Book Description
The ruthless and brilliant brother Vishous possesses a destructive curse and a frightening ability to see the future. As a member of the Brotherhood, he has no interest in love or emotion, only the battle with the Lessening Society. But when a mortal injury puts him in the care of a human surgeon, Dr. Jane Whitcomb compels him to reveal his inner pain and taste true pleasure for the first time-until a destiny he didn't choose takes him into a future that does not include her...
Customer Reviews:
So T'eed off !.......2007-10-03
I can't begin to tell you how this book disappointed me. I can't stand how it ended, how the romance progressed. ANYTHING! It was just awful. I don't think I even want to read the next book after this tripe.
I took the day off!!! It has been on my calendar for months since reading the last book. I bugged my husband for weeks before making sure he knew I needed this one uniterrupted day. No chores, no talking, take out dinner night. Maybe not even teethbrushing I told him.
Sadly my husband then heard the brunt of my extreme disappointment.
Why oh why???
Not good..........2007-10-03
Wow, I can't believe I am writing a bad review for a JR Ward book. I have been such a huge fan of this series from the beginning, and have faithfully pre-ordered every book, but V's book feels like it was written by someone else completely. It was so disjointed and didn't flow at all. You could really tell that JR had a tough time with this book, and it feels as if she really didn't like V all that much.
All through the series so far, V has been very uncomfortable with his feelings, especially where love is concerned, yet he falls for Jane almost instantly. I don't mean the whole "mine" moment, because I know that happens right away with every brother, but he accepted and embraced being "in love" without any inner conflict what-so-ever. And the woman he falls in love with just doesn't measure up. Jane is very underdeveloped IMO, and her actions don't coincide with her profession or her upbringing. She is supposed to be this stoic no nonsense surgeon who grew up in a rich unfeeling home, yet she speaks like some street rat and falls in love just as quikly as V does...wtf???
I don't even understand why they fell in love in the first place. Jane thinks V is hot, and V likes Jane's brain? And why is Jane so okay with being kidnapped by a bunch of vampires. If I was kidnapped by vampires, I would be freaking out, not exchaning quips with my captor, no matter how hot he was. And the hand job thing...what the hell was that about? V has just kidnapped her, he is her patient, he is a vampire ( which I feel that any sane person might need a little time to adjust to), she is supposed to be very professional, yet she gives him a HJ ( on the first or second day...can't remember) without even knowing his whole first name?? the whole relationship was not believable at all.
I kept having to put this book down. It took me almost four days to read it, and pretty soon I was just skimming. The ending was really lame, but by that time I just didn't care anymore. I'm not invested in their relationship, so don't feel disappointed about the casper issue.
I did enjoy the parts with Phury, and I am probably in the minority as far as Cormia goes. I actually liked her, which is funny because I couldn't stand Marissa. I also really loved the parts with Z and JM, and was happy that JM went through his transition. It really sucks that the good parts of the book were the ones that had nothing to do with the main characters.
Disappointed .......2007-10-03
I love this series. But I was very disappointed with this lastest book. One of the great storylines (in spite of Marissa)in the last two books was that between V and Butch. For someone to displace Butch as mate material in V's affections-they had to be pretty special and truly, Jane was not. To be honest, the relationship between Butch and V was rivoting and touching. I found myself hoping they would be together which was surprising. Ward put alot of effort into developing that whole relationship on so many levels. With the conversation that takes place between the Butch and V early in this book (which made me have a sniffle or two), it is hard to believe that there is someone out there that can so easily replace Butch in V's heart as "the one". Yet Jane does so by standing at V's bedside? Uh..no. Not buying it. Yeah, she saved his life. So? (Butch didn't totally come clean either- the Brotherhood ceremony at the end of the previous book made it pretty clear he was feeling something for V that went beyond friendship).
Jane's character is very weak and underdeveloped. Frankly, the way she is presented early in the book, it is unbelievable that she would be "feeling" the whole Dom thing. I kept hoping that V would snap out of it. And the ghost story-line? Based on all the events in other books (Mary) it is hard to believe she a semi-solid apparition that likes hot chocolate and will practice medicine!
I do agree there was too much staging for future novels. I am almost afraid to read Phury's story. Cormia also looks weak...like Marissa. I am not saying that the shellans have to be Xhex but have a backbone for Pete's sake! Cormia is influenced by the Scribe Virgin who is no shrinking violet so how do we get weak and submissive?
Too much "true" and "you feeling me". These are really intelligent men so why limit the vocabulary to "sitch"? I am so down with the slang but it needs to be used in moderation!
A ghost?.......2007-10-03
How disappointing for poor Vischous to have his story end with his mate as a ghost. I expected a better ending. No amount of it is all okay and they are having great sex is in the slightest believeable.
Many parts of the book distrubed me. The fascination with Submissives (masachists) and dominants (sadists) for one thing. A statement in the book indicating that submission pushes the sexual experience to it's peak is pure rationalization. It is a physical perversion reflecting a deseased mind. Only sick people buy into that explanation. Healthy people have sex without the perversion.
I am beginning to suspect that J. R. Ward has Dom tendencies and is into punishing her readers and has been headed this way for a while. In Zsadist's book there was the loss of two popular characters. Now we have a brother's lover killed and brought back as a ghost. What will happen in the bext book - the lost of a brother? This reminds me of abusive relationships, where things start out small and build until the person is subsumed by another. Ward has sucked her readers in and will now punish them. Will she manage to do it and keep selling books, or be left with a core of submissives with their one dom.
Anyway I am unhapy. I bought the book the first day it was released. It is not easy asking for a book called Lover Unbound. People look at you funny and you hope none of your acqaintances are around to hear the clerk. One more blow landed.
As much as I have like the series in the past, I am distrusting the author now. She seems to want to have her characters cared for, then do something awful to them for shock value thus hurting her readers. What will be the end? Will Ward be still standing over her readers sumission.
I read paranormal romance for relaxaton and to get away from my real world, not to have my emotions battered from loosing characters to whom I have formed an attachment. I expect a happy ending. I stay away from tragic books. This series has stopped delivering great characters doing interesting things and having great relationships and gone into destroying what was valued leaving me no satisfaction when the book is finished.
I will be much less likely to buy the next book with Phury. His nobleness was getting tiresome, especially since there is no eason for the celebacy in the first place. Ward will probably find a terrific way to shock those who do read the book. He will probably wind up in some horrible situation guaranteed to make readers sad.
J. R. Ward is an excellent tallent. I hope she pulls back to entertainment with happy endings so I can enjoy the brothers. Right now, I feel they are doomed and don't really want to be around when they shatter. Perhaps Ms. Ward needs a vacation and some nice medication to make it all better.
I'm Done with this series :(.......2007-10-03
Let me preface this by saying that I was a huge fan of this series. I read and re-read each of the previous 4 books and impatiently waited for V's story. It was such a disappointment. Ward spent so much time setting up the future books in this series that she seriously undercut this story. The characterizations were not as full, the plot was choppy, with too much bouncing between stories, and the ending was just awful. Without adding spoilers, let me just say it was cartoonish, in an unintended way. Worse, the character development of one of her future protagonists, John Matthew, resulted in him being whiny, self absorbed and annoying -- there is no way I care to read his story now. Finally, she revealed Phury's future mate to be an uninteresting, victimized little waif -- Phury's character deserved so much better. I've read that Ward is going to use Phury's book to set up the next, hardcover, one -- so I'm expecting more choppiness, less character development, and not enough time devoted to the Phury/Cormia pairing to salvage Cormia's character.
It's ironic that in her eagerness to set up two of the following books in the series she, in my opinion, ruined V's story and at the same time dissuaded me from wanting to read those stories. Instead of this just being one clunker book in an otherwise good series, it essentially ended the series for me. In one book I went from a die hard fan to just done. However, I do strongly recommend the first four books in this series. Although some were better than others, they were all very entertaining and engrossing.
Customer Reviews:
Not that great.......2007-06-12
I love minis, so I buy D&D minis, but I prefer metal to plastic. I also hate that you can't just buy the ones you want. Wizards of the Coast makes you buy a sealed box and you can hope to get something nice. Usually the best ones are rare. Still a couple of boxes is cheap overall and gives you some cannon fodder.
Book Description
Why are there still so few female scientists? Despite the scientific ethos of universalism and inclusion, women continue to experience real social inequities as they struggle to gain recognition in the scientific community. Based on extensive interviews and backed by quantitative analysis, this compelling work exposes the hidden barriers, subtle exclusions, and unwritten rules that confront women at every juncture along the scientific career path--from childhood to retirement. Through vivid personal accounts the authors offer an illuminating and sobering view of the effects these obstacles have on the personal and professional lives of women. They argue that women can succeed in the scientific workplace by successfully managing "social capital," those networks and relationships scientists rely on for professional support and new ideas. This benchmark volume is vital reading for all scientists and social scientists--both male and female--and for women considering a scientific career.
Customer Reviews:
Best in class for women in science books.......2006-07-07
I probably have read every book on women in science for the last thirty years or so, and I regret that so many are data-rich to the point of unreadability. Athena Unbound is a refreshing exception; it delves into situations of women who marry and have children, situations of women whose mentors do not mentor them, and many other difficulties women experience when trying to become and stay scientists. I read this one all the way through in one sitting, then read it again slower to savor all of its insights. I recommend it very highly, up there with the older but still zingy Vivian Gornick, Women in Science.
Athena Unbound.......2001-12-03
I read this book with tremendous interest. The stories it contains resonated in me or seemed to fit friends and colleagues. I have given Athena Unbound to family members upon graduation (from engineering school) and to my own women Chemistry students for graduation. I think it is important for my students to know what problems may lie before them and how they may be side-stepped. This book does a great job of outlining what these problems may be. Science is still a man's world. Forewarned is forearmed!
More like a research paper than a book.......2001-05-14
I picked this book for my engineering ethics class thinking how great it would be to read about the experience of other females in engineering. To my dismay the book was slow and repetitive. The books studies white American women in science. The data through out the book is presented in a rough research paper like format. This is not a peasant to read book. If you can identify with white American women in the scientific field, then read this book. Otherwise the focus of this book is too narrow and the authors of the book does not present any practical solutions to the problems encountered by women in the scientific field.
Great Introduction to Subject.......2001-04-28
This book is one of the best books I have read on the subject of women in science. It will appeal to the general public, who tire quickly of statistic upon statistic. Instead, this book gives a broad overview of the gender issues surrounding science and approached to resolve these issues. Should be required reading in any gender or science history class, I think, though the focus is on contemporary issues not historical documentation.
Book Description
Create handmade books like you've never seen before! Go ahead, break the boundaries of bookmaking—it's fun and easy with Books Unbound. Using simple bookmaking techniques, you can turn an ordinary book into a handmade sculptural masterpiece.
Book artist Michael Jacobs takes you step-by-step through twenty innovative projects, including travel journals, modular books, wired books, and books within boxes. Inside you'll also find:
• Project templates that make book construction a snap • Expert advice and valuable tips on bookmaking tools, materials and techniques • Imaginative variations to give each project a unique twist
The pages of Michael Jacob's book constructions are filled with excitement. Featuring inserts, flaps, pockets and secret compartments, the books invite viewers to explore and experience the surprises hidden within. And now, with Books Unbound, you can create your own new and unexpected book creations!
Customer Reviews:
A disappointment for an amateur.......2007-08-17
I bought this book thinking that my granddaughter(7) and I could use it to guide us in making books, but the designs were elaborate and artsy. I sold it on e-bay shortly after I received it.
Beauty and The Book!!!.......2006-03-15
Absolutely Michael's best work to date and the book only he could do justice to. This book really has it all and is not only perfectly written with THE most concise instructions that one could hope for and anyone can follow ... each project becomes more exciting than the last.
As an author, project designer and workshop instructor, working with my amazingly talented husband Opie, we truly believe the success of a how-to book depends on the quality of instruction given and this book is like having Michael with you, 24/7.
The entire book appeals to us on every level and I particularly love the range of creativity shown in the alternate endings. Every project is eye candy and i'm totally blown away by both the Sky House and the Story House books. If you have an interest in bookmaking, paper, sculpture or just appreciate beautiful things in general, then this book is a definite must-have. Highly recommended by Linda and Opie O'Brien, authors of Metal Craft Discovery Workshop.
Exuberant and inspiring.......2006-03-09
My book shelves are full of books on bookmaking. Many repeat the usual instructions for traditional bindings, sometimes with a little twist or inovation. However this book takes inovation a giant step forward. I have made matchbook drawers and pyramid boxes before but Michael Jacobs sent my imagination reeling. His creations are so exuberant and so inspiring but not beyond the capabilities of an average crafter. The illustrations and instructions are well laid out and easy to follow. This book is a "must have."
The Ultimate Bookmaking Book.......2006-01-31
Books Unbound: 20 Innovative Bookmaking Projects is the book Michael Jacobs has always been meant to write.
Michael is a mixed-media book artist who teaches paper craft and book arts workshops at art retreats, conferences, and workshops. He has written two previous books, Cards That Pop Up, Flip & Slide and Creative Correspondence (which he co-authored with his wife Judy).
Having had the pleasure to take a bookmaking workshop from Michael, I know first hand that he is an inspirational and informative instructor. He also has a great sense of humor and offers practical sound advise while making the art of book making fun. His book, Books Unbound, displays all these qualities and more.
The book offers well-written step-by-step directions on 20 well-crafted projects that are as fun to look at, as they are fun to make. They include a fold-and-cut book that features French doors; a criss-cross book with overlapping books mounted on a base; a matchbox structure that contains miniature books; and a whole lot more.
The book starts out with an introduction on making books, which includes the tools and materials needed. The tools are broken down into a basic tool kit as well as an auxiliary tool kit.
The introduction also provides techniques that are important to know before starting the projects in the book. They include determining grain; using a ruler; scoring, folding and creasing; and basic book making instructions.
The projects are divided into two sections. The first section includes simpler projects for the beginner just getting started in bookmaking. However the stimulating designs offers even the more experienced bookmaker inspiring and delightful projects.
The second section has more complex projects that build on the skills from the introduction and first section of the book. These projects are more challenging but the detailed step-by-step instructions walk both beginners and experienced bookmakers through the process effortlessly.
This book is highly recommended. It's full color, detailed pictures along with clear step-by-step directions will have any one interested in making books well on their way to making beautiful, artful book structures.
These projects sizzle and pop!.......2006-01-22
Books Unbound is the perfect title for this book since it is filled with unusual books, sculptural books and architectural books. The projects in this book are not the kind of books that sit still and quiet, no, these books happily announce to the world "Pick me up! I'm no ordinary book!" They are intriguing, the sort that you want to pick up and see what else is in them. The sort of books that will stretch your idea of what makes a book a book.
Written with Michael Jacobs trademark humor, the book projects begin with simple books and progresses to more complex structures. Michael's exacting directions and accompanying photos are here, as is the metric equivalent of each measurement given.
Possibly the most useful segment of the book is the section on techniques. This section has directions and photos for every skill you need to make any structure in the book. Included are measuring, covering boards, adding flaps, making triangular accordion fold books, creating two button ties, two kinds of stitches, making sleeves, making accordion fold inserts.....nothing has been left out, and there no assumptions that everyone who reads the book has those skills.
More experienced readers haven't been left out, The second section of the book is full of projects suited to advanced bookmakers who will find the projects both inspirational and challenging. There are directions for capacity folds, expandable spines, hinges, adding legs, throwouts, shawl closures, and a bit on wire work scattered throughout.
Having been through books and magazine articles lately whose directions on how to make something say "use a certain kind of die ` and "use this brand or that brand of something" I am delighted to see that the tools and materials needed for the projects in this book are readily available, don't have brand names and don't cost a lot of money.
Michael Jacobs is a 3D kind of guy, and nowhere is his expertise in this area more apparent than in this book.
The book is divided into two sections, with the easiest projects in the first section and the more complex in the second.
Most projects in the book have an "Add Some Kick" and "Alternate Endings" section which takes the project further and gives you ideas to go your own direction. Useful tips are peppered throughout the book, and templates are included for any project that needs one.
The book's first section contains projects under the headings "Super Simple Books", "Travel Journals", and "Books With Pockets". These projects, while simple, are in no way boring or traditional, in fact they are a lot of fun, to make and to look at.
The books in this section in particular would appeal to a wide audience; scrapbookers who want to add surprise elements to their pages, stampers who want something new to work on, and anyone interested in altered arts would enjoy these structures as they are easy to construct and there is plenty of opportunity for embellishments of every kind.
The second section of the book proceeds to books that are moremore sculptural and architectural. There are segments on "Boxes with Books", "Modular Books", and "Wired Books".
The Wire Edge Album is a welcome addition for anyone who is interested in Wire Edge Binding.
This section also contains books that have hidden compartments, various shapes and structures, and are very interactive.
The books in this section appear harder to make than they are. Assembly is broken down into small, easily understood steps. Combined with the technique section at the front of the book, almost anyone can create these projects.
While all 20 projects in the book are sculptural in some way, there are no pop-ups in this book. If you are looking for pop-ups and other fun elements that move, check out Michael's previous book, "Cards that Pop Up, Flip, and Slide".
Book Description
Many Christians find themselves struggling with a particular sin or dysfunction. They seek counseling, practice confession, and pursue God-centered lives, yet still these genuine believers feel hopeless in finding freedom. Could they be under the influence of evil spirits? Yes, says author Neal Lozano. In Unbound, he reveals Satan's strategies and the sneaky ''entrance points'' Satan finds to get a toehold in a Christian's life. He helps readers acknowledge the doors they may have opened to evil influence, and shows them how to close those doors and walk in God's freedom and abundance. Lozano's focus on God and his work in the believer's life, not on intimidating aspects of evil spirits, gives this book a balanced and hopeful tone. Because deliverance is part of the ongoing, glorious work of the Holy Spirit, Unbound outlines a plan for tapping into the potent power of the gospel. It also offers guidance on how pastors, counselors, and laity can pray for others who are still bound by evil and help them to gain victory.
Customer Reviews:
Unbound: A Practical Guide to Deliverance (from Evil Spirits).......2006-11-04
Excellent - very commonsensed and to the point. Shows how to take the Hollywood hype and fear out of it and how to be successful in receiving deliverance.
UNBOUND: An Excellent Book!.......2006-02-22
Lozano's UNBOUND is a remarkably well written, bibically-grounded, and uplifting book. With clarity and compassion, Lozano instructs his readers in the five keys to Christian deliverance: repentance and faith, forgiveness, renunciation, taking authority in Jesus' name, and receiving the Father's blessing. Christian deliverance is a ministry that Jesus Himself instituted among his disciples. Deliverance prayer goes hand in hand with Christian healing and freedom. Lozano's book is not messy or frightening, but instead it abounds in practical advice, faith, hope, and blessing. This is a GREAT book -- a must-read for anyone who feels called into the ministry of Christian intercession. If you are struggling with fear, rage, pride, or any other intractable sin in your Christian walk, this book will be a valuable tool for your freedom and blessing.
Amazing.......2005-07-19
This is truly a wonderful and amazing book. It's a book that
is difficult to put down. Very practical and biblical in his
approach to deliverance, Neal Lozano brings to front and center
the need for deliverance in all of us, and the freedom it brings.
The book is so well written, that I experienced a new freedom
myself. The prayers at the end of each chapter are a blessing.
The examples used are extrememly helpful, especially to those
who have been called to this ministry. This book can be a very effective guide to anyone who reads it,and an effective tool for
those who work in this important ministry.
I personally wrote an email to Mr. Lozano thanking him for this
wonderful book, read it and you too will want to thank him.
Blessings,
Karyl Pulsinelli
Book Review of Neal Lozano's UNBOUND.......2003-07-28
This summer, having taken a course on the History of Spirituality, I had occasion to study Walter Hilton's The Scale of Perfection. In perusing it, I was struck by the fact that for a text of its time and the depth of its topic, it was eminently readable. One commentator described it as belonging to the Handbook Tradition of Spirituality. Before taking the course, and while doing my other assigned readings during it, I was reading a thoroughly contemporary work by Neal Lozano entitled "Unbound: A Practical Guide To Deliverance". Having completed my first reading of it - it is a book which bears reading again and again - I decided that this book, though different from The Scale of Perfection in several ways, is also eminently readable and even more practical than Hilton's classic. I would suggest that "Unbound" may well become a classic in its own right, and here is why I think that.
Neal Lozano articulates and renders concrete an extremely important aspect of Christian spirituality, being freed from the restraints and hindrances of evil, specifically, the demonic. Now before you begin imagining scenes from Hollywood horror films, let me assure you that Lozano's book on deliverance is the very opposite of what many in `pop culture' imagine such a book would be. "Unbound" is centered not primarily on evil but on Christ. It is balanced, nuanced, eloquent and written to inspire not fear of the devil but hope in Jesus and the "fullness of life" offered by Him. The author not only brings to bear his lucid grasp of Scripture, theology, psychological factors and the human capacity for self-deception, he writes also out of his impressive experience in ministering to people locally, nationally and internationally. His recognition of the reality of evil is realistic and informed by genuine faith. Throughout this book, Neal Lozano insists over and over on contextualizing the process known as "deliverance". As C.S. Lewis observed perceptively, human beings make two mistakes about demons: overestimating them and pretending they pose no danger. By insisting that freedom from evil spirits is part of the larger context of the ordinary life of Christians: prayer, community life, service, healing, sacraments, Scripture and loving people as God loves them, Lozano avoids both extremes. Moreover, his book is not sensationalistic and the author demonstrates his ability to critique some methods of deliverance that could lend themselves to sensationalism. The focus of "Unbound" is on discerning God's loving plan for one's life and receiving the power to live that providential plan in freedom. This message is essential. It's one our world needs to hear.
Neil Kane
A book that reads you.......2003-05-27
You know how sometimes you really get into a book? Well this book really got into me. It was uncanny how while I was reading the book, it seemed as if the book was reading me. If you do read it, do so with caution because it has the mysterious ability to make you uncomfortable while at the same time providing solutions that free your soul.
How can a book do that? Well, that's what happened to me, it could't possibly be the same for you - could it?
Book Description
Professor Landes’s study, Technological Change and Industrial Development in Western Europe, 1750–1914, first appeare as a chapter in volume VI of the Cambridge Economic History of Europe. He has now extended it by adding a full-scale analysis of modern industrial Europe from the First World War to the 1960s. In his new Introduction, Professor Landes discusses the characteristics, progress, and political, economic and social implications of the Industrial Revolution in Britain, France and Germany. He raises the general question: why was Europe the first to industrialize? His section on the inter-war years covers the effect of the First World War in accelerating the dissolution of the old international economy, the reasons for monetary instability and the consequences of monetary difficulties for the economic history of Europe. In particular he discusses the causes of the economic crisis of 1929–1932, the reasons for its severity and quasi-universality and for Britain’s early and sustained recovery. An important theme is the impediments posed by generalized international egoism to the efficiency and growth of the European economies. In his final chapter on the economic recovery of Western Europe after the Second World War, Professor Landes examines the forces which have operated since the early 1950s to give Western Europe a period of unprecedented economic growth. He raises the vital question: is this recent boom a temporary phenomenon or the first stage in a new trend of more rapid growth, reflecting an acceleration in technological advance?
Download Description
Professor Landes's study, Technological Change and Industrial Development in Western Europe, 1750-1914, first appeare as a chapter in volume VI of the Cambridge Economic History of Europe. He has now extended it by adding a full-scale analysis of modern industrial Europe from the First World War to the 1960s. In his new Introduction, Professor Landes discusses the characteristics, progress, and political, economic and social implications of the Industrial Revolution in Britain, France and Germany. He raises the general question: why was Europe the first to industrialize? His section on the inter-war years covers the effect of the First World War in accelerating the dissolution of the old international economy, the reasons for monetary instability and the consequences of monetary difficulties for the economic history of Europe. In particular he discusses the causes of the economic crisis of 1929-1932, the reasons for its severity and quasi-universality and for Britain's early and sustained recovery. An important theme is the impediments posed by generalized international egoism to the efficiency and growth of the European economies. In his final chapter on the economic recovery of Western Europe after the Second World War, Professor Landes examines the forces which have operated since the early 1950s to give Western Europe a period of unprecedented economic growth. He raises the vital question: is this recent boom a temporary phenomenon or the first stage in a new trend of more rapid growth, reflecting an acceleration in technological advance?
Customer Reviews:
Jack of all Trades, Master of None?.......2005-01-14
"It was the Industrial Revolution, writes historian David S. Landes, "that initiated a cumulative, self sustaining advance in technology whose repercussions would be felt in all aspects of economic life." He goes on to demonstrate that the Industrial Revolution had a birth, maturation, and decline. According to Landes, European nations reached these three stages of development at different intervals thus evoking varying degrees of economic progress and growth. In a work that might be deemed purely economic history, Landes treads that fine line between these two academic disciplines. As an historian, Landes has faired quite well. As an economist, however, Landes' findings could lead one to ponder: is it possible to be an expert in both fields? Landes has utilized a chronological method in an effort to answer the aged old question: why did the Industrial Revolution take place in Western Europe when it did? The author agrees that Great Britain was the initiator, or leader of the Industrial Revolution, and all other countries followed suit with varying degrees of economic growth. Landes credits England's natural geographic infrastructure of navigable rivers along with its social compatibility (this last point raised an eyebrow, as England has always been known for its rigid class divisions) as the basis for Britain's early industrialization. The chapters illustrating how England's early rural cotton cottage manufacturing developed into an intricate network of textile factories, the affects of imperial acquisitions and colonialism, and the evolutionary process of technology in the form of industrial machinery, made for a compelling read. The author also explores such social phenomenon as the Protestant work ethic, the concept of rationality, and the human tendency to control nature as contributing factors in Britain's eventual industrialization and modernization. Landes handled these more abstract interpretations admirably. The author utilizes a plethora of sources to support his argument. From the early writings of Adam Smith and Max Weber to a wide range of economic journals and published material, Landes has synthesized his argument credible. The author makes use of some tables, especially when comparing Europe's iron and steel production, however, his tendency to express his statistics in a narrative form instead of utilizing more tables and graphs can be confusing at times. The total absence of maps is another hinderance.Landes has put forth a valiant effort but perhaps his plate was too full. If the old adage of "jack of all trades, master of none," holds true here, one might mull over where Landes' strengths lie. In a book full of economic theory, sociology, demographics, statistical data and last but not least, history, is it possible for a scholar to be proficient in all these areas? For those proponents of the departmentalization of the Humanities, Landes' work will stir some reaction. As for this reviewer, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to those wishing to delve deeper into this fascinating era of European history. Keep a pot of coffee brewing.
The way economics shapes political societies.......2001-02-08
The task professor Landes have tried to achieve, and what he produces along it, is more important than that whole consistency of his work. Professor Landes makes economic history, not only describing historical processes but analyzing them with key concepts taken from basic economic theory.
Technological change creates opportunities for economic growth, but it could not explain, by itself, the whole historical process. Legal and political environment is needed to make real the economic growth that technological change makes possible. Even though, into the process, some elites and some social colectivities could see losses of power, income, and social recognition, and new models for colective and individual behaviour could upsurge. Professor Landes work explains the whole complexity of the big trends, of historical process, supported by the technological facts, the economic facts are consequence of this, and the economic theory we knew in sixties, and based on rigorous work on primary and secondary sources. His work shows, too, how the economic trends produced qualitiative consequences that economic theory could not predict because men in historical time, above all, are political entities more than economical entities. The national european states, and the national feelings, from the elites to the common man, sometimes peacefully, sometimes with social struggle, have given an specific path, and specific reactions, to the economic incentives that come from market (national and abroad) and from former regulation. The economic system and the politics produced, to each other, opportunities, setbacks, and limits.
My personal view on the value of this work is the science of history could use theoretical tools from other social sciences, but economics has to use history and its works to show better the accuracy of their concepts and method.
A very good work on economic history.
Good background reading, if slightly outdated.......2000-11-30
The Unbound Prometheus was published in 1969, so it is not exactly the latest call about economic history since 1750. But Landes makes a very good job at summarizing the basics about the most important economic issues of the past two hundred years: the role of market integration and technological change in Industrial Revolution (though, for the latter, see also Mokyr's Lever of Riches), the role of free trade in the mid-19th century Europe and world, the role of after-WW1 peace settlement in causing the Great Depression, the size and impact of the Marshall Plan and other reconstruction plans after WW2. However, if you are looking for detail on any of the topics, then Landes is, perhaps, not the right book for you (on the other hand, this text is usually used as a background reading for university courses in European Economic History).
Customer Reviews:
Microbiology Lab Manual.......2007-09-22
Great manual with colored photographs. The only problem is that after flipping through it several times the pages begin to tear from the rings, so invest in some reinforcement labels. Didn't receive the product as quick as I thought but at least I paid less than buying from the on-campus bookstore.
Wrong Edition.......2007-09-07
The order and packing slip you sent me said 2nd Ed. However, you sent me the first edition. Therefore, I had to return it.
Microbiology Laboratory Theory and Application.......2006-01-30
It was a brand new book, just like explained. Thanks.
Microbiology Book.......2005-09-30
The item came in good condition and well packaged. Only complaint is that I ordered it as next day shipping and it came 3 days late. If I pay that much for next day shipping I expect the book the come the next day.
Excellent condition!.......2005-09-15
This Lab book arrived right on time and in mint condition! I am very glad that I purchased this book from Amazon-- (I tried to purchase one from ebay with out much success). This book is a textbook with excellent instructions and excellent pictures. Not much else I can think to say about a textbook...
Book Description
This deeply felt memoir is a journey through family history, feminist insight, and Southern mythology. In it a daughter reflects on the complicated and volatile love she and her father shared. Shirley Jean Abbott grew up in Hot Springs, Arkansas, in the 1940s and 50s and was the beloved daughter of Alfred Bemont Abbott, affectionately known as "Hat." Hat wasn't a bookmaker in the obvious sense, even though he allowed Shirley's mother to believe as much while they were dating. Rather, his craft was gambling, and his business was horse racing.
Despite the corruption, which put food on the table and rabbit coats in the closet, Abbott remembers the kind and attentive father who spent nights reading to her. He alone is responsible for opening the door to a world of language and literature for her. And she ran with it. Against her father's wishes, after graduation she headed for New York City. In the end, the girl he had nurtured into an independent and intelligent young woman had outgrown the small town where she grew up. The Bookmaker's Daughter was originally published by Ticknor and Fields in 1992, and was a Book of the Month Club selection.
Customer Reviews:
A heartfelt tale of family bonds thicker than water, stronger than time........2006-10-04
Originally published in 1991, and now featuring a new introduction by award-winning author Shirley Abbott, The Bookmaker's Daughter: A Memory Unbound is the poignant memoir of a daughter remembering her father, growing up in Arkansas in the 30's and 40's. Her father survived the tough times of the depression not through the trade of physically making books, but rather through the business of gambling and horse racing. Yet The Bookmaker's Daughter is about books in another way; the father who once read to his young daughter and stimulated her imagination saw her outgrow her small home town and head for New York City after graduation, against his wishes. A heartfelt tale of family bonds thicker than water, stronger than time.
a well-written memoir.......2006-09-15
I read her story when it was first published, also lost it after lending it to a friend. Since I didn't remember the author or title, it was left as a memory of a book I enjoyed both for the story AND the word-craft. I would compare the satisfaction of reading this bood with that of "Daughters and Rebels" (Also published as Hons and Rebels) by Jessica Mitford. Suddenly, last night, the title popped into my head, and here I am, ordering it for myself and several friends and daughters...
I Am Also A bookmakers' Daughter.......2006-07-23
I read this book several years ago.I lent it to a co-worker who moved away from this area.Unfortunately,we lost touch & I lost my book.Recently,I purchased a new copy for myself & am just now getting around to rereading it.I strongly identify with the writer,even though our lives are very different.Her love for her father touches me deeply.I will always prefer to read a biography or autobiography to fiction any day.
Book Description
Where is the Ithaca described in such detail in Homer's Odyssey? The mystery has baffled scholars for over two millennia, particularly because Homer's descriptions bear little resemblance to the modern island called Ithaki. This highly illustrated book tells the extraordinary story of the exciting recent discovery of the true location of Homer's Ithaca by following a detective trail of literary, geological and archaeological clues. We can now identify all the places on the island that are mentioned in the epic--even the site of Odysseus' palace itself. The pages of the Odyssey come alive as we follow its events through a landscape that opens up before our eyes via glorious color photographs and 3-D satellite images. Over a century after Schliemann's discovery of Troy, the information in this groundbreaking volume will revolutionize our understanding of Homer's text and of our cultural ancestors in Bronze Age Greece. Robert Bittlestone was educated in classics and science before reading economics at the University of Cambridge. He is the founder of Metapraxis Ltd., a company specializing in the detection of early warnings for multinational companies. Bittlestone is the author of many articles about the importance of visualization and has applied these principles to the enigma described in this book. James Diggle is Professor of Greek and Latin at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Queens' College. John Underhill is Chair of Stratigraphy at the University of Edinburgh and Associate Professor in the Department of Petroleum Engineering, Heriot-Watt University.
Customer Reviews:
Speculative Archaelogy the right way.......2007-09-01
There are lots of speculative archaelogy/history books out there by authors who are not specialists in the field and many have interesting ideas to share. Sadly, most are flawed in their interpretation of evidence or wander off into the realm of complete speculation. This book is not one of those books.
Bittlestone is not an archaelogist, he's just someone who had an interesting theory that could explain the controvery surrounding attempts to identify Homer's Ithaca (home of hero Odysseus) as an historical location. Most would have just written a book right then full of whatever evidence they could find. Instead Bittlestone went to the experts and got them to review his ideas and then modified them based on what they said. The result is a theory that real professionals will likely pursue further in the future rather than ignoring it as uneducated speculation by an amateur.
Even with that, however, his theory isn't airtight. There was one major issue that he raised that he seemed to gloss over when it came time to prove his point, but that stood out precisely because he didn't do it anywhere else. Perhaps he didn't have time to fully explore this particular issue or maybe he didn't find any evidnence for or against it, but in the end it is a relatively minor issue in his theory.
The book is a little dry in it's writing style but makes up for it with tons of pictures, charts, and diagrams to help you understand the more technical details.
Highly recommended if you are interested in the real world of Homer's stories or if you find speculative archaelogy interesting.
Odysseus Unbound: The Search for Homer's Ithaca.......2007-06-27
I bought this book for my husband and he said it was everything he could have ever hoped it would be. He is so pleased with it and he reads from it or just browses through it just about every single day.
superb production at a great price.......2007-03-10
a very convincing review of the story of the Odyssey in terms of modern geological and other scholarship
Exciting historical detective work.......2007-01-06
Any admirer of Homer's Odysseus will love this work. It is important in reminding us also never to underestimate the work of amateur historians and archeologists. Through convincing geographical example and a thorough knowledge of ancient classics, the author takes us on the investigation to find the home of the ancient Odysseus. The result is a very convincing tale and perhaps the best hope yet that the ingenius warrior's home is real and has been discovered. A wonderful collection of photographs and maps enhance the study. Very well done and very convincing.
Beautiful and Convincing!.......2005-12-23
Who wouldn't be fascinated by the presumption, if nothing else, of the premise: Odysseus' Ithaka found after two and a half millennia! But Bittlestone's book, instead of a grueling epic, is a quiet, beautiful story of information-age discovery. It shows how incredibly far an intelligent amateur can go when backed up by the power of our technology. Bittlestone attacks the mystery with the might of GPS location finding, LandSat photos, internet advice from true experts...and a little true Sherlock Holmesian deduction. (He even quotes from Holmes a few times!) The photos are beautiful, the logic is elegant, the science is very educational, and the conclusion is convincing!
Books:
- Magic School Bus Science Chapter Books Boxed Set (8):Truth About Bats, Search for the Missing Bones, Wild Whale Watch, Space Explorers, Twister Trouble, Giant Germ, Great Shark Escape, Penguin Puzzle
- Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex
- New Moon (Twilight, Book 2)
- Postcards from Mars: The First Photographer on the Red Planet
- Reference Guide to the International Space Station (Apogee Books Space Series)
- Reflecting Telescope Optics I: Basic Design Theory and its Historical Development (Astronomy and Astrophysics Library)
- Rocket Propulsion Elements, 7th Edition
- Romantic Style: Lovely homes, pretty rooms, gentle settings (Better Homes & Gardens)
- Satellite Communications
- Sculpting a Galaxy: Inside the Star Wars Model Shop
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- History: Fiction or Science
- Black Mass: The True Story of an Unholy Alliance Between the FBI and the Irish Mob
- The Majesty of the French Quarter
- Understanding the Light Microscope: A Computer-Aided Introduction
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- ABC Murders: A Hercule Poirot Mystery
- History: Fiction or Science
- Understanding Architecture: Its Elements, History, And Meaning
- Marshall's Physiology Of Reproduction Volume 3 Pt.1&2: PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
Vampires
| Horror
| Genre Fiction
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Lover Revealed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book 4)
Lover Awakened (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book 3)
Lover Eternal (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book 2)
Devil May Cry (A Dark-Hunter Novel, Book 11)
Dark Lover (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book 1)
