Kabul Beauty School: An American Woman Goes Behind the Veil

Book Description

Soon after the fall of the Taliban, in 2001, Deborah Rodriguez went to Afghanistan as part of a group offering humanitarian aid to this war-torn nation. Surrounded by men and women whose skills–as doctors, nurses, and therapists–seemed eminently more practical than her own, Rodriguez, a hairdresser and mother of two from Michigan, despaired of being of any real use. Yet she soon found she had a gift for befriending Afghans, and once her profession became known she was eagerly sought out by Westerners desperate for a good haircut and by Afghan women, who have a long and proud tradition of running their own beauty salons. Thus an idea was born.

With the help of corporate and international sponsors, the Kabul Beauty School welcomed its first class in 2003. Well meaning but sometimes brazen, Rodriguez stumbled through language barriers, overstepped cultural customs, and constantly juggled the challenges of a postwar nation even as she learned how to empower her students to become their families’ breadwinners by learning the fundamentals of coloring techniques, haircutting, and makeup.

Yet within the small haven of the beauty school, the line between teacher and student quickly blurred as these vibrant women shared with Rodriguez their stories and their hearts: the newlywed who faked her virginity on her wedding night, the twelve-year-old bride sold into marriage to pay her family’s debts, the Taliban member’s wife who pursued her training despite her husband’s constant beatings. Through these and other stories, Rodriguez found the strength to leave her own unhealthy marriage and allow herself to love again, Afghan style.

With warmth and humor, Rodriguez details the lushness of a seemingly desolate region and reveals the magnificence behind the burqa. Kabul Beauty School is a remarkable tale of an extraordinary community of women who come together and learn the arts of perms, friendship, and freedom.

Customer Reviews:

A spoonful of sugar to help the bad stories go down.......2007-10-16

The last book I read before this one was A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (see my review) and I absolutely loved it. I was telling a friend of mine in New York about it and she suggested that I read Kabul Beauty School next. She said that it had the same theme, but that this one was written in a more lighthearted tone and read more like a gossip column. I immediately picked up this one and was instantly immersed back into the bleak existence of the women of Afghanistan and the harsh, cruel lives they have to endure. My friend was right on the money...this story is much easier to swallow and keep down since it's told from the perspective of an average American beautician, and not written in a high brow literary style (not that that's necessarily bad, but doesn't make for easy beach reading and sometimes you just want to be entertained without having to grab the dictionary).

Kabul Beauty School is a non-fiction account of hairstylist Debbie Rodriguez's time in Kabul and how she tried desperately to help these women change their lives for the better the only way she knew how. This book makes an excellent companion piece to A Thousand Splendid Suns and actually helps explain some things that I couldn't figure out from the first one such as the differences between the different Afghani tribes (Pashtun, Hazara, Uzbek, etc.). There are also some juicy insights into Afghan culture that Hosseini, being a man, just wouldn't think to include but are very fascinating, like how both brides and grooms have to get ALL their body hair removed the night before their wedding. Ouch!

*Plot spoilers in this paragraph only*
See, Debbie is a hairstylist by trade and while that may be an acceptable and lucrative occupation for women in most parts of the world, the Taliban had all but wiped out beauty salons in Afghanistan during their rule. Debbie originally went to Kabul just after 9/11 as part of a non-profit organization's mission to help people in need but when she arrived, she realized she was the only one there without any practical medical or other essential training. She was embarrassed that all she could do was makeup and hair, but when people heard about what she COULD do, they went nuts! She had no idea how desperately in need the other aid workers, Westerners and even Afghani brides were to get their hair styled by someone that knew what they were doing. Once Debbie found out that now since the Taliban weren't in control anymore, the local women could actually make a living as beauticians and use beauty parlors as a sanctuary where men couldn't come in and bother them and they could socialize without having to be covered in burquas or head scarves, she had a great idea. She decided to use her personal skills and open a beauty school for the locals so they could earn some money for their dreadfully poor families and change all their lives.

There have been some extremely negative reviews of this book saying that Debbie is an opportunist and exploited these women so she could "rake in the bucks" and leave them without a penny of compensation. They've called her horrible names and accused her of horrible things, but I truly believe that she did everything with only the best of intentions. I read the NPR news article about how the women in Kabul said that since she told their stories and published pictures of them without their coverings (which aren't in the copy of the book that I have and that I still have only seen on the NPR site, which is ironic) they are now being persecuted in their community, but really they were previously and always have been! She didn't force anyone to come to her classes or to take the jobs she offered them. She was just trying to help these women in the only way she knew how. I volunteer a LOT of my time with various non-profit organizations, but I don't think I could ever go halfway across the world to such a hostile land with such drastically different views and rules as Afghanistan, I'd be too scared to really help anyone else. Therefore, I hail Debbie as a hero and very much respect what she accomplished, even if her efforts haven't been 100% successful. I don't think anyone in their right mind would expect her to change an entire country's ways by herself, but her attempt to start to change it one woman at a time should certainly be commended.

I found that this story, like A Thousand Splendid Suns, was sad at times, but overall had a light, sometimes even funny tone. Debbie describes all the sad, shocking stories of these Afghani women she grew to be friends with in detail, but it's really a story about hope. Debbie gave these women hope that if they work hard and open their minds, someday they can feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods and not feel like they are being treated worse than animals. She gives me knowledge of these efforts and hope that more people will get involved to help them as well. I thank her for her efforts and her story. And mostly I thank her for making me feel thankful and lucky to be born in a country that gives everyone an equal chance at happiness, no matter what gender, culture or religion we are. Hopefully, one day, everyone on the planet can feel the same way too.

Very good book!.......2007-10-01

I had heard the author on a radio station and bought the book afterwards. I really enjoyed her fresh and candid style of describing her experiences in Afghanistan. Her uncomlicated style of writing made the book a pleasure to read.

BIG HEART.......2007-09-29

I think that Deborah Rodriguez teachs us a beautiful lesson of kindness and love when she decided to leave her own family to go to Afghanistan to help women to build a life for them, and even when people said that she did wrong going there beacuse of the consecuences of this book for the afghan women, i strongly recognize that not all of us have the courage to leave the comfort of our lives here in the U.S to go to third world countries to help people and forget ourselves helping them.

Has Life for Afghani Women Improved Because of Rodriguez?.......2007-09-27

I have mixed feelings about this book. It's easy to read and certainly provides an interesting and informative portrayal of what life is like for the women of Afghanistan. I'm not sorry I read it, but it did seem to drag on in the end and I started counting pages wondering when it would be over. There is one heartbreaking and shocking story after the next, and too many "characters" to wrap one's mind around. This mélange of stories primarily boils down to this: Terrorizing Men and Terrorized Women. I don't believe life for Afghani women has improved because of the Kabul Beauty School, and from what I understand, because of their portrayal in this book, some of the women are in more danger now that the book is out and Rodriguez has fled.

In the end, reading Kabul Beauty School did not elicit the feelings I thought it might, which was to have met an extraordinary, selfless woman who achieved a major accomplishment. Throughout the reading, I didn't understand or appreciate the author's motivation. It's excellent memoir or journal material, but that's where the excellence ends. Does it entertain? Absolutely not. Unfortunately, there's a certain lack of credibility from the merely average writing skills of the author. (Perhaps hairdressers should stick to creating hairstyles rather than trying to create prose.) Deborah Rodriguez often comes across as victim of circumstance. She makes a series of foolish choices particularly when it comes to marriage, acts rashly, and often irreverently, probably drinks too much and smokes. (This may be harsh, but these traits, to me, have nothing to do with "beauty.") For example, it doesn't make her the least bit likeable when we learn she verbally assaults a man at an outdoor market when he follows her around and grabs her backside. Embarrassing and endangering her closest friend (and translator) in the process, the friend tells her outright that she will "never go to the market with her again." Rodriguez brings her strong, independent and liberated American woman traits with her, wears them on her sleeve, and it does not earn her respect from the people around her, or from this reader. It makes her nickname "Crazy Debbie" perfectly understandable. Also, she lets her friends arrange a marriage for her, (and granted the presence of an Afghani husband, "Sam," does help her cause in one dangerous and surprising circumstance after another), but this man already has a wife, and we soon learn, a baby on the way. It's all very bizarre.

It feels as though Rodriguez returned to Afghanistan (after her first genuine venture there to provide aid after the ousting of the Taliban) in search of an extraordinary life rather than because she wanted to be the savior of Afghani women. I'm not saying this is true (I don't know this woman), but if the purpose of this book was to tell the world who she is and why she went to Afghanistan at great personal expense to become the director of a beauty school with the hope of making life better for the women there, she has been successful. The book, published by a major house, and the movie deal also deem her "successful." As for the school and the cause? A failure. She is not, like the book jacket indicates, living in Afghanistan and still running the school. According to an article on NPR, "the subjects of her book say Rodriguez and her newfound fame have put their lives in danger. They say they've seen none of the money or help to get them out of Afghanistan that Rodriguez promised them in exchange for having their stories appear in the book." Rodriguez counters by saying the women misunderstood what she promised them.

In spite of this rather negative review, I do think Kabul Beauty School is an excellent choice for book clubs as it will no doubt, provoke a very interesting and thoughtful discussion about the lives of women living in Afghanistan, and whether or not the outside world should or shouldn't have something to say or do about this culture and the emancipation of women there.

From the author of "A Line Between Friends," McKenna Publishing Group.

Eye Opening But Sad.......2007-09-26

Clearly a memoir instead of a polished expose, this book showed both the best parts of the human spirit and the downfalls of being human and learning as we go.

The author's energy, enthusiasm and heart for her students clearly shows in her writing. Her honest good will and perseverence are a tribute to the best of human nature.

Unfortunately, like the rest of us, she learns through her mistakes. Some she recognizes, others she breezes over and leaves us to wonder at. For example, being married to a man who already has a wife. Though acceptable in that culture, it seems to go against all her other intentions to improve the lives of women in her new home.

I recommend this book if only for the insight the author's experiences have made available into the lives of Afghani women. The things they live and perservere through will make you daily grateful for the life we lead here in America and give a little more clarity and heart to the battle our brave men are fighting over there.

Average customer rating:

an introductory text
well organised and illustrated.Lacking in metric info.

Machine Tool Practices (8th Edition)
Richard R. Kibbe , John E. Neely , Warren T. White , and Roland O. Meyer
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0131188968

Book Description

Extremely comprehensive book covers the core subject areas essential for building the foundation required to effectively work in the machining area of today's manufacturing technology. The book covers introductory through advanced topics with a vocational emphasis, and is intensely visual - illustrated with over 1500 photographs and line drawings of machine tools, measuring tools and machining processes. Each section is structured for use in self paced individualized instruction programs. Each unit contains listed objectives, self tests with answers, and boxed material covering shop tips, safety and new technologies. Coverage of Geometric Dimension â the latest technology; Complete CNC g-code table; Illustrations for Lathe Spindle Tooling; Latest CNC information included. Professionals in the manufacturing technology field.

Customer Reviews:

an introductory text.......2007-07-29

This book and the workbook were required for a machine shop class I took. The Amazon description is pretty accurate. It is written for someone in a vocational training program who will be working in the industry rather than a home workshop. The book covers a lot of material, but doesn't go into depth on any of it. Its a pretty good introductory book, but its kind of expensive. I wouldn't have bought it if it wasn't required for the class. If you are just interested in learning to operate a certain machine, like a mill or lathe, or if you are interested in machining as a hobby I think there are probably better books. I am giving it 3 stars because of the high price, and many of the photos are not high enough quality, especially considering the price.

well organised and illustrated.Lacking in metric info........1998-06-21

I find this book clear and easy to read on machining topics. The photographs and illustrations fit well with the text. Generally a worthwhile beginners to intermediate book for pre apprentice to 3rd year. However in future editions I would like to see ISO metric information on topics such as threads and tapers along with limits and fits. I would also like to see a change to more up to date toolposts and tool holders for the lathes.

How to Open a Financially Successful Coffee, Espresso & Tea Shop

Average customer rating:

Great reference book.
WOW!
A Fascinating Start
Good content, but very choppy
Really helpful

How to Open a Financially Successful Coffee, Espresso & Tea Shop
Elizabeth Godsmark , Lora Arduser , and Douglas R. Brown
Manufacturer: Atlantic Publishing Company (FL)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ESPRESSO! Starting and Running Your Own Specialty Coffee Business
Coffee Basics: A Quick and Easy Guide

ASIN: 0910627312

Book Description

The explosive growth of the coffee shops across the country has been phenomenal. Few people realize Coffee is now the largest food import to the United States! There is money to be made on those beans! Here is the manual you need to cash in on this highly profitable segment of the food service industry. This new book is a comprehensive and detailed study of the business side of the specialty coffee and beverage shop. This superb manual should be studied by anyone investigating the opportunities of opening a coffee cafe, tea shop or coffee kiosk. If you enjoy meeting people and love coffee, this may be the perfect business for you, but keep in mind Specialty coffee retail looks easy, but as with any business, looks can be deceiving. This complete manual will arm you with everything you need including sample business forms, leases, and contracts; worksheets and checklists for planning, opening, and running day-to-day operations; sample menus; coffee drink recipes; inventory lists; plans and layouts; and dozens of other valuable, time-saving tools of the trade that no coffee entrepreneur should be without.

While providing detailed instruction and examples, the author leads you through finding a location that will bring success, learn how to draw up a winning business plan (The Companion CD Rom has the actual business plan you can use in MS Word tm.), how to buy and (sell) a coffee shop, basic cost control systems, profitable menu planning, sample floor plans & diagrams, successful kitchen management, equipment layout and planning, food safety & HACCP, successful beverage management, legal concerns, sales and marketing techniques, pricing formulas, learn how to set up computer systems to save time and money, learn how to hire & keep a qualified professional staff, brand new IRS tip reporting requirements, managing and training employees, generate high profile public relations and publicity, learn low cost internal marketing ideas, low and no cost ways to satisfy customers and build sales, learn how to keep bringing customers back, accounting & bookkeeping procedures, auditing, successful budgeting and profit planning development, as well as thousands of great tips and useful guidelines.

The manual delivers literally hundreds of innovative ways demonstrated to streamline your business. Learn new ways to make your operation run smoother and increase performance. Shut down waste, reduce costs, and increase profits. In addition operators will appreciate this valuable resource and reference in their daily activities and as a source of ready-to-use forms, web sites, operating and cost cutting ideas, and mathematical formulas that can be easily applied to their operations. The Companion CD Rom contains all the forms in the book as well as a sample business plan you can adapt for your own use.

Customer Reviews:

Great reference book........2007-03-12

Lots of good information. Some things I would never have thought of. I was very glad that I purchased this book and continue to use it frequently.

WOW!.......2007-01-09

This is the best book if you are serious about opening your own business! They thought of everything. LOVE IT & recommend it completely!

A Fascinating Start.......2006-05-08

"HOW TO OPEN A FINANCIALLY SUCCESSFUL COFFEE, ESPRESSO & TEA SHOP" by Elizabeth Godsmark, Lora Arduser and Douglas R. Brown.

Coffee is a huge industry across the country and around the world. In the introduction of "How to open a financially successful coffee, espresso & tea shop" the authors point out that the coffee industry is a $5 billion industry, which is growing more and more every year.

Anyone who is interested in starting his or her own coffee, espresso, or tea shop is going to be fascinated in this book. The authors start at the beginning with developing a business plan. The give examples and even offer a CD program that has preformatted documents. Licenses, business name, choosing suppliers, and equipment requirements are all discussed in the opening chapters.

Many aspects of running a successful coffee, espresso & tea business are discussed throughout this book. The authors have done a tremendous job in giving an introduction to opening this type of business. They talk about profit planning and advertising, as well as choosing the best equipment and managing your operating costs.

Without a doubt this is a definite must have book for anyone even thinking about starting this kind of business. The author's are able to skillfully introduce all the major concerns with opening a coffee, espresso & tea business. They provide a wealth of information that will help clarify a person's views of what is actually required to open, operate, and run a financially successful coffee, espresso & teashop.

Good content, but very choppy.......2006-04-27

How to Open a Financially Successful Coffee, Espresso & Tea Shop" by Elizabeth Godsmark, Lora Aduser, and Douglas R. Brown is great for beginners looking into possibly opening a coffee shop. The book touches on a lot of information that is generic to any business, but it is a good starting point. It provides basic information on writing a business plan, scouting out a location, buying equipment, hiring a staff and more.

I wish the authors would have delved further into the various aspects of writing a business plan. As it is, it simply lists what types of topics should be covered in a business plan and basic information on what the terms mean. There is nothing comprehensive about how to create pro-forma income projections or any of the more intricate parts of the business plan.

While parts of the book seemed to just be stating common sense knowledge, the authors did provide a number of helpful websites and resources. They talk in-depth on ordering coffee, but I wish the book would have included more coffee/espresso specific information - such as numerous drink recipes, maybe tips from those that have started their own coffee shop. Things like that would have been useful.

The book's flow is also a little disappointing. Many times the writing seemed redundant because the topic had already been touched on. For some reason the authors will discuss a subject, such as using a website to enhance your business and then touch on the subject again a few chapters later without adding anything significant to the mix..

All in all, I think the book does provide a good deal of useful information to anyone looking to open a business in the food industry. I just wish it had more meat to it or that the authors would have gone more in-depth on a few key issues.

Really helpful.......2006-04-19

Organized in a simple to comprehend and use manner, this book is likely to be beneficial to anyone who is thinking about opening a coffee or tea shop. It starts by helping to clarify the all important business plan. Chapters follow a logical sequence which helps someone who is new to the business to fully understand everything that is involved.

This book helps the reader prioritize all of the different steps that are needed in order to begin a thriving business. It covers the basics of buying the product, equipments, and how to figure out pricing of the items. CD-ROM is choked full of many different forms which are needed in order to run the business smoothly.

The book also completely covers the basics which are needed in any business, including employees, customers, marketing strategies, bookkeeping, and laws and regulations. Easy to read and simple to follow, this book will help anyone who wants to start a coffee or teas shop.

Average customer rating:

Excellent
the charm of historic Charleston
Dragonwell Dead is Nearly Dead On!
Theodesia narrows the focus - and finds herself the next target in this absorbing, fun mystery.
Arrmchair travelers invited to Charleston, SC.

Dragonwell Dead: A Tea Shop Mystery
Laura Childs
Manufacturer: Berkley Hardcover
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0425213862

Book Description

It's springtime in Charleston and just about every species of South Carolina's flora is in full and glorious bloom at the Spring Plantation Ramble. Once a year, the upper crust open their sprawling gardens to the public, the site of flower shows, rare plant auctions, and a contagious spring fever. Although Theodosia Browning barely knows a Phalinopsis from a Bog Rose, she still enjoys the Ramble, especially since she can pour tea and promote her Indigo Tea Shop-and her latest concoction, Dragonwell Sweet Tea.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent.......2007-07-03

Laura Childs does it again. I love her tea time series. This one provides the mystery and suspense, as expected, mingled with a lovely amount of tea room interaction. The whole series is worth the read. I can't say any one is better than the other. Enjoy!

the charm of historic Charleston.......2007-06-29

The eighth book in a series called The Tea Shop Mysteries. Like the others, it is set in a charming tea shop in the beautiful historic district of Charleston, South Carolina run by the very likable Theodosia Browning. This one involves poisoned tea (something unfortunately already used in this series), rare orchids, charity fund raising, and international finance. I read this series for the charm and atmosphere of both the tea shop, and of Charleston, and both are fully present.

This is very nice series of very "cozy" mysteries. I love to read them in my big easy chair with a cup of tea. ;-)

Dragonwell Dead is Nearly Dead On! .......2007-05-30

I have been a fan of the tea shop series since the first book hit stores. I stumbled on them quite by chance - but now - several years later - I can't wait for the next installment each time I finish a book!

Dragonwell Dead was, in my opinion, a more solid mystery than its predecessor, Blood Orange Brewing. No question - I enjoyed both books just due to the wonderful, fun characters and colorful descriptions of Charleston - but Dragonwell Dead is closer in tone and feel to the first books in the series. The mystery seems more clever - and the ending ties together much better.

Laura Childs offers a wonderful respite for tea and mystery lovers in her warm and charming series. The characters in the books feel like old friends - and each time, I just can't wait to hear more about them!

The one and only thing that bothered me (simply as a fan of the series) about Dragonwell Dead was the lack of interaction with detective Burt Tidwell. I have grown to like Theodosia's constant sparring with Det. Tidwell - and, to me at least, the local sheriff was not nearly as interesting as our good detective would have been. As well - although all of the major players were back for this book (except Tidwell, who made only a minor appearance), I missed hearing about Theo's therapy dog and pet, Earl Grey.

All this in stride - the book is a good, solid read and contains most of the great characters that we've come to know and love, plus some wonderful new mouth-watering recipes as well!

Does anyone know when the next book - The Silver Needle Murder - will be out? I can't stand the wait!

Karen

Theodesia narrows the focus - and finds herself the next target in this absorbing, fun mystery........2007-05-19

Fans of Laura Child's previous 'Charleston Tea Shop' mysteries will find another satisfying culinary mystery in DRAGONWELL DEAD, the latest installment, which continues to tradition of serving up recipes and tea time tips within the context of a riveting mystery story. Here Charleston's annual Spring Plantation Ramble finds Theodesia serving tea on a lovely plantation when the collapse of a nearby b&b owner leads to her investigation of murder. Theodesia narrows the focus - and finds herself the next target in this absorbing, fun mystery.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Arrmchair travelers invited to Charleston, SC. .......2007-05-14

This series is set in Charleston, SC where the protagonist struggles to be refined at the same time as earning a living operating an upmarket tea shop in the historic district. All aspects of the story are well done; the characters are well-developed and fairly attractive, the description of one of the most interesting US cities is evocative, the mystery is fairly well plotted and developed and you really feel you are traveling right along with the protagonist at she sets about solving yet another nasty challenge to her friends, location and lifestyle.

Acts Of Violets: A Flower Shop Mystery (Flower Shop Mysteries)

Average customer rating:

Blooming Fantastic!
Introducing Mama Salvare
Light and pretty fast paced.
Best one yet!
Good Cozy Mystery

Acts Of Violets: A Flower Shop Mystery (Flower Shop Mysteries)
Kate Collins
Manufacturer: Signet
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Slay It With Flowers

ASIN: 0451220749

Book Description

During the annual Pickle Fest, Abby's boyfriend Marco inexplicably disappears for a day. When he returns, he's the main suspect in the death of a clown. It seems the cops have found Snuggles pushing up water-spurting daisies-and Marco was the last person seen leaving Snuggles's house. Although Marco is still a mystery to her, Abby knows he's innocent. Now she has to find a way to prove it.

Customer Reviews:

Blooming Fantastic!.......2007-09-01

Snuggles the Clown has been murdered!

But worst of all Abby Knight's boyfriend - tough guy bar owner, ex-cop, and private eye, Marco Salvare - has been accused of the murder. Now Abby has to pull out of the stops with her team of flower shop amateur snoops to find out the real deal before Marco ends up in the clink for good! Or before Marco's ex-flame ignites an old love torch!

ACTS OF VIOLETS is the fifth entry in author Kate Collins's delightful amateur sleuth series. The heroine is Abby Knight, a college drop out turned flower shop owner. Although Bloomers isn't exactly the Batcave and her two employees (Grace and Lottie) aren't exactly Robin and Alfred, Abby has managed to solve four previous cases involving murder.

As always, despite the fact that murder is involved, the books tone is kept light and just left of wacky. Abby puts me in mind of Janet Evanovitch's New Jersey bounty hunter, Stephanie Plum. Like Stephanie, Abby has a strange family that won't stay out of her business or personal life. Her mother is an artist who creates the most awful statues ever imagined.

In this book, Abby also has to confront Mama Salvare, Marco's pushy mother, and the power struggle between the two women is fun to watch and realistic.

Abby wouldn't ever have been involved in the murder if her boyfriend hadn't tried to take up for her against the clown. During the local Pickle Fest (a truly huge homegrown affair filled with traditions), Snuggles ends up threatening Abby after a near-mishap because she's always had a fear of clowns. Marco can't leave things alone, though, and slips off to have a quiet word with the clown.

Before everything is said and done, Snuggles is dead and even Marco's cop buddies agree that he's the prime candidate for a lead suspect. Throw in the fact that Marco had trouble with the clown while he was back on the force, and you've got a long-standing feud that might just put Marco in prison.

Abby can't have that. She hasn't quite figured out what to do with Marco (and knows even less with his mom on the scene), but she doesn't want him locked away forever either. She also doesn't want Marco's old girlfriend Trina granted any conjugal visits.

I've read earlier books in the series and enjoyed them. Abby Knight is usually a delightful heroine, full of spunk and off-the-wall ideas. Plus, it's funny to watch her start to meddle in something even after she's decided not to. But in this book Abby seems less confident than she ever has. Collins errs on the side of making Abby too much of a worrywart to amp up the stakes in the book. They were just fine without all the additional fretting.

I love the series' ancillary characters. Colm, cool Grace is - literally -grace under fire. Nothing ruffles her fathers or catches her off-stride, no matter what the world-shattering-event. Lottie - with her gigantic sons to double-down as workhorses and bodyguards - is as humorous and insightful as always.

ACTS OF VIOLETS is another fine addition to what looks like will be a long-lived series in the cozy mystery field. My wife and I both read the books and enjoy them a lot. We're looking for it to Kate Collins's next book, A ROSE FROM THE DEAD, coming out in December 2007.

Introducing Mama Salvare.......2007-05-10

Book 5 in the series - the annual pickle fest, a mean clown, and Mama Salvare. The rest of the usual characters return, along with a few new ones. Abby's always had a fear of clowns, and when she is accosted by one at the pickle fest, Marco steps in. Then the clown turns up dead .. and Marco is the lead suspect. Can Abby save him?

Light and pretty fast paced........2007-05-07

A fun mystery. I enjoyed the book. It was the first I've read in this series and the main character was a little slow to warm up to but after we became aquainted I enjoyed it.

Best one yet!.......2007-04-15

I really like this series and love the style of Kate Collins' writing. Very witty and entertaining read. Can't wait for the next installment!

Good Cozy Mystery.......2007-03-29

When Snuggles the clown is murdered and Abby's boyfriend, hunky ex-cop Marco is the chief suspect because he was the last one seen leaving Snuggle's house, Marco asks Abby to help find the real killer. Even though she's solved some murder cases in the past, Abby is very nervous about solving this one - if she fails, Marco could go to jail. But it won't be easy, when he was a cop Marco had a run in with Snuggles (Dennis Ryson) that resulted in Marco leaving the police force. Marco also had a fist fight with Snuggles shortly before he was murdered. Abby knows that she has to work fast, Marco is the only suspect and even some of his cop friends are afraid he may be guilty. While Abby is convinced that Marco is innocent, she worries because he is keeping secrets from her: what exactly is his relationship with the attractive Trina who was threatened by Ryson and why doesn't he want her to meet his mother? As Abby gets closer to the truth her own life is in danger.

While not the best book in Kate Collins Flower Shop Mystery series, "Acts of Violets" is still a good cozy mystery. Abby's an endearing heroine willing to investigate the murder even though she is full of self-doubt. In fact, my one complaint about this book is that Abby is not as strong as usual, she is full of doubts and insecure about her relationship with Marco. She also has a propensity for unbuttoning her top button on her blouse to show off her ample cleavage, something I don't remember her doing in other books. Other characters are well developed and readers will learn more about Marco just as Abby does. There's a nice sense of humor throughout the book including a pickle parade; Abby's mother's latest art project; a funny scene in a diner; and the scene (and it's aftermath) when Abby finally does meet Marco's mother. The humor does go a bit too far - a character's lisp becomes distracting and is a bit cruel. The mystery itself is well done, although there aren't a lot of suspects. The outcome of Abby's confrontation with the murderer is neatly foreshadowed at the beginning of the book which is a nice bit of writing by Collins.

"Act of Violets" is a good cozy mystery.

Average customer rating:

Mathematics for machine technology review

Mathematics for Machine Technology 5e
Robert D. Smith
Manufacturer: Cengage Delmar Learning
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Science | Subjects | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

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Science | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
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Machine Tool Practices (8th Edition)
Blueprint Reading for the Machine Trades (6th Edition)
Machining And CNC Technology Student Text With CD-Rom
Interpreting Engineering Drawings (Drafting and Design)
Basic Blueprint Reading and Sketching (Delmar Learning Blueprint Reading)

ASIN: 1401815812

Book Description

Occupations like those of machinists, tool and die makers, pattern makers, drafters, and designers require a fundamental knowledge of general math as well as of more advanced topics like oblique trigonometry, compound angles, and numerical control. This updated edition of Mathematics for Machine Technology promotes an understanding of all the mathematical concepts necessary for success in the machine trades and manufacturing fields. The author effectively combines math concepts with the relevant machine applications so that readers fully understand the value of what they are learning. Industry-specific examples, realistic illustrations, and actual applications further enhance the theory-to-application connection.

Customer Reviews:

Mathematics for machine technology review.......2000-08-07

Temple College in Temple, Texas was awarded a $600K Grant to update the skills of the workers in industry. The math skills of the existing and new employees are exceptionally low. The difference between normal math as I call it and the aproach of the "Mathematics for Machine Technology" is that the students do not know where to apply the math that they have learned. With Mathematics for Machine Technology the aproach is applied mathmatics. This math is applied every day in the industry and now the math becomes functional. This is a great teaching aid to use by itself or to complement the math that is now being taugh. I bring measuring instruments such as verniers, caliphers, micromenters and others into the teaching enviroment to stress where the math is used.

The Shop on Blossom Street (The Knitting Books #1)

Average customer rating:

The Shop on Blossom Street
A Great relaxing Read
Knitting or not
Where did I put those knitting needles?
Great Book, New Shop

The Shop on Blossom Street (The Knitting Books #1)
Debbie Macomber
Manufacturer: Mira
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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A Good Yarn (The Knitting Books #2)
16 Lighthouse Road (Cedar Cove, Book 1)
Back on Blossom Street (The Knitting Books #3)
44 Cranberry Point (Cedar Cove, Book 4)
50 Harbor Street (Cedar Cove, Book 5)

ASIN: 0778321606

Book Description

There's a little yarn shop on Blossom Street in Seattle. It's owned by Lydia Hoffman, and it represents her dream of a new life free from cancer. A life that offers a chance at love . . .

Lydia teaches knitting to beginners, and the first class is "How to Make a Baby Blanket." Three women join. Jacqueline Donovan wants to knit something for her grandchild as a gesture of reconciliation with her daughter-in-law. Carol Girard feels that the baby blanket is a message of hope as she makes a final attempt to conceive. And Alix Townsend is knitting her blanket for a court-ordered community service project.

These four very different women, brought together by an age-old craft, make unexpected discoveries -- about themselves and each other. Discoveries that lead to friendship and more . . .

Customer Reviews:

The Shop on Blossom Street.......2007-08-14

I liked reading this book. The author must have talked to someone with cancer because many of the feelings that I had during the three years I battled cancer were the same as Lynda. It was predictable. You knew everyone would have a happy ending to their story, which is not a bad thing but not realistic.

A Great relaxing Read.......2007-07-27

I thought this was a wonderful book. The author did an excellent job of developing the characters in such a way that made them seem so real to me. I read it at the beach last week and could not have asked for a better read as I soaked up the sun and just relaxed. Overall, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book to all my friends.

Knitting or not.......2007-07-27

This book and the others relating to The Shop on Blossom Street, was like making new friends and escaping to that shop for just a while.Although I do not knit, almost makes you want to. Excellant

Where did I put those knitting needles?.......2007-07-14

A quick and easy read, with believable characters... which one were/are you? I found myself accurately predicting the ending too early for there to be much suspense, yet I enjoyed the stories of each of these ladies and their friendships. I used to knit... maybe I will again... with a group of ladies after reading this first book of the knitting series.

Great Book, New Shop.......2007-07-13

I have read the first two books in the series "The Shop on Blossom Street". Great book. Good Stories. By the time I was done I thought I would like to learn to knit. Recently in the last several month, I came upon a yarn shop in a nearby town. I decided to check it out. When I went in it was cute and had a table in the middle of the shop. The girl told me after she read the book she knew she had to open a shop. I talked to the girl and she ask if I had read "The Shop on Blossom Street" and I said yes. Her shop is designed after that book. PERFECT!
Without knowing me the girl ask if I have read the second book. I said no and she grabbed it off the shelf and handed it to me. It is called "A Good Yarn"....the name of the shop. It was also a very very good book. There is one more in that series. "Back to the Shop on Blossom Street". I do not have that yet.
So, when I took the book back to the "YARNS R US" shop, the girl handed me a card to see if I wanted to learn to knit. I am going to the class this weekend. 7/14/07. What's really neat is that there is a series of knitting instruction books designed from "The Shop on Blossom Street".
Really neat. The socks are in there whick is from the second book.
The sweaters from the frist book are there too.

Buy the books, neat clean reading!!

Sculpting a Galaxy: Inside the Star Wars Model Shop

Average customer rating:

More interesting than I thought it would be
for the fans
Giant coffee table book...mostly a retread
Great Content, Defective Copy
Un livre indispensable à tout fan de Star Wars

Sculpting a Galaxy: Inside the Star Wars Model Shop
Lorne Peterson
Manufacturer: Insight Editions
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Direction & Production | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Reference | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Genre Films | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

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The Making of Star Wars: The Definitive Story Behind the Original Film (Star Wars)
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Star Wars Chronicles: The Prequels

ASIN: 1933784032
Release Date: 2006-11-14

Book Description

From the producers of the acclaimed Dressing a Galaxy: The Costumes of Star Wars comes an inside look at the secrets behind the saga’s artful models and sculptures. Lorne Peterson, model and sculpture designer for the entire Star Wars saga, takes us on a journey through the intricate process of crafting and sculpting the models from sketch to screen and the artistry behind the dazzling results.
Sculpting a Galaxy: Inside the Star Wars Model Shop features more than 300 full-color photographs and illustrations from the Lucasfilm archives, models from all six films, interviews, images and text with concept sculptors, an overview of the ILM model shop from 1976 through today and numerous gatefolds of the most loved models.
ILM virtually redefined visual effects and blazed a trail into the digital realm, follow behind the camera and into the rarely seen workshops and an amazing look at the creation of movie magic. Sculpting a Galaxy: Inside the Star Wars Modelshop takes readers behind-the-scenes for the first in-depth look at these amazing models and the process behind their creation, punctuated by Lorne Peterson’s exuberance and dedication to craft.
This unique visual treat is a must-have for any Star Wars fan.

Customer Reviews:

More interesting than I thought it would be.......2007-10-12

Sculpting A Galaxy has some 300 color photos spread over about 200 pages and is a large-format coffee table-size book. For true Star Wars fans, this is an interesting book, not so much a book to read but a book to page through when you've nothing better to do.

for the fans.......2007-10-04

The book is great for star wars fans. It has loads of reference photos in a variety of production areas. If you want a good present or inspiration to sculpt this would do it.

Giant coffee table book...mostly a retread.......2007-08-02

For those who have purchased the series of "Art of Star Wars" books, as well as "Star Wars: Sketchbooks" et cetera, this tome is impressive but not novel. Many photos from those earlier books are reused here. The problem is that they have been blown up for this larger format. Consequently, the blown-up recycled photos are slightly blurry. There are some wonderful photos of star destroyer details that have not been seen before...but is that enough to merit this huge new book? That decision is up to you, but I expected heretofore unseen, crisply focused photographs.

Great Content, Defective Copy.......2007-08-01

The actual content of the book is top notch, with many great shots model shots. I also enjoy the accompanying stories, from behind the scenes. The problem is, the binding was already coming apart when I received it. A beautiful book, marred by a crappy binding.

I received a copy of this book as a present, that was purchased on Amazon.

Un livre indispensable à tout fan de Star Wars.......2007-07-19

Le département Maquettes d'ILM est devenu Kerner-Optical, mais le savoir faire n'a pas été dispersé grace à Lorne Peterson.
Ce livre montre en détail toute cette expérience acquise depuis plus de 30 ans, ce livre donne des astuces pour tout maquettiste en herbe.
Un très bon ouvrage.
Bonne lecture

Average customer rating:

Not good to me
Paint Shop Pro XI Lesson Book
Great Supplementary Guidebook for PSP XI
paint shop pro 11
Just what I was looking for!

Paint Shop Pro XI for Photographers
Ken McMahon
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Graphic Design | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

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Corel Paint Shop Pro Photo XI [Old Version]
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ASIN: 0240520661

Book Description

Literally stamped with the approval seal of Corel, this book is more than just a guide to the features of the software. So many books are aimed at only the introductory level, but this guide explores all the capabilities of Paint Shop Pro Photo XI for digital imaging.

Achieve professional results with this complete and easy-to-follow guide to Corel's Paint Shop Pro Photo XI. Packed with a wide variety of real life workflow projects, eye-catching visuals and numerous tips and tricks, Paint Shop Pro Photo XI for Photographers gives you all the skills you need to create outstanding images.

All the new features of Paint Shop Pro Photo XI are covered including Snapfire, Photo Organizer, Skin Smoother, Photo Time Machine and much more. Get the best from Camera Raw images, create high-quality web graphics and learn how to efficiently organize your ever-expanding collections of digital photographs!

If you are an amateur digital photographer, web or graphic designer, and want to get stunning results with Paint Shop Pro, this Corel recommended guide is for you!

'This book is ideal for you whether you are new or well versed in the world of mega pixels. Enjoy!'
Gage S. Lockhart, Technical Support Specialist, Corel Software Inc.

Praise for the previous edition:

"This beautifully illustrated book provides information and guidance on using Paint Shop Pro X from a photographer's perspective...Newcomers to Paint Shop should read the book in a linear manner, while others may wish to use the book more as a reference by sampling particular chapters...The book is very well written and organized." - HiTech Review, July/Aug. 2006

"If you have Paint Shop Pro and really want to use it to its fullest, you need this book. There are vert few quality books available for this program, and this one, published by Focal Press, is at the top of the list...This book is organized well by using color coded pages for easy access to the many chapters, quality images to illustrate technique instructions and results, and tutorials at the end of every chapter to put to use the information that was just explained." - Apogee Photo Magazine, August 2006

"If you're using Corel's Paint Shop Pro X for your digital darkroom work, you'll really appreciate this book...Beginners, as well as experienced, Paint Shop Pro X users will benefit from this well written, easy to understand book...Paint Shop Pro X for Photographers is well written, well organized and well illustrated, and that's more than enough to put it on your bookshelf." - Digital Photographer, Oct/Dec 2006

* Get the best from your digital images and improve your workflow with top techniques from a creative industry pro
* Gain the vital skills you need fast with step-by-step tutorials to help you learn every tool, feature and technique
* Be inspired by more than 1500 beautiful, color images throughout the book and available for download from the online gallery at www.guide2psp.com

Customer Reviews:

Not good to me.......2007-08-23

One reviewer says is the best book for this application. But I found only this one. It's sad. The application is great, but this book didn't help me as I expected. I don't get a good guide through the overwhelming options and settings that the software has. I doesn't answer why of anything. What is it this one setting or how should we make better use of controls other than trial & error. It's all mixted up. Images inserted in the book very often not related to the explanation, but out of place or redundant. In a word, i didn't like it.

Paint Shop Pro XI Lesson Book.......2007-08-20

I bought the book and learned some of the basic stuff I was missing. I would like to see the lessons go a lot deeper. I was totally disappointed in the lack of photo restoration lessons for old photos. What was given was minor to say the least. I am very interested in some larger lessons on restoring old photos.

Great Supplementary Guidebook for PSP XI.......2007-08-13

These folks have been producing excellent supplementary guides for several versions of PaintShop Pro. I've been using the application for YEARS, and it still provided very good additional tips and tricks, techniques, explanation of new features or things that I hadn't used yet, etc., etc. I've given to a number of friends that are just getting their feet wet in Digital Editing when they want to more than "the BASICS" with the applications that came with their camera, but they weren't ready to go to Photoshop by a long shot. All of them have appreciated the "jump-start" that this gave them

paint shop pro 11.......2007-07-21

A very concise book,covering all the facets associated with the paint shop pro program.
With this book along with the one that comes with the software is all that is required to work with the programme

Just what I was looking for!.......2007-07-15

Pretty easy to follow and very helpful. It had most of what I was looking for. Too bad there wasnt an instructional DVD to go along with it!

How to Open a Financially Successful Specialty Retail & Gourmet Foods Shop

Average customer rating:

The authors are great at introducing the reader to all aspects of starting their own shop
Great Book!
Good Read
User-Friendly, Quality Advice
Great Book for Potential Shop Owners!

How to Open a Financially Successful Specialty Retail & Gourmet Foods Shop
Sharon Fullen , and Douglas R. Brown
Manufacturer: Atlantic Publishing Company (FL)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Hospitality, Travel & Tourism | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Small Business & Entrepreneurship | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

New Business Enterprises | Small Business & Entrepreneurship | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Gourmet to Go: A Guide to Opening and Operating a Specialty Food Store
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Retail Business Kit for Dummies

ASIN: 0910627320

Book Description

The $20 billion gourmet market is nearly recession-proof. In fact, experts indicate that gourmet products actually do better in uncertain times like these as consumers seek out affordable luxuries. If you plan to open a specialty retail store, or perhaps a small store inside an existing retail space then this book is a must Although gourmet foods command a price double and up to ten times higher than that of grocery store brands, there are those consumers that are content and look to pay a premium price for premium items. This book shows how, with minimal effort and a small investment compared to other food businesses, how you can start your own specialty retail store and be highly profitable!

This is the A-to-Z guide to making it in your own store. Learn the expert tips, tricks, and a vast gold mine of crucial how-to information you just can't find anywhere else. This is a perfect book for entrepreneurs, schools, colleges and technical training centers. This detailed text contains all the information you will ever need to needed to start, operate, and manage a highly profitable specialty store.

While providing detailed instruction and examples, the author leads you through finding a location that will bring success, learn how to draw up a winning business plan (The Companion Cd Rom has the actual business plan you can use in MS Word tm.), how to buy and (sell) a store, basic cost control systems, profitable product planning, sample floor plans & diagrams, successful kitchen management, equipment layout and planning, food safety & HACCP, successful food & beverage management, legal concerns, sales and marketing techniques, pricing formulas, learn how to set up computer systems to save time and money, learn how to hire & keep a qualified professional staff, brand new IRS tip reporting requirements, managing and training employees, generate high profile public relations and publicity, learn low cost internal marketing ideas, low and no cost ways to satisfy customers and build sales, learn how to keep bringing customers back, accounting & bookkeeping procedures, auditing, successful budgeting and profit planning development, as well as thousands of great tips and useful guidelines. Never before has so much practical information about the specialty store business been offered in one book.

This is an ideal guide new for comers to the business as well as experienced operators. In addition to basic operational practices this book will demonstrate show how to: increase impulse sales and improve presentation, utilize merchandising fixtures and techniques, cross merchandising, point of purchase materials, how to develop a product sampling program.

Customer Reviews:

The authors are great at introducing the reader to all aspects of starting their own shop.......2006-05-08

"HOW TO OPEN A FINANCIALLY SUCCESSFUL RETAIL & GOURMET FOODS SHOP" by Sharon L. Fullen and Douglas R. Brown.

Starting your own business can be extremely scary, it doesn't matter what type of business it is. If you are interested in starting a specialty foods shop it can be even scarier because of the lack of competent information available. "How to Open a Financially Successful Specialty retail & gourmet foods shop" is one of the most comprehensive books of its kind in the market place.

The authors are great at introducing the reader to all aspects of starting their own shop. The book is written in an easy to understand conversational tone. With sections specifically on goal setting this book is geared toward the new entrepreneur that does not have past business start up experience.

Read this book before going even considering opening a specialty retail or gourmet foods shop. Many aspects of operating a specialty business can be overlooking in the heat of your ambitions. This book will guide you in identifying all the major areas of concern before you put up all your money and invest months of your time.

The book also comes with a CD that contains pre-written documents that will be very useful in starting and operating your business. This book is highly recommended to anyone who wants to know more about the gourmet foods industry and of course to people interested in starting their own specialty foods shop.

Great Book!.......2006-04-19

The book begins with an overview of what a gourmet shop consists of and how much energy is needed in order to successfully run one. This book gives a complete picture of everything that is needed to run a successful gourmet store. It is comprehensive enough for someone who has never opened a business before to easily start a shop.

It goes into great details of the initial costs and strategies that will be needed at start up. There is even a special section on franchising and writing a business plan. Other areas include taxes, laws, licenses, and insurances that will be needed. There are also skillfully crafted chapters which focus two main areas employee relations and customers including marketing and public relations.

There are chapters that center on the equipment that may be needed and the types of product that can be used in the store. A CD-ROM completes the book, with many forms that can help anyone who goes into business. There are even sections that deal with cash flow and financial management as well as purchasing.

This book offers a comprehensive overview on many of how to start a Specialty Retail business and with the step by step process, anyone can be successful.

Good Read.......2006-04-13

"How to Open a Financially Successful Specialty Retail and Gourmet Foods Shop" is a great read for anyone looking to own their own specialty or niche store. From selling only jam to selling complex kitchen gadgets, this book is great for anyone looking to delve into any niche market.

The authors take readers through a number of get ready steps. They include, among other things, picking location, deciding what merchandise to carry, identifying the target audience, writing a business plan, filing the loan application, and getting the necessities (such as company name, licenses, insurance, etc.).

I love that the book details every thing I would need to know about opening a specialty business. It even discusses decorating tips, hiring a staff, marketing the business, and creating a press kit. Because the book covers so much, it tends to cover only the basics of all the topics. It does not go really in-depth on most items, so if you are looking for some exact how-to guide, this book probably is not for you.

The book also comes with a handy cd-rom that provides sample business plans and other worksheets that I found very helpful. You can easily take the business plan and modify it to suit your start-up business. In addition, there are a number of great resources listed within the pages of the book that any new business owner would find beneficial.

User-Friendly, Quality Advice.......2006-04-11

Perhaps the best piece of information in this handy guide by Sharon Fullen and Douglas Brown is
found on the first couple of pages: make sure your heart is in before you take the leap. They offer nuggets of advice to test your mettle; such as coming up with a short "elevator pitch" to capture the essence of your dream and how valuable careful research becomes if you want to discover your true "niche" market. Information on buying a franchise or starting from scratch, financial avenues to consider and a good outline for a business plan quickly follows. Other chapters present the importance of customer service, successful marketing tips and how to deliver a top-notch public relation campaign that attracts repeat business. You will also discover that the basic mechanics of running a business are not ignored; with sections devoted to purchasing, buying appropriate equipment, staffing, finding user-friendly software, monitoring inventory, managing cash flow and creating ambience in the public areas of the shop. The CD-ROM contains much of the same information found in the book, but does included printable business forms for home and office use, a supply list, as well as a more detailed business plan to use as your own template. Overall this book is very user-friendly, offers quality advice and presents up-to-date information. An important resource you will be able to refer to for many years

Great Book for Potential Shop Owners!.......2004-12-04

Excellent book for anyone wanting to start a specialty or gourmet shop. Extremely helpful and well thought out information CD is great addition!"

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