Eleemosynary - charatible, the giving of alms.

And so begins one of the real gems of the contemporary American Theatre written by perhaps the best home-grown playwrights to appear in the last 15 years.

In Eleemosynary playwright Lee Blessing, like he does in all his work, celebrates the joy of language and its intrinsic power to create storms of imagery. In this short, eliptical and direct play which demands a symbolic staging, Blessing gives us three generations of Westbrook women- a unique family blessed (and cursed) with supreme intelligence and eccentricity.

I have directed the play once and seen it staged several times and each encounter has proven fullfilling past expectation. It is poetic without pretension and it is charatible without resorting to maudlin posings. The matriarch of the clan- the bold Dorothea is so carefully drawn as is her daughter Artie and grandaughter Echo. Dorothea's eccentricities do not become shallow manipulations here (as say similar characters do in Steel Magnolies for example), and that truly is a testement to Blessings sublime mastery of language and space. Like all great plays, Eleemosynary touches the heart and the head at the same time as it is filled with laughs and tears.

Discover and savor this highly polished diamond!

Reading this play was the most touching inspiration anyone could ask for. It's complex imagery and natural poeticism moves the reader, and the audience, through the story of three women's linear relationship with one another. Each scene reveals to us another facet of their fears, their needs, harshnesses and vulnerabilities. I had the honor of playing Dorothea in a production recently, and fell in love with the craft of acting all over again. Anyone who is thinking about staging this play will find themselves open to a world of technical possibility as well as interpretive direction. If you don't push it too hard you will notice that there is no need to; Mr. Blessing has already done most of the work for you. Think simply, and the beauty and profuound relevence of this play will unwrap itself before the audience, like a gift.

Last year I had the opportunity to play Echo in a production of this wonderful play. All I can do is thank Lee Blessing, and my director for giving me this once in a lifetime experience. Of all the productions I have performed in none has moved me, brought me closer to my fellow actors, nor changed me in the ways that this play has. In exploring the relationships between three generations of extraordinary women, Mr. Blessing reveals so much about mothers and their daughters (it amazes me that a man could write about women and their feelings so accurately). There is basically no set, no costume changes, and very few props, which means that the play itself must be powerful enough to keep the attention of the audience for about two hours. This is no easy task, but the play moves so quickly and smoothly through a series of flashbacks, that it transports the audience into the world of these women and holds them there until the very end. Because the show was double cast, I had the unique opportunity of being both a performer and an audience member. Both experiences were equally intense, and if I ever get the opportunity to be either again I won't hesitate to take it. I enthusiastically recommend this play to actors, directors, audience members or even just to someone who is looking for a good read. Enjoy. -One Echo

I loved this book!! It helped me confirm that my ordinary life is really quite extraordinary....wait...or is it the other way around...?!! I will recommend it to all of my friends.

Lee's writing has that "every woman" quality. Just like Bruce Springsteen has the ability to sing just to me in a crowd of 60 thousand, Lee's writing gives me goosebumps as it seems like she somehow found my life's collection of journals. This book is a feel good, feel real gem. I love her honesty and genuine appreciation for all the little things in life that make up our one big experience here on earth.

This book shines from cover to cover. With its careful treatment of humor, depth, the gamut of emotions, _Grace in the First Person_ leaves the reader, regardless of age, reeling. At moments I laughed so hard that unsettling flashbacks to grade-school-lunch-table-milk-out-the-nose-laughing-because-of-a-potty-joke episodes entered my mind. THe author has the ability to keep the reader rapt, and rapped around her finger while taking us through her life in middle-class suburbia. Fine writing. Really fine.

ME GUSTARIA SABER COMO CONSEGUIR LOS LIBROS DE METAFISICA LOS LEO DESDE PUERTO RICO Y EN CHICAGO NO ENCUENTRO SITIO DONDE LOS VENDAN O COMO PUEDO HACER PARA COMPRAR POR INTERNET

me gusto mucho lo que lei.......ahunque es la primera vez que leo acerca de Angeles...me interesa mucho el tema......porque en ocaciones que he pasado por realmente malos momentos en mi vida...he sentido la presencia de alguien muy cerca de mi..lo he sentido en mi hombro, cerca de mi oido,.......y siempre habia pensado que era Dios... pero no sabia que Dios nos a designado un Angel especial para cada persona....yo no voy a ninguna iglesia....pero siempre he sentido a Dios muy cerca de mi....y ahora se que es el Angel que el me envio para cuidarme...quisiera saber como comunicarme con el y verlo........siempre me he sentido diferente a las demas mujeres..no se si sea mi imaginacion..pero hay muchas preguntas que quisiera que alguien me contestara...si ustedes me pueden ayudar.....se los agradeceria toda mi vida.......Gracias.

Yo he leido este libro muchas veces y lo he recomendado a muchas personas. Hay tambien un otro libro de ellas que se llama El Devocionario De Su Angel De La Guarda, lo cual es tambien fantastica. Las autoras, Barbara y Trudy, contestan tantas cuestiones practicas sobre la estrecha relacion que tenemos con los angeles. A mi me gusto el libro porque me ayuda a manifestar lo que quiero en mi vida con mas facilidad. !Se lo sugiero fuertemente!

I borrowed this book from the library and renewed it so many times, they finally told me I had reached my limit and had to return it. I've been trying to check it out again and it is NEVER there. I miss it, a lot, especially since I am working on my first kaleidoscope quilt (which is also my first quilt ever -- although not my first sewing project, by a long shot) so decided its time to buy my own copy. Would I recommend this to anyone else? ABSOLUTELY. Great concept backed up by clear directions, good photos and good writing -- I like the "Snowflakes" book, too, but am not going to try that until I have done a few Kaleidoscopes.

I own alot of traditional quilting books but wasn't really satisfied making traditional quilts. When I first saw Paula Nadelstern's quilts I was awestruck. When I saw the book I knew I had to have it and I have not been disapointed. Nadelstern writes clearly and with just the right touch of humor. Her instructions give you exactly the information that you need to know (but assumes that you have made a quilt or two so she doesn't dwell on the basics). The section on choosing fabrics is very thorough although I have found that I've had to alter the way I look at fabrics now since symmetrical fabric motifs are key to the success of kaleidescopes. Naturally, I was also forced (smile) into buying alot of new fabric for my kaleidescopes. By the way, Nadelstern has designed a line of fabric for Bernartex called Symmetry that is perfect for these quilts--
These are not simple quilts - the biggest change is that you let the fabrics choose the shape of the template - but boy is it a rewarding experience. I also own her book Snowflakes & Quilts which takes the kaleidescope a bit further and turns it into a snowflake. I recommend both books very highly.

Ever think that you'd like depart from traditional patchwork and make an art quilt that will make people gasp? Open this book. The quilts photographed in this book are amazing. And the idea seems so simple, once it's broken down for you in painstaking detail. You'll learn about selecting a collection of fabrics for kaleidoscope quilts, and how to look at them and create patterns for your own kaleidoscopes. No two need ever be alike.

Being sceptical about anything "divine," this book made me think about divine influences on us humans down here on Earth. I recommend this book without reservations to anyone who isn't fearful to take a look at divine possibilities.

I picked this book up for my Mom for Mother's Day after a conversation we had one night about Spirituality. I read the book myself before I sent it to Mom, just to be sure it would be something she would really have an interest in. Not only are the stories of the three women who wrote the book interesting but also reading about what they experienced individually and as a team as they were writing the book made this book a true gem and something I decided I had to have a copy of for myself. I learned a great deal about angels, spirituality and the uniqueness of each of our personal journeys in life from this book. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking within themselves for answers to life's questions.

I was getting ready to teach an Angel Class in St. Charles, IL. and reading anything I could get my hands on that would help. When this book literally came on the screen. I was at the Amazon Book web site and looking for a different book. This book appeared on my screen. I knew than and there that this was the book I needed in teaching people to listen to their Angels. The authors teach you that our Angels are anxiously waiting for us to ask them for divine guidance. Once you read this book you will never feel alone or unloved again. You will never feel helpless or at the mercy of events. Read this book it will change your life, it has changed mine.

This is an amazing book. I wasn't so much interested in the life of Harry Traver, but the legendary coasters he built. Too bad there aren't any of them around today. I have heard the stories of the great rides they were and my grandparents actually got to ride the legendary Crystal Beach Cyclone. A fabulous peek at the great coasters of days gone by.

The photos and history in this book go beyond any other book in my collection. I had to pay dearly to get this but it was worth it. For a coaster enthusiast who loves the design, construction, and riding of coasters, this book has it all.

Richard Munch has done a wonderful job writing this book about Harry Traver, a man most people have never heard of. However, true coaster/amusement park enthusiasts know how important his name is to the amusement park industry. The book contains a detailed personal and business history of Traver, with information gleaned from family and many other sources. It's hard to figure how the author did all of this, but the proof is within the covers of this outstanding book. Dozens of b/w photos of Traver's legendary coaster creations, complete with track layout plans and thorough descriptions, bring to life his contributions to the advancement of the wooden roller coaster. The book also contains photos of some of Traver's business papers and promotional materials. Munch also weaves into the text the relationship Traver had with the 1920's coaster team of Prior and Church, who are responsible for several historical coasters, including the still-operating San Diego "Giant Dipper". This book is like a trip through time. The only other book like it is Robert Cartmell's "The Incredible Scream Machine" which in itself is the most comprehensive book ever written on the subject of the history of roller coasters. If you're not too interested in coasters, then you'll find the book to be an interesting curiosity, but if you're an enthusiast, you'll love it. (Submitted January 23, 2002)

An excellent compendium of places and locations that have played a part in both Bond Books and Bond Films. The detail and descriptions are impecable and Gary's research has definately paid-off.

Particular note goes out to the two introductory writers, Peter Hunt and Christopher Lee, who both offer excellent background and depth.

One downside is that a map would have been quite effective to achieve the sense of geography and distance to these locations. As only a one-time visitor (so far!) to London, I don't quite know the relationships to the districts and locales, etc. In this case a map would have been quite helpful.

James Bond and London, the capital of Britain, go hand in hand. A James Bond adventure, whether it is cinematic or literary, would hardly be complete without some form of patriotism towards Mother England and off hand I can only think of a few adventures (mainly short stories) where no scenes talk place in Britain. This simple fact, coupled with the fact that every man wishes to be like James Bond, gives good reason for a book such as James Bond's London to be written.
Gary Giblin took up the challenge of writing such a book in January 1998. I shall not go into full details here as they're covered in Jordan Charter's interview located here. However, what started as a book entitled James Bond's Britain eventually had to be subdivided into two books. As a result of a lot or hard work James Bond's London was published in December 2001.

To begin with, James Bond's London isn't your average book, nor is it what I originally envisaged it would be; but that's not a bad thing, quite the opposite actually. What Giblin has presented is a travel guide to the world of James Bond in London. Quite simply, the book is the most useful source for anyone who wants to travel in the footsteps of James Bond, something, which could easily seem a mammoth undertaking.

Giblin has been very particular in the material that he has covered. By his own admission in an interview with CommanderBond.Net he has omitted literary material not written by Ian Fleming; of course indicating he is a purist to the work. Giblin has also omitted non-EON Productions cinematic material; again a sign of purity as there is only one true James Bond film series.

That said, the amount of material Giblin has included is still amazing. There a literally hundreds of locations that can be found in the novels and in the films. What is most amazing about the film locations is how many of them were used for non-British locations in the films. For instance the car park from Tomorrow Never Dies is actually in London and not Hamburg. Also, aside from locations that we read of and watch are locations where significant events of the Bond world took place. For instance, the birthplace of Ian Fleming or the former offices of EON Productions. If it's Bond related and it's in London you'll find it in "James Bond's London".

Thankfully, for those of us not well versed in travelling around London Giblin has an explanation of how to get to each location. Not only does he include the standard address, suburb and postcode but also details for getting there via the London Underground. As a part of this he's mentioned the platforms and the stations one should use and once leaving the station which streets one should follow.

The locations in the book are also well categorised. Rather than organising the locations by film, novel or perhaps relation Giblin has taken the initiative of organising them by location. So one could simply spend a day in a certain part of London and visit several Bond related locations. The guide makes it that simple.

As for the detail on each location Giblin has included quite a lot. To describe each location Giblin has used icons to begin with; for instance a clapperboard icon represents a film related location. As a part of the textual description for each location Giblin has not only included Bond related information but information on the locations non-Bond history. Readers will not only learn a great deal about Bond but a great deal about London too.

In passing good comments about the work that Giblin has done one must also highlight downfalls to "James Bond's London" - something that is not an easy task let me assure you. While I can find no fault in the material that Giblin has presented I must say that I was disappointed to find that the book was not offered in a hardback edition. However, in saying that one can definitely appreciate the fact that Giblin and the Daleon, whom published the book, made all attempts to keep the prices low. My only other complain is about one of the icons in the book; the skull and cross bone. The icon is disproportionate and according to Giblin this is a problem that occurred at the printers.

All in all James Bond's London is a must have for any Bond fan of any calibre. Gary Giblin has researched extensively into all aspects of the locations and the films and help from Bond legends such as Peter Lamont have made this a completely unique and factual reference guide.

Giblin leaps to the forefront of Fleming/Bond reads,and joins the short list of the best,Pearson, Benson and Lycett.

Immerse yourself in this one!

Lynyrd Skynyrd: An Oral History by Lee Ballinger (West Coast Editor of "Rock & Rap Confidential") is a unique and informative history of the Lynyrd Skynyrd rock-n-roll band as seen through the eyes and told in quotes of the people who were around them before, during, and after their sometimes legendary performances -- as well as the 1977 plan crash that killed almost half of the original band. Consisting entirely of quotes and brief vignettes by different people concerning various topics and performances concerning the band, Lynyrd Skynyrd is highly readable, fascinating to flip through, distinctive in its presentation, and highly recommended reading for rock 'n roll enthusiasts in general, and the legions of Lynyrd Skynyrd fans in particular.

Lee Ballinger does a great job of capturing the spirit of Lynyrd Skynyrd. This book is a must for any Skynyrd fan.

This is a wonderful book, told by those of us who were there; band members, employees, relatives and contemporaries. Lee has done a fine job portraying one of America's best rock and roll bands, doing so with the words of people who knew the band and were part of the dream. This book provides some unique insights into the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd and their classic music, a must-read for anyone interested in this band. Great job, Lee!

John Haury

Doctor Steven Heller has written a fascinating book based on something that looks to be a passion. It's not that he is completely skeptical of any form of hypnosis, but he takes a hard look at the ritual and unnecessary dramatics of the professional "hypnotist." The word is in quotes, because you will see it that way all through the book. He was a clinical hypnotist for years. You should know that this title is not "Reader's Digest-level reading," it is intense and academic in approach. Steven Heller does believe in hypnosis, but under a different definition than most are used to. Monsters and Magical Sticks is filled with metaphors, imagery, and amazing success stories of his own case sessions. Learn about the "magic" behind Ericksonian techniques and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. This book will show you how hypnotism really works.

Not only did I find this book instructive, but very entertaining to read. I highly appreciate the fact that this book treats hypnosis as a natural aspect of daily life and yes it can be used intentionally and covertly as in this story from the book:

"One evening, a group of friends and I were having dinner at a local restaurant. Our waiter was very distracted and he appeared to be agitated and depressed. He was abrupt, slow and unfriendly. As a result, our service left a great deal to be desired. Since I wanted to have an enjoyable evening, I decided to "talk funny" to him in order to help him feel better.

As he walked by our table holding a coffee pot, I touched his arm and said, "I'm sorry that you forgot that special night ... with that special person ... those exciting things that happened ... those very warm feelings that would embarrass you to talk about ... since we are all strangers."

For a moment his face went blank; he looked up to his left; his face then lift up and he said, "How do you know about that?" He then smiled and began to laugh, and his whole attitude changed as if by magic. He said, "Wow. that was some night. I don't know how you know about it."

The next time he came to our table, I said to him, "Wasn't it simply amazing that when you remember those happy, warm feelings, your attitude continues to change, and you continue to feel even better?"

We received a delightful service throughout the rest of the evening. What was even nicer, was that as we left he told us that we were one of the nicest parties he had ever waited on. He also asked us to be sure and ask for him whenever we returned.

Now, I have absolutely no idea as to what he hallucinated, but my communication resulted in his going back into his own history. He then found an experience that filled in the blanks, and that memory helped him to change his whole attitude in a matter of seconds. Of course, there's no such thing as hypnosis, and if there is, he should have gone deeper and deeper into a trance."

Several years ago a friend loaned me his copy of Monsters and Magical Sticks. Within a few pages I knew that I was reading the work of geniuses. For months after I searched for a copy to call my own. Finally I found one. Both my training and therapeutic style have been fantastically improved! I am thrilled that this jewel is now more readily accessible. IT'S A MUST READ FOR EVERYONE WHO CONDUCTS TRAININGS AND/OR THERAPY. My hope is to one day talk with Dr. Heller or Ms. Steele and/or to attend one of their trainings. ...