Book Description
DO YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO WHAT YOU DO BEST EVERY DAY?
Chances are, you don't. All too often, our natural talents go untapped. From the cradle to the cubicle, we devote more time to fixing our shortcomings than to developing our strengths.
To help people uncover their talents, Gallup introduced the first version of its online assessment, StrengthsFinder, in the 2001 management book Now, Discover Your Strengths. The book spent more than five years on the bestseller lists and ignited a global conversation, while StrengthsFinder helped millions to discover their top five talents.
In its latest national bestseller, StrengthsFinder 2.0, Gallup unveils the new and improved version of its popular assessment, language of 34 themes, and much more (see below for details). While you can read this book in one sitting, you'll use it as a reference for decades.
Loaded with hundreds of strategies for applying your strengths, this new book and accompanying website will change the way you look at yourself -- and the world around you -- forever.
AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY IN THE NEW & UPGRADED EDITION OF STRENGTHSFINDER 2.0
(using the unique access code included with each book)
* A new and upgraded edition of the StrengthsFinder assessment
* A personalized Strengths Discovery and Action-Planning Guide for applying your strengths in the next week, month, and year
* A more customized version of your top five theme report
* 50 Ideas for Action (10 strategies for building on each of your top five themes)
* The more user-friendly StrengthsFinder 2.0 companion website, with a strengths community area, library of downloadable discussion guides and activities, a strengths screensaver, and a program for creating display cards of your top five themes
Customer Reviews:
Dinamic Strengths.......2007-10-01
I found the Strengths Finder 2 to be a great, dinamic tool to helping my team find their talents. The good thing about this version, compared to Now Discover your Strengths is that it has guidelines and activities you can do to change the talents into strengths.
Find and Maximize your strengths...fast.......2007-09-24
Great product for anyone wanting to know themselves better. Especially helpful for job seekers or people in transition.
StrengthsFinder Opinion.......2007-09-23
This is great investment! The price is very low and value of the information provided is very high. The best $15 I ever spent.
Optimal Solution for Understanding Yourself.......2007-09-23
I've been a senior leader of several organizations, and consequently have been exposed to a gauntlet of industrial psychologists, personality tests, intelligence tests, leadership training, cultural orientations, yada yada.
This book/body of knowledge/tool does 2 things extremely well. By well, I mean in an optimal way measured by the degree of understanding relative to the time investment. First, for an investment of maybe an hour at minimum, and an additional few hours to explore the guidance and begin to consider the implications and choose new behaviors, etc. you get, in my opinion, the best single, and correct perspective about yourself than any combination of the other methods mentioned above, period. It is not just directionally correct, like a horoscope type paragraph that would be true for anyone who read it, but rather a set of desciptions of your strengths that just "nail it" and descibe you as you know yourself. It tells you about yourself in a way that you can understand, regardless of whether you or anyone who is around you has ever articulated it.
The second thing it does well is offer a rational and empirically validated framework that is just long overdue. It is a simple truth that has been so elusive. It addresses a major reason why leadership is so rare in business - the modern organization strangles out your ability to contribute by trying to fix what you will likely never be much good at, or hate doing even if you end up with some level of proficiency at it.
Get it, read it (25 minutes) and take the online test (35 minutes). If you are like me and the 50 people around me who've infectiosuly taken and immediately recommended this thing to their inner circle of friends and family, you will absolutley find value in it. But like anything, an idea or a tool is only as good as it is put to use. A master craftsman never blames his tools. Remember to act on it and that is something for which only you can be responsible.
Fascinating but Now What?.......2007-09-19
This was an in depth test that I think actually produced accurate results. It was interesting to see where I fell and to read the descriptions of the categories. I think the test was most likely right. So, it was fun and it was somewhat informative...now what? Overall the book didn't give me that much insight on the different categories and the suggestions in some cases contradicted each other. I think it is useful to use in conjunction with additional career books or counselors. It is important to understand your strengths and this may or may not help. Alone, however, I do not think it is enough to give much to the reader.
Amazon.com's Best of 2001
Effectively managing personnel--as well as one's own behavior--is an extraordinarily complex task that, not surprisingly, has been the subject of countless books touting what each claims is the true path to success. That said, Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton's Now, Discover Your Strengths does indeed propose a unique approach: focusing on enhancing people's strengths rather than eliminating their weaknesses. Following up on the coauthors' popular previous book, First, Break All the Rules, it fully describes 34 positive personality themes the two have formulated (such as Achiever, Developer, Learner, and Maximizer) and explains how to build a "strengths-based organization" by capitalizing on the fact that such traits are already present among those within it.
Most original and potentially most revealing, however, is a Web-based interactive component that allows readers to complete a questionnaire developed by the Gallup Organization and instantly discover their own top-five inborn talents. This device provides a personalized window into the authors' management philosophy which, coupled with subsequent advice, places their suggestions into the kind of practical context that's missing from most similar tomes. "You can't lead a strengths revolution if you don't know how to find, name and develop your own," write Buckingham and Clifton. Their book encourages such introspection while providing knowledgeable guidance for applying its lessons. --Howard Rothman
Book Description
Unfortunately, most of us have little sense of our talents and strengths, much less the ability to build our lives around them. Instead, guided by our parents, by our teachers, by our managers, and by psychology's fascination with pathology, we become experts in our weaknesses and spend our lives trying to repair these flaws, while our strengths lie dormant and neglected.
Marcus Buckingham, coauthor of the national bestseller First, Break All the Rules, and Donald O. Clifton, Chair of the Gallup International Research & Education Center, have created a revolutionary program to help readers identify their talents, build them into strengths, and enjoy consistent, near-perfect performance. At the heart of the book is the Internet-based StrengthsFinder® Profile, the product of a 25-year, multimillion-dollar effort to identify the most prevalent human strengths. The program introduces 34 dominant "themes" with thousands of possible combinations, and reveals how they can best be translated into personal and career success. In developing this program, Gallup has conducted psychological profiles with more than two million individuals to help readers learn how to focus and perfect these themes.
So how does it work? This book contains a unique identification number that allows you access to the StrengthsFinder Profile on the Internet. This Web-based interview analyzes your instinctive reactions and immediately presents you with your five most powerful signature themes. Once you know which of the 34 themes -- such as Achiever, Activator, Empathy, Futuristic, or Strategic -- you lead with, the book will show you how to leverage them for powerful results at three levels: for your own development, for your success as a manager, and for the success of your organization.
With accessible and profound insights on how to turn talents into strengths, and with the immediate on-line feedback of StrengthsFinder at its core, Now, Discover Your Strengths is one of the most groundbreaking and useful business books ever written.
Customer Reviews:
Strengthsfinder is a powerful tool.......2007-10-01
I have not yet read any of the book, but bought it for the key to taking the online Strengthsfinder assessment for a graduate class in career and workforce development. (NOTE: MAKE SURE TO BUY A NEW COPY OF THE BOOK IF YOU WANT TO GET AN "UNUSED" KEY TO TAKING THE STRENGTHSFINDER ASSESSMENT ONLINE.)
The assessment alone was well worth the price of the book. Structuring one's professional development or career pathing around one's strengths (instead of around one's weaknesses) is an energizing way to invest in one's work self. If you only take the assessment and never read the book, you will have gotten your money's worth.
Regarding the book, my professor tells me it goes a good job at applying the Strengthsfinder to the work world and management.
book.......2007-09-21
great product. exactly as stated it would be. great book. very uplifting!
If you want to know your strengths.......2007-09-21
I read this book and took a class on it, there are coaches that are trained all over the world that will help you discover and use your strengths in every day life. Loved this book. They even have a book for every age, (young students, adults, and college age)
Go straight to the last chapter and forget the rest.......2007-09-20
Very dissapointed as to what the title leads you to believe about the book. Though the authors have done a tremendous amount of research, it flaws in 2 major issues which it forgets:
a) the profile though quite specific, is similar to other profiles out there
b) 90% of the book is about why we should concentrate on our strenghts. Now lets face it, if you are a small business person like me who wants to grow his business, i already understand that i should be concentrating and exploring my strenghts and that of my organisation. I dont think i need to go thru the majority of the book to learn the concept.
If you are a small business owner like me who wants the "how to", just read chapter 7 which goes to practical issues. If on the other hand you have nothing else to do, then yes do go ahead.
Marketing Excellence-Yes! New Information-?.......2007-09-19
This book is an excellent illustration of the Gallup Organization's ability to market data as "knowledge". Today we seem to be so enamored of huge statistical databases that we assume better conclusions come from analyzing more information, in newer and more complex ways. When I finished reading this book, and taking the online "Signature Themes" profile evaluation I was struck by the enormity of my tranquilized obviousness. Everything I "learned" from this book I already knew, other than the valuable marketing lesson of how they got me to buy it!
Book Description
Another Spencer Johnson #1 Bestseller
#1 New York Times Business
#1 Wall Street Journal
#1 BusinessWeek
From the Author of Who Moved My Cheese?
Dr. Spencer Johnson’s stories of timeless, simple truths have changed the work and lives of millions of readers around the world. Now comes an insightful new tale of inspiration and practical guidance for these turbulent times.
Good Things Happen To Those Who Open The Present
The Gift That Makes Your Work And Life Better Each Day!
For over two decades, Spencer Johnson has been inspiring and entertaining millions with his simple yet insightful stories of work and life that speak directly to the heart and soul. The Present is an engaging story of a young man’s journey to adulthood, and his search for The Present, a mysterious and elusive gift he first hears about from a great old man. This Present, according to the old man, is “the best present a person can receive.”
Later, when the young boy becomes a young man, disillusioned with his work and his life, he returns to ask the old man, once again, to help him find The Present. The old man responds, “Only you have the power to find The Present for yourself.” So the young man embarks on a tireless search for this magical gift that holds the secret to his personal happiness and business success.It is only after the young man has searched high and low and given up his relentless pursuit that he relaxes and discovers The Present—and all of the promises it offers.
The Present will help you focus on what will make you happier and more successful in your work and in your personal life, today! Like the young man, you may find that it is the best gift you can give yourself.
www.ThePresent.com
Customer Reviews:
Christians Beware of Hollow Philosophy.......2007-05-18
The Present by Spencer Johnson is a self-proclaimed life changing book for those who would incorporate its principles. For those who have not read it, the book is all about living in the present, and focusing on the positive aspects of every moment, never focusing on the negative. It presents these teachings by telling a story (typical of existential philosophy). The story is about an old man (read: guru) who shares the secret of meaningful living throughout the life of a man seeking answers. The old man never seems worried; he is always relaxed and appears to be at peace with life and the world. Through a series of cryptic messages, the old man teaches the other man that he can find meaning in the "present," which essentially consists of an existential experience that each person defines for themselves. By focusing on the good in the moment, we can find peace, meaning, and success.
This book ascribes to a combination of existential philosophy and Zen Budhism, blurring the line of truth. Truth is not seen as an objective thing, but an existential experience. Experience, not propositional truth, is the key to unlocking the meaning of life. Salvation comes through the teachings of a human guru leading to spiritual enlightenment, which man can achieve on his own. By definition, this is a godless philosophy.
The Present ignores the real problem of man: his depravity. I can be "in the moment," or practicing carpe diem while engaging in ungodly behavior. Of course, this is all up for interpretation. The existentialist is not interested in my definition of right and wrong, but only in his subjective experience. There is no authority to which one can appeal. So what if my carpe diem approach hurts others? It is up to the practicioner to decide if that is against his value system, which is determined by a kierkegaardian leap of faith, rather than any transcendent moral standard.
There is truth in most errors, though. That is were the deception lies. The message of focusing on the positive can be helpful, but only in the biblical sense of giving thanks to God in all circumstances (1 Thes 5:18), not in avoiding pain. What is right is more important than what makes me feel good. Jesus told his followers they would (and should) suffer, and exemplified it through the cross. While suffering, he cried out "My God, why have you foraken me" (Mark 15:34). This is the most poinent of the examples of partial truths, though there are others.
Much more could be said. The point is this: "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." (Col. 2:8) In the end, what the author tries to do will not work: his program cannot offer real hope to mankind, for it does not deal with human depravity. Rather than seeking to find meaning by focusing on my present, we truly find it in God's presence. The quest for ultimate meaning is found in a relationship with the God of infinity, and through developing intimacy with Him. For a much better alternative to The Present, read Practicing His Presence by Brother Lawrence and Frank Laubach.
Energize the team and prioritize.......2007-02-19
I purchased this book for my department at work. The team was under a lot of pressure to perform and as is often the case in adverse conditions, some were beginning to blame others and lose focus on the tasks at hand given the large amount of work yet to be done.
The response I recieved from the workforce was varied but all positive. Living in the present, learning from our past, preparing for the future, and living with purpose has become a sound bite in our department. The book is a quick read (less than 90 minutes), is entertaining, comes on CD if you want a book on tape rather than paper, and has been talked about far more than the time it took my team to read it.
If you have customers or coworkers that do important work and you have lost touch with what needs to be done, this book will help you step back from your task saturation and reflect on where you are at, where you need to go and why it is important for you to do so.
This is a book I will share for many years to come.
The Present Is A Gift.......2007-01-20
A lot of wisdom and common sense wrapped up in a small package! Easy and fun to read yet, as deep and profound as you want to go.
The Present Will Change Your Life.......2006-12-07
Often when I host a Leadersway training session I ask which of the many books we have read the group found most valuable. The answer I receive most often is, "The one about The Present".
"The Present", by Spencer Johnson is a great little book of only 104 pages that is packed full of more good advice than most books twice its size. The concept is simple, yet complex; the ideas are easy, yet difficult; the message is clear, yet indistinct. You must think, focus, and seek to understand "The Present".
For those of you who have not read this great book, or need a refresher, here is a condensed version of the concepts that you need to remember.
Always remember that you live neither in the past nor the future. You only live in the present. Therefore, you will be happiest and at your most productive when you focus on what is happening at the current moment in time. That is the essence of it.
Always focus on what is "right" in the present moment. Never focus on the negative in any situation. Focus on the positive and you will make good things happen. You will never make a positive choice or create a positive result in the present if you focus on the negative.
Speaking of focus: Always focus, focus, focus. When you are speaking with someone focus on them and what they are saying. Eliminate extraneous thoughts of other things, turn away from your computer, turn off your phone, and pay attention. That's it! Your life will be much better by simply applying that one simple rule to your dealings with others. You will learn more about them and they will appreciate you much more. Apply this to all elements of your job and your life. You will be much more successful and the fruits of your labor will be that much sweeter.
You need not eliminate the past or the future from your life completely. You should learn from the past. Remember your mistakes and take steps not to make the same ones over and over again. Also, remember to recall the good things of the past and attempt to recreate them. In times of trouble, always buoy yourself up with good memories and positive thoughts.
Do not make the mistake of wasting your present by dreaming of an imaginary or unrealistic future. You must always plan for the future and do positive things in the present in order to attain your goals. "Plan your work and work your plan." Do not wish your life away by making unfounded assumptions that the future will be better than the present unless you have done the work and laid the plans to make your dreams come true.
The Present is all you have right now. Enjoy it and live it to the fullest!
A logical companion book to "The Present" is "Always Remember: If it ain't fun it ain't Worth Doing!" This one will show you how to use the "Present" in real workplace situations... Wayne Kehl
A Take-Away Told in a Clever Story.......2006-10-17
I picked up this book at the recommendation that the moral of this book would do me some good -- and it did. The key take-away is woven through a clever story of this short book. I picked it up at the bookstore and read through it in a few hours. It is recommended for those looking for a reminder to see what's in front of them now (i.e. Don't forget to smell the flowers). However, it is NOT recommended for those looking for an eye-opening revelation.
Caveat/Note: I have not read any of Johnson's other books but I would consider taking a look at it based on my review of this book.
Book Description
The bestselling success book of all time is updated and revised with contemporary ideas and examples.
Think and Grow Rich has been called the "Granddaddy of All Motivational Literature." It was the first book to boldly ask, "What makes a winner?" The man who asked and listened for the answer, Napoleon Hill, is now counted in the top ranks of the world's winners himself.
The most famous of all teachers of success spent "a fortune and the better part of a lifetime of effort" to produce the "Law of Success" philosophy that forms the basis of his books and that is so powerfully summarized in this one.
In the original Think and Grow Rich, published in 1937, Hill draws on stories of Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and other millionaires of his generation to illustrate his principles. In the updated version, Arthur R. Pell, Ph.D., a nationally known author, lecturer, and consultant in human resources management and an expert in applying Hill's thought, deftly interweaves anecdotes of how contemporary millionaires and billionaires, such as Bill Gates, Mary Kay Ash, Dave Thomas, and Sir John Templeton, achieved their wealth. Outmoded or arcane terminology and examples are faithfully refreshed to preclude any stumbling blocks to a new generation of readers.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent book!.......2007-09-17
I read this book as a follow up to The Secret. Napoleon Hill was way ahead of his time - the book is a bit quaint - written in a different era - however, the concepts are very timely and thought provoking. I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in the Law of Attraction as it applies to business success.
Wealth Generation.......2007-09-15
The is a classic. Any one that is an entrepreneur or is seeking financial freedom the is a must have. Every page has information jems that will make you rich if you apply the principles discussed with the pages.
A must read for anyone who can read!.......2007-08-31
This is a great book, now that I have gotten out of foreclosure I can focus on building my confidence and wealth. Thanks Foreclosure Workbook and Think and Grow Rich! The two best books I have read in years.
Still waiting for the grow rich part.......2007-08-15
I have a much beloved copy of this book but thought that a fresh copy might offer fresh perspective. The ideas haven't aged over time, even though a slew of rip off ideas have taken over. If you only buy one inspirational book it should be this one.
If You Want To Be Successful In Business READ This Book!!!.......2007-07-28
I believe to survive and excel in this day and age in business there are 3 bboks that one must read. Think and Grow Rich being one of them. The principles that Mr. Hill came up with many decades ago, still ring true.
Amazon.com
Ekhart Tolle's message is simple: living in the now is the truest path to happiness and enlightenment. And while this message may not seem stunningly original or fresh, Tolle's clear writing, supportive voice, and enthusiasm make this an excellent manual for anyone who's ever wondered what exactly "living in the now" means. Foremost, Tolle is a world-class teacher, able to explain complicated concepts in concrete language. More importantly, within a chapter of reading this book, readers are already holding the world in a different container--more conscious of how thoughts and emotions get in the way of their ability to live in genuine peace and happiness.
Tolle packs a lot of information and inspirational ideas into The Power of Now. (Topics include the source of Chi, enlightened relationships, creative use of the mind, impermanence, and the cycle of life.) Thankfully, he's added markers that symbolize "break time." This is when readers should close the book and mull over what they just read. As a result, The Power of Now reads like the highly acclaimed A Course in Miracles--a spiritual guidebook that has the potential to inspire just as many study groups and change just as many lives for the better. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
It's no wonder that The Power of Now has sold over 2 million copies worldwide and has been translated into over 30 foreign languages. Much more than simple principles and platitudes, the book takes readers on an inspiring spiritual journey to find their true and deepest self and reach the ultimate in personal growth and spirituality: the discovery of truth and light. In the first chapter, Tolle introduces readers to enlightenment and its natural enemy, the mind. He awakens readers to their role as a creator of pain and shows them how to have a pain-free identity by living fully in the present. The journey is thrilling, and along the way, the author shows how to connect to the indestructible essence of our Being, "the eternal, ever-present One Life beyond the myriad forms of life that are subject to birth and death." Featuring a new preface by the author, this paperback shows that only after regaining awareness of Being, liberated from Mind and intensely in the Now, is there Enlightenment.
Customer Reviews:
Truely transformational - a practical approach to Spirituality.......2007-09-27
I was reading "I am that" by NisargaDatta Maharaj and was thinking about and trying to grasp, what he says - about just being the "witness" and at the right moment, one of my dear friend handed this over to me.
This book explains it. I dont claim that I am realized after reading this, but now I am confident I am on the right path towards the goal.
This is truely a transformational book. This is the practical guide to understand the mysteries behind teachings of great Masters. My approach towards looking at my life, rather towards every moment of my daily routine, is changed. It started answering my questions right from the first page and now I can apply this principle and answer many questions I have been having about stuff like "Why would creating music be transcendental" - 'why does one feel so passionate about his/her job and get satisfaction out of it'. 'why do people become instant heroes in emergency situations' - The answer - 'power of now.'
Read it and apply it in your daily routine and I am sure happiness (the inner one of course) and peace would be yours to keep.
Enjoy.
I would recommend "I am that" - a collection of talks of Shri. Nisargadatta Maharaj, along with this book. You will have no more questions in your life about why things are the way they are.
Wish you the best for your quest.
Keep it Simple.......2007-09-25
Here are some powerful words.
accept always attention becomes between beyond body cannot change come conscious consciousness course create death deep deeply does ego emotion energy even ever fear feel feeling find form free future get give go god happens human ing inner itself know level life light live long longer love may means mind moment need negativity nothing now own pain part past patterns peace people person physical point power presence present problems reality relationship resistance say see self sense situation something space state still suffering surrender take things think thinking thought time true unconscious unconsciousness unmanifested use want without word world yourself
According to Amazon, these are the most commonly used words in one of the most profound books I have ever read, "The Power of NOW," by Eckhart Tolle. Its simplicity appeals to me. In a world gone mad with ritual, my poor little mind needs simplicity!
As I study different spiritual traditions, I am stunned at the shear weight of them. Nothing is ever thrown away! If an old belief is superseded by a new belief, they exist together in mutual conflict. Inconsistency is piled upon inconsistency.
If I were to seriously practice some of ancient traditions, such as kundalini yoga, I would shortly feel imprisoned. Who could possibly become enlightened when there is so much that must be accepted? If enlightenment is the goal, and the path entails letting go of our attachments, then why have so many attachments to carry down the path?
Using kundalini yoga as an example again, I love many of the meditation practices I have learned from teachers in that tradition. What I find cumbersome are the doctrines, beliefs, and traditions surrounding the practices. To me a good meditation practice works because it fits like a comfortable shoe. A shoe does not care what I believe!
I know that not every one is like me. And I know that I secretly believe everyone should be like me. And I know there are those who thrive in structured systems of belief. But by the time I read about the chakras, the nadis, the related astrological signs, and how the stars affect our karma, I want to sit under a tree and quietly meditate! Or I want to dance. Or I want to sing. My poor little head whirls at such a vast amount of knowledge. Please just let me be happy!
I suppose it is human nature to make things complicated. For example, the simple message of Christ is so hidden that one can get lost in a sea of interpretations. And when this happens, rather than sailing the course of love, which Jesus preached, we risk becoming lost in the treacherous waters of doctrines. As for the Four Noble Truths of Buddha, they are now closer to the Four Thousand Obscure Truths. Perhaps it is human nature to make things complicated, but it is my nature to make things simple, which means I am either inhuman or that I will soon complicate my need to make things simple.
But, if I do complicate the simple, I can always read "The Power of NOW" again. And I will be reminded that my beliefs are not the truth. My beliefs are only beliefs. And I will be reminded to breathe and to be still. That is simple.
Thank you, John C. Conley, author of "Letters to My Friends: A No Guarantees Guide to Awakening."
Great self-help book........2007-09-18
I enjoyed this book immensely. It's somewhat cerebrally written but not academically so that it's too obtuse. Tolle does a great job of talking about "now" and getting out of your mind and into your life. I'd recommend it for everyone.
The real thing.......2007-09-18
Peaceful and powerful. The audio book version is best. You will know it is the truth when you hear it.
We always knew this....but never realized it........2007-09-11
One of the greatest books ever written.
Timeless wisdom revealed once again.
As Tolle coaxes and leads us to the 'Now', the power of realization strikes us with great intensity.
Truly, only NOW exisits.
This book can change your life !
Average customer rating:
- Let me try to say something nice about this book...
- Continuation lacks the luster of book one in the series
- enjoyable, but does not compare to TAGD
- Hijackers
- I never wanted it to end!
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Now Face to Face
Karleen Koen
Manufacturer: Random House
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ASIN: 0394569296
Release Date: 1996-01-13 |
Book Description
The beloved heroine from Koen's bestselling Through a Glass Darkly returns in a passionate, unforgettable, romantic tapestry. A widow at age 20, emotionally devastated and financially ruined by the death of her husband in scandalous circumstances, Barbara Devane leaves colonial Virginia for London to confront her enemies and to pursue a deeply satisfying yet dangerous clandestine love.
Customer Reviews:
Let me try to say something nice about this book..........2007-05-28
Karleen Koen's brief biography says that she was led to write Now, Face To Face and its prequel, Through a Glass Darkly through her interest in the period. I knew little about the Jacobite intrigues of the early 18th century. Ultimately, this is what drove me to finish the book, since even though these were historical events, I was ignorant of them, and I wanted to know how it all worked out. I am also drawn to big, meaty books, and at nearly 700 pages, this volume looked great for my week-long trip.
Koen's Protagonist, Barbara Montgeoffry, Countess Devane, is someone who I'm sure I couldn't stand if I met her. In the story, this would be written off as my jealousy of her physical perfection, mental superiority, high rank, excellent connections, and ability to charm any any man living. True enough, in real life such people are hard to take too. Barbara has suffered losses both personal and financial as the story opens, but luckily everything works out by the end of this lengthy story.
Karleen Koen is an author is more likely to tell rather than show, and this diminishes the effect of the events she portrays. For example, when Barbara finally gets together with Mr. Right, they have a little flirtation, he leaves her a flower, and then there's a fade until "three weeks later", when they are an established couple. What's the point of waiting 544 pages for this woman to find love after she's been wondering if it would ever come to her again and then not showing us the delightful early stages of love?
Readers who are knowledgeable about the 18th century and care about details might be frustrated by some of the anachronisms that creep in. I'm sure the historical facts are accurate, but the devil is in the details in a good historical novel (see Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series). Some of the daily details just don't ring true.
If you are a huge Barbara fan, you will probably love this book because it features the Georgian Barbie you loved in Through A Glass Darkly. Plot and character-wise, I didn't regret reading the first book, so don't let that put you off.
Continuation lacks the luster of book one in the series.......2007-05-23
In 'Through The Glass Darkly', Roger dies, leaving Barbara a widow and responsible for his enormous debt from the South Sea Bubble scandal. 'Now Face To Face' picks up where Barbara flees London and heads to her grandmother's plantation in Virginia. In the isolated wilds of the new world, Barbara learns to carve out a space for herself in spite of her nasty neighbor Bolling. She makes friends, winds out freeing her slaves, looses her personal slave Hyacinthe, and almost finds romance.
While Barbara is away, London bustles with activity. The Jacobites are the talk of the town, supporting the return of King James and the overthrowing of King George. Jane's husband Gussy finds himself knee deep in intrigues with newcomer and actor Laurence Slane, who's not who he really says he is. He's a gosling, one of James' most trusted informers. Barbara's grandmother, the Duchess of Tamworth, comes from the country to attend cousin Tony's wedding. Her mother Diana continues her liaison with Robert Walpole, the man responsible for Barbara's debt being unforgiven and a major force for King George.
The intrigue becomes, if this is possible, a little too thick, swarming over the storyline and drowning the characters in its overwhelming description. There's a lot of repetitiveness in the intrigues of James vs George and the who's who of the Jacobites. Tony went from simple to cunning, and it wasn't a good transition. No reason for it, nor any rhyme to it until later in the book when he'd already shown his feathers. It was as if a shade had drawn over his innocence in our absence and left a character that little resembled the Tony from the first book.
Also, if your expecting a little 'Gone With The Wind' action from Barbara in Virginia, you won't find it. Barbara went from a spirited, saucy personality to a rather droll and reflective one. Between books one and two, she lost much of the spunk that made her so charming. After the tightly woven 'Through A Glass Darkly', 'Now Face To Face' comes off as a thick (733 pages) "middle" book that basically goes nowhere. We're left hanging at the end waiting for the third book in the series.
Still, 'Now Face To Face' earns a solid 3.5 stars from me in spite of its obvious faults, because the characters are fleshed out, the times are interesting, and the prose is smoothly woven into a rich, though somewhat slow paced, tale. Faults and all, I still read it through in just a few sittings, finding myself absorbed in the tale. If you're a fan, purchase it, otherwise check it out from the library first. Enjoy!
enjoyable, but does not compare to TAGD.......2007-04-24
I read Now Face to Face after reading Through A Glass Darkly and Dark Angels. Of the three books, Now Face to Face is by far the weakest and least satisfying. The ending leaves room for another sequel, but as another reviewer noted, the material left by Koen may be too weak to continue. I was dissappointed at the author's portrayal of the "mature" Barbara. I loved her character in TAGD, but felt there was something missing here. Maybe it was the lack of Roger's spirit and passion, maybe it was the not entirely believable deep love for Slane that appeared out of nowhere, maybe it was the lack of spunk that Barbara showed in the other novel (and that the Duchess shows in Dark Angels) I was also deeply dissappointed in Tony's development. Why did he need to become an angry young man who, like the rest of Barbara's amours, ignored his wife and sense of self? The author should have chosen a different direction for his life to follow.
Hyacinth's story should have been fleshed out more, and I felt that many of the episodes and sub-stories could have had more drama in order to fill in some of the holes in the Jacobite/Hanoverian plot. And what happened with the smuggling issue, Diana, and Beth/Colonel Perry?
That being said, I did enjoy the book, and was overall pleased with the work Koen produced. However, I would recommend Dark Angels to a reader before Now Face to Face, and of course, I would recommend Through a Glass Darkly to ANYONE. So fantastic it should be in everyone's personal collection. (and for those who can't find a reasonably priced copy, I obtained mine right here through Amazon and it was under 20 bucks)
Hijackers .......2007-02-02
I liike Through the Glass Darkly and was looking forward to reading Now Face to Face, but obviously it is out of print. I am not so interested in reading it that I would pay the exhorbinant prices that are being charged for a used book. I understand the concept of supply and demand from my college economics class, but really, I would be ashamed and fear for my soul if I sold a used book at such prices and certainly can live without giving my hard earrned money to hijackers for a novel. Koen's Through the Glass Darkly was good, but irritating at some points, so I cannot fathom why people would actually purchase books at hijacked prices, which results in even more higher prices for everyone else. Retarded!
I never wanted it to end!.......2007-01-16
This was a wonderful follow up to Through a Glass Darkly. While it is not quite up the the perfection of TAGD, which I would have given 8 or 9 stars if I could, it's still pretty darn good. Although most of the story was wrapped up in the end, albeit too briefly there is more story to tell and I wish there was another sequel or two (PLEASE).
Most of the original characters return, Barbara, Hyacinthe, Theresa, Grandmama, Tony, Phillippe (ugh) and Diana -- plus some new ones. The first part takes Barbara to Virginia giving her time to work through her grief over Roger's death and the South Sea Bubble scandle.
The second part of the book brings a stronger Barbara back to London and to take it by storm once again, and she's caught up in the Jacobite rebellion. And throughout, we see Barbara mature and change, as we all do in real life. It was heartbreaking to see how Tony changed over his unrequited love for Barbara -- which can also happen in real life.
As in TAGD, you will laugh and cry, just as in real life, and gather a history lesson at the same time. Some reviewers complained because there was not a whole lot of romance, but this book should be classified as historical fiction, not historical romance.
Book Description
According to author Mike Schmoker, there is a yawning gap between the most well-known essential practices and the reality of most classrooms. This gap persists despite the hard, often heroic work done by many teachers and administrators. Schmoker believes that teachers and administrators may know what the best practices are, but they aren't using them or reinforcing them consistently. He asserts that our schools are protected by a buffer—a protective barrier that prevents scrutiny of instruction by outsiders. The buffer exists within the school as well. Teachers often know only what is going on in their classrooms—and they may be completely in the dark about what other teachers in the school are doing. Even principals, says Schmoker, don't have a clear view of the daily practices of teaching and learning in their schools.
Schmoker suggests that we need to get beyond this buffer to confront the truth about what is happening in classrooms, and to allow teachers to learn from each other and to be supervised properly. He outlines a plan that focuses on the importance of consistent curriculum, authentic literacy education, and professional learning communities for teachers.
What will students get out of this new approach? Learning for life. Schmoker argues passionately that students become learners for life when they have more opportunities to engage in strategic reading, writing with explicit guidance, and argument and discussion.
Through strong teamwork, true leadership, and authentic learning, schools and their students can reach new heights. Results Now is a rally cry for educators to focus on what counts. If they do, Schmoker promises, the entire school community can count on unprecedented achievements.
Customer Reviews:
Educators Need This Book Now.......2007-08-31
This is an excellent book that supports teaching and learning, professional learning communities, power standards and data-driven decision making. If Reeves' and Marzano's work is intriguing, then Schmoker extends it. Every one of the staff in our district is reading this book as we implement our essential standards and assessments as part of our school improvement and student learning goals.
Schmoker Review.......2007-05-29
Mr. Schmoker's ideas and concerns within "Results Now" are thought provoking and interesting. I found that this book revolves around two grand ideas: literacy instruction and Prfessional Learning Communities. Within those two themes are many practical suggestions for school leaders to use.
As far as literacy instruction, Schmoker is very blunt and forward about what works and what doesn't. I thought it was particularly interesting to read about how so many leaders live in the now and place programs in schools that have no research behind them. I have to agree that this only creates roadblocks to best practices and improving instruction.
I have also been doing research on Dufour's idea of Professional Learning Communities (PLC's). Results Now is a user-friendly handbook that contains an effective overview of PLC's. I am now trying to implement this into my own building and have used this book as a suggested reading for all stake holders.
I found the information on isolation particularly useful. I think Schmoker makes a good point when he points out that that teaching is one of the most isolated and, therefore, safest jobs in the world. Furthermore, he goes on to say that, as leaders, we settle for mediocrity and excellent teachers are no longer a requirement in schools.
Overall, I found this book to be very helpful. It is a no-nonsense approach to significant changes in education. I would recommend it to anyone involved in education.
Great for Teacher Professional Library.......2007-02-23
This book would be a great addition to a teacher's professional library. Offers some great ideas for dealing with NCLB
Some Good Points.......2007-01-27
I think that Michael Schmoker has some very good observations about how schools work. I just don't believe that he has the accurate reasons for why the schools work the ways they do. What is missing from his theories are people at the bottom - the students and the teachers. This book essentially advocates the top - down method of running schools and is meant to psyche administrators into "taking control" of the classrooms and buildings they work in. A balance has to be struck with top - down and from the bottom up methods. Schools need all people to help run them and if their is too much control at the top, students especially will react with passive resistance. In fact, it is already happening. Take a good look at how many students are "tuned out of school" and are not graduating. Lynn
Literacy & PLCs.......2006-11-23
In Results Now, Michael Schmoker explains what he believes to be the route to achieving unprecedented gains in student achievement. His conclusions center around two main points: literacy and professional learning communities (PLCs). He believes that the key to success in all areas is the ability to read. In addition, he believes that teachers already have the knowledge they need to make great strides in aiding student achievement if they would only create the structures that would allow them to share their knowledge effectively.
Like many educational pundits, Schmoker has some great ideas. Certainly, there is much to be said for the importance of literacy across the curriculum. There is also a lot of truth to his assertions that many language arts classes, particularly at the younger ages when literacy is beginning to form, have become only incidentally about reading and writing. The overabundance of "artistic expression" (i.e. drawing pictures) in the place of actively engaging in literary activities is a problem, as is the reliance on skill/drill activities (read "worksheets"). Instead, Schmoker pushes for dominance of activities that have the students actively reading and writing.
Some of his commentary on professional development was interesting as well. As an educational consultant, I too have seen first hand how the "educational initiative of the moment" has had nothing but negative impact on school districts. There is something to be said for Schmoker's belief that, if teachers could just be pulled together in an effective way to share their expertise and best lessons, they could have a huge impact on student achievement. I must also note that his focus less on the evil of standardized tests as opposed to our ability to help students succeed on these tests was, admittedly, refreshing.
Unfortunately, like many educational pundits, his tone in prose can make his suggestions bitter pills to swallow and his idealism is a little far-fetched. He has an occasional tendency to slide into a rather condescending tone which is rather off-putting. And, though following his suggestions would likely have a great impact on education, I don't think all problems will be solved by his ideas. Literacy is a key but it will not open all doors across the curriculum and, having worked with teachers trying to form professional learning communities, it's easier said than done. I don't believe even a great PLC will eliminate the need for professional development. Master teachers are always looking to improve. Still, it is fair to say that Schmoker has ideas that are worth considering.
Product Description
Targeted specifically to DIBELS users, this resource contains strategies that work with any core reading or intervention program. Using this book, teachers can learn to analyze DIBELS data, organize effective student groups, link strategies to student needs, design focused interventions, and much more.
Customer Reviews:
very useful activities.......2007-05-13
I have found this book to be very useful for providing my elementary school students with a variety of activities which build phonemic awareness. I had borrowed a coworkers copy and kept it so long I decided to buy my own. My only issue with this book is that I have not had luck with the websites offered in the book for materials and it relies so much on outside commercial materials and other books/programs. I've made my own materials from the ideas suggested in the book.
Book Description
Originally published by Tarcher in 1988, The Now Habit has sold more than 58,000 copies, and is as relevant as ever!
Author Neil Fiore offers the first comprehensive strategy to overcome the causes of procrastination and to eliminate its deleterious effects. His techniques will help any busy person get more things done more quickly, without the anxiety and stress brought on by failure to meet the workplace's pressing deadlines.
This revised, redesigned edition includes a new introduction and a section that provides strategies to understand and deal with the complex role technology plays in procrastination today.
Customer Reviews:
The Now Habit Review.......2007-09-06
This was most excellent. It really gave me insights into why I procrastinate. I received many useful tips and strategies.
love it, love it.......2007-08-26
Useful book for all procrastinators out there. I have less anxiety about starting my projects. Also I have less guilt about having fun and not working. Learn new strategies instead blaming your parents for not teaching you the right way.
This book delivers.......2007-08-24
I bought this book several weeks ago and have now read it twice. I've recommended it to many other people at my work. It's a book not just for procrastinators, but for anyone who occasionally finds Mondays depressing, and who feels that work is taking over their lives. In my opinion, the most powerful concept Fiore offers is that of scheduling (he calls it the "unschedule") non-work time; i.e., errand time, living time, fun time (especially fun time), down time -- and sticking to that schedule. The idea is two-fold: it gives you an accurate idea of how much time there actually is to accomplish your work, so that you're more likely to take advantage of the present moment, and it means that you will always have something to look forward to -- and soon -- apart from whatever task you're dreading. So you say to yourself, "Yes, I'm going to work on X, which I don't like much, but that's just part of what's on the menu for today, and once I get some meaningful work put in on it (which Fiore defines as being as little as 30 minutes of quality time), I'll go on to something else, and I will do it without guilt." That makes it more likely that you will actually put some work in on the task, because it no longer is so monumental; you now see it in perspective of everything else you do. It also means you're less likely to find something distracting to do just to avoid the main task, because you're always aware there's good stuff to look forward to. So no "need" to surf the Web just now; you've scheduled plenty of time to play later. Fiore emphasizes that you need to have guilt-free play, separate from work, in order to produce quality work. Although I don't have a particular problem with procrastination, I have found the book quite liberating; it certainly makes me feel better on my morning commute, because I know the day isn't going to swallow me.
One of the best books on procrastination.......2007-07-31
Literally changed my life, or at least the way I think (in a positive way). I am only 3/4 of the way through, so can only speak to the first half or so, but it has been so excellent to this point that I already decided I am going to buy a copy for my Mom, Dad, and sister and brother who all have procrastination issues (must be genetic!)
I have read several other books (re: procrastination), and none of them affected me the way this one did. Made me aware of and changed the way I think about myself, for one, but also presented SOLUTIONS, not just "this is what you are doing and why you procrastinate" which is where so many books like this stop.
Just great stuff, can't recommend it enough. I plan to see what else the author wrote (hopefully this is not a one hit wonder type situation)
Hopefully the rest of the book is as good as the first half.
I should also note, I think this book is definitely not geared towards those who just put things off every once in a while, and would like to be better organized (again, which is where a lot of other procrastination books focus). This one, and probably the reason it reached me so effectively, is for people that have procrastination problems that go beyond the norm - consistent behavior that could/would likely result in losing your job, relationships, and just unhealthy living in general (mental and physical).
Fiore seems to treat the issue from a mental health perspective, not just "let's try to get you more organized!" Very impt distinction, and if you don't have a SERIOUS, life...hampering problem, I would probably not recommend this.
5 stars from me
an innovative approach.......2007-07-25
The only reason I didn't give the book five stars is because I still haven't followed its advice. If a self-help book can actually get me to CHANGE, then I'll give it five stars. In short, I haven't yet made the changes in my schedule and lifestyle that the book recommends, but the book has shifted my thinking quite dramatically. I now understand that it is just as important (in fact more important) for me to plan, schedule and commit to doing things that I love to do, as it is for me to plan, schedule and commit to doing things that I don't want to do (or that I resist). The author's proposed "unschedule" is a radical approach to addressing procrastination - one that holds tremendous promise for anyone struggling with productivity in any form. I fully intend to create my own "unschedule." Now, if only I could get myself to actually do it . . . .
Amazon.com
This manual-style book instantly dives into Eckhart Tolle's principles of "living in the moment," which could be a jarring experience for readers who haven't read his preceding book, The Power of Now. For the initiated, though, this makes an excellent companion guide--rich in exercises and meditations to help readers get out of their minds so they can live more peacefully in their bodies. Sometimes it's hard to fathom what on earth Tolle is talking about: "To regain awareness of Being and to abide in that state of 'feeling-realization' is enlightenment." Be patient. All concepts will be revealed (or at least more carefully explained). Ultimately, Tolle leads readers into a new form of thinking (or actually not thinking) that erases the consuming habits of waiting, worrying, and being in fear. The first step is ending the "delusion of time." He asks, "Are you always trying to get somewhere other than where you are? ... Is most of your doing just a means to an end?" If so, Tolle has a book full of advice for you. As simplistic as this may sound, Tolle's work has spiritual merit and depth, especially for frantic Westerners who find their lives diminished by packed schedules and busy-ness. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
Eckhart Tolle is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most inspiring spiritual teachers, sharing the enlightenment he himself experienced after a startling personal transformation. His views go beyond any particular religion, doctrine, or guru. This book extracts the essence from his teachings in The Power of Now, showing us how to free ourselves from “enslavement to the mind.” The aim is to be able to enter into and sustain an awakened state of consciousness throughout everyday life. Through meditations and simple techniques, Eckhart shows us how to quiet our thoughts, see the world in the present moment, and find a path to “a life of grace, ease, and lightness.”
Customer Reviews:
Old wisdom made new........2007-09-11
There is absolutely nothing new in this book. Why then did it have such an impact on my life? I think it was because Eckhart Tolle took the religion out of spirituality and he took the spirituality out of life. And what was left was a simple message of liberation.
Free yourself from the tyranny of your thoughts and find peace. Yes, of course, the Buddha said much the same thing long ago. And many others have said the same thing since the Buddha. But Eckhart Tolle presented this enduring wisdom in a package that was devoid of rituals and beliefs, ones meant for another time and culture.
To practice the power of now, I need believe nothing. I do not need to sit in a certain way or chant in a certain way. I need only choose to be in the now, which is another way of saying I need only stop thinking, thinking, thinking. And by not thinking, I will have jumped a major hurdle on the path to enlightenment.
Of course, there is the small problem that I do not know how to stop thinking. I better give this little dilemma some thought because "Practicing the Power of NOW" is a little vague about how to stop thinking. But if I understand what I read, I simply follow the slogan of Nike and just do it. And there is wisdom in that. There is wisdom in finding my own way.
In the meantime, I suppose I can breathe and sink into the inner sense of well being within my body. And I can treat myself with compassion. Wait, come to think of it, Eckhart Tolle said to do that too. Such a wise man he is to agree with me.
Great book!.......2007-07-05
Shorter version of the original book, so if you forget something you can always refer to this one. Good if you don't feel like rereading the "Power of Now."
Excellent Spiritual Insight!!.......2007-07-02
Definitely one of the best spiritual books there are. Gives you a great insight on transforming the self to the real self. Reader could easily realize the uniqueness and practicality of the approach.
The only drawback I see is it is sort of uni-dimensional in its spiritual approach concentrating extensively on the now... I personally felt the insight in the movie "Peaceful Warrior" more complete.
The Best Box Of Cd's I ever Bought give this 10 Stars ********.......2007-06-21
I am applying the truths to my life and understand it - no matter what your belief system is. Listening to the Cd's not reading the book has changed my life. There is so much more to the Cd's than the book would ever offer.I listen to my Cd's over & over. It will change your life forever as it has mine.Buy the Cd's not the book and change your life.Unbelievable I got 7 Cd's and I listen to them over & over.They have changed my life.Thank you for making the Cd"s not just the book" 10 Stars**************** I am so excited over these Cd's I keep repeating myself"I have not seen anything like this spirituality,meditation,self -help spiritual growth.life changing, for many many years.
Compressing the Power of Now.......2007-06-08
This little book reminds me what the "Power of Now" is once again. It's an intense recall of the original mind blower and re-inforces and keeps the Now present in me. Its a short and powerful punch. All Tolles books pound into you the same conceptual truths over and over until your whole being absorbs them and become part of you. I recommend it to the whole world.
Books:
- Taxi!: A Social History of the New York City Cabdriver
- The 101 Most Influential People Who Never Lived: How Characters of Fiction, Myth, Legends, Television, and Movies Have Shaped Our Society, Changed Our Behavior, and Set the Course of History
- The 47 Ronin: A Story of Samurai Loyalty and Courage
- The Beatles As Musicians: Revolver through the Anthology
- The Circle of Life: Rituals from the Human Family Album (Introduction By Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
- The Company of Strangers
- The Dirt: Confessions of the World's Most Notorious Rock Band
- The Extreme Searcher's Internet Handbook: A Guide for the Serious Searcher
- The Films in My Life
- The Films of Fritz Lang: Allegories of Vision and Modernity (Distributed for British Film Institute)
Books Index
Books Home
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- The Assistant: A Novel
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- Lean and Mean: The Changing Landscape of Corporate Power in the Age of Flexibility
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Go Put Your Strengths to Work: 6 Powerful Steps to Achieve Outstanding Performance
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