Between Worlds: The Making of an American Life

Between Worlds: The Making of an American Life
Average customer rating:

Personalizing of History

What a man!

What Makes Bill Tick

A Career Politician: The Good & The Bad

Bill Richardson, the book, the lite version

Between Worlds: The Making of an American Life
Bill Richardson
Manufacturer: Plume
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

Promises to Keep: On Life and Politics

Turnaround: Crisis, Leadership, and the Olympic Games

Four Trials

2008 Democratic Presidential Candidates: Governor Bill Richardson - Public Papers, Speeches, Policies, News (CD-ROM)

From Hope to Higher Ground: 12 STOPS to Restoring America's Greatness

ASIN: 0452288649

Book Description

A rising star of the Democratic Party tells the fascinating story of the ways his multicultural heritage and political education have shaped his dreams for America and given him vital lessons in the art of successful negotiating.

Bill Richardson, the governor of New Mexico, may be the most charismatic figure in the Democratic Party today and one of its best natural politicians whose name isn't Bill Clinton. He is the man Colin Powell has called for advice, and the man George Stephanopoulos once called the Red Adair of diplomacy in homage to his ability to put out international fires. He has been nominated four times for the Nobel Peace Prize and is counted as one of our most knowledgeable politicians on Iraq and Saddam Hussein; on Afghanistan, the Taliban, and Al-Qaeda; on North Korea; on energy policy; on Latin American affairs; on domestic politics; and on Hispanic America.

Richardson's background as the son of an American businessman father and a Mexican mother has offered him an unusual starting point from which to seek a life in public service, but one of his most interesting roles has been that of global troubleshooter. What he has to say about how to negotiate to get what you want shows his true colors: He can be blunt, but charming; tough, but respectful; realistic, but hopeful. Through his work as a hostage negotiator sitting across the table from the likes of Saddam Hussein, Fidel Castro, and many others-as well as his toil on Capitol Hill, in the United Nations, and New Mexico's state government-he has learned the vital importance of preparation: know as much as possible about your adversary; test your partner's truthfulness; know how much you can concede; never lie and always be direct.

Between Worlds is the surprising story of one of our most seasoned and captivating national figures.

Customer Reviews:

Personalizing of History.......2007-09-08

The first part of this book was initially disappointing. The constant "I did this..." or I travelled to ..." sounded like so much puffery - what one might expect in a book by a Presidential candidate. The more I read, however, the more I realized that the "I" was essential to the entire focus of the book. The book brings history alive from the actual events and conversations in order to show that individuals can help make history or at least nudge it in a desirable direction. Historical events can not be viewed in a vaccum. They are most meaningfully understood in the context of the minor details of the events themselves. One that jumps out is Richardson's meeting with Saddam Hussein (regarding the release of two individuals who strayed into Iraq from Kuwait)when Richardson casually crossed his legs and inadvertently showed the soles of his shoes to Saddam. Saddam jumped up and left the room. It turns out that showing the soles of ones shoes to someone in that culture is a real sign of disrespect. The best part of the book is "Richardson's Rules" which he sets forth in anecdotal context throughout the book (with the list summarized at the end). The "Rules" are a great guide for dealing with not only high level political or diplomatic negotiations but also with everyday personal and business relationships. All in all a very enjoyable read for someone who overwhelmingly reads fiction - not non-fiction - and certainly not political books.

What a man! .......2007-09-03

How very fortunate this country is at this time in our history to have someone of this magnitude and calibur seeking the Presidency. His experience and different way of thinking allow hope for a better tomorrow for the US and the world. Good luck to you, Sir. Good luck to us all that you lead us all into a brighter and more peaceful tomorrow.

What Makes Bill Tick.......2007-08-12

Bill Richardson is a rather unimpressive candidate. However, candidates aren't elected - Presidents are. Having said that I can say that I believe Bill Richardson is ready for the Presidency. The question becomes is America ready for Bill Richardson?

The book is about as interesting as Bill Richardson's performances in debate. Clearly, this is a book about Bill's life, by Bill himself. Many of his positions are explained, but it is not comprehensive, and not meant to be. Reading this book will give the impression of what makes Bill tick, so I give credit for writing a successful book. There is no shorting the reader of 360 pages of substance. Personally, I too would like to see more from Richardson, and in fact, this is already happening.

Campaigns for officials that are based on results and performances while in office must have someone touting that record, and this is what Richardson does without much modesty. Between World's describes the position Richardson inherited from birth and the position Richardson has dealt with throughout life. The book moves from his childhood in Mexico to his life in school in New England. Richardson was the one in the middle that learned to relate to everyone. His entry into public service and political office was destiny. When you combine these with love for individuals and an unapologetic stance you have a man with superior credentials as a diplomat.

A portion of the book that could be developed further is "Richardson Rules". Richardson doesn't discuss development and application of his rule set, but presents these as simply his personal rules - I don't know whether as a human being, a public official, a diplomat, or other.

Richardson comes across as result-oriented, fun-loving, but serious. Inspiration here comes from hard work and having done a job well - unfortunately, not great oratories and smooth gestures. Richardson could partially compensate with combinations of brutal honesty and jest. He must continue to rouse voter curiosity with more manufactured "celebrity-in-jest" performances such as the one created for the New Mexico gubanatorial election. It wouldn't be a bad move if Richardson says in debate, frankly, I suck at this. I want to be telling you what I've already achieved as President - not what I would like to achieve.

A Career Politician: The Good & The Bad.......2007-07-11

I had been hearing good things about Democratic presidential candidate Bill Richardson, so I decided to pick up his autobiography. Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of autobiographies or biographies for that matter. Especially, not ones with the sole intent of extolling the author's virtues. So that's why it gets a B-. And I'm just not a huge fan of the writing style that biographies employ. It just gets a little boring and tedious at times. But to be fair, the book gave me a better picture of Bill Richardson than I had before. About half-way through the book, I was seriously thinking about giving him some consideration with my vote. Although I know he'll never get past the big 3 of Edwards, Obama, and Clinton. He grew up in Mexico (born in US) where his mom is Mexican and his father American. He was a senator for the state of New Mexico, the ambassador to the UN that followed Albright, Secretary of Energy for Clinton's second term, and current 2nd term governor for the state of New Mexico. Needless to say, that makes him extremely qualified. And hands down the most qualified of all current presidential candidates. To his credit, he tells it like it is. And for a politician, it doesn't feel like he is full of BS. He has a record for giving his opinion even when it's controversial. And has offended both parties at times, despite being a staunch Democrat. But he's honest. Over and over again he gives examples where he spoke his mind and how it either paid off or got him in trouble. So that I respect. But ultimately, I feel like he's a politician. And a bit of an opportunist. I do believe he has a vision for this country that centers around a better energy policy. Which I totally jive with. Ultimately though, I just feel like he's a politician at heart. And I don't really want a politician in power. I want someone who is not definded as a politician. And I'm well aware of the rarity of that.

Bill Richardson, the book, the lite version.......2007-05-22

I have been interested in Bill Richardson as a potential presidential candidate for some time so I wanted to read his story to get some more information on what he might bring to the Democratic race. So should you read this book to learn about Richardson? Sure but you may be left wanting to know more as I did after finishing it.

This book, true to its subtitle "The Making of an American Life", chronicles Richardson's life, his childhood in Mexico, his high school and college years in the US and the major turning points in his life. The book is very good at this and more interesting than I thought but it does not have much detail of proposals to solve many of the national problems we are facing today. There was a list of highlighted important sayings called "Richardson's List". This I thought might be a list of what he thought would help steer the country to a better position in diplomacy, health care, environment, and the economy but was a synopsis of what he had learned in his career on how to be a successful politician, diplomat and negotiator. Hopefully if his campaign goes well we will have the opportunity to hear more from this very accomplished statesman.

The People's Guide to Mexico (Peoples Guide to Mexico)

Average customer rating:

Mexico Guide Book
A Utopian Manifesto
Peoples Guide to Mexico
Excellent
indispensable

The People's Guide to Mexico (Peoples Guide to Mexico)
Carl Franz , and Lorena Havens
Manufacturer: Avalon Travel Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

Lonely Planet Mexico
Mexican Spanish: Lonely Planet Phrasebook
Traveler's Guide to Mexican Camping: Explore Mexico and Belize with RV or Tent (Traveler's Guide series)
The Plain Truth about Living in Mexico: The Expatriate's Guide to Moving, Retiring, or just hanging out
Head for Mexico: The Renegade Guide

ASIN: 1566917115

Book Description

Now in its updated 13th edition, The People's Guide to Mexico still offers the ideal combination of basic travel information, entertaining stories, and friendly guidance about everything from driving in Mexico City to hanging a hammock to bartering at the local mercado.

Features include:
- Advice on planning your trip, where to go, and how to get around once you're there
- Practical tips to help you stay healthy and safe, deal with red tape, change money, send email, letters and packages, use the telephone, do laundry, order food, speak like a local, and more
- Well-informed insight into Mexican culture, and hints for enjoying traditional fiestas and celebrations
- The most complete information available on Mexican Internet resources, book and map reviews, and other info sources for travelers

Customer Reviews:

Mexico Guide Book.......2007-07-19

This is one of the best and most comprehensive books I have seen about travelling in Mexico. It is full of interesting cultural facts, points about etiquette, and even how best to haggle with vendors without insulting anyone. It was recommended by our University's Study Abroad Director and was well worth the investment. Would advise anyone going to Mexico to buy this book and study it well.

A Utopian Manifesto.......2007-06-30

Having traveled around Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Baja by bus, camioneta, bicycle, and foot, I was amused by the authors' insight.

But Mexico is DANGEROUS, and this book wishfully and flatly denies it. I and other Mexiphiles that I traveled/consorted with are survivors of violent muggings. One, a Mexican-American who went to Mexico City for back surgery, was kidnapped (and miraculously, released alive after three harrowing days). YMMV. Thugs know you're unarmed and carrying what to them is serious cash, or that you are a woman with no recourse.

This book has a strong following among those who have yet to meet with danger. There is just no getting through to these industrial-strength deniers. I stayed with some in an expat colony (read "trailer park") in south Baja. They vaunt this book for telling it like it is but they rarely venture beyond their fortified perimeter.

For a realistic, balanced perspective, at least glance at the country info sheet for Mexico on the State Department's travel site. Also try "The Daughters of Juarez" for insight about the police, if you don't have enough of your own already.

And Mexico is no longer as cheap as the authors pretend: Mexico's economy has reached the trillion-dollar mark due to trade opening up via customs unions such as NAFTA. Prices are generally rising because more of the people are prosperous and are spending more. Some were left behind, and here's hoping you don't encounter any of those at gunpoint. (In Guadalajara, expect high U.S. prices on everything including food, clothes, and lodging.)

This is good for exploring backpackers (as opposed to vacationers who just stay put in a pricey resort), but more caution and funds are needed than the authors let on.

Peoples Guide to Mexico.......2007-06-12

It actually is a fun book-- lots of odd information that I like to have-- but for my trip, it was more fun info than useful info--
So, if you're looking for information al la hippie era backpack/how to do..... it's great.

Excellent.......2007-05-16

With this book and one of the Moon Handbooks, you can survive and enjoy Mexico! Moon provides the immediate basics and the People's Guide provides the expanded answers. I'm still reading and re-reading it. Having done a lot of traveling, I know that there is nothing that will completely prepare you for your first arrival or even second and third to a country and its culture. But this book gets closer than most.

indispensable.......2007-03-24

if you want a guide to resorts and attractions, look elsewhere.

if you want a highly informative companion for exploring and
engaging with mexico on its own terms, don't question...just
buy it now.

Average customer rating:

Great for English and Spanish learners
Beautiful pictures
A great book by a great artist

In My Family/En mi familia
Carmen Lomas Garza
Manufacturer: Children's Book Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

Family Pictures, 15th Anniversary Edition / Cuadros de Familia, Edición Quinceañera
Hairs/Pelitos
La mujer que brillaba aún más que el sol / The Woman Who Outshone the Sun
Gathering the Sun: An Alphabet In Spanish And English
Calling the Doves/El canto de las palomas

ASIN: 0892391634

Book Description

Following the best-selling Family Pictures, In My Family/En mi familia is Carmen Lomas Garza's continuing tribute to the family and community that shaped her childhood and her life. Lomas Garza's vibrant paintings and warm personal stories depict memories of growing up in the traditional Mexican-American community of her hometown of Kingsville, Texas.

Customer Reviews:

Great for English and Spanish learners.......2007-04-16

I just had a baby and I want her to bilingual. This is a great tool to start with for both her and myself. Since I have to brush up on my Spanish.

Beautiful pictures.......2006-06-29

The pictures in this book are so detailed. It reminds me so much of many of my family's homes growing up in Texas. Great childrens book.

A great book by a great artist.......1999-04-26

This is a great book, and Carmen Lomas Garza is a great artist. Everything is so detailed, and she tells you exactly who's who. All her pictures are real memories. There is something going on in every corner

The Maya, Seventh Edition (Ancient Peoples and Places)

Average customer rating:

An Excellent Inrtoduction to the Maya
Any Author Who Can Make El Mirador Come To Life Deserves Five Stars
A very good introduction to Maya archeology
Introduction to the Mayan culture
The Gold Standard by which to measure all others

The Maya, Seventh Edition (Ancient Peoples and Places)
Michael D. Coe
Manufacturer: Thames & Hudson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

Mexico: From the Olmecs to the Aztecs (Fifth Edition)
Popol Vuh: The Definitive Edition Of The Mayan Book Of The Dawn Of Life And The Glories Of
The Ancient Maya, 6th Edition
A Forest of Kings: The Untold Story of the Ancient Maya
Breaking the Maya Code

ASIN: 0500285055

Book Description

"A clear and intelligent description of the development and organization of Maya civilization." —Natural History

The Maya has long been established as the best, most readable introduction to the New World's greatest ancient civilization. In these pages Professor Coe distills a lifetime's scholarship for the general reader and student.

Since the publication of the sixth edition of The Maya, new sites have been uncovered and further excavations in old sites have proceeded at an unprecedented pace. Among the many new discoveries is the chance find of extraordinary murals dating to ca. AD 100 at San Bartolo in the Petén. New epigraphic, archaeological, and osteological research has thrown light on the identity of the "founding fathers" of such great sites as Tikal and Copan, and their close affiliation with Teotihuacan in central Mexico. The previously little known center of Ek' Balam in northeastern Yucatan has turned out to be a regional kingdom of major importance, with extraordinary stucco reliefs and a plethora of painted inscriptions.

It has now become apparent that the birth of Maya civilization lies not in the Classic but during the Preclassic period, above all in the Mirador Basin of northern Guatemala, where the builders of gigantic ancient cities (interconnected by causeways) erected the world's largest pyramid as early as 200 BC. All of these finds suggest that we must rethink what we mean by "Classic."

The seventh edition also presents new evidence for the use of wetlands by the Classic Maya, and fresh perspectives on the catastrophic demise of Classic civilization by the close of the ninth century. 175 illustrations, 17 in color.

Customer Reviews:

An Excellent Inrtoduction to the Maya.......2007-08-05

This is an excellent introduction to the Maya. It is well-written and flows nicely. Of particular use are the fine illustrations that accompany the text; as you read the text you are refermed by numbers in the margin to a suitable illustration. One of the strong points of this book is that the author criticizes other works and himself in view of the latest research on the topic. The book also has an excellent bibliography that refers the reader to both scholarly and popular works.
A final strong point of this work is that it is only one-half to one-third the length of other works; better a shorter book that you will read than a longer one that will rest upon a shelf!
My only criticism of this book is the final chapter. Like many academics Prof Coe hates American influence (tourists innundate ruins, evangelical christianity threatens the shamans, and the cattle ranches that produce meat for "American hamburgers") and Republicans (things improved for the Maya with a Democrat in the White House). Also, he accepts the lies in Rigoberta Menchu's book as true.
Yet, overall this is a valuable book.

Any Author Who Can Make El Mirador Come To Life Deserves Five Stars.......2007-06-01

The ruins of the ancient Mayan city of El Mirador are deep in the jungles of northern Guatamala. Once one of the largest cities in North America with 80,000 people, El Mirador today is accessible only by helicopter or by long distance hiking. Before its mysterious abandonment in the third century AD, El Mirador boasted the Danta Pyramid, the largest structure of this type in the world. Michael Coe has written a facinating book about the world of the ancient Maya. His ability to make El Mirador and many similar sites come to life makes this book well worth the purchase price even if Yucatan and vicinity are not in one's travel plans.

Professor Coe traces the rise of Mayan civilization from earliest times, to the splendor of the Late Classic Period when as many as ten million people lived in the lowlands, to the "Mayan Apocalypse"of the eighth century AD when the greatest cities of the New World were abandoned and returned to the jungle. Each of the major sites is described in detail with a complete description of artifacts and numerous photographs and maps. The author concludes with an extended discussion of Mayan thought and culture, and with his personal tribute to "The Enduring Maya". The Mayan population of southern Mexico and Central America has returned to over seven million people despite five hundred years of European diseases and economic oppression.

It is important that we not miss the practical implications of this book. The "Mayan Apocalpse" had ecological roots. The population had increased beyond the carrying capacity of the land, and there was massive deforestation and soil erosion. Years of severe drought followed. There is currently a debate about whether global warming is real, and if so whether it matters. One of the first great civilizations in the New World came to a disastrous end because of its inability or unwillingness to deal with environmental issues. We need to draw proper conclusions from the Mayan experience.

A very good introduction to Maya archeology.......2007-03-29

From one of the most important mayanists, a very good introduction to Maya archeology.

Introduction to the Mayan culture.......2007-01-10

I found this book to be a very good introduction to the Mayan culture, however, introduction may be an understatement. This book is very indepth, and academic in nature which gives it a high level of credibility.

The Gold Standard by which to measure all others.......2006-03-10

Tho' I was "just" wanting to be informed before my brief trip to Mexico, it was a joy to read the Michael Coe book, & immerse myself in this rich history of the Mayan people. It made my visits to the ruins so very much more rewarding than a tour book could ever begin to do!

Average customer rating:

Good book for adults to read as well as teens
A very realistic book (coming from me)
Loved it
A Good Read And You Might Learn Something

Crossing the Wire
Will Hobbs
Manufacturer: HarperTrophy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

Gossamer
The Last Apprentice (Revenge of the Witch)
Copper Sun
La Linea
Crooked River

ASIN: 0060741406
Release Date: 2007-04-10

Book Description

When falling crop prices threaten his family with starvation, fifteen-year-old Victor Flores heads north in an attempt to "cross the wire" from Mexico into the United States so he can find work and send money home. But with no coyote money to pay the smugglers who sneak illegal workers across the border, Victor must struggle to survive as he jumps trains, stows away on trucks, and hikes grueling miles through the Arizona desert.

Victor's journey is fraught with danger, freezing cold, scorching heat, hunger, and dead ends. It's a gauntlet run by millions attempting to cross the border. Through Victor's often desperate struggle, Will Hobbs brings to life one of the great human dramas of our time.

Customer Reviews:

Good book for adults to read as well as teens.......2007-09-25

This was a great story and one adults should read also. Comparing it with adult books I normally read, I would give it 4 1/2 stars.

A very realistic book (coming from me).......2006-09-27

I have family members that have expierienced this adventure of "crossing the wire". It is not only hard but its also sad, sad because not only are you suffering but you see other people suffer and that ther can get really tough. This book goes in detaial what one person, Victore Flores had to do to cross. Now if whatever happend to him in the story affects you in any way, just think about all the people that are crossing just to see how it is like here, or even to get money for their family. I think they deserve a little simpathy. Overall this book is a great book to read, you'll get addicted i guarantee it.

Loved it.......2006-06-01

As an author, I was freaking out about how timely this book was, given all the talk of illegal immigration, etc. Then I read it, and was even more impressed. This is a terrific book, far more interesting than a lot of news stories I've read on the topic, from a master of the genre. I fear it won't get the attention it deserves, solely because it's a YA book.

A Good Read And You Might Learn Something.......2006-05-17

Once again Will Hobbs has put together a boy's story that leads the reader not only on an adventure but also gives insight into ways of life in which most of us are unfimiliar. Overwhelmed in the knowledge that his mother and little brother will soon end up living on the streets the young lad of Crossing Jordan decides that he must sneak across the American border where there is hope he can make enough money to send home. The adventure is the telling of all the efforts, and failures, the boy must go through to accomplish such a feat.

Mr Hobbs presents a compelling drama that will help young readers understand why so many young Mexican men and boys are willing the risk everything for a better life. Without being preachy he helps the reader understand how some American policies actually force many Mexican farmers into poverty. He presents the risks these people must take. He exposes the corruption of those who offer these poor people a way across the border. Then, when one might expect American border guards to be presented as evil, Mr Hobbs gives us characters who are understanding, yet do a job that they are hired to perform.

Please read this book. Or if you have teenage children, or younger even, have them read it. Not for the sake of taking sides on the immigration issue. But to understand it. To see that there are two sides that need to be seen. CROSSING THE WIRE is one of those books that you read, put it away and figure you'll probably not open it again. BUT, after time it begins to grow on you. You want to read it again.

People's Choice Guide: Cancun Travel Survey Guide Book

Average customer rating:

And the survey says...
The Perfect Gift
Old but still the best
As good as Lonely Planet in my opinion
Better than the others by far

People's Choice Guide: Cancun Travel Survey Guide Book
Eric Rabinowitz
Manufacturer: Turbulence Music Corp.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

Frommer's Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan 2007 (Frommer's Complete)
Moon Handbooks Cancun and Cozumel: Including Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and the Costa Maya (Moon Handbooks)
Fodor's Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan Peninsula 2007 (Fodor's Gold Guides)
Cancun & the Yucatan For Dummies (Dummies Travel)
Playa del Carmen, Tulum & The Riviera Maya: Great Destinations Mexico: A Complete Guide (Great Destinations) (Great Destinations)

ASIN: 0978513908

Customer Reviews:

And the survey says..........2007-08-17

When we planned a recent trip to Cancun, we thought we could use this book to pick restaurants and nightclubs. The book did provide other people's opinions of restaurants,etc., but without knowing anything about those other people, you couldn't really rely on their opinions. Unlike Zagats which caters to people who really care about food, this book seemed to get a lot of people who were only slightly concerned about food, and very concerned about drinking. Basically, the format is that a brief description is provided and then various customer quotes are used to round out the review. I would not recommend this book to anyone who is a serious "foodie". Also, this is not truly a travel guide, as there are only 8-10 pages about travelling in Cancun, with the rest of the book being reviews of the restaurants and accomodations. We also found some of the information to be outdated: we went to one restaurant that was closed, and found another that the guide said was closed to be open.

The Perfect Gift.......2007-05-12

I bought this book for a young couple headed to Cancun on their honeymoon! They loved it. (And they said the book wasn't bad either.)

Old but still the best.......2007-04-18

Although you have to know going in that the age of the book will mean many of the restaraunts will ahve closed, we still found this to be the only useful source of reviews.

As good as Lonely Planet in my opinion.......2006-07-22

Easy to read and understand info on nearly all hotels, restaurants & clubs in the Cancun tourist area. I really like that the location is pinpointed to like km 6.5 for example. Most directions in other ads and publications are to the nearest km marker so you may be trying to find a place for a half mile or so. Tough to do when you are dodging the Cancun taxis on the divided highway running for about 29 km through the hotel zone.

Helpful and informative on which places other travelers like and dislike. I travel to Cancun regularly and found new places to try in this easy to carry book.

I recommend this book for new or repeat visitors to Cancun.

Better than the others by far.......2006-07-14

I have been travelling to Cancun for over 10 years and lived there for a year and half, before, during and after Hurricane Wilma, and I am delighted to have found this guide book. It differs from the others not only for its content - detailed and accurate reviews of restaurants, clubs and hotels - but also for its convenient size. The first section, as others have mentioned, offers helpful tips you just can't find in the other guidebooks on the market, and the rest of it contains real reviews of just about every establishment a traveller will come across. This one was written from the heart - I highly recommend this book for both the inexperienced AND the experienced Cancun traveller.

Ancient Mexico: The History and Culture of the Maya, Aztects and Other Pre-Columbian Peoples

Average customer rating:

Nice oversize catalog of Mesoamerican art and culture, with problems: 3.7 stars
An exhaustive pictoral tour of the areas mesoamerican ruins
A gorgeous book of ancient cultures
Not for archaeology buffs only!

Ancient Mexico: The History and Culture of the Maya, Aztects and Other Pre-Columbian Peoples
Maria Longhena
Manufacturer: Stewart, Tabori and Chang
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Similar Items:

An Illustrated Dictionary of the Gods and Symbols of Ancient Mexico and the Maya

ASIN: 1556708262

Amazon.com

First-rate color photography makes this look at the cultures of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica a valuable addition to any art lover's library collection. Among the civilizations represented in nearly 450 illustrations are the Maya, the Aztecs, and the Toltecs. Readers will learn not only about the mighty pyramids of Tenochtitlan and Cacaxtla, the Temple of the Paintings at Bonampak, and the ball courts of El Tajin, but about smaller ceramic vessels, jade figurines, and other ceremonial objects. Although the text does acknowledge the near-complete destruction of these vibrant cultures by Spanish conquistadors, the majority of its contents are devoted to celebrating what the Mesoamericans did accomplish--and what has been preserved for us to remember those accomplishments.

Customer Reviews:

Nice oversize catalog of Mesoamerican art and culture, with problems: 3.7 stars.......2007-01-31

This oversize coffee-table book has beautifully reproduced, well-chosen photographs, but significant drawbacks.

Pluses:
* Excellent photos of iconic objects
* Good cross-section of prehispanic Mesoamerican artwork/artifacts
* Nice feature articles on many major archaeological sites in Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras

Neutral:
* Average-quality text (translated from Italian)

Negatives:
* No decent overall map of the area
* Maps of cultures are so general as to be almost useless

So, this shouldn't be your only guide to prehispanic Mesoamerican history. But the high quality of the photos makes it worthwhile if you find an inexpensive copy. I haven't seen the recent B&N reprint.

Happy reading--
Peter D. Tillman

An exhaustive pictoral tour of the areas mesoamerican ruins.......2003-04-12

BEAUTIFUL enormous glossy full-color photos that do more justice to the Mexican ruins than any other book I have EVER SEEN!! I love this book SO MUCH that, since I couldn't afford to BUY it, I went in to the bookstore about once every month or 2 for a YEAR AND A HALF to visit it, pore over it and covet it until a friend took pity on me and bought it for me as a gift! I have BEEN to several of the ruins pictured here, and they are MASTERFULLY captured in the photographs. The author even includes some of the little, lesser-known sites, such as Dzibilchaltun, especially dear to me as my Mexican host family took me there on a family day outing!! This book is just AWESOME!!!

A gorgeous book of ancient cultures.......2002-01-19

This book is packed with information and color photographs of the ancient cultures of Mexico, from the Olmecs to the Zapotecs to the Mayas to the Aztecs. The author even includes sections on the lesser known and understood cultures of Western Mexico. With a fold-out time line and detailed maps of the most famous archaeological sites, this book gives a good overview of the history of these cultures - and then hones in on specifics such as dress, burial customs, religion, war, and games. Extensive attention is also given to the major cities representing these peoples. With color photographs on nearly every page, this is a gorgeous addition to any library. As a reference book, or even as a coffee table book to browse through occasionally, ANCIENT MEXICO can't be beat.

Not for archaeology buffs only!.......2001-05-23

This book takes the reader thorough the history of pre-columbian mesoamerica, the daily life of the people and then tours a number of important archaeological sites in Mexico and nearby countries. It includes wonderful photos of amazing artifacts decorative pieces, ceramics and jeewlry and the archaeological sites. It is a stunning book and serves to emphasize the colossal loss the Americas sustained with the conquest. If you've been to Mexico and love it, this book is a nice memento. If you havn't, this will make you want to go.

What Caused the Pueblo Revolt of 1680? (Historians at Work)

Average customer rating:

put out the safety cones: historians at work
Interesting but a Little Racist
History Through Different Windows

What Caused the Pueblo Revolt of 1680? (Historians at Work)
David J. Weber
Manufacturer: Bedford/St. Martin's
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

The Pueblo Revolt: The Secret Rebellion that Drove the Spaniards Out of the Southwest
The Jesuit Relations: Natives and Missionaries in Seventeenth-Century North America (The Bedford Series in History and Culture)
Common Sense and Related Writings (The Bedford Series in History and Culture)
The Pueblo Revolt of 1680: Conquest and Resistance in Seventeenth-Century New Mexico
Victors and Vanquished: Spanish and Nahua Views of the Conquest of Mexico (The Bedford Series in History and Culture)

ASIN: 031219174X

Customer Reviews:

put out the safety cones: historians at work.......2006-06-03

This is precisely the type of history book advocated by James Loewen, the author of "Lies My Teacher Told Me."

Take five scholars, all discussing the same event, and end up with five quite different interpretations of that event. The editors did a great job of introducing each of the scholar's views, pointing out bones of contention, backgrounding the source material. This is how history is supposed to be taught!

I think one reviewer may have mischaracterized this book as racist. To say that only the views of the Spanish were presented, when in fact the only source material available is from the Spanish colonials, is to confuse the viewpoint of the historian with the viewpoint of the 17th century government of Spain.

I'm thinking about buying the whole series of Historians at Work if they are all this interesting.

Interesting but a Little Racist.......2006-01-31

This book had a lot of great information about how the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 affected the Spanish. It tells how they felt, what they did, what they thought, where they went. It even tells about what they thought the American Indians were thinking and feeling at the time. There are even passages citing American Indian quotations that were written by totally biased Spaniards from the time of the revolt! So, if you're interested in hearing just one side of a very important event, this is the perfect book. I think this really would be a good book if it were coupled with another book that attempted to show the other side.

History Through Different Windows.......2000-04-26

Weber has put together a selection of informative essays by different authors, all dealing with the famed Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Given that the (for a time successful) uprising took place, the question for students of history is the standard one: Why?

As the essays in this book point out, there is no one answer to that question. There are, instead, many answers, and additional questions.

In history, it's not so much a case of arriving at the "truth." Rather, it's the journey of discovery that really counts. The essays Weber has collected run the gamut, from turgid academic writing and sniping to refreshingly clearly-stated prose. His introduction is masterly, the bibliographic references invaluable, and the overall effect one of having learned just how complex and diverse the causes of an effect can be.

Highly recommended for readers interested in this area, especially for classroom use at the college and university level.

Dancing Moons
Average customer rating:

Reflections from a Medicine Lake

"A precious collection of thoughts for everyone."

Dancing Moons
Nancy Wood
Manufacturer: Doubleday Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Similar Items:

Spirit Walker

Shaman's Circle

Sacred Fire

Many Winters: Prose and Poetry of the Pueblos

Old Coyote

ASIN: 0385321694
Release Date: 1995-09-01

Book Description

The world is hard up for the simple things that abound in nature. We long for what nature can reveal, the essential truths that connect us to the core of life itself. Following the spiritual philosophy of the Pueblo Indians of New Mexico, who have been her teachers for over thirty years, Nancy Wood shares her awareness and appreciation of the complex, magical world around us. These poems and meditations, following the Twelve Great Paths of the Moon, reveal old, enduring truths that may help each of us on our journey.

Customer Reviews:

Reflections from a Medicine Lake.......1999-11-16

I have never quite understood why Nancy Wood's poetry collections are classified as "young adult". Her deep wisdom and clarity are more likely to be more fully appreciated by adults. This is a wonderful gift book for transitions times: graduations, marriage, death of a loved one, etc. Her poems are liking looking deep into a Medicine Lake where one sees the very fabric of life and all the its intricate connections. Frank Howell's paintings will fill you with awe and haunt your dreams.

"A precious collection of thoughts for everyone.".......1999-06-22

I first read Nancy Wood's Dancing Moons after visiting Santa Fe and seeing Frank Howell's gallery. The words and thoughts that Wood has shared with the reader are thoughtful and energising. I find myself going back to her writings for guidance often,for myself and to share with friends and loved ones. I am appreciative of the emotions she has shared with us. Her talents as an expressive writer are world class.

El gusto del mercado mexicano / A Taste of the Mexican Market

Average customer rating:

Great book from a great author!

El gusto del mercado mexicano / A Taste of the Mexican Market
Nancy Maria Grande Tabor
Manufacturer: Charlesbridge Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

La tortiller¡a
Market Day: A Story Told with Folk Art
Signs at the Store (Welcome Books: Signs in My World)
El piñatero/ The Piñata Maker

ASIN: 0881068209

Book Description

Let's visit a Mexican market!

Along the way you can compare, weigh, count, and learn about culture and customs. From bunches of hanging bananas and braids of garlic to pyramids of melons and baskets of sweet cheese, this Mexican market is full of fun and surprises.

Colorful cut-paper art sets the scene for a creative way to build new vocabulary for beginning readers of Spanish or English.

Customer Reviews:

Great book from a great author!.......2001-11-21

There are not nearly enough bilingual children's books available in this country, but Nancy Maria Grande Tabor writes some of the very best! They are beautiful books that are very educational and show cultural differences in a fun way...Great!

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books