I thought this book was incredible, and would reccomend it to anybody! The author's incredible insight and intelligence.

For years I have enjoyed Hazel Barton's articles in the San Marcos Record. Now I have many of her works in one book. I couldn't be more thrilled! When I heard she was retiring from the paper, I was so sad . . . but now I understand why. "Hazel," as her articles are entitled, will live on in A Wise Choice of Winds. Every story is unique, and every essay a little jewel that makes you feel better about the world you live in. I have used her works in my church, my school and for many other occasions. I highly recommend it. A doting fan.

For scholars in the fields of gender issues, development economics, and education, the authors offer a comprehensive presentation of current research at the nexus of these disciplines in sub-Saharan Africa.

Some 19 contributors are represented in this eminently readable collection of papers. With 34 tables, the book is an authoritative source for students and teachers with an interest in African studies in general and education for women and girls in particular.

Bloch and Vavrus prepare the reader at the outset for what is to come with a well documented survey of the sub-field of gender and education in the region. Country-specific papers address issues of women's education in Guinea, Liberia, Tanzania, Nigeria, and South Africa, while topical papers address cultural constraints, nutrition, and nonformal and formal education.

Of special note is Marjorie Mbilinyi's chapter, "Searching for Utopia: The Politics of Gender and Education in Tanzania," a sweeping survey densely packed with historical and political insights seldom found in scholarly journals. Mbilinyi's reminder of the admonition of the late Julius Nyerere in The Arusha Declaration speaks for the entire volume: "We want revolution-a revolution which brings to an end our weakness, so that we are never again exploited, oppressed, or humiliated."

The book, one of the series, "Women and Change in the Developing World," edited by Mary Moran of Colgate University, is unique in its coverage and rare in the quality of its writing. No serious scholar of development and education should be without this book.

I have been completely pulled into Josephine's world with this series of books. The diary style makes Rose feel so close and real, and though i do not know enough of French history to comment on the facts of this novel, the story is one i find hard to put down. I am just now finishing the third and final book which has left me hungry for more on the life of this interesting woman.

This is the second novel in the Josephine Trilogy; here the story takes us to the beginning of Josephine's marriage to Napoleon. We are witness to the horrid and formidable Bonaparte clan, In-laws that would make anyone think twice about marriage, and the rise of Napoleon's power. Through Sandra Gulland, Josephine brings us into her world as she deals with her new and ever evolving role in society. It is an interesting and refreshing point of view, which Gulland brings to the pages. We see history through human eyes and actually experience this period time. If the Napoleonic Wars are of interest to you, or you enjoy getting a sense of history and a different society I highly recommend this book. Gulland makes Josephine real to us, sometimes we want to shake her, and sometimes we want to congratulate her. Always we want to sympathize with her.

If you enjoyed the previous novel in the series, then you will definitely enjoy this book too, which picks up the story where it was left at the end of "The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B."

In "Tales of Passion, Tales of Woe," the second in a trilogy of books by Sandra Gulland, Josephine begins her new life as Mrs. Napoleon Bonaparte, who is now General-in-Chief of the Army of Italy and is winning battle after battle and becoming more famous (or infamous?) and popular. Josephine has to struggle with the love of this passionate man, with his difficult family, her financial difficulties, and her 'fertility problems'. She has influential and interesting friends (as in the first novel), and does her best to put to her connections to good use. She describes the effects of war, including being caught in a battle herself, and Napoleon's rise to power. According to the author, these four and a half years are the most scandalous-ridden of Josephine's life.

Josephine's character becomes increasingly more interesting with each installment in the series. Again, I have to give praise to Ms. Gulland for her astounding historical accuracies. The details of everything are so precise that it almost feels you are living in the same era. Another fast-paced, and exciting historical treat. Far from boring, and nothing like a history textbook! I'm looking forward reading the last book in the series! Highly recommended!

William Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing" is brought to life with elegance and grace. Aside from the nudity and [adult] content, this is a great film full of funny humor, a great cast and brilliant filmmaking (Credit for that goes to Kenneth Branagh, who has proven time and again that he is as fine a director as Spielberg, Lucas, and Scorcese, if not better). The second DVD release features a fine digital transfer of the film, complete in it's 1.85:1 Widescreen format. The short featurette "Making 'Much Ado'" is not the best doc ever made, but it does it's job. Other special features include the Theatrical trailer and trailers for the "When Harry Met Sally..." and "The Princess Bride" DVD's. A fine addition to the collection. Get this along with "Henry V."
Movie Grade: A+
DVD Grade: A-

I saw this movie when I was fairly young. I admit that I couldn't understand much of what was going on let along what was being said (I was nine, I wasn't exactly fluent in Olde English). Since then I've watched it many times. Not only do I understand it now, but I fully apreciate how good it is.

The movie is a very good adaptation of the play. The impressive lines that Shakespeare wrote were generally given new life in their delivery. Also, I must compliment Michael Keaton on his role. It isn't a very big one, but if you watch this movie, you'll understand why I mentioned it. Overall, this is simply a fully enjoyable movie, whether you're a fan of Shakespeare or not.

What a wonderful find! The DVD version of this movie is simply splendid! The segment in the DVD version called "Making Much Ado" provides a terrific, brief overview to the film and is well worth the extra dollars to invest in the DVD format. Interviews with each of the actors will help you to appreciate this movie for what it truly is: a cinematic work of excellence! You will fall in love with Shakespeare's wittiest pair, Beatrice (Emma Thompson) and Benedick (Kenneth Branagh), while admiring the absolutely gorgeous landscape of the set. Each character's unique portrayal adds to the lighthearted feel of the movie; Shakespeare's diction is handled so well that the blank verse is remarkably stimulating...even to those who usually find it detrimental. Truly a film you will not want to miss, Branagh's MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING is proof of how modern technology can so enhance the genius of the Bard.

From the first page of this book I knew I was in trouble. I joined a book club to lure me out of my comfort zone. GAL was on the list. I had never heard of it or the author. I got the book, tried reading the book, became upset with the author (who through no fault of her own had to endure this humiliation), put the book down several times, and basically had to force myself to read it. I was drained by the time I finished. I so wanted a happy ending but her life where she was born remained the same. The day the book club was supposed to meet was rainy. One person other than myself showed up. I pleaded with her to stay so we couldtalk. I believe that had it not been for her, and the people at work, my family and innocent passers- by I would have needed therapy after reading this book. Do I recommend it? Only for the strong. Thanks for allowing me to vent my frustrations over this book.

Ruthie Bolton, what a brave, brave woman. What a story, what a book. The harshness of this story makes one feel that they are in the south of the early 1900's or the latest 1940's, but to find out that this is a contemporary tale, that Ms. Bolton is maybe in her late 30's only makes one stop and reconsider and wonder. How? How did these things happen to these girls? Abandoned to the care of her Grandmother and Stepgrandfather, by a mother who was herself beaten and abused, Ruthie Bolton is a witness and a victim to abuse. At an early age she along with her young and equally helpless aunts watched her Stepgrandfather, savagely beat his wife to death. The beatings and the years of mental torture that followed left Ruthie twisted and angry. Drugs, sex, alcohol, nothing but the love of a family can save Ruthie -- and she finds it, along with a second husband. Ruthie grows through or in spite of her pain and even comes to grips with her abusive Stegrandfather. This story, this life, is truly inspiring. You go Gal!

From the moment I picked up the book, I could scarcely tolerate even minor interruptions while I read it from cover to cover within the span of four hours! Since then, I have purchased the book for several female friends, with instructions that it must be passed on to other favorite sisters as a special treat. Contained within its pages are accurate (and timely) examples of love, greed, envy, lust, power, and worship of the money god. This book was so true-to-life, I felt I knew each character personally. I urge women everywhere to experience the rollercoaster ride through the life of Ruthie Bolton, because it will be an experience they'll never forget!

I can't remember loving a novel of historical fiction more than this one. From the very first page Ms. Gulland captivates the reader with vivid descriptions of Rose's (Josephine) childhood in Martinico, her longing to one day travel to Paris, and we learn of her destiny to one day become Queen. Through her diary, we follow her life's journey of attaining that destiny. And as such, we accompany her through her many sorrows (including poverty, a husband she loves who does not love her, his many infidelities and her imprisonment), all of which she endures with grace, and with concern for her children as her utmost priority. While the book focuses on the politcal unrest and horrors of France during the 18th century, the story flows through one amazing woman's thoughts, courage, hopes and fears. At the end of the book, when she finally meets Napolean, I was delighted with the terrible impression he presented to society as well as to Rose, (his small stature, huge ego and very unfashionable appearance)and how he so haughtily decides her name will now be Josephine. Given this, I still could not help but like him. I am anxiously beginning book 2 in the series and recommend this book very highly to others with an interest in historical fiction.

I only recently heard about this popular series of books on Josephine Bonaparte. I started reading this first one and could not put it down. I was immediately drawn into the young girl's life as she experiences one setback after another all the while remaining the strong, dignified individual that she is. My friends were right--Josephine B. had an amazing life that was very tragic and heart-wrenching yet inspirational and full of love.

This is a real page-turner. I felt as if I were peeking into a friend's diary and becoming hooked on her stories. I couldn't wait to see what happened next. After devouring this book in only two days, I decided to purchase the 2nd and 3rd books in the series. I know I won't be disappointed. Buy this book and you won't be disappointed either. Enjoy!

While I was reading this book, I discovered that it was the first in a trilogy about Josephine Bonaparte by this author. I was enjoying this book so much that I was ecstatic to discover the story continued. Written in diary format (as all three are), I felt like I was given a backstage pass to view Josephine's life. I learned so much about this woman and a time in history that I always wanted to learn about, but never did. Not only was it enjoyable reading, but it was educational as well. I loved that the author placed interesting footnotes throughout the book to explain and clarify circumstances, names, events and cultural practices of the time. Wonderful reading and worth your time (although it is a fast read).
If you get this book, don't forget to include the sequels, too:
Tales of Passion, Tales of Woe
The Last Great Dance on Earth

Orphan Brat Farrar was named partly through a telephone book and partly by mistake. Destiny takes him half way round the world and back again to accept a proposition to take the place and inheritance of a missing boy. The story as so many of the time and genre are, is set in the midst of a middle class English country family. The plot which I will not reveal is clever although not really a shock to the attentive reader, the writing is good and the characters are well developed. The suprise for me was not the twist in the tale, but that the person you really get to like in the book is Brat who is the imposter and criminal. Actually most of the characters are both likeable and comfortable which makes the readers journey through this book extremely pleasant if not gripping. This was my introduction to Josephine Tey, it will certainly not be the last time I read her work.

The story is seen from the viewpoint of its title character, Brat Farrar, a foundling who grew up in an orphanage somewhere in England, he ran away to sea, traveled around and lived in America for awhile. When the book begins, Brat has just returned to England, he is stopped by an aging actor while walking along a street. The actor has been struck by Brat's amazing resemblance to someone he knows, Simon Ashby, who is due on his 21st birthday to inherit the family estate, though Simon was not the original heir - it should have been his twin, Patrick, who apparently committed suicide when they were 13. The actor makes Brat a proposition, he is persuaded to pose as Patrick come back and claim the family fortune.

This was my first Josephine Tey mystery, and it kept me up late, I couldn't wait to find out what would happen. Originally published in 1949, this author was well known for writing great mysteries that did not follow formulas. Tey has chosen the British countryside and the world of horse breeding as the setting for this one, an enjoyable read, old-fashioned, British, with a country pastor and a character called Aunt Bee. Some things are perhaps predictable, for example I guessed pretty early on who Brat really was, but there were still plenty of other surprises along the way. This would have been a great Hitchcock film.

Brat Farrar has been on my "Must Read" list for so long that I was almost hesitant to pick it up for fear it wouldn't live up to expectations. I shouldn't have worried. This is the kind of book you either read in one sitting or can't wait to get back to once you put it down. Tey weaves a wonderful web of characters and suspicion, turning the reader to face new possibilities in the plot like Brat might turn one of his horses. Brat is - without a doubt - an Ashby; all anyone has to do is look at him to know that. But is he the long-dead Patrick, heir to the Latchetts Estate? Arguing (delightfully) against his own better nature, Brat decides to pass himself off as the eldest son of the family only to suffer waves of guilt over his deception. Each member of the family and his or her reaction to Brat is so clearly drawn it's easy to see them jump off the page, especially Simon, Patrick's slightly younger twin who has just seen his inheritance handed to someone who may be an imposter. Tey mixes in clever little side stories which add flavor to the mystery not to mention a few clues before bringing it all to an almost perfect close. A few loose threads at the end are the only down note. What I enjoyed mostly was that unlike some other Tey mysteries which seem dated, this one has stood the test of time.

The secret garden is a good and loved book. This book shows that nature would change human's personality how much.
The main characters in this book ware Mary and Collin. They are cousin and always cross and nervous. They have a point of sameness. They have lost his mother in child. The reason of their nervous character was affected their environment. In early, Mary's mother was not care of her daughter and Collin lost his mother in his one year. Mary changed his mind more and more because Martha concerned to her at first time. One day, Mary found the secret garden, which was not opened for ten years. Mary and Collin worked hard for recovery garden. They effort to garden's live, to have keep the secret.
I would you read this book what secret is. When you read the end of story, you would experience miracle. And then you will think about your family and your life. Through this book we will recognize what we love, how we love and whom we love at first. Furthermore, when you are lonely,read this book.

I am EAD a fifth grade student at Wadron Mercy Academy.
A sour nine year old, Mistress Mary, has just moved to her uncle's mansion in a far lonely place. She has moved here because Mary made a nasty wish that her parents and maids would die, and it came true! Now, Mary is lonly and unwanted by everyone. Mary's uncle is a widower who has one son named Colin.
Soon, Mary becomes used to this place and explores all of the gardens. She has an Irish friend named Deacon. Deacon and Mary explore all of the gardens. Does Mary, Deacon, and Colin find the magic garden that their aunt had locked up? Find out what happens to Mary, Deacon, a krippled boy Colin, Mary's mysterious uncle, and the magic garden. ... I think this book was a real page turner. I could not put this exciting book down. I highly recommend this book. It is a classic of all times! I rate this book #1 of all the books I have read. I also recommend the movie.

The Secret Garden (book review)

Soon Kim
June 18, 2002

Do you believe in magic? If you read The Secret Garden you will experience the amazing magic, I am sure.
Mistress Mary Lennox was born in India. Her parents paid no attention to her. Mary is not loved by all, she is spoiled, gloomy, sullen, and selfish in India. Suddenly, her parents die and she goes to live with her uncle on the Yorkshire moors of England. But also her uncle is an apathetic person.
When she arrived in Yorkshire she found another person who looked like herself. He is her selfish sickly cousin Colin. Mary and Colin discover his mother's garden. They take care of flowers and trees together, and they have a great deal of fun together. Mary learns to accept that there are other people in the world, and she helps Colin. The garden's magic makes the two children's characters normal and happy through good people and the beautiful secret garden.
I wish that you would read this book; if you need to love, if your mind has been devastated, if your life is dry and boring, if you lose interest in everything, then read The Secret Garden and your mind will sprout " The word is so beautiful." I still smell many kinds of sour smelling blushful roses in the secret garden. The sweet roses are coloring my mind still ......... I love them so.

"I Married Wyatt Earp" is not for those who are looking for a "shoot 'em up" historical biography. In fact the famed O.K. Corral gunfight is just a small portion of this book. However, if you are looking for incredible insight to what made Wyatt tick, what made Josie tick, what life was like during their era, and a very easy read then this is the book for you! Mr. Boyer is the only "historian/novelist" to have actually vistied with and received his information from the Earp family and friends as well as Josephine's family. This gives him an incredible edge over other so-called Earp historians and that is why anyone interested in the Earps needs to read this book and any other book in which Mr. Boyer graces us with.

Wyatt Earp assumes another personna in these memoirs by his wife, Jospehine Sarah Marcus Earp. She recites a loving memory of a wise and skillful man with whom she wandered the West for half a century seeking adventure and riches; an odyssey by an itinerant "boomer" and his wife that while not always successful, included exciting adventures in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado and Idaho. Here Josephine reveals a Wyatt Earp unlike the mythical figure created by Stuart lake, the brooding and deceitful soul depicted by Frank Waters, or the vitriolic portrait of a scoundrel presented by Ed Bartholomew. Due to poor scholarship, biases, or misinformation, it is difficult, at this late date, to rescue the real Wyatt Earp from the dusty layers of time. In this book, Josephine Earp makes a valiant and largely successful effort to do so.

Josephine has a sure grasp of most of the undercurrents surrounding Wyatt's life and times. Her Wyatt Earp emerges as a western jack-of-all trades: a part-time lawman, part-time gambler, part-time prospector, part-time race horse manager, part-time boxing referee, and part-time conman. Wyatt and Josephine mingled with the wealthy, with noted gunmen. with literary figures, with movies stars, with crooks, and with plain folks.

When Wyatt was young he was undoubtedly a showman but so were many of his contemporaries. A reputation for toughness was always helpful on the frontier and opened many doors for the ambitious Wyatt Earp who often practiced the art of "embellishment" as a helpful adjunct for survival in whatever trade he undertook. He made many enemies and a few close friends during his life. He was attractive to women, probably wandered during his marriage to Josephine, and may have suffered accordingly.

Anyone who tries to understand the making of the Earp myth might be forgiven for wondering how Wyatt became a legend. It's a good bet Wyatt Earp would have marveled as well. In this book, Mrs. Earp's assessment is very simple: Wyatt fit the mold of a hero in every respect. He was tough, nervy, adaptable, incredibly lucky, and most importantly was chosen by fate as the personification of a hero. Authors Stuart Lake and Walter Noble Burns wrote their successful books on Earp six decades ago using this latter premise and thus, we have had countless books, articles, etc., arguing the pros and cons of Wyatt Earp.

Mrs. Earp's memoirs were edited by Glenn Boyer and as usual his informative comments strengthen her narrative. Boyer is very knowledgeable on the Earp family and has devoted many years in correcting lies and misconceptions about Wyatt Earp. Boyer's chapter notes describe a Wyatt Earp subject to the frailties that beset us all, no matter the time and place; a person maligned durng and after his life; and a person more often in the right than in the wrong.

Jospehine was with Wyatt when he died on January 13, 1929, a peaceful end to a long, turbulent and adventurous life. Both he and Josephine had traveled together for many years but his last and most important journey was made without her. She lived until 1944, a strong willed person filled with an abiding love for Wyatt Earp. Josephine devoted her remaining years in fiercely defending her vision of a tough and honorable man. Her memoirs provide an intimate and personal view of Wyatt Earp that few readers interested in the West should do without.

"I Married Wyatt Earp" is one of the best sources of information on the life and times of Wyatt Earp; in particular, the years Wyatt spent together with his wife, Josephine Earp. The book represents the recollections of Josie Earp. These two people spent the better parts of 47 years together, and today share the same grave plot in Colma, Ca. That 47-year span is masterfully laid out by Glenn Boyer for us, the readers, to enjoy. And, enjoy it you will. We get the 'inside story'....starting with Josie's youthful days in her middle-class Jewish family household in San Francisco....through all of the years spent with her true love, Wyatt Earp. Glenn Boyer purchased the Cason manuscript which was dictated by Josie in the 1930's. He took that manuscript and blended it with other source materials to tell us the story that only he can. Glenn Boyer is the only contemporary writer that had any real contact with the Earp family. The family of the authors of the Cason Ms. say that Boyer captured the true essence of Josie Earp. I could not agree more. That woman is within the pages of "I Married Wyatt Earp". Enjoy the book. Jim Groom