Average customer rating:
- A classic for girls
- Classic
- Seeds the child's imagination...
- The Secret Garden
- Spellbinding Book
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The Secret Garden (HarperClassics)
Frances Hodgson Burnett
Manufacturer: HarperTrophy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 006440188X |
Amazon.com
Mistress Mary is quite contrary until she helps her garden grow. Along the way, she manages to cure her sickly cousin Colin, who is every bit as imperious as she. These two are sullen little peas in a pod, closed up in a gloomy old manor on the Yorkshire moors of England, until a locked-up garden captures their imaginations and puts the blush of a wild rose in their cheeks; "It was the sweetest, most mysterious-looking place any one could imagine. The high walls which shut it in were covered with the leafless stems of roses which were so thick, that they matted together.... 'No wonder it is still,' Mary whispered. 'I am the first person who has spoken here for ten years.'" As new life sprouts from the earth, Mary and Colin's sour natures begin to sweeten. For anyone who has ever felt afraid to live and love, The Secret Garden's portrayal of reawakening spirits will thrill and rejuvenate. Frances Hodgson Burnett creates characters so strong and distinct, young readers continue to identify with them even 85 years after they were conceived. (Ages 9 to 12)
Book Description
When orphaned Mary Lennox, lonely and sad, comes to live at her uncle's great house on the Yorkshire moors, she finds it full of secrets. At night, she hears the sound of crying down one of the long corridors. Outside, she meets Dickon, a magical boy who can charm and talk to animals. Then, one day, with the help of a friendly robin, Mary discovers the most mysterious wonder of all--a secret garden, walled and locked, which has been completely forgotten for years and years. Is everything in the graden dead, or can Mary bring it back to life?
Customer Reviews:
A classic for girls.......2007-09-22
The Secret Garden is a book about a spoiled girl who uncovers the mysteries of the house around her which include, but are not limited too, what is behind the wall, and why is it kept secret. It is a good classic, but girls will enjoy it much more than boys do.
Classic.......2007-08-06
Even if you are an adult you should reread this book. Helps you to see how fun it was to be a kid.
Seeds the child's imagination..........2007-07-29
This has always been one of my favorite books since childhood. When I read my first story in this book it gave me so much inspiration to use my imagination as a child should. A child's imagination is so real! This reality soon takes the form of abstract, which paves the road to anywhere he wants it to go - or not...
The Secret Garden.......2007-07-05
This edition is printed on really cheap, unappealing paper. I can't imagine anyone wanting to give this version of a children's classic as a gift, or even to read from it to a child yourself.
Spellbinding Book.......2007-07-03
This book is the best book I have ever read. It's a light, happy book that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Ilove the theme of hope in the book, that will convince readers about the Magic inside themselves...if they hope. If they believe something will happen, it will. That theme is so beautifully conveyed. I couldn't put it down, and it is most definitely my new favorite book. A MUST READ!!!!!!!!
I ALSO RECCOMEND THE FOLLOWING:
Arthur and the Invisibles, Artemis Fowl Series, The Book Without Words, The Kingdom Keepers, the Prophecy of the Stones, The Game of Sunken PLaces, Midnight Blue
Book Description
It’s1953 and 11-year-old Penny dreams of a summer of butter pecan ice cream, swimming, and baseball. But nothing’s that easy in Penny’s family. For starters, she can’t go swimming because her mother’s afraid she’ll catch polio at the pool. To make matters worse, her favorite uncle is living in a car. Her Nonny cries every time her father’s name is mentioned. And the two sides of her family aren’t speaking to each other!
Inspired by Newbery Honor winner Jennifer Holm’s own Italian American family, Penny from Heaven is a shining story about the everyday and the extraordinary, about a time in America’s history, not all that long ago, when being Italian meant that you were the enemy. But most of all, it’s a story about families—about the things that tear them apart and bring them together. And Holm tells it with all the richness and the layers, the love and the laughter of a Sunday dinner at Nonny’s. So pull up a chair and enjoy the feast! Buon appetito!
Customer Reviews:
A Gem of a Book.......2007-08-20
Being a Newbery Honor book, I had to give this book a read. I definitely wasn't disappointed! This was a beautifully written coming-of-age story that children and young adults will be able to enjoy for years to come. Jennifer Holm, author of the Newbery Award winning book, Our May Amelia, is back with another lovely book about children growing up faster than they should have too, but enjoying themselves on the journey.
Penny, a half-Italian girl living with her mother and grandparents in New Jersey, longs to know more about what happened to her father. Her died when she was very young and her mother never speaks of him. The only time Penny is able to hear his name mentioned is when she is over at her Italian grandparents house, where her myriad of Aunts, Uncles, and cousins never fail to talk about her dad. Penny loves spending time in this boisterous household where food is always delicious and her best friend and cousin Frankie spends most of his time.
Unfortunately, Penny's mother doesn't get along with her in-laws and doesn't like Penny spending all of her time over there. As her mother begins dating, Penny tries to break up the dates in order to matchmake between her mother and her father's brother, Dominic. Penny, more than anything, wants her two families to love each other as she loves them. After a tragic accident that puts the use of Penny's arm in jeopardy, the true colors of her family members really begin to shine.
Set in the 1950's this book is so much more than family problems. It has exciting baseball games, friendships, and a mystery of buried treasure. The characters are incredibly real and lovable. Uncle Dominic was probably my favorite of the cast, because of his quirkiness and mystery. This is a true gem of a book.
Strong Female Protagonist - strong writing.......2007-07-06
This delightful piece of historical fiction set in New Jersey in the 1950's explores the life of "Penny" who lives with a single mother and grandparents, but who has a whole other life on Sundays with her father's family, a large Italian American one with uncles who dote on her. The mystery that threads itself through this story is that no one will talk about her father, and how and why he died. Or, why the families do not intereact, except through her.
Strong writing, a strong female protagonist, and interesting sub-plots all make for a delightful coming-of-age story, very appropriate for the upper elementary and middle school audience.
Courtesy of Teens Read Too.......2007-06-23
PENNY FROM HEAVEN, a new offering by author Jennifer L. Holm, is an excellent pick for middle grade readers. Set in the early 1950's, it tells a story of everyday life and rich Italian heritage.
Penny lives with her mother and her grandparents. At the start of the novel, she's almost twelve. Most of her time is spent hanging out in the neighborhood with her cousin and best friend, Frankie.
Bike riding would be fun, but Penny's bike was unfortunately backed over in the driveway. Going swimming in the city pool or taking in an afternoon matinee sounds like quality entertainment, but Penny's mom believes those places are breeding grounds for the dreaded polio everyone seems to be contracting. That doesn't leave much to do, but Penny and Frankie always seem to find something to get into. It might be an attempt to fix the leaky toilet that turns into a major repair job, or the secret mission to discover if great-grandma Nonny wears black underwear to match her old-fashioned black dresses.
Penny is surrounded by tons of Italian aunts and uncles, but she misses her father. His death years ago is still shrouded in mystery, one that Penny seems unable to uncover. Her mother is becoming interested in Mr. Mulligan, the milkman. Penny's attempts to pair her mother up with favorite Uncle Dominic fail miserably.
Day-to-day life is pretty predictable for Penny and her family until the unthinkable happens. After a tragic accident, Penny finds herself making plans for a very different life. Readers' emotions will be tested as Penny's story unfolds.
Jennifer L. Holm is also known for Newbery Honor book Our Only May Amelia (Harper Trophy Books) and her Boston Jane Series: An Adventure series, which is my personal favorite.
Reviewed by: Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"
I like this pennie girl very much.......2007-05-24
She is a lot like alice, a girl in anothr book I like very much, only her mother died insted of her father. Pennie is very kind, and a little bit funny and a little bit sad. I like the way she thinks things over. I think I might read it again, if my sister will let me borrow it again. If I can think of something to trade. Books are like gold and chocolate around my house, people keep it for themselves. If you are thinking of buying this book, do it. You'll love it.
Just Like Being Home Again.......2007-05-05
Since both my sets of grandparents came from Italy, I'm usually wary of books that contain Italian families; they are either ga-ga over the Mafia or do not seem authentic. I was in love with Penny's wonderful Italian family immediately; I knew all these people in my own family. My dad's mother even did her cooking at a gas-converted coal stove in the basement because it was cooler in summer and she didn't want to "mess up" the nice kitchen upstairs! The food (sfogliatelles!), the homes, the loving uncles, the men torn between pleasing their mothers or their wives, the one male cousin who's always in trouble, Grandma dressed in black making homemade macaroni and homemade gravy (not "pasta" and "sauce," which are "Med-i-gone" terms!)...wow, it took me all back. Holm has the early 50s atmosphere down pat...I wished I could open a door and go back to meet all her characters, visit the Sweet Shoppe and the family butcher shop, and listen to "Dem Bums" on the radio. I also was drawn into the growing mystery about Penny's father, which exposes a chapter in history that most people have never heard of. I'm glad I decided to purchase this book; if you are Italian, this is a must have.
Book Description
What secrets lie behind the doors at Misselthwaite manor? Recently arrived at her uncle's estate, orphaned mary Lennox is spoiled, sickly, and certain she won't enjoy living there. Then she discovers the arched doorway into an overgrown garden, shut up since the death of her aunt ten years earlier. Mary soon begins transforming it into a thing of beauty--unaware that she is changing too.
But Missalthwaite hides another secret, as Mary discovers one night. High in a dark room, away from the rest of the house, lies her young cousin Colin, who believes he is an incurable invalid, destined to die young. His tantrums are so frightful, no one can reason with him. If only, Mary hopes, she can get Colin to love the secret garden as much as she does, its magic wil work wonders on him.
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Customer Reviews:
A very fine book to read.......2007-02-08
For anyone who is teaching their 8 or 9 year old how to write this is one fine book to read because it is so well written. I am a homeschooler who is using IEW to teach my children to write and this book is loaded with "dress-ups". All that aside, the story line is captivating, the characters are memorable, and there are lessons to be learned here that will last a lifetime.
One of the best books ever written.......2005-10-02
THIS REVIEW IS ONLY ABOUT THE ORIGINAL VERSION, NOT THE MODERN REWRITE!!!
When I first read this book (at around 9), I loved it because of the main character, Mary. She was described as "disagreeable," but I liked her -- and I was disappointed when she changed from her "contrary" self into a nice little girl. I also loved the other characters (especially Martha, the "sturdy" housemaid and the "robin who showed the way" and Ben Weatherstaff), and the descriptions.
For example, Mary explores Miselthwaite Manor on a rainy day; she's heard that the house has over a hundred rooms-- and the book is so vividly written that all these years later, I can still remember her playing with a set of ivory elephants, finding a mouse and her young family in a sofa....Other vivid small moments are the maid talking about the moors and opening the windows which made me long to go to Yorkshire and breathe in the moor air. THe story itself is quite suspenseful and I loved that, too.
Now that I'm grown up, I still love all those things, but I understand why Mary had to change (though I still wish she hadn't!). Now, parts of the book (like her reaction to the flowers starting to grow in the garden) make me cry -- they're touching and Mary is too. I appreciate the descriptions and characters and plotting even more than I did as a child and agree that this is probably the best children's book ever written -- and one of the best books ever written, too.
It inspired me as a writer. I am the author of BLOW OUT THE MOON, which is also about a contrary child (but an American) who transforms herself as a result of kind-hearted English people in the English countryside. I didn't copy THE SECRET GARDEN, but the English boarding school I went to as a child (which is the subject of Blow Out the Moon) did remind me of that book!
Secret Garden.......2004-12-01
This is a classic book about a girl, Mary, who is forced to go to her uncle's mysterious mansion to live. But when a boy is discovered in a secret passage, Mary gets suspicious, and a little scared.
All that suspicion is gone when the mean gardener tells her the story of a secret garden. Of course, her curiosity gets the better of her and she goes to find it, that is, with the help of her new birdie friend. The two of them embark on a journey that will change their lives.
Every night when I read this book, I could not put it down because it was so good! When you think the problems are over, another one joins in. I enjoyed reading this book, and I hope you do too!
-6th Grade Student-
Book Description
Fund manager Joel Greenblatt has been beating the Dow (with returns of 50 percent a year) for more than a decade. And now, in this highly accessible guide, he's going to show you how to do it, too. You're about to discover investment opportunities that portfolio managers, business-school professors, and top investment experts regularly miss -- uncharted areas where the individual investor has a huge advantage over the Wall Street wizards. Here is your personal treasure map to special situations in which big profits are possible, including:
* Spin-offs * Restructurings * Merger Securities
* Mergers * Rights Offerings * Recapitalizations
* Bankruptcies * Risk Arbitrage
This is a practical and easy-to-use investment reference, filled with case studies, important background information, and all the tools you'll need. All it takes is a little extra time and effort -- and you can be a stock market genius.
Customer Reviews:
One of the most interesting books I have read recently.......2007-08-23
Joel Greenblatt's book is a masterpiece of investment information. The book provides valuable information for anyone involved in the markets, whether they are an individual investor or a finance professional.
The book details several types of special situation investing and explains the pros and cons of these situations. What was most impressive about this book however, is that manner in which he manages to explain everything he is discussing in such a clear, and engaging fashion. Although I do not usually think of finance books as "page turners" I read this one virtually, in one sitting.
My other favorite book.......2007-05-17
I know the title of the book sounds like a joke but it's a great book. In fact, it is my favorite investment book after Warren Buffett's letters to shareholders. Joel Greenblatt takes you to investing areas that aren't followed closely by Wall Street and help you make money at the same time.
I am also a sucker for investment books that are fun to read and doesn't cause me to feel like I'm chewing glasses. This doesn't mean this book isn't top-notch! For what it's worth, I would've probably pay over $50 for this gem.
A good book, despite the title.......2007-04-15
Although the title leaves a little to be desired, and you may want to hide it from friends who think you have a get-rich-quick scheme brewing, this book is actually full of insightful knowledge about special situation investing. These are situations in which the market may misjudge a company's stock price and a smart investor may be able to jump in and take advantage of the temporary mispricing. A few examples include spin-offs, where a company will break off a part of its business as a new company with its own stock, corporate restructuring, merger securities, and companies recovering from bankruptcy. Each chapter covers a different concept and includes a few examples.
The book is written well with lots of humor throughout. A beginner without an adequate background in business may find the topics confusing, but intermediate investors should be able to find some practical knowledge of places to look for mispriced companies. A warning: the ideas do require some homework. Be prepared to read through press releases, financial statements, and other boring pieces that no one else bothers to read to find potential picks. But that's what value investing is about, finding the stocks that no one else bothers to look. Highly recommended.
Uncover the Secret Hiding Places of Stock Market Profits.......2007-04-14
I am usually turned away by cute and quirky book titles, and though this rule is usually a good one to follow, this book is another good reason not to always judge a book by its cover. The sub, sub-title is the real heart of the book on how to "uncover the secret hiding places of stock market profits". If I add one of my favorite lines in the book, "you don't have to be a genius, but you do need a basic understanding of financial statements, some common sense, and the patience necessary to gain experience" this quote really sums up the thesis of Mr. Greenblatt. His theme being that I will describe and point the way to some of the hiding places of possible under appreciated value opportunities, but you as the investor must put in the due diligence and a little work on your own.
Though this book was originally published in 1997, Mr. Greenblatt is still at his trade and doing well which bodes well for this book and its teachings. Toss in a little uncertainty, a special situation, your due diligence, and your on your way as you now know the hiding places.
Who are you?.......2007-03-14
There are two types of people; people who save money and people who don't. It is really easy if you don't save money (you will suffer when you are old, but now you are fine). If you save money, you are always thinking about where to invest money. You can either put money in bank (where you are barely beating inflation) or you can put money in stock market.
There are two types of people who do "something" in stock market; people who trade and people who invest. If you believe in investing and not trading, you are perpetually worrying about finding "cheap" stocks (if you are buying "expensive" stocks then you should STOP and start trading instead).
It really doesn't matter which category of people you belong to, you really need to read this book as a starting point for your investment education. Joe gives you some investment scenarios to consider for finding "cheap" stocks, but, more importantly he does that in very "average Joe" friendly way. Really easy read.
Amazon.com
How can you join the ranks of America's wealthy (defined as people whose net worth is over one million dollars)? It's easy, say doctors Stanley and Danko, who have spent the last 20 years interviewing members of this elite club: you just have to follow seven simple rules. The first rule is, always live well below your means. The last rule is, choose your occupation wisely. You'll have to buy the book to find out the other five. It's only fair. The authors' conclusions are commonsensical. But, as they point out, their prescription often flies in the face of what we think wealthy people should do. There are no pop stars or athletes in this book, but plenty of wall-board manufacturers--particularly ones who take cheap, infrequent vacations! Stanley and Danko mercilessly show how wealth takes sacrifice, discipline, and hard work, qualities that are positively discouraged by our high-consumption society. "You aren't what you drive," admonish the authors. Somewhere, Benjamin Franklin is smiling.
Book Description
A New York Times bestseller for eighty-nine weeks. Learn the seven common denominators that show up again and again among people who have built their personal fortunes from scratch--then put these lessons to work for you!
Customer Reviews:
Excellent book - will make you think twice before buying that new car. .......2007-10-03
Making a million dollars a year is much different than being worth a million dollars. You may make a million, but if you spend it all your net worth is zero. When looking for millionaires to research, the authors initially looked at the fanciest and highest priced neighborhoods. What they found out was that there weren't many millionaires there at all. This book shows you that those who are actually worth millions do not have the newest cars, the latest gadgets or the biggest houses. They live modestly but have little or no debt. Its amazing to see people everyday falling into the traps this book outlines. Those that are wealthy know they are wealthy and do not need flashy cars and material things to prove it to the world. They don't buy cars, they buy property or other investments which make them more money. While others are borrowing money to maintain their million dollar lifestyle, the true millionaires are sitting back collecting money from their investments.
The Basics.......2007-10-01
You can learn something profound from almost any book. This read is filled of wise advice for those attempting to build wealth or figure out how wealth is built.
The book reviews the habits, tendencies and actions of the rich. Their findings will surprise you and may change the way that you think.
After reading it you may not scoff at the next person you see driving a Ford F150 or envy the driver of the most expensive Mercedes.
Good Advice However.......2007-09-29
I think that it offers good tips, HOWEVER. I have a friend who is super cheap. Which is fine if you don't want to spend your money on yourself but money shouldn't come out of my pocket to help you. she is the type to never contribute to gas and tolls on trips, and never take her car. Always seem to be short a dinner or the cover charge in a club. I could go on and on with incidents, but I stopped going anywhere with her for this reason. I noticed in her profile she listed this book as one of her favorites. I think it offers a guideline but it is sometimes not frugal but acting cheap. so I understand why many say this about the book. What are you saving your money for, but to spend it later.
The millionaire next door.......2007-09-28
Everyone should read this book. If you want to be a millionaire, see how millionaires act.
More respect for the "wierdo"........2007-09-24
This is the most amazing collection of research I have come across in a very long time! It is so simply illustrated, you are left wondering why you never took the time to understand the "eccentrics"!
They are the ones who definitely will have the last laugh--on their way to the bank.
Average customer rating:
- Salvatore strikes again
- Passage to Dawn (Forgotten Realms: The Legend Of Drizzt
- Great Author
- Wow
- Very predictable, but pulls in some interesting new characters
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Passage to Dawn (Forgotten Realms: The Legend of Drizzt, Book X)
R.A. Salvatore
Manufacturer: Wizards of the Coast
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Salvatore, R.A. | ( S ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Epic | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0786942576
Release Date: 2007-03-13 |
Book Description
Passage to Dawn
Six years. Not so long in the lifespan of a drow. And yet -- in counting the months, the weeks, the days, the hours -- it seemed to me as if I had been away from Mithral Hall a hundred times that number. The place was another lifetime, another way of life, a mere stepping stone to. . .
To what? To where?
I ride the waves along the Sword Coast now, the wind and spray in my face. My ceiling is the rush of clouds and the canopy of stars; my floor, the creaking boards of a swift, well-weathered ship. Beyond that lies the azure blanket, flat and still, heaving and rolling, hissing in the rain and exploding under the fall of a breaching whale.
Is this, then, my home?
Customer Reviews:
Salvatore strikes again.......2007-08-26
I am loving this entire series and have been completely enthralled with this world he has created. Can't wait until I receive the next one.
Passage to Dawn (Forgotten Realms: The Legend Of Drizzt.......2007-06-29
The story flowed nicely. Full of action and personal glimpses of the characters struggles. Ending I hoped for more. Look forward to the next book.
Great Author.......2007-06-09
As always, R.A. Salvatore continues his great series going deeper into the Dark Elf city with lots of action writing. With just enough detail to spark your imagination in the way every fight spans out it makes you want to read every novel Salvatore has ever written. I HIGHLY suggest this series of books to anyone with even a slight interest in Science Fiction.
Wow.......2007-05-24
This really is a fantastic series. I fell in love with Drizzt from the first book and have been following the journeys of him and his companions. This is one of the best D&D based series I have ever read and would recomend this to anyone interested in such a genre.
Very predictable, but pulls in some interesting new characters.......2007-04-15
After ten books (three in the dark eld trilogy, three in the icewind dale trilogy and four in the legacy of the drow series), the characters are becoming familiar and the interaction and culture of the races are known quantities. Unfortunately, the plots are becoming pretty familiar as well.
Salvatore delivers as always with his battle sequences, where his writing is always well done (makes me wonder if he physically steps through the fighting himself so as to better write it). This book also contains time on the ship Sea Sprite, and battles with pirate ships, which are well done. I also enjoyed the new characters of the wizard Cadderly and his wife Danica, although their appearance was short.
But bringing back the Crystal Shard, Ertuu (who we knew from the previous few books was going to have to make a return appearance) and the bringing of a main character back from the dead makes for a fairly predictable plotline.
I know people who have read the entire series (which at this point is seven more books), but I have to question what additional events and devices can be brought into this series to make it interesting and enjoyable. If characters die, except on soap operas they should stay dead.
Customer Reviews:
Good resource for Eberron Players and DMs.......2007-05-19
For anyone interested in psionics canon in Eberron, I'd highly recommend this book. There are a lot of NPCs and political information as well as some weapons and feats that may prove useful. It seems a little bit of a throw-back to forgotten realms style regional modules.
Downsides for me was that the material was very vague or limited, geographically, but fairly detailed politically. For example, they'll spend a tiny paragraph for a whole region that is leaking chaos into Eberron in Adar and has a lot of fantasy potential, then spend 5 pages talking about a political group that really, after reading it, isn't very interesting or have clear goals or themes.
For crunch, the PrCs and quori-related stuff seems a little tame...a lot more flavor than bang. Enough of the artwork is mediocre to remove it from the list of strengths.
I think I would have liked the book to be...bigger. There is a lot of material to cover and a lot of it gets short treatment or no treatment at all, but still a good book especially if you are interested in non-Khorvaire Eberron, as I am.
Secrets of Sarlona.......2007-04-13
I think this is an excelent product. I like the ideas that the dreaming dark present as villians and this book expands on those ideas. Both in how they would be used, and how to use those who would oppose them. I also appricate the inclusion of new quori that can be used with empty vessels to make enlightened. Finally I am a huge fan of psionics and many rule books include very little additional material on psionics, so I am excited about the additional psionic content in Secrets of Sarlona.
Limited Use.......2007-03-27
It is a very good book if you are running a campaign in Eberron on, or at least heavily involving the continent of Sarlona. Other than that It has very little use.
A few new prestige classes, feats, and weapons are the most it offers.
Customer Reviews:
SECRETS AND FRIENDS: THE BECHTEL ADVANTAGES!!.......2005-12-17
Laton McCartney has torn the cover off of the Bechtel Group and given us insight into one of the most successful, most influential, and most controversial mega-businesses in the history of the planet earth. A giant octopus with tentacles everywhere imaginable, plunking down projects, and sucking up billions of private and public funds, all over the world. We hear lots about Halliburton and it's foibles, but when was the last time you heard a peep from the Bechtel Group? Bechtel is a "private" corporation with no stockholders and no messy SEC investigations to endure. These guys, as the book tells us, know how to operate out of sight. Even their internal power struggles and disappointments are out of public sight. The book describes Stephen Bechtel, Jr as operating his personal life in a way that would make an experienced undercover spy proud. And then there is "The Grove", the real "friends in high places". There are things in this book you should know, but don't believe everything. A dollop of good sense will guide you through what is on the edge of truth and what isn't. Just be careful not to believe everything.
This is one of the most interesting reads of non-fiction that one will ever make, because it informs us of what has been going on behind our backs, out of reach of the "evening news" or "headline news", Time, or Newsweek, or the New York Times, for that matter. You can thank publishers Simon and Schuster for bringing this to the light of day.
The definitive Halliburton book has not been written yet because so much 'flotsam and jetsam' has yet to be retrieved and examined in the wake of the Iraqi War(s) and disasters like Hurricane Katrina. To be sure, Bechtel was and is involved in both wars AND Katrina, on a parallel track with Halliburton. So knowing Bechtel, gives general strategic insight into Halliburton and vice versa. In addition, when one finishes this book, you must immediately 'google' the word 'Bechtel' to see what they are currently 'up to'. Clues are everywhere on the web, but they are still secretive and still very active, making money 'hand over fist', but not without making their own strategic mistakes. Guess who is responsible for rebuilding the Baghdad electrical grid and water/sewage systems? Well, well! The fact that they have made it through the rough patches attests to their internal strengths as detailed in the book. And yes, there is Reagan, Bush I, George Pratt Schultz, (and probably Bush II involvement, since Riley Bechtel is a presidential advisor on middle eastern trade). Well, well, indeed! The book folds nicely into current events. While Halliburton is getting nothing but grief over Iraq, Bechtel is all but invisible and bullet-proof, just as our author suggests in earlier times.
Some of this is appalling, almost immoral, but it always seems to be quite legal. Like giving a Saudi a 10 percent share in Arabian Bechtel in order to secure the initiation of a project. Sounds like a bribe to me, but it was ruled otherwise and everything proceeded on. Whew! So don't look for Bechtel to be in any courtrooms in the near future. If you 'google' "Bechtel Lawsuit", there is precious little there, since 20 years ago, except for Bechtel suing Bolivia, South America's poorest nation, for $25 Million. Read the book, take some of it with a huge grain of salt, and keep the rest in your storehouse of knowledge. At about 240 pages in a Hardcover, with 30 pages of 'notes' & 'index', it's a brisk, but penetrating read into this corporation, how it operates, and how it affects us all. Ante up! Five PENETRATING Stars!!
Corruption = Bechtel.......2004-04-24
This book shows the public the real Bechtel.
A shadowy Corporation, with slimey leadership from the beginning.
Money is all that matters regardless of international affairs or U.S. patriotism or U.S. policies.
Bechtel has helped out so many of America's enemies.
Bechtel would have built a sarin factory for Saddam if Bechtel thought they could make money and get away with it!
Yellow Journalism at its Worst.......2001-01-19
This book would make even William Randolf Hearst blush. McCartney uses innuendo, falsehood, and fabrication to create a highly skewed view of the well-known engineering construction company. While seemingly a "well-documented" work, he in fact uses "off the record" quotes and otherwise unattributed sources to paint a extremely unflattering picture of the company and its founders, owners and officers. Despite the apparent effort spent in researching his subject, he demonstrates a consistent ignorance of the industry he writes about including its practices and terminology. He casts a wide net of aspersions on the individuals who built the company by quoting unnamed sources and reiterating disproved allegations. He has a positive gift for making any legitimate business activity seem highly suspect, and alludes to "rumored" charges of impropriety without providing any documentation of such. The reader should view this work in the same manner as the depiction of an industry dinner in Washington D.C. recounted in the book's closing pages. The event described did in fact take place, but Mr. McCartney's insertion of Steven Bechtel Jr. into it is a complete fabrication.
Engineered the World : And Made a Lot of Money At It Too........2000-01-18
An excellent book that provides an interesting insider's view into one of the largest engineering and construction firms of modern times. From the Hoover Dam to the Middle East to the United States Government, this book shows how the Bechtel Corporation did what it wanted to, when it wanted to, and used whom it wanted to as long as it made the few controlling members of it's management very rich. And all this was training for the government deals to come. This book offers a historical detailing of this company's ethical and social violations as well as the building of an empire. Read it.
Book Description
Did you know that the Golden Gate Bridge is designed to sway 27 feet in an earthquake? Or that famous Lombard Street, the Crookedest Street in the World actually isn t even the crookedest street in San Francisco? Written by the same author who brought us Play Ball and other best-selling trivia books, this quirky compendium of fun facts and stories about The City is cut in the shape of the Golden Gate Bridge. From BART s transbay tube that sits 130 feet below the surface of the San Francisco Bay to the top of the 853-foot-tall Transamerica Pyramid, all of San Francisco s best-kept mysteries are revealed and popular but inaccurate myths are exploded. A distinctive souvenir for visitors, a great impulse buy for locals, and a necessary dispute settler for San Francisco fanatics everywhere, this book takes a fresh approach to the City That Knows How, but prefers not to.
Customer Reviews:
Great Concept that came out Too Small.......2007-01-19
As a life-long San Franciscan, I enjoy finding out little tid bits about the "City That Knows How". I found this book, and thought it would make a nice Christmas gift. The varied goodies found within are interesting, and well researched. It is an entertaining way to learn some history about San Francisco. Here is the catch: When the book arrived, the box was a normal sized one, no surprize here. I opened it up to find this dinky little book, more pamphlet than book actually; the size of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich! Now, perhaps in my quest for cool Christmas gifts, I didn't read the fine print on the Amazon page. Anyway, if you are not a "size king or queen", get this book. You will enjoy the (here is a dead word from about 2 years ago) many factoids about Baghdad By the Bay (hey, I used "Baghdad" in a sentence that does not contain any reference to war! Neat!). Heab Caen would be happy about that.
Locating Photo Sites.......2006-07-09
This book helped me find a lot of little known places to photograph in S.F. with stories about their backgrounds.
A Love Only for The Bay ..........2006-05-13
I finally have my heart and body in San Francisco ... and this is one book that explains why many who love the Bay can love no other city like San Francisco. A must read for those who are traveling to the Bay Area and wonder why it is the most beautiful city in the world.
A little history about my home town -- 20 years later.......2004-05-06
I'd signed up to take a History of San Francisco class as an elective during my first two years of college. It was cancelled because there were only three students signed up that were interested and a class had to have at least 11 students in order to happen -- unbelievable!! I was deeply disappointed. Well, I think this little book covers more than I would have learned in that class, if it had taken place, a little more than 20 years ago. Next time I go home to see friends & family, I'm going to conduct my own history walking tour with this book in my pack!
more fun than a guidebook.......2001-02-14
I bought this little collection of fun facts about the city in the airport on my way home. I wish I had it when I was walking around SF - it makes me want to return ASAP. An excellent compilation of history and trivia that brings the place to life.
Customer Reviews:
Secrets of the Secret Place.......2007-10-11
I give this book to everyone I sense is serious about their faith. It is the most powerful book I have read that helps people overcome barriers to an intimate quiet time with Jesus. Life changing. Really.
soul stirring.......2007-08-27
If you are ready to go to the 'next level' to coin the phrase, with God this is the book for you.
It helps to refocus our view of a deep spiritual walk with God. Some of it may seem like a 'how-to' book but gratefully most of it is not.
Secrets of the Secret Place- No Longer A Secret.......2007-07-20
This book is great. It gives the reader first hand information on "jump starting" a wonderful relationship with God. This book tells us HOW to start, rekindle, continue and maintain that ever important relationship with God. It is a must read (over and over again) for anyone interested in obtaining what so many have thought for so long was out of our reach. We have the ability and the right to have a personal relationship with God and we should take advantage of it. I recommend this book highly! You'll find yourself wanting to practice the principles in the book as well as extend the infomation to others.
Don't wait any longer
Awesome Book.......2007-07-12
It is an awesome book.. very informative on how to develop an intimate and lovely relatoinship with GOD!
Secrets of the Secret Place.......2007-05-15
Bob Sorge is a man in these "last days" whom God is using to proclaim insight to Who God truly is. He is a writer, man, a saint of God, who has been crushed by a personal tragedy, but in the process, pure, oil has been expressed through this crushing. This book is so powerful, especially if you are needing a jolt to gain intimacy with God.
Books:
- The Simplest Path to Personal and Planetary Awakening, Step One: FREE YOUR MIND: 10 Keys for Unlocking Your Personal Potential, Achieving Spiritual Awakening, ... of Humanity's Ultimate Cosmic Destiny
- The Stranger I Married
- The Sunflower: On the Possibilities and Limits of Forgiveness (Newly Expanded Paperback Edition)
- The Temple at Landfall (Celaeno)
- The Truth About Love: The Highs, the Lows, and How You Can Make It Last Forever
- The Water Devil: A Margaret of Ashbury Novel (Margaret of Ashbury Trilogy)
- The White Mountains
- To Charm A Prince (Zebra Historical Romance)
- True Believer: Inside the Investigation and Capture of Ana Montes, Cuba's Master Spy
- Uncovering Reasonable Doubt: The Component Method
Books Index
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