In the spring of 1982, I borrowed this book. I was in the 9th grade, and had to get a book for my English class. I couldn't put the book down. I was so touched by John Baker and his incredible courage and compassion for others. I soon bought the book and found myself reading it for inspiration when I joined the track team. John showed me something I never had realized--that by doing one's best, one can accomplish amazing things. I soon found myself putting much greater efforts in not only track, but also school and life.

In 1992 I became an elementary teacher. I have read aloud this book to my various classes. I have found my students loving the book. Many tell me it is their new favorite book. Together we come up with service ideas of how we can make our year "A Shining Season". This books reaches right into their hearts and stays there. John Baker is the role model that our children and young adults need. If you only buy one book this year, I recommend highly that "A Shining Season" be the one. I can never express enough how thankful I am for this book.

There are many books out there today about our sport and about people in our sport, but none touch the soul as deep as "A Shining Season." I along with many of the other reviewers read this book for the first time when I was younger and in junior high. This book is a MUST to read, runner or nonrunner this book with touch your heart and motivate you to look at your life and want to live yours in such a way that John would smile from heaven and be proud. As a middle school kid I can remember to this day wanting to call information and ask for John Bakers parents phone # so I could thank them for having such a great son. This book touched my life and I hope it will touch yours as well. God bless John.

An outstanding book.

I'm an emotional sap and cry at the drop of a hat, but if any one can read this book and not go through a few tissues they either have incredible emotional control or are extremely cold. I started this book yesterday after I got home, around lunch time. I finished it (250 pages) last night. I don't think I've ever done that before. It reads fast. It is the tragic, yet wonderful, true story of John Baker - one of American's best milers in 1969. He teaches elementary school kids and truly lives a life of purpose; a life well lived.

Buy this book now and read it, but stock up on the tissues. You'll come away wishing you had known him. This is mostly a book about teaching kids and heroic character and doesn't talk much about running.

A no-nonsense, firm, but gentle warning note to those of us committed to the so-called path of self-development. Trungpa patiently brings into fresh air the dangerous and destructive method by which we typically approach the notion of spirituality: i.e. as something to be developed, learnt through discipline or otherwise achieved much as we seek to aquire the prizes in our everyday material life. Trungpa's message was ideally suited to that aspect of ourselves - the Eastern mind as much as the Western - which is constantly looking for something external through which we hope to secure our sense of self and make us happy. Exposing this tendency with great skill and clarity, he outlines a more open, direct and yet infinitely more challenging way to experience Mind beyond the self through correct meditation. Even amongst Buddhist literature this is wonderfully refreshing and at once destroys all hope of bettering oneself and yet points to a far brighter fact: that true liberation inevitably involves letting go of the self rather than working to improve it. The often rather painful process of spiritual awakening is made sense of in this book if we begin to see that our emotions and thoughts cloud our direct experience of reality. An apt message befitting an enlightened being who wore his suits 2 sizes too small as a constant reminder of the irritation and dissatisfaction of the samsaric world.

Excellent discourse and scathing on modern day ooey-gooey chocolaty tranquiliser meditation(TM). Discover truly what TRUTH (Guru) is all about.

Do you think you're becoming a better person?

Trungpa's book is a reality check for wide-eyed spiritualists, mystics and "believers" of all kinds. He makes a clever back door assualt on the ego and its overwhelming tendency to hijack the spiritual process. While I found some parts rather arcane, it's generally an economical text. I would especially recommend it to anyone with an interest in self-development who is exploring the spiritual path (is that what it's called?). Read it before committing yourself any further to may be just more BS. For me, this book brought years of self-gratifying meditation practice to a sudden halt. Rather like waking from a warm happy dream, and I have not looked back.

Let me start by going backwards. In the appendix, the authors testify that this book is about the "greenest" on the market. With soy-based inks and nearly 100 percent of the paper content comprised of post- and pre-consumer waste, the book is a monument to sustainable production. Although they bemoan the "well traveled pulp" cover, no dioxins were co-produced alongside the book. To prove the book really is this cool, they painstaking tracked the web of connections involved in its production as far back as possible.

After discussing every facet of the book, from guts and cover to printing, the only thing they were unable to determine was where half the cover's paper was produced. In all, this post-production analysis was stunning. The delicate web of causes and effects that entered into the books production should serve as a model to all those who would conceive the production of any product. Ideally, we should strive for this kind holistic understanding of production, consumption, and disposal before products every leave the design table.

The actual content of the book is just as salient. What happens when millions of ordinary people like you and me go about our ordinary business, using lots of stuff? What ecological "wakes" do they leave behind, rippling outward across the world? This is the premise of the book, which is rather unassuming and commonsensical. The answers, however, are anything but mundane and commonsensical. The true stories of how things are made might leave you feeling overwhelmed or depressed. You might think twice about throwing that lump of sugar into your coffee -- and not only because it could add a few extra pounds and put you at greater risk of heart disease. You do so also in efforts to help restore the habitat of the Florida Everglades.

Did the profound disconnect sink in yet? Not to worry, another 9 generic commodities with their own unique global "ripples" await you after picking up this book. They include you morning coffee, the newspaper, your T-shirts, shoes, that computer, the bike (and the car), those French fries, the hamburger that preceded them, and also the cola which will wash it all down. Although the imaginary North American whose daily consumptive routine this book tracks might not be you, do not then assume that these issues do not therefore concern you. The fact is, the consolidated effects of this consumption are harming much more than the Florida Everglades. They could potentially end all human reproduction. Perhaps you should read that last sentence again.

We need to educate ourselves about this net ecological "wake" before the rooster tail of acid rain, rainforest destruction, ozone depletion, water depletion, air pollution, forest annihilation, energy exhaustion, pesticide inundation, sweatshop labor promotion, species extinction, waste production, monoculturalization, spiritual declination, heavy metal pollution creation, VOC smog accretion, and desertification leave us all wet and shivering in the cold.

"Well, what am I supposed to do bury my car?" you wonder. The book also offers hope. Consumption, whether we like it or not, is in end inescapable. Thus by understanding our impacts, seeking alternative solutions, educating the friends and the general public, and at the same time altering some our most unhealthy consumer habits, we can help move things in the right direction. If you are looking for more in-depth suggestions along these lines, check out "The Better World Handbook" (2001). It is my personal eco-bible. You can also get further eco-tips from the Northwest Environmental Watch website.

~A Top 10 glObal Eye-Opener~

I didn't know this book would be such a nice read...
After receiving it, I read it all in one sitting. The book chronicles a day in the life of a typical person (an American). Although it is about an American, I believe there is not much difference between any ordinary person in any developed country on earth. The impacts of this person's consumption of products, her actions are all examined from an environment viewpoint. Some people may think that the book is too amateur but that's precisely why it's such a good read. It's easy to understand but leaves a lasting impression on you. I strongly recommend it to anyone interested in knowing more about how our everyday actions affect the world we live in.

I've never found another book like this one. It makes it extremely easy to understand, breathtakingly clear, how our choices to consume various products cause a chain of events which harm the environment. Do you know what was done to a river in Canada to produce the six-pack of aluminum cans you just bought? What part of the earth did your coffee come from, and what scary things were done to produce it? The authors never hector or nag, they just describe the origin of things you probably use every day, and let you contemplate them for yourself. The book is a quick and easy read, suitable for adults and teens alike. If I were a high school teacher or college instructor, this book would be mandatory reading for my classes.

I first read this book about 16 years ago after my Dad gave it to me. I have read it about ten times since and still have it. I honestly do not think I will ever read a book again in my life that will have the same profound effect on me that this book accomplished. Everyone has someone who they look up to, Pat Pattle, to me is that person. If there is anyone who has any photos of Pat Pattle other than the general two published in books I would be most interested in getting a copy from them.

I do hope this book will be printed again. My Dad flew with "Pat" Pattle in 80 squadron in the Western Desert and was one of his best friends. The book cannot be faulted for accuracy as I gave my parents a copy some years ago and they read it avidly. My Dad, by the way, was "Old Man Evers ", so called because he was the oldest pilot on the Squadron. Enjoy the book and remember those brave lads.

this book the most intriging book because he was the youngest pilot ever to become the worlds ace of aces.

"Listen to the Trees" is some of the most beautiful photography I've ever seen. While he worked with Ansel Adams and chose similar subjects and locations (aspens, Yosemite, etc.) he has a very distinct vision... a very powerful one at that. I'd say there's a more "romantic" conception - in the musical or literary sense - in Sexton photographs in contrast to Ansel Adams more formalist approach. Some of Sexton's photo's might even be called "gothic" in that literary sense. The photography is technically virtuosic and dazzlingly so. It makes me want to buy a view camera and head out to the woods every time I look at this book. I look a this book often and share it with anybody who would care to look at it. Worth every penny.

I LOVE IT! This book is absolutely amazing. My all time favorite. The prints are amazing. I love these prints almost more then those of Ansel Adams. I dare to say John will be held up next to Ansel not too far down the road. This book shows why I feel this way. The work is . . . undescribable! The next step beyond the "Zone System."

Well printed on glossy paper, this book contains pictures of Aspens, Redwoods, Cottonwoods, etc. in grand locations like Yosemite, Zion, and others, all done using 4x5 camera (with notes on lenses and film used). Some pictures are tack sharp and contrasty, seeing the new white buds on fir trees, or white star-like leaves behind a black stream. Some are eerily grey, or shot on misty mornings. Nice to see a collection on one topic and using the large format negative. Could use even more pictures, or a "Listen to Trees" in color, but a great inspiration for nature photographers and black and white dark-room enthusiasts. Great coffee table book too!

My kids really enjoy this book. It was a gift from Grandma for my oldest son because he likes to say funny words. This book is full of funny words and names that all three of our kids love. At the end of the book, my daughter always wants to know "what happend to Grandma", so we come up with all kinds of possibilities. This is a wonderful book and is read often as our bedtime routine.

This is definitely the best picture i have ever read to my children and i would recomend it to all parents and children alike. It makes you smile and feel so content and happy as you reach the last page. The illustrations, superb, the story, edge of your seat stuff.

Recommend t for everyone, young and old.

This beautifully illustrated book set in Australia's outback has the most interesting animals I've ever seen! The multicultural theme can be used in classrooms and at home to promote an understanding of native animals of Australia, relationships with elders, women of independence, and travel. The story is beautifully written in prose and the illustrations are patterned in pencil/charcoal and brilliant pictures.

Have you ever wanted to just become someone else? Ever had the feeling that you were meant to do something else with your life? Ever been bullied, and wished that just once you could fight back? If any of these themes grab you, then you need to get Able, Baker, Charley by John Maxim. This is one of those rare reads that just keeps getting better chapter by chapter. I noted that this excellent book has recently been re-released too, so should not be hard to find. I have reread this book a half dozen times, and will probably continue to do so until Mr. Maxim DOES A SEQUEL.

This book is a rare JEM. From beginning to end you are totally engrosed by action and suspense. The main Character(s) Baker is one that is likable from the start. My uncle gave this book to me and said this is a MUST read. He was right. This book is like a hit song, one hook after another. Just when you think you've figured out what is happening, BOOM, you're totally floored by the unexpected. The story of multiple personalites has been done many times, but never wrapped around an adventure like this. Baker is not unlike all of us. He's just been able to separate emmotions into separate people. If it's possible, find this book. You won't regret your effort

Celebrate Recovery works because it is a biblicaly backed tool that is written using Gods principles and guidelines for our lives. It is put in a format that is easy to understand and gets to the root of our issues. No matter what your background is drugs, alcohol, sexual abuse, adandoment, anger, over eating, over spending. If your life is out of control, your marriage a mess or you just want more God, Celebrate Recovery can show you how to heal, grow and teach others. It is not just for those that are beyond hope, it is for everyone.

I have been a Christian for 15 years, but still had resentment and habits in my life from learned dsyfunctions that did not allow me the freedom Christ had for me. A little over two years ago I went through an experience that totally devastated me. I would not have tried to take my own life, but everynight for months I would come home and kneel by my bed and pray for Jesus to take me home. I was sick of being here where your heart was ripped out and everyone was always playing games it seemed at your expense. It was at that point that God truly humbled me and started turning my life around. Celebrate Recovery has started me at the begining and is step by step guiding me through what Gods word can and wants to do if we will just apply it to our lives. But most of us do not understand how to do this.

I know it works because it has changed my life. And I see it doing miracles in peoples lives every week. I am now the Celebrate Recovery coordinator in my church. We are a small church of about 100 people, about 40 members, but on Fridays nights there are 12 faitful people that show up and say here we are God, change us. And he is taking this tool that has been given us and healing hurts that have been buried for 10, 20 or more years, he is changing thinking habits and lifestyles that have chained us to our past. It is healing and setting free. Since Sept. 12, 200, we have been meeting and at times I just stand in awe of what I see happening. ANd looke forward to the knowledge that when this class is over after the 52 weeks that there will be 12 ministys that will be laucnhed to touch people in all different needs. It is a tool that not only takes the broken, hurt, addicted and abused form their painful lifestyle, but it develops them so that they can show others.

God had taken me form a life of drugs, abandonment and broken relationships, sexual abuse and things that I never understood

that they were from bad choices, then he showed me that I must be set free from the chains that I had allowed to be placed around me.

God took one broken, messed up woman and is gracious enough to use her to teach this to others, so that they too can be healed and touch others.

This book is a must for everyone that wants a life of freedom found in Christ. If it is not in your church or home it should be.

The purpose of this book is to allow us to become free from life's hurts, hang-ups, and habits. By working through the eight principles of recovery based on the Beatitudes, with Jesus Christ as our Higher Power, we can and will change!

You will experience the true peace and Serenity that you have been seeking. You will no longer need to rely on dysfunctional, compulsive, and addictive behaviors as a temporary fix" for your pain.

Time does not heal all wounds, but time only extends the pain if the problem isn't dealt with. This Book is based on the actual words of Jesus rather than a psychological theory.

I can say this not only because I have the book, but I have been in the celebrate recovey program for the last five months and I am a living testimony, it works!

You will be blessed with a deep peace and a lasting freedom as you walk your own road to recovery and receive a increased stronger relationship with God and others!

God Bless You :)

Great descriptions, delightful drawings. A slim little book you'll always wish you had handy.

This is a wonderful companion for a bibliophile or or just anyone who wants to discover NY. The illustrations by Tristana Maccio are just as witty as the writing.

Sam Turner was out and down on his luck. He recently divorced his second wife and is now trying to put his life back in order. He joins a men's group and lies to the group telling them that he is a private investigator. Shortly thereafter he is hired as one and someone from the group asks him to track his wife whom he suspects of cheating. Seems easy enough until Turner's client is found dead. Sam knows it could not have been the wife since he has been tracking her all day. It is not until he investigates the case a bit further and finds out that his client was a victim of a serial killer.

This book appears to be the beginning of a new series. The main character is trying to get back on his feet and he is helping everyone he can. He turns from a nobody into a somebody in a short time. He now runs a detective agency with the help of acquaintances he has made along the way. They help him as well as each other. Most of the supporting characters are looking for a meaning to their lives and Sam helps to provide it. POET IN THE GUTTER is an excellent start for a promising new author.

Sam Turner is adrift emotionally and financially when he tells his new men's group in York that he's a private investigator. Soon one of the members makes Sam's fantasy into reality when he hires Sam to follow his perhaps errant wife. When murder is part of the case Sam finds himself exchanging information with the York police. Gaining a bit of fame after a televised interview, Sam is inundated with work offers and must hire some assistants. Celia, a retired Quaker teacher becomes his motherly and intelligent office manager. Sam hires his pool shooting friend Gus, who also happens to be a whizz with electronics, to help. Little by little Sam befriends a homeless teen named Geordie and adds him to the team. Characterization is the strongest element of this book, although the mystery is good, too. The characters spring to life from the very first and keep the reader intrigued. This is the first book in a series of four, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves good crime fiction.