Again and again we hear it, but it's true: John McPhee can interest a reader in anything. He manages to combine a richly sedimented prose, which frequently rises to a level of virtuosity of which 95% of novelists would be envious, with a tangible involvement in the activities of the people he writes about. And he does always write, first and foremost, about people. 'Coming into the Country' is McPhee's longest single book and contains about ten capsule biographies (and quite a bit of modest autobiography, too) in addition to observations on the hibernation of bears, the various techniques of panning for gold, the advantages of sled-dogs against snow-machines, the failings of bush-pilots, and three-dozen other disquisitions.

Without wishing to carp, I do think that the book is a shade too long -- the final section 'Coming into the Country' could profitably have been pruned of about forty pages -- but the greater length does allow the reader to see the effort McPhee goes to to provide his stories with an aesthetically pleasing structure. The first section, 'The Encircled River' deposits us, in medias res, halfway down a tributary of one of Alaska's northenmost rivers. McPhee and his companions travel downriver to the confluence of a larger river, and then we head back to the headwaters of the earlier river -- the story describes an encircling pattern. The second part 'What they were looking for' is a very funny record of a helicopter trip taken by a committee established to decide on a new capital for Alaska. Here the story skips around the theme as the chopper skips around proposed sites for the new metropolis. It's in the final section which gives the book its title that McPhee really lets loose, leaping from the present to the past, from those living on the river to those encamped in the small town of Eagle, back to the Indian village, on to a white mountain trapper and his Indian wife, back to the first goldrush era in the Yukon valley, all the time incorporating off-the-record views of Eagle townspeople, journal entries, his own observations of the breathtaking landscape. It's a tour-de-force. McPhee is the best journalist in the English-speaking world. Alaska is a wonderful place. The meeting of the two is something to behold.

In the late 1970's my mother and father were inspired by John McPhee's Coming Into the Country to the point of venturing out onto the open highway. I was but two years old, headed across America, from Georgia to Alaska, towards Eagle, the tiny community that McPhee discusses with a keen eye in the third section of his book. I spent my childhood in that community and it would not be until I was fully grown that I would actually read his book. Just a couple of years ago, when I was attending college in Georgia, I became homesick for Alaska and decided to read the book that had been so impressive to my parents. I was amazed by McPhee's way of seeing the truth in something foreign to him -- how he described the people of Eagle. I highly recommend this book to all those who wish to venture into the land of Alaska, whether in their actual travels or in their imagination.

McPhee lets the reader feel just how huge Alaska is-almost wider than the mind. From geological to political history Coming into the Country shows how it got that way. I picked this up at the airport in Fairbanks, and kept it in my pack to savor after returning to the wilds of Philadelphia. McPhee's sense of adventure and storytelling, his close interaction with the people and the land, make this the Portable Alaska.

It's hard to believe this is Jody Seay's first novel: her gift as a storyteller is apparent from the first paragraph. The characters are engaging and true-to-life, the situations they find themselves in timely and realistic. Aside from an important message about love and tolerance, I was completely taken by the story of Jimmy Heron and the healing of his broken heart. (Robert Duvall, if you're out there, this would be a great role for you!) Ms. Seay's style is true Texan: warm yet tough, not letting you go until the last sentence. And you don't want to let go - the story grabbed me and kept me turning pages well into the night. I highly recommend this book!

Jody Seay is a true story-teller. My attachment to these characters--Jimmy, Lou, Jonah, Cory, and of course, Curly Red-- was similar to my connection to the characters in Fried Green Tomatoes, or to those in Where The Heart Is. I was drawn into the sorrows, joys, and the ever-present humor shared among these characters. They became my friends, and I was outraged at the indignities they endured, I grieved with their losses, and celebrated their triumphs. I did not want this book to end, and I anxiously await Ms.Seay's next offering!

This book takes preachers of hate head-on as it points out how hateful rhetoric creates hate-filled actions. As a school counselor in Oregon for many years, I have witnessed first-hand how hatred, violence and intolerance can devastate families, friendships and communities. Although many books have been written by members of various groups addressing this issue, generally these books are geared toward their own particular group or audience. I found, The Second Coming of Curly Red, to be refreshing in that it is written for "Everyone, USA." Jody Seay lets the story and the characters of her novel build a platform of kindness, compassion and understanding, then invites the rest of us to step up on it and get bigger than we thought we were. This is a very important book... an honest and heartwrenching book that should be read by everyone who has a desire to understand diversity and grow in tolerance and acceptance of all human beings.

I purchased the book as a way to learn more about drug dealers. My life long dream was to become a police officer, so I have read many true crime books and autobiographies. Right now, my faith in God and being a Christian is in question. Yes, this book has a lot to do with faith. But its not a bible book by any means.
The true accounts and actions of were amazing and how a man who had done so much evil in his young life could be blessed and given a second chance is amazing to me.
I encourage everyone who has ever challenged their faith whatever denomination to read this book with an open mind.
I would and will recommend this book to who ever will listen.
An AWESOME book.

I too could not put this book down! It has an awesome and inspiring message of hope! This book needs to be read by the young people in America who are being lured into the false trap of materialism. Someone, somebody, please, please make a motion picture out of this story! I know three people who also have read this true story and they too could not put the book down! Read this book for yourself and let the testimony of Christ's transforming power of Jorge Valdes' Life inspire you too!

While going through a difficult time in my life, I happened upon this book. This story of redemption is so powerful that it actually deepened my faith. I thought, "If this person can be changed through faith, then so can I." Since reading Coming Clean I have become more reliant on my faith and much more aware of my choices. This book was not only a thriller of a read, but a story that has mattered on a much deeper level for me.

I would especially recommend this book for teens and college age readers who are under the constant assault of the immoral deadening messages of a society spun out of control with permissiveness and entitlement.

This volume of memoirs is a model of what reminiscences should be: the book makes fascinating reading, reflecting also excellent cooperation between the author and editor. Their combined efforts led to a work that reads like fiction but projects the reality of the war well. The book is enhanced by numerous illustrations, contemporary photos and maps, is well indexed (by Lori L. Daniel), and is further enriched by relevant poetry. The fascinating volume reveals the role of radio intelligence, the work of the American code breakers (cryptanalysts) that were listening to the radio traffic of the German Luftwaffe in World War II. Code breaker Arnold Clement Franco was a member of the 3rd Radio Mobile Squadron (G). Its mission was to intercept German radio messages sent by Luftwaffe personnel on the ground and in the air, and, when necessary, to break code messages. This intelligence was transmitted to the headquaters of Ninth Air Force, the tactical arm of American air power in the European Theater of War. The work of the cryptanalysts was so effective and significant that for a time their intelligence was sent directly to SHAEF (Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force). The author provides new insights into the history of World War II's European Theater of War, and presents persuasive evidence that the American exposure at the Battle of the Bulge (1944) was attributable not to failure of intelligence but to SHAEF's failure to act on the intelligence they were provided from radio cryptanalysts. This slim paperback volume is both an account of little-known aspects of the role of radio intelligence in World War II and, as the subtitle indicates, a retrospective insight of the impact of the war on a young soldier's life and attitudes: Franco saw himself in a new perspective and gained a new awareness of his Jewish origins. This book is an "easy read" and "must read" for persons interested in the drama of World War II.

Any book that quotes Keats, Browning and Kipling gets my interest but a chapter that starts with "This blessed plot, this earth, this realm ..." has my total and undivided attention!

I enjoyed the book very much. Your research and documentation were, obviously, superb and it must have been a happy day for you to meet Paula Spellman who gave all of your data such spirit and feeling that the reader felt as if they were truly sharing that environment with you. It gave a great insight into your experience as a crypt- analyst and as a participant in the European Theatre in World War II. I will always enjoy reading it again.

The book blends reminiscence and humour, mixed with the darker side of war. I could not help but laugh out loud at the decription of Major Silverstein's shooting of Colonel Turkel, especially the latter's account of the Doctors' reaction. "Wounded in Belgium" will now have a whole new connotation.

THIS BOOK TOLD ME THINGS I ALREADY FELT INSIDE AND KNEW TO BE TRUE. IF ANYONE FEELS ALONE IN THEIR SEXUALITY OR IN COMING OUT THIS IS THE BOOK FROM ONE BLACK WOMAN TO ANOTHER THAT WILL LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE NORMAL AND YOU ARE LOVED. NOTHING IS NEW ITS JUST DIFFERENT. I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ALL.

Lisa C. Moore.... thank you, thank you, thank you. After reading this book, I am now convinced that there NOTHING wrong with me!!!Too many beautiful black lesbians go through the experience that I went through and it causes them to believe that they are not normal or a woman to love another woman. Well... this book ripped my eyes open to the fact that just because I feel alone, doesnt mean that I am alone. Every black lesbian can see a little of themselves in this book. I will never back down when someone says that being a lesbian is unnatural, because i realize that its as natural as breathing to me! I recommend this book to anyone who feels alone like I did because it will make you realize the need for smart, sophisticated, black, beautiful lesbians and just because your different doesnt mean your not NORMAL!!!!!! Thank you Lisa C. Moore for publishing such a wonderful book.

I was so moved by these stories, and I was particularly moved by the piece by Roxane Gay. She is clearly one of the up and coming young voices of our generation!!!

I enjoyed this book, it brought back memories of when I was in Vietnam. I was in 7/17th Cavalry when Bruce was, only in a different troop. I was in maintenance and repaired the red birds. I have flown in LOH during this time and can relate well to the book. Bruce is very colorful and there is no bad lanquage I would let my wife and daughter read this book. Bruce is very detailed as to the actions of combat. There is some sad parts when people died. But combat involves death. The end of the books deals with some political problems faced by the troops. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in Army avaition and avaition in Vietnam.

For those seeking an in-depth, firsthand perspective of the Great Helicopter War of Vietnam that is far beyond what any history book can offer, Red Bird Down is an absolute must-read. Although presented in the genre of fiction, the experiences of young Kevin closely parallel those of author Bruce Carlson as he makes the transformation from a young "Newbie" pilot into a highly skilled Scout. Get into the flight helmet and truly experience the joys of flight, the taste of fear, the intimacy between a pilot and his "bird", the pain of conflicting views of those "back home", the camaraderie of those who must put their lives into each others' hands, and the unspeakable loss of a dear friend. Red Bird Down is to the Vietnam War as All Quiet On The Western Front is to World War I.

With two tours with the 1st Cav Div (Airmobile) in Vietnam, I had ample opportunity to see this small craft in action. When they hovered close enough in hostile territory to find foot prints, I was glad that I piloted a large Chinook and did not have such missions.

This is a true-to-life depiction of how light observation helicopter pilots sought out the enemy so that other units could engage them. To do this took unheard of courage and Red Bird Down does them a grand tribute and truth. This book is a must read for anyone to understand airmobile operations.

LTC Carle E. Dunn, USA-Retired

Behind the Stained-Glass Window brought back memories of my days in parochial school. As a result, it was very comfortable reading for me.Life brings us in contact with all types of people, and so it was in this book among the nuns portrayed. I enjoyed the different personalities among the priests and sisters, and found the book to be right on target in it's projection.The main character was so typical of a young women taught by nuns; so trusting and unassuming. This was an excellent book, and I would read it again.

This book was well written but even more it caught my interest very quickly. I was then unable to put the book down. I found the behind scenes of a catholic boarding school very interesting.

If you've ever wondered what it was really like to be sent to a Catholic boarding school/convent, read this book. There are so many stories out there of a parent that threatened to send a child to a "convent" to get them out of their hair... MINE DID JUST THAT! Actually, I was one of the author's classmates during her tenure at a Catholic academy between 1964-1965 and she rekindled so many memories, good and bad. A surprising mixture of truth and fiction by a wonderful author who is going to be on my favorite list for sure! Thank you Patzi!

I found this book to be a veritable Bible of Coming out. When the best time to do it is, how to establish a network of friends as a new "family", etc. But my one caveat for anyone dealing with their own sexuality would be to take all the advice you can stomach, and then formulate your own strategy for coming out. This book, while extremely valuable, is NOT a book of rules - merely suggestions. All of the books on this topic I have read seem to all have the same errored thought process - that just because you are gay, that you have to become an activist. It is important that you come to terms with your sexuality and share or don't share it with your loved ones and coworkers, but I think this book's approach of "coming out every day" may be quite intimidating for any person struggling to come out. You don't have to join GLAAD or march in any parades.

This book is terrific, for anyone coming out, already out, or considering coming out in the near future. If you're already out, it shows you what you can still do, how to be sure your friends and family don't fall into that trap of ignoring that you're gay after you've told them, etc. If you're in the process, the next step is clearly enumerated for you. It will help you avoid mistakes, things you'd never think of, which will make it easier on you and your family/friends. And if you're planning on coming out, this book will give you hope, and a goal. It will help you to know when you are ready, and what to make sure you have as a security net.
Outing Yourself is a much needed friend, always helpful, always personal and readable. I read it within three days of buying it, and I'm sure I'll refer back to it often.

If you are pondering coming out, this is the book to have. I have just begun this process, and this book has changed my life profoundly. I cannot recommend it highly enough, it's like having a wise and reassuring friend who you can come back to again and again. I refer to it every day.

Anyone that has ever run at any time in their lives will love this novel. In The Long Run is a compelling and charming story of truly vivid characters. Tim Van Wagner manages to weave an enchanting and authentic story and propel us along for the ride, or rather, the run! Josh Chamberlain, the main protagonist of the book, has resolved to run his first marathon and while doing so gets into "the zone". It is in this "zone" that he contemplates his past and distant heritage and where he meets "the colonel" his great-great grandfather and Medal of Honor recipient. Whether you happen to be a Civil War buff or not; you will find the entire tale a joy to read. Tim has a runners soul and an historians attention to detail. My only regret was that this excellent book had to end. I'm already anticipating Tim's second novel!

Lynn Seely; runner/ author

My brother advised me to read this book as he knows the author via sports. As I love to read, I was happy to oblige him just to see what he was talking about. I was pleasantly surprised to find a book that captured my interest from the first page! The author's style is easy to read and well done, and his sense of humor and detail appreciated by me. The story of the past and present Joshua Chamberlains blended together well and I was entranced.
Maybe I loved this book because I'm from a small town in Upper Michigan, and my dad was a Civil War buff and took us to battlefields and made history come alive with his stories.
Maybe I liked it because my brother was a basketball star and our small town team went to the state finals in the late 60's against those Detroit teams and won!
Maybe I liked it because I have run 10ks and walked a marathon and know what that's like.
Maybe I liked it because I read a lot and can recognize a good author and tale when I read it.
Maybe I have told a lot of others about it because I feel it's a "sleeper" and a good read!
Thank you Tim V for a great tale and enjoyable read!

This book caught my attention being a marathon runner and a Civil War buff. Having both together seemed too good to be true. Not entirely what I expected but certainly not a disappointment either. I found myself focusing more on the non-running aspects of the book, but was still acutely aware of Mr. Wagoner's description of the marathon that were unique and descriptive. A smart, smooth use of multiple times enabled me to correlate the main characters life with his progression through the marathon which I found very clever. Surprisingly so, this book made me feel like a teenager again. I'm not a love story type of guy, but I would highly recommend this book. Made me feel good about people again.

Just as I expected from the author. The style of his writing and the content of this relatively thin book is amazing. Matt uses his own experience to teach the readers about the subjects presented in this book.

The truth in this book will change the way you look at worship. It's not about the songs or the worship leaders. It's about pleasing the audience of one.

One of the most insightful books I have ever read about worship. I truly believe that all Christian leaders should read this book, as it will reveal SO much about worshipping the Lord!

It is a small book, but the wisdom it shares is huge. Redman knows what being a worship peader is all about and he shares the knowledge with others. How can you fully worship the Lord? Can you be an unquenchable worshipper?