being a veteran and a rabid reader of Vietnam I now know I have read the best book ever written on the war. The ways of the men are just as they were and the discriptions of actions and non actions were perfect. It may be fiction but it is fact and any man that has served knows it to be. I certainly hope he can write another book as his abilitys are wonderful.

I begin by admitting that my comments must be taken with a grain of salt. I wrote the book: I'm expected to like it. If I didn't think it was worthwhile reading for everyone, I would not have submitted it to the publisher. but some comments may be helpful to the potential reader/buyer.

First, the setting of the book is early Vietnam (1966), before the craziness that occurred later (1969 on) and became the focus of the media and therefore of the war as a whole. None of that craziness existed when I served there in 1966 and again in early 1968. I suspect some who have read the book assume that because a story about the early days of that war contains no references to drugs, racism or the fragging of officers (note US Senator Max Cleland, D-GA) it must necessarily be some sort of whitewash of the "truth" which the national media created and promoted. I assure the potential buyer/reader that ALONE IN THE VALLEY presents an accurate, though fictionalized, account of that war as I experienced it. For my perspective on the craziness of the later years, you'll have to convience someone to publish the sequel. The reader should also understand that the book containes none of the Hollywood exaggerations which, in my opinion, render every movie about Vietnam unwatchable. I believed when I wrote it, and believe now, that war accurately portrayed is sufficiently exciting to hold readers attention. If I did not know for a fact that something actually happened, it is not included in the story.

Second, after the book was published I received a few letters from readers. The two which surprised and pleased me the most were from women who thanked me for presenting a story which at last enabled them to understand why some relative of theirs was unable to cope with the aftermath of service in Vietnam. Service in combat, whichever and whenever the war, has always made veterans different from other people. I am pleased beyond measure that my efforts have helped some people better to understand their sons, brothers and fathers.

Third, the potential reader/buyer should know that ALONE IN THE VALLEY was translated into Dutch and published in the Netherlands. It is an odd feeling to hold a copy of a book I wrote but cannot read. Perhaps less odd is the fact that the Dutch edition has sold more copies than the English edition, less odd because the Dutch people were spared most of the media coverage of Vietnam. Apparently they have a greater appreciation of the story I told. I mention the Dutch edition to inform those who read this that I am currently a published but unknown novelist on two continents.

Finnally, I urge everyone who enjoys a good book to read ALONE IN THE VALLEY because I sincerely believe thay will be both accurately informed and effectively entertained. Those were my only intentions in writing it.

Kenneth Waymon Baker

2/8th Cav (Abn), 1st Calvary Div (airmoble), Nov '65-Nov '66, RVN

1/505th Inf (Abn), 82nd Airborn Div, Feb-May '68, RVN

BSEd, UGA '70

MEd, UGA '72

I've seen 100s of war movies and read several war stories, but for the first time I feel I've gained at least a basic understanding of what it was like for the average "GI" serving in Vietnam and thus have gained a better understanding of the few veterans that I personally know. I have also personally met Mr. Baker (the author) and have had many long conversations with him. Although the book is written as "fiction", 90+% of the story comes from Mr. Baker's experiences in Vietman during his two tours of duty, not as a hero, but as a kid thrown into a frightening situation. I feel the book is valuable reading for anyone who has a friend or relative who has served in the armed forces in a combat situation or anyone who would just like a glimpse into that world which only those who have served can truly understand.

DeLana is a spunky young girl who has the pioneer spirit to achieve anything she wants. Nancy has a way with words that keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next. The histoical facts are so well written. Make sure you have all the books when you start reading this series. Great reading for young and old!

This is a wonderful book that follows the life of a young pioneer girl as she makes her own unique way in an uncompromising world. Although the book is set in the 1820's, DeLanna shows us that we have to be true to ourselves no matter what the circumstances.This is a super "girl power" book!

Once you start the Apple Valley series, make sure that you have all of the books on hand because you'll want to read the next one as soon as you finish reading the one before! Note to Ms. Smith: Thank you and please get busy, I'm waiting for the rest of the series!

Drama Queen is THE best book yet. It talx mostly about Olympics Week and Toby and Anna. I think Toby and Anna are a GREAT couple! However, what the bad part I didn't like was that Toby was acting like a know-it-all since Anna got the part of Maria. And when I say Toby and Anna a good couple, I mean it though I wish Toby wouldn't act so,"I'm a lead actor so I'm the best actor," mode thing. But read the book and you'll see what happens b/w Lacey and Jess.

may actually become FRIENDS! I'm serious i think that they could, they gave each other a high-five didn't they? I don't understand why lacey has to be such a snot, because if she wasn't a snot she and jessica would have been friends from the start. Lavey actually acts like a kid sometimes, but like bethell said, awww our lil lacey is growing up. Lacey became a tad bit nicer in this book {suprise suprise}! About Toby and Anna, they have a fight but lets not get into details! {don't worry they are still together!}

This book was the best out of the jr. high series. I am so glad that Anna finally has a life. I'm really glad that Francine Pascal is focusing on other characters than Liz and Jessica Wakefield. I really liked this book, but it was one of those books you better be prepared not to be able to put it down.

I like to sit quietly with these poems of Anne Valley Fox because they are sensitive, sensual, feminine, and rich with surprising and delightful imagery. Anne's poetry is a glimpse into her personal life, and as I read them, also into my own. I highly recommend this evocative little book.

In baseball, a pitcher is said to be "sneaky fast" when his deliveries, although appearing relaxed, and even slow, arrive at home plate so quickly that the astonished batter is rendered defenseless, overwhelmed by their suddeness. By the same token, the writer of this wonderful collection of poems should be called "sneaky profound." Her approach eschews all pretension, refusing to indulge in verbal pyrotechnics or high-flown mannerisms, so that her language, albeit rich and broadly drawn, becomes practically transparent, never intrusive, leaving the reader overwhelmed by the suddeness and depths of her insights into the human dilemma.

These are the stories of a seeker of wisdom who has chosen to search not in the esoteric, or the recherché, but in the places most accessible to her sensibilities, the places of the heart--lovers, husbands, children, friends, work, and play--and to bring forth from those places a vision pregnant with meanings. From the ordinariness of chopping wood and carrying water she has fashioned a bridge to the numinous.

This retrospective collection of poems is the work of a remarkably gifted writer who strings together words like precious gems. She adeptly observes and preserves the smallest details of everyday life, bearing true witness to her surroundings with an unfailing talent for finding the extraordinary in the most ordinary situations. I recommend this book highly.

This book was da bomb!:) I really love it! You should read it too. It's so exciting that you don't want to put the book down. It's a romantic book I've ever read of Sweet Valley High. I hope you will read it too.

I just love the Sweet Valley High books. This one is called IN LOVE WITH THE ENEMY, and it's book #1 in the 'Betrayel' saga. In this one, Jessica falls in love with the wrong guy (as usual). She's dating Sweet Valley High's quarterback star, Ken Matthews. But then she falls for hot and sexy Christain Gorman, when he teaches her how to surf. Little does Jessica know that Christain is the the leader of Palisades High's most violent gang - and they're biggest rivals is Sweet Valley High! It's very exciting and romantic. Definitely one to pick up and read if you're a Sweet Valley High fan or enjoy reading romantic/tragedies. Awesome read! Solidly written.

I really liked this book, but something was missing. Why does what happens have to happen? It's unfair. And about Ken and Jessica...if Jessica doesn't care for Ken anymore, why not tell him instead of cheating on him! And Christian. He really loves Jessica. Even when he finds out Jessica has a boyfriend and was going out with Ken while going out with him he still loves her. That not a high-school sweetheart. That's not a little-kids crush. That's love. Real love. And Christian is SO caring. So sweet. But Ken is to. This book is great, but it's weepy when you find out what happened to Christian, something that'll affect Jessica for the rest of her life.

This is a great book. Many people would think that it could not possibly be all true, but it is. I am also a missionary kid (MK) and although I never lived in the jungle, I lived through some of these same adventures. The last chapter is especially true (particuarlly for MKs from the '80s). Parts of it were so true that it was hard to read. But it was a great childhood. Ron Snell speaks out for all of us MKs!

It's a jungle out there

by Chris barber

This is a great story.It's exotic, it's funny,and the pictures help you imagine almost exactly what it was like then.The book virtually explains what it's like to be a kid with missionary parents growing up in the jungles of Peru .You also learn about South American tribes such as the Michiguengas.All written with a sense of humor.One of my favorite parts was,when he observed that "When they are laughing you know you're in trouble."
I highly suggest this book to anyone who likes to laugh and learn about other cultures.

I bought this book for my 12-year-old daughter, but she raved so much about it that I read it myself. This book is fast-paced, funny, and yet very insightful. While it looks like a children's book at first, any adult will enjoy it too.

This book is so exciting. Each storyline is extremely exciting. Jessica is depressed after all her heartbreaks. Then she meets Louis Miles, a guy unlike any guy she's ever met before. She's shocked to find out he's her professor, but she can't stop thinking about him. Louis feels the same. While on the beach, he starts thinking about her, and there she comes like she could read his mind. But, Louis's wife is out for murder. Tom Watts gives Elizabeth an assignment while he's awat in L.A. He immeadietly gets jealous whenever Elizabeth mentions Todd Wilkins. I love Todd Wilkins. I think Elizabeth and Todd Wilkins made such a cute couple. I think Todd Wilkins and Elizabeth are such a cute couple. Elizabeth adn Todd forever! I really wish that Elizabeth and Todd get back together. Elizabeth and Todd made the cutest couple. Elizabeth and Todd forever! When Elizabeth and Todd start on the case, it ends up being one of the biggest cases in SVU history! Lila Fowler and Bruce Patman are moving in with eachother, and Winston has the oppurtunity to cheat on a test. This book is exciting and great!

This book is excellent. Each storyline is exciting, and everything is intense. Jessica Wakefeeld is depressed after her losses. SHe has loved many men, but afetr many relationships goen wron, she decides to cry to dodge love, but fails. She, who usually parties all day and night, decides to go to a bookstore. She feels out of place, but meets an interesting guy there. Louis Miles is unlike any guy she's ever met, but totally not her type. But, he manages to get her itnerested in Midevil history. But, when she fidns out that he is her professor, she is shocked. She soon falls in love with him. They share nice talks, and one day, at the beach, she sees Louis walkign around on the rocks. It turns out Louis was thinking of her at the exact same moment, and there she comes. They talk and have romantic thoughts about eachother. Louis, meanwhile is trying to escape his wife, wo has been giving him death threats. Jessica is his only pride and joy. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Wakfield is sad that Tom Watts, her boyfriend, is leaving for a few eeks in L.A. Suddenly, whenever she mentions Todd WIlkins, her ex-boyfriend and Tom's worst enemy, he begins to grow cold toward her. He gives ehr a supposedly boring assignment. She is furious that Tom won't let her work on helping Todd get back on the team. But she agrees. Little does she know that this boring assignment is the most exciting story ever! Slowly she finds out more and more. SHe works on it with Todd, which infuriates Tom. Tom tells her to stop, but Elizabeth doesn't give up. As Elizabeth and Todd come closer and closer to exposing the story, it keeps on getting more and more dangerous. It's really interesting. Meanwhile, Lila Fowler and Bruce Patman are moving in together. Also, Winston Egbert is working hard on a test, but he's worried that if he doesn't pass it, him and Denise Waters will be separated. This book is exciting, engrossing, and a real page turner. This book is great!

I absolutely loved BEHIND CLOSED DOORS...it was such a romantic book! In this one, Jessica is mistakenly signed up to take a course in Medevil History when she asked for Film History. But then she learns that her Medevil History professor, the new, young, hot, sexy, mysterious, and popular, Louis Miles, feels attraction toward her...and she begins to feel attraction AND confusion when she knows he likes her but keeps trying to push her away because of some dark secret from his past.

And all this while, Elizabeth and Todd are trying to track down who attacked Todd. And Winston cheats on his pyhsics exam because he is failing pyhsics and if he does not pass, then his parents will send him to a different school and he won't be able to see Denise, his girlfriend, anymore. Tom goes off to Las Vages for a reporting job.

Great, well-written novel! I congradaulate Laurie John for an excellent novel and a terrific addition to the SWEET VALLEY UNIVERSITY series. If you're an SVU fan, this is definitely for you! The romance and affection between Jessica and Professor Louis Miles will have you engrossed 'til the end and be begging for more! I totally recommend this book.

For once, there is something wrong with rich, popular Lila Fowler. I think that more people should have had more faith in Lila, and not gone against her. It had a lot of suspence, and irony. You don't expect this to happen to Lila, maybe one of the other characters, but not Lila. This book is a little different than the othes, and its a nice change.

I thought that everyone's reaction to Lila's story wasparticularly truthful. Especially since some of her closest friendsrefused to believe that it really happened. It seems such a shame that Lila had to get another girl as evidence. I mean, if these so-called friends of hers had believed her in the first place, then she wouldn't have had to suffer. I definitely recommend this book to others. It also questions the notion of friendship as well as date rape.

One of a rush of SVH books dealing with adolescent issues. Snobbish flirt Lila's romance with wholesome John turns nasty when he tries to force himself on her. Shattered, Lila falls into deep depression, made far worse when she finds the courage to speak up about the attack, only to find her peers turn against her. The lightweight series deals surprisingly well with the difficult issue of date rape, depicting it in ways that should move and affect its audience of young girls without distressing them too much. The surprising choice of having manipulative bad-girl Lila attacked by long-time "good guy" John, hero of a volume or two of SVH himself, works very well.

Jessica has found him the perfect guy. Nick fox is As savy as you can get (and i mean rell savy). Things start to heat up as Nick and Jess started getting to know each other a little bit more! But Jessica knows Nick Has secrets to hideand she wants to know every single one of them. (And she will trust me she will) but more interesting things start to happen as the book goes on......................................................

This book is great. Jessica Wakefield hooks up with Nick Fox. She loves secrets, and she can't wait to find out Nick's. Some parts of it were predictable, others weren't. Jessica meets Nick Fox, who's cute and mysterious. She knows he has many secrets, and she wants to find out every last one of them! Elizabeth Wakefield is working on two projects- planning her boyfriend, Tom Watts's surprise birthday party, and helping George Conroy find his missing son. Could both projects be combined? It's pretty exciting, but a little predictable how that scenario turns out. Celine Boundreaux is back at SVU and wants to fit in. She tries to buy her way into the Thetas, and steal Jessica's boyfriend, Nick Fox. Tom Watts is really sad because of his family, but Elizabeth ahs two surprises for him. Jessica is trying to figure out Nick Fox's secret. It was really exciting, and very romantic. This book is great!

This book is really great. Some parts of it were predictable, others weren't. Jessica meets Nick Fox, who's cute and mysterious. She knows he has many secrets, and she wants to find out every last one of them! Elizabeth Wakefield is working on two projects- planning her boyfriend, Tom Watts's surprise birthday party, and helping George Conroy find his missing son. Could both projects be combined? It's pretty exciting, but a little predictable how that scenario turns out. Celine Boundreaux is back at SVU and wants to fit in. She tries to buy her way into the Thetas, and steal Jessica's boyfriend, Nick Fox. Tom Watts is really sad because of his family, but Elizabeth ahs two surprises for him. Jessica is trying to figure out Nick Fox's secret. It was really exciting, and very romantic. This book is great!

The book was interesting. I like the part when she predict that one of her friends is going to fight someone the next day and it did happened. I never knew anyone could predict that. This is one of the best book that I ever read. I bought the book. To people that don't have this book and haven't read this book, you don't know what you're missing.

The book was interesting. I like the part when she predict that one of her friends is going to fight someoene the next day, and it did happened. I never knew anyone could predict that. This is one of the best book that I ever read. I bought the book. To people that don't have this book and haven't read this book, you don't know what your missing.

I really enjoyed this book about fotune teller Jessica. It's about SVMS haing to make their own carnival or something. I especially liked the part when the Unicorns had to be tossed in a tub of grape jello!!!