Rare among martial arts books, this is a good read even for those without a primary interest in Aikido, or even martial arts in general. For the serious Aikidoka and martial historian, it is a real jewel.

The first half of the book deals with Suenaka Sensei's life and family lineage that placed him in the unique position to pioneer Aikido in the United States. An original member of the very first class of Aikido in the United States (Hawaii, 1953), his samurai ancestry virtually predicted the outcome of his life. Raised up training in all forms of the martial arts, from the karate his father taught him, to judo, lua, golden gloves boxing, jujitsu... he has learned it all, and tested it in the street.

The story of how his relationship with the Founder of the beautiful and powerful art of Aikido (Morihei Ueshiba, O'Sensei) brought about personal transformation in his life, is universal in nature. Anyone who has been influenced by the presence of true greatness, and has had their lives changed because of it, should relate to Suenaka Sensei's love and devotion to the art of Aikido that his discipleship with the Founder engendered.

Many have benefited from this love; Suenaka Sensei started the first dojo in the Carolina's, one of the first in California, and the first to open and even more significant, to stay open in Okinawa, the world's hotbed of karate. Everyone can enjoy this true biography of a modern master.

The second half of the book gives instruction, with excellent photography abundantly used throughout. Many books on instruction should have the same caveat: Aikido can't be learned from any book. What this manual shows is both the proper and improper ways of performing techniques, and fortunately for the prospective student, these have been tested in the real world. While the spiritual nature of Aikido separates it from much of the martial world, it is first and foremost a martial art, and as Suenaka Sensei believes, if it doesn't work, it is a waste of time, and a dishonor ! to the teachings of O'Sensei.

Forty five years devoted to Aikido lends the highest credibility to his interpretation of the art. The act of constantly striving to raise standards, for the preservation and improvement of the art and its students, is the reason this book was written, and it should be in the library of any serious martial artist.

Having read over 18 books on the subject of aikido, and training in Tenshin Bugei Aikido for the past year, I was pretty up to date on the various aikido techniques and basic history. However, one thing that always bothered me was seeing how split the Aikido world has become, and I often could not account for how a martial art that was supposed to spread peace and harmony could lead to aikido organizations and senseis who want nothing to do with each and who talk badly of one another. After reading Suenaka Sensei's book, I have a much better grasp of Aikido's history after the Founder's death. The best thing about the first half of the book, which is biographical info about Suenaka Sensei, is that it explains how the great schisms came about in the Aikido world following O-Sensei's death. It makes for eye-opening reading, and I think the subject is not well understood by most modern aikidoka, from comments I have heard. I recently discovered through an on-line chat with a member of one of Koichi Tohei Sensei's affiliated dojos that he still does not allow a picture of the founder of Aikido to be displayed in any school that he has authority over; they are only allowed to display his picture. This troubles me greatly, but after reading Suenaka Sensei's book and coming to understand the depth of the controversy, it makes more sense than it did when I first heard about this. It seemed incredible to me that a man who learned Aikido at O-Sensei's feet today will not allow a picture of the founder to be displayed in his dojos. One has to wonder who's picture will replace his when he dies. At any rate, the book casts light on much of Aikidos recent history;most aikido books only cover aikido up until O-Sensei's death. For this reason, it is a valuable learning tool. The techniques taught in the book are very effective, demontrating that Suenaka Sensei believes that Aikido is both a spiritual endeavor and a practical combat art, instead of just one or the other, as many tend to want to believe these days. Very thought provoking book and I encourage you to read it.

Sensei Suenaka, a treasure in the martial arts world takes us on a fantastic journey. Outling his life's training at the feet of the modern masters, Sensei takes us into the world of Aikido we have never known. Documenting the split between Tohei and O'Sensei one can see the true sense of Suenaka's dedication to his art and the way. Sensei also puts to rest claims that Aikido is ineffective self-defense. In the second section what is shown with clarity and detail is a text on correct and incorrect technique. This book is for beginner and expert alike. An outstanding work, very well done.

I wanted to learn how to make crochet lace and tried working through a dozen or so different crochet books before coming across this one. The other books helped me master the simplest stitches, but I wasn't able to follow the descriptions to achieve my desire of making crochet lace. I'm pretty persistant, but I had been close to giving up and trying something else when I found this book.

The Harmony Guides V6 and V7 start from the most basic stitch and working up, including stitches for all over patterns, and lace. Between the verbal descriptions, photographs, drawings, and diagrams I think everyone should find a descriptive mode that suits their way of thinking and learning.

I'm not very interested in the all over patterns but it has plenty of crochet lace to keep me excited about what I will be able to do as I work my way through.

Wow! This is the best crochet book I have ever bought, and I have a lot of them. I design my own patterns for baby blankets and this book is a treasure trove of ideas for patterns. I've had the book just a few days and have made samples of many of the different stitches to see how they work. There are step-by-step instructions for each and a very clear, easy to read diagram. I found stitches and stitch combinations I have not seen anywhere else. Any of you who design your own patterns, or want to try, this book is a must. If you're not into designing and just want a nice textured overall stitch for an afghan or for afghan squares, it's in here. There is also a very nice section on motifs - sqaure, round, triangle, pentagram, hexagon, star, floral.
I can put away all my other crochet books now. This one will go everywhere with me. Fellow crocheters -- do yourselves a favor and get this book.

I've had both of the Harmony Guide books for over a year now and hopefully I will get lots of crochet time so that one day I can put them to good use. Although these books are impressive for what they promise I must caution you that I do not beleive that they replace all other crochet books or that they are a must have if you crochet. I also do not beleive that they are a good beginner's book because I don't see a beginner turning any of the stitches into a project unless they intend to make a lot of dishcloths. I know you're probably thinking why not an afghan, but for a beginner that would require too much planning and guage fiddling to make each of the sampler squares the same size and if they're going to use the same pattern stitch for an entire afghan then why would they need to know 300 pattern stitches and 220 more?

If you are avid on designing your own projects or are often looking for ways to modify projects however, then you will find these books to be a fabulous reference. The pictures are great, the instructions are clearly written and on top of each pattern stitch there is a guide specifying what the pattern stitch multiple is. You will find pattern stitches for texture, mixing color, for filet designs, motifs, edgings etc. These books really are impressive for the purpose they were written for. They are rich in inspiration and technique and you will most definately enjoy leafing through them and drooling over the pattern stitch pics.

If however, you are simply looking for ideas to add texture or creatively mix color and don't want to invest in a book that will show you tons of stitches, most of which you feel you will never get around to using, then invest in a pattern book with projects instead. For color combinations I highly recommend Lily Chin's Mosaic Magic : Afghans Made Easy as it opens your eyes to the numerous possibilities of mixing colors (more than the Harmony guide books) and the bonus is that her technique shows you how to do so without all the fuss of changing colors within the same row. For texture you could reference many online sources or opt for Afghan sampler books such as those published by Leisure Arts, my favorite of which is "63 more Easy-To-Crochet Pattern Stitches combine to make an Heirloom Afghan". Both books also reference the multiple factor for the pattern stitches making the guesswork easier on you when adapting the pattern stitches to your intended pattern or design.

After reading a library copy of this book, I knew this was a MUST HAVE book ! The publisher needs to definitely do a reprint of this book, as I know that there are many others that would love to have a copy of it for themselves ! It is a valuable asset for any crocheter- beginner or advanced ! It show us crocheters many different types of stitches that most of us would never think of trying otherwise and in an easy to understand format.

Craftspeople, we need to do something. Everyone who sees Mountford's book wants a copy. Let's write letters to the publisher--or find the publisher's web page and email them--or something! Nowhere else have I seen a book so clear about the steps to be followed in working a stitch. Never before have I seen directions for so many different stitches in one book. The photos and drawings are the most clear and helpful I have seen in 25 years of crocheting. Beginners, intermediates, and masters of crochet are all well served by this book, but none of us seems able to get a copy of it!

Mountford also has a guide to knitting, of which I have always been afraid because of the difficulties I have had each time I've tried to knit, but I can't seem to find a copy of that book, either. I just know I could learn to knit if I had that book.

If anybody out there in this wide, wide, electronically connected world knows why the publisher isn't coming out with other editions of these wondrous books, would you please let me know so that I can lay my knitting ambitions to rest? Many thanks.

Good luck to us all.

I borrowed this book from a friend and enjoyed it so much that I didn't want to give it back. However, all good things come to and end. I am currently looking for this book and would love to have it in my collection. If you have any information to help me in finding a copy for myself please contact me. The graphics and organization of the book as a whole are just absolutely fabulous. It's easy to follow and the ultimate teachers guide to crocheting. So please let me know if you can find me a copy.

Jim Dreaver has been teaching people about the connection between body, mind, and spirit for more than twenty years. His latest book, The Way of Harmony: Walking the Inner Path to Balance, Happiness, and Success, is intended to help people "clear away any conflict or confusion in your mind, harmonize the energy in your body, and tap into the joy that is your true nature."

Dreaver says that people are not their thoughts or emotions, and that the spiritual and material are not separate, but part of one reality. He calls this the "core insight," and he has devoted his book to explaining how each person can use this insight to balance and enrich their lives.

He starts with an explanation of how to let go of physical tension and worry, so that healing energy is free to flow throughout the body. He then moves to the mind, emphasizing that "the body and mind are not separate." What affects one also affects the other. After that he discusses ways to waken spirituality, followed by creating harmonious relationships. He says that "people struggle with their relationships so often because they don't really know themselves. Relationships are relatively effortless when you know who you are, when you are inwardly free."

Dreaver finishes with chapters discussing work and money. Contrary to what many people believe, it isn't necessary to give up material pleasures in order to be spiritually rich. He says that "a spirituality that is divorced from the social and economic realities of our age doesn't serve anyone," warning however that "if your spiritual well-being depends on how much money you have, you're not free." Money is like everything else--it needs to be in balance with life.

What he wants people to understand, Dreaver says, is "that you are not your thoughts, emotions, beliefs, personal history--nor are you your work. It is this understanding that will set you free and allow you to move in the world . . . without stress, with genuine ease and balance." In The Way of Harmony, he provides practical guidelines to achieve that understanding and balance.

There is no greater gift than being a part of someone's life when they are ready to "shift" to a new level of awareness. I found The Way of Harmony to be a helpful tool in my journey, thank you Jim. As a yoga, pranayama and meditation guide to many beautiful people I found this book to be uplifting, joyful and a reminder that the truth of you who are is uncomplicated, easy to access, and can be taught by anyone, even Jim's son Adam is a wonderful teacher in the book. If you enjoyed BE HERE NOW from the 70's you will love the simplicity and the depth of The Way of Harmony. I came on line only to order more copies as birthday gifts for my sons and read all the reviews, couldn't agree more with all of them. Thanks to Jim for taking the time, and being so honest with "who" he is, it helps all of us, bless you and your son Jim. Namaste, Susan

At the outset, I acknowledge that I have known Dr. Jim Dreaver, the author, for many years. He is a good friend and sometimes teacher, so my perspective is not entirely unbiased.

Nonetheless, I think Jim has done a very fine job with his latest work, THE WAY OF HARMONY. It is not the most cutting edge or original work on personal growth that I have ever seen (and what truly is original in spiritual matters?) However, it IS one of the clearest, most succinct and easy-to-understand guidebooks to contemporary living.

This book would seem particularly useful for beginners in introspection and self-awareness, because it is so straightforward and comprehensible, free of jargon and far-fetched theories. The exercises are practical and uncomplicated, and can be useful even for readers with busy schedules and complicated lifestyles.

On the other hand, more experienced and advanced seekers may sometimes be startled at the depth and profundity of some of Jim's insights, presented so concisely and unassumingly that they appear deceptively simple. This style is greatly aided by Jim's forthright disclosure of his personal experience and struggles. He is obviously not a novice, and "knows wherefore he speaks".

Finally, I appreciated Jim's willingness - and ability - to tackle difficult issues that most of us face as we attempt to live more consciously and spiritually: money, relationships, and careers. I found these chapters particularly relevant.

I hope Jim will continue writing and sharing his insights. His growing reputation as a thoughtful and thought-provoking teacher is appropriate, and well-deserved.

This is, by far, the best and easiest-to-understand book on dressage that I have read! I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to understand how to train your horse in a non-confrontational manner up the levels of dressage. This book is a must read for novice or advanced readers!

There is something about the 'master horsemen' that makes them more than great riders. Walter Zettl and Alois Podhajsky are two of my favourites.

They explain dressage, riding, horses and horsemanship with clarity, passion and detail so that you really can learn a lot of lessons by reading their books.

This book will provide you with detailed explainations of dressage movements, aids and training, as well as commenting on common faults and how to address them. Like all the masters Herr Zettl discusses the development of a dressage horse and provides a logical framework for progression (and frequent warnings on the hazards of taking shortcuts).

Along with providing excellent training information, Herr Zettl repeatedly stresses respect and love for the horse. Everyone who has borrowed this book from me has ultimately purchased a copy for themselves!

As a Mythology teacher I have read few books more insightful, intelligent, and artistic than Calasso's achievement. Although the book presupposes quite a bit of knowledge of Greek Mythology, it leaves the reader with a new perspective on the meaning and philosophy of mythology. Amazing.

Roberto Calasso's retelling of the myths of antiquity is as powerful and life-changing a book as I've ever read. He illuminates these stories and brings them to life, showing us the power they held for the ancients by infusing them with his own narrative power, writing in a style which is crisp, modern, and yet full of fantasy. We see our own lives in the lives of the gods and the lives of the humans with whom they spoke, made love, made war. This book would be worth reading simply for the engaging way in which Calasso tells the stories. He doesn't stop there, however. His insights and interpretations are worth a book in themselves. Nearly every page of my copy is filled with checks and underlined passages, each representing ideas which provoked thought or simply struck me as brilliant. This book is not another dictionary of myths in the style of Bullfinch and Hamilton and Graves--it is a work of literature in its own right, and, I believe, a work of genius. If you are interested in classical mythology, read this book. If you are not, read this book. It is for anyone who wants to see the world in a different, richer way.

I first saw this book, very thick, one year ago, poking out of some shelf at my school's library. 'Greek myth, huh?' I was up for the challenge. I guess I knew the stories well, but the brilliant narrative and style was so absorbing, I was hooked. Calasso re-opened my eyes to the World of Greek myth! I can't remember how many times I went back to take this book out- more then five, as far as I know. What I enjoyed about it most was how each of the characters was brought to life, each with thoughts, and fears, and desires not unlike that of mankind today. The first time I finished this book I felt Calasso had altered my life, or my perspective on it. I had to go back and read it again, and again. Simply a work of art, this is a treasure of wealth in the form of written knowledge. And, personally, I don't care who you are or where you are form, just read this book. You'll see what I mean.

Few words for such a book.
It literally changed my life. and have suggested it to all my friends online and off. You know how to live and you do but when you read this book it rekindles the spirit in you and awakens your mind and heal the soul.
Never before have i recommended a book except this one.

kaT

Native American culture respects the earth and the natural realm. This book distills the wisdom and psychology of living close to the earth but from a spiritual and heart-based practice.
It provides daily meditations based on a 28 day moon cycle times 13 months to equal meditations for a 364 day calendar year. The titles of some of the meditations are: "Immutable Laws", "Blue Moon", Keepers of the Earth", "Sacred Point of View", "Infinite Creations", "Heartstrings, the Threads of Life", and "Serenity" to name a few ... The meditations are based on Native American beliefs and legends and are tempered with real life experiences.
Interspersed are beautiful poems which reveal deep spiritual insights which can also serve as positive affirmations. This book is a gem. It can be a healing force for anyone with an open heart. It is highly recommended. Erika B.

I have come across many books that include daily devotions, but none that have touched my heart like this one. I have found that I am able to absorb the knowledge I gain from the message as well as apply it to daily living. I share them with those persons that I feel can appreciate and use these words of wisdom. I plan on sharing these teachings with my daughter weekly in the hopes that she will gain the insights that I have, and carry them with her throughout her life. Thank you Jamie Sams I will be forever grateful for your contribution.

This is the first book I've found that hits close to the best in the Mitford series. It's different than the Mitford series, tho. It's more concise and succinct. Every page shines with laughter and true faith. I enjoyed it more than the first "Home to Harmony". The author is more polished and he is just hilarious, has created characters that we love getting to know, and, if you've ever been active in church you can spot most of your fellow parishioners among them. Thank you, Mr. Gulley, for such a warm and entertaining experience from cover to cover.

In this wonderful sequel to Home to Harmony, Sam is beginning his second year as pastor of Harmony Friends Meeting. This sequel, as the first book, follows a year in Harmony. Dale Hinshaw is still getting on Sam's (and everyone else's) nerves and has a new idea for witnessing - scripture eggs. Deena Morrison, owner of Legal Grounds, returns and plays a bigger part as does Wayne Fleming.

I enjoyed this book even more than the original. Instead of the vignettes of small-town life that the original had, the sequel follows a more traditional storyline and I found that the characters came even more to life for me in this fashion!

Mr. Gulley takes an irregular route to the very heart of things, complete with a test of faith. The reader returns to Harmony where once again the author shines up the mediocre and the mundane and turns it into a miracle. A very sympathetic look into the discouragement of leading a church of willy nilly believers, with one or both feet in the past and blinders on their eyes. The reader will learn why goal setting and a gymnasium aren't necessarily a good thing for a church, and how a run-away wife and mother can pull people together. The accidental lottery winners and scripture eggs and yes - gossip - keep things interesting, when life isn't always harmonious. Believe it or not, there is something for everyone here in this story of a Quaker minister challenging faith and depression. The well intentioned, as well as the goofier members of this congregation, are kindly and humorously set out in caricatures that leave you laughing or shaking your head (and I'm betting you'll recognize some of these folks). The Friendly Women taking on the liberal press and hijacking the hospital kitchen was simply a touch of genius. The gentle people of Harmony occasionally practice the fine art of indifference, but joy and faith, steadiness and kindness carry through. A thought provoking and profound ending that challenges the reader to come up with their own explanation. Might giving thanks be more important than seeking the truth?

Don't miss Gulley's other warm, wonderful and charming books: Home to Harmony, Front Porch Tales and For Everything There A Season ... divided into easy to digest chapters for all ages.

A friend suggested this book during a very low point in my life. I'm so glad he did as it was very instrumental in me getting out of my rut :)

I also then bought another copy for a friend who was having a hard time and sent it to her, and she loved it!

the writer does an amazing job of storytelling then taking the time to convey what the sometimes hidden meanings are....a great book for anyone looking for enlightenment, whether they are native american or not! enjoy this book!

very helpful tool for life. Very inspiring and spiritual, but also funny. This book is a must.

For someone just discovering there Cherokee Heritage This book is a must. Very enlightening!

I have enjoyed the music playing of the Guarneri Quartet as long as I have known about classical music. This book is a treat. Mr. Steinhardt writes a delightful and truthful book about his own life and teaches what quartet playing is really about. He shares its challenges and delights and why he chose the path of chamber music over a career as a solo virtuoso.

This book should be read not only by lovers of chamber music but by everyone who loves the art of music. It reads well. Serious without being heavy and delightful without being silly. Spend a happy night or two reading it and listening to a few CDs of the quartet's music.

If you are intrigued by music and how it's made, by the hearts and minds of those who have devoted their lives to making instruments sing, then this will be one of the most interesting and satisfying books you've ever read.

Arnold Steinhardt, the first violinist of the Guarneri String Quartet, has that rare ability to step outside his discipline and bring it alive for others. Indivisible by Four is the story not only of how the Guarneri String Quartet came to be, but of how four very different musicians have managed to forge a unique musical identity for themselves as well.

Here you will hear how Steinhardt and his colleagues approach a piece - about their differences and how they are resolved, the things that worked and those that didn't, the inevitable surprises and how they got through them. Best of all, from the perspective of someone who is not a professional musician, is Steinhardt's ability to bring the technical as well as the human elements alive for the reader. I came away with a good solid introduction to chamber music in general, and to the music and composers that have shaped it. Steinhardt even manages to toss in some music theory without allowing the pace to slow to a crawl.

An action packed thriller with plenty of twists and turns in the plot this is not. Expect instead to be treated to a very personal and intimate glimpse into the hearts of four very gifted and dedicated musicians.

Ah, leading the glamorous life! Many thanks to Arnold Steinhardt for sharing his fascinating experiences as a member of the Guarneri Quartet. His book is full of marvelous memories and thoughtful insights into a classical musician's art as practiced at the highest levels. Steinhardt is always interesting, often eloquent. This book has given me a renewed appreciation of the string quartet literature, and a deeper understanding of the collaborative art of chamber music.