Book Description
From the passages of Scripture that helped her cope with and survive her divorce from professional cyclist Lance Armstrong, Kristin Armstrong has crafted a year-long daily devotional designed to help women through one of life's most difficult times. In this intensely personal book, Armstrong urges readers on with disarming candor. Each entry contains a pertinent Scripture with inspirational and empowering reflections from the author on topics such as forgiveness, trusting God, confiding in God at every stage of grief, and maintaining an open heart through the pain. A vital travel companion on the road to recovery, this book encourages readers to choose a path of peace in the wake of a painful experience.
Customer Reviews:
Words of Encouragement for All Disappointments.......2007-09-16
This may seem a little odd, but I am neither divorcing nor divorced; and I am a guy. I will tell you that this book of daily thoughts and meditations does have a perspective geared toward women and toward divorce. I would also say that men can benefit from this book too and about 95% of what is in the book is geared toward God's blessing and provision in any challenging situation or life disappointment. Ours happened to surround an adolescent daughter; and everything that accompanied that entire situation. If you think about it, there are lots of situations in life that involve unexpected change, loss, separation, etc. Divorce is only one of them.
I would recommend this book to anyone - male or female; who is or has walked through a "valley of the shadow". It will change you and help restore you. You will learn that no matter how hard you tried or what walk of life you are from, that you are not alone, and you are not the first person something bad has happened to. You will also learn, in small readings that take 3-5 minutes each day to get through, that you have a watchful, loving and caring God, who sees, knows, helps, and understands.
God bless you in your journey.
A great book to read during a difficult time.......2007-07-08
I am a fan of Kristin Armstrong's articles in Runners World magazine, and I had seen her on Good Morning America promoting this book. Two days after being diagnosed with breast cancer, I bought this book since I had heard that it was a great book for anyone going through a difficult time. I've been reading a few pages of the book every day, and much of what is written can be used to get through any tough time -- it's not limited to divorce or a broken relationship. Kristin is a great inspiration since she went through a terrible time of trial and used the time to delve into her spirituality, and she refused to wallow in bitterness and regret. The book has shown me light on some dark days.
Readings will help and encourage women as they journey through their first year of divorce.......2007-06-06
Kristin Armstrong's divorce from professional cyclist Lance Armstrong led her to write HAPPILY EVER AFTER: Walking with Peace and Courage Through a Year of Divorce, a personal 365-day devotional geared toward women (especially with children) whose marriages are dissolving.
"I never imagined that divorce would be part of my life history or my family's legacy," writes Armstrong, mother of three, whose marriage to Lance lasted five years. "I have walked this path, from the trenches of despair, through pitfalls of anger, bottlenecks of blame, along the cliffs of loneliness and fear."
As she navigated through her divorce, Armstrong kept a journal of the scriptures that were most encouraging to her. The result is this book, she writes in the introduction. The scriptures are a mixed bag, with such gems as the Isaiah 40:31 passage "Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength..." to more obscure ones like Amos 6:1: "Woe to you who are complacent in Zion."
The book begins on Day 1 as Armstrong acknowledges the tough road ahead. "This year will be epic for you...Every day, many times a day, you will make decisions that determine the rest of your story...Eventually you will be surprised to find yourself healed, whole, and happily living your brand-new life." As the devotional continues, she addresses difficult issues such as the need for forgiveness, letting go of retaliation and gossip, and letting go of the worry over preserving your reputation. "To practice silence and discretion in these situations is wise," she advises.
There is a welcome tone of quiet and resolve that permeates the pages. "The path of sour bitterness, crusty resentment, and cold regret breeds generations of despair. The path of righteousness grants generations of peace, quietness and confidence," she writes in an early devotion. Many readers longing for comfort and kindness will find them in Armstrong's words, as she reminds them in the persona of a close girlfriend: "Now is not the time to make sense of this mess.... Sweetheart, now is the time to trust in the Lord with all your heart."
There is an occasional question mark. Armstrong says in one essay that she believes it is important to experience your pain fully rather than numbing it with "remedies" --- therapy, coping pills, exercise, massage. Does she believe these are wrong things to do? Or that they are not enough? A little more context here would be helpful, as it would in the devotional telling of the story of a couple who refused to accept their cancer diagnosis: "She and her husband, Bob, are both cancer free today." (What about those who are not healed?) Occasionally, there is some repetition, such as two devotionals centered on the word "betrothed" (Day 251 and Day 92).
But overwhelmingly, Armstrong's soothing essays prompt women toward growth, resilience and an opportunity for reinvention while acknowledging their pain and need for God. Repeatedly, she affirms the reader and assures her of God's love: "(God) loves you, cherishes you, is faithful to you, is honest with you, and will never leave you." She includes glimpses into her own divorce, such as the pain of walking through grocery store checkouts and seeing the tabloid headlines, but laudably these are asides rather than the focus. One of the most moving devotions tells of her baptism as an infant, and then her "baptism" as an adult in a rainstorm.
What repeatedly comes through is her unquestioning faith that God will bring something good out of divorce. The devotions are peppered with the phrase, "I am blessed...." Her gratitude and seeming lack of visible bitterness keep the devotions centered squarely on God and healing. "It's natural to lament the death of a marriage, but in our grief let us not lose sight of or appreciation for the fact that we are still betrothed, still desired, still vital to the one Being who will never fail us."
Armstrong writes, "I found my unshakeable compass in the Lord... May you find your center, a strength and courage you did not know you could summon.... The terrain ahead is rough, but there are gifts hidden along your path of faith."
This moving and encouraging collection of readings will help and encourage women as they journey through their first year of divorce.
--- Reviewed by Cindy Crosby
A Wonderfully Spiritual Book.......2007-05-21
Kristin Armstrong has written a fantastic book that goes beyond being a spiritual devotional for women going through a divorce, it is a book for anyone who is facing hardships (and who does not face difficulties at some point?). In this book she bares her soul through sharing bible scriptures that helped her get through the tough times. In addition to the 365 scriptures, she shares her personal journey of growth during the year following her divorce.
I am neither a woman, nor am I going through a divorce, but I found her book to be inspirational and very uplifting.
I purchased the book because I know the author, and have a policy of reading any book written by someone I know....but this is really an exceptional work. I know you will enjoy reading this book.
not what I expected.......2007-05-13
I saw the author advertising this book on a talk show - it was not quite what I imagined. It was ok, inspirational, but it was written as a journal and was from a very religious perspective (something not mentioned at all or in the reviews I read).
Book Description
In this moving sequel to Even Now, Emily Anderson falls deeply in love with a young Army reservist who is about to serve in Iraq. At the same time, Emily’s parents seem on the verge of losing all they had gained. Will heartbreaking tragedy be the turning point for all of them?
Customer Reviews:
Awsome Book!!!!.......2007-10-17
This is an awsome book! I really liked the military aspect. It opened my mind and reminded me what is going on outside my little world. We need to support our troops. They are keeping us FREE!
Love It!.......2007-08-31
This is the first book I have read by Karen Kinsbury and I love it. I found it difficult to put the book down. Its a love story that will make you cry.
A Tear Jerker that's worth reading........2007-08-06
This book, a sequel to Even Now, caused me to shed more tears than when I first read Black Beauty as a child. Yet, I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys an excellently written love story. It is a little slower than some of Kingsbury's other books, but it was definitely worth the read. I appreciate how the book illustrates the fact that most of our news reporters never show the good side of our troops' presence in Iraq. I feel the characters are realistic, and the story believable. Keep your tissues handy, you'll need them.
Unbelievable.......2007-07-21
Ever After by Karen Kingsbury is mainly a book of supporting the war and its servicemen. I completely support the war and agree totally with Karen's arguments, but I've heard them all before so it left me looking for how good the story was. The relationship between Justin and Emily was just too perfect that you couldn't identify with them. Justin is too perfect in all aspects that you couldn't connect with his character. Emily seemed more believable because you saw the determined way about her when she found her parents in Even Now. Also, it left you thinking they are perfect for each other, but when Justin dies all that love between each other seems wasted. Although Karen tries to make it a point that his death caused Joe (his best army buddy) to find Emily and become closer than friends. Well if Emily and Joe were meant for each other, than why'd Emily have to spoil her purity by kissing Justin earlier?
When Emily and Joe become close friends it all happens too predictable and quickly after Justin's death, even though it says 18 months later it really takes only five pages. Although I have to say at least Joe is a little easier to identify with because you saw his weaknesses, his emotional side.
Lauren's conversion to a right state of mind is about the only thing I liked about this book, besides the support for the troops. Though through the whole book you question why Shane still loves her when she can be such an annoying person.
The teen center is very unbelievable because the teenagers there can act like 16 or 10. Their attitude changes from completely emotional to acting like a tough-guy. Karen didn't show how much an impact Justin did on them when he was alive so it was hard to believe they would cry over his death. Plus, why would a nineteen year-old (Emily) spend time with teenagers maybe one or two years younger when they're depicted as near gansters? They call her "pretty mama" or "hot mama", I would most likely stay clear of them.
Though I have to say, I'm glad someone stepped up to support the war and its servicemen when there are so many who are blindly disagreeing.
5-star story.......2007-07-15
The novel raises important questions about both sides of the war issue, and gives thoughtful and thought-provoking responses to each side. It helped me to try to approach people with opposing views more considerately and lovingly. I believe reading this book would build bridges of understanding, no matter what one's opinion of war might be.
Book Description
People who are single are changing the face of America. Did you know that:
* More than 40 percent of the nation’s adults---over 87 million people---are divorced, widowed, or have always been single.
* There are more households comprised of single people living alone than of married parents and their children.
* Americans now spend more of their adult years single than married.
Many of today’s single people have engaging jobs, homes that they own, and a network of friends. This is not the 1950s---singles can have sex without marrying, and they can raise smart, successful, and happy children. It should be a great time to be single. Yet too often single people are still asked to defend their single status by an onslaught of judgmental peers and fretful relatives.
Prominent people in politics, the popular press, and the intelligentsia have all taken turns peddling myths about marriage and singlehood. Marry, they promise, and you will live a long, happy, and healthy life, and you will never be lonely again.
Drawing from decades of scientific research and stacks of stories from the front lines of singlehood, Bella DePaulo debunks the myths of singledom---and shows that just about everything you’ve heard about the benefits of getting married and the perils of staying single are grossly exaggerated or just plain wrong. Although singles are singled out for unfair treatment by the workplace, the marketplace, and the federal tax structure, they are not simply victims of this singlism. Single people really are living happily ever after.
Filled with bracing bursts of truth and dazzling dashes of humor, Singled Out is a spirited and provocative read for the single, the married, and everyone in between.
You will never think about singlehood or marriage the same way again.
Singled Out debunks the Ten Myths of Singlehood, including:
Myth #1: The Wonder of Couples: Marrieds know best.
Myth #3: The Dark Aura of Singlehood: You are miserable and lonely and your life is tragic.
Myth #5: Attention, Single Women: Your work won’t love you back and your eggs will dry up. Also, you don’t get any and you’re promiscuous.
Myth #6: Attention, Single Men: You are horny, slovenly, and irresponsible, and you are the scary criminals. Or you are sexy, fastidious, frivolous, and gay.
Myth #7: Attention, Single Parents: Your kids are doomed.
Myth #9: Poor Soul: You will grow old alone and you will die in a room by yourself where no one will find you for weeks.
Myth #10: Family Values: Let’s give all of the perks, benefits, gifts, and cash to couples and call it family values.
“With elegant analysis, wonderfully detailed examples, and clear and witty prose, DePaulo lays out the many, often subtle denigrations and discriminations faced by single adults in the U.S. She addresses, too, the resilience of single women and men in the face of such singlism. A must-read for all single adults, their friends and families, as well as social scientists and policy advocates.”
---E. Kay Trimberger, author of The New Single Woman
Customer Reviews:
ALLBOOKS REVIEWS.......2007-10-13
The hook lies on the front cover of the book jacket: "How singles are stereotyped, stigmatized, and ignored, and still live Happily Ever After". In Singled Out, Dr. DePaulo debunks the American "Matrimania" myths in a logical, scientific manner that's (thankfully) peppered with plenty of anecdotal humor and written in a loose, non-academic style that makes for an easy, enjoyable read.
DePaulo starts out by showing us how prejudice against singles has played out in history and then goes on to debunk the claims of Waite & Galligher, scientifically demonstrating how their erroneous claims that married folks are happier, healthier, live longer, and even have more frequent and more enjoyable sex were founded on biases studies and statistics. She discusses the fact that society equates marriage with validation. And how about the perks and benefits of most government entitlements, such as Social Security? Or running for political office? Up for a promotion? . . . Well, your chances are certainly better if you're married. DePaulo humorously shows how TV shows, magazines, and even talk shows tout the Holy Grail of Marriage--with the wedding ceremony as the ultimate climax in life. She uses the acronym BLAME to describe society's view of singles: Bitter, Loveless, Alone, Miserable, and Envious. Whoa! Does that spark a vision of the ol' "Lonely Hearts Club" or what? Seems the gist of the media message is that single equals lonely. Singles are portrayed as immature and self-centered. Self-centered, asks DePaulo? How about the debauchery of weddings? How self-centered is that?
In her bio, Dr. DePaulo, a social psychologist who did her graduate work at Harvard, is single and Living Happily Ever After in California--certainly qualified to write Single Out. She invites you to visit her website at www.belladepaulo.com In the final analysis, I'd say this book is a "must read" if you're single and you've been made to feel bad about it by society. And even if you're not, it's a terrific, informative, and even entertaining book. I'll give you one word to prove that Dr. DePaulo is right on? . . . Oprah.
Recommended by reviewer: Jan Evan Whitford, Allbooks Reviews
A great consciousness-raiser.......2007-10-05
I just finished this book (which I had checked out from the library) and plan to purchase a copy for re-reading. Recently and very unexpectedly divorced after nearly 30 years of marriage, this book came into my life at the perfect time. I (embarrassingly) recognized myself within the pages as one of those who had unknowingly had the cultural advantages and self-satisfied attitudes of couplehood/marriage.
This book has taken me to a new level of awareness and understanding of society's subtle (and not so subtle) messages about people who are single by choice or by circumstance. Ms. DePaulo's writing is clear, insightful, and humorous. (I found her humor in turns wry, sly, and playful, not at all sarcastic or bitter.) She is right-on in her analysis of cultural views of both singlehood and coupledom.
Aided by the perspective of this book, I am no longer simply accepting life as a single, but looking forward to creating a future as rich, fulfilling, and compassionate as possible. I now view my unexpected singlehood as a blessing that allows me to direct my love and energies into new avenues, including deepening my friendships and providing community service. This book has dramatically redirected my outlook.
Somewhat disappointing.......2007-08-01
A friend sent me DePaulo's chapter headings and they are hilarious! I looked forward to reading her book as an interesting exploration of the devaluation of singlehood. The book's concept is thought provoking. The writing, however, is sarcastic (to the detriment of DePaulo's message), at times embittered, and sometimes tedious (e.g., she'll describe at length another writer's work and then pick it apart bit by bit; she could have instead made her point more clearly and persuasively if she wasn't just reacting to other material). All in all, I was disappointed.
"Don't worry, honey, your turn to divorce will come....".......2007-06-23
DePaulo's book is brilliant, but it made me so angry. Angry at how many couples (from here on, "marrieds") stereotype, stigmatize, and ignore singles, of course! I already knew that marrieds feel sorry for singles because they're "incomplete," "lonely," and "unfulfilled." But not everyone wants the same thing, not everyone wants the conventional, predictable married life. I enjoy solitute tremendously, and marriage has never been my life goal. I'd rather focus on my career, which is more fulfilling than any relationship I've had. I also enjoy traveling on the weekends whenever I want, spending my money how I want, hanging out with single friends (fortunately I still have several of them). Most marrieds don't plan a weekend to go visit a good college friend (well, maybe they will if it's a couple and not merely a single person) and spend money "selfishly" on food, entertainment, and going to take photographs of old nuclear power plants or other unique trips. Does this mean I'm not grown up? no! It means I know what I like to do, so I do it. It's that simple. I feel like I have to put so much energy into defending my contented state, while marrieds are assumed to be content (although I know that isn't always the case, especially since marriage ends in divorce half the time).
I am almost 26 so it's still "acceptable" for me to be single, but people still ask why I don't have a boyfriend. "Don't you want to get married one day?" "Are you dating anyone?" "Don't you want to have children?" "You're attractive, why aren't you with anyone?" (there must be something wrong with you!) I used to feel inferior when asked those kinds of questions, especially in college when people were frantically getting engaged, much like a Baskin Robbins gets raided on the day they sell ice cream for 31 cents per scoop. Better get some before it runs out, ya know. But gradually, I became confident in my singleness by my junior year. This book really reinforced my feelings and it was as if DePaulo was reading my mind for most of it. Especially the chapter about why anybody should CARE if we're single of not? Get a life, marrieds..perhaps you should worry about decreasing your divorce rate instead.
I also liked the part criticizing how society gives a hard time to singles who still live with their parents. I still live with mine but am not "mooching" off them. I pay rent, my car payments, my car insurance, my phone bill, my college loans, and other expenses. I am saving up for my own condo (not because it screams "Single person!" but because it's the only thing I can afford in my area). I have a good relationship with my parents and I give a lot back to the economy, much like the Japanese women. I know that I go out and have a social life more than a lot of marrieds I know. And I'm not going out just to look for a husband either, grrrrr!
I have a good male friend in his late 30s. Some people have asked me if he's ever been married. When I answer No, one of them remarked, "There must be something wrong with him." Actually, there isn't. He just doesn't believe that marriage would improve his life. It's overrated and not a "fix-all" solution. He likes being single! He's happy being single. Is that so difficult to understand? Apparently, it is.
Sure, sometimes I think it would be nice to be married, to have that one person who is supposed to be your best friend, lover, etc. But I'm not going to go around actively looking for it because it's not worth it. If it happens, it happens, but I know I wouldn't mind being single for the rest of my life. I don't need another person to make me feel complete. I'm not going to waste time obsessively searching for the right person (dating is much more of a waste than being contentedly single). Ooh, I must be bitter with this attitude! Sometimes I am, but usually I just think, why try to change my life when I love how it is right now? And marriage could also make my life much worse - you never know if it will work out or not, and you could end up devastated by infidelity, abuse, etc (also true in serious unmarried relationships, i know, but people generally have higher expectations of a fairytale perfect marriage, especially with all that commitment). I know a few married men at work who are cheating on their spouses. Obviously, not all marrieds even respect marriage. How then, can this type of person look down on singles as inferior?
I was especially disgusted with Chris Matthews' treatment of Nader. How dare he imply that because Nader did not consume as much as the marrieds (such as no house, no car), that he was less of a person, less responsible? He is really a thousand more times responsible than Newt Gingrich or Bill Clinton, who have made a mess of their marital relationships. Nader is responsible enough to never embarrass a wife (or any other woman, for that matter) on international television. HE never made a mockery of the all-important marriage as others have done. And he is environmentally responsible for not owning a car because, wow!, he doesn't need one, which makes perfect sense (although not to Matthews). Singles rarely get credit for their accomplishments. I admire him and politicians like Condi Rice all the more because of their singleness.
How are people more "grown up" just because they're married? Nineteen year olds get married and are no more grown up than 19 year old singles. In fact, I argue that 19 years old marrieds are much more stupid and insecure than singles their age.
Have to mention one more thing. Once I was invited on a weekend trip where I would be set up with some guy. But I immediately turned it down because I was buying my new car that weekend. An organizer of the trip then asked me, "Which would you rather have, a new boyfriend or a new car?"
"A new car." Of course. I needed a car, but I didn't need a boyfriend...and still don't.
Singe Edition.......2007-06-13
I had been anticipating the arrival of Bella DePaulo's book for months and read it within a day upon receiving it. Ms. Depaulo could not have said it better when she indicates that not all singles are desperately waiting to be rescued by a mate. In fact many are completely satisfied in their solo state while those who are married may not necessarily be fulfilled. Increasingly individuals are choosing to remain single and Ms. Depaulo helps shatter the stereotypical portrait that has been painted. Bookstores today are replete with kitschy chic lit tales, dating propaganda or stories that glorify mommies but Singled Out is a power piece that raises the individual to the positive and realistic rank they merit. I am thankful for the contribution Ms. Depaulo has made and applaud the sincere and courageous stance she has made in putting forth her writings.
Sherri Langburt
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Happily Ever After: Sharing Folk Literature With Elementary and Middle School Students
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Storyteller's Guide (American Storytelling)
ASIN: 0872075109 |
Book Description
Anansi, Cinderella, Rumpelstiltskin, and the Three Little Pigs are just a few of the beloved characters whose stories have been shared for generations. Their adventures, rooted in the oral storytelling tradition, have been recorded as folk literature in every corner of the world.
Because folk literature represents a large portion of the trade books published for children and young adults, elementary and middle school teachers and librarians need a resource to help them understand and use this genre with students. Happily Ever After: Sharing Folk Literature With Elementary and Middle School Students defines folk literature and provides ideas for teaching it, making it not only a practical resource for classroom teachers and librarians but also an appropriate textbook for teacher education courses.
The book is divided into four sections. Section one provides an overview of traditional literature. Section two examines the subgenres of folk literature, helping readers to better understand folk tales and fairy tales, fables, myths, legends, and tall tales. Section three deals with traditional literature across cultures and includes thought-provoking chapters dealing with African, Asian, European, Jewish, Latino, Middle Eastern and South Asian, and Native American folk literature. Section four looks at how teachers might use folk literature in their classrooms through drama, writing, comparing versions and variants of a single tale type, and collecting oral folklore and adapting it to the written form.
Throughout the chapters, authors show how folk literature can extend students' literacy and love of reading through a range of classroom applications spanning the full range of the language arts.
This book will be a valuable resource to guide teachers, librarians, and students in experiencing the "happily ever after" magic found in folk literature.
Book Description
Charles Addams was renowned for his depictions of love (or lack thereof) in his cartoons. The passion of Morticia and Gomez Addams, the lonely desires of Fester, the numerous grim and ghastly fights between husband and wife -- all found their way into Addams's signature drawings.
Addams's concept of love was quite a bit different from the traditional idea of romance. Forget roses and chocolate, Addams will show you how to woo a mermaid or celebrate an anniversary on a desert island. Or how to keep your husband on a leash -- literally. Learn what to do when your prince stays a frog, even after you've kissed him.
Compiled from Addams's personal archive, many of these cartoons are previously unpublished gems, while others are Addams classics. The cartoons in Chas Addams Happily Ever After run the gamut from ecstatic love to disappointed affection to murderous obsession and demonstrate that love really does hurt.
Customer Reviews:
The Origin of the Addams family!.......2007-09-21
This is where the characters that would later become "The Addams Family" got their start. Charles Addams with his unique sense of humor sheads a light on the dark side of humor. With whacky commementary on such light subjects such as suiside,murder and marrige, Mr. Addams never seemed to be without his tounge securly lodged in his cheek or was it bitten off? Oh well one never can tell what might come to mind after spending quality time in HIS mind! Anyone who loves the numerous shows or movies based on these hilarious cartoons owes it to themselves to see just where it all began!
If you've never seen these cartoons, READ THEM! Classics!.......2007-01-13
These are hilarious! It's morbid humor without being morbid - it's hard to explain, but I can tell you this, this are wonderful! You will not be disappointed - everyone loves these cartoons.
excellent.......2007-01-10
Is a good compilation of charles Addams works. With this book we have a wonderful view for the most important topics of this important american creator.
Book Description
Venus Johnston has a great job, a beautiful home, and a loving live-in boyfriend named Clint, who happens to be a drop-dead gorgeous doctor. She also has a weekly beauty-parlor date with Tina, who keeps her long, processed hair slick and straight. Ever since childhood, the tedious hours in the salon and harsh, burning chemicals have grated on Venus, and increasingly, she dreams of cutting off her beautiful “good” hair. When her boyfriend keeps balking at commitment, and the thought of another hour at the salon is just too much, Venus decides to give it up—all of it. She trades in the long hair for a dramatically short, natural cut, and sends Clint packing. It’s a bold declaration of independence, and one that has effects she never could have imagined. With wit, resilience, and a lot of determination, Venus finally learns what true happiness is...on her own terms. It’s a delicious story told with savvy and humor—a novel that marks the debut of a fresh new voice in fiction.
Download Description
What happens when you toss tradition out the window and really start living for yourself?
Venus Johnston has a great job, a beautiful home, and a loving live-in boyfriend named Clint, who happens to be a drop-dead gorgeous doctor. She has a weekly beauty-parlor date with Tina, who keeps Venus's long, processed hair slick and straight. Ever since childhood, the tedious hours in the salon and the harsh, burning chemicals have grated on Venus, and increasingly she dreams of cutting off her beautiful "good" hair.
When her boyfriend keeps balking at commitment, and the thought of another hour at the salon is just too much, Venus decides to give it up -- all of it. She trades in the long hair for a dramatically short, natural cut and sends Clint packing. It's a bold declaration of independence -- and one that has effects she never could have imagined. Reactions from friends and coworkers range from concern to contempt to outright condemnation.
When Clint moves on and starts dating a voluptuous, long-haired beauty, Venus is forced to question what she really wants out of life. With wit, resilience, and a lot of determination, she finally learns what true happiness is... on her own terms.
In the bestselling style of Eric Jerome Dickey, Bebe Moore Campbell, and Terry McMillan, Nappily Ever After captures the hopes, dreams, and conflicts of the contemporary African-American woman. It's a delicious story told with style, savvy, and humor -- a novel that marks the debut of a fresh new voice in fiction.
"Nappily Ever After is not only a witty look at the trials and punishment of the singles scene, but it's also a smart examination of how much African-American women often define themselves by the appearance of their hair. With snappy dialogue and characters readers will recognize from their own lives, Nappily Ever After is unapologetically all natural -- a fun, thought-provoking read."
TANANARIVE DUE, AUTHOR OF
THE BLACK ROSE
"From the moment I started reading Nappily Ever After, I couldn't put it down! Trisha Thomas gives us a stellar first novel that gives new depth to the age-old relationship that we sistahs have with our hair. This is a jazzy, hip must-read!"
DEBRENA JACKSON GANDY, AUTHOR OF ALL THE JOY YOU CAN STAND
"Trisha Thomas's debut novel has a fusion of humor, a fast-paced plot, and characters we care about. Venus Johnston's journey is a familiar and compelling one that will have satisfied readers craving an encore from Trisha Thomas."
PATRICIA ELAM, AUTHOR OF
BREATHING ROOM
"Nappily Ever After is a vibrant tale of a young woman's journey to independence. The characters are real and emerge from this novel as people you actually know. It's an exquisitely passionate novel from an immensely gifted new author."
PAMELA WALKER-WILLIAMS, THE PAGE-TURNER NETWORK
Customer Reviews:
loved this book!.......2007-10-05
Can't wait to see the movie!
Halle is going to be such a great Venus!
Decent Read.......2007-10-02
This book was okay for me. There was something about Venus' and Kandi's desperation that had me annoyed for most of the book. I am not certain if the book really made the connection between the things that we do to our hair from a very young age and how that shapes us as women. Truly exploring how such a simple, but not simple thing like what to do with "our" hair, could have given this book depth.
hated the ending.......2007-08-30
I loved reading the book and finished it in about 6 hours. But at the end I didn't understand why Clint and proposed to Kandi I didn't see ther point when he fell in love with her and decided to marry her only after a month. I understood Kandi's gold diggin personality and I understood where she was coming from but, I was still rooting and hoping that Venus and Clint would get back together. Also, Tyrone violent fight with kandi I didn't see that coming and I didn't see why he became so mean, I didn't see that coming, it seemed as if it was out of his character.
Marry Me or Get Out!.......2007-07-07
275pgs - A powerful one day read. This story reveals a true belief about how some men and women think about hair. Some men are attracted to long hair and women know this so, they will pretty much do anything to possess it. Venus is a beautiful black successful women with long hair. She meets Clint, a handsome medical student. They fall for each other and after four years of playing house, she evaluates her situation and her self worth and gives him a choice. While in this process, she cuts all of her hair off.(A Buzz Cut)
He didn't feel as though they needed to get married at that point. The Story tells of the way he felt about marriage. It had a lot to do with his upbringing.
The break up came about suddenly for him. Clint moves out and moves on. He meets Kandi while out one night with the fellas. She is a Third grade teacher whose very attractive with LONG HAIR. They date only for a short while and marry. Venus handles this very unexpectedly.
I don't want to spoil it for you. Women, we can learn a lot from this book!!!
Made Me Laugh Out Loud!.......2007-05-23
Good Read! Enjoyed the characters, they were not one dimensional. The book me feel like I knew them and I wanted to know WHAT HAPPENED NEXT. At times, the book made me laugh out loud (especially in the beginning).I'm going to get the next book in the series and I would recommend this book to anyone looking to treat yourself to a wonderful reading experience!
Also, I'm looking forward to Halle Berry doing the movie version!!
Book Description
Combines the magic of fairy tale and divination in a deck offering new breadth and depth to card readings. The Fairytale Tarot presents classics like Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella, and Puss-in-Boots and remarkable, yet less familiar, adventures in a readers' tarot that's stunningly rich and brightly textured. International in perspective and universal in its implications, the Fairytale Tarot is an important contribution to the world of tarot and cartomancy.
* Fully illustrated 78-card deck
* Based on authentic and unabridged tales from around the world
* By the makers of the critically-acclaimed Tarot of Prague and Baroque Bohemian Cats' Tarot
* Foreword by Rachel Pollack
* Engaging and easy-to-follow companion book includes a summary of every tale
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Deck 4 All Ages.......2007-07-26
I am totally overjoyed with this deck, I have many but this is one of my top 5 favorites - I draw a card daily to post to a site I belong to and get to learn daily from this deck. I love the stories & find they so relate to the card.... I would recommend this deck to anyone no matter the age - I don't have one regret having bought this set - The book itself is a gem to go with a top notch deck... As you can see I can't say enough about this deck - and there's not one negative I could think of - just my opinion
fairytale tarot.......2007-03-14
I am happy to give this a good review. It is charming and allows me to see more meaning in each card, which I compare to the same card in another pack the stories ring true so far.
It is colourful and fascinating and I do not regret buying it.
Lesley-Madeleine
Enchantment for Grownups.......2006-06-13
I got these cards just as a collectibles. Or so I thought. When I ordered them, I already had The Tarot of Prague from The Magic Realist Press and had a very strong connection to it. I was convinced I'd never use another deck. Still, my life-long love of fairytales and the quality of the Prague deck compelled me to send for this deck too. Just for curiosity's sake - I wasn't actually planning on reading with the cards, I was only going to add them to my collection. Well, that theory was pretty much blown out of the water as soon as I actually saw these cards: there's no way you can have this deck and not want to use it.
Visually, this is an entirely different deck from my beloved Tarot of Prague. True to what the name promises, The Fairytale Tarot is a deck of illustrations for a wide assortment of fairytales. Beautiful illustrations. The rich and vibrant colours and the luminous quality of the cards are perfect for the fairytale worlds the cards portray: they are magical and somehow mysterious yet without being dark. And, much care and thought has clearly gone into marrying the style of each illustration to the part of the world each tale comes from be it Asia, the far east, Russia, or central Europe among others.
But I don't just like this deck because it allows me to revisit the world of fairytales I read as a child. I've been using the cards for several months now and I actually love reading with them. Yes, doing a multi-card spread takes a bit more time than with a standard Rider Waite facsimile, but the readings gain so much new depth from the fairytales that the extra time is well compensated for. My readings have gained a whole new layer of meaning as I find the themes of the stories, so intelligently linked to each card, greatly embellish the cards' traditional associations. Plus, I generally don't do a reading of more than five cards anyway so, for me, this deck works wonderfully.
I definitely recommend the book as well. Even those who aren't familiar with the stories, and there are many stories that will be new to even fairytale experts, can learn all they'll need to know from the book. And, as with Karen Mahony's other writings, the book is witty and wise and wholly enjoyable to read. It gives an excellent synopsis of each story used as well as providing the traditional meanings for each card. When I first got these cards I went through them one by one, reading a different story each night- a treat at bedtime.
If you're considering this deck because you a) like fairytales or b) you like lovely illustrations or c) you're looking for a new slant to your readings, these cards will not disappoint. They are definitely worth every penny.
I would buy anything Magic Realist Press produces.......2006-05-10
With over 100 tarot decks in my collection, if I were to name a single producer whose name excites me the most, it would be Magic Realist Press. With incredibly positive and upbeat visionary talent, Alex, Karen and friends produce delightful, whimsical decks and books which brighten the heart. Using brilliant colors, combined with such creativity that each final image nearly takes your breath away, their work is a sheer delight. When one of my decks was missing one card, I e-mailed Magic Realist Press. My query was immediately met with kindness and concern - and assurance that my missing card would be replaced. Within a week it had arrived in my mailbox, along with a lovely note. To discover individuals who have abundant talent and yet who are gifted with humility and kindness is a rare pleasure. If you were to buy only one deck this year, make it one of theirs! I am convinced that every package prepared somehow receives a special blessing; so genuine is their interest in creating a meaningful, joy-filled product for real people to benefit from!
Beautiful Deck That Adds Depth and Breadth to the Tarot.......2006-04-11
"Fairy stories open out a parallel and hidden world in our own minds-and therein lies their power and fascination, and their great potential as a partner for tarot. Because after all, isn't tarot at its best, also a form of story?" - From The Fairytale Tarot companion book
Like the tarot, fairy tales weave layers of shadow and light, with interpretation often in the eye of the beholder. Containing brutality and beauty, the obvious and the ambiguous, the complexity of fairy tales seemed a suitable partnership to the tarot in the mind of Karen Mahony. The designer of The Fairytale Tarot, she and Alex Ukolov (illustrator) and Irena Triskova (artist) have created an exquisite set of 78 cards reflecting mostly European tales-in addition to several Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern stories.
Rather than merely grafting fairytales to fit Rider-Waite-Smith iconography, the Magic Realist Press team selected stories and designed images that are congruent with acceptable card meaning, yet expand these correlations into something more: a deck that is fresh, thought provoking, and potentially transformative.
Blending the transcendent and the ordinary, fairy tales have captured the imagination of children around the world for centuries. However, The Fairytale Tarot doesn't "Disney-fy" the stories, making this deck decidedly adult. For example, the stepsisters hacking parts off their feet to fit into the glass slipper in Cinderella (The Empress) preserves the vision of the Brothers Grimm. Hans Christian Anderson's tale of The Little Mermaid (Nine of Swords) finds the mermaid permitting the sea witch to take her singing voice by cutting out her tongue in exchange for "legs...that felt like walking on knife blades."
Like life itself, both fairy tales and tarot reflect sorrow, sacrifice, betrayal, and loss-as well as the happier themes of marriage, recovery, justice, and fortune. As is often the case, some stories lack satisfactory resolution-and Ms. Mahony is sure to include several of these untidy tales which stir the imagination and beg for a closer look. However, even the well-known stories that are chosen-The Ugly Duckling (Ace of Cups), The Sorcerer's Apprentice (10 of Wands), and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Judgement) offer new, intriguing insights into the cards. This is in large part to the magnificent prose of Ms. Mahony, whose astute observations make the companion book a treasure in itself. But when these tales-many unfamiliar-are coupled with the exquisite artwork and illustration of Mr. Ukolov and Ms. Triskova, the result is truly magical.
The Fairytale Tarot uses the suits of Swords (Air), Cups (Water), Wands (Fire) and Coins (Earth), with the Court cards following the Page, Knight, Queen, and King designation. Cards measure approximately 5 x 3 inches, and although the card stock is flexible, they appear to hold up acceptably. Nevertheless, I've noticed a few of the edges beginning to turn up, so you may want to take extra care with this deck. At first glance, the backs appear fully reversible, but upon closer inspection, they are not. However, since the design is rather intricate and filigreed, you'd only notice the position if you paid particular attention to the four corners.
As previously mentioned, the Fairytale Tarot comes with a companion book: 232 glossy pages that feature a smaller version of the card image, corresponding fairy tale, keywords and phrases, Ms. Mahony's adept commentary, and additional artwork. Several spreads, with interpretations, are also included, as is some historical background and a bibliography. A unique addition to the companion book is a tale created for the 10 of Coins by Rachel Pollack. Ms. Pollack did not know the original tale and used the picture to suggest a fresh story culled from her own imagination-The Girl Who Was Too Shy. In the book proper, Ms. Mahony provides the actual tale for the 10 of Coins-The Goose Girl by the Brothers Grimm.
As a professional Tarot reader, I've used The Fairytale Tarot the last several weeks with great success-especially with a 3-card Life Purpose spread using a "separated" deck (dividing the deck up in Majors, Courts, and Minors). My clients report amazing accuracy, and reading with this deck has been a joy. The expressiveness of the images lends itself to personal intuitive interpretation, and the tales themselves add depth to readings. There are many symbolic "jump off points" in the Fairytale Tarot!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the companion book, especially discovering new tales and gaining fresh insights into several tarot cards. Some of the tales-such as The Nightingale and the Rose (3 of Swords) and The Constant Tin Solider (10 of Swords) were positively heartbreaking. Other stories-such as The Emperor and the Nightingale (The Emperor) and Water and Salt (Temperance) seem ordinary at first (as far as fairytales go!), but their lessons add depth and breadth to these two Majors. I look forward to re-reading the tales and working further with the Fairytale Tarot. Kudos goes to Ms. Mahony, Mr. Ukolov, and Ms. Triskova for creating a most delightful deck! It may not be a good deck for beginners, but for those who enjoy the complexity of fairytales, it is a very readable, very engaging deck.
(To see 10 images from The Fairytale Tarot, visit the Reviews--Decks section at JanetBoyer.com)
Book Description
In an optimistic, chatty, accessible style, Congratulations on Your Divorce guides women through the treacherous paths of divorce and into a life of renewed joy. Congratulations on Your Divorce is a breath of fresh air that helps the reader transform her feelings of being trapped to feelings of empowerment. It describes the world of divorcewarts and allwith some much-needed comic relief and heart. The reader will realize shes not alone as she learns how other women have coped with the emotional craziness of un-coupling, jettisoned their emotional baggage, and gotten back on the road to defining and finding their happily ever after. In a girlfriend-to-girlfriend conversational tone, Congratulations on Your Divorce explores all facets of divorce: from making the decision, to surviving the legal battles and getting on with life. Through the authors own experiences and those of other women, Congratulations on Your Divorce prepares readers for the road ahead: how to get through the business of divorce with humor and aplomb, get beyond the bitterness, and move on to a healthy, happy life.
Customer Reviews:
Don't miss this book!!.......2006-08-04
This is a GREAT book for any woman who is going through a divorce. It gives great advice, yet it's light-hearted. I would recommend it to anyone I know in the same situation.
roberth.......2006-04-17
I enjoyed this book very much. The content is very serious but it's presented in a way that made me laugh and discover at the same time. This book is a great read and a learning experience for anyone lucky enough to own this book.
A DEFINITE MUST READ!.......2006-03-19
This is a well written, witty book containing everything anyone contemplating, going through, or having gone through a divorce would need to know. Amy's personal and down to earth style makes for easy and sometimes downright fun reading, while obtaining extremely valuable knowledge. Put "Conratulations on Your Divorce" on your must read list if you, or anyone you know, falls into any of those categories.
Felt like we were having lunch!.......2006-03-15
When I read this book, I could imagine the author sitting across the table from me just chatting and sharing with me about divorce and all its trials and tribulations. This book has a "girlfriends guide" feel to it; it is real, intimate, provocative, and most of all, inspiring. Botwinick turns the lights on for people who may be in their darkest hour.
Most Informative and Empowering.......2006-03-04
This book was one of the most empowering and encouraging books to read on divorce. I found every chapter so quick and easy to read with a plethora of true life scenarios and a wonderful sense of humor. Amy Botwinick has done a great job.
Book Description
In
Happily Ever After, Jack Zipes addresses his ongoing concern with the socialization of children, the impact of the fairy tale on children and adults, and the future development of the fairy tale as film. As a result of analyzing the historical trajectory of storytelling and the literary fairy tale, the essays in
Happily Ever After move from the sixteenth century to the present, between different cultures and societies, and from specific analyses to general syntheses. Zipes demonstrates how Straparola's 16th-century Puss in Boots tale is related to Disney's 1922 film version. He examines the narrative structure of Hansel and Gretel as a rationalization for child abuse, tracing the same theme in Collad's novel Pinocchio and its Disney film version. He concludes by examining how we have come full circle from the early oral tradition in light of the rise of storytelling throughout the world. Underscoring all these essays is the question that all fairy tales raise: what does it take to bring about happiness? Is happiness only to be found in fairy tales?
Customer Reviews:
Food for thought.......2004-12-09
I definitely didn't agree with a lot of what Zipes had to say - he was much too pessimistic and bitter for my tastes. Additionally, the idea of Disney-as-embodiment-of-all-things-evil is a little tired.
However, what I enjoyed about the book was how much it got me thinking about my own views on the material. Quite a few times I wished Zipes was in front of me so we could discuss and debate. That is always a sign of a good book to me - something that gets me thinking about my own belief system, whether I agree with the author or not.
A very interesting read.
Helpful and Intriguing View of Tales and Culture.......2000-04-28
I really disagree with the previous review of this book. Zipes doesn't distort the tales meaning at all. Instead he avoids the facile, obvious surface reading, and goes deeper into the many varied meanings of what any one tale can mean. I especially enjoyed the sections on how tales were twisted and edited to reinforce our ideas of childhood and what is appropriate for children to read. For instance, the Grimms' tales were heavily edited over time making them less violent, adding in strict moral messages, and generally making the female characters more annoying (see Bottigheimer's Grimms Bold Boys and Bad Girls for a great analysis of this). I highly reccomend this book.
Weak.......2000-03-30
The insights here are few and far between. Zipes labors much too hard twisting these tales to fit his own political agenda. In a typical chapter, Zipes tries to explain how fairy tales demonstrate that cats are better than people. Many better books have been written on the subject.
Books:
- He Was One of Us
- High Profile
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- Hold on Tight (Hannah Montana)
- How to Heal a Broken Heart in 30 Days: A Day-by-Day Guide to Saying Good-bye and Getting On With Your Life
- How to Succeed in the Game of Life: 34 Interviews with the World's Greatest Coaches
- How to Succeed in the Game of Life: 34 Interviews with the World's Greatest Coaches
- How Your Horse Wants You to Ride: Starting Out, Starting Over
- I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What It Was: How to Discover What You Really Want and How to Get It
Books Index
Books Home
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"When Happily Ever After...Ends: How to Survive Your Divorce-Emotionally, Financially and Legally"
Leaving Him Behind: Cutting the Cord and Breaking Free After the Marriage Ends
This Is Not the Life I Ordered: 50 Ways to Keep Your Head Above Water When Life Keeps Dragging You Down
Spiritual Divorce: Divorce as a Catalyst for an Extraordinary Life
A Woman's Guide to Healing the Heartbreak of Divorce
![From Ex-Wife to Exceptional Life: A Woman's Journey through Divorce [UNABRIDGED]](http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/0976113309.01.THUMBZZZ.jpg)
