I read The Flag We Love. I really enjoyed it. The cover caught my attention because it had a flag and fireworks on it. This book is an amazing way to show patriotism. My favorite part out of the book is how Mrs. Ryan set it up as a poem. Also, I like the drawing that Ralph Masiello did of the people showing patriotism by holding a flag in their hands. I would say that this book is for all ages. The Flag We Love is one of my favorite books! I gave it five stars!

The Flag We Love is a very good book. It teaches you about the history of are country! It taught me a lot about my country. My little brother thought it was the best book he ever read!!! And the weird thing is he hates reading so whenever my mom makes him read the book is The Flag We Love!! The pictures in this book are very impressive!! I also liked the words they were very touching! I give this book as many stars as it can get. I thought this book was very good for little children and also good for any age!My mom and dad even read it!!

The creative book The Flag We Love is a well-written and a well-illustrated book. I think that author Pam and illustrator Ralph had an excellent partnership creating this book. The Flag We Love tells why America is soooo special. My favorite page in this book is when Ralph drew Betsey Ross sewing the beautiful American flag together. I think every child would enjoy reading this interesting book. It shows us the history about the flag. I like how it tells you information below the poem.I rate this book 5 stars.

In 1987 while living in Haines,Alaska;I asked the librarian for a good book. I wanted something like Little House on the Prairie kind of story. She handed me Little Britches. I took it home and read the most wonderful adventure of a boy, growing up and learning lessons in life. It touched my heart so deeply I felt I knew him. I returned to the library after I had finished reading the book and asked if he had written any other's. The library owned one other book by Ralph Moody and that was Man of the Family. It was checked out,and not due in for two weeks. I put in a request and waited anxiously. When I finally was able to read it, it was just as wonderful as the first. To my delight Mr. Moody had written many books of his childhood. I have six children who love me to read these stories to them. Of all the books I have ever read, I must say by far that Ralph Moody's Little Britches is my all time favorite book.

I read this book after my 9-year old finished it for school. The lessons and values that Ralph Moody learned growing up are so good and true-even if sometimes they were learned the hard way. Mr. Moody's book teaches wonderful values like responsibility, respect, honesty, hard work, and committment and support of the family. The part I liked best was the relationship that Ralph had with his father. This world would be a much brighter place to live in if every son had a father like Ralph's. I think a dad reading this to his kids would teach lessons they all would remember.

I read my first book by Ralph Moody, "The fields of home" when I was 8, on my fathers recomendation. He told me that the story reminded him of he and his father, but after reading it I saw more of my dad and myself; rather than father and grandfather. A couple of years ago a friend told me of these great books he had bought, and said that he would loan them to me, once I saw the author I had to purchace the set for myself. I read these books at least once a year, and there hasn't been a time when they dont bring a warm feeling to my heart, and bring a feeling of kinship to Ralph and his family with its rural heritage. If the kids of today cared half as much for family as Ralph does for his, today would be a much better place.

Very concise, covering a large number of conditions with information about clinical features, diagnosis and treatment... just the best medical book for students, residents and general prationers.

It is VERY nice book. Especially for medical students and residents.
You can understand from detail to basic of diseases. With this book, you know how to approach and make your list of differential diagnosis.
I worked for infectious disease patients for a while, and this book was very useful because you can get the general knowledge not only about infectious diseases but also general internal medicine, skin lesions, bone diseases, and so on. I especially recommend the chart of antibiotics(Chart 37). I like this book because we can also get the update etiology of diseases. So nice.

This is a "must have" text for any student of medicine. It has all the information one needs for ward rounds, presentations, and exams. Medicine is an ever-evolving field and this book keeps up with all the latest developments. The references are conveniently given at the end of each section so the student can easily look up the most relevant articles. I especially like the "Essentials of Diagnosis" that precedes each disease entity and summarizes the key points. However this book is very much clinical/management-oriented. It does not have pictures/slides nor does it cover pathophysiology (for that, Harrison's is a better book).

This is an excellent book on understanding networking and the internet. I can't praise this book enough. You must have this as a reference.

What this book provides: --- This book explains the concepts of networking very clearly. You should be able to walk away from this book with the fundamentals on a variety of networking subjects. If you are looking for a book to give you an excellent introduction to networking, this is it.

What this book does not provide: --- This book will not make you an expert in any one subject. If you want to know everything that there is to know about routers, for example, then this is not the right book for you. END

This is the best book to read for people who want to start into the world of computer networks, but may not come from a computer science background. If you've got a good background in CS, or are already familiar with computer/math theory, go get Andrew Tanenbaum's 'Computer Networks', as Comers book will probably not hold enough technical details for you.

This book does not require much rigorous/mathematical thinking to read through and gives a great introduction to many networking topics. (a quick example of this is how Comer mentions the CRC computing techniques only to a certain, friendly level while Tanenbaum's book jumps right into the explicit details of doing the computations by hand!!!)

In his over-all progression from the physical, data transmitting wires of a network to software application's that use networks, Comer covers a good chunk of what networks are and how they work without losing you in detail's involving lot's of 0's and 1's. :) And if after reading this book you're still hungry for more knowledge on what you'll then know to be Computer Networks, then go read Tanenbaum's book.

As previous reviewers have noted, this is an excellent reference that is bound to become a standard at almost the level of its "Total" brethren in baseball and football. However, I believe that the editors applied misguided priorities to the content of the book to some extent. Allegedly the official encyclopedia of the NHL, it includes over 100 pages on international hockey (in case you needed to know the 1967-8 league champion in Iceland), but devotes only a single page to Stanley Cup results, with W-L in Finals games and the winning and losing teams and coaches. I would have expected a book of this scope to list the scores of ALL Stanley Cup games, if not line scores and scoring summaries. The Stanley Cup playoffs are the showcase of the NHL, and it struck me as odd that the annual game results, at some level, did not find their way into this book.

If you're a hockey nut, this book is for you. It lists all the players who ever played an NHL game and also explains the origins of the game itself. The stats alone are worth the price. Now you can see who all Newsy Lalonde (the Wayne Gretzky of the early 1900's) played for, and his stats, as well as Gretzky's stats.

The parts on the origins of the game are extremely interesting and shows how the best sport on earth has become global. There are also good biographies of important hockey people, male and female, as well as NHL team histories, league stats, and minor pro and European league stats.

All in all, an excellent comprehensive hockey encyclopedia.

Since 1983, the copyright of The Hockey Encyclopedia by Stan and Shirley Ficshler, I have eagerly awaited an updated version of this incredible reference book. Finally-the masterpiece of them all. Comprehensive section on the History of the game and the NHL and tons of stats. The greatest thing that sets this book apart from others is the trades and tracking of each player. Who went to what team for what player or what player was selected for a traded draft choice. The ultimate trivia at the tip of your fingers!!

When I asked one of my German friends about their classical literature, she pointed me to "Die unendliche Geschichte" by Michael Ende. First of all, I would recommend anyone fluent in German to read "The Neverending Story" in its original German version. The story revolves around a young boy, Bastian, who feels himself an outcast of the real world. He steals a book -- surprise, surprise -- called "The Neverending Story." What Bastian discovers is a land created through the power of imagination and fantasy. To save Fantasia from destruction by the Nothing, Bastian must enter the world of his own fantasy. The price of creation, however, is high. For each wish grants Fantasia new life and takes from Bastian his memories of reality. Bastian is reluctant to seek a way back home but must travel through Fantasia in search of the Child Empress. Along the way, Bastian must learn to bridge the gap between reality and Fantasia or risk losing all of his memories forever. Only by bridging this gap is Bastian able to make reality and Fantasia fit for human compassion, dreams, and hope. Humanity is indeed defined by man's ability to perceive with idealism and practicality.

Join Bastian Balthazar Bux as he experiences The Neverending Story. After finding himself in Mr. Koreander's bookshop, Bastian "borrows" a book that caught his eye as soon as he went inside the shop, "The Neverending Story." When he begins reading the book, he finds himself becoming part of the story, until finally he enters the world of Phantasien (Fantastica in the translation) where it is his responsibility to save the world of imagination from destruction. Follow him as he visits places like the Silver City, the Seeing Hand, the Cave of Dreams, the Changing House, the Ivory Tower, and so many more amazing places.

Ende's The Neverending Story is a book full of fantasy, magic and hope. It is a marvelous read for people of all ages. I have never read the English translation, but the original German just has so much power! The message of this book is very poignant. If you liked the movies, you will absolutely love the book! The first movie follows the first part of the book almost exactly. The other two movies (which I was very disappointed with) deviate tremendously from the book. If your exposure to The Neverending Story has only been through the three movies, you must read this book. Find out what you missed in the second two movies.

This book is full of many amazing characters that you will remember for the rest of your life. You will want to read this book over and over again just to meet all the unique characters again. This will be a book that you treasure for life. Recently, I lost my copy of the book, and I am just devastated. I don't know where I will find another copy of it in German because it is out of print. Hold onto your copy of the book, English or German (but especially German)! You'll love it!

When I got my copy of the "Neverending Story" in last week, I dove for it right away. I had been dying to read it forever. But it's not what was in it that first grabbed my attention. The print is in two different colors: a beautiful maroon for stories relating to the Human world, and a vivid emerald for anything relating to Fantasia. Furthermore, each chapter begins with a full-page with a single letter on it. (The first chapter "A", the last chapter "Z," you get the idea). Add that to the beautiful cover and simple, yet detailed illustrations, and you have one of the best put-together books ever written.

Now, on to the actual story. "The NeverEnding Story" tells the story of Bastian Balthaazar Bux, an outcast trying to get over the shock of losing his mother. One morning, while running from the local bullies, he ducks into a bookstore. He finds a book there that literally calls out to him. Even though his conscience tries to dissuede him, he steals the book and has the urge to read it right away! What he finds in the book is an adventure most unlike any of the others he is used to finding in books. Things seem SO real! He can practically SEE each character, SMELL the earth, TASTE the seedcakes, HEAR the wind, and FEEL the cold. As things go along, he knows it is silly, but he somehow feels a part of the NeverEnding story....

Although this book was written in the 1980's, it has definitely stood the test of time. Michael Ende proves himself as one of the top fantasy writers. Like Bastian, you can almost imagine you are there. If you love books like "Chronicles of Narnia," "Harry Potter," and "The Princess Bride," PLEASE do yourself a favor and read this book!

Deep within the mind of the creative artist often lies the tendency to become destructive. Nowhere is this more apparent than in this brilliantly written work. Thompson's "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" describes the effects of alcohal and drugs in calculated journo-prose. Initially assigned to cover a motorcyle race in the desert, the emphasis soon shifts from responsibility to reckless partying. The book meanders between odes to opium, mescaline and other mind-altering substances to ethical issues and social commentary. The book is a true story, which recounts the adventures of Thompson, alias Duke, and his obese lawyer, alias Gonzo in Las Vegas in the early 70s. Generally regarded as a collection of infamous drug exploits, the book also captured critical acclaim for it's abrupt and edgy style, and has remained a favorite in journalistic circles. The drug concotions enable Thompson to comment carelessly on everything from social issues to personal exploration, providing an objective critique of modern American life. The language is edgy and vulgar, lacking refinement and dignity. As well he knows, Thompson himself resembles these remarks and at least in this instance, life does imitate art. Overall, it is an odyssey into the mind of a true gonzo-journalist, chock full of emotion and definately worth a few hours of your time. The brains cells are up to you.

Other books of interest: "Post Office," by Charles Bukowski, and "THe Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test," by Tom Wolfe.

Thompson possesses a magical way with words, and his writing style is a pure pleasure to read. Incredibly funny and surprisingly poetic and insightful; Hunter waxes on elegantly, with a perspective and intelligence that is astonishing. The first half of the book, and in particular the opening scene, is excellent, witty, and about the funniest thing in print. The latter half, while still intoxicating and good, is a bit chaotic, as the quest for the Dream winds down and the aftermath of the search is examined. The movie with Johnny Depp is also great; it is best to read the book and then immediatly watch the movie because so much is said in Hunter's unique way of talking, that without reading the book first, much of what he says is missed; also, everything takes on a greater significance, yeilding a better understanding of the rapid series of events. Thompson, with this book alone, proves his genius for all of time.

We must remember that people did actually emerge from the idealism of the 1960's. This book is about them; it is written with all of the necessary disillusionment, sarcasm, and bombasticness. Hunter Thompson writes about (his?) experiences as a journalist covering a motorcycle race ('An ominous assignment. With overtones of extreme danger') with his famous Samoan lawyer, Gonzo pulling the strings ('do you know who I am?').

It's worth a re-read if all that came through was the tripping and the halucinations. It is important to think of the characters as dedicated and well-educated activists who saw a political assasination, a terrible war, and Nixon (recall, the man who lost the election to their assasinated hero). Circuses, gambling, dusty tracks, and moronic Americans are part of a search for the American Dream - that's what's left when the decade of superficial cynicism and drugs overtook the decade of idealism and drugs.

The drugs remain and, more often than not, expose the frighful characters who purport to distribute the dream of quick wealth, individualism, and fame. They were already as west as it comes; going east is always a bad idea.

Fig Pudding made me feel like reading more. In each chapter there was a new feeling. I wonder how Mr.Fletcher thought of these brilliant ideas to put in the chapters? I would love to read the sequel to Fig Pudding because I know that Mr.Fletcher will have some great ideas. I would like to know, were some of the characters in the story in his life, like Uncle Eddie? It was really sad when Brad died because everyone really cared about him and loved him. I thought it was funny when Uncle Eddie said,"Did you put some new ingredients in the Fig Pudding?" because Josh's shoe fell in it. I'd like to know if Mr. Fletcher is writing a new book and what is the title? This is one of my favorite books I've read because it changed my mood and that's what I like about reading. I wonder how Mr. Fletcher thought of writing this nice book? If I were Brad I would have told my father that I can't give away the tackle box. I've only read two books by Ralph Fletcher and I know I will enjoy reading more and more books by Ralph Fletcher. Fig Pudding is in my top three favorite books. This book is one of my classes favorite books!

This is an excellent book! Told as a story by the narrator, we experience a little bit about each of his 4 brothers and 1 sister. Each one is a true character in every sense of the word, but at the same time, is very realistic. This is a very real family with characters that I just fell in love with. They are not always as nice as can be and they make mistakes - even the adults. We follow the family through a year in their lives (all from the point of view of the oldest child). There are ups and downs, but in the end everyone does love each other and is there to support each other.

This is a wonderful book about the enduring strength of family and the love and support that can be found in them. There are moments that will make the reader laugh at loud and others that will bring a tear to the eye of even the hardest individual. I truly wish this book had gained more recognition.

The opportunities for writing activities and discussions based on the book are endless with a little creativity. I fully intend on using this book in my classroom and hope others will as well. Like other Ralph Fletcher books, this is quality literature for students and adults - not simply a kid's book.

Why 5 stars?:
This book is incredibly well written with very real characteristics. It brings the reader through a variety of emotions as the narrator tells us about his family and the events that occur over the course of a year. The chance to engage students in sharing and discussing literature are excellent. I highly recommend this book for school libraries, and literature circles in the classroom. Parents should be encouraged to read this book with their children as a bonding experience of the discussions about family that will undoubtedly come out.

I just finished the book Fig Pudding. It is a great book. I was sad when Brad died because it touched my heart and all of the character's hearts too. My favorite part is when Uncle Eddie said,"Did you add a new ingredient?". It was funny. I wonder what book Ralph Fletcher likes the most? I wonder if this book was based on his real life? I wonder if he had a brother that died? The mood kept on changing in the story. That is why I liked it.

This book, while ostensibly about self defense, also touches on a wide variety of subjects including personal motivation, martial arts training, the principles and origins of the Wing Tsun (WT) Kung Fu system, personal anecdotes, and autobiographical information about the author. There is also a section with photographs showing how the WT system would apply to a variety of self-defense situations. This book is no substitute for personal instruction (and the author does not claim otherwise) but it can serve as a useful starting point to anyone with an interest in the subject, or to WT students for use as a reference material.

Where I think the book has particular value is in its illumination of the serious gap that exists between what most conventional martial arts claim to offer with respect to self defense, and the likely physical threats a typical person may encounter. To summarize the author's main premise, relatively few of us engage in bare-knuckle brawls as adults, and few of us will regularly have to face a violent attack by a criminal in our lives. As a result, our understanding of the dangers we may face by an assailant and the ways to cope with this are shaped by what we hear about or see in popular entertainment, and misconceptions abound. This situation often only improves slightly for those of who start martial arts training, as many of the arts now devote considerable attention to fitness, sport competitions, or aesthetic concerns, and not on preparing students for violent confrontations with people intending to cause them serious physical harm. While dedicated athletes who spend years training in combative arts are certainly better prepared for such a violent encounter, most of us will not fit into this category. The book then presents a series of requirements for a realistic self defense system: legality, functionality, aggression, time, usability etc.

As Mr. Haenel is a WT instructor, it is no surprise he endorses the WT system as being the best option for the average person. It is certain that this contention will be hotly debated by many, and is unlikely to convince many devotees of other martial arts. Nevertheless, the author's detailed discussion of what a real physical altercation involves and the practical problems that have to be surmounted to prevail in such a scenario is very compelling reading. "For the First Time Understand Realistic Self Defense" does live up to its title.

This book is definitely very different than your standard, typical martial arts book. It clearly defines the very different concepts of 'self-defense' and 'martial arts' in a way which hasn't been done before. Anyone who has any such interest in these 2 topics should have a read of this book to help them better understand the modern world of martial arts and self-defense. It is also easy to read for those who have no martial arts experience as there are plenty of written experiences and not a lot of 'diagram after diagram'. One of my favorite parts are the stories of the experts and black belt holders alike of different styles and how they share their views of realistic self-defense and the martial arts that they have trained. A must read!!

This book is an excellent overview of the fundamental theories behind Wing Tsun Kung Fu, and a good starter book for anyone exploring the world of Self-Defense for the first time. With a seriously knowledgeable yet light-hearted touch, author Ralph Haenel walks the reader through the realities of street violence and what we can do to prevent it. Sparking the readers' motivation and self-confidence is an added bonus!
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to begin training the martial arts, thinking about self-defense, or just looking for new techniques of self-motivation.

As a novice in the field of sound reinforcement, I found this book invaluable. It clearly explained the how and why of working with audio equipment, discussed the mysteries of studio equipment specifications, and worked through sample installations and the pros and cons of equipment types. Each chapter held new and useful information, from discussions of the different types of "db"s to the delightful chapter on how to select and solder audio cables. I can't recommend this book too highly.

This is a great book to have for references. Its covers just about everthing from A to Z. Most of all its actually useful information not just a bunch of high tech talk you cant understand. This book is great for the beginner or the pro. Has great stuff on Mic placement and speaker placement. Answers all those questions that you cant figure out on your own. BUY THIS BOOK!!! You wont be sorry.

There aren't many things that recording engineers agree on. Sure we all like Neumann microphones, Neve Mic Pre's, and Studer 2 inch machines, but when it comes to things that the average studio can afford, there is much dissention.

That is not the case with this book. Without fail, every single audio engineer I've met learned SOMETHING from reading the Sound Reinforcement handbook. Collected in these pages is the wisdom of a generation of Audio Engineers, and given that our field is one that is so much based on oral tradition, a book like this is invaluable for someone who doesn't have the time or inclination to learn things in the traditional way by hanging around in recording studios working for free.

If you want to do anything in audio technology it would behoove you to learn this book backwards and forwards, because it contains between it's covers one of the most thorough and balanced presentations ever written on the topic. A great book.