This book is about so many different things it's very difficult to know where to begin. It's a remarkably easy book to read. Remarkable because it is such a difficult, even gruelling subject matter--the deterioration and death of a parent--but the book is so gorgeously lucid, so vivid, that it's very hard to stop reading.

Of course, it isn't just about the life and death of Charnas' father but about how little we know about one another, how horrible (though sometimes glorious) old age and death can be. This is a book about not knowing your father (a difficult relationship even for those of us whose fathers didn't leave us), about thwarted artistic aspirations, about the impossible choices old age brings, and the ways in which every human being has a story, a life, and some of the unexpected things most of us never find out.

I cannot reccommend this book more strongly. I have not been able to stop thinking about it. It's a book that really can change your life.

This is a story about real life. An artist father of a writer daughter. A father who walked away when she was eight. A father who in his last decade of life became dependant on his daughter, the stranger.

Don't expect saccharine, 'cause there ain't any. No sugar cookies and milk, this is molasses and tea: bitter, dark, and poignant. Revelations, yes, but not of the TV sitcom kind, which are easily provoked and resolved in half an hour. This is deep history, it's the sand in the backyard and the gnarled old olive tree.

It's a story told with exasperation and something like love. A story told brilliantly. Thought-provoking reading for those of us with parents heading into their last decade -- parents with whom we share a bad history.

Here's a woman who offers refuge to a man who is going blind, and who holds a menial job in a restaurant. She offers him a free home in the sunshine, and the chance to do art.

He arrives on her doorstep and proceeds to be exactly the same man he's always been: cantankerous, rude, and skeptical. He doesn't do any art -- not by choice, as it turns out. He doesn't have the emotional resources to make friends and have his own life. Heck, he doesn't even have the ability to make his own dinner.

It's a fascinating story, and Charnas is an amazing writer. We get an unvarnished portrait of this man, his daughter, and a series of glimmers into why he left her mother, and why he's such a crank. If another living situation would have been ideal, well that's too bad because they're caught in the vise-grip of American medical economics. He's here to stay, like it or not. Then when his health fails completely, maybe he's too sick to stay home, but maybe not sick enough for Medicare to pay for a bed in a nursing home. Do she and her husband bankrupt themselves to give him adequate care? Charnas' livelihood hangs in the balance, not to mention her sanity.

Who hasn't been there? And if we haven't been there, we will be soon. For those of us with difficult parents, it's enlightening to see how one woman's choices begin to unfold. She's no angel of the house -- her own discomfort comes through, and she combats it with exasperated humor.

MY FATHER'S GHOST left me with a lasting understanding of tradeoffs. Good parts, bad parts. What I could stand, and what I couldn't. I can't make the same choices she did -- unless, like Charnas, I have to. But the whatever happens, at least I'll go in girded.

This is a wonderful book, and hard to compare to any other. Sort of a biography (but of an unknown man, a failed artist, someone without any of the usual qualities calling for an official biography), sort of an autobiography/literary memoir (by the author of hard-hitting feminist science fiction, fantasy, children's books, etc.), a personal investigation into what happens to the old and helpless in America, a daughter's memoir of her difficult father... I'm not usually attracted to memoirs, but like Suzy Charnas' fiction so much that I gave it a chance -- and am so glad I did. It is every bit as gripping and absorbing as one of her novels, and, amazingly for a work that focuses so much on her father's declining years, it's not at all bleak -- there are some unexpected surprises along the way, and the lasting impression is an uplifting one. The book raises many important issues around family relationships and aging in America today; it's thought-provoking, and informative, whatever your age and whatever your relationship to your parents. (Well, perhaps the super-rich and the extra-young could give it a miss, but as for the rest of us, this book is important.) Undoubtedly, one of the best books I've read this year. In non-fiction, it goes right up there with Barbara Ehrenreich's "Nickel and Dimed". Highly recommended.

My Heart, CHrist's Home is an excellent booklet, so easy to read and so convicting. It helped me get my focus back on track.

Outstanding way to reach the new Christian. This small little booklet enables you to do a self examination of the different parts of your heart. This will help you to live a more Christ like life. Once again Outstanding!!!!!!!

One of the best books that I had to read for class. I would read it all over again and again. It is a must read for Christians and those who are thinking about becoming a Christian. A great use of examples of different rooms. I totally agree with the closet example.

Rose is just as gripping a writer as her mother, although with a far more adult narrative style.

I bought my copy at the museum in Mansfield because I always wanted to read Rose's work. This book is a gem. The essay introducing the book is worth getting the book but each story is a gem on its own. Her voice is fresh and rings well today. You would not know she lived in the first half of the 20th century.

I have loaned this book out to 2 people now and all of us are knocked out at how good Rose was. Purchase it, read it. Rose was well known in the early part of last century for good reason. Let's bring this author back to the audience she richly deserves today.

This book was so good that I haven't been able to pick up another book in over a month.

Very vivid and strung with haunting points. This appealing tale cuts into polished humour. Nor young or old it caputers a promising audience. Many unanswered mysteries of the heroic series are unraveled in a solved puzzel. Linked colorful pictures are a delighted bounus.

A experienced reader will still run into suprising corners of the epic comic. Wild fansty creatures dominate the whole action terrain. I say this is a wonderful gift to present to someone.

If you've gotten this far, you know what a kick the Bone series is. Strong, stylish and effective graphics (think Alex Toth) merges with writing that mixes grand epic fantasy with strong character work and riotous slapstick humor. What you need to know is that volume six carries more than its weight in the saga-- a whole raft of mysteries are cleared up here including yet more info about the royal family, the hooded bad guy, and the search for the one who bears the star. It's a masterpiece of plotting-- nothing is expected and yet Smith doesn't pull any of his solutions out of left field. Buy this (and any of the others you're missing), plunk down in a comfy chair, and read straight through all six!

Jeff Smith has done it again! Old Man's Cave takes you deeper and deeper into the thickening plot as cliffhangers are completed and started. Brilliant artwork and a perfect twist of humor, fantasy and suspense. The Bone saga can be compared to the satire of Peanuts, the philosophy and wit of Calvin and Hobbes and the humor and dialect of Pogo. A mezmerizing collaboration of the elements. This book is a must have for Bone readers and fantasy lovers alike.

This book is a lovely way to discuss the life cycle with children and to encourage them to view living and growing old with spirit. Old Pig is a grandparent figure who celebrates life but one day does not get out of bed. He lets the young pig know it is his time to slow down and that life will go on and that his spirit will continue.

Old Pig is the most touching story of life. I read it to my children, ages 3 and 4 years. My son, who is the older of the two, had questions about what it meant to lose someone you love. However, he quickly turned it around and spoke about life and how much fun it is share to it with others. Later that evening and for many evenings thereafter, I read Old Pig after they went to bed. It is indelibly etched it my heart.

i came across this book in 1996 when a fellow production controller showed me OLD PIG. we were the printer of this book for allen & unwin.

it made the hairs at the back of my neck go all funny the first time i read it. and it still does everytime i reread this achingly beautiful book. i left my hometown, 10 years ago, to work when i was barely nineteen and my grandfather died a few months later- never had the chance to say goodbye. i wished i had the chance to hold my grandfather tight one last time...

Old Time Radio's Greatest Shows clearly and fully lives up to its title as it showcases sixty of the finest radio program series to constitute the "Golden Age" of radio broadcasting. Ranging from Burns And Allen; The Lone Ranger; Dragnet; and Dimension X; to The Screen Director's Assignment; The Green Hornet; The Quiz Kids; and Songs By Sinatra; the 30 hours of programming in this magnificently presented anthology covers all of the diverse genres of popular radio programing from comedies, mysteries, and dramas, to science fiction, westerns, and variety shows. This superbly presented sampler is enhanced with a sturdy album case and a booklet which includes details and history for each show. A perfect introduction for new generations of listeners (as well as appreciative nostalgic old-timers!), Old Time Radio's Greatest Shows is very highly recommended for personal and community library audiobook collections.

If you're looking to get your feet wet in collecting recordings of American old-time radio, this is an excellent place to start. Every genre of '30s and '40s radio (except possibly news) is represented in this well-done collection. A great place to start what can become a lifelong hobby.

A very good deal, especially for those who are not sure which shows may be of interest to them. The booklet is excellant and contributes to the enjoyment of the programs. Many hours of entertainment for a very small investment.

Steinbeck...move over! Scalia creates a thoroughly enjoyable story with vivid and unforgetable characters. He draws the reader into a world unlike our own but with a universal message~be careful what you wish for.

I know my high school readers (including reluctant readers) will be captivated! Great selection for a 'class read' -- lots to dissect and discuss. A gem.

"Pearl" was a finalist in the Foreword Magazine 2001 Writing Competition and a winner in my book! It is a great companion piece for Steinbeck's work, but able to stand up on its own. The story is simple but compelling. The style is easy and poetic. The author shows compassion and understanding for his characters. From the beginning you'll keep you turning the pages to an exciting conclusion. Try it, you'll love it!

This dark and brooding novel explores the heights men will go to when greed and cruelty consume them. Memorable, well defined characters add to the suspense and forward momentum of the plot. Written with the style and voice of the earlier work, this extraordinary novel is a perfect compliament to Steinbeck's short story and is a MUST for every high school English curriculum. A masterful achievement!

I've owned this book for a number of years & I find it is DEFINITELY a "keeper". My wife can"t understand why I drag it out & re-read it every Fall. I'd read & enjoyed Ruark's fiction in my younger days, but when I stumbled across "The Old Man & The Boy" it reminded me of times in the woods & on the water with my own father & the life lessons I was taught at those times. Both books together are simply a double treasure.

My grandfather gave me a paperback edition of the "The Old Man and The Boy" when I was about twelve. I am thirty three now and this book has never left my side. I have since acquired "The Old Man's Boy Grows Older." This work has similiar flavour. For those sporting people who long for the days of ethics and morality in the field and in the home this book is a must read. You can virtually smell the campfire, hear the Quail calling and learn some important lessons on life and sport.

As a success in my field, I was questioned by my trade organization what management books I kept on my desk. Only one: The Old Man and the Boy.

I received a copy of Mr. Turley's book from my cousin. It was sent to me since my mother is on her journey into dementia. Even though she has not been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, many of her symptoms are similar. At the time I read Mr. Turley's book, I was feeling very isolated, confused and frustrated. I did not need a factual rendition of what I was facing. I needed a personal connection. After reading Mr. Turley's book, I no longer felt as if I was the only person dealing with the overwhelming emotions associated with watching a loved one sink into dementia. My feelings of guilt were greatly alleviated, just by sharing what Mr. Turley had gone through. I found many of the decisions he had to make were similar to ones I was in the process of having to make. I also appreciated having a book that was honest, straightforward and did not hedge on the turmoil involved with the caregiver. What I appreciated most, was his underlying theme that his life continued but with the added burdens. That is the most important message one can send. Those of us that have to stand and watch still have to continue with what we do. We cannot become consumed with our loved ones decline. That is also the hardest aspect of dementia with which to deal.

"Old Timers" should be on the suggested reading list for anyone seeking information about Alzheimer's disease and all of its ramifications for the family of the victim. NO ONE knows like someone who had been there and that is certainly Jack Turley. It is an easy read that pulls at the heart strings.

OLD TIMERS is a compelling story, brutally honest, written with occasional humor and dedicated love. I found I consistently nodded my head in agreement and thought, "YES! He REALLY understands!" I sent OLD TIMERS to my cousin. She is going through absolute misery with her mother who lives in a different state and has Alzheimer's Disease. My cousin was depressed and didn't want to read the book. Having just returned from a visit, she was VERY tired and "had ENOUGH of the subject." But, she DID read it and called to say that OLD TIMERS helped her so very much. She found out that others had problems and feelings similar to hers. Now my cousin does not feel so alone when she is dealing with difficult decisions and tender feelings. I highly recommend OLD TIMERS for church and community support discussion groups.

This is an awesome book! So much more than just a "cookbook" it contains little bits of history woven throughout, along with many detailed descriptions and explanations on how and why things were done. I also enjoyed the wonderful pen and ink illustrations. The recipes are great and easy to follow. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for original, old-time recipes!

I adore this cookbook! Spiral-bound, lie-flat pages; many gorgeous color photographs of the baked goods as well as historical photographs of cowboys cooking and eating; and a great layout are just the beginning. Every single recipe has a several-paragraph commentary about how the recipe came into being or the differences between the original Old West and updated recipes. Scattered throughout the book are features on various topics such as cooking equipment in the Old West, chuck wagons, and availability and use of various foods. I also enjoyed the uniqueness of the recipes. Never before have I seen recipes for green tomato pie, gems (similar to muffins), or spotted pup (a pudding). However, the book doesn't neglect more common fare such as sourdough bread, cherry cobbler, bread pudding, biscuits, etc. Additional features include an Old West cooking dictionary, a comprehensive index, and a bibliography of books about food and life in the Old West. If you love baking or the Old West, you MUST get your own copy, because I'm not going to lend mine to anyone!!!

Get out your Dutch oven. Find a ceramic crock with a tight lid. You'll need both when you open this wonderful cookbook. Of course the oven is for the baking and the crock is for the sourdough starter you'll learn to make. I couldn't believe the Old West recipes that were in this cookbook. I immediately bought several books as gifts for my relatives and friends. Walters has dug up so many memorable and forgotten recipes that it's like finding the Mother Lode of pioneer vittles. Houn' Ears & Whirlups, Splatter Dabs, Oatmeal Pudding, three different sourdough starters, Railroad Cake, they're all packed into 170 pages. In addition, the book has excellent historical and contemporary photographs and informative inserts. The Old West Baking Book is a truly a treasure found.