Books

Average customer rating:

Very disappointing
One Long Saturday..even I was glad when it was Sunday
why I quit reading fiction 30 years ago
Sabbath, or Resting on Laurels
Give me McEwan every day of the week

Saturday
Ian Mcewan
Manufacturer: Anchor
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

The Year of Magical Thinking
Atonement: A Novel
Never Let Me Go (Alex Awards)
The History of Love: A Novel
On Beauty

ASIN: 1400076196
Release Date: 2006-04-11

Book Description

In his triumphant new novel, Ian McEwan, the bestselling author of Atonement, follows an ordinary man through a Saturday whose high promise gradually turns nightmarish. Henry Perowne–a neurosurgeon, urbane, privileged, deeply in love with his wife and grown-up children–plans to play a game of squash, visit his elderly mother, and cook dinner for his family. But after a minor traffic accident leads to an unsettling confrontation, Perowne must set aside his plans and summon a strength greater than he knew he had in order to preserve the life that is dear to him.

Download Description

Ian McEwan is the author of nine novels, including Amsterdam, for which he won the Booker Prize in 1998, and of Atonement, winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction, and the WHSmith Literary Award.

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

Very disappointing.......2007-06-27

I had really high hopes for this book that were totally disappointed. The plot points were obvious, the writing was dull, the day dragged on forever. It would take some serious convincing or extreme prolonged boredom to get me to pick up a McEwan book again.

One Long Saturday..even I was glad when it was Sunday.......2007-06-22

This is one long day in the life of Henry Perowne (a neurosurgeon). McEwan is a brilliant writer; his skills are exceptional and that is why this long drawn out account of Saturday, Feb. 15, 2003 is bearable.

The novel occurs on the Saturday associated with Iraq and anti-war demonstrations in London.

"In neurosurgery he chose a safe and simple profession." "If anything can happen, then everything matters". Perowne was safe in his world, snug as a bug in a rug...until...he was allowed to turn down a street which had been allegedly closed off to traffic.

Aside from the fact that the novel was also bogged down with medical jargon/details/gore, the reader still wanted to find out how the day ended and if it ever would. I frankly learned so many details about neurosurgery that I am convinced that I could do the operations myself.

For diehard McEwan fans and I am still one, this book was not exactly his finest; but it nevertheless was satisfactory and can be enjoyed.

Having now read On Chesil Beach which I enjoyed even less, I cannot understand the high marks associated with that novella over Saturday which to me was better though very dark and foreboding.

The ending of Saturday was more uplifting than expected and there was hope for the years ahead...which is more than other McEwan novels. If you are looking for a page turner, you will not find it in this book. If you are looking for beautiful and skillful writing done by a great storyteller and gifted novelist, then you will be satisfied with what you will find in this novel and its display of lovely prose and the exacting detail of the medical research that must have been involved.

Either "Amsterdam" (1998 Man Booker Prize winner) or "Atonement" are both great McEwan books and are the best places to start in reading this master.

Bentley/2007

why I quit reading fiction 30 years ago.......2007-06-12

I picked this book off the rack at an airport and paid nearly $17 for this literary version of urticaria. This book is bloated with adjectives and distracting disquisitions on foods, wines,music, and squash which add little to the storyline, merely prove that an erudite writer with time on his hands can find abundant filler.
A cast of uncompelling characters mixed with discussions of 9-11 politics makes for a forgettable experience (at least I hope so).
Non-fiction is so much more interesting.

Sabbath, or Resting on Laurels.......2007-06-10

Over the years, Ian McEwan has managed to build for himself a considerable reputation as a writer. Saturday's success illustrates the extent of this reputation: only a large fan base and an array of critics predisposed to praise can make a smashing bestseller out of such a mediocre book. Dull, overlong, and shallow, Saturday reads like the fruit of chore rather than inspiration.

Saturday's whole story is circumscribed to the events of a single day, February 15, 2003. Throughout that day, neurosurgeon and all-around blessed Henry Perowne watches a plane go down in flames in the solitary calmness of night; is annoyed by a protest of thousands against the Iraq war (which he feebly supports); confronts an unstable thug who happens to be afflicted with a degenerative mental illness; and sees how his peaceful, cocoon-like existence is threatened by abrupt violence. Although this may sound like an action-packed day, the truth is that whatever excitement Saturday arouses in the reader it immediately smothers with its painful minuteness and plodding pace. Furthermore, there is not a single character in the book which can be said to be believable. A novel is as interesting as its characters, and Saturday's are flat, clichéd, or both.

The idea of making a whole novel out of a single day's events was epitomized by James Joyce and Virginia Woolf, next to whom McEwan cannot but be dwarfed. That is the price of treading on ground already claimed by literary giants: comparisons will be made, and they will invariably do to the author more harm than good. But if it would be unfair and unrealistic to ask him for a classic, it is nevertheless disappointing to receive something merely average.

And yet, flawed as it is, Saturday does have its fair share of niceties. The way in which several recurrent themes run one into the other, and in which certain images and thoughts are overlapped and disposed so as to suggest interesting parallelisms; the idea of having one man's ordeal as a metaphor or 9-11; and McEwan's skillful prose, are all things worthy of, if not admiration, at least some respect. But they do not suffice. The narrative's habit of derailing into farragoes of superficial ramblings and a displeasing amount of padding overshadow most of the achievements of the book; the far-fetched ending practically overshadow the rest.

Much has been said about Saturday showing McEwan's ponderings on the Iraq War, so apparently the Iraq War is a topic McEwan does not think about too often or too much. There is hardly a single though on the war or about any transcendental issue whatsoever which does not come off as either bland or frustratingly tangential. After reading it one finds out that, contrary to those who have deemed it "profound", Saturday is actually a rather shallow book. Readers looking for depth will therefore have to look elsewhere - or dig for themselves.

Sadly, it seems that with this book McEwan has rode on his success instead trying to live up to it. One can only hope that next time around he will care more about trimming his work down to perfection than puffing it up with medical jargon and unabashed filler.

Give me McEwan every day of the week.......2007-06-06

In order to truly appreciate this brilliant book, each sentence must be slowly savored, like a fine wine. SATURDAY is nothing short of brilliant. So what if Dr. Perowne isn't the most likeable chap (how many doctors really are?).
P.S. For all you squash enthusiasts out there, McEwan's description of battle for the T is classic.

Average customer rating:

Helping Grandparents
Souls for the Soul
The View from Saturday
Just. Like. That.
The souls

The View from Saturday
E. L. Konigsburg
Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

School | Issues | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Children's Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Teen Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Bud, Not Buddy
Walk Two Moons (Summer Reading Edition)
A Single Shard
A Year Down Yonder

ASIN: 0689817215

Amazon.com

A powerhouse sixth-grade Academic Bowl team from Epiphany Middle School; the art of calligraphy; the retirees of Century Village, Florida; a genius dog named Ginger; and a holiday production of "Annie" all figure heavily in the latest book by E. L. Konigsburg, who has produced a Newbery Medal-winning children's tale to rival her classic From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, which won the Newbery Medal almost 30 years ago. The new book centers around a group of four brilliant, shy 12-year-olds and the tea party they have each Saturday morning. Konigsburg's wacky erudition and her knack for offbeat characters make this a funny and endearing story of friendship.

Book Description

HOW HAD MRS. OLINSKI CHOSEN her sixth-grade Academic Bowl team? She had a number of answers. But were any of them true? How had she really chosen Noah and Nadia and Ethan and Julian? And why did they make such a good team?

It was a surprise to a lot of people when Mrs. Olinski's team won the sixth-grade Academic Bowl contest at Epiphany Middle School. It was an even bigger surprise when they beat the seventh grade and the eighth grade, too. And when they went on to even greater victories, everyone began to ask: How did it happen?

It happened at least partly because Noah had been the best man (quite by accident) at the wedding of Ethan's grandmother and Nadia's grandfather. It happened because Nadia discovered that she could not let a lot of baby turtles die. It happened when Ethan could not let Julian face disaster alone. And it happened because Julian valued something important in himself and saw in the other three something he also valued.

Mrs. Olinski, returning to teaching after having been injured in an automobile accident, found that her Academic Bowl team became her answer to finding confidence and success. What she did not know, at least at first, was that her team knew more than she did the answer to why they had been chosen.

This is a tale about a team, a class, a school, a series of contests and, set in the midst of this, four jewel-like short stories -- one for each of the team members -- that ask questions and demonstrate surprising answers.

Customer Reviews:

Helping Grandparents.......2007-06-04

We are grandparents who are getting married. We bought this book for our adult families as "required" reading.

Souls for the Soul.......2007-05-23

This book is about an unlikely foursome of children who bring together their talents and become united as an academic bowl team; The Souls. With help from Mrs. Olinski, who has returned to teaching after being paralyzed, Noah, Nadia, Ethan, and Julian begin the rewarding journey of all becoming one! The Souls take on challenges, learn one another's strengths and weaknesses, and turn the world upside down. Their powerful combination of knowledge accomplishes the feat of making there 6th graders champions, and better yet, teaching them what it takes to be a true winner.

The View From Saturday is about four individuals who bring together their life experiences and create real magic. The author, E.L. Koingsburg sends a powerful message that when children look deep inside each other's hearts, not their outside image, they can all become lifelong winners. The academic bowl is only a metaphor for Koinsburg's real message, one our world could greatly benefit from. The characters, Noah, Nadia, Ethan, and Julian all experience this message as a team. Everyone starts out as quirky and gifted individuals. each with their own ambitions, but once one really looks into the other's heart, they see what their teammates have to offer. While at the academic bowl, everyone realizes the win is theirs, but not because of the time put into memorizing answers, but the time spent with one another, uniting their past!

I honestly enjoyed The View From Saturday because of the way Koingsburg combines humor with magic to tell the tale of four unique individuals who become champions in much more then a 6th grade competition. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a heartfelt story with challenging ideas, intriguing people, and a message to powerful for words! The View From Saturday is a true jewel of outstanding writing!

The View from Saturday.......2007-04-27

This is a GREAT Book! I read this book because I had a book report on it and I enjoyed it to. But the only part I dont like was in the begining because it started out long and ends short but I love the book. I would recomend it but only to a 5th-6th grader.

Just. Like. That........2007-04-26

What is different about this book?

The style. The perspectives. The idea that in order to move, provoke and question, an author does not have to resort to using death or suffering as plot devices. The concept that understatement moves mountains.

This book is fertile ground for any teacher wanting to introduce unusual skills to a class: flashback, irony and point of view for starters. But far beyond that, it is a heart-warming story of four misfits and a teacher who find they all fit together, and that kindness is their glue of sorts. It's about friendship, hope and the underdog. It's about excellence and teamwork. It's about calligraphy, turtles, Alice in Wonderland and tea--particularly, that tea is always at four o'clock.

Konigsburg is the master of characterization, and everything tongue-in-cheek, but she does it *all* so naturally. Nothing is forced; everything in the book smoothly blends and works together--just like the Souls. Nadia, Julian, Noah and Ethan are the unusual foursome that defy all odds and become the first sixth-grade academic team to defeat the seventh-graders (for starters). And Mrs. Olinski is their teacher, a teacher who overcomes her own obstacles.

The story is both about a single event and multiple events, and everything is quite literally woven together and tied with a satisfactory, and fun, ending. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Reading it is a good cup of tea for the soul. :~)

The souls.......2007-03-28

I would recommend this book because it is funny fun to read. It tells a story about four six grader making it to the Academic Bowl and how they won against the seventh and eighth graders. Also how they were able to win the entire championship even though they weren't the most popular. Also even though at first they may not have been friend ,in the end they became best of friend and made themselves into the souls. I could not put this book down because it was interesting to see what the character would do next and I was happy to read this book it had a great ending.

Live from New York: An Uncensored History of Saturday Night Live

Average customer rating:

Where to buy this cheap
This is a great book!
Blows the lid off the mystique of SNL...
A Classic Work On A Classic Show
Uncensored Inside View of SNL in an Easy to Read Format

Live from New York: An Uncensored History of Saturday Night Live
Tom Shales , and James Andrew Miller
Manufacturer: Little, Brown and Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Comedy | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Television | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

History & Criticism | Television | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Art Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Entertainment Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

jp-unknown1 | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Gasping for Airtime: Two Years in the Trenches at Saturday Night Live
Belushi
Saturday Night Live - 25th Anniversary
Saturday Night: A Backstage History of Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live - The Complete First Season

ASIN: 0316781460

Book Description

With unprecedented access, Tom Shales and James Miller, with authorization from Lorne Michaels, have interviewed the stars, writers, crews, and guests who have made Saturday Night Live the greatest long-running comedy of all time. Out of these backstage stories they have woven an oral history that will be the definitive account of the shows 25-year history. The story is bursting with creative frenzies, clashing egos, actors who went on to mega stardom in film and those who disappeared; the origins of famous routines, censorship battles, and humour so toxic it never got on the air; the love affairs, feudsall the unique insanity involved in producing the show that changed North America forever. Includes great backstage stories from Bill Murray decking Chevy Chase to Norm MacDonalds campaign to infuriate NBC brass. Everyone from Cameron Diaz to Ralph Nader to Robert Downey Jr. to George Bush has appeared on the show, and they all share their fondest, wildest memories with us. Tom Shales is the Pulitzer Prize-winning TV critic of The Washington Post, and a movie reviewer for NPRs Morning Edition. His books include On the Air and Legends, and he has written for many major magazines.

Customer Reviews:

Where to buy this cheap.......2007-01-26

I have only read part of this book so far (and loved it), but the reason I am writing this, is to let people know that it is $2.99 at The Christmas Tree Store. I bought 4, so if my family is reading this, you'll have a good idea of what you are getting next year.

This is a great book!.......2006-08-30

Dear Everyone.
I did not order this book from Amazon. I bought it at my local "Dollar Tree" store for just one dollar. If you are interested in owning this book, stop by your local "Dollar Tree", or similar dollar store, and check to see if it might be there before shelling out the big money.
Pretty good review huh?
The book looks back at the early days of SNL, the drugs, the sex, the rock and roll. You probably won't learn anything from this book you didn't already know, if you are an SNL buff.
It is a good book to have in your bathroom, in my weird opinion.
Love,
Joel

Blows the lid off the mystique of SNL..........2006-08-25

This books shows very well that SNL was not the mystical, magical place it was purported to be. I've only really liked the original cast, and the mid 1980's cast with Murphy, Piscopo, Guest, Short, etc., etc.. In this book, you really get the feel of SNL, and how really difficult a place it was/is. No one romanticises the experience, and most people seem to have a only a few good memories and a lot of bad ones. The show is not necessarily a spring board to greater success. Only a handful of people from SNL have gone on to the big time. Most of them vanish into obscurity (Jan Hooks, Kevin Nealon, Tim Meadows), or end up doing horrible work (Rob Schneider and David Spade, anyone). Chevy Chase comes across the worst here. By all accounts, he's a real piece of garbage. Janeane Garofalo, surprisingly, gets raked over the coals here. She was only on the show for 6 months, so you would think she wouldn't have made much of an impression. But somehow she managed to alienate nearly everyone on the show during her brief tenure. Personally, I've never found her funny in a comic/comedian type of way. I think she has a lot more depth than most people give her credit for, but no one at SNL thought that, and she comes across as extremely insecure. Not to mention Ms. Garofalo shares a little too much information with the authors. I could have easily done without hearing about Janeane's bouts with irritable bowel syndrome during her time with the show. The thought of Janeane having the runs is not particulary attractive. Anyway, after reading this book, you realise it's a miracle that SNL comes up with a show at all, considering all the backstabbing, back biting, tension, stress, drugs, etc., etc. that permeates the scene. If you're a really big fan, you may not want to read this book, because it's not all roses and peaches here. The show is almost unwatchable these days, which is a shame, considering how well it started. Kind of sad...

A Classic Work On A Classic Show.......2006-07-07

It is oftentimes tougher to piece together a book based on interviews than to write a narrative. Live From New York is an oral history of the show, with chapters to denote the years and subsections to introduce topics.

The book works with this approach and probably couldn't have been penned in any other way. The candidness and pointed opinions of the people involved needed to be heard in their own words.

There is a wealth of "insider" information on how ideas were developed, the feuds off the stage that ignited the work before the audience and why grudges from years past have never been settled.

What is particularly interesting is how the program evolved over the first five years, since that foundation is how SNL has been measured since.

After being written off numerous times, the TV icon that is SNL continues to forge ahead, which is how the book concludes. A fan of SNL or a person wanting to explore a continuing piece of American pop culture can't get any closer to the program.

Uncensored Inside View of SNL in an Easy to Read Format.......2006-07-06

This book is great to pick up and just start reading anyplace. The format is excerpts of interviews with various cast members, writers, and producers placed in chronological order. The excerpts are short - maybe a paragraph or two in most cases. Great book to just have around when you have a few extra minutes to read something light.

Average customer rating:

Last chance for this series
A great cozy mystery!
Never on a Sunday
Never Disappointed!
Graphic animal cruelty

Secrets On Saturday
Ann Purser
Manufacturer: Berkley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

Women Sleuths | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Mystery & Thriller Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Fear on Friday (Lois Meade Mysteries)
Theft on Thursday (Lois Meade Mysteries)
Weeping on Wednesday (Lois Meade Mysteries)
Terror on Tuesday (Lois Meade Mysteries)
Murder On Monday (Lois Meade Mysteries)

ASIN: 0425214516

Book Description

Lois usually steers clear of local gossip, but after tidying up the house that newcomer Reg Abthorpe claims to have inherited, she has more suspicions than she can keep to herself. The home's previous resident was known for his beloved terrier, robust nature, and deficiency of living relatives. So why is Reg presenting himself as the old man's nephew-and where could the sprightly geriatric (and his dog) possibly have gone?

Customer Reviews:

Last chance for this series.......2007-06-27

I've read the other books in this series & thought they were all right, but this one did it for me. It was tedious & boring & altogether unconvincing. The husband's attitude is annoying & doesn't ring true. The grandmother is annoying in general. Lois & her hostility towards Cowgill, the police officer is getting really old. To me, this series has an excellent premise but the execution falls far short.

A great cozy mystery!.......2007-06-01

I have read all of Ann Purser's books in this series, and I think this is the best one yet. I couldn't put it down. It kept my interest to the very last page. Can't wait for the next one.

Never on a Sunday.......2007-04-18

OK, I'm done. I enjoyed the first couple of Purser's Lois Meade books, but now they strain "suspension of disbelief" to the limit. It's as if she's just popping them out as fast as possible to rake in the royalties. Let me see, if I had escaped from a kidnapper I would..oh right, hole up in an abandoned house and wait to be rescued. If I was a cop and was told that a bunch of "house agents" had pursued a prospective purchaser/detective, I would...oh right, shrug. And...but why bother? I won't be buying whatever happens on Sunday, and I supect the series won't go to a fortnight.

Never Disappointed!.......2006-10-02

I love Ann Purser, she is one of my top favorite authors! I feel like I am back in England whenever I read any of her books! It is exactly what a British cozy book is all about. I have absolutely loved each one in the Murder on Monday series and couldn't wait to get my hands on the latest one, Secrets on Saturday! I finished it in 2 days, that is the only bad thing - once you start reading any of her books, you can't stop till you finish!! I would highly recommend any of Ann Pursers' books - she is pure genius and fabulous at writing mysteries that are so real - you feel like you live in the village that she is writing about!! NEVER a dissapointment and I for one, cannot for the next one!!!

Graphic animal cruelty.......2006-08-27

Always a big fan of the Lois Meade mystery series, I was greatly disappointed in "Secrets on Saturday". There was just too much animal cruelty, above and beyond what was needed for the plot. Torture, abuse, especially of people's pet dogs and a cat, as well as murder for sport of countless wildlife......just not up to par and frankly a lot of it made me sick to my stomach. If you are an animal lover or of a sensitive nature, do NOT read this book.

Saturday's Child (The Best of Betty Neels)

Average customer rating:

Saturday's Child Works Hard for a Living... (5+ stars)
Betty Neels at her best
A "Saturday's Child" myself.....
A "Saturday's Child" myself.....

Saturday's Child (The Best of Betty Neels)
Betty Neels
Manufacturer: Harlequin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Romance | Subjects | Books

General | Contemporary | Romance | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Romance Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

General | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Fate Is Remarkable (Harlequin Special Release: the Best of Betty Neels)
Judith (Best of Betty Neels)
Never Too Late (The Best of Betty Neels)
The Magic Of Living (Best of Betty Neels)
A Dream Came True (Best of Betty Neels)

ASIN: 0373198663

Book Description

Abigail worked hard for a living. And she expected to go on earning her own living for no man had shown signs of wanting to marry her—least of all the mysterious Professor Dominic van Wijkelen. Certainly he admired her nursing skills. He confidently asked her to take on his private cases, which took Abigail from London to Holland then Spain. But all he seemed to feel for her was intense dislike! Did Dominic not trust women? Was she too plain? Whatever the reason, there was little Abigail could do about it.

Customer Reviews:

Saturday's Child Works Hard for a Living... (5+ stars).......2007-03-07

Book Description: Abigail worked hard for a living. And she expected to go on earning her own living for no man had shown signs of wanting to marry her--least of all the mysterious Professor Dominic van Wijkelen. Certainly he admired her nursing skills. He confidently asked her to take on his private cases, which took Abigail from London to Holland then Spain. But all he seemed to feel for her was intense dislike! Did Dominic not trust women? Was she too plain? Whatever the reason, there was little Abigail could do about it.

This is Betty Neels at her best. Dominic van Wijkelen is the usual rich, handsome Dutch Doctor and Abigail Trent is the usual plain, hardworking British Nurse; however, their characters are not quite the norm; they are slightly more intense than usual. Dominic appears arrogant, abrasive, and at times gives the impression that he dislikes Abigail - immensely. Abigail is independent, works hard, and has no family other than her good friend Bollinger. Dominic epitomizes "once bitten twice shy" and does not want to feel anything for Abigail other than respect for her nursing abilities. He fights his attraction to her, wants to find her lacking in character, thereby assisting him in his struggle to keep her from getting emotionally close to him. Abigail knows that Dominic dislikes her; she sees it when he looks at her. He would never be interested in her because she's plain. This Neels story, with the usual misunderstandings, image issues, and obstacles, is about two strong characters who suffered difficult or painful pasts with a glimpse of what made them who and what they are. They work hard for their living, but are they willing to work hard for a future that is more than a lonely existence?

Dominic & Abigail appear in "Stars Through The Mist" & "The Gemel Ring"

Betty Neels at her best.......2004-04-24

Abigail Trent is a private duty nurse who, having lost her home since her father passed away, travels from one job to another, staying with her patients. She has decided, very early in life, that she is too plain for any man to want to marry her, so she decides to concentrate on her career. Then, she meets Dr. Dominic van Wijkelen while she is nursing an American woman in Holland. Dr. van Wijkelen is often cynical and impatient with Abigail. However, he also thinks highly of her as a nurse, always requesting her for his cases. But Abigail wonders if he will ever appreciate her as a woman....

I think this is one of Betty Neels's best books. Abigail is a strong heroine and an excellent nurse. This story also covers a wider geographical range than most of Ms. Neels' books, (which usually only are set in England and the Netherlands). Abigail's travels take her across Europe, particularly when she and Dominic are driving his small niece from Spain to Holland in order for the child to have an operation in Dominic's hospital. Dominic's occasionally snappish personality is offset by his obvious regard for Abigail's professional capabilities. This book is well worth reading by fans of both romance books and Betty Neels.

A "Saturday's Child" myself............2002-11-09

From the Cover: Abigail was a true 'Saturday's Child'; she worked very hard for her living. And it looked like she could expect to go on earning her own living, for no one seemed to be in any great hurry to marry her - least of all Dominic van Wijkelen, who admired her as a nurse but who seemed to have no personal feeling for her at all - except dislike!

A "Saturday's Child" myself............2002-11-09

This was a GREAT Betty Neels book! Abigail and Dominic are featured in several other of her books about tall, handsome doctors and the plain-faced nurses who really aren't so plain after all. Locations changed rather frequently for a "Betty book", and we get to see a little of Spain, France and Belgium in addition to the regular England/Holland journey. Good reading! I highly recommend this one!

Saturday Night Hat: Quick, Easy Hatmaking for the Downtown Girl
Average customer rating:

Do It Yourself Turns Out To Be Already Done

Money Well Spent

Sushi To Go

Saturday Night Hat

Misleading!!

Saturday Night Hat: Quick, Easy Hatmaking for the Downtown Girl
Eugenia Kim
Manufacturer: Potter Craft
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Fashion | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Sewing | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Look Inside Home & Garden Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Fabulous Felt Hats: Dazzling Designs from Handmade Felt

From the Neck Up: An Illustrated Guide to Hatmaking

Sew What! Skirts: 16 Simple Styles You Can Make with Fabulous Fabrics

Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe

Craftivity: 40 Projects for the DIY Lifestyle

ASIN: 0307337944
Release Date: 2006-12-05

Book Description

The new must-have accessory!

The right hat has the power to instantly transform a woman’s face, changing her entire look—and outlook. Celebrity millinery designer Eugenia Kim has created a sensation with her hat designs, which can be seen on everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, and Jennifer Lopez to the most style-conscious fashionistas in the world’s most glamorous cities. In Saturday Night Hat, Kim teaches you to make thirty of her hottest designs, with patterns and instructions so easy you can start the project Saturday morning and wear it out on Saturday night!

Learn to make styles like:

• The Beret

•The cloche

•The cocktail hat

•The Pillbox

•The Fedora

•The Newsboy

•The Sun hat

Customer Reviews:

Do It Yourself Turns Out To Be Already Done.......2007-05-10

Half of the hats in this book require one to purchase a pre-made hat. Buy a vintage fedora, then decorate. Buy a sun hat, then decorate. This book is more about embellishment than actual hat making. The book description lead me to believe this book was more about hat patterns and custom fitting. I wish I'd spent my money on a vintage fedora instead of this book.

Money Well Spent.......2007-04-21

If you are interested in making hats or even wearing them, please take the time to invest in this book- before it reaches unobtainable prices like Classic Millinery techniques.

Eugenia Kim is just gorgeous and fun. The book seems to be aimed toward the younger generations, specifically with the language she uses (made me think of certain tv shows with expressions of like, crib etc, I have no idea what a BFF is exactly - a Best first friend?). However, it is a text that is relevant to all generations who want to see/be inspired by the work of someone who is lively and passionate about what they do. Eugenia Kims enthusiasm is infectious! You open the first page and already you want to make something.

Saturday Night Hat is a well illustrated book. Heaps of photos and clear diagrams to follow. The language used is also easy to follow. Equipment and materials required for each project are outlined.

Do you need a hat block for any of the projects? You do require one for the 'hair hat' (in Australia most millinery suppliers do offer a blocking service - so you could get the felt blocked, mailed to you and then you trim it if you want to avoid the expense of a hat block or don't have access to one). For other projects you can utilise household objects, such as a rounded surface for the Hello Kitty cocktail hat.

I sincerely miss the days when Amazon showed snippets of the inside of the books. I bought this book blind, I do not regret the pruchase one iota.

So just for you here is a quick over view of the projects included:
- Trimming a fedora (you don't get shown how to make one)
- beret, full sized as well as teen weeny ones, as well as a versatile draw string beret (tre cool)
- trimmings such as candy trims (too cute and easy to make)
- cloches made from flat patterns and unstiffened unblocked flet hoods (make sure your supplier doesn't crease the top) and the irrepressible hair hat
-cocktail hats (that look good enough to eat, one reminiscent of a certain patisserie in St Kilda) including a very simple and contemporary bridal piece
- soft fabric caps
-sun hats from soft fabric contructed from a flat pattern to altered pre-fabbed straw hats

There is also a stockist list for millinery supplies etc at the rear (I assume that these are current).

Like all books they are what the reader makes them to be- but this book makes it easy (that is why the above waffle on my behalf occured- you need to know that you're not wasting your time with htis text).Good luck and have fun!

Sushi To Go.......2007-04-21

This is a great book! It has some great designs and helps to inspire some more creativity. Will definitely be making the sushi hat as it looks great. I have studied Millinery and although some of the construction techniques are a bit more simplified I think that this will help the more inexperienced person "have a go" (people with more experience can easily use more advanced techniques if they want). Fantastic book and well worth the money. This book will help beginners start and give inspiration to the more advanced.

Saturday Night Hat.......2007-04-02

I love this book. I have been looking for patterns to build hats with and have ordered many but this book makes everything simple and has lots of pitures and the actual patterns. Thank you.

Misleading!!.......2007-02-06

The cover is misleading. On it is the wildly popular "Muffy" style which is not in the book!! Other than that, however, it has many pretty and feminine styles that can be made easily and quickly. You don't have to go out and spend a fortune of millinery equipment.

I love the little pillbox hat; it looks like a tiny wedding cake. I know I will make the classic beret and the engineer's cap. There are a lot of other styles and ideas to get your own creativity on!! But,I don't like it if you can't see at least some of the styles in the book before you buy. Not fair!

Alexander Botts: Great Stories from the Saturday Evening Post

Average customer rating:

Well remembered stories
Incredibly funny
This is a very funny book about A. Botts salesman
Timeless humor!

Alexander Botts: Great Stories from the Saturday Evening Post
William Hazlett Upson
Manufacturer: Curtis Publishing Company, (IN)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Alexander Botts Rides Again: More Mayhem on the Earthworm Tractor!
The Fabulous Saga of Alexander Botts and the Earthworm Tractor (Machinery Hill)
Earthworm Tractors

ASIN: 0893870110

Customer Reviews:

Well remembered stories.......2004-07-19

While I do not have this *exact* edition of the Botts stories, I am happy to say I do have a 1962 "Best Of Botts" edition published by Pocket Books, New York. My late father was a salesman in the oil industry, and it is his battered copy I have in front of me now, having just unpacked the cartons of his possessions from his bequest to me. His experiences selling pumps, pipes and steel around the world were never as comic as those of the Ace Sales Manager for Earthworm, but he felt they were sufficiently relevant, and he re-read his paperback edition until it was ragged. Botts was one of his greatest pleasures, and as a small boy I read these stories too, and was delighted. Having just re-opened the book after thirty years, these stories are still delightful for their simplicity and humour. I love the Botts series, and I recommend any of the books to all readers who read shorts for fun.

Incredibly funny.......2001-06-18

It's hard to believe that we have such an excellently funny book like this one. It's been written long time ago. Though it's still fun to read. This is a story about a saleman who believe that he is the best one in the world. He try to solve all the problem with his own exceptional way which it's seem to be very absurd. But it works and it's very funny. I always say that it's funny because it really is.

The format of the book is like a collection of letters between Botts and his boss name Henderson. It captured me from the very first letter that Botts wrote to apply the job (I tell you that this is one of the most unique application letter). This is easy to read and don't take too long to finish.

I highly recommend this book to everyone. This is the book that will bring you joy and make you laugh. The book that will take away all tension and force you to smile with Mr Botts : The best saleman in the world.

PS. I write this review based on this book in Thai version which is still available in Thailand. For English version I didn't see any except from Library

This is a very funny book about A. Botts salesman.......1999-11-15

I read these stories as a child in the 50's and 60's in theSaturday Evening Post. I ordered this collection and they are funnierthan I remembered them. Since I got the book in June of 1999, about 10 friends have read the book and all loved it. Many people will start laughing out loud. One of the best series of short stories I have ever read. If you read this book, let me know what you think.

Timeless humor!.......1998-11-26

This collection of short stories brings the ties of the past to the situations of today. Nothing changes. Alexander Botts is the greatest salesman in the world and a sure fire winner for all readers.

Average customer rating:

We love it!
Beautiful book!
Great book!
The tape makes it even better
Just want to Dance to Dino Beat

Saturday Night at the Dinosaur Stomp
Carol Diggory Shields
Manufacturer: Candlewick
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Picture Books | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Children's Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

The Bugliest Bug
How Do Dinosaurs Play With Their Friends (How Do Dinosaurs)
If the Dinosaurs Came Back
Dinosaur Stomp!
The Dinosaur Who Lived in My Backyard (Picture Puffins)

ASIN: 0763606960
Release Date: 2002-02-18

Amazon.com

"Doo-bop-a-loo-bop!" In this rollicking romp through a prehistoric weekend, dinosaurs frolic and caper the night away. After some initial early evening shuffling shyness, these party animals are ready to get down, doing the Triassic Twist and the Brontosaurus Bump, the Raptor Rap and Jurassic Jump. With all this rhythm and rhyme, it's no wonder romance is soon afoot: "Tarchia winked at a stegosaur she liked. They danced together, spike to spike." This outrageous book provides a much more appealing theory behind the disappearance of dinosaurs, and hints at the possibility of another Dinosaur Stomp someday in the future. Scott Nash's wonderfully friendly bopping beasts radiate a contagious exuberance with their smiling, simple faces and bright colors and patterns. Carol Diggory Shields couldn't have found a better match for her rocking, rolling, twirling, tromping, "scientifically accurate (more or less)" dinosaurs. A guaranteed favorite that will have young children gleefully chanting "Boomalacka boomalacka! Whack! Whack! WHACK!" (Click to see a sample spread. Text ©1997 by Carol Diggery Shields. Illustrations ©1997 by Scott Nash. Permission by Candlewick Press.) (Ages 4 and older) --Emilie Coulter

Book Description

Dancing dinosaurs! Reading aloud has never been so much fun!

What did the dinosaurs do for fun? What really happened when the Jurassic gang wanted to let off some steam? They danced, of course! They rocked and rolled; they twirled and tromped! They had themselves a Dinosaur Stomp! With illustrations by Scott Nash that leap off the page like a raptor doing the fandango, Carol Diggory Shields tells dinosaur devotees all about reptilian revelry with a foot-tapping, tail-whacking beat.

Customer Reviews:

We love it!.......2006-08-19

My 5 yr. old son bought this book with his allowance as one of the "recommendations" from Amazon. I love reading it to him as much as he loves having it read to him. He's a HUGE dinosaur fan and loves to rhyme so this book is right up his alley. We highly recommend it!!

Beautiful book!.......2006-02-28

This book is amazing. The pop-ups are incredible, I can't believe how great it really is!
My 4 yr old daughter is really into dinosaurs, so this was one of her B-day presents. She loves to look at the pop-ups. But the T-rex scared her the first time she saw it. Now she loves it.

Great book!.......2006-02-28

My 4 yr old loves this book. It has great rhymes, and nice pictures. It's just a really fun book!

The tape makes it even better.......2005-06-28

My toddler's teacher told us how much she and all the other kids love the tape that goes with this book. After many searching, I found out the tape is only sold through Scholastic. You can't get it online or in a bookstore. For those who are interested, call 1-800-SCHOLASTIC (1-800-724-6527).

Just want to Dance to Dino Beat.......2005-02-10

A wonderful adventure in reading about the rocking and the rolling of the Dino stomp. Kid of all ages will have a blast bopping along to this reading treat.

Saturday Shrines: Best of College Football's Most Hallowed Grounds

Average customer rating:

I've seen many of stadiums described in this book
great gift for the sport enthusiast!
Saturday Shrines!
greatness
WORST BOOK EVER

Saturday Shrines: Best of College Football's Most Hallowed Grounds
Sporting News
Manufacturer: Sporting News
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Football (American) | Sports | Subjects | Books

College & University | Football (American) | Sports | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Sports Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Pop Culture | Note Cards | Book Accessories | Our Favorites | Gift Ideas
Similar Items:

ESPN College Football Encyclopedia: The Complete History of the Game
Autumn's Cathedrals
Bowl Games: College Football's Greatest Tradition
Rites of Autumn - The Story of College Football
Big Games: College Football's Greatest Rivalries

ASIN: 0892048050

Book Description

College football¿that combination feast-party-competition-celebration-tent revival¿has at its very core, The Stadium. That¿s where the converted go to stock the passions that stir the soul¿or, at the very least, threaten the eardrum.

The Sporting News¿ football experts select the 40 best stadiums in which to watch¿no, experience¿college football. The stadiums were chosen based on their settings, their structures, their fans, their mascots, the magnitude of the games played there, their marching bands, their traditions.

Vivid photos throughout the book give it a special ambience. See the Golden Dome at Notre Dame, the Coliseum epistyle at Southern California, the orange-and-white checkerboard end zones at Tennessee; walk between the hedges at Georgia, past Howard¿s Rock at Clemson.

Saturday Shrines will offer four regional cover options featuring the SEC/ACC (ISBN: 089204795X); Big Ten (ISBN: 0892048042); Big 12 (0892048069); and Pacific 10 (ISBN: 0892048069).

Customer Reviews:

I've seen many of stadiums described in this book.......2006-12-13

Overall I've give this book a fair rating.

I've seen most of the most famous and biggest college football stadiums. In about 85% of them I've been able to walk out to the fifty yard line mid field and look around at the stadium. Stadiums are usually open nearly every day of the year. Probably the nicest and most interesting that I've seen are Notre Dame Stadium & the Rose Bowl. I was surprised at how many stadiums that one wouldn't suspect being the nicest or greatest were included (Army, Navy, Air Force) in this book, while Rice's & Boston College's were not and Michigan State's was one of those allowed only a one page review. The book also omits Baylor's and Texas Tech's stadiums. In my mine all football stadiums are bland compared to baseball parks.

There is a small section which includes stadiums no longer around: Syracuse, Minnesota (seen that one), and a few others.

I did enjoy the history of the expansion of the stadiums.

great gift for the sport enthusiast!.......2006-07-05

This is a great gift for someone who loves college football and the little facts that everyone doesn't know. I even enjoyed looking through it!

Saturday Shrines!.......2006-05-20

OK, I don't understand the guys who didn't like this book. The pictures are great and there is tons of useful and interesting information. What a great book on college football! One of my favorites.

greatness.......2006-02-07

This book is the best. I got the chills just reading it. I felt like i was in Bryant Denny Stadium or Michie Stadium and I felt like I was in the locker room at the Cotton Bowl. this book is the best.

WORST BOOK EVER.......2005-12-17

This is the most slanderous, ridiculous book I have ever seen. DO NOT BUY, unless you want to be ripped off. Or unless you're from West Lafayette, in that case, buy it because it's the only time you'll see your stadium get any pub. - Jeff

Average customer rating:

Beautiful coffee table book on The Swamp
It's ok but not what you would expect

Florida: Saturdays at the Swamp
David Stirt
Manufacturer: Sports Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Football (American) | Sports | Subjects | Books

College & University | Football (American) | Sports | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Sports Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Stadium Stories: Florida Gators (Stadium Stories Series)
Danny Wuerffel's Tales of Gator Football: Reflections of Faith and Football
Florida Gators: 2006 National Champions
A Year for the Gators: Florida Gators: 2006 BCS National Champions
Sports Illustrated, Florida Gators BCS Championship Commemorative Issue

ASIN: 1582611130

Book Description

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution calls The Swamp "the loudest, most obnoxious and notorious piece of real estate in all of college football." The Florida Gators call it home. With humidity reminiscent of a rain forest, on-field temperatures often topping 125 degrees, and the wildest fans in America, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, also known as "The Swamp," is universally regarded as one of the toughest stadiums for opposing teams to play. Saturdays at the Swamp captures, in words and photos, the unique experience that is game day at The Swamp.

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful coffee table book on The Swamp.......2005-04-25

Make no mistake, this isn't a history book on the Florida Gators. What it is, though, is a great "coffee table" book on the game day atmosphere in The Swamp where the Florida Gators play (and opponents fear to tread!).

The star of the book (as it should be for coffee table books!) are the photographs. The photographer, Glenn Danforth, is world class and it shows in the photos - they're stunningly beautiful and make the book a worthy one to have in your collection.

Not only that, the photos are often taken from unique perspectives and areas that the every day fan doesn't have access to, giving even more insight into what goes on.

I love the book and so does my Dad, whom I bought a copy for. Every Gator ought to own a copy.

It's ok but not what you would expect.......2005-03-31

I bought this book expecting that it would be a history of FL Field and the Swamp. It is not even close. It's an OK coffee table book that has some ok pictures of gameday activity during the Zook years and some text that does give a brief history of how Florida Field was developed. There is a nice interview with Mr. 2 Bits but a good portion of the book is talking about Bull Gator Stumpy Harris and his tailgating activities. Overall just an average book. Buy the history of FL Football which is far better.

Books:

Books