I am 12 years old and I gave this book to my youngest brother who is 4 for Christmas. He loved the story and especially the pictures. It is his favorite book. Both of us think it is and excellent book!

The wolves howl in the darkness, but for young Matthew, their song is nature's lullaby. The singing of the wolves are magical melodies luring him into a fantastic nighttime adventure. Guided by a silvery gray wolf, Matthew joins the pack in their secret play. They paint the night sky with diamond sparkles and a curtain of swirling colors. Wolf Songs is a beautifully presented story transforming fears into songs and wolves into warm and magical friends. Combining Raye Raya-Norman's deeply engaging story text with Richard Ziehler-Martin's rich, dreamlike illustrations, Wolf Songs will entrance children ages 5 and up as it gently encourages their renewed confidence in a friendly world.

This book is wonderful. I've been a wolf-lover for as long as I can remember and now my 5 year old son is becoming fascinated with wolves too. I would recommend "Wolf Songs" for anyone, young and old, to add to their book collection.

Wolf's Cub rises several tiers above typical fantasy fare. The plot is driven by the diverse forces of historical precedent, cultural predjudice, politics and the personalities of the protagonists. Young Prince Herric's finds his desires thwarted and his destiny tangled in an war rooted in age old hatreds, a deep mire of distrust which grows ever more treacherous with each drop of spilled blood. Trying to extract himself and his kingdom from this fatal bog, Herric learns that swords on make grudges stronger, and making peace is harder than making war.

At first glance Wolf's Cub is a typical "Sword 'n Sorcery" tale, with kings, princes and princesses, knights and warlords, much sword play, and evil magicians. However, a deeper look into this tale of the forced growth of a teen-aged prince into a powerful and beloved warrior king, and the prices he pays to reach this, reveals a detail of character and humanity and level of complexity uncommon to most "S'nS" books. The characters of Prince Herric, his arranged marriage bride, Princess Elaine, and the courtiers, lords and ministers, ladies in waiting, and even down to the churls in a hut where Herric takes shelter from the rain after battle, are sharply drawn, human, and ultimately can be identified with by any reader. One does regret that the characters of the "bad guys" are not so equally balanced and human. This is a story and saga that will suck you in to a story at first fanciful and escapist, but eventually as frustrating and real as life. The reader shares every blow in battle, every fatigue and disappointment in politics, every frustration with a willful and egocentric father, and every day's despair of the war-racked populace. Consequently, you are engrossed in the events of Herric's struggle. But there's another reason besides good writing and a great read, to buy this book. The reader will realize by book's end that he's also just read an allegory about many of the ills we live with today--acid rain, drought and flood, natural disasters, strange, unpredictable weather, and inexplicable enemies, for the world of high Athgar suffers from many of the same. Through the story a theme can be discerned, the theme of the Pattern of the World and its growing imbalance. Then the story becomes one of attempted reconciliation of two long-alienated parts of humanity, the human, practical, logical side, and the magickal, intuitive, psychic side. Then it becomes the story of the new millennium, and the attempts to put those two parts together again. In Wolf's Cub there are two magickal kingdoms: black magic Zalkyrth, and white magic Melgorna. But magic is found in Athgar, too, despite the cultural prejudice against it. So we have the A of Athgar set against the Z of Zalkyrth, with the M of Melgorna balanced between them in allegorical style, and the author's solution is not that one defeat the other, but that like long-separated siblings, they come together to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts.

The blurb is right--I could not put WOLF'S CUB down. I found this medieval world completely believable, and I rapidly became attached to the characters, especially the hero, Herric. He is everything a fantasy hero should be, but deeply human, too. The climax is heart-pounding, moving, and real. This is the best kind of fantasy because, while it's an epic adventure, resonant with dangerous magic, subtle intrigue, and age-old prophecies, it reflects our world's joys and difficulties, and what it says feels true. I guess this is a small publishing house, and that's too bad, because WOLF'S CUB will get less attention that way, and it deserves a LOT. This is a fabulous read. Buy it. You'll be glad you did.

If you share your life with wolf-dog crosses, or have an interest in knowing more about wolves and wolfdogs, this book is absolutely essential reading !!! ... Dog owners can also benefit tremendously from the behavioral insights and postive training advice offered.

New owners and long-time owners alike will delight in reading the sections on "Principles of Positive Training" (including how-to's), "Dominance Challenges", "Fear Issues" as well as "Enrichment" (great ideas throughout the book), "Veterinary Care" and much, much more.

I strongly suggest that if you are a breeder, or are involved in rescue that you lay your paws on a number of copies of this book to give to your prospective buyers or adopters. Make it part of your educational program :-) Better yet, combine "Wolfdogs A to Z" with the author's other book, "Living with Wolfdogs" for an all around excellent source of practical advice and information.

Enjoy the photos too !

Wolfdogs A-Z is the most authoritative in-depth book ever written on the subject of wolfdog behavior and training. Once again, Nicole Wilde (author of Living With Wolfdogs) combines her years of hands on experience in working with wolfdogs and her positive training approach as a professional dog trainer to produce sound practical methods that achieve astounding results with these sometimes difficult to train canines. I have personally tested the easy to fallow step-by-step methods outlined in the book with my own wolfdogs with fantastic results!

The chapters devoted to understanding wolfdog behavior provide the most down to earth in-depth and precise information available in writing anywhere. How often have you wondered "Why does my wolfdog do that?" You'll find those answers here. The detailed discussions on avoiding undesirable behaviors are invaluable for the first time owner as well the practical tips and advice for modifying behaviors even the most experienced will appreciate.

Added to the books credits are excellent chapters on natural feeding (what is often referred to as BARF: Bones and Raw Food) Fun, safe toys and activities for keeping your companion busy, dispelling the numerous myths regarding these animals and much, much more.

Wolfdogs A-Z is an absolute must have for all wolfdog owners and also highly recommended for people who have one of the more challenging canines of any breed.

I can't say enough about Nicole Wilde's book. I own a low percentage wolfdog I rescued from a local animal shelter by mistake; That is, I was told he was an Alaskan Malamute, but at his initial veterinary examination, the vet informed me that my gorgeous (but aggressive) 100lb 1-year-old was about 25% wolf! Having had no experience with wolfdogs (and getting recommendations from three animal behaviorists that I destroy him), I realized that this rescue would be quite a challenge. I decided to learn all I could about his species and give him a chance. Through researching the subject on the Internet, I became aware of Ms. Wilde's work with wolfdogs. It was refreshing to find someone so knowledgeable in the field. I consider "Wolfdogs A-Z" an invaluable resource. While reading it, I found that I could easily apply the data and follow Ms. Wilde's advice. The chapter about Winter Wolf Syndrome was one of my favorites, as it gave me information I had not found anywhere else. This book provided answers to many situations I needed help with, including diet and housing methods. Most importantly to me, Nicole Wilde employs positive training techniques which have helped my wolfdog become a more gentle, loyal and affectionate member of our "pack". The book is a perfect blend of humor and instruction. I find it very complete, and a "must read" for anyone who currently owns a wolfdog or is considering the rescue of one. (It's training section is great for "regular" dogs, too, as my Welsh Corgi has responded very well to the techniques!)

First read this when I was in college. Great illustrztions and liner notes. Even on page one, as Jonathan HRKER STOPS FOR DINNER IN THE HOTEL BEFORE GOING ON TO DRACULA'S CASTLE, HE DINES ON CHICKEN PAPRIKOSH. In the margin, they have THE RECIPE!!!! for this dish! Awesome. Hope it returns.

Excellent information. Background information details nearly line by line the orginal novel. Get your hands on a copy of this book if you can.

Vampire stories have been told and retold with fascination. However, there are few that match the power of the novel by Bram Stoker. This book contains the original version with thick margins filled with footnotes, anecdotes, vampire lore, and insight into every aspect of this fascinating story.

After purchasing many watercolor books on flowers and realizing they just didn't fit my needs, I was hesitant to purchase another one. But after seing Basic Flower Painting, I succumbed and am thrilled with the instructions and the step by step demos that are the most helpful of all. The price is so reasonable for what is provided in the content, and the colors are as vibrant as in a much more expensive book. I couldn't ask for anything more. I recommend it to any level artist whether beginner or advanced. There's something for everyone in it.

Caveat: this title may attract the novice, but "Basic" shouldn't be confused with "Beginning." If you are have a limited palette and are not yet conversant with terms like "charging color," "thirsty brush," and "modeling," the demonstrations may be frustrating.

That being said, the book is a joyful compendium of fine work by accomplished artists. Many examples are featured in the _Splash_ series. Demonstrations are varied, detailed, and challenging (although the section on special effects with cotton swabs is a bit long).

As a reference or idea-generator, the book is excellent. The editor has thoughtfully included sketches for constructing single blossoms, composite flowers, stems, leaves, weeds, and wild grasses. For the adventurous, she also includes articles on techniques with crumpled paper, compositions, acetate, acrylic, and airbrush.

I would recommend this book highly for an advanced beginner who is interested in exploring florals in more depth, or for the more accomplished artist who seeks a comprehensive overview of the subject.

If you really want to learn about flower painting, This is one book you simply cannot do without ! This book REALLY teaches you the basics step-by-step. It is beautifully illustrated and will give you the necessary knowledge in learning how to paint flowers with the help of different artists. There are very few books on flower painting that will give you this much demonstration, tips & techniques plus beautifully painted flowers that are painted so realistically that you can almost smell them.

This book is an actual 10 star book. It is the best Wishbone book I have ever read, as well as the best Book I have ever read. This story was the most exciting one, and well written.

This book displays a full understanding to younger kids about classic tales. This novel is an easy reader to kids. I completely recomend this book.

This is such a good book and mainly because I couldn't find the treasure before the end of the novel. This took place in the Gulf of Mexico. I liked how the author described the setting. It's so cool when Wishbone talked to himself. 5th grader - Nick Gormican

This book is absolutely riveting. It GRRRRRRabs you by the jugular from the first page and doesnt let go. The characters are stunningly vivid.I have not read such a captavating story in years and I can't wait for J.J. Christopher's next book. The next King?, I think not....This author has already surpassed King. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone and everyone, In fact I have already started my campaign...The Wolf Boy's Club in every household library!!!!

I am not a well known book critique but, I have read alot of books. I am not really into the whole sci-fi act because fantasy is more my thing. But this book really caught my attention. J.J. Christopher has awoken in me a urge to find out more about the Complex, the Wolf Boys and anything secretive about the government. The Wolf Boys relate to me and my friends so I can understand how important it is to "run with the pack" so to speak. This book is packed with action, and heart. I would say it is not for the faint of heart . But I could not put it down. This book is a great example of imagination and perfect writing.The plot was well thought out and the placement of words created a vivid picture in my mind. It took me a while to find the climax of the story because of all the action, and suprises. It was an excellent read and I am proud to say that I consider J.J. Christopher to be a good friend of mine. Soon to be author, J.D.E.

I'm 15, a high school student in Kansas City. My English teacher was reading this book and it looked cool so I got it, and you know what? I couldn't put it down! JJ Christopher's gonna be the next Stephen King, for real! Peace!

Wolf trails by Nik Sawe is a novel about a pack of wolves trying to get back to safety after being held in captivity for eight months. This novel was a fast read because of the fact that it was action packed. As soon as it seemed like the wolves might be in a safe place, something would happen that would disprove the feeling. Because Sawe gave each of the wolves a distinct personality, the novel was interesting to the people who are not really interested by the daily activities of wolves.

The story beyond the wolves was also fascinating because of the differences between the personalities of the two scientists. It was like a balance between good and evil, with the evil overpowering the good. The one thing that could have made the story a little stronger was if the relationships between the wolves were explored a little more deeply. The relationships were explored, but sometimes, the wolves would do something that the reader would not expect, which would consequently confuse the reader. But, other than that, this book was great and one that I would recommend to my friends and family.

Wolf Trails is a story about the lives of a wolf pack called the Copperleaf that is captured by two scientists and experimented cruelly upon. After months of experiments that leave them depressed and weak, they escape and journey back to their old den. But of the 10 wolves that entered the lab, only seven remain. This is the story of these seven wolves as they are pursued by an entire town and forced to flee. With the help of a friend who began as an enemy, they save all the dogs who shared the lab with them, kill the man who was the cause of at all and show his partner his conscience, and find a safe home for the two new pups, their new friend, and the four wolves who remain.

This story keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the whole book. Nick Sawe really captures the lives of the wolves, their pains and their joys, their losses, their sorrows, their bravery and their fears. You get to know each wolf as well as you would know your best friend and you find yourself cheering for them as they face the horrors of mankind.

Wolf Trails, the first novel by author, Nik Sawe, is the story of how the Copperleaf wolf pack escape persecution from a scietific testing lab. Once free, however, they find that assimilation to the outside world isn't easy. Here they are faced with a different type of persecution--one of blind hatred from a population that doesn't know or understand them. Nik Sawe published this book while only seventeen, a fact that makes the story even more inspiring. The language and emotional themes of the book are refined, perceptive and real. Nik shows an acute sensitivity to issues of conservation and animal rights, as well as racism and bias. He also incorporates a solid knowledge of the nature of wolves, making the story educational, as well as thought-provoking and inspiring. You wouldn't expect such an amazing story to come from such a young author, but Nik Sawe proves that age is not a factor in intelligence or style. Wolf Trails is the perfect read for young children and adolescents, while still holding appeal for adults. It would be ideal for required reading in Junior High and High School level science and english classes, as well as book clubs and reading groups. Sawe has proven that he will be one of this generation's great writers.

This book is a great book for 3-7 year-olds. It is story that little ones will find interesting and funny, combined with good illustrations, and can be read in under 5 minutes!

Children will follow the Wolf as he searches the forest for a delicious chicken. Before seizing a chicken he finds, he decides to fatten her up first. So he spends the next few nights in the kitchen baking goodies and anomymously leaving them on her porch for the chicken to eat. Finally he decides to set out for his chicken dinner, only to discover that the Chicken had many, many children that had been eating the food the wolf had left. All of them thanked "Uncle Wolf" with a hundred kisses, and the wolf, in the end, grows attached to the little chicks.

This terrific book says alot with few words. The watercolor pictures are beautiful, and the text is carefully written. We adore the picture of the wolf carrying a 100 pound cake to fatten up the chicken before he eats her. The ending is so sweet it leaves you feeling like life is great. I consider this one of my favorite read alouds.

I highly recommend this to anyone reading aloud to preschoolers. I have read it to countless groups of young children over the past ten years, in many different situations, and it never fails as a crowd-pleaser. Keiko Kasza's other picture books also work like magic with the youngest listeners. Children and adults alike enjoy her gentle humor.