I really enjoy reading Paul Davies' books. Davies is a nice departure from many science writers who cannot come to a non-physicist level when explaining a concept. In down-to-earth terms, he explains anti-matter and how Einstein's theories explain much about time and space.

The reason I don't give this book 5 stars is that it is one of Davies' earlier writings (originally published in 1980). I think he's improved over the years, and one of the best reads I've had from Davies is his "The Last Three Minutes." "Other Worlds" is a great read, but it never seems to achieve it's objective. At the onset, you're expecting to learn how alternate existences and parallel universes may exist or at least be explained matematically, and if they do exist, what is their physical representation. To me, however, the whole point of the book is lost in deep explanations regarding electron paths and variances along those paths, etc. How these variances apply to "Other Worlds" is never clearly explained. At least to me.

Still, it's a Davies book, and they're very interesting to read. He puts scientific principles in layman's terms without insulting one's intelligence. Overall, I recommend this book, even though I'd read some of his later works first.

Enjoy!

This book is an excellent introduction to quantum mechanics, the uncertainty principle and their consequences for spacetime and the universe: the coexistence of countless parallel worlds.

As always, Paul Davies' explanations are clear, easily understandable and intriguing.
He gives us an answer for all kind of questions.
Why are common sense and determinism illusions? What is superspace? What is an infinite-dimensional superworld?
Until he arrives at the ultimate one: why do we find ourselves living in this particular universe rather than one of the myriad others? Here he remains silent ... for the moment.

A super intriguing book. Not to be missed.

I learned quantum theory in college 15 years ago. Reading this book, I gained insights I never had back then. If you want a clear non-technical introduction to the subject, this book is for you. It stretches the mind with possibilities such as alternate universes.

I've struggled with depression, low self esteem, social anxiety & panic for many years. I found this book has helped lift my spirits and combat negative thoughts. I identified with several of the real life examples that he uses. The style of writing is easy to read; not overly clinical, he seems to have a lot of experience and his tone is very friendly and compassionate. I read this as part of a therapeutic regimen including SAM-e, St. John's Wort, nutritional supplements, creative expression & zen readings and I feel it has contributed nicely. It was great to wake up one day, literally, without the weight of sadness - just clear headed and ready to take on the day. To what extent this feeling results from each part of this regimen or if it was a culmination of years of progress, I can't say. Regardless, reading this book makes me wish deeply that I could have Paul Gilbert as my therapist.

I have been suffering from depression for many years,unaware of my own self destructive thoughts. Mr Gilbert is a god send. He approaches the subject very compassionately and set me on the road to a heathier way of thinking. Any time I start to feel that "black dog of depression" bite at my heels, I pick up this book to refresh my skills in logical healthy thinking. I have reread this book so many times the cover is wearing out.
My advice is don't just read it once.

I read many books on depression like "Undoing Depression""Self-Coaching" and some other books on low self-esteem. This book helped me a lot. I can't remember how many I said,"Yes..it's me!" The author read completely my mind and his compassionate,sensitive,friendly notes healed my pain. He writes all emotional troubles we may have:anger,shame,guilt..and more. He also offers many many ideas and thoughts to replace negative thinking. I highly recommend this book to women suffering from depression.
Another book I recommend is "Breaking the Chain of Low Self Esteem".

As a counsellor who has studied behavioural psychology, I can attest to the fact it is important for an individual to hold onto their own identity and not live in the shadow of someone's expectations. There is also truth in the fact one must love themselves before they can give or receive love to the fullest. However, it is also equally fulfilling to have someone to share your life with. That is not to say everyone needs a partner to be fulfilled, and in cases where the relationship is not a happy one, life may be more fulfilling without that partnership. The importance is not in finding a partner, but in finding the right partner, a soul-mate who has no desire to control, own or manipulate your life....but to share it.

Those who do have partners and happy, fulfilling relationships will agree that sharing your life with someone is one of life's greatest pleasures and richest treasures. That has been the way of mankind, since the day's of Adam and Eve, and the universal way of telling us we do not have to walk through this life alone unless we choose to do so. This book traces the path of ancient culture and wisdom - the joys and rewards of partners and sharing. We truly do reap what we sow, and the more love we give and share with others, the more we are destined to receive.

In addition to this book, I also recommend reading "Surrendering to Marriage" by Iris Krasnow (which is really not about surrendering but sharing) and "The Mastery of Love" by Miguel Ruiz - both are excellent books on love, sharing and fulfilling one's dreams.

Dr. Pearsall was a guest on Montel Williams (4/20/2001). What he had to say about marriage made a lot of sense. We definately do suffer from a me, me, me type society. When married, a couple needs to view themselves as we/us instead of I/me. This is a definate must get book for us (I'm one half of a married couple).

What a joy it was to find and read this book. I'm tired of reading books that are all about me, me, me. I have found that people who are so concerned about their needs, wants and desires are some of the most unhappy people I know. As this book points out, it is those who unselfishly give and share with others are usually full of love and contentment. I found a great book earlier this year that helped me to be more loving, The Romantic's Guide by Michael Webb. I'd highly recommend both books if you really want to improve the love in your life.

For those of you who don't know, Paul Blaisdell designed and built some of the most memorable movie monsters of the late fifties operating under incredible time constraints and a budget laughable even for American International Pictures. Remember the carrot creature from It Conquered the World? How about the pulpish titular antagonists from Invasion of the Saucer Men or the anatomically correct She Creature? While other special effects men of the time, such as Ray Harryhausen, went on to acclaim and respect in the Hollywood establishment Blaisdell was ignominiously fired upon asking for a little respect in an industry that treats its unknowns even worse than its shining stars. The only information available on the man has been from an old article in Cinefantastique magazine and in the reminiscences of his friend and champion, Bob Burns. This well researched biography can be seen as a celebration of a forgotten special effects man and as another cautionary tale of the Hollywood fringe (a great companion piece to the Ed Wood biography, The Nightmare of Ectasy). Some of his notable creations may be so for the wrong reasons but they had more heart than a good majority of the slick and forgettable monsters made these days. Mr. Palmer's book is a wonderful addition to the bookshelf of any fan of fantastic films and their creators.

Gives a great insight into Paul's work, in some cases you'd think you were there with him. The conditions that Paul worked under was amazing and his commitment and materials used.
His wicked sense of humour and support from his friends in this
then under exposed art of effects and monster making. Still think Technicians behind the scenes should get more support and recognition - grin. This book tops up your enthusiasm to do more

Randy Palmer eloquently invokes the fun-loving spirit of Paul and his funky, renegade creations. Paul certainly was a rare breed; capable of creating fiercely original monsters under less than thankless conditions. Paul's monsters are as endearing as they are memorable, imbued with a soulfulness that few possess. Technique can be learned - imagination can't! Like most gifted artists Paul possessed this and met a tragic end. Randy Palmer sets the record straight and Paul is finally given his due. Randy's book is a MUST own for monster lovers/makers everywhere! A big "Beulah" thank you to Randy...and of course Paul.

Paul Williams' archtectural designs, which are photographed quite beautifully in this survey of his work, are rather varied in style. He ranges from traditional English tudor homes, such as the San Rafael cover photo, to futuristic buildings, such as the building now named Encounter at the Los Angeles airport. His buildings and private homes explore the radical changes in design that have spanned the 20th century.

In 1868 the proposed amendment to Congress, was passed by the Senate to abrogate servitude on the shores of the Americas. Thus, it would seem exceptional to some, that only twenty-eight years later on the West Coast of the same shores had begun the legacy of an African American architect and the ascension of over 3,000 architectural structures. That architect was
Paul R. Williams.
Yet it was known in many circles that descendants of servitude were making strives in many a pursuit and occupation. Scientists, inventors, publishers, congressmen, and diplomats, the list is extensive. However, there is relatively très très peu known about the quality of Paul R. Williams, the architect. His granddaughter, Karen E. Hudson, the director of the PRWs archives, documents a veritable gold-mine of history within the annals of these pages. Although troubled by the "driving while black" phenomena, Paul R. Williams took the Booker T. Washington "bootstrap" premise to heart and created an empire of structures on the West Coast (Los Angeles in particular) and universally.
A Legacy of Style is a collection of Williams' work from the 1920s to the 1960s. Prefacing with a conspectus on his life and continuing with a preliminary from David Gebhard, (architectural historian and curator), that traces PRW from his beginnings and interprets the style and significance of his life's work. Splayed throughout the pages are brief narratives from voluminous articles and books of Williams' writings. Through the photographs, illustrations, captions and dreams, the reader unearths the flavor of this architect's nearly six decades of elegance and polish, signature homes, characteristic PRW curves, sleekly designed molding and particularly his "refinement and high taste". Williams' affinity with the traditional and sensitivity to the modern allowed for a lasting style of moderne classique. Yet his style expands further, from Byzantine to European Gothic, to Colonial to the Pueblo, from Romanesque to the English Tudor, Paul R. Williams envelops it all. In the 1930s, Williams reprised the neoclassic style of the relationship between interior and exterior, as in his Jay Paley residence in Bel Air. With this, the inhabitants would embrace a sense freedom. He was at ease in working with diverse styles and locations, from the Beverly Hills Hotel to the Compton Housing Project.
The advances Williams made despite the impediments would inspire the reader. The skills, such as drawing upside-down at a desk for his clients and developing the psychology of marketing his work were all elements of his craftsmanship, acumen, restraint and his concentration to detail. Being Black, he had faced difficulties that made him a " . . . far better craftsman today than I would be had my course been free." The reader will absorb his thoughts and hopes of being seen as an individual and his metamorphosis of his politicization of "being a Negro".
Unfortunately, Williams was unable to complete some of the wishes he had for building in Nigeria nor did he complete the autobiography of his life, but Hudson fulfills an exquisite task in this preservation. Yes, a little known book that should be in everyone's home is also an essential chronicle for the student of architecture. Paul R. Williams, an exceptional man of character, has left us a legacy of style.

Yasmain Broady-Soya...

Thank you Karen Hudson. Finally, the American public can learn that a great Architect is not just the arrogant Frank L. Wright that abandoned his wife and six children to run off with a client's wife to further practice his art. This book is about a cultured, hard working, creative and civic minded Black American Architect. In overcoming the racial adversity of the twentith century, Mr. Williams produced three times more work than Wright because of the confidence he instilled in his clients as an Architect that cared about their needs first and not his personal wants. Frank L. Wright regarded himself as America's greatest Architect because of his "honest arrogants" and most American Schools of Architecture promote this narrow view. But the American general public deserves better and should know that they have it. And this book illustrates that Mr. Paul Revere Williams, FAIA is by far one of "Our" greatest Architects by virtue of his Honest Integrity. Hence, he stands as a role model for all future American generations. And by that virtue recognition of his work must continue with more books like this and recorded oral histories from persons still alive that knew and worked with him.

This book is really two books in one. On one hand it is an excellent biography. But, it is an interesting look at the homes of surprisingly, Movie Stars from the Golden era of Hollywood.

A movie about Mr. Williams would be far better than the movie the Fountainhead, where an architect name Rouke blows up a large building project because of his hurt arrogant pride. And an American court of law finds him not guilty in the end. Hmmm and the setting for the Fountainhead was New York City. Daaa

There are many books about Wright's arrogants. But the times in America today call for the integrity of Mr. Paul R.Williams to grace the coffee tables and personal libraries of the land.

Conrade C. Hinds, Architect

Paul Rand was a giant among designers, and one of the key reasons that graphic design exists as a profession in the United States. Heller, obviously a great Rand fan and friend(not to mention a prolific author), has given his subject his due, tracing Rand's evolution as an artist and the arc of his career. From a 1942 Autocar annual report whose design is astonishingly current to some work for Dubonnet that perhaps hasn't stood the test of time as well, Heller's choices of accompanying materials is excellent, illustrating as well as telling Rand's core philosophies: Effective graphic design is straightforward, purposed, and well-reasoned. This is a straightforward, well-assembled book that falls short in two very minor ways: While much is made of Rand's European influences, none of this work appears in the book, and select examples rather than just mention of Rand's contemporaries would have done a better job of placing his work in a more historical context.

I just received my book today and have not been able to put it down. Beautifully written and lavishly illustrated, Paul Rand by Steven Heller pays true homage to a man who was blessed with true talent, wit and intelligence. An amazing talent, and a fascinating book. A must-have for any serious design student or professional.

a book to keep for designers. heavy with ideas and great graphics. having known paul rand and being inspired by him the book also presented some graphics i have not seen as it was before my time. a book to refer to about design in general. solid text and research. miho

Sass's view of Schizophrenia as an illness that is capable of being characterised as an excess of rationality misses what is the central feature of delusions - their fixity. He does so through his own belief that schizophrenics do not really hold to their delusions. There may be of course inconsistencies in action - between delusions of grandeur and say leading an ordinary life. However the use of Wittgensteins criticism of sense data as induced through a static staring, introduces an "as if" quality to delusions and moreover a voluntarist aspect or interpretation. So someone who thinks that his wife is the devil's agent and murders his wife under this delusion, is in some sense choosing this interpretation. This seems, at least wrong and dangerous. Interpretation engenders communication not dismissal. Sass does not offer any systematic interpretation only appeals to excesses of rationality and illustrative interpretations in Schreiber of the solipsistic viewpoint. This is but a starting point. Finally, invoking a refusal to enter the everyday as an aspect of the solipsistic,(a constant description and appeal in his book) reinvokes a meaningless imperative - be more involved in the world and your delusions will cease to be of relevance. But this suggests that the schizophrenic is somehow fixed in their focus. That is firstly to reintroduce the fixity notion and secondly to ignore the content of delusion (anything can become its focus) and possible structures of translation rather than interpretation (Jean Laplanche). Sass's book is fascinating in its diversity, but for those who have to work with people with acute psychoses not much use and errs on the dangerous. People do act on their delusions.

Sass presents an unorthodox view of the workings of the schizophrenic mind in his comparison of Daniel Schreber and Ludwig Wittgenstein. He explores schizophrenia not as a disease to be treated, but rather as an alternate view of reality whose credibility cannot be fully discounted. This blatantly contradicts traditional conceptions of the essence of this disorder. Sass virtually ignores the biomedical aspects of schizophrenia, opting for a more philosophical interpretation of the symptomatic delusions. He makes a unique correlation between solipsism's self-focused tendencies and the mental isolation of the schizophrenic. Sass employs several metaphysical analogies to illustrate the paradoxical nature of schizophrenia. Many of Wittgenstein's theories on literal tautologies and their place in schizophrenic thought can be difficult to grasp but are worth the extra words used to explain them. The nature of subjective and objective realities is analyzed in relation to the standards by which we judge consensual reality. The organization of the book is conducive to a clear understanding of the inherently complicated paradoxes that are central to Sass' argument. Endnotes enhance the points presented by providing more detail, context, and additional support. Sass presents a detailed glimpse into the mental turmoil of the schizophrenic mind through the lens of his own unconventional stance.

Sass offers a beautifully written and densely textured close reading of schizophrenic experiences in this book, adroitly weaving a fabric of connections between Schreber's bizarre subjective world and Wittgenstein's lucid philosophical writings. Through this juxtaposition, certain frequently ignored features of the worlds of schizophrenia are brought to light, such as the quasi-solipsistic structure of the schizophrenic's experiential world and the intricately tangled web of psycho-logical paradoxes that this structuring entails. Though Sass speaks little about the interpersonal, historical, or biological contexts in which delusions arise, such is not the point of the book. We need, Sass argues, to get clear on what a delusion IS if we are to accurately interpret why one shows up. And to do that, we need to do this sort of close phenomenological reading of schizophrenic experience. The previous reviewer misses the point. Not only is it flatly untrue to attribute to Sass the idea the schizophrenics do not act on their delusions (he simply does not say this), whether they do or don't is not what Sass is trying to determine. What is important here is the phenomenological texture of the delusion itself, and Sass explicates that admirably.

The book takes the reader through the amazing friendship of these two writers. I found the book to be a wonderful aid while writing my term paper on the works of Nelly Sachs. The book provides a great insight into the lives of these two authors.

One of the rare available testimonies of celan's personal writing. For those who read French, now his correspondance with his wife Gisele Lestrange, is another relevant way to get to know him, it was published two years ago.

A bunch of letters written over 16 years by two nobel-winner poets. It's heartbreaking. Nelly Sachs, "his Li", loved him, no doubt. Her "dearest Paul" was married with a child. It is fascinating to read how two poets process the most common story among people. With tenderness and sadness and so much dignity. And as Nelly Sachs says: "Love is inhuman". This book reveals the sensitivity it takes to write poetry and how this sensitivity marks your every single gesture, making sometimes life to be simply unbearable. "If only I had you here" Nelly Sachs says, and that is what the reader wishes with her. An unfulfilled wish. They met only once and never again. Hard for simple people, even harder for poets. "You are my light" they say to each other and from the third letter she feels he is her home. Did they decrease each others loneliness, or did they make it bigger? It's up to the reader to decide.

The only reason the fifth star was dropped of Mr. Harvey's book was because the book could have been longer. Paul Harvey has been doing radio a long time, so that should leave more stories available for use. Not that the ones included were bad, they were hilarious.

This book takes about an afternoon to read, and you will continually go back to it. Many of Paul Harvey's stories are on the internet in the form of forwards, but Harvey is not mentioned in them. Here is where you can find most of them.

I would even rate this book as more readable than other news of the weird type columns.

A more extensive collection would be great, but alas, we are left with this. Fortunately, we can still listen to Paul Harvey on the radio. His "For What it's Worth" section will never grow stale.

One of the best parts of the daily Paul Harvey News and Comment is the closing piece, "For What it's Worth." The stories are examples of true situations and portray a humorous angle of bumps and mishaps in everyday life. This book is a collection of those radio annecdotes and makes for very enjoyable reading. It's the perfect companion for the morning commute on the train or bus! Once you read a few of them you won't want to stop!

Nobody tells a story like Paul Harvey! I know what your thinking: "I've gotten enough of this kind of thing through junk-email." Let me remind you though that this is from a time before the age of unsolicited, and even worse, unedited internet email traffic. This is the good stuff! And best of all it's edited for read-aloud/radio broadcasting! This is life! This book is made of the stuff people laugh about to themselves. What embarassing and silly stories have they yet to disclose for the welfare of the general public??? Thank Paul Harvey for sharing the stories his For What it's Worth Department collected. This is a modern classic. Read it to your kids around the ol' campfire.

The book was extremely well written, but it was the content I was diappointed with. I expected more info on basic design techniques. It seemed more of a picture book.

I don't want my competitors to read this. It gives me the edge in designing.

First off: Rand is one of the best graphic designers of all time. He designed some of the best logos of the 20th century (example: the IBM logo), and this book features some of his best work. Rand doesn't take himself too seriously, and this book has a touch of humor here and there. His genius is that he can pull off a liquor ad, kids book or corporate showcase. My favorite thing about the work is that it doesn't look dated, there is a timeless classic quality here. Rand designed this book himself and the quality shows, this book is a must for anyone who is a professional graphic designer. Sadly Mr. Rand is no longer with us, but we have his treasures in this book.