Customer Reviews:
Looks exciting/ can't wait to study all the details!.......2007-10-01
So many details in this book, the sky's the limit as to where all the clues may be hidden. I bought this book for my kids to challenge their imagination, but it would be a challenge for any adult. This book is beautifully written and illustrated as just a story book/ face value/ even if not used as a treasure map!
Writing this w/ my cousin........2007-04-23
To begin, I have to say, the story itself does not interest me that much, the characters being overly simplistic and largely cliched. The puzzles on the otherhand are wildly devious, with an intricacy, that would put Will Shortz (NY Times Puzzle editor) to shame.
Sadly, I cannot see myself (nor would I ever), reading, or using this book again once the hunt is "completed."
For this reason, parents, despite the 'easy reading' in the story, if your kids want anything out of the book, be prepared to invest long hours working with them.
Still, as a 17 year old 'Trover' (term for fans of Stradthers work.), I tend to work on the puzzles alone, and I may refer to the story with help for some solves that only work 'in context' (Some of the books secrets are found in story), I cannot find any lasting appeal in the story beyond the hunt. So while it is largely worthwhile to pick up for the hunt alone, once, the hunt is over, the only hope of sales, is for those dedicated 'trovers' who do it for the fun, rather than the reward. And while I experience/appreciate this feeling, if you're going to be a 'treasure hunter' why look for treasure long since taken?
Will you read it again after the hunt is over?.......2007-03-13
Michael Stadther, Secrets of the Alchemist Dar (Treasure Trove, Inc., 2006)
The A Treasure's Trove crowd is back with another big treasure hunt, and another chapter in the story of Zac, Anna, and Pook, as well, of course as Alchemist Dar, the new leader of the imprisoned (at the start of the book, anyway) dark fairies. Dar has a plan to kill the good fairies and steal the Rings of Eternal Life they wear around their necks (and why, may I ask, do they wear them around their necks and not on their fingers?). Zac, Ana, Pook, and the forest militia have to find a way to stop him-- but how?
Treasure-hunt books are not all that rare, actually; what is rare is a treasure-hunt book that stays around long after the treasure has been found. In order to pen one of those, you need to make sure the treasure aspect of the book isn't what carries it, because the treasure is nothing more than a gimmick to get people to read the book-- or that's all it should be. All too often, it becomes the only thing that makes the book worthwhile-- thus dooming the book to an abbreviated shelf life and an eternity of obscurity. And, like A Treasure's Trove before it, Secrets of the Alchemist Dar is exactly that kind of book-- there's a story here, but it's not nearly detailed enough to stand on its own, and the underlying characters lack any real depth to hold a person's interest for longer than they will spend looking for the treasure.
(For the record, as far as I know, only one treasure-hunt book published in my lifetime is still widely read: Ellen Raskin's 1978 Newbery-medal winner The Westing Game.) ** ½
Secrets of the Alchemist Dar - Review.......2007-03-11
Secrets of the Alchemist Dar - A Brief Review
The book can only be found in the children's section of the most well-known book store chains. Why would anyone hope to sell a book there? Well, Secrets is such a book. Secrets is not just a fantasy, it is also a treasure hunt, filled with imagery, and hints that invite even more images. If you have ever enjoyed tales, this book promises and delivers a unique tale, filled with reminders of flash lighted faces stories told at campfires, at home, and with wonder.
The author dedicates his book to anyone who reads it with a child. The illustrations range from the seemingly crude to the sublime, mystery and wonder. Is it a classic tale retold? Maybe, Maybe not. The story begins with a dance, and ends with something else. Oh no, I won't give that secret away (it might be a solve). If you go to the website dedicated to this hunt, you will hear that often enough, and you will meet people as interesting as the characters in this book. But be careful some of them might be alchemists or worse.
Alchemy, the very word invokes images of menace. Laboratories where vile things like pollution of the environment for greed takes place by villains of every sort. And a challenge, the author makes you part of the story, and you accept. Teachers are invited to investigate the educational possibilities presented.
Biology, physics, mathematics, probability, social responsibility, jurisprudence, archeology, geography, astronomy, history, and research - its all there, and more. Exploring the possibilities. Did the author succeed with this? In my view, yes.
Parents would welcome the opportunity to share this adventure with their children. Age appropriate? Thousands of adults have read and enjoyed this book, not just once, but many times. The book however is not for adults, it is fundamentally a child's story, a tale told to awaken the imagination, the first place reading begins. Then, it reaches in to stir curiosity, and awaken possibilities. Then seemingly out of the blue, critical thinking based upon observation, hypothesis and reasoning starts to take root.
A Real Brainbuster (with Beautiful Graphics).......2007-01-25
This book has been a lot of fun for my entire family. We haven't come close to figuring out one location, but it's fun to try. And the art work is just superb.
For those of you who stumbled upon this review by accident (and don't actually know what this book is), let me explain. This is a book of clues to actual locations that contain actual gems. The gems are very valuable. This is the second book in which the author has hidden gems and used the book as a sort of "treasure map."
The books is hours of entertaining fun. And for the very ambitious -- it could be quite profitable!
Book Description
A comprehensive look at the life of Elias Ashmole, who represents the historic missing link between operative and symbolic Freemasonry
• Explores the true role of occult and magical studies in the genesis of modern science
• Explains the full meaning of the term magus, which Ashmole exemplified
Elias Ashmole (1617-1692) was the first to record a personal account of initiation into Accepted Freemasonry. His writings help solve the debate between operative and “speculative” origins of Accepted Freemasonry, demonstrating that symbolic Freemasonry existed within the Masonic trade bodies. Ashmole was one of the leading intellectual luminaries of his time: a founding member of the Royal Society, a fellowship and later academy of natural philosophers and scientists; alchemist; astrological advisor to the king; and the creator of the world’s first public museum. While Isaac Newton regarded him as an inspiration, Ashmole has been ignored by many conventional historians.
Tobias Churton’s compelling portrait of Ashmole offers a perfect illustration of the true Renaissance figure--the magus. As opposed to the alienated position of his post-Cartesian successors, the magus occupied a place at the heart of Renaissance spiritual, intellectual, and scientific life. Churton shows Ashmole to be part of the ferment of the birth of modern science, a missing link between operative and symbolic Freemasonry, and a vital transmitter of esoteric thought when the laws of science were first taking hold. He was a man who moved with facility between the powers of earth and the active symbols of heaven.
Product Description
This is the greatest self help book that has ever been written! You will cherish it every day of your life as a never-failing source of inspiration and help.
Average customer rating:
- I had to put this book down
- I am never really sure how to review a book like this.
- A GREAT story!
- amazing adventure/perfect gift
- Gripping: fast-packed action packs a powerful story
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The Alchemyst (Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel)
Michael Scott
Manufacturer: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
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Physik (Septimus Heap, Book 3)
ASIN: 0385733577
Release Date: 2007-05-22 |
Book Description
He holds the secret that can end the world.
The truth: Nicholas Flamel was born in Paris on September 28, 1330. Nearly 700 years later, he is acknowledged as the greatest Alchemyst of his day. It is said that he discovered the secret of eternal life.
The records show that he died in 1418.
But his tomb is empty.
The legend: Nicholas Flamel lives. But only because he has been making the elixir of life for centuries. The secret of eternal life is hidden within the book he protects—the Book of Abraham the Mage. It's the most powerful book that has ever existed. In the wrong hands, it will destroy the world. That's exactly what Dr. John Dee plans to do when he steals it. Humankind won't know what's happening until it's too late. And if the prophecy is right, Sophie and Josh Newman are the only ones with the power to save the world as we know it.
Sometimes legends are true.
And Sophie and Josh Newman are about to find themselves in the middle of the greatest legend of all time.
Customer Reviews:
I had to put this book down.......2007-10-18
This is my first review ever, but I felt compelled to write one because the writing in this book is so awful. The story had some interesting ideas -- a malevolent Elder Race, for example, is a novel concept and I looked forward to learning more about them. Unfortunately, the author's habit of repeating obvious things felt like someone hammering a nail through my head, and I had to put this book down after chapter 7 to move on to something else. I agree with the reviewers who think this book could have been condensed to 150 pages. The author needs some quality time with Strunk and White.
I am never really sure how to review a book like this. .......2007-10-17
I didn't hate this book and I will probably read the sequel since this book is not a complete book and ends in the middle of the story (continued, presumably in the sequel.) The problem is, however, that this book is not very good. In fact, it's pretty terrible. The book switches focus so many times that you never get any real sense of the characters so after hundreds of pages, you don't know anymore about the characters then you did at the start so it's very hard to care about them. This book has a very large cast of characters and, by the end, and they are a little more then cardboard cut outs. Perhaps the author could have tried developing a few characters instead of creating hundreds of bland people we never get a sense of? I can also hear my inner English teacher screaming "show me, don't tell me" as he insists on repeating everything over and over instead of just letting you infer yourself. The author is also so concerned with being "hip" that the pop culture references are so peppered as to be both annoying and distracting to the story. I appreciate that the author has a lot of knowledge about the mythology that he wants to showcase, but, with the exception of one battle scene towards the end that I enjoyed, the rest of the book is slow and, frankly, boring, like when the most boring teacher in school tries to be hip and it just falls flat. I also think that, as a reader, it was unfair to make the first book end with no resolution. Thus I am now forced to read a second lackluster book from this author just to see if the story that he was telling was worth it. There are millions of series in the world and others at least give some resolution at the end of each part, if not a resolution to the entire thing. As I said, I am willing to give him a second chance with the second book since, though boring and poorly written, I didn't hate this book, but, so far, this series isn't anything to get excited about.
A GREAT story!.......2007-10-16
I love the way the story is woven with rich expresive language. The story engages you from the first page! Michael Scott has created a story that is familar and new all at the same time. I hated to see the story end and cannot wait for another installment from this author. An outstanding voice in Young Adult fiction has arrived!! Read the book or listen to the audio you will not be diappointed.
amazing adventure/perfect gift.......2007-10-07
I read this book way too fast. I wanted the story to never end and now I am beside myself with anticipation as to what happens next. I cant wait for the next book. I have also given this book as a gift four times so far. Every person who has received it thinks I am the best gift giver ever!!!!!
Gripping: fast-packed action packs a powerful story.......2007-10-07
Nicholas Flamel was born in Paris in 1330 and centuries later is an acknowledged Alchemyst said to have discovered the secret of eternal life - but though he supposedly died, his tomb is empty and nobody knows his elixir is successful until Dr John Dee discovers the most powerful book which ever existed, containing both the secret and the possibility of destroying the world. Michael Scott's The Alchemyst: Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flaitiel is gripping: fast-packed action packs a powerful story of the supernatural perfect for teens in grades 7-10.
Customer Reviews:
Alchemy Revealed.......2001-07-23
"Secrets of the Alchemists" edited by George Constable is part of the Mysteries of the Unknown series by Time-Life. This book consists of 144 pages of phenomenal information. "Secrets of the Alchemist" is split into four chapters. Chapter one being called "Chasing the Seductive Gleam" & in this chapter the reader will discover many astonishing pictures. The first page in the chapter is a giant yellow sun made out of gold. Not only will the reader be shocked by the golden illustrations & pictures but the information brilliant. Many great philosophers, alchemist, & occultist are described. A few of the names mentioned are Helvetius, Avicenna (the Arab Aristotle), Geber, Albertus Magnus, Roger Bacon & many more. Ouroboros "the serpent that bites its own tail" is also found in this chapter along side of different metals & their planet correspondences. At the end of the chapter there is an essay called "A Visit to the Laboratory." In this essay the author talks about what a Renaissance laboratory was like & shows pictures of different tools used in the laboratory. Chapter two called "Alchemy's Golden Age" gives a great historical background on alchemy. The medieval Ripley scroll by a monk named George Ripley is present in this chapter. I was amazed to find this behemothic scroll outlining the black, white, & red stages of alchemy (takes up 7 full pages!). Some other notable names in this chapter are John Dee, Edward Kelly, Paracelsus (creator of the Homunculus), Johann Goethe (famous for the Faust drama), & more. At the end of this chapter is an essay titled "Alchemical Wisdom from a Wordless Book." The book is better known as the "Mutus Liber" & follows the work of Adam McLean. This is a book that supposedly shows the answer to the philosophers' stone. Chapter three is titled "Into the Scientific Era" begins in the journey through time. "Into the Scientific Era" shows the development of alchemy & the mentality of the practitioners. Again in this chapter there are many great illustrations & a massive amount to information. The essay is called "The Great Work in the Orient" & is radiantly written. Printed on bright red pages the reader will surely not fall asleep while reading this essay. My favorite section in the "The Great Work in the Orient" which lists & illustrates the eight immortals. The final chapter designated "The Alchemist of Today" tells a tale of how gold was finally produced by physics & chemistry. Also mention is a few of the many people who failed & never found the infamous philosophers stone. Overall like all the Time-Life "Mysteries of the Unknown" books this is another exceptionally well-done work. I recommend this masterpiece to anyone interested in alchemy.
Average customer rating:
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The Golden Builders: Alchemists, Rosicrucians, and the First Freemasons
Tobias Churton
Manufacturer: Barnes & Noble Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0760776105 |
Product Description
In a breathtaking span of detailed research, Tobias Churton reveals, without resorting to mythology or pseudo-history, the most up-to-date knowledge on the development of Gnostic alchemy, the true origins of pre-Grand Lodge Freemasonry, and the mysterious Fraternity of the Rosy Cross (the Rosicrucians).
Book Description
Alchemy—the ancient science that aims to transform various substances into different and more noble elements—remains one of the most misunderstood of the great wisdom traditions. Often scorned as a deceptive pseudo-science practiced by the greedy in pursuit of gold, alchemy is gaining renewed recognition by many today as a legitimate way to understand certain workings of nature. It is also seen as a complex key to our understanding of humanity's relationship to the universe and a means of improving our health and well-being. The Book of Alchemy teaches its readers how to penetrate the obscure symbolic language of the alchemists . . . understand how alchemical transformation can initiate a profound change of consciousness, claimed by practitioners to bring eventual union with the Divine . . . practice traditional meditations and exercises . . . prepare herbal alchemical elixirs to benefit the body . . . and discover how the alchemists' search for purity can become a twenty-first-century model for spiritual development. Readers will also find helpful meditations, brilliant illustrations of alchemical emblems, and instructions for making beneficial alchemical potions from easy-to-obtain herbs. The author shows readers how to harness the powers claimed for alchemy to improve their physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. Approximately 130 full-color illustrations.
Customer Reviews:
As Above, So Below..........2005-04-12
"The Book of Alchemy" is a wonderfully illustrated, yet brief introduction to the world of the alchemists and their ancient quest to find The Philosopher's Stone, The Elixir of Life, and Oneness with the Universe. This little book serves as a nice entry into this rather voluminous and complex material for the novice occultist or neophyte alchemist.
This book essentially gives an overview of the history of the Great Work, from its mythical origins in ancient Egypt with Hermes Trismegistus, to modern practitioners of the art today. Along the way we are treated to a miriad of beautiful color images and emblems from some of the most famous alchemical books and manuscripts. The book also gives a short introduction to some of the most famous alchemists and their quest for the Philosopher's Stone. Here we find the likes of Nicholas Flamel, Robert Fludd, Paracelsus, John Dee and even scientific giants like Issac Newton and Robert Boyle, both of whom were known to have dabbled heavily in alchemy. The book also gives insight into the archetypal imagery that pervades alchemical lore and the symbolism that hints at the secret meaning of the 'Great Work'.
This book is meant for those who may not have a deep grounding in the history of alchemy and those who are fluent in its mysteries may find it somewhat superficial. Nevertheless, it is enjoyable for anyone interested in what some have called the precusor to modern science, but even more importantly, alchemy represents the first true attempts by mankind to explore the unknown mysteries of the universe.
Book Description
He holds the secret that can end the world.
The truth: Nicholas Flamel was born in Paris on September 28, 1330. Nearly 700 years later, he is acknowledged as the greatest Alchemyst of his day. It is said that he discovered the secret of eternal life.
The records show that he died in 1418.
But his tomb is empty.
The legend: Nicholas Flamel lives. But only because he has been making the elixir of life for centuries. The secret of eternal life is hidden within the book he protects—the Book of Abraham the Mage. It's the most powerful book that has ever existed. In the wrong hands, it will destroy the world. That's exactly what Dr. John Dee plans to do when he steals it. Humankind won't know what's happening until it's too late. And if the prophecy is right, Sophie and Josh Newman are the only ones with the power to save the world as we know it.
Sometimes legends are true.
And Sophie and Josh Newman are about to find themselves in the middle of the greatest legend of all time.
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
Interesting fantasy story but it is book one of six parts.......2007-08-13
We listened to this interesting audiostory on a long car ride since it is 10 hours long. It kept everyone captivated even the 8 year old and the teenagers. If you like fantasy books that include magic like the Harry Potter series, I think you will like this story. We were disappointed though when we learned that this is only the first book of a six book series and only the first book has been released.
A literary Band-Aid for lamenting Potter Fans.......2007-07-19
Blending actual historical figures with mythological monsters and pagan deities, the world of the Alchemyst blurs the lines of reality to the point of surreality. Potter Fans will remember Nicholas Flamel as a maker of the Philosopher Stone in Book 1 of that series. Well, let's say that in the world of The Alchemyst, Harry and Co. are popular fictional characters, just as they are in reality. Where as Nicholas Flamel is an actual historical figure, born in France in the fourteenth century.
This book, the first in a series of I believe six, throws you into the action with very little preamble. A magic battle, mud monsters, a legendary book, and a 2,000+ year old teenage warrior-goddess punk rocker (seriously) come into the story within the first few chapters.
Author Scott has set himself a nice playing field for subsequent books in this series. And while not as detailed as some other books in the genre, it more than makes up for it with lots of action. The story of Nicholas Flamel has five more opportunities to flesh out its world. I am looking forward to spending more time there.
BTW, my magic smells like liquorice.
Anxiously awaiting book 2.......2007-07-12
I read the book and devoured it and I needed more. I decided to pick up the audio tape so I could listen to it in my car. Even with knowing how it ends, it is so exciting and suspenseful! And being taken away to San Francisco and enjoy the fantasy that the characters are experiencing is magical!
The story is fascinating. The events that led up to up it are amazing. I want to go to Paris to visit the Flamel's home. It's incredible that it still exists and that it was the seed out of which this story grew.
Captivating for 13 and under, but..........2007-06-27
The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel is a captivating story. The characters interact well with each other and the story line, for the most part. However, I found the use and mention of various new technology electronics was too abrupt. They seemed to be thrown in like raisins in rice pudding, rather than used to enhance the story, say - like cream in coffee.
I did find myself eager to return to the story as soon as possible after each time I had to stop and continue my own life's duties.
I would have liked to see Mrs. Flamel more intouch and more influential throughout the story.
I liked the questions that came to mind about Dee as he interacted with the boy.
This book is definatley worth reading. I guess I had too high expectations after reading HP(x6) by JKR.
SUCH A GREAT BOOK!!!!!!.......2007-05-29
I love reading a good book and that is what "The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel" is!!!!
I couldn't put the darn thing down and I'm now officially the biggest Michael Scott fan. I just loved, loved, loved this fantastic book!!!
Average customer rating:
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The Alchemist's Secret
Isabel Cecilia Williams
Manufacturer: 1st World Library - Literary Society
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 1421824892 |
Book Description
Last mail in, Mis' Bascomb? "Last mail's in, Tony." "Be there anything for me to-night?" Widow Bascomb knew perfectly well there was not, but she reached for a small pile of letters in a pigeonhole on her right and glanced over them rapidly
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101 NEW! Puzzles, Clues, Maps, Tantalizing Tales, and Stories of Real Treasure: Puzzle Book Companion 2 (A Treasure's Trove)
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High Bandwidth | Low Bandwidth
In 2004 the author and illustrator Michael Stadther made publishing history when his first book, the self-published A Treasure's Trove, appeared on nearly every bestseller list in the United States. Rarely, if ever, had a self-published book received such popular acclaim so quickly. Inspired by this success, Mike has embarked on an even more ambitious and wide-ranging project. On September 26, 2006, his publishing company, in association with Simon & Schuster, released Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, the sequel to A Treasure's Trove. Alchemist Dar will launch the first worldwide treasure hunt for 100 Aaron Basha jeweled rings valued at over $2 million.
Aaron Basha is known for his collection of magical treasures and masterful designs originated of 18 karat gold, gemstones, and colored enamel. His name is internationally recognized for the signature jeweled Baby Shoes, Love Bugs, spectacular diamond designs, and a high profile celebrity clientele. Aaron Basha's flagship boutique is located on Madison Avenue in New York City. Renowned retailers worldwide featuring the Aaron Basha line are located throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean Islands. "We are thrilled to be a part of the adventure of Secrets of the Alchemist Dar, says Aaron. "Our designs are known to charm the child at heart; may the rings of eternal life bring fun, play and love!"
