I never really followed women's basketball until I saw a news interview on TV after Pat Summitt and the Lady Vols had lost to UConn. I decided to look up this coach on the internet and discovered that she was a legend in her on right. I was embarrassed because I knew absolutely nothing about her.

The book is easy reading and entertaining. It made me laugh, as somethings were just down right funny. I like the outline of the book as it gives short interviews of various players after most chapters. I enjoyed Pat's concise summary of her players character and her dealing with the various issues and problems they faced. She gives a vivid picture of the going on inside a basketball team. She shows an uncanny ability to mold and shape women into winners and all the while, she was willing to make adjustment in herself. Greatness may start with one person, but it can never remain great until it has a supporting cast. Pat her coaches and her players gave us a peek inside greatness and most of all a real life story that got them there.

An undefeated season, a national championship, an astoundingly talented freshman class combined with the experience and ability of the veterans -- Tennessee's '98 season is one to remember. In this book, Summitt tells us what is was like to live the season. I saw the Lady Vols play in the NCAA Tournament at Vanderbilt University, as an Illinois fan. I thought that if I heard "Rocky Top" one more time I would scream. By the end of the game, I was singing along. The "Meeks," Kellie Jolly, Ace Clement, Geter -- they bring such excitement to the women's basketball game --- it's contagious! I am a high school girl's coach and have encouraged my team to read this book, and "Reach for The Summitt". Whether you are already a fan of collegiate women's basketball, or are simply looking for a motivational and inspiring book, you will be a fan after reading this book. Women's basketball has needed the Tennessee Lady Vols to elevate the game and bring it the attention it deserves. Of course, I'm still an Illini at heart.

In her "down-home" easy to understand way Pat Summitt writes an incredible book! If you get this one you should also get "Reach for the Summitt". These two books should be required reading for women in general! If I had girls that wanted to play B-ball, they would be going to Tennessee!

"The Eagle & the Monk" reaches out to the reader, laying aside the traditionally bland garb of the "business book" in favor of a story, and, in the process, hands the reader the most honest tools for dealing with change. The book presents 7 Principles that force us to refocus our attention from the cause and effect EVENTS of change to the HUMAN BEINGS involved in change. It is the human beings who place trust in one another and value each others' worth, who form the teams and create synergy, thereby creating successful change. This book makes its point through two characters whose situations must, in some way, reflect situations in which we have all found ourselves. The symbolism is direct, and the stories of the characters touching and inspiring enough to force even the most stiff executive to rethink his or her concept of how change is effective. We need more books that encourage us to positively interact with one another to produce such successes.

As a rabbi, I seldom read books about business. The fable format of E & M, however, was so compelling that I could not put it down. Change is a part of all of our lives. The authors make a convincing case for the need to embrace rather than resist it. They then show us how to do so effectively. The teachings of this book apply not only to business but to all aspects of life and relationships. The EAGLE & THE MONK could become a classic! I plan to use it for staff and Board retreats at my synagogue. Stephen Fuchs, Congregation Beth Israel West Hartford, CT

Books about change often overlook the inward look that must occur to make change happen. "The Eagle and the Monk" goes to the heart of the matter by addressing basic human needs - self-worth, accepting the worth of others, trust, etc. I can't think of any positive changes that have happened in my personal or professional life that wasn't preceeded by trust. This is a book I'll pick up again and again -- and will pass on to my co-workers, friends and family. Donna Culver

BEVERLY JENKINS IS THE GREATEST. I HAVE ACQUIRED A LOT OF HISTORY & KNOWLEDGE, IN ADDITION I WAS ABLE TO ACQUIRE ADDITIONAL RESEARCH DUE TO THE BOOKS I READ BY HER. THE ROMANCE IS DONE IN A FASHION THAT EVERY WOMAN (BLACK ESPECIALLY) WOULD LOVE TO BE TREATED & SOME IS TREATED. MS. JENKINS HAS THE TALENT TO WRITE A BOOK THAT MAKES A WOMAN APPRECIATE WHO/WHERE/WHEN SHE CAME. WITH MY HUSBAND HAVING PRIOR MILITARY EXPERIENCE, I HAVE THROUGHLY ENJOYED THE BUFFALO SOLDIER SERIES. I AM WAITING FOR 8/98 RELEASE. I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO GET OTHER FRIEND & FAMILY INTO READING HER BOOKS. WITH THIS ADDITIONAL CONVERSATIONAL PIECE & WE'VE TALKED ABOUT THE HISTORY AS WELL AS THE ROMANCE IN THE BOOK. AGAIN, IF YOU WANT GOOD, INTERESTING, EDUCATIONAL AND STIMULATING READING, GO TO THE STORE & REQUEST HER BOOKS. THANKS FOR THE EDUCATION.

If only this was true!!! NightSong is the second book i read by Beverly Jenkins. I was not disappointed. The "schoolmarm" and the Sergeant, battled not only each other's wits but overwhelming social injustices and emotional baggages from their past. Although the erotic scenes between the two were quite racy, a thread of tenderness grew between them to become the golden cord that binds their lives with a "grand passion". Chase's dogged determination to salvage Cara's reputation as she teetered on the brink of death is wonderfully rewarded by the fulfillment of dreams he never thought would be his own. I loved the historical accounting of the Buffalo Soldiers, as I am a military and black history buff. Beverly Jenkins is so thorough, and her attention to details keeps the pages turning.

Regardless of your race, if you like romance novels, you'll love Beverly Jenkins...I was introduced to Beverly Jenkins in 1996! I'd purchased Vivid and Night Song together because of the beautiful people on the cover. But, I was reluctant to dive in because I wasn't sure what to expect. Well after reading those 2 back to back, I was hooked. Every trip to the book store since, leads me to the romance section in search of a new Beverly Jenkins release. Since that time in 1996, I've purchased and read Indigo, Topaz and Through The Storm...Beverly Jenkins is the queen of historical black romance! I can't wait to get my hands on her latest, "The Taming Of Jesse Rose" *****(5 stars!)

This is a great book for learning all about how to make glass beads. It is packed with beautiful color photos. Each technique is both demonstrated and explained in clear step by step instructions.

The author first covers a brief history, then talks about materials, tools and safety. Next, she explains the basics of making beads. Many variations are then explained, including making different shapes, raking colors & adding stripes.

More advanced techniques including mixing colors, adding metal, furrowing & adding surface treatments. She also explains how to make millefiori canes, cased beads, filigranas, latticinos, hollow beads, buttons & marbles.

There are 3 wonderful appendices in the back covering jewelry-making basics, the nature of glass and trouble shooting tips. My only wish for this book was that a list of suppliers was included.

Other glass bead making how-to authors, beware! The best book on the subject has already been written. Ms. Jenkins has included beautiful photographs of beads which are sufficient inspiration to recommend her work. However, it is the detail, and detailed photos, of how to proceed with bead making that make this book an invaluable asset. For several years I have resisted the idea of making my own beads - this book has severely dented my unwillingness to embark on that aspect of my obsession with beads. Ms. Jenkins is to be congratulated for authoring such a thorough and beautiful work.

After reading Cindy's book, my stained glass studio got a total makeover and is now a glass bead making studio. Cindy's easy read, good basic step by step instruction and choice of beautiful and inspiring photographs had me hooked. I carried this book under my right arm for about 3 months and still keep it within arms reach if for no other reason to get inspired by one of the many talented artists featured in Cindy's book. I would recommend this to anyone the least bit interested in glass beads, whether wanting to make them, collect them or just look at them. Thank you Cindy, I'm having a blast!

Jaded by contemporary novels and so called historical romances, I was drawn by the cover of "Topaz". I read the back and it never saw the rack again. Thus began a renewed love for the genre of historical romances. This book combined all of my interests in westerns, mysteries, black history, and romance. Kate Love's independence and sharp wit was wonderfully tempered by the magnaminous Marshall Dix Wildhorse. "Topaz" reminds me of "The Taming of the Shrew", but with more sass and flare. I laughed out loud, cried at times, and turned each page with my breath bated in anticipation. I learned so much about the lesser-known people of the western frontier of the late 1800's. Beverly Jenkins is truly a scholar and a gifted storyteller. There are even historical references at the back!!! I want to make Beverly Jenkins my best-friend, I think we share a healthy appreciation of a gorgeous black man with a thick moustache.

This was the first book I read by Beverly Jenkins and I thought it was absolutely excellent. The characters of Catherine Love and Marshall Dixon Wildhorse are believable. Dixon is a very honorable and forceful, and soooo romantic. I couldn't stop reading until I finished it. I also read Night Song by the same author and really enjoyed it.

Is Jenkins the best historical romance novelist of all times or what!! Well she is in my book. I loved Topaz. This novel was very rich in Black Seminole and African American history,"American History." The characters in this one are truly unforgettable. Dixon Wildhorse was a man after my own heart. I reall don't blame Kate Love for falling in love with Dix even though the circumstances would suggest her dislike for him. I loved the way their love developed for each other over time. Even more Jenkins once again created characters that will be remembered for a long time to come. It is one thing to have a great romance in a book, but when you add great history, great characters, and a great connection of all those things, the novel is truly in a class all by itself. That ladies and gentlemen, can also be said about the author of that great novel. Love you work, you, Beverly Jenkins, are truly in a class by yourself!!

A friend recommended Ms. Jenkin's book to me some time ago but I didn't pick one up until recently. I an now a die-hard fan! I am a African-American history buff and what Beverly has done is absolutely extraordinary. She has combined sensual, beautiful and romantic tales with actual African-American historical facts. I read "Always and Forever" in one day! Once I finished that I rushed out to purchase "The Taming of Jessie Rose". Needless to say I have all of her books now except "Vivid". My favorite Beverly Jenkin's novel is "Indigo". I loved the strong-willed, intelligent "Hester Wyatt" and the handsome, charming and dashing "Galen Vachon". I love "period" movies and "Indigo" would make a wonderful movie. It would also be a vehicle to allow the many talented African-American actors and actresses to showcase their skills. I can almost visualize Shemar Moore portraying the dashing Galeno Vachon and Cress Williams (from the now cancelled show "Living Single") portraying his loyal friend "Raimond Leveq". But I digress; Ms. Jenkins is truly talented and I hope she continues to bless us with her pheonomenal talent.

Beverly Jenkins is just simply an incredible, multi-talented author. "Always and Forever" was a wonderful reading experience. This novel has so much to offer. The story of woman banker and cowboy taking a group of "mail order brides" cross country touched me in so many ways. From start to finish I was there with them -- I laughed, I cried, I felt their pain, their joy, their fear and their frustrations. It's such a heart-rendering story. Ms. Jenkins is noted for weaving quite a bit of real life history into her stories. She caught my attention and I fell hard for her novels when I read "Vivid". Since that time, I've read each and every one of her novels ("Vivid, Night Song, Topaz, Indigo, Through the Storm, and The Taming of Jessi Rose"). My advice to all of you, who want read a great novel, with a touch of historical facts, Beverly Jenkins is one author you want to add to your to buy list and one you'll want keep on that list. Every time I say she can't possibly improve on this last novel, she proves me wrong by doing the possible by generating another great book. Keep it up Beverly.

I vaguely remember picking up my first Beverly Jenkins' novel. I was intrigued by the attractive African American couple posing against a western, historical background. Now I anxiously look forward each fall, to her annual contribution to the genre of romantic black history. Beverly's romance writing is as embedding as a brand. Jenkins has established a loyal readership because of her ability to develop characters like Grace Atwood and Jackson Blake, whose personalities clash and ignite right on the pages of her book. "Always and Forever", is an ample mix of adventure, courage, perserverance, sexual attraction, action and romantic love. You will immediately become "pulled", into the fiery love match between Grace and Jackson. These two are the epitomy of what true love is all about. "Always and Forever" is another excellent romantic adventure by Beverly E. Jenkins.

Joe Jenkins is a great guy with a great message to spread. He wakes up his readers to the possibilities of a greatly overlooked resource. Many people, like myself, probably have thought about the use of humane manure for garden fertilizer, but it seemed too crazy. Jenkins EMPOWERS us to take advantage of our byproducts, and shows us that there's nothing to fear! Humanmanure composting makes SO much sense. It provides needed fertilizer, reduces pollution, and reduces the need for huge, dirty sewage infrastructure. It's a shame that so many toilets continue to flush every day.

I am currently doing grass-roots development work in rural Bolivia, and am hoping to implement humanure composting in the way Jenkins teaches it. This low-tech technology has SUCH tremendous potential in the developing world, where farmers ALWAYS need more fertilizer, and where there are often not even latrines, let alone sewage systems. Excrement usually just lies about, eaten by pigs and dogs, or leaking into water sources, thus continuing the viscous cycle of parasite diseases.

Joe Jenkins has empowered me to do what makes sense by nature and recycle precious organic nutrients. Everyone should read this book and wake up to these fecal realities. I read his book over a year ago, and am still so excited that I'm considering doing humanure research for my PhD! Read away...

I think the information contained in this book should be common knowledge and these methods used throughout the world. This would be one of the answers to help save our earth's precious drinking water, which we as a race so shamefully waste. The reading is light, informative, "can't put the book down" sort of book, plus hilarious too. If you are into self-sufficiency, back to basics, simplicity, homesteading the environment, and want to do something about water pollution, this has to be on your shelf, it will save you money and pay for it's self over and over.

What a fun and informative book. Joe's ability to include much needed scientific information in a light hearted and comic way makes the reading truely enjoyable. Composting toilets are catching on for many reasons throughout the world and I see why this book has become a primary source of facts about the whole process of using human manure through a low cost composting method. I have actually used a toilet built to his specs--with the 5 gallon plastic bucket and saw dust--and must say it works. My wife and I are planning to add one of our own to a little cabin on our 80 acre tree farm. Have a laugh and learn how to reduce your impact on the Earth. Read the Humanure Handbook!

"Principles are anchors; without them you will drift." This concept proves to be the underlying theme in Pat Summitt's Reach for the Summit. Summitt, along with Sally Jenkins, describes her numerous experiences as a basketball coach and truly connects both emotionally and mentally with the readers. The various influences Summitt has been affected by, the assorted methods described, and the simple style allows this motivational book to be both effective and inspirational.

In Reach for the Summit, Pat Summitt, head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Vols, draws upon twenty-four years of experience as a triumphant coach to provide motivational advice for those that want to find success in all areas of life. Structured around her "Definite Dozen" system, each of the twelve chapters covers one rule of achievement. Personal anecdotes, basic ethics, and numerous strategies are used throughout the book to provide a solid foundation for her system. One of the most apparent themes that is stressed throughout the book is the fact that very few people know how to achieve success repeatedly. Many people can win once by getting lucky, following their intuition, or practicing a semi-effective short-term formula. Because people have a tendency to lose sight of their priorities, grow content, and abandon their principles, Summitt's book accurately describes how to build a system of effective methods and stick to them. This book will have a lasting value because of its applicability to almost any situation.

Through her amusing stories and few painful memories, Summitt reveals her failures and truimphs as an amateur basketball player, as an Olympic athlete, as a Division I coach, and as a mother. She has become one of the most successful and highest-paid coaches in the country, despite her birth into a hard-working farm family fromn the backwoods of Tennessee. Candidly describing how she personally turned defeat into victory, Summitt then shows the reader how to do the same. However, the content of the book is primarily composed of basketball related incidents and may prove to be tiresome to those who do not share her same admiration for the sport. One of the most sufficient methods of motivation Pat Summitt uses in this book seems to be her thought-provoking rhetorical questions. "What will you do today to better yourself?" "How will you become a more successful person?" The questions enable the reader to analyze the numerous aspects of his or her life.

The diction of this novel proves to be rather simple and understandable, and this characteristic may further add to the content's effectiveness. Descriptive stories support all of her keys to success, and in addition to being useful illustrative tools, the stories are also entertaining and humorous. For example, Coach Summitt tells the story of a freshman post player's tendency of allowing the ball to get knocked out of her hands. Abby Conklin scores and rebounds well but always let some smaller guard slap the ball away from her. During halftime of one of the midseason games in 1997, Coach Summitt shoves a basketball into Abby's stomach and tells her to hold onto the ball for the remainder of the game, take it home, and then carry is around to all her classes on campus the next day. This particular story illustrates the "Discipline yourself so no one else has to" step. Conclusively, this book's strategies prove to be relevant for anyone who wants to establish higher principles.

Personally, I have found Coach Summitt's inspirational methods to be rather practical. I believe that the information she offers, being based on viable experiences, proves to be quite relevant in my life. After reflecting on her tactics, I have gained a much greater respect for athletes and coaches who work at the collegiate level. Additionally, the motivation I obtained form this book will hopefully elevate my level of achievement in school, sports, and the most important game of all-life.

A lot of celebrity sports figure books are full of ghost writer prose and tired cliche's. Many are entertaining, but like a fluffy dessert. Sweet but only empty calories. Not this one. This is meat and potatoes earned the best way--by hard work. Pat Summitt lets you into her head and heart--the head and heart that has achieved unprecendented success not only with women's basketball teams, but as a person, a leader, and an inspiring figure to these young women--and now to millions of fans. I find my self measuring her with a much larger yardstick than "just" one of the best coaches that ever coached basketball. This lady is a champion and would be at whatever she decided to do. This book is worth reading by anyone from the CEO to the janitor--and they will all enjoy it and be better for it. Review by: John L. Mariotti, former President of Huffy Bicycles and Rubbermaid Office Products, now CEO of The Enterprise Group, and author of "The Power of Partnerships" and "The Shape Shifters" --and a Lady Vol fan!

Having long been a fan of Pat Summitt & the Tennessee Lady Vols, I finally got around to reading this book and I must say it was a real eye-opener. You've seen pictures of Pat on tv & in the newspapers, usually in some player's face during a crucial moment of a game & you might think, "this woman is really tough on her players." Well, guess what? She IS tough, and many of the players that she's been toughest on went on to be championship players in the WNBA after getting their degrees at the University Of Tennessee. Other than building championship teams, Pat's main goal is seeing that her players get their education & graduate. Everyone on the team must sit in the 1st 3 rows in their classes and pay attention. After reading this book, I came away with the realization that she really does care about these young women and always made it a point to assure them of this. At times when she knew she'd really have to lean on a player, Pat would contact their parents to give them a heads up so that there would be no misunderstanding. Pat Summitt grew up tough but fair, not afraid of hard work and expecting alot from others. Her Definite Dozen System is easy to apply in any job, in all walks of life. You just have to be determined to overcome adversity and to face every challenge that comes your way. Highly recommended reading for everyone, not just fans of women's basketball.

I am a huge fan of Beverly Jenkins' work. I've read "Night Song" and "Vivid." I could hardly wait to read the next great work she created. "Indigo" was everything I expected. I remembered being introduced to Galen and Hester in "Vivid." The story is rich, lush and romantic. I love how Jenkins presents African-Americans in a positive light. Hester is intelligent, strong, witty and classy. Galen is charming, beguliing, sensitive, romantic and incredibly sexy. You will be swept away in a world of romance, intrigue and lavishness. There are sweet moments as well as a few laughs. I must admit, I like "Vivid" more so than this novel. However, "Indigo" is an excellent book. Not only are Jenkins books entertaining, but informative. Throughout all three of her novels, interesting and historically accurate facts are interwoven into the plot. I suggest "Indigo" to ANY woman who wants to read quality romance novels and not only finish the book with a sense of being entertained, but enlightened.

I have read all of Beverly Jenkins' novels and Indigo is the best novel she has written. All of her books have been enjoyable and educational without feeling like you are in a history class. In Indigo, Ms. Jenkins provides the reader with the ultimate fantasy...Galen is Hester's prince charming. He truly LOVES her. The book takes place during the period in our history of slavery. Ms. Jenkins provides information that some readers may not know about the trials and dangers of the underground railroad. So, Ms. Jenkins is able to entertwine history and romance in a most delightful way! Indigo is more proof that as Ms. Jenkins has said, "What some African-Americans know about their history is that we were slaves and then there was Martin Luther King, Jr." African-Americans have a lot of history that exist between those two time periods and a lot of romance as well. Beverly Jenkins' ability to formulate an excellant historical romance novel dealing with African-American issues is fantastic!

You will enjoy this book...the ultimate fantasy of love...a Prince Charming.

This book is the most beautifully written romantic love story I have ever read. From the characters (Galen and La Petite Indigo), to the storyline and setting, this books was "TOPS". The story had me hooked from the very beginning. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. The love that was expressed had me wishing that I could find my own "Black Daniel". He fell in love with the beautiful Indigo and was determined to show her and everyone else how much she meant to him. I loved this story so much I've read it about 4-5 times. Ms. Jenkins really does a wonderful job when it comes to researching her books. I have read all of her books and she has done a terrific job on every one of them. My other favorite is "Topaz". This was another beautiful love story. I can hardly wait for her next book to come out even before I've finished reading the current one. Beverly Jenkins books are a "must read".

There are times that I think my life was or still is hard. Well, I'm a black female who grew up in a middle-class home with two teachers as parents. College was as automatic as sleeping and eating. But, for these young men in the book "The Pact", college was as uncertain as winning the lottery. I always knew that our young black boys growing up in the inner-city had it super hard, but this book allowed me to see another side of our young brothas. They all have dreams as little kids, even though they don't see anyone in their neighborhood to emulate. Somehow, someway, Sampson Davis, Rameck Hunt and George Jenkins all found the determination to succeed and become doctors. Their positive story is proof that just one person can make a difference in a kid's life. Everyone needs someone to look up to; someone to follow.

We all have gifts we can share. Read this book and feel blessed that someone in your life took the time to mentor you and be there for you; not everyone has that in their lives. I am so proud of these young men! Not only are they smart and positive, but they are cute too! What a great combination! God has truly blessed them and their family.

What a refreshing book. Thanks to Tavis Smiley for recommending it on the Tom Joyner Show.

who are in grade school and face difficulties living in the inner city or ghetto. This book has the capacity to be very inspirational to young, minority men who have a bright future and wish to fulfill dreams that their peers may not. However, if you have no children and are older than, maybe 19 or 20 years of age, this book is just "okay." Regardless, I am very proud of these young, successful men.

"The Pact" is an incredible book! I just finished reading the remarkable journey completed by Drs. Sam Davis, George Jenkins, and Rameck Hunt. It's an easy, quick read ~250 pages.

If you're not familiar with their story, they are 3 young, African-American men from Newark that establish a pact at 17-years old to become doctors. Over the years, they run into many obstacles (peer pressure, arrest, finances, and family issues) that tend to dissuade so many young people from pursuing their dream. With the "I got your back" support of each other, mentors they encountered throughout their journey, and God they become doctors despite how many people had presumed their future would turn out.

Dr. George Jenkins, probably the most focused in the group, knew at a very young age that he wanted to be a dentist. In high school, the three friends attend a college presentation offering full scholarships to minority students interested in the medical field. Knowing that neither he nor his friends could afford college THIS OFFER would be their ONLY way to attend college...the formation of the pact.

Surprisingly, after completing college and med school, Sam and Rameck were still unsure if they wanted to be doctors. Sam saw business/management as his future and Rameck wanted to be an actor (he'll settle on being a rapper). (If I didn't know the outcome, I would have been in suspense until the bitter end waiting to learn if they became doctors.) The death of an important person in each of their lives confirmed that medically helping others is what they were meant to do in life.

If you're in the education field or work closely with children in your community this is an excellent book to pick up when you...

- feel like what can I do to get through to this person
- need a testimony that success is not by luck but achieved through faith, perseverance, and support from others
- need a roadmap to better mentor a person in need

"The Pact" is an amazing story of inspiration and motivation to get (primarily) black teens to see beyond their environment, current situation, and look ahead with a plan for tomorrow. "The Pact" also displays the need for adults to begin mentoring children before they reach their teens. The book concludes with the doctors providing the "how-to's" to make a pact work.