Book Description
One rainy day in Brooklyn, Jennings Michael Burch's mother, too sick to care for him, left him at an orphanage, saying only, "I'll be right back." She never returned. Shuttled through a series of bleak foster homes and institutions, he never remained in any of them long enough to make a friend. Instead, Jennings clung to a tattered stuffed animal, his sole source of warmth in a frightening world. This is the poignant story of his lost childhood. But it is also the triumphant tale of a little boy who finally gained the courage to reach out for love-and found it waiting for him.
Customer Reviews:
Half-truths?.......2007-09-22
I liked the book, but I have internal warning lights going off as to the complete veracity of the story.
While I don't doubt that many of the abusive and neglectful things that happened to Burch did, in fact, happen to him, I can't help but have this feeling that there is some embellishment going on when it comes to some of the abuse. Sometimes the stories of cruelty seem so far-fetched, that they border on implausible (given all the characters involved in any one incident). There are also stories of being rescued from abuse that seem a little fishy.
Even more implausible however, is the philosophical wisdom of some of the children involved...like Burch's sickly brother, Jerome, or his Institution friend, Mark. These pre-teens seem to be able to impart wisdom and knowledge an a scale that most adults have a hard time embracing, even after a lifetime of existence, let alone when they were children.
I'd be willing to bet that the Author had to embellish a little in order to create some of the dialog (dialog dominates much of this book). He would have to! Who amongst us at middle-age can recall, IN DETAIL, lengthy conversations that they had when they were eight years old? But what concerns me more than needing to embellish the dialog, is this feeling I had that there are times when "fact" goes more in to the "fantasy" realm, for the sake of dramatic license. It often seems like certain scenarios have all the timing and drama of a Hollywood screenplay, as opposed to "ringing true to life".
I don't doubt that what Mr. Burch experienced as a child was indeed traumatizing and terrifying. And for that alone, it's a worthwhile read. I just have my doubts as to how much is "autobiographical" and how much is "novel" writing. How can much of what was supposedly said between Mark , Jerome and Jennings be proven anyway? Mark dies in his youth, and Jerome not very long after him (relatively speaking).
This is only an impression I'm making about this book however, as I have no proof one way or the other that there is embellishment going on. I'm just stating a gut-feeling I personally have which is born solely out of life-experience, and that's all.
But if there was embellishment for dramatic effect, I would have preferred that the Author was honest about it. And if there was none, my sincerest apologies for doubting him.
You read it and you decide. :-)
Surviving in life........2007-07-12
This story of a little boy's surviving hardships is so sad; yet he keeps going by letting go of hatered for those who hurt him, and looking forward to a better future.
Great book.......2007-06-09
This is my favorite book. I have read this book over the years no less than eight times......that is why I had to get a new one :-)
I highly recommend this book especially if you are like me and only like to read non-fiction.
Do NOT Bother!!!!.......2007-03-30
This book is horrible. The story is intresting, but it becomes lost benath a style that is both immature and drab. It is clearly written by someone without any training in creative writing. I do not understand what the prevous reviewer saw in this book.
Loved this book.......2007-02-23
I read this book many years ago when I was in 6th grade, actually my teacher read it to us. she found out that Jennings Michael Burch went to different schools around the country to talk about his life. he came to my school the following year. a few years laer when I was in 9th grade he came back, a few years before that I had written him a letter about how much I loved his book. when he came back the 2nd time he stayed at my house. we were his host family. I will never forget that. I have my autographed book with me. IF YOU HAVE NEVER READ THIS BOOK, READ IT. It will make you cry, so have a box of kleenex next to you.
Amanda from Kansas
Amazon.com
Truly a chef-as-star cookbook, Bobby Flay's Bobby Flay's Boy Meets Grill features 26 photos of the man himself (not counting hand shots and various belt buckles). His name, either as Bobby Flay or Bobby Flay's, is repeated over 260 times within 274 pages. No reader will ever doubt just whose cookbook lies open on the kitchen counter with 125 "bold new" recipes.
Though there's the unspoken suggestion that Bobby Flay invented fire, Bobby Flay's Boy Meets Grill actually follows in a long tradition of outdoor cookery books, starting with James Beard's take on the subject, the many contributions of Chris Schlesinger and John Willoughby, who truly opened wide the door to modern grilling, Phillip Stephen Schulz's Cooking with Fire and Smoke, and the remarkable Barbecue! Bible put together by Steven Raichlen that takes grilling global--to name just a few.
But Bobby Flay does have flair and he does have enthusiasm, and both show up on every page. In chapters that cover everything grillable--from burgers (they may be turkey, they may be tuna) to poultry to meat, vegetables, and fruit--Flay pushes hard on combinations of colors and textures, spices and flavors sure to excite the sleepiest palate on the beach. Check out a standard like Butterflied Chicken with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil, or something a little more exotic like Whole Lobster Smothered in Cascabel Chile Butter. What is the thought of Grilled Pork Loin Sandwiches with Spicy Mango Ketchup doing to your taste buds right about now?
The main caveat for these recipes: all are written to serve eight. And be sure to use common sense instead of some of the directions, such as cooking chopped garlic and shallots until soft in "almost smoking" hot oil, for four to five minutes. Hello. Where does soft stop and incinerated begin? --Schuyler Ingle
Book Description
Truly a chef-as-star cookbook, Bobby Flay's Bobby Flay's Boy Meets Grill features 26 photos of the man himself (not counting hand shots and various belt buckles). His name, either as Bobby Flay or Bobby Flay's, is repeated over 260 times within 274 pages. No reader will ever doubt just whose cookbook lies open on the kitchen counter with 125 "bold new" recipes.Though there's the unspoken suggestion that Bobby Flay invented fire, Bobby Flay's Boy Meets Grill actually follows in a long tradition of outdoor cookery books, starting with James Beard's take on the subject, the many contributions of Chris Schlesinger and John Willoughby, who truly opened wide the door to modern grilling, Phillip Stephen Schulz's Cooking with Fire and Smoke, and the remarkable Barbecue! Bible put together by Steven Raichlen that takes grilling global--to name just a few. But Bobby Flay does have flair and he does have enthusiasm, and both show up on every page. In chapters that cover everything grillable--from burgers (they may be turkey, they may be tuna) to poultry to meat, vegetables, and fruit--Flay pushes hard on combinations of colors and textures, spices and flavors sure to excite the sleepiest palate on the beach. Check out a standard like Butterflied Chicken with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil, or something a little more exotic like Whole Lobster Smothered in Cascabel Chile Butter. What is the thought of Grilled Pork Loin Sandwiches with Spicy Mango Ketchup doing to your taste buds right about now? The main caveat for these recipes: all are written to serve eight. And be sure to use common sense instead of some of the directions, such as cooking chopped garlic and shallots until soft in "almost smoking" hot oil, for four to five minutes. Hello. Where does soft stop and incinerated begin? --Schuyler Ingle
Customer Reviews:
Great Cookbook!.......2007-07-08
My husband loves to cook and grill and this is by far one of his favorite and most practical cookbooks.
great recipes and fun to read!.......2006-08-19
This is my son's favorite tv chef; I bought this for him for his birthday, and right away made several recipes, that all worked perfectly (often they do not!) The flavors were interesting and the directions clear and helpful. The desserts are fabulous too, especially the ice cream sundae frozen pie; I've already made it twice. The cookbook is a fun read and the recipes delicious! My family loves grilled food and bobby flay just makes it more interesting with his combination of flavors and unusual food pairings.
Awesome grilling.......2006-08-10
Bobby Flay has great recipes, ideas and techniques for grilling. This book is great and will take a long time to use them all.
Not-easy grilling.......2006-05-21
I am a huge Bobby Flay fan, and this book turns out some great recipes, but they are very time consuming, difficult recipes. If you want to turn out some high-end barbecue dishes, this book is for you. Be prepared to put in some serious prep time though.
Easy to use cookbook.......2006-03-27
This book is great, and easy to use. The recipes are a sure fire hit in any setting. You won't be disapointed
Amazon.com
Since his debut in 1951 as The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield has been synonymous with "cynical adolescent." Holden narrates the story of a couple of days in his sixteen-year-old life, just after he's been expelled from prep school, in a slang that sounds edgy even today and keeps this novel on banned book lists. It begins,
"If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth. In the first place, that stuff bores me, and in the second place, my parents would have about two hemorrhages apiece if I told anything pretty personal about them."
His constant wry observations about what he encounters, from teachers to phonies (the two of course are not mutually exclusive) capture the essence of the eternal teenage experience of alienation.
Book Description
Since his debut in 1951 as The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield has been synonymous with "cynical adolescent." Holden narrates the story of a couple of days in his sixteen-year-old life, just after he's been expelled from prep school, in a slang that sounds edgy even today and keeps this novel on banned book lists. It begins, "If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth. In the first place, that stuff bores me, and in the second place, my parents would have about two hemorrhages apiece if I told anything pretty personal about them." His constant wry observations about what he encounters, from teachers to phonies (the two of course are not mutually exclusive) capture the essence of the eternal teenage experience of alienation.
Customer Reviews:
One of the best books of all time.......2007-10-13
In order to love this book, you have to really get the words he says and understand that he is just a lost teenage soul like the rest of us. The book was by no means a lame one, I loved every part of it. It was easy to read, there were many interesting parts to it that gave the book it's extra taste. I highly suggest that anyone who is a teenager currently or whoever struggled in their teenage years, to read this book because you will definitely love it, but maybe not depending on your taste.
A Coward's Narrative..........2007-10-08
For years, friends and family noted the classic, The Catcher in the Rye, as a "must read." I was pleasantly surprised with Salinger's ahead-of-the-times writing of Holden Caufield and his experiences/thoughts with sex, drinking, and his general disenchantment with the world, as he is expelled from prep school. Holden narrates as he bounces around for a few days before heading home to tell his parents.
On some level, readers will relate their own lives to that of Holden's. How could you not? He's depressed, rebellious, and negative. He's a coward, a braggart, a phony, and a wannabe. We've all been like him at times. But that is his whole character and you rarely see another side... only his love for his sibling showed a side of Holden that could be defined as positive.
There is no real payoff or conclusion in the end. You'll find the value of this writing after finishing it, putting it back on the shelf, and thinking about it for a few days. Keep digging, it's there.
Have fun,
David Tobias
Redondo Beach, CA
Must Read.......2007-10-01
Unfortunately this book was not on my reading list for High School. It is a shame because I would have enjoyed it then, just as I enjoyed it now. Anybody can relate to some aspect of this novel. Whether it be growing up, the akward situations that we find ourselves in struggling through adolecence and our teenage years. Bottom line, is great book and everyone should read it at least once in their lifetime.
Bradbury is alive and well.......2007-09-28
This novel is more alive today than ever. Books are not being burned, but no one reads. The effect is the same. The few lucky ones have their favorite books in their heads.
A different perspective.......2007-09-24
Mid-aged now, I had a few spotty memories of this book from my high school years and in my mind's eye it seemed forgettable, but later in life I bought the book and read it again, partly because I wanted to see if I could figure out why John Lennon's murderer was carrying the book when he was arrested. Was there a clue in the story that inspired the twisted killer to attack Lennon? Anyhow, if so, then Chapman was not caught and saved by the Catcher, but instead went entirely off the cliff. And if Chapman envisioned himself as the Catcher, he was wrong. The Catcher in the Rye is a saver not a destroyer.
Although I rate this book five stars it is by far not my favorite, but I would still recommend it to anyone just because it is so popular. I did find it interesting and in my youth I spent a lot of time in New York City and had been to some of the places referenced in the story. When I was a kid growing up on a dairy farm, my cousins and friends and I used to play hide and seek in the cornfields, (Catcher in the Corn) way before we ever heard of Catcher in the Rye. So While reading this book I felt those kind of connections, as in, I felt like I was there in the story at times. But back when I first saw the title Catcher in the Rye, I imagined, (before reading), that it must have been about something in life to watch out for, something that may catch you if you let your guard down, something that might be out to get you. Maybe that's the connection Chapman made. Maybe Chapman didn't actually read the book before he killed. I just hope they keep the guy locked up.
And I, for one, hope they finally get finicky J.D.'s novel made into a movie. By the way, I think it is very healthy to turn off the TV and read books in quiet solitude. I find the best time is before I fall off to sleep, reading can also help to cultivate dreams.
note: I still sorely miss John Lennon.
Book Description
A stunning examination of how tragedy affects a town, a marriage, and a family, for readers of Rosellen Brown's Before and After and Jane Hamilton's A Map of the World.
That neither nature nor nurture bears exclusive responsibility for a child's character is self-evident. But such generalizations provide cold comfort when it's your own son who's just opened fire on his fellow students and whose class photograph--with its unseemly grin--is blown up on the national news.
The question of who's to blame for teenage atrocity tortures our narrator, Eva Khatchadourian. Two years ago, her son, Kevin, murdered seven of his fellow high-school students, a cafeteria worker, and a popular algebra teacher. Because he was only fifteen at the time of the killings, he received a lenient sentence and is now in a prison for young offenders in upstate New York.
Telling the story of Kevin's upbringing, Eva addresses herself to her estranged husband through a series of letters. Fearing that her own shortcomings may have shaped what her son has become, she confesses to a deep, long-standing ambivalence about both motherhood in general and Kevin in particular. How much is her fault?
We Need to Talk About Kevin offers no pat explanations for why so many white, well-to-do adolescents--whether in Pearl, Paducah, Springfield, or Littleton--have gone nihilistically off the rails while growing up in suburban comfort. Instead, Lionel Shriver tells a compelling, absorbing, and resonant story while framing these horrifying tableaux of teenage carnage as metaphors for the larger tragedy--the tragedy of a country where everything works, nobody starves, and anything can be bought but a sense of purpose.
Customer Reviews:
Disturbingly Good Book.......2007-09-18
Although I found this book to be written about very disturbing subject matter, I also found it to be very well written and compellingly readable. The mother of Kevin chronicles the ongoing crisis situation of an upwardly mobile New York couple and their decision to start a family. Dire consequences follow when their first child is nearly 16. The "narrator," in a series of letters to her huband reveals what happened with tantalizing glimpses of her life at present and the life of her family in the past.
Shriver also makes sly yet poignant commentary on American culture throughout the book, and it really works in this context, not ever coming across as condemning or preachy. She writes what is real, and gives life to her characters in the suburban, upper-class environment they live in.
I don't want to give too much of this book away, but Shriver does an excellent job with this storyline. This is sophisticated writing with incredible character development and a great story that actually has meaning, something that seems to be lacking in so much popular literature of the day.
A Chilling, Riveting, Brilliant Page Turner.......2007-09-16
This is one of the best books I've read in a while and I read everything! It is riveting, creepy, intelligent, and profound. I just devoured it. It's one of those stories that stays with you long after you finish the last page. This was my first book of Lionel Shriver's and I can't wait to read more of her stuff. Great book!
Excellent, Disturbing Read.......2007-09-14
A Novel, a story - that's what I had to keep telling myself. One that stays with you. The Negative to "My Sister's Keeper" - just as haunting.
Brilliant and compelling.......2007-09-04
This book held my interest all the way through even though parts of it could have been a bit more condensed. Kevin sent chills up my spine.
I found it very difficult to sympathize with his mother, but I also found it difficult not to examine my own style of parenting as compared to her style and her husband's.
I think the book was far superior to Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult.
Mesmerizing, hauntingly so...........2007-08-27
The novel is based upon a series of letters that the protagonist, Eva, writes to her husband, wanting to understand what went wrong with Kevin, what made Kevin do what he did. The letters are truly mesmerizing in a horrible/haunting sort of way. I was reminded of Lovely Bones, where the horror of the act that Kevin committed is not as terrible as you think it might be, that you can stomach it if only because you want to understand how it came about.
Eva is by her own admission, not the best of mothers. Still her letters are so well written, at times the word choice so exquisite, the stories she tells so commanding, that you pull back and think 'this is an intelligent woman' and you admire her and wish you could know her. Other times you despise her and want to shake her and say 'how could you pit yourself against him all the time, be reasonable' . In the end I felt only pity for her, she obviously didn't realize what she had when she had it and she failed to recognize the warning signs. So she confines herself to her own little hell, and in the end comes to understand more about her son and herself - perhaps more than she ever really planned too.
Shriver is a dark writer - by her own admission (at the end of the book we get a conversation with Shriver about Kevin, about books she recommends...). She is very convincing at portraying Eva as a successful woman who occasionally suffers from insistent whining...ah, but such is the dilemma of first person novels... and Eva is perhaps sometimes too much the villain, but then hind sight is always better than foresight...Still this is brilliantly written and well worth reading, a letter at a time. I could even forgive Shriver's use of "mobile" instead of cell phone (apparently, Shriver has been residing in London for a very long time). Shriver's character, Eva, most likely would have used the word 'mobile' rather than 'cell', if just to distance herself from the general rabble so I let it slide, figuring it to be more in keeping with Eva's character, although at first I felt it a grating mistake for one who is so bent on being right and supposedly American.
A haunting tale that captures your attention and holds it through 400 pages wanting to know how it ends...
Average customer rating:
- great series
- a great book for explaining, you know, everything to your kid
- Great book!
- The best book on this topic for young kids that I found!
- One of Three: Best for the Youngest!
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It's Not the Stork!: A Book About Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends
Robie H. Harris
Manufacturer: Candlewick
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 Nonfiction
| New Baby
| Family Life
| People & Places
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Sexuality
| Health
| Science, Nature & How It Works
| Children's Books
| Subjects
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General
| Ages 4-8
| Children's Books
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General
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Similar Items:
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It's So Amazing!: A Book about Eggs, Sperm, Birth, Babies, and Families
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It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health
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Everything You Never Wanted Your Kids to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid They'd Ask): The Secrets to Surviving Your Child's Sexual Development from Birth to the Teens
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What's the Big Secret?: Talking about Sex with Girls and Boys
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Where Did I Come From?
ASIN: 0763600474
Release Date: 2006-07-25 |
Book Description
From the expert team behind IT'S PERFECTLY NORMAL and IT'S SO AMAZING! comes a book for younger children about their bodies — a resource that parents, teachers, librarians, health care providers, and clergy can use with ease and confidence.
Young children are curious about almost everything, especially their
bodies. And young children are not afraid to ask questions. What makes
me a girl? What makes me a boy? Why are some parts of girls' and boys'
bodies the same and why are some parts different? How was I made?
Where do babies come from? Is it true that a stork brings babies to
mommies and daddies?
IT'S NOT THE STORK! helps answer these endless and perfectly normal questions that preschool, kindergarten, and early elementary school children ask about how they began. Through lively, comfortable language and sensitive, engaging artwork, Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley
address readers in a reassuring way, mindful of a child's healthy desire
for straightforward information. Two irresistible cartoon characters, a
curious bird and a squeamish bee, provide comic relief and give voice to
the full range of emotions and reactions children may experience while
learning about their amazing bodies. Vetted and approved by science,
health, and child development experts, the information is up-to-date,
age-appropriate, and scientifically accurate, and always aimed at helping
kids feel proud, knowledgeable, and comfortable about their own bodies,
about how they were born, and about the family they are part of.
Customer Reviews:
great series.......2007-08-28
this series of sex ed books for children are a great resource for parents who believe in open discussions about sexuality but don't know where to start with their children. each book is designed for a particular age group and addresses various aspects of sexuality appropriate for that age group. recommend highly.
a great book for explaining, you know, everything to your kid.......2007-07-15
Lots of easy to understand graphics and fun text make this book a great starting place to talk with your young kid about the birds and the bees. There's way more in here than what I need for my 4 year old right now, but it covered the basic information enough to satisfy her curiousity and my concern over how to describe a little, to be accurate, and not say too much.
Great book!.......2007-07-09
Bought this to help me answer those questions my 7 year old was asking. The age for this is listed as 4. I don't think I would use it for a child that young but it was perfect for what I needed. The illustrations are great, very child friendly. The descriptions were not overly graphic. I would recommend it to any one to help open the discussion with their child.
The best book on this topic for young kids that I found!.......2007-06-03
I had trouble finding the right book for my 4 years old, that is not too graphic and doesn't get into long explanations, becuase he has short attention span :-) However, this book has wonderful pictures, nicely presented, interesting for smaller kids. It is the best thing I found( and I looked at many, trust me!)!I will recommend it to all my friends, definetely a must for a toddler
One of Three: Best for the Youngest!.......2007-03-13
This book came to me through the Our Whole Lives faith and sexuality curriculum. It has two partner books, for older age groups. All three are excellent, and have been "tested" with several friends' families.
I highly recommend this book, and its "older siblings," It's So Amazing and It's Perfectly Normal. Check out all three, then look for a church or organization that offers Our Whole Lives!
Book Description
Refuel is back!
Customer Reviews:
The Bible is still the Bible, no matter the cover.......2006-11-03
I have read many of the reviews here, and while I disagree with some of them I agree wholeheartedly with the majority of them. First, I don't feel that by "repackaging" the Bible in a different format is sacrilige. It was only a few hundred years ago that the Bible was solely copied onto individual scrolls. I am inclined to believe that the clerics of that time were horrified that the Bible was "lumped" together and made accessible to the masses. With that in mind; I have purchased five of these books, for my nephews and some young men that I mentor. I find it to be a very good translation, and it is a way to get young people who may not otherwise read the Bible to pick it up. As for the comments that it talks too much about music, sports, and dating, I must point out that the "regular" Bible talks about all of those things also. The side bars that mention those topics always refer the reader to the passages that the information is taken from. Most young people (and some "old" people for that matter) do not realize that the Bible talks about all of those things, and then some. No, we are not to bring Christ to people on "their terms," but we must always remember that Jesus himself ministered to people and taught in ways that were relevant to them. If there is any doubt, refer to the fact that Jesus did 99% of his teacher via parables. It is very important to make sure that people know and understand that while Jesus won't accept them on "their" terms, He will accept them as they are - imperfect human beings. My opinion is that if these Biblezines will get one person to read God's word that wouldn't have ordinarily read it, or if one person who has read other Bibles can read this and have a new understanding of God's word, then these Biblezines have served their purposes.
Good bible!.......2006-11-02
A new bible with the same message! It is great for every teen out there!
NOTE: This is for boy's...Men!
An Engaging Presentation.......2006-06-26
If there is anything important in life it is to walk in Christ. But to do that one must know Him and the only way to do that is to read His Word.
Blessed with the responsibility of raising an adolescent into manhood I've spent many days trying different approaches of getting my son to read the Word of God on his own. So when I saw this Bible I was extremely excited. This was exactly what he needed.
When he saw the book for the first time he thought it was a magazine and started reading it right away. Granted, it wasn't long before he realized that it was the New Testament but that didn't stop him from continuing to read it on his own. What is really enlightening is when he comes up to me and tells me something that he learned while reading it. "Dad, did you know.....?" "Dad, guess what happened to Jesus...." It is the most exhilarating feeling to know that your son is reading the Word on his own. HisAmbassador.com
Average customer rating:
- Thank you Tony for sharing your story with us.
- Heartbreaking, but a great book
- I was amazed
- Great Read!
- Why are they still around?
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The Hopeville Fire Department: A Boy's Tale of Betrayal by One of New England's Most Notorious Priests
Tony Lembo
Manufacturer: Prose & Pictures, Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
Memoirs
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
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True Crime
| True Accounts
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Abuse
| Sociology
| Social Sciences
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Child Abuse
| Family Relationships
| Parenting & Families
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General
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| Christianity
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Look Inside Nonfiction Books
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Similar Items:
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The Queen
ASIN: 0979349109 |
Product Description
The Hopeville Fire Department is the true, first person account of a victim of sexual abuse by one of New England's most notorious priests. In the heartland of devoutly Catholic, working-class, 1970s New England, few took notice of Connecticut State Police and fire chaplain Father Stephen C. Foley racing around in a car full of teenaged boys and young men, visiting firehouses, chasing fire engines, showing up at fire scenes and pretending to be firemen. But hidden in plain sight, Father Foley was a central figure in a network of firehouse groupies across New England that, for more than two decades, used the candy of firehouse and police culture to lure boys into violent sexual initiations that left their lives shattered while the Catholic Church looked the other way. This is the story of one of those boys, and a look inside one of the most bizarre and callous cases of pedophilia ever uncovered among the Catholic clergy. It is a tale of evil and hypocrisy still unfolding in today's headlines as the Diocese of Hartford continues to pay out millions to keep the truth from being told, while providing Foley with shelter and defense against a growing chorus of victims.
Customer Reviews:
Thank you Tony for sharing your story with us........2007-08-07
We all need to be aware of clergy sexual misconduct and what happened to Tony Lembo is why. So many victims of sexual abuse silently suffer alone. We all need to be aware of this problem as this is the only way we can begin to hold accountable these pedophiles.
To think Father Foley has never been charged and is free to molest more boys is insane. Let us all wake up to this now.
Heartbreaking, but a great book .......2007-06-06
This book is well written and straight from the heart. The abuse is sickening and the method of grooming these boys is just pure evil genius--what kid can resist cruising around watching firemen work? What courage to have brought this out into the fresh air and sunlight, to refuse to keep silent and be a victim one more minute.
I was amazed.......2007-06-04
This book is easy to read, straight from the heart and interesting. I can't beleive those [...] are still free to violate other young children. I didn't realize people could act that terrible. I would reccomend this book to anyone with a few hours to sit down and read. You will have a hard time laying the book down once you start reading it.
Great Read!.......2007-05-16
This book was hard to put this book down. Unlike typical expose books on the Catholic Church, Tony tells us that he can't understand the motives behind Father Stephen Foley who assaulted him, or the Catholic Church who covered up years of Foley's assaults on uncountable victims, because that is not the point of "The Hopeville Fire Department." The point of this book was for Tony to tell his story and explain the life of a victim of betrayal and sexual abuse. Tony brings us into his life at an early age and we travel from his Catholic upbringings through his assault, to an adult coping with this horrific memory. He goes further than any media outlet ever can by explaining, in his own words, what's it like to live your whole life with a secret so humiliating, it takes 30 years to confess. I would recommend "The Hopeville Fire Department" to anyone because of its honesty and quick-read quality. This is a topic that everyone should be aware of.
Why are they still around?.......2007-04-15
This book touched me deeply. I finished the book in two parts. I'm so glad Tony wrote this book no one really knows what these priest did, only thing we hear is that the church is paying hugh amounts of money. His story blow me away. After reading this book I logged onto Tonylembo.com to find all kinds of media attention on this book. When I realized that this priest is still living the life, driving the same car I was stunned and sick to my stomach. If your children aren't safe with the priests of the Catholic Church who can we trust?
Product Description
I'M STAYING WITH MY BOYS... is a first-hand look inside the life of one of the greatest heroes of the greatest generation. Sgt. John Basilone was lauded by General Douglas MacArthur as ...A ONE MAN ARMY and awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic defense of a vital airfield early in World War 2. It was the turning point of the war and Basilones foxhole was the site of the turning point in that battle. Distinctive among military biographies, the story is narrated by Sgt. Basilone himself allowing readers to experience the development of Johnny Basilone, the aimless youth, into Gunnery Sergeant MANILA JOHN Basilone, the clear-eyed warrior, undefeated light-heavyweight boxer and nationally revered war hero. This publication is the only family-authorized biography. The story is woven with surprising personal details such as Sgt. Basilones uncanny premonitions. Three times he confided to his family unlikely visions of his future. All three times the visions came to pass - including the final one that foretold his death. In spite of his final revelation, and true to his unwavering dedication to his men, he returned to battle and was killed on the beach at Iwo Jima - an emotional true story
Customer Reviews:
A MUST READ ! ! !.......2005-09-15
My friend loaned me this book to read and I must say that it gave me a new found appreciation of what those men and women did for us in WWII. This book was very easy to read, and should be included in the curriculum of every Recent American History course taught in High School or College. I HIGHLY recommend picking up a copy of this book. I have already purchased a copy for myself after reading my friends copy.
It sounds so prophetic.......2005-01-26
He knew he was going to die, and he just kept on fighting. He never abandoned his marines and thats just what he should have done. Its how the writer makes this so real that is so inspiring, not that his deeds werent great, but there have probably been thousands who have done just what he did, they just werent famous. But overall this is a good book. I like how it takes us to a time when being "patriotic" didnt get us arrested or sued.
A must read.......2005-01-06
Wonderfully moving and well written insight into a true American hero. It is a must read for all patriotic Americans and almost a responsiblity for us all to be aware of one of the US Marine's best.
Excellent.......2004-10-25
If you are interested in a personal story of WWII, then this is an excellent book. Rather than getting into the details of the conflicts this book focuses on the personal story of John Basilone - one of the handful of true American Heroes from WWII.
Written in the first person with an ample dose of personal details from his family, this book truly brings Manilla John back to life for many. I've been studying WWII for only 10 years and have read my share of the technical assessments of the important battles in WWII. This book stands out in my mind because it puts the reader in touch with the qualities of America's best young men and women of the 1940's; selflessness, courage, a supreme sense of duty, and in Basilon's case, a supreme sense of destiny.
Highly recommended for anyone with a passing interest in WWII, or for anyone who wants to learn about what made America's young people "tick" 60 years ago.
An Extraordinary Biography and Full Frontal View of War.......2004-08-28
Author and Film Producer Jim Prosser has created a richly detailed, raptly written, devastatingly powerful book about the life of American War hero John Basilone. This book is especially pungent at this time in history because it revives a lost tradition of the country's view of maritime heroism. Since the atrocities of the Vietnam mistake to the present harrowing details of a similar (or worse) war in Iraq the concept of war is now very much in a negative light. Even the words 'war hero' seem an oxymoron, so strident are the feelings about America's latest aggressions. But to appreciate this fine book requires a return to the mindset of the US during World War II when not only was Europe under the vile threat of Hitler and Mussolini, but the Japanese warriors were annihilating China, Korea, and ultimately the Philippines in the mission to own the Pacific Ocean. And even in those early years the threat seemed frightening but distant until the Japanese successfully decimate the US Pacific Fleet on December 7, 1941. That incident unified the country, creating a fighting force and support system at home that eventually resulted in the defeat of the massive evil outside the borders of the USA.
Given that atmosphere of over a half century ago, author Proser has created one of the most convincing portraits of a military hero in literature. And the intensively researched and detailed approach results in a biography that fully restores the ambience of WW II. John Basilone was a nice Italian boy form Raritan, New Jersey, a lad who quit school to follow his recurring visions. He caddied for Japanese businessmen at a country club, seeing in his prophetic mind that at some day he would be at war with Japan. After trying multiple jobs he finally enlists in the Army, makes the best of boot camp by gambling and boxing, and is shipped to the Philippines where he spent time waiting, boxing (becoming a champion nicknamed Manila John), running a little bar with his Island sweetheart, and finally returning home. Frustrated once again with the boredom of work and the embarrassment of not having finished his education, Basilone finally returns to the military by signing on with the USMC, trains hard at Quantico, Cuba, and other US training camp swamps, and finally is shipped to Guadalcanal where his brilliance and dedication to his commanding officer ("Chesty" Puller) through one of the most devastating battles in the Pacific arena earned him not only the respect of his men, but also the Medal of Honor - the highest commendation offered by his country. Returning home form this mission he ride the waves of adulation form the American people, hobnobs with movies stars, sells War Bonds, and falls in love, only to be shipped out once again to the Pacific where he is killed in action in the battle for Iwo Jima.
The amazing (that is, ONE of the amazing) aspect of this book is that Proser has elected to write it in the first person of John Basilone. Everything is told as Basilone perceives it, lives, feels, and survives it. Rarely has a story been written with such clarity and perception: we truly feel that Basilone has written his memoirs. The language of the period is exactly right, the descriptions of the various battles and conditions of being a soldier under tremendously adverse conditions are vivid, and the soldiers' mentality of being in the thick of war are written with such bulls-eye focus that no matter what the reader's opinion of War might be, this book makes it all understandable form the point of view of the soldiers who fought. Some of the battle passages are tough to read: "On October 23, a light tank and infantry attack across the mouth of the Matanikau ran right into the teeth of Vandegrift's defenses. It was chewed up in short order with over 600 Japs killed, many of them trapped in a jungle clearing where US tanks just drove over them instead of wasting ammunition. They ground the poor bastards up like sausage under the tank treads until the entire clearing was covered in gore and left to rot in the sun." And a soldier's impressions: "We all heard a lot about the bravery of the Japanese soldier before we got on the island. They were supposed to be the most fearless warriors ever to fight. But I kept thinking what kind of bravery it was that sent them, one after the other, right into the same guns that mowed down dozens before them. I don't know if that was bravery. I don't know what it was. Either they were crazy or they just didn't care. So I didn't care either. They weren't even men anymore. They were dumb animals who wanted me dead and had killed all my friends."
Proser very cleverly weaves snippets of Iwo Jima from the opening of the book to its finish, which in an act of brilliance makes the whole story more pungent in retrospect. There is little doubt the Sgt. John Basilone was an extraordinary soldier and military hero along with the thousands of others who lost their lives in the incomprehensibly vast WW II. I think this is a very important book that everyone should read, and I say that as a pacifist, as a Vietnam Veteran convinced that war on any level is simply not an option. This book is vastly important, well written, and contains a story and moment of history we all should face and incorporate. And perhaps then we can all better empathize with soldiers form throughout history to the very present. Recommended without reservation!
Book Description
What is a stalker? And what kind of life can a woman lead when she knows she is being followed, obsessively and perhaps dangerously, by one?
This is the dilemma facing Theresa Bedell, a reporter in New York, in Rebecca Gilman's tensely fascinating new play. When Theresa goes on an awkward blind date with a friend of a friend, she sees no reason to continue the relationship--but the man, an attractive fellow named Tony, thinks otherwise. While Theresa is at first annoyed yet flattered by his continuing attention, her attitude gradually changes to one of fear and fury when he starts violently to menace her and those around her.
In brilliantly delineating the kind of terror a woman in full control of her life feels when everything around her suddenly seems to be a threat, Gilman probes the dark side of relationships in the 1990s with the rich insight and compelling characterizations that have distinguished her earlier plays and made her one of the most exciting young playwrights working today.
Customer Reviews:
Gilman gets Stalking.......2007-03-07
Boy gets Girl, is a truthful glimpse into the the affect of stalking on a woman and those around her. This play just isn't about the experience of the victim it also examines the society in which the characters live and how social conditioning affects the way woman see men and themselves, and vice versa. This is an entertaining , thought provoking play that you can read in one sitting. Though sometimes an uncomfortable , awkward moment makes it's way off the page and into your nervous system. Ewww!
...he was kind of funny. I mean, in a totally offensive way........2005-03-11
Boys Gets Girl is a dark play, which builds and builds toward a strong and very effective conclusion. Again Rebecca Gilman presents a social issue, in The Glory of Living it was poverty and violence, in Spinning Into Butter it was liberal/academic racism and in Boy Gets Girl it is stalking.
Without giving away the story: Theresa is a hard working journalist who doesn't date. When a friend sets up a blind date for her which starts well, only to deteriorate over time, Theresa's life is thrown into a tail spin.
That's a general look at the story. But the excellent part of Boy Gets Girl is the depth to which Gilman focuses on male/female relationships. Are they social games we play or do people of opposite sexes have biologically accute responses to each other, and is such behavior inherited or learned. Is the cliched "chase" or "pursuit" which Mercer regards as an archetypal story (in which the boy sees, the girl doesn't, the boy pursues, the girl ignores, the boy persists, the girl rejects, the boy persists, the girl relents, etc., etc.) borne of necessity or too many romantic books or movies?...So sets up an investigation by not only Theresa, but her co-workers, interviewees and other characters, into what it is to be a sexual animal today. She regards why and what men and women think about each otehr, and the ramifications.
For a gripping, difficult, occasionally scary play, which deals with socially significant issues, Gilman deserves much credit.
Outstanding theatre.......2004-10-15
This is a rare case of a play being great to read but even better when on stage. As one of the cast in Spontaneous Productions' performance of this show in September of 2002 in Boise, Idaho I think I can safely say that the audience was moved and made to think. The subject matter of stalking and the wide spread repurcussions made more than a few of the patrons come away with a better grasp of how tragic this crime is. Read the book, but if you have the chance, see the play.
Not an attack on men.......2004-10-06
This play was a beautifully written analysis of society's veiw on relationships. Contrary to belief, it is not an attack on men, but the way that our society has formed men and the potential hazard that it poses. It is shocking, yet holds a strong and effective message. I recommend it to anyone who consider what society makes us.
OVERRATED??.......2004-04-01
I read this play in a theater class in college. I cannot understand how anyone can say that this play is overrated! Gilman developed the characters to the extent that I couldnt put it down! I loved this play!
Average customer rating:
- Growing Up
- It depends on the child - great for my son!
- Good conversation starter.
- Moms need this! More than dads. Maybe more than sons.
- Boys need this
|
What's Happening to My Body? Book for Boys: The New Growing-Up Guide for Parents and Sons, Third Edition
Lynda Madaras ,
Dane Saavedra , and
Martin Anderson
Manufacturer: Newmarket Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Maturing
| Health
| Science, Nature & How It Works
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Sexuality
| Health
| Science, Nature & How It Works
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Ages 9-12
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Nonfiction
| Boys & Men
| People & Places
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Sexuality
| Health, Mind & Body
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
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What's Going on Down There?: Answers to Questions Boys Find Hard to Ask
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The "What's Happening to My Body" Book for Girls, Revised Third Edition (What's Happening to My Body?)
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It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health
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American Medical Association Boy's Guide to Becoming a Teen
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"What's Happening to Me?" A guide to puberty
ASIN: 1557044473 |
Amazon.com
"Hanging Low, Keeping Cool," "A Hairy Question," "Feeling Private/Feeling Guilty," "You Don't See Any Blind, Crazy Morons Around Here, Do Ya?"
Can you guess what all these chapter titles are about? Give you a hint: everything you ever wanted to know about (but were afraid to ask)... You got it, boys and puberty! Author Lynda Madaras and her daughter Area Madaras have expanded and updated their sensitive, detailed, often witty guide for boys on the cusp of adolescence. To help boys realize they are not alone in their concerns about masturbation, body hair, growth spurts (or lack thereof), female puberty, voice changes, perspiration, shaving, and sexuality, this classic guide is written in a down-to-earth, nonjudgmental style and filled with answers to the many questions boys have as their bodies begin the transformation into adulthood. As a result of thousands of reader letters over the years, as well as the ever growing body of information about puberty in boys, the third edition has been revised to include more detailed discussion of penis size (the authors get more questions about penis size than all other topics combined), updated information on acne treatment, expanded sections on eating right, exercise, steroid abuse, and weight training, and important facts about STDs, AIDS, and birth control. Filled with anecdotes, illustrations, and diagrams, the guide is designed with the understanding that some boys and parents will want to read it together, while others will want to pore over it on their own. Either way, this resource will prove to be incredibly useful for boys and their parents over these strange, exciting years. The companion volume for girls, What's Happening to My Body? Book for Girls is a must-read as well. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter
Book Description
The best book on puberty for 9-15 year old boys completely updated for the first time in 12 years! Selected as a "Best Book for Young Adults" by the American Library Association--The classic puberty education book for 9-15 year-old boys (over 500,000 copies sold), now thoroughly updated and freshly redesigned for the first time in 12 years. This classic book covers the body's changing size and shape, hair, voice changes, perspiration, pimples, the reproductive organs, sexuality, puberty in girls and adds new sections on diet, exercise, and health. It also includes vital information on AIDS, STDs, and birth control appropriate for this age group, and an introduction for parents and educators. Responding to letters and new data about teenage concerns, some of the changes in this edition include:
* new, more detailed discussions of penis size ("the subject of most letters I get," says Madaras)
* new, more detailed discussions on eating right and exercise, steroid abuse, and weight training
* more practical advice on hygienic products, shaving products, and treatment of acne
* more reassuring stories from boys and men to help relieve the embarrassment and anxiety over erections, orgasms, masturbation, wet dreams, and health issues including injuries and testicular cancer
* expanded resource section on sexuality, homosexuality, birth control, sexually transmitted diseases.
Over 1,200,000 copies of Lynda Madaras books sold!
Customer Reviews:
Growing Up.......2007-08-11
A very good book that has answers to questions that some parents have a hard time explaining and talking about. Worth getting and keeping on your book shelf.
It depends on the child - great for my son!.......2007-07-10
I got this book on recommendation of a friend who read it with her son at age 10.
I read a prior reviewer's comment that no pre-teen boy would ever read this book on his own. My husband and I introduced this book to my son when he was 11 (right before the start of 6th grade). My husband and I pre-read the book and then I casually gave it to my son, asked him to read it and to ask us any questions. At first I noticed him glancing through it and skipping around from chapter to chapter. Whenever he had a question, he'd come to one of us - but not too frequently.
Two months into middle school, my son seemed to be reading the book all the time. I am assuming it was because of the "older" discussions, etc. the boys were having. I also thought that he may be trying to figure out if the information he was getting from friends at school was correct. My son initiated several discussions with us about information he read in the book. I don't think he found any of the terms too clinical. In fact, I believe the book gives the correct terminology and some common or slang terms as well. (i.e. "wet dreams") I have always taught my son the correct terminology for body parts, etc.
When my son's school (all boys) had their health seminar at the end of 6th grade, he took the book to school with him - I believe to share it with the teacher (a female).
All in all, I think the book was very informative and gave my son the truth.
I would suggest that parents read it first to determine if their sons can handle it. I cannot imagine giving my child this book on his 10th birthday - he was definitely NOT ready then. But my friend did just that and she, her husband, and her son developed weekly discussions on it.
Good conversation starter........2007-05-17
My husband and I have always been very open with our son regarding sex and body issues, in an age-appropriate way. He is now nearly 11 and we got this book for him. He giggled a bit about it but when I let him know I'd be glad to talk about any of the chapters with him, I was a little surprised that the first thing he wanted to talk about was the section on girls..... being a boy, we'd been filling him in on what to expect from his own body but forgot that he'd be curious about the "gentler sex". It's been a nice tool and we have left it on the bookshelf in his room. He can peruse it at his own pace and when he's wondering about things, knowing that he can always come to us with questions about anything.
I think it's an informative book that is, like my title suggests, a good conversation starter. It's not a substitute for talking with your kids about sex and the things that happen during puberty and beyond.
We're very happy with this book and it fits our parenting style.
Moms need this! More than dads. Maybe more than sons........2007-04-19
Dads may know all this stuff already, but moms don't have a clue! And moms are the ones who actually explain male anatomy & physiology to their sons. We're the ones who spend the most time with young boys and have the most opportunities to teach. Since we don't have first hand experience, we need factual information.
I have two sons, and learned only from this book, how boys develop and what is typical. I was shocked to learn this information, until you consider that, as a girl, I had no opportunity to learn. And this topic can be so uncomfortable for men, that they don't know this information either. They may be relying on only their personal experience or viewpoints.
I actually consider this one of the most important books a mother can read. This is more important for a son's future self esteem than all those books about the problems of rearing toddlers that mothers are encouraged to read. I feel so strongly about our collective ignorance as mothers that I had to write. In fact, I'm giving this book as a gift to other mothers. Moms need to read this book. Learn something.
Boys need this.......2007-01-13
Boys may be too shy to ask their parents about these issues. This book helps to open the door for further discussion.
Books:
- To Green Angel Tower, Part 2 (Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn, Book 3)
- Twilight (Twilight, Book 1)
- Watchdogs of Democracy?: The Waning Washington Press Corps and How It Has Failed the Public
- When the Light Goes: A Novel
- Where Did I Go Right? : You're No One In Hollywood Unless Someone Wants You Dead
- Whirligig
- You're Lucky You're Funny: How Life Becomes a Sitcom
- YOU: The Owner's Manual: An Insider's Guide to the Body that Will Make You Healthier and Younger
- Your Body's Many Cries for Water: You Are Not Sick, You Are Thirsty: Don't Treat Thirst with Medications
- 1,000 Places to See Before You Die: A Traveler's Life List
Books Index
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One Child
