MR

This is an entertaining if odd little book and is much overated. I had two problems with it: 1) There are no footnotes but all sorts of two-hundred year old dialogue provided. The author has verbatim discussions taking place on the remote island that certainly could not have been recorded (but how would we know since none of it is footnoted?). Mostly, the author made it up it seems and the device shadows the credibility of the whole book. 2) And if I was not incredulous enough over the history-as-soap opera style, the author saves his blockbuster thesis for the last chapter. He agues that the crusty Captain Bligh and Spencer Christian were really gay lovers and this explains the combustibility and passions that came into play. Bligh according to this view was jealous of Christian's love affair with the Tahitian girl he later fathered three children with. The author offers not one shred of evidence for this, not one shred, and says as much in the final pages of the book. This book has an amateurish feel, written by an author who got away for too long with writing pseudo-histories. This book is not without redeeming qualities; it certainly is interesting and a good read. The 1984 movie The Bounty was based on this account, though the movie, mercifully, skipped over some of Robert Blough's more nutty conclusions.

I can't remember exactly where I came across my copy of this book...I think my parents unearthed it in thier attic one afternoon and gave it to me, the family's avid reader. I took it with me to St. Croix as a means to pass the time, and there sitting in a hammock on a beach not unlike the ones described in the book I began my adventure.
"Mutiny on the Bounty" chronicles the story of the HMS Bounty under Lt. Bligh, a thoroughly tyrannical leader if ever there was one. Shortly after thier departure from Tahiti (to get breadfruit trees for the slave colonies of the West Indies), the mutiny takes place and Bligh and a dozen other loyal crew members are put into the Bounty's open launch and set adrift. The remaining pages are dedicated to those left behind on the Bounty, both mutineer and loyalists.
"Men Against the Sea" tells the story of Bligh and the other loyal crewmembers who were stranded with him in the launch, and of thier gripping journey back to civilized land, covering some 3600 miles according to the book.
"Pitcairn's Island" continues the saga by finishing the stories of Fletcher Christian and his small band of remaining mutineers trip to the deserted island of the same name. There they set up a safe haven to hide in, until the Tahitian men rebel...
I read this book, unable to put it down. All three of the stories are amazingly gripping and this book is a true page-turner in every respect. Maybe being on a tropical island added something to it, I may never know, but I would certainly recommend this to anyone who just wants a really good story!

The subject matter is engrossing and will leave you wanting for more when it's all done. I'm a sometime visitor to Pitcairn Island's website, check there to see how the decendants of the original crewmembers are doing :)

The Bounty mutiny is perhaps the most fascinating and stirring sea adventure in world history, even more so than the TITANIC. Hough's book is an excellent reexamination of the story and of the complex relationship between William Bligh and Fletcher Christian. While I don't agree with Hough's conclusions as to what was really at the heart of the mutiny (I won't spoil it for you by revealing that here) the relationship was combustible and was at the heart of the mutiny.

The Bounty crew were for the most part hand-picked and young. Christian was only in his early 20s, Bligh was in his early 30s and only a very few of the crew were in their late 30s or early 40s. Despite the popular image of the story, Bligh was actually pretty lenient with his crew when it came to punishment and he made it all the way to Tahiti losing only a single man. During his epic open boat voyage after the mutiny, he made it to Coupang having lost only one man en route, although many of the survivors died within weeks of their rescue. Bligh was a complainer, a nagger and had a viciously sharp tongue though which was more than the youthful Christian could bear.

Far from the heroic image that Christian is given in the movies, Hough shows that Christian was impulsive and not much of a leader. While Bligh, sharp tongue and all, was able to save nearly all of the men who were kicked off the ship with him, Christian and his men met with disaster at almost every turn, primarily because Christian was a failure as a leader. The mutineers' disastrous attempt to settle on Pitcairn Island is perhaps the most gripping and fascinating part of the story.

Hough's book is excellent and the Mel Gibson/Anthony Hopkins movie "The Bounty" was based on it and is by far the most authentic and best of the Bounty movies.

One would think this was a work of fiction, since leprechauns do not actually exist (here in the US, anyway). However, the Library of Congress has cataloged it as nonfiction under the topic of Love--and rightly so. This book is a beautifully illustrated collection of letters between a boy and a supposed leprechaun, who is actually the boy's very patient and creative father.

Toward the end of the book, the narrator says he never saw a photograph of the leprechaun. On the next page, the illustration is of the narrator looking at a framed photo, the back of which is to the reader. To the adult reader, the companion text makes it obvious that the narrator knows that his father was the leprechaun and that perhaps the father has died. But it would be quite a leap for the book's 4- to 8-year old audience to make those connections.

It really is a charming book, but plan on reading it with younger children so they are not left confused or unsatisfied with the story.

This charming tale has much usefulness for a classroom setting. It ties in with the themes of writing, friendship, families, imagination, St. Patrick's Day and Leprechauns. A book with this many possibilities for curriculum tie-in is worth the expenditure for school and public libraries.

I have never seen a leprechaun, but author Martin N. Burton made me feel as if I was experiencing the magic of the leprechaun who was his childhood friend. The well written story is the reason why I loved this book and why I loved reading it to my own children. The writing style is fun for young readers and for their parents who may find themselves reading out loud in an unintentional Irish brogue.

Mr. Burton captures the gentle magic of childhood that is enhanced by loving parents and lasts a lifetime. The friendship and love revealed between the child and his father makes this a perfect story for Father's Day. If your children believe in fairies, Santa, and other magical beings, they will find irresistible the possibility that they can have their own leprechaun friend.

Dear Mr. Leprechaun discretely encourages children to write their own letters so they too can discover what might happen. The illustrations are beautiful and convey the magical world of childhood.

Thomas Jefferson spent the last decade of his long and remarkable life designing and building the University of Virginia. In this book Wills does not reach the profound insights found in his longer works on the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address, nor does he try to. Instead he describes the aging Jefferson's artistic vision and his determination to found a seat of higher learning -an academic village in central Virginia- to compete with Harvard and Princeton and the other northern schools. Jefferson was challenged, notes Wills, by religious disputes in Virginia, financial limitations from the state legislature, and petty jealousies among the state's small elite. Relying on guidance from various architects and planners, Jefferson laid out the grounds and designed the buildings while fighting continuous political battles over funding and staff.

This little book can be read in an afternoon, but it provides wonderful detail to the academic and architectural legacy of Thomas Jefferson. The only failing is the shortage of illustrations -photos and architectural sketches. If a dozen more photos of the site were included, it would be a perfect book for Jefferson fans.

This book provides a detailed and in-depth look at Thomas Jefferson's University of Virginia.

The Prologue provides an overview of the architecture of the Academical Village, including the Pavilions, the Lawn and the Range, and Serpentine Walls, etc.

Chapter One chronicles the extraordinary efforts that Jefferson had put in to create the University. He had to fight every step of the way for funding, for site selection, and for recruiting faculties that he wanted, not what the Virginian Assembly had in mind at the time.

Chapter Two looks at how he had envisioned his University to be; how the architecture tied in with his vision of a school as a counter-weight to the establishments in the north (Yale/Harvard) and the Old World.

Chapter Three drew parallels between Jefferson's plantation Monticello and the Academical Village.

Chapter Four details one of the most talented architects, Latrobe's contribution to the architecture of the University, and subsequent and controversial remodelings of the Rotunda by Stanford White.

Chapter Five discusses the first faculties and students. Recruiting the faculties had been difficult since the University was so new and luring talents from the north was almost impossible. In addition, Jefferson's vision of having an institute for southern plantation owners resulted in a violent culture in the University in the first years.

The Epilogue looks at the University after Jefferson, how it grew and kept up its promise.

This is an excellent book about UVa. As an alumni, I am embarrassed to say that before reading this book, I had not paid enough attention to the Lawn. For example, I always thought that all the Pavilions were identical. I was not aware of the educational values of the serpentine walls. I heard of Stanford White's redesigning of the Rotunda, but until this book I've never seen a picture of it. And above all, I could not have imagined how much difficulties Jefferson had encountered, and how proud he was at achieving this impossible dream. I would highly recommend this book to UVA students and alumni, and all who's visiting Charlottesville. I am so proud of being a UVa grad!

Although a slim volume, Gary Wills has packed this book full with information about this period in Jefferson's life that most other biographers - and I've read 22 - missed. Starting a university from scratch is just about more than one man, even Jefferson, could handle. He had to design the buidings, the dorms and rooms for the students and professors, and then hire the professors from all over the world, then make sure it ran properly even down to the rowdiness of the students. And all of this in the decade prior to his death, while he was in his 70's. That the university continues today in his spirit is a strong testament to his original thinking, his designs, and his vision for the future. This is a short book that can easily be read in one sitting, and well worth it.

I read this book and was amazed at the bizareness of it, so I had to see the show! It is everything they say; where do these guys get their ideas? Of course, I had to try the coconut beer battered Spam.......delicious!

I must read for anyone thinking of coming to Alaska!

This is pretty much right on about the state of things in our Great State. People from Outside will scratch their heads at somethings, but let me tell you, it's all (just about) true! A great memory for a great state, or a good thing to send out when you are just tired of trying to explain the better things of life on the Last Frontier. Long live Spam...

From the moment I opened the sleazy pages of this political and moral incorrectness, I was moved. I was also in the bathroom at the time, but anyway,I was amazed at the humor , it's unique, clever and inventive. Something someone might expect if you visited a class full of third graders who were mutants, childish humor expressed in such an intellegent way, to make the stonchiest old republican titter. It really captures the crazy lifestyle of those isolated Alaskans and endears them to my heart. Because Iam one by the way has no bearing on this review...I'll be the first to tell you there are some real home grown stinkers come outa here ... Anyway, if you've got a funny bone grease it up and sit back with this book, it's got enough stories of fun, when passed on, It'll make you the highlight of many parties to come!! I highly recommend this creature for reading. A million laughs!! Thanks!!, Diva that digs it.

this is one of the best books ever. being in Geometry and using the pythagorean theorem, deals A LOT with numbers being squared. with the neat little trick i learned in this book, i hardly ever use my calculator if the number is around 50 or any multiple of 50. it has saved a lot of my time and i am not kidding, Mr. Feynman is a genius. WOW!!! =)

I read Surely Your Joking for the 1st time in late 1987. My daughter got if for me at my request for my birthday. Actually I asked her for something by Phillip Morrison but while she was shopping in the San Jose State bookstore she forgot what physicist I was interested and got Feynman's book instead.

I'm glad she made that innocent mistake. Feynman knocked me out. Raymond Todd's reading on the 10 CD audio set is outstanding. I'm buying my daughter a set for herself.

Feynman's thinking style is not "linear." This is the reason he was able to break out of the box, and make the profound breakthroughs that were his mark. One anecdote after another illustrates this in a most enjoyable and enlightening way.

For example, as a lad he wanted to learn real mathematics. The librarian wouldn't allow him to borrow advanced math books, so he said they were for someone else, someone older. Reading book after book, he taught himself mathematics. He ended up learning some advanced math uniquely his way. Years later, while still in graduate school, he was recruited to work on the Manhattan project (which developed the atom bomb). When other mathematicians who used conventional math treatments were stumped, Feynman was able to make breakthrough using a math style unique to him-non-linear.

And, by the way, quantum mechanics is not linear, either. This was one of the most enjoyable reads ever.

But be assured it's no more than that. Jackie is an engineer that is working on a project to dispose of nuclear waste. When she moves to San Francisco she joins a dating service, appropriately named Mates and Dates, in search of Mr. Right. I didn't think a person could find so many Mr. Wrongs. Why she put up with some of them was beyond me.

I found the writing flat and lacking in wit. The characters spend a lot of time going out to dinner and sampling wine or coffee. The conversations are simple and straightforward with no banter or clever repartee. I would give this one a 3.5 if that option were available. It's amusing enough if you are in the mood for a light read. Kelsana 5/17/01

I couldn't put this charming novel down as I got so attached to the interesting characters and I really loved the witty humor. Since I have done a lot of videodating, I related to the twists and turns that kept my attention throughout. A very fun read that you will enjoy!

Sometimes fiction is truer than life. Looking for Mr. Butterfingers is an all too familiar look at real world dating in the 90s. This is a fun, entertaining read that will leave you smiling, laughing, and reminiscing about your own life. It would make a wonderful movie.

Before buying this book you should be aware that Mr Food's favorite ingredient is a can of soup - tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup being his favorites. Most recipes consist of a couple of common prepared items such as soup, soy sauce, canned fruits and vegetables, or bottled dressing combined with the chicken. There are a handful of simple from scratch recipes, but the bulk of these recipes are similar to those found in advertisement to promote the use of a particular convenience item. These are for the most part very good versions of this style of cooking and I enjoy using them every now and them. Some people think this is the only way to cook and others turn up their nose at it. Just be forewarned that while you will get quick and tasty, you are not going to get fresh and healthy or anything remotely authentic.

I have about 8 of his cookbooks.

Can we talk? I sooo can't cook. Not at all. I have trouble boiling water and scrambling eggs. And even I can make a recipe out of this book.

Mr. Food is better (and funnier!) then my high school home ec teacher. His recipes are simple, with basic ingrediants, and most importantly - are delicious.

I have a few stand by favorites and every now and again, I'll try a recipe that's "new". This is by far one of my favorite cookbooks.

Whether you're an experienced cook or a (ahem!) novice like myself, I highly recommend this book.

IF you love action packed eciting books you should read Dr.Jekyll and Mr.Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. This thriller made me want to turn the page every second. It takes place in a very old town in London. It is about a kind doctor named Henry Jekyll. He creates a potion that turned him into a destructive crazy person named Edward Hyde. Not one single person in the small town expects the truth, that it's Dr.Henry Jekyll. What do you think the towns people will do when they find out it's Henry? You'll have to read the rest of this fantastic,and exciting book. If you like this book I recommoned you read "Kidnapped" also by robert Louis Stevenson!

If you love action packed book you should read Dr.Jekyll and Mr.Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.It's about a kind docter named Henry Jekyll,he makes a potiont that turns him into the weirdist scareist creature. No one expects it's the kind Dr.Jekyll.This story takes place in London.I think this is the greatest book of the year, because of all the exitment and action in it. If you liked this book I think you should read kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson.

If you like exciting books you will love Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson! The story takes place in olden day London. Dr. Henry Jekyll is a kind and caring person. Mr. Edward Hyde is a destructive crazed lunatic! With this distructive creature on the loose no one suspects that this monster is really their loving Dr. Jekyll. It was very a exciting book I couldn't wait to turn the page. If you like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde you would also like Kidnapped also by Robert Louis Stevenson.

Although this author does give some good advice, the rest of what she says is too old-fashioned to be of any use. My biggest problem with this book is its size. Only 63 pages long! DEFINATELY not worth the price. For the same amount you can purchase both "Rules" books, and they are much better.

I thought this book was great. It was a reference guide that was easy to read and got to the point quickly. It could easily be read in a weekend and showed me exactly what to do to meet my "Mr. Right". I've never been happier!

I wish they had this kind of advise when I was looking for my life partner. Book is easy to read with a little humor thrown in.

The Gettysburg Address is one of the two most famous speeches in American history, the other being Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream Speech." But Lincoln's speech is the most important oration in our nation's history because before these 271 words were uttered at Gettysburg the United States did not really pay attention to the opening lines of the Declaration of Independence and the idea that "all men are created equal." At the dedication of the National Cemetary at Gettysburg Lincoln declared that those who died did so in defense of that proposition. From that point on, all of the advances in civil rights in this country can be tied to the Gettysburg Address. When the nation was founded "men" meant free, adult, white, male, property owners. Consider today what is meant by "men" when we talk about equality in this country and you have an idea of what Lincoln set in motion. Without Lincoln's speech and the Union winning the Civil War, King would never have given his speech.

The only real shortcoming of "Just a Few Words, Mr. Lincoln: The Story of the Gettysbug Address" by Jean Fritz is that it fails to address the significance of the oration beyond the idea that it was a speech to remember. Fritz focuses on the story, both in general terms of the Civil War and the importance of the Battle of Gettysburg, and the specifics of the occasion for the speech, including the sickness of Lincoln's son Tad and the lengthy oration by Edward Everett. The complete text of the speech is provided at the back of the book, which is a Level 3 All Aboard Reading book aimed at grades 2-3. The illustrations are mostly watercolors by Charles Robinson although there are also some historic photographs of Lincoln and his son. The important thing is that here is a book that tells the story of a great American speech and at least introduces to young students the idea that words can make a difference in the history of a nation.

The Gettysburg Address is one of the two most famous speeches in American history, the other being Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream Speech." But Lincoln's speech is the most important oration in our nation's history because before these 271 words were uttered at Gettysburg the United States did not really pay attention to the opening lines of the Declaration of Independence and the idea that "all men are created equal." At the dedication of the National Cemetary at Gettysburg Lincoln declared that those who died did so in defense of that proposition. From that point on, all of the advances in civil rights in this country can be tied to the Gettysburg Address. When the nation was founded "men" meant free, adult, white, male, property owners. Consider today what is meant by "men" when we talk about equality in this country and you have an idea of what Lincoln set in motion. Without Lincoln's speech and the Union winning the Civil War, King would never have given his speech.

The only real shortcoming of "Just a Few Words, Mr. Lincoln: The Story of the Gettysbug Address" by Jean Fritz is that it fails to address the significance of the oration beyond the idea that it was a speech to remember. Fritz focuses on the story, both in general terms of the Civil War and the importance of the Battle of Gettysburg, and the specifics of the occasion for the speech, including the sickness of Lincoln's son Tad and the lengthy oration by Edward Everett. The complete text of the speech is provided at the back of the book, which is a Level 3 All Aboard Reading book aimed at grades 2-3. The illustrations are mostly watercolors by Charles Robinson although there are also some historic photographs of Lincoln and his son. The important thing is that here is a book that tells the story of a great American speech and at least introduces to young students the idea that words can make a difference in the history of a nation.

This is a fun book that should help your youngster develop an interest in American History. It is easy to read an has great illustratiions. You will not be disappointed with this purchase. Look for others by the same author.