With her bad girl reputation, Rebecca Wells is Dundee, Idaho's most talked about resident, while golden boy, Josh Hill, is the town's most respected and admired citizen. Their rivalry has raged for twenty-four years and is still smoldering like a brush fire, albeit, a contained one. Becka has long been of the mind that anything Josh can do, she can do better -- and has set out to prove it on numerous occasions. It all began when Josh moved into the house across the street from Rebecca. With Dundee's golden boy so close to home, she found herself competing for her father's affections.

As the forth daughter (and black sheep) of the family, however, she has rarely, if ever, received paternal praise. Josh, on the other hand, has always bathed in the town's adulation and succeeded where Rebecca has failed...In Doyle Wells's eyes, he can do no wrong -- which is reason enough, surely, to harbor resentment toward this esteemed pillar of popularity. Barring that unfortunate incident a year ago, her intense dislike of Josh has yet to wane. Firmly entrenched as enemies, their relationship has borne bitter fruit through the years, and is gossiped about over cold beer and pretzels at the Honky Tonk.

And what does it matter, anyway? Rebecca is engaged to be married (although her fiancé has just postponed their wedding for the third time) and will soon move to Nebraska -- far, far away from the small town mentality of Dundee, and Josh Hill's blinding perfection. So what could be more absurd than her father's demand that she call a truce with Josh? Why should she even bother when he goes out of his way to annoy her? But then again, what could it hurt? In a few short months, all of this will be behind her, so she can afford to be magnanimous, to be the bigger person -- even if it kills her or uncovers a frightening new emotion beneath her bristling animosity.

Brenda Novak's A Husband of Her Own demonstrates just how paper-thin the fine line between love and hate can be. In this strongly contrasting romance, two bitter rivals gradually acknowledge the sexual attraction pulling them together, despite a personal history weighed down with bad blood and outrageous pranks. There's more than ill will and impassioned dislike at work here -- but how much more? And are Rebecca and Josh willing to set aside their petty grievances to pursue it?

Unfortunately, readers are forced to wait and see if a romantic relationship is in the cards, because both Becka and Josh are involved in relationships with other people. (If this is a pet peeve of yours, beware). As vital, vivid and vivacious as Ms. Novak's characterizations are, I yearned for a greater sense of intimacy, and for more time spent with Rebecca and Josh as a couple, as opposed to embattled and embittered enemies.

Josh's relationship with his girlfriend of six months is particularly off-putting -- but generally, details of it are scarce, thank goodness. Rebecca's engagement to Buddy is something of a farce, however. She's so desperately needy for love and acceptance, she'll settle less, and not blink an eye. Which eerily parallels Josh's mismatch with Mary, come to think of it. Blind to their true feelings, it takes a while for the hostilities to cease, and for true love to triumph.

Eventually, a reader's patience pays off in A Husband of Her Own, but the joy of discovery is bittersweet. Rebecca and Josh have to fight their way toward a happy ending, you see, as they're bedeviled by self-doubt and habits learned from a lifetime spent competing against each other -- and we all know old habits die hard. Breaching the gulf between Ms. Novak's protagonists is an effort well rewarded in the end, however. A satisfying journey of the heart, this novel will find a way to relieve a reader of all doubt and hesitation, and to soothe the irritation of old hurts. Ms. Novak's easy, fluid prose is more than up to the challenge, after all.

Reviewed by C.L. Jeffries

This was a wonderful book.I loved it.All of Brenda Novaks books take you into the story and you can see everything she writes about and totaly picture it.Brenda is a wonderful writer.Can't wait for your next book Brenda keep up the good work.

This was wonderfully written.Brenda out did herself once again.

The story takes place in Dundee Idaho and Rebecca Wells wants to overcome her reputation and wants to get past her twenty-four year rivalry with the Perfect golden boy and successful horse rancher Josh Hill.
When Rebecca's father tells her that she has to call a truce with Josh or she will not be invited to attend their anniversary party Rebecca is upset and hurt that her father would even tell her that. When Josh shows up Rebecca tells him he doesn't have to stay to get his hair cut that they could call a truce now and just get it over with.Josh stays and lets Rebecca cut his hair and sparks start to fly.
Rebecca is also engaged to a man named Buddy who keeps putting of their wedding.When Josh figures out that he is in love with Rebecca he gets a hold of Buddy and starts to tell him of all the things Rebecca did growing up and Buddy tells Rebecca that they should not get married right now if at all.Rebecca is confused and wonders who could have told Buddy all that stuff about her.When she finds out it was Josh she is upset but they end up in each others arms and the rest is history.
This was a great book and one I couldn't put down.Brenda is a brilliant & awsome writer.Keep up the great work can't wait for your next book.

This book is just mesmerizing - it is so beautiful. Mark Rothko took art to a spiritual level that has seldom been achieved. The beauty of his colors and the simplicity of his work mesh to dominate the field of art, and make him a true master of our times. This particular book is full of color pictures of his work. Highly recommended for any art lover.

American artist Mark Rothko's artworks represents the very foundations of the Abstract Expressionist movement, and his key works are here presented in full-page color, introduced by essays from his contemporaries. This superbly produced volume with its exquisite presentation considers all of Rothko's works and contributions and is an essential acquisition for any serious collection on the Abstract Expressionist movement.

Yes, the reviewer who commented on the quality of the prints needs to get their specs looked at. This book is wonderfully produced, from the quality of the printing to the quality of the paper. It will sit alongside Anfan's wonderful catalogue raisonee on my shelves. I only wish I had followed my urge to hop on the Eurostar train from London to Paris on a day trip to see the exhibition. The last full Rothko exhibition I saw was in London in 1987, a mind expanding experience. This book is a world better than the catalogue of that exhibition and is definitely a must for any Rothko admirer. I will be in the Rothko room of the new Tate Modern gallery almost every day.

Like the Beginning on Huston Smith's A Concise Introduction To Buddhism. Smith talks about the the foundation of this nature related religion well illustrating the basic truths. Also covered nicely are some basic beliefs of the different sects.

However after about page 60, its a hit and miss affair. Not enough comparison on how Buddhism's practices vary from more prominent U.S. religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The commentary that does exist seemed to keep me on the outside. I got the point that meditation is a key part of the Buddhist's life. However, more of the specifics about the meditative state and its overall purpose just did not register. This book did not explain from a lay persons point of view. And how many pages were devoted to meditation? Someone please explain? Other than denying the luxuries in life, what holidays, prayer rituals, customs outside of meditation exist?

Maybe another book will give me a deeper explanation. This one was only partially helpful.

I've read dozens and dozens of books on Buddhism, but the clarity with which Smith and Novak explain basic principles, distinctions between sects, and the development of Buddhism in America makes Buddhism: A Concise Introduction very special. It's definitely the first book I'd recommend to anyone interested in learning about Buddhism (supplanting Steve Hagen's Buddhism Plain and Simple, a great book itself, but in a different way). Best of all, this book helped me understand which type of Buddhist practice made the most sense for me.

Of the dozens of Buddhist books I've purchased, this book provides the clearest, most understandable introduction to Buddhism. It gives a succinct historical background, complete with context (religions that were prominent where Buddism's roots sprouted). It then lays out the foundations of Buddhism (4 noble truths, eightfold path, etc.).
The authors do a great job explaining some of Buddhism's complex terms (dependent arising, nen-self, etc.), and do not confuse matters by relying to heavily on Sanskrit or Pali terminology.
Although the description of the various branches of Buddhism was a bit short, it did lay out the fundamental thoughts of each branch, and compare/contrast with the others.
The authors detail meditation types(vipassana, samantha) and how the different branches use meditation differently.
Finally, there is a summary of how Buddhism migrated to the western world, and how it is practiced today.
An excellent book, I would highly recommend it.

With this, the last of the Finders Stone Trilogy I can say that I am actually sad to see it end. This is something that all to often eludes me with Fantasy trilogies. Here we have great characters, a great plot line and great pacing. With the 3rd book we find that Finder, unlike the impression that we are given at the end of the first book, is not really repentant for what he has done, and sees Alias as his greatest creation even though he calls her his "daughter". It takes a small halfling and some friends to show him the destruction his vanity almost causes again. And while I am glad to see that our favorite characters from the first book are back, I am also glad to see that the focus of this book is on the redemption of Finder and the troubles he goes through to get to that point. I was also pleased to see that Dragonbait was more fully developed and the great character that he turned out to be. Too often in the fantasy genre we see Paladins as strict, unbending followers of the codes of their God's, often to detriment of everyone around them in their arrogance. Here we are given a being totally devout in his faith and yet went through some amazing trials to have that faith tempered by wisdom, and yet still has a sense of humor and common sense. I think here we see what Paladins were meant to be, and not the easy literary fundamentalists they have become. Kudos all the way around. A very easy recommendation to anyone looking for a good book.

In "Azure Bonds", we met Alias the sell sword, and her "soul brother" Dragonbait. It also introduced the Nameless Bard and the only known halfling bard, the irrepressible Olive Ruskettle. In "The Wyvern's Spur", Olive helps us to learn Nameless is not nameless after all. So, what adventures call for our intrepid heroes? Only the return of the Darkbringer himself: Moander.

Akabar bel Akesh, a mage of no small water, returns from his Turmish homeland to aid Alias and Dragonbait. To make matters worse, Moander has improved his minions since last he set foot on Faerûn. The Mouth of Moander, and its people, enslaved by the dark deity, once again seeks to control Alias, and bend her to its will.

In this, the third and final book in the Finder's Stone trilogy, we are given a deeper understanding of Nameless, and of those who love him, despite their better judgment. Will the Harpers rescind the ban on Nameless from the Realms, will they return to him his name, and will Moander succeed in controlling Alias? Read the book.

If you decide to pick this one up, and wonder what the future holds for Alias the sell sword, or the Nameless bard pick up the following titles as well: "Masquerades" and "Finder's Bane" both by Kate Novak and Jeff Grubb.

This book has got to be my favorite out of all of the D&D books that I have read! I thoroughly enjoyed the story and loved the ending. I wish there was a fourth to the Finder's Stone Trilogy! (but I guess it wouldn't be a Trilogy then huh?)

Not only is capitalism moral, but Novak proves out how the Catholic church has a history of rejecting socialism and exalting the capitalist society. Contrary to Max Weber's work on the Protestant Ethic, all of Catholicism is not one big tome to social justice and human rights. From _Rerum Novarum_ to _Centesimus Annus_, Catholicism captures the spirit of entrepreneurial ingenuity and liberty.

"Those who are convinced that they know the truth and firmly adhere to it are considered unreliable from a democratic point of view, since they do not accept that truth is determined by the majority, or that it is subject to variation according to different political trends. It must be observed in this regard that if there is no ultimate truth to guide and direct political activity, then ideas and convictions can easily be manipulated for reasons of power. As history demonstrates, a democracy without values easily turns into open or thinly disguised totalitarianism." Pope John Paul II, _Centesimus_Annus_-1991, #46

Michael Novak has written several books on the impact of capitalism on democratic society, including _The_Catholic_Ethic_and_the_Spirit_of_Capitalism_. In essence, this volume contains a synopsis of papal thought on economics from Leo XIII in his encyclical _Rerum_Novarum_ (1891) to John Paul II in his centennial rejoinder _Centesimus_Annus_ (1991). This tumultuous period in between these two documents oversaw the rise of socialism and its final collapse. These events lead to the question, does capitalism engender a moral superiority as an economic system. The book leads the reader to the conclusion in the qualified affirmative.

Modern society maintains three dimensions involving public participation--political, economic and moral. Democracy (or probably more accurately, constitutional republican government) constitutes probably the best political form that flawed humans can achieve in this life. Capitalism has been demonstrated to be the most effective economic means to ensure maximum benefit (in productivity and material reward) for the greatest number of persons. Publicly expressed religious worship (particularly the Judeo-Christian creeds) have blessed society with moral leavening to help counter the vices so prevalent among persons at large in all walks of life. That socialism has collapsed so utterly is partly due to its _unitary_ nature. It intends to concentrate all powers--political, economic and moral--into the apparatus of the state. However, a democratic capitalist society with no accountability to God will also ultimately degenerate and collapse.

Leo XIII criticized to Europe's early Marxist movement, predicting that "The Socialists, working on the poor man's envy of the rich, endeavor to destroy private property, and maintain that individual possessions should become the common property of all, to be administered by the State... But their proposals are so clearly futile for all practical purposes, that if they were carried out the working man himself would be among the first to suffer." He extends his comments noting that the socialists "act against natural justice and threaten the very existence of family life. And such interference... is quite certain to... subject [all citizens] to odious and intolerable slavery... Ideal equality--of which so much is said--would, in reality, be the leveling down of all to the same condition of misery and dis-honor. Thus it is clear that the main tenet of Socialism, the community of goods, must be utterly rejected; for it would injure those whom it is intended to benefit, it would be contrary to the natural rights of mankind, and it would introduce confusion and disorder into the commonwealth." One can only shudder at the cost in human lives and misery that mankind has suffered for not affording greater attention to these words at the time.

Catholic ideas of these components in society were further expounded by Pius XI in _Quadragesimo_Anno_ (1931), to which he contributed. Injustice within society must be confronted, and for this imperative the term "social justice" was coined. Pius XI emphasized three points: personal responsibility, institutional change, and practicality. Humans have a moral nature and thereby must accept responsibility within the society in which they live. They must focus on change in the system--the institutions which constitute society. And finally, people should be realistic, concentrating on what is "possible" and not on utopian visions. During past ages, common people were passive "subjects"--this was a call to action for "citizens" to participate. (Needless to say, this encyclical was not very popular with Mussolini.) This requires free men and women to join together and organize. The art of association, Tocqueville wrote, is the first law of democracy. The absence of this quality makes the practice of modern citizenship and civil society impossible. The contrast can probably be best illustrated by a comparison between the American and French Revolutions of the eighteenth century. American colonialists were knit together by habits of volunteerism, whereas the French were still a mob of solitary individuals. The first revolution led to a free society--the second disintegrated quickly into a murderous anarchy followed by Napoleon's dictatorship.

The underlying principle of John Paul's anthropology is the "creative subjectivity" of the human person--seen from two perspectives: philosophically and theologically. The former sees _homo_creator_ envisions _imago_Dei_. In _Centesimus_Annus_ #32, John Paul writes, "Whereas at one time the decisive factor of production was the land,... today the decisive factor is increasingly man himself, that is, his knowledge, especially his scientific knowledge, his capacity for interrelated and compact organization, as well as his ability to perceive the needs of others and to satisfy them."

As a consequence, freedom is a means--not an end--to seek a harmony between self interest and the interests of society as a whole, wherever this is possible. Liberty is not to be taken as license--not as liberty _from_ the law, but liberty _within_ the law. Ultimately, all societies must focus on "the truth about man", for without this emphasis, people lose their moral bearings and sense of direction. (See the excerpt at the beginning of this review.) Capitalism enables the greatest opportunity to engage creatively in the economic sphere, and rewarding the labors of those who endeavor in productive enterprise. John Paul continues, "Important virtues are involved in this process such as diligence, industriousness, prudence in undertaking reasonable risks, reliability and fidelity in interpersonal relationships as well as courage in carrying out decisions which are difficult and painful, but necessary both in the overall working of a business and in meeting possible setbacks." Democratic polity provides a means of participation by citizens in establishing consensus. But without an understanding of the truth of man's obligations to God, corruption will ultimately dissolve the spirit of cooperation and chaos will ensue. Checks and balances provide the counterweights to inappropriate economic desires, as the pope describes the proper role for the public's moral component: "Such a society is not directed against the market, but demands that the market be appropriately controlled by the forces of society and by the state so as to guarantee that the basic needs of the whole of society are satisfied." The message from John Paul's encyclical and of Michael Novak's _The_Catholic_Ethic_ could be summarized as follows: The human imperative is to be creative, and society must endeavor to encourage public virtue.

I've lived through the '50's red scares,communist world expansion, the '60's nihilism and militaristic support for capitalistic expansion. I've witnessed the polemics of the 80's and '90's, culminating in the demise of Communism and the emergence of a "Third way" synthesis. Capitalism always appealed to the intellect as logical but, knowing that not all humans are hard working and creative, capitalism in its pure state always seemed morally lacking. Mike Novak argues this is like blaming the car engine for and moral deficits of a drunk driver. While providing an interesting ride, this socio-economic -political rollercoaster has always lacked a tanscendent moral order. Along the way, pundits, social critics and propogandists produced a moral overview both fragmentary and conflicting. Mike Novak's book assigns some greater moral clarity to the choas of this historical tumult. He argues that one may be both a devout catholic and an enthusiastic capitalist, that indeed, being catholic may even oblige one to be a capitalist. He stenghens his views with the imprimatur of encyclicals, both eloquent and prescient, by Popes Leo XIII through John Paul II. Each humanistic and thoughtful citizen, whether a member of The American Republic or the world at large, must ask: Are private property and the pursuit of profit moral goods or evils? Are capitalism's excesses and shortcoming the faults of the economic order itself or the hosting culture? Is the pursuit of self interest a natural expression of god-given talent (hence a moral imperative to inspire, protect and empower others) or is it the selfish and exploitative. Is greed good? When does legitimate self interest become greed? Is global expansion of American capitalism righteous, as an escape from the enslavement of starvation-level poverty? Or is it simply an invitation to starve more freely? Is the inclusion of world citizens an invitation to the feast of expanding prosperity or an exploitation of their circumstance? Should the social conscience of a corporation make good business sense? Is it even possible? Is it theologically sound? Is it theologically required? After reading Professor Novak's book, I believe each reader will have a clearer view of capitalism's moral strengh and the weakness of opposing neo-socialist apostasies.

For the most part, i really enjoy A Very Touching Book. The illustrations and the humorous way that things are presented are great. Unfortunately, there is one page that makes me hesitate to use this book with the kids i work with. There's a page where the child gets really dirty doing something with Grandpa and then the two hop into the shower together. Sorry, but that smacks of common abusive settings to me. Many, many of my clients have been abused by someone in the bathtub. Maybe Grandpa in this instance was okay, but with the frequency of abuse in such settings, i cannot endorse this as a "safe" setting and have to skip this section with my kids.

This is a very useful book for children and parents. Hindman approaches the topic of "secret touching" sensitively, using phrases and situations that children can understand and relate to. The illustrations are wonderful in the variety of body types and reaces/ethnics groups shown, and they are somewhat amusing (which helps lighten the mood of the book a bit).

The author uses several "what if" scenarios to help children differentiate between good touches and secret (or bad) touches. Parents will, no doubt, want to add a few of their own, and the ones included serve nicely as templates for that purpose.

The major disagreement I have with the material presented is in the author's reasoning [to the reader] for covering the genitals (and female breasts). She states, "Wouldn't it be silly if it were backwards and we kept our elbows and ears special and private but shared our special parts [genitals] with everyone? That would really be silly, wouldn't it? [...] Even on the hottest day of the year, when we need to take off lots of our clothes just to keep cool...[sic] we still keep those special parts private. [...] We cover them and keep them private because they are special and like no other part of our body." Well, as someone who has spent many years researching the effects of family/peer nudity on children, and who (after years of contemplation and several major changes of opinion) now spends time at clothing-optional places [including our home] with my son, I have to state that this reasoning is faulty, and somewhat insulting to our intelligence. It would be exactly as "silly" for people to cover only their ears and elbows as it is to cover only the genitals and breasts -- *all* body parts are "unique and like no other," so this is a meaningless reason. Children do not have an innate sense of shame or false modesty regarding their genitals (ever chase a naked, laughing toddler around the house?) -- these are things they are taught by adults. It would be more accurate for the author to have stated that "many people" feel this way, or words to that effect. Abuse can (and does) occur even though children wear clothing. It is a disservice to teach them otherwise.

I realize the major audience for this book is probably white, middle-class North Americans, but there are millions of people all over the world who regularly go topfree (for women) or nude with no ill effects, and many positive effects. For some, it is a matter of culture; for others, a matter of personal comfort and choice. For the author to state that it is "silly" to be other than what she perceives as normal is both unfair and dangerous. The danger is that well-meaning parents, social workers, and law enforcement tend to take statements like these as absolutes, and it puts families who do not share these views of the body at risk of accusations of child abuse.

In my opinion, the author would do much better to leave comfort issues regarding nudity to the family, and focus on the harmful acts of abusive touching and forced sexualized behavior. She has good, logical things to say about these, and the book would be more consistent had she not chosen to tread on this shaky ground.

Jan Hindman brings her vast knowledge of child sexual assault, offender profiles and wonderful humor together in this fine and funny book. My children and I would read four or five pages per night, before bed and talk about the book's content and lessons. Yes, grownups do get purple faces talking about this stuff and kids can help them through it. The very important definitions of good, bad and secret touching are taught sensitively and well. Secret touching must be the emphasis when seeking disclosures of child sexual assault and molestation.
My kids especially liked the fingerprints at the page corners. Children, of course, get to decide when to turn the pages! Important to every family's library and every school library should have several copies.

I REALLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK. MAGIC HAS A HAD VERY INTERESTING CAREER AND PRIVATE LIFE. HE DOES A GREAT JOB OF DESCRIBING THE NEWS OF HIS HIV VIRUS IN SUCH AS A WAY THAT HE IS HONEST BUT NOT BRUTALLY HONEST. HE SEEMS LIKE A PRETTY GOOD GUY. HE DOES A GREAT JOB DESCRIBING HIS CAREER AND HIS LIFE IN DETAIL. I ENJOYED THIS ALOT, SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS ARE HIS RESPECT OF LARRY BIRD, PAT RILEY, AND VARIOUS OTHER PLAYERS AND COACHES. HE ALSO HAS GOOD VALUES AND SEEMS HUMBLE. HE IS VERY HUMAN AND ALSO HAS GREAT CHARISMA. HOPEFULLY MAGIC WILL LIVE A LONG HEALTHY LIFE. THIS BOOK IS VERY RECOMMENDED.

An enjoyable quick read that offers a lot of down-to-earth things about Magic's life. Growing up in Michigan, describing what school, family life, and basketball was like. He also delves into some of his interludes with some of the ladies, and describes the constant attention given to NBA players on the road. He writes of his HIV infection and how he initially dealt with it. For those who've even casually been exposed to Ervin Johnson on the court or via interviews, he's one of the most relaxed and even-keel people we've ever encountered. Magic is appreciative and laid-back. This will allow him to live as long as people who are not infected.

Magic without a doubt is Something Special.He was The Last Complete Player in the Game.He Could Play Position.but he Proved Himself even Bigger after He Found out he had HIV.He became an Even Bigger Winner Giving Back&Building a Bigger Foundation.this Book Deals with His Days at Michigan State,The L.A.Lakers&His Views around the League.The Man is a Champion on&off The COurt.His Smile is TImeless.A Class Act.

The American theologian Michael Novak converted from socialism to capitalism in the 1970s, somewhat against the trend of the times. It might be said that he got in early to beat the rush to the neoconservative right. He has written that his liberal humanist education, mostly in philosophy and theology, was anti-capitalist 'as was common'. At the age of 40 he recognized a need to question his presuppositions about political economy and especially economics. This led him to discover and eventually to celebrate democratic capitalist traditions and institutions, especially in their North American form. He is especially proud of the achievements of the founding fathers of the Constitution with their appreciation of the need to separate the powers of church and state, and to take precautions against the predatory activities of political factions.

In his capacity as a Catholic theologian he has been especially concerned to reply to the moral critics of capitalism who typically argue that the system abandons the public interest and the welfare of the community to self-interest and the pursuit of individual gain. In one of his other books, Free Persons and the Common Good, he attempted to retrieve from the Catholic literature a conception of the common good that is consistent with capitalism and the market order. At first sight this is not a promising venture, given that Hayek in The Fatal Conceit argued that the Catholic theologians in general and Aquinas in particular had no understanding of the positive function of markets. Novak takes up this challenge with a tortuous excursion into the works of Catholic thinkers, among them Aquinas who Lord Acton described as 'the first Whig'. This is all very heavy going, as Novak realises, and skeptics are likely to wonder whether the Catholic tradition is really as hospitable to freedom and the secular common good as he claims.

His account of the American experience as an adventure of classical (non socialist) liberalism is more convincing. He identifies several valuable moral traditions which were called forth by democratic capitalist institutions in the early American colonies. These include civic responsibility, personal economic enterprise, creativity and a special kind of communitarian living. He also offers a cogent rejoinder to the critics who accuse capitalism of lacking moral or spiritual depth. He explains that statements on the 'spiritual deficiency' of democratic capitalism spring from a "horrific" category mistake. Democratic capitalism is not a church, a philosophy or a way of life, instead it promises three liberations; from tyranny and torture; from the oppression of conscience, information and ideas; and from poverty. The resulting social order provides space "within which the soul may make its own choices, and within which spiritual leaders and spiritual associations may do their own necessary and creative work". He suggests that Democratic capitalism has done rather well on the score of promoting spiritual and cultural life, in contrast with Fascism and Communism which aspired to cater for higher human needs.

The most significant achievement of the book is to explain how the common good can be served by the blend of individualism and free-market institutionalism (under the rule of law) that is advocated by von Mises and Hayek. Both these writers and other classical liberals dismiss the notion that there is anything identifiable as the common (collectivist) good. But the kind of 'common good' that Novak identifies is not of the collectivist variety, instead it is a framework of institutions and traditions which maximises the chance for all individuals to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. This particular kind of common good is promoted by the extended order of morals and markets, provided that the markets and other vital parts of the system of law and government are working properly. Here the notion of the rule of law is crucial because it defines an essential function for strong (but limited) government.

Novak supports the market liberal thrust for free trade and he also endorses the traditional, conservative notion of the rule of law against certain types of social engineers and judicial activists. However he does not object to the welfare state because he thinks that it is necessary in these days of fragmented communities and highly mobile people. Those who like their ideology strong and pure will deplore this lapse from grace but it shows Novak's willingness to get the best of both worlds, if this is at all possible. In the same way that he is determined to retrieve the best of Catholic theology he is prepared to take whatever he finds acceptable from the diverse strands of liberalism, ranging from the laissez-faire of von Mises and the deregulators to the left-liberalism of the American democrats. Novak challenges libertarians who have no time for religious traditions and he challenges religious conservatives who regard the liberal tradition as self-centred. This book maintains his reputation for breaking new ground and making connections between apparantly antagonistic modes of thought.

...

This is an important book. It links the liberal democratic order of capitalism with the Judeo-Christian moral tradition and thus at once removes capitalism from being a secular, non-discriminatory form of free market exchange to a human set of relationships between individuals based on a moral code.

Whether or not all philosophers would agree with that thesis is another issue. Since the enlightenment when religious authority was usurped and the secular society emerged, religion has been under attack in developed societies and today many in organized religions decry the relatavistic nature of our behaviour.

That said this is a book that should be read by anyone interested in the concept of the ethical corporate governance. It is a difficult book to read due to the densely written arguemnts which require close reading. It is a challenging book in many ways, especially to those who have strong personal belief systems. Nevertheless, Novak makes a strong case and his exposition deserves to be taken to a wider audience

My thoughts upon rereading this book again recently were that there is a need for a similar book to relate Capatilism to other major religions in a way which transcends any one religion in particular. In the light of recent events too there is a case for a treatise which relates Capitalism to the Moslem world to show that it is an inclusive rather than an exclusive social system.

Michael Novak is probably the foremost Christian thinker on the economy. Any of his books reward study, but "The Spirit of Democratic Capitalism" is undoubtedly his magnum opus. In this classic text, which has now been updated and revised, Novak joins issue with theologians like Paul Tillich who contend that "any serious Christian must be a socialist." It appeared in a samizdat (underground) edition in Poland during the 1980s and had an obvious impact on the Solidarity movement. Its reasoned defense of democratic capitalism as being grounded in the humane values of the Judeo-Christian tradition also helped give a moral center to the neo-conservative movement.

In "Democratic Capitalism," Novak addresses the consistency of capitalism with church teachings on wealth. Novak recognizes that church teaching has been hostile to capitalism, as with much else of modernity. Yet, Novak contends that arguments against capitalism serve mainly to give aid and comfort to the Leviathan state. Indeed, Novak persuasively (if controversially) attributes Christian opposition to capitalism to two main sources: ignorance and antique world views. Church leaders and theologians tend to have either a pre-capitalist or a frankly socialist set of ideals about political economy.

To be clear, Novak does not believe that faith should be subordinated to capitalism. To the contrary, he recognizes that the divine plan was that we should enjoy the fruits of the earth and of our own industry. He simply contends that capitalism is the best way Fallen humans have yet devised to obey the Biblical command that we are to be stewards of God's world. Novak never loses sight of the basic proposition that it was equally the divine plan that God should be worshiped, obeyed, and feared. The fear of the Lord, he would argue, is the beginning of capitalist wisdom, just as it is of any other kind of wisdom. Not surprisingly, therefore, Novak's analysis has begun to impact the way the church thinks about capitalism. Pope John Paul II's most recent encyclicals on work and the economy, for example, such as Centesimus Annus, contain obvious marks of Novak's influence. In sum, very highly recommended.

My wife bought this book at Waterstone's in England, 5 March 2001. She was using it for her Medical Transcription home study course.

The book was reliable until Thursday 29. She wanted to look up 'suture', but unbeknown to us pages 1531 to 1594 were missing.

Therefore we have a useless book.

A very handy reference book for anyone in the medical profession. It allows you to find information quickly and answers basic questions about diagnoses, signs and symptoms and medical terms. It is written in clear and concise language. It has colorful and descriptive pictures. I wish I had this in nursing school years ago!! Recently, I've used it as an RN in Home Healthcare practice and as a coding/compliance auditor when reviewing documentation. Overall, it has saved me a lot of time and allowed me to look up details that I didn't know easily. I keep it with me as part of my essential books.

Wish I'd had this book 26 years ago when I was in nursing school.

I bought this book for our Lutheran church library. The first 9 chapters and chapter 12 are excellent and thought-provoking. However, Chapter 10 on the role of women in religion (the Catholic faith) and Chapter 11 on abortion degenerate into Catholic dogma. The writers should SAY THIS: the Catholic church does not allow women to be priests due to tradition, although other faiths do. Instead, Michael weaves a mysteriously weak argument: women are great at ministering to others (ala Mother Theresa) but they could not serve as intermediaries to God because they aren't able to get through to the "warrior man" because they are too meek and mild. Doesn't that make you just go all fuzzy inside? He said how "funny" or "odd" it would be to hear a WOMAN, of all people, deliver the Sermon on the Mount. The argument was idiotic. What about Mary Magdelene, the 13th disciple? What about Joan of Arc, the warrior woman? What about female pastors of other faiths? Gee, I wonder if God listens to them? What about the fact that limiting the priesthood to males has resulted in a homosexual priesthood--not that I would mind that, but it is surely not the result the church intended way back when, and is a big problem in the eyes of the church. This is never mentioned. In chapter 11, the abortion chapter, the authors do a great disservice to their readers. They totally avoid discussing contraceptive devices (naturally)and the fact that condoms can keep you from contracting AIDS! Catholic couples and women especially are condemned, shamed and made to feel guilty by the male hierarchical church if they use contraceptives, and condemned to suffer needless pain, possible death, not to mention the guilt of unwanted pregnancy and the dangers that come with childbirth or abortion, if they do not use contraceptives. Catch 22. How do they ever get right with the church? What kind of church creates such needless suffering on the part of over half its followers-- women? The author mentions a euphemism for the rhythm method as the only acceptable birth control method, never mentioning that it is totally unreliable and does nothing to protect against STDs or HIV. Novak mentions how wonderful it is that Catholic nuns help young unmarried pregnant girls with their pregnancies. Who pays for their welfare once they leave these facilities? The Catholic church? No, you and me, the taxpayers. I got the feeling while reading this book that women are EXPECTED to suffer in this church and to just take it as a saintly cross to bear, never to object. I believe Christ expects us to make responsible decisions and take some responsibility for our lives. The idea that we should bow to some male hierarchy in a faith like Catholicism or Christian fundamentalism is silly. God did not put us on earth to suffer if we could do something to avoid it in the first place, for goodness' sake. I got so mad at these chapters that I wrote rebuttals in the margins. EVERYONE should use a CONDOM when they have sex EVERYTIME whether they are married or unmarried. You ask for death if you don't. The idea that college students receive condoms for free on campuses was so offensive to the authors because it "cheapens sex." No, actually, sex without love cheapens sex. Would they rather these students suffer and die from STDs and AIDS when they could easily avoid it? Get real! So read this book with a grain of salt and remember it is written from a very dogmatical point of view.

Interesting and thought-provoking, although with some flaws. At times, for example, it can be rambling and lacking in substantive answers to the actual questions posed--it often leaves the reader wanting more. Of course, the very fact of wanting more indicates the overall solidity of the book. On balance a very worthwhile read.

I would have given "Tell Me Why" four stars instead of five, because of all the issues left only half-explored or totally unexplored by Michael and Jana Novak. (For instance, barely anything was said about Eastern religions.) However, this book's shortcomings are not half as important as what this book can do for people.

"Tell Me Why" can start debate among believers and non-believers alike. It can inspire critical thinking among the most complacent readers. It can even bring about new joy and enthusiasm to those who need a boost to their faith.

Other reviewers have complained that the discussion "degenerates into Catholic dogma." Being Catholic, I can assure other Catholics that this is a great book to read--and tell believers of other faiths that this is a book that will set them thinking about their own religious and spiritual beliefs. "Tell Me Why" covers abstract issues, such as how to choose a religion and why it is important to believe in a Higher Power, and practical points, such as abortion and ritual--all explosive topics in their own ways.

To its credit, "Tell Me Why" does not merely lay down Catholic doctrine and leave the reader, who may be unfamiliar with Catholicism, floundering for answers; it presents the philosophic background of each teaching. Doing so requires a lot of intellectual meandering, which is why Michael Novak can take over ten pages to answer a simple Yes or No question. (Of course, problems still crop up when Michael Novak explains something to daughter Jana's content, but not to the reader's.)

The text is sprinkled with quotes and prayers from figures such as C. S. Lewis, G. K. Chesterton, and other philosophers of Christianity, Judaism and Islam. (Michael Novak has a mind very much like a database when it comes to his field.) While reading, I often found myself thinking about unincluded others who have written about spritual and religious matters, such as M. Scott Peck or Kahlil Gibran. Though my experience proves that "Tell Me Why" is far from perfect or comprehensive, it also shows that this book _does_ inspire people to look into themselves in order to complete what the authors may have left unexplored.

We need more popular theology in our lives.