"Once upon a time, sixty years ago, a little girl lived in the Big Woods of Wisconsin, in a little gray house made of logs." So begins "Little House in the Big Woods," by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The book tells the story of young Laura, a pioneer girl who lives with her Pa, Ma, sister Mary, baby sister Carrie, bulldog Jack, and Black Susan the cat.

This book is a richly detailed portrait of pioneer life. There isn't much of a plot; the book is basically a record of the day-to-day lives of this hardy pioneer family. The book goes into fascinating detail about the family's activities: butchering a hog, smoking meat, churning butter, making bullets, fiddling, harvesting maple syrup, and more. Also fascinating are the characters' encounters with the various wild animals of the big woods--some dangerous, some cute.

The characters are memorable. Ma is the quintessential pioneer woman: hard-working and resourceful. I really got the sense that she's the glue that holds the family together. Pa is a particularly colorful and lovable character: a hunter, trapper, and farmer who is also a musician and a master storyteller. Indeed, the oral tradition of storytelling is an important motif in the book.

It's fascinating to escape to a world without DVDs, movie theaters, CDs, cable television, the Internet, or the other modern things we take for granted. This book takes us back to such a world, and reveals it to be a colorful and fascinating place.

My favorite book of all time is Little House in the Big Woods , a novel by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The first reason I love this book is that it has so many descriptive words in it. Laura has such a way with words, and she uses them in just the right ways. For example, " The great, dark trees of the big wood...". The second reason is, that she puts in little stories about her grandpa and father, as a little boy. The third reason is, I love old things like antiques and log cabins. She can teach you all about pioneer days, in a great way. Laura also puts exciting things about her life on her family's farm in the book. If you like historical fiction and a great read, this is the book for you.

The Little House in the Big Woods Have you ever wanted to go back in time? Let Laura Ingalls help you. She wrote about
this family and how they lived in The Little House In the Big Woods. Harvesting,planting, cooking, hunting and sowing are all done manually. They did this all summer.For only a mom,dad a seven and eight year old plus baby Carie that is amazing to me
how they used to work. The two girls are small but don't let that fool you because that seven year old gets into a lot of trouble looking for mystery and adventure.Unlike her sister who never breaks the rules. One of her mystery's is when her father went to town and something happened but I can't tell you what.If you want to find out what happened in this wild cat's mystery, read the book first hand.

"Much Ado About Nothing" is a beautifully made, performed, and directed film by the incomparable Kenneth Branaugh. This film includes an all-star cast that give wonderful performances and draw you into the lives of the characters. The plot is somewhat complicated, so I'll give a general version. The film is basically about love, misunderstanding, scandal, revenge, virtue, and bravery. That's a lot for one film, but believe me, it's all in there!

Kenneth Branaugh, Emma Thompson, Denzel Washington, Keanu Reeves, and Michael Keaton give excellent performances in this film that you wouldn't want to miss. Although the film is a period piece and the Shakespearean language is used, you will have no difficulty understanding it perfectly.

The scenery and landscape in this film are exquisite as well. I never thought there could be such a beautiful, untouched place like that on earth. I would suggest watching the film just for the beautiful landscape, but it's the performances and the story that you should really pay attention to.

Anyone who loves Shakespeare would absolutely love this film! Anyone who loves Kenneth Branaugh and what he has done for Shakespeare in the past 10 or 15 years will appreciate this film as well! There isn't one bad thing I can say about this film. Definitely watch it, you won't be disappointed!!!

One of the problems with Shakespeare's comedies, an English professor once told me, is that they are not funny. Now, this is not to say that Shakespeare was a bad comedy writer, or that this professor had no sense of humour. In fact, quite the opposite--he had turned his sense of humour and love of humour into an academic career in pursuit of humour.

What he meant by the comment was, humour is most often a culture-specific thing. It is of a time, place, people, and situation--there is very little by way of universal humour in any language construction. Perhaps a pie in the face (or some variant thereof) does have some degree of cross-cultural appeal, but even that has less universality than we would often suppose.

Thus, when I suggested to him that we go see this film when it came out, he was not enthusiastic. He confessed to me afterward that he only did it because he had picked the last film, and intended to require the next two selections when this film turned out to be a bore. He also then confessed that he was wrong.

Brannagh managed in his way to carry much of the humour of this play into the twentieth century in an accessible way -- true, the audience was often silent at word-plays that might have had the Elizabethan audiences roaring, but there was enough in the action, the acting, the nuance and building up of situations to convey the same amount of humour to today's audience that Shakespeare most likely intended for his groups in the balconies and the pit.

The film stars Kenneth Brannagh (who also adapted the play for screen) and Emma Thompson as Benedict and Beatrice, the two central characters. They did their usual good job, with occasional flashes of excellence. Alas, I'll never see Michael Keaton as a Shakespearean actor, but he did a servicable job in the role of the constable (and I shall always remember that 'he is an ass') -- the use of his sidekick as the 'horse' who clomps around has to be a recollection of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, where their 'horses' are sidekicks clapping coconut shells together.

I'll also not see Keanu Reeves as a Shakespearean, yet he was perhaps too well known (type-cast, perhaps) in other ways to pull off the brief-appearing villian in this film.

Lavish sets and costumes accentuate the Italianate-yet-very-English feel of this play. This film succeeds in presenting an excellent but lesser-known Shakespeare work to the public in a way that the public can enjoy.

I saw this movie when I was fairly young. I admit that I couldn't understand much of what was going on let along what was being said (I was nine, I wasn't exactly fluent in Olde English). Since then I've watched it many times. Not only do I understand it now, but I fully apreciate how good it is.

The movie is a very good adaptation of the play. The impressive lines that Shakespeare wrote were generally given new life in their delivery. Also, I must compliment Michael Keaton on his role. It isn't a very big one, but if you watch this movie, you'll understand why I mentioned it. Overall, this is simply a fully enjoyable movie, whether you're a fan of Shakespeare or not.

I have wanted to carve wood for some time, but had no idea how to go about learning. Most of the books I've looked at were either too technical or too advanced for me. Finally, this book has given me the confidence to begin. The discussions are well written at a level that's good for a beginner like me. I read the entire book in about 3 hours and am now going back and starting my first project. The projects look doable and I know what I'm supposed to be learning in each one. Unlike most books, this one doesn't assume a progression from project to project so that you have to do them all--whether they interest you or not. I like being able to focus on whittling or chip work and being able to put off other types until I have a reason to do them.

Just as the title says this is a good introductory text for the person interested in starting woodcarving. There is not a lot of in-depth information about each type of carving, but there is enough to get you started in the right direction.

Types of carving included are line, relief, in the round, bird, and carved gifts, with a few patterns of each type. If you already know the basics of your type of woodcarving, a more detailed book would be a better investment. If you are curious about what tools you might need, some basics of types of wood, a few patterns for your first project, how to get your tools really sharp, basic techniques of making cuts, and how to finish your projects this book will serve you well. Also included in this book are sections on starting a woodcarving club and lists of publications, tool and wood suppliers, books, and sources of glass eyes and bird feet.

If you do decide to continue with woodcarving I strongly urge you to find a woodcarving club in your area. The help the members can give you is invaluable.

Ed Wood is famous as "the world's worst director." That title was never true, because his movies were always interesting even on a shoestring budget. In this book, the Great Man offers his [intentionally] hilarious advice for those aspiring to Hollywood. "Stay home," he insists. "You can be a devoted actor or actress there as well as any place."

All of his favorite fetishes are here in this book as he explores the [1960s version of] seedy Hollywood. He manages to mention "angora sweaters" nearly a dozen times throughout the book. Mr. Wood warns starlets that there isn't any film in that screen test camera. He explains how to seem like a bigshot while living a dive apartment-- have all your meetings downstairs at the complex's POOL. He brags that all of his movies got RELEASED [wow]-- unlike some other cheapie
directors. He even explains how to live for FREE in Hollywood [sleep in the park-- but don't forget blankets].

Chapter Ten: How to Make a Cheap Picture and Fail. "This is the easiest chapter of all to write,"-- Ed's implied admission that maybe he isn't the Hollywood BigWig he pretends to be.

Ed wrote his books as a stream of consciousness-- and it shows. But "Hollywood Rat Race" is like having a great three hour conversion with someone who's seen it all... and can still laugh about it!

It seems too good to be true-Ed Wood actually wrote a book on how to make it in Hollywood!It would be funny if it weren't so sad.Actually,Ed has some good advice on what to do once you get to tinseltown.He wrote the book in the 60's,but much of his advice still holds up.If you are an Ed Wood fan,you MUST read this book.

Hassler's book is an interesting read of one the Civil War's overlooked generals.

Hassler covers many areas of Hill's life, including: Hill's early years, West Point education, and contribution in several Civil War battles (specifically: Williamsburg, Seven Days' Campaign, Cedar Mountain, 2nd Manassas, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Wilderness, and Petersburg).

Particularly interesting were the descriptions of his tense relationships with superior officers (Jackson and Longstreet), his strong relationships with Lee and subordinate officers, and how he was well-loved by his soldiers.

While the book flowed well and the battle descriptions interesting, I would have liked to have seen more well-drawn maps so I could better understand troop movements. The lack of such maps is the only reason I give the book 4 stars.

Despite this, I highly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to know more about one of the Confederacy's overlooked generals. I also highly recommend James Robertson's new and more detailed book on A.P. Hill (I would rate his book better).

Robertson's work is a readable,even-handed treatment of this Confederate general who is overshadowed by his fellow Virginians, Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. I give Robertson high marks for not trying to inflate Hill's abilities while at the same time giving Hill deserved credit for his hard-nosed leadership of the Light Division. After Stonewall Jackson is felled at Chancellorsville, Lee promoted hill to Corps commander. What Henderson shows is that Hill possesed the verve and warfighting skills to be an outstanding division commander, but he did not possess the strategic vision required of a corps commander. While Hill and Lee had deep respect for one another, Hill clashed with both Longstreet and Jackson. Jackson arrested Hill for not following his orders during the Second Manassas Campaign. The sting of that arrest was an insult that would never heal.Robertson probes these clashes objectively and honestly. I reached the conclusion that the imperious Jackson and the proud Hill would never have gotten along in any age, in any setting. It certainly was not a case of right and wrong. Roberston explains that Hill's poor health is the likely result of a case of gonorrhea which he contracted during his West Point years. Roberston provides interesting details of the competition between George McClellan and Hill for the hand of Ellen Marcy. The picture that emerges of "Little Hill" is a courageous,noble warrior who was magnanimous to friend and foe alike. Hill does not rank as one of the top generals to come out of the Civil War, but he is clearly in the same class as Forrest or Hancock as a tenacious fighter.Hill's death only days before Appamatox has become a metaphor for the southern cause.Finally, one cannot avoid the poignance that the name of Hill was on the dying lips of both Jackson and Lee. A powerful testament indeed to a spirited fighter.

As a basic guide to fashion, this book is OK. The writing felt outdated and his writing ability sometimes grated and annoyed me. I would suggest to the author that he get help in writing any follow-ups to this book, as I think it would help to bring out his good knowledge of fashion.

What pissed me off was that the book description mentions "secrets of hollywood" a bunch of times. He refers in the book to Hollywood, but he never gives you real information about what he learned there. His few examples that try to do this were poorly written and quaint. (You've got to read them to believe how so..." Secondly, there is NOTHING in this book about "clicks and mortar." I'm convinced [that]...SOMEONE added that subtitle to this book's amazon page to help sell more books. This bugged me, as I wanted something REAL about this.

I felt ripped off, and although the book was a decent overview of men's style, I could have gotten that from another source with better illustrations and better writing.

But have found much to be offered in this book. Will state that the author was very interested in pressing the point that clothing indeed makes the man. Got that from the first chapter. Unfortunately, I also got it from chapters 2-6. Once past the hard sell drone of how important his topic and point was, the author has given me much of the information I originally sought. Wished that there was my pictures to demonstrate topics and one chapter refers to a chart that does not exist in the edition. these short commings aside, the book is authoritative and a help to me. So much so that I have delayed purchasing some new clothes till I finish the book so as I may be better prepared in my next shopping safari.

You Are What You Wear is a practical guide for you to take advantage of Hollywood's inside secret--its ability to transform a sometimes non-descript individual into one who is adored and celebrated by millions.<>This book also features 'calculated casual', explaining how you can maintain respect and authority when you dress down.<>William Thourlby's You Are What You Wear has become an instant success and a best seller because of its straightforward, plain-spoken exposition on the science of controlling visual perception.<>Drawing on his career experience as a model, actor, motion picture producer, clothier, and an award-winning internationally sydicated newspaper-columnist, he understands how the power of controlling how other people perceive you can propel you to greater success; of your choice, in your personal and professional life.<>It does not take a rocket scientist to accomplish what Mr. Thourlby advises. Income bracket is not what it is all about. What it is about is a simple, conservative, elegant appearance that conveys all the correct messages, that telegraphs that I am trustworthy, knowledgeable and responsible. That perception will give you the edge to convert how others see you as well as how you see yourself. When you control impressions you impress others as you take steps towards achieving all you wish to become.<>Here is a structured adoption of Mr. Thourlby's expertise regarding the science of the motion picture and television industries' wardrobe departments and their ability to control "visual perception" for your benefit.

I don't profess to be an expert on the American Revolution, however; I do specifically know enough about the northern campaign to realize that the Battle of Hubbardton did not occur in the State of New York as the index indicates ( " Hubbardton, NY: battle at, 139-40" ). It is the only revolutionary war battle fought within the State of Vermont. To me, such an obvious mistake puts the rest of the book's accuracy in question. Based on that alone, I won't buy it.
P.S. In order to post this opinion, I had to rate this book. In all honesty, I would normally not have put a rating since I haven't read it. Sorry...

I've gone through quite a few histories of the revolution, but this book is different in that it is written purely from the military aspect. The author doesn't critique all the battles but makes a representative selection from each type of battle.

Each engagement is accompanied by detailed drawings showing the placement of troops, cavalry, and cannon. He discusses the use of terrain for each battle. In the case of the "Battle Of The Cowpens" he reflects on the purpose of the American commander in putting a river at his back was to prevent his soldiers from having an easy means of running away from the battle.

All in all, a good informative read.

If you are in the market for a good book on the major battles and campaigns of the Revolutionary Army then this is the book for you. The author does an excellent job in describing each event without going to exacting detail and boring the reader. If you do not get pulled into the war after reading this book then you need to reread it slowly to better absorb the knowledge within its pages.

I agree with another reviewer: "This excellent piece of scholarship and tale of high deeds belongs on every enthusiasts bookshelf...."

Pick up a copy at Amazon.com!

To prospective buyers it may be helpful to know that this is a British book: the selection of names is heavily influenced by this. For example "lacewood" is given here in the literal sense, as quartersawn wood of a species with high rays, with a "lacy" ray fleck, originally Platanus spp. Later (although the book omits to mention this) the woods of the Proteaceae (both the Australian silky oaks and the South American roupala) were also so used. The American use of "lacewood" for the Australian silky oaks, however sawn, is somewhat of a misnomer.

If you ever wondered what a certain wood looked kie, here is the answer book. A nessacary item for every cabinetmaker.

I found this work particularly useful in designing a woodworking project as a novice who wanted to make something beautiful and lasting. Selecting hardwoods for my project was a major undertaking because of high expectations I have of the woods from which I built my dining table. I wanted beauty, durability, and contrast; at the same time needing compatibility among the five different woods I used. While the book has its critics, as a lay woodworker, it served my purposes admirably. The concise information featured for every wood was extremely useful. If the book sees a new edition, I hope a competent editor will preclude the many minor grammar errors, typos, and several inconsistencies I noted. The text fails to be consistent in always providing data critical to my own project: not all entries provide information about the stability of the wood in service.

My 2 star rating is based entirely on the typography used for the book. As you can see in the sample pages, a font was chosen which is sort of vertically stretched and horizontally smooshed. I find it rather uncomfortable to read. Your opinion may vary, but it makes me want to avoid spending much time reading the text.

What I have read, though, looks useful.

This book is similar to the book, SURVEY OF 300 A+ STUDENTS: A+ STUDENTS DESCRIBE THEIR ACADEMIC STRATEGIES, by Kenneth Green (from Harvard). However, I think that Kenneth Green's book is more comprehensive and gives the information in a chronological order, which makes it a smoother read.

Don't get me wrong, this is a good book about survival in the school sanctuary. Still I don't think it is such a miracle. "Techniques" explained are nothing more than stuff like Listening in Class, Participation etccc (the time managing methods are really cool though).
In conclusion, I recommend this book to those who really are hopeless or those who are wondering why the other reviwers rated it so high.

Bryson's playful use of the language is at times reminiscent of Wodehouse, and his ability to apply his talents to the ostensibly boring subject of the AT is commendable. The book hums and crackles with great wordplay throughout, but it all becomes a bit precious after the first few chapters, as if Bryson were (1) more interested in impressing us with his command of the languange, and less interested in describing the "AT experience," and (2) just a wee bit too pleased with his ability to wring smug, wry observations out of situations familiar to all hikers. And he is needlessly mean spirited in his assessment of many of the folks he encounters along the way, apparently simply because they are not as refined as he.

It's a fun book, and I recommend it ... but Bryson's hike along the AT is clearly just a conceit to allow him to exploit his sense of humor. (I bet that he could have written an equally-as-funny book about train travel in Canada.) The grand, majestic Appalachian Trail (parts of which I have had the pleasure of hiking, in many large chunks, over the years) unfortunately plays second banana to Bryson's self-absorbed wit.

I picked up "A Walk In The Woods" simply because I'd heard it was funny and I was looking for a light summer read. I was not disappointed. The book takes the reader on a journey with author Bill Bryson and several hilarious companions along over 800 miles of the Appalachian Trail (AT). I was quickly drawn into the book and felt almost an immediate kinship with the author. His adventures are not dangerous or exciting by any standard but his descriptions of them are witty and thoughtful. The book is very funny on regular occassions but at times can be quite serious for long passages.

Bryson's hiking tales are interspersed with frequent segments about the history about the AT, environmental concerns and forestry management, all of which were quite informative. Having never hiked further than a few miles, I found myself learning a great deal. However, "A Walk In the Woods" should not be considered a "How To" book by any means. If anything, Bryson's adventures provide perfect examples of how not to prepare for the trail. Just the same, you may well find that this book motivates you to give hiking a try.

I must also offer my hearty endorsement of any passage in the book which includes Bryson's regular hiking companion, Steven Katz. Katz's vulnerable cynicism and fearless determination in the face of personal ineptitude provide most of the book's funniest moments. I'll miss Bryson but I'll really miss Katz. My summer was more fun because they were part of it.

In the words of Bill Bryson he "happened upon a path that vanished into a wood on the edge of town." So begins a complex love/hate relationship with the Appalachian Trail that is equal parts hilarious travelogue and cautionary tale. Tightly written and wonderfully descriptive, A Walk in the Woods is the story of Bill and his sidekick Stephan Katz. These two are not your typical outdoorsman but two relatively sedentary middle-aged men who undertake one of the most challenging hikes on the continent armed with little more than a backpack full of Little Debbie cakes (soon abandoned)and the vague notion of hiking the two-thousand odd miles of the trail in one season.

It's not spoiling the story to tell you they don't even come close to meeting that goal, but the story is so rich and so fun it helps demonstrate that the joy is really in the journey, not the destination.

I loved this book for its honest and direct tone and the way Bryson kept me laughing from page one. A great read for a rainy winter afternoon.