Andrew Shryock captures the fragmented nature of oral histories among the Bedouin tribes of a Jordanian region known as the Balga. This text, which is actually an ethnography, brings into relief greater concepts of history that are often not obvious. The histories that Andrew collects have never been written, except a few segments in travelogues. This brings to mind questions about the unsubstantiated faith in written historical texts. Andrew illustrates that it is possible to interrogate the oral histories in the same way other historians interrogate archival data. Questions of the source of the document, the identity of the author, the comparison of data with other sources creates a "complete reality" of history. While Andrew flirts with this definition of history in chapter one when he compares the data he retrieves from oral histories to data found in archives, he also opens several other issues entirely. The oral histories of the Balga tribes are by their very nature fragmentary and disjointed. They do not lend themselves to a uniform, linear universal whole history. Instead, they provide only highlights. This brings to mind a question of validity for so-called modern history. How much is filled in like the archeologist filling in the gaps in crumbled structures? Is it possible that the Balga tribes' oral histories, untouched by the pressure of conformity, be closer to historical truth than the modern version whose rough edges have been hewn squarely into a proper line? Andrew also illustrates the uses that are not directly historical. Oral histories contribute a part to building political clout and are propagated because of political clout. Moreover, the oral histories play a part in identity forming for young members of the tribes. They relate to their place in the universe, not only in the tribe, but also in relation to other tribes, Jordanian politics and the world at large, based on how they see themselves in relation to the oral histories. For these two purposes, the non-textual aspect of the oral histories is part of their significance, part of their social power. It brings into question classic historical texts all over the world. Exactly how historically accurate is everything we call history? An excellent piece of work, it's easy to see why it won scholastic awards.

The author does an excellent job of skirting the volatile plausibility of transcribing oral histories to the written word. For anyone wanting to understand both the intricacies and basic histories of the Jordanian Balga Bedouin, it is a fascinating read. Having a Jordanian father and a Palestinian mother, I especially enjoyed Shryock's investigation into their age-old rivalries. Tribalism is alive and well, as Shryock adeptly shows, and he brings it to us in clear and cunning detail.

Andrew Shryock is the oldest of five boys. All the brothers are very close and that is why I, his youngest brother, am very proud of his work. All the brothers will be home for Christmas and will anticipate reading his work of art. Andrew is a great writer as well as a great person. Number Five, Benjamin Shryock.

I've both versions of these book, and find both of them to be excellent books. Plus, if Nol Putnam has recommended it, then its got to be good, as Nol is one of the best smiths I know in my area...

The New Edge of the Anvil is a revised and expanded edition of Andrews' earlier and most successful book. I urge all my students to buy, read, use and then reread this book. Clear words, excellent pictures, good explanations, tables, charts...all you need to encourage you to pick up a hammer and start hammering. The new sections include wonderful pictures of historical ironwork (go practice making some of these!) and then the directions that six contemporary smiths are taking. I confess that I am one of these smiths, and that I have known the author for years. Because this is such a good resource, it is wonderful to be able to recommend it heartily without our friendship compromised. Buy it!

This book has been a constant guide and reference for me for the past fifteen years. Every time I look through it I find something of value that I missed or forgot. The quality of the text, phots and drawings in this new edition are of the highest quality and make the book a continual delight to read and review. If I could have but one book about blacksmithing, this would surely be the one.

These fabulous tales of Ogner Stump are sure to strike wonderfully resounding chords in all those who dare partake of it's pages. The stories and artwork alike are truly one of a kind, a rare treat to behold in this world of copy-cating run amuckedness. I can't wait for the next installment of tales which, like these, will surely add wonder to my life and deeper meaning to my coffee table.

Mind-bending, disturbing, funny, beautiful -- what more do you want? The artwork is strong, bold curves describing dreamlike images. Fantastic layouts and whimsical frames hold hilarious stories.

What in the world could I say to make you give this book a try? Whatever it is, I'd only say it because I sincerely think this is a book for every sort of person I know. Sure, I did the production and colour for it, but that isn't why I'd recommend it. Actually, the reason I'd recommend it is the exact reason I did the production and colour work on this book. Andrew Goldfarb's mind is one not to be taken lightly, yet it screams of a truth interlaced in all of our own experiences and whimsey. To be allowed to work on this book was more than a huge honour. It is the book's charm and insight that makes me pray for an edition of the rest of the Sorrows. Goldfarb can take a common, every-day event and help us all to see why, in every moment, we live such tortured lives...and still survive to laugh about it.

...If you have taken a step, drawn a breath, or had a haircut you will relish the time you had reading this book for the first time. If you have ever lost a beloved friend, pondered perpetual motion, or tried to make a flying machine, you will understand why you read it again...and again...and then you will tell a friend to buy it and be as lost for appropriate words as I am.

If you like John's origami books, this one is a must! I would rate it as my favorite of all of his, and that's saying a lot. In addition to the models mentioned by others, this book has the two bases in it, which I found particularly fun to play with on my own. I used the dog base to fold my own versions of about a dozen different dog breeds. I'm sure any experienced folder could come up with others!

This, in my opinion, is Montroll's best book out there. The small details of the models are superb, especially the panda bear and the camel. Most of the animals stand up by themselves and make great displays.

In this book Montroll not only makes some of the best animal models so far but also creates systems of folding 4-leg animals and 6-leg insects. The folding steps in each model are very natural, with great logic and wits. Montroll is so scintillating in these designs that he creates 2 outstanding origami bases, Montroll's Dog base and Montroll's Insect base. In application of these 2 bases many vivid animals (REALLY VIVID!) are folded and exhibited. Other animals are well-designed too, including a cock, a penguin from the front side, etc. In my opinion, this is the finest among Montroll's origami books.

"Out of the Twilight" is a thoughtful study of the feelings of fathers when their sons reveal they are gay. The fathers in the sample were from different racial, ethnic, educational, and financial backgrounds.This gave a varied view. I was impressed by the author'sability to describe the feelings of each father objectively. The reader begins to understand how these parents deal with their feelings and accept the reality of a gay son. This book gave me insight into how one copes with life and events beyond ones control and somehow survives and goes forward.

This exceptional book should be read by therapists and researchers, who would find it useful for clinically oriented purposes. Although a study, it reads like a novel. This author's passion for the subject matter is obvious. The vignettes are truly touching, capturing something quite unique about each father. A rare find.

Having now had the benefit of reading your new book, I can fully appreciate the significance of your interview with me. Any father -- be their son gay or not -- can derive deep and meaningful father/son insight from its' content. It is excellent. Thank you for your efforts and congratulations on a superb piece of work.

well as an avid collector of Mid-Century artifacts. I was very impressed by the book. Palm Springs is an amazing city and to just drive around in your car and look at the fascinating architecture is so awesome. To me being here and loving that style of design is just a bonus. But when some tourist saw me driving my beloved 62 Valiant wagon yelled out of their window "We saw you in Palm Springs Weekend" I asumed that they ment with my band. Until they said "With this car" That is when I realized The photograph I had candidly posed for a year before. I got a hold of the book and sure enough there I was. It makes me proud to be in the book. And I hope that Alan Hess and Andrew Danish Have great success with their careers. And I pray that the book will open peoples mind to the likes of Albert Frey and Richard Neutra and the many other designers who have shaped the deserts amazing style which needs to be preserved and not demolished as society grows. An awesome book and a must have for every Mid-Century modern enthusiust.

While I initially bought Palm Springs Weekend as a coffee table book, it is much more substantial -- a great read, with the historical perspective necessary to appreciate the architectural legacy. Hess and Danish provide a tour from the beginnings of the desert resort in the 1930s, through the Hollywood migration of the 1940s and '50s and continue with the decline and then reawakened interest in modernism. And yes, it is a handsome book to have out for guests.

PSW earns high marks for balance, not focusing unduly on celebrity homes but instead providing a survey of significant commercial buildings, architectural trends and the personalities (Cody, Frey, the Alexanders) that brought the modernistic vision to life. Because of this, most readers interested in architecture will find it more useful than glamour-shot books of multi-million dollar homes behind gated walls. Several of the buildings noted are readily observable to visitors.

In addition, the authors illustrate the aspects of the culture that spawned Palm Springs. It is a remarkable journey because it is only recently that we have begun to view the 1950's, for example, as a period that has left us 'historic artifacts' worth appreciation. Less affected than neighboring LA or San Diego by overwhelming population growth, Palm Springs is something of a monument to the way things were. Hess and Danish do not overlook this.

While it is disappointing to see the cookie-cutter tract homes being built as the desert communities expand eastward, Palm Springs retains many of its unique homes, many of which are accessible to those of moderate means. PSW helps us appreciate the imaginative architects of the 'midcentury oasis', in their successes and even manages to evoke a bit of appreciation for some of the eyesores. A must read for anyone restoring or considering the purchase of a special home in this fascinating place.

If you like mid-century architecture you'll love this book. Showcases not only on the 'finest' (and familiar) works of some extraordinary architects/builders in this resort town, but also offers up a bit of kitsch too. Often neglected but valuable nonetheless and is part of what makes Palm Springs the town it is. Very well written with lush photographs. I came away with insights into the making of an American resort town. Almost as good as being there.

A wonderful audio tape. You feel his pain,and finally the truth comes out! No cover ups! If you love the Titanic as much as I do, this tape if for you!

In this great audio book, which is the companion to "I built the Titanic," Willam Barne's publisher has done an excellent job in editing the actual past-life regression sessions into chronological order. The result is like hearing Thomas Andrews tell the story, step by step, in his own words and his own voice.

So real, it sent chills up my spine.

This is not just a re-hash of the material on the first book. In There is new regression material here, plus an excellent interview with William Barnes, telling how bringing forth the past-life sotry has brought healing and peace of mind in this life. You can also hear a very clear difference between the voice of Tommie and the voice of Bill Barnes. So much more convincxing that a printed book!

I recommend buying both of these "Titanic" audio books -- they really should be considered a two-part set!

This book contains the actual past life regressions that brought forth Tommie Andrews and made him alive again. I can't get enough of the sound of of Mr. Andews speaking through the author. There are additional regrassions that weren't included in I Built the Titanic along with a terrific interview at the end, making this the perfect compliment.

As a lifelong resident of Pittsburgh and author of an upcoming guidebook to the area, I believe Pittsburgh: Story of An American City is a wonderful book for more than Pittsburghers.

This book lifts the lid on all our progressive city has to offer, it educates those who have outdated knowledge of Pittsburgh, and it makes a great gift book.

If that's not enough, it provides an ideal history lesson for all as Western Pennsylvania has many historic sights to see as well as splendid architecture!

After reading, you'll want to extend your next business trip to Pittsburgh, shop in more than our airport, and visit our family-friendly parks. Don't forget: Mister Rogers lives here! Your kids will love Idlewild Park, with the only life-size Neighborhood of Make-Believe.

If you can't be our neighbor, come see us. You won't be disappointed!

The latest edition of Pittsburgh is an expertly crafted and beautifully photographed continuation of the Lorant chronicle. Although Mr. Campbell finished the work after Mr. Lorant's death, the new chapter flows with the Lorant style. The edition uses an impressive array of photos to help tell the story and give a sense of the kind of people who have remained at the hard work of rebuilding an industrial city. Like the editions before, the work emphasizes the positive about the city and concentrates on physical renewal. Yet you come away thinking that whatever its problems, people working together can come up with a solution. People from the area will like this book but others who believe in the importance of cities will find it interesting and instructive.

We landed at Pittsburgh International Airport a little after dusk, impressed with how the runways appeared to grow out of the natural contours of the land. We joined the flowing rush hour traffic as the comfortable limousine sped in towards the city. Joe, our driver, talked enthusiastically about the change from steel city to high tech city, the history of an era that changed from black to white, but nothing was to prepare us for what was to follow. As we escaped through the Fort Pitt tunnel the night light panorama left us breathless-this surely is one of the new post-modern views of a post-industrial age.

The purpose of our visit had everything to do with 'The Book'; the style in which Pittsburgh's citizens would affectionately refer to Stefan Lorant's monumental opus Pittsburgh: the story of an American city. With an initial ten years in the making, first published in 1964 and revised in 1974, 1980 and 1988, Lorant was completing a fifth edition when he died in November 1997 just 100 days short of his 97th birthday. Twenty-five thousand copies of this new version, the 'Millennium Edition' are now on the bookstalls due to the tenacity, talent and sheer hard work of Bruce and Gail Campbell who inherited the copyright. Lorant himself was tenacious, immensely talented, capable of recognising talent in others and certainly subscribed to the work ethic. It is intriguing to speculate why a Hungarian, a foreigner and stranger to the city could write such a volume, on the surface a notion to be easily dismissed but a reality that became spectacularly successful.

Stefan Lorant was born in Budapest on February 22nd, 1901 and died in Rochester, Minnesota on November 14th, 1997 at 96-years-of-age. He was a witness to the century with his life spanning a period of political turmoil, war and social change. Lorant became a legend within his lifetime. His work as a visual and literary editor allowed him to pioneer and develop the genré of picture based journalism at a period in time which saw the emergence of modern mass communications. Internationally he became a guiding force, disseminating his ideas and political knowledge throughout Europe in the late-twenties and thirties by working in Germany, Hungary and England, eventually spreading his sphere of influence to America where he introduced the concept of the pictorial biography. His innovative layouts, his 'exclusive' interviews and thirst for knowledge became a familiar part of millions of everyday lives, largely through the pages of his own creations, and in particular the legendary media icon Picture Post. His vision of photography as a documentary medium inspired Life and Look magazines in America, and paved the way for the eventual emergence of the television documentary. For this he became recognised as 'the father of picture journalism'.

Originally published in 1964, the first edition of Pittsburgh: the story of an American city is the mature Lorant at his most brilliant. 'The Book' had a specific local audience as well as a wider interested public throughout America and that is reflected by the reviews of the first edition. Harrison E. Salisbury in The New York Times sees 'The whole tumultuous story of Pittsburgh, magnificently illustrated... is presented in this volume... the study of the metamorphosis is all here-the bloody struggles of the nineteenth century, the grit and smoke, the politics, the toil, the sweat-the imagination.' Publishers' Weekly was equally congratulatory but in a different way. 'It is certainly one of the most fascinating detailed picture histories yet attempted of any city anywhere. For readability, thoroughness (ten years of research went into it), graphic quality, and broad scope (it covers political and social history, daily life, labor problems, architecture and what have you), this is a model history of an American city.'

Lorant's Pittsburgh: the story of an American city is not just a biography of a city but a microcosm of the American peoples. Just ten or so days before he died in November 1997, Lorant complained that he only needed a good day to complete 'The Book'. To be accurate Lorant's 'good day' did not mean a working period of time between dawn and dusk, or any other measure within that 24-hour cycle. It was an infinitely variable amount of time necessary to complete the story to Lorant's satisfaction. He was not to have that 'good day'. He had completed the layout for the new pages and commissioned the new photographs, most of which were in place. Picking up the editorial reigns, Gail and Bruce Campbell have produced this new edition with Bruce weaving the strands of the new final chapter from 1988 to the millennium which he entitles, 'The best is yet to come'.

There are parallels with which Lorant would have been acquainted. Mozart's pupil Süssmayr, well appraised of his master's procedure and intentions completed the final masterpiece-Requiem in D minor. By comparison, the Campbell's share an affinity with Lorant's intentions and have produced a contemporary and forward looking vision which retains Lorant's classic composition.

Those of us who knew Lorant well, can still visualise him sat at his kitchen table in his farmhouse in Lenox with a copy of the new Millennium Edition open in front of him. For a while nothing would be said, though nothing would be missed. Eventually there would be a slight shrug of his shoulders, a nonchalant wave of his hands. 'It is good, very good-but with my help, perhaps we could have made it ten percent better.' That would be praise indeed from this great Hungarian editor, for without question Lorant would have approved.

This is a 'must-have' for any millennium book list!

The author has a unique ability to explain PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) in a way that is detailed and clear. PKI is a very complex topic and requires a knowledge of many other fieds including technology and security to even begin. It is beyond the grasp of the average Internet user today. After reading many other PKI books and doing hours of research on the Internet regarding PKI, I had been able to piece together the processes and basics on PKI. But after only reading the first 2 chapters of this book, I felt I understood concepts better than any other source.

The only criticism I have is that the author uses too much levity in explaining his points. The jokes are not that funny but unfortunately they keep coming.

This is a great book for those fairly new to PKI. I needed to find out about PKI quickly, and this book explained it in clear terms. It begins by explaining encryption techniques and algorithms, and you don't have to have PhD in mathematics to understand it. Then it introduces PKI in logical pieces and concepts. Each chapter builds on the previous chapter, so it is really easy to understand. It shows how various applications can use PKI (SSL, SMIME, etc) as well as how a PKI can be implemented.

If you are new to PKI and need to get a handle on it quickly, then I highly recommend reading this book. It is well worth the money.

I've read quite a few books on PKI now, one of the best being Schneier's Secrets and Lies, which is fairly negative on the technology over all, and appropriately so.

This book is a good deal more positive on the technology, but is not pollyanna. I think that Schneier realizes that the technology is a helpful tool, though it does not solve the human engineering problems that need o be solved to implement "real" security. This book helps you understand how to do that, and gives you a feel for where the bodies are buried.

The biggest skeleton in PKI's closed has always been authentication, which PKI does not solve, but vendors would have you believe it does. This is the first book by from a PKI house that lays those cards on the table. OF course, RSA *does* make most of its dough from selling securIDs...

But I think this one is a keeper.

If it wasn't for this book, there is no way I could have passed my physics class. The textbook used was absolutely incomprehensible, but this book led me through problems and helped me understand the concepts rather than just come up with the correct answers.

This book explained things much more clearly than my textbook. If you're taking physics you should get it.

Andy Elby provides a really good set of problems and solutions for E&M. He shows you typical problems that your professor will ask you, explains what the problem wants you to do, and finally how to go about solving the problem. Helped me ace Physics 7B at Berkeley. Ideal source for those who look at a physics problem and don't know where to start. Especially with E and M, the correct problem solving path is not always obvious, since Electricity and Magnetism isn't something you can touch or visualize as easily as mechanics.