I like this book very much. In a one on one setting with an interested child, the stories and illustrations in this book will provoke lots of questions and explanations. Most of the Bible stories are about lesser known women, such as Deborah and Abigail, who deserve to be better understood. Be sure to preview this book before reading it with a child. There are two paintings (of Judith and Salome) with beheaded men which may be disturbing to some younger children. Cranach's painting is of a nude Eve. One of my favorite paintings in the book is Caravaggio's of Mary and Martha. He contrasts them by showing Mary in very simple clothing and Martha in an elaborate dress. This lovely book provides a wonderful avenue for teaching both Bible stories and art appreciation. The stories are retold in a straight-forward, simple and engaging way.

Summary: A must-have book for all relgious education professionals or volunteer leaders. This easy-to-read and affordable book presents a creative new "from the grass-roots" model for Sunday School which is being adopted by many churches acrosst the country.

While I'm sure having Dennis Rodman show up on a Sunday morning would add some color to any Sunday School program, in this case "WoRM" refers not to the outrageous Chicago Bulls rebounder but to the "Workshop Rotation Model." When the co-authors of Workshop Rotation: a New Model for Sunday School found themselves as new colleagues on the staff of a Presbyterian church in Illinois, they realized something needed to change in the children's Sunday School. They were confronted with sagging attendance, low teacher morale, difficulty recruiting new volunteers, a budget straining to afford costly curriculum which was of limited use, and a building that looked depressing even on a bright sunny day. Many church education leaders can relate to their dilemma. Armstrong-Hansche and MacQueen's solution was to reinvent the entire structure of the program. The result was what now goes by the term of "the workshop rotation model," or more simply, "rotation." Word of the new enthusiasm for learning and burgeoning attendance at their church spread, and WoRM is now used in many churches across the country.

In WoRM, the school year is divided into six or seven "rotations" of approximately five weeks each. The age-level classrooms in the education building are transformed into "workshops." Sample workshops include drama, audiovisual, art, Bible times, computer skills. One and only one Bible story is the focus for each rotation. Each class spends one week in each workshop, rotating to a different one each week. By the end of the rotation, they have encountered and internalized the story in several different ways. Workshop leaders are recruited specifically for their skills in a particular area and are only obligated to teach for one or two rotations. They only need prepare one basic lesson plan for the five weeks, simply modifying it slightly for the different ages. Each workshop space is creatively decorated in a way that promotes its theme. Heavy wooden Sunday school furniture and bare walls disappear in lieu of canvas backdrops and art stools. Armstrong-Hansche and MacQueen freely admit that their model bears some resemblance to what has been done in limited ways for years as part of intergenerational learning events or Vacation Bible School. Their contribution was to devise a coherent way for their entire Sunday School program to function on the workshop model all year long.

After their first year using Workshop Rotation, not only had the children's enthusiasm skyrocketed, but so had their volunteers. They had people walking up to them at coffee hour asking if they couldn't please teach Sunday School! Most importantly, they found that the level of biblical literacy among the students had increased dramatically. Encountering the same story for several weeks in a row enabled students to explore it much more deeply. The variety of learning styles incorporated in the workshops ensured that each student experienced the story in multiple ways and internalized it. Even those students who only had 50% attendance due to joint custody arrangements or traveling soccer leagues were learning and wrestling with the stories.

In this short (91 pp) book, the authors outline the basic structure and advantages to the rotation model. They give enough information that you can understand their vision and begin to ponder if or how it might be helpful for your parish. More detailed resources are listed at the back of the book. One of those resources is a website, www.rotation.org, which includes scores of free lesson ideas written by the authors and by educators in other churches which have adopted the model. The website would be a great first stop for learning more about "Rotation." Even if you are not inclined to entirely restructure your Sunday School along WoRM lines, I would encourage all parish CE Committee chairs or parish education staff to at least read this book and check out the website. The book is easy to read, and at the very least will give you some wonderful ideas for the next time you want to use "activity centers" at a parish event, although it will probably give you far more than that.

Never mind that I am dismayed by the entire "analytic turn" in twentieth-century philosophy; never mind that I disagree with the physicalist view of the mind; never mind that I regard some form of rationalism as, in the final analysis, the only genuinely empirical philosophical outlook. I really enjoy reading David Malet Armstrong's work. Not that I agree with him very often! But he is a wonderfully engaging writer on philosophical topics. And in this volume he is recapping (and building on) some two or three decades' worth of effort in the construction of what he hopes is a plausible empiricist metaphysics. He expounds clearly and lucidly on the sorts of things there ultimately are; whether there are universals; the nature of causality and scientific law; what empiricists should do with problematic entities like numbers and sets; the nature of possibility and necessity, and what in the world an empiricist can mean by either one; and any number of interesting side points -- always clearly, always interestingly, and always ordered by Armstrong's tremendous organizational skills. (The title of the book, by the way, expresses his view that the universe consists of "states of affairs," a state of affairs being one of the following: (a) the possession of a property -- which he takes, I think correctly, to be a universal -- by what he calls a "thin particular," which is a sort of coat-hanger for properties; or (b) the obtaining of a relation between/among two or more such particulars.) Armstrong has one truly remarkable practice that makes it easy for philosophical "opponents" like me to read and appreciate his work: he is always careful to state what he calls his "fall-back" positions, namely the positions to which he would retreat if he found out his present views are false. His own example (from the introduction to this volume): if he had to give up "physicalism" with regard to the mind, he would be driven to dualism rather than to materialism. (And amen to _that_.) As Armstrong himself is clearly aware, this sort of approach is extremely helpful. It is a most congenial style of exposition, of course, but it is also a fine way to keep philosophical dialogue going between "opposing" philosophical camps: a dualist has a sort of "second-order" agreement with Armstrong, who is not actually a dualist right now but _would_ be one _if_ . . . It seems almost irrelevant and even ungracious to add that I don't actually have all that many first-order agreements with him! I think, for example, that Armstrong is mistaken to regard all relations between "states of affairs" as external relations; I think he should have abandoned physicalism already; I think he has been altogether too much influenced by Russell and Wittgenstein, especially as regards "logical atomism"; I think his "thin particular" itself consists of universals; I think "direct realism" (with regard to perception) is attractive but ultimately untenable; and I suspect that if he examined the presuppositions on which his metaphysic is based, he would find himself committed to a much fuller rationalism. And so on. But I confess Armstrong has made me think harder about each of these points. He defends his theses about as well as they could possibly be defended -- always, as I said, carefully stating his "fall-back positions." And his book is a workmanlike answer to earlier critics of analytic philosophy who didn't think it was altogether cricket for the young Turks to (try to) demolish speculative metaphysics without providing any positive accounts of their own. Armstrong has written a fine book here, and it will undoubtedly be a contribution of longstanding importance to the analytic/empiricist literature. It can be read profitably, and will be enjoyed, even by thinkers who disagree with it. I offer myself as evidence in support of that contention.

This is definitely a book one would proudly display at home -- a definite conversation starter. Full of touching photos of the Master's visit to the USA, matched by first-hand accounts of that time. I was particularly moved by the story relating a gathering that was almost rained out, and how Abdul-Baha "saved the day." This book would be joyously received as a gift for Ayyam-i-Ha or Naw Ruz. Enjoy!

This book based on Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences is a great resource for teachers and students alike. Its easy to read format, along with many helpful hints draws the reader in. The practicality of this book pertains to everyone because we all reflect our intelligence in different ways. This book helps the reader to understand the various intelligences, as well as how we can build upon our "smarts" and strengthen those areas that we may struggle with. You're Smarter Than You Think: A Kid's Guide to Multiple Intelligences emphasizes that we are all intelligent and that we can grow to be more well rounded individuals by learning to use all of the multiple intelligences together since they are involved in everything that we do. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to find out how smart they really are, and chances are, you are probably smarter than you think.

This beautiful children's book brings the reader above, below and all around the ocean to discover all forms of sea life. The exquiste art work makes you feel like your witnessing the creatures first hand and the informative and accurate descriptions enhance the book and make it a pleasure to read. My five year old chooses this book to read at bed at night over and over again! Best testimonial I know of!

I had and beat testicular cancer just like Lance Armstrong, so I could truly relate to the incredible obstacles that he described in his amazing book.

This sincerely is an amazing story. I just wish I could have read it when I was going through my intense radiation treatments in my recovery, because I feel it would have made things easier for me. In his book, Armstong brings this disease into the public view, and allows people to see that it truly doesn't have to be a part of death, but, in fact, a part of life.

There are many stories within the book. His childhood, his attitudes towards his father figures, his early racing career, his battle with cancer, the stuggle to get back on top of his game, his love life, and, his extemely personal march towards fatherhood. Each and every one of these minor stories gives an overall inspirational journey into Lance Armstrong's remarkable life.

The writing is nicely detailed and allows for a good, easy-flowing read. The racing-scenes are action-packed, and make you feel as if you are right there on the bike with him. Armstong tells his tale using candid language and relates his stories of life with honesty and a pure heart. This book is a true inspiration to anyone. Please read this book. You cannot go wrong.

The most inspiration story I have read in a long time. Lance Armstrong a world-class athlete nearly struck down by cancer, only to recover and win the Tour de France, the bicycle race famous for its grueling intensity is a winner by all accounts. As serious and difficult the race may be the race to defeat cancer is even more difficult. And that is the core of this book which includes serious medical detail from chemo to surgical procedures to his wife's in vitro fertilization, you won't be spared a single x-ray, IV drip, or unfortunate side effect. Lance Armstrong is a winner in regards to life, death, illness, family, medical setbacks, training setbacks and personal triumphs. Reading this book makes you proud.

FinancialNeeds.com

If you've never been profoundly effected by a book, then you have to read Lance Armstrong's story. Yes, it gives you great insight into the cycling world, but even moreso, the book opens your eyes to the physical effects of cancer and how to conquer them emotionally. Lance doesn't hide any details of his diagnosis and treatment but chooses instead to lay them all out for everyone to see. His experience has made it easier for men to freely talk about testicular cancer and to take the early steps to prevent its progression.

I am not an avid cyclist or a cancer survivor, but Lance's book read so well (I finished it in 2 days) that I could totally relate to him. I enjoyed every page and even laughed and cried as I read. I have never rated a book on Amazon before, but I was so moved by this story that I couldn't help myself. I even contributed to the Lance Armstrong Foundation today through Lance's web site in order to help other cancer survivors. You can help, too. It's a good cause, and you never know.. one day you might need and appreciate such a donation.

I am ashamed to admit it, but, yes, I have been reading for over 25 years and this is the very first time that I have ever read Jane Austen. None of her novels were required in high school, no literature class that I took in college used any as a text, and I had never thought to pursue her for sheer entertainment. It is quite sad, actually, for I find Austen much more accessible than some of the classic that I did have to wade through, including Wuthering Heights and The Scarlet Letter. Austen has recently seen a resurgence in popularity, likely due to the recent BBC and Hollywood adaptations of her books, including the Emma Thompson vehicle Sense and Sensibility.

Pride and Prejudice was Austen's second novel, following the success of Sense and Sensibility. Its original title was--and I'm not making this up a la Dave Barry--First Impressions. To my taste, this would have been a much more apt title, but it had been used by another author before Austen could get this book in print. The story is about the five Bennet sisters, who, while not orphaned or penniless, have few choices as to husbands because their father's estate is entailed on a male heir, and they have no brother. The father seems to have resigned them to their fate, but their mother wastes no opportunity to arrange a good match for her daughters. The two oldest--Jane and Elizabeth--are level-headed and quite understand the position that they are in, but the youngest three are flirtatious and giddy, a bad combination in winning society's eye. Disasters ensue when eligible bachelors Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy come to town, as well as the officers of the ---shire regiment.

The reason First Impressions would have been a better title is that each character--not just the main two, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy--is constantly assuming things about other characters based on their initial reception of them. Mr. Darcy, in the country, is too proud to dance with any of the young women because of his mistaken impression that they are all declasse; Elizabeth forms her prejudices about Mr. Darcy because of her first meeting with him and this dance snub. The townsfolk think the best of Mr. Wickham because his first impression on everyone is quite favorable. And on and on and on.

Very interesting, but it goes on forever, as the characters can never be quite direct given the mores of the time. That does not mean that they can not be insulting, as a particularly vicious exchange between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth shows. I'm glad that I have now broken my Austen fast, but I think that I can wait awhile before digesting any more.

I have always loved the style and social politics of the Regency period (the time of Jane Austen.) But when I read "Sense and Sensibility" in 7th grade I found the first few chapters lifeless, dull and hard to read. Two years later I was encouraged by a friend to give "Pride and Prejudice" a try. I did and have since become a complete Janeite. I am now able to peruse joyfully through "Sense and Sensibility" with a new understanding and appreciation of Jane Austen. The reason? "Pride and Prejudice" is fresh, witty and is a great introduction to Jane Austen's writing style without the formality of some of her other novels (unlike S&S and Persuasion Austen does not give us a 10 page history of each family and their fortune.) If you have never read Jane Austen or have read her other novels and found them boring, read Pride and Prejudice. The characters, and the situations Austen presents to them, are hysterical and reveal a lot about Regency society and morality. This book perfectly compliments a great writer like Jane Austen and is essential to every reader's library. The Penguin Edition of the book is stellar and I personally recommend it not only for the in-depth and indispensable footnotes, but also for the cover that is non-suggestive of any of the characters' appearances. In summary "Pride and Prejudice" is a great book for beginner Austen readers and seasoned fans, and Penguin Classics is a great edition for fully enjoying and understanding the book.

It doesn't get better than Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Whether you're the hopeless romantic or you just love the classics, you're going to love this book. Though I am only sixteen, I consider myself to be moderately well-read. I love reading, and, when I am between books, my life feels desolate and empty. One day, while in the most barren pit of ennui, I picked up Pride and Prejudice at my mother's recommendation. I do not ordinarily like my mother's taste in reading; her favorite books tend to be very dull, but so deep was my boredom that I succumbed to her suggestion. I wasn't displeased with what I found. I fell in love with the book at the first sentence. I brought my beloved book to the dinner table, to my classes and late into the night. I love everything about it. I love the characters; especially Elizabeth Bennet! I love the Victorian vernavular which works so well for this particular novel. I love the scintillating plot and the suspense created by knowing that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy should be together but their pride and prejudice (hence the title) are temporarily keeping them apart. The language that the novel is written in might be a little more difficult to read than contemporary literature, but once one gets accustomed to it, it makes the novel even more pleasurable. I cannot imagine Elizabeth or Darcy or Bingley or any of the other characters speaking any less eloquently; it would ruin the whole experience! The flowery language completes the whole effect of reading a Jane Austen novel. If a disgruntled female reader put down Pride and Prejudice, pick it back up! I strongly suggest it because it may prove to be tedious at first but if read again, it would probably read more easily. I can offer no suggestions to the male reader, however, because generally this book, in ever essence, is a female novel. I am not saying that men would definetly not enjoy it; I'm simply saying that I have yet to meet any male who has not addressed this book in a very vehement manner. I simply love this book in its entirety, and I know it won't be too long before I pick it up again. Jane Austen surely knew what she was doing when she wrote this one! Her Pride and Prejudice will always have an honored spot on my bookshelf.

Yo Yo Love is the debut novel by Daaimah S. Poole and tells the story of Kayla
Johnson. Kayla has decided at the ripe old age of 20 that she is tired of
being by herself and that she wants to be in a relationship. The story that is
told in Yo Yo Love is a parent’s nightmare. Kayla flounders from one unhealthy
relationship to another with the thought and hope that the current man will
finally be the one. She lacks a mind of her own and is easily persuaded by the
men in her life to do foolish things. Some of the things Kayla did include
having sex a few hours after meeting a man , getting a man’s name tattooed to
her arm, spending a weekend away with a virtual stranger, and a plethora of
other unwise choices.

Kayla is irresponsible and immature and she is placed in situations throughout
the story where she must serve as an example to her younger sister. Considering
her behavior, this seems unconscionable. When I started reading this book, I
thought that the problem was me and that I wasn’t the target audience. However
after dicussing this book with a few people of various ages, I concluded that
the story is simply careless. I think it condones reckless behavior and shows
little growth in the main character. Towards the end of the book, Ms. Poole
throws a lesson in there, but its too little too late and it is negated by
actions of Kayla.

I think Daaimah Poole has great writing potential. I can see her talent in
this book, but the story simply lacked substance to me. I got what she was
trying to say and I acknowledge that there are women like Kayla in this world,
but I simply don’t value reading about the insanity of their behavior.

Reviewed by Diane Marbury.

I just want to start off by saying two claps up this book was so gooooooooooooooooooooood........Daaimah is an excellent writer.This book is basically about a young women by the name of Kayla (the main character)It's about her struggles to find a good man in the beginning she meets all these losers and then she finally meets the guy of her dreams(Wil) or so she thinks but then she finds that he has skeletons in his closet as well serious skeletons then comes along Samir the "The good guy" now she has to choose which man she should be with the one that she loves but isn't right for her or the one that is right for her but she isn't in love With.This book was so realistic in so many ways I can totally relate I think that alot of women could relate to Kayla's Situation you always want something that you can't have and you know is not good for you I really look forward to future books from Daaimah maybe even a sequel that would be NICE!!!!!!! hint hint Well good job Daaimah you have my #1 Vote!!!!!!!!

Daaimah S. Poole, 23 University student has written her first novel, it is da bomb yall...Yup that's right I loved this book. I'm looking for the love CD and the video..associated with this book.

The story starts with Kayla finding out her college roommate is getting married and leaving school. Kayla moves out of the dorms and gets her own apartment. She struggles with school, working as a waitress and trying to find L-O-V-E.

Kayla tired and needing sleep decides to quit her job waitressing.

The story begins to move from this point on, page after page of fun, easy reading and interesting characters. Kayla is pressed to find love, she wants love and thinks she needs it.

The language used in this book is hip. The points are clearly spelled out in the book. I like the way Kaylas tells her story, you are right there with her, even when she's thinking or just kidding.

I fell in love with Kayla she knew was head strong and truly believed she knew what she wanted until she had it all and didn't know what to do with it.

While reading this book I was saddened that it had to end, it certaionly reads like "I need more" I will be on the look out for Ms Daaimah Poole, she will certainly give some a run for their money. Watch out yall she has a book coming out possibly called "You Don't Understand"

Place this on your To read or purchase list you won't be disappointed.