Book Description
Sparhawk, Pandion Knight, and Queen's Champion have returned to Elenia after ten years of exile, only to find young Queen Ehlanda trapped in a block of ensorcelled crystal. As Sparhawk sets out to find a cure for Ehlana, he discovers that only he can defeat the evil plots that threaten her rule....
Customer Reviews:
Sparhawk is Back.......2007-04-27
The Diamond Throne (1989) is the first fantasy novel of the Elenium series. At the dawn of time, a dwarfed and misshaped Troll named Ghwerig dwelt in a cavern beneath the perpetual snows of northern Thalesia. This ugly creature spent decades creating the Bhelliom, a sapphire blue gem in the shape of a rose, and infusing it with the power of the Troll-Gods.
Then the Younger Goddess Aphrael of Styricum stole the rings that controlled its power. Later the hero Adian of Thalesia stole the Bhelliom itself and incorporated it into the Thalesian crown. But this crown was lost over five hundred years ago.
In this novel, Sparhawk returns to Cimmura after ten long years of exile in Rendor. He almost gets a chance to dispose of Krager, but is interrupted by a courtier, who gains himself a case of the boils by his yapping. Eventually Sparhawk reaches the inn run by the Pandion Knights, leaves Faran in the hands of the knight porter, and is admitted into his room by the eldest -- and maybe the last -- Pandion squire.
Sparhawk inherited the responsibility for Kurik from his father. The Pandion Preceptor, Vanion, questions whether he should let the squire retire to his farm and family, but Sparhawk is very reluctant to bring up the subject with Kurik for fear of hurt feelings. Besides, Kurik has been keeping Sparhawk alive for a good long while and intends to keep doing it for the foreseeable future.
While removing his watersoaked clothing, Kurik briefs Sparhawk on the latest news. He tells Sparhawk of the illness that befell Queen Ehlana and the magic that keeps her alive, yet trapped upon the throne within a diamond casement. He also brings Sparhawk up to date on the machinations of the Cimmuran Primate Annias and Prince Regent Lycheas.
The next morning Sparhawk attends court and quickly establishes his justification for returning from exile. Since he is the hereditary court champion, the queen is obviously in danger, and he has a signed and sealed order from the queen to return to Cimmura, all objections are crushed handily. Naturally, his enemies still want to get rid of him.
In this story, the Elene Church is nearing a crisis point, for the Archprelate is old, senile and unwell. Primate Annias now has control of the Cimmuran court treasury and is buying all available votes in the Hierocracy that will soon elect the next Archprelate. Obviously he has aspirations for that position.
Annias is the power behind the throne of Prince Lycheas, a whining, ineffectual fool. Annias has hired Martel -- an expelled Pandion Knight -- to neutralize the Church Knights while he is making his bid for the Archprelature. Martel has tried several times to kill Sparhawk and will try again. Martel also has other plans to keep the Knights busy.
Sparhawk confers with Vanion and Sephrenia -- the Pandion instructor in Styric secrets -- and learns more about Ehlana's illness and the time limits on the magic. They decide that he should travel to Borrata to consult with the medical faculty at the university. Sephrenia will accompany him to describe the symptoms and they also will take Flute, a young Styric girl who does not speak. However, Flute can accomplish amazing thing with her panpipes.
This story differs from the Belgariad/Malloreon series in at least one respect: Sparhawk is a tough character who hides his noble feeling beneath a rough exterior. He is much like his horse Faran, who delights in biting his handlers. In fact, Sparhawk and Faran seem to be able to read each other's mind; naturally, that is impossible, but still . . .
Highly recommended for Eddings fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of working knights, sardonic friends and high magic.
-Arthur W. Jordin
OVERALL SCORE: (A-/B+).......2007-04-17
The Diamond Throne (Book 1 of the Elenium)
OVERALL SCORE: (A-/B+)
READABILITY: (A-), PLOT: (B+), CHARATERS: (A), DIALOGUE: (B-), SETTING: (A+), ACTION/COMBAT: (B-), MONSTERS/ANTAGONISTS: (A-), ROMANCE: (C+), SEX: (Light), AGE LEVEL: (PG13)
This is a very entertaining fantasy story, by one of the best fantasy writers of today, while it may not be quite as good as his "Belgariad" or "Malloreon" series, it comes close.
The main character is Sparhawk, a militant knight, who is erasable and direct, (kind of like John Wayne playing a paladin). He and a group of Church Knights, his squire, a young thief, and a styric mystic, embark on a just to save the beautiful young queen, who has been poisoned by the evil Prelate. God's get involved and things get complex for poor SparHawk!
CONS:
Some of the characters actions aren't logical. They are very quick to kill minor character without much provocation, but major ones they let live when they should kill.
Too simple.......2006-10-02
With a book that's 400+ pages, you would think that there would be some depth to the plot of 'Diamond Throne'. But no - it's just 'go out and find this thing'. The villains in the book are too simple. They hatch the simplest plots, which are always intercepted or reasoned out within a matter of pages. And the reader sees the villains' schemes a mile away, though it usually takes a room full of characters to reason them out in the book. And those plots usually get thwarted in a page or so. All ambushes are easily seen or defeated. I expected some grand fight, a large battle, or a complex task that had the hero doing different tasks that led to a cure in the end. However, in this book, all he does is go from one place to another asking the same question - 'do you have the cure?' Also, every good guy in this book wants to kill Annais, and they have proof that he gave the poison to Ehlana, but nobody actually kills him or brings him to trial. If Eddings wanted to keep Annias around for the next book, he should have come up with a good, reasonable way for Annias to escape justice. Instead we get a token excuse for not killing him, which seems like it was almost put in there as an afterthought. By comparison, the part in the end with the meeting of Sparhawk and Martel is much better, as the reason for not fighting is a good one.
The reason I gave it even 2 stars is that Eddings does do a good job in describing the scene. There is adaquate detail in his book to make the reader feel he/she is there.
Meeting Mr. Eddings.......2005-10-15
This was the first fantasy book I read as a child. I remember sitting at my mother's bright red kitchen table and reading this for the first time. The very first page grabbed me. It was the description of the rain and the smoke; the beauty of the writing entranced me. I went on to read all about Sparhawk, Flute, Sephrenia and Kurik, and they became as close to me as any family. I still carry them fondly around in my head. The Elenium is David Eddings' finest work-and I'm glad I read it first. It's here that his stock characters come to life as vivid, breathing people-it's here where the setting is real and the danger is omnipresent.
As I read his other books, it was difficult not to draw parallels between corresponding characters-Sephrenia and Polgara, anyone? But in The Elenium, David Eddings did it right. It's not high literature, but it's a fun story, and it's compelling. If you haven't read it yet, you should take with you to the beach or on your next road trip. Have it keep you company at the airport. You'll have a blast-I know I did, and I still read the occasional fantasy because of this book.
Magical!.......2005-08-29
This was the first David Eddings book I have read so I am probably going to be a little biased. I loved it! This book seemlessly blends action, romance, drama and comedy. I was left in stiches by the things that were written and caught up in a world filled with intrigue. I won't be able to capture with words what this book is about, so I won't even try. Aside from the fact that this is obviously a fantasy novel, I really connected with the characters and felt like I really understood them. By the time I had finished reading this book, I was left hanging, wanting, waiting for more. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would REALLY recommend this to ANYONE who was thinking about reading this book.
Average customer rating:
- Young readers love it
- Dogwomen kelly
- A photographic memory comes in handy...
- CAM JANSEN AND THE MYSTERY OF THE STOLEN DIAONDS
- Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds was great!
|
Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds (Cam Jansen)
David A. Adler
Manufacturer: Puffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Mysteries, Espionage, & Detectives
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Ages 4-8
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Adler, David A.
| ( A )
| Authors & Illustrators, A-Z
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Cam Jansen
| Mystery & Detective
| Series
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Look Inside Children's Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
General
| Ages 4-8
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Adler, David A.
| ( A )
| Authors & Illustrators, A-Z
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Mysteries, Espionage, & Detectives
| Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Cam Jansen
| Mystery & Detective
| Series
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Cam Jansen 14 Chocolate Fudge Mystery (Cam Jansen)
-
Cam Jansen: The Mystery of the Dinosaur Bones (Cam Jansen)
-
Cam Jansen & The Mystery of the Television Dog (Cam Jansen)
-
Cam Jansen & the Mystery of the UFO (Cam Jansen)
-
Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Babe Ruth Baseball
ASIN: 0142400106 |
Book Description
The Cam Jansen books are perfect for young readers who are making the transition to chapter books, and Cam is a spunky young heroine whom readers have loved for over two decades. Now the first ten books in the series have updated covers that bring new life to these perennial best-sellers. Old fans and new readers will love Cam's cool, modern look!
Customer Reviews:
Young readers love it.......2006-03-13
This was purchased as a gift for a young reader. It is important that a new reader develope a love for reading at a young age and what better way than to read stories developed especially for that age group.
Dogwomen kelly.......2006-01-11
I like Cam Jamsen because....It has mysterys in it. All boys and girls should read Cam Jansen .
A photographic memory comes in handy..........2005-01-19
You have to love Cam Jansen. When you're a kid, you read all of these stories about magic powers, mystery, and adventure. But everyone tells you magic can't exist. Cam Jansen manages to solve every case without the use of magic... she's a real girl. That's what makes her special and what makes you want to red more and more. Cam Jansen is a real kid superhero, and the thought that a person like her could actually exist... makes her the best kid detective ever! Our family loves Cam Jansen!
CAM JANSEN AND THE MYSTERY OF THE STOLEN DIAONDS.......2000-06-06
I LIKE THIS BOOK. BECAUSE CAM HAS A GOOD MEMEREY.SO HE HELPSSOLVE THE MYSTREY!
Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds was great!.......1999-06-27
I liked the book a lot! Only you can't put it down! I thought it was very exciting and surprising. The best part was when Cam was in the house. I won't say any more because you should read it yourself, because you will like it too.
Amazon.com
This 1992 Edgar Award winner for best fact crime is nothing short of a classic. David Simon, a police reporter for the Baltimore Sun, spent the year 1988 with three homicide squads, accompanying them through all the grim and grisly moments of their work--from first telephone call to final piece of paperwork. The picture that emerges through a masterful accumulation of details is that homicide detectives are a rare breed who seem to thrive on coffee, cigarettes, and persistence, through an endlessly exhausting parade of murder scenes. As the Washington Post writes, "We seem to have an insatiable appetite for police stories.... David Simon's entry is far and away the best, the most readable, the most reliable and relentless of them all.... An eye for the scenes of slaughter and pursuit and an ear for the cadences of cop talk, both business and banter, lend Simon's account the fascination that truth often has."
Book Description
Through wonderfully descriptive writing, Simon details the work of fifteen detectives, three sergeants and a lieutenant charged with investigating dozens of Baltimore's 234 murders that year. Simon takes listeners inside the detectives' lives, describing the frustration of departmental red tape and politics, the bursts of energy and moments of despair.
With an eye for the scenes of slaughter and pursuit and an ear for the cadences of cop talk, both business and banter, Simon gives this brilliant, harrowing account its authenticity and fascinating edge.
Simon plants us so close to these detectives that we see everything--the Police Department, the prosecutors, the courts, the city of Baltimore itself--from their angle. This is a never-before-seen look at what it's really like to investigate murders for a living.
Customer Reviews:
A Classic.......2007-09-14
In 1998, David Simon got unprecedented access to the Baltimore's homicide unit, and shadowed its detectives during the entire year. It was a tough year in a tough city, with a total of 234 murders. It would be easy to describe Simon's approach as "a fly on the wall," but that would be to belittle the extraordinary work he did.
Simon manages to give us both the large picture (how the homicide unit works, the flaws and strengths of the judicial system in Baltimore, the meaning behind the crime statistics) and the small picture (the greatness and pettiness of this group of detectives, the emotional detachment they need to have in order to face homicide after homicide, the heartbreaking effects that the murder of one little girl has on a veteran detective). During his year of reporting, and the two years he spent writing the book, he was able to see the cases from a distance, and also from inside the skin of the detectives trying to solve them.
"Homicide" is a tremendous achievement and, in my opinion, a true-crime classic. Anybody interested in learning more about crime or police work--or simply interested in an excellent work of non-fiction--should read Simon's book.
Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets.......2007-07-24
I really have to be neutral about this product. I sent it back-I never ordered it, it got to me by mistake.
Speaking for the dead.......2007-07-10
What an amazing story! David Simon does a fantastic job of taking an actual year with the Baltimore Police homicide division and making it read like fiction. Simon doesn't report this story he tells this story. The quarks and skills that make up all good detectives is captured in detail. The fact that an award winning TV series was spurned from the pages in this book shows that life can be stranger than fiction.
James a. Forrest - Eye of the Storm
Great journalism, but could be more readable.......2007-06-07
I read this book because I'm a huge fan of the television series that came out of it. And, I found it to be a well chronicled account of the author's year of work in the Baltimore PD Homicide unit.
So, why 4 stars instead of 5? Simply because the book was something of a chore to read rather than being a page turner. Maybe it was all of the careful detail reporting about addresses, crime scenes, evidence, etc. and the general lack of writing which helped the reader identify with and understand the individual detectives better than just knowing their names. Or, maybe there were just too many detectives and crimes to do that. But, for whatever reason, I found this lengthy book to be more of a chore to read than the vastly more desirable status of being a joy to read. It was worthwhile and educational, but not as gripping and entertaining as the actual experience surely must have been. I liked it and respected it, but I didn't love it like I love the television series.
Intense.......2007-03-21
Being a police officer espically,In a large city.Like New York,LA or Baltimore [The city where the book takes place.] Is psychologically and phyiscally draning,An existential threat to ones pysche and without any glamour what so ever.So why do they do it John Kelly a character on NYPD Blue did it because his old man was a cop.Who was killed in the line of duty when he was 11.The same with Clarice Starling the fictional FBI agent who is Hannibal Lector lover in the novels of Thomas Harris and the films of Johnathan Demme and Ridley Scott.[Not that Iam comparing the two characters.] Some because they see as an adventure after it`s no surprise it has been glorified on shows such as Dragnet,Starsky and Hutch and Miami Vice and in films such as Leathal Weapon.But in really Stephen Spielberg isn`t around to say cut thats a rap.It`s much more intense the cases Psychologically effect the first case in the book is the murder of an 11 year old girl who was also sexually assulted.[The case is still unsolved.]There is also an episode of the tv show which based on this book called ''Homicide;Life on the Street'' in which the detectives are stuck inside there precint on Saturday Night no case is investigated they just sit around and talk about life [The Camera doesn`t even leave the squad room during the episode.]So what I`am trying is the life of a police officer is not what see on television or in movies.Every day you are reminded of the fact that human beings of Raping Women,Killing each other in cold blood and Molesting Children.I recommend this book to anyone who wishes to know about the day to day psychological struggles of a cop.Espically a homicide detective.
Book Description
'Must reading for the thousands of people struggling with the pain of infertility.' -Christiane Northrup, M.D., New York Times bestselling author of Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom Over six million Americans a year struggle with the costs-physi-cal, financial, and emotional-of infertility. Now, three psycho-lo-gists who have faced infertility themselves show couples how to: -Reduce their sense of helplessness and isolation -Identify their mates' coping styles to erase unfair expectations -Listen to their 'unsung lullabies'-their conscious and unconscious dreams about having a family-to mourn the losses of infertility and move on. Ground-breaking, wise, and compassionate, Unsung Lullabies is a necessary companion for anyone coping with infertility.
Customer Reviews:
Helpful.......2007-01-12
Bought for my daughter who is experiencing the awful pain of infertility and failed IVF. She read it twice and I am reading it now to catch up. The authors have been through the same, which was important to my daughter. They speak with love, compassion, professionalism and authority on the subject.
Unsung Lullabies: Understanding and Coping with Infertility.......2006-08-31
I can't say enough good things about this book. For several years,I have had problems mourning and moving past my infertility. This book helped me finally move on from the hurt and disappointment because it helped me realize that lots of other people feel the same pain and anger when they struggle with infertility. It made me realize that I am NORMAL and infertility is a devastating thing that should not be taken lightly. I feel so much better having read this book.
A must have. . ........2005-09-02
Out of all the fertility "help" books, this was our favorite. Not only was it informative but it helped us to feel 'normal' amidst a trying process. In fact we loved this book so much that we bought one for each of our parents. It's another tool to help educate them about the trauma we've experienced for over three years.
This is a simply wonderful book!.......2005-05-24
What can I say, having lived and struggled and finally come to terms with infertility; this book is flat out wonderful. I only wish it had been available 15 years ago! With incredible sensitivity, insight, and compassion Diamond/Diamond and Jaffe have created a reference work for both the lay public and professionals whose life work or lives cope and live with reproductive problems and their consequences. Unsung Lullabies is also a moving and illuminating "read" for those of us who are blessed with children, be they of our own making or adopted; fostered or cared for. Get it, read it, and grow; for it will open your eyes to parenting on a whole new level. Our world needs more inspiration like this. Bravo to the Diamonds and Jaffe for a terrific first book.
Book Description
Back in the 40s, 50s, and 60s, it was fairly easy to plan for a secure future. People picked a career, a spouse, and a place to live, and those basic decisions put them on a predictable course for the rest of their lives. Especially if they were lucky enough to land at a big corporation with great benefits and smart enough to buy stocks.
In the 70s, 80s, and 90s, technology and global competition transformed the world. An increasingly strong economy masked spiraling instability in the workplace and the world. A rising stock market lulled people into thinking they were in control of their lives.
But now we've entered a totally new era, which Roger McNamee calls the New Normal. It's a time of great uncertainty—about terrorism, corporate scandals, the outsourcing of jobs overseas, and much more. The old safety nets aren't coming back, even when the economy recovers. But the good news is that the New Normal also offers tremendous opportunities. This book—by one of Silicon Valley's most insightful and successful investors—explains how to make the most of your life, career, and money by embracing the future.
The New Normal is the era of the individual. In companies large and small, each person now matters more than ever before. The Internet has finally made it easy to launch and grow a real business. For entrepreneurs and managers, the global economy opens previously untapped sources of supply and demand, cost savings and innovation. Individual investors now have access to tools and knowledge that were, until recently, restricted to professionals.
Roger McNamee has written a sweeping book in the tradition of Megatrends that clarifies this new era and gives readers a practical blueprint for success.
Customer Reviews:
Just OK.......2005-05-10
Good insights, but you can get the same info from following Wired or Google News. The book just seems forced to me, as if the author had something to say in about a chapter or two and then just extended it several more chapters. Why spend $$...check it out from the library.
1st half is Druckeresque.......2005-02-12
According to the author, globalization and technology will substantially change our world. This is nothing new, but the author provides a forecast of what tomorrow's business climate will look like. The individual will have more power than ever as employees and consumers. Independent contractors and will be far more in demand as well as service organizations designed fill a niche for larger ones. Anyone who has strong specialized skills will have far more leverage in the company. China and India will be a powerful, if not dominant, force in the global economy. The stock market will be influenced more by individual investors. Most business will require longer operations, requiring workers to work longer hours and be on alert for 24/7. Technology will enable smaller business to effectively compete against larger business better than any other time in history. Scale matters less than ever. Overall, we are moving towards a very favorable long term trend towards the global economy where especially the talented will be richly awarded, but those who lack specialized skills might be left out of the all the wealth generated by the increase in globalization and technology.
The author is a very deep business thinker, almost as insightful as Peter Drucker, which is really saying something. The author is gifted in forecasting the future trends based on the present data. The 2nd half of this book wasn't nearly as good. Maybe the author was writing fillers (as many authors are forced to do to meet page quotas mandated by the publishers).
More than Investment Advice.......2005-01-20
If you're looking for a "how-to" book to help you find your way in the new economy, there are countless insights in "The New Normal" that will help you understand the major issues facing investors today. If you are looking for an honest account of how an individual in his twenties with good instincts and a willingness to do research, created his own place in the world, this book is for you. What was valuable to me in reading "The New Normal" were McNamee's strategies for thinking outside the box, and his suggestions about how to develop a sound approach to entrepreneurship. The book also gives the clear message that technology IS the future. No matter what field you are in, there are ideas and points of reference here that will enhance your career and heighten your success. In this book, you will find no-nonsense, sound advice based on experience, intelligence and a genuine desire to help others achieve their goals.
A lot of fluff, some substance.......2004-12-30
Bought this on a whim. Like many business books, it offers a tantalizing insight into a successful person's life. But like many business books, it is long on broad, overarching concepts but short on actual reccomendations. I too can be a pundit and sagacious by saying, " To make money, all one has to do is pick the correct stock and buy it." - but without reccomendations on what that one might be, it is less useful advice.
I think this is a useful book for someone who is in their mid 20's and is beginning to make their way in the world. The advice it offers about a constant state of change in the future is valid, but it doesn't offer much concrete information on exactly what to do with that information. An enjoyable read, but not a must-read or a first line book.
Long on insight, short on hype.......2004-11-26
A "rock star venture capitalist" in the literal sense, I was curious to hear McNamee's views beyond the two-minute clips aired on CNBC. Unlike many of the business books penned by one-hit wonders from the last few years, McNamee has posted super-size returns on early stage and public investments for two decades. While the title suggests a total paradigm shift in today's market economy, the chapters are refreshingly rooted in basic business fundamentals. McNamee doesn't attribute his success to a genius mind or visionary powers -- he writes about working smarter (utilizing technology, exploiting your own competitive advantages, cultivating your network). The New Normal echoes multiple authors: Horatio Alger (get out and do something); Howard Schultz (love what you do); Peter Lynch (invest in things you understand...learn from your mistakes); Warren Buffett (buy and hold...stay the course). McNamee layers in enough self-deprecating stories to remind you he's not Superman (despite succeeding in life, work, music, etc.). His investment theories offer good counsel to portfolio managers and college students alike (e.g. innovation comes in three phases: infrastructure, enabling technology, content & applications. Know what phase we're in to avoid investing in good ideas before their time.). He seems like the kind of guy you'd want to invest your money (he stays in Best Westerns on the road!), serve as your mentor or professor, negotiate multilateral trade agreements, play guitar at your wedding or babysit your kid. Good read.
Amazon.com's Best of 2001
Most 31-year olds can't boast of being the instigator of a revolution. But then again, the world's leading promoter of open source software and creator of the operating system Linux does humbly call himself an accidental revolutionary--accidental being the operative word here. Just for Fun is the quirky story of how Linus Torvalds went from being a penniless, introverted code writer in Helsinki in the early 1990s to being the unwitting (and rather less than penniless) leader of a radical shift in computer programming by the end of the decade.
OK, perhaps "story" in the traditional sense of the term is stretching it a bit. This whole book is more like a series of e-mails, an exercise in textual communication for someone more used to code language than conversation: choppy sentences packed into short paragraphs, and sometimes just one-liners. The pace is fast, but the quippy tone can get somewhat tiring, though it definitely suits the portrayal of a computer-dominated life. And like an e-mail conversation, the tense often changes, the topics jump back and forth, and the narrators occasionally change, mostly alternating between the Linux man himself and Red Herring executive editor David Diamond, who convinced the difficult-to-pin-down Torvalds to write his story (or at least allow Diamond to poke, prod, and pull it out of him, all the while giving his own impressions and interpretations). But Torvald's tale contains enough informative and entertaining tidbits--on growing up in dark, strangely silent but communication-gadget-obsessed Finland (which boasts more cell phones per capita than anywhere else), on what makes passionate code writers tick, on making the transition from unknown computer geek to world-famous computer geek, on the convergence of technology and ideology, on his work for Transmeta and involvement (or lack thereof) with all the players worth mentioning in Silicon Valley - to keep more than just computer programmers engrossed in his story. For the latter, of course, Just for Fun will be required reading.
If you pick up this book as a geek's guide to the meaning of life (which, believe it or not, Torvalds does ramble on about at the beginning and the end), then you're in for a bit of a shallow take on the whole thing. But if you're interested in the idea of technological development as a global team sport, and how a nerdy Finnish transplant to California got the whole game going in the first place, check out Linus's story... just for fun, of course. --S. Ketchum
Book Description
"I was a nerd. Geek. From fairly early on. I didn't duct-tape my glasses together, but I might as well have, because I had all the other traits. Good at math, good at physics, and with no social graces whatsoever. And this was before being a nerd was considered to be a good thing."
In this witty and engrossing narrative, Linus Torvalds, the brilliant mastermind behind the latest Internet revolution, in collaboration with writer David Diamond, chronicles his transformation from a pale, skinny Helsinki college kid to an international folk hero. What began as a childhood hobby soon became the astonishing phenomenon known as the LINUX operating system.
LINUX was created because Linus was curious to see if he could improve upon the operating systems already out there, such as UNIX. How could he create a system that could run all of his favorite software with fewer crashes and faster productivity? Linus posted his early versions of LINUX on the Internet and called upon the most brilliant minds in computer science to enhance his system. What happened next took the world by storm.
Linus wasn't the first to use the power of the open source movement, but the excitement he generated when he offered his system to the world was unprecedented. What made LINUX revolutionary was its journey to become the marvel it is today -- and how the system grew from the meeting of thousands of minds around the world. Suddenly, Linus's creation was available for everyone to use, for free! Anyone could improve LINUX at whim. No monopolies, no trade secrets, no whispering behind closed doors. LINUX wasn't controlled by a select few -- this remarkable creation was accessible to absolutely anyone -- and still is. The LINUX system is still constantly evolving and improving every day a decade after its inception. Linus describes the history of LINUX in graspable terms and details how the system itself works, without lapsing into mindboggling technical jargon.
Part autobiography and part business philosophy, Just for Fun brims with biographical detail about the radical spirit and creativity of Linus Torvalds. It offers a unique glimpse into the mind of an accidental revolutionary and how the altruistic creation of LINUX flourished so successfully in the open source movement.
For general readers, Torvalds spins a witty tale of his fascinating life. Here is the story of a young man who, as a still-rising star, keeps his feet on the ground through a combination of self-deprecating humor and the realization that life is simply about having a good time. Linus's narrative teems with clever anecdotes and his captivating opinions on the future of competition in the computer world. Linus even reveals his own take on the meaning of life.
For techies, this is a candid glimpse at the life of this honored, yet unintentional hero. Linus offers a compelling look at how he sees the road ahead for LINUX and the computer industry. He also divulges how LINUX began as a small spark and spread like wildfire across the world.
Although he's the first to admit that roaring down the freeway in his shiny new BMW has its benefits, Linus never intentionally sought fame and fortune. Yet both found him when Linus Torvalds radically changed the world of technology for one selfish reason: He did it just for fun.
Customer Reviews:
Eye Opening.......2007-09-27
This is really eye opening stuff. If you are even remotely interested in Open Source Software, this will give you some insight into the mind of Linus Torvalds. On top of being informative it is a really fun read.
Non Fiction.......2007-09-03
An interesting look at an archetypal geek, amd a man who isn't in it for the money, fame, or power, just wanting to have software that did want he wanted it to do. He also saw building linux as an intellectual exercise that he could learn a lot from, working from one computer, to saving up to buy another from a catalogue.
A reasonably reticent and retiring type, it was well done by the author to get this book published.
Great Read.......2007-08-12
This book was fun to read. It would make a great movie. Nerdy little kid makes good - in fact becomes the figurehead for an historically important movement worldwide.
A Great Read.......2007-07-05
A great, honest, humorous, read about the history of Linux and it's creator.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
A funny book.......2007-04-19
One wouldn't expect with a title "Just for Fun" that you would find a complete autobiographical analysis of the authors mind, a treatise on open source or tome on an operating system. The book delivers exactly what Linus says he hopes for in the beginning pages, a fun time. If that's not what you're interested in, then don't read it.
A friend loaned this book to me while taking a Linux class. I wasn't too enthused, thinking it would be some arrogant "how great I am" story, being a guy writing it you know. I was pleasantly surprised.
Throughout the pages, one gets a glimpse into the life of Linus in a sometimes revealing, down to earth journey from his childhood to the present. Along the way, Linus pokes fun at his looks, his nose, his lack of social skills and his inescapable "geekiness". At times it is hilarious.
He talks about growing up in Helsinki, how he came about developing Linux, getting married, getting involved in the open source community, the rise to fame and riches and his take on the meaning of life.
David Diamond adds humor and interest to the story by recording his observations and conversations with Linus and members of his family.
Now I have a little more knowledge about open source and a remarkable "Joe" from Helsinki who created the large sticky snowball of a very cool operating system and shared it with the world.
This book is just a fun read that I enjoyed very much.
Book Description
This aviation primer provides a thorough introduction to flight training for new pilots and those considering flight school. Starting with all the factors involved in making the decision to learn to fly and earn a pilot certificate, this handbook covers such topics as why people fly, the process of learning to fly—including money matters, health requirements, time commitments, school and instructor options, and the tests involved—and the privileges and limitations associated with a pilot certificate. Frequent concerns of learning to fly are dispelled, including the realities of engine failures, midair collisions, and weather. The text is accompanied by numerous 3D illustrations to give novice pilots a realistic view of the flight training process.
Customer Reviews:
A must read for any student pilot.......2006-03-13
Excellent text on introduction to flight training. Author walks you through his experience as a student pilot and shares honest and critical insights into the rather challenging yet fun endeavor of learning to fly and being safe. Authors sense of humor makes the book easy and fun to read compared to other similar text.
Book review.......2005-04-16
Great illustrations! Useful info written with a sense of humor... very refreshing for manuals.
Average customer rating:
|
Nine Sides of the Diamond
David Falkner
Manufacturer: Crown
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
| Baseball
| Sports
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Sports
| Subjects
| Books
Look Inside Sports Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
ASIN: 0812918061
Release Date: 1990-03-24 |
Book Description
Part poker strategy, part autobiography, How I Raised, Folded, Bluffed, Flirted, Cursed, and Won Millions—and You Can Too offers a fascinating, table-side view of the World Series of Poker from the top-ranked female poker player in the world, chronicling the exciting ups and downs Duke experiences while trying to win it all, and tells the riveting tale of her unlikely rise to poker's inner circle.
Highlighting the strategy behind her unique style of play, and including a comprehensive poker primer and boxed tips throughout, this book is geared toward both the skilled player and the reader newly intrigued by the hottest game in town. BACKCOVER: “Not only is Annie Duke [quite possibly] the greatest female poker player ever, but she is poised to become one of the greatest poker players of our time.”
—Phil Hellmuth Jr., nine-time World Champion of Poker and author of Play Poker Like the Pros
“Thoroughly enjoyable.”
—Dan Harrington, 1995 World Series of Poker Champion, author of Harrington on Hold 'Em
“Duke, one of poker's best female players, keeps things interesting by mixing autobiography, play-by-play, and tips.”
—The New York Times Book Review
Books:
- The Enjoyment of Music: An Introduction to Perceptive Listening (Standard Version)
- The Heart of the Artist
- The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers
- The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography (Oprah's Book Club)
- The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography (Oprah's Book Club)
- The Musical Mind: The Cognitive Psychology of Music (Oxford Psychology Series, No. 5)
- The Musician's Guide to Theory and Analysis
- The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians (20 Volume Set
- The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians (20 Volume Set
- The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Classical Music (NPR Curious Listener's Guide To...)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- An Introduction to Systems Biology: Design Principles of Biological Circuits
- The Modern West: American Landscapes, 1890-1950
- Occupational Outlook Handbook 1994 95
- Parasitic Flatworms: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology and Physiology
- Surnames of Scotland : Their Origin, Meaning and History
- The Scarlet Letter
- The Cat Notebook: Being an Illustrated Book With Quotes
- Understanding Wood Finishing: How to Select and Apply the Right Finish
- Operational Review Workbook: Case Studies, Forms, and Exercises
- Amazing Blue: The Michigan Wolverines' Unforgettable 1997 Championship Season
The Ruby Knight (Book Two of the Elenium)
Sapphire Rose (Elenium)
Hidden City (The Tamuli Book, No 3)
Domes of Fire (Tamuli)
The Shining Ones (Book Two of The Tamuli)
