... My girlfriend recommended I read this book, and I'm glad I listened to her. If you have ever read, and enjoyed, any of the many books of Carlos Castaneda ( now passed away - ? ) about his continuing adventures with ( and without ) the Native American Indian shaman-teacher, Don Juan, then you most certainly will also enjoy reading this series of "NO-EYES BOOKS" ( as some call them ) by the gifted author, Mary Summer Rain. ... What a beautiful writer! What a wonderful story! What an amazing set of visions!

... Yeah, she touches upon many of the standard "New Age" bases as she weaves her tale: aliens, alternative medicine, angelic beings, astral projection, astrology, back-to-nature living, dream symbololy, earth changes, ecology, herbology, meditation, mind-reading, Native American spirituality, parapsychology, prophecy, psychic powers, psycho-kinesis, reincarnation, shamanism, spirit-guides, UFO's, vision-quests, et al ... but she does it in a way that has a natural flow and with a a lightness of spirit that is not overbearing or overly serious. She draws you in, instead of hitting you over the head with her insights.

... Is No-Eyes a real person? ... Is Don Juan, or Jesus, or even Socrates? ... Ultimately, who cares? So what?! Or, "What so!," as No-Eyes would say. All that really matters are the archetypal truths conveyed by the narrative. These truths, and "lessons" of No-Eyes, are deep, profound, and life-affirming - and they are there to be appreciated by one and all, thanks to the wise writings of Mary Summer Rain.

... As she quotes No-Eyes on page 61: "Now, in old days Peoples love all stuff. They love trees, mountains, grass, animals, all stuff. Sacred powers were nature forces: wind, water, fire, lightning. Peoples know Father Sky and Earth Mother parents of all life. Every creature have spirit. All nature be People's church. It be bad stuff to force Great Spirit to crouch down into one building. Great Spirit everywhere! It forever duty of Peoples to every day give prayers to Great Mystery, to be thankful. These prayers more important to Peoples than food even. All Peoples see Great Spirit in black rain clouds, hear Him in thundering waterfalls. Peoples make all acts in life a sacred act. Peoples know sacred silence is voice of Great Spirit. This silence be ultimate balance of mind, body, and spirit. Peoples give away all one's stuff! They know stuff not where Great Spirit be. Stuff not important! Summer, that true love. That pure love!"

... How anyone cannot be charmed and moved by this wonderful little treasure of a book is beyond me! If you enjoyed reading Black Elk Speaks, you will enjoy this book. Also, we have all seen those maps of what the future of the planet is supposed to look like by, supposedly, the year 2012. Right? You've seen those maps! Well, remember, that this book was first published in 1985 - way before COMING EARTH CHANGES in 1996 by William Hutton, NOTES FROM THE COSMOS in 1997 by Gordon-Michael Scallion, and many of the other "future prophecy" books out there on the market were published. Remember that the next time you see one of those maps on someone's living room wall! ... One could also say that certain Native American people might take offense to their traditional spirituality being combined with and / or co-opted by "New Age-ism." As we all know, Native Americans very much resent their genuine religious beliefs being exploited by New Agers seeking glory and profit from their ancient wisdom. Nevertheless, Mary Summer Rain writes of these ancient and perenial truths with such respect and loving admiration that one would be hard-pressed to find fault with her. She really is sowing seeds of higher consciousness with these books, and she should be commended for that. ... YOWZA! - The Aeolian Kid

This book is truly amazing. It opens your eyes to the thinks that have been closed and makes you pause to see what you have been doing in your life wihtout being judgemental. No-Eyes will win your heart and Mary Summer Rain will capture your mind and stay in there forever. Something about this book called out to me and without knowing why I reached for it and was unable to put it down. It will captivate you. I highly recommend Phoenix Rising and whatever else of Mary's you can get your hands on.

Mary Summer Rain brings No-Eyes to life with her magnificent details and descriptions of No-Eyes and the Spirit World.

I would recommend any books by Mary Summer Rain especially her Dreams Book.

Peace be with you! Enjoy!

Man....I dunno where to begin with this book. Yeah its that awesome! I've just started reading it and I'm abt 80 pages into it but lemme tell ya , Its just as good if not better than the rest of them in the "Stories 4 the Teens heart" series! I don't think the stories are just for teens either , anyone can read them and they are sure to enjoy them. The stories talk about real life situations and how others have coped with them. This book can really cheer a person up and help them out. I hope anyone who veiws this would read it and enjoy it! Best wishes to all ya'll out there!

This book was an inspiration to me. I am going through a lot of hard times right now and this book has helped me see that my problems aren't as bad as I thought they were. One of my favorite stories would have to be "Miracle at the Mall" on page 314. There's always a different way God lets people know he cares and loves us. I look forward to future books by Alice Gray. Also, I would like to thank the people who allowed their stories to be published.

THIS BOOK IS A GREAT READ FOR TEENS.THE STORIES ARE FUNNY,HEART
WARMING AND AT TIMES SAD.MOST OF THE STORIES TEACH VAUABLE LESSONS ON LIFE.MY FAVORITE STORY IN THE BOOK WAS DUMP BOY.THE LESSON THE CHILDREN LEARN AT THE END WAS REALLY TOUCHING.ANOTHER
FAVORITE WAS A POEM CALLED MAKING SARAH CRY(WHICH WILL HAVE ALL
YOU SCHOOL BULLYS WISHING FOR A SECOND CHANCE.BUY THIS BOOK AND LOVE THE STORIES JUST LIKE I DID.YOU WON'T BE DISAPPIONTED.

Admittedly, I'm from Ann Arbor. But Willard is quite magical in capturing the feel of (what was then, before WWII) a smallish Michigan city, from an utterly unexpected angle. The book is one of the most successful examples of magical realism I have ever encountered, and Willard's prose itself is enchanting. I've read this book (and its successor, Sister Water, now out of print) many times, always with fondness, and I recommend it to anyone else who wants a thoroughly good read.

I just ordered a hardback copy of this book, because my paperback is falling apart from so many readings! I was not surprised to see so many other reviews for a book so old; because this is a wonderful, magical book. I picked it up at a used book-store, even though it looked to be a "fantasy", which I don't read. But this novel cannot be wedged into any genre. If you love baseball, are interested in (or lived through) WWII, grew up in S. Michigan, went to U. of Michigan, or believe in miracles, this book WILL resonate with you. And you may love it without any of those points of resonance! It also has those subtle references that make re-reading worthwhile. Example: a scene set in early December 1941, where Death-a little man who is a main character in the book-attends a seance several days early, because "he has important business on Sunday". It was my third reading before I followed the book's timeline well enough to realize Death had to be at Pearl Harbor that Sunday.

This book leaves you with not just a good feeling, but a tingle of wonder--like maybe there are always little miracles afoot in the world???? If Nancy Willard only had one "big novel" in her, I'm glad its this one; but I'd love to see more from her.

This book turned my teenaged niece from a non-reader to an avid reader. Can there be a better tribute to any book?

I received this book as a Christmas gift and I could not put it down. It truly would make an "action-packed" movie. Characters were realistic and believable. Fantastic Writing.

I received this book as a Christmas gift and I could not put it down. It truly would make an "action-packed" movie. Characters were realistic and believable. Fantastic Writing.

My daughter gave me this book for Christmas and what a great book it is. I literally read it in one sitting! It really should be a movie. I know I'd go see it. My husband is reading the book now and he NEVER reads and he is loving it.

This book has everything for the pepper-lover. Not only some tasty and unique recipes, but also history, interesting pepper facts, and information about cultures throughout the world that enjoy peppers. Plus, many of the recipes are not blazing-hot. Even includes recipes from Africa and Asia for a change of pace. The "Field Guide to Chiles" (with some color photos) is also very interesting. Think of this as the Food Network meets the Discovery Channel.

A total source book, everything one needs to know about chiles is here. Part science book, complete with botanical information, part history book with all the 411 on origins of the various chiles, but mostly a recipe book. The beauty of this book lies in the fact that exposure is given to the use of chile throughtout the world. Typically many think of the dishes of Mexico and it's southern neighbors as "hot" food, but this book shows the use of the chile in cuisines throughout the world. The interesting tidbits of information provided about how the chile came to be a part of the cuisine is most fascinating. Old world meets new world cuisines. Many of the recipes are tradional fares that can be found in other books but the truly exotic, different cuisine awaits those who have adventurous taste buds. In the mood for a little African soup? A simple enough recipe consisting mainly of peanut butter, chiles, chicken broth and the usual suspects of diced onions, carrots and oil and you're ready for a starter on your menu. An excellent book for someone looking to serve up some fiery worldly cuisine the book offers recipes on some of the most exotic dishes imagineable. A great book to be used over and over again, year after year, your friends will be impressed when you serve them up something yummy they have never tried before.

For the devoted pepper aficionado, this book is all business. The book provides scores of delectable recipes and informs the reader of what makes up the chili pepper. A history lesson or two is included at no extra cost. The recipe for habanero paste is outstanding, especially on my favorite local pizza. Relocation to Pittsburgh is required for the pizza, sorry. Warning, the purchase of this book results in a better diet and a truly wise pepper consumer. You will be the center of attention at parties and the opposite sex will flock toward you in droves. O.K., I'm exaggerating you may just experience the state of Zen

I've taken several workshops with Nancy and have always come away exhilirated and with the kernels of ideas for many new essays. She just has this way of stimulating your brain to make new leaps and insights. Basically, she teaches you how to get out of your own way and let your creativity flow. Her main thrust is to create a safe place in your mind where you can risk trying new things. The book is just like talking with her -- if you can't take one of her courses, it's the next best thing.

Writers-block doesn't exist if you have read "Writing from The Heart". Stripping writers- both novice and experienced-down to the basics, Nancy Slonim Aronie, guides us through doors that were once closed, sometimes even slammed in our face, and assures us that they can be walked through. Using compassion and humor, this book flows like a river, and while it may not have been written with ease- it sure reads that way. If you are a writer of any kind, this book should be kept right next to your dictionary and your Writers Market.

After purchasing numerous "how to overcome writer's block" books, I accidentally stumbled across this book at the public library. What a find! I am now buying my own copy and giving the other books away.... For me, this book is more inspirational and constructive than even Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird and Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way. The writer addresses some typical writing blocks and how to navigate them. But this isn't your typical "how to" book. It's a personal, soulful book that exposes the root of creativity. I now see that my inexplicable writing block has been, in truth, a terror of FEELING. My thanks to the author for this insight ----- and for many other remarkable insights.

I had just recently finalized my divorce and started the long path to dating again, this book has helped me sooo much, I wish I had read it before I got married! lol If you have a friend in need of love please tell them about this book its a lifesaver!

This book is the perfect read for those with hopes of love.
After a broken heart.
All you need...
Waiting A Lover
Candel light bubble bath
Wine optional...
You'll feel great.
ENJOY!
Thank you,Nancy B.

I came across this book while looking for a present for a dear friend who divorced a few months ago. She's feeling depressed and, well, hopeless. This was the perfect book. It's poetic but easy reading, spiritual but fun, lighthearted and serious. I've been happily married for 22 years (at least happy every other week) and it was a wake-up call to me as well. I think I had better apply a little romance to my marriage. I think a previous reviewer called it a valentine. Great idea. Give it to a friend on that day of the year when it is most miserable not to have a lover - Valentine's Day!

Despite four kids, a demanding dog and a busy life I read both of Nancy Bartholomews', Maggie Reid books in less then a week. The only bad thing about them is they weren't longer. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you will loooooong to meet a man like like Marshall Weathers. Excellent fun Nancy - thanks for a great week!I do so hope you are writing more!

I work with Nancy on a daily basis and have had the opportunity to get to know her personally. She is humorous and fun loving. This comes out in the way she writes and develops her characters. I hope everyone will take the opportunity to read her books. You won't be disappointed. There's a little bit of Nancy in each of her characters. I love this title because it is funny and I can't help but become involved in the twisted lives of these people. I hope all will enjoy. Keep up the good work, Nancy. Joi

I am so glad the recommendations section at Amazon brought this book to my attention!! I haven't had this much fun in a long time. Maggie and Sheila and Marshall and the rest of the cast kept me grinning!!

I jumped right into the next book--Stand by Your Man--and am enjoying it as well. I hope this series continues for a long time to come!!

This review concerns both the original 1933 edition and the revised 1968 edition, which is the one with which most younger readers would be familiar. Both books have a similar story; except the revised edition is shorter, some characters names were changed and some events were either eliminated or altered. During a storm, Nancy, Bess and George seek shelter at an old tea room. While there, they meet a one hundred year old man named Asa Sidney, as well as an orphaned girl and her dishonest guardians. This launches Nancy into the middle of an old family feud between Asa Sidney's relatives and the relatives of his deceased wife, who happens to have been the sister of Bess and George's great-grandfather. Nancy's involvement in the feud ultimately costs her her friendship with Bess and George. Nancy has a lot of work to do as she tries to end the long-standing feud, repair her friendship with Bess and George, discover the parentage of the orphaned girl and prevent the girl's guardians from stealing the fortune that Asa Sidney has amassed. There really isn't much of a mystery to this book; however, the story more than makes up for that. Like all of the other books in the series, it features unscrupulous people up to something dishonest and Nancy usual desire to help someone in need, but this time she is affected personally because of the loss of her friends. I found the book to be very interesting and the writing was very descriptive (at least in the original version). I recommend reading the original version over the revised edition, if possible, but either way this book should not be missed if you are a fan of Nancy Drew. In my opinion it is one of the 5 best books of the series.

I own the entire set of the Applewood re-releases, and this was the best of the lot.

Inexplicably the writing of this book was far superior to the rest of the novels in this series (and they were all very good!) Several other readers that I have spoken with agreed that "The Sign of the Twisted Candles" was their fave!

I wonder if a different "ghost writer" worked on this particular novel? Hmmmm... I guess that will remain a mystery!

This is definately a great Nancy Drew mystery. I read a lot of them often, and this one is definately extremely descriptive and you can just be there with Nancy through thick and thin. I was right there the whole time. Certainly a must for readers!

It discusses some obvious things about high schools--including some high schools are bad and some are good-- and makes a lot of general statements about how high schools should be run.
I would have liked something a little more positive happening, something more inspiring and less like laying down what's good. Indeed the moral importance in high schools that runs through the book is a positive thing, but there was something judgemental or negative about it. I'm not sure why I dont feel compeled by the advice given. More suggestions which are actually ideas, at least to get the creative juices flowing would be a good thing also.

Rated as excellent in 6/19/00 U. S. News & World Reports, I am pursuing research on this book while attempting to locate a library or preview copy to read myself!

quote from The Students are Watching: "School exists to change young people. The young people should be different--better--for their experience there. They should know some important things, they should know how to learn additional important things, and they should be in the habit of wanting to learn such important things. They should have a reasoned, but individual point of view. They should be judicious, aware of the complexity of the world. They should be thoughtful, respectful of thought and of ideas which are the furniture of thought." The Students are Watching is about teaching morals through example and treating students with respect while delivering education in an ethical manner. I don't really view this as a "how to teach morals" book, but as a guide to running an ethical school.