There are not too many books on Jade, so I'm glad I found this one. It was pretty informative and had very nice photographs illustrating the author's points. It's worth it if you're in the jewelry business and want to know more about jade, and it's good for any jade collector. I found the information to be accurate.

Like all of the Fred Ward Gem Books Series, this is an instant classic. It features National Geographic quality photos, no surprise since Ward has photographed/authored a number of articles for that magazine. My favorite section deals with the jade from Meso-America, used by the Olmec, Mayan and Aztec civilizations. But it also contains much on Burmese and Chinese jade. This is simply an outstanding book. Buy it.

I am very disappointed and angry that a book published in 1984 by Vincent T. Covello and Yuji Yoshimura as co authors should now, since Mr Yoshimura has died and cannot comment, is describing Mr Yoshimura as a mere contributor. We all know that the Yoshimura name sold the book!

You will never look at rocks the same after reading this book.

Mr. Yoshimura and Dr. Covello provide all the basics of viewing stone development, preparation and appreciation. All material is well-written and presented in an easy-to-understand method that makes one want to begin this art immediately.

Grounded in the oldest form of East Asian Massage, Japanese hot stone massage techniques create similar effects to moxibustion, in that heat penetrates and stimulates the tsubo, or acupoints. However, a hot stone massage combines techniques of acupuncture, moxibustion, and massage for a complete therapeutic treatment. This text is the first Western presentation of hot stone massage, and begins with an overview of history and tradition, theoretical basis, and basic techniques. Further chapters explain the basics of application and proper body mechanics, techniques for the posterior upper extremities, posterior lower extremities, anterior upper extremities, anterior lower extremities, and techniques for finishing treatment. The lesson-by-lesson format is methodical and thoroughly detailed by photos and bulleted information points, enabling the reader to quickly confirm fine points of application. Practitioners will surely appreciate this powerful therapeutic addition to their treatment repertoire.

I recently purchased this book along with 2 video tapes (which I HIGHLY recommend doing...)
You are guided so thoroughly through this book - you can't help but learn some great techniques.
The illustrations are large and easy to follow.
A Getting Started Guide along with an Ancient Wisdom and Benefits is included.
[Please know that there is a "Note to the Reader" included that states that the book is written specifically for massage therapist and other health professionals. Prior professional massage training is required and this is not intended for the layperson.]

These techniques are easily adaptable to existing hot stone treatments and can help offer your clients not only a new exciting treatment - but also receive a gentle, stress-relieving massage.

I highly recommend it!

Although the language is a little advanced for early readers, the story is very tellable. There are many threads to this story that come to life through the illustrations. The story is told in an interesting, dynamic way that gives pause for wonder, such as the conversation between Sir Ector and his son Sir Kay. Their personalities come through and we can appreciate the types of men they are. Another moment is when Merlin plans the timing for Arthur to draw the sword from the stone. When, asks Arthur. "After all have tried and failed, whenever that may be," replies Merlin.

A dynamic painting of a tournament with thundering hooves, flying pennants, and lances at the ready illustrates perfectly our idea of a medieval joust. The illustrations seem cinematic in that they always shift the viewpoint. Now we see the action from street level; in the next picture we view a crowd scene from above. We are comfortable with such shifts from movies and TV.

The illustrations evoke "chivalrous" ideas. The son, grieving that he has to leave his father's house, rises bravely to Merlin's bidding in a sequence that culminates in the "Youth Triumphant" painting, when the young Arthur raises the sword over his head. The idea of "chivalry", respect for one's elders, telling the truth, and being brave is well interwoven and are excellent topics to discuss with children.

The final picture, the crowned Arthur dressed in white and gold, holding the sword in his hands under the white blossoms of a tree, is such an archetype of the young, white hero that it verges on the comical. But I have to remember that this is a children's book, and mine will get enough of my cynical views when he's ready for it, later.

I recommend this book for 6 and up. The young ones will love to be read to, and the older ones will enjoy reading it.

This is a great book based on the original Arthurian legend. If i could, I'd give it more than 5 stars. Arthur is given to Merlin by Uther Pendragon and is raised by Sir Kay. When his "brother" forgets to bring his sword, Arthur...if I said anymore, it'd get carried away and I'd give away the ending.

Linda Kranz has created a virtually new art form for families. Of course, rock painting is an ancient art, but how many families have been having fun lately creating stone pizzas, footballs, and messages of love? The color photography and multiple examples are great and very appealing. No one could ask for directions that are more clear and precise. The best part of the volume may well be all the great patterns at the end of the book. This is a terrfic family book. Highly recommended. BOTH kids and parents will love this one!

Let's Rock is a terrific "hands on" introduction to rock painting for kids...but don't let the title keep the "big kids" (adults) from picking this book up for themselves. Author/artist, Linda Kranz, has provided the artist hiding in all of us to look at the rocks that surround us through a different set of eyes and then to transform them into delightful, miniature works of art. I have worked in the arts and crafts field for nearly 30 years and finding "how to" books that truly show each step from materials, patterns, and easy to apply techniques that will give the user the same professional looking finished product are not always available. "Let's Rock," however, provides that and more. Each step is shown in full color and is easy to follow for kids and adults and all of the designs displayed are included among the over 100 patterns that are inside the book. If you ever felt the desire to paint and were afraid that you didn't have the talent, "Let's Rock" will introduce you to the brush in a delightful way that will have you painting with joy and whimsy.

this book is filled with personal correspondence between a pennsylvania farmer and england in the first years of America. A wonderful journey thru time . Filled with details of life and the area and the wonders of america . Written in the words and style of a lost time . From the way he writes about his wifes daily chores to the hardship tragedy and beauty of his new home you can not but feel you are truly getting letters from a friend . fabulous read

These original essay length letters composed by an intelligent and imaginative immigrant offer us a fascinating glimpse into life in early America. The letters chronicle his travels across the thirteen colonies in the years leading up to the revolution. With pathos and humour he gives us an intimate look at family life in the whaling ports of Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard. We visit with John Bertram, the celebrated botanist on his Pennsylvania farm. We are escorted through the middle colonies to Charelston for a first hand look at the opulent lifestyle of the planters. Our guide points out the absurdities he confronts while chronicling the beauty and diversity of the natural landscape. This book provides a wonderful and historic experience.

Thoroughly readable with clear exercises to put you on your own path as a co-creater. Only one detracting comment:-not everyone lives in the US. Well-I had to say that.

It made me feel elevated to new heights whenI started browsing through the book.Methods and meditations to elevate one self to the level of Co-creator are very well written.This book encouraged me to look at the worldin a different perspective.Chapter on prosperity along with meditations are very good. A must book for all the people who want to be creators and make the planeta beautiful place to live.

The best book on the authentication and dating of stone items I have ever seen. A complete guide suitable for study or browsing. I even read mine in bed!!!

Andrefsky, pulls together great narration and drawings that make complex physics look easy. This book will help any one understand what is involved in lithic tool production, and shed some light and interesting insight for those that consider themselves advanced in lithic tool study. This is a great addition to the cambridge books on archaeology.

Thomas Hale's writing is beautiful and his adventures as a Christian medical missionary in Nepal are even more splendid. I just couldn't put this book down. After reading this book I have found the strength to continue plugging through my medical school requirements!

Dr. Thomas Hale has given us an opportunity to experience the trials, tribulations and triumphs, but more importantly, the inspiration that he and his wife have been so fortunate to have been a part of. His writing style is not only easy to read, but it compels you to want to read more. It is a wonderful diary of his medical mission experience over the years and is a treat for those who want to go to Nepal or anywhere else to do missions.

Never a dull moment in this adventure horror novel. I would love to see a movie made from this book. Don't miss out on this adventure. You will finish this book wanting more! I am looking forward to reading the authors next novel.

Exciting and adventurous!! Never a dull moment in this adventure horror novel. I would love to see a movie made from this book!!
You will finish this book wanting more. The authors writing is superb and you feel as though you are right there.
Iam looking forward to the authors next novel!!