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.

Silman's Complete Endgame Course: From Beginner To Master

Average customer rating:

One of the best chess books.
Good endgame book, especially for the beginner
Gives you what you need and don't need to know
Wonderful
Superb book to learn endgames

Silman's Complete Endgame Course: From Beginner To Master
Jeremy Silman
Manufacturer: Siles Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1890085103

Book Description

For more than 100 years, the world's leading chess players and teachers have told their students to study the endgame. Now, for the first time, a revolutionary, richly instructive endgame book has been designed for players of all levels. Silman's Complete Endgame Course, by famed writer and player Jeremy Silman, is the one and only endgame book you'll need as you move up the ladder from beginner to strong tournament player and finally to master.

Designed to "speak" to a player in a very personal way, Silman's book teaches the student everything he or she needs to know at his or her current rating level, and builds on that knowledge for each subsequent phase of the player's development. Starting at the beginner's level, all basic mates are clearly and painstakingly explained. After that, the critical building blocks that form the endgame foundation for all tournament hopefuls and experienced tournament competitors are explored in detail. Finally, advanced endgame secrets based on concepts rather than memorization are presented in a way that makes them easy to master.

The basic keys to a well-rounded endgame education--Opposition, the Lucena and Philidor Positions, Cat and Mouse, Trebuchet, Fox in the Chicken Coup, Triangulation, Building a Box, Square of a Pawn, Outflanking, the Principle of Two Weaknesses--are vital. But equally important is creating a love of the endgame, which is addressed at the end of the book with a look at chess tactics, minor piece domination, and a discussion of the five greatest endgame players of all time--all things that every fan of chess at every level can enjoy.

If you have found the endgame to be a mystery, if you have found that your confidence plummets once you reach an endgame, if you have searched for an instructive endgame book that will turn your weakest link--your endgame--into your personal field of power, your search is over. Silman's Complete Endgame Course is the key to a world of essential ideas, startling beauty, and stunning creativity.

Customer Reviews:

One of the best chess books........2007-08-23

I have been studying chess (with a coach) for eight months, and I have found that most chess books are written for players way above my current ability. This one, though, is terrific. It takes you from beginning endgame stuff steadily through more difficult material, building on itself as it goes.

Good endgame book, especially for the beginner.......2007-08-23

I have found this book to be helpful and useful, especially for the beginner. It separates each endgame "course" according to rating, so that the beginner is not trying to learn moves for a class A player, and a class A player doesn't have to slog through stuff they've known for years. I highly recommend it.

Gives you what you need and don't need to know.......2007-08-16

I'm not going to repeat what everyone else has said in their reviews.

Yes - brilliant concept, sorting endgames by playing strength. Stroke of genius. Why hasn't anyone thought of this before. Etc

I'd just like to say how liberating it is to read an instructional chess book and know that I can stop after a certain number of chapters because I already know more than enough.

There are not many chess books that explicitly state: "you already know enough about this - now go and practise some tactics and come back when you get a few games under your belt".

The hardest part about studying the endgame is knowing when to stop.

This book tells you what you DON'T need to know as well as what you DO.

Lucena position - don't worry about it just yet - get your rating up first.
Knight and Bishop versus Lone King - it ain't gonna happen.

How refreshing!

Wonderful.......2007-08-13

This is a step by step guide to the endgame. There has been a competition between two types of endgame books - those that want you to memorize thousands of positions and those who want you to understand various concepts and memorize only a couple positions. The problem becomes that the first is very time consuming but straight forward and the later is much faster but very difficult to understand.

This book gives the speed of learning concepts with the straightforwardness of memorizing positions. Silman has out done himself this time.

The only downside to this book is that it does not show how to checkmate with Knight and Bishop vs King but how many times have you actually been in this position? My guess is none and if you have been in it, odds are you never will be again.

I recommend this book for people of skill level from beginner to master.

Superb book to learn endgames.......2007-07-23

This was the second endgame book I bought. The first, "Just the Facts Winning Chess Endgames" was organized by endgame type (e.g. Rook Endgames). Silman's is truly a course, with chapters for beginners on up by rating. So rather than trying to master everything there is about rook endgames, Silman gives you what you need to know for your ability level. You revisit different endgames as you progress through the chapters.

I love all of Silman's books that I've read so far, and this one is no exception! If you're already a top-notch player, maybe any endgame book will work for you. But if you're learning, Silman's can't be beat!

The Belgariad, Vol. 2 (Books 4 & 5): Castle of Wizardry, Enchanters' End Game

Average customer rating:

Love it, always have!
This may be another save the world story, but worth reading
Wondrous
The Belgariad
Great Reading

The Belgariad, Vol. 2 (Books 4 & 5): Castle of Wizardry, Enchanters' End Game
David Eddings
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0345456319
Release Date: 2002-08-27

Book Description

David Eddings’ acclaimed series, The Belgariad, reaches its stunning conclusion in these final two gripping novels. Continue on this magnificent journey and be entranced by a saga of strange lands and peoples, of prophecy and strife set against the background of a seven-thousand-year war of men, Kings, and Gods.

The quest may be nearing its end, but the danger continues. After discovering a shocking secret about himself he never could have imagined—all in pursuit of the legendary Orb—Garion and his fellow adventurers must escape a crumbling enemy fortress and flee across a vast desert filled with ruthless soldiers whose only aim is to destroy them. But even when the quest is complete, Garion’s destiny is far from fulfilled. For the evil God Torak is about to awaken and seek dominion. Somehow, Garion has to face the God, to kill or be killed. On the outcome of this dread duel rests the future of the world. But how can one man destroy an immortal God?

“Fabulous . . . Eddings has a marvelous storyteller style . . . exceedingly well portrayed and complex people. . . . More! More! More!”
—ANNE MCCAFFREY

Customer Reviews:

Love it, always have!.......2007-08-15

Approximately 15 years ago, I was given a copy of Pawn of Prophecy (Belgariad). I quickly read all the Belgariad, then the Mallorean and moved on to Belgarath the Sorcerer and Polgara the Sorceress. I have never read anything like these books. Over the last 15 years I have read all these books at least 20 times. Everytime I read the series something else comes out of the books that i either didn't notice last time or that became more important as I aged. David and his wife Leigh Eddings intersperse just enough philosphy and aged wisdom to enhance the reading experience. Dialog is often funny, while maintaining the seriousness of the story. The characters are some of the most engaging characters I have ever read, and they will grow with you.

For a great read, and an engaging read, I recommend you read the best series of books I have ever read.

This may be another save the world story, but worth reading.......2007-06-25

This is the second installment of the Belgariad, finishing out the tale of Garion and his group of friends. Though the Belgariad Volume One is somewhat stronger and a better read, This second half of the tale finishes the story in a way that keeps the readers attention. He develops the characters even more, and they were my favorite part of the entire story.

At the end of Volume One, Garion and his friends have defeated Ctuchik and in the process caused Rak Thol to destroy itself. This book picks up right where that last one left off and continues with the groups travels to get to Riva on the Isle of the Winds. The beginning of the story is quite engaging, but it tends to get a bit tedious towards the middle. But the ending comes back around and grabs the reader refusing to let go until the last page is turned. We follow along as Garion decides to go off on his own with Silk and Belgarath for his meeting with the evil god Torak, and leaves Aunt Pol and Ce'Nedra behind to deal with the Kings of the lands of the West. They are forced to raise an army, mostly of Ce'Nedra's doing. This is where the story begins to slow. Once the army is formed and the marching finally comes to an end, a battle begins at Thull Mardu, and from then on the reading is fast and entertaining.

I thought this book was a great ending to this enjoyable series. I gave it three stars only because I enjoyed volume one slightly more. I plan on tackling the next series The Mallorean in the near future. Hopefully it will be just as entertaining as this story was!

Wondrous.......2007-05-22

Part 2 of a wondrous series of books. The author is amazing at captivating his audience.

The Belgariad.......2007-01-21

The books were in excellent condition. David Eddings's story of Belgarion keeps the reader enchanted throughout the series.

Great Reading.......2006-11-13

I was introduced to this series a couple of years ago and I've been in love with it ever since. I can't believe I never came across it sooner. Of course now that I've read it I come across it in book stores all the time now. This series is a beautiful series for all readers. I wouldn't limit it to fantasy lovers because it is simply a terrific series. It has everything you can ever want to read in a book - humour, fear, action and satisfaction that good does indeed have a say in what goes on in the world. The characters come alive in your head without even trying, the storyline is addictive so it's best to either buy all the books in the series from the start or make plans to get it as soon as you can.

It was great to get these books in 4 books instead of 10. I still re-read this series and I've recently bought them as christmas presents. It's an excellant buy for any avid reader or even for those you might want to encourage to read. For all those who do buy this series, check out Belgarath and Polgara - the companion editions.

50 Creative Training Closers: Innovative Ways to End Your Training with IMPACT!

Average customer rating:

Quick & Fun
Spectacular Endings
Improves Retention of Trained Material

50 Creative Training Closers: Innovative Ways to End Your Training with IMPACT!
Bob Pike , and Lynn Solem
Manufacturer: Pfeiffer
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0787939714

Book Description

Go out with a BANG!

They'll forget you as soon as you walk out the door . . . unless you make your training memorable. This essential resource is your way to make your mark. Fifty ways to close your training sessions and presentations so they won't forget you--or your training.

Each activity lists the necessary time and equipment, a suggested group size, and an intended purpose. You'll have no problem finding a closer that's just right for your needs.

You'll get activities great for:

Making action plans

Reviewing material

Celebrating success

Motivating participants . . . and more!

Solem and Pike show you all the essentials, and preparation is quick and easy. This book is training dynamite: make it your secret weapon today!

Customer Reviews:

Quick & Fun.......2001-08-10

This book offers very easy to implement closers that can not only be quick and fun, but of course do what closers should do - reinforce learning. Some are certainly just for fun and when there is brain overload, those also have their benefit. As most of Pike's books, this is certainly a good one to have in your library.

Spectacular Endings.......2001-08-07

This is the most valuable book in my training library. It offers memorable and positive closures for any training. I recently used Name Tag Closure for a weekend long training. The participants loved it! As an added bonus, they told me it made a great icebreaker at the beginning of the training. This activity help them remain focused as they helped each other "find" the answer to their questions. It also worked as a great review at the end of a very long training.

Improves Retention of Trained Material.......2000-09-29

Lynn Solem and Bob Pike teamed up to present 50 of the best closers they found and used in their Creative Training Techniques Workshops. Trainers looking for ways to end their sessions on a high note will find lots of opportunity lurking between the covers of this book.

Each activity is coded for its use in one or more of four categories: Review Content; Action Planning; Celebration; Motivation. The instructions for each activity are clearly laid out, listing the activity's Source, Objective, Class Length, Appropriate Audience, Group Size, Amount of Time to allow for the activity, Equipment required, and the activity Process.

I have used nearly half of these closers at one time or another, and each one has hit its mark--even when I have been afraid the activity was going south for a few minutes! The A to Z review is one of my favourites for coming back to a group after a lunch or evening break. Colored Dots is a splendid technique for giving the participants a chance to commit to using the learning points on the job. Consulting Envelopes works well for both review and real-world problem-solving, and after trying the Geometric Close about four weeks ago I cannot imagine why I did not use it earlier. Trainers looking for creative ways to have participants reviewing material--enthusiastically--will find this book a useful tool.

Average customer rating:

Great Endgame book for those trying to move from beginner to Club level

An Excellent 2nd Book on Endgames

An Excellent Instructional Manual to Improve your Endgame

A note on the typos....

A Great Endgame Strategy Book

Pandolfini's Endgame Course: Basic Endgame Concepts Explained by America's Leading Chess Teacher (Fireside Chess Library)
Bruce Pandolfini
Manufacturer: Fireside
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Chess | Board Games | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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Chess Openings: Traps And Zaps (Fireside Chess Library)

Weapons of Chess: An Omnibus of Chess Strategies (Fireside Chess Library)

Chess: 5334 Problems, Combinations and Games

Attacking Chess: Aggressive Strategies and Inside Moves from the U.S. Junior Chess Champion (Fireside Chess Library)

Winning Chess Tactics, revised (Winning Chess - Everyman Chess)

ASIN: 0671656880

Customer Reviews:

Great Endgame book for those trying to move from beginner to Club level.......2006-11-09

Pandolfini has won me over. He is a great chess teacher, and it shows in the way he has set this book up. Each page covers one endgame problem, beginning with a discussion written in an easy and interesting style explaining what the problem is intended to illustrate.

Studying the endgame is not necessarily fun... but the endgame is where the money is in Chess, similar to putting in golf. It is very important to study it if you want to improve. What Pandolfini does is makes it palatable by presenting a series of one page self-contained problems. I have found this an excellent addition to some of the Convekta software I am using to study chess, because he explains the ideas behind the endgame positions in more detail and with clarity.

An Excellent 2nd Book on Endgames.......2006-11-06

First, download the errata as mentioned in other reviews and get that much over with. There *are* more errors than there should have been (1/2 star taken right off the top).

That said, this should be your *second* endgame book. Why? Because the writing style is terse and laconic. The book is made up of a long series of endgame positions, one per page, with a paragraph of descriptive text and a nearly, if not completely, un-annotated list of moves below the paragraph. It's up to you to digest the text, and relate it to the moves as you play them out. I believe that to do this effectively, you need some basic endgame background, hence my statement that this should be your *second* endgame book.

The book is quite complete, providing at least one example of all important endgame situations. It is not an exhaustive text, such as Dvoretsky's Endgame Manual or some others, but it leaves out very little, even if what is covered is at times brief (a single example) or at a high level.... but that is not a bad thing. At this stage of learning, you want clear examples, not problem-like esoterica.

Four stars overall. (Another half off for the at times difficult presentation style of text/move list.)

(What would be the first endgame book? Briefly, I'd use Robertie's "Easy Endgame Strategies" or even better if you don't mind an older book in descriptive notation, Horowitz's "How to Win in the Chess Endings.")

An Excellent Instructional Manual to Improve your Endgame.......2006-08-07

Probably anyone no matter their skill level can benefit from this book, but I think is best suited for beginners to intermediate players. The author describes the techniques employed in the most important and typical endgame situations, presenting more than 239 positions that clearly describe how a good player will solve the problems encountered in each one of them. If you have read and liked the style of any other Pandolfini's chess instructional books chances are you will enjoy this one.

The book is divided in three parts. A complete part of the book is devoted to king and pawn endings, but also enough coverage is given to endgame positions where the knight, the bishop, the root, and the queen, and a combination of minor and heavy pieces play the important role of helping promote a pawn or act to accomplish a mating solution.

As the author states "the book is designed to improve the skills of the practical player who is interested in wining the ending clearly, simply and efficiently."

I bought this book as part of a used chess book collection on an auction, and I was not disappointed at all with this title. The book systematically showed me how to think and analyze typical positions that as a matter of fact I have encountered during accrual play. One the things I like the most is the Instructional format of this book, clear and easy to follow. For me is absolutely a must have, especially if you are a beginner.

The book uses algebraic notation, but I guess this is just a matter of preference and it actually doesn't affect the quality and usefulness of the information presented. Nevertheless you should take this into account in case you prefer descriptive notation.

A note on the typos...........2006-08-04

I agree with the many reviewers who think this is an excellent book but are troubled by the typos. For those of you considering using the book, there's a very helpful Houston Chessclub website with a collection of corrections to the book. If you do a Google search for "Pandolfini's Endgame Errata" you can locate it easily. Once you have that, there's no reason not to get this very worthwhile book.

A Great Endgame Strategy Book.......2005-08-11

Pandolfini writes in a way that is clear, logical, and just plain easy to understand. Any of his books are "must haves" for a solid chess library. His Endgame book covers an area that I belive is often overlooked in favor of the latest opening. This book is just what it says, a "course on endgame concepts" that would benefit any chess player.

Average customer rating:

A satisfying ending to a good series
Enchanters Endgame
Pros & Cons
Decent conclusion
Great Book

Enchanters' End Game
David Eddings
Manufacturer: Books in Motion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: 1581168950

Book Description

Belgariad, Book #5. Conclusion.

The quest was over. The Orb of Aldur was restored. And yet the the Prophecy was unfulfilled. In the east, the evil God Torak was about to awaken and seek dominion. Somehow, Garion had to face the God, to kill or be killed. On the outcome of that dread duel rested the destiny of the world. Read by Cameron Beierle.

13 CD's 14 Hrs.

Customer Reviews:

A satisfying ending to a good series.......2007-06-06

In Enchanter's Endgame David Eddings draws the Belgariad to a much anticipated conclusion. As the armies of the West invade Mishrak ac Thull to stave off two huge armies of Angaraks, Garion, Belgarath, and Silk jounrney to the heart of Torak's dominions, Cthol Mishrak, City of Darkness. Both the allied armies and Garion's small company will face challenges and a few suprises that the sleeping God Torak has up his sleeve.

Edding's stories are nothing terribly new, but they are fun and witty. This book especially showcased Eddings ability to weave some really fun characters into a familiar fantasy setting while not being cliche. Enjoy!

Enchanters Endgame.......2006-11-05

It just doesn't get better than David Eddings, the Belgariad and the 5 books that follow called the Mallorean. All are a must read for adults and children alike. I love Harry Potter, but even he takes a back seat to the magic of David Eddings.

Pros & Cons.......2006-07-12

There are some very good things about this book, and then some really glaring flaws. Despite all, this series is the best Eddings wrote. His characters are actually likeable. In later ones his writing style goes clunky and he tries to make every other sentance a deadpan joke. In "The Dreamers", the style of writing is so 'talk about important things in a silly way' that the series falls flat. Sorry to rant about that, but really, if you want to read Eddings read the Belgariad. (If you're curious, the Mallorean is about the same characters and has some of hte Belgariad's charm, but not all. The Elenium and the Tamali, both about a two-demensional knight named Sparhawk, are okay but really not at all interesting. "The Redemption of Athaelus" is one book about a thief and a goddess; completely funny, but it would be a disaster if it weren't a single book. "The Dreamers" is just aweful. STay away from it.)

However, I'm talking about Enchanter's End Game. Moreover I am writing to amuse myself, not whoever reads this. So: Things I like. I adore the way the queens left behind to rule while their husbands go off and fight handle things. Silar of Algeria, Porenn of Drasnia, and even the flakey Islena of Cherek spend their time defeating hte plots of the Bear-Cult, a bunch of conspiratorially minded religious extremists. Silar sends them off to conduct a survey of all the foals and calves in her kingdom; Islena (assisted by the formidable Lady Merel and the sneaky Queen Porenn) ships them all off to war; and Porenn herself manages to clean them out of her spy service and send them to the worst duty posts she and her spymaster can think of. On the side, Porenn negociates with the supposedly enemy kingdom of Gar og Nadrak so that hte Nadraks end up switching sides in the middle of a battle. The queen of Arendia, Mayaserana, manages (in heavily embroidered language) to stop her country's civil war, which was supposed to have ended centuries ago but stayed because of a formality. Something regardant on which of her titles half of the country owed fealty to. You have to read it to understand- honestly, the Arends are the silliest people in teh series. And finally, Layla of Sendaria, a rather stay at home mother, defeats a scheming ambasador by pretending to be incredibly absent-minded and enlisting hte help of her three youngest children to interupt him. The queens all get away with huge things because people expect them to be stupid, and they aren't. Except maybe Islena, and she has the good sense to pick good advisors. The situation parellels the way ladies took over ruling and fighting at home when their husbands were off on the Crusades in teh middle ages.

The humor in this book hasn't gotten so crazy and omnipresent. It's there, but in later books Eddigns feels that his undoubted funniness gives him the right to ignore characters, setting... in fact, the later books are made up of humor, battles, some sex/romance, and in some cases a little-girl goddess. Bad form. Fortunately he hasn't done that yet here. This one's still okay.

The bad things: Eddings tends to make every person in one of his countries as one of a 'type'. Sendars are practical and decent. Period. Arends are passionate and not too bright and taken up with nobility to the point of idiocy; if they are Mimbrates tehy talk in high style (Thee, thou, prithee, et cetera, sentances that last forever.) Chereks are semi-pirates. Drasnians are sneaky. You get hte picture. THat's the chief flaw.

Decent conclusion.......2006-06-09

Enchanter's End Game by David Eddings is the fifth and final book in The Belgariad saga. This book finishes off the tale of Garion and his progression from kitchen scallion to that of powerful wizard. Edding's writing style may turn off some fans as at times he will explain in great detail some event and then others he will offer only a cursory explanation and description. Also, some of his characters are very clichýd and he seems to recycle a few plot lines now and again. However, that should not take away from the fact that this series of books tells a good story and offers a variety of situations to keep most readers interested. I also believe that this series of books would be a good series to recommend to a younger (12 and up) reader to get them interested in the genre as the concepts are not overly difficult to understand.

The plot of this book starts up right where the last book, Castle of Wizardry, leaves off. There is an epic battle that will be taking place and Garion and his group are seeking to kill the god Torak. The two plot lines together lend themselves well to playing off of each other and allowing enough time to set both up. Edding's does a good job at making sure the reader understands they story well enough so that when events occur the readers knows why they happened as well as an inclining of what to expect next.

As I mentioned before, my biggest complaint with Edding's writing is that his characters are overly clichýd and it seems like he uses a cookie cutter to place a `class' of character into the story and then adds a bit to make the character appear new and interesting. The only character within this book, and the previous 4, that really stood out to me is Silk. He brought a slightly new feel to the classic rogue character and his banter was rather humorous at times. Other than that the characters were mostly forgettable. I am not saying they were `bad' characters, they are simply not characters that kept me interested for the sake of themselves. I was interested in the story, just not so much because of the characters.

Overall, this was a good book and a decent series. If you are expecting an epic tale, like that of Steven Erikson, you will be disappointed. This is a series that is fun to read and does not require a great deal of effort to understand it. I would however recommend this series to newer fantasy readers as well as younger readers. It may be a good `hook' series to get more people interested. All in all not a bad finish to this saga.

Great Book.......2006-02-02

This book is David Eddings worst, but it's still absolutely amazing! I've lost track of how many times I've read it.
Garion finally faces his fear, and gets rid of it, saving the world, universe, and all of that at the same time.
This book shows and end holding a new beginning, something I really like in a book. This book also has the characters shown from a new point of view, especially Ce'Nedra. She is amazingly more mature in this book.
The characters in this book are realistic and enjoyable, as is the rest of the story. I stronly suggest this book to anyone out there who enjoys an easy, advanced read.

How to Beat Your Dad at Chess (Gambit Chess)

Average customer rating:

Amazing book for wannabe attacking players
good book
Chess Nuts Boasting
A must for kids with rating up to 600 (approx)
Well-organized and useful to players of any ability

How to Beat Your Dad at Chess (Gambit Chess)
Murray Chandler
Manufacturer: Gambit Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1901983056

Book Description

This is not just a book for kids - for 'Dad' read any opponent who beats you regularly! This book teaches the 50 Deadly Checkmates - basic attacking patterns that occur repeatedly in games between players of all standards.

Each mating motif is carefully and simply explained, and several illustrative examples are given. A final test enables the reader to grade his pattern recognition abilities, and the last chapter explains what to do if your Dad is Garry Kasparov.

Fun, instructive - and guaranteed to improve your game.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing book for wannabe attacking players.......2007-06-12

Before reading this book, I played chess like a scared chipmunk, obsessing about little details like whether pushing this pawn would weaken my position by a picounit. This book helped me see that the way to win games at the amateur level is to attack, to be aggressive, to go after the enemy king like he is your nemesis, to crank open his position like a sardine can and commit regicide.

The book's title is somewhat misleading in that the book is very narrow in scope (a full book on how to beat dad would have to include discussion of openings, endgames, and more general chess strategy and tactics). Rather, it contains fifty practical checkmating patterns that frequently come up in real games. If the basic mating patterns (e.g., how to mate with a King and Queen versus a lone King) are the alphabet of checkmate, this book is the grammer of checkmate. The patterns consist of beautiful 3-5 move combinations that you will have opportunities to apply in many of your games.

If you are looking for a beginner chess book, get the Idiot's Guide to Chess. That is the best place to start from square one. Then learn some very basic tactics (e.g., Pandolfini's Beginning Chess). Then get and read this book. Over and over. With these patterns ingrained in your mind, you will spot them in the far distance during games, aim for them, and go in for the kill. Sure, sometimes you will crash and burn, but that will only make you more prepared for the next game.

Thanks to Chandler for writing this book. It has made chess fun for me again.

good book.......2007-04-27

This book isnt really about how to beat your dad at chess, because your dad could be bobby fischer or not even know how to play chess (just wanted to clear that up for u guys)

This book has 50 mates and its about pattern recognition, that means pretty much just pounding it into your head so u can remember to use it when you have the chance. its a really good book, i would get it.

Chess Nuts Boasting.......2007-04-18

Great book. I love the premise- and the careful way the Mr. Chandler explains it- which is that pattern recognition is a more powerful tool than in-depth computation analysis. It serves as a nice illustration of Gladwell's "Blink" theory, that less information can be more when the brain is finely tuned in to the right information. Chandler points out that a human chess pro is better than a computer because our brains can quickly filter out the irrelevant info and just recognize the broad pattern, such as a set-up for a standard mate possibility. The computer is inferior, per the author, because while it might come to the same conclusion, it has to do it by generating every single possible move with every single piece on the board, following out hundreds of thousands of possible subsequent sequences to arrive at the checkmate. Of course, I would suggest that the computer is actually superior in this respect because, even though it has to analyze hundreds of thousands of possibilities, it really doesn't mind. It doesn't get bored, fatigued, or seduced by a bold capture. But, still, I appreciate his point.

The author gives examples of fifty standard checkmate motifs, and uses good illustrations to help recognize the pattern when it is there and understand the sequence of events. My only beef with the book, for which I've docked a star, is the sexist title. I can't help but comment on this in this post-Imus era. The author tells us from the start that it is really a book on how to beat anyone in chess so the title is just an eye-catcher. But I don't want to reinforce the many messages that young girls get about what they should or shouldn't be good at. Okay, to be truthful, in all the chess playing families that I can think of off the top of my head, it is in fact the fathers who are the chess nuts, who hand the game down to the next generation. But lets not reinforce the not uncommon notion that men are naturally superior chess players. I've even read the likes of Camille Paglia, in one of her faux-academic pieces, use the fact that chess champions are all men as evidence for a male superiority in spatial and mathematical reasoning. Without going too far into what is a complicated and emotionally loaded argument, I would just direct people to do a little internet search on Judit Polgar if you are not already familiar.

Still, overall, thumbs up. A good book, really for beginning to intermediate chess fans of any age, which will increase your arsenal of offensive tricks and improve your defensive vigilance.

A must for kids with rating up to 600 (approx).......2007-04-08

We purchased this book for my two kids, and saw an immediate improvement. It is written in a very easy to read style, and it goes to through a lot of the tactics needed to improve their game... The only disadvantage was that I had to improve my game too to keep ahead of them!

Well-organized and useful to players of any ability.......2006-12-31

This is a very well-organized and highly readable book on various types of checkmates. Since this is the whole purpose of the game, it is an obvious area of emphasis from both offensive and defensive perspectives. In other words, if you want to be a winner you need to always be looking for checkmate whether you are on the "giving" or "receiving" side! I think the author is correct to be emphasising this early and teaching people to recognize patterns than come up that lead to checkmate. This will both prevent you from being checkmated by surprise and to see checkmate opportunities in real game situations that you might otherwise miss.

The other reviewers are correct in their observations that this book is suitable for players of any age. In fact, I would say it is even a bit misleading to position it as a book for kids. It seems to me that one would need to be at least 12 years old to fully appreciate and benefit from the contents. It might be a difficult read for younger kids, but one they can grow into over time. I wouldn't buy it for someone is 6 years old, but it certainly is a possiblity for a bright 9 year old.

I don't really have anything critical to say about the book. It gets to the point quickly and focuses on principles and patterns that come up again and again in chess. If you are serious about chess, but haven't really studied it, this would be a great place to start. The contents are not overwhelming and the book covers a lot of ground without becoming boring.

Finally, if you are a beginning chess player and you really want to beat your dad, this book will help enormously. The other books by this author are also very good. In addition, I would recommend getting a good chess program. This is one of the best ways to improve your play.

Dale Brown's Dreamland: End Game (Dreamland (Harper Paperback))

Average customer rating:

Another average novel by Dale Brown

Dale Brown's Dreamland: End Game (Dreamland (Harper Paperback))
Dale Brown , and Jim Defelice
Manufacturer: HarperTorch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

War | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0060094427
Release Date: 2006-10-31

Book Description

A volatile U.S. ally has fallen prey to the terrorist beast. India is the target of radical Islamic jihadists, and the world watches breathlessly as tensions escalate between the uneasy giant and its longtime nemesis Pakistan—with China waiting in the wings, eager to flex its military might. A nuclear showdown seems inevitable, unless the masterminds at Dreamland can get to the mysterious source of the terror and end it, swiftly and permanently. Every technological wonder the military possesses must be employed to avert an all-out Apocalypse—from an awesome new hybrid Navy destroyer to robot Flighthawks. But the fate of the region and the world will depend on the newest brainchild of the Dreamland team: an unproven instrument of ultimate power code-named End Game.

Customer Reviews:

Another average novel by Dale Brown.......2006-12-23

Dale Brown started off with some good novels like the Flight of the Old Dog.
This continues in the same vein as his recent novels. Looking for a new idea but quickly falling back on the old structure.

Time for something new and original.

Myst V: End of Ages (Prima Official Game Guide)

Average customer rating:

walkthrough for Myst V: End of Ages
Great help
Quite interesting - but direct and useful!
End of Ages
Myst End of Ages Strategy Guide

Myst V: End of Ages (Prima Official Game Guide)
Bryan Stratton
Manufacturer: Prima Games
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Video Games | Games & Strategy Guides | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Video & Electronic Games | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0761551379
Release Date: 2005-09-27

Book Description

Myst V

The Grand Finale

• Quick-step walkthrough provides three levels of hints for each puzzle–you choose how much is revealed
• All puzzle solutions
• Previously unseen concept sketches
• Follow the journey from the first Myst adventure to the last with a detailed timeline
• Exclusive interviews with Rand Miller, the co-creator of the Myst franchise, and other members of the Cyan team

Customer Reviews:

walkthrough for Myst V: End of Ages.......2007-05-18

A must have if your a Myst player. The Larghe's

Great help.......2007-04-04

I thought the guide was a wonderful help. Sometimes you just don't know what to do. The guide will help and give you explanation about the surrouding and the characters. And with the puzzles around. It's worthy having it, even if you don't need it. It's there, just in case you get stuck and can't get out.

Quite interesting - but direct and useful!.......2007-01-20

Written like a detailed journal of someone who'd gone this way before. My only complaint was that some of the screen-shots were a bit small. But, worst case, you'd just have to follow the whole, prescribed route to see the item in the book more clearly in the actual game.

End of Ages.......2007-01-05

Great book it really helped me to win the game.

I also received it in a timely manner.

Regards

Joyce Parratt

Myst End of Ages Strategy Guide.......2006-08-08

It all worked out. Great Service.. Will definitely use again...

Average customer rating:

This book will blow your Mind.......
The end of the big game - A book to protect today'swildlife
Old Africa brought to life
Old Africa-brought to life
A sad and compelling book

End of the Game
Peter Beard
Manufacturer: Chronicle Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Shooting | Hunting & Fishing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

Endangered Species | Conservation | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

Reference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0877015163

Customer Reviews:

This book will blow your Mind..............2007-09-05

I first happened upon this book while engaged in my day-to-day duties in the shelves of the Augsburg College Library in Minneapolis where I worked as a student library assistant in the mid-70's. As I began paging through it, I began to realize that I had never seen a "nature" book like this before. The book and the characters in it were at once bold, daring, mesmerizing and weird. You just have to read it.

The end of the big game - A book to protect today'swildlife.......2004-01-06

Published in 1965, the book is the most famous book of Peter Beard. The book is shoking as most photos are pictures of dead animals, it is definitely not a book to look at before your safari. Black and white pictures are excellent. Sadly, the last pages are only photos of elephant's carcasses (too much?). The Beard's touch is a book full of old illustration, tiny pics, small and odd drawings and detailed texts - most of them taken from the British Museum. The book is about the Old Africa and text about Mt Kenya, the Man-eaters of Tsavo, Nairobi and Karen Blixen are not easy and you must have a knowledge of Kenyan history to understand them fully. This book is essential for any African collection as it has shocked and marked history.

Old Africa brought to life.......2001-11-11

An excellent book for those that can handle the truth. It shows what will happen when nature is left to manage itself and what happens when men don't control themselves. It's about hard times and history-a way of life long forgotten. If you are a product of the spoonfed Disney age, then you'll find this book shocking. It may well be your first taste of truth about wild animals,wild places, and the true spirit of man. This book is about Old Africa and should not be judged with today's politically correct eye. It is an account of things happened in a forgotten time, and a lost way of life.

Old Africa-brought to life.......2001-11-11

It's a very real look at Old Africa. It shows the truth of man's bad luck, bad descisions, greed, and life filled with hard times. It shows nature in it's true self, not some Disney version of happy animals dancing around. This is an excellent book and should serve as a wake up call for the multitudes of Americans who believe the garbage that is spoon fed to them on their televisions. It may be well more than most readers can handle, because the truth is not sugar coated here.

A sad and compelling book.......2001-07-07

Having been introduced to his work at a gallery exhibit in New York, I bought this book which contains pretty much the same sad pictures. Really an amazing point of view of wildlife in Africa, might shock some with graphic pictures of carcasses, particularly one of a zebra with its hide stripped off. What I cannot figure out ultimately is where Peter Beard stands on the issue - although the big message appears to me that he opposes the killings, which is why he films the hideousness of it all, he seems to have personally participated in the hunts that he photographs, killing the same animals. He is very elusive about his personal viewpoint, seems kind of snobbish to me.

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