I was lost. It seemed to me that Western psychological theories were largely speculation and confident assertion and not much help. Krishnamurti made some great sense but I'd been unable after years to put his teaching into practice. What a welcome relief to find David Reynolds and "Constructive Living".

The emphasis on doing what one can do may seem simple. However, I had become so complicated and Reynolds' teaching set me straight and has kept me that way for 14 years now. This book and another early book by Reynolds, "The Quiet Therapies", provide tools that don't depend on any guru, including Reynolds. Unlike other teachers, Reynolds teaches! and then gets out of your way.

Reynolds' teaching draws from Japanese sources that were influenced by Buddhism. There's no need to become a Buddhist, but it was a good start for me in learning about Buddhism. Reynolds big contribution has been helping me learn to stay grounded. A day doesn't go by that I don't apply what I learned from "Constructive Living". Reynolds is prolific but this one of his many books on Constructive Living has been my favorite.

Reynolds is an excellent speaker as well. The 3 audiotapes available for "Constructive Living" are a fresh presentation on the subject with many new anecdotes and not a reading of this book. The book and tapes have complemented each other well for me.

As a clinician and director of a residential program for people with eating disorders and chemical dependencies, Constructive Living provides a challenge to patients (students) and clinicians (teachers) alike. CL is about common sense and taking responsibility for solving both the day to day and long term problems of living. It offers a gateway to those seeking the truth about changing their lives. Those who read this book with an open mind will be challanged to revisit their current notions about Western psychotherapy and, more importantly, prompted to "live" in the solutions rather than continue to rethink and overanalyize the problems. It has become required reading for all my patients and remains for more than a decade, one of three books I keep on my nightstand for constant reference.

I read this book several times several years ago. I found the information included to be insightful and practical. I loaned it to a friend in crisis and it was so helpful to him, he asked to keep it. I have another friend in crisis and think this book will be of help to him, so I am ordering two more; one for him and one for me too keep and read again.

HERE IT IS CRASH FANS, DAVID CRONENBERG's SCREENPLAY OF J. G. BALLARD's CRASH. THE 65 PAGE SCREENPLAY IS PRECEDED BY A 10 PAGE INTRODUCTION WHERE DAVID IS INTERVIEWED BY CHRIS RODLEY. IT ALSO CONTAINS 4 PAGES OF B&W PHOTOS. IF IT'S THE FILM's NARRATIVE THAT YOU LOOKING FOR, THEN CHECK OUT THIS 1996 BOOK. IF IT'S THE SOURCE MATERIAL THAT YOU SEEK, THEN CHECK OUT BALLARD's 1973 NOVEL. IF THAT'S NOT ENOUGH, CHECK OUT IAIN SINCLAIR's BOOK ON CRASH (BFI, 1999). EITHER WAY, YOU CAN INDULGE YOURSELF IN THE GUILTY LITTLE PLEASURE THAT IS CRASH. IT'LL BE OUR LITTLE SECRET.

And that's saying alot. When was the last time in literature we got to see something sexual that had never been thought of before? Very Chilling, Very perverse, and an extremely new way of looking at fetishism.

Released to coincide with the limited movie release, J.G. Ballard gives a stunning description of one man's obession with auto crashes after surviving his own accident. With brilliant descriptions and a brilliant touch Ballard takes you into a world of automotive love and the love of accidents like you've never seen before. A great weekend read, you won't be able to put this down. Erotic, thrilling, sad, moving

Another great book by this author. If this is your first but them all because you will really be pleased. They are just what I am looking for. Interesting and inventive stories and really grab your attention and move at a great pace. I really believed the hatred and pain the lead character was carrying around with him as he went on the hunt. The action was well written, not immature like so many of this type of book give you. You are really cheering this guy on. The only critique I have, and it is a minor one, is that I really did not believe that they would keep him as a POW for so long. Other then that I bought into the whole boo. Great Job by the author.

I absolutely loved this book. I will always own a copy of it so I can read it every few years and share it with friends. It is an action-packed book that begins with the lead character as he leaves for Vietnam. Soon after he arrives,he is set up for a crime and then becomes a P.O.W. His escape, 20 or so years later, and his subsequent revenge against those who set him up for the crime and imprisonment take place at an incredibly fast pace. Reading this book is like watching an action movie - only better. If you loved Nelson Demille's Word of Honor you will love Crux.

At my secondary school, a friend of mine had just finished reading this book. At the time I had read almost all of Michael Crichton's and John Grisham's novels. I was a bit weary about reading a book mainly set during the Vietnam War. But from page one, I couldn't get enough. I can't remember many details (names etc.) and I've been looking everywhere for this novel. Even though this review may be vague, I hope you display it, since it is my opportunity to reflect what a classic this book is.

The book starts off in the States and follows the lead character through his happy relationship with his wife and friends to hi deployment to Vietnam. In Vietnam, he is framed with possession of Cannabis, and while he is taken by helicopter to face the music, they are shot down and taken as prisoners. From there, much of the book is about the 20 years he spends in a dark cell with a fellow soldier he befriends. Eventually he escapes only to find that his wife had also moved on . . .to someone who betrayed him. He seeks revenge, only to realize some things alng the way.

Crux is thrilling, thought provoking and very emotional (in the sense of heart-racing adventure and tear-inducing realism). It puts to shame the very basic and uneventful ramblings of Grisham and his ilk. Crux is a subtlely emotional powerhouse. Aellen wastes little time trying to force the issue, he lets it play, and lets you take what you will from it. This book helped me realise that you can't just take soldiers for granted, in fact they deserve more respect than we can understand to give.

Modern books are not what they used to be. Crime and Punishment, Home of the Gentry, and others, are books I learned to respect as a child through my extensive literature education.

But, from the sheer intelligence and the emotional impact this book had on me, Crux is the finest novel I've ever read.

Ryan and his friends(and new son) drop striaght into a power vacum. Ryan doesn't really care who comes out on top untill the main leader of one of the two factions Adam Taylor takes an..unhelthy intrest in Dean. Now all Ryan has to do is kill Adam and the other jolted out Baron named Larry Zep. You know Ryan can do it, I mean after all this is Deathlands.

I think Axlers introduction and early development of Dean has been Quick and Exciting

THIS AGAIN IS ANOTHER GREAT TALE I WAS ABLE TO PROCURE THROUGH AMAZON.COM. THE STORY STARTS WITH THE GROUPS ESCAPE FROM Newyork AND BRINGS THEM TO A REDOUBT HIDDEN IN FLORIDA'S GREENGLADES AMUSEMENT PARK. THEY FIND THAT THE PARK HAS BEEN RESTORED BY BOSS BARON LARRY ZEPP, A FOE FROM RYAN AND J.B. DIX'S DAYS WITH THE TRADER. THEIR MAIN ADVERSARY IN THE STORY IS ADAM TRAVEN, A CHARLIE MANSON TYPE DRUG DEALER WHO CONTROLS ZEPP WITH A DRUG CALLED DREEM.THE PART I REALLY ENJOY IN THE BOOK IS THE FACT THAT THE ARMORY IN THE REDOUBT IS STOCKED AND IT'S WHERE THEY FIRST COME ACROSS SOME OF THEIR SIGNATURE WEAPONS, NAMELEY RYAN 'S STEYR RIFLE AND J.B.'S SMITH AND WESSON M-4OOO. ANOTHER CLASSIC!

Read how Jen the Gelfling saves his planet from being ruled forever by the cruel Skekies. Learn how He Meets Kira, Augrah,and a fuzzball with teeth called Fizzgig. See how he sayes the Pod people! This book is hard to find, but it's worth it!

Thank You Jim Henson were ever you are

Delightful, enthralling fantasy based on the cinematic creativity of the late Jim Henson, this book proves much deeper than mere action-oriented adventure--of which there is plenty. Almost a psychological novel, THE DARK CRYSTAL reveals the coming-of-age of the last male Gelfling on the planet of Thra. From his quiet, dreamy existence in the secluded valley with the ponderous but cerebral urRu, Jen must suddenly depart on a Quest whose details are not fully explained to him. This gentle boy leaves his comfort zone in a desperate attempt to save his planet from another miillenium of destructive rule.

Jen's goal is to find a special crystal shard and reunite it with the mother crystal--now dark with grief and anger at the senseless destruction. This crystal is coveted and guarded in the Dark Castle by the vicious race of Skeksis, who terrorize the planet with their bat spies and insect zombies. Our unlikely hero has only his flute and his wits to guide him, but several surprise friends offer help and advice along his dangerous odyssey--including the last girl Gelfling. Together they race against celestial time, as the Great Conjunction of the triple suns is imminent.

I must admit that I picked up the book because I had seen the mesmerizing movie, in which no human face is seen, yet the characters express and inspire human emotions. But this novel stands proudly on its own merit, just as the Dark Cyrstal hangs mysteriously suspended in mid-air. This is high adventure at its best, coupled with penetrating psychological drama, as the author reveals the various nefarious schemes and motivations of the evil characters. Also the vacillations and maturation of the innocent Gelfling pair, driven by ancient Prophecy. Fear no Hollywood hack job, but settle back to enjoy a wonderful read--for kids of All ages!

Once I picked up this book, I could barely put it down. I finished it that night. David Kohrman brings what would normally be a dull subject manner to life with interesting details and a captivating style of writing. I am eagerly awaiting his next work.

The Book-Cadillac Hotel and the Statler Hilton are two of the most magnificant buildings in Detroit, with it's amazing collection of 1910s and 1920s architecture. DK's excellent book describes in great detail the history of these two landmarks, and updates us on their current sad conditions with brilliant photography. I cannot say enough about the B-C, please check out ... after reading this book, and join the Friends of the Book Cadillac, to assure that the proposed Marriott-led rennovations occur so we can enjoy that landmark for years to come.

What a stimluating walk through time. David George Kohramn visits the history, past and present, of the Detroit Statler and Book Cadillac Hotels. The book is jammed with rare photos I have never seen. His deep research is evident in his concise, but detailed writing. This is a must have for any history buff and individual concerned with the preservation of our past. Thank you David, for an exciting adventure!

I had searched dozens of places for literature that is both accurate and containing high quality photographs. Nothing comes closer to providing the information that this book contains! It has been a treasure trove for me in my quest for knowledge about the wonderful insects we call butterflies. It's an EXCELLENT book for both novice and expert alike. I give it 5 stars and two thumbs up!

As I write this review, there is a blizzard raging outside the bedroom. How pleasant it is to sit down and look at beautiful butterflies at such a moment!

Over 170,000 varieties of butterflies and moths have been identified. The author estimates that an equal number remain to be identified in the future. How can a simple pocket book hope to cope?

Mr. Carter has developed a solid concept for this helpful volume. He gives you a little bit of information about all the things that are most likely to be of interest. Then, as you become more knowledgeable, you can graduate to more extensive works and experiences.

The bulk of the book is a field guide to 5 butterfly and 22 moth families that are most common throughout the world. Over 600 color photographs are contained here. In this way, you have a decent chance of identifying whatever is flying in your garden during the good weather. Each species is beautifully illustrated with the wings outspread and a map showing where the species is usually found. Some species also have illustrations of both sides of the wings, caterpillars and other distinctive views.

Although moth varieties outnumber butterflies by about 9 to 1, the book wisely displays mostly butterflies. The moths chosen rival the butterflies for their wonderful designs and vibrant colorations.

For those with a casual interest in the subject, the beginning will be especially valuable. Here you can find out about the differences between butterflies and moths, the details of the life cyles of these insects, how to best observe them, and tips for building a garden that will attract the largest possible population. I thought that last information was most worthwhile.

At the end of the book are listed some of the many gardens you can visit that are populated by collections of living butterflies. I have found those to be remarkably good fun, and very relaxing. You have to slow down to enjoy butterflies. It's good for each of us to move at butterfly speed more often.

The current edition was published in 2000, and contains corrections to the original 1992 edition so be sure to get this second edition.

After you have finished enjoying this beautiful visit to nature's paintbrush and invention workshop, I suggest that you consider how else you can enjoy studying nature. For example, have you ever looked at flowers with a high-power magnifying glass? Like butterflies, they look quite different (and more wonderful) when you can see more details.

Overcome your stalled thinking that you have to wait for a butterfly to cross your path before you can enjoy one!

IF YOU LIKE BUTTERFLIES AND/OR MOTHS THIS GUIDE WILL MAKE YOU GO HOG WILD AND PIG CRAZY!

This book and it's "Western Mysteries" companion contain extensive amounts of interesting and valuable information. They truly bring together so many of the fundamental aspects that are shared across cultures and disciplines. Even though the books may appear, at first glance, somewhat complex, their many, many entry points provide easy access for both casual reading and deep exploration.

This is a excellent reference for all students of Magick.
The volume abounds in tables and cross references for many Magickal Systems, the section on Hebrew, is an outstanding resource. With corrispondances from a number of major sources, including Golden Dawn, Aliester Crowley, and Eliphas Levi. with correlations between them.

If you want a reference to Magickal systems, Alphabets, and corrisponding number systems, this book is Great.

This book is the first volume of a two volume set that took me over 20 years to research and write. As a child I was drawn to the magic of the ancient alphabets. At nine years old, I had already committed to memory the Greek alphabet. I was able to write in my child's hand the Egyptian hieroglyphic phonetic alphabet. I also copied out from an encyclopedia the Phoenician alphabet, and saw the connections between Egyptian, Phonecian, Greek, and Roman script, and how our own English alphabet of 26 letters evolved from the picture images of these ancient scripts (i.e, A was a bull, and B was a house). In the late 1960s I discovered the number values for the ancient Hebrew alphabet. I was fascinated by the concept that every letter of the alphabet had a different number value, and that the range of numbers spanned from 1 to 9 to 10 to 900 to 100 to 900. This revelation somehow triggered deeply within me past life remembrances of previously studying the sacred nature of the alphabet. From my first exposure to Hebrew, I searched out other cultures and other languages that were isopsephic (i.e., languages that use the letters of the alphabet as number value in addition to phonetic values). What really fascinated me was that any word in an isopsephic language could be measured and numbered by the number values of the letters composing that word. And if two words equalled the same number, they served as poetic metaphors to define the mystical nature of that specific number. As my research progressed, more and more languages unfolded, until I discovered languages in both the east and west that held this mystical property. When I finally recorded all of my research, my occult archaeological discoveries fell naturally to two books, one dealing with the eastern mysteries and one with the western mysteries. The Eastern Mysteries contains so much new material that have never seen print before in English. This includes the numbering of Sanskrit, including a key to the letters on the flower petals known as the chakras. The Tibetan alphabet is also deciphered for the first time, as well as the stroke count of the Chinese language based on Taoist Spirit practices. A key to the actual layout of the I Ching is also deciphered for the first time, and connected back directly to the stroke count of Chinese calligraphy. Beyond these rare discoveries the middle eastern languages of Cuneiform, Hebrew, and Arabic are fully deciphered. There are also many appendices to the 6 chapters in this first volume that offer additional insight into the number philosophy of the ancient world, including the number system of Gurdjieff and the ancient eastern elemental system known as the tattvas. This work, though highly detailed, is aimed at the lay person, and does not require any previous knowledge of any of the alphabets or symbolic systems. I would recommend this book alone, on the merits of the last chapter. For I have written the best possible explanantion of the I Ching that has yet to see print. For in my research with the I Ching over the last 30 years, I had discovered the key to all of its symbolism. That key is the 8 basic trigrams that make up the 64 hexagrams. Once the reader understands these 8 basic shapes, then all of the complex oracular vocabulary can be understood. The Western Mysteries should also be purchased, since the two volumes complement each other, and were originally written as one large volume.

I have listened to this book through a audio system and it was great and comforting too. I too would have liked to know more personal details about eccentrics lives if possible , and I'd like to see more of Dr. Weeks writing.

I first learned about David Weeks and this book while I was looking at the shower curtain in my bathroom absentmindedly one day. My roommate had cut out various pictures from magazines and glued them to a clear plastic curtain and then glued a dark blue plastic curtain behind it to create a nice mosaic. Something nice to look at while showering. Well, behold, I was looking at it that day and I started to read an interview with David Weeks that was on the back of one of the pictures in which the interviewer asks him "what's the difference between a screwball and an Eccentric?" It caught my attention and so I dismantled the shower curtain in order to remove the picture and find out all that I could about David Weeks and "Eccentrics." In the little clipping of the interview that appeared on the back of the picture, David Weeks claimed that eccentrics have less stress in their lives, have bigger bank accounts, and are more popular than those who aren't. He also claimed that they get sick less and usually only need to see a doctor once every decade or so! If you think that just this little snippet of an interview about this book that came into my life was interesting, then you will definitely like this book. I think that this book could save lives. I really do. I wouldn't just say that about any book.

Ever have a book that you not only read and re-read buy buy copies for your friends and new copies for yourself when the copies you have lent out to friends never return? This is one of those books. And just shy 300 pages. My sister Willow is the one I thank for pointing out to me on an outing a few years back. And it is a book that has paid for itself many a time over.

Now maybe it is the fact that I have relatives in England or that because of my Moms MPD etc that I am not afraid of those who are different and who have this quirkiness that makes lemonade out of lemons. I do know I so enjoyed this book because it provided even more insight into how we here in the states treat those who march to their own drummer. As one of the authors noted, we here in the states either lock em up or medicate them, whereas in England they are seen in many ways as a national treasure.

The Chapters on the Four Hundred Years of Eccentrics, The Scientists, Eccentrics in Childhood and the Eccentric Personality and of course sexual eccentrics are what I savored. Like the hysteria in Salem, MA, in the states that saw witches as eccentric and not acceptable. Did you know that Davy Crockett was described as eccentric by his contemporaries? or that female eccentrics have over the centuries often been from the well to do classes?

While great scientists like Galileo, Kepler, Darwin and Mendel and todays recent additions Drrs Richard Feynman and Kary Mullis were all though to be genius as well as eccentrics? And then we have California's own Lillie Hitchcock Coit who was known from day one as an eccentric and a wild woman who built a firehose shapes building in SF because she had such a love for firefighters in and out of bed. She was considered a bohemian and became San Francisco's mascot.

And those practicing open marriage sex sans marriage or group communal etc sexual unions like Jack Reed etc were both considered eccentrics as well as outcasts. Yet like most eccentrics and rebels eccentrics amongst the human and civil rights movements, then feminist movements have been the ones who have brought about the women's right to vote or like Margaret Sanger rights to reproductive choices.

For a "first" book on wild mushrooms I found this one to be very good. The pictures show the top, bottom, stems, colors and different parts of each mushroom. There are "warnings" on those that are ediable, but make some people sick, and the NO-NO"s are equally shown and written about. We're just new at this, and for a "starter" book this was just the ticket.

For those interested in preparing and eating the more common and easily-recognized species of edible mushrooms, this book is a must-have. In-depth species descriptions, including dangerous look a likes, make positive identifications much easier. Lush recipes (with photos) in the back of the book inspire mycophagists to get out in the woods and hunt their quarry. Buy the book -- you'll love it! Suggest using this book in conjunction with Audubon or other field guide.

This books is a wonderful collection of fantistic color photographs. Each recipie is a new journey into an exciting and tasty world of foods under our feet. Highly recommended to scientist and amatuer alike!