Book Description
"Will you take her?" she asks.
When Beth Nonte Russell travels to China to help her friend Alex adopt a baby girl from an orphanage there, she thinks it will be an adventure, a chance to see the world. But her friend, who had prepared for the adoption for many months, panics soon after being presented with the frail baby, and the situation develops into one of the greatest challenges of Russell's life.
Russell, watching in disbelief as Alex distances herself from the child, cares for the baby -- clothing, bathing, and feeding her -- and makes her feel secure in the unfamiliar surroundings. Russell is overwhelmed and disoriented by the unfolding drama and all that she sees in China, and yet amid the emotional turmoil finds herself deeply bonding with the child. She begins to have dreams of an ancient past -- dreams of a young woman who is plucked from the countryside and chosen to be empress, and of the child who is ultimately taken from her. As it becomes clear that her friend -- whose indecisiveness about the adoption has become a torment -- won't be bringing the baby home, Russell is amazed to realize that she cannot leave the baby behind and that her dreams have been telling her something significant, giving her the courage to open her heart and bring the child home against all odds.
Steeped in Chinese culture, Forever Lily is an extraordinary account of a life-changing, wholly unexpected love.
Customer Reviews:
I wanted to like it, but..........2007-09-15
As the mother of a daughter adopted from China, I try to read as much in this area as I can, and encourage others to do the same, but... I'd recommend skipping this one.
Occasionally, I have read others' adoption stories and have been disappointed in them, but in this case I was disturbed.
I was hoping for a Karin Evans-like story (Lost Daughters of China) that pulled together the dreams and the realities of the author's bonds with the child. That didn't happen. More disturbing than that was the story of how Lily became the author's child and not that of the mother who was intended for her. This is an atypical adoption story (I hope)- one of disruption, of difficulty bonding, and sadness and depression.
Please, if you're considering adoption from China, read something less contraversial than this option.
I want the hours back I spent reading this.......2007-08-27
I thought the author's writing style was pretentious and self-absorbed. I found myself skimming over passages (not just the dreams) to wade through the "calligraphic" sentence structure she uses that is often overdone. While imaginative in the very least, it a tool she used with a heavy hand.
This story is on it's own is valuable, but the telling of it has stripped away much of it's meaning for me.
The author was under INCREDIBLE stress during her trip to china!.......2007-08-22
I agree with most other reviews that the dream sequences were a bit long and made me wonder many times where the author was going with them. However, I think the adoption story overall was great. This women simply went to China to be a travel companion for a "not-so-close" friend. Her views of China and Chinese people and culture were not that of an adoptive parent, but that of a tourist. A tourist who was under a great deal of stress the entire time she was in the country. She hadn't spent two or more years researching China and learning about the culture like all of us who have read this book trying to do just that. There are several references to past lives, and even a reference or two to tarot cards and psychics (I am an open minded person who has also spent time learning about that subject as well, so these references didn't make me look at the author as "weird"). To those of you trying to figure out if you want to buy this book: It's worth your time to read it.
Very disappointed in her poor portrayal of China and the Chinese people.......2007-08-16
I just completed this book last night and was very bothered by what I read. While the interplay between Alex and Beth is interesting, I was horrified by her descriptions of China and her pereceptions of the Chinese. Although she asserts that the reason she was invited on the trip was because of her travel experience, I would venture that Beth has NOT traveled extensively abroad and especially not in Asia. I think she viewed the country and people through very American eyes and that can not and should not be done. They are not American and we are two very different cultures. As such we are going to have different beliefs about democracy and freedom. She complains of being jostled about and stared at but these are normal occurences in China. The pushing in the market places was not a reflection of what they thought of her, because I doubt little thought went towards her. I'm glad she ate most of her meals in the hotel or she would have been quite surprised at the pushing that goes on while at a buffet!
She viewed the treatment of the orphans at the orphanage as neglectful. I believe they are probably doing the best they can with the resources they have available. The reason the babies are seated on the benches is to allow them to be up and interact with other children, but also to prevent them from falling and hurting themselves. Which is worse? The poorer more rural orphanages do not receive adequate support from their government which is why they rely on the $[...] orphanage fee from the adoptive parents.
I understand as an adoptive parent she wants to define the incredible connection she feels to her daughter, but the dream sequence goes beyond straining credulity. It was a distraction to the story and just another thread to force us to believe this was meant to be.
For someone who feels so strongly connected to China, asserting on some level that she is Chinese, I was appalled by her lack of knowledge of the country, people, culture and beliefs. In the epilogue she tells of visiting Hong Kong with her now 6 year-old daughter. She writes "your very presence frees them of their guilt, Lily; perhaps you understand this." Perhaps in China this would be true, but Hong Kong operates as a separate entity. The citizens of Hong Kong do not know the plight of the orphans in China, why would they? That is another country's problem. The preference for males does not exist in Hong Kong. They have no population control (no 1 child laws).
As a person who has traveled extensively,spent time in these countries, and has friends from both Hong Kong and China I was disturbed that the author did not spend more time learning about the place her daughter came from. Maybe she felt that these omissions made for a better story, but I am bothered that people with no first hand experience with China or the Chinese will read this book and make unfair judgements based on one woman's story.
A real gem!.......2007-08-08
I found this gem of a book in an airport bookstore and it made a long layover and plane trip seem to "fly" by. I couldn't put it down. My favorite part of this beautifully written story were the vivid and detailed dream passages. Integral to the unfolding of the story, the dreams offer a glimpse into the author's psyche, subconscious - her very soul. The author's willingness to invite the reader along on her inner journey is what sets this book apart from other memoirs. Without the dream passages, this book would be little more than a travelogue through China that leads to adoption. I applaud the author's courage in sharing her amazing story and am richer for having read it. If you are open to reading about beliefs, experiences and a perspective that may be different from your own, you will enjoy this book.
Book Description
In
The Beauty Myth the fearless Naomi Wolf revolutionized the way we think about beauty. In
Misconceptions, she demythologizes motherhood and reveals the dangers of common assumptions about childbirth. With uncompromising honesty she describes how hormones eroded her sense of independence, ultrasounds tested her commitment to abortion rights, and the keepers of the OB/GYN establishment lacked compassion. The weeks after her first daughter’s birth taught her how society, employers, and even husbands can manipulate new mothers. She had bewildering post partum depression, but learned that a surprisingly high.percentage of women experience it.
Wolf’s courageous willingness to talk about the unexpected difficulties of childbirth will help every woman become a more knowledgeable planner of her pregnancy and better prepare her for the challenges of balancing a career, freedom, and a growing family. Invaluable in its advice to parents,
Misconceptions speaks to anyone connected–personally, medically, or professionally–to a new mother.
Customer Reviews:
OPENED MY EYES.......2007-09-20
If you're pregnant and don't care if your ob/gyn pumps you full of meds and performs an episiotomy on you and/or a c-section in order to better fit your baby's birth into his busy schedule, then don't read this book. My wife is probably as far from being a rabid feminist as a person can be. But she does happen to have this wacky idea that giving birth ought to be something a woman can do without a whole lot of unnecessary medical interventions, if she wants to. My wife has given birth naturally to all 3 of our kids -- no problems whatsoever for either mom or babies. And every time she's had to fight off the ob/gyn's suggested interventions. Interventions she might not have been able to argue against had she not read Naomi's book and other resources and educated herself about the American medical establishment's typical ob/gyn practices. To blow off this book as a lot of feminist hooey is akin to plugging your ears, covering your eyes and ranting NA-NA-NA-NA-NA-NA...I CAN'T HEAR YOU! Read this book, get informed and then make up your own mind as to how you want to approach your own berthing experience.
Fabulous reporting, no whining to be found .......2007-08-28
Hopefully, you've reached this review, because to read some of the other reviews on this page you might dismiss Naomi Wolf "Misconceptions." This book is a wonderful piece of reporting on the issues surrounding pregnancy, fertility, birth, and the issues that come after birth (no pun intended) for the women in this country. Although, some of the experiences described are uncomfortable and upsetting, it does not make the experiences any less true. All mothers either have had an experience or know a woman who has had an experience similar to the experiences described in this book. To report on these truths (which, by the way, doesn't mean she is reporting the truth for "all" women), is the first step toward remedying the problems.
The truth is that there ARE issues with OB/GYN and postpartum healthcare in this country. You need not look any further than your front page to know that something is wrong. In Pennsylvania, for example, the OB/GYN practices can not stay afloat because the practices can not pay the malpractice insurance. As well, the insurance companies refuse to pay the full cost for a woman's labor and delivery in hospitals. I repeat. Insurance companies will not pay the full cost for one of the most important hospital stays that a woman may ever have in her life, a hospital stay that is required for the propagation of the species and the insurance companies will not pay it. Does this sound like a problem to you?
It certainly isn't new reporting that the medical community sometimes takes the "easy" way out when it comes to women's medical issues. Thankfully, things have started to change, but we are not there yet. Reading this book will give a new mother a "leg-up" on what has been happening in these new areas of her life. Isn't better to arm a new mother with information before she gets started in the process so she can have a say in what happens during HER reproductive life?
By the way, the whole section on "Calling It Fair" is right on the money. The research on day-care during the time of "Rosy the Riveter" is fantastic - I would like to see a book on that topic alone! These gems give women a great perspective to change things for themselves from the beginning! Don't miss a great eye-opener and, hopefully, a catalyst for change.
Great, but a little pessimistic.......2007-06-02
This book is great if you have never spent any time learning about how backwards the US medical establishment is concerning birth. Compared to (literally) the rest of the world, we are far behind in the level of care. What we call the "standard of care" is, in the case of most normal births, not good for mom or baby. This book tells that story. BUT. It is quite negative, and to read this book, you'll think its impossible to have a positive and SAFE birth in a US hospital. It IS possible to do so-- once you are well informed regarding which pieces of the standard of care pose a risk to mom and baby and/or exist merely for the convenience of the doctor or nursing staff. I highly recommend this book, so long as it is read cautiously and with an eye toward giving yourself a positive birth experience.
Contrary to my expectations ..........2007-05-15
I found this book in the Goodwill store and brought it home to read. I have only read one of Naomi Wolf's books (the one about the Treehouse) and have heard of her before, so I thought I would be in for a read. Little did I know that I would be in for a good read. It is controversial. It is stimulating. There are a lot of "ah ha" moments where I found myself nodding my head. There are quite a few moments where I was skeptical and found myself asking friends and family about their birthing moments and hospital stays. I even found myself rolling my eyes when she started talking about misplaced expectations about the birthing moments. Then I found myself counting my lucky stars that I am one of the very few women whose husband actually does help around the house with housework and taking care of the kids. While I am a stay-at-home mom, I do not feel demeaned in any way that I am just a mom at home ~~ no, I feel like a valued partner in a marriage that works. But that's not the point here!
I did have a hard time reconciling myself with the whole hospital institutional experience that she dwelled on for several chapters. Maybe it's luck. Maybe it's just my ignorance. I had excellent care while pregnant and I honestly was high risk since I was carrying twins. I was told upfront that chances are 50-50 that I would have a c-section. I delivered at 32 weeks. I didn't get the beautiful hospital room but I know that just about all of my friends have given birth in gorgeous rooms (even though they are hospital rooms, but they offer a lot more privacy than regular hospital rooms!). As for the high rate of c-sections, episiotomies, or anything like that ~~ I have no experience with statistics on these facts. It does seem to me to be more likely but I am not sure of what I think of that!
There are quite a few moments where I found myself relating to her experiences. Then again, there are times when I am amazed that she felt so different with her c-section than I did ~~ my problems were different than hers and yet, she struggled with her issues just like I did, just in different ways. There was not a doubt in my mind that I wasn't going to go back to work for several years so I was ok with staying home; whereas she struggled with it since she found out she was pregnant. Or her friends struggled with that issue, among others.
This is definitely a thought-provoking book. I wasn't expecting an array of emotions just from reading this book, nor was I expecting to poll my friends asking them if they've read this book. Nor was I expecting to feel guilty that I am one of those women who had a c-section ~~ though in my case, I didn't have much of a choice if I wanted to deliver healthy babies ~~ and they were breech as well. This book stirred up emotions, thoughts and ideas. It's been awhile since I've read something that hits rather close to home and so fascinating as well ~~ it made me wish that I had picked this book up several years ago before my twins were born! Now I wonder just how much have things changed since the first publication of this book.
If you like intellectual books that make you think, this book will definitely fit that bill. Yes, it does come across as whining in places but is it really whining or just stating facts? Isn't being a mother hard enough as it is without having to have others dismiss this book just as a typical whiner's book? We all deal with our issues in different ways and this book is definitely one that makes me think more as a reader and as a mother. It's worth exploring.
5-14-07
awful.......2006-08-31
This book is so whiny and self-indulgent that I am amazed that Wolf is actually a mother of two kids. It paints an unnecessarily bleak picture of pregnancy and motherhood, which are nowhere near as bad as she makes it out to be. The doctors and nurses and La Leche League and everyone else she complains about in this book are not out to get you, everyone is just trying to do their job the best way they can.
Average customer rating:
- Amazing
- For Anyone Seeking Truth
- This is an excellent book !
- The author has a love and concern for LDS
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A Mormon's Unexpected Journey
Carma Naylor
Manufacturer: WinePress Publishing
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Binding: Paperback
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Beyond Mormonism : An Elder's Story
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Out of Mormonism: A Womans True Story
ASIN: 1579217583 |
Book Description
A Mormon's Unexpected Journey is a riveting testimony of a woman's search for truth when her strong religious convictions were reversed by God in a surprising way. This unique book on Mormonism will help you understand the powerful, spiritual experiences behind a Mormon's testimony.
If you are burdened by trying to make yourself acceptable to God through righteous efforts, and you want to replace guilt with grace, you need this book.
Customer Reviews:
Amazing.......2007-04-07
This is a deeply personal book about one woman's search for truth. It is not a guide on how to convert Mormon's to Christianity or a list of Mormon beleifs (altho it does contain both of these aspects.) This is one of the best books I have read in a long time and has caused my heart to swell with love for people of the Mormon faith. A must read!
For Anyone Seeking Truth.......2007-02-14
This book should be read by any person desiring to know truth, regardless of their beliefs (or lack thereof), or their religious affiliation.
Carma Naylor's story of her personal search for truth was powerful and unbelievably moving. I cried tears of sorrow and pain, as well as tears of joy, as I followed her on her journey. Her journey was very long, and very difficult, as she realized she could no longer embrace the Mormon church that she had followed and believed her entire life. She described herself at one point as feeling as though she were being ripped in two - a dramatic, yet very accurate description of how a person would feel when their world and all they have held dear are turned upside-down.
Along with being an autobiography, Naylor's book provided me with an education on Mormon beliefs. It was so interesting to learn of the intricacies of the Mormon church, and of the sincere, loving people who are a part of it. I also received a wonderful education about Joseph Smith, his writings, and The Book of Mormon. In Naylor's quest for truth, she did an incredible amount of research into all aspects of Mormonism, including Greek word study. Very thorough! I will be able to use this book as a reference tool thanks to all of the Scripture she cited (IN context, no less!). Naylor left no stone unturned. She was not satisfied with speculation or hearsay. She had to dig in and find out for herself what the Bible and what The Book of Mormon really said, and what they really meant. She had to make the agonizing decision of whether she believed in the Bible as the true and infallible Word of God, or if she believed in Joseph Smith. She concluded that it had to be one or the other, and that it was impossible for the two to be followed side by side because of their contradictions.
This book has given me a love for Mormons, and has renewed my passion for knowing and seeking truth.
This is an excellent book !.......2007-01-12
My son gave me this book for Christmas. It really is an unexpected journey for those who read it. It is respectfully written with a loving heart. Mrs. Naylor tells an interesting story of her own life as a deeply rooted Mormon believer and how she was led to study more than what was put in front of her. You end up getting involved emotionally as she goes on her search for truth even against the wishes of her family. Her biblical research and attention to details is impressive. I can hardly wait to read Volume Two!
The author has a love and concern for LDS.......2006-09-27
The author expresses love and concern for all in the LDS faith. She understands the heart of sincere Mormons. She has studied her subject honestly and thoroughly. I was impressed with her struggle and her victory.
Product Description
A true story that brings the reader along on an unexpected path of spiritual initiation. In courageous travels through Australia, the Himalayas and the Andes, the author accidentally discovers past lives, spirit guides, and a surprisingly personal connection to Native American and Incan myths. An entertaining, mystical journey filled with spiritual wisdom and told with humor. It gives meditations and energy initiations that provide a roadmap for the reader's own spiritual growth.
Customer Reviews:
A Magical Journey.......2007-08-30
You know there are times when you look at all the crap going on in the world and wonder if the cosmic forces have cracks in their craniums. And Ah! the continuing questions: Why am I stuck? Where am I going? What'll I do when I get there? Then to prove they are not asleep at the switch, the cosmic forces bring this book into your life. (Thank you!) I admit to being a little bit skeptical. I mean, excuse me but eagles? Atlantis? Peruvian prophecies? However, I'm glad I pushed through my skepticism. This book is unlike any other I've read. I recommend you take this journey with Jonette. It is unbelievable magic. After years of Light Body work, I could sense a Divine pulse in this book. Nothing like meeting your twin flame on a plane to Peru . . .
Simply Delightful!.......2007-07-19
Jonette's clarity, joy, purity, and intent come through loud and clear on every page...A beautiful story that takes one into another dimension of power, truth, and love...
My HIGHEST recommendation!
Fascinating story.......2007-05-13
A compelling story of courage and trust told with incredibly personal honesty. Definitely a page turner.
The Eagle & the Condor.......2007-04-04
Jonette Crowley has produced a beautifully written account of some of her spiritual adventures and the insights gained through those adventures. The reader's awareness expands along with hers as the story unfolds, opening the reader to the magical realization that there is more to this life than what can be experienced with our physical senses alone and the possibilities that exist.
The Eagle & the Condor.......2007-03-29
Reading The Eagle & the Condor has affected me deeply and even more each day. Tears ran down my face of joy, spiritual growth (initiations), love beyond where I was at before and sadness that the world has not honored this ancient past. It brought up many questions. When I finished the book, I was lost because I did not want it to end. It is not a book that you can put down and while you are there you are living every moment (seeing and feeling). I highly recommend this very well written book.
Book Description
The adventures that fill the strange and wonderful paintings by Remedios Varo (1908-1963) reflect the physical and psychological journeys of her own tumultuous life.
Janet A. Kaplan's vivid chronicle, the first on the subject in English, interweaves Varo's life with the artist's exquisite work. Painted with a jewellike palette and old-master precision, Varo's intimate tableaux, rich with details of women's experience, tell fantasy tales of alchemy, science, mysticism, and magic. Fifty color reproductions capture the wit and beauty of her major paintings; numerous black-and-white illustrations document other works and portray the compelling artist with her circle of lifelong friends and admirers. The book is further enlivened by her own voice, conveyed in hilarious letters and surreal stories, published here for the first time. It concludes with an invaluable chronology as well as a newly updated bibliography and list of exhibitions.
An instant celebrity in Mexicowhere her retrospectives have drawn record crowdsVaro has recently found enthusiastic audiences in Europe, the Americas, Australia, and Japan. The fascinating story of her life and the dazzling intricacy of her art will prove a revelation.
198 illustrations, 50 in full color
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful.......2007-08-30
Remedios Varo is simply a wonderful painter with a very interesting life that you will discover in these easy to read pages... If you are interested in her art and want to go deeper to understand "hows" and "whys" of Remedio's... then this book is for you.
Unexpected Journey.......2007-08-04
One of my favorite books. The visuals are unmatched and the thoroughness of her research really gives you an understanding of Varo both as an artist and a women. Will treasure it always.
amazing.......2004-11-01
I go to Moore College of Art and Design in Pliladelphia and Janet Kaplan is a teacher there so needless to say i read this book and Remedios Varo is ALWAYS taught in art history classes in my school. But the book is amazing. I love the artist and if you like surrealism I would highly recomend it.
Beautiful...and well worth the price!.......2004-08-29
If you have stumbled upon this wonderful book, then I congratulate you. The next step is to buy it, because it is the only comprehensive book on Remedios Varo I know of. If you are not familiar with the work of Varo, she was a Surrealist painter and a contemporary of such artists as Dali, Magritte, and Leonora Carrington (to whom she is frequently compared, though in my humble opinion Varo's work is much more fantastic and delicate). Her work, though shamefully underrated, establishes her as an extremely talented artist with an eye for incredible detail and an imagination that rivals that of Bosch and Dali. As for the book itself, Janet Kaplan has done an incredible amount of research (she actually had to travel to Spain and Mexico to get the information) for this book, which offers Varo's biography and some excellent interpretations of her paintings, which are reproduced on the pages in gorgeous, large color plates and even more black and white sketches and prints. Please buy this book and familiarize yourself with Remedios Varo, despite the brow-raising price: to allow her to remain unnoticed would be a travesty.
Surrealism in Mexico.......2003-04-23
This book is not only an excellent account of Remedios Varo's life and work, but also of all the other artist who integrated a group in the 1940's in Mexico. It is very interesting and illustrative of a side of the Mexican art that still deserves more research, the expatriate artists who found a home in this country during the forties and fifties.
Book Description
A narrative interview story of how a dozen people moved from various forms of spirituality to come to Christ as Lord. Listen in on the interviews of individuals who had been part of Mormonism, Judaism, Hinduism, atheism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Wicca, agnosticism, Buddhism, Islam, Unitarianism, new ageism, and Satanism.
Customer Reviews:
Powerful book about the power of Christ.......2007-02-21
Unexpected Journey by Thom S. Rainer is the story of 12 people of other faiths who turned to Christianity. Rainer and his wife interview each of these new Christians about what their former beliefs were and how they came to find Christ. The interviews are pretty straightforward other than the occasional awkward interruption by Rainer putting himself into the story. The stories are riveting looks inside faiths we don't normally hear about. Mormon, Jehovah's Witness, Hinduism and Buddhism converts are expected. The Wiccan, astrologer, and Satanist are fascinating. Each convert also gives advice on how to speak to someone of their former faith and help them find Jesus the way they did. The advice in every case is the same: Show Christ's love. Judgmental behavior and accusations don't work; only acceptance and love can show another person what being a Christian truly is. This lesson is pounded home again and again, but it can't be repeated enough. Pundits making pronouncements about the morality or goodness aren't a very good example of Christianity. It's people on a individual basis who can make a difference. The book only stumbles when Rainer tries to give unnecessary ambience to the stories. Reading about his troubles finding restaurants and how friendly the waitress was isn't necessary and only detracts from the power of these stories. My one other complaint is that I doubt anyone who isn't already a Christian will pick up this book and be swayed by it, but the advice inside for Christians is well-taken.
Transforming Power of Jesus Christ.......2006-03-30
I'm trying to think about how to word my review. I'm afraid I will not be able to do this book justice. The bible says that God will call people from every nation, kindred and tribe. Oh yes, He has. Atheists, witches, agnostics, people lost in confusing beliefs that lead nowhere...God found them all. They were each touched in different ways and each uniquely found their way to Jesus Christ. The transforming power of His love, His word and His promise is evident in each of the twelve stories. These people are real and speak their testimonies in plain language. The book is not preachy, contrived, patronizing or full of treacle, just straightforward stories of salvation. Reading each chapter made my heart soar and my lips praise God for His love and mercy. The author outlines, in each chapter, the basics of what the beliefs of each person prior to their conversion to Christianity entailed. Very helpful. I felt as though I was on along on each "journey" as they found their way to Jesus. Thank you for this.
Simple truth...........2005-11-30
The evangelistic efforts of Christians today are crippled because of a fear of failure, or rejection, or incompetence. Consequently, rather than struggle with weak unclear efforts, often, there is none.
Thom S. Rainer's book "The Unexpected Journey: Conversations with People Who Turned from Other Beliefs to Jesus" serves to rebuild the confidence of would be evangelists. Rainer accidentally (?) reminds the reader that God still uses ordinary means to get the attention of sinners who need a relationship with Christ. Evangelistic programs, special outreaches, and orchestrated church campaigns are not the engines driving the unconverted to seek Christ.
So what is? Thom uses his classic Rainer analysis to tell a dozen stories of conversions to Christ. The book encourages readers to stay in the lives of others and share the love of Christ. No special program, no magic words, just faithful learning, living, and sharing the love of God reaches those who do not know him.
Customer Reviews:
Dissapointing.......2004-10-06
Having researched the life and work of Remedios Varo for nearly two years, I have found Janet Kaplan's book a must because she had an astonishing budget and support for having a fine printed book with excellent images and a fairly good biography of this artist. However, having read almost everything published on Varo, reading her own writings and kwnowing the world she lived her last ten years, I consider Kaplan book to be too far fetched on the personal interpretation she makes about Remedios Varo's life and work. Trying her best to make her preconceived ideas about Varo's paintings to fit in, this book is will easely fool those who doesn't know about surrealism, Mexico in the fifties and Remedios Varo.
Excellent Overview of Remedios Varo's Life........2002-02-26
I greatly enjoy this book. She was part of the Surrealism and the book gives an excellent overview of Remedios Varo's life, her artworks, and her surrealists friends. The book shows a great compilation of her works and her great contribution to Mexican Art. Eventhough she born in Spain, she called Mexico her home.If you want to learn more about Spanish Surrealists this is a great artist to read about.
Fine book on underrated female surrealist........1998-11-05
This book is quite good, and to my knowledge, the only one available covering Varo's work. As such, it is essential for her devotees, and even to some extent, for fans of surrealism. Both Varo and her fellow artist Leonora Carrington, (whose works are thematically and technically very similar) deserve wider appreciation. It is, however, excessive to award the book five stars. The reader might compare it to Druick's "Redon", which, with its simultaneously wide-ranging and penetrating scholarship and analysis, and luminous reproductions epitomizes a five-star art book. Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed Kaplan's book.
This book changed my life........1998-08-27
Unexpected Journeys is one of my all-time favorite books. Not only did it give me the opportunity to connect with Remedios Varo, but it expanded my understanding of surrealism, and feminism. The prints are amazing. I couldn't put it down. Thoroughly informative. Kaplan displays rare insight.
An excellent book to understand surrealism and Remedios Varo.......1998-05-01
This wonderful book let the reader know Remedios Varo as a painter and as a woman. It gives a perspective of the world in those years and helps understand the surrealism as a unique movement in the arts. It has plates in color of the most famous paintings of Varo and a complete explanation of them with a very complete bibliography.
Book Description
Being a parent was not a high priority--or even much of a likelihood--for acclaimed journalist and novelist Jesse Green. Yet when Green, at the age of thirty-seven, fell in love with a man who had recently adopted a baby boy, fatherhood suddenly fell into his lap. Now in this warm, humorous, deeply personal book, Green recounts the unexpected journey he and his partner traveled together on the road to parenthood.
In becoming the father--or rather one of the fathers--of Erez, Green faced challenges familiar to all parents, from the first bath to the first tooth, along with a host of dilemmas unique to his situation. As Green discovered, even in blasé New York City, reactions to his unconventional family ranged from the funny to the frightening, the unaccepting to the all-embracing. The Velveteen Father is a moving record of the transformative effects parenthood can have on people who least expect to become parents-- and of how we are repeatedly made anew by the love of children who need us.
Amazon.com
Journalist Jesse Green's delightful memoir makes it quite clear that the pleasures and perils of parenting are always the same--even for a gay 37-year-old man who stumbles into it by falling in love with a person who has an adopted son. As Green puts it in a typically well-turned phrase, "fatherhood trumps gayness," which is to say that heterosexual parents at the playground sometimes find it easier to relate to Green, his boyfriend, Andy, and son, Erez (soon joined by baby brother Lucas), than do the well-buffed, perennially youthful male guests at a Fire Island party--they flinch at the sight of diapers and baby bags. As the author searchingly and intelligently considers what it means to gay people to become parents, and the ways in which it does and does not pull them closer into the mainstream, his narrative is often extremely funny. (Joking about Erez's apparently heterosexual inclinations, Green deadpans, "We tried our best: We played him Judy Garland records and showed him tapes of West Side Story.") A very moving examination of identity and the making of a meaningful adult life that resonates profoundly for people of every sexual orientation. --Wendy Smith
Customer Reviews:
Excellent.......2007-02-01
This is an excellent book into one man's journey into fatherhood. This book also tells the story of the man who adopted his son also. This book is an easy read and very enjoyable. I wish there were more books on happy non-traditional families like this.
Have a dictionary handy.......2003-10-07
As a prospective gay dad (waiting 2 years now), I looked forward to reading this book, in a melancholic way, and I must say, at most points it truly hits home with my experience of adoption by gay men.
Overall, however, I had difficulty consuming portions of it (unlike Dan Savage's The Kid which I nearly read cover to cover in one sitting). It had a definite novelistic quality which seemed to have been written over time in at least two different chunks and then woven back together, leaving the reader to traverse an arduous landscape of semantic hills and valleys. I would say that the average reader will have difficulty making the trip.
For the first couple of chapters I had to have a dictionary handy at every page (and I'm fairly well educated) which made the book difficult to approach. I almost felt like there was an attempt of the author to appear undeservedly erudite, and I nearly stopped reading it. Then it picks up again in developing the character of Andy. The first and second person accounts are the best, where the author diverts and waxes poetic, the book bogs down.
The book is steeped in an examination of Jewish-American culture which diverts from the main premise (gay parenting), and having a Jewish friend to explain the nuances helps. however, this aspect of the book eventually becomes equally engaging.
Overall I found the book enjoyable and touching, and a spot on accurate reflection of the current state of same-sex parenting and adoption. I just wish it flowed more smoothly and was less of an exercise in academia.
An Unexpected Joy.......2002-12-12
As a prospective gay parent, I found Green's little book impossible to put down. His honest account of his emotions (and those of friends and family), combined with a most agreeable style makes this a wonderful book for parents-to-be of any sexual orientation.
Rich portrayal of a journey to parenthood.......2001-07-11
This book creates the most vivid portraits of the author and his partner and both of their journeys to parenthood. I liked that it was not falsely sentimental--I believed every word. I didn't want it to end.
An Engrossing Read.......2001-03-05
I was given a copy of this book by my boyfriend. Actually, it was hidden inside of another gift he'd given me for my birthday. He'd spoken often of his desire to be a parent, and it wasn't s surprise when I received the book. The surprise came when I opened it up to find not just a story about two gay men becoming fathers, but actually a meditation on the many ways in which we become families, and how who we are is shaped by our parents, our families and by who THEY are. This very different journey into parenthood is also a journey into humanity, and those who have or don't have children, want or don't want children, will find something of their own story in this touchingly written memoir.
Book Description
It is a situation we all fear and none of us can imagine: a life-threatening diagnosis. But what if the person receiving the diagnosis--young, physically fit, poised for a bright future--is himself a doctor?
At thirty-one David biro has just completed his residency and joined his father's successful dermatology practice. Struck with a rare blood disease that eventually necessitates a bone marrow transplant, Biro relates with honesty and courage the story of his most transforming journey. He is forthright about the advantages that his status as a physician may have afforded him; and yet no such advantage can protect him from the anxiety and doubt brought on by his debilitating therapies. The pressures that Biro's wild "one hundred days" brings to bear on his heretofore well-established identity as a caregiver are enormous--as is the power of this riveting story of survival.
Customer Reviews:
Enthralling, With A Surprise Ending.......2004-02-08
David did an exceptional job detailing every step of his BMT (bone marrow transplant). His courage was inspiring, and the tremendous support from his family was touching. Personally, I think his mother should receive an award for her devotion.
I'm sure this book will serve as a useful resource, not only for individuals preparing for BMT, but anyone facing a life-threatening blood disorder. David's journey preparing his body for his sister's bone marrow, and his long recovery period was engrossing, thanks to David's skills in projecting his unique literary voice. He made all the medical terminology along with his treatments easy to follow.
The ending surprised me -- that's all I'll say about that. I hope David remains healthy. I'm curious to know what happened to the novel he was working on.
Horribly interesting.......2003-08-16
This well-written book describes a doctor's experience within a system in which he had previously flourished. He was faced with an impossible decision between conservative and agressive treatment for a rare disease, and was essentially forced to make a leap of faith. It calls into question the notion of informed consent -- often there is no definitive informtion to aid the patient into making the right decision.
suspenseful page-turner.......2002-09-03
Biro is a writer and a dermatologist (not sure which order he'd put those in himself), and he's written a gripping account of surviving a life threatening disease. From the earliest stages, through the difficult decision to proceed with a bone marrow transplant, and the agonizing months of treatment and recovery that follow, he takes the reader by the hand through an emotionally and physically harrowing ordeal. Through it all, his life hangs in the balance, and he's written his story so well that you have to keep reminding yourself that he's had to survive the experience to write the book you're reading.
This is not to say that you don't step back now and then and realize that you're not reading the story of a typical patient. Biro clearly has all sorts of advantages by being a doctor, with numerous personal connections in medicine, including a father who is a doctor. Biro gets privileged treatment all along the way, including the advice of two specialists whom he's actually able to get together in the same room to discuss his case from their differing points of view.
In retrospect, you also realize that Biro has glossed over a remarkable stroke of good fortune -- his younger sister's being a perfect match as a bone marrow donor. While he praises his family for their tireless support at his bedside throughout his time as a patient, you feel that he also takes a great deal of this attentiveness for granted, especially the very painful procedure that his sister undergoes to be his lifesaver.
But in spite of these misgivings, a reader is likely to feel thoroughly absorbed by Biro's story. He does, after all, have to endure weeks of physical pain and discomfort, all the while knowing that he might not survive at all. It's OK for him to be more self-centered than maybe we'd prefer.
This is an excellent book for anyone in the healthcare professions, as it depicts graphically the experience of being a patient and having to endure treatment that is as life threatening as the disease being treated. As a companion to this book, I'd recommend the play "Wit," about a dying cancer patient, by Margaret Edson, also made into an HBO film by Mike Nichols, starring Emma Thompson.
All PNH patients should read this.......2000-08-13
I have PNH, and was stunned to find a book about my rare disease. This book does not go into great detail of living with PNH on a daily, weekly, monthly or yearly basis. Dr. Biro was fortunate enough to have a perfect match for his Bone Marrow Transplant. This book tells of his story through the BMT process, which I think is good for any one to read if they may have to have a BMT. It really explained a lot to me. Any one with PNH, would benenfit from reading his book. And it helps all of us with PNH to know there is a chance of a successful ending to PNH.
Couldn't put it down.......2000-07-24
I read this book upon recommendation of a friend who knows the Biro family. I'm a health educator, so the chronicling of medical events is something I enjoy reading about, and this was not disappointing in that regard. I already knew some general information about BMT and how grueling it is, but David's narrative really filled in all the blanks. His decision-making process, the treatment ordeal itself, his illness's effect on his family -- it was all fascinating. Even though I knew he survived, I couldn't wait to read what happened next. This book made me care very much about what happened to David. I'd love to see an article on him and how he is doing now -- any aftereffects he may have suffered.
Customer Reviews:
A Reformed Theology Primer.......2004-09-16
I would hazard a guess that most non-Reformed Christians and even non-Christians think that the Reformed tradition is something you have to be born into to understand or believe. It might be thought of as archaic and not in touch with today's evangelical Christian. Granted I was born into a "Reformation" family, but through the life of Dr. Godfrey we can see that somebody can come into Reformation theology from the outside!
Reformed Christians know that the truths of the Reformation are exciting, applicable, vibrant and most importantly come straight from Scripture. Dr. Godfrey does a great job of laying down the framework for Reformed Christianity from innumerable Scripture references and shows his passion and excitement for his faith. It was fun to read the first couple pages of a chapter concerning a portion of his life and then having him lead us into a deeper discussion of what and why the Reformed tradition believes about certain things.
This book can be a quick read, or it can be a starting point for further study. In my title for this review I called it a "Reformed Theology Primer", which I think is quite applicable for somebody wanting to know more about the Reformed faith. But for somebody who has been studying the Reformed faith for a number of years, I still found the book very engaging and quite worth the read.
I like Mike Horton's quote on the back which reads something like, "...this book is really more about God." (I loaned the book out so I can't quote it directly!) I couldn't agree more.
Mark Vander Pol
Soli Deo Gloria
Books:
- Georgia O'Keeffe: A Life
- Getting In: A STEP-BY-STEP PLAN FOR GAINING ADMISSION TO GRAD SCHOOL IN PSYCHOLOGY
- Girl with a Pearl Earring
- Gold and Iron
- Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies
- H.P. Lovecraft: A Life
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Books Index
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