History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

The Dark Is Rising Sequence: Silver on the Tree; The Grey King; Greenwitch; The Dark Is Rising; and Over Sea, Under Stone

Average customer rating:

One of the best series ever written...
new movie
Light Is Rising
Wonderful, wonderful series
DiRS: Box Set

The Dark Is Rising Sequence: Silver on the Tree; The Grey King; Greenwitch; The Dark Is Rising; and Over Sea, Under Stone
Susan Cooper
Manufacturer: Simon Pulse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0020425651

Amazon.com

Joined by destiny, the lives of the Drew children, Will Stanton, and a boy named Bran weave together in an exquisite, sometimes terrifying tapestry of mystery and quests. In the five-title series of novels known as The Dark Is Rising Sequence, these children pit the power of good against the evil forces of Dark in a timeless and dangerous battle that includes crystal swords, golden grails, and a silver-eyed dog that can see the wind. Susan Cooper's highly acclaimed fantasy novels, steeped in Celtic and Welsh legends, have won numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal and the Newbery Honor. Now all five paperback volumes have been collected in one smart boxed set. These classic fantasies, complex and multifaceted, should not be missed, by child or adult. The set includes Over Sea, Under Stone, The Dark Is Rising, Greenwitch, The Grey King, and Silver on the Tree. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter

Customer Reviews:

One of the best series ever written..........2007-08-10

I can't even begin to describe this series and I won't try to. I'm afraid I'd only do it a disservice! Susan Cooper says SO much in so few eloquent words that her books are rather like listening to fine music. I rank this easily with the Narnia series as well as Lord of the Rings. And while I adore the Harry Potter books and think JK is a fabulous writer, I truly feel that even they cannot live up to the quiet serious intensity of these books.

Every year I read this series again. I love it more and more with each read.

Recently many illiterate folks have called these books 'boring' and 'flat'. Those same modern day readers often have to be babied through text & dazzled with fancy action scenes. It has also become a fad to bash things that have won awards or recommendations.

This is a story told with very deep and quiet emotions and if you give it a chance then I can promise you, you won't be disappointed. :)

new movie.......2007-05-18

I remember reading this series years ago and since then I have always thought that it would make a great movie and guess what someone else thought so as well. IMDB is reporting that this movie is in production and will be released in October 2007. I am very excited about this and I am really wishing and hoping that they translate it well to the big screen. I have since lost my books but I have just purchased this set to read all the books again and relive my youth again.

Light Is Rising.......2007-05-12

The series as a whole is great. if you have never read them before but enjoy other great fantasy such as Harry Potter, the Forgotten Realms, or even the Lord Of The Rings these are a must read. they have been great books for the last 35 years or so and will continue to be great books 50 years from now.

Wonderful, wonderful series.......2007-05-06

This series is my son's absolute FAVORITE. He's 8 and I recently decided to introduce him to the books, and he ate them up. He said he likes how the bad people aren't always perfect, and he likes the way the Drew siblings work together in OVER SEA, UNDER STONE and again in GREENWICH and SILVER ON THE TREE. I'm pretty sure that he didn't understand all the symbolism in THE DARK IS RISING, though he liked it and made up his own belt of rings as a result.

This series is really wonderful, and I agree with other reviewers - it should be better known. It's mythical elements mix well with the action scenes. Plus, it's very well written and edited - creating really unique and interesting characters.

I'm sort of judicious with my 5 star ratings, but this one definitely deserved it. Pick them up - you won't be disappointed.

DiRS: Box Set.......2007-03-04

I love these books, and I was glad to see that they were now available in a box set!

Average customer rating:

Heart of Stone
Ana Monnar
Manufacturer: Readers Are Leaders U.S.A.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0976803550

Book Description

A marriage between a maiden and Prince William had been arranged by their parents. But, the more William thought about it, the more he knew it could not be. This beautiful young lady spent hours at her vanity. Imagine living with such distress, not for a minute, an hour, much less for a lifetime. With strong conviction Prince William looked her in the eyes and informed her that the wedding would never be.

The Kidnapped King (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))

Average customer rating:

The Kidnapped King
Fun Installment in a Solid Series

The Kidnapped King (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Ron Roy
Manufacturer: Random House Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0679894594
Release Date: 2000-06-27

Book Description

K is for Kidnapped! Someone has kidnapped the king and queen of Socotra. For safety's sake, their son is staying with Dink until they are safe. But then the prince is kidnapped, too! Can Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose unmask the royals' enemies before it's too late? Or is the royal family of Socotra gone forever?

Customer Reviews:

The Kidnapped King.......2007-02-28

This is a book about three friends who solve mysteries. In this book the three friends will rescue three rich people who are the King, Queen, and Prince.

Now I will tell you about the story. These friends names are Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose. These friends have solved many mysteries and saved many people from going to prison.

This author entertained my feelings. People write comments on his books because they like them. The mysteries he writes are very good.

The illustrator is also very good at drawing. He draws exactly what the author writes. The drawing looks really real.

I recommend this book because it is a very good mystery to read at night. I like the way he makes the kids find clues.

Fun Installment in a Solid Series.......2000-08-14

A new kid on the block (staying in Dink's house!), a little action (a kidnap!), a little language lesson (French!), and a lot of teamwork (involving both children, parents, and authority figures) leads to another intriguing tale and a happy ending. Ron Roy's A-To-Z-Mysteries have proven quite successful in our household. I've now read all eleven installments to my four-year-old son, and he has found them immensely entertaining. Similarly, our best friend's daughter, an advanced elementary school reader, promptly consumed these books and deemed them enjoyable. Sure, like most of the chapter book series for little people, the plots tend to be marginally predictable -- conversely, these books weren't written for the parents (and the children seem to find the mysteries sufficiently compelling). I also find that, at a certain level, the fact that the characters in these mysteries are (reasonably) normal children confronting seemingly pedestrian criminals is a welcome break from my son's fascination with the preternatural and his preference for the less realistic (but highly entertaining) series such as the Secrets of Droon, Bailey School Kids, and the Magic Tree House. Also, unlike many of the series books, it does not seem critical to read the books in order (although we do). It's also nice that the protagonists -- Dink, Ruth Rose, and Josh -- play well together, think through difficult problems, exhibit good manners and, for the most part, display the type of vocabulary you won't mind if your children repeat.

Average customer rating:

Super Reader
Another Classic Quality Gemmell Story
Ghost King -- for the disillusioned
A different vision of Arthur...
Average at best

Ghost King (Stones of Power)
David Gemmell
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345379020
Release Date: 1995-11-29

Book Description

Chaos and terror stalked the realm. The king had been slain by traitors, and the sword of power had been lost beyond the Circle of Mist. Armies of Saxons, Angles, Jutes, and Brigantes cut a gory swath across the land, led by puppets of the ruthless Witch Queen--whose minions included dark, bloodthirsty creatures and a savage, undead warrior.
All hope lay with young Thuro--in whose veins flowed the blood of kings. He would have to defeat the Witch Queen's monsters and travel to the land of the Mist, there to seek a ghostly army. And the only one who could prepare Thuro to achieve his birthright was the mountain warrior Culain, the one man who knew the queen's deadly secret . . .
The legend of the mystic Stones of Power begins with a tale of blood and glory, of love and betrayal, as a boy must come of age amidst the seemingly impossible quest to become the High King.

Customer Reviews:

Super Reader.......2007-08-26

A Gemmell-esque take on the Arthurian theme. Britain is entering the Dark Ages, and no-one is doing a lot about it. A Witch Queen and a bunch of undead just make things worse.

Then Culain, the Lord of the Lance, a once immortal hero decides to take a stand. He alone knows what the Witch Queen is.

He just needs allies beyond the young boy with potential, to do be able to do something about it.

Another Classic Quality Gemmell Story.......2006-12-17

I've read all of David Gemmell's books except for the Stones of Power series. Book One is another gem. Loosely Arthurian, Prince Thuro, later self-named Uther Pendragon, is a teen hunted by the assasins of his father. He learns to become a man and a leader of warriors seeking justice on two separate worlds (dimensions). Unlike the Drenai series, this story claims roots in Earth's history and legends of ancient Western culture.

One of Gemmell's gifts is telling a story of adventure and fantasy while exploring shades of good and evil within a person. Good people will do terrible things in fits of anger or perceived need for the greater good, and bad people will inexplicably or deliberately do an act of kindness that makes a difference. This story is no exception, or is exceptional as a Gemmell story--and for that I am grateful. Uther, Culain, Korrin, Goroien, and Gilgamesh are some to watch in this vein.

David Gemmell past away in July, which means a great loss to the fantasy genre of complex warrior heroes. He is one of my fantasy heroes I will sorely miss, except when I reread his stories. Ghost King is another classic that you will find a good story, lessons on living life humbly and straight forward, sacrifice, and of course heart pounding adventure.

Ghost King -- for the disillusioned.......2006-11-16

As a huge fan of sci-fi and fantasy writing, I dread The Storyline. You know, the cookie-cutter model that almost all sci-fi and fantasy adheres to? Insert young boy here, father dying there, beautiful girl here, add a dose of magic and a few sword fights and volia! A fantasy novel. You all know. That's why you're reading these reviews, looking for something a little different.

But not too different - we're happy in our comfort zone of magic and dragons and heros... we're just ready for the young boy to do something besides fight the evil forces for his father's throne with the aid of a beautiful woman, a knight by his side... and maybe a wizard or two thrown in for good measure.

So don't be fooled by the idea that this is just another Arthur remake. It's anything but! And after reading it, I'm kind of insulted by the comparison. Yes, his name is Uthur. Yes, there's a lady in the lake. Yes, there's a magical sword. But the story is much more than that! The details in Arthur that define it are mere afterthoughts in this, they are almost insignificant to the main themes of this story.

This book deals with ties to Atlantis. Roman Britons, the Sipstrassi stones, and some pretty fun battles. Uthur turns out to be an extremely likeable character.

This is book 1 of 5 in the "Stones of Power" series. If you're a big fan of fantasy and sci-fi, the entire series is highly recommended. But if you hate sci-fi, just read the first two books. The last three take the idea behind the stones of power - and indeed, have some of the same characters - but strays from the romantic era to a mythical future where the world has toppled (literally), and the world is once again ruled with a six shooter.

A different vision of Arthur..........2006-08-03

Ghost King is the first novel within the loosely associated "Stones of Power" sequence. Basically, this sequence is heavily concerned with Stones of Power, also known as Sipstrassi. These Stones give wielders the ability to manipulate things about them, like "magic", but they are also like batteries that eventually lose their power (as evidenced by black veins appearing on the stones, until the whole stone becomes black and is useless). They can be "recharged" though (this is discussed in the later period Jerusalem Man books and the method used to recharge Sipstrassi isn't very nice). Anyway, I am off topic.
Ghost King is also loosely based around the Arthurian saga, though, apart from the odd name here and there, it really bears little to no resemblance to a traditional Arthurian re-telling. To enjoy the book, you will need to move past the knights-in-shining-armour mentality very quickly.
At the beginning we meet our hero, named Thuro. But he isn't much of a hero. He is a bookish young man whom a strong wind could blow over. Anyway, several key events occur that sweep him into the stuff of legends. You follow him on his path, like when he meets the mysterious Culain, who, judging from many posts I have read remains among the most respected of all Gemmell characters.
It is really a classic "coming of age" story in a way and it is enjoyable because of it. Gemmell clearly researched well the culture and nature of the ancient peoples discussed, such as the Britons, Romans and Saxons. But this historical accuracy is combined with pure speculative fantasy. And, somehow, it all fits together to be a very enjoyable read and sets itself up for a sequel.
Ghost King is classic Gemmell set in a Dark Ages Britain...that never was.

Average at best.......2006-07-13

Ghost King by David Gemmell is the first book in his Stones of Power series. There is an acknowledgement section at the very beginning of the books that briefly discusses that this story is loosely based on of the Arthur from Camelot legend. At times I guess I could see that, but overall it is a very loose tie-in if at all.

I have read several book by Gemmell, all based in his Drenai Saga so I pretty much knew what to expect going into this book. After I finished reading it I am glad I had read previous Gemmell works otherwise this may have been the only book by him I would have read. That's not to say that this is a `bad' book. It's just not very deep and thought provoking. It was a quick read and one I didn't have to invest a lot of thought in to finish and understand.

The story is relatively straight forward. A king is killed as well as his heirs but one lone boy survives and has to hide from the people wanting to kill the royal blood so they can take over. This plot is riddled with cliché after cliché, and there are many times an experienced fantasy reader will groan due to the `been there done that' type feeling. Most fantasy fans will be able to predict with some accuracy where the plot will lead and what will happen. Don't get me wrong, it's not a terribly written book. In fact it is written quite well, but while reading this I found myself inserting different characters names (from other books) into the book and realizing I had read it all before. It's mildly engaging and rather linear.

The characters are as can be expected when put in context with the plot. There is a little character development, but with the way the book is written you already have an idea on what development will take place with each character. I did enjoy the character of Thuro for the most part, but there is a scene towards the end of the book that took that enjoyment away from me. There is little new with the characters that can't be found in countless other fantasy books.

Overall, when faced with the question of to recommend or not to recommend I am torn. I think that decision would be based on who I am talking to. If it is a relatively new fantasy reader I wouldn't have a problem with suggesting this. It's a light, quick read and one that can get people used to reading this type of story. However, if the person I am talking to is relatively well read in fantasy and likes more complex characters and plot then I would by no means recommend this book. I think those fans would feel let down and disappointed at the end of the book. This is certainly not the best book I have read that was written by Gemmell. If you are looking for a very good Gemmell book read Legend. It's very good.

Day Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (Day Hikes)

Average customer rating:

Great for day hike planning but needs to be updated
For beginners only, but still good

Day Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (Day Hikes)
Robert Stone
Manufacturer: Day Hike Books, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1573420301

Book Description

Day Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is a clear, concise guide to 61 of the most rewarding day hikes in these two incredible parks. (The parks are adjacent without a noticeable boundary between them.) These hikes will introduce you to the giant sequoias, the world's largest living organisms, and some of the most impressive canyons, rock formations, and panoramic overlooks found anywhere. Highlights include valleys with towering canyon walls and granite monoliths, verdant alpine meadows fringed with giant sequoias, cascading creeks and waterfalls, and phenomenal views. Hikes range from easy to moderately strenuous, accommodating every level of experience. Each hike includes a summary of its highlights, a map, and clear driving and hiking directions.

Customer Reviews:

Great for day hike planning but needs to be updated.......2006-06-27

I just got back from a week in Sequoia/Kings Canyon.

I'm a fan of FalconGuides. The problem with FalconGuides is that they try to be everything to everyone. They include many more hikes, but several of them are "shuttle hikes," which require traveling with non-hikers or using multiple cars. If you're a fan of the shuttle hike, stay with Falcon. Then again, I doubt we will ever see the publication of a trail guide devoted to shuttle hikes. "Great Shuttle Hikes of the Rocky Mountains"? Don't look for it on Amazon!

Anyway, author Stone sticks to hikes that can be done by day hikers. No 45-mile, 9-day pack trips. Again, if that's what you're hoping for, Falcon is your guide. But if you're looking for a nice walk in the wilderness, Stone's got that covered. And there are a number of 6-mile or longer hikes. I hiked to Mist Falls (9 miles round trip).

That said, this volume is in serious need of an update. The General Sherman Tree area has been completely redesigned and now requires a significant walk. The Congress Trail is also farther from easy access than it once was. And the Kings Canyon entrance station has been moved away from a "dangerous tree" into the Big Stump parking lot. So for now, there's no parking for the Big Stump, Hitchcock Meadows, Viola Falls trails. Stone might also consider a description of the trail to Crystal Caves.

This is the book I took on the trail. (The FalconGuide was used, but it stayed at the lodge.)

For beginners only, but still good.......2003-09-27

Many people who routinely hike in Yosemite inexplicably ignore her lesser known sister park to the South: majestic Sequoia. I have hiked in both parks for 15 years and Sequoia is an outstanding National Park, particularly for serious hikers seeking a challenge. Yosemite's Half Dome remains one of the most beautiful and "must do" hikes in California, but Alta Peak in Sequoia is comparable and its beauty is sheer majesty. You can get greater elevations in Sequoia and the alpine terrain, especially in the early summer, will remind you of Switzerland.

This Guidebook is exceptionally useful and small enough to carry with you in your pack as you hike. The maps are detailed, as are the driving directions to each trailhead. The descriptions of each hike are concise, yet sufficiently detailed to give you the feel of each hike before you attempt it. There is little superfluous information, which is a frequent complaint of other hiking books.

If you have never visited or hiked in Sequoia, you're in for the unexpected treat of a lifetime. The park is incomparably lovely and the hiking is among the best in the Western states. This guidebook will help you discover the wonders of this underrated National Park. One caveat: this book only deals with short hikes, suitable for people with a family. Don't expect anything over 5-6 miles.

Average customer rating:

Evolution of Modern Banking

Entertaining but Lacking Any True Gems

Disappointing...

A recommended read

A Talent for Deals and Recognizing Value.....
The King of Capital: Sandy Weill and the Making of Citigroup
Amey Stone , and Mike Brewster
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Tearing Down the Walls : How Sandy Weill Fought His Way to the Top of the Financial World. . .and Then Nearly Lost It All (Wall Street Journal Book)

The Real Deal: My Life in Business and Philanthropy

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The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance

Barbarians at the Gate: The Fall of RJR Nabisco

ASIN: 0471214167

Book Description

A fascinating story of a legendary dealmaker who masterminded an unprecedented merger

Citigroup CEO Sandy Weill orchestrated many deals over his legendary forty-five year career—none bigger than the 1998 epic merger of Travelers and Citibank to create the international conglomerate, Citigroup. King of Capital tells the compelling story of how this complex man revolutionized the banking world and transformed Citigroup through a combination of mergers and powerplays.

Throughout his entire career Weill has created successful businesses out of smaller, seemingly unworkable pieces; filled product vacuums no one else even realized were void; and forced issues that no one else had the gumption to tackle. His daring dealmaking tactics were never more evident than while forming Citigroup, as he lobbied Congress to deregulate the financial services industry and ousted his co-CEO in a public power struggle. Through an engaging narrative by financial writers Amey Stone and Mike Brewster, King of Capital chronicles the legacy of Sandy Weill that began taking shape in 1970 with the creation of Shearson, was honed during his tenure at American Express, and continues as he leads one of the world's largest banks.

Along with probing Weill's signature business deals, King of Capital traces the path this feared, envied, and admired man took to get to the top. Readers will gain valuable insight into the strategies and tactics of this admired dealmaker-including his ability to turn a workforce into a family, with all the love, loyalty, battles and heartbreaks. What distinguishes Weill from the run-of-the mill executive is a laser-like focus on what he wants, trust in his lieutenants, and incredible belief in himself-conviction that he did not always possess. Weill, cowed by Bensonhurst bullies as a child, hazed as a military school plebe, intimidated by the strong personalities of some his early partners, has defied all expectations to become a CEO whose deals have had lasting impact on global finance and the economy.

Amey Stone (New York, NY) has more than ten years of experience as a financial writer. Currently, she is an Associate Editor at BusinessWeek Online, where she cowrites the daily "Street Wise" column, and is responsible for writing many of the site's lead stories on business trends, technology, and the economy, including several articles covering Citigroup and Sandy Weill.
Mike Brewster (New York, NY) is an accomplished writer, editor and financial services professional. He recently launched a career magazine called Leaders Online.

Customer Reviews:

Evolution of Modern Banking.......2006-12-20

Citigroup is an amazing blend of financial services that has developed over the years into a fascinating company. This is the story of how it all came together from hard work to merges and acquisitions. The companies growth is truly amazing and this is one of the great stories in modern finance. For those who want to get a sense of where investment and banking is headed in the future this is a great starting point. It is written in plain enough language that you do not have to be a finance expert to understand it. If you are a finance expert you will see the possibilities that are occurring and understand what the ramifications of each move were on the industry as a whole. Very well written and just a great book in general.

Entertaining but Lacking Any True Gems.......2005-10-28

This book has a particular appeal for two reasons: 1) Citigroup is the world's largest financial institution 2) it describes in some detail, the conflict between two storied CEO's - John Reed and Sandy Weill. Coming from the school of thought that says analyzing great business leaders may lead to my own success, I considered this book a must.

As you should already know, Sandy Weill is the current the CEO of Citigroup and formerly the CEO of Travelers. His peer at Citibank was John Reed, who was subsequently ousted. The conflict between the two is in itself an interesting story. The book contrasts the two, by suggesting Weill is bottom-line-focused while Reed was a long range thinker focused on the future of the industry and implications of technology.

There were a handful of interesting side stories, such as a Sandy's wife's psychiatrist using information gleaned from her treatment sessions to trade stock ahead of Citigroup activities. Others include Sandy's experiences at previous employers as he climbed the corporate ladder.

In short, the book is entertaining. However, there are no amazing themes or profound ideas the reader can repurpose elsewhere.

Disappointing..........2005-02-20

I love and admire sandy weill.i purchased this book to learn more about the man and his deal making prowess.although this book was well research,its presentation was what turned me off.i have never read a book so disjointed and dull.it doesnt follow the conventional chronological sequence that most biographies does but skips back and forth from one event to another i.e 60's-to-the-80's-to-the-70's-to 60's again...this goes on and on and on.this can be very very very frustrating.Also i dont think the authors did a good job in capturing the readers since the paragraphs come and go in that fasion throughout the entire book!

All who follow sandy weill's career knows his excellent ex-protege, jamie dimon.I would loved to learn more on Mr Dimon (curently President and COO of J.P Morgan Chase & Co) and i hope there will be a book on him in the future.

All in all, sandy weill is one hell of a guy who has done tremendous things in the financial sector.but if you really want to read a book which is more entertaining (or way better) than this book,then you should read "Tearing Down the Walls:How Sandy Weill fought his way to the top of the financial world...and then nearly lost it all" by Monica Langley.The book by monica langley is way way better and enjoyable.You'll also learn more about Jamie Dimon!!

In conclusion,dont buy this book but the one by Monica Langley.....

A recommended read.......2005-01-10

I liked the way Stone and Brewster broke the book into small, interesting chapters. It made for an easy read. I felt like I had a good sense of Weill's character and business style by the end of the book. The only criticism I would make is that the book seemed like an "authorized" biography in that it was overly flattering of Weill at times - like commending him for his restraint in only having three large mansions. Also, like all biographies written during the person life, there needs to be more chapters for events that take place after the book stops. In spite of that, I recommend the book to anyone who likes good biographies of business leaders.

A Talent for Deals and Recognizing Value............2004-08-13

I've just started reading this book and it is most certainly a good buy. The businesswoman in me loves Weill's ability to recognize value where others fail to see it (don't all the great ones have this unique characteristic?); the future wife in me admires his dedication, love and adoration of his spouse, a true confidante and partner in every sense of the word. I really enjoy reading about powerful men who are not afraid of telling the world how much of an intellectual and mental impact their wives are. More later....

Knights of the Round Table (A Stepping Stone Book)

Average customer rating:

Kid tested, mother approved
Awful writing, terrible grammar, bad for children
Perfect for reading to a younger child
Textbook example of how NOT to write sentences
Knights of the round Table

Knights of the Round Table (A Stepping Stone Book)
Gwen Gross
Manufacturer: Random House Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0394875796
Release Date: 1985-10-12

Book Description

imagine a mythic kingdom in England of wizards and witches, fire-breathing dragons, and dreadful giants. Who can rule this magical land? Who can overcome the powers of evil? It is the destiny of King Arthur and his noble knights, who protect and serve the people of Camelot. A perfect introduction to the Arthurian legends.

Customer Reviews:

Kid tested, mother approved.......2005-06-30

This book was one of three Bullseye Classics we bought for my son's second grade English class. He picked this one up as soon as the box arrived and had it read within an hour. He loved the stories and was able to re-tell them to his little sister. I hadn't heard the stories about "Big Hands" or "What do women want?" This collection really got his imagination going and he wants to read more about King Arthur.

To tell you the truth, I didn't notice the problems with sentence structure, etc...I was enjoying the stories too much.

Awful writing, terrible grammar, bad for children.......2003-10-01

In addition to the ham-handed telling of the story, the writing in these Bullseye books is just terrible. Half-sentences. Written like this. Or this. Part of the value of such books is that young readers will learn to read "chapter books." But the English and grammar in these books is so abysmal as to render them useless for this task. I was very disappointed.

Perfect for reading to a younger child.......2003-02-03

I agree that this is not the finest book written on King Arthur, but it is one that can be read aloud, and easily enhanced by a grandmother anxious to read these legends to a second grader---- finding something appropriate for a young listener has not been easy!

Textbook example of how NOT to write sentences.......2002-08-20

It is hard to believe a book this poorly written could make past the editors! There were so many run-on and incomplete sentences I had trouble reading it to my daughter. I can only imagine what my second grade daughter went through reading on her own. We will keep this book if only to serve as an example of how NOT to construct sentences. There is a year's worth of grammar exercises in this book.

Knights of the round Table.......2001-11-02

I think this is a very good story because its placed in history. I like when the giant takes off his head. You should get this book for your child.

The Yellow Yacht (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))

Average customer rating:

Answer to a Mother's prayers
The Yellow Yacht
Relatively Good

The Yellow Yacht (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Ron Roy
Manufacturer: Random House Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0375824820
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Book Description

Y is for YACHT . . .

Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose love visiting their friend Sammi, the prince of Costra. They swim, soak in the sun, and admire the bright yellow yacht that is moored just offshore. But the owners of the yacht are acting a little suspicious. And there’s suddenly been a robbery on the island. Can Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose find out a connection between the robbery and the mysterious yellow yacht?

Customer Reviews:

Answer to a Mother's prayers.......2007-05-31

I am the mother of a 7 year old boy who has a lot of difficulty with reading. We received this book from a book give away at our school's birthday party for Dr. Seuss. It was a life saver. It had a good enough story and mystery to keep my son interested even when he had trouble with words. It was the first chapter book that he finished the whole thing. Since then we have bought The Absent Author and The Bald Bandit and they were both read in record time by my son. His birthday is coming up and we are hoping to receive more of the series. If you are looking to find a series of books that will capture a child attention look no further.

The Yellow Yacht.......2006-03-23

Are you a person that likes mysteries? If you are, I definitely think this is a just right book for you! Once you put your eyes in it you can never take them off. As three kids enter a different country some some gold from the king is stolen. Join Ruth, Dink and Josh in there fantastic journey to find the kings gold and see who was behind all this. The person was...................WAIT! I don't suppose you thought I was going to tell you. If you want to know, read the book! This book is recommended for ages 8 and up. It's a great book!
By Haley

Relatively Good.......2005-09-17

Overall, Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose's 25th adventure was exciting to read. I thought that the details were too sparse in some parts but that was made up for by the adventureous and mysterious parts.
Yellow Yacht was one of the best books in the A to Z Mysteries series in my opinion.

Average customer rating:

Reincarnated into the wrong age?
The Seeing Stone
Watch the age of the reader- not a read aloud
Cornwall Central Middle School, NW, NY 6th Grader
Book Review

The Seeing Stone - Book One
Kevin Crossley-Holland
Manufacturer: Scholastic Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0439263271

Amazon.com

"Tumber Hill! It's my clamber-and-tumble-and-beech-and-bramble hill! Sometimes, when I'm standing on the top, I fill my lungs with air and I shout. I shout."

As The Seeing Stone opens, exuberant young Arthur has no idea what adventure lies ahead. A 13-year-old growing up in 12th-century England, Arthur soon discovers that his life parallels that of another Arthur, son of Uther centuries past, the legendary boy king "who was and will be." The second son of Sir John de Caldicot, lord of a manor near the Welsh border, Arthur narrates his everyday life in the Marchland in 100 clipped chapters of crisp, melodic prose. But his destiny entwined with that other, ancient Arthur is revealed only in snatches, after he receives (courtesy of our old friend Merlin) a piece of obsidian, a seeing stone, through which a well-woven story within a story unfolds.

But rather than the fantasy of T.H. White's The Sword in the Stone, Kevin Crossley-Holland offers a convincing and meticulously researched account of what life might have actually been like for a curious, capable, earnest young man in this peculiar time and place, with all its customs, rituals, and regimented routine and social structure. In a well-paced story that alternates between drama, comedy, and even a little mystery, Arthur tackles some surprisingly sophisticated topics, whether he's questioning the pompous priest Oliver (is the poverty on the manor truly part of God's will?), pestering his father over his plans for him (will he become a squire, as he wishes, or a monk or priest or school man?), or just contemplating his place in the scheme of things under the blue sky atop Tumber Hill. The Seeing Stone is a fun, involving read for kids, but will hold grownup attentions, too, with its flowing language, dense period detail, and all the questions that it asks--and doesn't always answer. (Ages 9 to 12) --Paul Hughes

Book Description

Thirteen-year-old Arthur de Caldicot lives on a manor, desperately waiting for the moment he can become a knight. One day his father's friend Merlin gives him a shining black stone - a seeing stone - that shows him visions of his namesake, King Arthur. The legendary dragons, battles, and swordplay that young Arthur witnesses seem a world away from his own life. And yet there is something definitely joining the Arthurs together. It will be Arthur de Caldicot's destiny to discover how his path is intertwined with a king's . . . for the past is not the only thing the seeing stone can see.

Customer Reviews:

Reincarnated into the wrong age?.......2007-08-30

I think the book fails in getting people interested enough to buy the next
in the series. We aren't told if the main character is Norman or Saxon,
but he appears to be Norman. In this historical era there was still three
major cultural types not well blended in the region where the book takes place: Welsh/ Celtic, Saxon and Norman.
We get no idea of what language they are speaking except his aunt tells him to learn French
( at that period the Normans mostly did speak French).
The Arthurian legends are pretty much what is known or found in other sources,
but the "magic" of a volcanic glass looking glass is one of the central themes
and it just doesn't convince any more than the history does.

The Seeing Stone.......2007-08-07

This book has an imaginative twist to the well-known, brow-beaten Arthur story. The typical Arthur-whiz might turn away in disgust from the novel, but that is not a result of poor writing. The story is magnificent, and while the imagination might turn some heads, chldren eagerly lap up the story of young Arther. This book is well researched, in its remarkable descriptions, and phenomenal attention to detail - without boring. The book works well for young teenagers; it isn't the usual junk book, but instead will captivate their young minds.

Watch the age of the reader- not a read aloud.......2007-02-10

My son,8, received this book for Christmas. He loves knights, and I thought it would work as a read aloud with the age recommendation at 9-12. I strongly believe the age ranges suggested by the critics are much more accurate. I would say 12 is the minimum age to read this book- due to mature story lines like a man magically disguising himself as another man in order to be with that other man's wife, and they conceive a child... If it was a movie, it would be PG-13. This book also does not work well as a read aloud for any age, some books just aren't meant to be read aloud.

Cornwall Central Middle School, NW, NY 6th Grader.......2006-01-31

Hi. I am a 6th grader. I am writing a review on Amizon.com about the book Arthur: The Seeing Stone by Kevin Crossley-Holland, one of the major legends of the world. I think the book was a very interesting book. I would give the book a 9 out of 10 because of the books interesting vocabulary and the imagination contained in it. The book starts with King Arthur when he was 13 and the adventures of hunting and yard-skills and whatever Arthur becomes and faces. The story starts in the Manor of Caldicot where Arthur lives. The book is a good book for ages around 7 or higher because of a little violence. I hope people will read this book because this book will open the readers mind into a powerful joyful imagination and they will visualize a wonderful world of fantasy and adventure. That is my review on my book.

Book Review.......2006-01-26

Arthur-in-the-seeing-stone steps up to the anvil and pulls out the sword. He is the trueborn king of all Britain. To find out what happens next, read this exciting fantasy, about a boy in search of his quest. Arthur is a regular thirteen year old boy in his time, around the 12th century. He is learning to read and write, and is very good at it, but his true passion is to become a squire and then a knight. He must learn to master the skill of swordplay and jousting to do so, but his best talent is archery. His good friend Merlin is very strange, and Arthur believes he can do some magic. Merlin gives Arthur a gift, an obsidian stone. Also known as the seeing stone. Arthur sees images in the stone and people that resemble his brother and father. In the stone, the story that takes place is many, many ages before Arthur's time, and there is a king, King Uther. He and Queen Ygerna have a baby boy, thirteen years ago, but no one knows who it is. King Uther must give his baby to a hooded magical man, who later turns out to be Merlin. The boy is reaised by foster parents until he is needed to take the throne. Later, King Uther is poisened by Britain's enemies, the Saracens. King Uther asks the archbishop to find his son and have him claim the throne. The hooded man sticks a sword into an anvil and puts a charm on it so that the next king is the one that is able to pull out the sword. Many knights, earls, and lords attempt this difficult task but all fail. Then Arthur tries it, and is successful. No one can believe that this thirteen year old is the new king because he is still a boy. His father, well really foster father, tells him about his real father, the king. This is very similar to real Arthur's life. His uncle is really his father. His real father is a mean, rude man, and also a murderer. He hates this because it also means he cannot marry Grace, his half-sister that he used to think was his cousin. Arthur is very happy though because Lord Stephen requested him as his squire and to join him and take the cross back from the Saracens in Jeruseleum. This book is very good because it is very interesting and makes you think about it alot. It was a little bit confusing though because so much was going on in basically two different worlds. But this book is deffinetly worth it.

This book is very good because it relates Arthur's real life to one very similar to his. It is interesting to see things from a different point a view. Everything that happens in the seeing stone either happened, is happening, or is bound to happen to Arthur just mixed up and changing details. For example, Arthur's father had to give him away and Arthur-in-the-seeing-stone was also given up by his father and found out when he was thirteen. This book is so interesting how it relates so many things to other things.

This book is also very good because it teaches you to be thankful for what you have. Like you family, food, and shelter. In this story, Arthur's family is very rich and doesn't have to worry about any of these. Except for his foster parent's children dying. Three boys, Matt, Mike, and Luke, each a year apart. But Arthur realizes that many people are way worse off than him. Most people in the manor barely have enough food to eat, milk and water to drink, firewood to stay warm, or even a home to live in.

This book is very sad, too. Arthur's real father cheated on his wife, who died later on, and he had a baby with some other woman. That woman's husband was later murdered by Sir William, Arthur's father. Then Sir Williams marries Lady Alice, another woman. He is very rude and unfair to her. He beats her and smacks her in public. Arthur hates him so much for all of these things. It is very sad that he hates his own flesh and blood.

This book is very interesting and hard to put down. So much excitement and action going on, it kept me at the edge of my seat. I deffinetly reccommend this book to everyone that loves reading great fantasy novels with kings, magic, and dragons.

L. Dessoffy

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