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The lure of this book's promise starts with the assumption in its title. Possibility--that big, all-encompassing, wide-open-door concept--is an art? Well, who doesn't want to be a skilled artist, whether in the director's chair, the boardroom, on the factory floor, or even just in dealing with life's everyday situations? Becoming an artist, however, requires discipline, and what the authors of The Art of Possibility offer is a set of practices designed to "initiate a new approach to current conditions, based on uncommon assumptions about the nature of the world."
If that sounds a little too airy-fairy for you, don't be put off; this is no mere self-improvement book, with a wimpy mandate to transform its readers into "nicer" people. Instead, it's a collection of illustrations and advice that suggests a way to change your entire outlook on life and, in the process, open up a new realm of possibility. Consider, for example, the practice of "Giving an A," whether to yourself or to others. Not intended as a way to measure someone's performance against standards, this practice instead recognizes that "the player who looks least engaged may be the most committed member of the group," and speaks to their passion rather than their cynicism. It creates possibility in an interaction and does away with power disparities to unite a team in its efforts. Or consider "Being the Board," where instead of defining yourself as a playing piece, or even as the strategist, you see yourself as the framework for the entire game. In this scenario, assigning blame or gaining control becomes futile, while seeking to become an instrument for effective partnerships becomes possible.
Packed with such examples of personal and professional interactions, the book presents complex ideas on perception and recognition in a readable, useable style. The authors' combined, eclectic experience in music and painting (as well as family therapy and executive workshops) infuses their examples with vibrant color and sound. The relevance to corporate situations and relationships is well developed, and they don't rely on dry case studies to do it. Indeed, this book assumes the emotional intelligence and desire to engage of its reader, promising access to the rewards of that door-opening notion--possibility--in return. --S. Ketchum
Book Description
Presenting twelve breakthrough practices for bringing creativity into all human endeavors, The Art of Possibility is the dynamic product of an extraordinary partnership. The Art of Possibility combines Benjamin Zander's experience as conductor of the Boston Philharmonic and his talent as a teacher and communicator with psychotherapist Rosamund Stone Zander's genius for designing innovative paradigms for personal and professional fulfillment.
The authors' harmoniously interwoven perspectives provide a deep sense of the powerful role that the notion of possibility can play in every aspect of life. Through uplifting stories, parables, and personal anecdotes, the Zanders invite us to become passionate communicators, leaders, and performers whose lives radiate possibility into the world.
Download Description
The Art of Possibility offers a set of breakthrough practices for creativity in all human enterprises. This inspirational book is a synthesis of Rosamund Stone Zander's knowledge of cutting-edge psychology and Benjamin Zander's experiences as the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. Infused with the energy of their dynamic partnership, the book joins together Ben's extraordinary talent as a mover and shaker, teacher, and communicator with Rosamund's genius for creating innovative paradigms for personal and professional fulfillment. In lively counterpoint, the authors provide us with a deep sense of the powerful role that the notion of possibility can play in every aspect of our lives. The Zanders' deceptively simple practices are based on two premises: that life is composed as a story ("it's all invented") and that, with new definitions, much more is possible than people ordinarily think. The book shifts our perspective with uplifting stories, parables, and anecdotes. From "Giving an A" to the mysterious "Rule Number 6" to "Leading from Any Chair"--the account of Ben's stunning realization that the conductor/leader's power is directly linked to how much greatness he is willing to grant to others--each practice offers an opportunity for personal and organizational transformation.
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- Giving Peace to My Loved One
- prisoners soul
- Another Winner!
- Extremely Pleased and Thankful!
- BEST BOOK I EVER READ
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Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul: 101 Stories to Open the Heart and Rekindle the Spirit of Hope, Healing and Forgiveness (Chicken Soup for the Soul)
Jack Canfield ,
Mark Victor Hansen , and
Tom Lagana
Manufacturer: HCI
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Binding: Paperback
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Serving Time, Serving Others: Acts of Kindness by Inmates, Prison Staff, Victims, and Volunteers
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Behind Bars: Surviving Prison
ASIN: 1558748369 |
Book Description
Previously available only through free distribution to prisons, this life-changing book is the result of charitable donations from sales of Chicken Soup for the Christian Family Soul and gifts from thousands of individuals. In the spring of 2000, over 100,000 copies of Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul were distributed to prisoners, prison libraries and prison ministries throughout the United States. The hope was that this collection of stories would touch the hearts of prisoners and offer them hope and encouragement, as well as inspire them to transcend the limiting thinking and behaviors of their past. The book was so successful that the co-authors soon found themselves flooded with requests for the book from family members, correctional officers, prison volunteers and others. Because of this huge demand, the decision was made to also release the book to the general public.
Customer Reviews:
Giving Peace to My Loved One.......2007-05-14
This book has really touched my loved one who is incarcerated. He has really enjoyed it and stated that the stories really give the extra step he needs sometimes.
prisoners soul.......2007-01-30
I sent this book to my son who is incarcerated. He has read over half the book so far. He said the book is great. That it really gives him something to think about. He says the book should be manatory reading for everybody who is in a jail. He thinks the officers in charge of the prisoners should read it also, then maybe the harassment would stop.
Another Winner! .......2007-01-09
Great recreational read! I sent it to my husband! I cried through some stories and smiled through others, just as I have with any other Chicken Soup book!
Extremely Pleased and Thankful!.......2005-10-27
I personally did not read this book, however, I sent it to my 27 year old son who at the time was incarcerated as a result of a mix up with stolen identity (his ID having been stolen and used for criminal activities). It was an extremely difficult & spiritually frustrating time for him! This book made a tremendous difference and impact on his decision to rededicate his life to the Lord and allowing Him (Jesus Christ and God our Father) to "help" my son. My son derived much strength from the life stories of others, such as Chuck Colson, as well as all those that contributed their personal stories, in knowing that God is still on the thrown and has not forgotten those in the judicial prision/jail systems and that they are loved as much as those on the outside. My son said I could not have sent him a greater gift at the time. He also has shared it with many of the inmates who were interested in knowing how much the Lord loves them REGARDLESS of their circumstances, what we have done in life, as well as what we have not done in life to please the Lord. It helped many men and I am very grateful for the book and how quickly it was shipped!! That was a very important aspect as well since my son was in such a state of depression and needed some inspiration, hope, guidance and just plain down to earth stories about life in this difficult world. It helped him to keep on keeping on and having faith that God has a purpose for everything. Life catches us by surprise most of the time, however, it never catches the Lord by surprise. My son needed to know that it rains on the just and the unjust in this world, and it shines on the just and the unjust in this world (taken from the Bible). God is no respector of persons and this book clearly reveals that, but, he is a God of LOVE and he loves all his creations, including those that don't necessarily need a "hand out" but a "hand up" which are usually those incarcerated. Not all in the prison system want a get out of jail free. They just want justice done and this book allowed them, through the stories of those individual lives to know there is a "just God" in this world. Thanks for allowing me this opportunity to share my opinion/review and I hope it will benefit anyone interested in possibly purchasing this book!
BEST BOOK I EVER READ.......2005-05-25
I FOUND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON AFTER JUST BROWSING AROUND. MY SON IS IN PRISON IN UPSTATE NEW YORK AND I SENT HIM A COPY. HE TOLD ME HE GOT THE BOOK BUT NEVER MENTIONED ANYTHING ELSE. WELL THE OTHER DAY HE CALLED AND SAID "OH BY THE WAY YOU KNOW THAT BOOK THAT YOU SENT ME A FEW MONTHS AGO CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE PRISONERS SOUL WELL ITS THE BEST BOOK I EVER EVER READ". IT IS SO INSPIRATIONAL AND HE SAID IT HELPS HIM THROUGH SOME DEPRESSING TIMES. HE HAS PASSED IT AROUND HIS PRISION DORM AND EVERY ONE TELLS HIM HOW THEY LOVED THE BOOK. HE EVEN GOT INSPIRED TO WRITE POEMS AND SEND IT IN TO THE AUTHOR WHO TAKES POEMS AND STORIES FROM PRISIONERS AROUND THE COUNTRY. HE AS WELL AS I HAVE READ THE SAME STORIES OVER AND OVER AND NEVER GET TIRED OF READING THEM.
Book Description
LEADING FROM THE SECOND CHAIR will raise awareness of the need for strong leaders in secondary positions. It will describe the value they can bring to their organization and to primary leaders when they are serving at their full potential. It will reshape the way they view their role, with an emphasis on their own responsibility as leaders. It recognizes the unique challenges and frustrations of serving in a subordinate position and equips these leaders with the attitudes and skills that they will need to survive and thrive in this new paradigm.
Because of the scarcity of resources for second chair leaders, particularly those in the church, this book will offer a practical way to improve the performance of any organization.
Leading Congregational Change discussed the importance of a "vision community"--a diverse group of key members who discern and implement the vision for a congregation--to guide the transformation of a church. This work will extend the theme of an empowered leadership team as we explore how individual clergy and laity can lead effectively.
Customer Reviews:
For Second and First Chair Leaders.......2007-03-09
This book gave me a fresh perspective on a difficult situation. I can get away with calling myself a good leader. I am a graduate of the nation's oldest military college and a former naval officer. And I know that all leadership is challenging. But I was not ready for the difficult dance that a second chair has to manage. No one person - even a senior pastor - can be the expert on everything. And if you are a strong leader, with proven and developed expertise in your profession it can be difficult when you report to someone without the same insight. I am an associate pastor in a growing church and also the principal of the church's school. My senior pastor is a great guy, an amazing preacher, and a solid church leader who has little experience in education and management of multiple employees. It can be tough trying to support someone who doesn't get you and does not have the time to absorb all that you have learned in two decades of working. But that is my job and it is also my job to be the servant and make things work in this relationship. This book gave me a lot of what I needed to get there mentally. On another note, if you are the top person in any ministry involving multiple staff you may need to read this book as much as your subordinates do - especially if you have less than five years in a senior subordinate role. But don't trust me - the people who wrote and contributed to this book are the experts - and it shows.
Resource For the Entire Pastoral Staff to Read Together.......2006-08-31
IF . . .
Staff communication and Egos are healthy enough to take it.
This book elevates the role of second chair pastoral staff. As the lead pastor of a church I appreciate the public acknowledgment of the immense value of second chair leadership. Any senior pastor who feels a need to micromanage or minimize the role of others is guilty of leading the church to mediocrity, sort of like an engine only running on one cylinder. I always want my second chair leaders to be LEADERS in every sense of the word.
This book also cautions second chair leaders to check their personal egos at the door when they enter. Subordination is a great American weakness that does great damage to the church. Often second chair leaders excell in vision, energy, and drive, but too often are weak in areas of savy and experience. If the first chair leader feels threatened, things quickly go from bad to worse. This book builds savy.
This book is timely, important, and could potentially prevent many ministry wrecks. I suggest that every multiple staff church use it as a study guide for a series of staff meetings. I wish it had come along earlier in my ministry.
Excellent Book For All Leaders.......2006-07-18
"Leading From The Second Chair" is a book that generates healthy discussions and allows anyone in a leadership role in a church to gain a better perspective on what they do and what the First Chair Leader goes through.
I have led our pastoral staff through a discussion of the principles in this book, allowing time for feedback, comments, interaction and questions. It has been a healthy time of understanding how God has wired each of us and how we can better serve our leader, build God's church and stay healthy.
executive pastors take note.......2006-04-20
I'm someone who recently transitioned from first chair to second chair by choice due to a recognition of my strenghths and weaknesses. This book helped in that transition as I felt my way around this new role. It also helped confirm for me that I had made the right choice. I found especially helpful the section on the "deep/wide paradox" in seeing the need for balance between minutia and grand vision. Also helpful (and humbling for a former first chair) was the section on the "subordinate leader paradox". This book will be extremely helpful to the second chair leader who feels trapped in a bad situation with a bad first chair (not me) but is still full of great wisdom for the person in a great situation with a great first chair leader(like my church). I recomended this book to a church planter in Hawaii and he read it along with his potential second chair guy, which I thought was a great use of this book. Every second chair leader should read this, especially young guys like myself.
Needed this 20 years ago.......2006-03-24
After 37+ years as a second-chair leader, finally there is a book with practical information that fits the position. I've always felt called to the second chair, but have also chafed at not being able to exert greater leadership for my church. The authors have done a masterful job of providing principles along with real-life examples. I recommend this to any second-chair leader.
Book Description
A Leadership Network Publication
In Leading the Team-Based Church, George Cladis issues a clarion call for ministry teams to embrace a fresh leadership model that is not based on hierarchy, but on a process of collaboration that mirrors the relationship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He reminds us that today's cultural environment--where authority has basis in trust, innovation reaps rewards, and spirituality takes root in life and work--has matured past the need for the hierarchy of traditional church leadership where the pastor had the final say. Through down-to-earth stories from his own experience and those of clergy in both mainline and evangelical churches, Cladis offers an exciting alternative to the traditional forms of church leadership, enabling pastors, congregational leaders, and staff to breathe new life into their ministries and unleash the full potential of the entire ministry team.
Cladis, pastor of a fast-growing mainline congregation, demonstrates how cultural changes affecting all our institutions--not just the church--are making it easier to adopt this new model of leadership. Cladis's practical advice will enable ministry teams to work together in ways that both embody the Christian message and call forth the full creativity and love of the entire team.
"Just when it seems that all that can be said has been said on the subject of 'teams', just when one has tired of the gumming of the label 'team' on everything in sight, along comes perhaps the most significant religious book on teams yet published. Cladis juxtaposes the theological and cultural context for team-based ministry in a model presentation of what a conversation between Bible, theology, and culture should look like."--Leonard Sweet, dean, The Theological School and vice president, Drew University
Customer Reviews:
A beneficial model for church leadership in postmodernism .......2005-04-24
In Leading the Team-Based Church, George Cladis weaved together principles from theology, ecclesiology, sociology, and business to create a rubric for applying a team-based model for doing ministry in the church. Cladis's thesis is that the historic hierarchical organizational model of top-down, leader-directed ministry is inconsistent with the nature of God, the New Testament pattern of church ministry, and the needs of a postmodern culture. The cornerstone of Cladis's paradigm is his premise that the persons of the Trinity exist in perichoresis, that is, as a team comprising perfect unity, fellowship, harmony, love, and purpose. The perichoretic Trinity thus becomes the exemplar for team-based ministry in the church. Part 1 explored the theological underpinnings of God as perichoresis and outlined nine characteristics of postmodern society. The seven chapters of part 2 examined the seven forms of leadership reflected in the attributes of God's perichoretic nature in juxtaposition with the characteristics of post-modernism and how these lend credence to team-based ministry in the church.
Review and Reaction
Cladis's interpretation of the Trinity as perichoresis forged the basis of his understanding of team-based ministry in the local church. While not appearing in the New Testament, perichoresis is a compound Greek word literally meaning "circle of dance" (4). To Cladis the Trinity is a perfect team. For him, the perichoretic image of the triune Godhead provides a helpful way of viewing the church and its organizational structure. Specifically, the church should work in perfect harmony, equality, and purpose, thus reflecting the image of God.
Cladis further asserted that the perichoretic model of the Godhead most accurately reflects the demands of a postmodern society for flatten hierarchical organizational structures that value individual giftedness, equality, and collaborative efforts. Cladis suggested that modernism promotes rugged individualism to the exclusion of community. Church structures that reflect a modernistic mindset are less inviting to postmodern people who value participation in decision making, inclusiveness in action, and personal fulfillment. Perichoretic team-based ministry, therefore, provides a more appealing model for postmodern people.
Cladis overreaches his thesis by insisting that team-based ministries are "the most theologically and culturally appropriate method for church leadership today" (17). His premise is specious at best and arrogant at worst. Such an assertion casts immediate aspersions upon centuries of church history. If one accepts Cladis at this point, then any form of church organization not based on teams is not just inefficient, but incongruent with the very nature of God.
One can make the point that scripture does not provide a definitive model for church organization. Allusions to church organizational patterns in scripture are more descriptive than prescriptive. Even the language of church leadership varies within the New Testament--pastor versus elder versus overseer. First century Christians initially adopted the Jewish synagogue model because it was the one most familiar to them, but later developed organizational models that more adequately met their evolving needs. The early church organized its ministry efforts around the needs of its constituency (such as the addition of an incipient deacon ministry in Acts 6:1-6). Their efforts were more pragmatic than theologically informed. They simply acted to meet the needs of the day.
Cladis makes a better point that a team-based ministry more effectively meets the needs of contemporary postmodern believers. The seven team attributes of covenanting, visioning, culture creating, collaborating, trusting, empowering, and learning, detailed in part 2, forms the book's core strengths. Cladis discussed each attribute biblically and then related each to his perichoretic model. Occasionally, he provided insights from the business world and fictionalized church settings to illustrate the efficacy of a particular attribute. Cladis's frequent references to his perichoresis model and to Rublev's icon of the Holy Trinity were distracting and thoroughly unhelpful. One draws the impression that Cladis is attempting to baptize the business model of teams into the language of the church--an unnecessary effort to spiritualize the secular to make it more appealing to the sacred. If a team-based model for ministry works, and does not violate scripture, then employ the best of what the business world has to offer for the advancement of the Kingdom of God.
Application
Cladis's seven characteristics of team-based ministry can fit well into today's church. Many are intuitively self-evident. The church exists in covenant with God and with one another. This covenant identity does not cease in staff meetings or in church council meetings. What healthy church does not want to have a unifying vision from God that creates a sense of purpose and provides meaning to its efforts? By in large, churches want to develop a cultural ethos reflecting it uniqueness as the people of God. Maturing church members want to contribute their gifts and talents toward a collaborative, trusting, empowering, and spiritually fulfilling mission. Many of Cladis's seven characteristics have an ethereal quality to them. They are better identified by the effect they achieve than the effort needed to achieve them. Nonetheless, they represent biblical ideals church leaders should strive to achieve in their ministry settings.
This reviewer has sought to apply these characteristics to a new preschool ministry team. The team of four mothers of preschool-aged children organized themselves around the mission to create a safe, secure, and satisfying nursery and preschool experience for children from birth through age three. The members have complementary skills and are highly motivated. The initial organizational meeting was unfocused because the members did not know how to work as a team. This pastor introduced the members to Cladis's seven characterizes for healthy teams. Some of the characteristics will take time to formulate, however the team was excited about the characteristics of vision, collaboration, empowerment, trust, and learning. The members embraced their vision of creating a top-notch preschool environment. They made a mutual commitment to work together to fulfill this vision. Only time will tell how well this new team can develop Cladis's characteristics.
Conclusion
Leading the Team-Based Church does what it needs to do. It provides a beneficial contemporary model for ministry leadership in a postmodern world. The old-style hierarchical pyramidal leadership model served the church well for more than one hundred years because it was how people were used to the world operating. It was sociologically consistent, fitting the prevailing worldview. The Medieval monarchical bishopric model worked a thousand years ago for the same reason--it reflected how people related to one another in a feudal society. Through the Renaissance, Reformation, and the Industrial Revolution, the way people viewed leadership changed. Each time this happened the church accommodated these sociological shifts and found the necessary theological support. Cladis does no differently. Sociological shifts notwithstanding, Cladis's seven attributes of team-based leadership are worthy characteristics for any church.
A Great, Practical, How_To Guide!.......2000-08-08
What a breath of fresh air to see one with such an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit coming from a traditional mainline denomination. This book does more than just exhort you to form teams, it tells you how to create a culture of teams that will make your church more effective for the Kingdom of God. This one has definitely made my top-ten list!
The Best I Have Found on Team-Building in the Church.......2000-08-07
George Cladis has written a great book--the best I have found on team-building in the church. It is an easy read, very practical, filled with a lot of good ideas. I found his chapters on team covenants and on creating a visionary culture particularly helpful.
Cladis has learned a lot in his pastorates about teamwork--and teaches those principles well. He motivates me to want to build a strong team--not be a lone ranger in the pastorate. And he gives lots of ideas on how to do so.
Great combo of the Trinity and world class business thinking.......1999-05-21
This book was surprisely quick and easy to read yet very thorough. Any church or small business would benefit from reading this book. It's model is similiar to great world class companies, but is unique with it's theological links. It also recognizes the problems that happen in any small company...even churches....! It recognizes too everyone's desire to work in a place and do things we are passionate about!...Worthwhile for the entire staff to read!
Book Description
Anyone involved in ministry for any amount of time has probably run across staff problems. And the challenge in dealing with staff problems within a Christian ministry is solving the problems in a Christian manner--and keeping a sense of humor about it all. In How to Treat a Staff Infection, Dr. Craig and Carolyn Williford take a ''medical'' approach to those common ministry ailments, including: a stiff neck ''God always intended VBS to be two full weeks.''; temporary paralysis ''You want me to make a decision?''; a flaccidity of the lips ''Got a prayer request for you: you won't believe what so-and-so did now.''; abnormal weight gain ''God just gave me this incredible idea.''; and many more. Almost every problem a ministry staff encounters is covered in this humorous and helpful book.
Book Description
“I thought I knew Terry McAuliffe as well as anyone, but this time he surprised even me. Who knew Terry could sit still long enough to give us a book this good? What a Party! is a must-read for all of us who love politics, believe in public service, and know that laughter is often the best survival strategy.”
—President Bill Clinton
“No one knows more about American politics than Terry McAuliffe. He gives
us some remarkable insights and knows how to make his accounts both humorous
and informative.”
—President Jimmy Carter
“I’ve often said Terry’s energy could light up a city, and readers of this book will know why. Terry’s excitement for politics—and life—is evident on every page.”
—Senator Hillary Clinton
For more than twenty-five years, Terry McAuliffe has been at the epicenter of American politics. Just out of Catholic University in Washington, Terry took a position with the Carter-Mondale campaign and quickly became one of the campaign’s chief fund-raisers—and hasn’t looked back since. The list of Terry´s former mentors, friends, and close associates in the nation’s capital reads like a who’s who of legendary Democrats: Tip O’Neill. Jimmy Carter. Dick Gephardt. Bill Clinton. Hillary Clinton. Al Gore. The list goes on and on. Terry has fought hard for the Democratic Party his entire life and, as Bill Clinton reveals here for the first time, he was the first one in the party to see opportunity in the Republican gains in the 1994 Congressional elections.
Without question the most successful fund-raiser in political history, Terry established himself as a heavyweight Democratic strategist and leader who was George W. Bush´s most vocal and persistent critic during the first four years of the Bush 43 presidency. He earned rave reviews even from former critics for his groundbreaking work as chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 2001 to 2005, pulling the DNC out of debt for the first time in its history. Terry has served as a confidant and adviser to President Clinton and countless presidential candidates, a mediator among party leaders, the chairman of a national convention and presidential inaugural, and a forceful spokesman for the party—all without losing his reputation as a colorful, fun-loving character liked and respected even by his Republican adversaries.
What a Party! is a fascinating, hilarious, and provocative look at the life of one of Washington’s legendary figures. From wrestling an alligator to running the Democratic National Committee to his friendship with President Clinton, Terry McAuliffe’s wonderful memoir covers it all and is, without doubt, the political book of the year.
Customer Reviews:
ADHD.......2007-07-26
The first hundred pages of this book almost gave me whiplash. When he claims to be hyperactive, I totally agree, because he jumps from story to story with no seeming connection. But once Clinton takes office, I assume he had the daily logs to guide him, and things got a little more linear.
That said, I loved every page for its entertaining stories and enterprising spirit. This guy really made a difference.
Best non-fiction book I read this year.......2007-06-15
For those who want real insight to politics over the last 25 years, with plenty of humour, Mcauliffe's recent book is a must. Written not by an elected official or a psuedo-philosopher, but by someone who was in the thick of the action in raising money and advising President Clinton and others in the Democratic Party since the 80's "What A Party" is a great read. Incisive and downright funny at times it is the best non-fiction book I read this year and far and away the best political memoir/commentary I have ever read. When I started I was sorry I wasn't in it and when I finished I was jealous I didn't write it. Buy it!
What a Blast.......2007-05-14
Great summary of the politics of politics. I could not help laughing throughout and it was enjoyable and easy reading. A must for every loyal Democrat.
Democratic Money Man.......2007-04-28
An entertaining auto-biography from a self-made millionaire who raises millions for the democrats. He's proud, but down to earth. A close friend to Bill Clinton. He's now Hillary's campaign manager. If you are a big fan of George Bush Jr., you'll have a hard time getting through this book.
A Brilliant Man's Journey.......2007-03-28
I picked up this book with lots of curiosity. I saw McAuliffe on Book TV surrounded by an army of celebrities (including Clinton and Bill O Reilly - what a combination!!) and expected a "usual" memoir backed with celebrity endorsements. Damn I was wrong. This book was fun to read and it sailed like a cheesecake.
I immensely enjoyed Terry's delightful style of storytelling. The book moves with a supersonic pace and I was surprised how fast I finished it.
There can be no arguments about Terry's passion towards "his" party and it's pretty apparent throughout the book. But, this book is more than his commitments to Democratic Party. It's about a hardworking, honest and a brilliant man's journey towards success told in a simple style that will sure entertain you.
Great read. 5/5
N.Sivakumar
Author of "America Misunderstood: What a Second Bush Victory Meant to the Rest of the World".
America Misunderstood: What a Second Bush Victory Meant to the Rest of the World
Book Description
Warfighting is an authentic American philosophy of action that will thrill the millions of fans of SunTzu's The Art of War and Musashi's T he Book of Five Rings. This modern classic of strategy and philosophy is the quintessential guide to prevailing in competitive situations, be it war, work, play, or daily living.
Sometimes life is war and sometimes business is war and sometimes you need to call in the Marines. Over the past two hundred years, the Marines have developed a reputation for getting the job done-fearlessly, boldly, and taking no prisoners. What better role model for the hidden warriors in ourselves? What better advice to call on when the stakes are high and sensitivity just isn't going to work? Written in 1989 as a philosophical and strategic guide-book for the US. Marine Corps, Warfighting is a worthy successor to SunTzu's The Art Of War. With clarity, brevity, and wisdom, it describes the basic forces at work in every competitive situation whether on the field of battle, in the boardroom, or in the courtroom. With twentieth-century technology and its emphasis on speed and versatility, the rules of war and competition have changed. Warfighting's exploration of maneuver warfare takes readers beyond Sun Tzu's classic lessons and provides them a more thorough understanding of what it takes to fight and win in the modern world. Currency's edition of Warfighting features interviews with famous former Marines including F. Lee Bailey, Ed McMahon, and Donald Regan. They tell how they have used the Marine Corps' battle strategies of strength and straightforwardness as their secret weapons in every confrontation, whether at a corporate, departmental. or personal level.
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Brilliant, Simple and Profound.......2007-04-18
This is the best book that I've ever read regarding military doctrine-- it elegantly sums up the most relevant points of Clausewitz and Boyd's OODA Loop to come to sound military principle in less than 100 pages. It also includes a number of references to the Eastern military philosophy (think Art of War and the Book of Five Rings, both required reading for the Japanese businessman) and ties them to our Western military philosophy quite elegantly.
If you aren't familiar with Clausewitz then I'd recommend picking up On Strategy by Summers; Warfighting will not give you all of the elements necessary to understand concepts like Friction.
This book travels with me wherever I go-- it is relevant to business and even personal development and is more than worth the price being charged for it.
A Fine Pamphlet, But Not a Manual.......2006-11-20
Warfighting was written for the Marine unfamiliar with maneuver warfare to pick up, flip through, memorize the axioms, and apply in battle. As such, like most other field manuals issued to soldiers, it is a distillation of a large swath of ideas from Sun Tzu to Liddell-Hart. That said, it packs a good punch for such a small work. If, however, you're looking for a more detailed illustration of the principles outlined here, you might take a look at B.H. Liddell-Hart's "Strategy" as well as Thomas Cleary's translation of Sun Tzu's "The Art of War."
Additionally, those westerners who enjoy axioms focusing on the flux of life, war, or what have you might also like to take a look at Heraclitus' "Fragments." The basic tenets of Taoism that permeate Sun Tzu (and, by proxy, "Warfighting") can be equally well found in Heraclitus. His primary "thesis" if you will, "nothing is stationary, life is flux," is the axiom upon which maneuver warfare strategy is founded.
If Sun Tzu were a Marine...........2006-10-14
The US Marine Corp's version of Sun Tzu's Art of War. Concise and direct as would be expected from the Marines, yet with depth enough to make the points clear. A wonderful work for explaining how the Marines fight wars and a good resource for a competive advantage in any context. A handy resource for the military or military history enthusiast. A must read for every Marine. Insight for business leaders and more.
Outstanding!.......2006-03-18
I liked this because it's direct(no psychological excuses for your inadequacy). It's short so there's no wading through opinion and hearsay. It's timeless because it's based on principle. It's applicable like Danforth's "I Dare You"(you have to think:"how does this apply to my life"). It's fully referenced so you can dig deeper.I catch myself going back and rereading it all the time(no you can't borrow mine).
Sun Tzu and Clausewitz distilled for the MTV generation.......2005-10-15
Great book that takes elements of traditional knowledge about war making (Sun Tzu, Clausewitz, etc) and combines it with the know-how of war as gathered by the United States Marine Corps in the modern era.
Stacking this book up against the likes of Sun Tzu and Clausewitz, it is probably better than both when it comes to a straightforward, contemporary appreciation of the elements of war.
As other reviewers have observed, there is a tendency for people to get mired in the meaning of Sun Tzu and Clausewitz is probably too complex and heavy-going for most readers.
This book is short, to the point, but has great value. I also like the language and style of the book. Great stuff.
Book Description
This book introduces you to an exciting approach to figure drawing. It was especially created by a group of America's most eminent artists who have demonstrated the methods they have used in their distinguished careers.You, too, will find that figure drawing is one of the areas of art that can bring you much fun and excitement. Not only will you gain rich satisfaction from drawing or painting, but you'll discover that people admire creative talent-- and you'll experience the pride of achievement that comes from developing a valuable skill that most others lack.Also, if you have sufficient desire and dedication, your talent in drawing could even lead you into an exciting and challenging career as a professional artist. But, whether or not you have the ambition to be a professional, you'll find that art will be a wonderfully satisfying pursuit.In this book you'll find fresh approaches to the following features:* THE HUMAN FORM* DRAWING MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES* MODELS-- WHERE TO FIND THEM* GESTURE DRAWING* DRAWING-- STEP-BY-STEP* THE BASIC FORM FIGURE* ARTISTIC ANATOMY* LIGHTING THE FIGURE* THE FIGURE IN MOTIONAnd don't forget-- as a buyer of this book you are entitled to receive a FREE ART LESSON from a professional artist/instructor of the Famous Artists School.
Amazon.com
Nearly all business books deal with managing a company.
The Valuable Office Professional, by Michelle Burke, addresses the usually neglected but nonetheless critical matter of managing a manager. Approaching issues from the perspective of the staff, Burke shows how to develop the assistant-boss relationship into a true partnership. Tips and exercises are included to help transform these often one-way associations into effective teams, even when the boss chooses not to see the assistant as a counterpart.
Customer Reviews:
Career minded Admin need this book.......2000-09-14
This book was great! I have Michelle Burke's five core competencies hanging in my office to let others know how seriously I take my career. I have read the book several times and have found it extremely useful and motivating. Great Book for anyone at any stage of their career.
Michelle Burke's Corporate Value.......2000-09-01
Burke's invaluable 'Valuable Office Professional' has saved our organization both the headaches of administrative training as well as the cost of on-going educational maintenance. The beauty of her insight applies quite poignantly to help increase the productivity of not only the office assistant but CEO's alike. Recommended for all who endeavor to succeed in corporate America.
The not so valuable book of office professionals........2000-06-27
I order the book and I started to read it as soon as I got it out of the box. I also ordered the Webster"s secretarial handbook. This book was a lot better and had useful information. The Valuable office professional was a bit confusing to read. The information was very pointless.
Book Description
Showcasing the work of the world’s top nature photographers, this lavish, large-format volume presents the 100 best images submitted to Wildlife Photographer of the Year, the largest, most prestigious wildlife photography competition in the world. Selected from 20,000 images and representing 60 countries, the pictures range from plants to endangered animals, underwater life to landscapes—all dramatically displaying the beauty and variety of the natural world. Featuring behind-the-scenes information and photographic details for each image, this is a magnificent volume for all lovers of wildlife and fine photography.
Customer Reviews:
They just keep getting better.......2007-01-24
I own all sixteen of this series. I have been sold on them since I found Portfolio 7 while browsing a bookstore some years ago and was inspired to buy all the older copies and every one since. Amazon (UK) has been especially helpful in helping me source the early publications.
The Photography is magnificent, the production and presentation first class. There is no other Wildlife Photography publication that comes close to being as satisfying as this one.
I recommend it highly.
Books:
- The Audubon Backyard Birdwatcher: Birdfeeders and Bird Gardens
- The Audubon Backyard Birdwatcher: Birdfeeders and Bird Gardens
- The Complete Book of Edible Landscaping: Home Landscaping with Food-Bearing Plants and Resource-Saving Techniques
- The Complete Houseplant Survival Manual: Essential Gardening Know-How for Keeping (Not Killing) More Than 160 Indoor Plants
- The Complete Taj Mahal
- The Encyclopedia of Grasses for Livable Landscapes
- The Grapes of Wrath (Centennial Edition)
- The Great Chile Book
- The Lorax (Classic Seuss)
- The New Garden Paradise: Great Private Gardens of the World
Books Index
Books Home
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- Intermediate Accounting, Volume I
- Principles of Macroeconomics, Updated Edition
- Chill of Fear
Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity
Beethoven: Symphonies No. 5 & No. 7
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High
Are You Ready to Succeed? Unconventional Strategies to Achieving Personal Mastery in Business and Life
Beyond the Wall of Resistance: Unconventional Strategies that Build Support for Change
