Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance

Book Description

In this lyrical, unsentimental, and compelling memoir, the son of a black African father and a white American mother searches for a workable meaning to his life as a black American. It begins in New York, where Barack Obama learns that his father—a figure he knows more as a myth than as a man—has been killed in a car accident. This sudden death inspires an emotional odyssey—first to a small town in Kansas, from which he retraces the migration of his mother’s family to Hawaii, and then to Kenya, where he meets the African side of his family, confronts the bitter truth of his father’s life, and at last reconciles his divided inheritance.

Customer Reviews:

warning.......2007-10-09

great read, but once you're done there's no way you could look at this man the same way again.

"PT 109" for the 21st Century.......2007-10-08

As my readers will know, I am a tough critic, but I can find precious little about "Dreams from my Father" to criticize. Of course, the book will not appeal to those who don't care about race in America, or who have extremely fixed ideas about the subject. I like to think though that the majority of the reading public at least (if not the general public) are both engaged with and to some extent open-minded about our nation's central bugaboo/crisis/character flaw.

An editorial review mentioned that Obama's mother is almost absent from the book. To some extent he may have taken her somewhat for granted -- unlike his father or himself, he always had a good idea who she was and what she was about. In the preface to this edition, Obama mentions that she has died of cancer between the original publication and his nomination for U. S. Senate from Illinois, and that if he had known she would not be around to see that, he might have written a different book, spending more time hailing her for having stood by him. In the introduction to the first edition (written in 1995), he admits that he can't speak for everyone in the world. This is the most ironic part of the book, since it was only a year after that that he first ran for the Illinois state legislature. Thereafter, he has increasingly been compelled to try to do just that.

Although finding oneself has become a cliche, especially in the literary world, it was Barack Obama's mission for the first thirty years of his life. Defined as a black man, he sought to make his race more than a social construct, but something central and ineffable, and at the same time not cut off his ties to the rest of humanity, particularly his white mother and grandparents. He doesn't take his mother completely for granted -- he spends thirty to fifty pages talking about her background and that of her parents, who moved from Kansas to Hawaii, seeing it as the last frontier, when she was about to start college. Another one hundred pages or so explore his life with them in Hawaii (with a short stint in Indonesia, where his mother married a man who had studied in America and gave birth to Obama's half-sister Maya).

Readers of any race will be overwhelmed by the sheer power of Obama's writing. I choked up reading this several times. That is ultimately the best reason to read it, not the fact that Barack Obama has become a serious candidate for the presidency. This book also helps you figure out how he did that. The only thing he feels more keenly than his own hopes and fears are the hopes and fears of everyone around him. At the end of the book, having learned the whole story of his father's and grandfather's lives, he stands over their graves and weeps, feeling what they must have felt at each turning point of their lives. Although Obama is quintessentially American, I somehow would not be surprised, given the epiphany he had there, if he chose upon his death to be buried in Kenya alongside them. But perhaps my sympathy is making me romanticize the man.

This book leaves me with two regrets and one big hope. First, it is probably unfilmable. Second, there is one man running with even more vision and courage than Barack Obama, so I won't be able to vote for him in the primary election (although I will in the general if he is the candidate). My big hope is that Obama will write a third book in 2017, having waited eleven years between books as he did between his first and second, that will combine the autobiography he did with this book and the political manifesto he did with "The Audacity of Hope" (a phrase which you have to read "Dreams from my Father" to know Obama doesn't take credit for). Although I haven't finished the latter book, there is basically no way it could top this one. I give it my highest recommendation.

Moving, eloquent and inspirational..........2007-09-26

Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance by Barack Obama is a moving, eloquent and honest book that was originally published in 1995. This is an amazing story, and not just because he is a presidential candidate. Although autobiographical in scope, it is not intended to be a complete history of the author's life. Instead, it is "a boy's search for his father."

Barack Obama had a most unusual childhood. His mother was a white American living in Hawaii. His father, Barack Obama Sr., was a brilliant black Kenyan who received a college scholarship to the University of Hawaii. When Obama was two, his father graduated college and received a scholarship to obtain his PhD at Harvard. Unfortunately, the scholarship did not include living expenses for his family, and this proved the end of the marriage. After that, Obama only saw his father one more time before being killed in an auto accident when Obama was 21. Obama's mother subsequently married a man from Indoesia, where Obama lived for several years. But that marriage also ended and Obama returned to Hawaii to live with his grandparents. Dreams from My Father also includes Obama's college experiences, as well as the work he did as an organizer in Chicago.

The most moving part of Dreams from My Father involves his trip to Kenya for the first time several years after his father died. As a youth, he describes the reaction of others when they discover his background "Privately, they guess at my troubled heart, I supposed--the mixed blood, the divided soul, the ghostly image of a tragic mulatto trapped between two worlds." In Kenya, he meets his African family including grandparents, half-brothers and sisters, step-mothers, aunts, uncles and cousins. At the Kenyan airport, an airport employee recognizes his name and knew his father. "For the first time in my life, I felt the comfort, the firmness of identity that a name might provide, how it could carry an entire history in other people's memories...My name belonged and so I belonged." I was also moved by Obama's discovery of faith.

Even if Obama was not a presidential candidate for the 2008 election, Dreams is still an eloquent and inspirational story about his search for his father and his efforts to reconcile the histories of this white and black families.

A worthy memoir of Obama's complicated early life.......2007-09-06

Due to its multi-section arrangement, falling into three precise stages, this book feels like a well-paced coming-of-age novel, an impression buoyed by the fact that, to a degree that is unusual for politicians, Obama can actually write well. If you are looking for information on what policies Obama would support as a presidential candidate, you should look elsewhere. However, the book does give the impression that the writer is unusually forthright, both about himself and his beliefs.

Watching Obama's attitudes on race evolve is one of the key points of interest in the book, and the reader comes away with a picture of a man who is both reflective and self-critical. It is somewhat apparent that the author was not running for office at the time the book was written, and yes, it (very briefly) mentions his now infamous flirtation with cocaine use. However, if you want to read a portrait of the man, if not his political platform, and interested in the struggles of someone growing up in between two different cultures, this book is well worth reading.

just great.......2007-08-17

Obama wrote his memoirs of his growing up some years ago (and with his political career I expect he'll be writing them again in twenty or so years). It is an honest book about a remarkable man who had a remarkable life. Nothing political about it.

Average customer rating:

A Shy Man With Inner Strength of Iron
I came away with More Respect for the man...
A "Not-So-Common" Common Man's Journey!
The Secret of Inner Strength
Inner look at a remarkable human being

The Secret of Inner Strength: My Story
Chuck Norris , and Joe Hyams
Manufacturer: Jove Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1557731756

Customer Reviews:

A Shy Man With Inner Strength of Iron.......2005-06-26

I have seen Chuck Norris interviewed on several TV shows and he comes across as a very soft spoken shy man, yet you can tell he has a very powerful inner strength. In his career he has helped countless young people who doubted themselves to pick themselves up from despair and a feeling of uselessness and to believe in themselves and to do something great with their lives. He cares for his fellow man and has given of himself when he didn't have to. This book allows you to see inside his heart and to see and feel the struggles he has gone through and conquered. Chuck Norris is a Winner and so is this book. It is definitely a must read. Someone should do a movie on his life! He started at the bottom (he failed his first black belt test) and came out on top.

I came away with More Respect for the man..........2004-08-05

I like action movies, and TV. Chuck Norris is reliable and delivers in his films. But this book reveals a depth of character that seems to be depressiongly rare in the entertainment business.

In the end, Mr. Norris is an optimist.

He thinks that things will eventually work out OK.
He thinks that people can overcome adversity.
H thinks that people can succeed if they really apply thmeselves.

But he notes that success is rarely easy. Persistence and attitude are everything, and that strong character is essential. What are the elements of a strong character? According to Chuck Norris, they include the same qualities that The Boy Scouts and other institutions which claim to build character stress: Honesty, bravery, humility, humor, loyalty, commitment to truth, learning, duty, assissting others, etc.

If this book has a cental falw, it is the long (and often tedious) sections detailing some of Mr. Norris' films. But woven in wiht the narratives are some excellent insights into the value of strong character.

In the value free world of entertainment and media, Chuck Norris is not afraid or ashamed to state that "right" and "wrong" are valid and applicable concepts. He gives several concreate examples to express his life philosophy and the validity thereof. Being didactic and judgemental are often frowned upon in media, entertainment, and publishing. But Norris makes a case 9with anecdotes and examples) that sound judgements premised or rooted upon well-formed values, are a positive thing.

In the end, a portrait emerges of a man shaped by his values, not his past. And Chuck Norris had a very hard start in life. But he decided that he would not fall into despair; instead, he would rise above expectations, and succeed.

I can recommend this book for many reasons. THe two main reasons I do so are that it dispels the cyncial belief that honesty and good values are no longer worth anything. And in the end, Chuck Norris' life story serves as an inspirational motivator; to go out and make something of oneself.

This is a very positive book, and one I highly recommend.

A "Not-So-Common" Common Man's Journey!.......2003-08-30

Martial arts and film buffs will enjoy this book, which is a straightforward autobiography (written with the assistance of Joe Hyams). Be forwarned that this book was published in 1988 (at least my hardcover version), so the filmography doesn't cover his more recent works.

Norris describes his experiences from childhood, to the time spent in the armed forces, where he originally took up the matrial art of Tang Soo Do under Jae-chul Shin (who today runs the World Tang Soo Do Association).

This volume describes Norris's tournament days, including quite a bit about his competition experiences. There is also information about his family life, his entry into film making during his time as a karate (Tang Soo Do) instructor, and his experiences as a self-made actor in Hollywood. Throughout, he is honest as he describes his triumphs and mistakes.

Chuck Norris is the quintessential all-American guy who worked his tail off, took a big gamble, and came out on top. This book describes his journey from average joe, to martial arts instructor, to professional film star. This book includes two sections of photographs which show Norris from childhood, with family, in the services, in karate competition, and during the filming of his movies.

The Secret of Inner Strength.......2002-11-28

I thought I knew Chuck Norris before buying this book. But what I found was nothing that I ever expected. Chuck had a hard life and had health problems that he had to over come, talk about bad luck, nothing came easy for him, not even being born! If you are into self improvement or want a really inspiring story, buy this book and read it over and over again, the knowledge contained is great. It has a whole system of self development contained within, I have so much to say on this book, but read it for yourself, it's worth every penny!

Inner look at a remarkable human being.......2001-08-21

This book is a must for all people of all ages. Whether your a Chuck Norris fan or not. As one review put it, he lays his emotions and home life on the table. I found it so intriguing that I couldn't put the book down for long periods of time, because I wanted to know more. This book has begun to open my eyes to look inside myself. I'm so motivated that I am going to get his second inner strength book about ZEN! This book is easy to read and he is an inspiring teacher. It's so good that I don't want to give the book up!

Average customer rating:

My Woman, His Wife
threesome wives beware
GREAT PAGE TURNER!!!
Okay, note to self...stay away from the threesomes!
My woman His wife

My Woman His Wife
Anna J.
Manufacturer: Q-Boro Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

United States | Short Stories | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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Wives and Girlfriends

ASIN: 0975306626

Book Description

For most couples, inviting someone into their bedroom is totally out of the question. Any normal woman would flip if her man even thought about trying a threesome with another woman. Jasmine is that woman, and more. It's not until her husband James pressures her into having a threesome that their once happy lives get turned into nothing but drama. FIC000000

Customer Reviews:

My Woman, His Wife.......2007-10-10

I purchased the book to read as part of a book club reading. I thought it was terrible. No storyline and it was very racey.

threesome wives beware.......2007-09-29

this wa a very good read even thou i just couldn't understand how this couple could be so stuppppid, they let this woman ruined there lives while they both was being selfish, things that happen in this story was a little over the top but it was entertaining.i will get the seguel to see what will happen

GREAT PAGE TURNER!!!.......2007-09-24

I received this book from a friend as a suggested read. Once I got pass the first sentence, I was hoooked!!! I finished the book in two days. I ready to read another one.

Okay, note to self...stay away from the threesomes!.......2007-09-24

I would say that I felt bad for the wife in this book, Jasmine...but that goes without saying. She shouldn't have allowed her husband into bullying her into this little threesome ordeal with this crazy chic, Monica. On the other hand, instead of James going to another woman to feed his sexual desires, he should have done it another way that wouldn't have allowed the marital couple to share their bed with anyone else.

And least of all, this no good, low down, whore of a woman manipulates all that cross her path - whether it be for money or for sex, unknowingly everyone falls to her feet. And bringing a baby into the picture...are you kidding me you psychotic chic?

Well written book that I managed to read in a few hours. I would read more books by this author.

I applaud you!

My woman His wife.......2007-09-12

This book was EXCELLENT! A page turner if I ever read one!.

Average customer rating:

Hilarious if ultimately a one-joke enterprise
Eye-opening, politically-incorrect and challenging satire.
If anyone should be in jail it should be the author of this satire.
How would you like your sacred cow?
The humor ends pretty quickly

My Holocaust: A Novel
Tova Reich
Manufacturer: HarperCollins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Satire, General | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

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The Yiddish Policemen's Union: A Novel
Fieldwork: A Novel
Kalooki Nights: A Novel
The Ministry of Special Cases
Boomsday

ASIN: 0061173452
Release Date: 2007-04-03

Book Description

A satire on the culture of victim glorification and Holocaust memory exploitation, My Holocaust follows the careers of the father–son team, Maurice and Norman Messer, who know a good product when they see it. That product is the Holocaust–and Maurice, a survivor with a self–enhancing inflated personal history, and Norman, enjoying vicarious victimhood as a participant in the second–generation movement, proceed to market it enthusiastically. Not even the disappearance of Nechama, Norman's daughter and Maurice's granddaughter, into the Carmelite convent at Auschwitz, where she is transformed into a nun, Sister Consolatia of the Cross, deters them from pushing their agenda. The novel follows them on a tour of the Auschwitz–Birkenau death camp, which Maurice, now the driving force behind the most powerful Holocaust memorialization institution in the U.S., organizes to soften up a major potential donor, and which Norman takes advantage of to embark on a surrealistic search for his daughter.

The novel reaches its climax in the takeover of the U.S. Holocaust museum by a coalition of self–styled victims all seeking Holocaust status, bringing together a large cast of characters from every side of the spectrum–from Holocaust wannabees (African and Native Americans, Muslims, women, etc.) to Holocaust professionals– who proceed to mindlessly sacrifice their own children and drain all meaning from suffering and memory in the fevered competition to win the grand prize.

Customer Reviews:

Hilarious if ultimately a one-joke enterprise.......2007-06-19

I feel ungrateful not giving more stars to a novel that made me laugh as much as this one did but it's not a completely successful venture. The author is a true satrist with a real, stinging wit and you can read her book as a sort of breezy riff on the explotation of tragedies/victimhood but it's not really a developed novel. The characters aren't formed, they're just there to make points. That's fine but the downside is that the book feels slight and doesn't linger. I kept wishing that Reich had really brought the characters to loony life (a la "A Confederacy of Dunces"). Still, this is a really talented writer and I can't wait to read her next book.

Eye-opening, politically-incorrect and challenging satire........2007-06-17

MY HOLOCAUST isn't the usual nonfiction account one would expect: it's a fictional satire packed with social commentary, and its premise is certain to spark debate, interest and controversy. Here other minorities and causes want to profit from the Holocaust and its attention - and two opportunity-driven businessmen make their living peddling the Holocaust to groups that seek status through victimization. A Holocaust Museum effort backfires when terrorists try to take over the memorial in this eye-opening, politically-incorrect and challenging satire.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

If anyone should be in jail it should be the author of this satire........2007-06-16

I think it is discussing to trivialize any massive massacre in human history. Amazon sells "Lectures on the Holocaust" by Germar Rudolf which is a revisionist classic that questions the Holocaust facts in a scholarly and academic and non-hateful and very loving way. Yet the author, Germar Rudolf, is in jail in Germany for THOUGHT CRIMES for writing "Lectures on the Holocaust." If anyone should be in jail it should be the author of this satire. Shame on her! BUT, I give high marks for her unique writing style.

How would you like your sacred cow?.......2007-06-03

An A for effort - great writing, a sharp eye for detail, and the brazen concept. The author bravely goes to the edge - and then jumps right off. The first 3/4 of this book contain some brilliant bits of savagely funny satire - there were several times when I put the book down and just laughed for a minute or two. Loses steam and becomes tiresome in the last 100 pages.

The humor ends pretty quickly.......2007-04-20

I do not object to a humorous book about the exploitation of the Holocaust. There is no doubt that the Holocaust has made too many scoundrels rich and famous. There is also no doubt that it deserves a comic treatment, at least as part of a normalization of the abnormal.

At first the novel is indeed funny, hilariously so. It is no crime on the part of the author to be unable to keep this up for the whole length of the book. The humor quickly ends and the rest of the novel is deadly dull. I am in no position to complain about this, there is considerable talent in this book. It just cannot sustain itself long enough to be taken seriously. Nice try thought.

Then Sings My Soul: 150 of the World's Greatest Hymn Stories

Average customer rating:

Hymns
Greatly Uplifting
Hymns Coming Alive Through Their Stories
An Absolutely Delightful Book
Fascinating, music history/devotional

Then Sings My Soul: 150 of the World's Greatest Hymn Stories
Robert J. Morgan
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Devotionals | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0785249397

Book Description

Rob Morgan's inimitable style will help people reacquaint themselves with the hymns of the faithful. His goal is to keep these traditional hymns vital and meaningful to all generations.

Don't look for a dry recounting of boring stories. These devotional-style stories show the emotion and drama behind the hymns of faith that have changed many lives throughout history -- the people whose faith led them to write these wonderful hymns and the people whose faith was affected by reading, hearing, and singing the songs. Designed to be personally reflective, these stories speak to your soul and add depth and meaning as you worship God through song.

FEATURES:

Includes words and music to each hymn
Special softcover, french flap cover design
Ivory paper with brown ink
Jagged-edge paper, giving it a classic feel
Complete with hymn index
Use for devotionals, teaching illustrations, introductory remarks for song leaders and music ministers

Customer Reviews:

Hymns.......2007-07-27

It amazes me that the songs contained in both books 1 and 2 by Robert J. Morgan's compilation were sung at our church when I was growing up. At that time I had no thoughts whatsoever as to who the authors or songwriters were. How refreshing that a busy pastor like Robert J. Morgan would be instrumental in bringing these happy memories back to worship services where Jesus Christ is praised. Realizing that even way back in the l6th, l7th, l8th, 19th and 20th centuries both men and women were inspired to tell the wonder of God's love and protection for his people if we were willing only to listen and obey.

Also, I was really surprised to find women as authors of America the Beautiful, The Battle Him of the Republic; To God Be the Glory and Because He Lives, I can face tomorrow.

I give these books to friends of mine as gifts because they two like the "olden" songs.

Greatly Uplifting.......2007-05-31

As a church worship leader I appreciate the history of hymns. The old does not have to give way to the new. The new is great but the old has depth and wisdom. This is a great way to come to appreciate those who walked before us.

Hymns Coming Alive Through Their Stories.......2007-03-15

What a wonderful compilation of the stories behind the hymns that have nurtured our Christian world. To know the heart and reasons behind the depth of these beloved hymns. I have purchased this for many worship leaders and will continue to purchase for anyone who wants to read about the saints before us.

An Absolutely Delightful Book.......2007-01-10

Never again will I sing the hymns of the faith without recalling the painful journey that led their authors to put words to paper. Robert Morgan has given us a wonderful resource to encourage, enlighten, and strengthen our faith.

Morgan's writing is devotional in nature and his book makes you want to continue reading. Even if you weren't raised with hymns--you'll enjoy this book, if only for the incredible stories and powerful messages.

Fascinating, music history/devotional.......2007-01-04

I started using this with my kids as a nighttime devotional. I had to "translate" the stories into more-kid-friendly language, but they got a kick out of singing the songs after hearing how they came to be. Really, it is more of an adult book and if you grew up in a traditional Protestant church, you will really enjoy learning the background to so many famous hymns. It is very easy to use for a daily devotional since each story is only one page long.

Average customer rating:

Great book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A lovely book!
YIKES! SCARRY!
a childhood favorite passed down
Still has the same magic

Are You My Mother?
P.D. Eastman
Manufacturer: Random House Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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

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The Cat in the Hat

ASIN: 0394800184
Release Date: 1960-06-12

Amazon.com

This is the classic from which many of our staff first learned to read, starting us on a path of unremitting bibliophilia. Are You My Mother? follows a confused baby bird who's been denied the experience of imprinting as he asks cows, planes, and steam shovels the Big Question. In the end he is happily reunited with his maternal parent in a glorious moment of recognition.

Book Description

Illus. in color. A baby bird is hatched while his mother is away. Fallen from his nest, he sets out to look for her and asks everyone he meets -- including a dog, a cow, and a plane -- "Are you my mother?"

Customer Reviews:

Great book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2007-08-11

My mom got me this book when i was only a few months old. It is a great book. Since i am older i don't read it as much but i didn't forget about it yet! It has a baby bird who falls out of its nest and goes out looking for its mother and it asks so many animals and it finally finds her.The illustrations are great. I would recommend it to any beginner.

A lovely book!.......2007-07-18

This book could not be sweeter! My 5 yo adores this book. It shows the bond and love a Mother and child have from day one.

YIKES! SCARRY!.......2007-07-17

Not a good book for kids. Being lost and alone, searching for your mother or anyone that looks like you will not only frighten your child but also teach them that they must find someone that looks like them to feel safe and accepted. This book is dated and not child appropriate. :-(

a childhood favorite passed down.......2007-05-15

I am just thrilled to see that this classic is still going strong. I remember this from the early 70s as I was a young girl and my father read this to me daily. And now, I had the priviledge of introducing the book to my daughter about a year ago. It became an instant favorite since it involves all the favorite characters of a toddler's life: conversations with a dog, cow, chicken, cat etc. Parents that enjoy getting creative when reading to their children will love this book!

Still has the same magic.......2007-05-08

I just finished reading "Are you my Mother?" with my daughter, having not heard it since I was a child. This book still posesses the same magic it did for me all those years ago.
Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Works better as historical fiction than as a great love story
The conquest of Chile
amazing
Hot Chile!
Isabel Allende, Chronicler of the Indies

Ines of My Soul: A Novel
Isabel Allende
Manufacturer: HarperCollins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Latin American | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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

Thirteen Moons: A Novel
Ines del Alma Mia: Novela
A Thousand Splendid Suns
Suite Francaise
Water for Elephants: A Novel

ASIN: 0061161535
Release Date: 2006-11-07

Book Description

Born into a poor family in Spain, Inés, a seamstress, finds herself condemned to a life of hard work without reward or hope for the future. It is the sixteenth century, the beginning of the Spanish conquest of the Americas, and when her shiftless husband disappears to the New World, Inés uses the opportunity to search for him as an excuse to flee her stifling homeland and seek adventure. After her treacherous journey takes her to Peru, she learns that her husband has died in battle. Soon she begins a fiery love affair with a man who will change the course of her life: Pedro de Valdivia, war hero and field marshal to the famed Francisco Pizarro.

Valdivia's dream is to succeed where other Spaniards have failed: to become the conquerer of Chile. The natives of Chile are fearsome warriors, and the land is rumored to be barren of gold, but this suits Valdivia, who seeks only honor and glory. Together the lovers Inés Suárez and Pedro de Valdivia will build the new city of Santiago, and they will wage a bloody, ruthless war against the indigenous Chileans—the fierce local Indians led by the chief Michimalonko, and the even fiercer Mapuche from the south. The horrific struggle will change them forever, pulling each of them toward their separate destinies.

Inés of My Soul is a work of breathtaking scope: meticulously researched, it engagingly dramatizes the known events of Inés Suárez's life, crafting them into a novel full of the narrative brilliance and passion readers have come to expect from Isabel Allende.

Customer Reviews:

Works better as historical fiction than as a great love story.......2007-09-12

I read the Spanish language version, and I am an avid reader of Spanish language literature.

I am a great fan of historical fiction, and from that point of view, this was a great read. However, the purpose of the memoirs Ines is writing to her daughter was not only to document her life and history but to help her daughter understand the great love she had for Valdivia. On this front, I don't think the book works very well. I was extremely disappointed by the ending. I won't spoil it for readers except to say I didn't believe it at all (because I don't think the content of the story made it believable).

I feel that this book lacks much of what draws me to great Spanish Language literature in general - emotional content. Factually it was quite interesting, and I enjoy Allende's Spanish. However, the only parts of the book that had any emotional strength were the times Ines digressed from her history to address her daughter directly regarding her own impending death. It's too bad Allende didn't put that kind of emotional content in Ines' relationship with Valdivia. There was simply too much distance in the relationship for this to be considered a story of a great love.

However, I would highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction. It is interesting as Allende matter of factly expresses through Ines ideas of the day, and I am glad she does it without any preaching. For example, the fact that Valdivia wants to create an almost Utopian community in Chile, but he doesn't seem to care how many people he has to kill to do it. Or the comments reflecting the then-current opinions of the Spaniards on the New World and its indigenous inhabitants - the perceived barbarism of the latter with the actual barbarism of the former. She does a good job of letting the facts speak for themselves.

I truly wish that there had been more to the love story itself. Then this would truly have been a great book.

The conquest of Chile.......2007-09-11

Ines Suarez went from being a seamstress and cook in Spain to the first lady of Chile. This is her story and also the story of the hardships of the conquistadors in the New World. The book takes an unflinching look at the conflict between the Spaniards and indigenous inhabitants. The conquistadors were bigots, liars and murderers, but they were also men and women of incredible courage, endurance and fortitude. Their greed was matched by their belief in themselves and what they were doing. Obviously this is a recipe for success: how else to explain the conquest of so much by so few? The book is important because it deals with a less familiar chapter in the conquest of South America. Pizarro and Cortes are household names and the conquests of Peru and Mexico have been the subject of much popular literature. In contrast, the story of the foundation of Chile and the name of Pedro de Valdivia are much less known. I enjoyed the historical aspects of Isabel Allende's novel and am more educated for reading it. Unfortunately, the literary aspects of the book do not compare with the history. The clichéd and stereotypical elements include Ines as an old woman telling the story of her youth in flashback, her medicine-woman sidekick skilled in healing with herbs and potions unknown to Western medicine and the Mapuche Indians portrayed as noble savages. Surely all this could have been presented in a more original way. The repeated tendency to jump ahead in the story and make allusions to events yet to come is distracting and unnecessary, even if the story must be told in flashback. On the whole, though, a rewarding read.

amazing.......2007-08-23

An amazing story of a woman with great courage, fortitude and stamina who helped to settle Chile and gave so much of herself to helping others. Isabele Allende is a wonderful writer.

Hot Chile!.......2007-08-06

Another good story by Allende, but with lots of interesting historical background. It suggests that the Spanish were courageous and visionary, but also cruel and determined to stir lasting enmity among the Indians. Ines, the heroine, was more enlightened that her male contemporaries and was a courageous, heartwarming character.

Isabel Allende, Chronicler of the Indies.......2007-07-06

I've enjoyed all of Isabel Allende's books but this is certainly one of her best. After I finished reading it I wanted to go back and begin reading again! In this sweeping historical novel Allende establishes herself as a 21st century chronicler of the conquest of Chile. In the process she restores Inés Suárez to an appropriate level of importance and gives voice to the Mapuche Indians. (They tell part of the story and their words are part of the narrative.) This is not a black and white version of the conquest; it is nuanced with multiple perspectives. We hear from Inés (a European woman), Pedro de Valdivia (Spanish conquerer), Catalina (a quechua-speaking servant), Cecilia (an Incan princess), Felipe/Lautaro (Mapuche hero) and many more. Allende's gifts as a novelist and storyteller make this an appealing and unforgettable book. I can still picture the vivid descriptions of Chile and hear the clamor and war cries of battle. Throughout the saga the sentiments of believable characters breathe life into a sequence of historical events. In this compelling work Allende has created the lasting monument to Inés Suárez.

My Grandfathers Blessings : Stories of Strength, Refuge, and Belonging

Average customer rating:

A truly inspirational book!
Beautiful
A Blessing to Read
A Blessing In Itself
One not to be missed

My Grandfathers Blessings : Stories of Strength, Refuge, and Belonging
Rachel Naomi Remen
Manufacturer: Riverhead Trade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Happiness | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Kitchen Table Wisdom: Stories That Heal
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ASIN: 1573228567
Release Date: 2001-04-10

Amazon.com

When doctor and author Rachel Naomi Remen (Kitchen Table Wisdom) was young, she was caught between two different views of life: that of her rabbi grandfather and that of her highly academic, research-oriented parents, who believed religion was the opiate of the masses. As Remen gravitated toward academics and serving the world as a medical doctor, her grandfather became an "island of mysticism in a vast sea of science." But over time, Remen discovered that two seemingly divergent paths could lead to the same destination, especially as she learned to blend her spiritual beliefs with her medical treatment.

Remen uses the heart-rending stories of her patients to teach readers how to follow in her example, that is, combining a life of service with a life of receiving and giving blessings (a combination that avoids common problems such as burnout, self-sacrifice, and navel gazing). Remen also includes personal stories of her grandfather, who showered the world with his mystical beliefs and wizened blessings. While this story-by-story structure is similar to the bestselling Kitchen Table Wisdom, it is still a tearful and satisfying formula. --Gail Hudson

Book Description

As a small child, Rachel Remen sat at the feet of her grandfather, an orthodox rabbi and scholar of the kabbalah, and learned the secret of life: that love and blessings given to others heals our loneliness, unhappiness, and in fact all our wounds. Remen uses her power as a master storyteller to bring to life the extraordinary blessings of ordinary existence. These exquisite pieces show us how we bless and serve each other most often without knowing it, how much life gives to us, and how many of our own blessings we have still yet to receive.

There is nothing more comforting than hearing Rachel's grandfather speak of love, life, and God to a small, lonely, and very spiritual child who was trying to find her way in an unspiritual world. These are stories for keeping at the bedside, for those dark nights when we go out in search of our souls.

Rachel's grandfather has blessed not only his beloved granddaughter but, through her, has blessed us all.

Customer Reviews:

A truly inspirational book!.......2007-10-11

I was deeply moved and inspired by this book. I bought 3 more copies and gave them to friends and family.

Beautiful.......2007-09-24

I love this book - it's absolutely beautiful. The stories can help you grow. I would recommend this treasure to anyone.

A Blessing to Read.......2007-09-14

Easy to Read, Much food for thought.....Life lessons for all of us to learn and use. Short chapters with a new theme in each. Can read short snippets at a time.

A Blessing In Itself.......2007-07-22

I feel bad. Apparently, I'm only the 6th person out of 47 people to give this book anything less than a 5-star rating. And there's only one reason I did that. As a writer myself, I feel that there are too many stories in this book. Some of these little narratives just aren't as powerful or focused as others. And I would have left them out. But please don't let that get in the way of your enjoyment of this wonderful work. It is every bit as inspiring, uplifting, and profound as most of the other reviewers say it is. I especially like the common theme I see running through most of the pieces presented here. And that's the idea that the wholeness of an individual not only includes his or her health, talents and accomplishments, but his or her pain, suffering, shortcomings, and illnesses, too. In life we are called to embrace it all, and resist nothing. And that is the key to a life that is truly fulfilling and rewarding.

Steven Lane Taylor, author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat: A Guide For Living Life In The Divine Flow

One not to be missed.......2007-05-19

I have found My Grandfather's Blessings to be among the most moving books I have ever read. Each brief story can stand on its own. The author relates a simple incident, as many of us have lived, but then goes on in a simple and succinct manner to reveal a deeper meaning within the experience. Ms. Remen does not talk down to the reader, but rather sweeps us up into the experience with her. Upon finishing this book, I immediately ordered five more and sent them out to friends.

Average customer rating:

vampires, werewolves, and pirates oh my!
Anthologies can be tricky things...
One of the best anthologies I've read
teaser!
Wow! great collection

My Big Fat Supernatural Wedding
Sherrilyn Kenyon , Charlaine Harris , L. A. Banks , Jim Butcher , Rachel Caine , Esther M. Friesner , Lori Handeland , and Susan Krinard
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Domestic Life | Women's Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Anthologies | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0312343604
Release Date: 2006-10-03

Book Description

Werewolves, vampires, witches, voodoo, Elvis---and weddings An 'ordinary' wedding can get crazy enough, so can you imagine what happens when otherworldly creatures are involved? Nine of the hottest authors of paranormal fiction answer that question in this delightful collection of supernatural wedding stories. What's the seating plan when rival clans of werewolves and vampires meet under the same roof? How can a couple in the throes of love overcome traps set by feuding relatives---who are experts at voodoo? Will you have a good marriage if your high-seas wedding is held on a cursed ship? How do you deal with a wedding singer who's just a little too good at impersonating Elvis? -+L. A. Banks-+Jim Butcher-+Rachel Caine-+P. N. Elrod-+Esther M. Friesner-+Lori Handeland-+Charlaine Harris-+Sherrilyn Kenyon-+Susan Krinard Shape-shifters, wizards, and magic, oh my!

Customer Reviews:

vampires, werewolves, and pirates oh my!.......2007-09-29

some of the stories were fantastic, some were just good, but hey, isn't that the whole point of getting a collection of short stories? that way you can check out what all the authors are like without committing to a ton of books. i think the book is pretty good.

Anthologies can be tricky things..........2007-08-24

You're never 100% certain of what you're going to get. They can be great for finding new authors and/or filling in the waiting period til the next book from your favourite author. Or they can make you feel like you've wasted your time.

Although word of mouth said that My Big Fat Supernatural Wedding was an uninspiring collection as a big fan of Jim Butcher, Charlaine Harris and Sherrilyn Kenyon I wanted to find out for myself.

Where it works - the stories that are set in an ongoing series. Jim Butcher's Something Borrowed is a solid entry into the Harry Dresden series. Although I'm not familiar with Lori Handeland's Night Creatures universe her story (Charmed by the Moon) still managed to draw me in, keep me interested and made me want to check out her backlist.

Sherrilyn Kenyon's story whilst not reaching the emotional intensity of Phantom Lover from the Midnight Pleasures anthology is a vast improvement on Until Death Do We Part (Velkan and Retta's story from the Love at First Bite antho.)Though I wish she would cut down on the point of view head hopping.

One other story that stood out for me was Esther Friesner's The Wedding of Wylda Serene. Whilst slow to get into it had some very witty lines that had me laughing out loud.

Having read the stories I am disappointed. Overall the anthology is okay, but there is not enough here that stands out. Maybe it's a case of trying to cram too many authors in to one book.

Anthologies I would recommend - for Sherrilyn Kenyon - Midnight Pleasures, Stroke of Midnight. For Charlaine Harris - Bite (as part of the ongoing Sookie series), Night's Edge (standalone story).

One of the best anthologies I've read.......2007-06-08

Usually anthologies are like panning for gold. You've got to sift through a lot of dirt to get the gold nuggets. This anthology, however, was the motherlode. All the stories were entertaining. Out of the nine, the last two were the weakest, but still a good short read.

I was pleasantly surprised by Charlaine Harris's contribution. I expected a Sookie story, but instead received a good vampire/werewolf story with no Sookie in sight. It is alwasy nice to see another part of the world which an author has created.

Jim Butcher was in true form with his entry. Gee I just love Harry Dresden, no matter what he is doing.

All in all I recommend this book for a short quick read. I already have a waiting list of people who want to borrow it from me.

teaser!.......2007-05-31

what a teaser! Just when u are getting into one of the story, its over! but i guess that is what u can expect from and anthology.

Wow! great collection.......2007-04-23

This collection was just stunning! Great combo, some of the stories are amazingly funny and a few are very spooky. Wonderful read, but a few at a time, there is definitely some overlap of ideas. P.S. LOOOved the Esther Freisner story. But I'm biased.

Average customer rating:

New DC Bio Proves Talent Will Survive Forever!
Must read for all fans
David Cassidy is truly a legend
A great insight
Nicely co-written and edited

Could It Be Forever?: My Story
David Cassidy
Manufacturer: Headline Book Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Entertainers | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0755315790

Book Description

In the early 1970s, when he was just 20 years old, David Cassidy achieved the sort of teen idol fame that is rarely seen. He was mobbed everywhere he went. His clothes were regularly ripped off by adoring fans. He sold records the world over. He was bigger than Elvis. And all thanks to a hit TV show called The Partridge Family. David Cassiday, in his own words, gives a brutally frank account of those mindblowing days of stardom in which being David Cassidy played second fiddle to being Keith Partridge. Including stories of sex, drugs, and rock'n'roll that explode the myth of Cassidy as squeaky clean, it is also the story of how to keep on living life and loving yourself when the fickle fans fall away. David Cassidy is also the author of C'mon, Get Happy: Fear and Loathing on the Partridge Family Bus.

Customer Reviews:

New DC Bio Proves Talent Will Survive Forever!.......2007-10-10

Could It Be Forever?: My Story
Despite much adversity in his life and being a labeled a "teen idol" David Cassidy tells his readers of his amazing journey and how true talent survives.

If you're already a fan that got the 1st autobiography, "C'mon Get Happy," let me tell you that I enjoyed this one MUCH MORE than that one! In the first book, I felt almost like all the sexual stuff came off like "bragging." I didn't feel that this time around as even though a lot of it was the same, it just seemed more "balanced."

I really enjoyed the comments put in by family members, friends, and other artists. It helped add a new detention to the book. Being able to see David through others eyes. Of course, being a HUGE fan of DC's RCA records, I was very happy to be able to read more about the making of those and getting to read comments by Gerry Beckley, Bruce Johnson, etc. I was pleased that DC acknowledged that had he toured the US these albums probably would have done at least fairly well here. So to me, it's rather sad he didn't. I think it would've given him more credibility if he'd been able to have at least one hit record that was his own right after the P.F. went off the air. It's cool that he mentioned many of his long time fans (like me) have commented on how much they enjoyed them. Also that they were the "real David" as he had real control over those LP's. Opposed to having to sing pop for a TV show that was very well-crafted but just wasn't what he was into at that time of his life.

It was also interesting reading about all the other POST-PF things that happened since the 1st book was written. I actually enjoyed the "environmental" and "anti-war" messages in "Time," even though I never got to see the whole play. I've heard it on cassette tapes and some of the songs were lovely too. So it's a shame DC didn't enjoy it very much. Although I agree with DC that "Blood Brothers" was by far the best vehicle in his career. It was just joyful to read about his becoming so close to Shaun & Petula, etc.

I never realized DC was in such pain with his foot while doing EFX. He hid it very well. I knew he's hurt it and his back but just never knew the extent of the damage. He really IS a real trouper! Of course, I knew that when I 1st met him in SD back in 1981 and he was carrying an ice pack for his broken foot so that he could still perform doing heavy tap dancing in "Little Johnny Jones."

Also fascinating was how David mentioned being separated from Sue for a while when in Vegas. It gave me a new perspective about some things from that time.

The trip DC took with his brothers was really fun to read. It's so nice they're all so close. Also the comments about Katie and how proud he is of her now.

I loved the ending message by Beau. It saw simply lovely - and DC's right that THAT is what life is really all about! As the Beatles sang, "In the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make."

Anyway, if you're a DC fan or even if you're not that big a fan, I think his latest autobiography is just a really fascinating and enjoyable read.

Must read for all fans.......2007-10-10

I have been a David Cassidy fan for over 30 years and this is a must read book. He opens his heart and his life for the world to see. The image we all saw on TV was truly just an image. He was truly acting in front of those cameras. His struggles were hidden from the public very well. It is amazing he is the man he is today after everything he went through. I am re-energized in my fandom for him. Fans of all ages will find this book fascinating. Get it today!!!!

David Cassidy is truly a legend.......2007-09-16

When this book came out I just had to have it! Like all young girls in the early 70's I was crazy about this guy! My sister and I would be glued to the tv to watch the Partridge Family and fight over which one of us would marry David when we grew up. While in my early teens I discovered David Bowie and have followed his career for over 30 years. In August of 2006 I re-discovered David Cassidy. His music makes you feel happy and your troubles seem to disappear. Since August of 2006 I have had the pleasure of meeting him backstage 3 times. What a thrill! I have so much respect for this man and the life that he has led. The second time I met him I told him he is my hero. He couldn't thank me enough and I could tell he meant it. I highly recommend this book. It is very well written and David's honesty shines thru. His story is truly amazing. He even mentions David Bowie in it!! lol When I started reading this book I honestly couldn't put it down and will re-read it again soon. For those of you who have never seen him live I highly recommend you catch one of shows. He is an incredible performer and sounds awesome. I was very pleasantly surprised the first time I saw him in 2006. You will walk away happy and very entertained. Now I just need to get back stage again so he can autograph my book! Read and enjoy! and yes...I still want to marry him! hehehe

A great insight.......2007-08-25

Most of the early part of the hard-cover was a repeat of the first book, so I skipped ahead, starting with coverage of the Rolling Stone issue. From then, until the last pages, it was all new material. He covers the RCA recording sessions, why he chose the songs, & includes interviews with Kim & Dave, Bruce Johnson, & songwriters Bill House & Gerry Beckley. Even Shaun gives his opinions. This was the sort of subject matter I wish had been in the first book. The new material also covers Katie & her career, the Vegas years, the new recordings, & the "Brothers' Tour" of Florida. It touches briefly on Evelyn's declining health, & Meryl Tanz. It dismays me that he seems to be using prescription medicine more frequently, with the advent of hurting his legs during the Blood Brothers tour, until his foot surgery after "EFX", but I appreciate his honesty in showing how he is dealing with his mental health problems (I never want to see him ending up like Jack). Shaun, Patrick, Ryan, & Sue all give their sensitive opinions of their relationship with David through the years and Beau writes his own chapter of what it's like to be David's son. One of the most interesting passages I could relate to was on page 344, where his friend, Jerry Bilinski, writes of his dedication to his horses, especially Myan King. He says that even though the horse didn't do well in a race in Kentucky, David was able to perform on stage in Connecticut. I was at that concert- it was my first time at Mohegan Sun! I would recommend this new book to any David Cassidy fan, just for the new additions (but if you're an American who is financially impaired, I would wait until June, when it is released n Canadathe exchange rate is a bit more reasonable).

Nicely co-written and edited .......2007-07-03

This new updated version of a 1994 publication, was co-written and edited by music author Ken Sharp. He also arranged and conducted the interviews with family members and friends. These updates gave this 2007 edition a better feel. Some parts of the orig. 1994 edition, which was co-written at that time by music author Chip Deffae, were also left intact.

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