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Book reviews for "Alswang,_Betty" sorted by average review score:

To See You Again
Published in Audio Cassette by Brilliance Audio (September, 1999)
Authors: Betty Schimmel, Joyce Gabriel, Laural Merlington, and TBD
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A 10 star riveting book
I still have not finished reading this book and absolutely cannot put it down. Reading about Betty's great love, then losing it only to find it again during a horrific period in her life and in history, wartime Budapest, has kept me up at nights wanting to reach back into time and right all the wrongs she has suffered. Never, never, NEVER has a book been so well written. This book runs through all the emotions and I will never forget Betty Schimmel's story! A definite 10 star book if there ever was one.

A Life changing book full of historical information.
Reading this book changed my life and helped me learn to cherish the liberties and love in my life. To See You Again : A True Story of Love in a Time of War is a valuable historical account that shares what it was like to live through an ordinary day in an extraorinarily horrific time.I couldn't put this book down. It was enlightening to read an honest and graphic account of life in the war torn city of Budapest as well as accounts of life in the Ghetto, concentration camps and a death march. The love story encapsulated in this book is enthralling, sweet and touching. This book teaches the reader that life, love, and faith have the power to overcome hatred and horror. Betty Schimmel was a bit self serving at times but anyone with a spirit and sense of survival as strong as hers is truly a important person. This is a wonderful book.

One of the best books about the Holocaust.
Betty Schimmel's book, "To See You Again' is an important slice of history about love found and love lost in the midst of one of the worst tragedies of our time.

Her life and world was being tore down around her as the Hitler war machine made its way into Budapest. Yet in the middle of all this turmoil, true love was found and the only thing that could tear it apart was the simple fact that she was Jewish. Her love for Richie Covacs' outweighed her safety, outweighed the gold star she was forced to wear, and eventually, it out outweighed her sanity.

My heart ached for Betty the day the SS and the Arrow Cross came knocking at the doors and gathered up what was left of her family. I wanted to spring into the book and help Richies' 'Kis Pofa" (His pet name for her which means: Little face.) Was she ever going to see him again? Would they get married, have children, be in each others arms ever again?

"To See You Again" is also a story of the human will to survive. Betty's Mother is one of the most heroic people I have every read about. A woman, despite all the grisly horror around her, kept her undying faith in God. It was that faith that kept her and her family from dying on a grueling death march and in the concentration camps.

This book will make you shed tears of joy and tears of pain.

I have meet Betty and Otto during the taping of her son's (Robert Schimmel) HBO comey special. It was an honor!

Rolin Timmerman Grand Rapids, MI.


Black Beauty
Published in Hardcover by Penguin USA (Paper) (May, 1994)
Authors: Anna Sewell, Betty Evans, and Audrey Daly
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A must-read for every animal-loving little girl
What girlhood would be complete without reading this tearjerker classic? As a child, there wasn't much I loved more than books, horses and a good cry -- and this provided all three.

For those of you who don't know the story, Black Beauty is horse in England during the 19th century. He begins life with a loving master, but due to circumstances is sold several times -- to owners both kind and cruel.

Sewell, a Quaker woman, wrote this book (first published in 1877) to enlighten the public. Horses at the time were often beaten, starved and overloaded. Sewell's book, however, became a catalyst for change and ushered in a new way of thinking about the treatment of animals.

A BEAUTIFUL BOOK....
Since pictures & illustrations are as much a part of a child's imagination as the written word, then this book beautifully combines both, with the abundant B&W line illustrations by illustrator Lucy Kemp-Welch, in addition to the 12 colour plates included - all in keeping with the time period this novel is set in. A wonderful edition to any child's library. I've been reading horse-topic related books for as long as I can remember; but the very 1st horse story that left an indelible impression on me was ANNA SEWELL's " BLACK BEAUTY ".

It really openend my eyes as to the abuse and cruelty - and majestic fraility - that these wonderful creatures suffer at the hands of their human counterparts.

Ms Sewell opted to write this book from " the horse's point of view " and she was one of the very few authors that was able to pull this off with such great success.

This book also, laid the cornerstone for the ASPCA aims and goals, and brought to light the conditions and treatment of working horses in 20th century London, England ( and elsewhere ).

The story is such a wonderful tale of a horse's life from start to finish; told with a quiet dignity and warmth - and serves as a successful analogy also, as to how humans should interact with one another.

This book also laid the cornerstone for my interest and love of horses, and further spurred my interest in reading about all things Equine.

From there, and I went on to read all of Walter Farley's "The Black Stallion" series ( I used to collect the hardcover editions), and Marguerite Henry's books, and National Velvet(which really wasn't about a horse per se, but more about a little girl who's dreams come true), and anything else I could get my horsey-hungry hands on!

I now keep a copy of Anna Sewell's "Black Beauty" in my library at home, and have given a copy to my daughter to read.

This is a tale that sensitizes the reader to the plight of horses at the hands of their human caregivers, trainers, etc - all told from the horse's mouth ( so to speak )..!

And lest we think that the inhumane treatment of horses has abided since this book was written - one only has to follow the controversy surrounding the use of "Premarin", or abusive training methods of gaited horses, or the Thoroughbred racing industry, or rodeo...etc.

There is still much to be gleaned about the exploitation and abuse of animals from this book - which will always remain a timeless classic.

Kim C. Montreal, 05/2000

Black Beauty i s a Timeless Classic
"Black Beauty," written by author Anna Sewell, is one of the most famous horse books during the nineteenth century. Part of its achievement consists that the novel is a classic for people with many different characteristics. First published in 1877, "Black Beauty" continues to enjoy people for new generations of American citizens around the world. Anna Sewell's brilliant account of animal treatment became a historic breakthrough because it was the first book that described a horse's experience in England. "An autobiography of a young stallion," this book follows the life of Black Beauty. Throughout the novel, it is told in a creative first person form, as if Beauty was describing and narrating his life. Ms. Sewell chose to write this book from the "horses point of view," and she remarkably was able to succeed with her novel. Since Sewell intended on writing this novel in Beauty's point of view, the reader begins to understand the impact of good and treatment towards the horse and his loyal friends. Starter of the Humane Society, the author truly captivates readers with this autobiography of a beautiful, friendly, loving black stallion. In a letter to her friend, Sewell expresses that she hopes "Black Beauty will induce kindness, sympathy, and understanding treatment towards horses." From Beauty's happy, enjoyable youth to his pleasant retirement, Anna Sewell ingeniously wrote the book to remind the cruel treatment in the 1800's. Most importantly, Sewell wrote the book in a time where horses were not given the same respect today, and "Black Beauty" helped to open the eyes of many to the cruelty horses had to suffer. Although Anna Sewell's classic paints a clear picture of the society in London, England, its message is universal and timeless: animals were serve humans well if they are treated with consideration and kindness.


The Egg and I
Published in Paperback by Dramatic Pub. (December, 1958)
Author: Betty MacDonald
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The only one of Betty's books that I found boring
I have long been an ardent fan of Betty's hilarious (and very positive) books, with Anybody Can do Anything and Onions in the Stew amongst my all-time favourites. Yet I found this book, with the exception of the very beginning when she treats of her family history a bit, to be tedious and boring. Perhaps it was because the situation - living in the wilderness, isolated, in conditions out of the 18th century - was so dreadful that I shuddered inwardly at the very idea.

Actually, the premise of the book was quite original for its time. I have enough books popular during the 1950s to see that, at a time when a number of "good sports" were writing of adapting to wilderness conditions (some far worse than Betty's - which has no elements of children dying or life threatening illnesses), Betty had the ingenuity to show the other side of the picture. However, reading her later, far more polished works, makes one see how very raw her talent was at this point. Various characters, such as the Kettles, seem far more fictional and caricatured than those who appear in her later work.

Perhaps another reason that I dislike the Egg and I, while loving Betty's other books, is that there is a very unhappy undertone. All of Betty's books treat of some sad situations (one cannot do much worse than having tuberculosis!), but the overall feeling is very positive, and Betty's knack for finding humour seems part of a generally happy and accepting attitude. There is something very tragic about a "city girl" of only 18 so obviously marrying the wrong man, and one doubts that she would have gone through with it had she had the slightest notion of the living conditions ahead.

EGG & I is a hit!
For three days I read this book with a grin on my face and laughter in my belly. Towards the end of the book I was actually laughing out loud, with no one around to hear my glee. Betty describes, in wonderful detail, life on a chicken ranch and life with neighbors and various animals. Since I grew up in the country and my parents on a farm, I could relate to her wonderful descriptions of the sunrise and wild animals. I enjoyed it thoroughly and recommend this delightful read to anyone. (And I learned a few things about chickens as well.)

This is one of the funniest books I have ever read.
In this chronicle of her years on a chicken farm in the wilds of Washington State, Betty MacDonald writes one of the most humorous books I have ever read. I read this book first as a teenager & I have read it about 10 times since that time. It never fails to bring a laugh. Not only is it funny but it contains a very good story also.

Mrs. MacDonald's description of the Washington countryside make you feel as if you were there and her descriptions of her neighbors makes you thankful for yours. It is absolutely a thoroughly charming & delightful book.


Joy in the Morning
Published in Library Binding by Buccaneer Books (November, 1997)
Author: Betty Smith
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A Bit of a Disappointment
Betty Smith certainly had a lot to live up to after writing "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. "Joy in the Morning" was the story of newlyweds Carl and Annie. It is a chronicle of their first year of marriagein 1927, when Carl is finishing his last year of university. It is an honest and sometimes funny story of their trials and disappointments, their optimism and hopes. Annie is one of those characters that you just have to love-she's eternally open and optimistic and has a natural gift for writing. Carl isn't quite so much of a main character-you see that he loves Annie and is the "steadier" side of the marriage, yet you do not get to know him like you get to know Annie. You can still see traces of Betty Smith's "trademark" keenness and insight, yet this interesting novel can't hold a candle to "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn"

AN OLD-FASHION LOVE STORY!
The reader will immediately be captivated by the characters, Annie and Carl and their devotion to each other. This book is by no means new; it was written many years ago and has become a true classic. The story reads like an older version of Love Story - not the same scenario, but the same passion. You will feel part of the obstacles and challenges Annie and Carl face as a couple and share their dreams, aspirations and sorrows. Annie is, indeed, a young woman ahead of her time. She stands her ground and is not afraid to make her own decisions or stand up for what she believes in - quite an accomplishment considering the year this book was written. The book is written in a poignant, easy-flowing manner by an exceedingly talented author. "Joy in the Morning" is one of those unique literary masterpieces you will want to read over and over again. This book and one other by Betty Smith, "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" are two of my favourite classics among my collection. I would not part with either one. Both are deeply moving, touching and sensitive stories and ones you will remember and cherish throughout the years.

Another winner
I couldn't believe that I didn't pick this book up immediately when I was sick with the flu ~~ this is one book you cannot just put down and go do something else. You have to devote a day to enjoy the rich characterizations that Betty Smith created with this book! It is incredibly romantic and upbeat!!

Just like Frannie in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, you'll fall in love with Annie. Annie moves west to Chicago from Brooklyn to marry Carl, her sweetheart. And the story is about her first year with Carl, getting pregnant and making new friends in a strange town and making do with little money. And throughout this whole book, Annie faces every challenge with an upbeat and cheerful spirit. And she will steal your heart too!!

I am almost afraid to watch the movie because the book itself is absolutely wonderful!! It's incredibly romantic and wonderful. Please don't hesitate to buy it ~~ it's a good buy and one that will warm your heart forever!!...


The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain
Published in Hardcover by J. P. Tarcher (September, 1999)
Author: Betty Edwards
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Try a Different Book!
When the first book came out many years ago I was extremely excited, and actually wrote my senior thesis for my Art Education degree about the right/left brain theory. I used the material from the first book to instruct the kids in my classes when I began to teach. Then I paid a lot of money to go see Betty Edwards give a lecture. I was disappointed, turned off, and my whole image of Ms. Edwards was crushed. Now the new book...my true opinion is that she is trying to reinvent the material to make a few more bucks. This book has some viable exercises, and would be fine for the non-drawing person who needs some direction. However, there are a lot of other books (like The Natural Way to Draw) that are a whole lot better. Betty Edwards is not God's gift to learning how to draw...practice and determination are. My advice? Get a different book.

Highly recommended! A great start for drawing newbies!
I have been drawing for a long time (since I was 4). Drawing is a major influence and passion in my life, so I always am looking for new art books, and new perspectives on drawing. I consider this book to be an excellent addition to any artist's (or aspiring artist's) library.

Also, I once attended a class taught by one of Betty Edwards' students. It was such a helpful and inspiring class, and everyone improved dramatically. It was a wonderful class.

Even though I am no longer a drawing "newbie", I found new insights and new ways to observe and see, thanks to this book. It truly can help new artists and "non" artists draw more accurately. It's amazing! Fabulous!

However, this book is not the ultimate book on drawing, and it should never be regarded as such. It cannot possibly answer every question, or provide every insight. It is only a first step. Drawing accurately is just one component to being an artist. (And I hasten to add, I'm REAL big on drawing accurately, I think it is important.) There is a lot of exploration and growth that each artist must undertake in order to fully develop. There will be further study of anatomy, color, line, etc. etc. This book does not pretend to teach everything, and no one should expect it to.

But, don't worry about that right away, if you are a "newbie". Get the book, enjoy it, learn from it, and then look into other books. This book will give you that needed "jump start" and will help you gain a great deal of confidence. You will be most pleased with the progress you will be able to make, thanks to this book.

For Anyone Who Thought They Couldn't Draw
Well, well, well....judging from the reviews this book has received it seems to elicit either a "love it" or "hate it" response. My own response is in the former but with a few minor reservations. First, I think the book from its inception to the current edition is mainly aimed for people who haven't attempted to draw since they were children but would like to try again. For someone who is further along in their drawing skills they may or may not find this book helpful. It really depends on how far along they are.

The best strengths of the book are the sections that actually teach techniques and tricks that break down how to see and draw. For a rank beginner who has never tried drawing before this getting down to the nitty-gritty is essential to get them headed in the right direction. Before Ms. Edward's book there were few art books (none,in fact, to my knowledge) that gave such low-level basic instruction in such a clear, concise manner. Now many of the techniques she teaches have actually been in use by artists for centuries - witness for example, the grid and the picture plane as teaching tools and concepts. She gives a nitty-gritty explanation of sighting techniques that have been used by artists since at least the Rennaissance and possibly earlier. The reason so many people have given this book 5 stars is that this was one of the first drawing books to realize simply telling someone to compare object 'a' to object 'b' and draw each in proper proportion to the other is not detailed enough. It's the case of an expert forgetting what it's like to be an absolute beginner. This book does not make such statements. Instead you get very detailed diagrams and analysis of exactly how you "compare 'a' to 'b' " and draw accordingly. So the book is full of "assignments". Each chapter introduces more techniques, continues giving nitty-gritty instructions on use of classical methods of drawing to build your skills. Essentially these techniques are drawn upon by anyone who draws in a realistic manner.

Once the reader has spent a lot of practice and time drawing objects around them using these sighting techniques Ms. Edwards shows how to use them for portraiture. I personally think it was good decision. Portraiture is widely (and rightly) perceived as being a difficult thing to do. But everyone who begins a portrait uses exactly the same techniques introduced earlier in the book. The methods are exactly the same no matter what the subject. She just gives again a blow-by-blow, nitty-gritty account of using those techniques to draw someone's portrait and do so believably. Now whether the before portraits had more charm than the after portraits (as one reviewer said) can be debated. I don't think this book is concerned with such higher aims - at least not for someone who has been faithfully following the instructions so far. You have to walk before you can run.

Now as far as the drawing assignments in the book I have a mixed opinion. On the one hand, this latest edition relies a lot more on aids such as 2 different sizes of plastic viewing planes, L-shaped frame borders, etc for the assigments. She offers a kit on her website and through mail-order in the back of the book if you would rather not construct your own drawing aids and tools. The first edition of the book didn't depend nearly so much on all these many aids and still helped many people learn to draw. I rather prefer the older methods but it may be that her workshop experience has taught her that people have more success when they start out with these mechanical sighting aids. And as she mentions in the book eventually you can put them aside because you'll have in-grained the habit of seeing as an artist sees.

I would also like to comment about the constant R-L Brain theories that pepper this book and have so many reviewers split. In my opinion the book would be just as good without any references whatsoever to R-L Brain theories. And I do say theories because technically they still are. That's why Ms. Edwards mentions in the book that some scientists have grumped about her writing about something she doesn't have research experience in. Current research on brain lateralization is ambiguous at best. Some experiments suggest strong lateralization, some suggest it's weak and malleable, and some suggest lateralization doesn't really exist at all. The field of brain research is still quite a young science so the jury is still out on whether there truly is such a thing as a R-Mode or L-Mode dominant brain state for various tasks. There are a lot of good books and articles published every year on brain research. Maybe Ms. Edwards book will encourage more people to read such books for themselves.

Finally, I would like to mention one final thing. Anyone who enjoys this book should by all means get Mona Brookes "Drawing for Older Children and Teens: A Creative Method for Adult Beginners Too". I can not stress this strongly enough. The Mona Brookes book is a 5 star-book and deserves to be far better known than it is. It is DEFINITELY the equal of Drawing on the Right-Side of the Brain. If you want to learn to draw and do so with a much greater focus on your own personal creativity - do yourself a favor - get the Mona Brookes book too. You won't regret it.


The Power of Myth
Published in Paperback by Anchor (July, 1991)
Authors: Joseph Campbell, Bill Moyers, and Betty Sue Flowers
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The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell, et al
I began reading JC books in the late 80's and could not get enough. The PBS Series still holds my interest and attention.
Having lost my copy of the original transcripts I purchased this edition without regard to the Editor and find this edition and this editing misses something from the original.
I am sure it will serve many that are unfamiliar with JC, but I want the un-edited version as it changed my life forever.

An fine introduction to Campbell's work
Since this book is basically the transcripts from Bill Moyer's excellent televised interviews with Joseph Campbell, "The Power of Myth" frequently comes off as a "Reader's Digest" coffee table condensation of Campbell's life and work. Since the interview, by its very nature is limited in its scope and focus, "The Power of Myth" simply does not possess the depth of Campbell's other work.

This really is no matter as what is present provides the reader with a fine introduction to Campbell's passionate devotion to World Myth. Campbell's life thesis, that man posseses the innate desire and need to create myth, is a compelling idea the binds us all to ourselves and each other.

"The Power of Myth" is NOT to be taken as a religious tome. In that context, it certainly does come off as a cockeyed New Age concoction of non-commitment. It is meant, however, to be taken as a work of deconstructionist literary criticsm that seeks to celebrate the common threads running through all cultures and perspectives.

Campbell openly celebrates man's ability to imagine as well as his devotion to ideas. He does not seek to debunk or trivialize the devout (one must be careful to realize this as they read Campbell). His scholarly intent as I see it, is to encourage and nurture the seed of faith inherent in all and encourage everyone to embark on their own heroic adventures of discovery.

"The Power of Myth" serves as an excellent bibliography of sorts as it lists the many great folktales and religious texts which demand re-reading. Campbell urges his audience to read for themselves and search for their own discoveries.

If one is searching for a far more in depth study of myth, I cannot praise enough Campbell's excellent "The Hero With A Thousand Faces". As is, "The Power of Myth" is a fine starting point.

Crazy Joe
This is the transcript of the Bill Moyers interview with Joseph Campbell done with him years and years ago-a stunning interview-a stunning book. Readers will enjoy the book format because let's face it-when Crazy Joe Campbell was talking-sometimes we needed more time than which was given to "absorb what was said." From talking about the Great Seal on the American dollar bill and it's mythological connections-to pouring over a letter from Chief Seattle to George Washington about the purchase of land, this book is never uninteresting.

And to give Bill Moyers due credit as well as an excellent journalist who always knows the right question to ask-and whom unlike a lot of journalists today-actually cares about what he is and was covering. In fact, sometimes Moyers says something quite insightful on his own-it is the coming together of two great minds in a question and answer format-that produces the end result of genius-pure genius. If you are unfamiliar with the Bill Moyers interview, I would recommend purchasing it on here, the 6 tapes, or waiting until PBS airs it again-they always do. Afterall, it's one of PBS's all time ratings grabber. The reason I say that is hearing the way Joe Campbell speaks, seeing in flesh just how engaging of a man he is-allows the reader to "imagine him speaking through the book." To me-that makes a huge difference.

This book is a winnner all the way-regardless of what religious background you hail from-what sort of philosophy if any you engage-this book will certainly impress you the reader. It could actually change someone's life in the context of stimulating someone's interest enough in mythology-to begin looking into it. Or, it can broaden your insight into your own spiritual life in of which you have already established. Any way you toss this book up-it's heads. So buy it.


Cunt: A Declaration of Independence (Live Girls Series)
Published in Paperback by Seal Pr Feminist Pub (October, 2002)
Authors: Inga Muscio and Betty Dodson
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Written with strength, humor and love of womanhood.
How wonderful to read a book written by a woman, about being a woman, without the usual androcentrism of male bashing, or how to snag the man of your dreams. Muscio writes with such clarity and frankness that there is no room for self-pity. She writes frankly about some of her prior life experiences and decisions without making excuses or blaming men. Rather, she is absolutely focused on the power that she has harnessed as a result, and encourages other women to find and harness their own woman power.

The title of this book is so stark that many will, unfortunately, miss out on how beautifully and with such love that it is written. Still, it is the most powerful book that I have read in a long time. Moreover, I strongly recommend this as a resource for any sort of womens' support group or literary group. I would also recommend this for college curricula in a feminist studies or gender class (in conjunction with "Reviving Ophelia"), provided the title will not prevent it from being carried on a campus bookstore.

Surpassed all my expectations
Sick of academic feminism, I really thought this book was going to be a slipshod piece of etymological scholarship. I picked it up to laugh at it. Imagine my shock when it turned out to be a smart, feisty, personable, positive, constructive, angry, liberating book - oh yeah, and fun. The sheer pleasure Musico finds in life and words is exhilarating. Reading her book is like talking to your best friend - she's stubborn, kind of crazy, and I still don't agree with all her politics, but it's damned hard not to like her or to respect where she's coming from. Also, she has some sound, specific, and clearly stated advice on how to keep from being raped/mugged - that alone is probably enough to make the book worth reading.

I do think the majority of college-educated, pro-choice American women will get a kick out of this, if they can get past the embarassing cover (buying this book felt very much like buying a box of tampons - this is fallout from the author's relentlessly sex-positive attitudes). However, extreme feminists will probably find it overly personal, insufficiently rigorous, and too focused on the lives of women of the demographic I mentioned above.

Enpowering and wonderful
This is the most empowering book i've ever read. As a feminist, lesbian, and avid reader/student of women's studies, i have to say that this is the best book i've read all year. Inga Muscio talks about female anatomy, rape, abortion, orgasms, menstruation, and prostitution. While i didn't agree with EVERY point she made, i was shown an itelligent point of view that made me think of things i had never thought of before. She made me feel even PROUDER to be a woman. I have purchased copies of this book for my girlfriend and another female friend, and i intend on buying a copy for my mother. I wish i could give this books to everyone that has ever meant anything to me, male and female, to share her beautiful points of view. She embraces life, praises women, and entertains all at the same time. I recommend this book to everyone for an education and a new appreciation for women and for life. I recommend this book HIGHLY, and you'll want 3 copies (one for yourself, one for your best friend, and one for your mother/sister!) ENJOY!


Russka: The Novel of Russia
Published in Hardcover by Crown Pub (September, 1991)
Authors: Edward Rutherfurd and Betty Prashker
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Interesting Depiction of a Much Maligned Nation
This was my first book by Rutherford, read even before SARUM. I've been mildly interested in Russia for a while, and I was intrigued to see the book...but to be honest, didn't expect much. I was very wrong. The book follows the families that spring from two characters in the first chapter...the curious peasant child Kiy, and a wild tribesman called only The Alan, moved by mercy to part with his most prized possession. Throughout the novel, each chapter is set in a different time period, showing how the descendants of these two characters rise and fall throughout the periods of the Princes of Kiev, the rise of Moscow, Czar Ivan the Terrrible, Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, the Bolshevic Revolution, and, finally, into Post-Communist Russia. The book tempers its awesome span with characters that seem to leap living and breathing from the pages, and to my delight,I noticed that some seem loosly based on characters from Russian folklore. The book is rife with all kinds of people: nobles, serfs, industrialists, Cosacks, poets, freedom fighters, and villains, but essentially human beings. Excellent book.

I recommend it to anyone! Best book I ever read.
I first picked up this book at the library when I was doing research on russian history. After looking at the number of pages, I quickly put it down. It was only after I finished my project that I decided that I would buy the book because I found russian history so fascinating. I was not dissapointed. Mr. Rutherfurd goes into such detail that you grow to love the characters, you grow to understand russian culture so much more. So many people are still clinging to the steriotypes of Communist Russia: if they could read this book, I am sure that they would understand our friends in the east. What I enjoyed the most about the book was the fact that it was also educational. I even learned things that I did not discover in my studies. But that doesn't mean that if you know nothing about Russia that you won't understand the book, far from that. Rutherfurd takes the time to explain what is happening, so the reader is never lost. I'd recommend this book to anyone. If a 17 year old can read it and enjoy it, anyone can.

Brilliant Historical Epic Ruined by Abrupt End
One of the richest historical tapestries written in the 20th century bringing Russian pre-revolutionary history to life like nothing since Tolstoy.I loved every minute of it and lived with the figures in the novel-wept ,rejoiced and feared for them.Saw the barbarism of the first settlements by nomadic people,the cruelty of Ivan the Terrible,the pompous hypocricy of the court of Catherine The Great and the confusion and despair of the 19th century and the excitement and fear of the pre-revolutionary era.But I was bitterly disapointed that Rutherford did not document the horrors of the Stalin period in more detail and did not cover the years of Russian history after World II.How wonderful an acount of the stalled reforms of Kruschev,the stagnation of the later Kruschev years and of the Brezhnev years.The Cold war and the invasions of Poland,Hungary,Czechoslovakia and Afghanistan ,the indocrination by the Communist party and the valour of the persecuted dissidents,through the eys of different Russian people would have been.The collapse of the Soviet union and the heroic stand by the people of Moscow against the failed 1991 Stalinist coup would have enriched and completed the account.Because this was abruptly ommited I will give the novel four instead of five stars


Let's Roll: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Courage
Published in Hardcover by Tyndale House Pub (20 August, 2002)
Authors: Lisa Beamer, Ken Abraham, and Betty Robison
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Hope in the face of tragedy
If anyone needs to read an example of the difference which being a Christian makes in this world, this book is it. Lisa Beamer writes about the childhoods and upbringing of herself and her husband Todd, and how their faith in God influenced every decision they made. She describes their meeting, courtship, marriage, and parenthood and shows her husband to be a strong Christian. His biggest weakness seemed to be a tendency to work too hard and spend too little time with his family, but the Beamers worked out this problem with the help of Todd's Christian friends, who kept him accountable for a more balanced lifestyle. Lisa describes how she first learned of the terrible tragedy which claimed her husband's life, and how she survived the difficult days after September 11. She shows how Christian friends stepped in to help her, as a grateful nation showered her with notes, prayers, and gifts for her unborn baby. She tells about her meetings with President Bush and famous members of the media, such as Larry King. She also tells the intensely personal moments of having to go through family holidays and the birth of her daughter without her husband at her side. Lisa's faith was tested and strengthened by events over which she had no control, because ultimately she knew WHO was in control. This is a wonderful and inspiring book.

An amazing story.
Everybody knows Todd Beamer's last words: Let's roll. Since the September 11th attacks, those words have become somewhat of an American slogan and he has been named a hero for fighting back against the terrorists aboard United Flight 93. Todd's brave widow, Lisa, has written a very compelling book, giving you the chance to see what the man behind "Let's roll" was like.

The first chapter opens up on the morning of 9/11 and then the rest tells about Todd and Lisa's lives, how they met, their life together, their children, etc. Lisa also shares family photos with the reader. It is so obvious that these two meant the world to each other and cared deeply about their family and their relationship with God.

Anybody who believes Lisa Beamer is trying to cash in on this tragedy is sorely wrong. It's clear by reading this book that she wants no publicity, just the opportunity to share her husband's story.

I was especially moved by the part in the book where Lisa says "that this world is only the preparation for an eternity of joy beyond compare in heaven."

"Let's Roll! Ordinary People, Extraordinary Courage" is an intriguing book that will have you smiling and will bring tears to your eyes that Todd Beamer's life was cut short, along with thousands more.

An Amazing Story of Courage and Faith!
Let's Roll is an incredible story about Lisa Beamer and her family. Before writing my review, I read over some others. Not only was I horrified that people could write such things about a woman with three kids in need, but I was almost brought to tears thinking that people could only write those things because they were offended by Lisa Beamer's immense amount of faith in the onr true and living God! Even if she did write the book to get money, can you blame her? She is now a single mother who is needing to support three children. If it was money she was going for...why would she add such passionate input about her faith in the Lord? All she wanted was for people to know about a true hero, for people to be able to more information on a very important event in our country, and for people to know that you can keep faith and hope in a time of need. Lisa Beamer was an inspiration to me and many others that I have shared the book with. I couldn't believe my eyes when I read such horrible things about this heroic story! Look again people! Pull your heads out of your butts and realize that there is more to life than bringing the people down that have miraculously found a reason to live another day after their tragedy. I think I've said all that needs to be said...


Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle
Published in Audio Cassette by Listening Library (July, 2003)
Author: Betty MacDonald
Amazon base price: $18.00

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