Audiobook Books

I bought this book after reading the first two books of Meyer's Twilight Series, and after reading on the author's site that The Host was "science fiction for those who don't like science fiction."It may well have been the best decision I made all summer.

To begin with, the premise of the novel is itself more original than Twilight and its sequels, or even much of what is on the shelves today. We've all seen movies and read stories about invasions, of extra-terrestrials and the like--they are always bad and always a threat to our way of life. But Meyer offers us the chance to see what such an event would be like from the perspective of the "invader," who might not be so bad after all.

The dual perspectives, emotions, and thoughts of both The Wanderer and her host, Melanie Stryder, present readers with a complex, but remarkably real conflict that focuses not on science fiction and fantasy, but rather on the existence of our souls, our consciences, and our humanity.

Survival is a major theme here, not only in terms of the physical body, but of our too-often taken-for-granted ways of life. Melanie and the Wanderer are thrust into a world which neither is accustomed too, and yet they must both learn to live, love, and exist together in order to make it through each day. The Host is also a story of acceptance and unconditional love, both of which must exist in order for humanity to go on.

I found I could not put this 600+ page novel down, not even for a second. The content does focus primarily on emotions and thoughts of the characters, but it is also interesting to see how Meyers chooses to juxtapose the bare-minumum world of her strong-willed survivors with the technologically-advanced world they managed to escape from.

I highly recommend The Host to everyone, as it is an interesting statment on the human condition, allowing us as readers to ponder "what would we do?" if we were in a similar situation. I laughed, I cried, I prayed for a 'happy' ending. Meyer has the wonderful ability of presenting the gray matter of an issue in what, at first glance, would seem to be solely black and white. Despite all of the characters' flaws--or maybe because of them--you hope for the best case scenarios for each of them.

I must say, this book is better than all of Meyer's other novels, put together. Five stars for this one, hands down.

One of the few books I've read that I literally could not put it down. It starts off a bit hard to follow, but stick with it and you go on quite the journey. I would love there to be a part 2!

In The Host, Stephenie Meyer has written an imaginative and layered story. On the surface, it's about aliens and the human struggle to survive against the odds, but it goes much deeper than that. This book had me thinking a lot about what makes us human, both the good and the bad, the destructive power of hate, and the power love has to change and heal. Even in terrible circumstances, we can choose our response. Do we give in to hate or choose love in spite of it? The characters drive the story, and Meyer has developed characters that I grew to care about deeply as they struggled with external circumstances and internal questions. What makes us who we are? What is humanity? Simply being human or is it more? What would we do for the ones we love?

I love fantasy and science fiction, I don't like science fiction that has so many technical terms that you don't quite grasp half the novel... Stephenie Meyer creates an alternate world that is intriguing and complex, but doesn't require the reader to have various PhDs to fully appreciate what she's created. A real page turner, I couldn't put it down. It's cliché, but I laughed and cried and was very very sad when it was over. I am a Stephenie Meyer fan, and was a little worried that I wouldn't like this as much as I loved her Twilight series but was not disappointed at all, I loved this book!

I couldn't stop reading the Twilight Saga--read all 4 books in less than 3 weeks. I must say that The Host is better than the entire story arc of the Twilight Saga. I am looking forward to the sequels. I read on Stephenie's website that she already had 2 sequals in mind for The Host. Sadly, I will have to WAIT till she writes them!

As a child we are free of everything. But develop many beliefs and prejudices as we age. This book again gave me what I needed at the right moment. I would recommend it to anyone. Easy read.

Chopra as a coach shows you seven steps which puts you on a spiritual path that leads you to success and prosperity. Having studied with Deepak Chopra, as I read his books, I can hear his resonant voice revealing the treasures found simply employing spiritual wisdom.

Healing the Rift

There should be no rift between a spiritual path and success and, indeed, Chopra reveals the surest laws of success. But it is a challege to first understand the laws but to practice them will eventually get you to your prize.Healing the Rift: Merging Science and Spirituality

The book may be short and small, but the Spiritual concepts in it are very big. Spirituality has to be practical to have any real meaning in our lives, and most Spiritual books explain concepts in esoteric terms, but give no explanation of how to apply them in our every day lives.

This book gives clear and concise concepts and follows up with how to apply them in your daily life. Not to be missed!

The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success have a lot of good concepts to carry the listener through to the approximately hour-long recording on each of two CDs. Chopra talks about developing detachment as a way to obtain the best out of life. One of the many concepts he talks briefly about is that attachment to money will not bring about security and happiness. He doesn't go into too much detail about each of the concepts because then we'd be buying 100 CDs. He does a good job of pulling the important complicated concepts and putting them into everyday words so that I understand what he's talking about.

This CD has a lot of philosophical, abstract concepts, so I listen to it over and over to digest and apply the concepts. In terms of a practical point of view, Chopra's diction is clear and his presentation is neat and well organized.

Overall, I think this CD is worth the cost.

This little book is about creating the affluence effortlessly by unleashing your potential. The capabilities of every human are boundless, including the capabilities to create wealth. Deepak Chopra, the author of this book, is an Indian medical doctor and writer. He has written extensively on spirituality and diverse topics in mind-body medicine. Chopra says that he has been influenced by the teachings of Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita, as well as by Jiddu Krishnamurti, and by the field of quantum physics (although in this particular book there are no references to quantum physics). You can skim through this book regularly to check on how are you succeeding in the following areas:
- non-attribution;
- refraining from judgments;
- cease to defend your point-of-view or your "self-esteem"
- doing things with the least possible efforts,
All the things above mentioned, as well as the other mentioned in this book, lead to wealthy and healthy life.

I also recommend another book by Deepak Chopra: "Creating Affluence", in addition to this book.

A great source of information on the Law of Attraction and how to apply it. An Easy read and feel it has helped me to attract that which I want. Also another book Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook has guided me through its workbook, exercises and journal. Also a must read.

A great guide to learning what and how to use the Law of Attraction. I believe he covers alot of territory and of course, there are many books out there on this subject since The Secret brought this to the forefront.
I have also read Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook another guide using the interactive workbook approach with all its many exercises reinforces and helps one follow the Law of Attraction.

The book is easy to read and very practical.
I am thankful that the author took the time to write and share with all of us.

I was very satisfied with this book. I wanted something that would practically give instruction as to how to achieve results with the law of attraction and this book is it. It doesn't get into all the philosophy of it, but there are other books that do that, which is what I wanted. Great instructional book, easy to read, and doesn't take a lot of time. I especially liked that the worksheets could be downloaded from the author's website.

Losier's book is a good introduction to the Law of Attraction(LOA) for those who appreciate a more practical step-by-step approach. Its easy to read and I think Losier's worksheets and examples are helpful in breaking down more abstract concepts in a way that everyone can relate to. If you have any skepticism, about the LOA this might be a good start. You will see value in beginning to organize your thoughts about what you want and how you feel about those things. On some level, though, you do need to accept the workings of the LOA. Losier may gloss over these in an effort to reach a broader audience, but he does credit Abraham-Hicks for much of his inspiration and information, so the next step would be to go directly to the source and then your understanding of, and ability to use, the LOA will really take off. I'd give it 3.5 stars if I could.

Note: Many have criticized this book for its short length, but content is what matters. For the price, it is good value if you are new to the LOA, after a short read, you'll know enough to start "using" the LOA, which is the whole point.

We all know (or I hope we know) that Poe is a genius, but trust me when I say that in reading this Basil Rathbone is absolute genius as well! I cannot imagine a better voice for the material, and not only that, but the deliciously devious manner of his reading is perfect. It is exactly the way I imagine Poe writing the stories and poems. To hear Rathbone portray the maniacal narrator of "The Black Cat" or "The Cask of Amontillado" is an exercise in audio heaven. Not to mention "The Raven", which is fantastically gut-wrenching. Vincent Price is of course good too, but he got the short end of the stick with the material, relatively speaking (hearing "Ligeia" and "Morella" is just too similar). Rathbone is the star of these CD's. An earlier reviewer called this compilation "gutless". I feel sorry for someone who hears this and says that, because it is quite definitely anything but gutless!

A must have for Poe lovers. Excellent audio collection. Rathbone and Price are the perfect match. The audios are based on the quality of their voices and the writings. No sound effects are needed due to the talent of these two individuals.

I'm didn't like the audio levels, I had to turn it up to hear some of what the narrators were saying, but then other times it would be too loud.

I was looking forward to listening to this on a recent trip but found the experience less then hoped for.

I feel that the problem is the material. The readers, Basil Rathbone & Vincent Price, have great voices. They are part narrator part voice acting and that can add a great deal. But, it makes it difficult sometimes as the sound levels are variable; sometimes almost a whisper then shouting. That makes listening while driving difficult.

Also the material, Edgar Allan Poe, is rather densely written. The stories are convoluted and the words Poe used are intentionally obscure sometimes - all that makes it harder to follow in audio book form rather then in the actual reading.

Not a bad production and I may listen to it at work, but it was not very good for travel listening.

Edgar Allan Poe on audio is a perfect selection for the haunts of October. Who better to read his work aloud than Basil Rathbone and Vincent Price? In theory this is a wonderful collection. Unfortunately, it requires one to turn their speakers up near full volume in order to hear the replication. There are a couple of tracks when Rathbone exclaims a sentence very loudly, which, compared to the remainder of the stories, is excruciating on the ear drums once the speakers are full blast. I thoroughly enjoyed the collection and do recommend it. But, be forewarned, it is quite soft in volume.

My husband has always wanted us to be debt free. I never thought we could and still enjoy life. After 3 months, we have already paid off 3 of our credit cards and cancelled them. We are more careful with our spending now, and we are finding cheaper ways to have fun (while we are getting out of debt)! Excellent reference!

My husband and I LOVE this system! We are giving Dave's CD's for all graduation and wedding gifts. If you are looking for peace and freedom- this is your key!

I've listen to Dave on the radio for months and decided to get the whole truth. This is enjoyable to listen to--Dave actually does the narrating. It walks you through step by step. Highly recommended

If you have any form of debt, buy this book!!! It will open the door for the rest of the Dave Ramsey books. They all educate you on how to navigate the financial market and build peace of mind for you and your family.

Dave Ramsey presents a plan to get out of debt and build wealth in such a simple, logical (and entertaining) way that I can't imagine anyone forsaking his advice. My husband and I listened to his audio book while driving from Indiana to Tennessee this past weekend. From the moment the audio book ended we started planning with excitement how to reach our goals using TMMO. In fact, we would stop the CD to discuss then pick back up. We're finally both on the same page regarding our finances, which for many married couples is difficult to achieve. I believe listening to the audio book together was the best approach. If you read his book and get all fired up, then it may be frustrating while you wait for your spouse to read it -- IF they read it.

The only thing I found just a little annoying was his introduction. I'm sure his inflections were meant to translate into simple animation, but it came across as slightly immature to me. He works his way out of that, though. I also found myself wanting him to "get on with the meat of the plan already" instead of spending so much time in the intro. But be patient because the meat of it does come and it's prime!

Fareed Zakaria has really given a great deal of thought to globalization and its larger meaning, and it is obvious for almost all to see. His thoughts on how the U.S., India, China, and Russia should interact are spot on. His use of statistics is pretty much a welcomed blessing because it helps remove many of the doubts that critics can present upon hearing his core idea. It flies starkly in the face of the notion that U.S. power is diminishing due to globalization. This nation according to Zakaria is as strong/relevant as it ever been, meaning that we ultimately decide what our nation's fate will be. A must read for those of us that are not buying the Lou Dobbs, O' Reilly xenophobic non-sense!!

A fascinating, quick read which argues that America must ready itself for no longer being the dominant player in world affairs - not because of American decline, but due to the inevitable rise of the rest fo the world. He argues persuasively that not only will this happen, but it is already well on its way to being a reality. To me, it seems an obvious argument, but many do not seem to think so. Zakaria brings in the facts to buttress his observations and instincts, and puts it all together in a coherent, well reasoned presentation.

The one drawback is also a strength. He does not delve as deeply into many matters as I would like, but this is so the whole argument can proceed forward mroe quickly and gracefully. The book is aimed more at the casual (but intelligent) reader, rather than the world scholar.

This is an interesting book that raises a lot of questions about a future world order, wherein the US is presumed to lose its status as an economic super power. The rise of China, India and other countries forces the US, in the author's view, to share its power. Politics in the post american era has to rely on diplomacy and cooperation instead of sheer military force. The US set the example of how to obtain economic super power status, which was followed by emerging nations. Both China and India choose a market oriented model of economic development at the end of the Cold War, which was won on economic terms. Zakaria argues that everybody is playing America's game and is playing to win. So, America does not need military power to spread the gospel. Zakaria argues that neither China nor India aspires to dominance, but only want to increase their wealth. A world that relies on market relationships might not need a military super power to maintain order. Democracy will follow in the wake of economic development. A post American world could be a world without a hegemon. Autocratic regimes bolstered by rich resources and terrorist groups might spoil the party. But, it is questionable whether military intervention can redress this. A post american world seems to depend on the willingness of states and groups to play by the rules.

This book should open the eyes of anyone who thinks that America is the greatest. We are told this by reporters and politicians every day, but when you read this book, by a very intelligent writer, you learn that there are other countries out there that are about to take first place away from us. I thought for years after traveling to many countries that we were losing our dominent place. After reading this book, I think more people will conclude that we can't brag about how great we are anymore. Fareed Zakaria is brilliant.

I enjoyed this book a lot. It's eye opening to the big picture of events that have brought us to where we a re today. It helps you see that world history of the last 100 or so years is not always as we've been told.

This (audio) book has some good examples of bad execution that lead to recent high-profile corporate troubles, and then gives some suggestions on how to do things. A lot of it is common sense and discipline, though, but there are a few helpful items - especially if you didn't pay the new-item proce and got it used :)

Un libro muy ameno que muestra cómo una organización puede alinearse en post de un objetivo común, hacer las cosas bien, sin lugar a dudas, un libro que hay que leer

The title "execution" may make you think this book is about executing decisions after they have been made. This is not at all the case. This book describes everything you have to do to develop strategies that are likely to succeed. It describes three processes, the strategic process, the people process and the operational process. The book describes in the most detail the people process. If you do not have the right people in the right positions the strategic process and operational processes will fail. These three processes are interdependent. The interdependence and the processes are described very clearly. That enables you to test if you are operating the right way.
The book describes "operationalizing" culture. The book describes operationalizing culture, where culture is defined as the sum of its shared values, beliefs and norms of behaviour. It is a very good chapter with an example of the wrong culture and right culture. The book from Louis Gerstner "Who says elephants can't dance is very helpful as is "From Good To Great" by Jim Collins. culture is defined as the sum of its shared values, beliefs and norms of behaviour. It is a very good chapter with an example of the wrong culture and right culture. It is a major challenge to figure out what the culture should be. The book from Louis Gerstner "Who says elephants can't dance" is very helpful as is "From Good To Great" by Jim Collins on this point.
Dialogue is also described as an essential part of operationalising culture. It is a very important goal requiring a great deal of skill and effort you should not underestimate. The book "On dialogue" from David Bohm is worth reading as it explains very lucidly all the obstacles you have to be overcome.
The "execution" book presents an excellent framework of processes that include establishing the right culture, using, what are referred to as "robust" and "candid"dialogues

My former boss presented this book to me in Audio-book format. The Audio book is read by the authors themselves. Not only do the authors provide valuable insights, but they deliver the message very well.

This book explains Execution is a specific set of behaviors and techniques that companies need to master in order to have competitive advantage. It is targeted to CEO's and executive managers and a definite must-read for CEO's and their coaches and advisers. For the rest of us mortals, it makes an excellent read, especially the real world examples that they provided. I wish they had provided more such examples. It is about following through as a leader providing different thought processes on how to lead and more importantly, how to make sure you get the job done!

The main message is that in order to execute the strategies that they develop, companies have to integrate their people, strategy and processes. Without proper execution, even the best strategies fail. The hardware (strategy and structure) is inert without the software (beliefs and behaviors).

The point which hit a home run with me was: A job no Leader should delegate which is having the Right People in the Right Roles. This is so true and so common sense and yet it is most often delegated to other departments or heavily focused on certifications, quantity (number of years) vs quality of experience. An organization's human beings are by far its most reliable resource for generating excellent results year after year. Their judgments, experiences, and capabilities make the difference between success and failure. The quality of their people is the best competitive differentiator. While okay to use assessment scores and certifications to validate capabilities, an organization must also identify weaknesses for improvement, streamline training and create career milestones. Then measure progress toward attaining and exceeding corporate goals.

Recommended for anyone in a Leadership role, especially if you're managing people in your organization.

Execution is a must read for all Executives. So many in management have trouble making decisions for fear of the Old Boy Network politics. Larry Bossidy would have none of that, and changed out his Executive staff until he had one's who would EXECUTE!

We really enjoyed this book and reading it to our daughter - who is nearly three. It not only captivates her imagination but is full of wonderful old fashioned values - particularly of being "liked for the person who you are". I would highly recommend it.

Although I read all kinds of books as a kid, I never got to read Corduroy before last week when a friend of mine gave it to me.
I wish I had known about it when I was teaching elementary school. I had some kids in my class that kinda fit that "I'm imperfect, somebody please love me" mode. This would have been perfect for them. It would have shown them that such love was possible.
I found it touching. I'm going to make it a permanent baby gift.

My children's favorite little bear along with a new character- a caterpillar by the name of Cyrano in Life's Little Lessons: An Inch-By-Inch Tale of Successhave left these two books shreded from use.Children will laugh at the adventures of these characters over and over again.

I actually have not read this book for years and was delighted when I found it again. For something so simple, it certainly packs a respectable adventure and plenty of heart. Corduroy is an adorable bear, and his department store is very nostolgic.

This is a good book about the adventures Corduroy goes on in order to find a button. He *doesn't* find a button, but that's all right - a little (African-American, if that's relevant) girl takes him home anyway. "I like you just the way you are!"

I do find that Corduroy's dialog is a little sappy, and it's somewhat weird to me that he can actually talk to Lisa, but it's still a good book.

I am so glad I purchased this CD! The more I listen to it, the more I love it. Everything Louise Hay talks about in "101 Power Thoughts" makes pefect sense.
I listen to it pretty much every day while driving and noticed that I always have a wonderful day if I listen to it. It does give me positive energy that lasts throughout the day no matter what.

I couldn't imagine what to expect from this CD. I popped it in the player and out came a soft friendly voice telling me what I deserve out of life. It was great to hear that I deserve goodness in life and deserve to be loved because Im me. I sure hadn't told myself that before. These and a ton of other affirmations seemed more valid to me since they were coming from an unbiased third party. This started to get my brain going on the right track. Hopefully soon I can regularly implement (think them, say them and believe them) these power thoughts during the day especially if negative mind chatter pops up. I do highly recommend this CD. Each time after listening to it I feel so uplifted, positive, peace of mind, and relaxed. Ive started putting it in while doing household chores and while in the car. Like another review states its very soothing and relaxing to listen to....that surprised me. Thanks Louise!

Only one improvement I feel is needed. The CD only has 2 tracks divided in half. So its kind of hard to use the repeat on your player if you want to hear the same affirmation over and over again.

But, overall this is a great CD. Its a nice change of pace from talk radio. Louise Hay's voice is soothing, and loving and when listening to it you just feel at peace.
I recommend this for anyone who wants to replace the constant mind chatter with something inspiring and something to help change your thoughts.

My wife and I listen to this CD every morning to start our day. I've found no matter how twisted I might be in my state of mind, starting my day by listening to wholesome suggestions for thinking positive helps the day flow for me much easier and the bumps I encounter don't have as much impact. It has helped my relationships flourish and grow.

I really would like to recommend this CD. I almost always listen to it while driving my car, and the positive statements/affirmations are so wonderful to hear. Inspiration to my life!

What a treasure--worth every penny. David Sedaris is hilarious in his low-key style of humor. And his sister is just as funny. Thanks to Amazon.com for making this an affordable collection.

Great CD's...no one can perform them like David Sedaris! Be aware that there is no table of contents on the CD envelopes, in fact they are blank, black envelopes.

I purchased this for my parents, as they do a good bit of driving and like to have something besides music to listen to in the car. I agree that the packaging, as other reviewers have noted, could be better, but we played several of the tracks over a series of short car trips and we all agreed that this is a fantastic box set. Sedaris' material is so spot-on, never too "in-jokey," and just plain funny. I am glad I made the purchase for my parents and I plan to purchase one for myself soon, so that I can keep on laughing.

This compilation of David's work shows how he has evolved as both a writer and performer. Amy's good too.

Dave Sedaris is hilarious, and this set has a lot to laugh at. Don't mind what the other reviews say about the lack of track listings. Each CD now comes with track listings printed right on them. The packaging is weak, but I don't care; It's not like it's going to be on display. I'm going to rip the content to my Zune and be on my way.