In 1971 I met my gourmet mentor in Kentland Indiana and at that time, she introduced me to "Vincent" -- the wonderful cookbook she acquired some time earlier. It was truly "love at first bite". Her favorite dish was "Coq au Vin Rouge a L'Avergnate" which is the gourmet/French name for their Chicken in Red Wine. Truly an awesome dish! So many family favorites -- "Paella Good Friend", "Luchow's German Pancakes", pfannkuchen, "Poularde Pavillon" (chicken in champagne sauce) and the blender Hollandaisse sauce. All of the recipes I've used out of this cookbook, and they have been many, are precise as to ingredients and measurements, and all of the necessary steps are spelled out for the more novice cook. From the moment I was introduced to "Vinnie" (as my family refers to him today), my love for gourmet cooking has grown and expanded. When I'm looking for a recipe to really impress dinner guests, it's always Vinnie that I choose from. He & I have been together since December of 1971 when Santa bought him for me. I wouldn't trade that experience, the adventure in gourmet dining that we've enjoyed for all these years, for anything. I've given so many copies of this book to my dearest friends, to young brides -- it's truly a gift that keeps on giving! Enjoy!!

This is not the first publication it was in 1964 or 1965 I know from watching A&E's Biography on Vincent Price. The cookbook is a wonderful way to show a history of the great places to eat in those days. The recipes are great for the food consieur.Llike my father he was a chef, he met Vincent Price and they talked at some kind of gathering. Price said I'll send you a copy when it comes out. And that basically is the story of how I got the the some of the worlds best recipes from the best restaurants. oh ya the book is also sign by Vincent Price. Thanks John

I first borrowed this book from a friend in college. The recipes range from moderate to time-consuming in difficulty(especially when you're limited to a convection oven and a couple of hot plates) but everything was clearly explained step by step. I tried several recipes(and wrote them down) before returning the book. They all came out both delicious and impressive. The "Chicken in Champagne Sauce" and "Boccone Dolci(Sweet Mouthful)" are alone worth the search. I look forward to being able to put it on my shelf with my other cookbook "staples" and try many more of the recipes. This belongs next to my "Joy of Cooking" and the Silver Palate books.

Mary Reynolds Powell transforms the reader into the world of Vietnam in the early 1970's. Through the descriptive chronology of her year in a Medical Evacuation Hospital outside of Saigon, Powell portrays life in the hospital as seen through the eyes and minds of an array of nurses, physicians, medical assistants, and non-medical personnel. The reader feels the frustration of the young American soldiers and their caretakers who are trying their best to deal with the injury and death encompassed in their daily work performed in the midst of a war that lacks direction from its leaders and is devoid of care about the tragedies experienced by the everyday soldier.

Her vignettes and character portrayals are outstanding. Powell's style let's the reader feel the pain and frustration of the subjects of this book. It is short, well written, and to the point. I highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in this era.

Mary Reynals Powell's book, A World of Hurt, allows you to experience the Vietnam War without having to really go there. She recounts the tragedy of Vietnam and the ludicrousness of the military. The book speaks about the personal experiences of seven individuals. After reading this book, the reader will have a greater understanding of the individuals that were there and the setting they were placed in. Read it.

I met Mary prior to my shipping out to the Gulf War, she told me that she was working on a book about her experiences in the Vietnam War, and also interviewing those that she served with. When the book finally came out I bought the book right away. Upon doing this, I could'nt put it down, I completed it in 2 days. The book had me laughing and on the verge of tears. Many books have been written from the eyes of a men serving in war, but too few have been written about a womens experience in that same war. I have to say her book was easy to read and understand, but at the same time conveys her feelings and alot of the frustration she felt durin her tour in Vietnam. I have to highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to see the war thru the eyes of a Vietnam nurse, or any women serving in a war zone. To all that served with honor in all wars including the one we are now engaged in, May God Bless you all and keep you safe, and also your loved ones.

While packing away all of my Anne of Green Gables books for a trip to Prince Edward Island, I could not find my paperback copies of the first novel. Since I was not about to take my original 6th edition hardcover copy I went to the library to pick up "Anne of Green Gables," and I stumbled upon the Annotated Anne. I lucked out big time. This volume footnotes almost every literary reference and allusion (there are a few that have stilled escaped detection), along with all the people and places. Appendixes present songs mentioned in the book, along with the music, as well as stories and poems, the geography of the story, and lots of other fascinating details. These books is ideal for not only those who want an additional level of understanding to this beloved classic as they reread it (again), but is extremely useful if you happen to be coming out to PEI to visit the "actual" locations. This book will tell you where to find the real Lovers Lane, Lake of Shinning Waters, and other places from the novel as well as places important in the life of L. M. Montgomery. I realize that if you are looking this book over there is a very good chance you already have a copy of "Anne of Green Gables." But you are going to want to have this one as well. I bought my own copy at the Cavendish site, where, as I learned from this book, is where Montgomery wrote the first two Anne books. This is a special edition of a very special story.

Everyone who is a serious Anne collector should definitely buy this book. It gives "Anne" a whole new perspective. Untill I read it I had no idea how many biblical and literary allusions L.M. Montgomery had used. I found out wonderful things about the book's background, such as who Montgomery modeled Anne after. I also got the chance to read some of the poems that Anne read or recited. The Annotated Anne is a worthwile investment for people who truly love Anne Shirley.

I only wish that all of L.M. Montgomery's books were available annotated because she made so many references (literary, political, historical) that seem almost impossible to research these days. I knew I didn't understand many of the references in the book already, but I didn't realize just how many more I only thought I understood!

The editors have thoroughly researched the life and times of L.M. Montgomery. After reading the appendixes in this book I feel much more knowledgeable about L.M. Montgomery, Prince Edward Island and the life of a young girl in a Victorian Canadian villiage.

I really enjoyed this read. According to Aristole's "Poetics" this made for a great tragedy. It contained all six aspects- plot, spectacle, melody, diction, character, imagery. While this work of literary merit has been written with adolescents in mind, I have found that even adults will enjoy the daunting drama that the tricky twins face. In fact, it is my opinion that this book cannot be fully appreciated until an individual has become older and more mature.

You don't have to be an Olsen fan to enjoy the good plot of this book. I thought the reading level was a bit low, even 4 year olds can read it. The plot itself was great. This book has enough suspense to keep you reading 'till the end. I thought the mystery was well-written, with a nice twist at the end. Another great book starring Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen!

As always this is a great book about the two great detictives. They are always on the case. This one is about being at camp. Ashilys lucky pom-poms get stolen. They are on the case. Ashiely can't do cearleading without her lucky pom-poms. Ashiely wants to lead the leader of her cher team. What will happen? Read CHEERLEADING CAMP MYSTERY to find out. It's a great book.

This is the most hearwarming profound diary of a loving child and his family that reachs in and grabs your heart and won't let go. Mary Jo and Charlie's journey made me take a look at my own life. This is a "get me a box of tissue" next to the fireplace, and trust me, you will not put it down story. The love of this child and the determination of his family is a study and lesson for all of us. I am a much richer person reading this, and everyone should read this lesson in life's journey. This book changed my life. It will change yours. Do yourself a favor and read this incredible travel with life, love and Charlie's family.
You will not put it down the same person.

This is a beautiful true story of a young boy's life within the realms of his family and his mother's spiritual journey. Over time, Charlie's multiple disabilities drained the family financially but fueled them spiritually. The story emphasizes what wonderful events can occur when you open your mind and your heart to the Spirit of God. I could not put the book down! Even when extremely tired, I continued to read and sometimes cry as well. I felt I was living with the Stopher family! I can truly say the end of the book is only the beginning!

"Charlie's Touchdown" is a wonderful inspirational book. Mary Jo Stopher's faith is encouraging and an example to follow. The pain and challenges Charlie and his family face are heart wrenching, yet I was uplifted spiritually, as Christ is always the center of their lives. As a parent, another aspect that I found truly moving was their ability not to place limitations on Charlie because of his multiple disabilities, but rather to strive that he would have quality of life. "Charlie's Touchdown" is a story you will not soon forget, it will touch your heart and increase your faith. I know it did mine.

"My sister the Supermodel" This book is about two girls,Mary-Kate and Ashley.Ashley wants to be a supermodel and she can't wait.The poeple from Real Teen magazine were coming to there school to pick a model of the month,and Ashley thinks or she knows that they are going to pick her.But when the day comes Mary-Kate gets picked.So ashley beggs Mary-Kate to make believe that she breaks her leg,so Mary-Kate did.But at the end it turned out that both of them were able to do the modeling.

I really liked this book because it was funny,interesting,and teaches us on how to handle our prblems. Yes I would definetly recommend this book to any one person.

In this Mary Kate and Ashley book the girls school is having a supermodel come to there school to do a photo shoot for one lucky girl who gets picked. Ashley really thinks she has a shot at it and really wants to be a model but Mary Kate on the other hand only wants to miss class. She never dreamed she would get picked but she did. Now Ashley is begging her to switch places. Will they? You'll have to read the book and find out. Oh and if you like the books check out the show on Fox Family Channel. Ta-Ta

In another 2 of a Kind book that reminds me of Sweet Valley Twins,a scout visits Mary-Kate and Ashley's school to choose a one-time model to appear in Real Teen magazine.Ashley couldn't be more excited!She starts turning up at school in sparkly dresses and high-heels.Mary-Kate thinks modelling is silly and playfully teases Ashley over her love of it.There is surprise in both girls when it is Mary-Kate who is chosen as the new Real Teen.Ashley begs Mary-Kate to swap places with her,but after MAry-Kate is conjoled into agreeing ,she starts to regret it.

I originally picked this up because it was by the same publisher as the American Girls Series (I am a huge fan of the Josephine and the Felicity books), along with Spring Pearl. I dove into this book, to say the least. The story is about the daughter of a widowed French man, named Cecile. One day while out in the woodlands, a royal entourage passes by and a woman losses her course and finds Cecile. As it turns out, she is the Duchesse de Orleans from the Versailles Court. Madame as she known as around Versailles adopts Cecile and takes her to the frivolous court where Cecile is introduced to the royal family and the grandeur of France. The stories of the Versailles intrigues w/ Cecile are wonderful. They are very detailed, very amusing, very entertaining, and full of hidden morals. Although some of the scenes were unecessary, the story overall was a grand treat. The best scene I think was perhaps the Christmas ball, as entertaining and scandalous as it was. The story ends in tragedy, with the death of one of the little dauphins. Cecile is banished because she helped keep the other dauphin from his family, therefore putting him in danger (but really saving him). Cecile is sent to a girls' school, and forever leaves behind Versailles behind the gates of gold.
This story was great, the best in the series I'd say. Great details, development, characters, and enough to capture your mind. Although, I may be overating this book, as I am obsessed with the French courts of Versailles, Marie Antoinette, and all French royalty, I am sure everyone who tries this book will enjoy it. And of course, since I am one of the biggest fans of the Royal Diaries out there, I have to add that Marie Antoinette, Princess of Versailles, would be an excellent book to read alongside Cecile.
Bon travail Mary Casanova!

Before you press the NO button on the bottom of this review saying that it is not helpful, please read my review because it is OK. This book is so horribly horible it is wonderful. The book begins at 12 year old Cecile Revel's poor village. She finds a woman (the king's sister in-law to be correct) who is injured and has her father help the lady. The lady then lets Cecile come with her, leaving her life as a peasant to be a servant of dogs at the kings palace. And of course even a servant to dogs at a palace is better than being a peasant in a shack. So then she goes to a life at court and recieves word that her father has died. So then she's all depressed and then she starts to fall for Phillipe, a boy her age that often escorts her around. Then she is accused of killing royalty, and then more royalty, and then again, another member of the royal family. She learns of her father's devestating past. She is not allowed to go to the Royal Christmas Ball. (What a shame that was, I was looking forward to her going with Phillipe) She is sent away to a boarding school at the end of the story. About all of the main characters die. It is a book that is so horrible, but, in a funny way, it is good. I would recommend it to all GIRLS aged 11 to 14.

This book is so good! I cried. I laughed. I felt like I was Cecile!! Mary Casanova is an excellent writer. I don't want to tell you anything about the book, then it'll spoil it and you wont read it!! I also suggest you read the other Girls of Many Lands books, although this is the only one I've read so far.

In 1956 I bought a used copy of this book in Colorado Springs. It wasn't a wonderful moment in my life and why I bought this little, worn book I cannot say. It might have taken me ninety minutes to read and the effect has held on for the last forty-four years and I expect it to retain its hold forever. Some years after that my Aunt played Mrs. Feeley in San Diego, and did so for several years. I was thrilled and she was amazed that I not only knew the character, but knew it better than she did. Read this book if you can get hold of it and be nourished, amused, amazed ( their brand of inventiveness is strangely missing today ) and wish you could pull up to the table and share a six-pack. Skoal!

I have had copies of this whole series for 25 years and still read all every year. This trio, through their love of living and laughter, teaches you more about enjoying life than any other book I know. Pure uplift of spirits occurs as they work together and care about those they come into contact with. Down home atmosphere. They don't need expensive "things" to get the most out of life. You too will want to hoist a few by the time you finish. I wish they were my neighbors. Once you start with this book, you will have to read the rest in the series. They know how to squeeze a nickel, give back change and still be generous. AND THE FOOD DESCRIPTIONS!

I would rate this even higher if they allowed it. This first book in the series introduces you to three loveable, beer-drinking ladies. They believe in helping others and good old down home living. Their love of "class" will have you roaring with laughter. And their caring of others will give you warm fuzzies. Be prepared to want to raise a glass or two as well as go off your diet. The food descriptions are wonderful. And what they can do with a nickel will floor you. Truly an uplift to the spirits.

English 385.150
5/23/02
Dr. Michelle H. Martin
Book Review
Doberman, Mary. You Read to Me, I'll Read to You. Illus. Michael Emberley. Boston:
Little, Brown and Company, 2001.
You Read to Me, I'll Read to You contains many different short stories that two people can read together. All containing positive lessons, each story has at least two characters who face a problem or experience an adventure. For example, in "The Dime," the pig finds a dime, but his friend the cat feels that the money belongs to him. Instead of the characters keeping the money and destroying their friendship, they decide to purchase a book and take turns reading the book to one another. Another story that has a positive lesson is "I Hate My Hat." The characters in the story are raccoons, and one raccoon continually says, "I hate my hat." The other raccoon says that "hate" is not a nice word to say and compliments his friend for wearing the hat so that no one needs to speak the word "hate" at all.
The book also possesses characteristics of a play because the text offers two speaking part. One reader reads the purple colored sentences, the other reads the pink colored sentences, and both readers read the blue sentences together. The color-coding also teaches the concept of following directions. Children of all ages need to know how to follow directions because they will encounter many areas in their lives that will require them to follow directions both at school and at home.

My 4-year old, who has not yet begun to read, absolutely loves this book! We started reading 2 stories at bedtime and ended up finishing the book. The rhythm and rhyme of the stories really held his attention and the repetition helped him to participate even if he didn't know the words. Once he begins to read, this book will be a joy to do together. It has definately been added to our regular rotation.

As the Mary Ann Hoberman explains in her introduction: "Here's a book/With something new-/You read to me!/I'll read to you!/We'll read each page/To one another-/You'll read one side,/I the other..." This clever and unique picture book includes 12 very short stories, written like a dialogue, and based on simple, lighthearted, friendly themes, that are perfect for emerging, and early readers. Each part is color coded for sharing and fun. I read the purple lines, you read the red, and we read the blue lines together, and then maybe switch. Ms Hoberman's joyous, rhyming text is full of rhythm, energy, and repetition and complemented by Michael Emberley's charming and humorous illustrations. You Read To Me, I'll Read To You is a delightful introduction to the joys and wonders of both reading, and reading together. As the author reminds your young reader at the end: "...But there are other/Books to read./Hundreds/Thousands/All we need./Any time/In any weather/We can sit/Right down together./In the shade/Or in the sun/Choose a book/That looks like fun./One that's old/Or one that's new./Make-believe/Or really true./I'll read one line/I'll read two./You read to me./I'll read to you."

Synopsis: Grace is a little girl who loves stories of all kinds, but especially adventure stories and fairy tales. Grace enjoys acting out the most exciting part in each story, no matter if that part is Hiawatha or Anansi the Spider. When she can, she makes her friends and family a part of her story-plays, but Grace can act out all the parts in a story on her own too. When Grace’s class is scheduled to perform Peter Pan, Grace knows immediately that she wants to fly in the part of Peter Pan. Her hopes are soon dampened, however, by classmates who tell her she’s not “right” for the role of Peter Pan. With encouragement from her Ma, and help from her Nana who takes Grace to see a ballerina from Trinidad, Grace realizes that she can be anything she wants to be. The result is a very amazing Peter Pan.

Evaluation: Amazing Grace is a lovely picture book story that stars a feisty heroine. The watercolor illustrations of Caroline Binch are as vibrant and real as Grace herself, and they reinforce the plot by depicting aspects of Grace’s life with Ma and Nana, and how Grace enthusiastically acts out the characters she loves. The illustrations are particularly effective in communicating the movement and color that characterize the world of Grace’s imagination. Young readers will relate well to both Grace and to her story. Grace is the kind of person that many of us â€"kids and adults alike-- long to be: a fun, take-charge kind of girl who sees life as an exciting adventure. Grace’s story, though simple enough to be told in a picture book, incorporates some traditional plot elements, including a problem for the heroine to overcome and a resolution to that problem. Amazing Grace would be a good addition to Kindergarten through 2nd grade reading curriculum for several reasons. It brings multi-culturalism into the classroom through its dynamic main character. It tells a positive message story about a girl who follows her dreams, without being preachy. And, it includes eye-catching illustrations that bring the heroine and her story to life.

A child's imagination is one of the purest forms of expression. Author Hoffman has captured that innocence in this superb tale. Grace, like so many youngsters, spends much of her day in the pleasures of "acting out" the characters that populate the pages of the books she reads. She feels that she can do and be anything that she desires. The theme of pursuing one's dreams is the type of message to which all can relate.

As one turns the pages of this beautifully illustrated book, one can enjoy the little girl's imaginary adventures. When Grace learns of the part in "Peter Pan," the reader is able to identify with this as a part of school life. The illustrator has also balanced the classroom with children of varied ethnic and racial backgrounds. This is a plus in the age of being "politically correct."

The language of the book is reflective with the age of the intended reading audience. With a little adult help, the average primary child will "read" this one with great relish.

The resolve of the adults in the family to encourage Grace in pursuit of her dreams is refreshing. Most of us let barriers prevent us from doing the same.

This is one great children's book!

This inspiring tale celebrates the innocence of youth, presents lessons of equality, and encourages children to pursue their dreams. Illustrator Caroline Binch provides stunning watercolor drawings that compliment the text. Recommended for children ages 4-8, this book will be enjoyed by children and adults.

As the mom of a very creative child, I appreciate the realism offered via every illustration. The watercolor drawings by illustrator Caroline Binch captivate the reader, child or adult. The detail is remarkable, adding immense compliment to the story. I appreciate the realistic expressions on each character. After the initial read, I gazed back at each illustration. In addition to facial detail, the props within the pictures are realistic. It is no surprise that this book is a Reading Rainbow Book.

On the page in which Grace is acting Anansi the Spider, we see her on a schoolyard type of bar. She is looking forward, her eyes exhibit a serious glare, her feet dangle with confidence, and her arms are postured in a stern manner. This child has a mismatched outfit, her right tennis shoe is untied, and she is using pantyhose for the webs. This illustration supports the text, "...and wove a wicked web as Anansi the Spider." But more importantly this - and other - illustrations show true childlike creativity unfolding. This is a mere example of the multiple high quality drawings.

After initial read of Amazing Grace, My daughter told me that she thought it was really sad that the classmates questioned Graces ability to be Peter Pan. This led to open discussion with regard to gender and race prejudice. Thankfully my daughter doesn't exhibit prejudice thoughts, but this story allowed her to realize that some children are subjected to prejudicial judgment of others.

When I asked My daughter what she liked about this book, she told me that she likes Grace. She expanded on this by telling me that Grace has a lot of fun, has a Mom and Grandma that love her, and that Grace does what she wants to do. In addition she told me, "The pictures are beautiful Mom!"

There are multiple messages in this story. Overall my reasoning for adoring Amazing Grace is that the tale is good and the illustrations are superb. But the true measure of success is based on the reaction that my child has. It is books like this that lend toward my 7-year-old maintaining adoration for the written word.