Touching Spirit Bear

Amazon.com

Cole Matthews is angry. Angry, defiant, smug--in short, a bully. His anger has taken him too far this time, though. After beating up a ninth-grade classmate to the point of brain damage, Cole is facing a prison sentence. But then a Tlingit Indian parole officer named Garvey enters his life, offering an alternative called Circle Justice, based on Native American traditions, in which victim, offender, and community all work together to find a healing solution. Privately, Cole sneers at the concept, but he's no fool--if it gets him out of prison, he'll do anything. Ultimately, Cole ends up banished for one year to a remote Alaskan island, where his arrogance sets him directly in the path of a mysterious, legendary white bear. Mauled almost to death, Cole awaits his fate and begins the transition from anger to humility.

Ben Mikaelsen's depiction of a juvenile delinquent's metamorphosis into a caring, thinking individual is exciting and fascinating, if at times heavy-handed. Cole's nastiness and the vivid depictions of the lengths he must go to survive after the (equally vivid) attack by the bear are excruciating at times, but the concept of finding a way to heal a whole community when one individual wrongs another is compelling. The jacket cover photo of the author in a bear hug with the 700-pound black bear that he and his wife adopted and raised is definitely worth seeing! (Ages 12 and older) --Emilie Coulter

Book Description

Within Cole Matthews lie anger, rage and hate. Cole has been stealing and fighting for years. This time he caught Alex Driscal in the, parking lot and smashed his head against the sidewalk. Now, Alex may have permanent brain damage'and Cole is in the Biggest trouble of his life.

Cole is offered Circle Justice: a system based on Native American traditions that attempts to provide healing for the criminal offender, the victim and the, community. With prison as his only alternative, Cole plays along. He says he wants to repent, but in his heart Cole blames his alcoholic mom his, abusive dad, wimpy Alex -- everyone but himself -- for his situation.

Cole receives a one-year banishment to a remote Alaskan island. There, he is mauled by Mysterious white bear of Native American legend. Hideously injured, Cole waits for his death His thoughts shift from from Anger to humility. To survive, he must stop blaming others and take responsibility for his life. Rescuers arrive to save Cole's but it is the attack of the Spirit Bear that may save his soul.

Ben Mikaelsen paints a vivid picture of a juvenile offender, examining the roots without absolving solving him of responsibility for his actions, and questioning a society in which angry people make victims of their peers and communities. Touching Spirit Bear is a poignant testimonial to the power of a pain that can destroy, or lead to healing

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Story for at-risk students.......2007-09-27

I am currently using this book as a literature unit for special education students at the high school level. They are all involved and eager to read. We listen to the story on tape as well as follow along with the book. It's so interesting how quiet they become when the character describes his troubled homelife and abusive father. Although they don't say so, I feel that many of these at-risk students come from a similar background. This is just a wonderful story for them to learn about life and change in peoples' lives.

Excellent!.......2007-07-04

Touching Spirit Bear is the story of Cole Matthews - a young man who is angry and totally lacking in compassion. The story begins as Cole Matthews is being punished for brutally beating a young boy. Following the Native American tradition of Circle Justice, Cole is being abandoned on a remote island in Alaska and must survive for a year. During that year, he is alone to contemplate his life.

This novel is not just an adventure story, but is a book of wisdom based on Native American beliefs. Once you begin to read it, you won't be able to put it down.

I have taught this book to my 8th grade students for several years now. The students love the book and learn a great deal from it. To read the book is to become part of the Circle of Justice.

Jesse's Awesome Book Review .......2007-06-13

Picture your self alone on an small island, you're the only person that lives on this island. You have to survive on this island by yourself, and even worse you don't think you belong there. That is exactly what Cole Mathews is going through.
My first reaction to this book was that it wasn't going to be very good. I was very wrong, I really enjoyed reading this book and was rather upset when it ended.

Whether through a weird twist of fate, good friends, or bad friends, or just luck, Cole finds himself having to survive alone on a small island for a year. He has to learn to control his anger, and to be a better person before he has to leave the island, or it will be too late.

There was a part in this book where Cole is trying to escape from the island, and he tries and tries and in the end finds that he hasn't gotten any where. And it makes him so angry because he's used to being in control, he's used to being able to scare people into doing what he wants, and it starts at this point where he realizes that he isn't in control of every thing.
The theme of this book is something like; you aren't in control of every thing, you can't always get your way.

Touching Spirit Bear.......2007-06-06

In Touching Spirit Bear, fifteen-year-old Cole Matthews has been bad for years. When Peter tells a policeman that Cole has stolen something, Cole gets revenge. But his revenge almost kills Peter. Cole goes to court and has two options, going to Circle Justice or jail. Cole chooses Circle Justice for one year. But the spirit bear comes to Cole and something bad happens to him.

I recommend this book because, it's good for people who like adventure books. It is scary, and adventurous. I think 5th graders and up can read The Touching Spirit Bear. It even teaches you something if you read it. It's a really good book and I hope a lot of people like it when they read it, and I think it should get five stars.

Great read-aloud for the older reluctant reader!.......2007-06-03

I have suggested this book to many 11-14 year old boys who have a hard time finding a book that holds their attention. This one has always been a winner!

The Purpose of Your Life: Finding Your Place In The World Using Synchronicity, Intuition, And Uncommon Sense

Average customer rating:

A great guide book for a seeker of Purpose
Finding our purpose
excellant career guidance
A Good Starting Point
Inspiring true stories and practical spirituality!

The Purpose of Your Life: Finding Your Place In The World Using Synchronicity, Intuition, And Uncommon Sense
Carol Adrienne , and James Redfield
Manufacturer: Harper Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The Tenth Insight: Holding the Vision (Celestine Prophecy)
The Celestine Prophecy
The Secret of Shambhala: In Search of the Eleventh Insight
The Celestine Vision: Living the New Spiritual Awareness
The Celestine Prophecy: AN EXPERIENTIAL GUIDE

ASIN: 0688166253

Amazon.com

Spirituality, optimism, career planning, and self-help neatly blend together in this highly useful guidebook on living one's true purpose. Step by step, Adrienne shows readers how to discover one's calling (learning how to take advantage of synchronicity, intuition, and "uncommon sense") and organize life accordingly. This coauthor of The Celestine Prophecy does not promise a payoff of material wealth or worldly fame. Rather, she suggests that "writing your own job description" and "doing the dream" will result in a more spiritual and meaningful life. Her most impressive leadership comes in the section called "Deep Water," where she addresses the obstacles and suffering that frequently block the path to enlightenment. --Gail Hudson

Book Description

The co-author of The Celestine Prophecy Experiential Guide helps readers uncover the unsuspected, untapped power of synchronicity and intuition that will bring success, satisfaction, and serenity.

Everyone really has a purpose in life, says Carol Adrienne in her new guide to harnessing the power inside yourself. The question is: How do you learn to go with the flow and let your true nature guide you?

Chapter by chapter, The Purpose of Your Life explains how to locate the source of your innate energy and focus it, how to align yourself with the natural forces that swirl around us always, and how to develop the intuition that fosters synchronicity. The book is packed with illuminating anecdotes and profiles of fascinating people -- from artists to urban planners to Zen masters -- who describe how they found their own purposes. There are practical exercises throughout, along with charts, self-questionnaires, and other tools that help you understand yourself and your deepest aspirations.

As you learn to recognize and trust the voice of intuition, you'll find new doors opening and new possibilities everywhere. You'll feel invigorated by the potential you've unleashed, a power that will only grow with each new accomplishment. And you'll discover the serenity and satisfaction that come only to those who are living life to the fullest. The Force is with you -- all you have to do is reach out and start to use it.

Customer Reviews:

A great guide book for a seeker of Purpose.......2007-05-30

Carol Adrienne has written an excellent primer on the subject of Purpose. Whether you are a writer or speaker on the subject of Purpose, this book provides some important guidelines to simplifying an otherwise complex subject. The insights and the 'Talking to Yourself'sections at the end of each chapter are especially helpful.

Finding our purpose.......2007-05-22

Reading this book is a must because it will help you to find your purpose and choose the right career to fulfill your purpose. If you want a fulfilling career, read this book.
Eva Jeannine Meloche
Ageless Living Life Coach
Soul Purpose, Career & Retirement Coach
[....]

excellant career guidance.......2006-03-09

I found this a very helpful book filled with ideas for people to find their purpose. I am a career guidance councelor and ninety percent of my clients do not have a purpose for why they are doing what they are doing in their work. They come to me saying "somethings missing in my work or life". It's often because they do not have a purpose which this book can help them create. Purpose is something we create or decide on. Many people think it's something mystical and we discover it by accident. This book gives people specific tools to help identify a meaningful purpose.

A Good Starting Point.......2004-02-16

The optimism in this book combined with its emphasis on the link between intuition and synchronicity was infectious. I wanted to learn more! A new book that I stumbled across has become my companion to this one. It is called LUCKY YOU!, by Randall Fitzgerald, and it takes this book's themes and subject matter and adds to it information about using dreamwork and meditation practices and even prayer to help create streaks of good luck in our lives. Both books are relentlessly inspiring and full of optimism and hope. I liked all of the stories and the author's own anecdotes about creating good fortune.

Inspiring true stories and practical spirituality!.......2003-10-07

The co-author of The Celestine Prophecy Experiential Guide has put together this excellent collection of suggestions, ideas and true life stories to inspire one to find one's higher purpose, and a jolly good job it does! It is interesting, well-written and entertaining throughout, with each chapter finishing with a few straightforward questions and exercises to move you on in the right direction. Part three, "deep water", deals masterfully with the darker and more difficult experiences one sometimes has while trying to connect more deeply with the soul's purpose.

A major theme is developing an awareness of synchronicity (meaningful co-incidence) experiences as guiding posts for deeper personal development. There are a large number of interviews with people from a wide range of backgrounds, all of whom have come to find their unique purpose through such ideas. Quotes from the famous such as the Dalai Lama and Frank Zappa (!), and not so famous are also highlighted throughout the text e.g."intuition is the creative, universal intention expressing through you" and "either I am lost, crazy and screwed up, or I am found and on a difficult part of the path".

Book Description

Neither an occult book nor a work of fantasy, this 1882 classic offers an erudite blend of evidence from geologic, oceanographic, and anthropologic studies and remains a captivating work of and enthusiasm and imaginative thought. 128 illus. Introduction by E. F. Bleiler.

Customer Reviews:

good.......2007-09-22

The quality of the book's material and type are very good. There are a great many references to illustrations, maps, pictures, etc. The book I have has no illustrations. If I had known, I would have purchased a book with illustrations.

Conventional View Of Atlantis.......2006-01-07

Being a student of Atlantis I felt I should read this book since it's considered a classic on the subject.

The theories about Atlantis range from the ordinary and mundane to the fantastic.

Donnelly is definitely on the conventional, mundane side of that range. He views Atlantis as just an earlier culture that reached advanced stages of religion, government, and basic technological advances which we have now far surpassed.

I am much further towards the new age, super race side of the range.

I will give Donnelly credit for being well read on many subjects.

However if you're looking for imaginative interpretations of the mythological legends surrounding Atlantis forget this book. Donnelly's interpretation of Hercules capturing the cattle of Geryon was that Hercules was a cattle rustler and he killed some guy and ran off with his cows.

I find it puzzling that people quote Plato's account of Atlantis so often but then disbelieve everything Plato says.

Donnelly calls the Greeks a 'degenerate race' and their mythology 'barbarian recollections'.

Rather mythology uses metaphors to explain metaphysical concepts that are real.

I skipped a few parts of the book based on the Editor's notes about Donnelly's information being worthless and inaccurate.

Jeff Marzano

the antediluvian world.......2005-10-24

Being a latinamerican reader as well as a student of the 19th egyptian dinasty, I have been delighted with Mr. Donnelly's treatment of the correlations between the native american and egyptian archeologies. This work becomes a magnificent base for the study of the hyperborean 1196 B.C. invasion, a theme of my deepest interest.I am of course interested in the other books in your Atlantis series. I highly recommend this book to the Amazon friends as an excellent historical review.Thanks !

Ignatius' work is enjoyable and packed with rare texts.......2005-10-03

Whether or not you think there was an Atlantis, this work should be read on account of the breath of insight which typifies some (not all) 19th century scholars. Professors today are often incapable of such writing because their feild of study is too narrow. This was written before Atlantis became associated with flaky new-age belief systems. It is packed with exerpts from hard to find texts from the ancient world. The analysis is graceful and intriguing, and it is hard to set the book down.

The definitive work for all Atlantis researchers!.......2002-02-12

This is the ultimate book on Atlantis. Well written (though hard to understand at times due to the 19th century grammar), well researched, and very informative. Required reading for anyone interesting in Atlantis. ...

Average customer rating:

Austere Set Dedicated to Christian Mysticism and Saints
Another great work of art by Robert Place
A Wonderful Accomplishment
Gnostic Tarot
Timely

Tarot of the Saints
Robert Place
Manufacturer: Llewellyn Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Misc. Supplies

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

Voices Of The Saints
The Tarot: History, Symbolism, and Divination
Saints Oracle
Golden Tarot of the Tsar
The Jungian Tarot and Its Archetypal Imagery

ASIN: 1567185274

Book Description

A Gnostic Christian Tarot Saints lend themselves remarkably well to correspondences with the archetypal images of the Tarot. St. Francis, a Fool for Christ; St. Nicholas, the Miracle Worker (Magician); and St. Mary Magdalen, The First Papesse (High Priestess). Saints serve as examples of ideal behavior, values, and outlook. By nature, they are well suited to dispense insight and wisdom through the cards. In this beautiful new deck, their personalities bring life to the abstract images of the Tarot.

Robert M. Place has created a powerful new tool for accessing the deepest mysteries of the mystical Christian tradition with the Tarot of the Saints. These cards bring to life the spiritual force of these venerated beings in a way that is at once immediately accessible and deeply meaningful.

The full-sized book included in this kit was specifically written to accompany the deck. It includes fresh, insightful interpretations, a history of the Tarot, instructions for divination and meditation, and a succinct overview of the Western mystery schools. First Runner Up for the 2001 Coalition of Visionary Resources (COVR) Award for Best Interactive Sideline/Gift

Customer Reviews:

Austere Set Dedicated to Christian Mysticism and Saints.......2007-03-28

"During the first century of the Christian Era, Christians were honoring other Christians who had died and prayed for their intercession. However, honoring saints is not a practice created by the Church; it was part of Christianity from the very beginning--a natural practice of Christian people." - From the companion book

One of the reasons I purchased the Tarot of the Saints was because I was reading material about Christian mysticism--in particular, Teresa of Avila's Interior Castle. I wanted to expand my knowledge of Christian mystics and saints, so I thought the Tarot of the Saints would be a great opportunity to learn more--especially since I love Tarot and because Robert Place has a solid reputation as a scholar.

I began reading the 248-page companion book, excited that it was full of historical and anecdotal information about Gnosticism, early Christianity, mystics, saints, and Tarot itself. A few chapters into it, I decided to look up Teresa of Avila, dubbed St. Therese in the Tarot of the Saints deck, who was the object of the The Star card. I was pleased to discover new (to me) information on Teresa, as well as The Star itself. (One sticking point: He claims her feast day to be October 3--but it's actually October 15.)

Some of the saints, such as St. Blandina, I've never heard of--and some were notably absent from this deck (St. Bernadette). St. Stephen represents card 13, known in this deck as Martyrdom (rather than Death).

The companion book--A Gnostic Book of Saints--covers a lot of territory, including mystery religions, Greek philosophy, Gnostic theology, Pythagorean numerology, and Tarot history. Place even covers the four humors and Jungian types--but, curiously, he associates Cups with intuition and Wands with feelings--rather than the other way around.

Place provides bio of the saints depicted on the Major Arcana, as well as relevant information on the particular card and a brief commentary on general Tarot wisdom (interpretation). While Place dedicates about a page an a half to the saints on the Court Cards, the Pips are given anywhere from two sentences to one paragraph worth of treatment. For example, the only description given for the 6 of Cups is "Christ washes St. Peter's feet. This card represents love, nurturing, and humility."

The deck itself is austere, with most of the bland, monochromatic coloring "shaded" with black lines. The Majors depict the number and name of the card, as well as the Saint. Specific saints are also shown on the Court Cards, which are Squire, Knight, Queen and Queen. The Minor suits are Staffs, Cups, Swords and Coins. A thin purple border frames the Majors, while the Staffs are framed in red, the Swords in blue, the Cups in green, and the Coins in gold. The stylized backing, illustrating three distinct motifs, makes the cards nonreversible.

Some of the Saints found in the Tarot of the Saints include:

* St. Nicholas - The Magician
* St. Peter - The Pope
* St. Catherine - Wheel of Fortune
* St. Benedict - Temperance
* St. Barbara - The Tower
* Christ - The Sun
* St. Sophia - The World
* St. John - Knight of Cups
* St. Joan of Arc - Queen of Swords
* St. Jude - King of Coins
* St. Roch - Squire of Staffs

If you're a fan of Place's artwork and his style of writing, or are enthusiastic about learning more about Saints, Gnosticism, and Greek philosophy, you'll likely enjoy Tarot of the Saints. I've found it to be an insightful deck for meditation and one-card draws.

(To see 10 images from this deck, visit the Reviews--Decks section at JanetBoyer.com)

Another great work of art by Robert Place.......2005-05-13

I've Mr. Place's Buddha and Alchemical tarots in my collection. The Saints deck was clearly created with the same elegant artistry and attention to detail as his other works. Highest endorsement!

A Wonderful Accomplishment.......2003-08-02

This deck is truly inspired and will be especially appreciated by Christian Mystics. The illustrations are beautiful and appealing in both realistic and symbolic meaning. The companion book is well written and clearly shows how early Christianity played a major role in tarot symbology.While we know that the Trumps are meant to form a progression with each one triumphing over its predeccessor, we find in the Tarot of the Saints that each saint also represents a triumph in him-or herself; sometimes this struggle was with evil, and sometimes the struggle was with the saint's own inner nature and the victory was the spiritual transformation of the self. This in itself adds another unique dimension to these cards.I also found the readings to be very accurate. I HIGHLY recommend this!

Gnostic Tarot.......2002-07-21

This is one of the most exciting tarot systems I've ever seen. It combines expert commentary on the classical tarot along with an expert synthysis of high Christian Mysticism and Gnosticism. This is a must for Christian Mystics, Occultists, Gnostics and Christo-pagans. The artwork is really cool to, having the feel of Catholic prayer cards, yet all the tarot symbolism is still there. I highly recommend this deck!

Timely.......2001-10-21

"I received this deck in the mail on September 14, the day George W. Bush declared a national day of prayer and remembrance. I was shaken up that day, not only by the recent tragedy, the concern for family and friends in NYC, or the very real possibility of war that faced us all. I was shaken up by an emotional response I had to watching the days' services at the National Cathedral. I was moved by the words of Jew, Christian, Muslim. But something else took place, ... an instinctual urge to return to the religion of my early childhood.

I have never rejected Christianity. In fact, for quite a few years I was deep in study of ancient Christianity, Judaism, and Gnosticism; and Biblical language. Over time I simply moved away from it, as I delved into other religions. What I came to fully realize through the study of so many different traditions, is that they are all reaching for the same light, the same spirit. With this in mind, I can look at Christianity fairly and openly. Although I already understood that the repression and narrow-mindedness of some people, as well as the history of persecution, are not just reflections of the faith, I saw this again more distinctly through this receptive study of other religions. I can quietly roam the depths of Christianity, and find true mysticism and spirit there, again.

Tarot of the Saints is a perfect starting (or re-starting) point for this. Robert M. Place, with intelligence and skill, presents to us the great people of Christianity, those humans who gave their lives to a quest for God, and discovered the soul of God him/her/it-self. These are the men and women who endured torture, saw visions, performed miracles. They are the ones whose experiences so strongly embodied a Christian ideal, they were canonized as saints.

Who are the saints? Even though I grew up in a large Italian, Catholic family, I never had much familiarity with more than just a few of the saints. But it is easy for me to recognize their significance, their potency as symbols and guides. There are thousands of recognized saints, and they fit extremely well into the tarot. Their places within this set seem natural, almost as if the tarot were designed around their stories.

This set is a bit more academic than many others. Its research is obvious, both in the writing and in the extensive bibliography. The book opens with a discussion on the origin of the tarot that is comprehensive and interesting. It continues into a discussion of Christian mystics, Gnostics, and saints, that is equally comprehensive and interesting. The history nut in me loved these two chapters, and appreciated the more scholarly (though still very accessible) approach. The book then delves into the mystical nature of tarot, validating its place in history and in modern times.

The first reading I did with this deck was impressive. It was a few days after I received the set. The feelings I had had on the 14th about reconsidering Christianity had faded, or mellowed, a bit. It wasn't on my mind. But the reading drew them up again, placed them beneath a spotlight. Reading through the interpretations, I realized just how on target and effective this set can be for self-discovery, and for divination. The cards, and their written meanings, hit my personal experiences right on the head.

Each Major Arcana card receives three pages or so of explanation, historical fact (or legend), symbolism, and interpretation. These are, again, comprehensive and interesting. The court cards, which are Squire, Knight, Queen, and King, are adequately explained in one or two pages. The number cards, which usually have scenes, only receive a small paragraph of interpretation. This, I think, is one of the only weak points of the set. Beginners may have a hard time learning a full range of possible interpretations because of this limitation.

The cards are very finely illustrated. Normally I would not like this kind of artwork. It is literal, realistic, very straightforward. But the lines and shadowing give the images more than just visual form. The images, like the words in the book, succeed at being both scholarly and intuitive, teaching as well as moving.

Ties to a pagan past are brought up repeatedly and respectfully, and women are depicted in honorable and impressive roles. The criticisms that are often launched against Christianity cannot be launched against this set, which provides us with a clear, unobstructed view of the mystical truth of the religion.

This is an excellent set. It would likely be welcomed by those following a Christian path, and should be considered by those who previously rejected Christianity. I thank Robert M. Place for combining two of my all-time favorite subjects: ancient mystical Christianity, and Tarot. It makes for great reading (and readings!).
______________________________________N.Levine, web master of Tarot Insights

Gardens in the Spirit of Place
Average customer rating:

mistakes are significant

Looking and Listening to Nature: The Essence of Fine Gardens

Another wonderful garden book from Page Dickey

Gardens in the Spirit of Place
Page Dickey , and Wayne Winterrowd
Manufacturer: "Stewart, Tabori and Chang"
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Garden Design | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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The New Garden Paradise: Great Private Gardens of the World

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ASIN: 1584794720

Book Description

"Consult the genius of the place in all," Alexander Pope famously wrote, advocating gardens that are in harmony with the landscape rather than imposed upon it. Gardens in the Spirit of Place takes us on an insider's tour of some of the most beautiful examples of this philosophy, "reflective gardens" that celebrate their regional origins above all. Fourteen gardens across the United States are profiled in this stunning book, which features text by renowned garden writer Page Dickey and more than 150 sumptuous photographs by John M. Hall.

Whether it's an eastern woodland garden on Mount Desert Island, Maine, a Wisconsin farmland garden on Lake Pewaukee, or a garden planted in gravel in Palo Alto, California, each garden presented here is a sensitive and original response to its surroundings. For those who want to make their own regional gardens, the book is full of new ideas and inspiration. At a time of tremendous interest in all things local and native, this collection of gardens, formed as much by their environments as by their creators, will have enormous appeal.

Gorgeous color photography
Full of ideas for those seeking inspiration for their gardens
Locations all across the nation including Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Delaware, Virginia, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas, California, and Washington
Features a wide variety of gardens, from farmland to desert

Customer Reviews:

mistakes are significant.......2007-09-03

The correct names of the plants and professionals under discussion do
not go out of style. This book falls short on accuracy. Yes there are pretty photos, but not enough hard information. Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) is a staple of prairie gardens. I see it every day. It does not look like this. (I wonder if it's a Calamagrostis?) If you're looking for Neil Diboll's nursery , use this spelling and Google will help you. These were just two of the simple errors I noticed. It does tend to take pleasure out of reading a book in this genre when one can't trust the
information.
Ken Druse' much earlier book, The Natural Habitat Garden, covers this same topic. The book contains beautiful photos. It's much more helpful. There is accurate, information, written in a readable style that makes the concept of a garden that fits the place come alive.

Looking and Listening to Nature: The Essence of Fine Gardens.......2007-03-07

Page Dickey is one of our finer writers and knowledgeable experts on gardening and has once again produced a book with the able assistance of nature photographer John M. Hall that becomes an instant classic. For all the beautiful garden books that fill the shelves of our bookstores and homes, few begin with the concept of making the natural setting of the space where people elect to create a garden the primary consideration.

After a beautifully written and informative foreword by Wayne Winterrowd, Dickey crosses the country, pausing in various differing locales to interview and photograph significant gardens from Maine to Massachusetts, New York, Delaware, Virginia, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas, California, and Washington, selecting gardens that varying from arid spaces to waterways. At each of the fourteen gardens we are given background as to the types of soil, natural vegetation, moods of the area, history, and the final creative masterpiece gardens that have been created from all of this information.

The result is a beautifully designed, written, photographed and produced book that deserves a place in the libraries of everyone who loves gardening - and the environment! Highly recommended. Grady Harp, March 07

Another wonderful garden book from Page Dickey.......2005-12-01

Ms. Dickey has written wonderful garden books in the past - Breaking Ground, Inside Out and a Duck Hill Journal, to name a few. Gardens in the Spirit of Place is another winner. She has a great eye for the beautiful and idiosyncratic, and is an absolutely terrific writer. An inspiring collection of unique gardens that embody their varying surroundings.

Swamplands of the Soul: New Life in Dismal Places (Studies in Jungian Psychology By Jungian Analysts)

Average customer rating:

Strengthened with literature and poetry
Book review
Let it be peace among havoc
A life saver!!
The Deeply Authentic Life

Swamplands of the Soul: New Life in Dismal Places (Studies in Jungian Psychology By Jungian Analysts)
James Hollis
Manufacturer: Inner City Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The Middle Passage: From Misery to Meaning in Midlife (Studies in Jungian Psychology By Jungian Analysts)
Creating a Life: Finding Your Individual Path
Eden Project: In Search of the Magical Other (Studies in Jungian Psychology By Jungian Analysis, 79)
On This Journey We Call Our Life: Living the Questions (Studies in Jungian Psychology in Jungian Analysts, Volume 103)
Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life: How to Finally, Really Grow Up

ASIN: 0919123740

Customer Reviews:

Strengthened with literature and poetry.......2007-06-06

I have read several of this author's books. I found this book to be his most compelling book. Each chapter can be taken separately if you like and I like to wonder back through, re-reading different chapters to get a closer study. More than most psychology writers and even Jungian writers, Mr. Hollis adds beauty to his work with his extensive and well taken quotes from literature. I will never pass my copy on to a friend or to the used book dealer. Worth noting also is that this was one of his earlier books and I believe it introduces much of what he covers in later books.

Book review.......2007-05-31

I have read meanwhile several books of James Hollis. I have bought all of them, but I am not through with all yet.
I am sorry that I have never met a person with his view in my whole life.
I enjoy reading his books, because they are profound and because they are written in a style that gives you the impression as if Dr. Hollis is sitting in front of you and talking to you in person. It is as if there is a genuine and wise friend in front of you, who understands life with all its ramifications and who teaches you about it. I prefer reading his books over talking to people.

Let it be peace among havoc.......2007-05-06

Soothing reading. Thanks,James. I'm just about to finish reading all of your books. Please, write some more.

A life saver!!.......2004-01-20

This book brought me back from the depths of despair! I HIGHLY recommend it for anyone experiencing extreme guilt, grief, loss, betrayal, doubt, loneliness, depression, despair, obsession, addiction, anger, fear, angst or anxiety. The book goes through every one of these topics in great detail. It explains their causes, symptoms, and ways of overcoming them. It explains the opportunity for growth that is inherent in our struggles, providing inspiration and hope when it is most needed. I will warn that the author uses some vocabulary that non-psychologists won't know. Just keep your dictionary handy. It's well worth the effort.

The Deeply Authentic Life.......2003-05-17

For those of us who struggle with uncommonly difficult fates -- and the attendant uncommonly difficult mother, father and other nearly autonomous swollen complexes -- James Hollis is among the few unsentimental Jungian analysts who writes with an integral awareness of object relations theory and the DSM and the paradoxes of individuation and an authentically lived life of integrity. "Consciousness broadens and enriches us, though it may be dearly paid for." Good case and dream studies and a discerning teacher. An unfortunately melodramatic title, but recommended.

The Worlds Most Haunted Places: From The Secret Files Of Ghostvillage.com

Average customer rating:

Interesting book
The Worlds Most Haunted Places
Scary and Satisfying!
Misleading Title & Poorly Written
Like others

The Worlds Most Haunted Places: From The Secret Files Of Ghostvillage.com
Jeff Belanger
Manufacturer: New Page Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Supernatural | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Travel | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Our Haunted Lives: True Life Ghost Encounters
Ghosts Among Us: True Stories of Spirit Encounters
The Ghost Next Door: True Stories of Paranormal Encounters from Everyday People
Encyclopedia Of Haunted Places: Ghostly Locales From Around The World
When the Ghost Screams: True Stories of Victims Who Haunt

ASIN: 1564147649

Book Description

Ghostly legends abound wherever history has made its mark-from battlefields to monuments, prisons to inns. If these places have existed for centuries or more, and if they are where history-especially tragic history-was made, ghost stories will inevitably follow. The World's Most Haunted Places: From the Secret Files of Ghostvillage.com explores the history, folklore, and ghostly legends behind some of the world's most fascinating points of interest. Objective, educational, and entertaining, Ghostvillage.com's founder, Jeff Belanger, speaks with witnesses, psychics, and ghost hunters who tell their stories and share their research on haunted places around the globe. Take a world tour of history, the supernatural, and the macabre. You will explore libraries, museums, restaurants, inns, and landmarks from North America, South America, Europe, and Australia. But be careful: The World's Most Haunted Places may make you a believer!

Customer Reviews:

Interesting book.......2007-05-22

For some reason this book really made me want to travel and visit some of these places, I plan to start with the Whaley house next month and Queen Mary after that.
The book doesn't go into more than a few pages per place, but it makes you want to research more about each place, it certainly sparks interest, and even if you do not believe in ghost it's just a cool little bit of history mixed with folklore.
One really great thing about this book, the author gives you contact information, so if you are like me and wish to visit, you can contact them.

The Worlds Most Haunted Places.......2006-11-10

I really enjoyed this book. It goes to show you that haunted places
are all over, not in just one place.
If you are interested in this subject at all, I would suggest you get
this book.
You will enjoy it I'm sure.

Scary and Satisfying!.......2006-08-04

Jeff Belanger writes about the world's most haunted places in this book with satisfying detail and supporting stories from people who experienced the haunting. This book covers castles, mansions, pubs, hotels and more. He delves into the history of each place - something that is often missing from other books about ghosts. I highly recommend this book if you love to read about ghosts.

Misleading Title & Poorly Written.......2006-06-28

I did not particularly care for this book for three reasons. First, most of the locations listed certainly do not fall into the "World's Most Haunted Places" category. Second, the locations are well-known to those with an interest in true ghost stories--in other words, nothing new. And third, the author makes numerous grammatical errors and his writing style/ability is about that of a high school student. Mr. Belanger just doesn't have what it takes to tell a good ghost story.

Like others.......2006-06-27

Although I enjoyed this book, alot of it was like other haunted listing books. Too repetitive. Good addition to your paranormal library.

Our Haunted Lives: True Life Ghost Encounters

Average customer rating:

scarey
Interesting collection of stories
our haunted lives
Hauntings
Interesting Reading

Our Haunted Lives: True Life Ghost Encounters

Manufacturer: New Page Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Supernatural | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Ghosts & Haunted Houses | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

When the Ghost Screams: True Stories of Victims Who Haunt
Weird Hauntings: True Tales of Ghostly Places (Weird)
The Worlds Most Haunted Places: From The Secret Files Of Ghostvillage.com
The Ghost Next Door: True Stories of Paranormal Encounters from Everyday People
House of Spirits and Whispers: The True Story of a Haunted House

ASIN: 1564148564

Book Description

Ghost encounters are happening everyday to people everywhere, and the events prove that we are not alone. When people encounter what they perceive to be a ghost or spirit, their lives are forever changed. The ultimate question - Is there life after death? - has just been answered for them. Ghosts cross every culture and continent, and the belief in their existence is on the rise. Our Haunted Lives features the stories of dozens of people who have witnessed the supernatural firsthand in their homes, at work, and in numerous other locations.

Our Haunted Lives explores the profound nature of ghosts and spirits. Through personal interviews, the author captures the many different facets of the experience - the touching, where people come in contact with a loved one who's passed on; the funny, where pranks are played or peculiar disembodied sounds are heard; and the frightening, where people still feel shaken by what they saw, heard, and felt.

Ghosts are unbiased - they appear to people from all walks of life, ages, cultures, and religious backgrounds. Our Haunted Lives features accounts from famous hauntings, such as an extensive interview with George Lutz - the man whose experiences with the paranormal in Amityville, Long Island launched debates, books, and movies. You'll hear from police officers who were the first on the scene after a homeowner reported a break-in, only to find the disturbance wasn't caused by someone living. Doctors who had a brush with the supernatural after losing a patient on the operating table will speak about the very emotional and profound events they witnessed.

No, we are not alone.

Customer Reviews:

scarey.......2007-08-23

i thought this book was good, i was taking 2nd looks in the dark, great read cant wait to read his other books

Interesting collection of stories.......2007-07-12

Overall, this is a good book, although the quality of stories varies somewhat. There are one or two which are not very convincing, or are just kind of generic. On the other hand, there are a few very good ones, which I think justify buying this book.

our haunted lives.......2007-05-16

I loved the book and received it quick and at a reasonable price.

Hauntings.......2007-03-19

It was a great book! I loved every minute of reading it. I live in a haunted home so some of the stories hit right at home.

Interesting Reading.......2006-11-11

If you are interested in the paranormal, Then you would enjoy reading this book,I did.
Just read the different accounts and make up your own mind as to their authenticity.

Spirit of Place: The Art of the Traveling Photographer

Average customer rating:

A materpiece!
Great book
Very Well Done Travel Photography Guide
A wonderful book for everyone who is interested in shooting "right" when travel.
Truly captures what it means to be a travel photographer

Spirit of Place: The Art of the Traveling Photographer
Bob Krist
Manufacturer: Amphoto Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Reference | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Equipment | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Lonely Planet Travel Photography: A Guide to Taking Better Pictures (How to Series)
Travel Photography: A Complete Guide to How to Shoot and Sell
The Travel Writer's Handbook: How to Write - and Sell - Your Own Travel Experiences (Travel Writer's Handbook: How to Write-And Sell-Your Own Travel Experiences)
Travel Writer's Guide
Lonely Planet Guide To Travel Writing (Lonely Planet General Reference)

ASIN: 0817458948

Product Description

Traveling photographer Bob Krist shows traveling nonprofessional photographers how to bring home memorable pictures of people, festivals, wildlife, archeticture even aerial and underwater shots. Directions are detailed for composing landscapes with a variety of lenses, working in both natural and artificial light. Valuable tips tell how to pack and carry photo equipment, deal with airport and hotel security and prepare for various locations.

Customer Reviews:

A materpiece!.......2007-06-05

This is film photography that is fully compatible with the digital age. It is not so much on what settings he used but on the planning and preparation that matters the most. What was in his mind when the shot was taken is fabulous. While he shoots landscapes mostly at the time when we are either calling it a day or still sleeping in the early morning, there are certain tips that opens our views on not only what, but also when and how to take a shot! This is a must have book for travellers wanting to have beautiful memories of his/her travel. We will never reproduce the same scene on a given place or event but it will surely open our eyes on what to look for and how to be a more creative photogpraher. I agree with Bob that when you know what to look for then you will realize how abundant there is to shoot wherever you are!! A must have book indeed! I give it 6 stars but unfortunately 5 is the best there is to choose from!

Great book.......2007-03-01

I bought quite a few books before a recent trip to Kauai where photography was a large part of my experience. This book provided as much or more insight into how to approach a place and experience it through photography as any other I read. Part of the value of this book will be in re-reading parts of it over a few times, before any major outing, at least until you take what it's saying to heart. In the end, photography is an active thing, and reading about it will only take you so far.

Very Well Done Travel Photography Guide.......2006-07-23

Spirit of Place provides an excellent overview of travel photography. It is well organized, written clearly and concisely, and is filled with beautiful photos to help illustrate the points made in the text. The author discusses techniques to help you deal with various difficulties from how to find the best vantage point when shooting tall buildings to dealing with people that you may want to photograph. One thing that I really appreciated was that he also gave advice on which equipment to use in various settings and situations.

For travel photographers, the topics covered are pretty comprehensive. The author walks through some basics of composition. There is a full chapter devoted to working with various light sources and using filters to enhance that light. There are sections on skylines, architecture, shooting in the tropics, wildlife, and more. Each section is fairly brief. This book is more about giving general direction and ideas then trying to offer a detailed approach to all possible shooting possibilities. I found the level of coverage just about right. No one can provide detailed direction for every possible consideration for travel photographers so the author wisely offers some general advice to start you thinking and leaves it at that.

If the book has a weakness it is that it was written back in 2000 by a photographer who obviously didn't so much as scan his slides for further editing. This is strictly centered around film photography and that definitely limits the usefulness of the material focusing on film selection if you use a digital camera. Forturnately, most of his advice is sound regardless of whether you use film or digital so I would still highly recommend the book.

A wonderful book for everyone who is interested in shooting "right" when travel........2005-09-19

A very readable book. The samples are very helpful. And the author is thorough about everything you need to know about taking great pictures on the road. Highly recommanded.

Truly captures what it means to be a travel photographer.......2004-06-01

I love travel and I love cameras. Unfortunately, as many of us often discover, my photos don't always capture the essence of my travel experience. I know I've been frustrated many times that some quixotic quality of my travels is missing from my photo album.

Bob Krist's book has helped me to see that what I am missing is the spirit of place, which of course is different for every location and every traveler. While the book covers the basics of equipment management, shooting decisions and the like, it is less a technical guide and more of a philosophy of travel. His approach to travel informs his approach to travel photography. He seeks to be a "traveler," not a "sightseer," wanting to engage with the culture in which he finds himself. I find this concept to be especially helpful in pinpointing my own disappointment with my photos. While I follow his approach of being a traveler, I have hesitated to capture the people I meet along the way. It's that element I always feel I am missing in my work.

He gives some tips and insight into how to begin to approach people to get those great people shots, how to get past the initial fear of offending, and how to handle a situation where you might be refused.

Above all, the examples and photoessays speak volumes about how to approach such work. It is clear that Bob Krist is a master in his approach to capturing the essence of a place, whether it be the Jazz Quarter in New Orleans or a blinding snowstorm in Hokkaido. If you are looking for ideas and inspiration to improve the photos you bring back from your next adventure, I'd highly recommend Spirit of Place.

Customer Reviews:

Yes. Read it........2005-08-09

As the title suggests, this book is a wonderful guide to the spiritual approach taken in the conception and planning of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. It shows the cultural approach to the collections within the museum, and in the design of the museum. It provides a window into the Native American culture. It also provides a brief history of the Mall, and its design. I wish I had read this book before I had visited the museum. Now, I will just have to return and pay more attention, this time, to the design elements of the museum, the entrance to the museum, and the grounds surrounding it, as well as the collections.

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