A family friend gave me this book for Christmas in 1998. At first I was reading it as a novel. I could relate to the early part of the book, because I had been through all that myself in previous years. However, it wasn't until the middle of the book when my life and the author's life became very similar. At the time, I was believing God for a husband. I had also decided to do courtship God's way and not have sex until marriage. At the point in the book where Monique reached the point of being sick of doing things her way and decided to do it God's way, I began to cry profusely. Her story only fed my faith that God would deliver in my life in a big way. You see, when you stand in faith - nothing wavering, not compromising - God honors your faith and delivers exceedingly abundantly more than you could ask or think. He did for the author of this book - Monique, and in 1999, He did for me. I'm now married to a wonderful man of God who fit what I asked God for to a tee! And we had a holy, God-honoring courtship with no sex until our wedding night. And guess what, God will do it for you too, once you sell out to His Will (His Word) and His Way (as described in His Word)!!! Wanna feed your faith for a Godly husband? Read this book!!!! Then, live a life that honors God, and He will not let you be put to shame but will manifest just the type of man you are dreaming about. I dare you to try it! God will come through for you, too!

I read this book in 10 hrs,it was a answer to my preyers,such a inspiration

This is a book for the 90's and for every Christian woman. It tells of the struggles, the defeats, and the successes when trying to lead a Christian life. The conversations with God are so real and uplifting that I read them repeatedly.

The book is truly awesome! I have recommended the book to my bookclub and my young adult group at church. Thank You Mrs. Anderson

Three brothers, three unique sets of problems. Tony is divorced, overweight, and romancing a woman he thinks is "too happy." Sean is the middle child, a successful novelist with a "perfect" new girlfriend who throws him a curveball announcement he cannot deal with. Ned, the youngest, has just returned from three years in Australia and finds that his friends have all moved on to grown-up lives and careers and left him behind. Their parents, Bernie and Gerry, are happily married and the cornerstone of their sons' lives. Bernie takes in a mysterious lodger, Gervase, who seems to be able to get to the heart of the boys' troubles and helps the men to see things more clearly about themselves, but can he help them sort out their love lives?

Lisa Jewell transcends the British chick lit genre by creating complex characters with problems many readers can relate to. Tony's struggles with weight and his role as oldest brother cause him to evaluate his life in multiple ways. Sean's weaknesses in his relationship with Millie, his girlfriend, particularly rang true for me. Ned's inability to figure out his goals or where he fits in mirror the crises of young people today. The dilemmas weren't solved immediately, nor in the most obvious way, but the solutions are ultimately satisfying and uplifting.

I am impressed by the way Jewell tells a unique story with issues that are relevant to each of us. The male points of view were comically written and gave me an insight into just what a man might be thinking when he is deciding where a relationship is headed. The only criticism I have of A FRIEND OF THE FAMILY, is that a bit of the information about pregnancy was slightly inaccurate (such as she states that the pregnant character was unable to take any medications, not even Tylenol or a cough lozenge).

I highly recommend A FRIEND OF THE FAMILY, I would encourage everyone to put this at the top of their summer reading list. I could not put this novel down! The characters are witty and real, their dilemmas are poignant, and Lisa Jewell ties the whole thing together with enough romance to satisfy even the most jaded reader.

I have to wonder if "Lisa Jewell" is the pen name for a very talented male writer. She so captures the thought processes of the men she portrays that it is downright spooky! I have read all of Ms. Jewell's previous books, and found this one to be the most satisfying. With this book she has left the realm of "chick lit" behind and this book should appeal to male and female readers alike.

Who is this friend of the family? He is quite a mystery. And the lives of the boys introduced in this satisfying story about the relationship between three sons prove to be somewhat of a mystery also. Ms. Jewell has managed to create a genuine-feeling novel about 3 very different men, the women they love and hate, the mother & father they adore, the stranger who seems to know things, and the ensuing clashes they have with each other.

Somehow Ms. Jewell has the ability in this book to shift from one son to another through each separate chapter smoothly and without a break in momentum. When you've finished a chapter and it's now moving on to another character, you think, "Oh yes! What's happening with this person now?" But it wasn't too soon to find out or too late to be moving on. It was just at the perfect time. And I love how she has subtitled each chapter, it's a tiny appetizer to whet our appetites for the great meal that's to come.

At first I was totally enthralled by Tony's story, who is this guy? Why is he so obsessed with this other woman and has such a rude derision for the totally nice gal he's with? Ned's story was just a fluffy, quaint little wrapped story with a wacky beginning and a cotton candy ending. But in the end, I felt the most satisfied by Sean's story. You will just have to read it yourself to find out.

I am not male with two brothers, but I totally can imagine that this is what it really and truly could be like. All in all a completely satisfying, touching, funny, authentic and uplifting story that you will not want to put down.

Outstanding fiction about the Civil War. Extremely well written, and definately worth the read. For those who have never experienced the atrocities of war first hand, here's your chance. Harlow stimulates your imagination and puts you right on the battlefield. Pick it up.

I began reading this excellent novel with the hopes that it would take me on a journey. Yes, a journey to a past that still lingers when we look at old photos of an era long gone. When horse and buggy where the means of travel, and lights by oil lamps flickered. When men told tales of armies marching through the streets to places like Shilo, Gettysburg and Richmond. Cold Harbor is stark in its realities of war and the the passions it evokes. It has that fine edge that allows one to see war as it really is and the sacrifices made by friend and foe alike. When I read this novel, I found myself marching along side with the soldiers, and I camped with them at night and listened to the stories they told, and the friendships they made. Finally near the journeys end, when the time came I stood with them in battle.
I highly recommend Cold Harbor as a novel you will not want to put down for a moment.

Cold Harbor is an excellent book. The characters come to life and the comradery that builds between them is truly poignant. Mr. Keith does a wonderful job with the primary themes - the life-long lessons, and the true terror, of war. I highly recommend this book. Thank you Mr. Keith!

We have all heard proverbs at some point in our lives; little truths that teach morals, tell stories, or teach us how to live. In PROVERBS FOR THE PEOPLE, authors take insightful African, African American, and Biblical proverbs and utilize them to create extraordinary short stories that depict truths and leave marks on the heart.

This unique anthology contains stories from well known authors such as Travis Hunter, Omar Tyree, Margaret Johnson-Hodge, Pearl Cleage, and others, as well as stories from up and coming authors. Like the proverbs they represent, the stories are diverse and full of emotions. Although all of the stories were wonderful and touching, some of personal favorites were Gwynne Forster's "First Thing Monday Morning," which taught the morals that actions speak louder than words and to be careful what you wish for, because you just may get it, and Robert Fleming's "A Crisis of Faith," about a man who is wrongly incarcerated.

PROVERBS FOR THE PEOPLE is a wonderful novel that will teach, inspire, and entertain. It has a story that everyone can relate to, and will make a wonderful addition to any book collection.

Reviewed by Latoya Carter-Qawiyy
The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

I really enjoyed this book. All of the stories are wonderful and the connection to the proverb that they all wrote about was simply masterful! I particularly enjoyed the story Franklin White gave us. His proverb dealt with "no matter how long a log stays in the water, a log it will remain." His story about a black actress in Hollywood who did everything under the sun to become more mainstream was brillant. I will not spoil it for others but the story really made me think about all the black actresses who have to jump through hoops to finally get a part in a mainstream movie. After they read this story-maybe they won't be so hard pressed to get in the mainstream!

I think this book was long overdue. This is what the AA community needs. Travis Hunter, who is head and shoulders above any other writer in the business right now, brings us a story so filled with love I cried. Omar Tyree's story needed some work but he tried. I loved Pearl Cleage's story as well and Margerette J. Hodge touched my spirit. She's a great writer too. I liked Tonya Marie Evans story. This should've been made like the coffee table books so everyone could read it like a conversation piece.

Penelope Jewell has explained in full detail the applications and the different uses of Reiki not only in the healing form, but also implementing Reiki into everyday uses in life. This complex healing art is brought to light through excellent illustrations and clear and concise explanation of each step of the many uses of Reiki.

Penelope's book is wonderful and practical and concise. She packs a lot of information into it's pages and makes it amazingly simple to understand.

It's a beautiful book, and the knowledge expressed in it feels as pure and the white cover with it's purple lettering.

Along with Diane Stein's Essential Reiki, this book belongs on the bookshelf of every practioner at any level and any client who is interested in knowing more about Reiki

Penelope Jewell's new practice guide for Reiki is one of the most clear and personable books I've yet seen on the topic. Simple line drawings show the placement of hands for both self healing and for working with others. Her inclusion of information on anatomy, physiology, and the metaphysical aspects of healing are a definite plus. Later sections, on running a healing circle and on finding a teaching Master, are both excellent guides from an experienced teacher. Jewell is straightforward in her knowledge and assumptions; and her reverence and respect for the system is grounded and inspiring.

This book will help many new practitioners deepen their understanding of the practice of Reiki. And since Jewell is a Master in the traditional branch of the system, it will also serve as insight into one traditional Master's work and understandings of this amazing healing art.

I showed the book to one woman (also a Reiki Master) who runs a wellness and healing arts center. Her comment was right on the money. "She's covered everything in this book," she said with tremendous appreciation. "You could TEACH from this book!" Indeed, you can.

This story is so beautiful and has such a happy ending that it always makes me cry. I found this book as an adult 30 years ago, and I had to buy a second copy to use as a loaner. Given the prices shown here, I should probably give one copy up for sale, but I can't part with it.

For the lonely people out there who think that there is only one soulmate to be found, this book says otherwise. Love comes in a variety of forms and packages if you're open to it.

I have loved this little book for 30 years now.The lonely little bunny's search for a snuggling companion has such a comforting ending.It is a great one to conclude the bedtime read aloud ritual with a hug.
The softly illustrated pages are timelessly lovely.
A former children's librarian,my collection numbers well over 300 volumes,and I've read hundreds more,but THE SNUGGLE BUNNY still stands as a must have in my top 25 because I love the story and the subtle message that everyone can find love and companionship-just keep looking and love will be there,perhaps just not the way you expect to find it.

I'm A 12 year old girl and every time I went to the library I got out the Sunggle Bunny. Now I own a copy of it, and I read it every night! It truly is the best book ever!

This book is incredible! There are so many outstanding examples of exceptional works by African-American writers. I am anxiously waiting for the December 2001 release of Ms. Parker-Rhodes new book, "The African-American Writer's Guide to Non-Fiction Writing and Publishing." I'm sure that all of the advice offered in it will be as beneficial and enlightening as the words of encouragement that are espoused in this book!

What a wonderful resource this is. My writing partner and I have reaped hours of writing pleasure from the exercises and the resources this book has to offer. I applaud Ms. Parker Rhodes for compiling a great cast of writers who were willing to share their insights and stories to help their brothers and sisters develop their craft. However, though the book is geared toward black writers, the teachings are invaluable to anyone interested in improving their writing,

This is a truly amazing book that should be on the shelves of any person serious about the art and craft of writing. Thank you Dr. Parker-Rhodes for serving the need of so many writers trying to make their best even better.

Stellaluna is both well-written and lavishly illustrated -- a delight for the young child to view and the older child (as well as the parent) to read -- a rarity among picture books. . My three-year-old has had this book since birth, and has loved it since day one, asking for it to be read over and over.

The story: We follow the young fruit-bat, Stellaluna, through her ordeal of becoming lost and her subsequent upbringing by a family of birds. The resultant bat-bird behavior confuses Stellaluna, but will delight your child with its absurdity. The story contains good conflict resolution, as Stellaluna regains her bat identity and her family, something sure to comfort and teach your child.

For further entertainment, I highly recommend Ms. Cannon's book, VERDI ( a similar tale about a green python; wonderfully written and well-illustrated), as well as the CD-ROM edition of STELLALUNA produced by Living Books (one of the few really GOOD CD-ROMs for children).

My boys love this book! They loved it so much I bought the CD-ROM book as well. And the plush bat! They enjoy hanging Stellaluna upside down while reading the story.

The story itself is a little scary when the owl appears and Stellaluna is separated from her mother in the dark forest. But the mother bird and her babies are quick to accept and help Stellaluna. The story emphasizes that differences should be celebrated and accepted, and it's always best to just be yourself. It also shines a positive spotlight on an animal that gets a bad rap--the bat. I'd rate this book better than Cannon's other book, which is about snakes, "Verdi."

The artwork is beautiful; I love simply looking at the pages. And the "Bat Notes" section at the end is informative; I know because my pre-reading child wanted me to read it out loud several times!

Lovers of nature, superb artwork, and literature will not be disappointed reading this story to their little ones.

Stellaluna is wonderful. It has the perfect drama for a young child's fantasy: a bat child separated from family manages to survive without her parents, but has a joyful reunion. I think the story works especially well because of a number of elements that resonate with a young child. First of all, there is the drama of abandonment and reunion; that's always a worry on a young child's mind. There's also the silliness of a bat doing bird things (including eating worms instead of fruit). This always appeals to the preschool set who love being in-the-know about how things are supposed to work. Finally, it's a great book to read with your child on your lap, because it ends with a big hug.

The illustration is also excellent, beautiful, vivid pictures in full color. You can buy a Stellaluna stuffed animal too (I believe there are book and animal sets). They have these neat velcro strips on the feet and wings so you can hang her upside down, asleep in her wings from whatever a four year old can reach.

I recently moved to Mount Airy, the fabled Mayberry, and wanted a resource to help me learn a little bit about the "lore" behind this community. This was an excellent resource and a fun read at that. For me, it helped bring to life not only the ties of my new hometown to the TV show, but also to learn a little bit of history about this community.

My wife just purchased this book for me and it was very interesting, especially being in the first person from Jewell. Brings back so many memories from my wife's family. I will be sending it to my 92 year old mother-in-law to read and I know she will enjoy it. Thanks, Jewell, good talking with you. Bill Tarpley

Thousands and thousands of us faithfully watched the television classic, The Andy Griffith Show and its sequel, Mayberry RFD. We followed Sheriff Taylor, Barney, Aunt Bea, and the rest through 249 episodes from 1960 through 1968. From 1968 through 1971, we were treated to 78 episodes of Mayberry RFD. Watching these shows today is a heartwarming nostalgic experience. Why, there's even an active The Andy Griffith Show Rerun Watchers Club!

Mayberry has its roots firmly and deeply planted in Mt. Airy, North Carolina, a small town nestled in the mountains between Winston-Salem and the Virginia state line. Andy Griffith is celebrated there, along with all the traditions of hometown America, during community festivals and other events.

Jewell Kutzer grew up in Mayberry, just a couple of years behind Andy Griffith. She shares many of the memories that inspired Griffith to create Mayberry and the character of the popular television show. In Memories of Mayberry, she shares her experiences growing up in this now-famous small town. It's a pleasant, comfortable book to read, like having a conversation with a friend. Mt. Airy was a microcosm of life in a changing country, in a changing world. Lives were interwoven with the lives of others in the community. People were real, they were caring neighbors, they led simpler lives in the 1940s and 1950s. This book takes the reader back to those uncomplicated times.

Did I say uncomplicated? Well, compared to today's complex lifestyles. But for Jewell, growing up in a small town, life brought one adventure after another. Her tales of yesteryear are referenced to episodes in The Andy Griffith Show that relate to the memories. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation of how Griffith made the show so real in the earlier days of television.

Want a trip back to our roots? To the values on which our country was built? Pick up a copy of Memories of Mayberry to open your mind and heart to our wonderful past, not just in Mt. Airy, but in hundreds of other small towns across the land. Definitely designed for readers over 40 (we were there), but offers valuable insights for younger readers, too.

Overall this book is quite good, I think it is geared more toward people living in Florida than people like me who are planning a trip. I wish it had more travel info and maps. I also wish it had more pictures than it does, so you could see the places it talks about which would help out a lot.

As a person who has spent a good deal of time in many of the places listed in "Exploring Wild South Florida: A Guide to Finding the Natural Areas and Wildlife of the Southern Peninsula and the Florida Keys" I can say that it is a thorough, accurate, and informative guide to the South Florida area. This book is specifically made for the person who likes to explore areas that are still predominantly in their natural condition. If you are looking for a landscaped park to hike through then you will be disappointed. If you are looking for places where you are likely to see endangered species, the only air conditioning may be a breeze, and you may see very few people (if anyone) during your hike then this is the book you are looking for.

Some places are truly remote and you may be on your own finding your way around (like the Florida Everglades) and some are less remote and may even have boardwalks through the forest to make your trip easier. The book starts with an extensive overview of everything you need to know about southern Florida - weather, what to wear, animals and plants to be cautious of, information on the various park systems, and anything else that you might have a question about when planning a trip.

One of the nicer features of the book is a section on the various habitats that you are likely to encounter in south Florida. The author does an excellent job of explaining estuaries, coral reefs, cypress stands, mangroves, marshes, hammocks and other habitats. She covers what qualifies them as a specific habitat, what you should look for and expect in each of them and general educational information on each of them.

She then covers special wildlife and unwanted pests before moving into the Federal Lands part of the book that actually starts the information on each site. When she gets to the specific sites she provides all the information that you will need to plan a trip there. She covers the local habitats you might find, wildlife, facilities, and complete contact information (worth the price of the book by itself).

A highly recommended read for those who think camping equipment should not involve the word Winnebego.

My title sums the book up rather well. If you are going to South Florida with viewing nature and wildlife as one of your goals, you'll find the book extremely useful. If seeing the show at the Alligator Farm and the Seaquarium fills your need for nature, you probably won't need the book. Assuming you do use the book, you will appreciate the amount of detail it includes, though you'll probably wish for better maps and more illustrations! Despite this, highly recommended if you really want a book of this type.