Enterprise Books

This book details the heros and oddballs of American economic history and their various innovations and inventions that have shaped the development of America's economy over the history of our nation. From the man who invented the "Graham Cracker" to the founder of the Bank of Italy(Bank of America) the book illustrates what, and who, made this country great.
This is one of the greatest books I have ever read, bar none. The only down-side is that when you finish it you'll feel depressed because it's over. But that's OK, you can just read it again!

I rank this book as a solid four star book. I didn't rank the book with a five star rating because it didn't cause me to have a "paradigm shift" or see the world from a different perspective. However, those interested in American History or economic history should thoroughly enjoy this book. I loved reading the book because Mr. Gordon's work clearly shows his in-depth knowledge of American history and his excellent storytelling capabilities.

These 47 articles, gathered from Gordon's 10 years as an American Heritage columnist, cover the post-Revolutionary period through the 1950s. Each article is written, as the title portrays, from an American perspective. Mr. Gordon talks, for example, about the railroads and the characters behind them in the American boom but rarely does he specifically address who invented a product / technology, unless an American did. Additionally, I found that little attention was given to air conditioning, as it has impacted migration patterns dramatically in the U.S.

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I so enjoyed this book I didn't want it to end. Please, Mr. Gordon, write another. My normal read is gory mystery thrillers, so this was quite a departure. I saw Mr. Gordon on C-Span and thought "The Business Of America" might be interesting. This book went far beyond interesting; it made the history of dull finance be as exciting as my normal gory thrillers!

We love stories. Since the time human beings crawled out of caves, stories have been the way that we pack lots of information into a digestible package. John Steele Gordon is a great storyteller, and this book is full of great business stories.

If your idea of the business book is the macroeconomics text that you slogged through when you were in college, the Business of America will come as a pleasant surprise. You'll find yourself engaged with the material and learning a lot about the history of American business and how business is done that you simply wouldn't get any other way.

Gordon writes the "The Business of America" column for American Heritage Magazine, and the stories that he tells there are the stories he tells here. He has divided the books into several sections. There are stories of the early days of the American dream that focus on the first years of Europeans on this continent up through about the Civil War. Other sections are divided into topical areas, such as Farming and Food, Manufacturing and Mining, Transportation, Banking, the Business of War, Business and Government, Retailing and Real Estate, and the Telegraph, Telephone, and Television. The final section is called After Hours.

Each of these sections includes several stories. There wasn't a single one of them where I didn't underline something or put an exclamation point in the margin, or write a note to myself. These stories are insightful, because Gordon understands the basics of how business works and the oddities of the human condition.

There are several stories that deal with how technology, in this case the cotton gin and the sewing machine and the steam engine, transformed whole industries. Gordon backs up his stories with facts.

For example, in the section called, "King Cotton," Gordon tells us: "Only five hundred thousand pounds of cotton were spun into thread - all by hand - in 1765. Twenty years later, sixteen million pounds were spun, by machine, and the price of cotton cloth had dropped from the caviar range to the mere smoked salmon bracket.

That illustrated the effect of the power loom on the spinning of cotton, but later in the same chapter, Gordon comes up with another statistic and description to describe how Eli Whitney's cotton gin transformed the cotton industry still further. "Whitney's machine could be built in an hour or so by any competent carpenter and worked by a single laborer, increasing his productivity fully fifty times. In a stroke, Whitney had reduced the labor cost of ginning from the dominant component in the cost of cotton cloth to a mere triviality. And the cost of cotton cloth dropped, as a result, from the smoked salmon range to the fish and chips bracket."

That's how of Gordon works and writes. He includes the stories and the statistics and the conclusions in a wonderful mix that delights, entertains, and informs.

If you are a businessperson, this book is for you because you will learn about how others before you have faced some of the same challenges that you face. You'll learn about how the economic wheel tends to revolve and good times follow bad, and times of great change follow times of stagnation. You'll be a better and more effective businessperson after reading this book.

This book is also for you if you think business is boring. Those of us who are in business know that it's endlessly fascinating and filled with things to learn, as well as with opportunities for profit. But the media as a whole tend to reduce business to the stock market and ignore the true human drama of what goes on. They miss some of the best stories, because they start from the assumption that the most interesting things in the world have to do with almost anything but business.

That's a point that Gordon makes at some length in the chapter called, "No Respect." It opens with this line, "If Rodney Dangerfield weren't a comedian, he would probably be an executive. Executives don't get any respect, either."

From there, Gordon goes on to point out that many famous inventors were not the people responsible for the changes in society brought about by their inventions. Alexander Graham Bell, invented the telephone, and has a giant entry in the Encyclopedia Britannica. But it washis father-in-law, Gardiner Greene Hubbart, who put together the system that became A T & T; and, not only made a lot of money for himself and Bell, but also changed the shape of the country.

In that example and dozens of others throughout this book, Gordon shows us the romance that goes with the business of America.

Ten years' worth of writing, these forty-seven essays capture illumuniating anecdotes about economic history, captured in the stories of people, ideas and moments in time. Booms and depressions, clever inventions and failed plans, tough competitors and grandoise government schemes all receive their due.

There is the story of King Cotton and how the gin made it profitable. Gordon reports on the California Gold Rush, the first television syndication (that's how Desi Arnaz earns a cover picture on an economic history book), war economies, the decision to build the World Trade towers (an eerie story to read today), steamboat races, railroad competition and more, each in pithy, five-page synopses of major historic studies or records. Brief as they are, there is not always a full story, but the histories leave the read impressed and engaged.

Gordon highlights well-known phrases, e.g., "The business of America is business," "The public be damned!" and explains how they came about (and the myths around same). Before we spoke of people "going postal", Gordon writes about the now-lapsed term, "postalization", another idea entirely.

In "The American Game" he shows how baseball is unique in that it was a business and not just a sport from its early years. A strange business, yes, where today "semiserfdom" of ballplayers has produced average annual salaries of $2.38 million and an industry prone to "work stoppages" and seemingly on the brink of disaster.

The better stories are of the visionaries who made and managed business in America, including the man who spent his personal fortune to make milk safe to drink for millions and the unsung heroes who saved businesses from failure. This is a good education for those who don't understand or who doubt the power of free markets, an idea whose time has come, or simply the American dream as it has been lived.

If you need a lift, you need this book. Everyday stories of inspiration of how Christ has touched people's lives.

Have you ever found a BAD chicken soup book???? I think not and this fits right into that catagory

After reading almost every edition of the Chicken Soup series of books during the past 10 years, this one being my latest read, I wanted to comment on how wonderful and inspiring the collection of stories and books have been to me.
Chicken soup: the simple, all-natural, inexpensive, easy-to-digest, comfort food, ingested for physical ailments. The title of this series of books promises the same, for the soul/spirit of the reader. And it delivers. Sometimes I feel it contains much more than mere chicken soup, but an arsenal of potent antibotics.
Divided and organized into categories or chapters, each book has stories each person can relate to, written about real people who have overcome obstacles, inspired, learned, thus encouraging the reader to do the same.
With a steady bombardment of negative news, I feel the Chicken Soup series of books creates a much-needed balance of hope to the sometimes-ignored, silent spirit that dwells within us.
If you have not already discovered this series, do yourself a favor and find a book within your interest range or start from the beginning with the first book. These books also make a terrific gift for a friend.

"Chicken Soup for the Christian Family Soul" is a touching book that made me remember and realize all the miracles God can perform and has done. While I was reading, I was in awe. Each story made me smile, and thank God for what he has done for these people. Letting them know in a way that makes it special to all the writers' of all the stories. It was very inspiring to read about real people who have experienced sadness, trials, and obstacles in their lives but still they kept their faith and got their own life miracle. I had several favorite stories but this is my favorite:
"A Miracle of Mermaids". Rhonda Gill's Husband, Ken had died nine months ago. Her 4 year old daughter, Desiree, was heartbroken over it. Desiree was a daddy's girl; she did everything with her father. Rhonda had moved in with her mother after Ken's death. On November 8, 1993, what would have been her dad's 29th birthday, Desiree asked her mom how she could send her daddy a card. Her Grandmother recommended buying a balloon, and tying the card to it. Desiree picked out a Little Mermaid Birthday balloon, and they tied the card, and a note to it, and let it go. Desiree insisted on the thought that her daddy was going to write back to her.
Wade MacKinnon, who lived in the rural area of Mermaid, Prince Edward Island, Canada, decided to go to Mermaid Lake. At the lake, he saw something floating around, behind the bushes. He picked it up and brought it home. It was a balloon with Mermaids on it. He opened the letter written in a little baggy. They read about Desiree's daddy, and what they did. To their astonishment, the balloon had traveled, from Oak, California to Canada in four days, nearly 5,000 Kilometers. The balloon had also landed in Mermaid Lake. Donna, Wade's wife, decided to write back to Desiree. She wrote a nice letter to her, and then bought a copy of the book Little Mermaid, and sent Desiree the package. The package was received by Desiree's Grandma, on January 19, since the MacKinnon family waited till after Christmas to send the package. Desiree, was ecstatic, to know that her Daddy wrote back. She did understand though, that it wasn't her daddy, that it was a family who had found the balloon and who decided to do a good thing.
Years later, Desiree will always call them when she needs to talk to her Daddy.
I loved this story, and the whole book, filled with stories just like it. If you enjoy inspirational stories, 'Chicken Soup for the Christain Family Soul" is a must-read for your list.

This is such a great book-i would reccomend it to anyone! It is uplifting and after reading it you'll want to read it over and over again!

Dancing the Body of Light has been an inspiration for my personal yoga practice in the last two years. The photos of the asanas are beautiful and the instructions are very clear. Dona Holleman is able to convey how we can go beyond our physical body and find the light and joy which comes from tapping into the energy body. This book is an inspiration for all practitioners of yoga.

Dancing the Body of Light was the number one best seller at the fifth annual Yoga Journal Convention held at Estes Park, Colorado October 2000. This book is being received as a thorough, in depth yet easy to read manual on Yoga. Dona Holleman being present at this meeting is considered the teacher of many of the teachers who taught at the Convention. In her 40 years of Yoga experience she developed her own very unique way of practicing/ teaching Yoga. She is a master in her field. Dancing the Body of Light contains her wonderful insights and experience. As one of her students being present at the Convention I would say 'buy this unique book'and be inspired by it like myself and dance the Dance of the Body of Light in YOUR practice!

This is my favorite yoga book with respect to detailed descriptions of how to perform the asanas correctly. For some people, there may be even too much detail. However, where there is a possiblity of injury or not getting the full benefit from a posture, I would hope most people would prefer to err in the direction of too much information rather than not enough. In other words, this book does not have superficial descriptions. In my opinion, this makes it a must own for every yoga practitioner particularly beginners who may be more prone to injury and overdoing things.

This book also contains information on yoga philosophy, the bandhas and kriyas as well as a chapter on pranayama. These chapters are short, provide useful context and good reference material. However, it would be best to study some of these other areas along with a teacher and additional reference material.

Another good introductory yoga book is Judith Lasater's 30 Essential Yoga Poses. This is written more simply, holds the number of poses to 30 and provides a number of useful practice sequences. I don't find it describes the correct way to perform the asanas as well as this book, but it's well done and also includes good notes on fine points for yoga teachers.

If you are serious about your yoga practice, then I don't know of a better book that describes how to perform the asanas correctly. If you are easily overwhelmed by detail, then I would probably try Judith Lasater's book above and get this one when you are more advanced.

Back Care Basics is also a nice introduction to yoga written by a physician for people with back problems. While this is the target audience, it also a good general introduction to Iyengar yoga.

Dancing the Body of Light has been an inspiration for my personal yoga practice in the last two years. The photos of the asanas are beautiful and the instructions are very clear. Dona Holleman is able to convey how we can go beyond our physical body and find the light and joy which comes from tapping into the energy body. This book is an inspiration for all practitioners of yoga.

Ms.Holleman has written a wonderful, comprehensive book for yoga practitioners everywhere. She goes into great detail. The words she uses are inspired, and derive from her deep and long practice. She also demonstrates beautiful postures which illustrate what advanced practitioners do.

THIS BOOK IS ON A LEVEL BY ITSELF. WORDS REALLY CANNOT EXPLAIN THE FEELING YOUR GET FROM READING THIS BOOK. IT WILL MAKE YOU LAUGH, IT WILL MAKE YOU CRY, IT WILL MAKE YOU REALLY THINK ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL REALTIONSHIP WITH GOD. THIS IS A FIVE STAR BOOK YOU HAVE TO READ IT TO KNOW. I GIVE IT TWO THUMBS UP........ABSOLUTELY MARVELOUS!

This book motivates you to cherish family, health, friends, talents, and one's life. But most of all cherish The One who gives us precious life --- our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. This book inspires you to listen to that still small voice and to not dismiss dreams. God speaks to us many ways and as a child of God He communicates to His children. Thank you Rhonda for having the courage to share the revelations God gave you and sharing your families spritual journey.

The Dream Maker is truly an inspiration to read. While reading the book, the events and experiences seem to leap off the page and become so real.

Have you reached a dry period in your walk with God? Then read this book. It is so uplifting and adventurous. The events in this book reminds me of the Book of Acts in the Bible. The Miracle working power of God.

Read the Book, The Dream Maker!

Wow, well what can I say? This book can not be described in words, all I can say is that one must experience it for ones self. It was simply breath taking, so much so that I could not stop reading it and I hated for it to end! This book is a journey in its self. I recommend the reading of "The Dream Maker" to any and everyone.... WOW!

This book is Outstanding! One of the best books that I have read about personal testimonies and will appeal to both Christain readers and those who may not profess to be Christians. The Dream Maker grabs hold of your interest and makes you thirst for more. It challenges your faith ...embraces your heart ... and is written with such style and honesty that you are literally transformed. This is a must read for those who are seeking to understand their plan and purpose in this world,and especially for those who need answers when "bad things happened to good people". This book will help you gain new insight so that you can strengthen others who may be hurting. Thank you, we hope there is more to come.

This book deserves five stars because it includes lots of information. It isn't as easy or funny as the lessons, but it's still really good

This book contains social and behaviorial material that that is needed by every young person today. Proper behavior is not just a nicety; it is a necessity for success in our socially interactive world. Barbara Hinkel presents a concise, easy to read primer for basic etiquette. And, just as important--it is readable and interesting to the target audience. As every parent knows, it is one thing to lecture "good manners" to one's children. Lord knows, I've tried. But to get a young person genuinely interested in exploring that which constitutes proper behavior is a golden opportunity that must not be missed. Barbara Hinkel provides that opportunity! I know because I've had my pre-teen come to me with questions/observations after having reviewed this or that section (or situation) from the book. And I have seen this young person profit from Barbara's guidance in subsequent social situations. In short, the book works! Parents, get them to read it; you (and they) won't be disappointed.

This book contains social and behaviorial material that that is needed by every young person today. Proper behavior is not just a nicety; it is a necessity for success in our socially interactive world. Barbara Hinkel presents a concise, easy to read primer for basic etiquette. And, just as important--it is readable and interesting to the target audience. As every parent knows, it is one thing to lecture "good manners" to one's children. Lord knows, I've tried. But to get a young person genuinely interested in exploring that which constitutes proper behavior is a golden opportunity that must not be missed. Barbara Hinkel provides that opportunity! I know because I've had my pre-teen come to me with questions/observations after having reviewed this or that section (or situation) from the book. And I have seen this young person profit from Barbara's guidance in subsequent social situations. In short, the book works! Parents, get them to read it; you (and they) won't be disappointed.

Reviewed by ATH, age 12: I thought that the book was excellent! It explained many hard-to-understand topics pertaining to etiquette rules. After reading this book, you will have no more questions about manners and will never feel uncomfortable at parties. This easy-to-read and understand book tells you everything you need to know about etiquette and more!(Tips on dressing, dancing, manners, etc.) It is a good value for the money since you can keep it and refer to it whenever you have a question. I highly recommend this book to anyone over the age of 11.

My daughter received a copy of this book as part of a cotillion class. She has reviewed various sections of the book as different social situations have presented themselves. The book is written with a young person in mind; it is concise, funny when appropriate, and answers a lot of questions the kids might not even know they have yet. As a mom, I found it very helpful not only in teaching my child the rudimentaries of etiquette, but in providing me with a refresher course for both business and personal situations. I have also found it extremely helpful for the dance steps; the combination of the written instruction and the ubiquitous feet make it easy to learn a new dance.

Business Basics Bestseller 1: The Easy, Interesting, Open-book Look at the Game of Business Numbers! 2nd Edition

If you never had this F&A stuff explained to you before, you will like "Business Basics Bestseller 1" as a starting point. This is not a suggestion that you substitute it for this book, just that you check it out as well. The BBB #1 book was written by a guy who is not an accountant -- imagine what that can do for cutting through the jargon accountants love without even knowing it.

BBB #1 will introduce you to the basics of business including the terms behind the numbers and where all the formulas come from before you plow into a true "finance and accounting" text. Search for "Business Basics Bestseller 1" and add it to your consideration. It can be one of your best investments. At less than 150 pages, you can zip through it.

I started an MBA program a year ago without any background in finance or accounting. I wish I had read this book first. MBA classes often launch into advanced discussion on topics, bringing out nuances before adequately introducing the basics the way you would to someone who knows nothing of the topic. This book presents a skeleton for multiple topics: accounting, internal accounting, financial statement analysis and entrepreneurial finance. It is explained very clearly with examples, and has little boxes around all the key terms so that you can quickly reference topics.

It was clearly written by someone who has spent a long enough time in the field to be able to explain things simply, realistically and clearly. I recommend this book highly to people who feel a bit lost in basic accounting and finance. If you read this, you won't flinch when someone brings up convertible debt, amortization, P/E ratios, preferred stock and the like. Note that there's no discussion of net present value and other corporate finance topics.

Gene Siciliano has written an easy-to-read (conversational), easy-to-understand yet comprehensive review of everything from why to have financial statements in the first place and the part played by financial reporting both within and without a company to the meaning of the financial reports themselves and finally to how to plan and finance your company. Highly recommend the book. A good review for experienced managers and a must-read for those who want to know more about finance and the financial management of all sized companies.

As a banker, I sit down with a lot of business owners who just don't understand the financial dynamics of their business. If they only took the time to read this clear, concise and useful book, they would be so further ahead of the game, and more likely to get the financing they need. It's a must read for any business owner, or business professional who feels they need to increase their knowledge of finance. Great Job!

This book provides a solid overview of the basic information required to understand Finance. It is a great read for the person new to Finance and it is also a great refresher to those who might have had Finance classes and maybe even courses years ago. What is great about this book is that you have a few chapters devoted to each segment of Finance.

A very good book that is easy to read and understand. Consider this book if you are looking to better understand that which is called "Finance".

The funny thing is that I have read over 20 books on financial analysis and investing, and I believe that every penny that I have spent on this book was well worth it. The price of the book scared me at first, but where all of the other books that I read fell short, Financial Warnings did not. I was very impressed with the detail to which the book describes each investment scenario. There is no shortage of financial warnings to look out for. In fact, I was shocked to learn of how many warnings lenders and investors should be aware of. Not only has this book taught me about what to avoid, but also about what to buy. Did you know that the CEO or CFO going through a divorce is a financial warning? Did you know that a company entering a new business is a financial warning? Did you know that beating earnings expectations by one penny every quarter is a financial warning when your competitor fell short of expectations? This is a must read. Reading Financial Warnings has changed my life. It is a must read.

To all the people who are skeptical. This book is excellent. I got an email pointing me to this direction and I am glad I did spend the money. It is money well spend.

It teachs you the non recuring items in the financial statements, capitalized assets, capitalized interest, Lifo liquidation etc.

If you find my review satisfying, let me know if you had another good book to read. I know another book, let's trade some info.

Impeccable, a must read for investors, bankers, corporate finance pros. Highly recommended.

Although this book looks outdated but I am sure it sounds loud and clear especially when we are so hot-headed about the Internet Age and Knowledge Management and in most cases have forgotten about what are the Warning Signs we have to watch for particularly when we are opting to invest in a new stock of the new age.The Author is a respected scholar in the field of Finance and I admire every book of his and has spent the money to have every book he has written but most of all, I feel this book is the best. Read it and you will have things to remember everyday.

The book is an excellent treatise which provides the readers a systematic framework for figuring out whether the books have been manipulated or if the accounting has been aggressive, through finding out non-recurring items in the income statement and balance sheet. I have tried other books but, they just do not compare with this treatise. The book uses a systematic step-by-step approach which introduces the reader to how to read the fine print. This book should be invaluable to finance and accounting professionals, and also to amateur investors, who would be willing to do a little research into the company books.

For those who not lucky enough to attend Dr. Mulford's class, this book should do a great job.

This is a must have for starting a new business. While the theory is great, the practicality of the text allow it to be a "use as you go" guide for writing an effective business plan. Full of effective links and examples of how to, it provides an approach that business start-up leaders of all experience levels can find useful. The relevance of the text is timeless.

This is a must-have guide if you are serious about starting your own company. The book will decrease the amount of time you need to research, and increase the amount of time you have to start making money. The book is easy to understand as it's written from the entrepreneur's perspective. Even after reading the book I find myself going back to it to use as a resource. This book is worth every penny.

This is a comprehensive book that is a must for learning the ropes of entrepreneurship. As a graduate of the MBA program at Columbia, I had a special entrepreneurial interest and focus. I am excited to see that Jack Kaplan has added another outstanding book to complement his other books on the subject. Jack is a true entrepreneur who knows what it really takes to succeed.

This is one of the few books from my MBA program that has truly become a reference guide for me as I am contemplating starting a venture. I would highly recommend the book because it offers the optimal balance of case studies, core business information and extensive additional resources that are all critical to understanding what is necessary for starting a new company. Lastly, I think it is clear that the authors are highly involved in the entrepreneurial world and this comes through in all of the tips and case studies.

What sets Jack's book apart from other entrepreneurship manuals is the depth of practical advice firmly grounded in experience. It is rare to get such access to a serial entrepreneur's accumulated wisdom. Jack's advice has been equally valuable in the classroom -- he knows what he is talking about. I would recommend this book highly to anyone with an idea that wants to become a business.

Gutless Neglect: America's Biggest Money Crisis is a scathing expose of America's current social security system, which was set in a short-sighted manner in the year 1982 duirng an "11th hour" crisis in the Regan administration. In the twenty years since and more, working Americans have paid 1.4 trillion in payroll taxes to a Social Security trust fund - but the fund itself is long since spent. A critical view of the monetary crisis besetting the American people, which political leaders have been handling in a manner that can only be described as "gutless neglect", Gutless Neglect dissects how the fiscal paradox is woefully affecting the American economy, as well as individual Americans' needs, and presents evidence and warnings of disaster to come ignored by the government over the years. An accompanying audio CD contains a question and answer session with author Dwight Drake, rounding out this downright chilling wake-up call of a very real and potentially crippling economic issue.

I'm only 26 years old, and am not actively invovled in politics or policy, but this book made me think a lot about my future. My husband and I read this book together and it prompted a lot of discussion between us about our financial plans for our future. It is a hard realization to see that here we have this ever-growing problem with our country's Social Security Plan , and our leaders aren't doing anything about it. I am glad that the author of this book is exploring and exploiting this crisis and educating others about it. I only hope that we can find a way to rise together as Americans and call attention to an issue that finally deserves attention!

I found this book absolutely fascinating. I can't quit thinking and talking about it. It not only intrigued me but scared me as well. I am a middle aged, middle income hard working woman who is counting on my Social Security to help me in retirement. I will need it. Not only will I need it, I deserve it. I pay more than I feel I should in taxes but with the promises that at least the Social Security I have to pay will be there for me later eases the pain.

This author has brilliantly researched and written this book in a format that is understandable as well as extremely informative. This book is not a scare tactic, it is written on a foundation of fact. He has explained the horrific current Social Security situation but didn't just stop with the gruesome facts. He has also proposed a plan for protecting and insuring our Social Security for the future. The Real Fix would save our future and be a win/win for me, my children the the future of our country and economy.

I strongly recommend this book (and CD which is included in the book) to all. We can use this information to open not only our own eyes but also of those in control of our money, taxes and of our country's economic future.

As a father, grandfather and great grandfather and a retired businessman, reading the book Gutless Neglect: America's Biggest Money Crisis I have to admit it was a shocker. It's a real eye opener into the manner in which our leaders have and are basterdising our Social Security funds. It's like the old shell game now you see it and now you don't and where it is, no one knows.

Our leaders make enron and the other corporate thieves look like small potatoes. If this type of stealing was done in the private sector they would be behind bars. It makes me mad as hell to se what a mess our leaders have made of the Social Security system and what the future holds for our younger generations and the problems they will have to confront if we don't fix this now. None of our leaders ahve the guts or intestinal fortitude to tackle and confront this problem.

Listening to the CD was really helpful as well. The question and answer dialog was concise and easy to understand.

Our leaders need to get off their rear ends and do something now before it's too late. Time is running out...

I am very impressed with the book Gutless Neglect. It was well written and easy reading. It is hard to comprehend hour our Social Security could have gotten in such a bad situation but with reading this book, it explains a lot of what has happened to cause this situation. The problem itself is something that I was unaware of and I suppose most people like me are not aware of the extent of the problem. The CD is well done and really good to listen to as it covered the situation of our Social Security problem in a clear concise way that was easy to listen to and understand. Also the website is very informative and has everything in it to learn about these important issues and how to send our leaders our comments. I admire the time and effort that has gone into informing the public of this problem and hope through your efforts of bringing the situation before our leaders that it will be dealt with and taken care of for our children, grandchildren and future generation's sake.

This is a beautiful Catholic Bible. It's the approved version for a Bible study I've started through my church. The large print makes it so much more readable for 60-year-old eyes. It is a handful, weighing about 5 lbs. There are lovely color photos galore, beautiful illustrations of all four Mysteries of the Rosary, and so much more. I recommend this wholeheartedly.

This is beautifully done with great photos, artwork, and a pretty good story!

We just set up a family altar and I decided that I wanted a beautiful, large print "family" Bible to keep on a stand at the center of it. I searched a lot on-line and had ordered a Bible from another publisher (the illustrations in which I didn't like) before I found this one. This Bible was everything I was looking for: beautiful, large print, having pages on which to write your family information and having exquisite illustrations. It is truly an elegant book with gold-edged pages that looks lovely as the centerpiece of the altar. Also, the print and the Revised Standard version make it a pleasure to read. I hope that one day my daughter will enjoy reading it and looking at the pictures. It also has informative, illustrated guides to the Rosary (including the Luminous Mysteries) and the Stations of the Cross. In sum, it is everything I wanted in a Catholic family Bible and look forward to having it in a place of honor in our home for years to come.

In 1611, the Church of England published the "King James" Bible. The "King James" was a beautiful work of art and remained unchallenged until the mid 1800s. At that point, the Anglican Church felt there were enough defects in the "King James" to call for a revision. Very quickly, the Anglicans published the "English Revised" in the late 1800s. By 1901, the Americans published an alternate version. (The "American Standard") It was similar, but there were notable differences. Not too surprisingly, the differences in the "American Standard" were rebuked, and with the exception of some modern (at the time) findings, the powers that were reverted back to the English roots of the "English Revised." This is when the "Revised Standard" came to be. The errors of the "King James" are corrected, and the language is updated. Though, there are some notable traces left of the poetic beauty of the "King James." In his "Responses to 101 Questions on the Bible," Father Raymond E. Brown says that the "Revised Standard" is the version he uses the most. He describes it as: "...for the most part readable and carefully literal." While I consider the "Good News" the best version to begin on, the "Revised Standard" is the one I myself use the most. I'll conclude by saying that the "Revised Standard" is arguably the best version, and probably the version a priest or nun would suggest.

Here is Isaiah 7:14 in the Protestant King James Version ... "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold a VIRGIN shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanual." (my capitals)

And here is Isaiah 7:14 in the RCV Catholic Edition ... "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a YOUNG WOMAN shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

What, one may ask, does "Catholic Edition" mean if articles of faith like this are not defended?