Great read, one all golfers will want to make, as Nicklaus suggests in the modern edition foreward.

Why return to an outdated time of wood shafts and limitef flight balls? One finds it in this read, the character and strength of this great amateur.

What impressed this reviewer was Jones' humbleness, and love for the game. He wasn't really into all the winning, which in fact caused him anxiety. Moreover he was into the challenge against Ole Man Par and himself. He relished the comradre with his fellow competitors and is most quick to give them praise rather than discuss what he didn't have in his game that round.

Neat to realize that his prized trophy was the first, which he thought was improperly awarded to him, while Alexa Sterling should have won it, no question. This is what golf is about, not slugging it 300+ yds. to screaming fans playing for millions.

Takes us back to what the game is and should remain. It's become far too commercialized.

Will take a honored position in my growing golf book collection to be fondly recalled and reread.

Bobby Jones shares his perspective on winning, losing, and his life-long battle against "Old Man Par". This is a must read for any serious student of golf history and tradition.

If you not only enjoy playing golf but also cherish the game's traditions and values, and if you could purchase only one book about golf, this is it. Whether or not Jones is the greatest golfer ever is a judgment I eagerly entrust to those foolish enough to debate it. Suffice to say that he was among the greatest players and among the finest gentlemen ever associated with golf. Published in 1927 when Jones was just 25, three years before he won what has since been designated "The Grand Slam", this is a book in which Jones (in collaboration with Keeler) invites his reader to accompany him "down the fairway" of a life as well as a game. The first eleven chapters review the competitive process until what he characterizes as his "Biggest Year." In the final chapter of Part One, Jones observes that, "I started the year 1926 with one glorious licking and closed it with another. And it was the biggest golf-year I'll ever have." Or so he then thought. In that year, we're told, "Walter Hagen gave me the first drubbing, and of all the workmanlike washings-up I have experienced, this was far and away the most complete" and later, "George [von Elm] was too much for me....He simply outplayed me. It was coming to him....It was George's turn. So the biggest Year ended, as it began, with a beating. Still, I'll always feel kindly toward 1926."

In Part Two, Jones shares just about everything he has learned (to that point) about the mental as well as physical skills needed to play golf well. What struck me, throughout the book, is Jones's candor. For example, "There are times when I feel I know less about what I am doing than anybody else in the world." He discusses putting ("a game within a game"), the pitch shot ("a mystery"), iron play ("I like it"), "the heavy artillery" (woods), miscellaneous shots ("and trouble"), and in the final chapter "Tournament Golf." The reader is provided with a generous selection of photographs, many of which I (at least) had not seen previously. "Early in this little book I made the statement that there were two kinds of golf -- golf, and tournament golf; and that they were not at all the same." When concluding this book, Jones acknowledges that he's been "awfully lucky. Maybe I'll win another championship, some day. I love championship competition, after all -- win or lose." What will it feel like when he days of tournament competition have ended? "It's going to be queer." Then he confides, as his "little book" ends: "But there's always one thing to look forward to -- the round with Dad and [other kindred spirits]; the Sunday morning round at old East Lake, with nothing to worry about, when championships are done." Three years after sharing these thoughts and feelings, Jones won the Grand Slam and then retired from tournament competition. Some people have expressed their preferences for those with whom they would like to share a "fantasy dinner." Were it possible, I would like to share a "fantasy round of golf" with Bob Jones, Walter Hagen, and Harvey Penick. Given the impossibility of that, I must seek their companionship in books such as this.

The 'xxx for beginners' are marvellous not just because they give you a valuable grounding in forbidding subjects, allowing you to approach primary texts with more confidence, but because they are so entertaining, even in subjects you have little interest in. Though this book is a much-needed introduction to and exposition of Freud's basic theories, making you feel clever as you join the dots you always knew were there but for the intimidating jargon, the real joy is in the irreverent presentation, especially the illustrations. These are full of in-jokes about Freud's life and times which are not always treated explicitely in the text, as well as being technically expert, imaginative and, sometimes, bracingly shocking. So while it is pleasing, in these anti-Freudian times, to be reminded of the man's incalculable importance and influence, the illustrations offer an in-built critique that puts everything in perspective. Great fun.

This book is just a book, but a better book than its successor of the same title by Richard Osborne. Mostly because it does not hang onto the relationship between Jung and Freud as long and focuses more on the theories of Freud. In fact, what I really enjoyed about this book is that gave a good round about summary of most of Freuds theories inside each book. Certainly acts a good stepping stone for those who need to know Freud in a hurry and wants the gist of his work. Richard Appignanesi displays good understanding of Freuds work and summarizes it well and concise. Reccomended for the prodigal psychologist.

(See page 79 for explanation and a very funny illustration of the second stage of psychosexual development). This book, in addition to being very informative, is also incredibly funny. Very well written and drawn; though in the form of a comic book, it is nevertheless a splendid introduction to Freud's life and work. The author and illustrator are quite witty as well as knowledgeable, and in this book they have succeeded at what should be the goal of all beginners' book writers: piqued my interest in the subject and made me want to learn more. Would be a great supplementary text in a course on Freud or on psychology/psychoanalysis in general. Highly recommended!

This is one of the better books about Oscar Hammerstein, that luckily enough, is now back in print. Hugh Fordin writes a wonderful book that looks at the personal and the professional side of America's pre-eminent lyricist.
While fans of Richard Rodgers may be more inclined to enjoy the cynical wit of Larry Hart's lyrics, after reading this book, you can't help but be made into a Hammerstein convert. Here's a man with a sunny disposition, who believed in happy endings, and the best in people. One of the most telling stories Fordin recounts is how Hammerstein wrote "The Last Time I Saw Paris" (a pre-Rodgers song) because he was devastated by the fall of France in 1940. He would later point to that as the worst day of his life... not finding out his first wife had been cheating on him. That's the sort of guy Oscar Hammerstein comes across as in this book.
You'll also explore his early high-water mark of "Show Boat" and its important role in American Theater, followed by his pre-Rodgers drought.
If you read this book, you'll be glad you've Gotten to Know Him.

A wonderful, warm, authoritative biogrphaphy. It is obvious the Hammerstein family cooperatied fully with the author. The author is meticulous in his research. I advise next reading the autobiography of Richard Rodgers, and then reading the suburb biography of Stephen Soundheim, to whit, "Stephen Sondheim : A Life" by Meryle Secrest. Ockie was a great man...a man who never in his life visited a whore house and yet tried to write lyrics for a musical that was about a prostitute (i.e., the unsuccessful musical "PipeDream"). It fascinating how this book reprints some of the correspondance where John Steinbeck argues, in vein, for Oscar to stop sanitizing PipeDream to the point where the audience never knew the woman character was a lady of the evening. The book tells the story of every musical Hamerstein wrote lyrics for. I found myself buying CD cast albums as I encountered the story of each in the biography. The book is interesting and never boring, not even once.

This is one of the best theatrical biographies I've ever read. Hugh Fordin does a wonderful job of bringing Hammerstein, his family, and his times to life. Imagine a life that begins with Oscar's legendary grandfather, includes Jerome Kern and Richard Rodgers, then ends with Oscar's befriending young Stephen Sondheim. It's the history of the 20th Century American theatre reflected in one amazing lifetime. Every page is rich with interesting detail. Its one thing for a biographer to get all the research right (which Fordin certainly has); what's even more important is getting to know something the soul of the subject. This is that kind of book. I've re-read it with delight several times, and I could not recommend it more highly.

This is a simple book on a very complex subject, written by someone who spent a lifetime in perfecting the craft of getting to the essence of living a rewarding life. Dr Bekoff's message is timeless, for all ages, cutting accross cultures, clear, practical and convincing. If you are looking for practical advise and want to start now, buy this book. Cornelis Slenters, prof. Organizational Behavior, Geneva, Switzerland

"It's Yours For The Asking" is an easy read that packs a powerful punch. Dr. Beckoff's common sense approach to life, helps you place yourself and others in the right perspective. You will wonder why you thought life was so complicated. I return to his wisdom time and time again.

Hi Dr. Bekoff!!! I just finished reading your book, and I justhad to tell you that I found it absolutely fabulous!!!! I feel that Iam a new person after reading it! You have totally changed the way I will look at events in life and deal with problems! I am so glad that you decided to write this book and share with us your experiences. I am going to share this book now with my boyfriend, and I am positively sure he will get as much out of it as I have!! God bless you and your family always! Keep up the great work! You are truly a special and caring person with a heart of gold! Thank you so much for all the help you gave in your book. Melissa

Oscar Wilde entirely dedicates this play to the exploration of the way a woman can be saved from destruction in this society of appearances. A woman was the victim of an imbroglio in the past and abandoned her daughter. This woman comes back and the daughter ignores her relation to her. She is brought back into societry by the daughter's husband who knows the truth but does not want his wife to know it. But there is some kind of malediction that flies over the heads of these women. The daughter nearly does the same mistake as her mother but she is saved by her mother who accepts to be tainted in her daughter's place. Bus Oscar Wilde must think there is some kind of reward for a good deed and all is well that ends well, and this play has a happy ending. In spite of all the melodramatic sentimentalese atmosphere, Oscar Wilde definitely explores in this play the great disadvantage of a woman in society. Men can do nearly all they want. Women are extremely limited and have to walk a very straight and narrow line. Oscar Wilde seems to be ahead of his time as for the fate of women: he seems to aspire for real equality for them, though he shows in all possible ways that this is impossible in his society.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU, University of Perpignan

My first experience reading Oscar Wilde... and certainly not my last.

Wilde's sardonic wit and ineffable satire had me enchanted from page one. Wilde writes with devastatingly appealing witticisms, and with a style and cleverness matched by few other authors. It is said that he is one of the more oft-quoted authors in the English language, and I now understand why.

In addition to axioms and aphorisms of pure genius, the plot both captivates and surprises the reader. Lady Windermere discovers that her husband has been cheating on her, and a folly of misunderstandings and poor advice then unfolds; all the while satirizing society.

This play is very interesting to read (according to me). I saw a lot of hypocracy and snobery of people in this play. But a lot of peole said that the plays of Oscar Wilde have no satire, means, there is no factor of politics, socials,etc. I think, what he wrote in this plays and other plays had something to critize the people in that time. I want more information about Lady Winderemere's Fan, I mean what is the background of Wilde wrote yhis novel. Is there any important effects so that he wrote this first play?

Simply the best book on explaining the Catholic Faith I have read. Absolutely everyone, whatever their beliefs may be, should read it.

As an active Youth Minister for the Catholic Church I find Fr. Lukefahr's writing style easy to read and understand. I have used "The Priviledge of Being Catholic" extensively for preparing for R.C.I.A. classes and others that I teach. Also Oscar's book is easy to lend out to parents who have youth who ask tough questions that the parent's do not feel comfortable answering.

Oscar's use of the Sacramental Principle to explain alot of the Catholic teachings that Non-Catholics often attack, helps the non- theologian to practice good Apologetics. A workbook is also available that helps a teacher to use Ocsar's teachings in a classroom setting. I highly recommend "The Priviledge of Being Catholic" to any professional lay or religious minister in the Catholic Church and those who question the biblical basis of Catholic teaching and practices.

This book is a great source for Catholics looking to enrich their faith and for non-Catholics who have questions or misconceptions about the Catholic faith. It really explains in such great clarity the richness of the Catholic faith and how the Sacrimental life is used to live the way that Jesus wants us to live as a part of his Church. This is a must have for any Catholic who is serious about living a Catholic life and for any non-Catholic who needs clear, objective answers to his/her questions. This book ranks up their with Karl Keating's "Catholicism and Fundamentalism."

For all of the 90's and part of the 80's Oscar Chichoni has been one of the illustrators who has fueled the art of modern science fiction, and by that art influences both literary and filmic creativity. He is best known for his work in Heavy Metal, the game and book artwork for 'Starship Titanic, and as the art director who won an Oscar for the film 'Restoration.' But any scan of the web will reveal that he can be found almost everywhere.

Chichoni's best-known style combines mechanical intricacy and sensuality in a striking statement of Art Deco reborn. Truth be told, he is a man of many pencils, and is capable countless other styles hard-edged, gothic, impressionist, almost anything that might fire the imagination.

'Mekanika,' issued in 2000, is the first collection of work but this Argentinan born artist. Almost all the work here dates after his decision to relocate to Europe, which seemed to trigger a creative flowering that hopefully will never stop. The reader will find both published and unknown work here plus an interesting discussion by the artist himself. If you are a lover of works of the imagination this is a collection that is required reading, and has become hard to find.

This is a terrific book which (as another reviewer pointed out) could have been a bit longer.

As it is, the printing quality and choice of illustrations are excellent and the accompanying text, while not particularly interesting never falls into either the pretentious or the banal. I have bought this book over a week ago and I still enjoy finding new details in the various pictures.

Chichoni's art work has the same sort of intensity and attention to detail as HR Geiger's, but Chichoni's main themes are the naked human body and rusting, art deco machinery (as opposed to Geiger's fascination with insects).

The artist shows a deep interest in the fusion between flesh and brass, with manifold gauges and pipes sneaking in here and there. Sometimes it's hard to tell at first glance where the machine begins and where the human ends, if at all. Chichoni's use of colour (especially when depicting various shades of rust) is nothing short of brilliant.

There is also a small, but welcome dose of wry, subtle humour to the various illustrations. This book is a very worthwhile addition to any SF art collection.

Oscar Chichoni has always been a favorite artist of mine and I was thrilled that he was finally releasing a collection of works. Overall the book is well put together and FULL of paintings and illustrations that he has done over the years. If you like Royo, Bell, and Soryama, you will LOVE Chichoni. Certainly worth the money and great for the serious collectors of fantansy art.

I read this book many years ago and enjoyed so much that I have read everything I could find by Mr. Lee, and since then other Chinese American authors.

It is a shame that for so many years the book was rejected by young Asian Americans as being "too white face" or "Uncle Tom" as it is not so at all. C.Y. Lee was a Chinese immigrant and wrote of the society as he saw it at that time, which is not the way the younger generation, who did not live through the immigrant experience, want to see it. This is not unusual, many well schooled, well fed sucessful Americans do not want to know that their grandparents arrived in steerage with their belongings tied up in kit bag, unable to speak the language, and worked 18 hours a day in menial jobs so that their children could get ahead.

This is a poignant story of Chinese immigrant families in Southern California during the days of the Chinese Exclusion Act, and the difficulty the young American-raised men had in finding a wife. They were not allowed to bring women in from China, and they were not permitted to marry non Asians. Because of the Communist takeover, many Chinese who had dreamed of returning home to China when they retired after working all their lives were unable to do so. The situtation created an artifically stressed society. The book has tragedy and sadness, as well as hope and joy.

My only criticism of the novel, and a mild one at that, is that it frequently reads like a play script, especially in the last chapter, where there is a lot of dialogue, followed by descriptions of the action which read like stage directions. It is possible that the novel was orignally intended to be a play.

Warning, possible spoiler:

The musical version of the book which was also filmed was very loosely based on the novel, in fact one of the major characters was created for the musical. Apparently this has been done again with the new version playing on Broadway. Readers expecting to find a printed version of the musical may be disappointed.

As a child, I saw the film "Flower Drum Song" and fell in love with the film. Though at the time, it was considered a no-no amongst the Chinese community. But none of those who scorn the film had even read either the book or seen the film. It was a beautiful made film that featured Asian actors who sing, dance, performed to a melodic score by one of the most creative song writing team. Therefore, I am so glad that this book is finally come to light and to be re-embraced into literary culture. Perhaps it will hopefully quail those critics who are as narrow-minded as those who thought we are just busboys and Charlie Chans. Be enlightened, and read this great piece of story-telling of a familial saga that we can all relate--regardless if we are Chinese or not. Enjoy, read and be enchanted. As well check out the film--it might change one's opinion.

Originally published in 1957, this poignant and charming novel tells of a young man's struggle to fit in. Love, family and all the ups and downs that go with them are told with bittersweet humor. Its re-release is a wonderful companion to David Henry Hwang's new theatrical book which revives the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical on Broadway this year. Hurrah!

Having taken a course that required reading the book I can safely say that it is dry in some sections of history due to the "PC" nature of it's telling. But it's mostly an interesting resource and reference book for theatre buffs and history buffs alike.

I had the pleasure of being Brock's student for three years at the University of Texas. The book is phenomenal, easy to read and amazingly complete. The History of the Theatre experience should also be augmented by the opportunity to hear Brockett speak. He is erudite, funny, a lively teacher and an incredible intellect. There is no other book to serve as a reference and introduction to theatre history. No other book and no other teacher so expertly and informatively makes you realize the interweaving of theatre and society throughout its long history. IMHO, Brockett should write the history not just of theatre but of everything. His non-didactic, straight-forward and lively prose would make any work of history or criticism on any subject a delight.

As a former student of Franklin J. Hildy's, and a reader of the Brockett text for several theater courses, I must highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a detailed, yet expansive, overview of the history of the theatrical arts throughout the world. Dr. Hildy's passion for and knowledge of the subject matter is rivaled by none and the complete scope of this project would have daunted many editors less competent to undertake such a task. A great reference text as well as course material. I often find mine useful in day-to-day queries as well as research on period and scenic styles.

Henry Baum's Oscar Caliber Gun is a teriffic insight into the mind of a psycho -- who goes too far (or does he?). The story is told from the perspective of Ray, who is a disgruntaled 20-something that bounces from job-to-job, relationship-to-relationship and is fed up with the celebrity driven culture that we live in. It follows Ray's actions, as he slowly downspirals and his behavior becomes more and more dangerous to himself and others. (I don't want to give too much away)

The story, which is fast paced, is interesting, because although Ray is obviously nuts, the reader (or at least I did) empathizes with why he acts the way he does and supports his crazy actions.

I loved this book and couldn't put it down. It was a great action adventure and unique insight into the downfalls of celebrity-driven culture.

Once you start reading you can't put it down. Strong stuff.
Henry Baum is the real thing. It would make one hell of a motion picture. Can't wait to see what else this writer does. A natural. I gave it the highest rating and highly recommend it.

WhenI read this book, I was amazed at how the character,Ray, even though he was pshychotic, had thoughts so similar to mine.And though I didn't sympathize with the character, I was on his side. We could all end up like Ray... H. Baum has a lot of good novels in his future. I can't wait!