Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too

Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too
Average customer rating:

The best parenting book I've ever encountered

Simplistic

Really helped me with the toddler years

i recomend it warmly

Great

Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too
Adele Faber , and Elaine Mazlish
Manufacturer: Collins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Marriage & Family | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
Siblings | Family Relationships | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
General | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
General | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
Conflict Management | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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Accessories:

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Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer

ASIN: 0380799006
Release Date: 2004-12-14

Amazon.com

With a title like this, it's no surprise that authors Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish had a monster bestseller on their hands when the book first appeared in 1988. From the subsequent deluge of readers' stories, questions, and issues, they have created nearly 50 pages of new material for this, the 10th anniversary edition. The central message remains the same, and sounds almost too simple: avoid comparisons. But parents know that's easier said than done. The value of Faber and Mazlish's discussions is precisely that they talk you through umpteen different situations and outcomes to help you teach your brawling offspring a new set of responses. The highly informative text is punctuated with helpful summary/reminder boxes and cartoons illustrating key points. It's a must-read for parents with (or planning on) multiple children. But parents of young children who get along fine (so far) should read it too--as the authors make very clear, rivalry is inevitable. The only question is how to manage the rivalry with intelligence and compassion, and on that subject they offer a wealth of good advice. --Richard Farr

Book Description

When parenting authorities Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish sat down to write the national bestseller How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk, they found that they couldn't contain their chapter on sibling rivalry.No matter how much they tried to pare down their advice, they found the subject inexhaustible -- and their readers agreed!

The result is this seminal book -- revised and updated after more than ten years of feedback from parents' letters, TV and radio talk shows, and Faber and Mazlish's highly successful parenting workshops. Siblings Without Rivalry guides the way to family peace and tranquillity with humor and compassion for both parents and children. Illustrated, action-oriented, and easy to understand, it's packed with sensitive yet sensible ways to turn quarreling siblings and frustrated parents into an open, communicative family.

Customer Reviews:

The best parenting book I've ever encountered.......2007-09-13

This book reads like a novel. I literally could not put it down, staying up way past my bed time and paying the price the next day. It describes a multi-week workshop that the author held. Each week there are stories from the parents, ideas from the lecturer, questions, problems, hearts being poured out, family stories, including the tales of the adults (now parents) who survived difficult sibling situations. You get to know some of the people in the workshop, and you live through the ups and downs of applying workshop ideas to their families. You want things to end well and you wait with abated breath for what happens next.

On top of that, the ideas are eye-opening, life-changing and at the same time so obvious! Like, how could I fail to see that?!

Never have I encountered such an excellent read in parenting books, nor, come to think of it, any non-fiction that comes to mind. Just don't start reading it at night! You could be a very cranky mommy in the morning!

Simplistic.......2007-08-30

This book, proposing to teach parents how to raise siblings who don't hate each other and whose adult lives aren't still ruled by childish pain, contains a few gems. I will keep from it several bits of insight as I raise my two kids.

However, I found much of this book far too simplistic. I was turned off by the pages of cartoons that seemed to imply that with one simple phrase from mom or dad, kids would stop fighting and get along. I also found the constant description of the workshop to be distracting and contrived, like the authors were unable to put together a book that answered all of the necessary questions about their methods without having these disembodied voices posing the necessary questions. In creating these voices, too, it seemed it was always the disgruntled man who opposed and questioned everything these enlightened women had to say. The whole writing style struck me as unprofessional.

Overall, this book was decent for skimming, and it left me with a couple of ideas to ponder, but it didn't succeed in dramatically changing my parenting style, and I don't feel like it will end the sibling rivalry in our household. My search for peace continues.

Really helped me with the toddler years.......2007-08-13

I have 3 children 3 & under and this book really helped me to understand why my children were acting the way they were and gave great insight on ways to help.

What was most helpful was the examples and questions in the first couple of chapters. It was also helpful to understand that children do have strong emotions and need a way to express them.

I read this book at the same time as Kids, Parents and power struggles and they seemed to work together.

i recomend it warmly.......2007-07-29

great book!
i wish it was more easy to put it to practice, but that is not the fault of the authours.

Great.......2007-05-11

This book is just great. It is essencial in your life if you have two or more kids.

Why Can't We Get Along?: Healing Adult Sibling Relationships

Average customer rating:

Why Can't We Get Along

Why Can't We Get Along?: Healing Adult Sibling Relationships
Peter Goldenthal
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0471388424

Book Description

Praise for Peter Goldenthals previous books:

"[Dr. Goldenthals] techniques...are presented with insight and clarity. This is a unique and valuable book." âWilliam B. Carey, M.D., Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

"Peter Goldenthal gives us new insights.... This is a must-read book." âMyrna Shure, Ph.D., author of Raising a Thinking Child

Hasnt it gone on long enoughÃ-the rivalry, the jealousy, the pent-up anger, and the grudges rooted in the past? In this book, renowned author and family psychologist Peter Goldenthal offers proven prescriptions for brothers and sisters who want to break through old, destructive patterns and create a richer, more loving, and more rewarding relationship with their adult siblings.

Using dramatic case histories drawn from his own clinical practice, Dr. Goldenthal helps you understand why adult siblings fight. Warmly and insightfully, he presents practical techniques to:

Communicate withÃ-and listen toÃ-your sibling
Free yourself from past resentments
Cope with your siblings selfish or inconsiderate behavior
Support and comfort a sibling who suffers from mood problems
Manage a siblings difficult personality
Help your children avoid sibling problems

Dont let old hurts and destructive behavior patterns overshadow the love you feel for your sibling. Read Why Cant We Get Along? and find the key to establishing warm and loving sibling relationships that will last a lifetime.

Customer Reviews:

Why Can't We Get Along.......2002-04-02

Even adult siblings sometimes can't break long-standing rivalries or anger. Instead of turning your back on the relationship, read this book, and turn a new leaf. The author gives practical communication tips that will free you from the past and allow you to look to a brighter future with your sibling. For anyone looking to improve his or her sibling relationship, don't miss this book.

Average customer rating:

Unlistenable
So Good I Had To Wait to Read It!
More than a museum thriller!
Starts out strong, fizzles at the end
Best thriller / Detective novels in the past 20 years

The Book of the Dead
Douglas Preston , and Lincoln Child
Manufacturer: Grand Central Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Dance of Death
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ASIN: 0446576980
Release Date: 2006-05-30

Book Description

A brilliant FBI agent, rotting away in a high security prison for a murder he did not commit.His brilliant, psychotic brother, about to perpetrate a horrific crime.A young woman with an extraordinary past, on the edge of a violent breakdown.An ancient Egyptian tomb about to be unveiled at a celebrity-studded New York gala, an enigmatic curse released.Memento Mori

Customer Reviews:

Unlistenable.......2007-10-12

I got the 12-CD edition from my library, and found the reading by Scott Brick so awful I quit before the end of the first disk. From what I heard of it, the story is good and deserves better treatment than it get.

So Good I Had To Wait to Read It!.......2007-10-06

I Love the AgentPendergast Stories So much that after "Brimstone" I couldn't bear to read the "Diogenes Trilogy" until it was completed!
WOW!!! These guys NEVER MISS!!
Now I just have to read the Lincoln Child spook stories!
Bliss!

More than a museum thriller!.......2007-10-03

Another action filled adventure with the strange but compelling Agent Pendergast at the center of it all. The authors keep your attention rivited as the characters weave in and out of the main story line. The descriptive narrative keeps you looking over the shoulder of each person while you hold your breath at the suspense when the evil Diogenes is at his worst and you are waiting for the brilliant Aloysius to save Constance. Loved having D'Agosta back in the middle of it all!

Starts out strong, fizzles at the end.......2007-09-27

As David Spade would say, I like this book better the first time I read it, when it was called "Relic." Preston and Child can turn out potboilers, guilty pleasures that aren't literary masterpieces but make with the page-turning fun, but they also aren't without their flaws. Too often, they drop arcana into a situation that doesn't call for it (anybody can Google up a ton of trivia on any subject, and besides, you shouldn't try to impress your reader by your mastery of obscure facts). Agent Pendergast is again perfect in every way. Need a safe cracked? He knows the metallurgy necessary to pick the weak point in the lock. Not to give away a plot point, but in this book he McGuyvers up one particularly necessary element in a manner that's just too convenient.

And convenience is the downfall of this book, and of most P&C books. What could be a situation fraught with drama is instead defused by Pendergast's godlike abilities, including the ludicrous "memory crossing" technique that is P&C's way of conveniently explaining away anything they don't know how to write into their books.

Chop off a few chapters, give Pendergast at least one or two flaws, and drop the attempts to dazzle the reader with trivia, and this would be a five-star summer read. As it is, it's just laughable and tedious.

Best thriller / Detective novels in the past 20 years.......2007-09-26

New to the Preston/Child series of novels, I started with Brimstone, then Dance of Death and then the finale, Book of the Dead. The "Diogenes" trilogy.

Extremely well written, and eloquently poised, the imagery and characterizations blend to create the perfect thriller. Preston and Child contribute the perfect combination of talent, to be indistinguishable as more than one author.

Agent Pendergast and the collaborating cast of characters are so real, so carefully created, that they bring to life the story, and draw you into the reality of the novels. The obviously well documented, and researched background information gives a vivid backdrop to the plot and your imagination builds the elaborate scenes for every location.

I will be buying more of the authors' past books and will be eagerly anticipating more of the Pendergast saga as it unfolds.

HIGHLY recommended reading, you won't be disappointed. A thinking man's thriller.

Average customer rating:

You just don't get it
East of Eden
A Joy to Read
"greatest book ever"
Steinbeck Rocks

East of Eden
John Steinbeck
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Classics | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter (Oprah's Book Club)

ASIN: 0142004235

Customer Reviews:

You just don't get it.......2007-09-11

I read all the bad reviews and this is my answer to them. Why should I care about these characters? Because these characters are you and all the people in your boring insignificant life, why should we care about you?
Why is the book so long? Why is life so long? Because it is...
The essential lesson that I felt Steibeck was trying to hit home through all his meandering is that life essentially is everything, it is right, wrong, predetermined, self determined, selfish and selfless. Everything has reason and absolutely no reason at all. It makes no sense but its your job as a human to be a good person and try to go beyond the circumstances that life presents you. The only destiny you have is the one you make and he couldn't just say that because that's not how people learn. People learn by doing messed up and evil things or great good things and that's just it. Steinbeck is explaining the purpose of life in this book, maybe you should give it another go.

East of Eden.......2007-09-02

Simply put, this book is a masterpiece and is my all-time favorite book. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

A Joy to Read.......2007-08-28

I have never felt the need to review a book before, but I just finished reading East of Eden for the second time. I read quickly, but this time I read slowly and savored every page. As a long-time resident of Monterey County, I am touched by the poetic descriptions of places locals take for granted. The Salinas River which runs underground in summer made a dry river bed into a lyrical image that I have never lost. The beauty of the conversations between Samuel Hamilton and Lee, the sadness of the anecdotal stories that claim only a page or two, and the history of the area combine with the larger story seamlessly. Steinbeck didn't just write -- he conjured full-blown images that stay with me long after I put the book down.

"greatest book ever".......2007-08-23

I actually bought this for my wife. She reads every night before going to sleep and according to her this is the best book she has ever read. She commented on the writing as being very desciptive and making her feel like she was there. "A very satifying read"

Steinbeck Rocks.......2007-08-04

I just finished this book a week ago! What an amazing story as told by an amazing author.

I tend not to provide a synopsis of the book in my reviews and I will continue that trend in this review. I will say that East of Eden is basically a grand morality play using the Biblical Story of Cain and Abel as its backdrop.

As in Grapes of Wrath, Steinbeck throws in chapters that are very omniscient in scope, some might even say Biblical in tone. It is in one of these chapters that Steinbeck basically asks the reader to make a choice between good and evil in his or her life. I had to stop reading at that point and just think for a little while....that is the sign of a great author at the top of his game!

Highly recommended!!!

Average customer rating:

East of Eden
Sprawling Insightful Epic
A work of art
Enjoy it or don't, but read it.
My Favorite Book

East of Eden
John Steinbeck
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Cannery Row: (Centennial Edition)
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ASIN: 0142000655

Book Description

Today, nearly forty years after his death, Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck remains one of AmericaÂ's greatest writers and cultural figures. We have begun publishing his many works for the first time as blackspine Penguin Classics featuring eye-catching, newly commissioned art. This season we continue with the seven spectacular and influential books East of Eden, Cannery Row, In Dubious Battle, The Long Valley, The Moon Is Down, The Pastures of Heaven, and Tortilla Flat. Penguin Classics is proud to present these seminal works to a new generation of readersÂ—and to the many who revisit them again and again.

Customer Reviews:

East of Eden.......2007-09-15

I had read this book and thorougly enjoyed it so I sent it to my grandson who is 21 who basically is not really a "reader". His reaction to the story was worth everything to me. He now wants me to send him more classics which in itself is a miracle. So more Steinbeck and now Faulkner, Williams and whatever I can think of.

Sprawling Insightful Epic.......2007-09-14

This is a very dark yet illuminating book, filled with pithy aphorisms, subtle humor, realism, tension, sorrow, joy, and trenchant psychology. A thought I had, shortly after reading the book was that a book isn't just created for you, you must also be created for it. You have to be ready for it. Like a wine that had sufficiently fermented, I one day found myself being consumed and combined with the awareness that went into this very heavy book. If I tried reading it only two years earlier, I don't think I'd have gotten as much out of it. But with experience, we become heavier.

Many heavy things are there for the spirit, the strong reverent spirit that would bear much: for the heavy and the heaviest longs its strength.

-Nietzsche

A work of art.......2007-08-26

If you have never read another Steinbeck, try this one. It is perhaps his best work, but alas, all of his work is breathtaking. One of my favorites.

Enjoy it or don't, but read it. .......2007-08-09

I found this book to be fairly enjoyable and full of beautiful gems. I wrote down pages of quotes that I thought were worthy of being remembered. I reveled in many of Steinbeck's descriptions and elaborations. However, I do understand how many people could find this book obvious and simple.

To me it was an inspirational read much in the same way that the Bible can be moving. I took much value away from reading this novel because I began to look at it as an example of good and evil. A simplistic illustration that allowed the writer to voice his thoughts about life. This did not necessarily create a great turning point in literature, but I believe it did what it was intended to do; make the reader reflect.

I was not left with an overpowering thirst to run out and add this book to my collection but neither did I regret the time I had spent reading it. I would definitely recommend this book because I believe it is worth pushing through the boring parts to have the entire work to look back at and ponder. After all, over 100 of us had comments to share about it.

"Perhaps the best conversationalist in the world is the man who helps others to talk."

My Favorite Book.......2007-06-22

This is a phenomenal novel. The crowning achievement of Steinbeck's lexicon of inspired work. The book is operatic, pondering the burden of free will and spanning generations of a family that constantly struggles to escape itself. It is fully American, fully human, and fully a religious experience. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to be moved, inspired, and find their new favorite book.

Average customer rating:

Should say "FOR MOMS ONLY" right on the front
Worst Case Scenario
A Worst Case Scenario Book for Having a Second Child
Nothing exceptional, Just Ok
This book is a BLESSING!!!!!

From One Child to Two
Judy Dunn
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Family Health | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

Siblings | Family Relationships | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

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Accessories:

Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer

ASIN: 0449906450
Release Date: 1995-01-31

Book Description

Most mothers and fathers are surprised at how different parenthood feels when the second child arrives. Even before the birth, a host of new questions arises: can you possibly love a second child as much as the first? Is it better to have them close in age or farther apart? What about sibling rivalry?

In From One Child to Two, Judy Dunn gives parents all the information, emotional support, and reassurance they need to handle the stress -- and relish the joys -- of raising two children. An internationally recognized expert in the field of sibling relations, Dunn draws on her own decade-long study of siblings at home, as well as from extensive interviews and observations of parents and children.
-- How the second pregnancy differs from the first
-- How and when to break the news to the first child
-- How to manage the days surrounding the birth, the hospital visit, and the crucial first month
-- Being prepared for your firstborn's reaction to the new sibling by age group -- toddlers, preschoolers, or children in early elementary school
-- How to cope with the new demands on your marriage
-- The major milestones that families face together -- the changing role of fathers and grandparents, managing new schedules, and coping with parental burnout
-- Sibling rivalry: what to do about fighting, when to intervene, and when it's supposed to get better!

Whether you're contemplating a second child, expecting one any day, or trying to cope with the changing dynamics of your newly expanded family, From One Child to Two is an indispensable guide. Filled with common sense, down-to-earth, and eminently practical advice, this is the one parenting book that you will refer to again and again.

Customer Reviews:

Should say "FOR MOMS ONLY" right on the front.......2007-09-07

This book was fairly useful, although it didn't present any revolutionary ideas that most parents couldn't think of on their own. The part that bugged me the most, though, was that it's geared completely towards moms. The only attention dads get is a single chapter written from a mom's point of view (i.e. "how your husband will react"), and it's mildly patronizing at best. I was very disappointed that this book, like 99% of the rest of the child-raising material out there, is geared heavily (if not exclusively) towards moms and forgets that there are thoughtful, involved Dads out there too. I say BOO to this author for such a careless oversight.

Worst Case Scenario .......2007-04-19

This book is utterly awful. It is filled with fear mongering of the very worst kind. Reading this book made me feel terrible about even thinking about having a second child. The thesis appears to be that having another child will ruin your first born's life. I was weeping by the end of the book and felt utterly terrible.

A Worst Case Scenario Book for Having a Second Child.......2006-02-01

If you are going to read only one book on introducing a second child to your family, this is the book to read. It offers advice on what to expect, things to think about and behaviors to watch for.

For example, Ms. Dunn offers advice on discussing the upcomming birth with the first child. She writes: "Even a child under age two picks up when you are talking about the baby with other people. So it makes sense not to be secretive or mysterious about the baby. Mystery can cause worry." She then offers advice on what you might talk about with your first child.

In a second example, Ms. Dunn discusses the first weeks with a second child in the home. She writes: "Even if your firstborn's behavior is driving you to distraction, it's important to give her all the love and attention and cuddling you can spare now. That doesn't mean overindulging her or letting her break all the rules. It does mean trying to put yourself in her shoes and look at the world through her eyes." She then discusses some of the typical behavors, both good and bad, of the firstborn during the first weeks that the baby is introduced into the household.

I found this book to be a great resource, one that I expect to reference over and over as I encounter issues while raising two kids in the household. After reading through her book, I have more confidence in introducing the second child to the family and less anxiety about what might happen to the familial dynamic.

Nothing exceptional, Just Ok.......2005-12-13

I wish the book gave more creative solutions. I felt the book gave advice that I could have given myself. On the other hand, at least I felt reasured that I was already doing everything I could to make sure the transition for my son of having a new sibling wasn't any more bothersome than it has to be. It's a simple read. You will pick up a few good points but I just don't feel I got enough out of it.

This book is a BLESSING!!!!!.......2005-11-13

This book is a total blessing! I'm so happy that I ordered this book before the birth of my second child. I feel so well informed of what to expect from my first born when baby #2 comes home. Every mother should have this book before the birth of their second baby. In closing, I'm glad this book continues into the first year of the sibilings lives together!

Average customer rating:

A very silly book
What happened?
Dance of Death a Slow Predictable Two-Step
Meanwhile, back at the museum
Much to do about lilttle

Dance of Death (Pendergast, Book 6)
Douglas Preston , and Lincoln Child
Manufacturer: Warner Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0446576972
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Book Description

Two brothers.One,top FBI Agent, Aloysius Pendergast. The other, Diogenes, a brilliant and twisted criminal.An undying hatred between them.Now, a perfect crime.And the ultimate challenged: Stop me if you can.

Customer Reviews:

A very silly book.......2007-09-25

If this weren't the only audiobook on my iPod at the moment, I'd have bailed on it. Everything in "Dance of Death" is a cliche or stolen from some other, better specimen of genre fiction: Sherlock Holmes, Hannibal Lector, etc.. All of the research is bogus. The authors are very keen to let their readers know how "classy" everything they write about is, from the rolls driven by their ludicrous hero to the fact that one character is supposed to be a reporter for the New York Times. But they obviously have never even read the Times themselves, since they have this poor sap chasing a sensational murder case as the "big story" of his career, when that stuff is strictly tabloid fodder. Maybe it'd make the Metro section, but that's about it. Everyone in the Times scenes behaves like extras in an old '30s newspaper movie, nothing like the Ivy League types that actually work at the paper. Plus, movie stars don't go to openings of Natural History Museum exhibits. I'm sure the stuff based on other professions is equally preposterous. Besides the total lack of originality, it's the nose-pressed-up-to-the-glass wannabe-ism of this book that makes it kinda painful to read. At least Rene Auberjonois seems to realize that it's pure kitsch and reads it with a lot of campy brio.

What happened?.......2007-08-17

Is it just me, or is Pendergast starting to get a little boring? Perhaps it's because we have the full story of he and his brother, and I'm certain we have not seen the last of Diogenes, but somehow we've lost that mysterious edge to him. I fully appreciate the authors commitment to making their story a three part series and giving us the detail that they did, however they missed so much and took shortcuts in other ways. Where has Diogenes been? What has he been doing all those years that Pendergast was looking for him? Why is it that Constance tracked him down in a heartbeat and left Pendergast in the dust? I'll stop there, no need to be totally negative. I still enjoyed the ride for the most part and I'm looking forward to the next installment, Wheel of Darkness, hopefully a change of pace, environment, and villian will spark a new passion. P.S. - Absolutely HATE Pendergast's love interest, Viola, she is sooooo not interesting in any way. Would love to see someone who could kick Pendergast's butt, make it a little interesting, shall we?

Dance of Death a Slow Predictable Two-Step .......2007-08-09

Perhaps since I read Preston and Child's "Dance of Death" out of sequence and was well aware of the outcome before the actual events transpired throughout the novel, I found this contribution featuring the reoccurring characters of Special Agent Pendergast, police lieutenant D'Agosta, New York Times reporter Bill Smithback, Nora Kelly, Margo Green and the rest of the Museum of Nature History team not up to the coauthors' usual page-turning standard.

It's not as if the novel excites the reader with fresh scenarios or ideas; certainly Smithback, Pendergast and D'Agosta have moments that seem all too familiar. Nevertheless this novel does bridge "Brimstone," the first novel featuring Pendergast's deranged brother, Diogenes with "The Book of the Dead," the culmination of this trilogy whose overall theme pits the ingenious siblings against each other. Perhaps this explains to a degree why the action seems stalled and rather hackneyed.

Plot, in this one, seems to be sacrificed for further character development, the inclusion of a love interest for white knight Pendergast interjects some emotion to an otherwise rationally, educationally and intellectually developed human machine whose lack of reaction and intuitiveness sometimes seems uber human. That Diogenes would utilize Pendergast's personal weakness to his utmost advantage comes as little surprise. In fact, what is lacking in this novel is just that: the bombshell twists and turns that one has come to equate with a Preston/Child novel fizzle like dud firecrackers wet-blanketing the reader with about fifty cents of bang for his/her expected buck.

"Dance of Death" attempts to assemble some Pendergast family history for us while tunneling further into the deep dark secret that Pendergast has hidden even from himself with regard to his brother's lack of humanity. Because of this, unlike "Relic", "Reliquary", "Thunderhead", etc., this novel does not rely on unique state-of-the-art scientific factoids to explain initially nebulous events that occur throughout the plot. Instead of baffling and then educating the reader with fascinating archaeological or forensic scientific tidbits that eventually formulate the basis for a tightly crafted tale, "Dance of Death" relies on the reader's built up interest in the characters themselves. The entire galaxy of players cultivated from "Relic" on appears in this the writing team's tenth work. Knowing and understanding the actual interrelations between the different personalities enhances an otherwise mundane kidnapping/chase storyline with this genre of writing's glib and sometimes senselessly predictable dialogue.

Bottom line? The bridging nature of "Dance of Death" necessitates it being read in the correct sequence. The second in the Diogenes trilogy of novels, its success depends on the reader's knowledge of characters that Preston and Child have developed in the first nine of their popular thrillers. Although I enjoy the Pendergast saga and would like to see this develop further, I prefer to see this author collaboration inject more scientific/technical data to give their adventure more teeth. Recommended to those who like Agent Pendergast and enjoy a Cain versus Abel type romp through New York City and its environs.
Diana Faillace Von Behren
"reneofc"

Meanwhile, back at the museum.......2007-07-22

This here's the 6th Pendergast novel, and is the strongest since Reliquary. The unbelievably well prepared and impossibly well informed Pendergast takes on his evil twin. (Well, ok his younger brother.) Many plot twists worthy of a Victorian melodramatic Gothic ensue, and some plots twists are about that old. It's rather silly if enjoyable pulp fiction, that's saved by the more interesting and more believable supporting cast. While not as reliable or interesting as Wilson's Repairman Jack series, it's fairly decent summer reading.

Much to do about lilttle.......2007-07-22

I probably read two to three books a week. And I could not get past page 22 of this one. Dialogue is trite, and plot seems convoluted. My wife bought the hard cover at 7.99 in the bargin bin. Its probably not worth that. Certainly not in the same league as Crichton, Patterson, Connelly or Dunning. Will donate to the local library. Maybe someone will find it enjoyable.

Average customer rating:

A Very Enjoyable Read
Well done
A letdown in the genre of historical fiction
Karen takes you back to DaVinci's life and times
Leonardo's Swans

Leonardo's Swans: A Novel
Karen Essex
Manufacturer: Broadway
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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The Illuminator

ASIN: 0767923065
Release Date: 2007-01-09

Book Description

Isabelle d’Este, daughter of the Duke of Ferrara, born into privilege and the political and artistic turbulence of Renaissance Italy, is a stunning black-eyed blond and an art lover and collector. Worldly and ambitious, she has never envied her less attractive sister, the spirited but naïve Beatrice, until, by a quirk of fate, Beatrice is betrothed to the future Duke of Milan. Although he is more than twice their age, openly lives with his mistress, and is reputedly trying to eliminate the current duke by nefarious means, Ludovico Sforza is Isabella’s match in intellect and passion for all things of beauty. Only he would allow her to fulfill her destiny: to reign over one of the world’s most powerful and enlightened realms and be immortalized in oil by the genius Leonardo da Vinci. Isabella vows that she will not rest until she wins her true fate, and the two sisters compete for supremacy in the illustrious courts of Europe.

A haunting novel of rivalry, love, and betrayal that transports you back to Renaissance Italy, Leonardo’s Swans will have you dashing to the works of the great master—not for clues to a mystery but to contemplate the secrets of the human heart.

Download Description

Chapter One

X * FORTUNA (CHANCE)

FROM THE NOTEBOOK OF LEONARDO:

When Fortune comes, seize her firmly at the forelock, for I tell you, she is bald at the back.

IN THE YEAR 1489; IN THE CITY OF FERRARA

She grew up in a land of fairy tales and miracles. That is what Isabella is explaining to Francesco as they ride through Ferrara's streets. It is Christmastime, and though there is no snow on the dry stone road, the horses shoot clouds of steam into the frigid air through their nostrils.

This is the first time she has been allowed to escort her fiancé through the city on one of his visits. Francesco Gonzaga, future Marquis of Mantua, has come to Ferrara to romance his soon-to-be bride and to enjoy the city's many Christmas pageants ordered by Isabella's father, Duke Ercole d'Este, a great patron of the theater. Isabella believes that the more she tells Francesco of Ferrara's secrets and wonders, and the more she shows him of her father's spectacular building projects and improvements, the more he will realize her value.

In this very church, Isabella says, pointing to St. Mary's of the Ford, almost two hundred years ago on Easter Sunday, the priest broke the Eucharist in two, and flesh and blood came spraying forth, covering the walls of the church and splattering the entire flock.

"The parishioners watched in awe," Isabella says, eyes wide with drama. "The Bishop of Ferrara and the Archbishop of Ravenna came to see it. They instantly recognized it as the body and blood of Christ and declared it a true miracle of the Eucharist."

Francesco solemnly makes the sign of the cross as they ride past the church, but his eyebrows arch skeptically, making him look entirely out of step with the act.

Beatrice trots ahead of the pair of lovers, her long braid swinging in saucy rhythm with the horse's mane, as uninterested as her steed in their conversation.

"Isn't that right, Beatrice?" Isabella asks her sister for confirmation of her story, hoping that the odd girl does not say anything to contradict her. Beatrice is a puzzle to Isabella, a fact that the older sister blames on the girl's unsupervised upbringing in wild Naples. The girl is a feral, unformed thing, alternately shy, naive, aloof, and bold--the latter especially apparent when riding or hunting. How such a small fourteen-year-old girl, who is not particularly courageous outside of these activities, excels at all manly sport is a mystery to Isabella, but the fact of Beatrice's prowess remains, no matter how enigmatic.

"I wouldn't know. I wasn't there!" Beatrice finally answers without turning around, but they can hear her laugh at her own joke.

The animal's swaying ass taunts Isabella, who knows that her sister is dying to break away from them to test the horse's speed. Francesco has brought Drago, the pure white Spanish charger, from his family's stud farm on the island of Tejeto, as a gift for the girls' father. But Beatrice immediately took over the animal, talking to him in whispers that should be reserved for a lover, and hopping upon him and riding away, as if the painstakingly bred horse was meant to carry a little girl in a pink riding dress and not a fearsome knight in armor.

"I'll tell you a miracle that happened right here in Ferrara that is even better," Francesco says, sidling his horse right up to Isabella's so that their legs touch. She knows she should pull away, that her mother would rail against this sort of indiscriminate physical contact, even with leather riding boots providing a barrier to the couple's much-craved intimacy, but instead, she rides with slow care so that they might continue to brush against one another.

"What miracle is that?" she asks, suppressing a smile.

"That your father agreed that you should be my wife," he answers.

You have no idea j

Customer Reviews:

A Very Enjoyable Read.......2007-09-16

As one who normally gravitates to English historical fiction, I wasn't sure if I would enjoy this book, but was drawn to it because of the inclusion of Leonardo da Vinci. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing and the period of Italian history presented. It takes you to a different time and place with ease. After finishing the book, I find myself wanting to read more Italian historical fiction and to visit the works of Leonardo da Vinci at the Louvre. Just the kind of inspiration you hope to get from a great book!

Well done.......2007-07-16

I enjoyed this novel more than Essex's IN THE COMPANY OF A COURTESAN. Over all, the book is a well done weaving of fact and fiction. Essex is a talented writer - I thoroughly enjoy her style and ability to move the story along rather quickly. My main critisim is lack of character development and telling nuances. Just a little more heart and depth to each of the main women characters would have really made this a show stopper. In general, it read like a very visual movie and a great story that I have not read in a novel version before.

I especially enjoyed *learning* a little more about several of the lovely faces that grace Leonardo's work. I say "learning," assuming that the general story is close to the facts and conceivably possible - which seems to be the case. Mind you that I am no Italian historical biographer - I'm sure Essex took the needed literary liberty as needed. A wonderful read!

A letdown in the genre of historical fiction.......2007-06-04

This book had very little to do with the aforementioned painting and with Leonardo da Vinci in general, in which case I was let down because it turned out to be something I did not expect. Based on a true tale of Renaissance era power families in Italy, the characters seemed like mere ciphers who existed solely to report the goings on of the day. Essex seemingly couldn't decide between an historical work or historical fiction and, as a result, this book is neither. Given authors like Dunant and Gregory, historical fiction can be so much more in the hands of a gifted storyteller. This book was a disappointment through and through.

Karen takes you back to DaVinci's life and times.......2007-05-22

Very enjoyable read, a real insight to Leonardo DaVinci and his contemporaries. The characters come alive!

Leonardo's Swans.......2007-05-13

For anyone who enjoys historical fiction AND/OR is planning a trip to Milan, THIS is the book for you. The story line was easy to follow and hard to put down. The details of the Sforza Castle, of Leonardo's various works and his quirks, and the history of ruling families in Italy during the 1400's-1500's was fascinating! It honestly made my last trip to Milan much more meaningful as I almost felt I knew Isabella and the Moro. A GREAT read!

How To be A Baby . . . By Me, The Big Sister

Average customer rating:

Fun Book
My five year old loves this book!
Humorous and Fun!
Fabulous!
right on target

How To be A Baby . . . By Me, The Big Sister
Sally Lloyd-Jones
Manufacturer: Schwartz & Wade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Humorous | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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I'm a Big Sister
Someday

ASIN: 0375838430
Release Date: 2007-02-13

Book Description

Take it from the narrator of this book, an all-knowing big sister: when you're a baby you don't read books. You eat them. You don't know how old you are, or even if you're a boy or a girl. And you have to keep a special plug in your mouth to stop your scream from coming out. But one day, you won't be little anymore, and then you'll be taller and smarter, and actually quite clever. Like the narrator. And you'll be able to share memories of what it was like when you were little with your incredible Big Sister.

Customer Reviews:

Fun Book.......2007-09-17

I bought this book for my 5-year-old granddaughter who has two little brothers and will be big sister to another baby soon. I know she'll be able to identify with the girl in the book. Reading this was fun for me too - some pages made me laugh out loud. It's exactly what a big sister would say and think, even about such things as messy diapers. I think this book will become a favorite for the child who receives it.

My five year old loves this book!.......2007-08-25

I have a 5 year old daughter and a 15 month old boy. He, of course, gets all of the attention.

We checked this book out from the library and after reading it I had to buy it! It is a MUST have for any older sister who has a baby in the house. It is a light-hearted look at what babies can and can't do compared to the much more mature older sister. Not only is it cute, its truth is downright funny and had us all laughing out loud!

Humorous and Fun!.......2007-07-25

This book is delightful! There is much to laugh at, much to love. I've shared it with my 3-year-old granddaughter, who will be a big sister come September. She was much intrigued by the great art work, and I could tell it helped enhance her self esteem, as well.

Fabulous!.......2007-07-20

My new favorite children's book! Such a fun, light-hearted look at being a big sister. My five year old daughter and I giggled out loud when we read this the first time from the library. The writing is right on level with a child's sense of humor, but fun for adults to read as well. This one I have to have for our permanent collection.

right on target.......2007-06-14

This book is wonderful for children who are expecting a little brother or sister. My grandaughter wanted to read it over and over again and it displaced some of her fears. The book was Right On.

My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother (Aladdin Picture Books)

Average customer rating:

My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother
My Rotten Redheaded older Brother.
My Annoying Brother
Brother's aren't so bad after all
Brilliant story of sibling rivalry !

My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother (Aladdin Picture Books)

Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0689820364

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There's nothing worse than a rotten redheaded older brother who can do everything you can do better! Patricia's brother Richard could run the fastest, climb the highest, and spit the farthest and still smile his extra-rotten, greeny-toothed, weasel-eyed grin. But when little Patricia wishes on a shooting star that she could do something -- anything -- to show him up, she finds out just what wishes -- and rotten redheaded older brothers -- can really do. Patricia Polacco's boldly and exuberantly painted pictures tell a lively and warmhearted tale of comic one-upsmanship and brotherly love.

Customer Reviews:

My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother.......2007-10-03

I love the illustrations, they seemed to come alive. The expressions of the characters and the way the poses flow makes the story that more exciting. The moral of the story surely hit home. I will enjoy reading this book to my grand children.

My Rotten Redheaded older Brother........2007-01-19

I loved this book! It was hilarious! Trisha has a very mean older brother named Richard. Richard could do everything better than Trisha. He could: sit the longest, burp the loudest, get the dirtiest, run the fastest, climb the highest, and throw the farthest. Trisha was so angry! She wanted to be better at something than Richard. When she saw a shooting star she wished for something she could do better.
Her wish comes true-but you'll have to read the book to find out how!
Patricia Palacco is a great story teller. Sometimes she writes funny books and sometimes she writes sad and thoughtful books. All of her books are great!
by Rachel from Stockbridge Central School.

My Annoying Brother.......2005-04-15

My Rotten Red Headed Older Brother, written by Patricia Polacco, is about a girl and her older brother. Her brother is always nice when their parents or their grandmother are around, but when they aren't around the girl's brother is really mean. He makes fun of her because she can't beat him in anything.

I like this book because it's kind of like the relationship between my brother and me. I recommend it for anyone who likes well-written picture books.

Brother's aren't so bad after all.......2003-08-07

This story, based on Polacco's on experiences as a child, tells how Tricia's older brother does everything faster and better than she can, but soon she discovers that brothers aren't so bad after all, at least sometimes. The pencil and marker cut-out illustrations show Polacco's expertise with the media, highlighting the expressions on the characters' faces and giving a glimpse as to the lengths young Tricia will go to try and best her brother. This autobiographical story looks at one facet of Polacco's life, one that most children can relate to and understand, that is, if they have rotten older siblings like Tricia's.

Brilliant story of sibling rivalry !.......2003-03-12

A great book that shows the relationships between brothers and sisters, both good and bad. The author Patricia Polacco writes about her and her own brother and how she had always wanted to beat him at some thing. Trying as hard as she can, she fails every time, until one day she wishes upon a star, and her relationship with her brother changes forever.
This book has unique and colorful illustrations that help to show the sibling rivalry between Patricia and her brother. A must read for sibling of any age, and even adults who haven't spoken to their brothers or sisters in a long time.
by Jordan Miller

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