Entertainment Books

The book was not what I expected as it said it was the one used on Sex and the City Movie and I could not find the letters used on the movie in the book so disappointing.

Wonderful collection of love letters. The book itself is beautiful with the old fashioned quill and rose on the front cover. The interior is just as pretty. The names appear to be calligraphy, but it's regular print.

I was especially excited to see the letters are the originals. They are not put in modern terms.

I'm going to have to order another one since my friend borrowed it and she won't bring it back to me.

I bought this book because I am getting married and wanted to find a romantic, moving reading for the ceremony. And, of course, like many other women who saw the Sex and the City Movie, fell in love with the poetry Mr. Big "uses." This book is not at all what I hoped for or wanted. I must admit that maybe my expectations were not realistic...as I think I was expecting to find stuff right out of the movie (ain't gonna happen). Yes, the letters are full of love...but are often quite depressing as well. If you like history and such...the history of old love is defined by separation for months, etc. That is documented here. I guess for my purposes...it missed the mark. Out of the entire book, I found one segment I truly liked and will most likely use. However, I think I could have come up with something else and saved my money.

I bought this for a friend's birthday who is a huge 'Sex and the City' fan. He was very pleased and excited to own something that inspired an object in the movie. Although it is not the exact item used in the film, it is a wonderful reference tool. I am thinking ofpurchasing one for myself as well.

If you saw the Sex and the City movie and decided you had to have the love letters book in the movie, this is the edition for you. Great love letters from men and women throughout history in a beautiful package.

I've even got my husband interested in listening to me read my favorites. That's a big wow for me.

I was shocked when I got this product, as I thoutht I was getting a used copy and it was brand new and had never been opened. I received it in a very short amount of time. I would purchase from them again.

First of all, I do not believe Denise and Alan Jackson were compatible from the very start of their relationship. Initially it was a physical attraction at best - more so on Alan's part. As time marched on in their marriage, they began to drift apart and then later fell apart due to Alan's infidelity.
I sensed that Denise would have liked to share more concerning Alan's unfaithfulness but showed great restraint in choosing not to cast him or his career in a bad light.
It was upsetting to me and countless others to see Denise blame herself for Alan's betrayal or trying to pull herself down to his level for a few impure thoughts she may have had back when - whenever.
Denise fought long and hard by exhausting every avenue to restore her relationship with Alan until finally surrendering it all to Christ, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith. I to have been there until I did exactly what Denise did in crying out to God to not only save my marriage but to save myself and by divine intervention, my marriage was spared. That was over 25 years ago and we are still going so very strong.

In all honesty, I do not think Denise would have fought so long and so vehemently to save her marriage if it were not for the extravagant and opulent lifestyle she had come to know and love, for herself and for their children. I appreciate Denise's honesty in making mention in her book before the fame and fortune she said, "I don't remember any woman chasing after you when you worked the second shift at the local K-Mart." I truly believe that Denise would have shown Alan to the door had it not been for all the wealth.

It is my hope that they will both stay on the straight and narrow path that leads to everlasting life and their children as well.
The scripture does say, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God."
Denise closed her book by quoting the passage, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither has entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him."
However, for the readers sake I would like to add the very next passage that states, "But God has revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searches all things, yes the deep things of God."
I'll close by sharing this thought, "It is Christ Himself who empowers us to forgive those who have violated our trust, all we need do is ask and by the Holy Spirit he will enable us to forgive all."

For a truly extraordinary story of love and redemption, check out D. W. Gutridge's "Captured by a Smile." You will not be disappointed.Captured by a Smile "Imprisoned by Love": A Memoir of Young Love that Refused to Die

I cannot recommend this book enough for every woman. It truely changed my life. I read it in half a day, and think about it weekly. It truely taught me forgiveness and for those struggling with hurt and betrayal, who need a way to faithfully overcome the hurt and to forgive, this is an excellent book!

I bought this book for my mom last Christmas. She read it in two days. She loved it and it made her respect Alan Jackson all the more.

I picked up this book and could not put it down. I got it from the library but had to go buy my own copy. Denise is so open and honest and I learned so much from her story. Thanks so much for opening up yourself and sharing your joys and heartaches. I cried and laughed. I wasn't really an Alan Jackson fan but I am now! Great story!
Shannon

What a remarkable story of a near miss star. Al Kooper was some of the glue that held early rock together. While never a star in his own right he added so much to what he did play on, that is, more ground breaking hits than anyone I know of. Just being the first organ in Rock is enough plus the horn band idea with BS&T, wow! His work with Leonard Skinered was a career in itself. Too bad he let his ego take him away from the limelight he deserves. He seems bitter in the end. Truly a story of Rock and Roll itself with Al as a matrix. He doesn't seem to know just how lucky he was. Can't say he let any moss grow on him though.

Great book - I couldn't put it down. Here's some insight into some of the greatest acts in rock - Dylan, Mike Bloomfield, Hendrix - it's all there. Al Kooper is a funny guy and I enjoyed the book tremendously!

I recommend this book for everybody interested in the rock scene
of the 60`s and up !
Al Kooper has a lot to tell of the early days in rock music and is
a great writer .
A lot of good reading and dont forget:
Mr Kooper is still making really good music, listen to the newest
album Black Coffee and see what I mean...

One of the great rock musicians of all-time. This guy should definitely be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, in fact he should have his own wing. Great writing throughout, this is the most entertaing rock and roll book that I've ever read. One of the finest memoirs I've ever read for that matter. I wish he would write more.

I did not want this book to end. I have been a fan of Al's since the Blood,Sweat,and Tears days and this book filled in so many unanswered questions I had. I recommend that anyone who likes him in any capacity read this book and see him live.

This book rates highly on my list. The determination this young boy had to succeed is outstanding. And the love he has for his family is heart-warming.

Growing up in poverty in China, he was given an opportunity to become one of China's dancers. Although he had no desire to become a dancer, his mother said it was a great opportunity for him to make something of his life, and not become a labourer like the rest of his family, working for next to nothing to support his family.

He trained long and hard, and the physical strain on his body was demanding. But the love he had for his mother saw him through all the pain. He just wanted to make her happy, and make her proud of him.

He ended up becoming one of China's best dancers, and had the opportunity to train in the US.

You don't have to enjoy dancing to love this book, because its not about dancing. Its about the determination to succeed.

For anybody who has thought of "giving up", whatever the situation, this book will hopefully help you succeed in your endevors.

I just finished this book today and it seemed like moments!

Taking us from the traditional and superstitious marriage of his mother and father, the unimaginable poverty and oppression of China under Mao's communist rule, the one in a billion break to be a participant of Mrs. Mao's dance school, the extreme discipline of that school, defection to America, rejection by his country, and finally to the reuniting with his family; Li tells his life story in a colorful, sometimes humorous way that will make us appreciate the great riches and freedoms we take for granted.

Descriptive, thought provoking, and extremely impacting, "Mao's Last Dancer" most certainly will not be a disappointment.

I am really enjoying this book, only have a few pages left. The glimpse into third world China from an entirely new perspective, those of the eyes of a young boy during Mao's regime who overcomes incredible odds as a dancer, is
inspiring. A little slow but well written and thoroughly enjoyable.

I found that the first part of the book seemed endlessly depressing, the poverty and constant lack of food and near starvation was so overwhelming. But it was such an eye opener and I learnt much about a subject that I knew little about and it made me want to learn more.

I thought that his personal presistence, drive and ambition was truly inspiring and an insight into the hard work and what it takes to be amoung the best in world, which I am sure is true in any sphere.

His experience of living in the west and his decision to defect seemed in someways quite selfish but so understandable, but as an artist he had an overwhelming desire to be free to express himself which I think was as much to do with his decision as the desire to live a 'western' way of life. He was after all left almost friendless and without his family, I don't think he would have necessarily defected had he not wanted to dance and be the best in the world.

After the early part of the book and the hardship he and his family had suffered it was a lovely feel-good warm ending and he well deserves all his success.

It is not a greatly written book, but it is a really great story and a good read.

Li Cunxin has had a somewhat different life. He was almost doomed to obscurity like the vast majority of people in this world, living the life of a poor peasant in rural China, but for a stroke of luck when his teacher suggested him as a potential ballet student. This changed his life from one type of hardship to another with markedly different challenges, but one which left him lonely, confused about the dogma he had so wholeheartedly embraced and geographically isolated from his family.

It is interesting to read as the young man goes from blind adoration of Chairman Mao and all the things that come with Communism, to a dawning awakening that the West is not the den of inequity that he has been led to believe. But is is the latter half of the book that has led me to offer 4 stars instead of 5 - I felt it was a little rushed, especially his well publicised defection, and efforts to settle in the west and raise a family. I guess we in the West are more interested in his early struggling years, but the challenges he faced as an adult are nonetheless fascinating.

There is no doubt that this is a sincere and amazing story. It is written with a wry humour that makes the tales of wrenching poverty readable (I have no desire to ever taste dried yams!), and gives us an interesting insight into how difficult life was in China under Communism. Mr Li seems a happy and settled man now with a lovely family - I would say he has had a fair fight to get there.

this guy is the most annoying person on the face of the earth, it is truly amazing that he thinks people find neurotic self absorbtion entertaining, talk about being completely out of touch.

I loved this book. I could not put it down! I wouldn't suggest it to just anyone, though. This book is not for you if you are a sexually repressed, uptight person. The humor in this book is crude at times, but always intelligent, in my opinion. I'm an instant fan and can't wait until Mr. Schaeffer writes his next book!

Eric tells so many lies that he can't even keep them straight.
His fowl mouth and mind are only surpassed by his over inflated ego.
His movies are so bad that even shoe-ins like Parker and Stiller couldn't save them.
Inane is descriptive of him and his work.
Pass on by as you look for something worth reading.

i had been curious about this book for a while, but finally picked it and didn't put it down until reading the very last words. as a 27-year-old woman, admittedly i felt some discomfort allying myself with schaeffer's viewpoints at times, but in the end, no matter how self-centered he came across, i appreciated his honesty. maybe it's just me, growing up in ny, but aren't we all fairly narcissistic in our day to day existences? it's not like he claimed to write a book examining the current state of geo-political affairs, there it is in the title, this is a book about ME!

all in all, i appreciated the fact that i sat out on my fire escape for hours today reading page after page. perhaps it's my predilection for devouring the works of somewhat misogynistic authors (and i don't think schaeffer is one in the slightest): hemmingway, sartre. i relish reading pure unbridled emotion on the page; frustrations, anxieties, self-doubt because in the end we all experience a degree of those feelings on a daily basis. i don't understand the vitriol coming his way. not in any way comparing him to roth, because that would be absurd, but solely on the woman-hating tip - really? who is worse? is that a fair point? i don't really know, but as a great read, i firmly stand by it.

I must say... it is remarkable to me the level of vitriol that Mr. Schaeffer seems to incur in response to his art. I have seen all of his films. From my perspective, they range from entertaining (Never Again, If Lucy Fell) to brilliant (Fall, Wirey Spindell)... though, this is neither here nor there. As with this book, his detractors seem incapable of reviewing the effort rather than the individual. The consistency of this reality from both lay people and (for shame) professional reviewers leaves me astounded. The worst thing I can think of to say about Eric Schaeffer is that he has no pause button between his brain and his mouth. Do we really experience this as such a problem... especially in an artist? Quite frankly, I find Eric to have a lot of respect for people in general with not a no malicious intent whatsoever(except perhaps in the way he sometimes treats himself)... again, neither here nor there. No one is asking you to date the man... or to hang out with him. If you think he is a lousy filmmaker... fine. If you think he is a poor author... lovely. But who cares what kind of person he is? Yes, this particular book, and some of his films are inspired by his own experiences... though what artist is that NOT true about? The man takes more shots at himself than any individual could ever dream of doing. Within that fact is a deep humility and a fair amount of self-awareness... if only the rest of Hollywood could manifest the same. Okay, now that I have become part of the problem... the book is wry, astute, sharp and insightful. If you are interested in reading the well written diatribes of someone who has no fear of saying what the rest of us only dare to think, do yourself a favor. On the other hand, if you find yourself intimidated by the journey of truth... run.

"The Loved Dog" doesn't teach or instruct the reader on anything more than common sense would dictate in dealing with dogs. Geller uses a much kinder method than other trainers, but the book is lacking in depth and detail. Too much time is spent on her past without really connecting the reader on anything more than a basic level. Once the training starts in the book, the author seems to speed through it without taking enough time to get fully into the hows and whys. More time is spent in commenting on all the famous folks that Geller knows and has worked with in the past. The book is definitely a good start to someone new to dog training, but wouldn't be the only book needed.

On page 82 where Geller discusses learning your dog's favorite treats, she mentions that one of her client dog's favorites is chocolate. Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Geller warns against other foods that are toxic to dogs--onions, grapes and raisins--but she makes no such warning about chocolate. This is a pretty serious oversight, especially for new dog owners who may be reading this book because of the Humane Society CEO's good review of it. I might have given this book 3 stars otherwise, but I'm giving it one star just to call attention to this hazard.

It was a pleasure finally to find someone with whose gentle, sensible, methods, view point, and philosophy I agree, especially after some rather harsh tactics I have observed by other trainers. You can tell Tamar truly loves her dogs as much as most owners love their dogs. I am glad I happened to become familiar with her book. All dogs deserve to be the loved dog.

I enjoyed this book, since I'm at the beginning of learning about dog training, in advance of getting a dog. But dear god, that woman likes to name drop! Did I mention Oprah's dogs? What about Olivia Newton-John? And my favorite, her best friend in the world is married to some moderately successful somebody, and she barely mentions her best friend to describe what her best friend's husband does... and then she gets to their dogs. Yikes.

That being said, she has a nice message, I like the nonviolent approach, and the fact that she does incorporate some pack behaviorism (alpha dog without the alpha roll or forced submission).

Next, I'm reading "The Other End of the Leash", "Culture Clash", and "How Your Dog Thinks" for a little meatier training. Tamar Geller is light and has a nice kind philosophy, and some good ideas about how to handle your dog(s).

I've read several negative reviews of this book and of other dog-training books on Amazon and honestly it seems like people just want an Easy Button. The more books your read and the better you know your animal will help you develop your own style of training. Each person is unique, so where I don't allow my dogs on the furniture, many people reading this may love the cuddle time with their pup. No one book is giong to 100% resonate with you, so it's really about learning as much as you can and setting your dog up to succeed.

Climbing off my soap box, I think this is a great book for almost any dog owner. Let's face it, the majority of pet owners would hardly call themselves experts so it's frustrating when reviewers say books like this are recycled material. I commend anyone who's taking an active interest in learning how to train their dog. For those who want something clear and simple Tamar delivers. This is a How-To book that helps with the basics.

One of my favorite suggestions she gives is to have the dog sit for everythjing, just as if you were teaching a child to say please. The dog is in a calm state of mind and getting whatever reward he's sitting for in only that position. My dog now sits whenever he wants anything. Doesn't mean he always gets it, but it's his way of asking nicely instead of jumping in my lap.

When she talks about teaching tricks and behaviors, it was like a lightbulb went off in my head. I had never thought not to repeat myself over and over. The more I tried it (and it took patience on my part) I found that it actually worked quite well. Tamar instructs us to wait and let the dog "think" about it. I swear I could see the wheels turning in my dog's head. It's all logical though. If you asked me sit down and knit a blanket I couldn't do it. Saying it over and over and louder and louder would not overcome the fact that I don't know how to knit. With practice and incentive though, I could learn. So can your dog.

My last commetn for the book is training to "Back Off" I didn't understand its value at first, however I'm already teaching my 7 month old puppy the behavior b/c I use it so much. Instead of jumping and getting excited for what he wants, my dog almost does the opposite by walking away from me and then sitting. The best part is that he does it on his own. When I do tell him "off" it's either b/c he's in harm's way (like when I open a hot oven) or I just need space (tying shoes, putting food bowl down, or opening a door) it's nice for him to take a step or two backwards without it being a struggle. Overall this book taught me how to teach functional behaviors. The biographical part is maybe not necessary, but it does show why she's trying to take a loving approach to dog training. I recommend this book for anyone who looses patience with their dog and wants to react some way other than yelling. It's much less stressful =)

I never knew much about Steve Martin's life before besides the standup albums, the SNL, movies, etc... This book tells a lot about his life behind those scenes of comedy and if your a Steve Martin fan, it makes for a humorous yet touching read.

Such a great read, I mustve recommended it to at least 100 people who have all enjoyed it. Such a fun time to be had making your way through this one. I love the emails from fans he has included too. Also the paperback has a bonus chapter updating you on his book tour from when the hardback came out.

I gave this as a gift to a friend who is a HUGE Bruce Campbell fan.
She loved it! Definitely worth checking out for anyone who enjoys his work. Hilarious guy, Awesome book!

Campbell, Bruce. "If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor". LA Weekly, 2002.

What a Book!

Amos Lassen

Bruce Campbell has written quite a book with "If Chins Could Kill". He writes as if we are having a conversation with him and he gives some very interesting and provocative information.
Campbell begins with his childhood in Michigan and how the Raimi brothers transformed his life when he was still in high school. He tells us of the various friends he had as a kid and about backstabbing and betrayals which probably are the reason as to why he never became a big star. Eventually he and the Raimis got together and began to produce "The Evil Dread" which quickly became a cult horror classic.
Campbell has no glamour whatsoever but he is a ham. He does his own stunts, has never studied acting yet he has had a job in the film industry for almost 30 years. He is a hard worker and few of us have any idea of who he is except for those that make "B" movies. In his book he shows us blue collar Hollywood. He is offbeat and he works cheap--but, he works. Campbell makes no pretense about being a god writer but he is honest.
In following Campbell's career, he tends to be a little private about his personal life but wide open about his career. I have the feeling that he is a very human and down to earth guy. His book is funny and satiric and I had a great time reading it.

If you want intreague, laughs, and weather your a Campbell fan like myself or not this book can be enjoyed on so many levels. Best book i've ever read.

I have been a long time fan of B.C. and FINALLY bought the book to give it a try. I was so disappointed in myself for waiting so long. If you like B.C. then you well like this fun, easy and entertaining book cover to cover! Bruce Campbell ROCKS! I can't wait to read his other book/books!

I didn't expect much from this book - who writes his life story when he's just pushing 40? But this is a fun and funny, stream of consciousness autobiography, roped into some order by his coauthor sister, complete with humorous/explanatory footnoted asides (well, his sister IS an English professor) and lots of great photos of wee John from childhood on up and his beloved and wacky extended family and friends, productions he was in, up to present day Captain Jack on 'Torchwood.' It's written for a British audience, but anyone on either side of the Atlantic would enjoy it. I laughed out loud at several of his stories of various theatrical escapades and disasters. Not surprisingly, the story is just like the actor seems - what you see is what you get - funny, exuberant, charming, a bit naughty, and full of life.

I actually listened to the audiobook version, read very entertainingly by John Barrowman himself. I can't say whether the book benefits from a slight abridgment, but I suspect it benefits quite a bit by the addition of John Barrowman's always charming delivery. I smiled all the way through, laughed aloud in places, and found myself touched in more.
Besides the look into his life thus far (his coming out tale, for example), the book serves as good introduction to the hard work a professional entertainer has in store for themselves before reaching success (or at least steady employment!) Talent - something John has in almost unfair spades - and looks, another thing John can't truthfully deny he possesses - are not enough. He details the work he put in, the learning he had to do (and his gratitude to his many teachers), as well as his trials (amusing to hear how he didn't get a part he wasn't considered 'gay enough' for) on the long yet interesting road to Doctor Who, Torchwood and becoming a National Treasure.
There's also a smattering of fun "behind the scenes" Doctor Who and Torchwood stories for fans like me!

I got turned on to John Barrowman last year after discovering Torchwood. I find it refreshing, in this day and age, to come across someone who is living his life to the fullest, no apologies, no regrets.

The book gives us a brief overview of what seems to be, his very charmed life. I am sure he has had much more grief and frustration in his 40 years then the book lets on, but maybe that's left for another book.
(And according to Carole, they are in talks to do another one)

He gives us tales of his growing up in Scotland and later spending his formative years in Illinois, becoming an American boy. He returns to the UK for schooling and gets his big break, starring in a big West End show.
Charmed indeed.

The love he has for his family and partner is evident throughout the book. I had the pleasure of talking to his mother and father at a booksigning in Milwaukee and they were absolutely charming people who are so proud of their son.

It's a really quick read and you will find yourself laughing out loud at some of his stories and sniffling at others. I enjoyed the audio version too as it's kind of fun listening to him talk about his life, almost like you're sitting there and he's talking to you personally.
Plenty of great pictures too.
So, if you're just discovering John or just want to know more about him, it's a great place to start.

(I have to admit though, I hate the cover photo.)

When I first read others' comments about this book (as I waited...and waited...and waited for Amazon to send it) I just figured the negative ones came from a bunch of John and/or gay haters. I now have to concede that they had some valid points. At times, I wonder if the John I've seen in interviews is the same guy as the one in this book! I'd already listened to the audio version, and there were times when he came off as a bit of a d*** in it, but hearing the anecdotes in his own voice softened the bite. In print, he does not come off well. He comes off as a brat. Where's the guy who helped those two ladies after one of his shows? (A cute anecdote about some fans who were stranded after a thief nabbed a purse.) Where's the guy who got so irritated at the protesters at London Pride that he told the crowd that "THEY'RE the ones who need saving, not me"? THAT man has more passion and integrity than the one I've seen so far here. Save your money - watch and buy some Torchwood and Who instead. And watch his interview from Heaven and Earth. I think you'll see Another - and better - Side of John.
All that said, some of the photos are absolutely gorgeous!!!!!!!!!

I am a huge fan of Torchwood and John Barrowman (discovered both recently)and was waiting eagerly for this book to learn more about him and his life. But I'm sorry to say this highly anticipated book was a disappointment -- the incidents portrayed are so arbitrary and without depth. I get no sense of his deepest feelings, fears, dreams. Has his whole life been wonderful, or did he and sister just decide to stress the positive and funny things? What was it like when he first came to NY? How did he survive the bad times or were they all good? What about some REAL gossip? What's the real scoop on the Will and Grace audition?

I remember reading Tennessee Williams' autobiography and Christopher Isherwood's Christopher and His Kind and wondering how such great writers could write such juvenile autobiographies, but at least it showed them flaws and all including a lot of sordid sexual encounters.

This is probably written mostly by Carole Barrowman and is too slick and surface like a magazine article. Yes there are a some well-adjusted positive totally happy people in the world (none of them live in NYC I suspect) I'm sure he's a good natured "bloke" but no one's life is that smooth. It makes for superficial reading. The pictures are great!

Bess in the Big Apple

Three favorite editions in one slipcased gift collection! From the popular "LIFE" Picture Puzzle series comes a three-volume set of "LIFE Picture Puzzle, LIFE Original Picture Puzzle," and "LIFE Amazing Picture Puzzle."

These picture puzzles are great. They are very challenging and fun. It would have been nice if they told you that there were 3 books in the set and listed the names of the books that were included since I already had a few of the Time Life Picture Puzzle books. Overall I was very pleased with my purchase.

When I purchased this item, it came at the time that it was said to come. When I gave it to my friend, he was like AWESOME. He loved the diffrent levels from novie to genius levels and the timing feature on this made it fun for himself as well as others that competed with him and that was just the first book out of 3 that were included. A good deal for the price. He also loved looking at all the different pictures. They were from all over the world and some of them very funny to look at. Another friend saw it and said, Wow, that's a really nice gift.

I purchased the box set for someone who enjoys these puzzles in magazines and they were thrilled with it. Enough to keep all age levels busy for a long time!

These puzzles are very addictive and fun. I would recommend them to anyone. They also help you look at photography in a much different way. As an amateur photographer and digital artist it really helps to hone in on detail.