D-A Books

Craig Seymour is a wonderful writer. His latest book "All I Could Bare" had the can't-put-down quality of a great novel.

I'd read and loved his biography of the late singer Luther Vandross and I was anxiously awaiting the release of his latest book "All I Could Bare".

It did not disappoint. It gave me great insight not only into Craig's life as a stripper but also his personal relationship with his boyfriend.

It's official. I now have a HUGE crush on Craig Seymour!!!

This was fun reading and it was interesting to read about the life of a stripper. One always wonders what kind of person does it. He seems sort of a different type from others who go into it and certainly had different reasons but there was enough explaining of other characters so it covered things pretty well. I'm always curious. I wasn't really aware that bars allowed that kind of thing but now I remember going to one in Houston and I was so embarrassed to touch the guy. I didn't want him to think I was just exploiting his body. It sounds like these kind of places don't exist anymore. Would I ever have the nerve to go to one? I don't think so. What else can I say? Good book. Always interested in knowing the experiences and life of gay people. Craig sounds pretty level headed. Oh yes, but one thing. I don't understand how Seth could have put up with that. It's very close to having an open relationship. So when Craig wanted to experience other men sexually Seth took it so hard and it ruined their relationship. That part was quite different from normal relationships.

Back in the early 1990s, a handsome, young, and affable African American graduate student and teacher found himself nervously attending his first gay strip club to see a live performance by his favorite porn star. Here, customers were allowed to freely fondle the naked dancers. Openly gay but a gay-sex virgin, nervous and slightly apprehensive, Craig Seymour gets his good friend Seth to accompany him.

Excitement soon replaces apprehension and Seymour finds himself falling in love with the clubs as well as his good friend Seth, to whom he ultimately surrenders his virginity. They become live-in lovers.

But as the strip clubs are becoming an ever growing obsession, our hero is able to appease both his lover and his jones by making strip clubs the topic of his master's thesis, with the cautious approval of his school advisor.

Now a club regular, Seymour interviews and gets to know a cast of characters as colorful and crudely affectionate as anything in a Bob Fosse musical.

His first interview subject is dancer Jake the Guess Model, a straight `gay-for-pay' former construction worker who tells his customers he is bi `because [they] like to think there's a chance.'

And then there is Dave, a customer just out of a twenty-one-year monogamous heterosexual marriage and now having the time of his life hanging at the clubs and fondling beautiful young male dancers dangling their eye-level rock hard jewels for his perusal approval.

Dave's favorite dancer is Matt who sports leather chaps publicizing everything usually known as `privates.'

Sassy drag queens, dirty old men, sugar daddies, and dis-effected club owners abound throughout this breezy, affectionate tome.

Author Seymour also learns of and writes about D.C.'s rich gay history, dating back to the 1800s. Then, knowledge of fifty-year-old poet Walt Whitman's love affair with Irish immigrant Peter Doyle, thirty years his junior, was as casual as the then published stories of sexual liaisons between black and white men in Lafayette Square "under the shadows of the White House."

The story of how the gay strip club scene began in the 1960s, where dancers could legally bare all, is beautifully told. The owner of a local bar on O Street, Chesapeake House, offers a pair of sailors $50 each to strip down and dance for his patrons. Soon the club is drawing huge crowds that include the likes of Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, and Rock Hudson. Other clubs (as well as bath houses) soon open and prosper on O Street, the city's gay red light district.

Although Mr. Seymour's depth and fascinating chronicle of how this charmingly tawdry industry evolves is both interesting and informative, it is his personal transition from thesis writer to booty dancer that makes his memoir a thoroughly entertaining read.

Likable and self-effacing, the author writes thoughtfully, ironically, and humorously about his second job:

"...get on stage, disrobe quickly, try to get a hard-on, and then walk out among the customers, who for a tip--generally a buck--got to stroke, fondle, poke, and prod [your] bod. It was more like sex than dancing, and it had become my job."

He also writes with great care and much soul-searching about maintaining his monogamous relationship with Seth while almost every night allowing strangers and regulars to feel him up.

Seymour's partner is more trusting than most, and it is admirable that the author repays that trust with honesty and a form of fidelity.

However, after six years of being with the only man he's known sexually, the author approaches his partner with a proposition that dooms the romance, if not the friendship.

With the cocaine bust of Mayor Marion Barry, a champion of D.C.'s liberal sexual exhibition laws, restrictions are shortly thereafter imposed on the strip clubs. Customers are no longer allowed to fondle dancers, and dancers aren't allowed to fondle themselves. This, of course, cuts into everyone's income, and author Seymour, now single and sparked on by the success of his thesis, embarks upon a career as an entertainment journalist, which eventually takes him to New York. Thanks to his unique literary gift and ability to ask his celebrity interviewee's frank and probing questions, he quickly ascends the ranks.

His ability to get such stars as Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, and Mariah Carey to open up and discuss such things as masturbation, size-queendom, secret babies, cheating boyfriends, and mental depression are shocking, revealing, and often quite poignant. His discussion with TLC's Lisa Lopez regarding her romance with Tupac, his death, her premonition of her own death, is particularly moving. Craig Seymour's keen observations of human behavior, particular with regards to his celebrity subjects, are empathetic and caring, always intelligent, never fawning.

Eventually, Mr. Seymour's busy schedule--writing for The Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, Vibe, the Buffalo News, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, to name a few--become all-consuming, making it nearly impossible for him to have a personal life.

He re-thinks academia, and eventually returns to the University of Maryland to finish his Ph.D. While working as a professor at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, he hears that the old strip clubs on O Street will be torn down. He returns for a bittersweet farewell that brings him full circle. The year is 2006.

Craig Seymour's warm, witty, and honestly rendered self-examination of his seemingly unlikely but totally plausible life as grad student turned gay stripper, turned journalist, turned college professor, is quite the odyssey, and quite a lesson for us all. There is so much life out there for all of us to enjoy. This story reminds me of the famous quote from Auntie Mame: "Life's a banquet but most poor sons-of-bitches starve to death!"

Author Craig Seymour definitely heard the dinner bell.Looker: A Novel

This was a very well written and entertaining book. This was the type of book I couldn't put down once I started to read it.

I feel that Craig is very brave writing this book seeing he teaches at the college level. I get so tired of people writing stories after they retire and have nothing to lose. It is great to see him write this type of autobiography.

I also learned several things I didn't know before so this book was also educational in a way. I never knew about the strip clubs being cracked down on the patrons touching the dancers at the end. I am ashamed to admit this, but I had no idea about Frank Kameny until I read the book and also learned a couple other things about gay history when he mentioned his research.

This is a very good book to read and you might even learn a few more things about gay history like I did:)

Craig Seymour writes with the abandon and grace of a wordsmith with years of experience instead of a young writer for whom this is only his second book. Granted he has practice gained from academic studies and from writing for the media as a critic and interviewer of pop stars and those attributes give his book a uniquely credible flavor. But whatever the combination of elements upon which he draws, Seymour simply writes very well, capturing the interest of the read from page one to the last without a moment for pause.

The very amiable Seymour shares his personal life, first as a somewhat sexually identity confused child from an African American family in Washington, DC to his years as a university student when he gradually confronts his early questions of who he is by having the courage to try the challenging aspects that have always been his approach/avoidance conflict under the guise of an academic thesis: he will investigate the culture of gay strippers by first observing and then participating. From Seymour's fluid writing style the reader flows along with him, learning the idiosyncrasies and very humanistic situations he confronts in the world of the physically relaxed stripper bars of Washington, DC.

What makes Craig Seymour's memoir many steps above other attempts to tell-all about the netherworld of strip clubs is his manner of sharing the real responses of both the strippers and the clients who pay for the services. Yes, he does touch on some strange tales of experiences related by other strippers and personally witnessed on his own, but the overall feeling is the discovery of the reasons and motivations on both sides of the dance bar. He also shares his first hand (and rejected) introduction into the other aspects of the porn industry and escort concept and one reason these episodes are touching is Seymour's valued sharing of his investigations with his significant supportive partner Seth, an honesty that pervades all of his reporting.

What this book offers is entertainment and a very well documented evaluation of the years when the most daring strip bars in the country were in the capital city of the nation! Seymour ends his book with his experiences as a celebrity interviewer, and these last chapters seem at first to be far less well written, less interesting that the major portion of the book - until Seymour ties his life experiences together in the last chapter, opening windows of self discovery and the resultant quiet advice that leaves the reader feeling endeared to the writer. This is an important book, not just a passing fance type exposé but instead a beautifully wrought slice of American life we should all share. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, December 08

Daughter loves this book. We read it at least everyday and it was in perfect condition when received.

This book is a great way to introduce children to the subject of opposites. Fred and Ted like to play different musical instruments. They like different foods. They drive different colored cars. They are even different sizes.

The problem ensues when, after a day of skiing, Fred and Ted rent rooms at a hotel and discover that their beds are unsuitable. Fred and Ted meet to discuss a solution to their situation. After they fail to arrive at reasonable solution, a wily bird resolves their problem. Fred and Ted go back to the hotel to enjoy a peaceful sleep.

I like the simplicity of the story. As a fun alternative, you might consider asking your child to try to find a solution to Fred and Ted's problem before reading the ending.

Like many of the other reviewers, this was a favorite story of mine as a child back in the 70's. I am THRILLED that it is still in print and, (judging from the reviews here on Amazon), has a strong "following." The sweetness of the story is in its simplicity. I have already bought one copy as a gift, and I intend to spread the word of 'Big Dog, Little Dog' as gifts in the future as well.

It is a great book for children. My daughter is now 21 years old and is pregnant with our first grandchild. We used to read this book to her as a child. Along the way I misplaced the book, and she wanted another copy to read to her child. Her dad nicknamed her "Fred" after one of the characters in this book.

My son received this book on his third birthday - in 1977. My three year old grandson recently discovered the tattered and torn copy that I had saved. He immediately fell in love with it and proudly annouces that it is "Daddy's favorite book." I'm not sure which "boy" will be more excited when the new copy arrives but in the meantime it has brought back a flood of memories for this Grandma. What a joy!

Bill Lampton expresses great ideas for one of the most important skills in business---communication. This book is a must-read for serious professionals who want to communicate with others well. Dr. Lampton lays out a lot of real-world practical ideas that you can use immediately. I highly recommend this book! Terry Brock

Good communication is the key to success in ANY profession. Dr. Bill Lampton has written a book that will help anyone be a better leader by increasing their communication skills. Good communicators learn from others and can get their ideas across to those working with them. Bill's style is extremely easy to read and he covers a variety of topics that everyone can use. His stories will charm and encourage you. As a physician and a medical journalist for 20 years, I would encourage every doctor to read this book to better serve their patients...and every patient to read to better get what they need. This is a superlative book that you'll be glad you picked up.

As Dr. Bill Lampton so vividly points out in "The Complete Communicator", we are always communicating - whether we're aware of it or not. If you're in sales, you would be well advised to think about the implication of this on your business.

Customers and prospects are continuously evaluating your non-verbal behaviors, appearance, phone messages, presentation, listening skills and written communication. Do you know what messages you're sending? Are you sure? Making assumptions gets you into trouble too.

"The Complete Communicator" dispenses practical advice on how to increase your communication's effectiveness and how to take it to the next level. If you want to increase your sales, pay close attention to Dr. Lampton's useful tips, solid guidelines and insightful commentary on being a better communicator, speaker and writer.

And the biggest bonus - this book is filled with real-world examples and incredibly readable. "The Complete Communicator" is definitely a worthwhile investment for your sales library!

Jill Konrath
President & Sales Consultant
www.SellingtoBigCompanies.com

The Complete Communicator is everything a book on communication should be. Bill Lampton's easy to follow recommendations are as useful as they are devoid of superfluous fluff. The good Doctor cuts to the chase and informs readers how to better their communication in virtually every aspect of life. Forget the politicians. Lampton is The Great Communicator, and thanks to his book you can be one too.

Jim Wagoner
Editor/Anchor
Metro News/Sacramento Bureau

The Complete Communicator is simply the best, most complete communications book it has been my pleasure to read. Simple, direct, concise and compelling in its stories . . . this book embodies its own messages in wonderfully effective ways.

Poor communications is the problem that holds humanity back from making progress more than any other. Think of it as being like a stalled engine that would otherwise pull your car forward at whatever rapid pace you like. Overcome that stall, and progress will be yours.

Because of the importance of improving communications, I have made it a point to read every book about communications that I can find. Most of these books provide an in-depth look at one aspect of communications, while ignoring all of the others. Many times, communications books are not as simple and direct as they could be. Other times, they lack compelling stories.

I can think of few elements of effective communications that are not covered by Dr. Lampton's superb book, with Neuro-Linguistic Programming being the main exception. As a result, a person can read and employ the lessons of The Complete Communicator and have the benefits of reading many dozens of other books. For that reason, I think The Complete Communicator is the best communications book I have read.

Here are the subjects covered:

Person to Person (including self-talk, making connections, getting information, finding prospects for a business, and deepening relationships)

Nonverbal Communication (gestures, appearances, symbolism, and credibility)

Writing (the writing process, things to emphasize and avoid, getting published and improving your writing)

Letter Writing (following up on meetings, complaints, answering complaints, and avoiding errors)

Giving Speeches (the right mental attitude, preparation, expressing yourself naturally, touching the audience and making the right impression)

Listening (what those who are speaking would like you to do, questions to ask, appropriate responses, and ways to improve)

Telephone (good habits, etiquette, succeeding through voice mail, and keeping notes on messages)

Computers (e-mail, Web sites, and Internet connections)

Media (keep it simple and effective, getting booked on broadcasts, handling crises, and letters to the editor)

Many people who try to write such an overview book fail to either properly credit their sources, don't have enough examples or make the book too long. Dr. Lampton avoids all of those snares.

To me, the best writers tell stories that grab me emotionally. Dr. Lampton did that very well with stories from his own experiences. I especially liked one about a telephone message that he read from his Ph.D. advisor.

What more can I say to convince you to read this book? Please, contact me by e-mail with any questions. Click on my name at the beginning of this review to find my e-mail address.

This book is a very readable, yet detailed and comprehensive description of a little-known, pivotal campaign in the Civil War. It is accurate, fast-moving and combines personal details, battlefield experiences and the engagement overview with political ramifications. It should be on the shelf of even the casual reader of Civil War history.

This is a great book, it is a fast read. If you love civil war history you must read this book. This is a little written about battle.

...to the high drama that unfolded on the ground I have traversed for the past half-century, all the while only peripherally aware of the desperate struggle that occurred at Monocacy. Marc Leepson has created a vivid expose of a little-known battle that had far-reaching ramifications for this entire country. I am no expert in the Civil War and yet I thoroughly enjoyed the captivating portraits of the main personalities and the solid research and voluminous details that helped me understand how pivotal this battle truly was. Never again will I cross the Monocacy River on that humpback bridge, cross the Potomac on the ferry named the Jubal Early, pass by at 60 mph on I-270, or even walk the streets of DC without being keenly aware of the brave souls who, in the very same spot over a century ago, experienced the most critical moments of their lives and shaped the country I live in today. The wrap-up at the end, describing what happened to the key characters, was an interesting and unusual touch. I highly recommend this well-researched book!

Marc has done a superb job of using very personal first hand accounts and weaving them into a detailed close up picture of a Confederate action aimed at Washington, D.C. The dedication of the soldiers, and their miseries, bring home the realities of War. That they almost succeeded is to their everlasting credit.

The battle at Monocacy Junction in July, 1864 is not as well known as other engagements during the Civil War. But it may well have been as important, at least, as some better known battles. "Desperate Engagement" describes the context for the battle, its actual occurrence, and then the aftermath and a series of reflections.

In short, Jubal Early and the 2nd Corps of the Army of Northern Virginia were sent to the Shenandoah, to clear it of Northern troops, as Generals Sigel, Hunter, and Crook had been attacking the area. And, if the opportunity arose, to advance on Washington, D. C. itself, to (perhaps) free Confederate prisoners, to force General U. S. Grant to divert soldiers from his siege in Virginia to relieve pressure on the Capitol, maybe to even occupy parts of the city.

This book outlines why Early was given this assignment and how he carried it out. Incompetent generalship by Generals Sigel and Hunter allowed Early to cross the Potomac and head toward Washington in summer, 1864. The threat was real, but the Unions forces in Washington, D. C. were few in number and poor in quality. Many were recovering from wounds suffered on the battlefields of the East; others were brand new troops without any real training; others were simply subprime in one way or another. The center of government was surrounded by powerful forts--but there weren't the troops to make these forts formidable obstacles to the Confederates.

General Lew Wallace had pretty much a desk job; he had been shelved as a battlefield commander after Shiloh (and one could argue that his poor response was as much due to Grant's bad staff work as to Wallace's own ineptitude on that occasion). This was long before he penned "Ben-Hur"! Seeing the danger to Washington, D. C., he pulled together a scratch force--nowhere large enough to defeat Early's oncoming troops, but, he hoped, enough to slow the Confederate forces down until Union regulars arrived from Virginia. Indeed, Grant was forwarding the 6th Corps and elements from yet another Corps to relieve the Capitol. The first division to arrive from Virginia, Ricketts' Division of the 6th Corps, was called to Monocacy Junction by Wallace.

There, they fought a battle against the Confederate forces, badly outnumbered, until a flanking attack by the southern troops made his position untenable. Wallace's battered forces withdrew, leaving the road open to Washington, DC. However, by some accounts, it took so much time to defeat Wallace's troops that the Union forces of the 6th Corps arrived before Early could take advantage of the defensive weaknesses of the Capitol.

There follows an engaging discussion of the differing perspectives by actors and historians about the battle at Monocacy Junction. All in all, a nice book, crisply written, on a battle worth knowing something about.

This has helped me 100% in my interaction with my pre-teen. It is helping me with the foundation of our relationship as he gets older!

This was a great book. I would recommend it to everyone who has children, especially teens.

In keeping with the invaluable information in his marriage book, the information about how to love someone according to their love langauge has proved to be a great help with my son. He has struggled for years since his dad had an affair and walked out. I wasn't listening to how my son was trying to tell me he needed to be loved. I wish that I had known about this book 3 years ago...it would've made such a difference in how he has dealt with things since the divorce.

This is such a positive book. If you are struggling with your teen you should learn their language. This book is very rewarding to parents and teens. Love it !!!!

I am a probation officer that teaches a parenting class for parents of strong-willed or out-of-control teenagers. I personally believe in this book so much that I purchase them, out-of-pocket, to give to parents who have perfect attendance in my class. This book has helped them not only with their teenagers, but also with all their relationships.

A great book by a great guy. Dick was WAY ahead of his time and if he was listened to, 9/11 would not have found us unprepared and playing catch up. Besides my head still hurts!!!

Great novel as all were from the Marcinko / Weisman team. Thouroughly enjoyed this book as well as all ithers written by Marcinko. It is definetly a must read for all Rogur Warrior fans...

Dick Marcinko is a rare individual, who is not only strong in his combat delivery, but smart and has quite the work ethic. are and thank God he is a standup warrior.

This particular book is a little too close to similar to reality today (to what he has known for a very long time) for comfort. I pray that God continues to use him and others like him in the protection of our Armed Forces and Americans in general. If I had a son, I would want him to serve and learn from the best, Dick Marcinko. (Although, I believe that the only way a person of Mr. Marcinko's magnitude, must have a strange personal life.)

This is great fun, and I find the story quite interesting. Not just in battle, but the complex background and history is interesting as well. Proving things are not always what they seem.

This was the third...and last Rogue Warrior book for me. After being blown away by the first one, I eagerly awaited Red Cell. After being somewhat disappointed by Red Cell, I still awaited the third book, "Green Team." I did find Green Team readable and Im a big fan of the SEALs. But it was nothing that great either. It certainly did not pack the drama of the first book. Its basically more of the original book...more bashing the regular Navy, more bashing non JSOC SEALs who couldnt make the cut of SEAL Team Six or Red Cell back in the eighties, more bashing of civilian politicians who Marcinko perceives as "weenies" or even as traitors. I dont disagree with Marcinko's assessments of these individuals, but after a while his moaning and complaining gets old. Thats why I decided to call it quits after Green Team.

If I want to listen to some bitter old man complain about the sorry state of the world, I will go listen to my dad or my grandpa complain. Marcinko comes across like a whiner in Green Team. I havent read a Marcinko book since.

Marcinko's original book is a mini-education and a great book. The rest of his books are redundant, moaning and groaning.

One thing that you can say about one of Marcinko's books is that they are not at all boring. He is able to call upon his SEAL training and experience to put together an interesting story.Some of his dealings in this book are close to what you read in the newspapers today. His knowledge of weapons and their use also add to his ability to spin an action packed story. His action team is also made up of some interesting characters. You would also have to commend his portrayal of villains. As can be said many times over the action in this book is nonstop. Buy this book and read it. It certainly is not boring.

The Happiness Solution is a compilation of two or three paged anecdotal stories and life lessons. It's a wonderful book to sit down and read straight through, but is also a great source of quick inspiration when you just flip open the book to any given page. The book covers subjects from giving and gratitude to courage, faith, and optimism.

Well-timed for our slumping economy and the financial pressures facing many people today, The Happiness Solution serves as a reminder that we are responsible for creating our own sense of well-being and joy, despite what might be happening around us. Five Stars.

This book draws from simple everyday stories and the ancient and modern teachings of various cultures. Dr. Gettis' joy for life and for writing infuses each reading with a feeling of exuberance and enchantment.

Dr. Gettis, a full-time psychotherapist offers his readers golden nuggets in each of these entertaining, informative stories. The author's wit grabs you when he starts the first story, "Singing in the Rain," like this: "It was a dark and stormy night. Not really. I always joked that I would start a book with that sentence, so I did."
In "Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place," we meet Aron Ralston, an engineer, who went mountain climbing by himself in Utah, only to end up pinned between a boulder and a canyon wall. On his sixth day of entrapment, he evaluated his situation, and with the use of a dull knife, somehow found the courage to cut his own arm off to survive. He lived to tell the tale.
In "Do the Right Thing," the Dalai Lama suggests asking yourself the question, "Will it bring me happiness?" If you are pondering whether to have the affair, eat the cheesecake, go to the party, gamble, take the drug, exercise, watch television, or volunteer, asking yourself that question may help you to pause, reflect, and decide upon actions that help you to create happiness.
Gettis tells us, in "What, Me Worry?" how the noted author Carlos Castenada studied for years with a Yacqui Indian sorcerer who was the antithesis of a worrier. The sorcerer taught Carlos that as life passes by quickly, there is no time for worries and regrets, only time for decisions. He told Carlos to make a warrior's decision (decisive, with no waffling back and forth). "For happiness, be a warrior, not a worrier."
With these stories, parables, and quotes from extraordinary people, we are given new insights into the awesome capabilites of the human mind and spirit. This is a book to keep on your nightstand. Have it handy for inspiration in the morning, or for positive thoughts at the end of the day. For in today's troubled world, we need all the help we can get. A lovely book from a masterful storyteller. Highly recommended!

...so I could give this book (4) four thumbs up!

"At last, happiness' rubber meets the road! The Happiness Solution is a wonderful blend of the teachings of The Law of Attraction, Far East philosophy and Positive Psychology. I highly recommend this book to all and will be rereading it soon." - Donald A. Wilhelm, Author of This Time's a Charm; Lessons of a Four-Time Cancer Survivor

This book is great. It offers the right kind of advice. I enjoyed the book. It was precise to the point. I think everyone should read this book. I hope there is a sequel. I enjoyed the book. I hope everyone reads this book. They will find the right advice.

If this book strikes a chord with you -- it will help you orchestrate your life --- FINALLY!!!

Not only does "Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D." break down recognizing the symptoms of AD/HD using real-life relationship scenarios, it takes the next step by giving you a "road map" on what to do next.

Some people will tell you that AD/HD doesn't exist, especially in adults. But this reader thinks that belief is perpetuated because of the "stigma perceptions" that make it so hard to talk about AD/HD and accept its "differences" in brain function. Science has given more insight into the WHYs of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, inattention, mood swings and seemingly irresponsible people -- Gina has taken that information and has produced a step-by-step guide in a language we can all understand so you can grab the reins of your life despite these "differences". So if you want to do something about the struggles that -- in the past -- were dismissed as being lazy or difficult read Gina's book. It will help you in understanding WHAT has been so difficult to put into words regarding AD/HD and her writing does it with a sense of humor, so desperately needed. We are ending the times of sticking our heads in the sand -- and beginning the time of relationship-building and true explanations based on SCIENCE.

If this book strikes a chord with you, there will be many "AH HA" moments!!!

Gina Pera writes from her heart as well as her extensive knowledge of Adult ADD. Filled with compassion, humor, and insight, her book helps smooth out the day-to-day lives of couples grappling with this frustrating and often devastating disorder. It has preserved my marriage and my sanity! Thank you, Gina, for your outstanding labor of love.

Are you and your partner fighting all the time? Does it seem like it's always one thing or another? Things get close to settling down, but it never happens? Have you given up your hobbies, your friends? Starting to walk on eggshells? If you just KNOW something is amiss, READ THIS BOOK!! There's so much to say about this book. I could write volumes. It educates you, validates your thoughts and feelings, and helps you realize "It's not your fault". The author describes the stages you go through when you are being overpowered by your partner's symptomatic ADHD behaviors that leave you feeling hurt, lonely and resentful. The great thing about this book is that it takes you beyond pinpointing the issue and takes you to a place of healing and peace. Through Ms. Pera's thoughtful guidance, you are able to take back control of your life and have the strength, drive and courage to rebuild yourself, rediscover your passion and commitment for your partner, and take a lead role in shaping the course of your relationship in the future. My partner and I are not there yet, but with the new insight this book has given me, I know it's just a matter of time. The quality of the book itself should also be noted. It is well designed and printed on high quality paper. The author has included many subheadings, making it easy to access content fast. There are plenty of narratives, advice and information in the numerous boxes and sidebars. It is nicely organized and easy to read.

Plenty has been written about ADHD in children and in adults. All the focus has been on the person with the disorder. What hasn't been effectively addressed is how it affects loved ones of people with ADHD. Nor has there been much hope or help for non-ADHD partners until now.

Reading this book was like a look back into my former marriage. My ex-husband has had ADHD his entire life. During our 12 years together, we - and our children - suffered so many of the situations Ms. Pera describes in her book.

The first part of the book sets up what it's like to ride the ADHD Roller Coaster. Just reading the stories from the support group members caused my adrenaline to surge, like it used to regularly. Believe me, the partners of folks with this brain disorder tell their stories well. The hyper-vigilance, walking on eggshells, watching every penny - it's such a hard way to live.

The surveys the author used are also very revealing. You get a pretty good picture of the challenges faced by partners of folks with ADHD and how the disorder colors every facet of life - eating, sleeping, parenting, sex, finances - and the rest of the world can't understand. You feel positively bereft and, at best, nobody else understands. At worst - and this is standard operating procedure - any problems are entirely your fault.

In case you think I'm dissing folks with this disorder, you need to know how attractive, intelligent, creative, funny and talented they are. However, one does get sucked in by their hyper-focus on the prospective partner and the budding relationship. Then suddenly after the intended is "caught," that "knight-in-shining-armor" disappears and left in his (or her) place is somebody who has no concept of how to relate anymore because they've now moved on to the next person or project that catches their attention and they hyper-focus on that to the exclusion of everything else in their lives.

I spent years in therapy, both with and without the ex, and read many books on the subject to no avail. The problem was that none of the therapists or books took the next step into the challenges faced by partners and to offer effective coping strategies. Solutions were trite and useless. Communication tips for couples where one partner can't focus long enough to say good morning are no help whatsoever.

This book, "Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D?" frames the problems differently than any other I've read and gives solid, multi-pronged, science-based solutions. It explains, in layman's terms, how neurotransmitters in the brain work and how medication can make a huge difference by physically getting those messages across those synapses. As the author explains, medication can be to the ADHD brain what eyeglasses are to the myopic eye. There's no more shame in appropriately using medication than the appropriate use of eyeglasses.

There is no one size fits all solution and Ms. Pera makes an in-depth exploration of other therapies that support and supplement medication for those who find that to be a good option.

The best part of the book, however, is the advice and resources for finding a therapist who truly understands the disorder and its effects on a relationship. We spent thousands of dollars on therapists who seemed to know less about the disorder than we did. There was no guidance for people in choosing somebody to help back then.

I particularly appreciate the coping and self-care strategies offered. If these had been available to me ten years ago, I might be in better health today.

Though there's no way I could go back to my ex - too much hurtful water under that bridge - I wonder what could have been if we'd had a resource like this book at the beginning.

If you have the slightest inkling your significant other may have ADHD/ADD, and are wondering what to do for them and for yourself, this is the book for you. The information is very accessible. The author takes a complicated topic, and through humor, facts and examples, gives the reader options in how to better navigate their situation. There are also great references for further reading.

Have you ever tried to be someone you're not in order to fit in or impress people? Or been too impatient to wait for God's timing?

Lucy struggles with both in the entertaining romantic comedy, Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas, by Sandra D. Bricker.

If you want to curl up in front of a fire on a snowy or rainy afternoon with a fun read, choose this book. I enjoyed Sandra's witty writing, and not only laughed with Lucy at her mishaps, I was touched by her heart's experiences. I couldn't help but cheer her on.

If you are ready for a feel good book, then this is the one. Love Find You in Snowball, Arkansas keeps you entertained and chuckling at the main character, Lucy, who is trying to be anyone but herself to get the man she thinks is the "one". She forgets to look right in front of her and all along the right man for her has been in front of her; supporting and being her best friend since they were both children.
True to my expectations Sandie has written another book I wanted to keep on reading and was not able to put down; I finished this in a couple of days. Sandie has a way with her words of enabling the reader to feel as if you are right there with the characters. I would find myself reading as fast as possible to learn of the next comical moment Lucy would get herself into. This is a funny book that makes you believe in love all over again. What a great read and I cannot wait for the next book from Sandie.

Okay, so she's not outdoorsy. She hasn't owned a pair of tennis shoes since she was twelve. Heights make her ill, and she's allergic to . . . everything. That's no reason for Lucy Binoche to miss out on snagging her man, right? Because when the hunky Justin says he's going on their church's singles' retreat to Snowball, Arkansas, Lucy isn't about to let one of the other girls hook him along with their fish. He's hers--he just doesn't know it yet. But with the help of her best friend Matt, she'll have reeled him in in no time.

Matt knows Lucy's plan is a bad one from the get-go. Pretending to be someone she's not just to get Justin's interest? Stupid--especially since she's so great to begin with. Quirky, yes. Unsuited to the outdoors, obviously. But needing to change? No way. If he could just find a girl with her qualities who didn't think of him as a brother, he'd be set.
As the group heads off to the retreat in Snowball, hilarity and misadventure dogs their steps, sure to keep the reader in laughter and the pages turning. I absolutely adored Lucy, fell in love with Matt, wanted to claim all the members of the singles' group as my new best friends, and am ready to plan a vacation in Snowball.

I couldn't put this book down. Light and fun, with gems of truth sprinkled throughout, this is a quick read and a great story. I enjoyed every paragraph and was thrilled to see the recipes they used at the retreat at the ends of the chapters.

Filled with humor and romance as sweet and comfy as a s'more, Snowball, Arkansas is a good read waiting to happen. You're not going to want to miss this launching title from Summerside's Love Finds You line. Fabulous!

Love Finds You in Snowball Arkansas by Sandra Bricker is the laugh-out-loud funny story of un-athletic Lucy Binoche's attempt to capture the attention of the outdoorsy new guy in her church's singles group. When she learns Justin Gerard signed up for the group's weeklong camping trip to Snowball, Lucy adds her name to the list. Sporting new athletic wear and a can-do attitude, she embarks on an adventure, sure she can endure anything to attract Justin's attention.

With the support and assistance of longtime friend, Matt, Lucy arrives in Snowball determined to become the gal of Justin's dreams. Sure he's the man God has for her, she puts her all into each activity. But she's in for surprises--and the reader is in for some serious laughs as Lucy learns that being loved for who she is rather than the person she's pretending to be is far more satisfying--and a whole lot safer.

Bricker does a wonderful job of weaving fun into her romance. I was pulled into the story by her great writing and delighted by each new development. Each chapter is a treat. The characters are fun. I grew to care about Lucy even as I laughed at the situations in which she found herself. Two characters in particular are very engaging and are used by God to teach Lucy valuable lessons in love and acceptance.

I thoroughly enjoyed Love Finds You in Snowball Arkansas and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone wanting a fun, well-written, engaging inspirational romance.

I LOVED this book by Sandra D. Brickner. The humor made me laugh-out-loud, while the depth of Lucy's spiritual journey made me analyze being true to God's plan for my life. Sandie has a real gift for weaving humor with spiritual growth, and writes a very strong story. Anyone questioning God's purpose in their life, and wondering if they might try to "help" Him with His job will benefit from reading it. I was reading late at night and laughing about certain scenes until my daughter asked what was so funny. I read a few scenes to her and had her laughing, too. I'm surprised we didn't wake up the whole house. It was a great moment. We really laughed over the horse scene. You just have to read it. I loved the recipes included in the book, could visualize being in the story with the characters, and, because I'm originally from that area, I LOVED the descriptions and setting. I miss the Ozarks so much! Thanks, Sandie, for a fantastic, fun read.

I just purchased the updated 2006 edition from B&N. Although this book is very useful and informative, I must say I have a difficult time understanding all the medical terminology. Eventhough they attempt to give definitions of all the medical terminology, the definition itself is too complicated. I feel like I need to go to medical school to understand this book completely.

Or breastfeeding already? Get this. And get it before you need it, because it may take a while to be delivered. Breastfeeding women are frequently told by health care providers that they must wean to take a particular medication; this is only very rarely true. But you won't be able to know without good information, and this book has the definitive answers.

Also useful during pregnancy. A lot of advice to pregnant women is basically based on the suffer-through-it principle. This book will help you participate in making a safe, informed decision about whether a particular medication is safe enough for you to take.

VERY HELPFUL AND MUST HAVE FOR MOTHERS WHO ARE BREASTFEEDING AND EVEN PREGNANT

This is a wonderful resource to have on hand throughout the "baby making" process. Not only does it include in depth information regarding medications while you are nursing but it lists each drugs pregnancy risk category and possible side effects to adults and children. I am ordering the new version since my 2000 copy is a little out of date. I refer to it all the time.

Nice resource although Drugs in Lactation and Pregnancy is just as thorough...
The benefit of this book over the previously mentioned is it is soft cover, smaller and more portable, not as heavy to carry.