The Fairy Ring is a wonderful set of tarot-like cards. They are beatifully illustrated and the book is written so it is easy to understand. It's really quite fun to do. I really enjoy this set and know that you will, too.

THE FAIRY RING consists of a gorgeous book and deck of divination cards that are similar to Tarot cards, and are divided into four seasonal suits of Spring, Summer, Autumn, & Winter. The beautifully designed cards give one an immediate sense of the wonder of entering the fairy realm, and are truly stunning to behold. THE FAIRY RING book provides enchanting stories of each character that explain the divinatory message imparted in every card reading. I particularly enjoyed reading the story about Queen Oonaugh, where she cleverly helps Fin MacCool avoid a fight with a giant called Cucullin by recommending that Fin pretend to be his own baby when the giant shows up at his home.

In addition to a court of thirteen fairies representing each season (with a Lady, Knave, King, Queen, and Ace), there are eight fairy festival cards (Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Midsummer, Lughnasa, Herfest, Samhain, and Yule). It's easy to sense at a glance which fairies are good to work with and which are not, since each card conveys through use of color, expression, and lighting the feelings being described. THE FAIRY RING book further clarifies which fairies are helpful and provides advice regarding how best to obtain help from them (such as Habetrot, Asrai, the Sea Mither, Brownies and Leprechauns), and which fairies are best avoided because they are known for being treacherous, illusory, or inaccessible (such as the Changeling, Will o' the Wisp, or Jenny Greenteeth). For those who need a little help asking the fairies for guidance, nine different divinatory spreads are provided, along with a sample reading for the Fairy Market spread.

If you already feel an affinity for fairies and are willing to read through the stories and divinatory meanings for each card, this deck will quickly become an invaluable aid. I received meaningful guidance and advice from THE FAIRY RING deck after using it twice!

It seems the more Anna Franklin and Paul Mason (Sacred Circle Tarot) work together the more we are rewarded! These two have the gift of a unique and magical bond! "The Fairy Ring" is a mastered oracle set of classical beauty for all of us diviners who feel the connection to the Fairy folk.

Ms. Franklin, a practicing pagan and high priestess, has spent more than twenty years collecting and exploring fairy lore and legends. Her time at this pleasurable occupation has been spent commendably, for she offers us a deck where each card has its legend or lore, divinatory and reversed meanings, ways to work with each fairy - or whether it is wiser not to work with them.

The cards are split into the four seasons called the courts, which I find a huge plus for not only those of the fae path but also for hedgewitches whose day to day lives are also lived by the seasons and elements. Along with the four suits of court cards, there are also the eight major fairy festival cards. This I have not seen before and I enjoy working with these as well. There are nine spreads, a sample reading and a guide for meditations for the cards. All in all, the book was written for the basic reader and is very user friendly.

Mr. Mason is truly a visionary. Using photography and artistry together, he blends the cards into a beautiful masterpiece that is his own signature. Bringing fantasy, imagination, illusion and desire into the cards, he has managed to create symmetry of grand proportions!

The Fairy Ring is one of grandeur, from the beautiful fairies to the distorted ogres, and all in between. You will want to work with the oracle on a daily basis to give you the divine inner wisdom that you seek! Anna Franklin and Paul Mason, together, have created a treasure in The Fairy Ring.

M.L. Benton, Publisher, Echoed Voices
Copyright © October 2002

In a world where most opera biographies are either useless, gushy fan magazines or vicious, gossipy garbage, this loving yet warts-and-all account of the life of the great Swedish tenor Jussi Bjorling (1911-1960) is a standout. Although the book is written primarily by his widow Anna-Lisa, there is additional, exhaustive research and editing by Andrew Farkas (who also co-authored an Enrico Caruso biography with Caruso's son). Many of Bjorling's colleagues are also interviewed, and reviews of both his live performances and opera recordings are extensively quoted. As a supplement, there is also a 58-page listing of Bjorling's performances (933 in opera and nearly twice as many concerts and recitals) at the end of the book. The cover shows Bjorling as Romeo in 'Romeo et Juliette', perhaps his greatest role.

Anna-Lisa Bjorling, who was married to Jussi for 25 years, was herself a fine soprano who often partnered her husband in concert. As of this writing she is still alive at 92. Although Anna-Lisa clearly loved Jussi very deeply, she is still capable of being objective about him when required. She is a wonderful writer, providing vivid portraits not only of Jussi, herself, and their children, but just about everybody they ever came into contact with, as well as of life in Sweden in general. After reading this book, I felt like Jussi and Anna-Lisa were old friends.

Bjorling had not only what was probably the most beautiful tenor voice to ever come out of a human throat, but also a nearly perfect technique, a superb sense of style, and the ability to truly stir the souls of his listeners. While he had a reputation for being a very poor stage actor, this was at least occasionally exaggerated. Although Bjorling died tragically young at the age of 49 of heart failure, he had a magnificent and very long career which lasted 45 years, 32 as a tenor. He is probably the only opera singer whose recording career (which began when he was 9!) lasted from acoustic to electric to LP to stereo recordings. He made his stage debut at 19 as Don Ottavio at the Royal Opera, Stockholm, after having studied first with his father, his principal singing teacher, and then at the Royal Opera School with the Royal Opera's director, baritone John Forsell. His career expanded to Europe and the rest of the world very quickly. He made his Metropolitan Opera debut in 1938, and with the exception of the WWII years and several years in the 1950s due to fights with Rudolf Bing, he remained there until his death. He concentrated on about 10 or 15 Italian and French operatic roles, and was also an avid recitalist with several hundred songs in his 'inventory'.

Unfortunately, Bjorling is nearly as famous in operatic circles for his alcoholism as for his glorious singing, and I think that is appalling. In fact, the one thing this book makes very clear is that although the disease was a tragedy for him personally and traumatic for his family, it had comparatively little effect on his actual career, at least outside Sweden. Working actually kept him from drinking. Anna-Lisa offers considerable proof that many of the stories about Jussi's drinking were exaggerations, gossip or outright lies, most tellingly in the true story of the cancellation of the 'Un Ballo in Maschera' recording under Sir Georg Solti, which was a product of producer John Culshaw's malice. Nearly all his colleagues also defend him on this regard. As far as I'm concerned, the only people who have any right discussing Jussi's alcoholism are Anna-Lisa and his children, as they are the only ones who really had to deal with it. ....

Overall, Jussi comes across as a beautiful human being - simple, warmhearted and lovable, a wonderful husband and father, adored by almost everybody who worked with him or knew him. The book is full of stories about his kindness and generosity to colleagues. He was also an avid pike fisherman who loved westerns and was unbeatable at arm wrestling. He basically had only three serious flaws as a human being: impulsiveness that on occasion bordered on irrationality, stubbornness, and what Anna-Lisa calls, for lack of a better term, a deep inner restlessness - the inner demon that drove him to drink.

I only wish 'Jussi' could have been longer. A year before it was published, I spoke with leading Bjorling authority Cantor Don Goldberg, one of the book's proofreaders. He told me that the first draft was 1100 pages. As the final copy is only 520 pages, I wonder what was cut besides the many laudatory comments from colleagues that were considered repetitive. I was surprised that there wasn't more information about Jussi's brothers once they reached adulthood, especially Gosta, who was so close to Jussi that they had an almost telepathic relationship. And while this book does full justice to such fundamental influences on Jussi's singing as his father, John Forsell (who emerges as quite a character!), and Tullio Voghera, I would have liked a bit more on Nils Grevilius, who conducted nearly every recording Jussi made before 1950. There is also virtually nothing about Hjordis Schymberg, the fine Swedish soprano who partnered Jussi over 100 times in Stockholm. More mention of his recordings besides the complete opera sets would have been welcome, although I am aware that his recordings are covered in the companion volume 'A Jussi Bjorling Phonography'. Finally, while I am aware this would have added to the price of the book, there are so few color photos of Bjorling that I think they should have had one on the cover.

'Jussi' is essential reading for anyone with any interest in good music, let alone opera. It is the definitive biography of one of the most magnificent singers and human beings ever to appear on an opera or concert stage. If you haven't heard this man sing, remedy that immediately!

I had never heard of Bjorling until several months ago one late evening when the local classical music station played some of his arias. I had missed the intro to the work and couldn't figure out to whom this incredible and unique voice belonged; I knew I'd never heard anything remotely like it. You have to hear Jussi only once to want to listen endlessly to his voice. (Needless to say, my opera CD collection is expanding exponentially.)

So it was a great pleasure to discover this excellent biography, which illuminates not only his life but also the opera world from the 20s through the 50s. His early life and training from his father are particularly interesting if you wonder how such a great talent was discovered and developed. (The only question in my mind not answered is the extent to which his children inherited the incredible musical talent that was in his family for generations; that they perform is mentioned but never elaborated on.) The book is well documented with quotes from his peers, and the authors do a splendid job of presenting the entire person with his strengths and weaknesses in a very objective way that holds the reader's interest from beginning to end.

Using painstaking research, Mr. Farkas helps readers understand the demons that followed this troubled musical genius. I always revered this extraordinary man; I now feel that I know him. Thank you, Mr. Farkas Carol P. (JBS member...attended Washington conference but never met you)

Only 193 pages! A short novel with the impact of any major novel written today. I found the story very inspirational, warm and human, a life story of love and courage. Couldn't put it down until it was finished. --Connee Gherasim

Check out "A Little Bit of Wonderful" by Anna M. Popescu. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and had difficulty prying myself away from it. The story line is a well-woven tapestry that entertains the reader and leaves them wanting more. I can't wait to find out what new challenges will befall Sarah, Jeff and the kids the sequel.

The reader is introduced to Sarah Hogan at a low point in life that many can identify with - the beginning of a nasty divorce. Whether you've been there or not, your heart goes out to Sarah and you will cheer her on as she struggles to cope. The fun begins when Sarah meets Jeff. Jeff Matthews has a spark and personality that lights up "A Little Bit of Wonderful". As their relationship deepened, I couldn't put the book down as I waited to see what God was going to bring them. I eagerly anticipate the sequel.

You may already be familiar with this little book for stepparents, but if not, you'll want to get a copy for now, and especially for the times when things get tough. It's an easy read with more than 60 suggestions for stepparents who are trying to learn, grow and thrive in their role. Called a "prescription to strengthen your family," the book remains hopeful and positive while understanding the challenges inherent in stepparenting.

The book is divided into three sections: Relating to Yourself, Dealing With Your Spouse, and Interacting With the Kids. The experiences and suggestions in each part are practical and encouraging. You'll respond to the stories with warm familiarity, or you'll wish they could be your own.

A couple of my favorite suggestions include: (1) Learning how to use -- and trust -- your intuition. Here, the authors encourage the stepparent to get to know her stepchildren and then to use that knowledge to improve the relationship and intuitively work through the problems that inevitably arise. (2) Solving problems with stepkids directly. This suggestions points out how much power stepparents actually have in getting their stepkids to cooperate with them. Following the advice here, it will be hard to tell who benefits more -- the stepchild or the stepparent, but it's a great way to approach conflicts for everyone involved.

It's a tiny little book, but you will be surprised of its impact. I have been reading several books lately and some have been pretty good, but his little gem is just so realistic and helps one to be realistic in what is possible in a step parent relationship. Great suggestions, a pleasant read.

I laughed, I cried... in the end, I was greatly encouraged to embark upon the exciting journey of stepparenting.

I would suggest that anyone getting married to (or even seriously involved with) someone with children buy this little gem.

And even though I'll be the official stepparent, I plan to have my fiance read it, too!

Explore these powerful astrological evaluations of the causes and effects of the September 11th attacks. With a selection of readings from popular astrologers such as Robert Hand and Jonathan Keyes, you'll have the opportunity to look at these events from several perspectives. How were the charts of George W. Bush and the United States itself, impacted? What were the economic influences involved?

I particularly enjoyed the fact that every perspective wasn't devoted to the USA, corporate, we are the chosen children of capitalism viewpoint. Instead, we're treated to far more objective looks at the events (and the provocations) which led up to them.

Finally, we're shown a glimpse of what is to come. Offering some astrological probabilities of upcoming aspects, we are invited to see fresh possibilities and insights.

I enjoyed this book far more than I usually do, when several astrologers get together and caucus over the same bit of information. The repetition we may see only serves to reinforce particular ideas and the articles are woven together into a seamless and unified whole.

This work is a terrific resource for anyone interested in understanding not only the astrological correspondences to 9/11/01, but also the implications for the economy and for the collective psyche. Essays are written by top-notch astrologers and are accompanied by maps and charts for illustration. Well worth reading!

The nature of the subject and the writing quality of the seven astrologers involved (the most famous being Robert Hand) make this a very unusual book. A very, very, very broad range of astrological and non-astrological perspectives are very carefully covered in this assessment of the terrorist attacks on America and some of the possible implications for all of us.

Astrologically the main emphasis is on interpretations of the charts of the events in September, together with related charts such as those of the United States, George W. Bush and, to some extent, Osama Bin Laden. Many other charts are also considered such as the World Trade Centre bombing in 1993 and the national chart for Israel. Interpretations of the Saturn-Pluto opposition transit through 2001 and 2002 receive particular attention throughout the book.

The astrology is continually placed in a broad context, with extensive considerations of the historical, political, and economical background to the attacks, together with similar perspectives on the consequences. Many questions are asked. Did the perpetrators use astrology? Did the terrorists intend to crash into the White House? Where do we go from here? Very occasionally some of the views appear rather fanciful, but overall this is superb stuff that does intelligent justice to modern astrology.

All worries, troubles and life's problems pale in comparison to the Lord's suffering FOR US. And to think, He would endure it all over again for even ONE of His children. His love is beyond measure and beyond comprehension and this book brings the knowledge of what Jesus did into a horrific yet beautiful reality. Non-catholics and Catholics alike will be overwhelmed by this book.

Faithful to the Bible story of the Passion and death of Jesus, it fills in many details and is edifying and inspiring beyond belief; plus, it is surpising and heartrendering. It will melt a heart of stone. This book is the best on the Passion we have seen. It is also wonderful on the Blessed Mother's role inour redemption. Includes a short biography of St. Emmerich. A great, great book for the whole family!

Some Catholic Mystics (Saints) teach us that focusing on Jesus' Passion and Death will get you to heaven. This book walks you through our Lord's agony, step by step. After I read it, I was left with the picture of a Person who was literally skinned alive through scourging, and His Head was crowned with thorns and then The Body finally nailed to a cross, you get a little idea of what HE suffered "for us" physically. There were also mental and spiritual torments in addition to His physical sufferings. This book is for those who really want to grow spiritually and can face what He went through for us. The author was a nun who received only 2 months worth of visions depicting Christ's crucifixion and suffering. This book is well worth reading and contemplating.

I take teams of people on international work projects every year. Presently I have a team going to Bosnia. The material presented in this book is insightful, accurate, practical and worth absorbing before working cross culturally. It is well written, very personal and engaging. Hats off to the contributors, authors, editors and publisher. It will get a lot of use.

I am preparing to volunteer in Costa Rica and this book has been an amazing resource for me. It has encouraged me to write out my motivations and expectations for this trip. It has helped me think through how I can be an effective volunteer. Thanks to this book I feel more prepared mentally and emotionally and I feel more aware of what I am getting into.

Thanks for this excellent resource!

This book is a treasure. It is a good book for anyone in the age group of about 18-75 of any ethnicity, religion and socio-economic background. It addresses safety, among other issues, for women travelers. This book includes more than information one could find on the Internet about particular opportunities and organizations in any region of the world. It includes in depth studies as well as information for the person considering volunteering overseas to examine his/her motivations and come up with criteria to apply to choosing an organization as well as a location. In addition, this book discusses issues surrounding language barriers and how to overcome the obstacles as well as use the volunteer opportunity to become fluent in another language. This book makes a wonderful gift.

i thought this book was really good! it was the first avon true romance i had read and i really enjoyed it! It all starts when Ewan finds out he has to become the Duke of Brahm of England. WHen he's there he meets his brothers fiancee Anna, and they quickly fall in love. that part was my favorite because i thought i was really well described. then Anna figures out that richard (ewan's half brother) and her mother are plotting against ewan to make richard become duke, so she warns ewan! and richard even kidnapes ewan in order to force over the dukedom. while richard has to try to force anna to marry him.
to see what happens read the book! it's soooooooo good!

This is the first book I have read in Avon True Romance, and it has made a very good impression on the series. Anna has great spunk and humor, while the Duke is a romantic and a dreamer. This is one of the best in the series, and I recommend it with five stars. Enjoy!

This was the best Avan true romance book by far. Every page had excitment and true brilliance.Anna a young girl, who is to marry a man who she does not love,but then meets his brother the DUKE a VERY handsom man who took her breath away.......Ewen(the duke)has come from scottland to clam his tittle as the duke untill annas betrothed whants the tittle himself and Anna.How far will Richerd go to get his brothers tittle as duke? And is Annas and Ewen true love going to end or last a life time?????

This was a great book! Iwould recamend it to anyone who loves romance just as much as i do.Kathreyn Smith is a true genius and i HOPE that she will write many more avan true romance stories not only for me but all the others who have loved ANNA AND THE DUKE..........................

I purchased this book several years ago when I started counting carbohydrates. A nutritionist recommened it as being the most comprehensive resource of its kind. I have found it invaluable. The fact that is not only contains prepackaged food, but fresh foods, meats, homemade items and even some common restaurants (along with many many other catagories), makes it THE perfect resource.

This book is for those of us on special diets that do not want 'special' books telling us what to eat, but neglecting to tell us what not to eat, or for those of us who just want to judge for ourselves what is good (or bad) for us. This book contains very complete information, including canned foods by brand, candy, gum, alcohol beverages, foods prepared in many ways, virtually any foods, even poi. The values listed include alcohol, calories, water, protein, carbohydrates, sugar, dietary fiber, fat, saturated fatty acids, monosaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, cholesterol, vitamins A(RE), A(IU), C, B-1, B-2, B-4, B-12, D, E, E (as alpha-tocopherol), K, niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid. Also sodium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, iron, copper. Amino acids, caffeine, gluten, iodine, pectin, phytosterol, purines, salicylates, selenium, theobromine. What more could the dietary conscious want?

I have been a diabetic for many years. My new doctor advised me to get this book so that I could count carbohydrates more accurately. It is a great book for diabetics. My new doctor can now treat me more efficiently. Thanks.

The book is very inspiring and well written. The most important thing, being the recipies, are a must have! I bought it for my mom for her birthday (and my mom has every cook book in the world). I am constantly finding the perfect course or side dish to add for just the right touch. If you like being creative and trying your own hand at modifying recipies you'll be pleasantly surprised. Try adding Lemon to the Artichoke, Chicken and Chive soup - it's SO good.

I picked up this cookbook as I left California. It has become my favorite with each recipe a winner with cook and guest. I especially enjoy the emphasis on fresh ingredients and the ethnic food selections that we were accustomed to in the restaurants in the San Francisco North Bay area. Highly recommend.

I have been a fan of Michele Anna Jordan's writing for a long, long time. Her recipes resonate with me as we have similar tastes and cooking styles, but I love this book for much more than the recipes. All throughout the book are little sidebars filled with delicious little tidbits of information about California, both past and present. One may read about the first canned chile produced in Ventura or mid-1800's recipes from Senora Benecia Vallejo, the wife of General Mariano Vallejo. Ms. Jordan has produced a book that is filled with good things to eat, but is also filled with a wealth of information that makes ourcooking and dining experiences even richer.