This is an incredible reference, especially for uniforms. The pictures and detail are amazing, and you can generally tell what people thought was real, and what people did not from looking at the prices. The attention to detail in the descriptions is really helpful in identifying stuff today. I wish there were more photos, and sometimes I wish there was an acknowledgement of some of the controversey surrounding some of the items. I really am in awe of the folks who put together this beautiful book, and the incredible pictures. I think this is a great starting point for anyone collecting seriously.

Only one word describes the catalog set.....INCREDIBLE. As a life-long baseball fan, collector, dealer, etc, this set of catalogs, pictures in beautiful crystal clear color, many of the artifacts of America's National Pasttime. Many people were upset at Halper for breaking this collection up. Contratry to that opinion, I believe breaking the collection up allowed SO many people to share in the history of the game. Five million dollars worth of collectibles were purchased by MLB for the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Twenty two million dollars worth were auction in the Sotheby's auction and an unknown amount on amazon.sothebys.com. These catalogs contain relics from every facet of the game......baseball cards dating back to the 1880's.....team and individual photos dating back even farther.....uniforms, bats, balls, gloves from nearly every hall of famer......personal trophies like triple crown, Cy Young, MVP and so much more. Nowhere will you find such a book that illustrates why Baseball is woven through the fabric of America than this catalog. The lot descriptions are carefully crafted to be both a history lesson and a thought (and pocketbook) provoking snapshot of baseball. Never again will there be such a collection amassed. No one has the access to players and probably the funds to acquire such a collection....you get a glimpse at everything important about baseball. Everything good about baseball.....you forget about the strike of 1994, you forget about the high paid cry babies of today and remember the guys that played the game for one reason.....the love of the game. There was team loyalty, work ethics, and so much more that baseball and America as a whole is sometimes seriously lacking today. Spend the bucks.....you won't regret it......

Well, I may never make the trip to Cooperstown but this book may substitute for that trip for the time being. What a wonderful collection of baseball memorabilia! There are things that are here that I never knew existed. A lot of the things such as advertising or toys show the true impact that baseball has had on American culture. Mr Halper is a true lover of baseball and this catalog was also put together carefully with a lot of love and very meticulously. This makes a great reference book (I use it to help verify authenticity of autographs) and fascinating reading. There's even a picture of what may be the first baseball ever made.

This is an excellent state work, with detailed and accurate text, excellent photographs, precise maps, and up-to-date scientific nomenclature. Common names are those standardized nationwide since 1978, with the exception of the names used for snakes of the genus Tantilla. Purchasers of this book should go to page 307 and simply cross out the tongue-twisting "black-headed" and replace it with Blackhead (so much easier pronounced; it just rolls off the tongue -- truly a common name). Highly recommended. Certainly the best book on the subject, and a must for all herpetologists. Buy it quick before they run out of copies.

There are many, even myriad, good things about this book. However, there are a few things I did not like and which, if corrected in a future revision, could turn this book into a world beater in the field of herpetology. First the "bad" things: 1. This book needs a topo and political map or several. Places and physical features are constantly mentioned but, other than the tiny range maps associated with each species account, there is only one map at the front of the book which shows the counties and major cities, that is if you consider Animas and Hobbs to be major cities. 2. The glossary needs improvement. There are many terms which are used constantly which should be defined but are not. For instance, in one species account, a lizard is described as having scales which are "imbricate and mucronate." Just for kicks, I looked in the glossary. "Mucronate" is defined - "imbricate" is not. 3. Find another way to arrange the "List of scientific and common plant names used in the text." There is no arrangement whatsoever to the list. Plants are listed alphabetically by genus under the family. However, the family names are haphazard. Thus, if one does not know the family name, one has to peruse the list from top to bottom to find the plant named in the text. Woe be unto the reader who doesn't know that Helianthus is in the family "Compositae," the last named family. Pardon me for saying this but it appears as if the authors used their college botany texts to research the family names. After years of not complying with nomenclatural convention, the botanists finally joined the world and changed family names to agree with convention. Thus, Compositae became Asteraceae and Gramineae became Poaceae, for example. Also, ALL plants mentioned should be listed, even aquatic plants. Plants are keys to finding reptiles and even subtle differences in plant denizens of a habitat may make a great deal of difference in the animals found there. NOW FOR THE GOOD STUFF The standard items are all found at the beginning of the book, e.g., Foreword, Preface, Acknowledgments followed by a concise Physiographic Sketch of New Mexico (Words, not pictures) which in no way can take the place of a good physical map of the state. One of the best features is a "Brief History of Herpetology in New Mexico" in which the authors give insight into the historical aspects of herpetology in the state. This theme is repeated in the text of the species accounts with interesting snippets of history intermixed with the drier facts of science. A checklist of NM herps is provided and this is where disagreements are going to arise. The authors utilize what some would consider "old" or "controversial nomenclature." However, if one reads the species accounts, all disputed uses of nomenclature are explained. Even though I disagree with some of the generic nomenclature used, the authors gave good and valid reasons for using what they did. There are good keys to all the major groups of herps in NM and they appear detailed enough to lead a novice to the right creature, as long as the scales are not imbricate. The species accounts are very well written except for the occasional typo - "then instead of than", for instance -and give loads of information. Virtually everything one would want to know about an animal is in here. The species accounts follow a format similar to the SSAR Catalogue species accounts and that is not at all bad. It might be good if a majority of this type of book were to follow a similar format. A very fine section of glossy photos is found in the midst of the species accounts. It seems that this is the way publishers are going to make books now so, take it or leave it. The photos, by the way, are arranged in the same manner as the text for fairly easy location. Degenhardt, et al, have compiled a magnificent bibliography with everything you ever wanted to know about New Mexico Herps and where to find it. The authors have years of experience in New Mexico herpetology and have used every one of those years in producing an outstanding volume. It's a little large to carry out in the field but it is worth every penny and when in New Mexico, should be at least carried in the vehicle. This book would be a bargain at twice the price.

The military services spend tens of millions of dollars on advertising to attract young people to their ranks. Supported by school guidance counselors as a prime career option the system enlists hundreds of thousands of low income teens. What happens next? Read this book to understand why such a high proportion of our nation's homeless and mentally ill are veterans. This pocket sized paperback is based on a larger hardcover version called Hell, Healing and Resistance.

This book gave me great insight into the trauma to people's lives as a result of war and the war machine. It is profoundly written and the subject is sensitively handled. I'm sure not everyone will agree with the author's view point, but it sure helped me to have better understanding for the war veterans I come in contact with.

This handy paperback volume is a true gem on collecting late 19th/early 20th century souvenir china. The numerous color photos and informative text make this an excellent addition to any collector's bookshelf. Highlights include wholesaler marks and information on manufacturers.

This edition promises to be the corner stone for the souvenir china collector!

This 1998, 232 page book features more than 500 full color, large photos of a great variety of collectible souvenir china. 1998 values are shown. There is a nice introduction to the topic and plenty of descriptive text throughout. It's well indexed for easy item location. Major topics include, Collecting Souvenir China in the U.S., Golden Era of Souvenir China, The Pioneers, Identifying Producers, Shapes, Forms and Styles, and related items. A nice bibliography is provided. Collectors will love looking at the great photos provided. A useful reference.

Who doesn't love those Little People? Your favorite Little Person will be screaming and laughing in anticipation of what is under the next flap in this book. Fisher Price, as usual, had Little People in mind when they made these sturdy lift flaps - they will last much longer than your average lift the flap book. This book is a terrific springboard to a shopping trip with your little one - or playtime with Little People toys. It is a steal at less than $4.00!

Fisher Price has done it again! When reading Eddies Shopping Surprise your toddler will scream and laugh in anticipation of what is under the next "flap". Each flap is well made and stands up well to the hands of your favorite "little people". This adorable story is a terrific springboard to any shopping trip you may take your little one on.

A review by Zane N.Gaut, M.D., Ph.D., as mailed to Bill Sanford.
"Compared to the beauty of his first novel A FRESH GALE, the author has 'bettered. himself in this wonderful novel THE PRICE OF COTTON, a story that informs as well as entertains. It has oft-time been asserted that fiction, in many cases, renders more truth than flawed history; and this book holds true to that assertion. With rich adjectives and strong verbs abounding, the author composes 'tight' sentences in such manner that one word deleted would compromise, or perhaps lose, the meaning. A story in grim relief, tells of slaves in the South wherein they are whipped and, otherwise, cruelly punished. A part of a letter from the British Legation bound for England, states, "All else seems fair in the production of cotton except slave labor. As to the British response: Let us remain neutral secure our footholds in the United States of America. And, when the smoke has cleared, let us resume our trade with whoever survives". What realism! What cynicism! This work of art inescapably pulls and tugs at the emotions; and realistically depicts beautiful love stories interwoven with the horrors, violence, cowardice, and slavery that once was accepted, abhorred, and encouraged with the most flagrant cold and abusive calumny. The "landed gentry" of the old South reminds one so much of Margaret Mitchel's GONE WITH THE WIND wherein, indeed, the complimentary practice of chivalry took its last philanthropic bow, and the epitomizing pessimism, and predication of the ultimate defeat of the South in this griping, educational and entertaining novel that would well suffice for adaptation to a motion picture or television movie presenting the developing belligerence of the ultimate cause of the war between the North and the South -the price of cotton. This forthright work reaches the heights of love, intrigue, historical correctness, hatred and violence. Ironically, Lakaetu Cobutu, a prominent protagonist, is run down by a run-away-horse and buggy on a street in New Orleans. This incident occurs after such a doleful and ultimate success that she tolerated, overcame, and enjoyed. What a marvelous book to recommend!.

The Price of Cotton is a delightful and intriguing story about the prelude events leading up to and associated with the Civil War and the marketing of cotton, which was king of the south at that time. The author presents, in a story masterfully done, a different view of the economic conditions of the United States in the early 1860s. The characters are marvelous and entertaining, and the book should be considered in the same light as Margaret Mitchell's "Gone With The Wind." The story and the struggle that Laketu and her family experience holds the reader to the edge of the seat, anxiously awaiting the next scene. It is an epic story. This being the second book from the author, one can only expects great things from his next book.

I enjoyed this book a lot. It has great pictures! I brought it to school every day and bought it for my cousin Casey. It was also well written. I would recommend this book to any Wills fan under 15. GO MARIE MORREALE!!!

This book takes one through the marriage of Prince William's parents, through his birth, through the divorce of his parents, through his last vacation with his beloved mummy, and though his trip to Vancour, British Columbia, in March of 1998.

There are many, outstanding pictures of this handsome, young prince, as well as, some of his immediate family. Many of his likes and dislikes are included along with some of his royal stats.

We are shown that despite all the pomp and circumstance in his life, he is still very much a normal tennager who copes with life's everyday situations. Also, we are shown how he has coped with tragedy and triumphed over all odds.

Above all " William craves privacy. He is not a great lover of London life. " P. 96

This is a paperback book which measures 8x8 inches.

Vincent Price transended his film roles with great intelligence, sensitivity and charm, and at the same time could project the foulist of villians with merely a raised eyebrow. This wonderful book by Lucy Chase Williams captures every single film Price did. It's profusely illustrated with many rare stills (several from my personal collection as I was a contributor)and quite a few color pages. No finer book exists on Price's film work. This book is an absolute must for film lovers of the the golden years of hollywood and lovers of film macabre!

Fans of Vincent Price have much to rejoice over in The Complete Films of Vincent Price. It's hard to believe that for the first time a book provides not only COMPLETE coverage of each of his feature films, but also a wonderful 50+ page biography of the man we loved to have scare us.

In each of the feature film summaries, author Lucy Chase Williams not only gives us complete cast and credit listings, but also charming ancedotes provided by fellow cast members. This distinguished list includes Charlton Heston, Angela Lansbury, Jane Russell, Robert Mitchum, Gregory Peck, and many, many others.

But what really makes this book a joy for all Vincent fans is the biography. Almost everyone only thinks of Vincent Price as "that horror film actor", but he was so much more than that. Williams warmly reveals Price as the well-known, well-schooled, down-to-earth human being his fans knew him to be. We see the art lover, the fine cook, the author, the "special guest star" on HUNDREDS of television series, and... the practical joker who knew how to enjoy life and have fun.

The Complete Films of Vincent Price is a wonderful book. More appropriately, it is The COMPLETE Vincent Price. The multi-faceted gentleman everyone should get to know.

To me, Vincent Price was always the ultimate movie star. His best roles were always those of someone on the brink who was pushed over the edge into soul-crushed madness, best seen in "House of Wax" and the Corman Poe films. Williams describes each of Price's 100 feature films in detail, with the focus on Price's performance. Each entry also quotes contemporary reviews of the film and there is usually an anecdote or two from Price or a costar. Not only is Williams' text good, but the book is full of fantastic publicity photos, stills and advertising art that are treasures in and of themselves. Horror fans can discover some of Price's other roles, like his hilarious comic performance with Ronald Colman in "Champagne For Caesar" (Forget "Quiz Show", check that one out!) At the end of the book Ms. Williams states that she regrets that she didn't have space to cover Price's extensive work in radio, TV, and the theater. So, come on, let's have volume II!!! (Though we might want to conveniently overlook the "Love Boat" appearances...)

So it is great to have the historical prices. For the latest retail prices, wine-searcher.com is better.

When buying wine, don't be fooled by claims of low prices. At WineBandit.com, we use the Wine Price File to verify that our auction customers always see the lowest 'no reserve' opening prices in the industry. The complete listings covering virtually every significant region and vintage provide an excellent basis for value.

This book is very comprehensive. It is a must for any avid wine collector. Don't overpay for wines. Learn the fair value and market prices for all types and sizes of fine wines.

Space. Rel-ships. Nervecloth. The opening sentence is enough to grab your attention and lure you into a different universe. A complex multi-layered universe full of social and political intrigue, fast-paced action and captivating characters. The dialogue is excellent. The plot engages the reader. The writing is powerful. Congratulations to authors Lynda Williams and Alison Sinclair for this first book in what promises to be a best-selling series.

(Caveat: I met one of the authors and write a review at her request. The opinions are very much my own, however.)

Fiction, to me, let's us do what we try and do with life - take apart reality and put it back together again to ask "why not THIS way". If it's good fiction, the re-formed reality works. This book, "Throne Price" is good fiction.
"Throne Price" (not 'Thorn Prince' as the title graphic looks like) by Lynda Williams and Alison Sinclair. Book 4 (1st published however) of a projected 10 book series.
A vivid world as complex, ugly, and promising as our own with characters I knew right away, and many I wish I could know here and now a lot better. (and a few I would never want to meet without a few decks of armor plating between us.) These are characters, and a world, I look forward to visiting. This book is a 'stoplight' book for me (carried in my car, so I can read a line or two whenEVER I get a chance.

What is it like, reading Book Four first?
Think of being tossed to live in, say, Paris. It would take a while to get to know the way of it, but from the first, you would know you are in an ancient place that would still be there in a thousand years... with some things barely changing. It would fascinate, attract, confuse, and reward you. Welcome to the world of Okal-Rel
Let the large cast and complex politics wash over you, enjoy the imagery and language, and don't fret remembering all the details. Save that for the second reading.
As with Stephan R. Donaldson's 'Thomas Covenant' series, Frank Herbert's "Dune" and Terry Goodkind's "Sword of Truth' series, the main character is not my favorite and even share an uncomfortable habit of being put to pain... a lot of pain. It is the other characters that attract me with their independence, flaws, and unpredictability.
In the advent of the Web, books no longer are singular experiences. Chat rooms, in depth commentary and visual aids abound and help continue the experience after the cover closes. It reminds me of Dickens reading his works aloud to early versions of FanCons (albeit with a less tacky T-shirts). Web sites give the author, and fans, a chance to interact much more with each other. I am glad to see the Okal-Rel world having one as well. There is evidently a way for fans to read sections into a MP3 file and having it posted. Amateur aspirations to make the world of the authors even more real. Mr. Dickens would approve.
I recommend this book. Ashley Robins (aka G.Robin Smith)

Published by Edge Science Fiction.

This is one of the most original and fascinating works of fantasy I have ever read. I agree with earlier readers that it offers some marvellous world-building, and a genuine page-turner of a plot, especially in the latter half of the book. However, what lifted it above its peers, for me, was its superb characterization, and its insights into the personalities and emotions of those who, while still young, have endured violence and degradation at the hands of their natural protectors (ie. parents and others in positions of power or authority.)

This is a difficult subject to handle well in fiction. Many novels sensationalize or even romanticize this kind of personal cruelty, bleeding it for its shock value while pretending it has no real, lasting effects. Others recognize the ugliness of it, but in doing so, create a victim who is always a victim and never a hero. Sinclair and Williams walk a very thin line between these two potential pitfalls, and they walk it flawlessly. We see Ev'rel as a comprehensible human being, a woman with her own tragic past, yet NEVER FOR A MOMENT do we lose sight of how evil and unforgivable her actions are. In the character of Amel, the authors walk an even finer line, capturing with bitter poignancy the very real scars he carries, yet fashioning, in spite of this damage (NOT because of it) a gutsy and exceptionally likable character. As he fights to rebuild his identity, and to stay alive in an increasingly dangerous world, he becomes one of those unforgettable fictional heroes whom we really, desperately hope will make it.

I have one small caution, however. The society of Gelion is hightly ritualistic and structured, and there are coined words and terms for many unfamiliar things, places, relationships, and behaviors. Some readers will find this manageable and even fun. Others, like myself, might find it hard to keep track of at first. To those readers I would say: "Hang in there. Read on. You will be wonderfully rewarded!"