What a terrific story! A young (?) southern belle, and a General 22 years her senior, get married after knowing eachother for three days, and he whisks her off to the western frontier, so he can try to keep order in the Indian lands.

The injustices that were done to the indians are just one aspect of the things you learn, along with some history of the west; but it's the characters and their story that keep you turning the pages.

Mary, the "heroine" is a woman you can relate to. How she comes to really love her husband, how she adjusts to her new surroundings; her jealousies, her heartbreak, her overall character. The indian characters are wonderful, and really draw you in, you will want to know their story, and even though you already know the outcome, you are still routing for them to win their war. Especially Bright Sun, what she goes through being a translator for the white man and the Sauk, being a woman indian in the time of war, trying to hold what she loves together, and what she believes...well some of it is truly heartbreaking. You will admire her strength and courage. The General, himself, is an unforgettable character, I only wish there was more info on his life.

The story keeps you turning the pages to find out what is happening, it keeps the characters firmly planted in your head, and even your heart because you really "feel" for them, and the ending is wonderful, as well as satisfying, it ties up all the loose ends that you are waiting for throughout the book.

Go west, young man,(woman), and take the journey.

Enjoy, Debbi

This is one of those books that rarely comes along. Micaela takes your hand from the first page and with every word there after, you both want to devour this book and savor each word all at the same time. The story of Mary, a rather spoiled southern belle who is rapidly in danger of becoming a spinster, and Henry, a general who at 40 has decided he wants her for his bride becomes a truly breathtaking tale. Mary weds Henry and he takes her to the western frontier. The book tells the story of Mary becoming a woman and learning to love this stranger who is her husband. It is also the story of the beginning of the end of the indians who are also a mystery to Mary, especially her husbands relationship with Black Hawk and a female indian translator. For Mary to truly understand herself, her husband and his relationship with these two indians is the making of a truly great novel. One that after even 400 pages seems to end too quickly. I really loved this book!

From the moment you begin reading this historical novel, you'll be pulled into the lives of Mary Bulliett and General Henry Atkinson. The story between this husband and wife is beautifully written and described with such great detail, you actually feel like you are there witnessing the daily struggles and lifetime tragedies these two extraordinary characters experience. The book is based on real people and events, which occurred in the early 1800's - a time when Indians and white man battled over the land. Ms. Gilcrest has done an excellent job telling their story while at the same time developing their very authentic personalities. A truly well written, great book!

First of all, I'll concede that it's tough to find someone who argues better for libertarianism in practical, understandable terms than Mary Ruark. Moreover, her book's a very simple read and paints vivid examples of what a libertarian world *might* look like.

But this brings me to my first minor critique. Ruark provides examples of the way a free nation might run, but she elaborates on them in such detail that one begins to get the impression that she's arguing for the examples themselves. When she discusses a system of free-market private schooling, she describes the schools she envisions in intricate detail, and they don't remotely resemble what I think schooling in a libertarian country would look like. Now - Presuming I weren't a libertarian and even slightly objected to the school system she describes, I might simply reject all her ideas based on my objections to her illustrations of them.

Secondly, I just disagree with Ruark's anarcho-capitalistic version of libertarianism. I really am - as some libertarians would say - myopic enough to believe that we need government to provide public goods (I'm talking about the real ones like defense, police protection, and criminal justice). And call me a statist, but I think we'd have to fund these government activities with taxes. Of some kind. Somehow. Of the unvoluntary sort. With - yes - government force to ensure compliance.

Otherwise, though, this book should make an interesting read for libertarians and non.

I love this book. Really.

Dr. Ruwart's political philosophy's foundation is about non-aggression. This is nothing new in the libertarian creed, and the difference is that instead of concentrating on arguments of property rights, she really drives home with the non-aggression principle. She avers that by using aggression (i.e. force) to solve our problems, we end up only worsening our lives. We create a world of zero-sum games instead of a system that respects individual choices so long as they do not harm our person or property.

What also makes this book a pleasure to read is that it its tone is very friendly and accommodating. Many people (rightly) expect books on political philosophy to be badgering or aggressively written, so I like that Dr. Ruwart ditched the popular approach. Plus, her compassionate way of writing makes it difficult to call her a bloodthirsty free-market fan -- she does care about matters like helping the poor and making healthcare accessible.

Every issue she looks at shows the failures of aggression (i.e. government) to be effective, and conversely non-aggression (i.e. voluntary, private cooperation) has been more successful. Healthcare intervention? It's aggression, and it's bad for our health (and our wallet). The Federal Reserve? Central banking is aggression that monopolizes the money supply and creates the "boom & bust" cycle. The public school system? It might be obvious that the Department of Education doesn't actually educate anyone, but the whole setup is aggressive too, and children suffer because of it.

The principle of non-aggression is also applied to pollution, crime & punishment, the FDA, gun ownership, and -- the one especially important these days -- foreign policy. Non-aggression wins every time, and very few issues go untouched.

A cool touch to Dr. Ruwart's book is that she puts tons of great, great quotes in the margins, which work wonderfully with the topic at hand. One of my favorites comes from the first chapter (about the basis of non-aggression): "...we are living in a sick Society filled with people who would not directly steal from their neighbor but who are willing to demand that the government do it for them," says William L. Comer. That's classic! There's a lot of great ones, many of which I didn't recognize.

Please, read this book. This is a world where governments keep getting bigger, and that will always mean more aggression as the State invades more aspects of our lives. Know what's scary? In Chapter 19, "The Communist Threat Is All In Our Minds", Ruwart shows that the United States has implemented eight of ten policies The Communist Manifesto declared necessary for a transition into socialism. Darn. So, getting the word out on liberty is always a good thing. Please see Scott Ryan's excellent review of this book too.

Her premise isn't that hard to understand; when the government
takes (even if they call it taxation) it's stealing, so someone wins and someone loses. Essentially, in all coercion someone wins and someone loses. In voluntary exchange--the free market--it's win-win. Ruwart has a casual, easy-to-understand style. The title isn't an exaggeration; the world would be close to healed if everyone would follow two simple and ancient laws: "Do not steal" and "Do not murder."

If you are prepared to continue on a conscious path of re-membering, this book will be a wonderful Friend and Guide. Though the focus is on the life and times of Mary Magdelena and Christ, and their deeply loving and sacred relationship, as seen through Mary's eyes and heart, it will awaken in you your own cellular memories of "union". Tears of absolute joy will overwhelm you time and again as you are reminded of the Truth, and so many of your illusions begin to melt away...until you are faced with the ultimate realization, and it becomes "knowing"... WE ARE ETERNAL.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on the book! It truly moved me like no other I have ever read, and I will carry the truth of it inside of me always. A true blessing. Sharon

This book in written in freestyle, not poetry, but styled to help the reader experience and feel the words visually. A fast read, but profound. I have never been so moved by a book. I have never taken time to write a review, but this is an exceptional book.

This book resonates with the power and beauty of spirit. The story is so strong and heartfelt about the entire unfolding of Jesus and the interactions among the others. I was so moved that often I had to stop reading and reflect before I could continue. The story makes sense and rings true to me. A must read. Powerfully told and beautifully written.

Reading Mary Elizabeth Anderson's "Link Across America: A Story of the Historic Lincoln Highway" was a pure delight!

I heard about this book from a friend of mine. I thought it would be the perfect Christmas present for my nine-year-old nephew. Luckily, I read it before I wrapped it up as a present.

Having grown up in Iowa myself, I related to all of the small towns and points of interests Ms. Anderson described in her book. I have seen so many of the Lincoln Highway signs in my lifetime, but never thought twice about the signs. I had no idea the Lincoln Highway spanned 12 states. I also learned what a "seedling mile" was for the first time in my life.

Basing the book on transportation history for children is something I know my nephew will find so interesting. And oh, those pictures! I remember passing through and seeing Lincoln Highway signs as a child.

This is a book I hope my nephew will enjoy reading and treasure. I know I enjoyed reading "Lincoln Highway."

I now live in Northern California and am close to the historic Lincoln Highway. I now have a richer understanding and view when I see one the old signs.

I thought the book LINK ACROSS AMERICA by Mary Elizabeth Anderson was excellent. I have lived by the Lincoln Highway most of my life but I was never aware of the histroy behind it. It is a fun book for children to read, and also learn at the same time. The book makes us appreciate what we have and also recognize the efforts of the people who gave us the first coast to coast highway.

A friend of mine recommended "Link Across America", and I thourghly enjoyed reading it. I had no idea that the Lincoln Highway even existed, since I grew up here in Michigan. I was also not a fan of history as a kid, but this book is so interesting and easy to read. Children will love it. It is a great part of history that children should not miss out on. I also love all of the colorful pictures.

"Midnight On The Moon" is one of the best books. First of all, Peanut is acting strange, and running back and forth on the letter "M". So Jack and Annie leave him in the tree house and go on the moon to find the M thing. When they find a moon buggy, they go exploring, and later find an American flag with a note by it. Jack and Annie make their own note, then are about to go back when they see a moon man. Jack tries to communicate with him by notes, and then the moon man draws a map of stars. When they go back to the tree house, they can't go home for some reason. You'll have to read the rest for yourself.

There's one thing I want to say. What makes this book neat is that they are transported to the future instead of being transported back in time. That can really make the book way more interesting. So if I were you, I wouldn't miss this one, which is my 3rd best.

Three... two... one... BLAST OFF!! The Magic Tree House whisks Jack and Annie off to the moon- and the feature. Their mission? To find the last "M" thing that will free Morgan from the spell. Can they do it before the air in their oxygen tanks run out? And why is Peanut the mouse acting so strange?

The only way to find out is to read Midnight On The Moon.

This is great book for you if you like adventure books. It is magic tree houes book it is called "Midnight on the Moon". The characters are Jack and Annie are sister and borther. The author is Mary Osborne. She is a good author. Jack and Annie learn about space like how hot it is in space. I like this book because I like adventure books. If you like astronauts read this book

I just finished "Chesta's Way" by Mary Jacobson. I read it in one sitting and have been preoccupied with thoughts of Chesta, her family, their lives and incredible contribution to our society's cast-off girls. Chesta and her family offered unconditional love to these girls by opening up their home to them and providing calves for each girl to feed, groom, nurture - to love and to be able to receive the kind of love they had never experienced. This is the story of a family moved to make a difference in the lives of abused, neglected and consequently very troubled and troublesome girls. The calves become a catalyst for transforming the angry, cynical, hard shell of these delinquents to young people who allow themselves to love and be loved. It is a heartful book that is a must-read for all who are affected by today's culture of escalating youth violence and are wondering how we can help to make life so much better for our young. Chesta found a way. "Chesta's Way" is uncompromising in its integrity of portraying the characters who inhabit a fertile valley in the Pacific Northwest and the events which transpire to make it a difficult, yet truly inspiring story. Mary Jacobson is the kind of writer I love to read. Her prose is simple, direct and powerful when her content warrants it, i.e., when the girls interact with the family, school and one another, but as she situates the story and weaves effortlessly from scene to event to dialogue, her prose takes on a lyrically evocative quality that enirely captivated me and made me yearn for more pages when I got to the end. Mary Jacobson is a very fine writer who can tell an engaging story. I look forward to her next story!

Chesta's Way is an inspiring and heartwarming true story that captured me from the beginning. Through smiles, tears and intense moments, this is an uplifting account of how one woman's compassion and perserverance helped fill the void in troubled city kids hearts. This book is a "must read" for anyone concerned about kids today, anyone who is called in their "own way" to make a difference in the lives of others, and for animal lovers everywhere who know and cherish the gifts animals bring to us through their need, companionship and love. City Kids and Calves...what a wonderful combination! Chesta's Way is beautifully written and it's story rekindles one's faith in the human spirit. It is the kind of book you will want to share with others. The perfect gift. I have given this book as gifts to others with the greatest of joy. Thank you, Mary, for sharing this story.

As a teacher and someone who works with today's youth, I found Chesta's Way to be an inspiration and an affirmation that people, right now, are not just talking about how to help our youth, but are doing it.

Chesta's Way offers a true glimpse of reality, but uniquely tells the story of a woman who stumbles on a solution to some of our youths' biggest problems. I laughed and I cried while reading this book. Not because it is a joke or because it was depressing, but because I could identify so strongly with the characters and the struggles they went through. It so accurately portrays what our kids are going through and the frustrations most adults confront while trying to help them or just understand.

I do not read for pleasure usually. This book was presented to me and I told my friend to be patient with me, I may not read it for awhile. The first page was tough for me. It seemed too "flowery". However, once past that page, I COULD NOT put it down, literally!! I have NEVER been so moved by literature. Absolutely incredible! If you work with children, have children, like children or are looking for ways to help our future, this is a must.

To those of you who take this seriously, thank you! It is you who will make this world a better place! (I know it seems extreme and exaggerated just for a book, but wait and read it then make your judgement!)

I enjoyed this book so much. I was in a deep reading rut when i came across this one in my pile of boooks to be read and it immediately grabbed my attention and wouldn't let go. What a wonderful story about sisters' relationships and self discovery! I will be reading more by Mary Alice Monroe.

This book really captured my heart and attention!! I tried to identify with one character and found myself in every one of these woman. Such a moving story; the pages turned too quickly. The 'looking back' required to write and read this book is challenging and poignant. Everyone who is interested in famiy dynamics and women's relationships with the important people in her life should read this book. The resolution is realistic as well as life affirming. I wanted to be there with the sisters and come to grips with some of my own stories. Bravo Mary Alice Monroe for giving me a window to look at life's events from a different point of view.

Mary Alice Monroe is a skilled storyteller. Her prose is beautiful and her understanding of human nature profound. I was toally absorbed in the lives of these sisters. This book is what good writing is all about.

I got this book for Christmas as I am a follower of the Irish literary scene. I found this to be an excellent and mature collection of poetry. The maturity comes with it's humor. It is not humor from the school of smart alecs. The humor is used just at the right time always- timing would be the best word. "Hebe At The Job Interview" has timing. "Slugga" has this too as does "Two Poems For Rodger". All poems come from the pen of somebody who can tangle the English language to produce outstanding results.

Mary O'Donoghue is a young Poet and judging by this- an excellent one with a huge future. This is her debut and it has a polish that most debuts do not have. Take your pick. Every poem has something.

Mary O'Donoghue's first book is an astounding collection. I have been waiting for the American release of this since I bought it while in Ireland. O'Donoghue balances so many wonderful attributes in her poetry. Her wit and use of language are used as a force in different poems with different themes. From the girl in war-torn Eastern Europe ("My Body Is Leaving Me") to the mythical Hebe ("Hebe At The Job Interview") different emotions are experienced but with the same force. O'Donoghue hints at some feminism but they are only hints as summed up with the hilarious "Why Germaine Greer Should Not Visit My House". Here the Poet wonders aloud what Ms. Greer would think of her obsession with cleaning her house. There is so much in this collection to touch everyone.

This is one of those situations when a classic piece of work bursts on the scene. Regular poetry readers will be delighted with this and it would be great for people who are not used to reading poetry. This is writing in its most beautiful, witty and delicate form.

"Textures" is such a delicate work. "The Witches of Monin na gCloigeann" is hilarious. "Bank Holiday Menlo Castle" is a delightful piece where O'Donoghue describes a girl and her lover tangle with the Afternoon sun and running away from mating swans!

Mary O'Donoghue ducks and weaves when it comes to feminism- an art in itself. She identifies with lonely female figures ( "If You See Kay") but takes a stab at the feminist movement with "Why Germaine Greer Should Not Visit My House". The latter has a female stand up to be counted in making no apologies for liking housework (Greer had described such people as addicts!).

This book has class pouring off the pages. Rarely have I been so excited by a body of poetry.

This is a book every Christian needs to read. It shows the importance God gives to His beloved creatures. We are here as stewards of God's creation. We should treat all animals with compassion.

But for us pet-lovers, for those of us who consider our pets as family members, this book should give great comfort; a lot of loving work has gone into producing it. Pets will, indeed go to Heaven; the author has done a wonderful job demonstrating this from Scripture, with inspired comments of her own.Now, the question is, will we meet the Lord's requirements so that we will be able to join our innocent four-legged (or two) beloved companions there? We must be born again; they have no need of this.

This book could be a good conversion tool for the animal-lover who has not made a decision for the Lord.

After losing my young golden retriever/aussie shepherd mix to multiple organ failure, my first thought was "why, Lord?" followed closely by "where is she, Lord?" This book will help guide you through that question and answer it based on what God's Word says - not man.

"Will I See Fido in Heaven?" will show you, verse by verse, God's plan for His creation and His will concerning the things He has created. It's a rich book which can be read over and over. It has a permanant spot in my library.

I also recommend this book for those who have not lost a pet. I found, after reading it, my relationship with my remaining pets was much enriched. I wish I had read this (and "Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates") prior to my Khiori's death. It would have greatly helped me through my grief and sorrow, while being assured her place in heaven.

When Samson passed away I was grief stricten and angry with God.I had talked with Priests and the like and the answer was the same pets dont have souls and therefore no enterence to heaven.This was truly a God send and written with the love and compassion that we share with through Gods love and gifts to and through them. I so loved this book that I gave one to our library, A Priest whom I found to also believe pets also join us in heaven and one for my family. Losing a pet is losing a family member and they are with God waiting for us gives great comfort. I felt better having Biblical proof that what I longed for was truly there in the Bible.

Mary Beth O'Neill describes how executive coaches need to work with executives as partners to help them become better leaders. Coaches need the strength to share the truth with clients in times of crisis, she explains. She discusses the core principles that underlie coaching and the four essential phases of the coaching process: contracting, planning, live-action intervening and debriefing. The book is primarily directed to coaches, including consultants and internal or external trainers, who facilitate processes and projects in organizations. While it has its share of fuzzy and jargon-laden patches, the book is generally clear and to the point. It includes a mix of examples, charts, and step-by-step techniques, plus useful chapter highlights. We [...] recommend this book to coaches, to executives who are coaching employees and to executives who are being coached.

I predict that "Executive Coaching With Backbone and Heart" will become a classic text book within the field of organizational development. As a new coach, I found Mary Beth O'Neill's writing to be clear, informative, honest and thought provoking. She balances theory with practical examples to illustrate her points with a summary of the highlights at the end of each chapter for easy review and reference. I also appreciated her willingness to share her own mistakes and how she's learned from them. I found her honesty refreshing and it added to the credibility of her book. Her writing models her own integration of backbone with heart.

I predict that "Executive Coaching With Backbone and Heart" will become a classic textbook within the field of organizational development! As a new coach, I found Mary Beth O'Neill's writing to be clear, informative, honest and thought provoking. She balances theory with practical examples to illustrate her points and provides highlights at the end of each chapter for easy reference and review. Her willingness to share her mistakes and how she's learned from them added to her credibility and models her own integration of backbone with heart.