Book Description
Follow Harry from his first days at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, through his many adventures with Hermione and Ron, to his confrontations with rival Draco Malfoy and the dreaded Professor Snape. From a dangerous descent into the Chamber of Secrets to the Triwizard Tournament to the return of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, each adventure is more riveting and exhilarating than its predecessor, and now all six books are available together for the first time in an elegant paperback boxed set.
Customer Reviews:
These are excellent stories .......2007-10-04
I am a grown woman and finally got around to ordering the Harry Potter series to read. I believe it does a lot to encourage kids to read.
JK Rawling is one of the best writers I have ever read. It explains the Harry Potter craze. I will be sorry to see the ending to this series.
I hope her next series will be just as exciting.
Gripping........2007-10-03
I had not read one single book of Harry Potter, though I have watched the five movies so far. I bought this set, and had to read one book after another, all the way to the seventh, which I bought separately.
The paperbacks were in perfect condition, and besides saving a lot from the individual price, I had them available right away.
As is usually the case, the movies really pale in comparison to the book. After the fifth movie, which I found too dark, I was doubting I would read the book, but it is so much better!
A great buy, in summary.
Harry Potter 1-6.......2007-10-01
I've seen the movies; felt it was time to read the books. What a great way to get 1 thru 6 inexpensively!
Harry Potter Book pack.......2007-09-29
great buy, just what my 9 & 10yr old wanted!! Books are here to read and re-read, quick delivery!
Harry Potter collection.......2007-09-29
The order was received within 5 days. It was security wrapped and packaged for shipment. there we no defects of any kind, dents, tears, scrapes, etc.
Quality and service are excellent.
Book Description
Readers captivated by Twilight and New Moon will eagerly devour Eclipse, the much anticipated third book in Stephenie Meyer's riveting vampire love saga. As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob --- knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to make: life or death. But which is which?
Customer Reviews:
Eager for more!.......2007-10-04
Each book in this series is incredibly captivating. I absolutely love this one and can't wait for the next to come. The love story just keeps getting better!
PG-13?.......2007-10-04
I really enjoyed all of these books. This book was not a disappointment to me as the story continued and it was a delight to get to know the histories of the other Cullen family members. My babysitter told me about these books and after reading this third book, I had mixed feelings about some of the content for the younger reader. I know a lot of pre-teens are reading these books. There is basically a bedroom scene where Bella tries to seduce Edward. It doesn't go further than that and I admire Stephanies's portrayal of Edward's stand on virtue but I am not sure I would want my daughter to be dancing around in those pages just yet. I will definitely talk to her about this part of the book before she gets to read it.
All hype, no substance.......2007-10-04
I have to admit, I didn't enjoy Twilight as much as those around me did, but I trudged through it. Then came New Moon and I thought that it wasn't so bad. And then came Eclipse and I realize I should have gone with my gut...these books are all hype and no substance. The characters are so far removed from actual people you would meet and interact with, that you can't help but cringe as you read their reactions to the things happening to them.
I think Bella is the most annoying, whiny, self obsessed, hypocrtical main character I have had the pleasure of encountering. What is it that everyone sees in her? She is moody, has no hobbies, is plain and pretty much a bore. Then on top of all that she's a klutz and can't stand the sight of blood. How does she think she will manage being a vampire??? All for love...no, not for love, but because she does not want to age.
I went into this book with an open mind, hoping things would be tied into a nice bow and we'd get some answers and the characters would learn some life lessons. They didn't grow and they didn't seem to learn a thing. Let's see what I learned...that it's ok to hurt those around you because you love them. It's ok to be a brat because your hearts in the right place. It's ok to say no to a great college because the love of your life wants to pay for it. It's ok to be a typical weak female, because you will be rescued by not one, but two hot guys. I could go on, but I won't.
I have to wonder what book people are reading that have given this one 5 stars...surely they must be under a vamp's spell.
Best of the series.......2007-10-03
I think that Eclipse is the best in the Twilight series. To me, Twilight dragged in the beginning and it took me a little while to get into it. New Moon was depressing most of the way through; I felt compelled to finish it just so that I could get to Eclipse. Eclipse peaked my interest from the first page to the last. I think Meyer is becoming a better writer. There is just something about these books that draws me in. With that said, I am a thirty something mom who thinks that the love story between Edward and Bella might be a little too mature for preteens and young teenagers. If you are a parent wondering if this is a book that you want your child to read, read chapter 20 yourself first and then decide.
Amazing!!!!! =) Yet AGAIN!.......2007-10-03
Ilyana has done an amazing job once again! Beautifully read. And what an outstanding book!!! I had already read Eclipse when it first came out. (one sitting!!!) Stephenie is an enthralling writer. The emotion that comes from each character draws you in and you begin to think of them as real people. (don't we all wish! lol) I can not wait till the next book comes out. And chances are I''ll be getting it on CD as well! As with everything Stephenie writes, reading/hearing it once is never enough!
Book Description
When Silas Heap unSeals a forgotten room in the Palace, he releases the ghost of a Queen who lived five hundred years earlier. Queen Etheldredda is as awful in death as she was in life, and she's still up to no good. Her diabolical plan to give herself everlasting life requires Jenna's compliance, Septimus's disappearance, and the talents of her son, Marcellus Pye, a famous Alchemist and Physician. And if Queen Etheldredda's plot involves Jenna and Septimus, then it will surely involve Nicko, Alther Mella, Marcia Overstrand, Beetle, Stanley, Sarah, Silas, Spit Fyre, Aunt Zelda, and all of the other wacky, wonderful characters that made magyk and flyte so memorable.
With heart-stopping action and a dash of humor, Angie Sage continues the fantastical journey of Septimus Heap.
Customer Reviews:
Great series!.......2007-09-28
Get Magyk and Flyte (Books one and two) Then get this one! Fun and interesting series. Bought them for my daughter but I enjoyed them too.
Falling Flat........2007-09-24
NOTE: I did not like this book, so if you are a die-hard fan of Sage and the sieris i suggest hiding this review.
After captivating you with her last two books. Sage's attempt at a story is laughable.
The writing style that gripped her readers in Flyte and Magick does not appear in Physic. The people seemed to have lost their flames and senses of humors, Snorri and the Queen have no death to either of them. Each has a chapter devoted to them but they are loosely explained and the chapters tell nothing.
Worser still is the fact that most of the Heap family is not even int he book. lovable Silas Heap and Motherly Sarah heap are in the background, the book does not seem complete and the series looks unprofessional.
The plot is confusing and always makes you re read passages and wonder what is going on. The word choice is good but overly done, there is none of the simplicity that was so endearing about Magyk and Flyte.
The book is a real put downer. After Sage's steller novels you would expect something a little more high class and gripping. For fans of the siearies, I suggest pretending that this book did not exist. It si a dissaponment to her fans.
I sincerely hope that Sage recaptures the magyk in next novel.
Physik - A Great Read for Septimus Heap Lovers!.......2007-08-24
This was by far the best of the Septimus Heap series! If you have read Magyk and Flyte then you must read Physik! The plot is very in depth and exciting and new characters are introduced that you will come to love as much as Jenna and Septimus. What a wonderful book and hopefully there will be another in the series!
Keep Septimus Coming!.......2007-06-27
I am a school teacher and my students were all reading the Septimus Heap series of books. I decided to read them as well, and they are FANTASTIC! I was disappointed that Physik was the last of the series(so far), I want to keep reading about him!
Physik - Septimus Heap book 3.......2007-06-08
Angie Sage did a wonderful job continuing the Saptimus Heap story. A quick read, antertaining and very enjoyable.
Customer Reviews:
A good book for any class........2007-07-07
If it where just a collection of magic items, then this book would still probably be worth it, but it also introduces several new concepts in magic items that can allow DMs and players new avenues to explore.
The first is a new concept of charges-per-day. Magic items with charges, like wands, and use-per-day items, like virtually everything else, have existed since the beginning of DnD. Charges-per-day is an item that gets a specific number of charges per day for use with a special power. What makes it different is that spending more charges simultaneously increases the effect. This is great for little effects you wanted more than once a day, but sometimes wish where a little bit stronger.
Next up is the runestaff. The runestaff is a new must-have for any spell caster with a static spell list, such as sorcerers, warmages and divine souls. They allow these magic users to sacrifice their own spell slots to cast the spells imbedded in the staff, essentially expanding their spell list, almost exactly like a cleric spontaneously casting cure spells. Each spell can only be cast this way a limited number of times per day, but it allows a magic user to increase their flexibility in varying situations.
Augment crystals are next. The easiest way to think of augment crystals are like slotable equipment in video games like Diablo. These relatively cheap crystals give minor bonuses to your weapon or armor and are swappable, allowing you to change them when the situation does. Unfortunately, the requirements for the highest-level crystal are a little over the top, making them for more expensive than their little price tag indicates.
Finally introduced are item sets. If you have ever played World of Warcraft or Diablo, you know what an items set is. Each component of an item set is its own magic item, but if you own more than one piece of the system, you start acquiring extra bonuses as the items resonate with each other. Some of these bonuses are very powerful and useful, some not so much, but it is a nice option for DMs who give their player planned out loot.
Being a compendium, several items in it came form other sources, such as Eberron or Faruen. Many of these items where changed in the transition. Some of the items become more powerful, others cheaper. This makes some items that where nice concepts, but priced out of the range of players that could use them, possible. Monks and spell casters should check out the re-priced DR shirts!
Also included in the book are new options for stat booster placement, item synergies, good art, and a wonderful chart for all magic items from the compendium, and the DMG!
ONE OF THE BEST WIZARDS SUPPLEMENTS IN A LONG TIME!.......2007-07-06
Dunegons & Dragons players today just don't know how good they have it. Back in the ancient days of the late 70's and early 80's, we AD&D players had the DM's guide and that was about it. Sure, the Dragon Magazine always had new magic items or you could create your own but those were not "official". Today, however, Wizards of the Coast is putting out a veritable dragon's horde of new supplements regularly and among the best of the recent releases is The Magic Item Compendium. Over 100, magic items are packed into this gorgeous 286 page, hardcover tome. Everything from minor magical trinkets to artifacts and relics are included in a well organized, and wonderfully written book that is a must have for players and DM's alike.
The book is organized into six chapters on Armor, weapons, clothing, tools, magic item sets, and using magic items and is bolstered by two comprehensive appendices listing magic items by price and random treasure. One of the things that I really like about the new magic item system is the infusing of normal armor, shields, swords, with magical properties that don't necessarily make them unique, one-of-a-kind items.
For example, in the Armor/shield category, there are over sixty different magical properties that can be added to the item (as long as it is already at least a +1 item or better) to enhance its qualities. One such property is Healing. This property will heal 2d8+5 points of damage automatically when the wearer is brought down to -1 to -9 hit points...i.e., rescue from death! The Speed property allows the user to produce the effects of a haste spell 3 times per day. All of these properties can be added to armor or shields. Next, there are over 25 unique armors and shields.
The Weapons chapter is similar to armor in that it first lists all of the different properties that can be added to a +1 or better weapon, as well as the price, caster level, aura, and activation required. Again, there are dozens of different properties listed with their full effects leaving it to the DM to decide what they want to create. There are some great unique items in weapons as well. These all include full descriptions of the appearance and powers, and most of them have a drawing that accompanies the weapon as well.
The items in clothing are all unique items and run the gamut of everything from amulets and boots to gloves and rings and everything in between. Chapter four is really a hodgepodge of everything else not included in the first three chapters. Here you'll find items such as bags, orbs, musical instruments, rods, runestaffs, tomes, and more.
Chapter five's subject is magical item sets. These are groups of three to six unique magic items that provide extra bonuses and abilities when worn together. What I love about these is that they will make great items to set about on separate quests to find and locate. And it had better be pretty hard to do so because they will make for some pretty powerful characters should all the items be found.
Finally, chapter six covers the usage of magic items...where to buy them, how to craft them, where to place them in a dungeon, etc...
It felt like the good, old days again just browsing through page after page of this treasure trove. The art is fantastic as usual. One of the best Supplements to come out in a long time.
Reviewed by Tim Janson
A DM's Crowd-Pleaser........2007-07-06
I've been a DM in one capacity or another for 27 years. This product got me excited again to run a game. The pictures are outstanding and plentiful. The people at Wizards of the Coast should be proud of this one. It is obvious from page one that a true gamer oversaw ever aspect of the product. This book, along with the Spell Compendium are like a one-two punch for the same, boring, treasure trove. A few new spells on scrolls, a new item here and there with never before seen effects and the players catch the excitement as well. The only issue I had against was that the beautiful drawing of the item in question was rarely on the same page as the description, but in a way, it added to the experience of flipping through the book to get ideas. Highly recommended!
Great Book.......2007-06-30
As a long time DM I find the quick and dirty method of item levels to be a very nice tool. Plus the full reference to all the items towards the rear of the book is great for quick look ups. All and all a great book for a DM and a pretty decent book for players. The new skills that you can apply to weapons was a nice addition.
I'm a sucker for options..........2007-06-28
This book has more weapon and armor enchantments than you'll ever use! On top of that, they added relics, artifacts and armor sets. All of which are very useful. They have things for all levels of all power levels.
This is a very useful book, because it adds to every aspect of the magical or legendary equipment. If you game has a lot of magic items or even just one or two items, this book will help you expand that.
The only downside is that your next game will have way to many magic items!
Average customer rating:
- Data Structures, Algorithms, Performance, Analysis
- Interesting but too dificult understanding
- Commands a huge snob appeal but in reality half-useless
- Yeah, but is it art?
- A classic work where C, Java, ... do not have its place
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Art of Computer Programming, The, Volumes 1-3 Boxed Set (2nd Edition) (The Art of Computer Programming Series)
Donald E. Knuth
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley Professional
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Concrete Mathematics: A Foundation for Computer Science (2nd Edition)
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Art of Computer Programming, Volume 4, Fascicle 4,The: Generating All Trees--History of Combinatorial Generation (Art of Computer Programming)
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The Art of Computer Programming, Volume 4, Fascicle 3: Generating All Combinations and Partitions (Art of Computer Programming)
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The Art of Computer Programming, Volume 1, Fascicle 1: MMIX -- A RISC Computer for the New Millennium (Art of Computer Programming)
ASIN: 0201485419 |
Book Description
Knuth's multivolume work, widely recognized as the definitive description of classical computer science, is now available in an attractive, boxed set. The three volumes included in this set have each been revised recently to reflect developments in the field. As earlier editions clearly demonstrated, they comprise an invaluable resource in programming theory and practice for students, researchers, and practitioners alike. Countless readers have spoken about the profound personal influence of Knuth's work. Scientists have marveled at the beauty and elegance of his analysis, while ordinary programmers have successfully applied his "cookbook" solutions to their day-to-day problems. All have admired Knuth for the breadth, clarity, accuracy, and good humor found in his books.
See descriptions of each individual volume for more information.
Customer Reviews:
Data Structures, Algorithms, Performance, Analysis.......2007-08-24
This is a classic book on algorithm analysis and also in programming techniques. The first one for which author create a hypothetical computing machine (he call it MIX), his own style to describe algorithms, a machine operation instruction and data representation, an assembly language (he call it MIXAL) for map algorithms and data structures into reality.
In another sense: it's a self-contained book.
Each chapter includes a historical review of concepts and methods.
Important topics for Volume 1
-----------------------------
* Section 1.2. Mathematical basement for algorithm performance analysis. Includes a review of Numbers, Powers, Logarithms, binomial coefficients, and also an example of algorithm analysis using "Kirchhoff's first law" for inputs/outputs (flaw to/from each step).
* Section 1.3. Description of the hypothetic computing machine (MIX): memory word, registers, comparison and overflow indicators, input/output device names, machine instruction format, machine instructions.
* Section 1.3.2. Description of the assembly language (MIXAL). Includes an interesting diagramed relation between machine instruction codes, and assembly language representation.
* Section 1.4.1. Introduce concepts of subroutine and co routine. Co routine is described as a team of sub-programs ideal for multi-pass algorithms (the kind used for processing a stream input).
* Section 1.4.3. Introduce in the field of interpretive routines and simulators. The author tells you how good programmers are at the same time good machine designers (as is the same today with virtual machines and little languages as Java). It includes a simulator program for the hypothetical MIX computing machine. You will learn how a state machine or sequential machine is implemented using a so called Control Routine (complement this reading with section 5.1 of "Computer Organization & Design" by Patterson and Hennessy - see my review for that book).
* Section 2.2.5. Describes the use of doubly linked list data structure by using a discrete simulation example (author use previously reviewed concepts like co routine and control routine).
* Section 2.3.2. Describe binary trees. The highlight of this section is a "Differentiation" algorithm. The author uses an algorithm to traverse a tree in post-order with each node representing a symbol. He then implements the algorithm using a control routine like the one implemented in Sections 1.4.5 and 2.2.5. The control routine includes a "Jump Table" for processing each node.
In resume, the book describes important topics for past and present programmers. I recommend you to read "Computer Organization & Design" by Patterson and Hennessy as an intro. Then read this one. Also you can complement this read with "Fascicle 1." by Donald E. Knuth, which describes an advanced MIX computing machine called MMIX (a 32 bit hypothetical RISC machine similar to DLX machine used on "Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach - 2d edition" by Patterson and Hennessy.
Interesting but too dificult understanding.......2007-07-26
I do not use to speak English, but this book give a lot of theorems that cannot be understanded if we don't investigate by ourselves.
That make me a question: why I take a book if I need its bibliography to use it? Obviously, it could be I'm not too intelligent for this book. But I prefer the first tomes, where everyone can understand slowly or not every quiz.
Despite of all, this book offers us solutions in a pack (as only Knuth can do) to program the best querys when invariant is not iterable.
Commands a huge snob appeal but in reality half-useless.......2007-02-22
Would be very good were it not for MIX. Sorry, I can't be bothered with it, life's too short. Otherwise very good: clear and concise writing, all's very relevant, discussion deep, all's great -- re-write it in C and I'll give it five stars.
This may not have been the case a thousand years ago when this book was written, but today there's enough good literature of this kind to not worry about TAoCP.
The books' structure and depth are somewhat unique though, so maybe this set is worth having if you got a lot of spare time and some spare money, but remember, for most people the sample code will be inaccessible: it's written in an unreal BS assembly language.
Yeah, but is it art?.......2005-12-10
Twenty five years ago, after five years of experience programming scientific applications (mostly math stuff, not much real programming beyond algorithms) I began a job programming business applications. At that time, there was very little general communal knowledge about very basic stuff we take for granted today like searching, sorting, memory allocation, data structures...
I began my collection with Knuth and another book (no longer in print) dedicated to data structures. These books defined me as a programmer. I learned MIX only because, as a programmer, I felt that I should be able to understand Knuth's abstraction. I admit that I was frustrated by having to do this. Ironically, even back then, the "other book" used, what was the de facto standard for generically describing algorithms, an ALGOL like language-very pretty!
Many of us have looked forward to Knuth rewriting his artful collection to satisfy our sense of aesthetics. We don't consider that he would have to repeat this huge task over and over again. Or (save me from this one) he could produce an obnoxious series of books titled "The Art of Computer Programming in C", "The Art of Computer Programming in C++", "The Art of Computer Programming in JAVA", "The Art of Computer Programming in C#", and (my favorite) "The Art of Computer Programming for Dummies". I thank Knuth for not doing this, although the last would certainly have a wide audience. Publishers know what they are about.
Another reason, in my humble opinion, that Knuth probably holds to MIX is that the latest generation of programmers do not have a clue what it is like to program a machine directly, or what is happening underneath the hood. There is a huge leap from MIX to MACRO, but the basic principles are still relevant.
The bottom line: YOU CAN COMPLETELY IGNORE MIX! All the relevant ideas are explained in simple plane English and the algorithms in structured English. Those who would prefer not to understand, but to simply cut and paste code, you are simply out of luck.
Now, if that isn't insulting enough (you caught me on a good day (after 32 years of programming I have come to hate computers and ...)) you would be amazed at how many self proclaimed senior programmers (programmers with more than three years of experience?) can't write an algorithm to save their lives.
BUY THE BOOKS! THEYRE A BARGAIN!
By the way, you all should read some of Knuth's other works. How many of us know that Knuth was an important player in getting rid of GOTO statements? I haven't written a GOTO statement in over twenty years! If my memory serves me (on a good day) Knuth wrote in an April edition of the ACM a paper titled, "Goto Bad, ComeFrom Good". He would be pleased to know that he anticipated the Publish-Subscribe Architectural Pattern.
A classic work where C, Java, ... do not have its place.......2005-11-28
The Art of Computer Programming is a classic work. The three first volumes cover only the basic core of programming techniques. There are enough exercices, with solutions, to keep you busy for the rest of your life. Several reviewers expressed a dislike at the MIX language used in these three volumes. But there is usually a pseudo-code description of the algorithm that can readily be converted to whatever "X" language you prefer or happen to enjoy on a particular day. I would never see Java (ouch!), C, Pascal, as being appropriate for this work. It would simply ruined the whole work. These languages have a semantics that is too imprecise. Knuth has gone one step further of including pseudo-code by providing precise code in a machine language that he has precisely described. What is needed is a new machine language closer to today's machine; and Knuth is working on that...but you will not find it in these three volumes.
Fascicle 1 of volume 1 has been published recently (summer 2005)-- for the final edition of this work with more volumes-- with a new machine language, the MMIX. It is a clear improvement on MIX. But we will have to wait for the final edition to see everything come together with MMIX. Go Don!
Book Description
Version 3.5 editions of the Player's Handbook, Monster Manual, and
Dungeon Master's Guide are now offered in one slip-covered gift set.
In the 30-year history of the
Dungeons & Dragons game, this type of boxed set has never been available -- until now. Enjoy the foundation of the
Dungeons & Dragons roleplaying game in one product that is a great gift for someone you want to introduce to the hobby or as a gift to yourself.
With these three books in one case, the entire world of
Dungeons & Dragons is yours to explore and share with others.
Customer Reviews:
Good Stuff.......2007-09-29
The core rule book set is a nice addition for any D&D gamer. They are nice books and the box holder is a nice addition. It keeps the books together so you can grab them quickly. I would suggest this pack for those of you who want to start gaming or need new books. The price was reasonable and we would recommend them to others happily.
The books are colorful and the paper highquality. These books last through years and years of reference and play. They are must have for all gamers.
Dungeons & Dragons.......2007-09-28
The book came on time and in good condidtion.
My son was thrilled with the books and could not wait for them to come. The minute they showed up he disappeared into his room and didn't come out for hours.
Fantastic game for a fantastic price.......2007-08-24
D&D is a fantastic game, and for this price, it would have been a sin to miss. This three book was design to be definitely enough if you do not want to be invest more into the game -- magnificent tips to the dungeon masters to desing your own monsters, magic items, adventures and worlds, tons of spells, weapons and everything you can imagine. I can hardly put them aside.
D&D Core Rulebook Review.......2007-08-24
These books were purchased for my son who is 17 and just got into D&D. He actually asked for only the first book. When realizing there were other core books and the great price on the 3 book set, I had to get it for him. He was thrilled receiving extra books and had indicated that this is a great started set for persons new to D&D as well as experienced players.
This product is being outdated.......2007-08-20
The company that produces this game, Wizards of the Coast, has announced that it will be releasing the 4th edition of Dungeons and Dragons in May 2008. This means that 3.5 products will be become out-of-print and will be very hard to come by shortly. If you want to play a game that no longer receives product support, that is fine; but otherwise, I would recommend against investing in this product.
Instead, I would recommend one of two choices: you can either wait until 4th edition D&D comes out, or you can try out a different RPG instead. Wizards of the Coast's RPG games tend to be very complex and highly action-oriented, which makes them lack in simplicity and roleplaying values. If you want a detailed game of hack n slash, I'm sure that D&D 4e will be the game for you; however, if you place more emphasis on storylines and RP immersion, you may find it difficult to maintain them while keeping track of the millions of little rules scattered amongst the numerous rulebooks. You will also find little support for such a playstyle, since Wizards of the Coast's books focus more on stats and options, but less on plot elements.
The reason I gave this product 1 star is because I am more interested in storytelling and portraying a role in a fantasy setting, two things that are more difficult in Wizards of the Coast's D&D game. I also rated it lower because it is soon to be made "obsolete" by a new version of the game. I prefer a game that does not "update" every few years, invalidating all the purchases you made for the previous version since they are no longer compatible.
Now, onto the products that I do recommend. Castles & Crusades is a simpler game that is much easier on my style of gaming. The simpler rules make things a lot easier and more fun for Game Masters; prep work for the game is not nearly as burdensome as it is for D&D. C&C also has greater support for adventures and settings, instead of releasing endless supplements of even more rules. The game has been described as having a feel more like the earlier editions of Dungeons and Dragons, before Wizards of the Coast acquired the D&D license. Moreover, the C&C system is flexible enough to allow easy conversion of material from any of the editions of D&D: players of Castles & Crusades often make use of D&D 1st, 2nd, and 3rd edition material in their games.
Besides D&D and C&C, there are many other roleplaying games that you can choose from. Before jumping in, I recommend scouting around and seeing what game is right for you. Otherwise, you may end up wasting your money on a game you can't enjoy.
Average customer rating:
- Some People Have No Sense Of Humor
- Nothing quite as frustrating as an extended intellectual misfire
- THIS BOOK DOES WHAT IT SAYS IT WILL ! !
- Disappointed
- a great book
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An Incomplete Education: 3,684 Things You Should Have Learned but Probably Didn't
Judy Jones , and
William Wilson
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
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Everything You Pretend to Know And Are Afraid Someone Will Ask
ASIN: 0345468902
Release Date: 2006-04-25 |
Amazon.com
You'll find everything you forgot from school--as well as plenty you never even learned--in this all-purpose reference book, an instant classic when it first appeared in 1987. The updated version takes a whirlwind tour through 12 different disciplines, from American studies to philosophy to world history. Along the way, Judy Jones and William Wilson provide a plethora of useful information, from the plot of Othello to the difference between fission and fusion. It's not a shortcut to cultural literacy, the authors write in their introduction, but it's an excellent "way in" to the building blocks of Western civilization: the "books, music, art, philosophy, and discoveries that have, for one reason or another, managed to endure." Think of it as finishing school for your brain; study up and you'll gain a lifetime's worth of cocktail conversation--as well as a new list of books you simply must read.
Book Description
When it was originally published in 1987, An Incomplete Education became a surprise bestseller. Now this instant classic has been completely updated, outfitted with a whole new arsenal of indispensable knowledge on global affairs, popular culture, economic trends, scientific principles, and modern arts. Here’s your chance to brush up on all those subjects you slept through in school, reacquaint yourself with all the facts you once knew (then promptly forgot), catch up on major developments in the world today, and become the Renaissance man or woman you always knew you could be!
How do you tell the Balkans from the Caucasus? What’s the difference between fission and fusion? Whigs and Tories? Shiites and Sunnis? Deduction and induction? Why aren’t all Shakespearean comedies necessarily thigh-slappers? What are transcendental numbers and what are they good for? What really happened in Plato’s cave? Is postmodernism dead or just having a bad hair day? And for extra credit, when should you use the adjective continual and when should you use continuous?
An Incomplete Education answers these and thousands of other questions with incomparable wit, style, and clarity. American Studies, Art History, Economics, Film, Literature, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Science, and World History: Here’s the bottom line on each of these major disciplines, distilled to its essence and served up with consummate flair.
In this revised edition you’ll find a vitally expanded treatment of international issues, reflecting the seismic geopolitical upheavals of the past decade, from economic free-fall in South America to Central Africa’s world war, and from violent radicalization in the Muslim world to the crucial trade agreements that are defining globalization for the twenty-first century. And don’t forget to read the section A Nervous American’s Guide to Living and Loving on Five Continents before you answer a personal ad in the International Herald Tribune.
As delightful as it is illuminating, An Incomplete Education packs ten thousand years of culture into a single superbly readable volume. This is a book to celebrate, to share, to give and receive, to pore over and browse through, and to return to again and again.
Customer Reviews:
Some People Have No Sense Of Humor.......2007-09-14
People who pan this book can't seem to grasp the fact that a reference book doesn't have to be dry and boring to be informative. Not only does this book provide a wealth of information about everything from chemistry to classical music, it is also laugh-out-loud funny!
I bought the first edition of this book years ago, and I still refer back to it often for the simple joy of reading it. I learn something new every time I pick it up.
Highly recommended!
Nothing quite as frustrating as an extended intellectual misfire.......2007-08-12
I appreciate brevity. Seems to me most commentary and analysis goes on too long. That was my attraction to this title, but that's not the problem here. Every topic is handled concisely though often not very effectively. The problem here is a twisted central view that produces sheer nuttiness like this books anachronistic take on Freud. I wish I had more time to elaborate, but, suffice it to say, you WILL be disappointed. This book is about a dozen re-writes from something worthwhile, and I wish I'd looked the reference section over a little more rigorously before wasting my money on this tome.
THIS BOOK DOES WHAT IT SAYS IT WILL ! !.......2007-08-03
I had given this book 4 stars in an earlier review, but AFTER READING OTHER REVIEWER'S COMMENTS (below) I am upgrading my rating to 5 STARS !!
I think that people need to read the book's introduction to see what the book is SUPPOSED to do before they slam it.
No, the book isn't going to be exhaustive or complete. How can it be? It's only one book and it's not even that thick!
The idea is just to learn enough of someone else's subject so you can navigate and know what they are talking about. You will need to read about it in more detail elsewhere, but at least this book will help you get started.
I did not find any SIGNIFICANT factual errors in the book. Perhaps in a book that attempts to cover all knowledge of the known (and unknown) world there might be an itty bitty error here or there, but I did not notice any. One assumes the authors used appropriate consultants for certain subjects. In the subjects that I am trained in, there were no errors.
Also, I did not find the authors to be condescending, nor did the humor interfere with my learning. In fact, my enjoyment and learning were increased.
That said, I would have to agree that completely serious, humorless people will not be happy with this book.
Disappointed.......2007-07-29
"Should have learned" is the key phrase in my review. Should have learned according to whose opinion is the question? This authors, apparently in order to sell books. I ordered this book, reviewed it and then returned it. It is packed with factual information, but 90% of it is irrelevant and you will never have the use for it. I am an elementary school teacher and I bought this to use as a reference for tid bits of information here and there to engage my students. There is nothing engaging about this book.
a great book.......2007-07-26
It doesn't fill in every gap, but it offers a chance to get some learnin' from two interesting, opinionated intellectuals.
Book Description
Merlin the Magician will not eat or sleep or speak to anyone in Camelot. What can be done? The enchantress Morgan knows who to ask
for help: young Jack and Annie of Frog Creek, Pennsylvania! The brother-and-sister team quickly head off in the magic tree house on another magical and historical adventure.
Their mission: discover one of the four secrets of happiness.
Their journey: to a land of fierce samurai and great beauty, the capital city of Edo (now the city of Tokyo), in ancient Japan in the 1600s.
Their tools: a research book to guide them and a magic wand with three special rules.
In Dragon of the Red Dawn, Mary Pope Osborne transports readers back to the splendor, rich culture, and magic of traditional Japan.
Customer Reviews:
great book!.......2007-09-01
This book I loved when I was reading the pages, and how it gives you a little passport in the back of the book like it was actually a real passport. The books description of the garden when they first get out of the tree house in Japan just gives me a picture of what it looks like in real life. This book had a bit of humor and that adds coolness to the book. Buy this book!!!!!!!! I'm 11.
Mary Pope Osborne: Never A Disappointment........2007-07-23
Osborne forever captures history, folklore and imagination into the minds of many young and old alike. Her books are ever a delight to read to my son (even though he's able to read by himself) and more, a delight to hear when they come out on audiocassette!
I recommend this book.......2007-06-10
I liked it because Jack and Annie travel to Japan which is a really cool place and I think more people should read this book. It is better than any other book because it is the newest of the series.
Dragon of the Red Dawn.......2007-05-27
This is a wonderful book for kids. I love it, so much that I bring it with me everywhere I go. I have read this, and like it. It takes place In old Japan. Jack and Annie meet a poet named Basho, and spend the day with him. I have learned about Basho in school and most of the things the book told about him I knew. I was thrilled reading about the Samuarai, and when the fire came around I was so excited I almost screamed! Dragon of the Red Dawn is a good book to read.
Hard for parents to suspend belief, but the kids loved it........2007-05-14
Another classic Magic Treehouse installment, this time in imperial Japan. The haiku and deatils of life in Edo made this book informative for the little ones (4,6) and a little more interesting for the parents reading it. The fact that it involves a dragon was a big plus for both of them. The rating is only relative to other magic treehouse books, and not to the vast choice of better children's literature out there. All that said, I am sure it would make a good read for 7-8 year olds delving into books on their own for the first time.
Book Description
Your customers are going to give you three seconds to make the sale.
Do you know what to say in those three seconds?
The marketing methods of the past are losing effectiveness as consumers are getting smarter and smarter and have less and less time. What is needed is a new way of doing business-a method that is simultaneously socially responsible and far more effective than "old" marketing. This new way is The Irresistible Offer.
"The Irresistible Offer is the missing link in many marketing books."
—Joe Sugarman, Chairman, BluBlocker Corporation
"The Irresistible Offer reveals secret after proven secret guaranteed to pump fresh power into your sales process."
—John Du Cane, CEO, Dragon Door Publications, Inc.
"As the world's fastest reader (Guinness Book certified) I've read just about every business and marketing book in existence. The Irresistible Offer by Mark Joyner is, by far, the easiest and most powerful. If you want to make a profitable business (any business small or large), The Irresistible Offer should be your starting point."
—Howard Berg, "The World's Fastest Reader"
"I've read every book on marketing printed in the last 150 years. This is the first breakthrough in over fifty years."
—Dr. Joe Vitale, author of The Attractor Factor
"If I had to choose one modern marketing genius to learn from, it would be Mark Joyner. The Irresistible Offer belongs in the hands of everyone wanting to wildly succeed in business."
—Randy Gilbert, a.k.a. "Dr. Proactive" host of The Inside Success Show
Download Description
Your customers are going to give you three seconds to make the sale. Do you know what to say in those three seconds? The marketing methods of the past are losing effectiveness as consumers are getting smarter and smarter and have less and less time. What is needed is a new way of doing business-a method that is simultaneously socially responsible and far more effective than ""old"" marketing. This new way is The Irresistible Offer. ""The Irresistible Offer is the missing link in many marketing books."" Joe Sugarman, Chairman, BluBlocker Corporation ""The Irresistible Offer reveals secret after proven secret guaranteed to pump fresh power into your sales process."" John Du Cane, CEO, Dragon Door Publications, Inc. ""As the world's fastest reader (Guinness Book certified) I've read just about every business and marketing book in existence. The Irresistible Offer by Mark Joyner is, by far, the easiest and most powerful. If you want to make a profitable business (any business small or large), The Irresistible Offer should be your starting point.""Howard Berg, ""The World's Fastest Reader"" ""I've read every book on marketing printed in the last 150 years. This is the first breakthrough in over fifty years."" Dr. Joe Vitale, author of The Attractor Factor ""If I had to choose one modern marketing genius to learn from, it would be Mark Joyner. The Irresistible Offer belongs in the hands of everyone wanting to wildly succeed in business."" Randy Gilbert, a.k.a. ""Dr. Proactive"" host of The Inside Success Show
Customer Reviews:
All hype, all fluff, completely worthless.......2007-09-22
I'll save you irreplaceable time and hard-earned money - don't click 'add to cart!'
This "book" could be reduced to a few typed up pages of text - but they spaced it way out (huge margins, small pages, big type) to bulk it up into a waste of space book.
The content is unoriginal, nothing not seen in most other marketing-rich-quick books, and 52 pages of about 200 are dedicated to Domino's Pizza and how wonderful it is. (are we done yet?)
And the $397 worth of surprises? Mostly more get-rich-quick 'e-books' with actual retail values set by the AUTHORS! or MP3s of this wizard pontificating about topics he has little insight about. Yawn.
I'd send it back if I could. AVOID! AVOID! AVOID!
3 seconds or less..........2007-08-15
Well, I'm not one to believe hype and I still don't think it can be done in 3 seconds or less, but I am amazed at the tricks that I did pick up. Worth more than a 3 second perusal.
An excellent addition to any marketer's library.......2007-06-28
I am a professional PR and marketing man. I constantly strive to hone my skills by reading trade articles and books about the subject. If you hope to become adroit at marketing, you must do the same.
The Irresistible Offer is an excellent book that teaches the nuts and bolts of putting together a product and brand message. It explains how you can refine your product's message into a 3-second touchstone that conveys the features and benefits of your product to prospective customers at a glance.
The psychology and theory behind this book is excellent. I would recommend it as an addition to any marketer's library.
-Craig Nybo, author of Total Human: The Complete Strength Training System
Every Marketing Professional Should Own This Book.......2007-06-27
This book is a must read if you are in marketing or advertising. This book not only explains how to create an irresistible offer, but it also shows you how to use intensifyers to get customers to take action. Overall, one of the most useful marketing books I have ever read.
This book is an "Irresistible Offer".......2007-06-21
The title itself is an excellent example of "the irresistible offer." The "3 seconds or less" refers to the amount of time you have with a prospect to get and capture their attention. However, the way the title of the book is written, you could interpret it to mean it will only take you 3 seconds or less to learn how to sell your product. Now that's great copywriting! And for anyone who wants to succeed in business, this book is a great reference. Buy it. Read it. Apply the lessons. And succeed. Even after nearly 30 years in advertising, I learned from this book.
Average customer rating:
- a must have
- Teaching Attitude
- HAVEN'T WE ALL BEEN THERE
- Still a favorite as an adult
- Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
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Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Judith Viorst
Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0689711735 |
Amazon.com
"I went to sleep with gum in my mouth and now there's gum in my hair and when I got out of bed this morning I tripped on the skateboard and by mistake I dropped my sweater in the sink while the water was running and I could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day."
So begin the trials and tribulations of the irascible Alexander, who has been earning the sympathy of readers since 1972. People of all ages have terrible, horrible days, and Alexander offers us the cranky commiseration we crave as well as a reminder that things may not be all that bad. As Alexander's day progresses, he faces a barrage of bummers worthy of a country- western song: getting smushed in the middle seat of the car, a dessertless lunch sack, a cavity at the dentist's office, stripeless sneakers, witnessing kissing on television, and being forced to sleep in railroad-train pajamas. He resolves several times to move to Australia.
Judith Viorst flawlessly and humorously captures a child's testy temperament, rendering Alexander sympathetic rather than whiny. Our hero's gum-styled hair and peevish countenance are artfully depicted by Ray Cruz's illustrations. An ALA Notable Book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is a great antidote to bad days everywhere, sure to put a smile on even the crabbiest of faces. (Ages 5 to 9)
Book Description
Alexander knew it was going to be a terrible day when he woke up with gum in this hair.
And it got worse...
His best friend deserted him. There was no dessert in his lunch bag. And, on top of all that, there were lima beans for dinner and kissing on TV!
This handsome new edition of Judith Viorst's classic picture book is sure to charm readers of all ages.
Customer Reviews:
a must have.......2007-10-03
Great books for boys or girls. And for a bed time even better, when parents (who had a bad day themselves) have to read it. I love it.
Teaching Attitude.......2007-09-24
Great little book that I use to tutor children to read - and at the same time teach about attitudes. They love it!
HAVEN'T WE ALL BEEN THERE.......2007-09-17
Young, old or somewhere in the middle - we've all experienced a day like this. Heck, some of us have found a week or a month of having a "terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day!" I find this to be charmingly written, easy to read for a child, a quick bedtime story and a great lesson of life. It's OK to be upset, to have a bad day - tomorrow - you start all over. Helps to explore feelings that are natural and needed in all of us.
Still a favorite as an adult.......2007-09-15
i remember my teacher reading this book aloud to my class. I adored it then, and still do. sometimes I consider moving to Australia! I can't say enough about this wonderful book.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.......2007-09-11
This is by far the best of the two Alexander books. It's funny and lets kids know everyone has bad days. I read this to my grand son for years, until he could read it to me. I bought this copy for a child who is having trouble with reading. It's one of the books I'd reccomend to help keep reading fun!
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