I was fascinated by this book. I saw myself in many of the stories at different phases in my career. I sure wish I had this book 30 years ago. It would have saved a lot of heartache for our employees and me.

I must applaud the writer for this book's unique approach. As a professional who strives to stay current, I read a good number of the books in the field of Organizational/Personal Effectiveness. Never have I discovered such a personally revealing commentary on self-discovery and spiritual growth. What impressed me the most was the writer's ability to teach the reader not only about her own experience but provide tools and new thinking for their own use.

This book was great! It helped me view my current situation from a new perspective.

Sheila Anderson's QUOTABLE MUSICIAN offers quotes and vignettes from a range of musical genres, from rock to classical to hip hop music. More than a thousand quotes are accompanied by explanations of their origins, making for a title which goes beyond a quote bible to explore the insights into musicians and the music industry reflected in each saying.

This is a fun, yet provacative read. I recommend that anyone interested in music read this book, "The Quotable Musician: From Bach to Tupac". She covers the entire genre of music.

Ms. Anderson has compiled the best book of quotes that I have ever read. I hope that there'll be more to come.

This book was very inspiring. I would personally put it us there with Conversations Wiht God and An Encounter With A Prophet.

Truly a glimpse of spiritual power

Shocky writes in such an easy manner that this book was a hard one for me to put down. Even after reading it, I found myself mulling over the stories and their powerful messages. It has definitely touched me and my family in a positive way, especially as I have put to work some of the lessons learned. What a wonderful gift this makes for a friend or loved one in need of a lift. It doesn't take long to read, but what a difference it makes!

Years ago in an emerald mine in Colombia, Michael Shaunnessey and Emilio Castivenette become partners as well as friends. As more and more emeralds are excavated, their fortune rises.

Then one night Emilio's son, Girardo, seduces thirteen year-old Leigh, none other than Michael's only daughter, and she becomes pregnant. When Michael finally finds out about it, it's too late for an abortion. He sends Leigh to Switzerland to secretly give birth, then gives the baby to his servant to raise as her own. Outraged, he swears vengeance against Emilio Castivenette and his son. One by one, he steals all the largest emeralds and buries them in a secret place. Emilio eventually finds out about it, and murders Michael. Before dying, however, Michael tells the secret of the emeralds to Leigh. Now that her father is dead, Leigh, intelligent and ambitious, must take charge.

Even though there are several subplots, this book is really Leigh's story. We follow her life from the time she's an innocent child, through her ordeal during her pregnancy, through law school, and finally we see her rising to the very top of her political career in Washington D.C. We see her struggling with her family, with the men she loves, with institutions and society as a whole.

When she finally reaches the very top, something dark from her past reappears and threatens to destroy her. For Girardo Castivenette is now a powerful and dangerous man, and he wants his father's emeralds back, or he will crush her and everything she has worked so hard to achieve.

This is a fabulous 5-star novel, the special kind that keeps you enthralled and wondering till the very end. Excellent characterizations, a suspenseful and intriguing plot, and a fine elegant style seem to flow effortlessly from the pen of this astonishingly talented author. From the emerald mines of Colombia, to the upper crust of San Francisco, to the power and glitz of Washington D.C., this story has all you may wish and more-suspense, romance, secrets and murder. The ending is thrilling. Very highly recommended.

Michael Shaunnessey wanted revenge against Girardo Castivenette, the boy who had taken advantage of his young daughter. So what if the result of the revenge extended to Girardo's father, Emelio. Emelio and Michael were good friends and partners in ownership of the emerald mine. To Michael's way of thinking, Emelio had been partly to blame for what had happened to his daughter. What Michael didn't know was that once set loose, revenge has a way of coming back to haunt you.

Leigh Shaunnessey knew Girardo hadn't really taken advantage of her. She just never thought things would turn out like they did. She never thought her father would be murdered. She never thought she would bear a child at a very young age. But the result of these events led her to discover just how strong a will she had. She knew exactly what she wanted out of life and designed a plan to get it.

Leigh wanted to 'make a difference' in the world. A home and family were not really a top priority for her. In fact, it was something for which she just couldn't spare the time. Then, she met the man who could touch her very soul. They were so much alike it was scary. When they discovered they both had tremendous drive and the same dreams, they knew they were destined to be competitors and a life together was out of the question. Leigh did marry, however, but the man she married loved her enough to allow her to pursue her dream. Even so, he made it clear that he would really be happier if she would follow a more traditional role. But her drive was strong. Could it be possible her dream would be fulfilled and she would actually end up in the White House? She knew she could do it.

Girardo, on the other hand, had always known the depth of his own strength and determination. He would lead, not follow. He would win, not lose. He would have everything he wanted. His father, Emelio, had dreamed that Girardo would become President of the United States. But that dream died when the emeralds were stolen. Girardo's dream would come true because he had vision. He knew that the seductive power of the drugs Columbia could supply to the world would grow beyond even his wildest dreams. No, it would not be in the United States that his dream would be realized. He would build his kingdom in Columbia. Yes, he knew he was destined to rule, just as Emelio dreamed. But the way he chose to gain power and fortune was to profit by preying on the weakness of others. He figured the buyers knew what they were getting into and if they still wanted the product, he was only too glad to supply what they needed.

Leigh and Girardo, two strong personalities, two dynamic destinies would be invisibly linked for years until they collided in a final test of wills. Little did either one of them dream when they last saw each other as teenagers that years in the future their paths would cross again and they would no longer be lovers, not even friends, but enemies who would not, could not afford to lose.

The story takes us from deep in the jungle, to high society, and even into the White House. But more than that, it takes us deep into ourselves. In this suspenseful saga of three generations, Ms. Anderson reminds us that the sins of the father are indeed visited upon their children and their children's children, even unto untold generations, unless someone can find a way to end it.

Murder, greed, passion, mystery, jewels, and love are mighty potent elements when mixed by a master storyteller. Ms. Anderson has done just that in Second Generation. The story is so well written that you will be pulled into the web after just the first few pages and you will be living the adventures of her characters and feeling their joy, pain, passion, and despair just as real as if it is happening to you. And from the lessons we learn by walking in their lives, maybe it does.

Beth Anderson's new novel Second Generation is brilliant. The day I bought it, I began to read and couldn't put it down. Not only is the plot riveting, but she is a real wordsmith. The writing is great, the plot is intelligent, the dialog is the best I have read in years. The only book I have read lately that has had such an impact on me is The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold which almost kept me up all night. This book too makes you regret that you have to put it down for such mundane activities as sleeping and earning a living. I see the other reviewers have covered the plot and characters adequately.
I have two college degrees in English lit. and am a voracious reader. I think after all these years teaching at the university level I know what good writing is when I see it. I can't recommend Second Generation highly enough. If you like a "good read", this book is beyond that. The descriptions of the jungle alone are amazing, pulling the reader into a world that moves like a film in its intense reality. Watching the main character, Leigh, grow into a woman who understands the issues of her times, and yet is vulnerable and flawed, is a fascinating journey. Do yourself a favor and get a copy. It should be on the bestseller list, at the top. Actually, it makes a lot of the overly repetitious and predictable best sellers look lame. This book is something new, with an original voice. It is page turner, and a piece of fine literature as well. Read it and see.

This book should be the foundation of everyone's work-at-home resource library. My wife bought it for me so that I could understand the true "ins and outs" of what's involved in working from home with kids under foot. (My wife has been telecommuting from home on a part-time basis for about two years, and I must admit, I've been less than supportive.) Recently, I decided to make the plunge to start a home business and take on a good portion of the child care responsibilities. We searched high and low for resources that could help. "The Work at Home Balancing Act" was the *only* book we found that addresses ALL the issues and challenges of working at home from both a MALE and FEMALE perspective. It's been our lifesaver because we can both relate to it, and it teaches us how to communicate about complicated issues that arise when you work from home. It's written in a reader-friendly style with great quotes and stories from men and women--very realistic and motivational. Lots of nuts and bolts strategies--everything you need to know to set up and run a successful home business or telecommuting arrangement, and then some!

Dr. Anderson's extensive research interviewing work-at-home parents is a must for anyone with children and the desire to work from home. You get tried and true, both common sense and creative, ideas from the many parents who have "been there, done that" and know what works for dealing with children of all ages. It also has an excellent chapter on issues for couples. You will find yourself among kindred spirits. Easy to read, encouraging and engaging, this book is excellent! Barrie Jaeger, Ph.D.

Sandy Anderson addresses the key issues facing people who want to work at home or are currently engaged in enterprise at home. For those looking for a home career, Anderson's chapter on choosing the right business is very informative and guides people through the most difficult part of starting a business-"choosing the right one for yourself." Plus, her insights on managing a household along with a home business are worth re-reading several times. Finally, Anderson's interviews with many different types of homeworkers gives the reader a great insight into the TRUE benefits and challenges of working at home. Tina Egge Family@Work Editor, Work@Home Magazine

I bought this book about a month ago and followed everything the book said.It will take awhile but I believe I will be prepared for Y2K.I took all of my husbands money to buy a power generator.I have been burying food in the backyard.I bought 30 sf freezer and have filled it with Bird Pies.I plan on going out and buying 6 months supply of drinking water next week.I know we are facing armaggedon but with the help of this great book,I think we will be one of the few survivors.

Whether or not the Y2K Millenium Bug turns out to be a frightening fact or fabulous fizzle, emergency preparedness is a topic that everyone should investigate -- especially families with children at home. You never know when sudden financial down turns could make food purchasing difficult, or a severe winter storm could keep your family confined to home for an extended period of time, or even an earthquake could cause the need for emergency essentials on hand. While I'm not sure what I personally feel about the outcome of the Y2K computer problem, I do see the common sense idea of family preparedness to be a good approach for anyone to seriously consider. Having a well-stocked rotating pantry that's replenished from items purchased in bulk and on sale is also a great way to save money on your family's regular expenses (Y2K or not!). I appreciated the author's detailed list of suggestions for items to store ahead (whether you're planning a storage system to last for one week, six months, or a full year+).

Thank you, thank you for a "woman's perspective on Y2K. It was such an encouragement to learn that there are lots of other women who are frustrated by their husband's cavalier attitude at what could be a significant problem. Fortunately, my husband has started reading it and says that "maybe she has a point . . ." He really is taking it serious now since "60 Minutes" said it could be bad. The recent segment they ran solidified what Karen and other Y2K writers have been saying about this impending crisis.

Thank you for a well-written and helpful resource.

This gentle, loving introduction to the religion of Light and Sound is packed with exercises which hilight Eckankar's focus on the highly individual and experiential nature of one's journey home to God. Each golden key is both an insight and an experience designed to strengthen one's spiritual foundation: beginning with a fine introduction to the Mahanta (Golden Keys #1-3) who accompanies Soul all the way up the spiritual ladder to spiritual freedom (Golden Keys 34 & 35).

Recommended to seekers both familiar and unfamiliar with the teachings of Light and Sound, "35 Golden Keys" clearly and simply helps bring the abstract into the everyday and opens up the oportunity for one to experience divine love directly.
Highly recommended!

I love this book because it is organized in such a way that you can easily flip through and look at the golden keys. Additionally, the author provides spiritual exercises you can do to test the keys out or to REALLY know/test what she's saying. You don't have to take her or anybody else's word on the matter. You can do the exercises yourself and decide if the content holds true. Some of the keys are: you are soul, dreams are real, you've lived before and many others. You'll also learn how to remember and interpret the spiritual message of your dreams, make a greater contact with the Holy Spirit and see God in your everyday life. Linda Anderson uses stories from her own and others' lives to illustrate the Golden Keys and cites many valuable books in describing the Keys.

I'm amazed on how much I got out of this well written rather lengthy book about viewing ourselves as spiritual beings giving service and unconditional love to all life. Each chapter is filled uplifting stories of individuals who created better lives for themselves by exploring their spiritual nature and gaining a greater understanding of what is important in their lives. 35 Golden Keys is a substantial book filled with wonderful inspirational stories that gave me a better understanding of myself as a spiritual being in this world. My life is better for taking the time to read this book.

As a 21 year old gay man, it is heartwarming and touching to see a such a beautiful coffee table book dedicated to portraying gay men positively and humanely, in addition to giving me hope that a long-term relationship can exist in a circuit/club/Abercrombie gay world. The stories of men who have been together for 10, 20, 30 + years are not only inspiring, but well written and accompanied with stunning black and white photos. However, while there was a considerable effort (and a good one at that!) to include a range of HIV positive and negative couples and while there were are three black men and possibly one Latino, I would have liked to have seen more gay men of color. I know there are Asian, Native American, and more Latino gay men in committed relationships, so it would have been nice to have them represented. Overall, it's a wonderful book and contribution to the GLBT community and worth buying--if anything, I just wish it were longer, so that it could include more diversity.

Althouh I'm gay, I still believe in love, married and family. This book show that these things are possible for gay couples. Some people always think of gay men as feminine-type of guy who like to act as women and running for every good-lookig guy on a street. This book will give readers more understanding in gay people.

I gave this book to my mother when my partner and I decided to have a commitment ceremony. Mom was having trouble understanding and didn't seem to recognize our commitment to each other as equally valid to straight marriages. After she read the book, she sent my partner a HUGE bouquet of flowers and a card telling him she was so pleased that he was going to become an "official" part of our family!

I have really enjoyed this book. As a wife and mother, I can relate to many of the amusing stories. They come to mind when I least expect it. Once you read this book you may find yourself remembering the stories and laughing to your self. If your friends wonder what you are laughing about, maybe they should read the book!

If I didn't know differently, I would be convinced that Monica Anderson grew up in my house. Some of her columns, especially My Sister's Parents, almost convinced me that she was a part of my family. While reading this book there were times I laughed out loud - in public - causing others around me to stare, but I didn't mind. I told them to buy the book so they'd understand. There were a few times while reading some of the columns, I actually picked up the phone to call a girlfriend (long distance)to share excerpts such as "My only sad Thanksgiving was in 1989. I'll never forget that one. That was the year that my inner thighs first met each other. Before that, there was no communication between them unless I crossed my legs..." Very funny, indeed. Monica Anderson has a sharp wit and a great sense of humor. She has captured the charm and the essence of relationships, parenthood and life on the pages of this wonderful book.

This is an excellent book to read. Many of us take family matters to seriously, like me. When I read Dr. Anderson book, I began to laugh as she addresses the family life with lots of humor in her book. I thought it was our family that acts that way, but it was good to no other family acts the same way. I strongly recommend every one to read this book. Thank you Dr. Anderson for writing this book. It is true when they say laughter is good for the soul, and I promise you will be laughing up a storm.

I was drawn into this book the first time by the beautifully intricate illustrations. It has a dark, lonely feel to it, and reminds me somewhat of Maurice Sendak's work (especially the work of Dear Mili). On a second read, I enjoyed how the text is spare and achingly poetic. It's just a gorgeous, gorgeous book.

The Tin Forest is recommended for readers from 4-8, but this book, to me, is a wonderful book for all ages. The story teaches the lesson of hanging onto one's dream, of not letting it go, of nourishing it, tending to it, until it indeed sprouts leaves and blossoms into a life of its own. The old man constantly held onto his dream, and never gave up what he wanted to achieve. He had hope and that hope spurred him on. The forest he constantly dreamed of became a reality.

He lived in forgotten place, where he was surrounded by trash and objects that others once wanted, but no longer did. He tirelessly cleared away the trash, organized it, and dreamed at night of his forest with wild animals and lush flowers. One day, the idea came to him of making his own forest, if one was not going to spout up amidst all of the garbage. He made a forest of "things", a forest of tin, fashioned only after his own imagination and the books he devoured each night. He made trees, and flowers, and plants and the wild creatures that would inhabit his forest. Then one day, a visitor arrived in the form of a colorful bird, eating the crumbs the old man gave him, and singing his thanks back to the man. Sadly, the bird left the next morning, which left the old man very lonely.

Yet, the next day, the old man awoke to the melody of his visitor and his mate. They brought seeds to plant and decided to make their home here, in the tin forest. Soon, green shoots sprouted, flowers bloomed and various wild animals came to the forest to make their home. . . . "And in the house lived an old man who never stopped dreaming."

This book is just precious and the illustrations are just as wonderful and precious. I absolutely LOVED this book! A wonderful tale of teaching children that nothing is beyond their grasp.

"There was once a wide, windswept place . . . . but where there is a dream, hope can grow."

I used this book in a 3rd grade class as the last lesson in a rainforest unit and it worked wonderfully well. After reading the story, the students loved doing a picture walk of the beautiful illustrations and noticed many interesting things about them not obvious from the first perusal.