The parallels between Denmark Vesey's failed slave insurrection in Charleston in 1822 and the start of Toussaint's successful slave insurrection in Saint Domingue (now Haiti) in 1791 are striking. In both circumstances, black slaves comprised the vast majority of the population -- 75% in Charleston, 90% in Saint Domingue. In both, the hopeful liberators were former slaves who had become literate, fairly well-to-do, free blacks. Both Toussaint and Vesey distrusted mulattoes, who were regarded in both societies as a distinct class, with ambivalent loyalties. Both leaders took advantage of the disparate religious beliefs of their followers to enhance group cohesiveness.

In any such mass event, planned well in advance, the risk of discovery or betrayal is always great. Remarkably, in both of these planned insurrections, rumors and confessions alerted authorities weeks in advance of the scheduled dates. And in both, the white slaveholders were incredulous that ignorant, simple blacks could possibly coordinate an uprising of the size suggested by their informants. In both instances, the threat was dismissed as fantasy. As we know, the French authorities of Saint Domingue were too late in recognizing the magnitude and reality of the uprising. Few of us, however, have grasped the slim margin of time by which white Charlestonians were able to prevent a similar success in Charleston. Considering that Charleston was the prime destination of French planters fleeing the conflagration in Saint Domingue, Charlestonians should have been more attuned to the threat brought on by their slaveholding, minority autocracy. But, as Robertson points out, there was a degree of theater involved in living as a dominant white minority among a vast population of black slaves, and part of that theater was the belief by slaveholders that their slaves were grateful for being well treated--that slaves could recognize that it is better to be fed and clothed and sheltered as a slave than to be free as a savage. This delusion led to the Charlestonians' nearly fatal delay in responding to the signs of impending insurrection.

STRENGTHS: The story of Denmark Vesey is as fine an example of "Silencing the Past", in Michel-Rolph Trouillot's words, as the story of Saint Domingue. Despite the conscious efforts of Charlestonians to obliterate the history of the event (efforts well chronicled by Robertson) the author has assembled a creditable body of confirmed and "probable" details about Vesey and the planned insurrection. His unflinching thoroughness is revealed in such details as the fact that Peter Prioleau, the slave who initially betrayed the plot, was freed in 1822 by a special act of the legislature, and given a lifetime pension. We learn that by 1840, Prioleau is himself the owner of 7 slaves. The brief text (153 pages) is readable compelling, and well documented.

In an appendix, Robertson includes 1 paragraph biographies of the other men who were executed along with Denmark Vesey. These poignant scraps are practically all that is know of many of these would be liberators.

Interestingly, we learn that Vesey's attempted insurrection apparently led to the US's refusal to grant diplomatic recognition to the Republic of Haiti until the US Civil War. This veritable boycott of the Western Hemisphere's second oldest republic by its older brother may be seen as a significant cause of Haiti's financial and political instability during the first half of the 19th century.

WEAKNESSES: I'm stumped here. Perhaps the only shortcoming I can point out is that the text would be enhanced by a period map of Charleston, to enable the reader to follow some of the geographical commentary.

CONCLUSION: This short, fluidly written history of an event which could have resulted in a stunning alteration of American history, is also great reading.

David Robertson's book on the life of Denmark Vesey and the planned insurrection of slaves and freed blacks is a powerful, griping story unknown by most American blacks and whites.

American school children are always instructed on the bravery of George Washington, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, etc. and other courageous Founding Fathers who rebelled against the mighty British Empire. As we know, the colonials fought for freedom, liberty and justice. While Americans are proud of the Founding Fathers, the English government believed our heroes were traitors and worthy of death. The labeling of one as a "hero/patriot" or "rebel/terrorist" is related to ones perspective of the "cause".

In a brief 153 pages, Roberston leaves the reader grasping for more information about this free, skilled(carpenter), relatively well-off black male, who at the age of 60 risked his life to free slaves in a plan surely doomed for failure. How could a former slave believe an insurrection of this type would not only go undetected, but also ultimately succeed? Robertson provides the reader with enough historical information about Vesey that one believes the plan would have succeeded if not for a few informers. The fact that Vesey and his trusted compatriots enlisted 9000 slaves prepared to rebel clearly demonstrates his planning and leadership skills.

After his betrayal, the manner in which Vesey conducted himself under tortuous conditions is inspiring. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the American judicial system.

Upon reflection, what is evident in this story of Denmark Vesey is not that a slave rebellion ultimately failed and many of its organizers and participants executed. What is clear is that basic human rights, respect and dignity (as so eloquently delineated in the U.S. Constitution) are not only universally desired, but will ultimately be seized by those so denied. History is full of such brave men and women who pursue justice regardless of personal circumstances and comfort. Denmark Vesey was such a man; an American indoctrinated with the concept of freedom and willing to give his life so his fellow man could have it.

I was surprised to see that this wonderful biography has not been popular among Amazon.com customers. In telling a moving story of courage and rebellion, Robertson succeeds in bringing the reader to Vesey's time and place. This book should be taught in schools, particularly as it brings to life an important and largley overlooked figure in American history. I cannot recommend it highly enough to readers interested in American history, slavery, the South, and social justice.

I strongly recommend this book. Although it is written within the context and perspective of professional ministers, or students of ministry, the suggestions apply to anyone who wants to improve his or her communications with others, and better understand the "whys" behind the ways in which we fail our intentions by self-made traps of "skilled incompetence". This book has impacted my thinking in many positive ways. As I began to implement these strategies I was able to effectively mediate between people in my organization, to help them see how they got to where they were, and to commit to taking constructive practical steps to reconcile their differences. I also helped resolve a family squabble by unraveling the misunderstandings that arose from unspoken, wrong assumptions. I am very glad to have these new tools and skills for better communications, which have given me more confidence in facing those inevitable knots in relationships that need to be undone.

I am just back from a workshop on reflective practice with seventeen theological students. We used Anita's book as background reading for our encounter. The students demonstrated an ability to engage in the challenging work so well described in "Learning while Leading" This book earths the complex theory and practice of action science in a manner that enables beginners pick up and run with the concepts. I witnessed the enabling power of Anita's stories and teachings. These students engaged in real co-consultancy of one another's ministry. I recommed the book to beginners and to those who are experienced in reflective practice. It is a good read and a cleverly written handbook for those serious about learning to be effective in ministry.

There's a great guy on my church board that flips out whenever anyone uses the phrase "paradigm shift," so in his honor I will say instead that what Dr. Farber-Robertson has done here with the conventions of ministerial leadship is a kind of aikido - you don't know quite how she can read your mind or how she could have been present at your last committee meeting, but her understanding of ministerial dynamics is profound. Not only that, she deftly and with great honesty, insight and integrity, changes the rules of the game so that you are empowered rather than whithered by her astute perceptions. As any practicing parish minister knows, congregational life is breathtakingly challenging as well as deeply satisfying. Dr. Farber-Robertson understands the intricacies of power, communication, mutual understanding and genuine collaboration. I could recognize myself in virtually every case study that was presented. This was both discomfitting as well as reassuring. But the best reason to read this book, in addition to feeling as if you've had a session at the mindreader's, is to learn about ways to rethink what you're doing as well as the strategies for change. And it won't matter what brand of minister or rabbi you are - her understanding of the traps we create or find ourselves in, and the path to liberation and transformation, apply to any religious leader who wants with all of their heart and soul to be a more skillful and powerful force for embodying Love's purpose among human beings.

This is one of the most comprehensive and clear reviews of the autonomic system. I read this 1st during my Neuro rotation, and continue to reference it throughout my career.
A definite MUST HAVE for anyone serious about Neurology!

This book provieds an excellent overview of the autonomic nervous system and the disorders that can have a devestating impact on those who suffer from dysautonomia. The book provides a breakdown of the disorders into subcatagories and provides good reference materials as well as contact information for each of the authors.

My mom gave us this book because she thought we would find it interesting. What an understatement! I read the passage for each day first and then leave it on my husband's chair to read and then we discuss it. Sometimes we know exactly what they are referring to and other times it doesn't seem to apply. Either way we stop and reflect on the bible verse and the interpretation and discuss what it means to us. We truly enjoy reading this book each day!

I would say that this book is really worth its book cover price and then some. Mr. Lowstuter and Mr. Robertson have both done a wonderful job protraying the intricacies of social networking, not only for a job, but for basic communications and achieve higher goals. You see the main topics of who to speak to, who to contact, following proper protocols, etc. Yet there is a subtle push to really excel at this form of human communication. There is a buildup of internal force that exudes positive energies when you make your contacts. Although there is a business format that is followed, you can actually apply the principles in other methodologies. If you need a push in your professional career's contact methods- this book is one of the best!

This book is a funny, gentle, and brainy exploration of nature writers and their subject. Though Robertson is clearly very knowledgeable, this book is not a guided tour. It is a search. Which is not to say the author has no particular point of view. Robertson IS preaching here a bit about the importance of nature, and all "real matter" in our lives, among other things. What makes this book so special is that with a twinkle in his eye he preaches from the pews as well as from the pulpit.

Political biographies are difficult to write and oftentimes more difficult to read. David Robertson's biography of James F. Byrnes is rich in detail, history, and brings alive the character of many prominent political figures. James F. Byrnes served as a Congressman, United States Senator, and Governor of South Carolina as well as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court, Secretary of State under Harry S. Truman, and "Assistant President" to Franklin D. Roosevelt. Brynes's autobiography was appropriately titled, "All In One Lifetime". Robertson has skillfully described the political life of Byrnes who rightfully enjoyed a reputation as one of the most crafty powerbrokers in the country. Byrnes's career stretched from just after the turn of the century until leaving office as Governor in 1955. Brynes remained extremely influential in South Carolina, helping to push the Palmetto State towards the Republican party, despite his having held office as a Democrat. Robertson beautifully illustrates not only Byrnes, but a host of personalities including FDR, Truman, and South Carolina personages such as racist Governor and Brynes foe Coley Blease. Any student of history should certainly read "Sly and Able". Those who are interested in history, South Carolina, politics, government, or the struggle for equality and civil rights will surely find David Robertson's biography of James F. Byrnes a rewarding experience

I read the recent edition of this astounding book for about a year ago. This relatively very informative and comprehensive book should be in the reach of every practicing neuropathologist. In comparison to the previous edition, an ample updated literature is also appended. In conclusion, excluding the neoplastic lesions of the central nervous system, this outstanding book is strongly recommended for the pathologists, neuroscientists and medical students.

A Treatise of Mathematical Instruments contains a complete description of a range of tools that are useful in mathematics, surveying, architecture, navigation, drafting, gunnery, physics, and illustration. It covers the sector (a form of calculator that predates the slide rule), the gunner's calipers, the proportional compasses, and a variety of lesser instruments.

Examples show how to use all of the instruments, with extensive details on architectural drawing, plane geoemtry, spherical trigonometry, unit conversion, surveying, perspective drawing, and ship's guns (cannons and mortars). 12 plates of figures illustrate and clarify the text.

Anyone who has ever drafted a plan or drawing by hand or recalls having used a slide rule will be interested in this book. Those who has only used electronic devices will learn something new. Additionally, a wealth of historical details are revealed through the extensive figures and the text.

Modern notes include a biography of the author John Robertson, an explanation of some of the notation used in the book, and a brief commentary and history on mathematical methods, surveying, navigation, and architecture.

But you need to have a few comercial plug-ins and this means spend money, instead of this you can learn many tricks other people learn with experience and time. I really don't know if the book isn't good enoght or 3D Studio is very incomplete, filling the holes with expensive IPAS.

First of all, I want to say that I'm from Sweden, so please be indulgence with my language. I've read the magnificant book of 3d Studio & Hollywood Gaming Effects. I used both 3d Studio and 3D max for the tutorials, and I was quite impressed. The book is based on examples and tutorials, made by pros'. The examples in the book are very detailed, and are understandble, even for an amateur like me. And the best thing is that, if you dont understand what they're talking about, just put in the CD-Rom (that comes with the book) find the chapter for the example, and run it. There you have it, step by step, all the exaples in the book on the CD-Rom are explained on the CD-Rom too. A book for both amateurs and proffesionals, that increase the flexibilaty you need to become a graphic artist. And even if you're using 3d Max, the examples in the book - and on the CD-Rom - works properly. Since Max and Studio are based on the same system. The examples in the books are well illustrated, and the layout makes it very easy to find and read. You learn new things every time you browse through the book. And just by watching the exapmles on the CD-Rom, you can load a project - and go through it - see for your self how it's build. And in that way learn some useful hints & tricks. A low cost educational book, that you can get useful hints & tricks from, that you cant get from anywhere else. As I said, my English is bad. I sometimes can't find a way to express my feelings in words. But it is a good book. I rated the book with a 9. Now that, is self explained. Happy rendering, Your Friend In The Jungle Of 3D.

When I first picked this book up I was expecting it to be another book on teaching the beginner how to do simple effects. I could never have been so wrong. Starting at an advanced level, the book assumes you not only have lots of experience with 3D Studio, but some additional software tools as well. Then, it shows you, in detail, how to create certain effects, all of which can be easily adapted to your scenes. Some of the effects include overlaying your animation with video so that it 'fits' together, or extended use of 'Bones Pro' and 'MetaBall Modelers'(which are plug-ins for 3D Studio) to create organic models.

For beginners, I recommend "3D Studio Special Effects/Book and Cd Rom" while this book is more for users with a solid grip on 3D Studio.