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Book reviews for "Ankenbrand,_Frank,_Jr." sorted by average review score:

Oscar Wilde
Published in Audio Cassette by Blackstone Audiobooks (December, 1997)
Author: Frank Harris
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A Story of How to Enjoy Life and Be Miserable -- All at Once
I picked this book up in a used book store for [money] more than when it was purchased new in 1960. The pages literally crumbled as I turned them, but I couldn't put the book down. I was enthralled with the life of Oscar Wilde. Now, this biography isn't one written years after the subject's death from scraps of information. No. This is written by a very close friend of Wilde's, Frank Harris. In being written by someone of such closeness, it lends credence to the harsh words the author had to say of Wilde. Harris calls him lazy and slothenly. Of course, Wilde caused quite a sensation in his time. He was imprisoned under other pretenses, but mainly because he was a homosexual in a time period when this was not acceptable. Oscar was one who did not care what others thought of him. He was determined to live a life of pleasure and to make money doing things that he liked: writing and speaking. However, he did a great deal of leaching off of others. There's no denying Wilde's genius. I have yet to read any of his works except for a short essay entitled "The Soul of Man Under Socialism." To me, the thoughts seemed profound. But Harris says that Oscar never said or wrote anything original; he merely took other people's thoughts, meshed them together, and said them in a more profound way. This is a biography that reads like a fine story. Harris is a great writer and has more first-hand knowledge of his subject than any other biographer that I've read. I'd reccomend this book to others without reservation.

"The best life of Oscar Wilde", said George Bernard Shaw.
"The best life of Oscar Wilde", said George Bernard Shaw after reading this book. I cannot but agree with him utterly. No unnecesary data is wasted, no long reflexions bore us. It's just an Oscar's very close friend telling us with great elegance and delicacy the story of one he has admired and loved so much, but without fear of saying the truth. Amicus Plato, sed magis amica veritas. Of course, the reader has to know Mr Harris is the true "lead actor" in the story he's telling us, always supporting the Truth and the Right. But one can easily forgive him for that in reward for the great moments un Oscar's life he's saved from oblivion and darkness. A wonderful work of art itself, this biography must be read by every admirer of that Prince of Charm Oscar Wilde was. X. Careaga


Ovid III Metamorphoses, Book One Thru Eight, No#42 (Loeb Classical Library)
Published in Hardcover by Harvard Univ Pr (June, 1977)
Authors: Ovid and Frank J. Miller
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Finest Book by Rome's Greatest Author
Ovid is by far the greatest Roman poet. Certainly, Vergil's work must not be overlooked, with his excellent style and powerful emotion (a favorite scene of mine is the death of Laocoon); however, Ovid surpasses Rome's poet laureate by leaps and bounds: Ovid's dactylic hexameter is ornate and precise, and his poetry contains a daring irreverence that outraged Augustus. Few authors have surpassed the power of Ovid's pen, and his _Metamorphoses_ is his best work.

Although I am not entirely impressed with pedestrian prose translations of poetry, the Lobe edition's side-by-side translation provides the reader an adequate aid to begin to grasp the poet's beauty.

(If one desires to read Ovid's _Metamorphoses_ in English, I highly recommend Rolfe Humprhies's excellent translation.)

A Must for anyone interested in Latin!
The Metamorphoses, of course, is one of, if not the, classical world's greatest mythological treatises. The Loeb edition's convenient format of original Latin text opposite a clear, concise English translation is invaluable for anyone who has ever been interested in Latin, and a wonderful study guide for the Latin scholar. Highly recommended.


The Oxford Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus
Published in Hardcover by Oxford University Press (September, 1997)
Author: Frank R. Abate
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Excellent desktop dictionary and thesaurus.
"The Oxford Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus" is an excellent compact sized lexicon, one which I've found to be the most useful desktop reference book in my office. Word definitions are clear, concise and easy to understand. Synonyms appear directly following each word's definition, rather than in a separate list. For me, this is probably the best overall feature of "The Oxford Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus," because it makes it much easier to look up a word, understand its definition, and see its synonyms without thumbing through different sections of the book. Page layout is pleasing, with two columns set reasonably large and easy to read print. There are several useful appendices in the back, including: signs and symbols; heat index and wind chill; metric/English conversion; countries of the world; and Presidents of the United States.

"The Oxford Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus" is the little brother to the 1,800 page "The Oxford Dictionary and Thesaurus." Despite its relatively diminutive size, this desktop version, which claims to have "over 150,000 entries, synonyms, and senses," has consistently proven itself comprehensive enough for the kind of reading and writing I do on a daily basis. Only on rare occasions have I found it necessary to pull out my unabridged dictionary to find a word not listed in "The Oxford Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus."

For those needing a compact dictionary and thesaurus which offers a good degree of comprehensiveness and excellent portability, "The Oxford Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus" is an excellent choice.

If you can't get the OED, get this.
This dictionary is a great 2-in-1 reference tool. You can look up a word's meaning for greater clarification and get synonyms at the same time. The definitions are clear and concise; you don't need to look up the definition since they're in layman's terms. It's also pretty complete. I hate looking something up and not being able to find it in the dictionary; that's hardly ever happened to me with this one. They also have many different reference charts in the back which have come in handy, some of which I've actually copied and taken home. It's almost like 3-in-1 rather than 2-in-1, actually--those charts give this dictionary a flavor of the Columbia Encyclopedia.

The only thing they left out (which I wish they hadn't) is word origin. But if you want it all (or close to it), this is the one.


Pagan Christianity: The Origins of Our Modern Church Practices
Published in Paperback by Present Testimony Ministry (May, 2003)
Author: Frank A. Viola
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A must for every Christian
This book will set the Christian church straight
regarding the origins and history of contemporary
church practices and worship liturgies which openly
contradict the model given in the New Testament.

At Last
This book may very well become known as the single most liberating piece of Christian work penned in the last 1700 years. It will hopefully become known as the single most influential piece of Christian literature in this new century. Without doubt it will be loved by many as it will liberate multitudes and for that same reason it is sure to be hated and feared by others.
Frank Viola has pulled back the covers to reveal the pagan origins of many if not all of the practices of this thing we call Christendom. In a very scholarly fashion he has traced the origins of the traditions practices and institutions of all that which makeup what we call Christianity today. In contrast he boldly illustrates the simplicity and almost tribal nature of the 1st century church the bride of Christ as she met with her groom in irresistible freedom and life.
I have suspected for many years that many if not all new Christians early in the adventure of their new life in Christ have deep and unsettling doubts about this institution we call church. Those doubts should not go unheeded. At last the great ... of the Book of Revelation has been revealed and the Spirit calls to all who are His, "Come out". May you be provoked to read this work and as you do may your spirit register the still faint voice of the Spirit say unto you, "Come Out".


Parson Jack Russell Terriers: An Owner's Companion
Published in Hardcover by Crowood Pr (December, 1991)
Authors: Jean Jackson and Frank Jackson
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Average review score:

Excellent
A very informative book. Jacks are the best!

Detailed history & care
Details the origin and purpose of the breed, differentiating them from the Fox Terrier and the numerous white terriers called Jack Russell Terriers. Also covers history, UK and US standard, caring for the new puppy, breeding, showing, judging and working the terrier, and health care and the law. 281 pp. / photos / UK


Passages of Marriage
Published in Paperback by Thomas Nelson (December, 1994)
Authors: Frank Minirth, Mary Alice Minirth, Brian Newman, and Deborah Newman
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Blaming You Or Your Spouse Is Futile After Reading The Book!
This is must read for anyone in marriage, contemplating marriage or caring about someone close to them who is going to be married.

The book outlines in detail how the system of marriage affects each person during the marriage more so than each individual's personalities or pet peeves.

How many times have you heard, "He Is Not The Man I Married" or "She Changed After We Married." Well, the book goes into detail about these fallacies of blaming each other when actually veiled events are impacting the marriage far more than each can notice.

The book outlines how the passages, passions and practices of marriages end up changing one another. And how you can prepare for the changes and understand those happenings. By doing so you can focus on the uncertainty those circumstances bring and not reproach each other.

It highlight the danger signs per year and per episode. For example, explaining how the first, fourth and seventh year of a marriage is affected by simple time and personal adjustment.

Or how when a child affects the marriage at the same time career concerns impacts upon it. How one is never certain they will find happiness in or out of marriage as one life's seems to be pasting away without personal goals being met. These are just a few examples of how the book delves into such subjects that are hard to define as they occur.

Everyone tends to think it themselves or their spouse who has confined them into a life of less expectations. However, the book explains it is the Passages and Practices of Marriage. The blame lies within the system not the person in most cases. One can deal with such practices and passages when they are forewarned on what to expect.

I have observed that, Mistresses Are Treated As Princesses Until The Bloom Is Off The Rose. While Wives Feel They Are Ending Up Prisoners Until The Companionship Of Retirement In Old Age Becomes Reality. There is nothing worse than observing the break up of a family as each spouse blames the others while ignoring all the danger signs of the passages of marriage.

Over 50% of America ever experiences these events even fewer live to enjoy a fruitful and mutual secure marriage. Yet, if you and your spouse take the time to read "Passages of Marriage," you will discern yourself, your spouse and your marriage better than anything you ever accomplished.

The only remedy I have ever encountered in learning about marriage is working in Domestic Relations. There you end up with the somber view marriage is a huge risk that can't be taken with carelessness. But this book shows just how and when to expect and avoid the pitfalls that occurs in every marriage from rich (Princess Diane) to poor, educated (Einstein) to street smarts and to fault to no fault.

Do yourself a favor, either read the book or buy it for one you care about, either way you will benefit. Nevertheless, each spouse or fiancee` must read the book or its value is worthless.

Compromise, mutual understanding and common goals along with this book will enhance your relationship. Condemnation will only makes excuses that are later to be found flawed in you or the ones you really love.

Our society's emotional and economic health is dependent upon the success of each marriage and the fruits they cultivate. We should salute those who can achieve such status and for those who need help, read this book!

Very solid book. Valuable advice for couples at all stages.
Draws on the knowledge of half a dozen professional therapists and consolidates their insights. I gave it to a gal who has run marriage enrichment classes for various churches for years and she said it was one of the best books on the subject she had ever seen.


The Patchwork Girl of Oz
Published in Audio CD by Alcazar AudioWorks (15 November, 2002)
Author: L. Frank Baum
Amazon base price: $25.00
Average review score:

A Lively Story with Many Colorful Characters!
This was a very sweet story and presented in a marvelous way. The people at Alcazar AudioWorks, who produced this version, incorporated a number of actors and actresses and really brought this piece to life in a unique way. The narrator, an English gentleman, was terrific and very easy to listen to. The acting in all the other parts was very good, as well.

It's also an excellent value, as the package included 6 CDs of content. I'll be looking for other things from Alcazar, after enjoying this one!

My friend's 8 year old was entranced by this book!
Most of the audio books I've heard were simply read. Some of the the readers are more creative and try to make the spoken parts sound like different people. This book actually has different people doing the spoken parts! It really brings the book to life. The man reading the rest of the story has a wonderful voice. I could listen to him for hours! I already have.

I played the first chapter for my friend's 8 year old son. He was completely captured by the story and the way it was read. He wanted to hear more. Guess what he's getting for Christmas?

I highly recommend this book. I hope this company does more of these! I'll be watching for them.


Pencil Drawing: A Complete Drawing Kit for Beginners
Published in Hardcover by Walter Foster Pub (March, 1995)
Author: Gene Franks
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Brought out the artist in me
Before I got this kit, I never really thought I was that good at art. Once I got it out, I couldn't stop drawing the beautiful pictures he teaches. When I brought my drawings to church, everyone was amazed at how good at art I was. Everyone I showed my pictures to thought they were beautiful. I would highly recommend this book. The instructions are easy to do and understand.

Excellent kit for any drawing enthusiast.
With the basic materials in your hand and an insipiration in your head you are all set to begin Pencil Drawing as a career or as a hobby. The instruction book begins with some small objects and extends upto quite complex drawings. It explains all the drawings step by step.

I would like to suggest one thing. The author here is an expert and the drawings that he has mentioned in the instruction book are quite "life like" and exceptional. DO NOT TRY TO ACHIEVE SAME QUALITY THE FIRST TIME. Though it looks so simple from the steps that author mentions, you might end up with some frustration. INSTEAD TRY TO DRAW THEM TO THE BEST OF YOUR CALIBER or maybe leave them half done. TRY TO GET THE IDEAS BEHIND DRAWING AND SKETCHING and I am sure the whole kit is PRACTICALLY meant for that.........TO GET YOU STARTED!

This kit is also a great gift idea to someone who is interested in drawing and sketching. I bought it two years ago for myself and am buying it again as a gift for someone special in India.


Perfect Parenting and Other Myths
Published in Paperback by Prairie Flower Press (February, 1986)
Author: Frank Main
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A must-read for all parents and professionals!
This book provides excellent parenting information for both parents and professionals who are working with families. It will help adults take a clear look at common parenting concerns and discover new ways of addressing the problems. Written in a very positive, straight-forward manner, this book allows the reader to take a step back and actually get a laugh out of the difficulties children can present!

The most humorous and useful book available on parenting
Perfect Parenting & Other Myths is a delightful book, a charming book, a book filled with humor and the fruits of a playful and creative mind. Just when I am convinced that there are more than enough parenting books, I discover Frank Main's witty and innovative presentation of child rearing principles. It is a book that is hard to put down and hard to resist, unless, of course, you hate to have your reading interrupted by giggles. A quick glance at the table of contents and the titles in the heart of the book will grab your attention. Referring to authoritarian parents as "punitive gatekeepers" is a nice twist on an old concept: so is the reference to permissive parents as "pampering gardeners." But you can tell that the real giggles are going to start in Part Three with chapter titles like "Morning Gories: Narcolepsy & Other Morning Sicknesses," "The Supper Suicide Hour: Yuk, Not That Again!," and my personal favorite "Bowel, Bladder, Ovaries And Testes: Handling The Power Tools." And with stories about The Coma Brothers and Polly, the child suffering from juvenile hardening of the arteries (forgetfulness), the fun and the learning just keep rolling right along. Most of the giggles, however, come from that wonderful recognition parents will have as they see themselves and their children in every chapter. Here is a part of Frank Main's wonderful introduction to a section on bowel control. It is a scene that many of us can remember all too well from our own childhoods. Get ready to giggle. "Mike, tell Mommy the truth. Did you go stinky in your pants?" This usually doesn't require a confession. You don't want an indictment; you want a diaper. . . . When moral castigation fails, we resort to idle threats. "If you don't stop going acky in your pants, Santa Claus is going to bring you a stick and a piece of coal for Christmas." The kid thinks coal is a precious metal and isn't sure what s/he is supposed to do with the stick (p. 158). Frank is wonderful at capturing the flavor of family interactions in the stress-dramas of every day life, but this is not a book about how things go wrong. It is a book about encouragement: what it is, how and when to use it, and the hope that it can create in discouraged families. Chapters two and three are must reading for all parents. Each goal and each birth position is outlined for parents with clear and encouraging alternatives suggested for commonly discouraging family interactions. The rest of the book is a primer on systemic encouragement in action with clear guidelines for redirecting misbehavior at the end of almost every section and chapter. Because this book is about the whole family, Frank devotes his last three chapters to the personhood of parents. These are really essential chapters about maintaining self-esteem as an adult parenting alone or parenting with a real partner. The focus on parents as intimate caretakers and leaders of the family is the first and final encouragement needed in all families.


Personal Security & Terrorism Awareness: A Comprehensive Risk Reduction Guide for the American Traveler
Published in Paperback by Writers Club Press (February, 2002)
Authors: John Haynes, Frank Rosetti, and Roy Haynes
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Practical advice for protecting one's life
Dedicated to the victims of the September 11 attacks, Personal Security & Terrorism Awareness: A Comprehensive Risk Reduction Guide For The American Traveler is an absolute must-read for all travelers abroad, whether venturing to nations fraught with conflict or foreign destinations that are relatively safe. The basic, sound, practical, "user friendly" advice for protecting oneself against theft, kidnaping, assault, or arrest by the authorities is potentially life-saving. Tips include never leaving personal information about oneself in a car or marked on luggage tags; always assuming that communication is monitored; women should never wear jewelry yet should wear a wedding band regardless of marital status (as marriage is sometimes given high respect in foreign cultures -- especially Islamic ones); and much more. Personal Security & Terrorism Awareness is addressed in particular to American Travelers, yet the practical advice for protecting one's life is useful to just about everyone. If you are planning a trip abroad for either business or pleasure, begin preparations by giving Personal Security & Terrorism Awareness a complete and careful reading.

Great book!
As a martial arts instructor, I am routinely involved in teaching personal self defense and evaluation of your surroundings. Many books and resources offer instruction in self-defense, but this book is one of the few resources that gives us insight into the most effective information available for personal security and safety...the same information taught to our military. After September 11th, every American's life changed forever. This resource is just what we need to help us take control of our fear, lives, and surroundings.


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