If You Dare (The MacCarrick Brothers, Book 1)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Pleased
  • AWESOME
  • Western Theme/Scottish Highland book
  • GOOD READ
  • IF YOU DARE
If You Dare (The MacCarrick Brothers, Book 1)
Kresley Cole
Manufacturer: Pocket
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 1416540946

Book Description

With If You Dare, Cole introduces a thrilling new romance trilogy featuring fierce Scottish brothers with dangerous lives, dark desires, and a deadly curse.

Can he exact revenge?

High in the Pyrenees, a band of mercenaries led by Courtland MacCarrick wages war for General Reynaldo Pascal. When Court turns on the evil general, Pascal orders him killed but Court narrowly escapes and exacts revenge by kidnapping Pascal's exquisite Castilian fiancée.

Can she deny her passions?

Lady Annalía Tristán Llorente despises her towering, barbaric captor almost as much as she does Pascal. Her inexplicable attraction to the Highlander only fuels her fury. But nothing will stop her from returning to Pascal -- for if she doesn't wed him, she signs her brother's death warrant, as well as her own.

Can there be love between them?

From the moment Court discovers that Anna's prim façade masks a fiery, brave lass, his heart's ensnared, and he dares to defy the curse that has shadowed his life -- to walk with death or walk alone. But Pascal vows that he'll hunt the two, never stopping until he's destroyed them both.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Pleased.......2007-09-05

i am trying to branch out and try new authors and i thought she sounded interesting. this book was a little hard to get into but i was hooked by the end. i really recommend it because they other two in the trilogy are amazing. she is really great at character development and the story plot. definitly worth a read!! i found a new author!

5 out of 5 stars AWESOME.......2007-09-04

I read all three of this sequel. Cole can write. Was actually great to have all three at one time, so I didn't have to wait for the next installment.

5 out of 5 stars Western Theme/Scottish Highland book.......2007-08-13

There is no supernatural/paranormal "stuff" in this series.

They are wonderful reads! Well written, move right along. Start right out.

Even though Court is a displaced highlander (turned mercenary) it's set in western timeframe in another country.

Very nice romance.

4 out of 5 stars GOOD READ.......2007-07-20

This is my first Kresley Cole book and won't be my last. I liked the tension between the main characters and I even like the small side story of her brother and his own little romance. Had REALLY HOT love scenes. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series.

4 out of 5 stars IF YOU DARE.......2007-05-29

I USUALLY DO NOT READ SI-FICTION AND HAVE NOT ENJOYED THEM IN THE PAST. BUT I FOUND THIS BOOK TO BE CAPTIVATING WITH MORE ROMANCE WITH A GOOD DOSE OF FICTION THROWN IN. COURT AND ANNALIA TOOK YOU ON A JOURNEY OF SUSPENSE AND ADVENTURE AND LOVE. I HATED THAT IT HAD TO END WHEN I FINISHED THE BOOK BUT I LOOKED FORWARD TO IF YOU DESIRE.
1001 Things to Do If You Dare
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Warning: May rearrange your worldview
  • He's demented and I love it
  • I Dared and am Better for Having Done So.
  • Great "Bathroom" or "Bedtime" Read
  • It's Green Eggs and Ham...[for Adults!]
1001 Things to Do If You Dare
Ben Malisow
Manufacturer: Adams Media Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1598691201

Book Description

If you're craving some adventure in your life--or just looking to see how the other side lives, 1001 Things to Do If You Dare is sure to satisfy with its boundary-pushing suggestions of outrageous acts and fear-inducing feats guaranteed to test the physical, mental, and emotional limits of even the most venturesome.

Offering up the antidote to the status quo, thrill-seeker extraordinaire Ben Malisow also let's you keep score along the way with risk rating scales and checkboxes to track your danger quotient.

So go ahead, take the leap . . . if you dare.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Warning: May rearrange your worldview.......2007-08-09

You might make the mistake of presuming that "1001 Things" is light reading, the kind of book you keep in the bathroom and dip into during...those private moments. But after a few sessions, Malisow's secret agenda becomes clear: he wants to upend all your assumptions. He wants to tear off those cultural blinders you call "common sense" and force you to consider possibilities you once dismissed as "insanity."

Remove one of your own teeth with no outside assistance?
Become addicted to something and then try to give it up cold turkey?
Tell the IRS that they're wrong?

"1001 Things" is a bracing broadside against the spirit of caution that increasingly darkens our "how-am-I-driving?" society. It's an invitation to unbuckle yourself from the child safety harness, run away from Nanny and get your suit mussed a little.

Of course, most of these 1001 Things are not things you should actually do. But there is value in letting them into your mind, entertaining them as possibilities. You will emerge from that bathroom into a strange new world, one with considerably broader horizons.

A perfect high-school graduation gift for that overly-sheltered mama's boy nephew of yours.

5 out of 5 stars He's demented and I love it.......2007-06-29

I just went through Malisow's list counting every one that I did. I scored a wimpy 425. The best thing about the book is that I got to recall some of the stupid things in my life that I hadn't thought about in years: racing cars across dry lake beds in California, jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, getting shot at, driving in the Philippines through a one-way tunnel the wrong way. The good things in life.

If you score below a 300, then you need to step out in life and take a few risks. Nobody's getting out of this life alive!

4 out of 5 stars I Dared and am Better for Having Done So........2007-06-07

Ben Malisow is a shameless hooligan. In his largest work to date he has constructed not merely a list book, not simply some scroll of gags, stunts, and tomfoolery, but a challenge to live one's life for all the tastes, sights, sounds, feelings, injections, and psychological disturbance it has to offer. This is a work which brings joy on many levels. To the chronically macho there are the satisfying moments of "I've done that. Heck, I did it twice, one time blindfolded" as you tick off the checkbox. Additionally, it's Malisow's progression through a series of dares, upping the ante each time. Drink beer. Drink hard liquor. Get drunk in a bar. Get drunk in a ratty bar in the bad part of town. Then just when you fear he'll suggest you get drunk in the scary bar, put on a dress, and challenge the leader of a biker gang to a sword fight, he throws in some tangent like "plant an herb garden."

Beyond the nutty progressions of dares, however, are the deeper challenges to one's worldview. Even through the goofy, hardscrabble presentation (the book comes pre-coffee-stained and fits perfectly in the leg-pocket of your mil-surplus fatigue pants), Malisow's own premium on self-examination and deliberate living comes through. He challenges the reader with dares that make one think about what it would mean to do such a thing. What things that've been held sacred might turn to cloud and mist in the face of real live action? With this book, Ben Malisow dares you to consider that question.

4 out of 5 stars Great "Bathroom" or "Bedtime" Read.......2007-05-12

Absolutely no plot. Absolutely no storyline. Absolutely entertaining! I was surprised at how many of Ben's "Things" I had already tried (or at least considered). Entertaining book.

5 out of 5 stars It's Green Eggs and Ham...[for Adults!] .......2007-04-04

I picked up Malisow's book out of curiosity...you know, the kind that kills the cat? I mean who wouldn't be challenged by a title that taunts "I Double-Dog Dare ya!"??
Ben's guide is both witty and honest, while inserting some well-timed dope-slaps here and there to sober me up, [just in case I started to get a bit cocky!] The format makes for either a fun browse or a quick read with added Skull Ratings to assure me this isn't one of those antics my "grandmother could probably accomplish"! And yet...it reminds me of something...from about 1960....
"Could you, would you, with a goat?"
"Would you, could you, on a boat?"
Ben also builds on his themes and turns up the intensity level along the way. For example:
#453. Survive a bite....
#454. Survive a human bite....
#455. Survive a snakebite....
You'll have to read for yourself what the Skull Ratings and comments go here.
Even before I got to page 12, I started thinking of my own past daring-do's for a comparison. Would mine be on the list? Surprisingly, most of them are! He's pretty darn thorough!
So how did I fare in the Skull Ratings of Doom? Well...who knows? Ben neglected to give me a proper scorecard at the end, but many have a variable rating of "that depends", which leaves it up to the reader to rate his/her own performance. For me, I think I'll leave it up to wearing my own Depends before I go out and try anything else on the list! Sign me up!
Soar...If You Dare
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • "Soar" has become my owner's manual for a successful life.
  • "Soar" is a call to action!
  • Soar If You Dare can change your life!
  • SOAR... is "Think and Grow Rich" for the 21st Century.
Soar...If You Dare
James R. Ball
Manufacturer: Goals Institute
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1887570020

Book Description

Create your own future! No matter what obstacles you face in reaching your goals, Soar...If You Dare can be your biggest supporter and help you succeed! Learn how to create your own future by dreaming BIG, thinking BIG, and acting BIG. Combine the power of your beliefs, imagination, and faith with your abilities to concentrate, set goals, and take action to make success your habit for life!

Soar...If You Dare will put you back in charge of yourself. Here are simple yet powerful daily techniques to help you build an unshakable self-confidence and then visualize and achieve your successes.

Never again let people and circumstances hold you back. This remarkable, uplifting guide can make a major impact on your life. It is particularly helpful for those at a turning point in their lives or on the threshold of a new level of personal development and growth. Keep it nearby as a daily reference for happiness.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars "Soar" has become my owner's manual for a successful life........1999-04-15

"Soar" was given to me by a dear friend. At first I was a bit hesitant about reading it. But, I picked it up and found myself reading it cover to cover in the first sitting. The information in it is so valuable that I read it with a pad an paper handy to jot down notes.

This book has become a manual that I keep close at hand. I refer back to it often. "Soar" is an intelligent, passionate outline of how to succeed by applying focus, imagination, and hard work. Mr. Ball explains the importance of prioritizing goals, imagining them coming true, planning a course of action, and working hard to achieve those goals. He is at once forceful in his strategies and supportive in his intent. The reader is left energized and empowered. I recommend this book very highly.

5 out of 5 stars "Soar" is a call to action!.......1999-04-12

"Soar" encourages you to look within yourself, to identify your goals and avoid the obstacles that may be standing in your way.

The author's voice is both encouraging and forceful in expressing the discipline required to acheive your true potential. "Soar" encourages and pushes you in the way a good athletic coach inspires his team. As with any training, this discipline requires practice. As a result, the book is organized in such a way that you are encouraged to re-read sections, make notes and review the ideas discussed.

"Soar" is a necessary reminder that we must all look to accomplish the "most" that we can and to share our unique talents with the world. The message of this book goes a long way in reminding us to believe in our dreams and to stop at nothing!

5 out of 5 stars Soar If You Dare can change your life!.......1999-04-01

Soar If You Dare gives you good, strong principles and methodologies and explains how to apply them directly to your own life. It doesn't waste your time with unrealistic philosophies, it gives you true-to-life examples of how to achieve success in both your personal and professional life.

5 out of 5 stars SOAR... is "Think and Grow Rich" for the 21st Century........1999-02-09

"SOAR is probably the best goal setting book since 'Think and Grow Rich.' Jim Ball captures your attention and spells out the recipe you need to follow in order to reach your goal. The parts where Jim included his own experiences and stories were particularly helpful in understanding the universal concepts of success. If you need a 'business plan' for your life...this is the book for you!"
Fish the Chair If You Dare: The Ultimate Guide to Giant Bluefin Tuna Fishing
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Good Book for Technique, not Entertainment
  • Very Nice
  • Some good information but poorly written
  • TUNA-RIFFIC
  • A REEL HOW TO !!!!
Fish the Chair If You Dare: The Ultimate Guide to Giant Bluefin Tuna Fishing
Greg Beacher
Manufacturer: Dawn Pub Corp
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Hunting & FishingHunting & Fishing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books | Fishing | General & Anthologies | Hunting | Shooting
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ASIN: 0963584308

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Good Book for Technique, not Entertainment.......2001-09-12

New to Giant Tuna, I have been searching for books/articles that describe this sport. This is the ONLY book that describes the fishing methods used by top charter boat captains for bluefin tuna fishing. If you are a tuna fisherman, buy this book.

If you are simply looking for an etertaining read, do not buy this book. It is poorly written and you may grow tired of the constant PENN, LEES, and ANDE commercials by the author.

5 out of 5 stars Very Nice.......2001-02-13

This is a book written by a Fisherman, just the way it should be.

It is very complete book on Bluefin as far reading goes but a few coloured pictures would make it more desirable. However, let this by no means put you off buying it. If you are interested in catching the bluefin, go for it, you will not regret it,

3 out of 5 stars Some good information but poorly written.......2000-01-05

This book was a bit of a disappointment. While there was some good information in it, there was much too much boasting on the part of the author. It almost seems he is trying to sell his ideas and techniques. In addition, it was very poorly written. There is no evidence of any participation of an editor or professional writer. Poor sentence structure, including unfinished sentences abound. I give this three stars because the book provides information that is otherwise uncovered in books and also because there are some good photos.

5 out of 5 stars TUNA-RIFFIC.......1998-09-21

BEST BOOK I EVER READ ON FISHING FOR THE GIANT BLUEFIN. THE PICTURES AND ILLUSTRATIONS LEAVE NOTHING TO THE IMAGINATION VERY DETAILED . I WAS AMUSED AND ASTONISHED TO LEARN THAT MAPLE SYRUP WAS USED FOR MORE THAN JUST PANCAKES.

5 out of 5 stars A REEL HOW TO !!!!.......1998-09-21

AN EXCELLENT BOOK! SHOWS THE SECRETS OF THE TRADE WHICH I HAVE NEVER READ BEFORE IN ANY OTHER BOOK. I FOUND THIS BOOK TO BE VERY INFORMATIVE AND EASY READING , ALONG WITH THE AUTHORS GOOD SENSE OF HUMOR.
If You Dare
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Read...If You Dare?!!!!!!
  • GIMME SOME BLACK PLEASE!
  • My Kind Of Thief
  • GOOD READING /GRAB THIS BOOK NOW !!
  • Lots of Sizzle
If You Dare
Adrianne Byrd
Manufacturer: HarperTorch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0060565373
Release Date: 2004-07-27

Book Description

Once the world's most notorious thief, Damien Black retired at his peak rather than risk taking a wrong step that could cost him his freedom ... or his life. Now a seductive proposition is tempting him again -- a multi-million-dollar heist that would be smooth as black silk ... if it wasn't for Angel Lafonte.

The new director at an Atlanta museum, Angel is smart, sophisticated, and a stunning ebony beauty, exciting the daring thief even more than the possibility of a big-money payday. But when the heat reaches sizzling, Damien's going to have to choose between a life of larceny and the passionate lady he's suddenly growing to love.

But dangerous men in the shadows aren't about to let their star player abandon the game ...

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Read...If You Dare?!!!!!!.......2007-03-20

A great romance/suspense novel. This book had it all, adventure, love, romance, mystery, good guy/bad guy...I couldn't put it down. I want a Damien Black, too! He really knew how to romance a woman! Way to go, Adrianne. Can't wait to read more from her!

5 out of 5 stars GIMME SOME BLACK PLEASE!.......2006-09-25


What a sexy, sensuous, satisfying read! Damien Black, smooth, suave and yummy delicious--absolutely to die for. The story moved at a nice clip with some wonderful unexpected surprises along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. After enjoying another of her books, DEADLY DOUBLE, I thought I'd try this one---I was not disappointed--You won't be either.

4 out of 5 stars My Kind Of Thief.......2005-07-26

This book was off the chain. Stayed in my TBR pile for awhile but once I started reading it, I could not put it down. Damien Black was the kind of thief you don't mind having around. One could not help but get caught up in the story. Damien and Angel were good together and who would have thought Angel wasn't an angel after all.

5 out of 5 stars GOOD READING /GRAB THIS BOOK NOW !!.......2005-02-18

This book was the Bomb! The fact that Damien knew how to take care of his Angel was real. What I love about Adrianne books she doesn't make everyone perfect, and makes no excuses for them. I love the fact there were twist and turns the end left me wondering (hmmm). Also the e sex in the book was like "WHOA"

If you want a book that will be finished in under 24 hrs. Run and pick this up.

5 out of 5 stars Lots of Sizzle.......2004-09-20

Adrianne Byrd knows what makes romance work: a terrific couple with lots of chemistry, a compelling situation and lots of dynamic plot twists to keep the reader turning page after page. If You Dare delivers them all with fast-paced, heart-thumping excitement. Angel and Damien are a steamy couple with the kind of memorable chemistry that makes them fascinating from their very encounter to their last. If You Dare takes the reader into the fascinating world of international art intrigue, coupled with more than enough sex appeal and sizzle to satisfy the most critical reader. A great book.
Haunted Mansion - Enter if You Dare!: Scary Tales from the Haunted Mansion
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Kids who like scary stories will like this.
Haunted Mansion - Enter if You Dare!: Scary Tales from the Haunted Mansion
Nicholas Stephens
Manufacturer: Disney Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 078684003X

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Kids who like scary stories will like this........2003-08-16

Kids who like scary stories will like this. I kinda thought this was an illustrated story book, but it's not. Still, the stories are fun and a couple are indeed pretty creepy. The reading level is (I'd guess) somewhere around pre-teen, which is the age that'll probably get the most enjoyment out of it. The book is only about 75 pages long (very thin) so find it at the cheapest used price you can.
Run If You Dare
Average customer rating: 2 out of 5 stars
  • RUN if You Dare
  • disappointment
  • Kinda....Gay!
  • Not as compelling as Powell's previous books
Run If You Dare
Randy Powell
Manufacturer: Recorded Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette

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ASIN: 0788793756

Amazon.com

Gardner Dickinson has always been very laid-back. That's why it doesn't really bother him that while his friends and sister seem to have long-term goals, he just moseys through life browsing through books and trying out weights, without ever finishing a novel or beginning an exercise program. Then, his dad gets laid off and can't seem to motivate himself to find another job. As he watches his father putter aimlessly in the garage day after day, Gardner begins to suspect that his inability to concentrate may be hereditary. And during a serious heart-to-heart talk about the state of their family, older sister Lacey confirms it: "You and Dad both have a problem in the focusing and following-through departments... you come up with a new delusion every week but you don't act on a single one." Gardner wants to prove Lacey wrong, so he takes up running, forcing himself to stick with it even when he wants to quit. But while Gardner is learning discipline, his dad seems to be slipping further and further into a deep depression. Can Gardner convince his father that it's not too late to change his ways before their family drifts apart from lack of focus?

Randy Powell has written a subtle, smart novel that sincerely portrays two of the most difficult hurdles of adolescence: the search for meaning in one's life and the dawning realization that parents are people, too. A thoughtful addition to Powell's collection of teen-boy-angst novels, the most recent being Tribute to Another Dead Rock Star. (Ages 13 and older) --Jennifer Hubert

Book Description

A teenager's-eye view of parental desperation

What do you do when your dad has a midlife crisis? This is the dilemma of fourteen-year-old Gardner, whose father's been laid off and is now expressing boredom with his life, and even talking to Gardner about leaving the family. Gardner has all along thought he'd like to grow up to emulate his father, whom he has idolized since childhood. But, with this disappointment and possible betrayal haunting his family, Gardner isn't so sure anymore. Eventually, through old and new friendships and a dedicated endeavor to become physically strong, Gardner finds the emotional strength and identity to survive whatever upset may be in store for him and his family's future. In scenes both comical and heartbreaking, Randy Powell demonstrates once more that he is one of the foremost contemporary writers for young adults.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars RUN if You Dare.......2006-10-23

RUN if You Dare by Randy Powell is a really great book if you like realistic fiction. I think this was a great realistic fiction and encourage you to read it, but I don't like realistic fiction so that is why I gave it three stars. This book is about a young fifteen year old boy named Gardner, whose family has been having problems lately. His dad his been out of work so his mom is coming back late and stressed out. His sister thinks Gardner is going to end up like his father trying different jobs and getting fired. Gardner is mad at his father because he keeps playing golf in isn't doing anything in his life. He learned a lot from his father of what not do. Gardner doesn't want to tell his father what he is doing wrong but he just wishes he would help out instead of playing golf. He wishes his friends can add some spunk in his life especially a really good friend named Annie. Then abruptly something happened that changed his life.

1 out of 5 stars disappointment.......2005-10-27

As i read the preview for this book i was excited by it and i thought it would be a good book. After I was done reading it i realized there was no plot to it and no plot. I also thought Randy Powell needed to make realistic characters.

1 out of 5 stars Kinda....Gay!.......2003-07-24

Wow, this was an awful book! When I finished this book I was extremely disappointed.
This book was crazy random. Like...Gardner states he's extremely lazy and never commits to anything in the beginning of this story, but all of a sudden he has this urge to run and work out? Ok, that would be fine if it leaded to anything but it doesn't. He does eventually try out for track because of his running but he doesn't even LIKE it. He's just training and working out for absolutely nothing even at the end of the book. His fathers reasons for mid-life crisis are stupid and extremely unrealistic. "..When I was a boy I always wanted to run away. God, I didn't want to tell you, but and I have to do that, Gardner! I could go south to mexico or something." And leave and abandon his family? Please. Give me a break.
Powell also drops little sex information here and there that have no point or purpose, and the little romance that is supposed to draw us in a bit, turns out to not go anywhere. Ever.
Skeepo doesn't even act like a real friend should, and for the life of me, I haven't figured out what in the worlds Gardner's sister's malfunction is. She seems anti-family all the way through, but the Powell never takes a moment to explain why.
I admit, that this book's wit does make you smirk every so often, but those times are few and far between. This books a train wreck. Please don't read it. You could use all that wasted time sleeping or something.

3 out of 5 stars Not as compelling as Powell's previous books.......2001-05-16

I found it difficult to believe that high school students would be interested in this story, which seems to focus more on Gardner Dickinson's father's mid-life crisis than on the teenager and his struggle to deal with the problems this causes for his family. Although there are some elements that usually draw teen readers in--such as the hint of romance, and Gardner's increasing interest in running--the story didn't suck me in or keep me interested. It was sort of a depressing look at parental unemployment and mid-life ennui, without any analysis of the effect that has on individual teens. I won't reveal the ending, but I will comment that it seemed unlikely that a high school student would make the choice Gardner did.
Disney's Climb Aboard if you Dare: Stories from the Pirates of the Caribbean
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Disney's Climb Aboard if you Dare: Stories from the Pirates of the Caribbean
    Nicholas Stephens
    Manufacturer: Disney Press
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    GeneralGeneral | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
    ASIN: 0786840617
    Inca Gold: Find It If You Can, Touch It If You Dare
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Inca Gold: Find It If You Can, Touch It If You Dare
      Jane Dolinger
      Manufacturer: Henry Regnery
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover

      IncanIncan | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Geography | Earth Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
      South AmericaSouth America | Travel | Subjects | Books
      ASIN: B0006BUVSO
      Read If You Dare (The Best of Read)
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Read If You Dare
      Read If You Dare (The Best of Read)
      Catherine Gourley
      Manufacturer: Millbrook Press
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      Spine-Chilling HorrorSpine-Chilling Horror | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
      United StatesUnited States | Horror | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
      AnthologiesAnthologies | Horror | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
      AnthologiesAnthologies | Short Stories | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
      ASIN: 076130343X

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Read If You Dare.......2000-06-02

      I teach a middle school program for gifted and talented students. This year I used "Read If You Dare" for their literature unit. I chose the book for three reasons: 1. It tied in with the mythology units taught in their regular classrooms. 2. The stories are classics and gave me the opportunity to discuss and introduce more works of Chaucer, Hawthorne and Bierce. 3. It contained a story by Stephen King, a favorite author for many students.

      In short, "Read If You Dare" was a hit with my students. Even gifted children can be reluctant readers, and this book, with its short, high interest stories, was a Godsend to them. It was wonderful to watch the kids put away their Pokemon cards to gulp down "real literature" for a change.

      The only problem I had was with the profane language in Stephen King's story. I read that Mr. King would only allow this story to be used if it were kept "in tact". Evidently it's been a long time since Mr. King has been in a room full of sixth grade boys, where even the mention of the word "ball" sets off a flurry of giggles, nudges and winks. (Heh, heh, she said,"Ball.") I was able to discuss the language with my students, and told them I was uncomfortable with it, but the overall excellence of the book led to my choice to use it. I doubt I would make the same decision to use it in a regular classroom, and that would be a shame.

      By the way, I'm on line now looking for a similar book to use next year. Read, won't you do it again? "Read If You Dare - Part II"?

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