As someone who worked for community development organizations and witnessed the revitalization of downtown Washington, DC over the past decade, I found this book fascinating. It examines the costs -- monetary and otherwise -- of urban blight and renewal. It examines the lives of people living without access to necessities like grocery stores due to safety, economics and other socioeconomic issues.

Such issues are examined at the individual, city and federal level. Success stories like Baltimore and the revitalization of its famous harbor, as well as the costs of Boston's infamous Big Dig are cited.

Anyone who has lived in an urban area anytime since the 1970s wil find this book well worht their time, and get them thinking about the plight of the urban space and its residents.

Paul Grogan and Tony Proscio may be on to something - a completely new urban dynamic that has quietly evolved over the past 20 years or so - largely unnoticed except for those engaged in it. In a lively and entertaining style, the authors tell a remarkable story of four, sometimes discrete, but often coordinated trends that they say hold the promise of the rebirth of the nation's inner city neighborhoods.

The central thesis of "Comeback Cities" is that if lost inner city neighborhoods are to be reclaimed, the residents of those neighborhoods must do it. Until they themselves take responsibility - mainly through the creation of nonprofit community development corporations (CDCs) - nothing else seems to work. But these "engines of reclamation" are not enough - the authors say they need to be coupled with new policing techniques, deregulation of public systems, (i.e., welfare and public housing reform) and educational reforms to reach a "critical mass" and real improvement. Seems unlikely, - but in city after city, - New York, Boston, Cleveland, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Oakland, Houston, - the authors detail the extraordinary results achieved by the confluence of these four new forces.

The central question of course is whether these trends can gain sufficient traction to become the blueprint for reliable inner city revitalization. Or are they simply anecdotal random events, uniquely tied to local circumstance.

This compelling and insightful book examines these new trends and shows, especially in the synergy of their confluence, that meaningful revitalization is not only possible but also predictable. The evidence, skillfully woven into cogent argument, builds chapter on chapter. Without denying the importance of a booming economy or new energy from immigration, the authors make a credible case that but for these new forces - especially the local nonprofit CDCs - the successes they describe would not have been realized. And while they acknowledge the important role of HUD's Community Development Block Grant and HOME programs, and the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, (which provide the "fuel" for these engines), the authors rightly focus on the local nonprofit machinery as necessary for these programs to work. As a 30-year practitioner at the federal level, I can attest to the wisdom of this focus. The best outcomes seem to occur, as is borne out by the book, when the Federal government uses its leverage, instead of prescriptive programs, (e.g., the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, the CRA, FannyMae directed-mortgage commitments and so fourth), and the local level - using this Federal leverage - is free to design and implement appropriate solutions.

The writing is a pleasure: speaking, for example, of the Federal government's role in establishing the practice of "redlining" [excluding large demographic areas from access to mortgages] and the decades later passage of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) [encouraging banks to lend in such areas], the authors comment:

"Consequently, to view the modern mortgage industry as an immaculate offspring of the unfettered private market - one whose dainty virtue was now threatened by an unprecedented federal groping [the CRA] - was disingenuousness raised to the level of parody. Perfect, in other words, for a congressional debate."

So fluid is the writing that one is barely aware of all the information actually coming off the page. Surprising nuggets, simple but powerful, are so easily told their significance might not be immediately appreciated. Just two of many examples: that poverty needn't be inexorably associated with disorder and slum conditions, - as demonstrated by the South Bronx story - deserves serious reflection. As does the lesson of how taking care of little things - like people jumping the fare stiles in the NY subway system - can pay major dividends:

"Collaring 'petty' offenders suddenly led to a harvest of arrests of serious criminals. One out of ten fare beaters turned out to be wanted on a felony warrant, and many others were carrying illegal firearms. In one stroke, Bratton had not only eliminated an appalling spectacle that was frightening the public and costing the transit system tens of millions in lost revenues annually, he was bagging large numbers of wanted felons in the bargain. As a billiard player would say, a three cushion shot. Crime in the subways fell off a cliff. Between 1990 and 1994 felonies dropped 75%, robberies by 64 percent."

But cities are complex entities, even "organic," and if there is any criticism, it may be that the writing is so clear and easy that some may think it belies an extraordinary energy required of these local citizens and officials to achieve these hard won victories. This would be a mistake. Certainly, effort and energy are required, but perhaps one of the lessons of this book, to put it simply, is that things go much easier with the right approach. In fact, no matter the energy expended, they might not "go" at all without it. This book is about the right approach.

Comeback Cities is superbly crafted. And, while optimistic, it is by no means a Pollyannaish book about the elimination of poverty, injustice, and how we can all get along. Speaking from "hands-on" experience the authors describe what they see, and take care not to overstate the case. This is an honest, balanced book that provides a sound basis for hope, with realistic recommendations to multiply the rebirth they document.

"The political challenge for cities and their supporters -and specifically for the next president and Congress-is to draw the national imagination towards the astonishing accomplishments already underway, the pace of those accomplishments, the intelligence that has led them, and the mounting opportunity they will create as they continue to pile up.".

Comeback Cities will fire this imagination. It is well worth the time of anyone interested - even if only remotely- in urban America. It avoids the normally dense "policy wonk stuff" and makes complex issues transparently accessible. It is must reading for academics, policymakers, and the general public.

Paul Grogan and Tony Proscio are definitely on to something.

Though it leaves the reader acutely aware of the problems still facing America's core urban areas, "Comeback Cities" nonetheless instills a wave of optimism in the reader about the revivifying effects that grassroots community development organizations, new techniques of community policing, and deregulation in welfare, public housing and public schools have had in some of the nation's formerly moribund cities.

Grogan and Proscio take an anecdotal approach to their argument, which serves the book well. Where such an approach can sometimes mask a paucity of evidence, these authors have no such problem. Grogan and Proscio show that the phenomena they're discussing are just as visible in Cleveland and Boston as they are in San Francisco and Chicago. And each actual case they cite bolsters the book's argument: that bold, new approaches to age-old urban problems have recusitated patients that most prognosticators long ago said were dead on the operating table. Whether one considers HUD's mid-1990s recasting of the role and form of public housing in Chicago's Cabrini Green, William Bratton's widespread application of the "broken windows" method of community policing in Boston and New York City, or Cleveland Mayor Michael White's and Milwaukee Mayor John Norquist's audacious efforts to make public schooling in their respective cities more accountable, Grogan and Proscio clearly illustrate the key changes that are uplifting cities.

Another fantastic aspect of "Comeback Cities" is the multi-layered, nuanced approach the authors employ. Proscio and Grogan understand, and they make the reader understand, that community policing, community development corporations, economic deregulation, and public school accountability are all interrelated solutions to urban problems. Far too often, politicians and public policy commentators argue that such problems are individual and should be combatted individually and apart from the larger picture. Smartly, these authors show that such an approach is not only no longer possible, but that it may just have contributed to the deep-seated problems affecting cities in the first place.

Finally, the prose of "Comeback Cities" deserves an effusive salute. Where many planning books can be arrid and full of jargon, these authors are careful to boil down their arguments to their essential terms, while providing the appropriate and necessary background. "Comeback Cities" reads like the best journalism, and I must recommend it as one of the finest books I've read in months.

I see that the other reviewers have pretty much said all there needs to be said about this book and I doubt I will say anything new here. All I want to emphasize it that this is truly THE book to get for a quick, easy, complete understanding of Alfred Hitchcock's movies. I have read other,longer, deeper books on his films which were very good, yet this one is nice when you are new to Hitchcock or just do not have the time to devote to much reading. These authors have a good sense of humor as well, and it always is fun to read a book where you can get a few laughs. They have some good trivia in the book, spotlights on certain Hitchcock actors,a few pages of pictures showing some poster art and movie stills, and they tell you where to find Hitch in the movies where he had cameo appearances. Hitchcock's movies are among my favorites, and this book is among my favorites about them. Get it and read it, you won't be disappointed.

After having read this book from stem to stern I would recommend it to new Hitchcock fans and more experienced fans alike. For the new fan it offers a clear synopsis of each film as well as offering many interesting points to look for. For the more experienced it makes for a convenient "turn to" source so as to better avoid the mountains of heavy, sometimes overly self satisfied observations that many resources tend to become, thereby saving wading through chapter upon chapter in order to reach simple facts.

I must respect the authors for their understanding that an enjoyment of film does not require a degree. I always commend a person for having the ability to transfer complicated observations in the simplest of English without the use of parables and without patronizing tones. Paul Condon and Jim Sangster have managed just that and not without the occasional bit of side splitting humour. Even if you are not watching the films in question it is more than a worthy read. That said, it may help to be familiar with some English terms such as "send up" as the average American does not know what it means to send something up so may be left wondering.

However, with the authors sardonic senses of humour being clear I would have liked to have seen further elaboration of the "goofs" section. There are so many Hitchcock bloopers worthy of a mention. I am certain it was a deliberate omission (perhaps for the next book) but nonetheless I was left wishing that they had made note of the obvious ones if only to give the new viewer that added bit of fun and sport.

Despite taking umbrage at the use of the phrase "just a smathering of dull brunettes" ahum, I would gladly purchase any other offerings from either or both authors and very much look forward to a second volume of "Complete Hitchcock," contradiction that it may be. Hopefully with an eye to the slip ups and perhaps more production details (locations, circumstances, first hand anecdotes, etc.) If that isn't a hint to get writing I don't know what is : )

In short I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would not only recommend it but have already bought several other copies for friends and family. Enjoy.

As a novice Hitchcock fan, I find this book extremely informative. It gives a good summary of all of Hitchcock's movies as well as a good analysis of the films. It also includes where Hitchcock can be spotted in the movies and little tidbits on the actors and actresses who were casted in his movies as well as behind the scenes information. I would recommend this book for those who are starting to discover Hitchcock.

This is the favorite French textbook I have ever had and I have been studying French for um... 6 or 7 years. It is well-written and easy to understand. The chapters are well-organized and I think the best part is how the authors explain verbs and verb conjugations... there are so many ways, ugh! However, there is a new 7th edition out now, so if you need this textbook for a class check to see which edition you need before you buy this textbook. Also, this book is geared toward beginning students so it may not be too helpful if you already know a fair amount of French.

I am using Contacts, 7th ed., along with the workbook/lab manual. I also purchased the CD set, which contained 14 CD's with about 40 minutes on each. I have enjoyed these materials immensely. Since I am studying on my own, the CDs have been a key part of my training. This book covers the equivalent of two semesters of college French. The pages are colorful, with many descriptions of contemporary French life. For those who are using it in a classroom setting, many of the exercises creatively get partners to have dialogues. I highly recommend it for self-study, study with a partner or in a classroom.

From the moment I married a French woman, the need to actually speak the language became obvious...easier said than done. After flailing about with inferior texts for about two years, I finally happened on Valette et Valette's Contacts. True to the title, they skillfully prepare a cocktail of language instruction and cultural information - which entice the learner through a difficult subject. I would recommend it without hesitation; in fact, I am in the process of ordering a new hardback to replace my current edition (which now resembles a pack of cards).

A delightful book that can teach in a fun way. The animals' voices get all mixed up when a little bee comes around with a cold! Because the animals didn't listen to the rabbit, and cover their mouths when they sneezed, everyone on the farm caught the cold. A wonderful way to teach healthy habits, animal sounds, farm animals, listening skills, and more. But don't buy it for that reason alone. It is just plain enjoyable to read!

This is a GREAT book for children (and some adults for that matter). Not only is the story entertaining with great illustrations but it helps parents introduce the concept of germs and how they can spread when you don't cover your mouth or nose when you cough or sneeze. Its great fun to have the child help make the animal noises and of course, the A-CHOO.

I first checked out this book from the library for my 4 year old twins - they thought it was so hilarious that we had to buy it. It's a fun book to read using your best barnyard voices and the repetition makes it perfect for pre-schoolers. In a well-read family, this book has become one of our standard favorites.

This book is one of a series by author/illustrator Paul Brett Johnson featuring Gertrude the Cow, Magnolia the Goose, George the Pig, Dottie Sue the Chicken and Miss Rosemary. My four year-old and I heartily recommend this one, along with THE GOOSE WHO WENT OFF IN A HUFF and THE PIG WHO RAN A RED LIGHT. My son identifies with Gertrude (who has an independent streak and is far too smart for her own good). I identify with the exasperated but resourceful Miss Rosemary. We love the expressive illustrations, the rural accent and the hilarious situations these characters get themselves in and out of.

My daughter loved it, I loved it ... and I have a hunch you probably will too. I picked this up on a whim, and was very pleasantly surprised. Great illustrations, a story line with some meat to it, and some fun and wit thrown in too. What more can you ask? As a side note, I wasn't surprised to learn that the illustrator is from "coal country" because, frankly, Miss Rosemary reminds me an awful lot of my grandmother. Great fun!

Once in a blue moon, a great book comes along that will be a great influence in your child's life. I thank God for bringing this book to us - it certainly has made a lasting impression on our children

This is the first book I can remember that I've finished, then immediately flipped back to Chapter One and began reading again. Fleischman's beautiful and lyrical metaphors create powerful flow within the simple biographical essays, and the unexpected list of characters whose lives are portrayed provides a smorgasbord of reflections within his theme of lives of peace. We can use profound, yet approachable role models in this time of dismay, and here's a sensitively written way to meet them.

Discover the lifelong, hard won insights about living a peaceful life as learned by some of the Great Masters: Gandhi, Thoreau, Buddha, etc...

Thank you Dr. Fleischman for this amazing work!

A remarkably helpful work that distills the hard-won, lifelong insights of some of the World's true masters, such as Gandhi and Thoreau. Thanks for the gift Dr. Fleischman.

Paul Foxman writes with a combination of comapssion and knowledge about this condition that is unmatched. His knowledge of the debilitating circumstances surrounding anxiety and panic allows sufferers to have hope in overcoming their fears. Paul Foxman makes readers aware that to overcome this condition, we have to concentrate on the physical, mental and spiritual aspect of our lives and create a balance between them all. The CHAANGE program is one such step to overcoming anxiety helps guide a sufferer through these steps. A must read for anyone who wishes to see the end of their anxiety.

There are so many competing ideas for overcoming anxiety available in the marketplace of ideas today -- that it is truly cofusing and bewildering for the sufferer to determine which way is the road to real recovery. I agree with Dr. Foxman that the road to true recovery involves changing the way we think and respond to life, as well as changing the way we live-in and work with our physical being. Healing in this way does not happen overnight but the rewards for engaging this journey and being willing to look the dragon in the face (i.e., the anxiety state) lead to a life of much greater richness, depth, compassion, and comfort than the life one had before becoming "ill" with anxiety. This book has left me feeling hopeful, positive, and understanding "where to go" to recover fully and regain my life. I will defintely be referring to it over and over as I continue on this path.

This book has helped me tremendously. Anyone who has ever suffered anxiety should buy a copy. Foxman is knowledgeable, empathic, and hopeful. As someone who has experienced social phobia for the last 20 years, I can honestly say this book allowed me to take the first steps toward real recovery.

Today corporate America has joined the sanctimonious trend in our society under the "giving back" theme. I imagine what a breath of fresh air it would be to hear the following candid statement from a corporate CEO or Board Chairman after refusing to kowtow to political correctness:

"We sell a quality product that our customers value. We have provided our employees with the means of supporting themselves with dignity, good wages, benefits, and a good working environment. We have worked hard to create wealth for our investors who after all are people with varying needs and means - and not all of them fantastically wealthy. We pay our share of taxes. In summary we already gave back to the community! As for giving to charity - any of our investors has the right to give in any way or amount (time or money) to any organization he or she sees fit. They don't need us to make that decision for them."

The "giving back to the community" phoniness implies that while running a business you are obviously taking from others - you are a drag on society at large and need to give back to equalize things - Karl Marx couldn't have come up with a better slogan.

Curt Weeden tells corporations that social investing through charitable contributions can help society, and can be good business. Then he explains why, and how. This detailed guide explains ways to get the most out of each philanthropic investment, benefiting the non-profit organization and the company's reputation, employee motivation and bottom line. Weeden provides only a few examples of companies that have engaged in corporate social investing, but the introductions by Paul Newman and Peter Lynch are more hands-on because both are active in philanthropy. The book focuses on instructions for setting up your firm's social investing system. Suggestions cover choosing a non-profit recipient, figuring tax benefits, and other nuts-and-bolts issues. The book is oriented to CEOs and top corporate managers, though we at getAbstract also recommend it to academics, stockholders and fundraisers. If you are considering social investing, this is a good guide. And if you're not, it'll explain why you should. (Note: Tax matters discussed are

Nonprofit organizations, particularly grassroots agencies, would do well to absorb the lessons in Corporate Social Investing which demystify and challenge corporate giving policies. We've found it much more enjoyable than most business texts, and we found ourselves laughing at some of Curt Weeden's analogies on more than one occasion.

I'm an AP Chemistry high school student and after working hard all year, this book offered a pleasant alternative to an arduous review of hundreds of pages of notes. The material was concise and easy to understand. The only let down, however, was in the difficulty of the multiple choice questions on the practice tests. They were ridiculously easy compared to the actual AP test, and provided me with a false sense of security as I walked into the test. The free responses are very "AP-like" and offer a good preactice to the actual AP free response questions. Overall, though, this book is probably the best out there. (A word to the wise: Learn Kinetics (Rate Law) before you take this test!! Its a mandatory free response every year.)

I bought AP chem prep books from Barron, Cliffs, and REA, but Princeton Review was the best at giving all the basic highlights in an easy-to-understand way. Because I was panicked over the exam that was only one week away, the info presented in the other prep books was just too much to memorize in a week's worth of time. Not only did the other books have too much information, but the way the calculations were done were all the more confusing. Although Princeton lacks details, it does gives you basics that'll get you through the exam as long as you have some background knowledge from class. All you need is to understand all the material in the Princeton Review book and do a little review in your own textbook on the history. The chapter on chemical reactions was great, but I found the Acid/Base chapter a little confusing. All in all, I think this book is worth buying...especially because it helped me get a 5 on the AP exam! =)

I highly recommend getting this book, it provides an excellent review-- trust me because I got a 5 on the AP test.

The other review nicely describe this gem, but makes it sound like something only a scientist could understand. I'd just like to add that any intelligent person will have no trouble following this lucid account of the first two years of Los Alamos.

This book is THRILLING in the scope and depth of its description of HOW the bomb was made. This was a unique historical event in that the best brains in the world, stimulated by a sense of extreem urgency and given, in effect, unlimited physical and financial resources accomplished in the space of three years somthing that in the 1930's was considered as Science Fiction.

The book is highly readable and understandable by non technical people. This book is proof that "once upon a time" we did things "Right the First Time" in this country. An outstanding historical and technical account of the "ultimate" invention.

Very well written and does not overwhelm the reader with technical minutia. This is an excellent companion to Richard Rhodes' The Making of the Atomic Bomb and will please any student of the history of science.