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Books to read if you're planning a vacation in "Centre", sorted by average review score:

The Bach Flower Remedies
Published in Paperback by McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books (11 October, 1998)
Authors: Edward Heal Thyself Bach, Edward Twelve Healers Bach, F. J. Bach Remedies Repertory Wheeler, and Dr. Edward Bach Centre
Average review score:

Simple yet effective
Dr. Edward Bach, a skilled homeopathic physician, developed his own theory about the cause of disease. Dr. Bach believed that physical diseases begin as an imbalance in the patient's emotional well-being. By attending to emotions and weeding out harmful emotions from the patient's psyche, a healing trend can be initiated that assists the patient in avoiding future physical diseases. Treating emotional states addresses diseases while they are still at the energy level. Dr. Bach believed that the flower essences could even be helpful once disease had progressed to a physical manifestation. The flower essences do not replace other treatments such as homeopathy, but they can assist other treatments by soothing the patient's mental condition and initiating preliminary steps towards healing the imbalance that led to the disease in the first place.

This book is filled with wonderful information that the beginner can use to learn to use the flower essences to heal themselves and others. It is the basic text and everyone who is interested in flower essences should have this text regardless of what other texts they own as well. Bach thoroughly explains his theory on the source of disease and then each flower essence is examined, one by one, showing the emotional profile of the patient who would most benefit from each remedy.

The system is very simple and can be learned easily by the layman but it is very effective -- only 38 remedies cover the entirety of negative human emotions! Dr. Bach insisted that the flower essences be kept simple because he believed that their simplicity was a key factor of their effectiveness. Treating one's self and others with flower essences is simple to learn but it is also an art that one will spend the rest of their lifetime developing and perfecting.

A great introductory book!
This book is a wonderful introduction to both the philosophy and the practice of the Bach Flower Remedies. It provides a lot of information without overwhelming the reader. The book is arranged in three sections. The first is Dr. Bach's essay entitled "Heal Thyself" which is about how each one of us has the power and is capable of healing ourself, the second section gives a short, useful description of each essence. The third section is a wonderful list of numerous emotional states and the appropriate essence to use for each one.

If you're at all interested in learning how to treat yourself using these remedies, this is the book for you. I've had this book for approximately 6 months and it is well worn already!

Mental and emotional harmony!
Have you ever noticed how your mood is instantly elevated when you inhale the scent of a rose deeply and with purpose. The world seems like a better place instantly. Rose oil has a frequency of around 320 MHz. Flowers are beautiful on their own and can lift your mood with their fragrance or with their petals blowing in the breeze in nature.

So, what other secrets do flowers conceal? Apparently, they can help us to change our emotional state. The scent of roses is said to dispel anger, or so I have read! In this book, flowers are celebrated as natural healers which can help us return to a healthful state.

Our emotions can at times manifest themselves as a health issue and greatly affect our bodies. Dr. Edward Bach (1897-1936) believed that physical illness was a manifestation of emotional imbalance. He believed we can heal and balance the body with nontoxic methods.

Some of the remedies include:

ASPEN - For fear or anxiety IMPATIENS - For impatience, irritability and nervousness. MUSTARD - Severe depression WILLOW - For neutralizing resentment and bitterness VERVIAN - For tension and hyperactivity or overachieving STAR OF BETHLEHEM - For mental shock

There are also remedies you can take for sensitivity, disappointment, muscular cramps, skin rashes, recurrent ailments, critical attitudes and bad dreams.

Look into other health remedies like Arnica for injuries, Pulsatilla for nasal problems, Cantharis for cystitis, Chamomile tea for a restful sleep and Gelsemium for flu symptoms. Look for a homeopathic brand called: Oscillococcinum for symptoms of the flu in the winter. The theory is that a infinitesimal amount of a plant substance can stimulate the body's healing defenses.

The closer you can match your symptom to the remedy, the more effective it will be for you. I suggest reading other homeopathy books along with this one. I also recommend "Reference Guide for Essential Oils by Connie and Alan Higley" from abundant-health4u.com as they have the best products I have found so far.


The Jewish Question: A Marxist Interpretation
Published in Hardcover by Pathfinder (June, 1971)
Author: Abram Leon
Average review score:

How anti-semitism came about and how it can be ended.
This book answers both Zionists who view Jews as the "chosen people" and the justifiers of Jew hatred, by giving a materialist explanation for the historical persecution of the Jews. By examining Jewish history from antiquity through the middle ages, Leon shows how it was the social role of Jews as merchants and traders and moneylenders that led to their persecution. As the only group in feudal society allowed to engage in trade they became a people-class. In this special role Jews played an essential economic role but were despised for it by the feudal aristocracy and this is what led to their segregation in ghettos and the hostility and attacks they faced.

The author, an anti -fascist fighter and communist organizer who wrote the book in Nazi occupied Belgium in 1940, explains that with the rise of capitalism the special social role that Jews played in the economy disappeared. He points out that while capitalism eliminated the special economic role that led to Jew hatred, it is a system that has brought the prejudices and hatreds of earlier societies into the modern world to help keep the oppressed and exploited divided. It is only with the elimination of this system that Jew hatred can be eliminated.

Against Anti-semitism and Zionism
This heroic book helped me understand why fascits and other rightists rely on anti-Jewish propaganda and why the Zionist response is a dead end. Abram Leon was a Jewish Marxist and working class leader in Nazi-occupied Belgium until being shipped to his death in Auschwitz. He points out that Jews are a social grouping that played a dynamic role during feudalism but have no role as a distinct class under capitalism. Because capitalist society will not assimilate them, they become ready scapegoats. The solution Leon proposes is to join with other workers in the fight for a socialist society in place of capitalism, which is the root of racist movements. Leon's richly detailed history of the Jewish people challenges the myths of the Zionists. The fact that the imperialist nation of Israel has become the most dangerous place for Jews to live underscores Leon's point about the danger of Zionism.

Capitalism & Anti-Semitism by an inspiring fighter
Abram Leon, a young Belgian revolutionary who died fighting in the resistance to the Nazis in World War II, shows how anti-Semitism and capitalism are linked. He illustrates the special history of the Jews as a "people class," persecuted and manipulated by capitalism. This Marxist study shows that Zionism, rather than aiding the liberation of the Jewish people, aids imperialism, the main breeder of anti-Semitism and Jew hatred. NathanWeinstock's introduction explaining the life and struggle of Abram Leon is inspiring. Message: 1 of 1


Brassai (Pantheon Photo Library)
Published in Paperback by Pantheon Books (August, 1988)
Authors: Brassai, Roger Grenier, and Centre National De La Photographie
Average review score:

Extensive, In-Depth Look at the Breadth of Brassai's Work
This book deserves more than five stars.

Before going further, let me mention that Brassai's images contain many sinners and show the seamier side of Paris. For example, there are many photographs of prostitutes here. If such subjects upset you, do avoid this volume.

The collection of Brassai's work at the Musee National d'Art Moderne at the Pompidou Centre in Paris was recently expanded from 300 to 500 items due to a large deposit by Mme. Gilberte Brassai, his widow. This monograph greatly benefits from these additions. The monograph also commemorates the 100th anniversary of his birth in 1899.

Best known for his photography, Brassai had many other dimensions: collector, scholar, sketcher, sculptor, and writer. His self description was as "a creator of images." This book does an excellent job of capturing all of these elements so we can better understand the entire man and his work.

As Brassai said, "The meaning of art is not authenticity . . . but the expression of authenticity." Why does he say that? Well, his method of photography required careful staging because of the bulkiness of his equipment and its slow speed. So, although an image may seem like something taken by a news photographer from the Daily Blurb, Brassai's techniques required that subjects hold their poses for long periods of time. Much like Cindy Sherman does today using herself as the model, those in the photographs were often friends of Brassai's who were posing as someone else. So what is remarkable about these "candid" photos is his "use of re-creation and reconstruction" to produce them.

Taking the photograph was really just the beginning. Using darkness as his ally, it is the print that makes the difference to his representations. "A negative means nothing for my kind of photographer." "It's the artist's proof that counts."

Here are my favorite photographic images in the book:

Notre-Dame, c. 1930-32

The Pont Neuf, c. 1932

The Viaduc d'Auteiul, 1932

The Baker, c. 1930-32

Public Urinals, c. 1932

For a Detective Story, 1931-32

The Big Night at Longchamp, July 1937

False Sky, 1934-35

Nudes of 1934

Matches, c. 1930

Picasso, His Studio and Works, 1932-46

Montmartre, c. 1935-37

Metro Pillar, 1934 (you will see a man's face in the shadow of the pillar)

Odalisque Transmutation, 1934/1967 (this is clearly influenced by Picasso)

The essays in the book are excellent. I especially liked Alain Sayag's comparison of his work to Chinese painting.

I also learned a lot about his life. Like many famous photographers he had to earn a living by doing more commercial work. These images often were done on his own time, late at night. Interestingly, many great photographic images were created in only 1-3 takes. In part, this reflected his poverty.

Actually, he had earlier earned a living from writing about France for German newspapers. The Depression began to cut off that source of funds, and photography was taken up in part to supplement his income. By selling the story and the images, he could get paid a little more. He also worked for Harper's Bazaar taking photographs by day for many years.

The text also contains many selections from what Henry Miller and he had to say about each other and their long-term friendship. This emphasizes "seeing only what is."

My appreciation of the photography was improved by seeing his drawings and sculptures. Clearly influenced by prehistoric and primitive art, many of these images look like fertility gods. His women are all bottom. From these, I could understand his graffiti photographs of images that could literally have come from the caves at Lescaux. So in looking for the "reality" Brassai was reaching deeper into our ancient psyches than other photographers before and since.

I came away very much more interested in Brassai, as I am sure you will be.

After you finish consider Brassai, I suggest you ask yourself how you could add more dimensions of expression to your personal life. What can you share that is both "real" and important for others? How can you best accomplish that?

Au revoir.

For the Love of Brassai
It was only several years ago that I had noticed the brilliant work of Brassai. The Chicago Institute of Art was having a special exhibit featuring his work. I stood before each photograph for what seemed like an eternity. The way that he captures the essence of the human life, the laughter along with the tears, brings a flood of emotions to any observer. My interest in Brassai only grew from this exhibit. I then started to hunt out books on him, his life, his work but I wound up a little disappointed due to most of his work is out-of-print. When I had been scanning Amazon.com and found a new book, Brassai, I was highly interested. I awaited the day that it would finally be published. That day came. As I turned the pages of the book, I felt as if I am back in the Art Institute. The quality of the photographs, the meaning of the words, by close friends, and from Brassai himself add to the pleasure and overall joy of the book. He depicts a time in history that is meant and needed to be cherished. Brassai reaches into the human heart and soul and brings out strength, determiniation, and a smile. These feelings are only emphasized on the pages of this magnificant book. I only hope that more will follow so that Brassai can touch more lives, touch more hearts, and bring emotions to the forefront of everyone's lives.

At last, a superior Brassai monograph
When Abrams released their long-delayed book on Brassai last December, THE EYE OF PARIS, I was very critical of the entire piece. The images weren't well-printed, the selection was mundane, and the whole thing had an oddly slapped together quality, especially for such a major publisher. Now we have Bullfinch's answer to the recent Brassai gap, and it is a clear success, head and shoulders above this earlier release. After only a relatively cursory look at the book, it is clear that this is what we've been waiting for. The selction of images is deep and varied, mixing both the iconic with the lesser known, the printing is lustrous and dimensional, and the layout is both attractive and compelling. The production may not match the incredible PARIS BY NIGHT reissue of the late 80's, but nothing probably ever will. That said, this book looks very good indeed. I haven't read the impressively credited text yet, but the visuals are certainly terrific, the most important thing, obviously, in a photography book. It is hard to imagine a superior monograph on this seminal figure forthcoming anytime soon. Grab it and feast.


The Fire's Centre: A Novel of the Famine
Published in Paperback by Domhan Books (November, 1998)
Author: Sorcha MacMurrough
Average review score:

A book I could not put down
This was a fascinating novel of the Famine. Ther heroine Riona Connolly has to move heaven and earth to save her family and win the man she loves. The dark forces at work against her in the form of Lucien's ex-fiance, and a horrible doctor who works with him, nearly cost her everything. Lucien is an admirable hero, married to his work, hide-bound by society's expectations of him. He is an honorable and decent man, if a bit traditional, and terrified of falling in love. The last thing he ever imagines is that he will fall for with a young woman from the wilds of Donegal. The magic between them is felt by both, resisted by both, but in the end it brings them together, for the force of their destiny cannot be denied. Both bring out the best in each other, in the worst of times. Both show true courage and decency, and the passion which shimmers between them nearly scorches the pages! But don't worry, nothing crude here; the love scenes are really beautifully done. A wonderful cast of supporting characters as real to me as my own family and friends, and gorgeous descriptions of their travels in Ireland, make this book well worth reading.

Awesome!
Another fantastic novel from this talented author. I was moved to tears reading it. The love scenes are fabulous, the hero and heroine made for each other, and the action is superb. I enjoyed every word of it.

Simply divine!
Another great book from this fantastic author. Gutsy and determined heroine, real life issues, and sultry romance. Better than Woodiweiss, so don't miss it!


The Pilot's Manual: Flight Training
Published in Paperback by Aviation Supplies & Academics (01 January, 1997)
Author: Aviation Theory Centre
Average review score:

Setting the pace in flight/pilot instruction manuals.
Thom's insightful coverage of every aspect of Aviation Training is clear once again in this the first of three books on the subject. I'm a student pilot with 40 hours in a C172 and this is the second flight training book (after "Stick and Rudder" by Langewiesche) I got and I am very happy with it. So happy that I went out and got the other 2 books in the series! The illustrations are superb and the writing even better. From stalls to take-offs and landings, every page is effective in explaining what the would-be pilot should expect to see, feel and hear. I can honestly find nothing wrong with this book and his others except that in volume 2, the weather coverage is outdated. Check out Volumes 2 and 3.

Got me through my private, commercial, and CFI
While not as full of full-color photos as the Jeppesen series, this flight training manual is probably the best organized and best illustrated guide I have come across. The lessons are concise and unambiguous. Of course, this book is primarily a preparation for the knowledge test; to learn the maneuvers you'll have to check out "The Pilot's Manual - The Private and Commercial." by the same author.

I used these books to prepare for both my private and commercial certificates. Additionally, I based my lesson plans on the lessons presented in these books while working on my Certified Flight Instructor certificate.

Very thorough but limited in scope
Flight training is an excellent book for a very thorough explanation of how and why and airplain flys, and for the basic flight maneuvers you are likely to use as a new pilot. (And those you are likely to encounter in the practical test) I discovered by accident though, that this text DOES NOT cover things such as: proper radio communication, use of the e6-b(I hope I wrote that correctly), aviation weather, controled airspace, FARs, navigation, or really anything else related to being a private pilot other than the actual mechanics of flying.

To get that you must also purchase his title: The Pilot's Manual - The Private and Commercial.

I have finished reading Flight Training came to Amazon to Private and Commercial and It is not listed. Hopefully we can rectify that as Trevor Thom is very gifted at explaining things in a manner that don't bore those of us who are technically proficent (sp?) but also would not confuse those who aren't quite so technical.


World Atlas of Coral Reefs
Published in Hardcover by University of California Press (03 September, 2001)
Authors: Mark D. Spalding, Corinna Ravilious, Edmund P. Green, United Nations Environment Programme, and World Conservation Monitoring Centre
Average review score:

Beautiful
A truly beautiful book, although I expected the pictures to be larger. There is not one full page photo in the book unfortunately. It would really enhance the book to have some of those lovely photos blown up full page.

Beautiful
I bought this for my daughter, a graduating Biologist, but it was so fascinating that I'm afraid she got a slightly used book. It covers all coral reefs anywhere in the world. The maps are superb, as are the color photographs of the reefs. Each reef had a discussion of conditions in the reef, and the life that grows there. It's a huge book but one starts wishing for more; more maps, more photos, more detail. Maybe in the next edition, but meanwhile we can enjoy this superb book just as it.

A groundbreaking (waterbreaking?) achievement!
As the author of books about the ocean, I've read a lot of other books and articles about coral reefs. This is by far the best and most thorough book of its kind. Want to know what conditions are like on the Great Barrier Reef system? Around the Red Sea? Off Sulawesi? This is the place to go for answers. With wonderful maps and easy-to-understand text, it's destined to become the standard reference for divers, marine biologists and armchair adventurers who just want to learn more about this precious and fascinating ecosystem.


Andre Kertesz
Published in Paperback by Pantheon Books (November, 1986)
Authors: Centre National De LA Photographie, Betsy Amster, Pantheon Photo Library, and Andre Kertesz
Average review score:

A wonderful collection of photographs
"Andre Kertesz," a book in the Aperture Masters of Photography series, brings together a rich collection of photographs by Kertesz. The book also includes the following: (1) an essay, written by Carole Kismaric, on his life and career; (2) a chronology of his life (1894-1985); (2) a list of his major exhibitions; and (4) a bibliography.

Kertesz' black-and-white photos include many scenes that are haunting, touching, or whimsical. I especially like his street scenes, which capture everyday people. His many photos of Paris life in the 1920s and 30s remind me of the writings of Henry Miller (see, for example, Miller's "Tropic of Cancer").

Some memorable images: a young boy in Paris holding a delicate-looking puppy; a wandering violinist on a street in Hungary; a snowy view of Washington Square; a grubby old man urinating on a street in Paris; a portrait of an imperious Colette. There are some witty captures, particularly one delightful shot of umbrella-wielding pedestrians on a Tokyo street. Kertesz had a keen eye and a marvelous sense of composition; this book is a visual treat from start to finish.

Quality!
You really only need to two things about this book: one, that Andre Kertesz was a genius, and two, that this book published by Phaidon Press, so it's going to be very well done. The photographs in this book are sharper, more luminous and of a better variety than any other Kertesz book I've seen. The text blurbs that accompany each photograph (in addition to the excellent bio at the front) are informative and sophistocated, going well beyond the usual spartan location/date/f-stop infomation that many other monographs offer. As if that wasn't enough, it usually runs at least half of what other monographs will. Perfect stocking-stuffer.


John Singer Sargent : The Early Portraits (Volume One)
Published in Hardcover by Yale Univ Pr (June, 1998)
Authors: Richard Ormond, Elaine Kilmurray, John Singer Sargent, and Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art
Average review score:

Just Amazing........
This book is for Sargent lovers. His incredible talent oozes in these pages. I can't wait for Vol 2 of this beautiful production of Yale University Press. I got me a magnifying glass and have spent hours looking at the unbelievably grand flesh tones that Sargent commanded. You'll love reading the background data of these portrait commissions during Sargent's career. I would give it six stars if I could. See it to believe it.....if I could only paint like he did or anything barely close. One of my best of collection. Hurry up Yale and give us Vol 2.

i can't wait for vol 2!
i bought this book after seeing the sargent show at the met in new york. i have been studing it ever since. mr ormand, ms. kilmurray please hurry. you have brought the works of this great american master to life as no one has done before and i look forward in anticipation to vol 2.

Simply amazing
Now, all art books should be judged by the standard this publication sets. All colored reproductions. To reproduce paintings in black and white is just criminal, and the people responsible for this book understands that. I simply can't wait for the rest of the volumes. I can't think of another artist more deserving of this royal treatment(Well, if they can do this for J.W. Waterhouse, I'd die happy).


X-Codes
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Solomon Publishing (10 October, 1999)
Authors: Francis Hoy, Classical Art Centre, and Judy Hardesty
Average review score:

Worth your money
Reading this book has inspired me tremendously. I've
never believed an Eastern writer could cover so many
fields that actually are the interests of the western
people.
I believe the writer has done a great deal of reading
and research prior to and/or during his writing of
the book which he mentioned he had taken 4 years to
complete.
As for comments on what are all about in the X-Codes,
I have found most of them are already adddressed by
prior reviewers.

My only comment is that it's worth your money to read
this book.

Here are the answers you may be searching for many years!
The book covers a broad and dramatic contents of great interest to modern seekers of the truth. The cover is also very beautifully designed. But why is there a tear dropping down from an eye that looks out from the Cosmos? The fact that we are born imperfect into this world is already good enough reason to really cry in secret. Why are some people suffering while others are enjoying? Is God really fair to all humans? If not, what programs could HE use to ensure all are treated equally and fairly when each soul gains entrance to this world? Read this book and you will discover the answers too.

Buy "X-Codes" Immediately! Simply Brilliant...A Must-Read!
"Scientists have shown that forces emanating from extraterrestrial bodies, particularly the Sun and Moon, affect species on the Earth ranging from potatoes to man" says author, spiritualist and visionary Francis Hoy. In his brilliant new book, The X-Codes, the reader is treated to an exploration of who we are, and why!

Mr. Hoy intelligently discusses cosmic harmony...the influence of extraterrestrial bodies via four fundamental forces; gravitational, electromagnetic, weak nuclear and strong nuclear. We learn that these encode our genes, and therefore affect human nature and behaviors.

This reviewer believes that the insight and loving kindness found in The X-Codes are the result of Mr. Hoy's growth and ability to discern his true and higher Self...the mission we all have. Indeed, how to achieve it is the stated purpose of this provocative work.

The X-Codes delves into not only genetic coding, but also reconwaves (the emanations from the solar system), astrology, reincarnation...and physical death. We learn of the very real possibility that, as the Sun, Moon and Planets matured and thus did their emanations), so did we. Wouldn't this account for the disappearance of, say, dinosaurs?

The X-Codes is a splendid marriage of science and spirituality. Francis Hoy has given us a thoughtful and remarkable presentation that ranges from creation to demise...and an insight of the greater divine mission that follows.

This reviewer recommends The X-Codes to everyone with an astrological bent who is interested in the evolution of humankind, and the interplay of celestial forces that still direct our destinies!

Richard Fuller / Senior Editor Metaphysical Reviews


Kundaline: The Mother Power
Published in Paperback by Aum Pubns (September, 1992)
Authors: Sri Chinmoy and Sri Chimmoy Centre
Average review score:

Good lectures
If your intention is to acquire good and reliable information about Kundalini, then this is a very good book. It answers questions like these very well: "Is Kundalini real or is it simply folklore from India?" "What is possible in the full Kundalini experience?" "What are the actual dangers of this phenomenon?" "What are some safe appproaches I could take that will lead me in the direction of Kundalini?"

This text was not written as an instructional book. It is just the transcription of a coherent, but short set of lectures delivered by Sri Chinmoy. It is extremely well organized, clear, and concise. The author speaks with the solid clarity and mature good sense that usually arises only from a direct, complete, and deep personal experience. My own guess or intuition is that Sri Chinmoy has a total experience and complete personal command of this entire phenomenon, beginning to end. It seems to me probable that the author is "the real deal" even though I don't know him. In that sense, I regard this book as much better and clearer information than I could get from another source.

My own preferences are not purely informational. I don't like to read a book and say, "Well, that's interesting" and set it down. I like to practice its techniques and get somewhere. While there are some good and useful exercises that a reader can do from this book, the whole subject does not really lend itself to the active or avid amateur reader. The author explains in all detail that an actual teacher is required in this area. We can pick up a tennis racquet and make a try without having any coach or teacher. My hope would be more or less the same with Kundalini. As it happens, Kundalini doesn't work that way. So, if you, too, are a true avid amateur you might be somewhat disappointed with the book (unless, of course, you can find a teacher).

Authentic and probably the only authoritative source
The concentration exercise alone will take the practitioner back through time...and if time travel is not an occult experience then I don't know what is. This book replaces Goraksha's book, the same yogi who brought us Hatha Yoga. Goraksha's writings were destroyed, and this book brings the occult topics back to light here in the west. The book emphasizes the path of the heart. I have tried the kundalini path, which I found to be too dangerous. Since the soul resides in the heart, the heart path places the soul in command. The soul can open a center, such as the third eye to peer into the future, or to open another chakra to help you with what you may be doing. This you'll find to be of Supreme importance if you want inner direction in your life.

Clear & directly to the point !
This book ,like all of Shree Chinmoys books, explains with great clarity the mystery of Kundalini. Since he himself is a accomplished Yogi, his words are authentic and his description of the Chakras crystal clear and easy to understand. His words are poetic and goes directly into the heart.

This is a great book for anyone who really wants to understand the Kundalini and its mystries.


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