Customer Reviews (1)

Especially appropriate for inculcating a love of reading
Treasure Bay is a premier publisher of non-fiction books-in-series specifically designed for school classroom curriculum textbooks. One of their newest series is particularly noteworthy. 'We Read Phonics' focuses on a phonics style approach to acquiring and improving reading skills with three titles (Pat, Cat, and Rat; Matt and Sid; Big Cats) at Level 1; three titles (Which Pet Is Best?; Where Is My Frog?; and Bugs on the Bus) at Level 2; and three titles (Ant In her Pants; How to Make a Pancake; and Whales) at Level 3. Beautifully illustrated in color and deftly written for children in grades K-2, each 32-page title is available in both a hardcover and a paperback edition. Parents engaged in home schooling will find the 'We Read Phonics' series to be especially appropriate for inculcating a love of reading. ... Read more

Product Description

"Don't even think of buying and outfitting a powerboat for long-term cruising until you've read this book cover to cover."

--Milt Baker, trawler yacht live-aboard and founder, Bluewater Books & Charts

Written for owners of large powerboats (more than 35 feet long), this book picks up where other references leave off. It is one of the most ambitious and far-ranging references ever offered to powerboaters.

Customer Reviews (3)

Solid book; packed with practicalities
This was the first book on powerboating I found in the bookstore. The type of boat he favors is much much too expensive to operate for someone of my limited means, though such craft can also be used as world cruisers if you are rich enough and don't mind stopping often for fuel and repairs. He seemsto prefer the full on paranoia and modern comfort approach: boats that go fast and have all modern ameneties (air conditioning hot and cold running, satellite TV, radar, sonar, etc etc etc). Beyond this,he does explain the different powerboat arrangements possible, and gives instructions on everything from selecting specific doodads, to navigation, to legality in foreign waters, to boat handling, to radio management to tying knots. Good stuff: if I get a boat, this book goes with it. Amusingly, looking at the boats available in the dealerships, and in use in the marinas, his style seems to be the most popular one for power cruisers. Possibly because it represents a compromise between long range cruising ability, and weekend cruising ability.

enlightening
I am one builduing a passagemaking vessel and this boat helped me a lot in reviewing some basic concepts. These concepts are in constant change and of course new gimmicks are always coming around but the basics are always the same.
Thoroughly enlightening.

Finally what I've been looking for in a book!!!!
Sid Stapleton has written the book I've been looking for.Sid goes through all the required equipment you need for off coastal cruising and doesn't hestitate to give his opinion.He doesn't forget a thing. Everything from negoiating for the best vessel to what equipment is overkill.
This book is definately not for people looking to stay near coastal and cruise on weekends.This book lays out everything you would need to live on a powerboat for weeks, if not, months at a time. Besides Sid's excellent experience, he is a great writer and made this book so addictive I couldn't put it down. For those out there curious on what it takes to cruise continent to continent or what kind of budget it takes to live the ultimate lifestyle, read this book. A+!! ... Read more

Product Description
Since its original publication in 1982, Remington and Russell has become an essential introduction to the work of these artists, and this revision substantially enhances the book's strengths. Every painting in the Sid Richardson Collection has been rephotographed for this edition, including one Russell and five Remington paintings not included previously. Numerous black-and-white illustrations have also been added to give insight into the evolution of the paintings. Brian Dippie has considerably amplified his commentaries on each painting with new information. His revised introduction places Remington and Russell in the historical and cultural contexts of their time and draws intriguing comparisons between the two artists. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Western artist review
This book is a pictorial review of Remington and Russell, two outstanding name in art in years past.I bought this as a gift to a person to introduce her to the art of the West.She seemed happy with the gift. ... Read more

Product Description

Years after the war that threatened the last remnants of humanity, the divided colonists of the planet Chiron become immersed in new crises as the secrets of their world begin to emerge....

Beneath the surface of the planet, a growing rebellion threatens Sheng-ji Yang's dreams of immortality, as the former executive officer of the Unity finds his carefully controlled world unraveling. Across the ocean, Lady Deirdre Skye's very life is in jeopardy as the Planetary Council withholds vital supplies, demanding that she turn over her research concerning the mysterious life force that is awakening on Chiron.

Though an ocean apart, Yang and Skye seek an alliance to overcome the forces arrayed against them. The stakes are high: power, survival, and the future of human life on Chiron. And in the end, only one of them will survive Yang's Dragon Sun. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good Stuff!!!
This book is deeper and richer than Centauri Dawn (which was good in its own right, but not quite as polished). There are more interesting characters, more intrigue, and the scope is bigger. The use of Planet as an agent of redemption and a balance to the chaotic world of the computer game is very cool as well.

Once I got it I finished the book in a day. Good entertainment!

Better than its predecessor but still weak
The author continues the series with his fondness for setting up an interesting situation and then letting it drop into chaos.

This book was definitely better than the last one, primarily because of the supporting characters.Planet acts as a regulator to the character's worst behavior patterns and offers insights into the author's view that humans are a pretty petty and contenious bunch.

My basic problems with the series continue. I like to think that humanity has improved over the last few thousand years and is capable of further improvement.The author seems to disagree, if he is correct, we are all doomed to be short-sighted, nasty, brutish, and a menace to ourselves, our neighbors, and our planet.

Much better than "Dawn"
This is the second book of the Alpha Centauri series and it improves much over the first one.
The story concentrates more on the leaders of the factions from the game and this time most of the factions have a more definite role in the story than a brief reference. The characters are more complex, contradictory, and fleshed out.
Mainly, the best part of the book is the fact that it deals more with what I feel are the more interesting aspects of the Alpha Centauri game: diplomatic intrigue, desperate alliances, and secret dealings that affect the lives of thousands. Whereas the first book concentrated on building and battles, this one offers a more in-depth look on the Alpha Centauri world.

A decent continuation
Lady Deidre Skye finds herself under physical and political attack by the other leaders on the planet Chiron.Across the sea, the heretofore hidden (and presumed dead) Chairman Yang is battling rebels while he plots to make a spectacular return to his former shipmates.

This was a decent continuation of the first book.Most of the characters from the game make an appearance as well as a few from the first book.The new characters added a little more depth to the story; instead of commanding a lot of the plot as the new characters in the first book did, these characters were wisely kept as nothing more than minor characters.The only problem that I had with the first book is that the new characters had a feeling of disposability, that doesn't exist in this story.

The pacing of the story was a little fast, but nowhere near as fast as the first book.

If you are a fan of the game and/or the first book, then I recommend that you pick this one up.This is not a good starting point if you aren't familiar with the characters or the technologies involved. ... Read more

Product Description
Raymond Hamilton, a pal of Bonnie and Clyde was one of the best known desperadoes of the 1930's. His 1934 escape from the Texas State Prison in Huntsville Texas made the front page of the New York Times. This book chronicles Hamilton's life from humble beginnings in Schulter Oklahoma to an early demise at the age of 21 in the Texas death house. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Lots of true action-reads like a true crime magazine article.
this book is an excellent one about the car stealing bank robbers of the midwest during the depression era.Ray Hamilton probably would have been as famous as clyde barrow if his girlfriend had been better looking and wrote poetry to the newspapers,even if her poetry was like Bonnie Parkers'-the type you observe on gas station restroom walls.Somehow depression era thieves almost always get our sympathy,and while you might not be entirely regretful when Ray takes his seat on "ol sparky,"you could at least wish he would have stayed put in prison instead of escaping so many times.This guy escaped from different prisons so many times i was loosing track in the book.He always tried to avoid any type of gunplay if he could,not like his "buddy"?,Clyde Barrow. Ray tries to come off as a John Dillinger,same smooth style of bank robbery. Barrow sort of comes off as a Baby Face Nelson type,quick on the trigger and probably a sadist as well. It was interesting to note that Ray often recruited for his "jobs"the residents of Depression Era hoboe camps,indeed he stayed there himself many times.there was alot of unemployed desperate people there ripe for any opportunity to make some real money or(depart from the world in a hailof bullets.)Of course Ray liked to keep a suitcase with a nice dress suit with him,ready to change skin like a chameleon.When he finally takes his place on the chair,he wants everyone to know,"I never killed anyone".from reading the book i believe he studiously tried to avoid gunplay.The book also shows well how the life of a fugitive is so expensive with different pay-offs to safe houses,etc. so if anyone out there is looking for Hamilton's unrecovered stolen loot,I can say from reading this book,it was spent before Hamilton got his 6 billion amps.Not only that but Hamilton was probably robbing banks to pay his fugitive bills.If only his girlfriend hadn't had such a flat face,who knows where he could have gone!

Oklahoma's Depression Outlaw
Sid Underwood has written a very good and well deserved account of the life of Oklahoma's depression era bandit, who has previously been overshadowed by Bonnie and Clyde.True, Raymond Hamilton ran with Bonnie and Clyde, but his crimes were extreme and his life ended in prison.Underwood's book is very readable and will last as a true crime classic.

Giving Raymond His Due
Excellent, highly readable, well documented biography of Raymond Hamilton, a colorful Texas bank robber of the 1930's. Hamilton is chiefly remembered today as a sometime accomplice of Clyde Barrow but his own criminal career is equally interesting and far more spectacular.

Depression Desperado is Definitive
Sid Underwood has written an extremely in-depth account of the Gentleman Bandit. Underwood has traced the history of Hamilton and his cohorts, including Bonnie & Clyde, as well as interviewed many people who have since passed away that knew Bonnie & Clyde, including relatives. Besides giving very detailed accounts pulled from records and the interviews, the book is filled with some great photos. Depression Desperado is both historical and entertaining. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (10)

Triumph
My husband absolutely loves this book.He finished half of it the night he started reading it.Sid Watkins is easy to read and tells interesting stories.A must-read for Formula One enthusiasts.

Good, but not great
The stories and recollections by Professor Watkins are priceless and are from a unique perspective. I found the way the book delevoped was a little unusual, but still interesting. The last section of the book (approximately 20 pages) are worthless details to even the above average motor sports fan. I would have likeed to see another story.
It would be an enjoyable book for a true F1 fan.

He's earned respect, never demanded it.
Viewing Grand Prix motor racing through the wonderfully perceptive eyes of Professor Watkins means that anyone interested in the sport should read this excellent account. Obviously respected, often revered by those with whom he works, he gives vivid and sometimes moving recollections spanning the many years of his involvement. Humour and pathos make regular appearances; his dry wit, an essential tool of his trade perhaps, serves to punctuate what is essentially a serious book. His incisive précis of drivers from the last three decades make for compulsive reading, the character analyses are intriguing and revealing. Undoubtedly a pivotal character in the world of Formula One, the professor has been instrumental in saving many lives. However, he's also witnessed intimately the consequences of appalling accidents in which lives were lost. He is perhaps uniquely qualified to commentate on the sport; his dedication and professionalism making him a hero in this modern amphitheatre which now embraces the globe. Superbly readable. Once is not enough.

Destined to become a classic in motorsport literature.
Professor Watkins provides his insights into the personalities and events of formula one racing based on over two decades involvement with the sport. He has completed more circuit laps in medical vehicles than some driversare able to accomplish in their F1 career.His humor,dedication to thesport,and commitment to improving safety standards are reflected in this well written book that should appeal to everyoneinterested in the humanaspect of the F1 circus.

A must have for every F1 fan.
I have never thought that this book could contain such historical moments. I have only followed F1 since 97 and I had a thirst for knowledge. This book has lots of it. Knowledge and feelings. We are brought inside theauthor's life. I thank him for this book, which I consider a remarkableachievement.

VultureElf 1/8 Irish Proud FOSA member ... Read more

Product Description

After a forty-year journey from an Earth left teetering on the brink of nuclear Armageddon, the United Nations colonial Starship Unity reaches the lone habitable planet orbiting Alph Centauri's primary star, bringing with it the hope of a new beginning for the human race.

Hope turns to ashes when, on final approach to the new world, a mysterious malfunction damages the ship, triggering a crisis that results in the death of the captain and a rash of infighting over the ship's undamaged colony pods. The Unity breaks apart in space and seven colonial factions are scattered across the surface of the planet.

As the Unity surviviors struggle to rebuild human civilization on this strange and mysterious alien world, old tensions resurface and one man sets in motion forces that may destroy any dream of a lasting peace. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Centauri Dawn
The game provided a real atmosphere that the book duplicates well in some places. The concept is a nice cocktail of basic sci-fi, action, and politics. At times i was annoyed by the skipping ahead each chapter (5 years or so) in which a lot could have happened, but i think this is due to the focus being the conflict in ideals between the peacekeeper and spartan factions. it would be nice to add some more information about the development of the bases and corresponding societies but its not a major issue. There is definitely a large left-wing influence on the political side of the novel but opinions will differ with readers. Overall its a good read and if you liked the game, read the book. (although it would be cool if there were a few of those insightful quotes littered throughout the game embedded subtly in the text)

more twilight
I stumbled across this book by accident browsing on one of my favorite bookstores.I have played the game "Alpha Centauri" and enjoyed the complexity and the depth of it and was excited at the prospect of a novel based on its premise and its characters

Any book based on a video game is bound to have some difficulties but the sheer scope of `Alpha Centauri" should have provided a fertile groundwork for a book many times the size of this novel.Mr. Ely manages to shrink the setting and the situation is size and scope rather than expand it.

Colonists on the spaceship Unity have fled a dying earth to establish a life on Chiron, a planet orbiting Alpha Centauri.After enduring forty years of interstellar travel they arrive at their destination but before landfall the ship falls to infighting and possible sabotage. The Unity's seven escape pods having landed well apart from each other across the uncharted new planet, and seven infant societies are formed around each of their charismatic leaders and social ideals.
The seven factions are:
Gaia's Stepdaughters a faction of environmentalists
The Human Hive a police state based on atheistic communism.
Morgan Industries a society based on industrialization and free market ideals.
The Lord's Believers a religious society opposed to science and materialism.
Peacekeepersa collection of bureaucrats.
The Spartans military oriented survivalists.
The University of Planet a faction of scientists and researchers

Missing is the book is the construction of the colonies and the interplay between factions.I believe Mr. Ely missed a great opportunity to explore the view of this new world from the average citizen of these factions.Say for example not every one was correctly sorted into the differing faction pods when the colonies were first established, how does a sentimentally minded scientist cope with living with the fanatical Believers?

The book is largely about the conflict between the Peacekeepers faction and the Spartans.Here the Peacekeepers were painted too much to be the good guys to be believable and the Spartans seem to be there simply to provide a face to the enemy.The Spartans became more of a characterization of our current societies fear of militias and terrorists then a possible society.Rather than a society where the strong lead and prosper Mr. Ely paints a society of sociopaths who kill any they view as weak.

Missing entirely is any sense of wonder tat the landscape of Chiron or its native flora and fauna.Also missing is the sense that the book is taking place in the future.True lasar guns are tossed around but there is no sense that this is taking place far away from what we daily experience.

While I did enjoy reading this book I do not feel compelled in any way to seek out the next two books in the trilogy.

fantastic series
I'm a latecomer to the series, but becuase of that I got to read them all at once. As video game books go, they are fantastic. I was expecting flat characters and cliche's, but got an ambitious book with characters' lives set against a brutal war.
It's the mixing of individuals with big events that made this first book a compelling read. If I had to pick a fault it's that the writing is kind of rough around the edges at time, but this doesn't get in the way of the fast-paced story. And it is fast-paced...more action than sci-fi.

Good start but ultimately weak
I bought the book because I really like the game but I have to say that the game is a WHOLE LOT better than the book.The book starts off with several good scenes that set up an interesting situation but the author isn't able to sustain his momentum and ultimately devolves into a disappointing us vs. them fight that nobody wins.

Perhaps the author is stating that fighting a war is a lose-lose proposition.This is a generally true statement given the amazing destructive power of modern warfare.But he gets too caught up in the increasingly self-destructive motivations of his protagonists and the story becomes nothing but a chronology of the horror of war.

I really can't express my disappointment at how the book went from the intriguing high-level scope of the game to watching a couple of factions beat each other to death.I finished the book but it was a constant struggle between boredom and disgust.

The Best Book Based on a Video Game Ever
And winning the narrow catagory of "Best Book Based on a Video Game" is . . . Centauri Dawn!

If you enjoy playing Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri, this book will expand the game a little bit for you, and develops some of the neat story-elements in the game. If you don't play SMAC, you might still enjoy the books, and then you can have the added bonus of buying the games and reliving some of the story elements.

For those not familiar with the game, it (and the book) take place on a habitable planet on Alpha Centauri. An interstellar colony ship arrives, only to learn that the developing war on Earth has apparently cut off all contact with Earth. Seven archetypical leaders (a scientist, a merchant, an environmentalist, etc.) start factions on the new planet, and risk repeating Earth's destruction.

If you enjoy this book, then I have two more recommendations for you. First, try Red Mars, Blue Mars, and Green Mars, by Kim Staley Robinson. Those books explore very similar themes, from a little bit more of a "hard sf" perspective. Second, if you haven't read it yet, try the Iliad, by Homer. Most of the second half of Centauri Dawn is a retelling of the story of Achilles, Patrokolus, and Hector, and it's fun to trace the two stories together. ... Read more

Product Description
THIS PRE-ORDER ITEM IS TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE ON 12/29/2010Throughout the ages, civilizations rise and fall. Only the greatest leaders are able to guide their people forward, forging their own paths into the future. How will you lead your civilization? In Sid Meier's Civilization: The Board Game, 2-4 players take on the roles of historical leaders charged with turning their meager beginnings into the greatest civilization the world has ever known. Either through military conquest, economy, culture, or technology, each player must steer their empire to the best of their abilities. Glory goes to those who persevere against all odds. Based on the acclaimed video game series by Sid Meier, Civilization features a modular board, four unique paths to victory, and six historical leaders to play as. What will be your path to glory? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Hollywood like you've never seen before.
Hollywood at Home: A family album 1950-1960, this is an interesting collection ofblack and white photographys, presentingHollywood Celebrities of the fifities and sixties in various scenes. eg Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward in their kitchen cooking breakfast, Debbie Reynolds with her children playing at Home. Though not all the celebrities featured here, are not necessarily at home. Some are actually taken in the studios. The photos are big A4 beautifully glossy black and white. A very interesting book. Worth a buy.

The Perfect Bookfor any Movie or Photography Fan
Sid Avery's pictures of classic Hollywood stars capture the celebrities in ways that were never seen before - Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward making breakfast, Lauren Bacall and Bogie kissing their son good-bye before they drive away to go somewhere. These pictures give you a "backstage" glimpse, showing you what the stars do when they're not entertaining you on the screen.Whether you love classic movies or taking pictures, this is the book for you! One could spend hours curled up on the couch, relishing every picture, every caption... it's delightful to own, because what other book could show you Hollywood at home? ... Read more

Product Description
Exclusive tips on all the new technologies, units, and Wonders of the World
Expert information on mastering each level of the game, including the most difficult deity level ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The absolute best Civ 2 book - BAR NONE!
This book is the absolute best Civ 2 book.Bar none.It is also the best Civ 2 reference book available. Do not even bother to buy other Civ 2 books; I have read them all and most are a waste of your money, esp. the worthless book by Jason Rich.

This book has excellent suggestions for beginners and intermediates, and is invaluable for experts as a reference.Many of the details of the game are simply not found anywhere in the game's original documentation, but are explained very well in this book.From this excellently formatted wealth of information, one can deduce many advanced strategies of the game.

There are a few minor errors which advanced players will eventually notice (eg, page 309 concerning subversion), but these are very subtle and probably won't be noticed by most beginners and intermediate players.

This book is easily worth the price.If you like Civ 2 (or wish to play and/or understand it better), this is the book for you.This is the first book you should buy after you get the Civ 2 game.

Great for the beginner to the intermediate.
Definately worthwhile.One of the best books for Civ II I have seen.Some really good info.Strategies for the intermediate player to the beginner.Not only a good strategy guide but a good referance as well. ... Read more

Product Description
Project management is the art - and science - of making change work, and small businesses are swimming - or sinking - in a sea of change. You can't afford to make mistakes - you have to get it right the first time. Author Sid Kemp scales down the best practices of Fortune 500 companies and major consultants to make them work for you. This practical guide breaks down each problem-solving activity step-by-step and includes tools, forms, and instructions both in the book and on the enclosed CD-ROM. You'll learn: the three stages of every project - ensure your project's success from the very beginning; how to plan, implement, and evaluate your projects so you know what to do, how to do it and when it's done; how to prioritize projects so you can tackle them all without interference; and, how to develop projects that solve problems and seize opportunities.Every business challenge - whether it's writing a business plan, developing an ad campaign or getting your company out of hot water - is a project. The essential strategies provided will help you get it done right every time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Guide to the Small Businessman
As businesses change the do projects. These are separtate from the normal day to day business operations. It could be a new product design, a new computer program, developing an ad campaign or whatever.

The book is generally divided into two sections. The first part is a general description of how to set up and then manage a project. The second part is more specific in that it gives several examples of real-world projects, although I'm not so sure that making a movie is a project I'd undertake.

Included with the book are a CD and a companion web site that further extend the concepts brought out in the book. This includes some useful tools and customizable forms that you can use as part of the project management effort.

Finally, what this book is NOT. This is NOT a guide to passing the project management certification test. This is a book on how to do project management, not just how to past the test. As the title says, this book is aimed at the small businessman. It includes what you need to successfully manage a small project. It is not what a professional managing a space project would need. This means that it contains the heart of what you need to know without a lot of extras. It is easy to read and if applied can be of great help.

An easy to read book on Project Management
This book provides a very good overview of the topic of Project Management. Sid writing style is such that its extremely easy to read, it's informative and it relates to real world scenarios. Overall - it is an excellent read.

Ultimate Guide To Project Management For Small Business
I found the book to be very informative. It was easy to understand and had alot of tips and practical advice. ... Read more

Product Description
This title has been reissued to coincide with the 20th anniversary of Sid Vicious's death. Written and compiled with the co-operation of his late mother, this book traces Sid's life before, during and after The Sex Pistols, to his death from a heroin overdose at 21. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

MUST GET THIS BOOK SID FANS!
I have read all the books on the last, late bass player of the Sex Pistols, and I would have to say that this is the best of them all.This book has lots of pictures from Sid's birth to death, and it tells manydifferent facts about him that aren't in any other books.His mother, AnneBeverly actually gave full cooperation in the publishing of this book, andso it has a few stories from Sid's childhood years as well.This is a mustfor anyone who is a Sid Vicious/Sex Pistols/Punk Rock fan.This puts thelate punk icon in the untainted limelight of truth.

Quite a moving portrayal
In my opinion this book captured Sid's persona quite well, but could have been even better. It basically summarised Sid's life (with quite a few interesting and entertaining stories thrown in every now and then).Thewriting style was pretty basic, good and simple to understand, and got tothe point. The pictures were most definetely the highlight of the book,LOADS on every page and plenty I've never seen before, (and trust me, I'veseen a lot).There are great images ranging from his childhood, through tohis teenage years and capturing his last. It was definetely worth it butI'd recommend it more for fans than those whom want an inspiring read. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is directed to husbands who are trying to cope with the confusion, fear, and anger that result when their wives first confront and then begin to recover from past abuse. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

helpful
This book was reccommened to my husband to help him understand what I was going through; yet I found it also very helpful for me as well. Well written, from a personal standpoint and very understanding. Also had practical insights and advice on how to respond to each other and others wondering "what in the world is going on?" A must-read for couples going through a tough time dealing with this issue.

Excellent help
My husband is currently working through this book. I have just read it - in one sitting. It has helped me understand what he is going through and at the same time, helped me to know how to express my feelings about what heis going through. I was also able to identify various stages of myrecovery, which I hadn't noticed before. An excellent book and one I willhighly recommend to husbands and partners of those recovering from abuse,especially sexual abuse as a child. ... Read more

Product Description
Learn Project Management on time and under budget! "Project Management Demystified" is valuable for both the novice project manager and the experienced. For the novice, it is a great way to understand PM basics in an easy-to-understand and practical way. Personalized stories demonstrate both what to do and what not to do. Experienced project managers will find 'gems' spread throughout the text to take away to improve their results. - Lee Krevat, IT Director, Business Strategic Alignment, Sempra Energy (A Fortune 500 company). Mr. Kemp truly demystifies project management, connecting the how and the why. Students and managers alike will gain both skills and confidence. - Malcolm Ryder, Principal and Chief Strategy Officer, Renovance, L.L.P. (An IT management consulting firm).Written in straightforward language, "Project Management Demystified" will help you gain "instant expertise" in project management - even if you have no previous formal training in executive skills. The author, who has trained thousands of first-time managers and team leaders, uses a host of powerful techniques to help you soak up what you really need to know.With "Project Management Demystified", you master the subject one simple step at a time - at your own speed. Unlike most books on project management, general principles are presented first - and the details follow. In order to make the learning process clear, simple, and useful, "Project Management Demystified" offers questions at the end of each chapter to pinpoint weaknesses, and case studies throughout the book to reinforce the entire process of project management.This unique, self-teaching guide shows you how to: Transform a good idea into a smooth-flowing project; Ensure project delivery with the "Six Keys to Success"; Turn disorganized "to-do" lists into effective action plans; Master people-management and team-building skills; Analyze design, development, budgeting, and scheduling; Calm the "storm period" - the transition to production; Bring your project in on time and under budget; Gain practical management skills you can use again and again; Build your "Project for Learning" and use reviews to retain information; and much, much more! If you're looking for mastery of essential PM skills, let "Project Management Demystified" be your shortcut! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Project Management Book Review
I ordered this book for a very low price and it was sent to me in near perfect condition, as stated before my purchase. I was impressed with the timeliness of the delivery as well as the wonderful condition of the book.

Terribly Overrated
This may be the worst Project Management book ever written.The author is painfully slow in ever getting to a point, and constantly telling the reader we're going to explore this in more depth in the next chapter; time after time after time.It seems that he wrote the book and then his publisher asked him to 'beef' it up with another 100 pages.Brevity must have been entirely dismissed in his project goals for writing the book.

Great Book
Purchased this book as an intro to Project Management, but never thought I would get so much out a book.

I would recommed this book to anyone.

Good Job Kemp.

Solid, clear, excellent material!
This is an excellent book for me - I'm a newbie to PM! The book is packed with info and the author does a super job of breaking down the topics in a logical and organized fashion. Other books throw you into a very deep pool drowning you with poor topic organization. After chapters 1 - 4, you'll get a solid grasp of what PM is all about. Nice work.

Only Demystified that turns out to be simplified
I found this animal on the discounted, discounted stack. What a find! Well I dug through it and found nothing, no extraordinary insights. In fact many functions and formulas were over demystified. I suppose this is better than not. I can never hurt to see project management from a different view; however this should not be the only book. ... Read more

Product Description
In 1872, while journeying from Texas to Kansas, a Civil War veteran named Melvin meets a sixteen-year-old orphan, another Melvin, and they give each other nicknames and become partners and traveling companions on an exciting adventure.Amazon.com Review
Twenty-seven-year-old Melvin Fitchett (a.k.a. Stick) and 16-year-old Melvin Smyte (Whittle) may have the same first name, but they couldn't be more different. Stick is a disenchanted ex-Confederate soldier who's been searching for his lost sweetheart for eight long years. Whittle is a rough and tumble orphan who's seeking his fortune in whatever direction fate may take him. Together, they travel the wilderness in pursuit of adventure, or the whereabouts of Stick's beloved Evelyn--whichever comes first. They get a taste of both when Stick answers an advertisement to rescue a rich man's kidnapped daughter from an evil outlaw, and discovers that the daughter's governess is none other than his dear Evelyn! Stick and Whittle trace the bandit to his lair with the assistance of the shady Only Olsen and a helpful Cheyenne pair, Talking Rock and Brings the Rain. Along with gunshots, galloping horses, and blazing tumbleweeds, there's a happy ending.

Despite Stick and Whittle's somewhat sanitized take on the Old West, the playful banter between the two unlikely friends will tickle the funny bones of younger teens.

'If you're thirsty, Whittle, you ought not talk so much. Words use up moisture when you say them.'
'If that's true, you must be dryer than dust.'

Customer Reviews (4)

SUPERB
The book Stick and Whittle was written by Sid Hite.It is fiction and it is an adventure novel.I enjoyed reading the book and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good book to read and to anyone who likes adventure books.
Stick and Whittle is about two men who meet each other and become friends.Stick is a Civil War veteran who is looking for his long lost sweetheart.Whittle is an orphan who feels he owes the world a favor.They get involved in a kidnapping and are faced with a dramatic rescue mission.I liked this book because it had an exciting plot that kept me wanting to read it.Something was constantly happening.I also liked the book because it was an adventure book.Adventure books have a lot of action, which gets me excited when I read it.I liked how the characters were described in great detail.Another reason why I liked the book was because the ending.The ending really tied together the book.
Stick and Whittle is an exciting adventure book about two men who get in trouble in the old west.It was something new to me and I liked it.There was a lot of action.The only reason why I disliked the book was because it was a little too predictable.

Stick&Whittle

Stick & Whittle


This book is about two boys that meet up and venture of together. First Melvin Fitchett (Stick) travels out to find his long lost sweetheart,Evelyn. He met Melvin Smyte when he when he arrived at a river with his horse named Mercy. While looking for Evelyn Stick answers to a governor's help poster to rescue his daughter. It happened to be that Evelyn was the one he was supposed to save. Stick and Whittle track down Leon's gang (the one who kidnapped Evelyn) with some help from to Native Americans named Talking Rock and Brings the Rain, and also a man named Only Olsen. Together they defeat Leon's gang and rescue Evelyn. So they all set off to Wichita happily ever after.




There are two main characters in this story, Stick and Whittle. Stick is mostly joking around, unless it comes to finding Evelyn or luck. I think he is a typical caring person, besides the fact he believes in luck. Whittle is a wild person who lets fate decide his next move or action. I think it is easy to make friends with him because he can strike up a conversation quick.




The conflict in this story is that Stick needs to find Evelyn. Whittle had a journey to carry out but made way for Stick's journey first. At the end Stick accomplished his goal but Whittle seemed to forget his. Another problem was Leon's gang. All these problems were solved except Whittle's.




As they traveled along to find Leon's lair they got some friends to help. Without their friends help they would have never rescued Evelyn. Leon's gang was though to beat, if it weren't for Talking Rock Whittle wouldn't have been alive. All of Stick and Whittle's problems were solved.


I think this book is only interesting when you sit down and read it for a long time. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy action, adventure, and old country books. I like this book it tells you not to forget about your dreams. I hope you decide to read Stick & Whittle because I enjoyed it very much.

Stick and Whittle
My favorite part of this bok is when Stick and Whittle actually meet. I laughed my head of when Stick burnt Whittle when he was in hiding. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes books about the old times and books about adventures.

Stick and Whittle
Adventure,shoot-outs and pickeld eggs? You'll find all of this in the exciting novel about the old westr.

Sitck, a Civil war hero, who is troubled by his gory past meets up with a teenage orphan,Whittle, an adventorus young lad looking for fun and a little bit of trouble meets up with the vetran and they become partners and friends.

The duo is faced with a kidnapping delema, and they decide to accept the challeng. When going along their adventure, they meet up with harden convicts and criminals, pretty native americans, tough warriors and old flames.

This is one of my personsal favorite books. my favorite part is on page 197 when taling rock takes out that guy. My 2nd favorite is when they go to the town on page 94. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Good, but not Sid Sackson's best
I'm a huge Sid Sackson fan, and his passing was a blow to the world of games and game designers.I have yet to find a Sid Sackson product that I did not enjoy.This just was not among the best of those.

Book is handsomely done with the rules and the boards for the games enclosed.It is a traveling board game collection.As always, Sid Sackson was both lucid and engaging in his writing.

For a Sid Sackson product, I recommend Sleuth, Beyond Competition, or Card Games from Around the World as some of his best titles.

sincerely wonderful
This book contains 15 wonderful games, and excellent instructions on how to play them all. This would be a great gift for somebody of any age. It's just fun to play....

From the Board Games Editor at BellaOnline.com
This is a classic Klutz book, one of their earliest, and it's wonderful!A perfect way to occupy your kids in the backseat or on an airplane; it's extremely portable and all you'll need is a flat surface for playing.

It's not just for kids, though!Instead of lugging around 3 or 4 different travel editions of games, why not just grab this book and you'll have 15 games in one in a lightweight and easy to carry format.

Long-time friend
We have had this wonderful book - collection of games since it first appeared in 1990 (well before amazon.com).We are ordering another for oursons who are away at college and requested it to share with their friendsat their apartment.Does that tell you anything?

AWESOME! Comes with EVERYTHING YOU NEED!
What is really awesome about this book is that not only does it tell you How to play the game, but includes the board AND the pieces you need to play for EVERY GAME! So far all of the games have been a blast and I findmyself playing them over and over! I'd reccomend this book to anyone thatloves games! ... Read more

Product Description
The Faults of the Owens Valley is both a murder mystery and reflections on the history of the Owens Valley. A serial killer disrupts the lives of the major characters, but the landscape and the history of the Valley are also major forces, including the water wars, tensions among tribal communities and waves of later immigrants, and conflicts between the environment and economic development. The major characters-two sheriff's deputies, a local businessman and restaurant owner, a minister, a truck repairman, and a high school teacher-respond in different ways to the killings, which eventually threaten their own lives and livelihood. The killer skillfully plays on Valley residents' hopes and fears, leading to an explosive conclusion.

The historic events of the Bishop Creek battle of 1862, the Aqueduct, and Manzanar are all highlighted in the book's geography. An afterword by the author explains the interweaving of fact and fiction in the novel. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

"Lucky Luciano: SUB-ROSA"
The book is a very quick read, and by no means a tome of information. Sometimes, it is nice to read a quick-flowing book as opposed to an exhaustive work.However, one can still learn from a novel like this: "Salvatore was careful not to get drawn into a real discussion or exchange of views... He remained non-committal until he had thoroughly cased the situation".Most people just talk, and talk...BUT the real guys allow you to continue speaking, so that you hang yourself with your own words....They are the ones `taking the backseat' so they can watch everything unveil.

All the usual players are mentioned here: Arnold Rothstein, Meyer Lansky, Bugsy Siegel, Frank Costello, Murder Inc. and much more... Having roots in East Harlem, I found it interesting to finally see a book with some mention of the 107th Street Mob, and the infamous `Murder Stable' on 125th street as well. If you weren't born in the East Harlem neighborhood, you would never believe there was a stable located there with all kind of animals: horses, chickens, etc.If you could deem that much to be true, then it is another stretch to imagine that anybody who entered the `Murder Stable' never came out alive.

Lucky above all things was `Sub-Rosa', acting below the radar at all times. This word is mentioned many times in the book.In the business of illegitimacy, you must be removed many times over to last as long as Luciano did in this `world of corruption'.In addition, I would say you need a little bit of Luck as well.He made it known that his name was not to be used in the street.Lucky was way ahead of his time.He was more situated in the shadows then everyone we read about in the newspapers today.I was once told, `Every generation loses a little something from the previous one' (that street-savy stemming from a unique education).When you add the fact that police authorities are much more sophisticated today, the result is a `recipe for disaster'.If you're looking to live the life of a street hoodlum in today's society; the odds are stacked against you. The `glory days' mentioned in this book are long gone, and they will never be seen again...

One downfall to this publication is that you get the feeling of uncertainty with specific issues that arise in Lucky's life. Towards the end of the book especially, it assumes that Lucky had his hand in every major conspiracy around the globe.I think if the authors were able to tighten up the latter part of the book (after Lucky gets deported); the novel would have been a much better read. I would not consider this to be the definitive biography of Lucky Luciano.I don't know if one has been released yet.I guess we will have to wait for bigger and better to come...

Book does not flow
This book is a great introduction, but nothing more.The book has no continuous flow to it.It is not well written, but does contain some useful information into the power that Luciano held

A fairly good book
This book does provide the reader with a basic insight of Lucianos life.It has been well written but the facts seem to be a bit out of place.A few incidents seem to be exagerated by the author and the reader gets thefeeling that its not a book but more like a story from the news paper. Agood book fora reader who wants to have basic knowledge of Lucianos lifebut the book i would recommend for the true followers of Organized crime isthe Luciano Testament.

A fairly good book
This book does provide the reader with a basic insight of Lucianos life.It has been well written but the facts seem to be a bit out of place.A few incidents seem to be exagerated by the author and the reader gets thefeeling that its not a book but more like a story from the news paper. Agood book fora reader who wants to have basic knowledge of Lucianos lifebut the book i would recommend for the true followers of Organized crime isthe Luciano Testament. ... Read more