Mary Wolfe has the perfect life with the perfect family until they lose everything and start to travel around the country in thier old RV. Her father starts to drink and becomes abusive, and her mother acts like a child, and refuses to grow up. Eventually Mary becomes the parents to her parents. Then Mary's crazy life spins out of control after one fatal day.

i thought it was the most wonderful book i ever read.i suggest it to everyone. i know anyone will love it

A 2 year vacation with 3 sisters and your parents. Maybe some people would like to get away from everything for a while. Mary did, too, until it all becomes too much. Mary was sick of it. Mary, being the oldest, took a lot of responsibility over ger younger sisters. Almost enough to have them call her mom. Their real mom being pregnant doesn't help, either. Finally settled on the west coast, Mary hopes things will get better, but they only get worse. Mom starts retreating back to childhood and Dad is trying his hardest to believe his own lies. Mary is aware something has to be sone. She sees everything falling apart; what is there to do? The RV breaks down, which only makes Dad mad and turns him to drinking. Now, stuck there, no place to turn,no one to turn to, Mary finds a solution. Definitely not a easy one , but a permanet one. Mary Wolf never wanted to hurt anyone, she just wanted a home. This book is easy to relate to. You realize you don't always see how good you have it, until you see someone who has it worse. It's very easy to read through the book without putting it down once. So, don't have anything to do this afternoon? Pick up Mary Wolf by Cynthia D. Grant, and listen to her story.

Every morning, Rujen Keju takes the 3-mile ferry ride from his home on Ebeye in the Marshall islands where he lives in squalor, to his job at the sewage plant at Kwajalein, the American-run island which is off-limits to him after the workday. He's accepted this as his way of life, and his older teen-age son, Jebro, is supposed to start working there also after the weekend. By the end of the day, however, he and his two sons come face to face with challenges, which will change their outlook forever. It just happens to be Good Friday, 1981 and the symbolism of that day is one of the many intertwining themes in this novel by first-time author Robert Barclay.

Rujen encounters a series of mishaps that day, including having his work-boots stolen, and the reader is drawn into his story as he goes through the day, trying to conform to what is expected of him and looking forward to his volunteer job as an usher at the Catholic church later. In the meantime, his son Jebro and his younger brother Nuke, set out on a small boat to visit the homeland of their grandfather, a small island which has been declared off-limits to Marshallese people. To add another dimension to the story is the magical tale of mischief-making gods and demons appearing as characters who play tricks on each other.

The story is told through alternative chapters, turning a flashlight on one harsh reality after another as the characters struggle through their day. And yet, there is sense of humor throughout, as we see each character's strengths, weaknesses, complexity and growth. Everyone is breaking some sort of minor law, including three American teenagers who are cutting school and out fishing that day. Their encounter with the two young brothers is both frightening and inspiring as they, too, learn a lot from the day's events.

I was immediately drawn into the writing and couldn't put it down. I loved the characters and I loved the situation. I also gained understanding of the history as well as and myths and legends that define the Marshall Islanders as a people. I usually don't like books that include magical characters, but these were so outrageous that they held my attention completely. The author is great at description and he lets himself go really wild as he describes the demons. Another theme throughout is scatological which addresses the very real issue of sewage management on the islands. And then there are the themes of father and sons, and Good Friday suffering. But best of all is the theme of love and camaraderie and lessons learned.

This book is a small gem that not only taught me a lot, but also made me think. Even the conclusion, which is indeed satisfactory, is something that gave me even more food for thought. I hope to hear more about this author, who now lives on Hawaii. His is fresh clear voice brings reveals some universal themes. Highly recommended.

A beautifully realized novel which goes far beyond a voyeuristic account of the subjugation of the Marshallese by Americans and its use of the islanders as nuclear guinea pigs with its terrific characters, a terrifying plot and mythological monster gods who vie with Grendel in amusement and disgust.

Admittedly, I'm not 100% objective about Melal. I grew up on Kwajalein and attended high school with the author. However, Melal is an incredible work of fiction. It is part adventure, part mythology and part commentary on the human condition. One dimension of the story takes place in 1981 as Rujen Keju and his two sons confront that unique Marshallese heritage that includes the legacy of atomic testing and the relationship with the American community on Kwajalein. The other dimension is timeless, based on the complicated Marshallese mythology of dwarfs, spirits and demons.

Robert's descriptions of life on Kwajalein struck a cord within me - one I thought I had put to rest years ago. His descriptive prose will offer you an unique perspective on Pacific island life where the ocean is more prevelant and often more revelent than land.

My highest praise for a novel is that I "cannot stop reading" and that when I finish I immediately begin re-reading passages. Melal fulfilled both. It forced me to explore my perspective on the Marshallese people and to remember friends, both American and Marshallese.

If you enjoy myths, legends, adventure, fishing, travel or just want to read a book with incredible prose - try Melal!

I am eleven years old, and I love Miss Nelson Has a Field Day because it was funny and interesting. I liked it when Miss Viola Swamp called one boy, "Smarty". It made me laugh!! I think other kids should read this because it is a really good book. I think it is even better than the first two Miss Nelson books. All kids would love this book!!

Miss Swamp reappears at the Horace B. Smedley School

The Horace B. Smedley School's football team is awful-and their big game with their major rival is on tap. Can anything be done to get the guys into shape in time for the game? Miss Nelson has a plan and, out of the blue, Miss Swamp is on the scene. But where is Miss Nelson??????

This is a truly delightful series that the whole family can enjoy. Good stories, great characters and the indomitable Miss Nelson all add up to great fun and great reading for kids.

My daughter loved this book. She was not an avid reader a couple summers ago but this one was a favorite. She likes all the Miss Nelson books but she was able to write a summary on this one and have all the information correct so she was paying attention. If it is on your summer reading list for school, go for it, it's worth it.

In 'Mr. Jones meet the Master', you are allowed the privelege of reading just a few of Dr. Marshall's sermons. Being only sixteen, I have not found many friends my age ready to read this book, and that is awful. When most people (Especially teenagers) hear that you're reading 'a book of sermons', they think 'boring!' Not so with this book. Last summer, I decided to read 'Mr. Jones, meet the Master', and I literally could not put it down. Dr. Marshall has a captivating writing style that keeps you reading and keeps you thinking. I really love the way he pricks your conscience and lays it on the line. I really got things right with God after reading 'Mr. Jones, Meet the Master'. If you're looking for something to boost your Christian walk, please, READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can safely promise you won't be dissapointed. I have recommended this book to everyone I know, and now I recommend it to you! And if you enjoy this book, I also recommend 'A man called Peter', which is the biography of Peter Marshall. Though he went home to the 'Chief' years before I was born, I can't wait to meet him in Heaven! Beg, borrow, or buy a copy of this book TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A book to be kept near during your life. Dynamic presentations of thoughts brought out by stories of our everyday lives. If you feel removed from The Lord, this book will point the way, and give you a very gentle push in that direction. I truly regret the fact Peter Marshall left to be with the "Chief" so early in his life. I wish I could have heard him preach, and meet him.

I am planning on buying five additional copies for my children to keep in their homes.

Thank you Rev. and Mrs. Marshall

This collection of Peter Marshall's sermons is thought provoking and deepening for those who would grow in their Christian faith! I found the sermon labeled "By Invitation of Jesus" to be excellent. This is not a dry series of discourses, but a living breathing set of gems! Highly recommended.

This is a handy handbook that quickly becomes indispensible when you are a junior resident on call. It helps you learn how to organize your though process in a logical, systematic manner. It covers all the neurological emergencies. Overall, it is quite useful for the neurologist in training.

I was asked to write a section on pediatric neurological emergencies, a new feature of this edition. Despite some disgracing of the text introduced after my proofreading of the manuscript that makes my writing appear like my mind was somewhere else at the time, I believe -if I may say so myself- that the little volume is very thoughtfully done for when one's time and concentration are very limited and the expectations from peers and patients are high. The setting we all had in mind was a busy emergency deparment or a hospital ward at a tertiary care hospital. The not so urgent but potentially serious problems are also covered. The unifying thread in all sections is the practical approach to a clinical problem (sign or symptom) and the rationale for the algorythm we all develop over time to deal with such problems. Limitations include generally mediocre illustrations -although I put in a few babies in there for you- and too much reflecting the way "we do things at Columbia". Nevertheless, one may reasonably say that a student of neurology must acquire and master the approach to the patient that the book illustrates, either from reading it or/and by collecting his or her own experiences (good and bad). Remember after all that there are true neurological emergencies that should never be missed at the expense of having a disabling outcome. Best of luck with this or whatever text you choose and remember that every patient everywhere is always in need of the best care.

I am a medical student who plans on becoming a neurologist, and I carry this book with me just to have a quick reference to clinical information about the major categories of neurological disease. The book is broken down by presentation (eg ataxia, weakness, coma, tremor) and gives a quick overview that can be skimmed in 2 minutes, and gives specific management advice.

The book doesn't give comprehensive info about any topics, but it isn't meant to...it's just the best way to make your way through seeing neuro patients in the ER or on call.

Great book! Partnering is the way to do business now and in the future. The book is a fine collection of tools and strategies in leadership and management. It's educational, inspiring and engaging at the same time. A must read for anybody who manages fast pace, competitive businesses

This is a book for people who are concerned for building a better future. As someone who has spent a great deal of time studying leadership, I find the focus on doing it better that is found in this book to be quite refreshing. Here we move beyond evolutionary changes to ideas that are quite revolutionary. This is not a book about maintaining the status quo power structures. This is a book about creating new leadership styles where partnership with knowledgeable workers will be needed to ensure organizational success.

The command and control style of leadership is coming to an end. For a leader to succeed in the future they will have to rely on their ability to pull together the talents of many individuals. This will be a leader who respects others, who helps coach and develop real talent, who shares success, and who continuously reinvents her/himself. The book gives us hope for a future where we can be productive without sacrificing our humanity.

The books 30 essays by 42 thought leaders are works derived from a passion for helping others. The inspiration for this book comes from an awareness for new leadership made more apparent by the events of 9/11. All of the royalties from this book will go to help the victims of that tragic day.

This book is great "airplane" reading. Each chapter is self contained --- usually about 10 to 15 pages, and written by world renowned experts in their field. Partnering is the common theme, but the authors cover a lot of territory.

This book is timely and relevant to today's environmnet. I especially like the idea that all the authors (as if these people need the money) are donating the royalities from sales to the victims of September 11, 2001.

Kay is in tune with Grandmothers in many different situations. She tells a story in a humorous and interesting way, and she draws a lesson from life that every grandmother could learn from. What part did I like best? The story about the green-haired young man on the airplane to Des Moines. Why? Because I was on the ground waiting for Kay's plane to land! Then I got to hear Kay's stories first hand! And why do I say she's a newly discovered Grandma? She became a grandmother by marrying a grandfather, and she didn't realize she had "Grandma" credentials for awhile!

I was inspired by this book by Kay Marshall Strom. She speaks movingly of the joys and privileges of being a grandmother and the unique, forever relationships we have with our grandchildren. There are also some practical ideas for fun ways to create memories and special times. I especially loved the devotion, "Only Child", dealing with how to make each child feel special as if he or she were the only child in the family.

I will be purchasing copies of this book for my friends who are grandmothers or who are anticipating this wonderful blessing.

Kay had so many helpful suggestions on how to improve relationships that I will definitely recommend this book to other women my age. Kay has a beautiful writing style in as much as her stories were her own personal experiences and she shares them with the reader as if the reader was a friend. I enjoyed the book immensely. At times of separation from my grandchildren I will remember to write them. I will learn new songs to sing and buy more children's books to read. I am reminded to go to the Lord when my attitude is not right. I will be more forgiving and give gifts to my five grandchildren, all because of this book.

I love this book, it has become my gardening bible! If I have a question, it has the answer. It has made gardening organically much easier.
Last year was my first year to try to garden organically, and it didn't work out too well. But this year I actually know what I'm doing! I would definatly recommend it!

I really loved this book because it focused on organic methods first. Also, it goes though plant by plant and lists growth conditions, problems and many options for cures. It also goes through soil and garden development.

Spend less time reading and more time gardening with this quick-reference guide. The book is broken into five sections: Getting Started, Growing Vegetables, Growing Fruits, Growing Herbs, and Controlling Pest and Diseases. Each section is loaded with tips. In the Getting started section, you will learn about preparing a site, buying the right plants, and how to making Compost Tea. The Vegetable section, not only gives you a detailed write-up on over 30 different vegetables, but tells how to get 100 pounds of tomatoes from one plant. For the do-it-yourself group, there are instructions on how to build a homemade tomato cage.

The book devotes 100 pages to growing fruits. Learn how to make an aphid trap out of a milk jug or how to propagate berry plants and fruit trees. There are detailed care and maintenance write-ups on 12 of the most common fruits & berries.

The Herb section talks about controlling invasive herbs, companion planting, and how to perform a technique called layering.

The Controlling Pest and Diseases section points out beneficial insects and plants. The book also explains organic tricks for solving insect, plant deficiency, and disease problems. I love the way the book uses home products to solve common gardening problems in an easy to read format. This is my favorite gardening book.

One of the main goals of this powerful book was/is to enable technical professionals (promoted into management positions) through the use of a well researched, pragmatic, highly effective and elegant communication model to systematically increase mutual understanding in the workplace.

It turns out, Lucy Freedman and Lisa Marshall have created an extremely comprehensive communication model which weaves together some of the best thought relating to communication modeling, applicable to *all* business relationships and all relationships for that matter.

The world of knowledge based work continues to change dramatically, and new skills, new capabilities, and new frames of reference are required to manage and lead. The authors reveal through the Syntax Model (Plan, Link, Balance, Inform, Learn) the underlying behavioral structure of people who are effective, and includes all of the ingredients included in the formula for dramatically successful interactions.

The focus is on effectiveness... I personally have enjoyed many workshops facilitated by Ms. Freedman, and can share with you that knowledge and practical application of the Syntax Model has transformed my life as well as my personal and business relationships.

I have had many wake up calls as a result of studying this book, including the realization that "the meaning of your communication is the response you get". This alone, for me, has been invaluable.

Ms. Freedman elegantly explains and explores many intrapersonal and interpersonal dynamics including mental models, frameworks, patterns, perceptions, interpretations, listening, matching, leading, requests and agreements and many other areas. This is a *powerful* book for anyone committed to excellence through mastering the art of communication.

For those of us committed to "sharpening the saw", this book is a valuable addition to our repertoire.

Imagine an entire team, group or organization sharing the same communication model. Imagine the possibilities you could achieve.

Do you believe the empirical evidence indicating that companies choosing to invest more dollars in employee development training enjoy higher revenue as a result? If so, I recommend you invest in a copy for every employee in your company. If not, I recommend you invest in a copy for every employee in your company.

As an experienced corporate coach and trainer with an enviable library of over 600 related titles, know that I personally consider Smart Work to be among the most valuable resources in my library. My challenge to you regarding Smart Work? Get it. Read it. Study it. Practice it. Learn it. Live it.

One of the best books I've read on communications and influence in the workplace. I've recommended it to many colleagues. Learn how to ensure that you and others are working towards the same goal, reduce resistance, and help people moved past self-imposed limits. The book is clear and well-written, and I think it is especially helpful for technical professionals who would like to communicate better.

What a valuable book! Reading Smart Work is a very smart investment of time for anyone who works in an organization today. It provides a clear guide to how individuals can learn to more quickly and easily create clear mutual understanding with their co-workers. For individual readers this can translate into greater effectiveness in their jobs, less stress, and more time to do the work they enjoy. For the organizations that employ them it can mean everything from shorter product development cycles, to superior products, to better customer support, and ultimately to higher sales. Although examples used in the book are drawn primarily from the work of technical professionals such as engineers, the lessons are universal. I can highly recommend Smart Work!

This book is "required" reading at some of the service schools in the military. Unfortunately too many officers refuse to put into practice the common sense lessons that abound in this book. Instead of thinking about a mission, making some assumptions, taking some risks, and refusing to overburden our men with gear, we adopt a "Better to have it than not need it..." mentality and try to bring everything. We pay lip service to this book all the time. We fancy ourselves maneuverists. We think we're the best in the world. God help us when we go up against someone who is only carrying a weapon, ammunition, and a desire to use it. No amount of gear in the world will save us. It's only a matter of time. This book should be required reading for not only those in the military, but those who are concerned about the state of America's armed forces.

Let me just say that the lessons put forth in this book have yet to be headed by American military forces. We carry too much, too far, for too long. Yet another reason why we had trouble in Vietnam and Somalia. Sustainment? Hah! If the #1 country in the world cannot figure out how to supply it's troops better then we are truly hurting. I believe all officers and senior enlisted should read this book. I'm a Marine officer. I've read it . . . and I preach it.

Copyrighted in 1950, my dog-eared, water-stained copy of this book has been with me now for 18 years, and the lessons it contains, learned the hard way by the men who fought and led troops through the first two world wars, are just as valuable today as they were on the eve of the Korean War. It examines what some might consider a mundane subject (what a soldier carries, and should and should not be expected to carry into battle) in a way that says a lot about our culture and the American way of war. Marshall's observations may seem elementary, but the fact that he had to set them down on paper just a few years after WWII is proof positive that the minions of political correctness were alive and well fifty years ago, and that institutional memory is definately of the short term variety. Anyone who leads troops and has not read this book should be dismissed from the service, and anyone who does not reread it every two years should be put in charge of nothing more challenging than changing the marquee at the base theater. Unfortunatly my own experience has led me to believe that it remains unread by many who consider themselves professional soldiers, lending more than a grain of truth to the the saying "Common sense is an uncommon virtue.". If you enjoy Col. David Hackworth's column, you will like this.