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Book reviews for "Peascod,_William" sorted by average review score:

Spec Ops: Case Studies in Special Operations Warfare: Theory & Practice
Published in Hardcover by Presidio Pr (1995)
Author: William H. McRaven
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This includes Every Detail that you need!!!
I studied Spec Ops for quite a while.
But all the information I gather was not complete.
Especially those Ops for 20-30 years.

But this book really makes a difference.
Every detail of the Op that you want to know was in it.
Location. situation and planning...results

I think this is a wonderful book for those
who want to study Spec Op Cases!!!

Absolute rocker in explaining the theory of Spec Ops.
I found it really useful in understanding the matters combined in Special operations. The theory which is also described in the doctrine of Spec. Ops. is here illustrated and explained in a less complicated way by using case studies. These case studies are randomly but carefully chosen by size, force, time, space, backgrounds of the participants, field of expertise and the end results. This way McRaven was able to prove his 6 basic principles of Special Operations, Speed, Security, Repetion, Surprise, Speed and Purpose. Succesfull execution of a special operation does not depend on ones field of expertise. It is more dependent on preparation, plannning, physical/ mental/ strategic training and capabilities of the executing group of determand people as discribed in the 6 basics by McRaven. Therefore I recommend this book to everyone who wants to understand these principles which are practised not only by Special Forces but also by Regular Armed Forces.

Most outstanding book on special operations I've read
This book is one of the most useful books on special operations I've ever encountered. McRaven is uniquely qualified to write this book, being both a practitioner and a student of the art. He succinctly and clearly outlines six underlying principles and how they interact with one another, as well as how they support special operations. The clear descriptions and graphs on the "area of vulnerablity" are especially insightful and allow the novice to understand when and why special operations succeed or fail. He then critques eight famous operations such as the Israeli hostage rescue at Entebbe and the U.S. raid on the Son Tay POW camp, using them to explain and illustrate how the six principles presented themselves. All in all, the BEST book on special operations I've ever read and would strongly recommend it to anyone who is a serious student of this particular type of operation, including domestic law enforcement tactical teams.


Superstar Names
Published in Paperback by Bling Bling Publishing (24 September, 2002)
Author: Jeffarious Shanderrick Williams
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So funny you'll blow out your O Ring
I heard this guy on a local radio station in Atlanta (96Rock) and so I ordered a copy. It was so hysterical I almost messed myself.

I laughed so hard I blew out my O - Ring!!!
This book is hilarious. I heard Jefarrius promote it on 96Rock, a radio station in Atlanta, and ducked out of work to buy a copy. It was totally worth it!

Great for expectant parents and for the coffeetable, too!
I have often noticed the names of some of the Superstar athletes in all the sports and wondered about the origin, what the parents were thinking when they gave the child that particular name, and if the athlete changed his own name to one of those mentioned in this great book, why did he do so? Now I have the reason.....the parents, any parents, want the best for their child, and the athlete sees it as a no-brainer issue: To succeed on the playing field, you need a Superstar Name! I highly reccommend this book not only to expectant parents, but for anyone sitting around the television watching sports! I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. The book is well written and well documented by the writer!


Addicted to Unhappiness : Free yourself from moods and behaviors that undermine relationships, work, and the life you want
Published in Hardcover by McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books (23 August, 2002)
Authors: Martha Pieper and William Pieper
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Finally, a self-help book that makes sense
After reading thousands of self-help books trying to figure out what's "wrong" with me, I found a book that explains everything!
This book is wonderful. I hope everyone that can't understand why they can't change the things they want to change, can't figure out why they are compelled to do some of the things they do, feel disgusted and unhappy with themselves for their lack of "self-control", etc. finds this book. Highly recommended!

If you want self-help that works, try this
This is a self-help approach that really works! Tested in the Piepers' clinical work over more than three decades, this is an approach that does not offer a quick fix but instead a route to making lasting changes; it doesn't offer panaceas, but instead examples that you can identify with and learn from of people developing into the competent and compassionate people they want to be. The Piepers help people understand the sources of their difficulties and planfully develop their potential for self-regulation. They are especially helpful when it comes to understanding people's struggles in relationships, ranging from professional to friend to romantic relationships. Bravo to the Piepers for another great contribution that helps us become better people for ourselves and others! If you are a parent and want to know more about this approach, see their book on parenting, Smart Love.

Looking for answers to your own unhappiness?
This small miracle of a book by two brilliant psychotherapists will completely transform your understanding of human suffering. In clear, accessible language they present their theory of human development, demonstrating not only the origins of inner unhappiness, but a sure path toward release and transformation. Their lucid explanations are practical and enduring, but do not be deceived: they rest on a deep foundation based on a lifetime of research, practice, and scholarship. Those interested in pursuing the Pieper's profound and sophisticated theoretical work in depth are well advised to read their earlier book, Intrapsychic Humanism. On the other hand, those seeking a practical application of their theories to parenting and child development will greatly benefit from reading Smart Love: etc., which is intended for the parent or caregiver who is a non-specialist.

The warmth, humanity, and intelligence of the Pieper's approach shines through in the many examples drawn from their work over many years. While acknowledging that the origins of inner unhappiness lie in the parent-child relationship in early childhood and adolescence, the Piepers firmly refuse to blame parents for their inadequacies. Rather, they suggest that parents are most often motivated by the desire to do what is best for their children, but that their actions or lapses may result in an experience of inner unhappiness for the child. Because the child assumes the parent as the ideal caregiver, he or she interprets the experience of inner unhappiness as the relationship ideal, and comes to associate that inner unhappiness as a "natural" or pleasurable condition of ideal caregiving. This understanding extends and amplifies into adulthood and creates a "filter" by which all experience comes to be interpreted. Meanwhile, however, our healthy self with its innate motive for genuine pleasure maintains a parallel existence with this addiction to unhappiness. These two motives, the motive for genuine pleasure and satisfying relationships and the motive for preserving our inner unhappiness are fundamentally in opposition. The good news is that we can choose to gratify one or the other.

The Pieper's book explains how we manage to restore our familiar inner unhappiness when faced with success or genuine pleasure. Such aversive reactions are quite different from the genuine unhappiness that meets a loss or disappointment. In this book, the Piepers explain clearly how to distinguish these two forms of unhappiness, how to recognize whether the cause is within you, in others, or in the situation. They provide clear, workable strategies to help you develop a plan to overcome your addiction to unhappiness, how to deal with hindrances and obstacles, and how to recognize successes. (A hint: "backsliding" should be recognized as a temporary reaction to the successes you are enjoying as you make progress.) Whether you are having trouble taking off a few pounds, enjoying your closest relationships, or finding satisfaction in your work, you can immediately benefit from this book. Yet you will find the transformational effects far reaching, as your life becomes much more deeply satisfying and meaningful. These insights will be with you for the long haul.


African American Heritage Hymnal: 575 Hymns, Spirituals, and Gospel Songs
Published in Hardcover by G I A Pubns (2001)
Authors: Delores, Dr Carpenter and Nolan E., Jr Williams
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A great hymnal for ALL people
Initially I was looking for that ONE hymnal that just contained as many of my favorite songs as possible. I was looking for only one book since I did not intend to buy a whole bookshelf of them.

I have to admit that the title first confused me. I was afraid that I would end up with a whole book of wonderful songs I didnt know. Wrong on all accounts! This is a great hymnal book for ALL people who love and treasure these precious hymns. Thank God for the people who had the gift of putting together this wonderful hymnal.

KUDOS: African American Heritage Hymnal
The AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE HYMNAL is, by far, the most comprehensive collection of music in celebration of the African American church tradition! ...An absolute must-buy for every church musician, director and choir member. KUDOS to NOLAN WILLIAMS, JR. (Music Editor), DELORES CARPENTER(General Editor) and the entire AAHH editorial staff!

Oh, yes!
This collection of hymns, spirituals, and gospel songs is a total delight. As soon as I opened this book and started playing this music on my keyboard, I could hear heavenly gospel choirs singing in my head. Of course, there are many hymns and songs included here that most people would know, but what makes this hymnbook a treasure are the songs specific to the African-American tradition, with harmonies that unmistakeably suggest a black gospel choir. As a bonus, there is a good quantity of responsive readings in the front of the book suitable for use in the worship service. This book will get you into the Spirit, whether you are black, white, or anything in between. The "African-American Heritage Hymnal" zoomed right to the top of my hymnal collection list the moment it arrived. Get it, you won't be sorry!


Stand on It
Published in Paperback by Aztex Corp (2001)
Authors: Stoker Ace, Bill Neely, Bob Ottum, and William Neely
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Way,way,way under-rated!
This is the best, funniest book on racing ever. I can't believe it hasn't been memorialized. I hope Neely was paid well for the Hollywood trash-it should have been done by Newman... in the spirit of "Slap Shot".

Must read for older racing fans
This book is dated now, but it is a great read for folks who were fans of the sport in the 60's and 70's. There were lots of stories from that period that took place on and off the track that are recounted in the book.

It makes me laugh out loud every time I read it!

The REAL story about auto racing
This book is an absolute MUST READ for anyone who ever wondered how to park their car in a swimming pool. Find out what racers really think just before they smack a wall at 200 mph. Learn how to start racing in a Birdcage and wind up in the big league of NASCAR. Learn out to turn a visit to the infield hospital into a long term relationship. Also, the finer points of racing in reverse gear at night. Seriously, this book is a riot! I read it orginally in the early 70's and have been searching for it ever since then.

Not to be confused with the horrid movie starring Burt Reynolds.


Software Testing and Continuous Quality Improvement
Published in Hardcover by Auerbach Pub (21 April, 2000)
Author: William E. Lewis
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Most complete source of SW quality info in one place
This book represents the most complete and comprehensive approach to total quality of any I've read on either software testing or software quality assurance.

Highlights include:

- A structured quality cycle based on Plan-Do-Check-Act. This cycle is the foundation of continuous improvement, which is the theme of the book.

- Complete description of testing techniques - in this respect the book is an encyclopedia for software test professionals and a definitive reference.

- Comprehensive resource for forms and checklists (I wish these were also provided in soft copy on a CD ROM or author's web site, but they are not).

- Full view of metrics across every aspect of the development life cycle. In the same manner that the testing techniques are encyclopedic, the metrics are also an encyclopedia for SQA professionals.

I've used this book as a reference, and it had a heavy influence on a reference chart a colleague and I developed for depicting life cycle key metrics. It does not confine itself to testing alone, and in fact, has something for production services and service delivery professionals, as well as project managers involved with large scale development and implementation projects. You would have to buy at least a dozen books or download thousands of documents off the Internet to get the information contained between the covers of this book.

Perfect balance of information and techniqies
You'd have to download over a gigabyte of internet resources, then cross-reference them to come anywhere close to having a resource as valuable as this book. Lewis has taken proven techniques spanning both software testing and SQA, wrapped them into a quality process based on the PDCA model and places all of the information you need to master testing and SQA between the covers of this outstanding book.

All you need to add is the ability to think. If you can do that you'll be able to transform the incredible amount of information in this book into action. If you do that I guarantee you that you'll be able to develop a world class quality organization.

Of course, you can mine the publicly available resources and sort through them. Before you do, think carefully about how much your time is worth and just how much you can absorb. If you're intelligent enough to understand this book, you'll quickly see that you'll save thousands of manhours. If not, you still need this book because approach will make you think in terms of cost/benefit.

The forms and checklists in this book alone are worth many times the price.

A Testers Dream
After reading Software Test and Continual Process Improvement, I am impressed by the breadth and depth of William Lewis' test and quality process coverage. I recommend his book to anyone who is involved in the software development life cycle, including Project Managers, System Analysts, and IT Directors.

Mr. Lewis' book is particularly relevant those of us who must reduce development costs while meeting our customers' maturing expectations. Times have changed; financial restrictions prevent using development resources to correct software defects. Initiating the prevention processes outlined in Software Test and Continual Process Improvement will boost project efficiency and product value.

My suggestions for improvement: If Mr. Lewis left out the vendor references (in Sections IV and VI), then his book would be less vulnerable to obsolescence. More emphasis on how requirement and test management tools map to each other would strengthen the same sections.

It's naive to assume that a book on software test and quality can describe all the components and nuances of thorough testing. Software Test and Continual Process Improvement comes closer than any other book I've read to describing effective end-to-end software quality interventions. It's the software test compendium to hold on to.


Somebody Someday
Published in Paperback by Random House Uk Ltd (2002)
Authors: Robbie Williams, Mark McCrum, and Scarlet Page
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As An Entertaining as His Music
"Somebody, Someday" is wonderful autobiography and travelogue. Robbie Williams, one of the biggest pop stars on the planet except in the United States, and Mark McCrum takes us on a yeaer-long journey through the ups and downs of Robbie's life. We get to see the ugly moments that inspires his introspective, self-effacing, and witty music. These moments are offered up forthrightly and honestly without the sense that he is fishing for pity. It's a good and solid read even if you're not a Robbie fan.

Not as good as the first official book
Although this book was good it was no where near as good as the first official book "let me entertain you". The book follows Robbie and friends around while on tour and has some great bits about Robbie himself but i was a bit dissapointed to find that the book is alot of the time about his band and management instead of him. Although that is not a *bad* thing, i really just expected it to be more about the great Mr. Williams himself, i didn't purchase the book to read the life story of people in his management (although they were very sad and touching storys)! A good book but could have been better.

Honest and Interesting
Everyone knows who "Robbie" is, it was nice to get a look at "Rob". This book takes away some of the aura of stardom that surrounds "Robbie the pop Icon" and shows you his human side.

Excellent read!


Spanish for Gringos (Book and Cassettes)
Published in Paperback by Barrons Educational Series (1999)
Authors: William C. Harvey and Paul Meisel
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Spanish/English language learning
I was glad to find this book and Inglés Para Latinos to use as the vocabulary for our class of partners who help each other learn English and Spanish. (and their second levels for the more advanced speakers.) I've developed lesson plans that coordinate the 2 books and give practice (because the books are nearly all vocabulary.) The students like the encouraging tapes and the easy explanations in their own language of the meanings. And they want copies for their friends.

Funny AND useful -- similar style to the video version
The book is very funny yet informative, making it an easy read for the beginner. The video version (also published by Barron's) runs along similar lines, but with the added benefit of being able to see Bill Harvey in action.

Excellante
I brought this book to help me brush up on my Spanish. I spoke a little before I brought the book. I am a Cuban / Dominican that was born in the States and never really learned Spanish. This text helpped me like no other. What is great about this text is that it also give you words specific for different countries. The author gave words that are used in Cuba and Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. I highly Recommend this book to anyone first pass at learning Spanish.


A Very Small Farm
Published in Hardcover by Council Oak Distribution (1996)
Authors: William Paul Winchester and Carol Stanton
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A delightful account
This lovely small book was a delight to read. The author made a considered and deliberate decision, at a very young age (while still in college) to lead a simpler life, close to the earth. I really admire his adherence to his principles and his problem -solving skills in a time when we all just call someone else to do things.

I loved reading about the methods he used for farming, building, and general survival with none of what we consider the amenities of life. I found myself feeling very calm as I read this book....a sure sign that the conveniences of modern life bring stress with them!

Intriguing
While a bit on the fringes of what is possible for most folks this little book does provide some very good glimpses of the virtues and rewards of simplicity as a life-style. I plan on returning to it again someday and would recommend it.

Every page was a pleasure
I enjoyed every page and how beauty is found in the small every day life that transpires on the farm. The animal companionship, the rewards of sowing and reaping, the well thought out strategies for self sufficiency. If you're looking to get off the corporate treadmill or break from the collective madness of modern society, here's a book to get you started on your way. The fact that the farm is on 20 acres brings this lifestyle into home range for others aspiring to slow down to nature's pace and experience nature's glory on a daily basis. Two thumbs up for this book - it has even inspired me to plant my first vegetable garden!


What the Bible Is All About
Published in Hardcover by Regal Books (1999)
Authors: Henrietta C. Mears, Ruth Bell Graham, and William T., Jr. Greig
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A Book of Truths, for Some
I didn't care much for this book but have to say that that's probably because it didn't take the path I'd assumed it would.

I picked it up thinking that it would be a somewhat disinterested look at theology, historical events and so on, and an even-handed look at Judaism and Christianity.

It isn't. It's a book for believers, specifically, Christians, which is fine if that's what you want. The author, Henrietta C. Mears, is clear on her own beliefs and what she and the reader should believe. She's a little more fond of !!!!! than I care for, and there's a kind of a see?-I told-you-so kind of tone to it. Have you ever seen those bumper stickers that say something like, God Said It/I believe it/That's It! ?

That's how this book reads. Now, having said that, here's the general direction of the book.

Mears analyzes every book of the Bible. Every single chapter of her book starts out with the word Understanding, then names that book, from Genesis to Revelation. She reels off details and assessments of each book, with the underlying assumption that the reader agrees with what the Rev. Billy Graham says in the foreword to this book: "The Word of God is the only real authority we have."

So, for example, in her chapter on Genesis, she writes: Satan appears to have special enmity for the book of Genesis. No wonder the Adversary has bent his attacks upon it. It exposes him as the enemy of God and the deceiver of the human race; it foretells his destruction; it depicts his doom." A few pages later, we get this sentence Remember, Jesus Christ is the center of the Bible.

She also gives us such tidbits of information as this: there are 31,102 verses in the Bible, using 775,693 words*; Psalm 119 is the longest chapter; Psalm 117 the shortest. Ezra 7:21 contains all the letters of the alphabet except J (I don't know how well this fact stands up in translated versions and a conspiracy theorist could have a field day with the source J!); the longest book in the Old Testament is Psalms, the longest in the New Testament is Luke.

This book is probably best used in an adult Christian education class or something similar. I don't see it helping much on an ecumenical or evangelical level. Perhaps it works as a self-education tool, for someone who's arrived at Christian belief and wants a wider understanding of the sense of the full Bible.

*In English, I assume.

Great Book!
This book has tremediously helped me understand God's word. I recommend this book for new Christians and to anyone who reads the Bible but, just can not grasp what it is trying to say.

Very Readable
I bought this book for myself and liked it so much I bought a second one for my Mom. It's easy to read and interesting.


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