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Over the course of 13 years and five novels, Louise Erdrich has staked out a richly imagined corner of North Dakota soil--her own Yoknapatawpha, where every character is connected to every other and nothing can be said to happen for the first time. The Last Report on the Miracles at Little No Horse is no exception. The report in question comes from Father Damien Modeste, who has served the Ojibwe through a century of famine, epidemics, murders, and feuds. But the good priest is not what he appears. The prologue ends with the curiously beautiful image of the old man slowly removing heavy robes, undergarments, and, at last, a bandage wound tightly around women's breasts: "small, withered, modest as folded flowers."
How--and why--could such a deception last so long? That's the first mystery. The second begins when Father Jude Miller (a name familiar to readers of The Beet Queen) arrives to investigate the life of Sister Leopolda (or Pauline Puyat, another familiar name). Was Leopolda a saint? Or its opposite, whatever that is? Miracles, after all, are a part of the reservation's everyday life; for every nun's stigmata there's a secular wonder like the death of Nanapush. Indeed, the chapter detailing this old trickster's demise is the kind of earthy, tragicomic fable Erdrich does to perfection, including as it does an extended trial by moose, death by flatulence, and not one but two lustful resurrections.
Erdrich's writing is at its best when she chronicles the bittersweet humor of reservation life. It's at its worst, sadly, when she cranks up the fog machine and goes for the violins. ("He had the odd sensation that petals drifted in the air between them, petals of a fragrant and papery citrus velvet," she tells us, telegraphing Father Jude's attraction to a woman.) But at least the book's sins are sins of ambition--this is a novelist who revisits the same territory because the capaciousness of her vision demands it. Readers may forgive Erdrich's vagueness about Father Damien's religious calling, but they will never forget her images, as lovely and surprising as figures glimpsed in a dream: the devil in the shape of a black dog, his paw in a bowl of soup; freshly planted pansies, nodding at the priests' feet "like the faces of spoiled babies"; a woman in a billowing white nightdress riding a grand piano through the "gray soup" of a flood. Moments like these are small miracles of their own. --Mary Park
Book Description
For more than a half century, Father Damien Modeste has served his beloved people, the Ojibwe, on the remote reservation of Little No Horse. Now, nearing the end of his life, Father Damien dreads the discovery of his physical identity, for he is a woman who has lived as a man. To complicate his fears, his quiet life changes when a troubled colleague comes to the reservation to investigate the life of the perplexing, difficult, possibly false saint Sister Leopolda. Father Damien alone knows the strange truth of Sister Leopolda's piety and is faced with the most difficult decision of his life: Should he reveal all he knows and risk everything? Or should he manufacture a protective history though he believes Leopolda's wonder-working is motivated by evil?
Download Description
Special feature: This PerfectBound e-book contains a reading group guide to The Last Report on The Miracles at Little No Horse and our exclusive interview with Louise Erdrich. For more than a half century, Father Damien Modeste has served his beloved people, the Ojibwe, on the remote reservation of Little No Horse. Compelled to his task by a direct mystical experience, Father Damien has made enormous sacrifices, and experienced the joys of commitment as well as deep suffering. Now, nearing the end of his life, Father Damien dreads the discovery of his physical identity, for he is a woman who has lived as a man. He imagines the undoing of all that he has accomplished -- sees unions unsundered, baptisms nullified, those who confessed to him once again unforgiven. To complicate his fears, his quiet life changes when a troubled colleague comes to the reservation to investigate the life of the perplexing, difficult, possibly false saint Sister Leopolda. Father Damien alone knows the strange truth of Sister Leopolda's piety, but these facts are bound up in his own secret. In relating his history and that of Leopolda, whose wonder working is documented but inspired, he believes, by a capacity for evil rather than the love of good, Father Damien is forced to choose: Should he reveal all he knows and risk everything? Or should he manufacture a protective history? In spinning out the tale of his life, Father Damien in fact does both. His story encompasses his life as a young woman, her passions, and the pestilence, tribal hatreds, and sorrows passed from generation to generation of Ojibwe. From the fantastic truth of Father Damien's origin as a woman to the hilarious account of the absurd demise of Nanapush, his best friend on the reservation, his story ranges over the span of the century.
Customer Reviews:
ho hum.......2007-10-11
Unbelievable story with very effective, if often disturbing, imagery. Very choppy. Quite dark.
I would only recommend this if you really had lots of time on your hands and nothing better to do.
One of the best books I have ever read.......2007-02-05
I just picked this book up recently and was instantly drawn into the storyline. I could not stop reading it. I will not go on and on, I just want to say that I think it would make a fantastic movie - I think Louise is an excellent author (never read anything of hers before) and I was sad to see the book come to an end! Great reading! :-)
good but..........2005-04-09
I found this book to be good but also slightly flawed.
I read it for a class (a University English class) and have been blown away by all the books so far but this one hasn't quite hit me the way some of the other novels I've read for the course did.
It started out great, I was really intrigued, but then sometime after page 100 I lost interest and just wanted the book to finish so I could write my paper and be done with it.
I really wish though that the book said somewhere on it that it is basically a part of a series. Until I came to the Amazon website and read a bunch of reviews I had no idea! Maybe reading more of her novels would have helped me get through the novel better in the first place!
Simply Wonderful!.......2005-03-25
This is one great novel. Louise Erdrich weaves stories together to form a unified tale, completely original and plausible. I have never read anything quite like this and was intrigued and interested throughout the entire book. I can't imagine anyone not being spellbound by such a tale.
SHOULD BE 10 STARS!!!!!.......2004-09-18
What an incredible book!! Plot was so unusual - so intriquing - so engrossing - I couldn't put it down! I look forward to reading more by this author - but I wonder if anything can top this story. Read it for the ultimate reader's high!
Book Description
Parents of very premature infants, often shocked and panicked by the situation in which they find themselves, have until now had surprisingly few resources to consult. Now, with Miracle Birth Stories of Very Premature Babies, the information, support, and hope they so desperately need have been made available. Written by a prize-winning journalist and father of a now-thriving micro-preemie, this uplifting testament to hope is filled with parents' stories of their preemies and micro-preemies, complete with details of their struggles in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), with harrowing series of life-threatening conditions, and with accounts of extraordinarily delicate and risky surgical procedures. This is the only book available in which parents, through interviews, "speak" directly to other parents about their common experiences with premature infants, and it is an invaluable guide to navigating the NICU journey. While the book presents sobering medical facts in a straightforward manner, author Timothy Smith's intention is to show a different side of extreme prematurity than the one most often presented by the media. Rather than dwelling on the relatively infrequent cases that result in severe handicaps and family hardship, the author introduces the readers to many examples of the positive, more common outcomes of prematurity: children who have struggled valiantly and successfully, often against all odds, to join families that continue to cherish them. Heartwarming yet realistic, these stories inspire even as they portray the families' attempts to cope with losing the typical birth experience, listening to insensitive remarks, going home without their babies, and communicating with medical professionals. This is a powerful, love-filled, personal resource for parents of tiny infants.
Customer Reviews:
new mother of preemie loves this book.......2007-09-20
My niece's baby was born at 28 weeks. Needless to say, this was a shock and a scary time for them. I saw this book and thought it might bring some comfort to her and her husband. She said the book is great. Brings tears to her eyes, but she can relate to all the stories that she has been reading.
Miracle Birth Stories.......2007-08-28
I could relate to every story having been in all those situations. Being a parent of a micro-preemie is an isolating feeling. It helps to know there are others who are out there going through the same thing you are and are surviving it!
An important resource for parents, families and nurses!!!.......2002-12-01
Many people don't realize that micropreemies do have a solid chance to survive and enjoy relatively normal lives thanks to modern medicine and the love and dedication of parents and NICU nurses. But with Mr. Smith's book, it takes the reader right into the lives of people who have experienced the birth of a very premature baby, and -- without sugarcoating it -- shows how these miracle babies are wonderful examples for all about the fight for precious life!
Every hospital neonatal intensive care unit should have this available by the case for those who need the support and positive reinforcement when confronted with what can be a perilous situation.
Compassion and real people.......2001-04-11
I thought that the book "Miracle Birth Stories Of Very Premature Babies" by Timothy Smith was a well crafted and welcome addition to the world of medical literature. As I was reading, I felt like I was in the hospital with each set of parents, going through their triumphs and defeats with them.
One strong aspect of the book is that it is written for the average person, in basic language that we can all understand. The medical information provided is relevent and accurate, but we are not bogged down in medical and hospital terminology. Medical journals and texts are often written in a very dry, academic tone that is hard to get through. Also, as I was reading I also felt that I was learning information about a controversial topic without being preached to.
We have all heard things about this topic through magazines, television news, newspapers, tabloids, etc. Smith is a veteran newspaper reporter and it shows. Each story is special in their own situation, and the different families are tied together in a nice way through a common cord of compassion, mutual experiences, and hopes for the future. I wish that premature birth parents in hospitals everywhere could receive this book. It is truly inspirational and lets them know they are not alone.
Thumbs Up for "Little Thumbs Up"!.......2001-02-28
Parents facing the suspense and stress of premature childbirth can take heart by reading this! In fact, it should be in the waiting room by every hospital's preemie ward, so anxious parents can read these stories of tiny bodies with enormous courage. Tim Smith has told the tale of his own daughter's bravery, and the tales of other families going through this difficult experience, with insight and warmth. This is a must-have for anyone who needs to believe in the power of the human spirit.
Book Description
Stories about Therese of the Little Flower--recognized as one of the most influential saints of recent times. Since her death countless miracles, healings, and life changes have been attributed to her inspiration and grace.
Customer Reviews:
The Handbook of Heavenly Guidance.......2007-08-28
This is such a wonderful account of people's experience with St. Therese and the myriad of ways that she uses to show people which direction to go when faced with a difficult decision or whether their petition for a favor has been granted.
I believe in all cases through St. Therese's intercession that everyone's sincere prayers are answered but not always in the way they would expect. Though, I might add in this book of 'Little Stories' it certainly seems that most prayers are answered in the most apparent way.
It is difficult not to be touched to the point of tears when reading and rereading this book which I call 'The Handbook of Heavenly Guidance'!
Excellent Fast Reading.......2007-01-12
These inspirational stories will appeal to all ages, men and women. You will be surprised how reading rhese personal accounts will inspire you and obtain favors too! After reading, pass it on to a friend!
Little Favours from St. Therese of Lisieux.......2006-07-25
In reading this book, I find how a saint who followed
the small, hidden path to Our Lord's heart, was able,
after her death to help the "little" people of the
world.
Most Catholics know St. Therese, but I would ask
non-Catholics to also investigate her life as one
of simplicity and devotion to Jesus Christ.
Shower of Heavenly Roses - inspiring stories.......2005-08-12
All stories in this book serve as inspiration to many to become more and more closer to Jesus through the little flower's intercession. All those whom I shared this book with told me that once they start reading the book, they could not put it down. Some even experience little miracles themselves. And to others, they got to know St. Therese more and now invoke her powerful intercession as well. One lady I gave the book to shared with me that she didn't really know St. Therese that well, but after reading the book, she wanted to have a picture of St. Therese with her little prayers on it. To her amazement, she found a little card with St. Therese' picture on her bedroom, but nothing was printed on it. It was a two fold card but inside was blank. She wished it contain some kind of novena prayers as she would like to start a novena with her. The following day, that same card had the 24 Glory Be's novena inside. When she came to see me before she left for the Philippines, I had the prompting to give her a beautiful 11 x 14 picture of St. Therese. She was just so thrilled to see the picture as she also wished for a bigger picture of St. Therese.
Thank you Elizabeth for putting together such inspiring stories.
a "little companion".......2005-05-01
Therese of Lisieux's autobiography is a book I love to take with me when I travel or have a long day with a lot of waiting. Elizabeth Ficocelli's book is a lot like that as well -- a book you can either read from cover to cover or, better yet, dip into to see inspirational stories from people of all different backgrounds. I was amazed at how many different kinds of people have experienced graces from Therese, and in all sorts of different circumstances, including weddings, distance of family members, and so forth. I like to read each story, then say a prayer asking that I can receive the grace with the same openness that many of these people did. Final note -- you'll love the story from Tara Lipinski, the Olympic figure skater!
Average customer rating:
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Little Miracles in Real Life: Inspiring Stories of God's Intervention in People's Lives
John Sherrill
Manufacturer: Tyndale House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
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ASIN: 0842355197 |
Book Description
This collection of favorite stories from Guideposts magazine will lift your spirits and strengthen your faith as you read of God's miraculous intervention in the lives of everyday people. Various authors contributed to this book, including John Sherrill and a host of people from all walks of life.
Book Description
In
The Miracle of Tithing, A Little Book of Answers to Questions about Tithing, you'll discover and fully comprehend this great principle so it can open life's cornucopia of unlimited good for you.
Throughout a lifetime of faithful tithing, Mark Victor Hansen has discovered that giving does not cause you to have less, but in fact guarantees that ultimately and inevitably you'll have more. In this thought-provoking account of the direct benefits of tithing, Mark not only cites the actual Biblical passages that deliver the promise of bounty to those who tithe, he shares the little-known tithing habits of highly successful people, answers the most common questions about tithing and shares the most amazing stories of tithing from his readers.
Customer Reviews:
A very, VERY important book.......2004-09-01
At the date of writing this review, Mark V Hansen's book is currently out of print. However, I strongly advise you to locate a used edition as this book is genuinely life-changing.
Tithing is an ageless law that will work wonders for you in your financial and personal life. It creates a powerful and exciting win-win situation: the receiver and the giver both benefit.
This easy-read book will inspire and instruct you into a life of giving, and as a consequence your life will benefit in all areas - and in unexpected ways.
My personal motto is "Give freely - and live freely".
Try it and see. I believe once you begin tithing you will never want to stop.
A real faith booster!.......2000-04-26
I liked this book because he uses real examples of how this law of tithing works including his own life. Also, it's a quick read but has valuable information if you have any doubts about tithing. He encourages one to believe in him/herself and God.
Book Description
Brimming with beauty remedies and advice on everything from make-up application to fake tanning, 1001 Little Beauty Miracles offers quick, simple ways to improve and maintain your good looks. Here are invaluable solutions to such beauty quandaries as disguising blemishes, tweezing unruly brows, and making thin hair look luxuriously thick. Even if you’re an ungroomed, nail-biting, hair-yanking exercise-phobe, these corner-cutting tips will have you looking your best with a minimum of fuss. Esme Floyd is a contributor to The Sunday Times Style magazine.
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful Book!.......2007-04-14
I highly recommend this book. It is full of ideas to keep you looking your best.
Average customer rating:
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My Little Miracle
J. Beck
Manufacturer: Cartwheel Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Board book
General
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| New Baby
| Family Life
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ASIN: 0439902495 |
Book Description
"Welcome to the world of smiles and hugs When tucked into bed or cuddled in rugs . . . Enjoy friendship and laughter your whole life through And the love that we feel as we welcome you." Into a world full of wonder comes the greatest miracle of all. This padded board book celebrates the special joy of a new baby in the world. From birth to a baby's first step, stunning photographs and simple poetry tell a story of love.
Average customer rating:
- 17 Little Miricals: The big family handbook
- HILARIOUS!
- Inspirational! Read it to your kids!
- A must read for anyone with under 17 Kids
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Seventeen Little Miracles: Fun and Success in a Family With 17 Children
Martin J. Mirical
Manufacturer: Wydaily Pub. Book
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Marriage & Family
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ASIN: 0963159364 |
Customer Reviews:
17 Little Miricals: The big family handbook.......2005-12-28
As the member of a large, Catholic family, I saw elements of my own experiences in every chapter/essay of "17 Little Miricals." The book covers the gamut of family experiences -- from the hysterical to the scatalogical to the combative -- and while the large-family experience is depicted (accurately) as anything but idyllic, author Mirical manages to find the humor and warmth in each situation.
I gave a copy to my grandmother, herself the mother of 10 kids, and she loved it so much that she shared it with friends. And because her copy of "17 Little Miricals" is still making the rounds among the congregation of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Galesburg, Illinois, you'd best buy your own copy.
HILARIOUS!.......2005-08-12
Almost to funny! It's hard to believe that these stories are true! A very clean (but not at all dry) humor that caused everyone in the family to wet there pants! I am not the reading type, but I loved sharing this book with my family so much that we are beggining to read it for our third time! We are so into the story and real characters that we are just praying for a sequel/update to be published.
Inspirational! Read it to your kids!.......1998-10-26
Baby boomers will enjoy this book immensely! The childhood stories are adorable and hilarious. Fabulously inspirational! One can only imagine the indepdendence achieved by 17 children, born in a span of 19 years, of only two parents, which so far has led 15 of the 17 to finish college! I read it to my 8-year old, an only child, as a chapter book. It illustrates the value of hard work, creativity, and youthful independence. Applause, applause!!
A must read for anyone with under 17 Kids.......1997-08-08
This book is funny, insightful, and touching. I read it five times and each time I found something different
Book Description
With topics ranging from nutrition and fitness to healing and wellness, 1001 Little Health Miracles serves up a vast array of simple solutions that provide huge health benefits. Packed with head-to-toe tips, this book is guaranteed to offer any woman dozens of helpful suggestions she can use right now to enhance her life - from girls clearing up acne and new mothers finding headache relief to working women relieving stress and older women cooling off menopausal hot flashes. The book is at once a useful reference for addressing specific issues and an entertaining resource to browse for terrific new health and wellness ideas.
As fun to read as it is helpful, 1001 Little Health Miracles is illustrated with 250 line drawings. Everyone from health-obsessed fitness enthusiasts to spa going relaxation pros can find basic tips that set them on the path to vitality and well being.
Books:
- The Lexus and the Olive Tree: Understanding Globalization
- The Memory Keeper's Daughter
- The Motley Fool Investment Guide for Teens: 8 Steps to Having More Money Than Your Parents Ever Dreamed Of (Motley Fool)
- The Mystery of the Kaddish: Its Profound Influence on Judaism
- The Remnant: On the brink of Armageddon (Left Behind)
- The Road From Home: A True Story of Courage, Survival and Hope
- The Shackled City Adventure Path (Dungeons & Dragons S.)
- The Sunflower: On the Possibilities and Limits of Forgiveness (Newly Expanded Paperback Edition)
- The Women Who Raised Me: A Memoir
- The Year with Grandma Moses
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Waiting for Daisy: A Tale of Two Continents, Three Religions, Five Infertility Doctors, an Oscar, an
- Monkey Girl: Evolution, Education, Religion, and the Battle for America's Soul
- Executive Protection New: Solutions for a New Era
- Hildegard of Bingen: Scivias
- In Search of Captain Zero: A Surfer's Road Trip Beyond the End of the Road
- National Electrical Code 2005 Softcover Version
- PowerDown: Options And Actions For A Post-Carbon World
- Charlie D.: The Story of the Legendary Bond Trader
- How to Refinance Your Home Without Paying The Closing Cost
- Uniqueness Is a Red Striped Zebra
Tracks
The Painted Drum: A Novel
Four Souls : A Novel (Erdrich, Louise)
Love Medicine : A Novel (Perennial Classics)
The Master Butchers Singing Club : A Novel
