with the other poster that there are some problems. The issue of new texts discovered is a big one. Since the time this series was published many new texts have been found, such as the Gospel of Thomas and 2 works by Origen. So that is an issue. Also the way they put Clement of Alexandria's third book in Latin is silly today. Luckily I managed to find another translation that had it. The third problem is the English is pretty stagnant at times. Its very stiff and complex at times, but I actually have come to like it (don't ask me why!). But I am still giving this 5 stars because the set is fairly affordable, and there is a lot of great stuff in here for the price. Virtually every pre-Nicene writing, from the Didache to Alexander of Alexandria's letters to Arius, is in here. I would never be without this set.

This excellent book details the aftermath of the Port Chicago ammunition ship explosions during WW2, with particular emphasis on the "mutiny" of Black sailors detailed to handle the loading of ammunition ships. Those familiar with Port Chicago will find the book brings back details of the operations there, which had changed substantially in the years leading up to the Vietnam Era, and will provide interesting insights to the way Black sailors were treated. Their tragic end and the sacrifices of those who organized and participated in their work-stoppage made ammunition handling
safer for those who came after them, and as an ammunition ship sailor once assigned to Port Chicago, I'm included. A movie was made which closely follows this book's story.

No don't burn this book-buy it and read it and become aware ofone of yet another sickening US military action. This time the framingof black sailors who wouldn't work the day after hundred of their buddies were blown to smitherines because of unsafe loading of a munitions ship.

The US Navy behavior was despicable.

It's a little dry, to remain aloof. But dry paper catches fire easy.

This is a very good read, however it is very hard to follow. It does not offer a smooth flow to the reader. It is better to use it as a reference book, rather than a "sit down with a good book" book. The author is very knowledgeable in American history. I do recommend it in every Brother's library!

While attempting to do a report on American Freemasonry, I stumbled across this book on Amazon.com. Because Freemasonry literature is dificult to come across in libraries and such, I was greatly relieved when I discovered this book. With accurate facts and a well-studied author, this book was basically the only source I needed. It gives charts, lists, dates, important people, and important background events, starting from a very brief summary of Freemasonry's beginnings. Also, thanks to the publishers for reprinting this insightful literature.

Roberts traces the history of masonry in america, with clear examples and names of masons who has contributed to the historical character of our great nation. Masonry and and the American ideals are one and the same.

Set against the backdrop of the Wars of the Roses, The Black Arrow is an intriguing look at the life of young Richard Shelton. Richard's life is shaken when he realizes that those he had thought to be his friends are really his enemies, and he is forced to make choices that will determine the course of his life. Although the characters are well-developed and the plot is fascinating, this book is not for the squeemish or lazy reader. The description is not only vivid, it is often gorey. The language is sometimes difficult and a dictionary might prove quite handy. But anyone looking for a well-written, action-packed classic should read this book.

This book is one of the best I've read. It is what every book about the middle ages should be and more, with suspense, action, disguises, escapes, and of course, the occasional love scene. Robert Louis Stevenson lived in the mid-1800s, and is renowned for his many works, includingTreasure Island, Dr.Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, andKidnapped. The Black Arrow, written originally for a magazine, was written after a serious illness in Stevenson, and was published right after Treasure Island.

Dick Shelton, a boy of sixteen, is quickly thrust into the conflict of the War of the Roses. He battles against almost any kind of evil - bloodthirsty pirates, a murderous priest, and even his own legal gaurdian - Sir Daniel Brackley. Through the whole book Dick strives to become a knight, and to rescue his true love. The Black Arrow is a sure winner for 6th graders and up.

The Black Arrow is, without a doubt, one of my all time favorite books, just as Robert Louis Stevenson is one of my all time favorite authors. I find it hard to believe that The Black Arrow is probably the least well know of his great adventure novels (the others being, of course, Treasure Island and Kidnapped), as it is certainly the best as far as I am concerned. As far as the story goes, it is one of the most entertaining plots that I have ever encountered. It is filled with more twists and turns than I would have thought possible, but remains very clear and fast paced. The characters are wonderful, as is the description and the writing itself. Granted, some of the language is a bit archaic, but I feel that this adds a lot to the authenticity of the story.
The Black Arrow is not a very easy read at first, but once you get into it it really flies by. It is as entertaining, exciting, and intriguing book as you will find, and I would recommend it to anyone.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a very special book. It is about a doctor, named Jekyll. He is known as a gentleman who works quietly in his lab. What no one knows is that Dr. Jekyll has invented a sort of medicine that changes your whole body. When the medicine is taken, your personality becomes evil and your body turns into an ugly hairy man. When Dr. Jekyll drinks the medicine he, turns into Mr. Hyde. Hyde does everything that Jekyll has ever dreamed of but hasn't had a chance to do. Suddenly things go too far. Hyde murders an old man and there is a witness at the place of the death. Now, the police want Hyde and Dr. Jekyll decides that he shall continue being Jekyll and only Jekyll. But can he really keep away? It is so tempting to live the life of Hyde.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is one of the best books I have read. Even though it has a very dull setting, it is amazingly exciting. You always want to know what happens next. The changing between Jekyll and Hyde is made in a very good way, when the main character is Hyde, he always lives in danger, but when he's Jekyll he can live a perfectly normal life. One of the main points in the story is that you shouldn't use drugs to achieve things that you have always dreamed of, because you can really reach them by yourself. This theme really had an impact on me and got me thinking. Almost anyone can read this book because it is a classic and has been published in so many different versions. I would recommend it to almost anyone.

Sometimes the man who does it first does it best, and in Stevenson's case I think that's true. Anyone who's ever known or been an addict will find The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde terrifyingly familiar. Stephen King called this the archetypal werewolf novel, but that description only scratches the surface. Read this book. Then look closely in the mirror, if you dare.

"I thus drew steadily nearer to that truth, by whose partial discovery I have been lead to this dreadful shipwreck: that a man is not truly one, but truly two." This book travels deep into the heart and soul of one man named Dr. Jekyll. The book will give you a full sense of personality. It not only helps you understand the characters, but it also helps you see which side, your good or your evil, is more developed. The ending will send chills up your spine. Dr. Jekyll is the basic good in the story. He has devoted his life to scientific studies and helping people. The basic villian is Edward Hyde. He is every Evil in existence put into one person. Although Dr. Jekyll is good, his curiousity drove him to unimaginable evil. He decided to explore the evil in himself. He made a potion and drank it. He changed into the horrible Edward Hyde. So you see that what separates this book from the ordinary category, is that the good and the evil exist in one.

I have been a friend of Robert Allen's for over 20 years and Multiple Streams of Income is the finest book he has written. He already has a over 600 people who have paid $3000 for his coaching course on how to apply these techniques. They already are making money. YOU have to do the work but YOU can build your own wealth and independence and it doesn't mean you have to start with a large amount of money, just a lot of discipline and focus and that's where Robert can help you. Check out what he has to say about my investment strategies as well. How does over 50% a year for the past three years with little additional risk over investing in an index funds sound?

Robert ALLEN is once again at the top of the charts as a best selling author and for good reason; he knows what he is talking about and his techniques work.Multiple Streams of Income offers a no-nonsense way to achieve all the wealth you are willing to work for.Network Marketing, Real Estate, Tax Liens, the Internet, Inforprenuing and licensing plus so much more.It's also a easy read.In addition, I highly recommend Direct from Dell by Mike Dell, a excellent book for anyone who is in buiness or wants to be.These are two of the best books that I have read this year.

J. Paul Getty said it many years ago; "I would rather earn 1% off the efforts of 100 people than 100% off the efforts of myself."Michael Gerber says pretty much the same thing in his excellent book "The E-Myth"Network marketing as espoused in Multiple Streams of Income by Robert G. Allen offers you the opportunity to not only earn off the efforts of man other people, but create an income stream that will last your life and your heirs as well.Tax leins are another powerful strategy recommended by Bob Allen, only because they work. No tax leins may not be available in your state. But so what? You can buy tax liens through the mail or travel to other states. The up to 50% yields make tax liens worth your time to invest in.My only two gripes with Bob Allen are the reommendations for universal life policies and options trading. There are better tax deffered plans than a universal life policy and options are tricky.I believe that for the aerage person, network marketing, mutual funds, tax leins, discounted mortgages and real estate offer the best return with little or no risk involved. Leave the stock market to the gamblers.If you lke this book, I suggest you also read the 16% Solution, The E-Myth and Turner, Turner, Turner: The King of Network Marketing.

I'm impressed. Really impressed. First, this book is incredible! Offering both non fictional and fictional material, right and left sided to stimulate your right and left brains. I have long been a fan of Robert Allen and Mark Victor Hansen as well as Jack Canfield. Allen and Hansen have outdone themselves with this one.The other reason that I am impressed is only one negative review! WOW! Perhaps even the bashers are reading PMA and inspritional material and growing. Now that is impressive!Simply stated; if you want to be a success, read this book. It will create the right mental mindset. If on the other hand you are happy with mediocrity, look elsewhere.For more on the how to, I recommend Multiple Streams of Income.Great book Mr. Allen and Mr. Hansen. Perhaps your best work to date.

I have read several of Robert Allens books in the past including Nothing Down, Creating Wealth and Multiple Streams of Income. And I have several of the Chicken Soup books coauthored by Hansen. Both are outstanding authors who actually deliver with style and substance.

The One Minute Millionaire is actually two books in one The first is motivation mixed with how to on real estate, network marketing, internet and business which runs on the left facing pages.

On the right facing pages runs the 2nd book--this one is a fictional story. To me this part reminded me of a current times version of Og Mandino's books which I have always enjoyed. The fictional part showcases a mother whose husband has died. She loses her house and her children.

This builds the dramatic story of this widowed mother who takes a job as a waitress. As the story unfolds to get her children back, she needs to make a million dollars. The balance of the tale shows her attempt to earn a million dollars with the help of a mentor.

I found the combining of a fictional with a how to book in one book, refreshing and stimulating.

Although the title is a little catchy, there is is much substance. You will learn:

* The 24 principles of the Enlightened Millionaire

* The power of 1 great idea

* The 7 money skills of highly prosperous people

* How to develop multiple streams of income

* The 6 forms of leverage

* The 10 most powerful techniques for buying real estate
with little or no money down

* The essentials of marketing success

And a delightful story about a woman that made it!

The One Minute Millionare will leave you fresh and renewed to pursue your goals and achieve them.

While The 1 Minute Millionaire does come off a little flowery, it is never-the-less a good book for anyone who wants something more than say a $40,000/yr job or less.

I read from this book everyday and play the audio in my car on my way to appointments.

If you are not where you want to be financially (who is???) buy the book and/or the audio and learn the strategies to become a millionaire.