All the nuts and bolts you need to start writing like an expert copywriter. Without a doubt, The Copywriter's Handbook is the Bible of the copywriting industry -- and has been for quite some time.When I began my career as a freelance copywriter back in the '80s, I called several gurus and asked for advice. They all referred me to Bob Bly's material. When it comes to teaching the trade and explaining how to break into it, they said, he is king. And I agree.In this single guide, Bly takes you by the hand. He starts with the basics, explaining the purpose of advertising and copywriting in its many forms. He shows how to write winning headlines and body copy for ads, brochures, letters. He gives practical tips on writing for magazines, newspapers, TV, radio, commercial and non-profit groups. He includes tips for designing sales/promotional literature and offers good advice on using art. He gives numerous check lists for improving your copy. He also uses great examples from different industries to illustrate his points.The book is so rich and relevant in content I refer to it all the time. In fact, I have worned out several copies and often buy extras to give to colleagues and clients.One thing readers will appreciate about Bly and his work is his honesty. He's very objective and fair in his assessment of the copywriting business. He offers no hype. And his work is not filled with self-promotional rubbish. Instead, he comes across as a true professional, a real expert and simply a sincere man who actually cares about his readers. No wonder the book keeps getting raved reviews. It was also praised by the lengendary David Ogilvy and other great advertising giants.Another thing readers should note about Bly is that he writes from experience as well as research. Unlike many so-called experts who make their millions from seminars --with little or no experience in actually doing what they teach -- Bly is a working writer. In addition to being a prolific author (with over 50 books published), he makes his living writing winning copy for the top businesses in the country.If you want to learn and master the fundamentals of copywriting, don't waste your money on a $2,000 seminar/program given by a self-proclaimed guru. Instead, spend a few pennies and get this book. It's all you'll need.

Independent writing consultant Robert Bly cuts through all the hype surrounding promotional copywriting and `creativity', with a no-nonsense guide that covers everything.

I too am a copywriter and, for the first time, empathised almost entirely with what a fellow writer was saying.

You see, the subject matter is steeped in misunderstanding. What the aspiring writer needs to know is that almost all copywriting is about selling.

Robert Bly understands this, and communicates it well. He knows it's not about clever headlines; it's not about puns; it's not about abstract concepts. Yes, the copywriter is a salesperson - one who is paid by his clients to sell their products.

This book recognises this with a relish. It urges us to identify the USP (that which makes a product different and saleable) and to put it right up-front, to deliver simple messages that everyone can understand, and to write precisely for the intended audience.

Bly's comprehensive guide covers pr! ints ads, brochures, radio and TV commercials, direct mail and PR material. There are also chapters on getting a great job in an agency, and going freelance.

The only element with which I would take issue is Bly's somewhat dismissive attitude towards graphic design. I can think of many designers and art directors who would be hopping mad over Bly's comments about `fancy visuals' that don't add to the selling process, and about the limited value of white space. Surely someone who has worked so much with designers knows about their contribution to the `pickupability' of advertising material? A minor quibble, but a valid one.

As Bob explains, the goal of advertising is to make sales, not to entertain. Bob exposes this common error and offers many other copywriting techniques and tips in the book. He also gives some helpful information about freelancing.

I'm a technical writer (not a copywriter), but felt that this book had good things to offer. I think it also helped define my own style of writing.

If you are into freelancing and consulting, I'd also highly recommend his 'Six Figure Consultant' book. He gives a lot of good practical advice and seems to have a lot of experience.

Adrina, Emel, Seth and Vilmos find themselves in another great and suspenseful adventure that will leave you wanting to read more and more. Just like in the previous excellent book in the series, Robert Stanek has successfully surprised his readers with a two-thumbs-up ending! Truly, this book will astound everyone who reads it. This book was of a medium reading difficulty level from the beginning to the end of the book. I had to visualize many of the scenes in order for me to understand the book even better and it came alive in my mind. If you have't read The Kingdoms and Elves of the Reaches 3, you should! This book is my favorite in the Keeper Martin Tales series.

I've read Mr. Stanek's Keeper Martin's Tale and Elf Queen's Quest. I happened upon this book (which I know is YA) and bought it because it looked to continue where Keeper Martin's Tale left off. The good news is that it does, meaning fans of Kingdoms and Elves of the Reaches and Keeper Martin's Tale can enjoy this book. (Note of caution the adult edition of this book will be out in March 2003 as Kingdom Alliance but I just couldn't wait).

WHAT'S SO GREAT?

Mr. Stanek's world which we just started to see in the early books is truly blossoming in this book. Visits to under earth are breath taking. The dark elves are fascinating. Edward the troant is hillarious. I loved King's Mate. I loved learning about the gates and orbs. I loved meeting myrial. She's the newest and greatest character.

RECOMMENDED?

Yes, this is the best, most fun series I've ever read and that says a lot.

Kingdoms 3 continues a truly wonderful fantasy series! The adventures of Adrina, Vilmos and the others are exciting and packed with action. I've read these books over and over. I think you will too. I strongly recommend this book and any other books by this author.

I don't think I've ever read a book that created beauty out of a post- nuclear holocaust setting- that is, before finding Robert Merle's "Malevil". There might be nothing beautiful left in rural France after Armageddon unless it is in the hearts and memories of its survivors, scattered and few. Emmanuel Conte, bonvivant and owner of a small horse stud, is one of these few and recounts the events of the first year or two after. "Malevil" is very French and therefore very unusual in a Genre that generally is even more American than the rest of SciFi

I'm so glad to read the reviews of others in regard to this wonderful book. Perhaps someone in the publishing business will see our reviews and reissue Malevil. I remember reading it many years ago -- probably over two decades -- and it's one of the few fiction books that I held onto. Usually I give away my fiction books.

I enjoy reading post-apocalyptic stories; I suppose it's a morbid fascination -- you know, what would I do in the same situation? Other books in this genre that I've enjoyed include Swan Song and War Day but Malevil is one of the most original stories in this regard. For one, it doesn't take place in the United States; it takes place in France on a wine estate (hopefully I'm recalling this correctly?) The characters who survive happen to be in the wine cellar at the time that the bomb is dropped. Robert Merle's imagination introduces the reader to characters and situations that are amazing in their uniqueness and visual vividness. There is also a love story that is like no other love story I've ever read. Touching, beautiful and original.

If the publishers are reading this, please bring this book back into print. It truly deserves it.

For years there have been 2 Reader's Digest Condensed Books sitting on a shelve, untouched and unread. Only recently did I flip through one, straight to Malevil, and decided to read it. I love horses but had not the slightest clue what Malevil was about so there were a few surprises that delt directly with myself. That was the first post-end-of-the-world book I've ever read and it will NOT be my last! I was intrigued enough by it that it took me two days to finish it all. If ever there was a book I think almost anyone can enjoy, it would more than likely be Malevil.

This is definitely one of the best books I have ever read, a story about love, war, tragedy, honour, courage - you name it this book has it. The book is so interwoven, a truly marvelous tale, the characters will always be with me (I know that sounds kinda sad but read the book and you will see what I mean). Beware however this is only book 1, and you do need both books to complete the story. Buy book 1 and you will be desperate to get your hands on book 2.

This is a story that takes us through the lives of two young people. One is a fearsome warrior from a secretive monk caste who is born from a Mongolian father and a Japanese mother. His growth throughout the story, with having to deal with the struggles of not fitting into a discriminating Japanese culture, allows us to readily identify with him. The other character is a very young girl who is to be sent away from home to meet her husband, prior to her prearranged marriage. From there on it is a tale of Combat, Love, and Friendship against the backdrop of Feudal Japan during a war of the clans. The tides of war and betrayal then take our subjects to China during the invasion of the Mongols, and then back to Japan under the newly proclaimed Shogun, preparing to face the Mongol Hordes. If you are considering reading this series, stop considering and get it. You will want to reread them over and over. Monks, Samurai, and Mongols ... what else is there to say.

One wouldn't think of a book like this to be the life-changing kind. But it can be. I read this books a few years ago, getting a copy in the strangest of ways. I read the first book and loved it. But this one is something else. Little I would know that I'd find myself on a trip to India and learning japanese fencing and solving Zen koans inspired partly by it. A very impressive close to the story, and I certainly regret there is no third installment on the series, for it would make a hell of a story. Historic timeline is sharply set aside, but it takes a history freak to check all the details out, so most people won't notice. Even better than the first, and the emphasis on spiritual experiences and growth is more marked in this book. The end is majestic and adequate to a marvelous saga. I almost hope to find a reference to a wandering japanese monk in Shea's next series: Saracen. It wouldn't be too hard.

Mr. Burk has transformed his story of survival, learning, and inspiration into a book that everyone can use in every single day. George's book makes you appreciate what you have, and who you are.

"A true story of tenacity, discipline, perseverance, and faith. I was challenged to take stock of the blessings in my life and take nothing for granted. This will be a 'must read' book for my two sons. Everyone has heroes, everyone should be a hero, George Burk is one of my heroes." Captain J.D. Schulgen, Garland Fire Department.

This story has been and will continue to be a true inspiration to anyone who reads it. I have known Captain Burk for thirteen years and was familiar with his experiences. The book provided me an in depth realization of the chain of miracles that lead to Mr. Burk's survival of such a tragic event. The Bridge Never Crossed causes the reader to reflect on what is really important in life and realize that God has a plan for each of us. I have purchased several copies to share with family and friends. George has been one of the most influential people in my life. He is constant reminder that each of us control our own destiny.

I just finished reading a draft copy of Robert Roth's Book, Natural Law Party: A Reason to Vote. Bobby's 20 plus years of media experience, and his work with the Natural Law Party since its inception in 1992 shine forth in this very easily read, charming book. The book reads itself, as you will see when you start. It is well-crafted and it inspires the reader with the vitality of our NLP message. Party supporters and newcomers to its many important issues will be delighted to read this book which touches on most of the major issues in politics today and provides innovative, scientific solutions to the as-yet unsolved problems in the areas of: energy, environment, quality food production, crime, education and many other important areas.

A must for everyone concerned about the Future of the US.

Abe Lincoln once called America, "the last best hope" for the world. Robert Roth's The Natural Law Party: A Reason to Vote - Breaking the Two-Party Stranglehold and Bringing Effective New Solutions to America's Problems may well be the last best hope for America and the world. The bottom line - even if you've given up on politics as a field of mud, blood, and influence peddling this book will send you back to the voting booth.

Roth's personal and powerful first person narration leaps off the page. As press secretary for the NLP, the fastest growing political party in America, he has stood on the front lines of third-party battles to reclaim democracy, and to regain third-party access to the ballot, debates, and airwaves. He begins by taking us there, and unmasking our democracy to be the most exclusionary and undemocratic of any on earth.

"...Republicans and Democrats have written the laws that grant themselves automatic access to the ballot. On the other hand, in 1998, a new party must collect over 5 million valid signatures to run a full slate of candidates nationwide."

This is only the first hurdle in an obstacle course built by the two major parties, and supported by the mainstream press. We hear harrowing experiences of NLP volunteers who, in 1996, faced unconstitutional opposition from the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Election Commission, and the courts (whose members are all either Democrats or Republicans) and still achieved ballot access for NLP candidates in fifty states. And we share in their exhilarating discovery that it is possible to meet the challenge of a nation in transition.

That transition from a world of disconnected, selfish, quarreling factions to one of purpose and unity, is profoundly described by the doctors, scientists, teachers, and farmers that Roth interviews. We learn how intimate "natural law" is to our lives from world-renowned Unified Field physicist and NLP Presidential candidate, Dr. John Hagelin.

"Everything we accomplish is achieved by applying natural laws," he says. ''We have the electric light courtesy of technologies that apply natural law, a man walked on the moon and a rover scoured the surface of Mars because of technologies that harness natural law, and we treat our sick with medicines that utilize laws of nature.

"The problem is that technologies can be used for good or for bad....With so much money invested in the research and development of new technologies, these technologies often get shoved into the marketplace before they are adequately tested for safety. To protect their investments, these industries also pour megabucks into the treasure chests of both the Republican and Democratic parties."

And the amazingly simple solution - the NLP's fool proof formula for assessing new technologies - only that they must work! It rings true even in sound bitten ears. Mike Tompkins, NLP Vice-Presidential candidate, and descendant of former Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, tells us why, enlightening us about our nation's natural law origins,

"... before the Republicans, before the Democrats, before all the other political parties there was natural law. One of the founders of our country, John Adams, called natural law 'the Great Legislator of the Universe.' And in the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, in the very beginning of the document, derived our very existence as a country and also all our rights from what he called the 'laws of nature.'

"...Our founders believed that if we could gain knowledge of natural law, of how it operates both inside us and all around us, then we would grow as individuals and also as a nation."

For the facts about genetic engineering that few reporters are aware of or brave enough to print Roth turns to Dr. John Fagan, the leading molecular biologist who in 1994 returned $614,000 in grant money and withdrew proposals for $1.25 million more from the National Institutes of Health in protest of the direction in which genetic engineers are leading us. No fuzzy science here. Fagan delivers a jolt of the real stuff, exposing the real dangers inherent in manipulating a system which has taken millions of years to evolve.

Then another jolt as we learn that

"...the testing of genetically engineered substances at present is largely voluntary-more than 90% of genetically engineered foods are not required to be tested before they enter the market. Consequently, the details of the testing programs are left primarily in the hands of the developers-namely, the biotech industry. We've left the fox guarding the chickens."

Still, Roth lifts us up again with the story of the Mothers for Natural Law, Laura Ticciati's amazing nonprofit group that has formed an unprecedented coalition of statesman, scientists, doctors, clergy, farmers, and businessman to stand up to the biotech industry.

We hear leading physicians describe America's 'disease care system', a system that results in more than 3 million injured by medical mistake, and more than 180,000 deaths from 'correct practice' each year. But relief is in sight with our own body's inner intelligence and natural medicine quickly rising to become the new world standard with proven preventative measures and zero negative side effects.

Crime? Drugs? No problem. With powerful techniques like Transcendental Meditation, judges report addicts stay out of prison and off drugs, and the American Heart Association reports the neglected victims of crime , the elderly, become free of hypertension.

From schools that foster creative genius, to a global information economy that encourages perpetual learning, to a peacekeeping force that will make war finally impossible, Roth keeps the emphasis on powerful, practical, and proven solutions. The appendices, with a Fifty-Point Action Plan to Revitalize America and the NLP platform, are packed with solutions.

It's an invincible book and it will empower all who read it. Free of the Donkey and the Elephant at last, we could vote with our heads on straight this November 3rd! We now have a reason to vote.

from Neale Donald Walsch (author of "Conversations With God")

I consider Robert Roth's book, '"The Natural Law Party: A Reason to Vote'" to be one of the most important books of the latter part of the twentieth century. It infuriated me. It enlightened me. I believe the Natural Law Party is the political mechanism of choice for decades to come.

I consider myself to be politically very well informed, but until I read 'The Natural Law Party: A Reason to Vote,' I had no idea how the Republicans and Democrats have blatantly and consistently violated the very spirit of our country's tradition of democracy for which they claim to stand, making it virtually impossible for Third Party organizations or candidates to effectively engage the American political process.

Having continually thwarted any attempt by Third Party candidates to present themselves to the electorate in a viable way, the two parties then assert that it is necessary to eliminate Third Party candidates from debates, joint television appearances and other forums and activities that should be open to all-by claiming that they are not viable candidates. The level of this hypocrisy is shocking.

That Americans have indulged this silencing of their voice for so long is the real shocker. I am certain that it is because most people do not know the extent to which their rights under our founding political mandate have been denied.

It might be argued that none of this would matter a great deal if we were all satisfied with our current reality, but when the vast majority of Americans are deeply unhappy with their political system and the values which run their government, not to be able to do anything about it produces a palpable national frustration, leading from disappointment to anger to apathy-and that is the death knell of any democracy.

We have run out of time on this issue. That's why I am supporting and joining the efforts of the Natural Law Party to reopen the American political process and reform the democratic system, to provide our citizens with true choice once again. I have chosen this particular party because I profoundly agree with the basis of its positions on the major issues confronting the human family -a basis in natural law.

To me the term 'natural law' means the ordinary and exquisite functioning of the Universe when it is left to its own devices. Can such universal life principles be applied in any practical way to a human system of politics and governance? The answer is, profoundly, yes. Indeed, it is the ignoring of such basic laws and principles which leads to our peril.

I am proud to take a political stand in America at this crucial stage in our history. Proud because the Natural Law Party gives me a party, a political philosophy, and candidates of which I can be proud-and with which my soul deeply agrees. It has been a very long time since I have been able to say that.

I liked this book because it taught me about the story of the Titanic. About how Robert Ballard found the Titanic. I will tell you this if you ever have to do reserch on the real Titanic. This is the book for you! It has information information and TONS of information!!!!!!!!! I really liked this book

Children will enjoy this book and the illustrations clearly depict TITANIC's sinking and discovery. My daughter pointed this book out to me in 1991. I was surprised to see my picture in it! ( I was one of the US Naval officers to accompany Dr. Ballard on his 1986 expedition to the site.)

I have been a Titanic Lover for life. I first read this book when I was 6 (I am 14 now) it is a great book if you are looking to start studying the Titanic or if you just want to know the more basic facts about her and her finding. But if you are really deep into the studies of her already then I would get "The Discovery of the Titanic". but there are many, many other great books on her (I should know I have enough to start my own Titanic bookstore ;). For the beginning Titanic studier this is the best book you can buy.

In this classic work, John Bunyan paints a detailed picture of the Christian life/walk, giving true-to-life insights and experiences. The despair, sorrows, trials and temptations that a believer may face are depicted in an allegorical manner, as well as the hope, joy, and salvation found in Jesus Christ. The main character Christian (once named Graceless) sets out on a lifelong journey from the City of Destruction, where his family disowned him, and encounters many persons and difficulties along the way to the Celestial City (heaven). The characters he meets are given names that reflect their mindset or what temptation they bring. At times he stumbles and at times he perseveres, but all by the grace of God. The second portion of the book tells of the conversion and subsequent sojourn of the wife (Christiana) and children of Christian. The discussions of Christian in the first part and Christiana and her companions in the second part are very interesting, as they defend their faith and explain their purpose to those they meet along the way. The book is quite different from your ordinary novel, and has many interesting words of wisdom for the Christian life. Readers should be aware that some of the language is antiquated and has unfamiliar usages, so its a little bit of an adjustment to read.

"The Pilgrim's Progress" is a classic Christian text written by John Bunyan. Written in an allegorical format, the two-part story focuses first on "Christian", then on his wife "Christiana" and sons. Convicted of their own sinfulness, the characters set out on the journey to salvation at the Heavenly Gate. Characters such as "Honesty", "Great-Heart", and "Faithful" aid the pilgrims on their journey, whereas they face trials from the Slough of Despond, Vanity Fair, and the Valley of the Shadow of Death.

Getting through the book takes some work, less because of the story and more because of the depth of the allegory. Also, the dialogues between characters regarding salvation and righteousness often require a careful read. However, the story is exceptionally creative and thought-provoking, and the lessons that can be gleaned from it are timeless and worth the effort that needs to be expended. I recommend reading this one at least twice.

Pilgrim's Progress is without a doubt one of the true classics of time--an allegory that has remained a best seller years after its introduction.

My first introduction to Pilgrim's Progress was as a child in parochial school. I had to do a book report on it in 5th grade and ended up reading numerous times for various projects throughout grade school.

The reader follows the main character--aptly named "Christian"--on his journey to the Celestial City.

Along the way, Christian passes through the many trials of life, symbolized by intruiging characters and places along the way. An early temptation is the "City of Destruction", which Christian narrowly escapes with his life. The various characters are perhaps the most fascinating portion of the book--Pliable, Giant Despair, Talkative, Faithful, Evangelist, and numerous others provide the reader with a continual picture of the various forces at work to distract (or perhaps, encourage)Christian on his ultimate mission.

Of course, the theology (for those of the Christian faith) of Pilgrim's Progress is a constant source of debate, the book is nonetheless a classic of great English writing.

It's not a quick read--that's for sure--however, I certainly would recommend that one read it in its original form. Don't distort the beauty of the old English language with a modern translation.

According to C. S. Lewis, this book is intended as a preliminary to historical inquiry. It does not, therefore, examine the historical evidence for Christian miracles, but is intended to put readers in a position to do so. Lewis states: "It is no use going to the texts until we have some idea about the possibility or probability of the miraculous. Those who assume that miracles cannot happen are merely wasting their time by looking into the texts: we know in advance what results they will find for they have begun by begging the question." In his appeal to the "common reader" and not specifically to theologians, Lewis defines a miracle broadly as "an interference with Nature by supernatural power." This distinction between the natural and supernatural is presupposed and posited up front because Naturalists, according to Lewis, believe that nothing exists except Nature (Nature is considered "the whole show," the "Total System," etc.) which, if true, rules out the possibility of the supernatural. Nature is considered by Lewis, and Supernaturalists in general, as a partial system within reality, not Reality itself. It is a created thing (abstractly speaking), not the self-existent Creator. Lewis argues by analogy and uses human reason and morality as examples of the supernatural that are distinct from Nature. In fact, Lewis argues that humans, as compositions of the natural and supernatural, intervene in Nature by supernatural acts (which he considers self-determined acts not caused by another in some inevitable causal chain). But he admits (see Chapter 6) that such acts are not what many equate with "miracles" since they are both familiar and regular (not to mention humanly caused). Therefore, he ends Chapter 6 by saying in effect that the rest of the book will concern itself with miracles as special divine interventions. For Lewis, the cardinal difficulty with Naturalism is the existence of human reason and its thoughts which can be either true or false, unlike events in general which are not "about" anything and therefore cannot be true or false. According to Lewis, the Naturalist believes that reason, sentience, and life itself are late comers in an historical, evolutionary process that was not DESIGNED to produce a mental behavior that can find truth (including moral truth). Therefore, Naturalism doesn't adequately explain the existence of reason (and morality). For theism, on the other hand, reason (divine reason) is before Nature and our own concept of Nature depends on reason. Later, in Chapter 13, Lewis argues that theism ratifies faith in the scientific principle of uniformity [which is used by some, like David Hume, to argue against miracles], but disallows making uniformity absolute. But if Naturalism is true, then we have no reason to trust our conviction that Nature is uniform in any sense (general or absolute). In Chapters 14 - 16, Lewis tries to present the central miracles of the Christian Faith in such a way as to exhibit their "fitness" into Nature w/o setting forth any abstract conditions which "fitness" must satisfy because "our sense of fitness is too delicate and elusive". By "fitness" Lewis means their historical probability [i.e., compatibility w/ Nature] which he distinguishes from the "antecedent probability of chances" [i.e., mathematical probability]. In Chapters 7 & 8, Lewis responds to objections that Nature doesn't allow miracles. In Chapter 8 he points out that the laws of Nature don't cause anything because "every law, in the last resort, says 'If you have A, then you will get B.' But first catch your A: the laws won't do it for you." This allows for "supernatural" causation, human or divine. In Chapter 10, Lewis addresses language as it relates to thought and points out that clear thinking is distinct from imagination in general and metaphor in particular which are used both in scripture and common discourse when discussing metaphysical things (like God and his activity). Chapter 11 addresses pantheism [a special type of idealistic naturalism distinct from the atheistic materialism which is Lewis's main focus] and points out some of its problems. Here Lewis states that God is concrete and individual; he is a particular Thing, not an abstract "universal being" [distinct from omnipresence] which would rule out the possibility of creation because "a generality can make nothing".

Although Lewis discusses some relevant issues regarding miracles in general (and New Testament ones in particular) and their compatibility with Nature, he does strangely relegate at least some Old Testament miracles to the realm of myth which is partly due to his unique view that in Christ myth became history. For a critical analysis of Lewis' view, see Norman Geisler's chapter on Lewis titled "Christian Humanism" in his book "Is Man the Measure?" For a more recent systematic analysis of miracles that relies heavily on Lewis, see Geisler's "Miracles and the Modern Mind" (OP) and "In Defense of Miracles," edited by Geivett and Habermas. Also, see Collins's "The God of Miracles" which notably points out that some Christians have negatively reviewed Lewis's book because they think Lewis was operating with a defective understanding of "nature" and divine action [note: pantheists and panentheists would also affirm this]. Collins addresses these other positions within Christianity which differ from the "supernaturalism" of Lewis, Geisler and Collins himself. Also, Lewis doesn't address whether miracles are applicable today and, if so, to what extent. Other books such as "Are Miraculous Gifts for Today?," edited by Wayne Grudem address this issue.

This book by CS Lewis was probably his most philosophical work. As such, it is not a light read at all and would probably prove difficult for beginners who have not been exposed to heavily philosophical material. But for those who want a highly intellectual philosophical discussion of the possibility of miracles, this book is certainly worthy of one's attention.

There are a number of strengths to this book which continue to make the book solidly relevant better than forty years after the revised edition came out. Lewis cuts to the heart of the matter very quickly in asserting that rejection of miracles apriori is a common attitude that at its core, is anti-intellectual. Attempts to base rejection of miracles on probabilities, as Hume tried to do, are philosophically untenable and require a betrayal of basic realities that are universally accepted.

Lewis then systematically dismantles the worldview that tends to most cradle apriori miracle rejection, naturalism. He compellingly shows that naturalism is a worldview that cannot stand up to philosophical scrutiny. Key to Lewis's presentation is his argument that naturalism can be demonstrated to be false in its complete rejection of supernaturalism merely by the reality of reason. Logic and reason of the mind, by themselves, are supernatural acts that cannot be explained or accounted for in nature, as naturalism demands. Supernaturalism, according to Lewis is not only possible, but pervasive since the act of logical thinking itself is supernatural in origin.

Lewis then eloquently argues that the relationship between nature and the supernatural are not hostile, but complementary. In Lewis's view, nature is quite pliable to accommodate and assimilate supernatural acts in ways that do not bring the kind of chaos and randomness that many naturalists believe to be reprehensible relative to the 'invasion' of nature by alleged supernatural acts. Lewis persuasively demonstrates that this concern is bogus.

Once the reality, possibility, and plausibility of miracles has been established philosophically, Lewis moves to classifying the Biblical miracles as either old creation or new creation miracles. Here, readers might be a bit disappointed by the presentation. Those looking for an evidential defense of miracles in general or any specific miracle in particular will not find it here. This is a philosophical presentation that is chiefly concerned with whether miracles are possible and/or probable. It is not an evidential defense of the possibility of any specific miracle. Lewis's central point is that human beings are disinclined towards believing in the inherent possibility of miracles for reasons that are not intellectually honest and calls for a fresh reappraisal of the possibility of miracles with a fresh attitude of open mindedness and a sincere commitment to soberly seek the truth absent bias. On this point, he does very well.

I noted that I thought the book deserved 4.5 stars rather than a full blown 5 stars. There are two main reasons why this is. First, his discussion of the Incarnation, while fascinating, was mostly off topic. The focus of Lewis's discussion was not on the miraculous nature of the Incarnation, but on its meaning to the believer and its relationship to nature. The discussion is good, but in a book on miracles, I found it to be misplaced. Second, and perhaps more crucial, is that Lewis succumbs to the very ad hoc skepticism that he argues so passionately against. Without elaboration, Lewis introduces the idea of 'Hebrew mythology' as being behind at least some of the miracles described in the Old Testament (Jonah and the whale being one). Why Lewis believes that some Biblical miracles are genuine while others are mythological is something he doesn't discuss. But the reader gets the sense that by taking this position, Lewis is caving in to the very kind of apriori rejection he repeatedly and rightly condemns throughout the book. Lewis's central argument is therefore undermined by his own unwarranted and unexplained backtracking from his own position.

But because this slip of reason is confined to only one or two paragraphs of the book, it is a weakness that while noteworthy and unfortunate, is not fatal to his argument. One who remains skeptical about the viability of miracles should consider that Lewis revised this book back in 1960 (in response to the arguments of Anscombe) and to date, there has been no compelling rebuttal to its tenets. Attempts to erect a solid rebuttal have been presented and then systematically refuted as erroneous and mostly illogical. As a result, this book has stood the test of time and remains a compelling argument that should provide great comfort and assurance to those who believe the Biblical miracles on faith, but wonder whether this belief can also be grounded in reason and philosophical argument. It can, and we should expect nothing less from the Creator who not only created nature and supernaturally intervenes in nature, but who also created perfect logic and reason.

Not the best place to start if you don't consider yourself to be a first-rate thinker (Lewis' own _Mere Christianity_ offers some of the same arguments on an easier-to-digest level)... but if you're up to the challenge, I cannot recommend a stronger argument in favor of a fully supernatural Christian philosophy. NOT an attempt to explain the whole thing away as an allegory, as many so-called "apologists" do. NOT an attempt to use the Bible as a starting place, as many so-called "apologists" do. Lewis begins with only one assumption--one that every thinker uses for every theory ever attempted on any subject--and from that position carefully weaves the most detailed and skillful argument in my experience showing the existence and character of God. An extremely challenging book, especially for sceptics of Christianity, but one which they owe themselves to read (if nothing else, it will increase their faith in their own position and strengthen their mental habits!) This is the book which got me through college; and, next to the Bible itself, the most important book I've ever read. Note: if possible, order an edition printed after 1960, as the late 1940s edition contains a few logical errors which were later corrected. If you need help understanding the book or its arguments, feel free to e-mail me at the address above (flamemail, though, will be promptly deleted... honest criticisms will be attended to.) Good books to read after completing _M:aPS_... the New Testament itself (New American Standard or New International Version is probably best); Lewis' _Mere Christianity_; and then Lewis' _The Problem of Pain_.

It was about time I read "Tom Jones." Fielding's 1749 novel gives us a panoramic view of 18th century British life. Its titular hero journeys among the low- and high-born trying to find his way in a world in which he occupies a precarious position. Fielding uses the sprawl of 800 pages to explore a multitude of social, political, and literary issues, gluing them together with an exquisitely outlandish, fully embodied sense of humour.

The action of the novel begins with a view of the Allworthy family, a landed gentleman, Thomas Allworthy and his sister, Bridget. Into this family is dropped an orphan, a foundling - a child, if you will, of questionable parentage. This child, Tom Jones, is raised alongside Bridget's child, Blifil, as relative equals. Both are tutored by two ideologues, the philosopher Square and the theologian Thwackum. Jones is a precocious, free-spirited youngster, spoiled by Allworthy while Blifil, the heir apparent to the estate, becomes the favourite pupil and spoiled accordingly by his mother. As the two youths age, Tom develops a fondness for the neighbour's daughter, Sophia Western.

Tom's sexual development begins to get him in trouble, as it tends to throughout the novel, and as a result of one such incident, coupled with the goading jealousy of Blifil, Tom is driven out of the Allworthy home, left to seek his fortunes in the world. Meeting his supposed father, Partridge, on the road, the two begin a quixotic ramble across England. Sophia, meanwhile, pressured into marrying Blifil, runs away from home, beginning her own voyage of discovery.

"Tom Jones" begins with the narrator likening literature to a meal, in which the paying customer comes expecting to be entertained and satisfied. All 18 books of "Tom Jones" start out with such authorial intrusions, each cluing us into the writer's craft, his interactions with his public, and various other topics. This voice is actually sustained throughout the novel, providing a supposedly impartial centre of moral value judgments - each of which seems to tend toward enforce Fielding's project of a realistic, and yet, didactic portrayal of a world full of flawed characters.

Some of the issues the novel deals most extensively with are modes of exchange, anxieties over female agency, and the power of rumour and reputation. Exchange and the ways in which value is figured include a wide range of goods - money, bodies, food, and stories - and are integral to the story. The treatment of women is a great concern in "Tom Jones": from Partridge's perpetual fear of witchcraft to the raging arguments between Squire Western and his sister over how Sophia should be treated, to general concerns about sexuality and virtue. A novel that can be in turns hilarious, disturbing, and provoking, "Tom Jones" is never dull. Despite its size, the pace of the novel is extremely fast and lively. So, get thee to a superstore and obtain thyself a copy of this excellent and highly entertaining novel.

Journey with a guy with much testosterone, but a HUGE heart. I was not looking forward to reading this book for my 18th Century British novel class, but upon starting to read I found it to be a pleasurable story. This piqaresque novel has a humor that I have seldom encountered in other narratives. What is ironic is that Fielding wrote this piece during one of the most traumatic periods of his life. His wife just passed away, his daughter was dying, and he was inflicted with the gout. One would never think it from the clever way the book is written. The point of view gives us an in so that we feel as if we ourselves have roles in the storyline. Rooting all the way for Tom despite his flaws, we find out more about human nature along the way. A good read, light a candle and sit down with some wine like they would've and enjoy this classic comical delight.

Tom Jones is probably one of the greatest novels in all of English literature. I imagine some might be put off by the length and by its designation as a classic (something which Mark Twain said was frequently praised and rarely read). Tom Jones does not deserve to be ignored since it is a riotous rollercoster of a book filled with comic vignettes and blows against the self-satisfied and pompous. It is a book that not only is instructional, but is considerate enough to give the reader a good time while doing so.

Though frequently termed an immoral book, Tom Jones holds up rather well in the early 21st century. Even Fielding's comic characters seem to have a dimension often lacking in 18th and 19th century novels. Fielding is a genius.