There seem to be three types of books in circulation about Authorware. There is of course the User's Guide that comes with the product -- a good reference. Then there are tutorials, like "Authorware 5 Authorized" by Kellogg -- a good beginner's step by step how-to. But the best type of book (for me anyway) has been the "show & tell & try approach" type of book, like Nick Roberts' excellent "The Official Guide to Authorware 4." It is very well written in an interesting and casual style -- and you will find the author's enthusiasm for Authorware contageous as you delve deeper into the text. Excellent illustrations compliment the "visual" approach to constructing a piece via icons along a flow line. And you are told the logic of the "what & why" of the step-by-step examples before you do them -- a great aid in understanding (and actually learning) how to utilize Authorware's features. Too many times I've followed the tutorials of other books and end up with a nice looking functional result -- without really understanding along the way "why" I used the steps and procedures I was told to do.

And most important, this book came through for me in an area that I have not found in the other books -- variables, functions and expressions. Roberts eases the reader into this area, which is by far the core of Authorware's strength and flexibility. Then the reader gets into two or three chapters that deal with this area in depth. The material was so good I couldn't help but want more, but alas, I think an entire book could be written on just variables and functions.

Even though I use Authorware 5.1, I found this version 4 book 100% useful -- all it lacks is info on how to use 5.1's Knowledge Objects -- which surprisingly is also absent in the newer Authorware 5 books that I have seen. But from what I've heard from other folks, the lack of K.O. information is no great loss. I just hope that Nick Roberts comes out with another AW book one of these days -- maybe on AW 6 when it hits the market.

This book contains information about the inside workings of Authorware that will allow you to easily advance to intermediate and advanced programming methods. It even provides the intermediate and advanced developer with inside information about the inner workings of the program; I know of no other guide to Authorware that does this. What is unusual about this book is the clarity with which it is written. It reads unusually smoothly, and sets the standard for which reference manuals should be written. This is a very wise investment for the Authorware developer at any skill level.

This is a super book for both new users and advanced users alike. Mr. Roberts takes you through all the facets of authorware and gives you super tips for developing your piece for either mac or pc. I had never used a authoring program before, including authorware and after reading this book for couple of nights, I was developing my own stand alone windows based projects. I really wish to thank Mr. Nick Roberts for writing a easy to understand book. Keep up the good work. Cheers Rick

I have a degree in Chinese herbs and at least 50 books on herbs. This is one of the best.

The author reviews Chinese, Western and Ayurvedic herbs. He includes research and little known facts about the herbs.

There are chapters on different diseases and the herbs that will treat them, including HIV, cancer, diabetes and thyroid problems.

There is a great explanation of the immune system, with each component explained very clearly, along with herbs that have been proven to affect that specific function. Which herbs boost interferon and which ones boost NK cells? What is tumor necrosis factor and what herbs stimulate it?

There is a seamless integration of Naturopathic and allopathic.

For example: Cases of hyperthyroidism and of hypothyroidism were confirmed via blood test. Hyperthyroidism correlated with a yin deficiency diagnosis and hypothyroidism with a yang deficiency diagnosis. As would be expected.

Everyone who loves herbs should have a copy of this book!!!!

This book is amazing. It offers in-depth, well-referenced information. The contents are priceless!

This is a truly remarkable book.In a sense it is an encyclopedic treatment of herbology for the layman, and a reference book for the specialist. One correctly gets the impression that the author and his two co-authors really know what they are talking about. The book is based on an extensive knowledge about herbs, and considerable clinical experience. It covers the area of herbal treatment comprehensively. The content is well organized and information is clearly presented.The index is lengthy and detailed. The Appendix conveniently lists herbs, according to their physiological action, by their common and Latin names. The Resource Guide. is unusually comprehensive. It is a pleasure to recommend this book.

Albert Schatz, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus Temple University.

Kephart's engaging, entertaining style does a terrific job of bringing realism to a heavily stereotyped people; his approach is balanced, illustrating the people's good and not-so-good characteristics with anecdotes (some hilarious) and facts. He provides historical and topological frameworks for the character of mountain people. He lived a bare-bones existence among them for several years and so his narrative is richer--and truer--than that of a drop-in-ask-get-out historian's. The book provides a realistic basis for understanding people of today's mountains, where personal background is often still important.

Kephart delivers the facts as they really were while avoiding any hints of "documentary reading". The story gives many real life events and the reader feels almost as if he's having a conversation with Kephart. A very vivid look into Appalachian life as it really was in the early 1900s.

I love Appalachia history and would rate this as my favorite book on the subject. I hated to see the book end!

This peaceful story is a lovely way to introduce another culture to young readers, and Robert Sabuda's artwork is beautiful. Mi Fei is an artist who is content to paint scrolls and live within his community until the villagers hear that a dragon has awakened to threaten the countryside and nominate him to face the foe. After a long journey, Mi Fei finds the dragon, who offers him a series of riddles/challenges to perform. Sabuda, better known for his pop-up masterpieces, brings the story to life with breathtaking images of vibrant color and flowing imagery.

Wonderful tale.

This is the most wonderful children's book I have ever read. I loved it and my seven year old daughter loves it also. It tells a wonderful story about Chinese culture,love and courage. The illustration is absolutely beautiful!I've recommended it to many friends with children.

The Paper Dragon has captured the heart of all the readers I have given copies to (I am on my eighth copy). The story of a humble artist sent to task against a fierce dragon, is portayed colorfully in word and pictures. The gate style print of the pictures lend themselves to become an intergral part of the storyline.

A touching lesson is given to us all, when we find that the dragon is thankful to be released from his reign of terror, and allowed to sleep again. I have heard my five year old tell the story to her friends.

This book is truely a blessing to anyone who reads it. I first read it years ago. I picked it up again the other day and started to read it again. It stills hold my attention and ministers to me. It is down-to-earth and real. One can really relate to the life of Robert Thom and his sins. But as God saved
Robert, He can save anyone from sin. Get multiple copies of this book because you will want to share it. May God richly bless each of you. To God Be The Glory Forever and Forever!

When I first read this book it was in a very critical time in my life. I was a new Christian and had become very ill. A friend loaned me this book and it ministered to me in ways I cannot describe. His honest approach to questioning the things of God and his simple responses to God's promptings were a breath of fresh air. I have tried to adopt his simplistic honest approach to serving our Lord and Savior Jesus into my life. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to take an adventure in learning about the love, mercy, compassion, patience, and providences of our Father.

THE NEW WINE IS BETTER WAS WRITTEN BY MY FATHER ON A VOYAGE FROM NEW YORK TO SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND IN 4 DAYS.IT DEPICTS THE FAITH AND HOW THE CHALLANGES WERE OVERTURNED BY THE FAITH THAT MY FATHER POSSESSED.FROM HIS TRAVELS THAT STARTED IN THE LATE 50'S, THAT TOOK HIM ALL OVER THE WORLD PREACHING. MY FATHER NEVER RECEIVED A PAY CHECK FOR 35 YEARS BUT HIS NINE KIDS NEVER WANTED FOR ANYTHING. PURE FAITH AND BELIEF. A TRUELLY GIFTED LIFE OF GOSPEL.

This is a story about the North Country, and how it is on a snowy night when all the people are in their cabins and houses asleep. Read along, as you experience each individual adventures of the animals. Travel with an owl one minute, then a gray coyote the next. Read about the fox, looking for a place to sleep. This story is an okay story, but really good for litte children who love animals. They can follow along with them, experiencing what they are to do next. The illustrations let you experience and see what the animals are getting into. Read this story to your littlest one, curled up on the couch with hot cocoa on a cold, snowy, winter evening, and they'll go to bed wondering, "What are the animals doing tonight?"

As night falls, animals of the north gradually appear to search for food. This book is beautifully illustrated and was another favorite of my children. Done in the hues of a bluish dusk/early evening.

Daniel San Souci carries a soft tonal effect from daylight to dawn. The book is created on a pale blue stock. An environment pervades, which allows the reader to feel as if they are watching a live cast of characters from behind a tree on a cold winter's night.

I've owned this book for a number of years & I find it is DEFINITELY a "keeper". My wife can"t understand why I drag it out & re-read it every Fall. I'd read & enjoyed Ruark's fiction in my younger days, but when I stumbled across "The Old Man & The Boy" it reminded me of times in the woods & on the water with my own father & the life lessons I was taught at those times. Both books together are simply a double treasure.

My grandfather gave me a paperback edition of the "The Old Man and The Boy" when I was about twelve. I am thirty three now and this book has never left my side. I have since acquired "The Old Man's Boy Grows Older." This work has similiar flavour. For those sporting people who long for the days of ethics and morality in the field and in the home this book is a must read. You can virtually smell the campfire, hear the Quail calling and learn some important lessons on life and sport.

As a success in my field, I was questioned by my trade organization what management books I kept on my desk. Only one: The Old Man and the Boy.

I've been avoiding learning RMAN till now. When RMAN first came out, I thought that it's another way to sell more server licenses. After reading this at the local coffee shop, I've determined that this is the preferred B&R method. This is a good primer for the Oracle9i RMAN Backup & Recovery (ISBN: 0072226625), which is my next purchase.

I was trying to learn Rman from manuals and metalink articles from long time. But I could never learn enough and felt confident from these bits and bytes of info. I was skeptical about this book. But to my surprise, this is one of those rare gems. In two words - very practical.

Dump your shell scripts on hot backups and start implementing Rman. I also saw the other book from the same author on oracle 9i new features - an excellent piece.

This book is one of the most usefull Oracle book I had opportunity to read (for the past 11 years, since I started working with Oracle 5, I collected over seventy Oracle books - more or less everything usefull published on the subject). It offers in-depth overview of Oracle architecture, RMAN utility, configuration of various third party tools and number of real-life case studies with detail step-by-step explanations (these case studies resembles 'labs' in super-expensive Oracle courses). It is usefull book for every level and deffinitely one of the best-written Oracle books on the market.

This is a fine starter book for the first time home owner. In the first few pages, I had the answers to the three major problems I had been dealing with! Nice and straightforward catch-all book on working over existing stuff or putting in new.

I picked up this book in Home Depot back in 1997. At a glance I found out how to take out a load bearing wall, something I needed to do. I bought the book, and with it I had the confidence to take on a major remodel of my house. The book has everything, from framing an addition to fixing a leaky faucet. I consult it often. Right now (03/2002) I'm using it to build a shed. The language is clear and concise and the book doesn't waste words. I recommend it highly.

I, recently, purchased this boook (my brother said he had one, and it was great). I flipped through most of the book -- it isn't the kind of book you sit down and read straight through. I've done a fair amount of handyman stuff around the house (I just replaced the motor in my dryer - which wasn't too difficult once I had the right parts). Well, as I flipped through the book, I would stop and read sections which interested me. There are well-written sections on, basically, everything about a house and what is in it. After spending about an hour scanning the book, I said to my wife: "You could build a house with the information that is in here!" It is one of those "I'm glad I bought this book" books. A great book to have if you're looking for stuff to do around the house; it is a real "Home Improvement Encyclopedia."

The key issue today is media reform.

An aggressive and adversarial press is crucial to our democracy.
Much of the apathy and disappointment that people express with the state of the world is due in no small part to the media. In my opinion, Americans have always been somewhat self-absorbed and apathetic. Also, there is really no such thing as "objective" journalism. Never was, and unlikely there ever will be. Everyone has their own biases and assumptions, especially journalists. What's different today is that media consolidation has reduced the number of competing voices to a very small, advertiser-focused group of companies, who are trying to deliver news as cheaply as possible. That.s why you know more about J. Lo than about, say, the fact that the US is giving no longer giving any aid to Afghanistan -- after eviscerating their government and decimating the country. There's just no profit in telling Americans the real news, or so it seems.

What's the usual problem with "lefty" type books, especially those written by academics? They usually spend an inordinate amount of time trying to prove their thesis correct, and by the time they have beaten you over the head with facts and statistics, they peter out on any suggestions for solutions, and the reader is left feeling helpless, angry and more depressed than when they started reading. That's a recipe for the marginalization of progressives, especially during these conservative times.

McChesney and Nichols don't fall into that trap with this book, however. They do indeed beat you over the head with the statistics and facts, but they make concrete suggestions and point to real models of success in the world today.

... George Harrison has warned us all about the media with his very last album - BRAINWASHED. Jerry Mander warned us years ago when he wrote: FOUR ARGUMENTS FOR THE ELIMINATION OF TELEVISION. Now, Robert W. McChesney and John Nichols are warning us yet again with OUR MEDIA, NOT THEIRS. ... Read this book if you're angry enough about the media in general to begin to DO something about it, because this book does not stop at complaining about what is bad about the media; it offers us all multiple solutions to how we can actually confront the situation and create viable alternatives to this BEAST that is devouring everything in its path like a rabid Godzilla on steroids!

... This is SERIOUS business! Look what they write on pages 91 and 92: "As in the United States, a striking and important consequence of the global commercial media market has been the attack on journalism, and the reduction in its capacity to serve as the basis for an informed, participating citizenry. Let us be clear here: We are not blaming the global media system for all the flaws in journalism. Establishing a media system that fosters a freewheeling, independent, wide-ranging, and vibrant journalism and political culture is no easy matter, though it is something that all democratic societies should aspire to develop. National press systems prior to - and in conjunction with - the global commercial system were and are sometimes adequate at this job, but many were failures. Frequently, the media have been owned by wealthy individuals or firms that have clearly censored journalism to support their usually reactionary politics, as is the case in Turkey today. Both public and commercial broadcasters in many nations have often been handmaidens of the dominant political parties and interests. In places like Mexico, Peru, and Brazil the dominant commercial broadcasters have tended to be in bed with the dominant pro-business political parties, and to use their media power aggressively and shamelessly to maintain the favored parties in power. Editors and reporters from dissident media who courageously bucked the system and reported on those in power have often found themselves arrested or on the receiving end of a beating or a gunshot. These practices continue today across the world." ... Not very NICE!

... But there is hope! Read on, from pages 123 and 124: "Yet as important as this work is, there are inherent limits to what can be done with independent media, even with access to the Internet. Too often, the alternative media remain on the margins, seemingly confirming that commercial media conglomerates have become so massive because they "give the people what they want." The problem with this disconnect is that it suggests that corporate media have mastered the marketplace on the basis of their wit and wisdom. In fact, as we noted earlier, our media system is not the legitimate result of free market competition. It is the result of relentless lobbying from big-business interests that have won explicit government policies and subsidies permitting them to scrap public-interest obligations and increase commercialization and conglomeration. It is untenable to accept such massive subsidies for the wealthy, and to content ourselves with the "freedom" to forge alternatives that only occupy the margins. How , then, can we force a change in the media systems that dominate the discourse and misinform the debate? By organizing the media democracy movement to make a great leap forward."

... As Jesus said, resisting evil is not the way. Focusing on fighting fire with fire merely draws you into entangled engagement with illusory duality and conflict. We must IGNORE THEM TO DEATH! We must create a critical mass as a viable alternative that totally ECLIPSES the beast that has dominated our path to the pursuit of happiness, a fulfilling life, and true liberty. Only this way, can we find our way out of this mess - by all joining together, in spite of the powers that be, in order to build a new media that does not merely entertain or misinform but one which truly educates and enlightens our whole society and culture. ... YOWZA! - The Aeolian Kid

If you think we can't change what's wrong with media, read this book. McChesney and Nichols explain the crisis of monopoly media, offer great examples of what people are doing around the world, and then show what we can (what he have to) do in the U.S. This is the best "news" I've read in a long time.