Recently, I had the honor of meeting David at a Book Signing of Vietnam Era helicopter Pilots. David is as delightful and faithful man as his writing. Prior to meeting him, I had purchased his book and read it advidly. He writes a completely different Vietnam Novel whereby he mixes his faith experience and combat experience with a moving story of the devotion that people can have towards each other in the world of combat. While this is fiction, I have spoken with him at great length and know his work reflects his own faith journey and personal morays. Keeping the action moving, David manages to also convey more important things than a simple "shoot em up" novel would attempt. I highly recommend this to people who are interested how men of faith struggled in the "apparently Godless" world of war. This is anovel that you can feel very comfortable in allowing your children to read.

Bruce E. Carlson M. Div. author of "Red Bird Down."

This is fantastic little pocket carryall book for cycling San Juan, Gulf and Vancouver Islands. Small, 3-D maps, elevation gain, mileage. They just dont make them anymore,

I could not find it to buy in USA since they are out of print, so I checked out of Library. Now I have found it on-line...

I first read a poem from this on the Poets Online site and bought the book. It was even better than the one poem led me to expect. Angels, light, dark, resurrection and the soul all come together in these poems. What I enjoyed most is that the entire book reads so well as a book - not just as a collection of poems. Though they were published separately, I would have to believe some careful sequencing went into the book's design (it is in 5 parts) to achieve this. I went back to Amazon later & bought her earlier book (SALT) and hope to find her poems in periodicals.

This is a lovely, lovely book. I'm not one for new age angels, but the angels in Ashley's poems are something completely different and new. Once I read this book, her angels and her dead inhabited my dreams. There maybe be various reasons for light, but Ashley's poetry is one of the best.

This book enabled me to take a hard look at my relationship and identify the source of my unhappiness. I could start to see how I was partially responsible for the bad treatment I had been getting from my husband by not putting my foot down. As I woman, I think we all have a tendency to just hope our mate will understand why we're not happy. This helped to me to articulate the problems to my spouse and not be a particpant in my own victimization. Also it gave me a better undestanding of how relationships can suffer from mismanaged anger, fear, and power.

I have to say that this is one of my most treasured books. It's insight is direct, and very sensible. If you have a relationship that you have trouble understanding, I am sure this book will help you understand it. It has greatly helped my relationship with my wife. If you are seeing a marriage counselor, you must have this book (and a highlighter!) I still refer to parts of it after having it for two months. It is well written, It does not beat around the bush, it is not frilly, it is very meaty and will not leave you pondering about what the author is trying to tell you. I am in control of my feelings, and this book greatly helps me in maintaining that. Jade Clayton Author- McGraw-Hill Illustrated Telecom Dictionary

Alla Bozarth-Campbell is writing in this book about her own journey to become one of the first female Episcopal priests - in particular one of the Philedelphia 11 - the first eleven women ordained in the Episcopal Church, before the House of Bishops and House of Deputies had changed the interpretation of rules to allow such a thing.

Alla herself is an interesting person with an interesting personal history and tales to tell. However for me the more fascinating part of the book is the actual tale of how the Church came to be forced to face the fact of women priests, and why the women and the bishops who ordained them felt impelled to take their drastic action. The last part of the book I found less attention grabbing, partially because I don't empathize well with the group oppression mind-set, being far too strong an individualist. This is more my failing than the author's, but it constitutes a weakness in the book at least as far as I'm concerned. I suppose I wanted more of the facts and less of the personal ruminating, but since this is intended as autobiographical I can't actually say that ruminating by the author is either out of place or off topic.

Overall, well worth the read.

Alla Bozarth-Campbell was one of the first women to be ordained priest in the Episcopal church. She was one of Philadelphia eleven: eleven women deacons ordained "underground" by a retired bishop of the church, the canons of which declare "a priest is a priest forever."

The Church National Conference laity had several times voted to accept women as priests, but the bishops continually blocked the ordinations by very slim minorities. Young male candidates for ordination were "striking," refusing ordination, until the Church at large allowed women priests. These eleven women pushed the matter from hypothesis into reality, and forced the Church to deal with it.

To be one of these eleven required courage, and faith, but also a sureness of vocation. How Bozarth-Campbell came to have these qualities makes a remarkable biography.

Bozarth-Campbell is a gentle writer: she is neither a braggart, nor cloyingly modest. Her writing suggests that she is soft-spoken, but nonetheless certain of herself. She is also never at a loss for just the right word; altogether, this story is gripping. Even though we know how things turn out, there is suspense; we don't know the details, and I, myself was on the edge of my chair waiting for them.

Anyone interested in women's spirituality, or church history must read this book; people who enjoy biography in general will not be disappointed either. And those who just enjoy good writing should like this book.

I am in shock to find that Dale M. Jacobs, of all people, has written a book about communicating with children. As a child I was "counseled" by Dale M. Jacobs. His idea of "counseling" was to berate children until we agreed with his proclamations, whether he was right or wrong or not! Mostly he was farther off-base than the Branch Davidians. Having Dale M. Jacobs write a book about communicating with children makes about as much sense as having Dr. Josef Mengele write a book about the care and feeding of twins! Save your money, folks - and "pay no attention to that man behind the curtain" ...

Dale M. Jacobs may have written nice book but he was not a nice therapist himself! He not communicate right with children himself! This book written by hot air balloon! Get real!

I read this book and saw both my wife and myself in the book, and reserved expressing my opinion until my wife read the book.

Well, three months later she did after an argument with our almost 11-year old daughter. I said to my wife, please read "Zip Your Lips;" she called me a couple of hours later and thanked me over and over for forcing her to read the book.

I found the book to provide some great suggestions, while at the same time, reassuring myself that my often "passive" disciplinary techniques are reinforced by professional thought.

I had little knowledge of diamonds and spent several weeks researching on the web. I came across several glowing recommendations on this book. It's an enjoyable read and there are many colorful and striking photos. However, the author spends too much time covering topics like valuable "colored" diamonds and not enough time on specific tips on engagement jewelry. Personally, I would advise the thrifty spender looking for an engagement diamond to "browse" the web and just hit the jewelers. You could easily do without this book. Websites (...) were much more helpful than this book. (...) You can find out great information about the 4 C's anywhere on the web. You can find pictures, and most anything. If you would like to read one book and not spend so much time surfing, then this may be for you. But be warned, I picked up more information from surfing than reading this book.

This is a great, objective place to become familiar with the ins/outs of what to look for in a diamond. I have been to several jewelry stores recently and gotten a diamond education, but also pressure to buy a diamond. If you read this book you will not need a jewelry store education and you will know as much about diamonds as some of the employees behind the counter!

I bought this book and several others to prepare me for engagement ring shopping. I shouldn't have wasted my money on the others. The book is clean and concise. After reading the book I was thoroughly prepared and confident to go out and shop for a diamond ring. I know I would have ended up with a much lower quality diamond and/or payed thousands more for an engagement ring and center stone without the expert advice from this book.

i found the faery wicca tarot deck and book an incredible deck. the art work is delightful and thought provoking, although the white blazes containing names of various characters portrayed therein are disturbing to the entire setting of the cards. i do not feel i could use these cards for doing readings for myself or others as the system is specific to the irish mythological cycles, and there does not seem to be a clear way to correlate the various cards with one another. however, i find that they are an excellent tool for studying and understanding the celtic myths, and for pathwork, meditation etc.

I found the cards to be quite wonderful. They can be used as 'jumping off points' by those who are able to travel into the Faery Realms. The stories that go along with the cards awaken the bard within us all. Thank you Kisma.

A perfect follow up to Faery Wicca one and two. Learn about the real faery faith from a real Ollamh! This deck gives a wonderful new twist to Tarot!!! Try it, you'll like it. The book is a very thorough and in-depth review of Irish mythology and how it applies to today's world. Don't be persuaded by those who would call it "pastiche" or "bunk." This is the real thing!!! As with Faery Wicca 1&2, this is a must for any Wiccan's library!!!

I enjoyed this book very much, it's not usual that I read a book in less than 24 hours, but I did with this one. Babysister, (and I'm still trying to figure out why someone named her that)was one evil, self centered, horrible person, and I thought she got everything she deserved! It is an unspoken and un-written rule that you DO NOT go after your sisters or GIRLfriends boyfriends!! No matter how horrible you think they are for her. Malcolm (who was Baby's brother) was pathetic. I hated him too. I know some men can be babies, but he took the BABYcake! Darren is every woman's nightmare. Come in all smooth and stuff, just to punch a hole in your chest, rip out your heart, throw it down and stomp on it. I loved this book and I look forward to future works by Renee. You go girl!

Please Please Please is a great book about a "bad girl" who doesn't know her own strength. If you've read a negative review about this book, it was written by someone who 1. didn't get it, or 2. is bringin too much judgement to the reading part-ay. For cool young urbanites like myself and yourself, the book has all the necessary insights into "our" world. Every book written by a black author is not a history lesson, people! This one is far from it. I matched every character to someone in my past life drama, so Please Please Please satisfied a sordid hunger for sensuous literary misogyny. I've never read a character quite like this before, but Babysister's get up and go kinda reminded me of Stella's get up and go (if I HAD to compare). Females like Babysister have never had the chance to be the main character in books. They have, however been the ones getting all the male attention in your social circle, though.

Babysister is not so much dysfunctional as she is spoiled. She saw her mother die when she was little, and so earned all her daddy's attention and all her brother's resentment. Babysister is like those people who step on toes, but have too much fun and energy to realize their dysfunction. She does what she wants to do, but gets all she deserves, good and bad. She never apologizes when she should, and that just adds to her believability. Trust me, I KNOW this person! The standout of the supporting characters is definetly Babysister's funny but all-about-business friend, Lisette. I mean, this girl right here, she practically pops off the pages, okay? This novel screams, "Hollywood feature!"

Another character I really dug was Sharice, the new age, culturally conscious single mom who tames Babysister's Bigbrother, Malcolm. Without big brother Malcolm, of course, there could never be a Babysister. But just like real life brother and sister, they never learn to appreciate one another. Say the title with that James Brown-esque desperate, pleading lilt and you'll understand the passion that drives this outstanding book. Babysister's sexiness, jealousy and lustful weaknesses speak for themselves. When you ask yourself, "Is she really gonna do this?" your heart rate and reading speed will increase simultaneously. -HURRY AND WRITE AGAIN, RENEE!!!

This book was HILARIOUS! I read it in one setting over a year ago and have been recommending it to all of my friends--young and old. Please, Please, Please is the story of the ULTIMATE BAD GIRL, Babysister. Babysister is a 20-something sista' who's all about self...self-centered, self gratification, self-absorbed, self determination, lack of self control, self-absorbed, selfish and who's a character that would make you want to slap her silly if only you thought it would help; but you know it won't. Babysister is so bad, and her escapades are so out-of-the box that you find yourself going "should I kick her butt or laugh"...and in reading the book you will experience both feelings. As the storyline goes... Seems that Babysister was spoiled by her dad at an early age; of course, because Dad spent so much time, love and money on Babysister that did not ingratiate her with her older brother Malcolm; not that Babysister seemed to mind. Since Babysister was used to getting her way and everything she wanted or desired as a child, she assumed that life would continue that way indefinitely and didn't even think about changing as an adult. Afterall, who said that Darren, her best friend Deborah's boyfriend was off limits...especially when she wanted him. Of course, Devious Darren was tempted and wondered if he could tangle with both Babysister and Her Friend/His Girlfriend Deborah. Afterall, there was just something about Babysister that he had to have...but the question was could he hook up with Babysister without hurting Deborah? So What if he did? If Deborah was unfortunate to get hurt in the meantime so be it.. because she was so naive that she would take him back no matter what...or would she?

As I mentioned earlier, I read this book almost a year ago. However, as I sit writing this review and remembering details of Babysister's antics it's as though I only read this book yesterday. The storyline was exciting and memorable, the dialogue was witty and the characters had depth. The main characters were familiar and easy to understand as well as the supporting characters including Babysister's dad, girlfriend Lisette, brother Malcolm and especially Sharice--Malcolm's Afrocentric girlfriend. The book is RAW in that it doesn't present the most positive aspects of the AA community or relationships and a few brothers were upset because of the male bashing; however, I do not believe that Ms. Swindle's intent was to write a historical piece or even a social commentary on the AA community but rather to provide a FICTIONAL NOVEL which offered a change of pace, and was lighthearted, entertaining, hilarious, (somewhat)controversial and a novel that would have folks reading and talking about it for months(years) to come. I commend Ms. Swindle on a job well-done. Despite Please, Please, Please, being Ms. Swindle's first book, her writing style was beyond the depths of a first time writer and I look forward to follow up books from Ms. Swindle.

The guide seems to have all the basic drinks, techniques, and supplies covered. At the beginning of each section (whiskey, rum, vodka, etc), there's an overview that would be good except for the annoying product promos. In the end, there were so many plugs for Mr Boston spirits and other brands, I felt like Mr Boston should be paying me for reading all these no-so-subtle ads.

Yes, this is probably the first drinks book you'll buy. (I suppose because this is what is sold in liquor stores....) For that reason, everyone has a copy. However, the names uses for the various liquors are their own--even though in many cases their's is the generic brand. Which is frustrating. I also marvel as how many drinks are not in here, perhaps because they are usually made with another distiller's brands? Ignoring that, it is a convenient size and is well laid out. Keep looking.

Concidered by many to be the bible of bartending, Mr. Boston has been a bestseller since 1935. Filled with information covering everything from how setup a homebar, flaming a drink, to party planning Mr. Boston is a must have for anyone interested in mixology. With over 1200 recipes Mr. Boston will give you plenty of recipes to choose from and experiment with.

J. J. Murray has thoroughly "schooled" both black and white America on loving with the heart and not the eyes. Reading the first chapter of Renee and Jay, which is off the roof, was just like having a conversation with myself.

This is a hot new romance that'll sho nuf melt all of that ice in Roanoke's winter storm. You're on the playing field with Tyree and Dickey and Terry McMillan. Renee's got the black girl attitude! You write the black woman's role pretty well; that you have in common with Dickey. I was amazed at how well he does that, and you're doing it too!

Renee and Jay is a real Romeo and Juliet set in small time Black America! It's a soap opera in the palm of your hands . . . and there's no waiting for tomorrow's episode.

I laughed. I cried. I hoped and I prayed and rejoiced in the beauty of the book's ending. I absolutely loved this book as much as I've ever loved Morrison, McMillan or McElroy Ansa. You have arrived and I cannot wait to read Something Real. Talk about bridging gaps and bringing people from all walks of life together . . . you've done it with Renee and Jay. People often wonder about the dynamics of interracial relationships (what comes up, what to say and what not to say). I hope that others will read it and walk away with a refreshing spirit and a more peaceful outlook on life and race relations. I certainly have. It's one thing to say what we believe, but Renee & Jay walks miles in the shoes. I commend you; the book is so well-planned, thought out and pieced together: the jig-saw puzzle of the century has been pieced together gracefully with this beautiful love story! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you JJ Murray!

If you're a lover who loves romance, Renee & Jay has a place on your reading list. Get it today!

J. J. Murray's debut novel, RENEE AND JAY is the interracial Romeo & Juliet for the new millennium. A snowstorm leaves Renee stranded out front of Luchesi's restaurant, where she meets the owner's son, Giovanni, aka Jay. Though Renee professes herself to be strictly into black men, she finds herself very intrigued by Jay, and by the next morning Renee and Jay are wistfully thinking of love and a relationship with each other. Renee's own pessimism plays a key role in defining her could-be relationship with Jay, but her mother and Jay's father...as well as their small-minded community questions the "colorful" relationship. If that's not enough, the surprise of a baby drives everyone, including Renee into even more confusion, but Jay is steadfast in his love for Renee and is determined to prove to her that the two make a perfect pair.

Renee and Jay is a great read, and I really could not stop reading it until I got to the last page. The characters were outrageous and funny, the humor in the novel was obvious. I will admit; however, that the story is heavy with the "my people" comments presented by Renee, the main character, and oftentimes, I found myself saying, okay, we get it, you're black, it was that thick at times. Aside from that, the story was funny and well written, and I think Murray did an excellent job with this debut novel and the subject matter, and I look forward to reading more books by him.

Reviewed by Shonie

This book made me smile.:-)It was nice to finally read a book that was not all bitterness, anger, depravity, etc. The relationship between Renee and Giovanni was refreshing, real and very touching. Renee is a young African-American woman, who like most women today, are looking for "Mr. Right". She just doesn't expect her soul mate will be a white, pale, Italian. What both Renee and Jay learn is that you can't choose whom you love. The heart knows no racial barriers. Mr. Murrays' characters are well developed. Giovanni is an honest, caring, hardworking, young man who is not afraid to express his emotions. Renee reminds me of friends I've known through the years, beautiful, fun-loving, intelligient and faithful to family and loved ones. It was also good to see the acceptance of the relationship by Renee's mother and Giovanni's father. Everyone knows that the relationship will have extra burdens because it is an interracial one, but it was nice not to have that thrown in your face throughout the whole book. It was basically a funny, down-to-earth love story. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would like to see more of these characters. (Maybe a sequel). Can't wait to read more from this author.