Ok teachers, here is the truth:

Easy to use. Practical. Great table of contents to get the info you need. Each chapter short, direct, and tells you exactly what to do. I don't know how I ever taught reading without this resource. You'll have to hunt to find it (I bought my copy used) but it's worth ALL the effort.

I am a first year teacher and first glanced at the book in a reading methods course. I found that in my first year of teaching it has been very helpful for ideas to boost reading skills. The information is orgainzed for easy access and is very practical for everyday situations

I was priveldged to take a reading methods class from Mrs. Lenski. The book is an excellent source for ideas and strategies to meet the needs of different types of readers. The book is orgnized so that busy teachers can easily find the information they need.

I bought this book to get free shipping (because it was4.99)
I lucked out what a great book !! I could not put it down.
I hope max davis writes more books....

Ok so this isn't rocket science but the book is a valuable tool in an age when little things can wreak havoc in our lives. For some reason there is a bounty of small gems that I have found myself reading, and this is one. Just over 160 pages in length the lessons are common sense but well written. Nine chapters, from 1 When Life Happens 2.Beyond Understanding 3.Honest to God 4. Two Quarters of Grace 5. Nourishing the Soul 6. From Disappointment to Reappointment 7. All I. Need is a Miracle 8 Seven Power Tools for Changing Those Flat Tires In the Rain 9 Moving On.

The 7 Power Tools are #1 Though it may be messy, sometimes you have to step out into the rain and take control #2 We all need help now and then, maybe someone just to hold an umbrella or call the police #3 Stay calm, don't panic; things are rarely as bad as they seem #4 Dont forget to clean up #5 Stop under a sheltering tree or overhang #6 Enjoy the journey and #7 It's ok if your spare tire doesn't fit. This last one doesn't have to do with my car (laughing) but the idea that some of us have that we are supposed to be perfect. I especially appreciate the authors HONEST admission on page 109 about miracles and his statement "The plain truth is this: Miracles don't always happen. But sometimes they do." Trust me believing in miracles is hard for me since I have a hard enough time trusting that God will provide me with the wisdom and direction I need.

But the author is equally wise in sharing how miracles and blessing happen and how they happen rather often. Guess this is why I like the book. It is a combination of hope and common sense. It simply is a small book that is helping me a lot.

If you or anyone you know are going through some challenging times, Max Davis' book is for you. Through simple, yet powerful, stories and metaphors, Max shows you how to navigate all of life's bumpy roads.

Buy it for yourself or give it to someone you love. I did. You'll be glad when you do.

Ever since I was about three (I'm [age] now) I've listened to almost all her stories... my parents recorded them off the radio for me, and i usually listened to them when I went to bed. I still have "jack was born a lazy baby" going through my head. For the longest time, I had memorized the entire story "jack in the army", haints and all... This is probably the most influential part of my childhood, and when I get kids, I'll give them the same tapes I used to have.

Jackie Torrrence has rightly earned a reputation as the "First Lady of Storytelling." She has elevated the art of "porch style telling" to new heights, with her expressive facial and hand gestures, beautiful diction and direct approach to her listeners. Unfortunately, because of medical concerns she is not able to perform any longer, though she continues to work with apprentices in the art.

How fortunate, then, that we have this book of her favorite stories, with wonderful photographs on every page that come very close to capturing the essence of a "Jackie telling." Sprinkled liberally throughout are Jackie's tips for telling these stories, as well as her personal philosophy about the various types of stories included. Most inspiring, though, is her sharing of her personal story, of her positive outlook on life and the will to accept and work with whatever burdens we might face. This volume is highly recommended for lovers of story everywhere.

Until a week ago I was ignorant of Jackie Torrence's existence. "I don't know how effective this book will be for someone who is unfamiliar with this wonderful lady" states an earlier review. After hearing just a snippet on NPR about the book, I rushed to get it, and have truly enjoyed it. Jackie has made me a storyteller! Parents, aunts, uncles, educators, sages, grandparents, and anyone who enjoys entertaining should open this book. Jackie provides traditional stories with cues and suggestions on how to bring the words alive. The book works. I'll never be Jackie, but my nephews love my new-found talent. The photographs are heartwarming.

I re-read Woodworth's excellent treatise on Jefferson Davis and his involvement in the Western Theater. The chapters are succinct and focus more on strategy than in specific battle details. My favorite parts are the reviews at the end of each chapter. I have always believed that Lee's strategy to invade the North rather than deploying his forces in the West was a major blunder. If there is one salient point that screams from this book it is that Jeff Davis' personal relationships with his generals (Polk??) definitely was a detriment to his decision making. This book should be required reading for high school and undergraduate students. Indeed any leader could profit from the analysis and history rendered here.

This book is a must read to understand the generals, campaigns, strategy, and the thinking of Jefferson Davis in the Western Theater. The book is well-written, informative, and features good analysis of the differing generals, Davis' actions, and some very good mini-biographies of the major players. Although the book does not go into major detail about specific battles, Woodworth does give a good overview of the major campaigns and battles of the West. The book also has some interesting theories on why Davis failed in the West. Although I disagreed with some of Woodworth's conclusions, especially regarding Braxton Bragg's capabilities as a commander, I found his arguments well-reasoned, although I thought he went out of his way to bash James Longstreeet. The major sticking point I had with the book was Woodworth's analysis on Bragg and his theory that J.E. Johnston thought the CSA's cause was doomed so he didn't really try to win. I thought that was utter nonsense, but that was really my only quarrel with the book. Well-written, informative, just an excellent book.

After reading 'Davis & Lee at War' I ordered this book from my local book shop and I loved it, more so than the first book. The author explains the relationships between Davis and his Generals who were trusted with the Confederacy's command in the West. That so much damage could be done to the Southern cause by these men in petty infighting is amazing. Beside analysising the Command/Leadership relationships it provides an overview of the battles and fighting in that theatre of operations. I highly recommend this book, it's a great read.

I read this book several years back and loved it. Recently, it came to mind again and I had to hunt it down. I was lucky enough to find a signed first edition. This story is so simple and heartfelt. The story of two men, their relationship, their friends and keen, sweet observations of their friend's relationships. The tragedy is unexpected and deepy moving. Davis prose is so captivating that I really felt as if I was there. Actually, I wanted to be there. I wanted to help these people and spend a sunny afternoon having cocktails on beach with them. I really do not want to say much about the story, it needs to be experienced by the reader. If you can find this and take the journey, you will be rewarded for your effort.

Christopher Davis is one of those authors who is not praised nearly loudly or often enough, and whom I discovered by accident. I first read his work in Men on Men. His short story in that collection, "The Boys in the Bars," is also the title of his own short story collection that came later.

Joseph and the Old Man is easily read in one sitting. it is reminiscent in many ways of Isherwood's A Single Man.

Joseph is the much-younger lover of a famous author whom he calls "The Old Man," and in this chapter-less story, it turns out to be the Old Man's story, but told in the third person. How they met, how they love each other, and how they become the center of a loving circle of friends on Fire Island, and what happens when tragedy (sudden, and not AIDS) strikes, is told with stunning simplicity. I read this book in two days. It was hard to put down.

I read this book a few years ago but the bittersweet emotions it evoked in me still echo in my heart. Even today I can feel the warmth of the relationship between the Joseph and the Old Man as clearly as if they were my dearest friends. The ending of the novel, both ambiguous and haunting, is one of my favorite literary passages.

This is the best guide to the DC and surrounding area, but in some cases this book needs to be updated. Some attractions have relocated or closed since the book was published. Fortunately, the book lists phone numbers and websites so you can make sure of the current location and hours of operation. I would highly recommend it to anyone, with or without kids, who wants to see the sights in DC and the surrounding Virginia and Maryland area.

Great resource. I just was hoping it would be updated, since it's been a while, and not all information is still current.

We live in DC and we love this book! Whenever I feel like we need a new place to visit, I flip the pages and find something perfect to do. All of the places we've discovered through the book have been places we've vowed to return. My son is one and a half -- I look forward to exploring more and more as he grows up in DC. I work at a school and have also purchased copies for teachers to give them great ideas for field trips.

Betty Miller's poems resonate with the insights and experiences of a well-lived, well-considered life. Her poetry is a condensation of philosophy, observation and music. The irony in the title is that in reading these poems the reader is convinced that so long as Betty Miller draws a breath, these insights are not the last things she will know.

These poems are the best I have ever read. Without pretense or artifice Miller lays bare the incredible richness of life in all its complexity: from birth to ageing, from loving to losing. Her poems shimmer with beauty and insight as she explores the power of grief, the transcendence of love, our search for the eternal and the constancy of change. I was moved to tears more than once by these poems which describe the human experience with humour and passion. Miller's poetry leaves an indelible impression with words and images that one wants to return to over and over. If you only buy one book of poetry this year, this should be the one.

very perceptive -- definitely worth reading.

This is a book for anyone with dreams, or for someone who just wants to be a better person.

Howard Griffith is a first-class football player. In my honest opinion, Howard is the most underrated football player in the NFL. Year in and year out he is busting his butt for guys like Terrell Davis and Mike Anderson, and not complaining about it. This man made Terrell Davis. And hopefully he will get his pro-bowl before its all over.

Enough about him as a football player, on with the book. In this book, Howard talks about his life and the trials he has been through. This is a story of a man who never lost sight of his goals. While he has had a tough life, he never gave up, and always does his best to help his team - even if that means taking blocking assignments and never getting the ball. "Laying It On The Line, Notes Of A Team Player" teaches people to better themselves... ...to better the world. With his actions speak louder than words attitude, he teaches independance, how to be a person free from following others and just being the best person you can possibly be. He teaches about responsibility and maturity, and taking life seriously.

Reading this book was a turning point in my life. Before i read it, I was, simply stated, and punk kid. This book taught me the importance in doing your very best at everything you do and how important things like you education are to you. He shows you how you can be indepent but still conform, not to stick out. After reading this, It opened my mind really. Before hand I was quick to judge just about anyone that didn't believe exactly how I felt. Now I think empathatically, and am not so quick to judge. I know it's irrelavant, but its amazing what certain situation you can be put in can change you life around in a totally different manor.

Props to Howard Griffith with this truly inspiring story. This is a perfect book for anyone with dreams, and that is willing to work. Howard Griffith's book deserves every 5 stars I gave it, maybe more (if I could). Simply stated, this book can change you life.

This self-proclaimed bookworm ranks this book as one of her all-time favorites. To those who aren't necessarily interested in football, to those who don't understand football, and for those who don't even know what football is, believe me when I say, you will undoubtedly connect with some, if not all of this autobiography. Indulge yourself in this down-to-earth, eye-opening, and often comedic drama that chronicles the ups and downs of life, as it relates to Griffith's chosen career of football. I see this book as more of the spiritual journey of a young man's life, explained through the metaphor of football. It could easily be a training development manual for any business consisting of more than one person - it's all about teamwork and the success, respect, honor and glory that can be achieved if all involved are confident and secure with their individual roles and truly understand the concept of "team." If you need to be "pumped up" and inspired about anything you're trying to accomplish in your life right now, I suggest you purchase this book - it just may be the medicine you need.

This a truly remarkable account of Griffith's story and the obstacles that he's faced to get where he is today(the best fullback in the NFL). There were so many points in his life that he could have given up--but he didn't. Don't think that it's your "typically" sports book--it's not! This book is for anyone that aspires to fulfill their dream. I highly recommend this book. Kudos to Griffith!!!

I was born saying "horse" & among diverse interests, a Graduate of the former Riding Acadamy that Susan Harris was director of as an Instructor in "Balance Seat" I am also a nurse in Family Practice & both student & practioner of several "alternative medicine modialities" in accupressure,trigger point release, Theraputic Touch . As I began to see different body types of people coming as patients in our office & to me I noticed a pattern of other problems that would show elsewhere from where an initial injury would occur;known as compensatory injuries & as a believer in form to function in all creatures I found myself being able to instruct a patient of what my also result from the injury & prevention. This book takes this concept onto the horse & clearly explains why some riders find ease & difficulty w/ aspects of riding . I also gives Instructor & rider insight into how to cope w/ rider's conformation & honest expectations of how much physical challanges & capabilities for different body types to riding disiplines . KJSHASTA

I like the back views of riders - some tall, some short, some fat, some thin - these are used to give you suggestions on how you can improve your riding. So don't worry if you don't look like an Olympic champion with perfect legs!

The book has many photographs (some in color) that show typical riding faults and how to correct them.

There are some really good suggestions for off-the-horse exercises. This book is ideal for adults getting back into English(as opposed to Western) riding - especially if you rode when you were so small that the only way to grip was with your knees (not the way to ride!). It covers really basic information - like how to find an instructor and a riding school. It covers walking, trotting, cantering and jumping. There is a very informative chapter for the nervous rider.

I keep going back to this book before and after each lesson. Its a good basic book but will only be useful to those who practise what it preaches.

This is a great book with beautiful color pictures throughout. It is helpful especially for adults, but good for anyone who is involved in riding. It is nice to know the problems we face are commonplace for many other people, and the author gently shows us how to correct them. Great information about human and equine bodies as well. Lots of helpful advice, and did I mention beautiful pictures?

I looked at every IVF book around and chose this one to help me through the IVF process. Things are explained in a way your fertility doctor would (or should) explain them, in a consise and easy-to-follow manner. What I like most about the book is that it only covers IVF, not all high-tech treatments. I highly recommend this book to those starting out on the road to IVF treatments.

This book has all the information you need to learn the ins and outs of this emotionally difficult process. It gave me all I needed to continue the discussions with my specialist and understand what he was suggesting and why. It also gave me a sense of a community of folks who are facing the same issues I am. This really helped me feel less alone and unusual.

We are a couple just starting the IVF process. While we read numerous web pages online, there was no clear, concise reference book that walks you through all the steps.

"The Art of Making Babies" provides a detailed overview of each step in the process from the initial meeting with your physician to what to expect in the final stages. The book has answered many of our questions. In addition, the book also provides questions you should ask when looking for an IVF facility or entering a particular stage of the process.

Highly recommended.