Amazon.com
"The best way to understand the dramatic transformation of unknown books into bestsellers, or the rise of teenage smoking, or the phenomena of word of mouth or any number of the other mysterious changes that mark everyday life," writes Malcolm Gladwell, "is to think of them as epidemics. Ideas and products and messages and behaviors spread just like viruses do." Although anyone familiar with the theory of memetics will recognize this concept, Gladwell's The Tipping Point has quite a few interesting twists on the subject.
For example, Paul Revere was able to galvanize the forces of resistance so effectively in part because he was what Gladwell calls a "Connector": he knew just about everybody, particularly the revolutionary leaders in each of the towns that he rode through. But Revere "wasn't just the man with the biggest Rolodex in colonial Boston," he was also a "Maven" who gathered extensive information about the British. He knew what was going on and he knew exactly whom to tell. The phenomenon continues to this day--think of how often you've received information in an e-mail message that had been forwarded at least half a dozen times before reaching you.
Gladwell develops these and other concepts (such as the "stickiness" of ideas or the effect of population size on information dispersal) through simple, clear explanations and entertainingly illustrative anecdotes, such as comparing the pedagogical methods of Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, or explaining why it would be even easier to play Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon with the actor Rod Steiger. Although some readers may find the transitional passages between chapters hold their hands a little too tightly, and Gladwell's closing invocation of the possibilities of social engineering sketchy, even chilling, The Tipping Point is one of the most effective books on science for a general audience in ages. It seems inevitable that "tipping point," like "future shock" or "chaos theory," will soon become one of those ideas that everybody knows--or at least knows by name. --Ron Hogan
Book Description
"The best way to understand the dramatic transformation of unknown books into bestsellers, or the rise of teenage smoking, or the phenomena of word of mouth or any number of the other mysterious changes that mark everyday life," writes Malcolm Gladwell, "is to think of them as epidemics. Ideas and products and messages and behaviors spread just like viruses do." Although anyone familiar with the theory of memetics will recognize this concept, Gladwell's The Tipping Point has quite a few interesting twists on the subject.For example, Paul Revere was able to galvanize the forces of resistance so effectively in part because he was what Gladwell calls a "Connector": he knew just about everybody, particularly the revolutionary leaders in each of the towns that he rode through. But Revere "wasn't just the man with the biggest Rolodex in colonial Boston," he was also a "Maven" who gathered extensive information about the British. He knew what was going on and he knew exactly whom to tell. The phenomenon continues to this day--think of how often you've received information in an e-mail message that had been forwarded at least half a dozen times before reaching you.Gladwell develops these and other concepts (such as the "stickiness" of ideas or the effect of population size on information dispersal) through simple, clear explanations and entertainingly illustrative anecdotes, such as comparing the pedagogical methods of Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, or explaining why it would be even easier to play Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon with the actor Rod Steiger. Although some readers may find the transitional passages between chapters hold their hands a little too tightly, and Gladwell's closing invocation of the possibilities of social engineering sketchy, even chilling, The Tipping Point is one of the most effective books on science for a general audience in ages. It seems inevitable that "tipping point," like "future shock" or "chaos theory," will soon become one of those ideas that everybody knows--or at least knows by name. --Ron Hogan
Customer Reviews:
Not a good book.......2007-10-18
This is not a good book. The author tries to make the book longer by talking about the same simple idea again and again. Just search on Google and you will get all the ideas in the book. I am not recommending anyone to buy this book.
Take care of the little things and the big things will all come together.......2007-10-17
For those that like to learn about how people act, react and think, this book is a fascinating read. I'm not much on non-novels; I usually get through them and think "what a waste of time, I could of read a good book". But with this book and the book Understanding: Train of Thought, I couldn't put them down. They are such easy reading; it is easy to retain the material and they keep you thinking long after. I liked them so much I bought more copies for my friends!
An Unabashed Fan for Good Reason.......2007-10-16
I'm a huge fan of Gladwell's work. Both Blink and Tipping Point are fantastically entertaining yet highly informative - a combination that I, as a writer, aspire to and one that Gladwell has clearly mastered.
Great read.......2007-10-15
Not the most innovative concept in marketing, but Galdwell did a very good job in explaining a complex phenomena by giving easy to follow examples. I particularly like the Boston Tea Party example.
Irrelevent Drivel.......2007-10-15
Yet another author who has found something interesting to write about, realizes there isn't enough to fill a book and then embarks on a meandering journey of sleep inducing, page filling drivel. In this case the subject is social epidemics. If you wipe out three quaters of this book you'd have a good read.
Product Description
Description coming soon...
Amazon.com
Although this book was around when many of today's parents were youngsters, it has remained a steadfast must-have in every toddler's library. For starters, it's a great vocabulary guide that names the many things that go (and some that haven't a prayer of going, but are great fun to imagine anyway). It's also teeming with detail-rich scenes and characters on every page, teaching children the rewards of looking long and closely (such as finding the hidden "Goldbug" in each spread). Along the way it entertains with the silly and slapstick--everything from toothpaste and toothbrush cars to six fire department vehicles that show up to extinguish a ladybug-size fire in a miniature pink convertible. What's most amazing about this book, however, is its longevity. When you purchase it for your fledgling talker, you should consider it an investment. Even 11-, 12-, and 13-year-olds are known to pore over the book nostalgically, cooing at Lowly Worm and eagerly tracking Officer Flossie's book-long chase after that irresponsible, speedster driver in a cowboy hat. (Ages 2 and older) --Gail Hudson
Customer Reviews:
Eternal delight.......2007-10-08
You will be asked to read this every night. Your child will sleep with it, and bring it out to breakfast. The hardcover binding thankfully is up to repeated page-turning by a toddler, and the printing is vibrant and clear. I prefer "What Do People Do All Day" as it tells more stories, but who can tell a three-year-old!
Cars and Trucks and Things That Go.......2007-09-29
I have been sharing this wonderful book with so many new mothers of boys ever since my 32-year old enjoyed his book as a child. It is so colorful and eye-catching and it is such fun to find Goldbug. It is a wonderful way to share with your child and to help him use his mind.
Timeless!.......2007-09-28
My 37 year old daughter loved this book, especially searching for the Goldbugs. I bought a copy for her almost-three year old daughter and she loves it just as much. Makes me happy!
Great book for kids, and nostalgic for parents.......2007-09-19
My husband wanted to buy this book for our two year old daughter because he remembered it very well from his childhood. Even though there are many pages our daughter loves to flip through them and see the different types of automobiles and trucks, and she loves to find the little goldbug on each page. The book is a little larger than most of her other books, but she doesn't have any trouble turning the pages, especially if it is laying on the floor. As she gets older she should not have any trouble with it if it is in her lap. I think that this book will entertain her for years to come, as there are so many different things to look at on every page, plus the fun of finding goldbug.
Lots to see.......2007-09-14
It probably helps that my son is obsessed with "things that go", but this has been one of his favorites for some time. He could sit and stare at the pages for a long time - well a long time for a 2-year old. There's a lot going on on each page, so I thought he might be a little overwhelmed with it all, but there are things on each page he focuses on. Dingo the dog and Goldbug help tie all the pages together. It helps his observation skills to search for them.
Book Description
Impoverished Philadelphia heiress Nora Blackbird has agreed to wed Mick Abruzzo, son of New Jersey's most notorious mobster, leaving the city's bluebloods in shock. Then Nora and her sisters get some ominous news-Sweet Penny Devine, ex-Hollywood starlet and daughter of the Philadelphia Devines, has mysteriously disappeared. Even stranger, her family wants her declared dead pronto. Could someone have plotted her final act? Now it's up to the Blackbird sisters to snoop among the snooty-until they uncover the truth.
Customer Reviews:
Nancy Martin and the Blackbird Sisters.......2007-09-12
This book was a great book in this series. I loved reading it and can not wait for the next book.
Easy Read.......2007-08-14
I enjoy the Blackbird sister books - they're an easy, fast read when I don't want to think to hard about what I'm reading. I would recommend them to anyone, but would caution you to read them in order.
Always entertaining.......2007-06-27
Great writer, great story. The relationships are so interesting, always dynamic and intertwined. Love this author's point of view. The mystery was a good one too.
Fun.......2007-06-11
All of Nancy Martin's books are fun, fast and easy reads. They are entertaining, will make you laugh, and great summer books for relaxing. It is enjoyable to try to figure out Who Done It. Great characters.
Enjoy!
A Crazy Little Thing Called Death.......2007-06-08
Love all of Nancy Martin books and this one was great
Average customer rating:
- Pretty Little Things
- Great for inspiration, but not a soldering how-to
- Ready, Set, Solder!
- A book overflowing with love for art and life.
- Scrapbooking under glass
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Pretty Little Things: Collage Jewelry, Trinkets, Keepsakes
Sally Jean Alexander
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Mixed Media
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Kaleidoscope: Ideas And Projects to Spark Your Creativity
ASIN: 1581808429 |
Book Description
Whimsical and Elegant Projects from Well-Known Collage Artist Sally Jean Alexander
*Shares 27 projects with 30 variations for additional inspiration
*Uses vintage ephemera to create charms, vials, miniature shrines, and reliquary boxes
*Features author Sally Jean Alexander's signature style
With Pretty Little Things, readers will find collage projects that exhibit a playful air and a sense of magic. The twenty-seven projects and thirty variations feature vintage ephemera soldered within glass, for finished works that tell a romantic or whimsical story. All exhibit Sally Jean Alexander's signature style--a style that brings new life to antique papers, vintage photographs, found projects, scavenged text, and more.
Customer Reviews:
Pretty Little Things.......2007-10-11
I have wanted to learn how to make jewelry using a soldering gun, and I found this book very imformative. The magazine is in perfect condition and I am 100% happy.
Great for inspiration, but not a soldering how-to.......2007-10-07
What's great about this book:
The projects featured in this book are fresh, varied, and beautifully photographed. Inspiration abounds; the night I got the book I was so inspired by it that my mind felt like it was going to explode with possibilities and I ended up finally getting out of bed at 2:30am to jot down my ideas so I could get some sleep.
In the back of the book, Sally shares her favorite resources for some of the more exotic materials she uses to create her pieces - this is valuable information. She also shares tips for creating her "look" which were also helpful. Do a search for her name online and heck out her website before buying the book to see if her aesthetic resonates with you.
What you won't find in this book:
While the author does give step-by-step instructions for reproducing the pieces featured in her book, this is NOT a how-to book. Her instructions are written with the assumption that the reader is an experienced crafter, specifically in the areas of stained glass and jewelry making and has had some experience with soldering (i.e. knows what flux is and how to use it, among other things). Although when reading the book the instructions seem thorough enough, I found significant gaps when I actually sat down and attempted to follow them.
Ready, Set, Solder!.......2007-10-02
I originally checked this book out of the library, but was so entranced I had to order a copy for my own library. The book is filled with lots of small projects, like many others - but what's so enchanting (and different) about it is that you end up with USABLE ingredients for other projects when you're done!
Learn to solder - start small, with different types of charms. Progressively more involved pieces teach more advanced techniques. When you've completed just 2 or 3 'mini projects' you've got a set of workable charms for future work - an excellent use of the bits you've made, and SO wonderful when compared to many other books I've seen where you make weird oddments that have no other use when completed other than to have demonstrated a technique. This book builds your technique AND your supplies - a definite winner. I heartily recommend it to artists who are starting to explore other media!
A book overflowing with love for art and life........2007-10-02
I have read all of the reviews here for Sally Jean's "Pretty Little Things." One can see those reviews of the people who perceive the world as half empty.
For me, Sally's book is a glass overflowing with creativity, eye candy and the love for the art that she creates. It's a wonderful insight to see how this amazing artist processes all the inspiration that surrounds her.
Sally gives us a tour of her inner soul...that playful, joyous spirit we all see in her classes. She has translated onto the written page all of her enthusiasm for her art and life.
"Pretty Little Things" is a joy to read. I loved the way that Sally's personality shines through...something that can be lost in a "how to" book. Buy this book, then take one of Sally's classes and you'll see what I mean!
Scrapbooking under glass.......2007-08-27
This book is so much fun. I am a stained glass and scrapbooking hobbyist and have found this book to be a combination of both things and a great source for glass collage. I have had lots of fun with it and have encouraged others to try their hand at this mixed media.
Book Description
Morale is down--spirits are low--the workload is mounting. Today's hard-working employees need a break! And nothing feels better than Care Packages for the Workplace from internationally known, lift-your-spirits author Barbara Glanz. This timely gift-book format provides the hard at work with dozens of simple ``brighten-your-day'' ideas such as: beautifying the work space in order to do what Tom Peters recommends--``Fight Bland Dullness!''; putting a personal signature on all work; sharing a joke-a-day, one month at a time; holding grapevine meetings where rumors are openly discussed; partaking in good news hours where positive news is shared; creating special awards for a job well done; scheduling lunches with management.
Customer Reviews:
Regenerate with Humor; Read WorkLaughs.......2007-01-17
This delightful small book skillfully shows you how not to stress out at work. Another way to get a perspective of your job situation is to learn to laugh at things that stress you out. WorkLaughs:Quips, Quotes, and Anecdotes about Making a Buck can provide you with the laughs to do just that-- from job interviews to meetings to dealing with the boss, WorkLaughs will show you that all aspects of the job can be a laughing matter. (WorkLaughs is also available on Amazon).
Very Pleased Customer from Chicago.......2006-02-26
I am so please to be able to say that product was shipped early and great condition!!!!!!!!!
Great IDEAS.......2003-09-14
This book provided a great deal of information and ideas to draw from. I enjoyed that I could read it quickly. I was able to apply some of the ideas or variations of them at work !
Changing the way you look at work.......2001-12-29
Barbara Glantz has written a life altering book--at least a life at the workplace altering book. It is easy to read and filled with hundreds of big and little things that can change the way you spend 40 hours a week. Very positive, super ideas.
There are better books on the topic..........2001-01-07
This book is just okay. There are a lot of examples of how to improve morale at work, but the writing isn't that great, and the book isn't very well organized. There are much better books on the topic...try Managing to Have Fun by Matt Weinstein or 1001 Ways to Energize Employees by Bob Nelson.
Book Description
From the Internet and e-commerce to contract work and globalization, the way we work and communicate is changing constantly. Still, one essential fact remains: We must pay attention to the little things — the details that demonstrate that we know how to communicate and interact with others on a professional level, regardless of our position or occupation.
In this book, longtime business communications consultant and trainer Barbara Pachter offers 601 essential ways to approach every business situation and relationship with confidence and ease. With its empathetic tone and entertaining real-life anecdotes, When the Little Things Count . . . and They Always Count offers inspiration and advice to help get us to the next level of professionalism and success.
Customer Reviews:
Quick and Easy Guide for professionals.......2001-05-12
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read book that gave good examples and good advice. Many times there were situations mentioned that I would have never thought would have mattered in a business environment. I learned many things on how to handle myself and appearance in a professional way. Many of the things mentioned in the book are easy to implement and take little time, others are larger. I would recommend this book to every student before entering the business work place.
Book Description
Five hundred realistic, simple, and inexpensive ideas for strengthening family ties and fostering traditions that children will remember for a lifetime. Pick and choose from scores of ideas for Parents Who Travel and for special circumstances such as Sick Days, Holidays, and Birthdays.
25 line drawings.
Customer Reviews:
Great ideas!.......2007-02-21
This book is organized in time slots. Do you have 5 minutes -- here are ways you can make your child feel special. 30 minutes? Here are some different ways. And so forth. Some ideas you will probably have already come up with on your own -- or read elsewhere -- but many were innovative.
Hundreds of Fun Ideas .......2006-08-17
I really love this book. It is full of substantive and whimsical ideas for brief and longer activities with kids. Newman has an uncanny eye for what children most enjoy -- and how parents can have a good time too!
A definite must -- and a great gift for moms and dads everywhere.
Not For Stay At Home Parents .......2005-05-20
I think there should be some sort of qualification on this book that it is geared for parents who both work full time outside the home and spend most of their day away from their children. The book is written to help these "busy parents" [what parent isn't busy?! LOL!] fit "quality time" in for their children - and it is broken down into 5 minute or less things to do, half hour things, weekend things etc.
I think this book would be really helpful to parents who didn't have much time to spend with their children. But, for a stay at home parent or a homeschooling parent, it is essentially useless in my opinion.
Most of the things that would be appropriate for a full time parent are things that a stay at home parent is probably already doing [common sense stuff]. The rest is not geared for those who stay home with their children. [for example, the tip to "write a letter to your child's teacher on the first day of school and let them know you want to be involved even though you are a working parent".]
So, personally, as a stay at home mother, I was dissappointed. I feel like I spent money on a book full of stuff that either doesn't apply to our situation or is stuff that I already DO intuitively with my children.
Valuable Suggestions for Sensitive Parenting.......2005-03-25
This book is a wonderful resource for parents that provides a plethora of ideas and valuable inspiration on how to establish meaningful ties and a strong connection with their children that will last a lifetime. The premise is to offer a "think tank" for parents to find ways to be involved in their children's lives and to establish as many connections with them on a daily basis as possible regardless of how busy and hectic the family routine may be. Although the book is full of suggestions and ideas to do just this, I was a bit disappointed that they were listed in small vignettes in an almost laundry list fashion. I would've enjoyed more detail and depth as well as an easier way of navigating the book to find ideas. I find chapter titles such as "weekend fun" and "five minutes more or less" to be a bit vague. All in all, most of us inherently know that the little things in life are what count the most and are most memorable and the ideas offered in this book, when put into use, will build fond childhood memories, solidify the parent-child bond, and nurture a warm, loving home life. I highly recommend this work to all families.
Little Things Delivers BIG!!.......2004-11-03
I've used this book for years. It gives me new ideas to try with my kids...and they work. The chapters are divided into time-frames of a minute or two, half an hour, over the weekend and so forth, so I pick one to meet the time I have. No book like it comes close in helping me show my children I love them.
Thanks....to Susan Newman!
Book Description
Think you know Walt Disney World?
Do you know the backstory of Dinoland U.S.A. that unifies the entire land? Do you know how the former attraction named Dreamflight is commemorated in today's Magic Kingdom? Do you know how Ellen's Energy Adventure mentions the ride which preceded it? Do you know where the references to Horizons and World of Motion are? Do you know how Disney's Animal Kingdom pays tribute to the land it planned but never created? Do you know where the Hidden Kermit is located? Do you know how the four theme parks honor the years in which they opened?
You have probably heard a few "interesting facts" about Walt Disney World over the years. Perhaps you've heard that the windows on the second story of the buildings on Main Street honor individuals of note in WDW history? Or that the company plane Walt used to survey the eventual WDW property from the air now lives at the studios park? It's all true... but these are only two of the interesting facts pointed out in "101 Things You Never Knew About Walt Disney World." And those are only two of the best-known examples. Many of these stories deal with much more obscure, yet equally interesting, pieces of history of the theme parks. You haven't heard all these stories before!
Customer Reviews:
Good Book.......2007-10-11
Great book for those who have never been to WDW and for those who have been before. There really were things I never knew.
I want my money back.......2007-08-25
This was an unsatisfactory book. Beyond the lack of content, it was poorly edited with entire paragraphs being duplicated in various instances of the 101 'things'. There was little of value that I gained from the book. I bought this because our family will travel to disney for the first time next year and I can't say I have taken much away from it. This book seemed like the type of content that would be handed out on a promotional flyer which had a map of disney on it.
:(.......2007-08-13
This book contained 101 things I already knew. This book would be great for someone who is going to visit the park for the first time. If you have been studying Disney trivia for awhile you will already know these things
Really Nice Information for the World..........2007-01-10
This is a really good source of cool information for those who wn to add details and depth to their visit to Walt Disney World. Excellent resource for the novice or seasoned visitor.
101 Things You Never Knew About Walt Disney World: An Unauthorized Look.......2007-01-04
This is an entertaining book. Info. contained within is concise and often repeated in other similar titles. Layout is a bit unsophisticated, but if you are a fan of the Parks, it is worthwhile to read.
Average customer rating:
- Every little thing about you
- Wonderful
- I love this book!!!!
- Adorable funny book
- Every Little Thing About you
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Every Little Thing About You (A Yellow Rose Trilogy #1)
Lori Wick
Manufacturer: Harvest House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
United States
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Wick, Lori
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The Rescue (The English Garden Series #2)
ASIN: 0736901043 |
Book Description
Law–abiding Slater Rawlings is startled when he is arrested by Liberty Drake. Sparks fly as the cowboy and Miss Drake’s lives and faith intertwine. Love’s path is delightfully unpredictable in this heartwarming romance.
Customer Reviews:
Every little thing about you.......2006-12-13
The title sums this book up "Little Thing". After reading "Sophie's Choice" by Lori Wick I guess I had too high expectations, because this book was not only boring but had very little plot line. It was all I could do to finish it.
Wonderful.......2006-07-12
Lori Wicks books are always very well written. This one was very good and hard to put down. It is set in the late 1800s. I enjoyrd it very much, and I am looking forward to reading other books in this series!!
I love this book!!!!.......2006-04-19
This was the first lori wick book I read. I loved it and could not put it down!!! 2 of my friends told me to read it and the following ones, I loved slater and one my friends liked cash and other one liked dakota. i love all the books its just that slater's my favorite. I am a 14 year old girl and my friends are in their teens. some people might consider this book sexist but I don't believe so at all. I am a christian and I believe that this is how it was back then. but I do not believe its the way things should be now... sure men should be the head of the household but I also believe that God meant us to be partners not having women scurrying about bringing her husband this or that. Slater meant well he was not just tryng to dominate over her just becuz he was a man. he cared about her and thats wut wick was trying to show
Adorable funny book.......2006-01-10
This book is like all Lori Wicks items well written, but the situation isn't like the common romance novel. We have powerplays between men and women, we have unexpected love, and we have extended family issues. It was very sweet, and had me giggling through it. One of my faves.
Every Little Thing About you.......2005-10-21
It was a great book. I just love it and could not put it down.
Customer Reviews:
the hippie in the book was actually Ken Kesey.......2006-11-01
just a note for everyone
the hippie in the book was actually based on Ken Kesey
Recommended companion reading.......2006-06-02
This is my third Stegner novel including Angle of Repose and Crossing to Safety. All the Little Live Things has a more 'elemental' style than the other 2 novels. It is compact and extremely logical. There is not a throwaway sentence in the book. For anyone looking for deeper, relevant background reading - I suggest these pre-requisities prior to reading Little Live Things: Shakespears 'The Tempest' - where the literarary figures of 'Calaban (i.e., Peck)' and 'Prospero' are introduced. I would have been quite lost without having first read Tempest. Another great book that I think provides the 'mythological basis' for Little Live Things is Joseph Campbell's 'Pathways to Bliss'. In Campbell's book I learned the basic philosohpy of Jainism - which is the foundation for Marian Catlin's character as well as the title of the book. You get a better sense of the Joe Allison's heroic struggle as he confront his personal demons (personified by Peck)living deep in the gully across the 'spritual bridge' that he cannot bring himself to go across. Quite a hero's journey indeed.
"It is all treadmill.".......2005-08-28
Both very funny and very sad, this novel was a pleasure to read. Stegner creates a Garden of Eden for Joe Allston and his wife, but populates it with two serpents that disrupt their recuperative retirement; both Jim Peck and Marian Catlin interrupt the Allstons' peace and cause Joe to reflect on the meaning of his own life. As he learns by the end, "There is no way to step off the treadmill. It is all treadmill."
"It is a reduction of our humanity to hide from pain, our own or others": An Older Man's Insight .......2005-07-21
Wallace Stegner's _All the Little Live Things_ focuses on a nine-month period in 1967 in California and the lives of five neighboring families in a rural area on the verge of becoming a suburban subdivision. The first-person narrator, a crusty sixty-seven year old retired literary agent, Joe Allston, describes his relationships with his neighbors and his own struggles to maintain a healthy, ordered garden. Each of the five families has its own philosophy, whether explicit or implicit, and its own eccentricities. Much of the novel examines how people coexist and how lives become enmeshed. The Allston's garden, which despite Joe's efforts is constantly being overtaken by gophers and poison ivy, is a metaphor for how life all too often resists people's hopes and desires.
The Allstons are an older retired couple from Manhatten who have moved west to find solace and comfort in the anonymous quiet of gardening. The Welds have lived on the land for generations as farmers and with each generation must sell more and more land to survive. The LoPresti family is wealthy and socially connected. Fran, the wife, indulges her artistic sensibilities in sculpture, in part to deflect her tense relationship with her daughter Julie. The Caitlins are a young family new to the area. Marian, the wife and mother, is a beautiful thirty-year old woman whom Joe dotes over. The Allstons adopt Marian, her husband John, and their daughter, Debby. Finally, there is Jim Peck, a graduate student, who squats on the Allston property. Jim Peck and his "family" of accolytes represent the excesses of the 1960s counterculture and the dangers of chaos.
The novel works in a flashback sequence. As he walks around his property, Joe Allston reflects on the momentous events of the past year and his feelings of loss. He feels that he is "infected with consciousness and the consciousness of consciousness, doomed to death and the awareness of death." At the same time, he realizes that the loss he has suffered has made him richer (see the quote for the review) because death, in some sense, affirms the experience of having actually lived. Marian's view, which Joe accepts intellectually but not yet emotionally, is that one must "be open, be available, be exposed, be skinless." Throughout the novel, we see Joe stripping back the layers of himself in his self-reflection. We see his rage as well as his sensitivity and acceptance. He even seems to acknowledge that he has fallen in love again to fill the void in his relationship with his wife.
Interestingly, the ending of _All the Little Live Things_ is similar to Stegner's last novel _Crossing to Safety_ and is written with the same intensity. One of Stegner's gifts is his ability to depict multiple generations in his novels and the conflicting viewpoints of generations. While Stegner usually sides with the older generation, there is a continuity in outlooks among the old and the young. Joe learns about himself--his demons as well as his strengths--in his interactions with his neighbors.
Simply Stegner at his Best...and that means something!!!.......2004-07-18
I can't say yet that I read all of Wallace Stegnar's books (I'm working on it) but I have read his prize winners: Angles of Repose, The Big Rock Candy Mountain, Crossing to Safety, and The Spectator Bird (in that order), plus a couple of others. For this one--a prequel to The Spectator Bird--Stegnar gets my personal prize! He simply outdoes himself.
It's the late 1960s just south of the Bay Area. The narrator is a retired book editor look for tranquility after the death of his 30+ year old son who died while surfing, his apparent profession being a beach bum--at least so his dad tells us.
With the arrival next door of (1) a live-off-the lander who reminds his wife of their son, and (2) an interesting, itelligent young woman who he is they way he would have wanted the daughter he never had, the narrator's life gets complicated, less tranquil, but also quite interesting. It is the story of the coming out of a curmudgeon. Stegner's ability to describe nature is never better, despite the suburban setting.
This vies with Annie Proulx's The Shipping News as my favorite book that I've read to date.
Books:
- The White Mountains
- The Worst Hard Time: The Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl
- These Three Remain: A Novel of Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman
- Thicker Than Water (Heartland #8)
- Travel Team
- Twisted
- Unexpected Developments
- Unstoppable Global Warming: Every 1,500 Years
- What Price Love? (Cynster Novels)
- What You Wear Can Change Your Life
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- The Curiously Sinister Art of Jim Flora
- History: Fiction or Science
- American Interiors: New England and the South
- Breath of Magic
- Degas, Sickert and Toulouse-Lautrec: London and Paris 1870-1910
- History: Fiction or Science
- Flat Pattern Cutting and Modeling for Fashion
- 1000 Peacewomen Across the Globe
- Art of the Pencil: A Revolutionary Look at Drawing, Painting and the Pencil
- Straight and level:
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