Amazon.com
If Christian men are going to change from a pitiful, wimpy bunch of "really nice guys" to men who are made in the image of God, they must reexamine their preconceptions about who God is and recover their true "wild" hearts, writes bestselling author John Eldredge in Wild at Heart: Discovering a Life of Passion, Freedom, and Adventure. Eldredge throws down the gauntlet--men are bored; they fear risk, they refuse to pay attention to their deepest desires. He challenges Christian men to return to authentic masculinity without resorting to a "macho man" mentality. Men often seek validation in venues such as work, or in the conquest of women, Eldredge observes. He urges men to take time out and come to grips with the "secret longings" of their hearts. Although the book succeeds best in its slant toward a male audience, it also strives to help women understand the implications of authentic masculinity in their relationships with men. Eldredge frames the book around his outdoor experiences and appealing anecdotes about his family, sprinkling the text with touches of humor and overlying everything with heartfelt passion. Even as he mixes eclectic ideas about masculinity from popular movies such as Braveheart with classic words from Oswald Chambers, and lyrics from the Dixie Chicks with stories from the Bible, he points to only one answer for men searching for their true wildness of heart. Writes Eldredge, "The only way to live in this adventure ... with all its danger and unpredictability and immensely high stakes ... is in an ongoing, intimate relationship with God." --Cindy Crosby
Book Description
God designed men to be dangerous, says John Eldredge. Simply look at the dreams and desires written in the heart of every boy: To be a hero, to be a warrior, to live a life of adventure and risk. Sadly, most men abandon those dreams and desires-aided by a Christianity that feels like nothing more than pressure to be a "nice guy." It is no wonder that many men avoid church, and those who go are often passive and bored to death. In this provocative book, Eldredge gives women a look inside the true heart of a man and gives men permission to be what God designed them to be-dangerous, passionate, alive, and free.
Customer Reviews:
Misses the Mark.......2007-09-28
Has some good open insights, but misses the mark as the author wants us to return to the patriarchal ways of thinking that actually hurts true masculinity.Men-The Gods of Love
Wild at Heart Rocks.......2007-09-27
Wild at Heart rocks! Perfect view of God and men - No. A great motivator for men to develop a deep and very personal relationship with God - Yes. Having read the book a couple of times, and now having read other John Eldredge books, I can tell you that my spiritual walk with God has been completely changed in a very meaningful way. In fact 'changed' is probably a word that does not completely convey the real impact of the message on my life -- 'Warped Across the Universe' would be more descriptive.
As a few reviewers have highlighted, the book is not perfect. Nor is it the answer to every man's questions about his masculinity and how we are all formed in God's image. It simply provides a strong framework to think differently about what it means to be a man but yet a Christian.
As mentioned again by several reviewers, although the book has a little bravado here and there, it is not license to mistreat other people, especially not the women in our life's. The message is very clear. Although the God is a Warrior, He is also a compelling force who loves mankind deeply.
Bottom-line about this book is that message, can at least for some men, revolutionize their thinking about God, Church, their families and their relationships with other people. It has changed me in a personal a deep manner that this review cannot even begin to express.
Wonderfully Spiritual and Invigorating - Not Just For Men!.......2007-09-25
I cannot speak highly enough of this book! I learned so much from reading it--about myself, about my husband, about life! In fact, I think I'll read it AGAIN!
Truly Transformational!!.......2007-09-18
Treasures of the Kingdom, Vol. 1
I've seen the message from this book transform not only my own life, but the lives of many, many others as well.
The Eldredges have such a wonderful way of awakening the heart to its natural hunger and thirst for God. They throw us head long into a journey of pursuing God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength.
The pursuit results in total transformation. Mediocre religion doesn't cut it anymore. We have to have God and we have to see Him powerfully and fully integrated in our every day lives. Walking with God, hearing His voice, knowing His guidance and leading in our lives changes everything.
For true stories of lives transformed because of the power of this message as presented by the Eldredges, see the real life accounts in the Amazon book, Treasures of the Kingdom.
Timing is everything.......2007-09-13
I actually read this book about 4 years ago and remember thinking it was pretty good, BUT for some reason I picked it up a few weeks ago and re-read it. POWERFUL insight. Then just as I was finishing the book, my Dad died. There are no coincidences. This book answered a lot of deep questions I didn't even know I had. It was a real life shaper. TO those of you who are fathers to boys,.. its a MUST READ. The authors insight is right-on and much different than what you would expect from a "Christian author". BTW, I could see why some women might have a problem understanding and accepting some of his insights. I'd say they just need to listen, observe and keep an open mind. This book can save relationships.
Book Description
Bishop Jordan has written a stellar work that is guaranteed to free the mentally enslaved, acquit the wrongfully charged, and bring healing to the sick. The Laws of Thinking is not a work for the shallow-minded person. It is demanding and challenging. It is neither intended to be used as the basis for unmerited criticism nor as sermon material for the minister having difficulty receiving a fresh work from the Lord. It was written with a very clear aim: to provoke spiritual thought. Bill Gates' Microsoft, Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions, Stephen Spielberg's DreamWorks, and even his own Zoe Ministries all began with a thought.
Every invention, university, book, song, business, home, skyscraper, movie, stage play, and baby began when someone chose to think. Nothing happens without thought. Creation did not happen without God's thought. Bishop Jordan's first objective is getting you to think.
Customer Reviews:
AWESOME READ !!!.......2007-09-11
I'VE READ THE LAWS OF THINKING BY BISHOP E. BERNARD JORDAN AND IT WAS AWESOME! THIS BOOK MOVED ME INTO ACTION AND CHANGED MY LIFE. IF YOU'RE READY FOR A SHIFT, THIS IS A MUST READ !!!!
Destiny is a matter of choice.......2007-09-11
The Law of Thinking is definitely a must read. It will motivate you to start acting on ideas and dreams you thought were unreachable. Bishop E. Bernard Jordan teaches Destiny is not left up to chance but a matter of choice. He is the Master Prophet who brings life to visionary ideas. So if you are tired of (J)ust (O)ver (B)roke get this book for you and a friend and start living the way God expected you to.
The Laws of Thinking is the Law of the Land.......2007-09-11
As a man thinketh so is he states Proverbs 23:7 from the Wisest Man Who Ever Lived, The Great King Solomon..Bishop E. Bernard Jordan gives us the 20 Secrets to Using the GOD-GIVEN Divine Power of Mind... I Cor 2:16 states that who has known the Lord to instruct Him, yet we have the Mind of Christ...This Divine Mind within empowers us to manifest prosperity which is a benefit of salvation or the Greek definition soteria which means peace, prosperity, health, wellness all of which is defined in the Laws that our wonderful Master Prophet teaches in this book from the Law of Becoming to the Law of the Harvest...this is a step by step manual for those Christians who are looking beyond the letter......and beckoned by the spirit to come into the DEEP...
En-POWER-ing! Beware: Likely not palatable by Fundamentalists.......2007-09-10
I found Bishop Jordan's work so inspiring, enpowering and en-LIGHT-ening (as in shedding LIGHT on one's spiritual nature and relation to God, taking one out of DARKNESS)that I now own both the book and the CD and am working my way through his workbook. (Available from his site.) If the belief system you have chosen will allow you to consider other view-points without FEAR, that I recommend it highly, (especially for "Rhinos" - ie, entrepreneurs) so as to help manifest God's GOOD in your life. Remember, the validity of your belief system manifests in its FRUITS.) Alas, I could see "Fundamentalists" or "Literalists" taking offense at some thoughts expressed in it. One of my favorite parts in the book is when Jordan cites a instance when precisely this happened and a congregation member gasped "Bishop Jordan thinks he's God!" and he replied "NO! God thinks he's ME!"
May your Blessings ensue...
A REAL MAP TO SUCESS.......2007-09-09
THE LAWS OF THINKING BOOK is map to a prosperous life.I say map because you can use this book before you begin your journey to a sucessful life,or if you are having difficulties in your business, you can use this book to get you back on track and focused.
Book Description
Do you want to get ahead in life?
Climb the ladder to personal success?
The secret, master networker Keith Ferrazzi claims, is in reaching out to other people. As Ferrazzi discovered early in life, what distinguishes highly successful people from everyone else is the way they use the power of relationships—so that everyone wins.
In Never Eat Alone, Ferrazzi lays out the specific steps—and inner mindset—he uses to reach out to connect with the thousands of colleagues, friends, and associates on his Rolodex, people he has helped and who have helped him.
The son of a small-town steelworker and a cleaning lady, Ferrazzi first used his remarkable ability to connect with others to pave the way to a scholarship at Yale, a Harvard MBA, and several top executive posts. Not yet out of his thirties, he developed a network of relationships that stretched from Washington’s corridors of power to Hollywood’s A-list, leading to him being named one of Crain’s 40 Under 40 and selected as a Global Leader for Tomorrow by the Davos World Economic Forum.
Ferrazzi's form of connecting to the world around him is based on generosity, helping friends connect with other friends. Ferrazzi distinguishes genuine relationship-building from the crude, desperate glad-handling usually associated with “networking.” He then distills his system of reaching out to people into practical, proven principles. Among them:
Don’t keep score: It’s never simply about getting what you want. It’s about getting what you want and making sure that the people who are important to you get what they want, too.
“Ping” constantly: The Ins and Outs of reaching out to those in your circle of contacts all the time—not just when you need something.
Never eat alone: The dynamics of status are the same whether you’re working at a corporation or attending a society event— “invisibility” is a fate worse than failure.
In the course of the book, Ferrazzi outlines the timeless strategies shared by the world’s most connected individuals, from Katherine Graham to Bill Clinton, Vernon Jordan to the Dalai Lama.
Chock full of specific advice on handling rejection, getting past gatekeepers, becoming a “conference commando,” and more, Never Eat Alone is destined to take its place alongside How to Win Friends and Influence People as an inspirational classic.
Download Description
Do you want to get ahead in life?
Climb the ladder to personal success?
The secret, master networker Keith Ferrazzi claims, is in reaching out to other people. As Ferrazzi discovered early in life, what distinguishes highly successful people from everyone else is the way they use the power of relationships–so that everyone wins.
In Never Eat Alone, Ferrazzi lays out the specific steps–and inner mindset–he uses to reach out to connect with the thousands of colleagues, friends, and associates on his Rolodex, people he has helped and who have helped him.
The son of a small–town steelworker and a cleaning lady, Ferrazzi first used his remarkable ability to connect with others to pave the way to a scholarship at Yale, a Harvard MBA, and several top executive posts. Not yet out of his thirties, he developed a network of relationships that stretched from Washington’s corridors of power to Hollywood’s A–list, leading to him being named one of Crain’s 40 Under 40 and selected as a Global Leader for Tomorrow by the Davos World Economic Forum.
Ferrazzi’s form of connecting to the world around him is based on generosity, helping friends connect with other friends. Ferrazzi distinguishes genuine relationship–building from the crude, desperate glad–handling usually associated with “networking.” He then distills his system of reaching out to people into practical, proven principles. Among them:
Don’t keep score: It’s never simply about getting what you want. It’s about getting what you want and making sure that the people who are important to you get what they want, too.
“Ping” constantly: The Ins and Outs of reaching out to those in your circle of contacts all the time–not just when you need something.
Never eat alone: The dynamics of status are the same whether you’re working at a corporation or attending a society event&mdash “invisibility” is a fate worse than failure.
In the course of the book, Ferrazzi outlines the timeless strategies shared by the world’s most connected individuals, from Katherine Graham to Bill Clinton, Vernon Jordan to the Dalai Lama.
Chock full of specific advice on handling rejection, getting past gatekeepers, becoming a “conference commando,” and more, Never Eat Alone is destined to take its place alongside How to Win Friends and Influence People as an inspirational classic.
Customer Reviews:
My networking bible.......2007-10-09
This is the best book I've read thus far on networking. I try to meet and have lunch with someone new in my organization at least once a month and touch base with existing contacts after reading this book. It is a must have, even for the shy person. This book will help open doors for you. I read and passed this book along to other co-workers and they absolutely loved it. I highly recommend!
You get what you give .......2007-10-06
Generosity over courting someone hoping to get an in...The author points out that the key to success is holding a generous mentality toward others. Being a leader is based on working for and with others not ahead of or independent from them. When you are excited to help others progress their ideas, they will innately do the same for you.
Never Eat Alone.......2007-09-28
What a wonderful read!
At the core of this entertaining book are Keith's suggestions how to build a powerful network of friends and acquaintances. He starts out reasoning that you won't make it (or at least have a real hard time) in today's business world without contacts. What makes him really likeable though is his twist on the motivation and how to approach it. It is clear that he despises the calculating networking jerks that are just out to take something from a new relationship, but are not willing to give anything. On the contrary, his advise is to stretch out to others and offer your help, your advise where you have expertise, and your existing contacts to do the other a favor, and not ask and not even expect anything in return. He argues that return favors will come automatically and plentiful, without you asking for it (through your network, not necessarily from every person you ever helped).
As a personal advise to anybody's development, he offers a three step plan (sounds familiar). Only in the last step he suggests to actively look for people who can help you achieve your goals, and start networking so that you get to know them.
All throughout the book Keith parts with his incredible wealth of knowledge how to handle the most common situations on your mission to create your network, like dealing with the secretaries of powerful people (the gatekeepers), how to warm cold calls, following up, or the art of small talk. I have to say that I discovered many interesting tips that I had not heard or read before. Meanwhile, Keith is really entertaining, and this pearl never gets boring. There is so much information contained about how to start relationships, how to maintain them, and on principle how to be a people attractor that it will take quite a while for anybody to put all these principles to good use.
I admit that some of it may be too intense, and if you are not necessarily inclined or motivated to become a Fortune 500 CEO, some of the material sounds like overkill. Nevertheless, there are many aspects presented and advise given that apply to regular human interactions as well, and if studied and applied should help you become a better communicator and people attractor.
Tip of the iceberg for building relationships.......2007-09-27
Excellent read. Fast read that sets-up a lot of tangible strategies through heartfelt experiences of success and failure. Some great references to other texts that have also turned out to be fantastic reads.
Underwhelmed..........2007-09-23
After significant media PR, I went out and bought this book. Like that great movie your friends (the media) say that you have to see, this one is a pass. After you cut through the fluff, there are two important concepts to be taken away from this book: 1) always be networking and 2) the most effective way to network is to think about how many ways you can give value, provide leads, or be of service to those in your professional network - this goodwill granted will come back to you in spades.
Book Description
Once upon a time, a Ph.D. went to work at Mickey D's...
And what he found was illuminating. Jerry Newman, a college professor who has taught business courses for nearly 30 years, went undercover as a bottom-rung worker for the biggest names in fast food, including McDonald's and Burger King. Newman found that fast-food chains were the perfect petri dishes for covert research: High-pressure, high-volume businesses with high-employee turnover. The pecking order was also crystal clear, from fry cook all the way up to store manager.
Of the seven restaurants where Newman worked, some were high-morale, high-productivity machines. Others were miserable, misplaced circles of hell. Yet one common trait stuck out from them all: Each restaurant's respective manager determined the climate of the work environment.
Go behind the fast food counter with Newman and see what happens on an average day on the “McJob”…
how the restaurants are run (for better or worse)
how managers reward good employees when raises are impossible (believe it or not, bosses give 'em more hours-and it works!)
how morale and motivation spring directly from the manager's office
and how a few simple adjustments to your own management style-the “Supersized Management Principles” in this book-can transform and invigorate your workplace
Customer Reviews:
Good Content.......2007-07-12
Interesting content, stories, and points from "Behind the counter," but the organization and writing were not impressive. Prof. Newman talks about the skills matrix with stars for mastered skills at least three times as though it was the first and only time he introduced the idea. Didnt provide and concrete conclusions and seemed to just be a rather random conglomeration of thoughts and points.
Mini McJob review.......2007-05-14
I read a review of this book in a newspaper and decided immediately that I had to have it. The author writes in an easy, conversational tone - in point of fact, I finished it in one weekend. Through his various part-time job descriptions at fast food restaurants you become acquainted with far-ranging management philosophies (especially the "toxic" managers), training programs (or lack thereof), and a greater appreciation for life behind the counter. Both my wife and I are much more tolerant of the mistakes made by people who hold these McJobs. And, yes, I would love to take a business management course from Dr. Newman!
If you are in retail/fast food management...a must read..........2007-04-25
As a convenience store manager, I saw myself and peers in this book (the good, the bad and the ugly). I laughted, I cringed, and most importantly, I learned! A fascinating, informative and thoughtful read. Thank you Jerry Newman for your 14 months undercover!!
strongly recommend!.......2007-03-19
It's a great book: intelligent and interesting, both professional and entertaining. I worked in Taco Bell for near a year before I entered my MBA program, will graduate in 2 months, just recently got a job in HR management. I'm going to buy more books to give to my friends in Taco Bell, in this MBA program, and my future Human Resource department co-workers.
Great Insider Analysis! Mediocre Writing Style..........2007-03-16
Society places fast-food workers at the bottom rung of society - but Jerry Newman's experiment does an great job showing why we should change our thinking about the people working in these McJobs. In an industry where everything is seemingly identical, different management styles really stand out. I learned a lot about managing people in high turnover industries like fast food and why hiring for personality works so well.
I sort of feel like each chapter in the book was written at some point in time independent from all the others; then merged together without good connections between chapters. There is also a lot of repetition and many of the stories are told two or three times.
Overall a great and quick read!
Book Description
In this short, powerful book, multimillionaire and bestselling author Steven K. Scott reveals King Solomon’s breakthrough strategies to achieve a life of financial success and personal fulfillment.
Steve Scott flunked out of every job he held in his first six years after college. He couldn’t succeed no matter how hard he tried. Then Dr. Gary Smalley challenged him to study the book of Proverbs, promising that in doing so he would achieve greater success and happiness than he had ever known. That promise came true, making Scott a millionaire many times over.
In The Richest Man Who Ever Lived, Scott reveals Solomon’s key for winning every race, explains how to resolve conflicts and turn enemies into allies, and discloses the five qualities essential to becoming a valued and admired person at work and in your personal life. Scott illustrates each of Solomon’s insights and strategies with anecdotes about his personal successes and failures, as well as those of such extraordinary people as Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Edison, Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, and Steven Spielberg.
At once inspiring and instructive, THE RICHEST MAN WHO EVER LIVED weaves the timeless truths of one of our greatest works of literature into a detailed roadmap for successful living today.
Customer Reviews:
Just read Proverbs.......2007-09-13
The book is redundant and contradictory of itself. First the author says he didn't follow Proverbs as a young man then he says because of following Proverbs as a young man things went his way. I commend the author's efforts and I believe to some degree he does live by The Good Book, but honestly I think we all know what the author wants you to do, and what the Man Upstairs wants you to do. I now read Proverbs daily. It is a wonderful thing to do and I've recommended it to many. Rather than buy this book go download Proverbs and start reading. If you are looking for a book that will take you about 3 hours to read that will ultimately tell you to read Proverbs about 100 times then read this book. Thank you for your time.
Dynamic Wisdom.......2007-08-13
This book definitely changes your perspective and causes you to reposition yourself concerning the promises and principles of God.
A challenge with a promise........2007-07-25
After praying about what career advice to give his friend, Gary Smaller offered his friend Steve Scott a challenge in which he promised that if Steve would follow the advice, he would not only be successful, but would be a millionaire in 5 years. The challenge was to read a chapter of the proverbs every day. Since there are 31 chapters in proverbs, and most months have 31 days, he was instructed to read the chapter that corresponded to the day of the month. Steve took the advice and made good on the promise his friend gave him.
The book is based on the principals/lessons/advice from the Proverbs. It explores the meanings of certain passages and shows how to derive benefit from them. Steve shares some of his own experiences throughout.
Solomon was the wisest, richest man that ever was or will be. Seems like someone worth listening to and studying doesn't it?
This is a book that can make a positive difference in your life.
Great Book.......2007-07-16
Great Book that discusses the benefit of not going alone but having other like minded individuals around you. Backs a lot of his thoughts/facts with scripture from the book of Proverbs. I actually read the book about a year ago and am currently re-reading it. Great book, great, easy, quick read.
Finances by the Wisest Man.......2007-07-10
Great Book Sucess based on biblical principles We read it on a trip as a couple--enjoyed it!
Book Description
The appearance, more than sixty years after the Spanish Civil War ended, of mass graves containing victims of Francisco Franco’s death squads finally broke what Spaniards call “the pact of forgetting”—the unwritten understanding that their recent, painful past was best left unexplored. At this charged moment, Giles Tremlett embarked on a journey around the country and through its history to discover why some of Europe’s most voluble people have kept silent so long.
Ghosts of Spain is the fascinating result of that journey. In elegant and passionate prose, Tremlett unveils the tinderbox of disagreements that mark the country today. Delving into such emotional questions as who caused the Civil War, why Basque terrorists kill, why Catalans hate Madrid, and whether the Islamist bombers who killed 190 people in 2004 dreamed of a return to Spain’s Moorish past, Tremlett finds the ghosts of the past everywhere. At the same time, he offers trenchant observations on more quotidian aspects of Spanish life today: the reasons, for example, Spaniards dislike authority figures, but are cowed by a doctor’s white coat, and how women have embraced feminism without men noticing.
Drawing on the author’s twenty years of experience living in Spain, Ghosts of Spain is a revelatory book about one of Europe’s most exciting countries.
Customer Reviews:
An outsider's insight.......2007-05-28
A British journalist who has lived 20 years in Spain, married and raising his 2 children in Madrid, the author investigates, reveals and muses upon Spanish culture, history and the forces of the "two Spains" as they come together, or rub against each other, in forming the modern Spanish world. A fascinating look at Spain, its subcultures from the Basques to the Catalans to flamenco to the Galicians, to drug culture to tourism and the very difficult and delicate process of choosing to forget the differences of the Spanish Civil War and Franco's regime in order to move forward in a country that was once the most powerful on earth.
I like Spain and its history. This is one of the very best insights into modern Spain. Highly recommended.
A Pale Secret.......2007-05-22
A liberal British newspaper reporter's hit and miss attempt at a book explaining Spain (his nearly adopted country) to us outsiders. Some hits (like how modern Spain handles the dark legacy of Franco) are offset by a number of misses.
Historical facts, or guesses as to historical facts, get thrown in as space fillers; events that catch Mr. Tremlett's fancy are highlighted, whether reflective of the whole Spanish society or not; the level of writing is often barely above that of a talented reporter on deadline. The final meandering chapter entitled "Moderns and Ruins", especially, cries out for editing.
Great book about a fascinating country.......2007-05-19
This is a great journalistic account of the social and political changes that have transformed Spain up to the present day. Tremlett discusses the country's past and present in fairly equal measure. He begins by looking at the legacies of the Spanish Civil War, discussing how only in the past decade has the full scale of the atrocities that took place come to light. He discusses how Spaniards whose relatives were killed by the Francoists have pushed in recent years for their relatives to be given decent burials. He also writes an interesting chapter on Franco's overall legacy, arguing that after his death and the country's transition to democracy he has been largely purged from public discourse. Despite this collective amnesia that he identifies, Tremlett points out that the same left-right cleavage that drove the war still lurks below the surface of Spanish society. The book also contains chapters on the Basque, Catalan, and Galician regions. Tremlett provides very insightful analysis of the origins of and main forces behind Basque and Catalan nationalism, while his chapter on Galicia details that region's emergence as a conduit for Columbian cocaine. One of my favorite chapters looked at gender relations in Spain, in which Tremlett provides some very amusing anecdotes that reveal contrasts between Spain and his native Britain. This chapter also discusses Tremlett's quest to understand the paradox of how a country can be so awash in brothels (which, he reports, 1/4 of Spanish men visited) yet relatively conservative in terms of the sexual mores of its people.
Other subjects covered here include Spain's emergence as a global tourism magnet (and the corruption that has often emerged alongside it) and the 2004 Madrid train bombing, which indirectly led to the defeat of the ruling party in the elections several days later. This was an interesting chapter, in which Tramlett looked at the ways in which the main parties tried to capitalize on this tragedy for political gain. Overall, I found Tremlett to be a very keen analyst of social and political relations, and there weren't really any weak chapters. For instance, I considered skipping a chapter on flamenco music, not being particularly interested in the musical form itself, but the chapter ended up including a fascinating discussion of the social history of Spain's gypsies.
Overall, I would heartily recommend this book to anybody interested in Spanish history, culture, and/or politics. I would NOT recommend it to those expecting more of a travel guide type of book; although Tremlett does visit and write evocatively about numerous regions, such descriptions are not the main substance of this book. If I had to make one minor criticism, it is that the chapters themselves were often not tightly organized. For example, the chapter on the Basques jumps from past to present and does not really follow any sort of structure. This wasn't really a problem for me, because Tremlett writes well and never bored me, but it might be a problem to some. Another minor complaint is that the book doesn't include a map, which might have been useful for readers like me who aren't intimately familiar with Spain's geography. Overall, though, I think that this is social and political journalism at its finest, and anybody wishing to learn more about this fascinating country could do worse than to start here!
Spain's a Fun Country to Visit.......2007-04-29
The first time tht I went to Spain the country was still under Franco. When getting off the plane, every arriving passenger was photographed. This set a tone that made you never forget where you were. Now going to Spain is like going to any other country. There is no problem going from one city to another. The people are friendly to Americans. The food, trains, hotels, highways are all good.
This book looks underneath these obvious outward trappings to the held over anguish from the Franco time. He also looks further backwards to the regional conflicts with Basque seperatists, and more recently to the Islamist bombers who killed 190 people using bomb attacks in 2004.
Spain remains a little bit different than the rest of Western Europe. Mr. Tremlett has lived in Spain for twenty years and has done an excellent job of bringing together the history and the current situation to explain the current country that is Spain.
The Real Spain.......2007-04-15
Giles Tremlett has written a highly readable, incisive portrait of Spain today--its problems and its pleasures. His presentation of the manner in which Spain has chosen to deal with the aftermath of Francisco Franco's death is particularly well written and revealing. He examines how the decades of dictatorship and brutal repression have been swept under the rug of collective consciousness by Spaniards choosing not to confront it or attempt to reconcile themselves with this difficult episode in their nation's history. The author's years of closely observing Spain, and reporting on its politics and culture for Britain's most respected newspaper, The Guardian, have given him a wonderful sense of both the large picture and the quotidian details, which do so much to bring this book to life.
Anyone wanting a sense of what today's Spain is all about will find it in these pages.
Book Description
Think and Grow Rich!: The Original Version, Restored and Revised. Napoleon Hill's classic book -- the all-time bestseller in the personal success field -- offers a life-altering experience. It teaches thousands of people the practical steps to high achievement and financial independence every year. This new edition is the first to contain extensive footnotes, endnotes, appendices, and an index. Now more than a motivational work, it is also a reference book and a mini-history book providing valuable information about Hill, his times, and his success philosophy. TGR's greatest value is not only that it can make you financially successful. It can help YOU -- or ANYONE -- get whatever it is that you desire from life.
Customer Reviews:
In a self-improvement class by itself.......2007-10-10
Without doubt this is one of the strangest books I've ever read - a combination of dime store psychology and million dollar insights, scientific mumbo jumbo and indisputable facts of life. Of course, you have to make allowances because Hill first published the book in 1937 (!). Amazingly, it's just as relevant and potentially life transforming now as it no doubt was then. (This edition restores lots of original text that was edited out when Hill re-released "Think" in 1960. Ample footnotes provide context for historical references unfamiliar to modern readers.)
The essence of "Think" can be summed up in Hill's signature phrase, "Whatever, friend, you can conceive and believe, you can achieve!"
Hill puts forth 13 steps for internalizing this conceive-believe-achieve mindset necessary for success. Although upon first reading "Think" seems to equate success with piling up obscene amounts of money, Hill goes much deeper. Several times he implores us to decide for ourselves what success means - remembering his principles apply equally well to any goals we set out to accomplish. Hill himself admits his emphasis on money stems from the social conditions of his time, when America was languishing in poverty during the Great Depression.
What I thought made Hill's techniques so persuasive is the twenty-five years of research he put into developing them, based on close-hand observation of super-achievers including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Andrew Carnegie. If these gentlemen were living examples of Hill's ideas, what more can you ask for?
Even without the research, Hill's advice ring true. But don't expect soothing comfort pills from this self-help book. First, Hill gets in your face. He forces you to face the brutal truth of who you are through a series of self-diagnostic questions designed to take you way out of your comfort zone. Then, Hill puts you to work. His methods force you to think, act, and drill yourself into a whole new way of thinking about life. I'm sure it takes a few readings just to take the first baby steps on Hill's path (I'm on my second reading now).
Anybody who wants more from life, who feels confused, indecisive, frustrated, or oppressed, to any degree whatsoever, in any aspect of his or her life, will benefit from reading this book. It's already making a difference for me.
a collection of oblique and unexplained parables.......2007-10-07
I picked this book up after a rave review by a friend more than 15 years ago.
I started reading it and it made no sense to me. Unlike the parables of Christ, where He at least is credited with stopping for a moment to explain what each story was intended to mean, this book just rambles on.
The parts of it that I finished represented an excruciating exercise in gnostic behavior. It's actually in your face about it suggesting that if you don't understand the stories, you're just stupid. I would not recommend this book to anyone. Only the author knows what it was intended to mean.
If you would like to start learning about how to take care of your clients and employees, I would recommend beginning with "Zapp!" by William Byham. If you need to discover relevant things about yourself and how to begin shaping your future, I would suggest "What Color is Your Parachute" by Richard Bolles, both current and past editions, as he has provided a collection of valuable study tools over the years.
Five Stars for a Classic!.......2007-09-19
If I had known how simple it would be to change my life I would have done it long ago. I was lucky enough to be given this book by a dear friend. With proper thinking my dreams have come true. I sold my book Never Trust A Man In Alligator Loafers in just three weeks! Life has become a series of "creative solutions" and I'm happy for it. My goal is to open my mind to allow the *really big thoughts* to come through and actualize my potential. I know that when I think it's possible it is. And life magically gets a lot more fun!
Read With A Group.......2007-09-04
First of all, of the various versions of "Think and Grow Rich" that are out there, this one is my favorite. The Editor has really done his homework to bring Napoleon Hill's Original work into historical context without bringing in modern day examples like other versions do.
Secondly, I highly recommend reading this book at the rate of a chapter a week with a group study. I had read this book by myself before, but have really accelerated my Awareness by reading it every 3-4 months with a different group of people. You don't have to do it that often, but each time you read this book, you get more and more out of it!
Finally, don't just read the book, but follow the specific instructions laid out in the book. This is the book that every success book out there is based on...it's the original. Do this, and you'll find greatness.
Cheers from the Windy City,
Ryan McIntyre
Think and grow rich.......2007-08-28
This book will be around forever. I have read it at least 10 times now and find some great enlightenment every thin.
Book Description
Another Spencer Johnson #1 Bestseller
#1 New York Times Business
#1 Wall Street Journal
#1 BusinessWeek
From the Author of Who Moved My Cheese?
Dr. Spencer Johnson’s stories of timeless, simple truths have changed the work and lives of millions of readers around the world. Now comes an insightful new tale of inspiration and practical guidance for these turbulent times.
Good Things Happen To Those Who Open The Present
The Gift That Makes Your Work And Life Better Each Day!
For over two decades, Spencer Johnson has been inspiring and entertaining millions with his simple yet insightful stories of work and life that speak directly to the heart and soul. The Present is an engaging story of a young man’s journey to adulthood, and his search for The Present, a mysterious and elusive gift he first hears about from a great old man. This Present, according to the old man, is “the best present a person can receive.”
Later, when the young boy becomes a young man, disillusioned with his work and his life, he returns to ask the old man, once again, to help him find The Present. The old man responds, “Only you have the power to find The Present for yourself.” So the young man embarks on a tireless search for this magical gift that holds the secret to his personal happiness and business success.It is only after the young man has searched high and low and given up his relentless pursuit that he relaxes and discovers The Present—and all of the promises it offers.
The Present will help you focus on what will make you happier and more successful in your work and in your personal life, today! Like the young man, you may find that it is the best gift you can give yourself.
www.ThePresent.com
Customer Reviews:
Christians Beware of Hollow Philosophy.......2007-05-18
The Present by Spencer Johnson is a self-proclaimed life changing book for those who would incorporate its principles. For those who have not read it, the book is all about living in the present, and focusing on the positive aspects of every moment, never focusing on the negative. It presents these teachings by telling a story (typical of existential philosophy). The story is about an old man (read: guru) who shares the secret of meaningful living throughout the life of a man seeking answers. The old man never seems worried; he is always relaxed and appears to be at peace with life and the world. Through a series of cryptic messages, the old man teaches the other man that he can find meaning in the "present," which essentially consists of an existential experience that each person defines for themselves. By focusing on the good in the moment, we can find peace, meaning, and success.
This book ascribes to a combination of existential philosophy and Zen Budhism, blurring the line of truth. Truth is not seen as an objective thing, but an existential experience. Experience, not propositional truth, is the key to unlocking the meaning of life. Salvation comes through the teachings of a human guru leading to spiritual enlightenment, which man can achieve on his own. By definition, this is a godless philosophy.
The Present ignores the real problem of man: his depravity. I can be "in the moment," or practicing carpe diem while engaging in ungodly behavior. Of course, this is all up for interpretation. The existentialist is not interested in my definition of right and wrong, but only in his subjective experience. There is no authority to which one can appeal. So what if my carpe diem approach hurts others? It is up to the practicioner to decide if that is against his value system, which is determined by a kierkegaardian leap of faith, rather than any transcendent moral standard.
There is truth in most errors, though. That is were the deception lies. The message of focusing on the positive can be helpful, but only in the biblical sense of giving thanks to God in all circumstances (1 Thes 5:18), not in avoiding pain. What is right is more important than what makes me feel good. Jesus told his followers they would (and should) suffer, and exemplified it through the cross. While suffering, he cried out "My God, why have you foraken me" (Mark 15:34). This is the most poinent of the examples of partial truths, though there are others.
Much more could be said. The point is this: "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." (Col. 2:8) In the end, what the author tries to do will not work: his program cannot offer real hope to mankind, for it does not deal with human depravity. Rather than seeking to find meaning by focusing on my present, we truly find it in God's presence. The quest for ultimate meaning is found in a relationship with the God of infinity, and through developing intimacy with Him. For a much better alternative to The Present, read Practicing His Presence by Brother Lawrence and Frank Laubach.
Energize the team and prioritize.......2007-02-19
I purchased this book for my department at work. The team was under a lot of pressure to perform and as is often the case in adverse conditions, some were beginning to blame others and lose focus on the tasks at hand given the large amount of work yet to be done.
The response I recieved from the workforce was varied but all positive. Living in the present, learning from our past, preparing for the future, and living with purpose has become a sound bite in our department. The book is a quick read (less than 90 minutes), is entertaining, comes on CD if you want a book on tape rather than paper, and has been talked about far more than the time it took my team to read it.
If you have customers or coworkers that do important work and you have lost touch with what needs to be done, this book will help you step back from your task saturation and reflect on where you are at, where you need to go and why it is important for you to do so.
This is a book I will share for many years to come.
The Present Is A Gift.......2007-01-20
A lot of wisdom and common sense wrapped up in a small package! Easy and fun to read yet, as deep and profound as you want to go.
The Present Will Change Your Life.......2006-12-07
Often when I host a Leadersway training session I ask which of the many books we have read the group found most valuable. The answer I receive most often is, "The one about The Present".
"The Present", by Spencer Johnson is a great little book of only 104 pages that is packed full of more good advice than most books twice its size. The concept is simple, yet complex; the ideas are easy, yet difficult; the message is clear, yet indistinct. You must think, focus, and seek to understand "The Present".
For those of you who have not read this great book, or need a refresher, here is a condensed version of the concepts that you need to remember.
Always remember that you live neither in the past nor the future. You only live in the present. Therefore, you will be happiest and at your most productive when you focus on what is happening at the current moment in time. That is the essence of it.
Always focus on what is "right" in the present moment. Never focus on the negative in any situation. Focus on the positive and you will make good things happen. You will never make a positive choice or create a positive result in the present if you focus on the negative.
Speaking of focus: Always focus, focus, focus. When you are speaking with someone focus on them and what they are saying. Eliminate extraneous thoughts of other things, turn away from your computer, turn off your phone, and pay attention. That's it! Your life will be much better by simply applying that one simple rule to your dealings with others. You will learn more about them and they will appreciate you much more. Apply this to all elements of your job and your life. You will be much more successful and the fruits of your labor will be that much sweeter.
You need not eliminate the past or the future from your life completely. You should learn from the past. Remember your mistakes and take steps not to make the same ones over and over again. Also, remember to recall the good things of the past and attempt to recreate them. In times of trouble, always buoy yourself up with good memories and positive thoughts.
Do not make the mistake of wasting your present by dreaming of an imaginary or unrealistic future. You must always plan for the future and do positive things in the present in order to attain your goals. "Plan your work and work your plan." Do not wish your life away by making unfounded assumptions that the future will be better than the present unless you have done the work and laid the plans to make your dreams come true.
The Present is all you have right now. Enjoy it and live it to the fullest!
A logical companion book to "The Present" is "Always Remember: If it ain't fun it ain't Worth Doing!" This one will show you how to use the "Present" in real workplace situations... Wayne Kehl
A Take-Away Told in a Clever Story.......2006-10-17
I picked up this book at the recommendation that the moral of this book would do me some good -- and it did. The key take-away is woven through a clever story of this short book. I picked it up at the bookstore and read through it in a few hours. It is recommended for those looking for a reminder to see what's in front of them now (i.e. Don't forget to smell the flowers). However, it is NOT recommended for those looking for an eye-opening revelation.
Caveat/Note: I have not read any of Johnson's other books but I would consider taking a look at it based on my review of this book.
Book Description
In The Attractor Factor, Joe Vitale combines principles of spiritual self-discovery with proven marketing concepts to show how anyone can live a happy life in and outside of business. He shares his own quest for wealth and success while leading you through the five simple steps that will make all your aspirations, professional and personal, a reality.
Download Description
"
A breakthrough practical spiritual guide to achieving all your goals
For the first time ever, one of the rarely discussed formulas for building wealth and achieving success in all areas is revealed in The Attractor Factor. Popular marketing and spirituality guru Joe Vitale argues that those who try hard and fail need to remake their inner beings in order to easily attract success, wealth, and happiness. Many people do the right things but get the wrong results; it's not so much what they do, as what they are inside. The problem for most people is self-sabotage. In five easy steps, Vitale shows anyone how to become happier and more successful by doing a few simple things differently every day. Part wealth-creation guide, part spiritual road map, part autobiography, The Attractor Factor offers inspiring, effective answers for anyone who wants to feel better, be happier, get wealthier, and get ahead in life.
Joe Vitale (Wimberley, TX) is President of Hypnotic Marketing, Inc., a marketing consulting firm. He has been called "the Buddha of the Internet" for his combination of spirituality and marketing acumen. His articles are widely read and his professional clients include The Red Cross, PBS, Hermann Children's Hospital, and many other small and large international businesses. His past books include There's a Customer Born Every Minute and The AMA Complete Guide to Small Business Advertising.
Customer Reviews:
The Attractor Factor.......2007-10-08
Joe spells out his 5 steps easily with plenty of examples for the reader to relate to. I highly recommend this easy read for anyone looking to change where they are or to move closer to where they want to be in any area of their life.
Great Book.......2007-10-04
The Attractor Factor" by Joe Vitale presents a clear five step process for prosperity. The book contains insights into how to manifest what you really want in life. We are reminded that our thoughts are always within our control, however there are some aspects of life that are truely unchangeable.
This book has the potential to be life transforming.
Some more great New Age Transformative books are;
The Secret
Nexus: A Neo Novel
Attactor Factor.......2007-09-24
This Book in incredible for keeping you on track and focused on positive thinking on all levels.
100% Recomended.......2007-09-17
This book changed my life forever. Specially the chapter "Be Happy Right Now". My change started with this chapter. I love Joe Vitale's job. This book is very easy to read and easy ti apply. 100% recomended to every human beign. Thanks again Joe Vitale for changing my life. God bless you always. Thanks!
Attractor Factor by Joe Vitale.......2007-09-15
I found the Attractor Factor, easy to understand and read. The concept
provided is well presented and significant in personal development.
Customer Reviews:
prosperity consciousness from another source.......2007-08-05
Florence Scovel Shinn was writing about prosperity consciousness in the late 1800's and early 1900's, well ahead of the current trend. Her books are easy to read and easy to understand. I highly recommend this book to all of my friends and they are purchasing it and doing the same. That says it all in my mind.
Changed my entire approach to living. . ........2007-07-06
The Game of Life and How to Play It has been the most influential self-help reading to date that I have found. The book is easy to read and understand. I have read my copy probably 15 times; pages are beginning to fall out. The fact that it is divided into sections for life's encounters, e.g., prosperity, love, etc., I can go back when I need help getting through the rough times to that particular section and gain strength and guidence. Once read, the writings just all come together to make more sense about approaching life's daily challenges than anything I have ever read; and, trust me I've read plenty of self-help books. I love this book so much that I have bought 6 copies to give to beloved family members and close friends because I do not want to keep the insights this book reveals to myself. I want everyone I care deeply about to experience what this book has to offer. Great read, great lessons!
Brilliant!.......2007-06-13
I've had this book for years and have worn out the cover. I refer to it constantly. I purchased copies for friends and have been doing so since I first read it. Florence was before her time!
My Favorite Book of All Time!.......2007-06-09
Absolutely without question the most charming and inspiring book I've ever read. My copy is lovingly dog-eared, my loaner copy is in the same condition and I've bought several as gifts.
Of all the "positive thinkers", including the much more well-known such as Louise Hay and Norman Vincent Peale, Florence is the most enjoyable to read and the easiest to apply to your life, in my opinion.
Reading her is sheer delight and an instant mood-lifter and problem-solver, every time.
before the secret.......2007-05-17
This is an amazing collection of writings that gives real and practial ways to move forward in life. A Lady well before her time, the princibles that she teaches are not secrets just forgotten over time.
Have a little faith, change your Life.
C.M. Dwyer
Books:
- Winter of the Wolf Moon: A Mystery (An Alex McKnight Novel)
- Wolf's Blood (Wolf)
- 101 Cataclysms: For the Love of Cats
- 15 Books in 1: L. Frank Baum's Original "Oz" Series. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, The Marvelous Land of Oz, Ozma of Oz, Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz, The Road to Oz, The Emerald City of Oz, The Patchwork Girl Of Oz, Little Wizard Stories of Oz, Tik-Tok of Oz, The Scarecrow Of Oz, Rinkitink In Oz, The Lost Princess Of Oz, The Tin Woodman Of Oz, The Magic of Oz, and Glinda Of Oz.
- 30 Years a Watchtower Slave: The Confessions of a Converted Jehovahs Witness
- A Dangerous Path (Warriors, Book 5)
- A Single Shard
- Advance and Retreat: Personal Experiences in the United States and Confederate States Armies
- Against a Crimson Sky: A Novel
- All the Pretty Horses
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- What'd I Say: The Atlantic Story
- Tapping the Healer Within : Using Thought-Field Therapy to Instantly Conquer Your Fears, Anxieties,
- Final Appeal
- Imperfect Strangers
- Introducing Character Animation with Blender
- Introduction to Spectroscopy
- My Life
- How Artists See Cities: Streets Buildings Shops Transportation
- EXPLORING PACIFIC COAST TIDE POOLS
- John Sherman,
General | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul
Wild at Heart Field Manual: A Personal Guide to Discover the Secret of Your Masculine Soul
Captivating: A Guided Journal: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul
The Way of the Wild Heart: A Map for the Masculine Journey
Waking the Dead: The Glory of a Heart Fully Alive
