First things first: If there was a ten star rating it would apply
to this book. Secondly, I found these authors through another of
their books, "Precalculus With Limits - A Graphing Approach". That book was just as well written. Truth be told, I would buy any of their books, sight unseen. They are a students
teacher and a teachers teacher. They don't sacrifice rigor, nor do they forget the mathematical maturity of their student audience. Using their books alone, and self-study (no classes,
tutors, or the intellectual diet pill category of "Calculus Made
Simple" or "Calculus The Easy Way" silver bullets I filled a forty year gap in math studies in 1-1/2 years to the point of
acing the AP Calculus and AP Physics Exams. Knowing calculus prior to beginning physics with calculus is an absolute necessity. I am no genuis. I do not have exceptional ability. I simply had the advantage of two textbooks written by teachers who
really care and take a mentoring approach to writing. All of this
has really been a long-winded way of saying that with this book
and a healthy dose of strong motivation and perserverance you will succeed in your calculus courses.

The best book about Calculus I ever seen. Read it and you will know all about you need to love mathematics.

This is no doubt the best textbook I have ever owned in any subject. I've never been able to actually read through a math text untill this book came along. The analytic graphs are colorful (and the 3-D generated ones are simply astounding) which is totally different from the dull, dreary, and nightmarish math texts from my past. This math book is unlike any other I have seen before -- in a class of its own. There are plenty of examples, charts, and many many exercises(some especially challenging). I went through Calculus I and have taught myself Calc II within a matter of weeks. Highly recommended.

I love this book. I didn't realize how much until I found myself checking it out and renewing it endless times at the library. It's too bad it's out of print. This book gives you everything you need to get started right away. You really don't need any other book to get control of your finances. After spending a little bit of time logging my expenses (the forms are included), I was able to get a clear picture of what I was spending and making. I needed only the forms included in the book, a copier and a few other simple materials (listed in the book) to get my self in shape. It helped me get rid of that sinking feeling I would get when thinking about money.

This is the best program out there, and believe me I have tried them all! I was able to stop behaving like a teenager with my money and become an adult financial planner in a very short period of time! I even attracted a new job and doubled my income because of the affirmations I used from this program. Don't wait, buy it now, and use every word and piece of advice. It was easy and I have been reluctant for years to do this because I didn't want to see how bad my financial picture was. Ron and Mary taught me to let go of past judgements about myself and my ability to manage money! This is the one!

I particularly enjoyed the part about setting up effective financial records and "getting my house in order." The book provides practical guidance for how to gain control of your finances and start aiming toward your dreams. Most importantly, it realizes that while each person reading the book is coming from a different situation, all readers have the same aspiration: control of your financial future. The book is non-judgemental and teaches readers not to judge themselves based on their past money-management successes or failures. It helps readers re-program their thoughts to become their own reliable financial advisors.

Moving Target, by Ron Arias, is the story of an American family, but not your typical next-door-neighbor kind of family. This is the story of a military family from the perspective of a sensitive, intelligent boy. While fellow army-brats will nod their heads in recognition as they read this memoir, most civilians would be astonished by the impact war and the warrior culture of discipline and rootlessness can have on a marriage and family.

Once begun,this book is not easy to put down. It is a chronicle written in a clear, accessible style, and often reads like a mystery novel. It takes a trip through recent history, putting personal faces on the Korean Conflict and the Cold war. As the writer matures and explores his father's military career and his mother's aspirations and marriage, many questions emerge. I felt compelled to follow Mr. Arias on his search to find the "real" man who shaped his life. Both his parents are brought fully to life, and as a bonus, Mr. Arias shares his adventures as a journalist. It is a courageous, heartbreaking, intimate life story that I will not soon forget.

I made the mistake of starting to read "Moving Target" before going to bed one evening; at 3 am I was still unable to put this book down. It's the memoir of Ron Arias, a staff correspondent for People Magazine. It starts out as a biography of Arias' parents. His father, Armando, is being held as a POW in Korea. His mother holds the family together until Armando's return. But this happy event is soon overshadowed by many troubles; Armando is being discredited by the Army, his promotion to captain is delayed (is it because he's Hispanic?) And he's a changed man, brooding, a strict disciplinarian but now with an edge since his return from near-starvation and survival of a Korean POW camp. Ron and his brothers find the household tense and troubling after Armando returns.

And there are more mysteries. Why does Ron's mother refuse to take communion at Sunday Mass? There is truth to be uncovered here, and Arias takes us on a young man's journey to find himself and his family.

The memoir also shows us Arias' development as a writer, from a chance encounter with Hemingway in Pamplona, to a course in English literature in Argentina from a Professor Borges (yes, Jorge Luis Borges.) And in Argentina, Ron begins a career as a journalist. We follow Ron through a stint in Peru as a Peace Corps volunteer and watch how a young and talented journalist develops. But the story of his family and his identity is an equally compelling thread.

This is probably one of the best memoirs I've read in years. The writing is crisp, the description of everyday details sharp and focused. Arias has the ability to go back and look out of the eyes of innocence and ignorance-we follow him along in the book as if we all were sent back in time in his life. If you liked "The Color of Water" or "Angela's Ashes" this book will resonate with you. You really should read it. I promise you won't be disappointed.

The author has captured the depth and spirit that keeps our POW's alive, knowing that we cannot forget them and the sacrifice that they have made for us. It does not matter if they are held three weeks or three years, we must keep them in our hearts, minds, and prayers. This book should be required reading by the Military and their families, and those that are quick to find fault with the men and women in uniform. I came away from each chapter as a member of the family and their ordeal after the war. We must remember that the families are just as much POW's!

First of all the book has eye appeal. The title and cover catch your eye and invite a closer inspection. Then the story catches your attention and you are drawn into the world of Jennifer and her friends who embark on a venture to try and save Kissy, the little monkey she had loved all its life. Kissy was to be used in a dangerous army experiment, and Jennifer was determined to save her at all costs. The rescue efforts involve the girls in some risky adventures and creates some humorous predicaments. The characters are well-drawn; the conversations flow smoothly; the action is exciting; the outcome is very satisfying. There is also a warm relationship between Jennifer and her father that is also very satisfying. The situations are those that young people could well imagine themselves to be involved. I would unhesitatingly recommend "Operation Monkeymail" to librarians, parents, and students. A good read.

Hi, I just read a fantastic book, called Operation Monkeymail. I should know how to judge a book if I have a bundle of Acelerated Reader points shouldn't I? Well this book (along with the many others) is, well... WONDERFUL! They (the authors)should make a movie since the book seems so real it would be perfect! Usually people like the book better than the movie. But the movie would exactly the same as the book... only on screen!!When or if the movie comes out I would LUV to see it before the theaters snatch it up!!!!!

I just finished reading "Operation Monkeymail". I want to commend the authors. It is delightfully funny, fast reading with adventure. I hope to see the sequel to it soon.

This is a wonderful book. It goes from the very beginning of figuring out what camera is right for you to how to light and compose your subject. It also covers everything in between. This book really gives you an inside look at photography while not getting to complex to confuse you. It's not only a great beginners book but it's also for the photo buff in any family. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to take pictures and the people who want to get even better at it.

Picture-Taking for Moms and Dads is a life saver. Ron Nichols has packed more practical, useful tips in this volume than seem possible. His comments on lighting alone are worth the price. Also, his advice to "consider it playtime," is the missing ingredient in most family photography. This is a wonderful book, and has already changed me from a semi-competent picture snapper into a fledgling photographer. Well written, with great advice. Highly recommended.

Ron Nichols' book is a must for novice photographers who want to take photos of their children that will last a lifetime. His experience as a professional photographer and as a proud parent shows through in this well-illustrated book. The variety in topics to cover all the basics of a good picture is well thought out. His focus on getting photos that are composed and lighted to bring out the best in the character of your children make it a great reference book. I believe anyone, no matter what their knowledge level in photography (especially if they are a complete novice) can pick this book up and in no time at all be taking photos that are a 100 percent improvement over their current photos. Having taken photos and coached novices who want better photos myself, I have to say I am impressed with the both the material and the presentation in this book.

I ordered this bible for my 14 year old son who is in confirmation class. He has an NRSV gift bible which he was struggling with. I have the Learning Bible in the CEV edition which I teach bible from and most people I work with find the CEV very refreshing.
The Promise Bible adds all of the cool stuff that student bibles like the Life Application and others have, but it is easier to comprehend than even the NIV which is important for those first studying the bible. I think the CEV also does a better job of keeping with the meaning of the scripture than the bibles I had as a kid like the Good News bible. The research for the CEV is very strong and compares strongly with most commentaries.
I think this is a good bible for teens and a good version for all of us who have a little trouble with the kings english.

This Bible is so cool. It's great for 2 reasons.

1. It's the Word Of God, so it's going to be great! 2. It's so easy to understand!

I Love this Bible. I use it for my Quiet Times with the Lord every morning! This Bible can change your life! READ IT!!!!

I bought this Bible two years ago and I love it. It has an appealing cover (and lots of people do judge books that way!). And the inside is truly amazing. It presents the Word of God in a way that makes teenagers want to read this Bible, whether they don't really know the Lord or they already have an awesome walk with Christ. The inserts (Promise, He, You, What if, etc) are great and they help students understand the Bible better. The 10 Challenges and Chacteristics of World Changers are awesome, too. The only problem is this Bible would have been better in an NIV or NRSV version. Still, the CEV is clear and easy to understand. Definately get this Bible for a teenager or adult!

A superb Book, ideal for the beginner through to advanced collector, a wealth of high quality images and a very readable and interesting narrative on German military history. A Very detailed history of the regimental stein that is unsurpassed. This is a must have for any Regimental stein collector. Also very nice quality paper, printing and binding, seldom seen in modern books.

Regimental stein collectors whether new or well versed will benefit greatly from this book. Mr. Heiligenstein has laid the information out in a logical and orderly fashion. Making it extremely easy to use. The manner at which Mr. Heiligenstein has chronologically presented the history of the regiments, and the principals involved was fantastic. The person purchasing this book will quickly be assisted by years of research and experience put to print by Mr. Heiligenstein. In addition to all of this. The stein illustrations with their double view frames is a novel idea. The stein collector who attempts to collect steins without this book in his reference library is in trouble. Trust me on this, I was there!

I have read Mr R. Ron Heiligenstein's book Regimental Beer Steins. As a regimental stein collector I find that his book gives great insight to the origination and the on going understanding of the regimental stein. His individual photographs and comments on each allow the collector to seek out and gain an understanding of their own collection visually. Mr. Heiligenstein does not spoon feed the reader but he does supply the information that the collector needs to advance his knowledge of rgimental stein collecting. The book is not only educational but is attractive to display for all to see. It is my opinion that Mr. Heiligenstein's book with it's wealth of knowledge should be an addition to all stein collectors reference material.

Relive Mark McGwire's historic 1998 assault on the single season home run record with this magnificent book overflowing with full-color photos and amusing anecdotes. "Celebrating 70" charts the slugger's season, home run for home run, and features a bevy of information - complete with pictures - including the date of each long ball, the distance, and which pitcher was christened with the dubious distinction of yielding one of Big Mac's clouts! Along the way, you can read a brief summary for each game McGwire applied his trade. The pictures have been well chosen, conveying the emotion of each moment. The text matches the shear exuberance of the images, and Jack Buck's forward is simply splendid.

The 1998 baseball season was truly one of the most magic in recenty years, thanks in part to the "home run battle" between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa. This book chronicles their achievement which I suspect will grow to legendary tones in the years to come. The sportmanship between these two hereos was evident all season long, and the book reflects that.

Perhaps it was fitting that McGwire should wind up in a city that is a true "baseball town," and one that could truly love and cherish his accomplishment. I remember watching the game on TV where McGwire broke Babe Ruth's home regular season home run record and even the Cub players stood and applauded him. This book remembers that.

It starts off with pictures of McGwire and a nice foreword by Jack Buck, the longtime St. Louis Cardinals' broadcaster. There's also a brief story about Maris and Ruth, the men McGwire chased for most of that long summer. And then the home runs. Each page is devoted to a description of each one; the date, the opposing pitcher, the final score and so on.

Reading through each page brought back all those wonderful memories of the 1998 season for me. This book is a wonderful treasure and keepsake to celebrate an incredible baseball season by one man.

For the strongman from Pomona, California playing for the St. Louis Cardinals, the Summer of '98 was one long victory parade. A reminder of seasons past & a celebration of baseball future. He became a national hero & role model with class. He gave baseball back its luster. In this large, glossy, colorful homage to one fabulous boy of summer - the team of writers, photographers, designers & editors has given us a memorable, collectible, hit-by-hit, play-by-play story of a modern grand adventure. What a gift!

At one time or another, most of us will likely have to write code performing some amount of numerical computation beyond simple integer arithmetic. As many of us are neither mathematicians nor intimately familiar with the bit gymnastics our machines must perform in order to manipulate numbers, we can get ourselves into trouble if we're not careful. Luckily, "Java Number Cruncher" comes to the rescue.

This book is an introduction to numerical computing using Java providing "non-theoretical explanations of practical numerical algorithms." While this sounds like heady stuff, freshman level calculus should be sufficient to get the most out of this text.

The first three chapters are amazingly useful, and worth the price of admission alone. Mak does a fine job explaining in simple terms the pitfalls of even routine integer and floating-point calculations, and how to mitigate these problems. Along the way the reader learns the details of how Java represents numbers and why good math goes bad. The remainder of the book covers iterative computations, matrix operations, and several "fun" topics, including fractals and random number generation.

The author conveys his excitement for the subject in an easy-to-read, easy-to-understand manner. Examples in Java clearly demonstrate the topics covered. Some may not like that the complete source is in-line with the text, but this is subjective. Overall, I found this book educational, interesting, and quite enjoyable to read.

Numerical computing in JAVA is an often-overlooked topic. So when this book came out, I couldn't wait to find out what it offers.

The first part of the book covers the pitfalls of doing numerical computing in JAVA. Do you know how many numeric data types JAVA have and what are the differences among them? Do you know which JAVA type, float or double, is more precise and which one should be used in your computation? Do you know what is a roundoff error and what operations could lead to such an error? Do you know how JAVA handles integer overflow, whether an overflow exception will be thrown? If there is a "No" to the above questions, you will benefit from reading the first part. The book starts to talk about computational algorithms in second part. The algorithms are between high school and college level. Although I didn't learn mathematics in English and haven't touched it for many years, I was able to understand most of them without much difficulty. The author does a great job in explaining mathematical theories in a clear and non-theoretical way. The graphical illustration helped me a lot at the same time. I also liked the style that all the source codes are presented in the book. Without having to sit in front of a computer, I can relax in a sofa, browse the codes, learn the implementations and highlight whatever inspired me. I had some trouble following part III, matrix, but still got excited when finding that 3-D animation could be done by matrix operations. The funs come back in the last part. The BigDecimal and BigInteger classes get introduced there and I was impressed by the extensive functionality JAVA delivers.

All in all, this book lives up to its title. Without the requirements of a strong methematical background, you'll find this book very informative and educational and essentially broaden your JAVA and programming skills. I realize more and more applications start to use JAVA for numerical programming, especially in the academic society where the web and rich GUI features of JAVA can bring better learning experience to students. One of my personal interests is to see some comparisons between JAVA and other languages in the aspects of numerical computing.

Numerical computing in JAVA is an often-overlooked topic. So when this book came out, I couldn't wait to find out what it offers.

The first part of the book covers the pitfalls of doing numerical computing in JAVA. Do you know how many numeric data types JAVA have and what are the differences among them? Do you know which JAVA type, float or double, is more precise and which one should be used in your computation? Do you know what is a roundoff error and what operations could lead to such an error? Do you know how JAVA handles integer overflow, whether an overflow exception will be thrown? If there is a "No" to the above questions, you will benefit from reading the first part. The book starts to talk about computational algorithms in second part. The algorithms are between high school and college level. Although I didn't learn mathematics in English and haven't touched it for many years, I was able to understand most of them without much difficulty. The author does a great job in explaining mathematical theories in a clear and non-theoretical way. The graphical illustration helped me a lot at the same time. I also liked the style that all the source codes are presented in the book. Without having to sit in front of a computer, I can relax in a sofa, browse the codes, learn the implementations and highlight whatever inspired me. I had some trouble following part III, matrix, but still got excited when finding that 3-D animation could be done by matrix operations. The funs come back in the last part. The BigDecimal and BigInteger classes get introduced there and I was impressed by the extensive functionality JAVA delivers.

All in all, this book lives up to its title. Without the requirements of a strong methematical background, you'll find this book very informative and educational and essentially broaden your JAVA and programming skills. I realize more and more applications start to use JAVA for numerical programming, especially in the academic society where the web and rich GUI features of JAVA can bring better learning experience to students. One of my personal interests is to see some comparisons between JAVA and other languages in the aspects of numerical computing.

I have been working in the computer help desk field for almost 2 years and before that for 18 months in Marketing Communications. Reading this book and Delivering KYSOS has convicted me of many errors in attitude and performance and shows that excellent customer service does not have to be drudgery and can really be fun!

Furthermore, as a side benefit, I have begun to apply KYSOS in my personal life as well, and am really enjoying it. It has also made me aware of excellent service when I receive it, and I now feel obligated to compliment the deliverer (and sometimes the manager!) rather than simply be served and move on.

You don't have to work in a traditional Customer Service role to benefit. No matter what your work is, you have customers - your bosses, shareholders, executives, your secretaries and clerical help, your vendors, etc. And if you are out of work, your potential employers and interviewers are your customers!

Don't buy this book or any in the Knock Your Socks Off series unless you are prepared to make some basic changes in your general attitude that will make your work and your personal life more rewarding and a lot more fun!

Managing Knock Your Socks Off Service is a must have book for anyone in the service industry. All companies have consumers, either internal(employees) or external (customers), or both. Zemke & Bell have created a simple, yet intricate formula for great customer service. First, there must be a vision for all to follow & it must be communicated to all. Great customer service is a critical factor in today's economy and will continue to be in the future. If you can provide great customer service first for your employees and allow them to be a viable resource for you, then they can carry on that vision and are able to provide knock your socks off service to your customers.
If you are in management now or will be in the future, please read and learn how you can provide great customer service to your company, employees, and your customers. Success can be within your reach, if you apply the philosophy within this book.

This is a great book. It provides many great suggestions as well as reminders for anyone in customer service. Managing Knock Your Socks Off Service explains the important points for customer service in an easy to read format.