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.

King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature Masculine

Average customer rating:

Also a must read for Men.
More stars!
Essential Reading. Deservedly, one of the defining books in the mens movement
To anyone who might be interested in psychology or personal growth
Prequel

King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature Masculine
Robert Moore , and Douglas Gillette
Manufacturer: HarperOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0062506064

Book Description

Arguing that mature masculinity is not abusive or domineering, but generative, creative, and empowering of the self and others, Moore and Gillette provide a Jungian introduction to the psychological foundations of a mature, authentic, and revitalized masculinity.

Customer Reviews:

Also a must read for Men........2007-04-14

Two key books all men should read (that are not part of their faith), this book and Iron John by Robert Bly. It give positive models of being a man that is compassionate and effective in the world. Thanks Robert Moore for writing it. This is for a mature man that has the courage to look at himself and life.

More stars!.......2006-12-17

This is an absolutely spectacular answer to a lot of societal gender issues--not the only answer, mind you, but an excellent tool to have in your self-development arsenal. This includes women, too (I'll get to that in a minute).

The four archetypes in the title are covered both in adult and juvenile versions, in brief in the first chapter, and then the mature archetypes get an entire chapter dedicated to each. Both the positive, healthy aspects, and the Shadow aspects, are covered. The language is wonderfully easy on the eyes, conversational without losing content.

As I read, I found myself recognizing a lot of the traits of these archetypes in people I knew--and myself. I strongly urge everyone, not just men, to snag a copy of this. It's not just so that women can finally "understand men". It's because this is also a map to the Animus, that within women which is male, and which is often lost track of. I found myself nodding in recognition at both Boy and Man traits of various archetypes that I found to be familiar within myself, and this has definitely given me more to chew on.

And, in the very back of the book there are several meditations that basically amount to what magicians know as pathworking and invocation for readers to use to work with their own archetypal selves. This is very much a valuable tool, and I'm surprised it hasn't gotten more mention in the pagan community since I've heard grumbling now and then that paganism is too female-centric. This book has been out since 1990, and I think it would go a long way in helping not only pagan men, but (as I said before) people in general understand *human* psychology better.

I also like that it places responsibility at the foot of certain threads of feminism for some of the more recent anti-male sentiments in society, particularly that which blames all men for all the problems women have while vehemently denying that men actually have problems, thanks to their male "privilege". My own approach to feminism had always been similar to Action Girl - Girl-positive and female-friendly -- never anti-boy. While I think the work is far from being over, I'm less of a feminist these days and more of an "everyone-ist". If we're going to really bring equality into reality in any capacity, we have to extend that equality to everyone, not just women. I've talked to enough men who aren't exactly happy with the bad conditioning and pigeonholes they get stuck into, and I believe that rather than trying to place the blame for the way things are in the hands of one sex or another, it needs to be directed at the culture in general that breeds insecurity. As the authors pointed out, patriarchy isn't caused by masculine energy in general--it's caused by immature masculine energy that is not only anti-female, but anti-mature male as well. This book is an excellent tool for deprogramming the destructive, immature masculine and helping to promote the healthy, creative masculine.

Okay, off my soapbox now....

For the bad parts--the authors refer to sadomasochism as "perversion" and male humiliation of women. Um, no. Ignore this part. It's one of the few parts that does date the book. Also, I really wish they'd gone into more detail on how to work with the archetypes, instead of a couple of paragraphs at the end of each chapter. There are books for at least three of the four archetypes on their own, but they're out of print and very expensive to get ahold of.

But, in short, really, really, really good book, recommended to anyone.

Essential Reading. Deservedly, one of the defining books in the mens movement.......2006-12-04

I really enjoyed this book on the Archetypes of the Lover, Magician, Warrior and King when I first read it and find myself referring back to it often. It's based on a combination a study of the archetypes and Jungian psychology. Of course, the archetypes have their foundation in the medicine wheel and the four cardinal directions and all that they represent (earth, fire, air, water etc.).

I've done workshops based on the archetypes which I've really found valuable and enjoyable. Most men animate one of the energies (Lover, Magician, King or Warrior) as their natural home, for myself it has been the Magician and when I first started this type of work I discovered the other feminine polarity, the Lover (which women love!) and worked more on those of the Warrior and King (perhaps the hardest) as circumstances in my life have required. I've found it to be a really invaluable model for the masculine psyche. There are few men who can do all of the quadrants well. That requires becoming concious and doing substantial inner work. Most men tend to hang out in one quadrant, and, unfortunately, animate the negative side of that quadrant... (although thats only through habit, fear and not having awareness) which is why it's invaluable to have the awareness of the positive and negative role models.

I agree with other reviewers, it's not a self-help book as such, so it doesn't contain lots of recommendations about practices, how to practically use the ideas. It is however, I belive, a valuable contribution to the men's movement and something men can use to reflect upon and guide their actions.

Most valuable is the section on boy psychology, the immature form of the masculine psyche and the shadow side, something all men know only too well, something I think it's often hard for women to understand. How many men out there these days have the magician energy and operate from it's shadow form as detached manipulators... (just look at business today)with the knowledge of the shadow, we can embrace it and own in ourselves (no easy task) and see it clearly and not become subject to the covert manipulation of others. These ideas are worth more than the cost of this book alone. When you look at the other shadow forms of the masculine psyche Moore has illustrated - the weakling king (just look at most our political leaders) or the addicted lover (our addictions to sex and to temporary hits of pleasure) or the Warrior (masochist).

Also, while it can be considered a prequel to the other boooks, I think it's worthy of buying on its own. I found a few of the others in the series light on in terms of content / depth (because much of the content is the same across each volume). That said, it must have been a very hard job to research and write the volumes, so have no criticism from that standpoint. The books are undoubtedly inspirational and anything that helps me connect more to my masculine and my fellow men is very much welcomed in my quarter.

I've listened to one of the author's tape sets - on the Magician, and I quite enjoyed it. Although there's no way I'd take much of what he said at face value. It's great when a group of men come together and be real, talk about their challenges, victories, hopes, desires and laugh and connect with one another and for that, those tapes were worth their weight in gold.

I'd highly recommend also Sam Keen's 'Fire in the Belly', Iron John, Knights without Armour, and for advanced spiritual practitioners anything by David Deida, starting with his wonderful 'Way of the Superior Man' for an outline of his 'model' see intimate communion or you'll find him on the web.

Think about it, imagine men being really connected to their warriors (to get things done), their heart (lover), have the tools and awareness to create change and transformation in the world (magician) and be in their true, authentic power (King) to guide, inspire and lead others to create that change for the good of all. And then consider what we see in the world today... people acting unconsciously out of their fears, greed, selfishness, ingrained unconscious patterns and gross sense of separativeness and self centredness. You can see why this work is so important.

There are far too few books in the mens movement, and even fewer good ones, this is one of better ones. We're lucky to have men who've put the effort into creating works like this. Highly recommended reading!

To anyone who might be interested in psychology or personal growth.......2006-11-10

King, Warrior, Magician, Lover is a great book.
Personally, what I've found most interesting was the picturing of how men can manifest the archetype's energies in infantile manners. It's also very interesting how it maps the archetypes with certain myths and religions. Personally, I like the "all the different theories fit together" feeling it gives.
I would not say that this is a self-help book. But in times where children raising is so poor, the book plays its part in helping men become more mature. And that is very, very valuable.
That's it. Sorry for my bad english.

Prequel.......2004-10-02

In such a slim volume, the authors did a splendid job of introducing the reader to their 4 male archetypes. They concisely describe these archetypes and provide some arguments for their theory and some applications of their findings. Moore is a Jungian psychologist and Gillette is a mythologist. It's an interesting and fertile collaboration of specialties. But, they simply cannot do justice to the 4 archetypes in one, tiny, volume. Thus, they wrote and published a volume on each of the 4 archetypes (5 books in all). Therefore, I'd consider this an introductory volume or prequel (a bit like the Hobbit to the Lord of the Rings trilogy). It's good in its own right, but better viewed as part of a much larger work. This larger work rates at least 5 stars. By the way, Dr. Moore has also produced numerous audio tapes for the C. G. Jung Institute of Chicago (I'm a life member) which you can buy (or rent if you join). He's a great speaker. In addition to listening to the tapes, I've heard him in person when he came to Maryland. Great drawl!

Crazy Horse and Custer: The Parallel Lives of Two American Warriors

Average customer rating:

A new perspective
Great introduction to 2 somewhat parallel lives
Crazy Horse and Custer
Death in Battle - Death in Peace
Interesting

Crazy Horse and Custer: The Parallel Lives of Two American Warriors
Stephen E. Ambrose
Manufacturer: Anchor
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0385479662
Release Date: 1996-05-01

Book Description

On the sparkling morning of June 25, 1876, 611 men of the United States 7th Cavalry rode toward the banks of the Little Bighorn in the Montana Territory, where 3,000 Indians stood waiting for battle. The lives of two great warriors would soon be forever linked throughout history: Crazy Horse, leader of the Oglala Sioux, and General George Armstrong Custer. Both were men of aggression and supreme courage. Both became leaders in their societies at very early ages; both were stripped of power, in disgrace, and worked to earn back the respect of their people. And to both of them, the unspoiled grandeur of the Great Plains of North America was an irresistible challenge. Their parallel lives would pave the way, in a manner unknown to either, for an inevitable clash between two nations fighting for possession of the open prairie.

Customer Reviews:

A new perspective.......2007-08-23

I have been a big fan of Ambrose and have read most of his books. I grew up in Montana and was aware of "Custer's Battlefield". The name was changed from Custer's Last Stand to the Battle of the Bighorn. Very appropriate.
Ambrose opened my eyes to the policy of the government as it related to the "Indian Wars". He does a great job in positioning both Custer and Crazy Horse throughout their lives and how they were destined to meet in SE Montana.

This book helps me understand how the Native Americans were treated and mistreated during the opening of the west.

If you are a history fan, I encourage you to read Stephen Ambose's works. His details allow you to put yourself in the shoes of an observer to history. Check out Undaunted Courage if you want to see the world through the eyes of Lewis and Clark.

Great introduction to 2 somewhat parallel lives.......2007-06-10

I went into this book primariliy interested in crazy horse, yet by about half way through i was captivated with custer. Many of Mr. Ambrose's detractors say he stretches the facts. This could easily be true, i am in no way an expert on either crazy horse nor custer. Yet when i walk away from this book i dont remember many facts but more so feel as though i have a sense of who these two individuals were and how they operated in their respective worlds. If i was writing a dissertation on the topic i probably wouldnt cite this as a source, at the same time i think this is a great introduction book to crazy horse, custer, and the indian wars. Overall its a captiviating and fun read, enjoy!

Crazy Horse and Custer.......2007-01-09

Excellent book-goes into depth about both of their lives and the parallels between them.

Death in Battle - Death in Peace.......2006-08-30

They are books like those written by Stephen Ambrose which keep the flame of my interest in reading of times and events of long ago burning. Some have accused Ambrose of taking too many liberties with the facts. To those I would say, Bah Humbug! This book is well written and worthy of the readers time, unless, of course, you are a "fact-checker", in which case the original sources, to the extent they even exist, might be more to your liking. For Orginary Joe's, like me, Mr. Ambrose has provided a good deal of reading entertainment and information. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who wants to be transported in time and place to the high plains during the Indian Wars.

Interesting.......2006-08-04

Great study of two complex personalities. I never realized what a mysterious figure Crazy Horse was, and his integral role at the Little Big Horn. Ambrose, as usual, does phenomenal research and his gift of prose make this book a pleasure.

The Mongol Warlords: Ghengis Khan, Kublai Khan, Hulegu, Tamerlane (Heroes & Warriors)

Average customer rating:

Good Biographies.
A Very Versatile History of Mongol Conquest
Tons of great pictures and drawings
Great reference with outstanding illustrations
Great Book

The Mongol Warlords: Ghengis Khan, Kublai Khan, Hulegu, Tamerlane (Heroes & Warriors)
David Nicolle
Manufacturer: Firebird
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1853141046

Customer Reviews:

Good Biographies........2006-04-21

Good details, and some fine history made this scarcely studied topic a worthy read. The book focuses on the Mongols finest commanders and their campaigns. Ghenghis, Kublai, Hulegu, and Tamerlane. I liked the latter chapter the best. For a book of less than 200 pages, you get a wealth of information. There are also fine full page illustrations, photographs, drawings and maps.

A Very Versatile History of Mongol Conquest.......2003-06-27

The Mongol Warlords, by David Nicolle, is a very broad and complete coverage of the Mongolian culture and its military campaigns. The book focuses on the four great Mongol leaders: Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan, Hulego and Tamerlane. However, this book goes far beyond simple biographies of these four men.

This is a wonderfully illustrated book. Not only does it have many full-page illustrations, but it's chock full other great material: photographs, drawings, portraits, diagrams and loads of amazing maps. Even the margins are put to good use, diagramming pottery, artifacts, weapons, etc.

The histories and biographies themselves are honest, well-researched and complete. And there is so much supplementary material that the book guarantees something for everyone. And while it's true that you won't find anything in it that can't be found elsewhere, the book does a great job of putting together a wide variety of material in a useful and entertaining format. The content in this book will appeal to the casual reader as much as to someone who's topically oriented.

Great for reading or for reference, The Mongol Warlords provides a lot of bang for the buck. While it's not currently in print, I found my copy in a used bookstore at an attractive price. Look around; this book is worth the search.

Tons of great pictures and drawings.......2002-02-24

There is a lot of information about Mongolian culture, politics, and conquests as well as other aspects of their history, in particularly the Mongolian rulers (obviously). This book has a great deal of information about the way that they waged war and what they used to do it. There are details of what happened in particular campaigns as well as the battle tactics that were used.
Of course, that is what you would expect from the books title. However the biggest strength of this book are the tons of pictures and drawings of Mongolian clothing, weapons, and armour; as well as maps and other illustrations. It also includes breakdowns and explanation of their weapons and armour (I particularly like the part on why the Mongol bow is better than the English Longbow).
This is one of about 20 Mongolian related books that I have and it is one of the best.

Great reference with outstanding illustrations.......2001-01-10

Although its chapters focus on the four most prominent Mongol leaders of the 12th through 15th centuries, this book is much more than a collection of short biographies. Centered around the life and times of Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan, Hulegu, and Timur are excellent descriptions of Mongol culture, archaeology, military tactics, and campaign strategies. David Nicolle's writing style is a pleasure to read, and while not as detailed and comprehensive as a textbook would be, still hits all the major campaigns and accomplishments of these men. The book (191 pages) is also interspersed with photographs of ancient artifacts and modern day ruins, as well many beautiful works of art. The illustrations by Richard Hook are very, very well done and breathe a life into the personalities and combat actions described in the text. It is a fine addition to any library of Central Asian steppe history and culture.

Great Book.......1998-07-17

This book is very good and informative. It contains interesting details on many of the key figures of the mongol conquest. My only complaint is its not long enough and doesn't have alot on the European exploits or the Golden Horde. However it does have details about the world at the time and many surprising details as well. All in all a great history book. To bad its out of print,but check your local library

Lady of Ch'iao Kuo: Warrior of the South, Southern China, A.D. 531 (The Royal Diaries)

Average customer rating:

Enjoyable and Informative
A fantastic addition to the Royal Diary series!!!
Long but interesting
Lady of Ch'iao Kuo book review
Amazing!

Lady of Ch'iao Kuo: Warrior of the South, Southern China, A.D. 531 (The Royal Diaries)
Laurence Yep
Manufacturer: Scholastic Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0439164834

Amazon.com

Princess Red Bird, 16-year-old daughter of the Hsien king in 6th century Southern China, has been born into a world of dispute and violence. When she is sent to a Chinese colony to be educated, she must contend with the disdainful attitudes of her hosts, who consider the Hsien to be savages, even as both the Chinese and the Hsien are at constant risk of attack from the truly savage neighboring people, the Dog Heads. In reality, the princess is a fair and wise leader, even at a young age, with a brilliant mind for military stratagems. Her leadership skills are put to the test when war breaks out and the Dog Heads begin to move in.

Prolific Newbery Honor author Laurence Yep (Dragon's Gate) contributes a remarkable tale to the Royal Diaries series. This fictionalized account of the real-life princess will introduce young readers to a long-ago land with a fascinating culture and edge-of-seat adventures, and will certainly inspire some to delve deeper into Chinese history. As in all the titles in the series, a section in the back provides context and historical background. (Ages 8 to 14) --Emilie Coulter

Book Description

The Royal Diaries proudly presents two-time Newbery Honor author Laurence Yep, whose stunning diary of sixteen-year-old Lady of Ch¹iao Kuo takes readers on a remarkable adventure to Southern China in the sixth century A.D., where Ch¹iao Kuo, a born leader called Red Bird, is courageous and keenly intelligent.

Customer Reviews:

Enjoyable and Informative.......2007-01-12

I purchased this book for my children who are interested in Chinese history. I found it to be well written and engaging. While a child would need to be around nine or ten to really try reading this alone, it is still enjoyable for school age children, though parents should remember that this does contain some violence and may upset younger readers, so it would be a good idea to preview it or read along if you think your child might need to discuss some of these events.

A fantastic addition to the Royal Diary series!!!.......2005-07-16

Princess Redbird is a 15 year old princess of the Hsien tribe. The Hsiens are thought as 'savages' among all the other tribes in China. They are constantly at war and Redbird misses her father who so often cancels special occasions for his wars throughout China with his opponent 'The Dog Heads' an evil militia. The time is A.D. 531 and Redbird wants to become part of her father's royal council as her brother has. Instead, her parents set her up at the chinese colony, away from her precious home at Kingfisher Hill. Princess Redbird writes about her times at Kingfisher Hill, celebrations she's celebrated and how one day she hopes to inherit the Hsien throne. A gift that has never been casted down on a woman. Redbird lives a sleepy and lazt life until she learns that her school has set aflame with all the people inside it! Redbird must rise to the challenge and prove herself the true warrior of the south.

Long but interesting.......2005-04-05

When I first got this book I expected bamboo, chopsticks, honorable monks and all that other stereotype Chinese stuff. But I saw that life in sixth century China was not that way. The Chinese were beyond bamboo but the Hsien people to the south weren't. The Hsien who lived in Southern China at the time lived a peaceful life in the forests until the jealous Dog Heads (who I think were from India or Vietnam) came and the Chinese help them. The Hsien send their Princess Red Bird to become a liasion and makes a clever plan to defeat the Dog Head Elephants. This Clever Book-loving Princess records in Five Scrolls her life living with her Father the king and then later her brother King Little Tiger who was a royal pain like this other Chinese rich colonist girl who ends up living with Red Bird. But I think lot's of kids who love books can relate to Princess Red Bird. I hope you like it as much as I have.

Lady of Ch'iao Kuo book review.......2004-10-27

We had to read this book for class and I thought it was one of the worst books I ever read! I do not recommend it for you to read. It is very boring!

Amazing!.......2004-04-07

When I first read this book I thought, how boring, it's just a bunch of rambling about war and junk. Well I decided I'd give it another chance and I think it's fabulous. I guess that now that we are caught up in a war ourselves I can really relate to what she is saying. This book has humor, action, adventure, and really corrosponds to what is happening in the world today. I reccomend this book to everyone and encourage those of you who disliked it at first to give it a secound chance.

Average customer rating:

A Royal Read
High School
Tells it like it was
Uncomfortably Realistic
Outstanding and intelligent first hand account!

Once a Warrior King
David Donovan
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345333160
Release Date: 1986-07-12

Book Description

He Was a young American soldier -- and the most powerful man in a remote rural District of Vietnam.

In the spring of 1969, First Lieutenant David Donovan arrived in the Mekong Delta of South Vietnam to work as military advisor with village chiefs and local militia to win the war.

But as he was the highest-ranking person in the entire district, his life there was far more complex than anyone could have imagined.

This is Donovan's gripping account of combat missions and night ambushes in the swamps and jungles of the Delta...his heartrending tale of personal involvement with the culture and families in his charge...his humane introspection on his awesome responsibility as both warrior and king...his stark reflections on the changes he saw in himself and his country upon his return to the U.S.

Customer Reviews:

A Royal Read.......2003-12-12

I think I probably read the first printing of Once a Warrior King and that was probably over a decade ago now, but David Donovans account of his time in Vietnam still remains one of my favourite accounts of the conflict.

High School.......2003-12-02

I read this four years ago as a junior in high school for my American History Class. The course was offered for college credit and I used to get frustrated by all the books my teacher made us read, not to mention the essays we had to write in response to what we learned. Near the end of the year she assigned "Once a Warrior King" and I was so impressed that I never forgot the impact the book had on me. It was a vivid statement from the point of view of a man fighting in Vietnam and I could feel everything with accuracy as if I had gone through the same trauma. He was a warrior king and it was a classic.

Tells it like it was.......2002-02-24

This book brought back painful memories for me. As a young sailor on a River Assault Boat in River Assault Division 92, I participated on "Operation Barrier Reef" in January 1969, from the MACV compound described in this book. Although this book does not cover boat operations and the part that Mobile Riverine or River Patrol Units played during this period of time, it is an excellent description of the warfare of the period and operations in a remote area of Vietnam without fire support or air support. Those of you that want a graphic description of
river operations in that area, read the prologue from Brown River, Black Berets, a description of a firefight on the Dong
Tiem Canal, that I participated in January 1969. Both books
are excellent background sources for river warfare and the
seldom covered special unit operations.

Uncomfortably Realistic.......1999-12-17

I was stationed in Duc Pho, Southern I Corp, and spent over 8 months living in a remote village with my platoon during 1969 and 1970. I saw so very much and understood so little. This book brought back the conflicts that haunted me for years and helped me come to grips with the most significant year of my life. Fear, anxiety, exhaustion, isolation, and confusion blended into an environment that this book describes like none that I have read.

Outstanding and intelligent first hand account!.......1999-11-28

This is absolutely the best first hand account of the Vietnam War. Very well written, detailed and introspective.

Wildmen, Warriors, and Kings: Masculine Spirituality and the Bible

Average customer rating:

a stretch for conseverative Christians
Masterful Work on Masculine Spirituality
An inspiring vision for all men!
Good place to start discovering a male mode of spirituality

Wildmen, Warriors, and Kings: Masculine Spirituality and the Bible
Patrick M. Arnold
Manufacturer: Crossroad Pub Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0824511050

Customer Reviews:

a stretch for conseverative Christians.......2005-10-04

For a conservative Christian it is difficult to press through to the end of this book, but I am glad I did. I was able to gain insight into thinking that I had priviously either ignored or rejected. I thoroughly enjoyed the archetypes pictured by Arnold.

Masterful Work on Masculine Spirituality.......2000-07-20

This book is a must read for any man serious about pursuing a radical spirituality. Women who are interested in getting a glimpse of the innermost workings of men would also benefit from it. (WARNING: Many of Arnold's insights will likely be misunderstood/misinterpreted by spiritual neophytes).

This is a brilliantly written and researched work that pulls together Jungian psychology, mythology and the Judeo-Christian Tradition in light of recent Scripture scholarship. Arnold's unapologetic insights about the state of the Church and his biting wit evident in the descriptions of wildman, warrior, king, healer, trickster, magician and lover makes this arguably the most thought-provoking, entertaining and controversial book on masculine spirituality. As Robery Bly remarks in the Foreword, his description of the Trickster is particularly brilliant--I would add to this the Wildman and Lover. Arnold writes with tremendous depth, clarity and conviction of the wounds of contemporary men and all the innumerable ups, downs, precipices, pitfalls and paradoxes that the "hero" will inevitable face. His Bible-based archetypes serve as an excellent map for negotiating this labyrinth.

I would especially recommend this book to young men who are looking for mentoring or spiritual direction. And although a book may not be able to replace a real flesh-and-blood person, Arnold could be considered a "protective figure" that will help guide you along. HOWEVER, I would also add that those men who have not done their inner work or who lean toward fundamentalism will likely not benefit from this challenging book.

An inspiring vision for all men!.......1999-03-31

Arnold does a terrific job of reviewing basic psychological male archtypes in prominent male figures of the Bible. He uses real life experience, wisdom, and a dry sense of humor to give his tour. He tackles difficult issues facing men in today's society, and connects them with ancient traditions and mythology. It will be an eye-opening experience for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what makes men tick! If you have sons or work with young men, you will find this book to be a valuable guide for leading them into a healthy adulthood.

Good place to start discovering a male mode of spirituality.......1999-03-05

Patrick Arnold has written a book that should be read by every man looking for a male mode of spirituality. By explaining and illustrating male spirituality using Biblical characters as examples of the Jungian and neo-Jungian archetypes (wildman, warrior, king, prophet, etc.), Arnold gives men a meaningful way to look at Christianity and our place in it. A welcome addition to my library and a recommended title for anyone wanting to investigate this subject.

Nzingha: Warrior Queen of Matamba, Angola, Africa, 1595 (The Royal Diaries)

Average customer rating:

The Royal Diaries: Nzingha
Sooooooo SHORT!!!!!
Nzingha, Warrior Queen of Matamba
Phenomenal
An excellent new addition to the Royal Diaries!

Nzingha: Warrior Queen of Matamba, Angola, Africa, 1595 (The Royal Diaries)
Patricia McKissack
Manufacturer: Scholastic Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Royalty | People & Places | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0439112109

Amazon.com

In 1595, Nzingha is the strong, intelligent daughter of the Ngola (leader) of the Mbundu people of Ndongo (in modern-day Angola), loyal to her people and willing to fight for them. Unfortunately, because she is a girl, her brother is the favored child, in training to become the next Ngola, even though he is whiny, stupid, and slow (according to Nzingha). But Ajala, a respected seer, believes that Nzingha is destined to be the leader of Ndongo, and begins preparing her for this future. Nzingha's father fights to keep the Portuguese from taking over their homeland, yet it is Nzingha, ultimately, who acts as the go-between for her people and the Portuguese, negotiating acceptable relations in order to keep peace and power for the Mbundu.

Based on true historical events, places, people, and customs, this novel portrays the fascinating details of a remarkable young woman's strength and courage in defending her world against subterfuge, spies, and the onslaught of the Portuguese. Historical notes, photos, illustrations, maps, the Ngola family tree, and a glossary and pronunciation guide are included for a comprehensive understanding of a complex era. Patricia McKissack is the well-respected and award-winning author of over 100 children's books and historical novels, including the Newbery Honor book The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural and Color Me Dark: The Diary of Nellie Lee Love (from the Dear America series). (Ages 9 to 12) --Emilie Coulter

Customer Reviews:

The Royal Diaries: Nzingha.......2007-08-13

For both young and more mature readers, this is the story of 12-year-old Nzingha. The year is 1595, and Nzingha is the independent and intelligent daughter of the ngola of the Mbundu people. She hunts with her sisters, prepares for her coming of age ceremony, struggles for her father to notice her, and faces conflict throughout the book. This book is a great read. Fantastic for all ages. I suggest it to anyone who likes historical fiction, for it is an interesting spin on royal life, and appropriate and easy enough for the young reader, but has enough drama for the adult crowd. I wish it was longer, however, at 90 pages this is a quick read!!! Two thumbs up!!!

Sooooooo SHORT!!!!!.......2006-12-03

i read this book a few days ago and i thought i would be good after reading the first few pages. But after reading for a while, after about 90 pages, the STORY ended and went to Epilouge. The Epilouge is just talk talk talk. Very boring, and the rest of the book is all like pictures.

I might have made the book sound very bad but i would recommend it for people who want to read a liite short story. There are also some very funny lines in the book that made me laugh! haha

Nzingha, Warrior Queen of Matamba.......2006-05-17

Nzingha, Warrior Queen of Matamba
By Patricia C. McKissack

"I wondered what it must be like to be on a ship flying over the water to Brazil. The horror of it was beyond my understanding. Suddenly, there was noise at my door. The Pombeiros and several guards entered. 'Come with us.' Then speaking to several guards, one said, 'Hold her tight. She is a young leopard.'" (McKissack, 79)

The old saying "never judge a book by it's cover" is one truth I have never had a problem with, until I came across this one book in particular. When I first saw the Royal Diaries book "Nzignha, Warrior Queen of Matamba," I thought for sure I would have not liked it. With the front cover depicted of an African girl holding a bow and arrows, and the background that of a barren desert, I presumed the layout of the book would be anything but royal and fancy. However, little did I know, stories can sometimes be very different from one's assumption.

One out of nineteen books in the Royal Diaries series, "Nzingha, Warrior Queen of Matamba" by Patricia C. McKissack, sets in Angola, Africa, in the year of 1595. Nzingha is an adventurous, bold thirteen-year-old girl, and second heir to the throne of Ndongo. Throughout the book, which is written in diary format, Nzingha talks about the war with Angola's bitter enemy, the Portuguese, as well as what she would do to improve the land of the Mbundu if she were Queen, though does not discuss anything too exciting in which to capture your interest. At 136 pages, the plot of "Nzingha, Warrior Queen of Matamba" is somewhat dry and tedious, and tends to quickly move on to other subjects without a thorough explanation. I must admit however, it pleases me that the authors of the Royal Diaries series are starting to represent girls in royal families, but with cultures and backgrounds much different from that of, say, Elizabeth I or Marie Antoinette.

As an avid reader of the Royal Diaries, I am not sorry I read the book, but am rather disappointed with the complete layout of the story. Mrs. McKissack could have done a better job adding clarification and activity to the real life character of Nzingha, one of the greatest women monarchs of African history. Unless you are new to the Royal Diaries series, and are anxious to learn about the lives of various queens in history, I would not recommend reading "Nzingha, Warrior Queen of Matamba."

Overall grade: C + (or 3)

Phenomenal.......2005-09-19

This book is my introduction to the Royal Diaries series, it has propelled me to seek out more from this line. I loved the story of a strong, independent, and determined young girl growing to become a woman in a male-dominated time. I feel this book was very informative and am truly disappointed by some of the reviews for this book. I do wish it was longer, as I found the story quite intriguing. Young Nzingha learns that not all your enemies are your enemies, with friends among the foe. I love the insight into the Mbundu people. I feel it was meant to give you a view into the people, not of the land of Angola. I will definitely be adding this one to the shelf for my daughter.

An excellent new addition to the Royal Diaries!.......2005-08-14

The year is 1595, and princess Nzingha is living a life of luxury in Angola, Africa. Her father is the respected ngola of Ndongo and many predict that he will be suceeded by his first son, Mtambi. Nzingha writes about her life in Africa as an important royal in the African Royal family. Nzingha lives an active life as she goes hunting with her friends and learns about the evil Portugese. She earns her say in court and is pretty much happy with her life, until she learns that her people are being enslaved by fiendish Portugese slave-traders. Eager to gain the leadership of Ngola and respect of all, Nzingha sets out on an important mission to save her people from the realm of the Portugese Slave-traders.

Warrior King: The Case for Impeaching George Bush

Average customer rating:

An Objective Look at a Very Plausible Idea
Confronting Constitutional Questions
Love the idea of impeachment, hated this book
Don't Remember King George of England? We'll Create Our Own
Regardless of Your Views On the War in Iraq, Read this Book

Warrior King: The Case for Impeaching George Bush
John C. Bonifaz , John Bonifaz , and Nation Books Thunder's Mouth
Manufacturer: Nation Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Congresses, Senates, & Legislative Bodies | Government | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

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U.S. | Politics | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

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21st Century | World | History | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1560256060

Book Description

What happens when a president violates the U.S. Constitution, resulting in the deaths of thousands? In Warrior-King, public interest lawyer John Bonifaz argues passionately that Bush did just that when he launched a first-strike invasion of Iraq without a congressional declaration of war. The framers of the Constitution, he argues, wanted to ensure that our presidents would not be like European kings of old who could decide, on their own volition, to send their subjects into battle. Only the Congress can send this nation into war—George Bush is not a king. In February 2003 Bonifaz and a coalition of U.S. citizens, soldiers, and members of Congress sued the president and Defense Secretary Rumsfeld, seeking to prevent an undeclared and illegal war. The courts heard the case on an expedited basis, but ruled that they were barred from deciding it on the grounds that it raised a “political question” to be addressed only by the political branches. It didn't matter that the president might trample on the Constitution—the judiciary would only stand on the sidelines and watch. Bonifaz argues that if we are to preserve our Constitution, we must now act: We must call for George Bush's impeachment.

Customer Reviews:

An Objective Look at a Very Plausible Idea.......2005-06-18

Certainly there have been no allegations of George W. Bush having an affair. However, what John Bonifaz is able to do in this explosive book, is detail a strong case for the impeachment and removal of Bush as President for real and tangible Constitutional issues. In fact, it makes the impeachment of Bill Clinton seem trivial and silly. There is no telling how many people have died as a result of the "illegal" war that President Bush started. The conservatives have always prided themslves on being strict constructionists, well, if that is the case, then Bonifaz is really on to something here.

Confronting Constitutional Questions.......2004-05-25

John Bonifaz was part of the legal process in seeking to impeach Bush, confronting critical constitutional issues in that process. In failing to meet the criteria established by elements of the international community, Bush bypass UN approval in his haste for war.

Bush stated the importance of going to war as what he and advisers termed a preemptive action, a necessity in the face of a clear and present danger from an aggressive enemy. In choosing to act on his own rather than allowing the UN weapons inspection team finish its work, and relying on a false claim that Iraq's Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction, Bush threw open the distinct possibility of an impeachment action.

The U.S. is obligated to follow laws and processes to which it has committed itself, namely the UN Charter and the Geneva Accords, and to fail to do so means more than a violation of international law. Such an act is violative of the U.S. Constitution since a president is mandated to follow the laws to which the nation is committed. Bonifaz and fellow petitioners contend that this failure leaves Bush open to removal from office.

Richard Nixon resigned from office after being impeached and facing a Senate trial for removal. He was previously found guilty of high crimes and misdemeanors by the House of Representatives. A good case can be made that Bush, by rushing to war and not allowing inspections to be completed, violated the law and distorted the facts by insisting that that which had not been proven, namely that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction, compelled him to go to war in the interest of American safety.

The more the issue has been studied the more compelling the evidence has become that Iraq under Saddam Hussein was only a shell of the military threat it formerly posed. Did Bush and his close advisers not know this? If so, by what rationale could it commit American troops to war?

Love the idea of impeachment, hated this book.......2004-05-10

Let me start by saying nobody would enjoy the idea of impeachment more than me. But, this book fails to come close to making the case.

The point of the book is Bush's actions were bad, he acted like a King, the Constitution was set up to avoid the abuses of a King, therefore war in Iraq was unconstitutional. Out of 155 pages, there was some material that could be cut and pasted together to get a few pages worth of sound bites. Those would be really good sound bites, but there is a big difference between sound bites and substance. And this book was nothing in terms of the latter.

From the view of partisanship, I have no problem with Bush is bad, his actions were bad, therefore let's declare this unconstitutional. But, from the view of the Constitution, we need more than that. There are books that make a far better case for impeachment. Books like Worse Than Watergate are among them. This one only makes the case that a bad argument makes a bad book, regardless of how good the title is.

I never imagined that a book with that kind of title would result a negative endorsement from me. But, that's how poor this one was.

And, just to show how all there is a little bit of sound bites, the title represents another one. There is no mention at all about impeachment in this book.

Don't Remember King George of England? We'll Create Our Own.......2004-02-04

Every American should read two thin books about Iraq: "The Five Biggest Lies Bush Told Us About Iraq" by Christopher Scheer, Robert Scheer, and Lakshmi Chaudhry, and "Warrior King: the Case for Impeaching George W. Bush" by John Bonifaz with forward by Congressman John Conyers.

The first book exposes the lies that President Bush and members of his Administration knowingly told during the build-up to the war on Iraq, including the lies that are keeping US troops in Iraq today.

The second book addresses Bush's unconstitutional act of taking the US military to war without a declaration of war by Congress. A number of US soldiers and US Congress Members sued the President in a failed attempt to prevent this war, and this book lays out the case.

Regardless of Your Views On the War in Iraq, Read this Book.......2004-02-02

Regardless of your views about the War in Iraq, John Bonifaz's Warrior-King is a must read. Bonifaz presents a concise, compelling case for why Bush's and Congress's actions with respect to the War were so dangerous. Rather than focusing on the merits of the War itself, Bonifaz explains why the methods employed to bring our nation into War are so objectionable. He forces readers to take a step back and view our government's actions in a historical framework. After reading the book, readers will have a deeper understanding of the far-reaching implications of our government's actions.

Unlike other authors who solely provide written social commentary, Bonifaz is a man of action. Outraged by our government's behavior, amazingly Bonifaz organized a coalition of individuals - from Congressmen to soldiers to soldiers' parents - to bring a law suit against our President. Through Warrior-King, the reader has the unique opportunity to get an insider's perspective into the legal case waged against our President. All readers, including supporters of the War, will finish Bonifaz's book with an appreciation for the gravity of our most powerful leaders' actions leading up to the War.

Book Description

The epic of the legendary warrior king. A Bravo! film and Sony CD.

Customer Reviews:

Gesar Kicks Demon A**.......2000-06-08

I am not a student of Eastern philosophy, although I've always thought that I had some appreciation for Buddhist ideas. Well, Gesar is not your sanitary, American high school Buddhism. Gesar is a warrior and superman, and through meditation and divine interaction, he goes out and - excuse the expression - Kicks Some Demon A**. The demon kingdoms surround Gesar's country of Ling, and Gesar must be victorious over them, so the populous will turn towards the tenets of Buddhism and his country have security.

Gesar is an ancient tale from the Himalayan region, and its hero based on a real king. The author has done his best to abridge the major story into a form that is approachable to those of us without extensive background to Tibetan or Mongolian Buddhism, or knowledge of the extensive pantheon of Buddhist deities. However, I fear he has shortened the tale too much; some of his actions seemed like they needed more context. Doing a book search through a university library led me to another translation of the epic of Gesar - *The Superhuman life of Gesar of Ling* by Alexandra David-Neel & the lama Yongden. This version is nearly 400 pages long, compared to 150 pages. Obviously Douglas J. Penick took some liberties with the translation.

This is an exciting tale, filled with magic, demons, and adventure. It is a good, "off-the-beaten-path" story that will give you another perspective on Buddhism and an insight into the cultures of the Himalayan region.

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