House

On the Other Side of the Hill is a terrific book! Nine going on ten, Rose gets to participate in a shivaree after a wedding and goes to her friend Blanche's party. A cyclone comes, and a long drought and a fire invade Rocky Ridge Farm, but Rose and her family help each other through the hard times, and at the end they must move into town. Rose is sad to say good-bye to Rocky Ridge Farm, but knows she'll later return.

I loved On the Other Side of the Hill! It was so exciting that I could never put it down. Out of all the books I've read about Rose, this is my favorite.

The girl was quite a firecracker. Again, just as charming as Little House, but the storytelling is rich and more reflective of who Rose was. This series truly equals the charm and storytelling of Laura's story. Kudos to those who thought to bring this series to print.

It is bracing to read a collection of verse that sustains the manuscript's title throughout the publication. The book is subcategorized into eight sections with an Addendum, and the entire assemblage maintains one unmistakeable theme: America's Prison System Does Not Work.

The first poem in Part I, PERSPECTIVE, is the title poem, "Poetic Justice". The poem bluntly states that we should "Build prisons/not daycare/lock 'em up/what do we care?" with a cynical slant, but it is clear that Professor Johnson writes with authority.

Section V, "THE CORPORATE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER" gives the reader a collection of five pieces written in the form of a 'prayer-book'. The second poem, called A PATRIARCH'S PROTOCOL, is a prayer in the tone of Psalms 32, with phrases riddled throughout such as, "...hollow be/Thy Claim/Thy Fortune Come/They will be Mum/On CNN/and before Congress/..."--just one example of the metaphorical wit that Mr. Johnson uses throughout the book. I especially liked Section VII's poem called GLOBAL VILLAGE LIFE, where we "...forget about victims of injustice, real and imagined,/whose resentments simmer and boil/just below the surface of village life..." A profound piece.

His voice changes throughout the book, from the voice of an executioner, to a man on death row, to a lamenting mother of a convicted felon. The empathy that the writer conveys gives the reader a sense of understanding that wouldn't be possible had just any poet/writer tried to create such a unique collection. Johnson's involvement with the corporate-controlled prison system gives him an advantage, and the collection rings honest and forthright.

The poems remind us that the concept of vengeance leads our society to an inevitable path of constant retaliation, and a system based on regressive practices is bound to fail--not only for the "prisoners", but for the corrections employees and the victims as well.

There are several poems that are characteristic of Johnson's intrinsic, fluid wit, each one worth savoring not only for their lucidity--which is no simple task for many poets--but for the edification that these poems extend to the reader.

The entire collection comprising POETIC JUSTICE is heroic, to say the least. Robert Johnson not only offers up technically balanced and concise verses, but they bear the stamp of honest, as well. The arenas of our imperfect justice system merit a reawakening in our society, and this book not only helps to clarify exactly what is wrong with "justice", but it vilifies the fallacy that all is well within our courts. All in all, I was left with a sense of America's perpetual proclivity towards the scales of justice leaning more towards the inequitable, which is, in itself, a sort of Poetic Justice.

Robert Johnson's work, starting with classic texts such as Death Work, resonates with layers of meaning and a passionate conviction that without a commitment to justice, life is not worth living. For years he has been inspiring students and scholars of justice and law across the world not only to do probing analyses but also to make changes in their lives and their work. Now, with his first book of poems, Poetic Justice, Johnson reaches out to a wider audience of readers, bringing his passionate scrutiny of injustice to life with words that sing out the wrongs of contemporary society and the confusion of vengeance with justice. His "Police line: Do not cross," ironically intertwines the call to order and the institution of policing and the inadequacies of our own internal governance. His "Reptile House" provides a chilling and powerful metaphoric exploration of the prison experience. Throughout this collection, Johnson's insightful use of irony, metaphor, incisive allusion, and rhythm brings to life terror and brutality in the justice system and makes real the necessary and fundamental insight that we have all been wronged, that we all are victims of injustice as well as purveyors of it, and that to move forward toward a more just society, we must all recognize ourselves in each other. Johnson's poems do just this. They should be read and re-read by all who are concerned about inhumanity and injustice, all who are concerned about constructing a better and more just society.

Poignant and powerful, lyrical and raw, Rob Johnson's poems make us feel and think about what the death penalty does to the condemned, and to us. A gem for lovers of poetry and undergraduates in criminal justice or ethics courses alike.

This was a cute and fun little book. It's wonderful and at this price you can't go wrong!

A wonderfully written little trip from the beginning of... well, everything right through to the ascendancy of humans. Bryson's mastery of language and his ability to turn a phrase are put to good use in taking a look at the theories and science behind astrophysics, geology, archeology, paleontology, and several other "ologies" as well. The best part is that Bryson manages to cover all this without being boring or overly breezey.
Almost everyone will find some part of this book interesting. Even if you weren't a straight A student in science class back in high school or college, the bits of science you do know are probably woven into the grander tapestry of science and time in a way you'll appreciate.

If you're feeling a little down, or just in the mood for a little laugh this is the perfect book for it. Filled with little wisdoms this book is funny and cute. They really made my laugh and some of them I could relate to. This book is filled with pictures from the old books, and if you've read them, or seen the old cartoons you might recongnize some of these senarios. One of my favorites is:

"If you are trying to find your way home, and keep finding yourself instead back at the same sand-pit, it may be that the sand-pit is following you about."

The book is filled with cute little wisdoms like that, many that are funnier. I really enjoyed the book, and I think everyone will.

A great book and different than any other Marx Brothers book. Steve Stoliar was a college student who was lucky enough to spend the last couple years of Groucho's life with him. What makes this book so fascinating is Steve could have been anybody. He was just in the right place at the right time. Steve's sincerity shines throughout. A unique look at a legend who remained in the limelight until the end.

"One morning I shot an elephant in my pyjamas. How he got in my pyjamas I don't know". (Groucho Marx).

"Raised Eyebrows" is a fascinating account of life inside the home of Groucho Marx. There are many fine books available about Groucho Marx but this one is different as it deals with Groucho's later years and is written by Steve Stoliar who was a big Marx Brothers fan and by an extraordinary set of circumstances was lucky enough to land a job working for Groucho as his personal secretary and archivist. Even more remarkable was that Stoliar ended up actually living inside Groucho's Beverly Hills home. His main task was to deal with Groucho's fan mail and organise his memorabilia. This gave him the opportunity to study Groucho at close quarters and be present at all the parties, dinners, and other events at the house. He met many of Groucho's celebrity friends including Bob Hope, George Burns, Jack Lemmon, Milton Berle, Mae West, Red Buttons etc. He writes how most of them accepted him and were quite friendly (some might even have thought he was Groucho's grandson!) but just occasionally he was completely ignored by the celebrity guest (read the book to find out more!).

"If I hold you any closer I'll be in back of you!". (Groucho Marx).

How Stoliar came to have the job at Groucho's house makes very fascinating reading. He was just a 19 year old college student at UCLA and a big fan of the Marx Brothers when he had the idea to start a campaign to get their 1930 movie "Animal Crackers" re-released. This came to the attention of Groucho's companion and secretary Erin Fleming who phoned Stoliar for more information. A local showing of the film was arranged in Westwood with Groucho in attendance. Fleming kept in touch with Stoliar and eventually the movie was re-released nationwide with enormous success and created renewed interest in the Marx Brothers. Due to his efforts on the campaign and because of his knowledge and enthusiasm for Marx Brothers movies Fleming contacted Stoliar to offer him a job dealing with Groucho's fan mail and correspondence. He immediately accepted but expected to be working in some office building and was overwhelmed when he discovered he would be right there in Groucho's Beverly Hills home. He eventually lived in staying there for over three years.

"I never forget a face but in your case I'll make an exception!". (Groucho Marx).

One of the most interesting sections in the book for me was when Stoliar outlined the sometimes stormy relationship between Groucho and Erin Fleming which Stoliar was able to witness first hand. Fleming did a lot for Groucho but was not liked by the family (apart from Zeppo) and she was involved in a long drawn out court battle with Groucho's son Arthur Marx as to who should be declared Groucho's conservator to oversee his money matters. (This was before Groucho's death but when he was very fragile and confined to a wheelchair). The newspapers got onto the story and the headlines came fast and furious with many of Groucho's friends being called to the court to give evidence in favour of Arthur. However, Erin had her supporters too including Groucho's brother Zeppo who testified in court for her. He said that if Erin was taken away from Groucho "it would kill him" and that Erin was "the finest woman in the world". He had nothing but glowing things to say about Erin and her relationship with Groucho. He thought that Erin was good for Groucho and had prolonged his life. However, another side of the story came to light when a parade of former employees from Groucho's house took the stand. Evidence was given that Erin had treated Groucho badly, had screamed at him using filthy language and had even threatened him physically. Eventually, a compromise was reached with a new conservator being appointed.

"Will you marry me? Did he leave you any money? Answer the second question first". (Groucho Marx).

A very entertaining book about an insider's personal look at a Hollywood comedy legend. It is rare to find a book such as this where the author is in such close contact with his subject. It is really quite amazing that an ordinary fan like Steve Stoliar whose only ambition was to meet Groucho Marx and perhaps shake his hand and have a photo taken should spend over three years working and living in Groucho's Beverly Hills home. It certainly gives Stoliar credibility that he was present "on the inside" and therefore able to build up valuable and useful information over a long period of time which has now come to fruition with this book.

Just snapped this book up recently at a specialty bookstore & highly recommend it for anyone who is a Marx Brothers fan. Or an Algonquin Round table fan. Or an "Old Hollywood" fan. Anecdotes abound. But woven into the story is that of a diehard Groucho Marx buff who inhabits the tight, peculiar, often sad world of his last few years. Stoliar comes off as a decent guy with his heart in the right place, a relief since Groucho was surrounded by more than a couple of people with selfish ulterior motives towards him in the end. Erin Fleming, Groucho's companion in his last years, is intriguingly revealed as a complex, disturbing madwoman. Painfully sad read, but with the saving graces of humor & insight. Much of this was actually covered in Arthur Marx's book, but check out the different slant! I'm glad I read & own this book. I'll be back at it again.

Has an engaging style that should serve as a model for all those belaboredly humorous ...for Dummies and Idiot's Guide to... books. The writing is as clear and easygoing as technical writing gets, and it comes as no surprise to find the author went on to found Fine Homebuilding magazine.

There's nothing fancy about the pictures or illustrations, and it's now been six years since the last edition, but it's still an excellent guide for those new to renovation.

I am a first-time female homeowner of a pre-war apartment. It is amazing what you can do after reading this book. Most people I know find doing-it-yourself an intimidating process and wouldn't conceive of undertaking the simplest of jobs themselves. They just wouldn't know where to begin. "Renovation" has taken me from life-long yuppie renter to where my power drill is now my best friend.

Litchfield does a great job of guiding you through each aspect of home renovation. The explanations are well-written and clear, the illustrations are extremely helpful, so while it does not seem dumbed-down in any way, the first-time DIYer will find it very useful. Now when I go to Home Depot, I can ask intelligent questions about what I need to buy.

It's going to become a regular housewarming gift for my friends.

I whole heartedly agree with other posters that if you buy only one do-it-yourself style book for your home, this is the one. Even if you plan on hiring a contractor to do the work, this book will help you clearly understand the tasks at hand. If you ever wondered what lies behind the walls of your home, here's your own inexpensive x-ray machine! The figures & photos are excellent and are a great compliment to the writing.

I showed my copy of this book to someone at work and they went to the book store the next day to buy their own copy. Yes, it's that impressive. Maybe a professional contractor would argue against my point, but for the average person, it's fantastic.

Once you read it, you'll go back to it again and again. In my opinion, it's well worth the cost.

Gorgeous coffee table book, which is actually great reading, too! Sumptuous photographs will inspire you to add a touch of Safari Chic to your own home! Exquisitely well done book...I hope there will be sequels!....

Libraries with strong sections on ethnic or modern architecture will want to include Bibi Jordan's Safari Chic as a unique presentation of over a hundred photos of exotic exteriors and interiors. African bush style goes modern in homes which profile decorating choices achieved through ethnic crafts and fabrics. The color photos are lavish and display many options and styles.

Bibi Jordan has managed to capture the true spirit of adventure in her new book Safari Chic. Not only do the wild exteriors and the mannered interiors inspire one to redecorate their physical surroundings but they resonate with the kindling spirit of rejuvenation and imagination. This is a traveler's delight as well. More books Bibi, more!

Kitty Werner has done something amazing here: she has taken pretty much everything that anyone needs to know before owning or renting a home, and found an easy way to explain fairly technical concepts to people with no technical knowledge. And she manages not to sound patronizing, even when explaining real basic stuff that most of us take for granted--because she doesn't assume you have prior experience.

Her advice on practical matters from insurance to chimney cleaning to what to do in an emergency could save the reader thousands of dollars--and save lives.

The title is really too narrow for this broad and useful book. It's useful to both owners and renters, to both men and women. In fact, it would be the ideal present to buy a graduating college student just going out on his or her own--I sure wish I had such a book when I got my first apartment, and again when I got my first house. Don't let the book's somewhat peculiar layout choices get in the way. This book will benefit anyone who ever has to manage any aspect of finding and maintaining a place to live. Following Kitty's savvy advice will lower your bills, lower your stress level, and improve the quality of your life. I will ask the author if I can excerpt a chapter on my Frugal and Fashionable Living webzine.

Highly recommended.

Shel Horowitz is owner of http://www.frugalfun.com. His latest book is Principled Profit: Marketing That Puts People First. His most relevant book is The Penny-Pinching Hedonist: How to Live Like Royalty with a Peasant's Pocketbook.

...thanks to Kitty Werner, women won't be relegated to the kitchen anymore. Kitty humorously gives the lowdown on everything from steps to take when looking for a home to water heater maintenance after the purchase.

A "must have" for anyone looking to buy a home, SWG is literally filled with well-organized, useful information for every homeowner.

Savvy Woman's Guide is a bargain-priced reference book that is destined for the most accessible spot on the smart homeowner's bookshelf.

I devoured this book during my first week of home ownership and plan to read it again and again as I go through the first year of being responsible for the safe operation of many new appliances and appurtenances. Kitty Werner has written a comprehensive, easy-to-understand and even entertaining guide to all the things a house has that need to keep running for your comfort and safety. Her recommendations about fire extinguishers, chimneys, escape plans, routine maintenance and such are extremely valuable and eye-opening. She's done her utmost to keep the book relevant and useful whether you live in a city or out in the sticks. Thanks, Kitty!

"Newsboys'" boasts a page-turning plot as well as the wonderful ability to make you think about important life questions. I read the entire novel during one ten-hour stretch of business travel ... and it made what could have been a grueling day of planes and airports a day of pure joy. The plot kept me entertained, but the philosophical elements kept me both hooked on the book and repeatedly pondering my own life and choices. "Newsboys'" may not be in the same literary league as E.L. Doctorow's "Ragtime," but it's much better than the current crop of historical novels typified by "Carter Beats the Devil" -- a lot of research in search of a purpose. I finished the book feeling enriched, invigorated and determined to do better at all things. Any work of art that leaves you feeling like that is a great and rare gift.

Boorstin has a unique voice and take on the period and an interesting speculation on what I understand to be a missing period in the life of William James. This book gives a vivid and entertaining picture of life in New York a hundred years ago. Recommend.

Started reading this on the book counter at the local B&N and couldn't put it down. Fascinating premise and wonderfully vivid excursion into turn-of-the century New York. Stylish, well-researched and entertaining.

If I had to recommend just one book on renovating old houses it would be this one. Like most similar Taunton Press books, the book is accurate, well written, and informative about techniques that a real person might want to use. It includes lots of information about how old houses are constructed, the kinds of things that tend to go wrong with them over time, and techniques for fixing them. It is realistic about budgets and time constraints. And, perhaps most important, it gives fair warning about the stresses and strains of living in a house one is fixing up.

One might want to supplement this book with more specific books about the kind of house you are working on, and books which provide more information about how to match materials and aesthetics to the existing fabric of the particular sort of house you have, but this book is not to be missed.

I believe this is the greatest book to read first in any attempt to restore and older home. Most homes relate to the late 1800's, but is revealing even for homes built in the early 1900's. Much detail from foundation to roof on restoring any part of an old cherised home for the do - it -yourselfer.

Don't touch your old house until you read this book. Its an eye opener about what to do and what not to do to renovate an old house and keep it from looking like you did. Didn't notice how many remodels in my neighborhood had been "remuddled" until reading what Nash has to say about keeping architechtural integrity. I live in a historical district, and this book has helped me maintain my 1860s house and given me insight as to how it was built, and how to fix it. Get this book FIRST!

This book was a delight. Marchese not only
re-habs the house, but the relationship with his
father as well. A very pleasant read.

I wasn't sure what to expect when a friend recommended this book to me. I'm not a son, and I've never really understood the relationships between fathers and sons. This book helped me glean some insight into my own husband's tussles with his father--and gave me hope that someday they, too, will forge a more meaningful relationship. Besides that, it made me laugh out loud. I recommend this very highly, both for men and for the women who love them.

I LOVED this book! It's a wonderful depiction of the relationship between two very different people who so happen to be father and son. I admire the author for his very candid, humorous and whimsical portrayal of how important it is not to lose sight of what matters most....family. What a great book!