After reading Tajikistan: The Trials of Independence (see review), my perspective of this region was broadened immensely with Calming the Ferghana Valley. An in-depth study of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan (with particular focus on Northern Tajikistan) and Kyrgystan, the book acts as more of a petition, or call to action, to secure stability in these regions before the continued fragility, confusion, and disintegration of the political and social structure influences an irreversible course toward explosive upheaval.

The recent events in Afghanistan have demonstrated how far-reaching the effects of socio-political unrest can be. They have also demonstrated how strategically valuable these countries can be, being located in the middle of the tumultuous Asian continent. This book is a first attempt at staving off the violent actions and reactions that may or may not occur as a result of the unrest. But with the bombings in Osh, Kyrgystan; the kidnappings and "disappearances" in Tajikistan, and the secret unrest in Uzbekistan, it does not take much influence to convince one that the unrest may be more violent than diplomatic.
I'm just a guy from Minnesota, USA. I have never been to any of these places and probably never will go. Reading this book, however, gives me an apprecation for the struggles that these people encounter every day--both on an individual level and on the governmental level.
The land is a beautiful land, ranging from deserts to spectacular mountains. The people there have a desire to succeed and, with a little of our help, as proposed in this book, perhaps they will.
Read it--Learn a little about this world that you live upon!

Rebecca Fish Ewan's A Land Between is an engaging, informative, scholarly, and highly recommended title which examines the idea of how people's preconceptions of California's Owens Valley influenced their decisions about managing the land. Primary sources, oral histories and research provide a perspective on the land and residents of Owens Valley, examining its natural history, human occupation, and use over the decades. A unique and intriguing study.

This is a decent guide for those looking for places to ski the ungroomed, but there are scant tours for the "touring for turns" set. The directions on how to find the starting point sometimes presume local knowledge of the towns or detailed street maps, but the tour directions are usually clear.

I found the main character in this book difficult to feel sorry for. The depth of feeling for her mother's welfare seemed incongruous with her behavior toward her siblings and "friends". She bosses, lies, begs, and schemes. But in the end is rewarded with a small solo part in the play, a new coveted sweater, and more undeserved admiration.

Jessica reveals her vulnerable side when her mother has tests for cancer.While leval-headed Elizabeth calmly goes about her business,Jessica has as over-active imagination aas always and is convinced her mother will die,and cries alot.People feel so sorry for the poor girl that they let her have the lead in the school play,no auditions needed.When Jessica finds out her mother has had nothing more than a flu,she has a hard time deciding whether she should tell people,or keep her part in the play.!

I love the Sweet Valley Twins books. They're always so much fun to read. They are a great alternative to TV. In this story, Jessica Wakefield is convinced her mother is deathly ill. (Actually, her mother is ill, but not dying) The whole school hears of this "tragic illness," and gives Jessica special attention to make her feel better. But eventually, Jessica discovers she is enjoying the attention too much, and that she hasn't deserved all the treatment. It's very interesting, and really enjoyable. Often times, normal people get caught up in exaggerations just like Jessica did, and getting out of the situations is not always easy. This book is a fun read! Go ahead, give it a try!