Trout : An Illustrated History
by Knopf
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (14 April, 1996)
list price: $29.95 -- our price: $19.77
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Editorial Review

Perhaps no one loves trout as much as James Prosek, who by age 20 journeyed thousands of miles and through 49 states to depict in watercolors all 70 subspecies of North American wild trout at least four times for this definitive volume on the subject. He details the diversity and brilliant range of colors in the species with his paintings, which are accompanied by written snippets, including angling anecdotes, historical sketches and personal reminiscences. At the devastating rate that trout are being lost to hybridization, displacement and extinction, we should be thankful that Prosek's obsession has led to this beautiful document of the species now, before it is too late. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

10 star must own for any serious trout fisherman/woman
I know so many fly fisherman who also do water colour painting, and I think the reason is, it takes the same light hand or wrist action to do both. And I know for a fact that the author paints from personal experience, which means he catches the fish and then uses it as his model so that he gets the painting done right.Not from memory or some photograph, but right there on the banks of the river or shore.And he has traveled the world and fished with the best, and his work shows this.

And to the negative reviewers, all I can say is if you think you can do better than he did, then do so.The fact his art has been show cased on ESPN and in art galleries around the world suggests to me that he knows much more than the few critics he has.Maybe its envy on their part.

I recommend ALL his books. And Yale University is fortunate to have had him as an undergraduate.

It's art but is it good?
Being a scientific illustrator of fish, I dare say a few words about this book. These fish are pleasant to look at but the art work is no masterpiece. On my first attempts at color, i could easily do that kind of work.

Very enjoyable, but the accuracy...
After reading the reviews on this one I was just giddy with anticipation when it arrived.Any book on fish or fishing is a good one, and this one promised to be very good.

I don't read new books front to back - I browse at first, and flipped through "Trout", very impressed with the number of species and the marvellous illustrations.Then I went to Brook Trout - the fish of my youth, and still the one nearest and dearest my heart.Very good illustration and text.

I then went to the front and started through, and as fate would have it the Arctic Char was first up.That's when I started to worry.You see, I live in the Canadian Arctic, and have seen lots of Arctic Char - literally tens of thousands.I've studied them, fished them, eaten them, read about them, and learned about them.I am no "expert", but I know a few things.

Th fact of the matter is that from reading the text accompanying the illustration of the Arctic Charr, it is obvious that Prosek knows little of them.For example, he writes, "Eskimos cut a hole in a lake through ten feet of ice, fishing with a piece of seal meat on an ivory hook."Do tell.It gets better with, "In summer when the rivers run free, they catch them in nets made of Musk-ox or caribou sinew."Really.That stuff would have been half truths two centuries ago - today it is just plain wrong.

Those lines are tourist fiction reminiscent of the hogwash written by the early arctic explorers who, after a trip up north, could return home and write any mix of truth and fiction they wanted - because nobody knew any better.

That's my problem with the book.He knows little of Arctic Char, but proceeded anyway to write an inaccurate text - without the qualifier - "by the way I don't really know this, somebody told me and I didn't have time to check it out".Thinking what?Nobody would notice?

It's the other species in the book that worry me now - the odd, rare, and primarily western ones I have not had the pleasure of becoming acquainted with.Is that stuff accurate?

Still a great and very enjoyable book, and I recommend it to anyone who loves (okay, likes) trout.Enjoy the illustrations - just don't count on the information without checking it out. ... Read more

Isbn: 067944453X
Subjects:  1. Fish    2. Fishing - General    3. Freshwater Fish - Individual Species    4. Nature    5. Nature / Field Guide Books    6. Nature/Ecology    7. Pictorial works    8. Trout    9. United States    10. Nature / Fish   

Adirondacks, Views of An American Wilderness
by Rizzoli
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (12 June, 1999)
list price: $45.00 -- our price: $45.00
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Reviews (2)

The Fullest Range With Majectic Moods!
Photographer Carl E. Hellman has crafted a collection of Adirondack photographs that continue to fascinate page after page.All aspects of this remarkable region are well represented from the wildest of waterways and majectic peaks to the outlying areas of cozy farms and inland towns.By far the most amazing photographs are those in wide-screen format - much wider than anything this reviewer has seen elsewhere.Rangingfrom awe-filled aerial views from high peaks in all seasons to the intimate settings of bogs and marshes, Hellman captures the mood of these mountains.Mist shrouded ponds, newly falling snow, green glimpses through mature virgin forests and close-ups from lady-slippers to primeval bogs; the viewer is mesmerized.Overwhelming beauty and the calm feeling of a lonely untouched wilderness is caught everywhere.This is a collector's item to cherish all year long.

Spectacular Photography
I was privilaged to be present at the slide show presented by Carl Heilman at the annual Adirondack Club dinner last autumn. Many exquisite pictures from this book were shown. Mr. Heilman has captured the true spirit of dawnin the mountains, children leaping with joy , winter landscapes, andespecially the wild creatures that most of us may never be patient enoughto discover in their natural homes.Many shots exhibit a seeminglyimpossible depth of field sharply focusing on both a spider web in theforeground and Mount Marcy in the background. The book is full of beautifulimages not to be missed! ... Read more

Isbn: 0847821692
Sales Rank: 793917
Subjects:  1. Adirondack Mountains (N.Y.)    2. Adirondack Park (N.Y.)    3. Description    4. Individual Photographer    5. Nature / Field Guide Books    6. Photo Essays    7. Photography    8. Pictorial works    9. Scenic Photo Collections    10. Subjects & Themes - Plants & Animals    11. Subjects & Themes - Travel - General    12. Subjects & Themes - Travel - U.S./Mid-Atlantic   

Small Log Homes: Storybook Plans and Advice
by Gibbs Smith Publishers
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (05 May, 2001)
list price: $21.95 -- our price: $14.93
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Reviews (4)

Just pictures and a few undetailed floor plans
The pictures are beautiful, and there are a few floorplans at the back. The text however is useless, unless you need to be told that putting in lots of options will raise the price, create the floorplan based on your family's interests and that you shouldn't spend more than you can afford. It really isn't anything more than you could get with a 10 minutes trip to the website of a log home manufacturer, except that it has much less info!

It tells you, for example, that you should make careful and deliberate use of all the space by planning it carefully, but does not show examples of good planning, give you thought provoking questions to ask yourself, or anything that could help you do it.

The book mentions that there are 2 types of log cabins, names them and gives a few uncaptioned photographs, without even one word to tell you what the advantages of one over the other might be.

It tells you that a complicated roof is more expensive than an uncomplicated one. Did you need to be told? It does not tell you what the choices are in roof styles, the advantages and weather reasons you might want one more than the other, dispite the cost, and it certainly does not tell you what the price differences are (even an approx % difference would have been a start).

It does not suggest anything useful and should only be bought by someone who is on their way to the log home manufacturer in their area so that they can point to the pictures in the book and facilitate the teaching the company will then have to provide. This is for a person buying a finished, installed product, not building a home.

I was very disappointed and would never have bought this book if I had seen it in a bookstore. It is meant for someone who buys magazines exclusively for the pictures and does not read the articles. This will not help you build a house.

Concise, to the point
A good, usable well-illustrated book for the everyday person..the middle class "dreamer". Not focused on millionare showplaces, but homes for the average family, homes under 2500 sq ft. Cozy photos and a nice selection of floor plans. A good working tool if you are considering a log home in your future.

Log Cabin Storybook
This book is aptly second titled a "storybook" - it is the stuff of fantasies - far removed from today's "cut and stack" modern log cabin building.The pictures and design ideas are beautiful.Well worth the time and money.A must read for small log cabin would-be owners. ... Read more

Isbn: 1586850431
Sales Rank: 64096
Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Designs and plans    3. Home Improvement / Construction    4. House Plans    5. Interior Design - General    6. Log cabins   

Cabin Fever
by Simon & Schuster
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (28 September, 1998)
list price: $35.00 -- our price: $23.10
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Editorial Review

The craze for "getting away from it all" in buildings of log, stone, and unpainted lumber has been a part of American life since the 1800s. From the Gilded Age retreats of the Catskills and Adirondacks to the rugged Wild West lodges of Yellowstone and Yosemite, Cabin Fever celebrates the architectural elements that make cabin style unique: gleaming hand-peeled and polished logs, cowhide sofas, and river-rock fireplaces. Some are large, old, and built as public lodgings, like Putnam Camp, the Adirondack summer retreat founded by philosopher William James, which still has the cheerful austerity it had when Freud and Jung mingled there with Harvard academicians. Others, like the grand hunting lodge nestled on the edge of a marsh, are more recent monuments to quirky private visions of the perfect rustic retreat. Rooms in both are accessorized with animal heads, native American blankets and art, snowshoes, antler chandeliers, and willow twig furniture. The book's appendix includes catalog sources for everything from small wooden summerhouses to buffalo-plaid blankets, and a list of hotels in the grand old style (like Yosemite's Ahwahnee and the Grand Canyon's El Tovar). Even if you can't have a piece of the wilderness to call your own (and the burl furniture to match), you can still enjoy the rustic yet substantial comforts of Cabin Fever. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Outstanding photographs
I have been searching for books for months now that would give me real life examples of cabin type homes to use in designing my country home.While there are a lot of books out there on small cabins, I was looking for a book that showed examples that I could incorporate into a larger home.This book is exactly what I was looking for!The photographs are beautiful and truly capture some of the key elements that make these homes special.The author has managed to find some of the best examples out there of truly beautiful, well designed log/natural material homes.

In addition to the photographs, the narative is also quite entertaining.It helps the reader understand some of the thinking that went into the creation of these great spaces.

If you are looking for a very enjoyable book with wonderful pictures of a vast collection of cabins (both small and large), then this is the book you have been looking for!I know it was for me; I already have dozens of ideas that I plan on incorporating into my, not so small, cabin.Enjoy!

Cabin Fever
Excellent book with great pirctures of rustic rooms and homes. Great decorating ideas!

See the log cabin of your dreams....
A great coffee table book for your house or mountain cabin! Most of these "vacation homes" are nicer than our regular houses. Great to curl up with this book in front of the fire. ... Read more

Isbn: 0684844222
Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Camps    3. Decoration and ornament, Rusti    4. Domestic    5. Home Improvement / Construction    6. Interior Design - General    7. Interior Design - Style Books    8. Log cabins    9. United States    10. Vernacular architecture    11. Architecture / Interior Design   

Oxford Garden Designs Adirondack Chair
by Oxford Garden Designs
Average Customer Review:
Lawn & Patio
list price: $299.95 -- our price: $209.97
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• measures 31-Inch L x 35 1/2-Inch W x 38-Inch H
• uses Shorea wood, similar to teak but more dense and heavy
• mortise and tenon construction
• easy assembly of pre-assembled pieces
• weathers to a warm grey or color can be maintained using teak oil

Reviews (3)

WOW..now that is sturdy!
These chairs, I bought 4, have the wieght that Adirondack Chairs SHOULD have! They are very heavy - so I am sure they will not ever blow away. The wood has a wonderful grain and smooth finish...best to teak oil them and then they'll look like a million bucks for a LONG time.The construction is tight and sturdy with durable bolts.... the assembly is a bit of a pain in the neck (it always is) BUT you will have them for a life so well worth the effort considering the quality and great price. Good sitting and proportion.

Easy Assembly
I couldn't believe how easy it is to assemble this chair.All the pre-drill holes lined up nicely and the 14 screws goes in easily.I was able to assemble the entire chair in less than 5 minutes.Even faster than assembling a bookshelf.

Since it been raining outside, haven't had a chance to try it outdoor.But as a temperary indoor chair, it is quite relaxing sitting on it to watch tv.

Chair designs come and go; this one endures
This chair will endure in more than one way; it's made of a very sturdy and durable wood (shorea.) With the judicious application of teak oil, the chair can weather anything (well, nearly anything. I'll be putting ours down in the cellar away from the snow.)

The style is classic, the arms wide, good for holding a cool drink as you enjoy a summer evening. And they look nice with teak benches. What's not to like? ... Read more

Asin: B00004YO3X
Sales Rank: 1143
Subjects:  1. Patio & Garden Furniture    2. Benches    3. (Outdoor)    4. Garden Seating    5. Wood    6. (Wooden)    7. Classic Garden    8. Feng Shui   

Weber 2003 Model 3290001 Genesis Gold C Propane Gas Grill
by Weber
Average Customer Review:
Lawn & Patio
list price: $699.00
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Editorial Review

At first glance, Weber gas grills look like something that might be shot into space or driven in a Formula 1 race rather than the sleek cooking machines they really are. This is an understandable mistake, because with its Genesis series of grills, Weber has made the time-honored tradition of outdoor cooking state-of-the-art, virtually putting an entire kitchen at your fingertips and on your patio. The Genesis Gold C features a generous 611 square inches of total cooking area, which includes the primary cooking area, a warming rack, and a warm-up basket. Its three stainless-steel burners supply an input of 39,000 Btu's per hour and provide 550-degree broiling temperatures without wasting fuel. The Genesis Gold C also features a side burner, rated at 10,000 Btu's per hour, that is perfect for creating a side dish to accompany your perfectly cooked main course. In place of the lava rock, pumice stone, or flat metal plates found in most common gas grills, Weber grills feature the company's patented Flavorizer bars, which do not retain dripped fats.Instead, juices sizzle and smoke when they hit the Flavorizers, eliminating potentially disastrous flare-ups and imparting a delectable smoky flavor to your feast.

Getting the grill ready to cook that feast doesn't take long, either. Weber'sCrossover ignition system enables you to effortlessly start all three burners,which have been positioned to heat your food evenly. A dual-purpose thermometerincluded in the front of the grill unit measures the temperature under thedouble-walled stainless-steel hood; it can also be removed and used as a meatthermometer to ensure a thoroughly cooked meal every time. And you won't need toscramble for seasonings (or recipes--Weber provides a cookbook) or use aseparate table while cooking, thanks to several convenient features. In additionto the handy work surface on one side of the unit, a wire condiment basket hangsalong the front of the grill, keeping condiments, spices, marinades, or otherbarbecue necessities close at hand. A wire shelf is situated beneath the grilland stretches the length of the unit, and three wire tool hooks hang below thework surface, ready for your spatula, meat fork, and basting brush. Webernatural gas grills also come with a 12-foot quick-disconnect hose.

With its lid open, the Genesis Gold C measures 61-1/2 inches tall, 69-1/2 incheswide, and 33 inches deep. This powerful cooking machine is easily moved,however, thanks to its crackproof all-weather wheels and locking casters, whichprevent it from moving when you're cooking. While a grill cover is recommendedto protect your grill from the elements, Weber's engineers did take outdoorstorage into consideration and, with the help of entomologists, added specialspiderproof screens to prevent the burner tubes from being clogged by cobwebs ornests.

This grill features Weber's Stop Watch engineering. Now it takes approximately10 minutes to assemble your grill with no more than eight fasteners and a singletool. Weber even throws in the tool. Manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty.--Benjamin Reese ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime limited warranty; measures 43.5 inches tall, 64.3 inches wide, and 24 inches deep
• Propane gas grill; powerful 36,000 Btus per hour; 3 burners; one side burner
• Total cooking area--611 square inches--is large enough for a group
• Patented cooking system that virtually eliminates flare-ups and offers ultimate cooking control
• Very easy 10-minute assembly with no more than 8 fasteners and a single tool (included)

Reviews (74)

I'm in love
I have had many grills over the past 20 years but this Weber is by far the best grill I have ever owned!! The price was great and the free shipping even better. what I love about this grill is you can put your food in the grill get the temp. where you want it ,close the lid and enjoy yourself. The cheaper grills I've had you better be ready to eat,because when you throwthe food onhere comes the fire! Take my advice spend the extra money and enjoy your BBQ'S instead of wandering if you should call the fire department.

weber
Hi, I was shopping for a stainless gas grill, and the prices were coming in around $2000.00 +-. After discovering that a gas line would be toooo difficult to install and that propane would have to be the alternative, I happened to stop at a local retailer, never thought I'd pay retail, so I bought two! The Gold C and the Silver B for each part of the outside. My coousin has one so I have cooked on the Gold, it is a dream and a tremendous value.

Weber- by it once!
If you are the type of person who prefers not to spend time replacing rusted grates and burners, there is an option out there that is just as satisfying as replacing your homes moldy siding with new vinyl.

I've had a few grills over the years and have worn them all out.I finally got fed up with replacing rusty cast iron grates and burners that disintegrated within two years.

This year I upgraded to the stainless steel equipped Weber and all I can say is "Wow".The stainless grates sear the steaks just as well as the cast iron ones do, but without the annoying rust that appears on the cheaper grills.The ignitor is magical!The assembly was really easy. VERY IMPRESSIVE!! ... Read more

Asin: B00005V5ZN
Subjects:  1. (Barbeque)    2. Outlet    3. Outdoor Cooking    4. Barbecue    5. (BBQ)   

Frontiers
by Atria
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 April, 1999)
list price: $24.00
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Reviews (82)

Soap Opera in the 17th Century
So, I just finished Frontiers by Michael Jensen. I didn't have high expectations when the best blurb on the back cover said that the book was "invigorated by hot sex scenes in bathtubs and amid thunderstorms..." Believe it or not, that doesn't make me want to buy a book. If I wanted to buy a book for the sex scenes, I'd go pick up a copy of one of the Friction series. (Oh look...there's a new one out...hmmmm...)

I picked Frontiers up, because frankly there hasn't been anything out in a while and I was still waiting for the new Alan Hollinghust novel.

The book wasn't horrible, but the characters were all just types, not real people. There's the stereotypical gay greenhorn who is helped by the stereotypical knowing frontiersman, and who then has to escape the knowing frontiersman but is helped by the stereotypical wise Native American woman. There are the stereotypical pushy settlers who try to get the stereotypical greenhorn to marry their stereotypically ugly daughter. And, the stereotypical, young, nubile gay iconoclast.This is a romance novel.It should have Fabio on the cover in a coon-skin cap.Some of the other reviewers discuss the "historical accuracy" of this novel.I'm afraid they haven't done much research themselves.Yes, there was indeed a person named John Chapman who was the basis for the American Myth of Johnny Appleseed.But that's where the accuracy ends.

Frankly I was surprised that the western frontier of Pennsylvania was such a cornucopia of hot man-on-man action in 1797. Pennsylvania isn't much like that now, I'm afraid. I also learned that frontier people are made of sterner stuff than us wusses today. You can throw them off a cliff, shoot them, bash them in the head several times with cast iron skillets, but they keep coming back to try to kill your young, naked, gay lover. Only a cabin filled with gunpowder seems to really kill them. (But no one mentioned finding a body...uh oh, I smell sequel!)

Was there anything good about this book? Yes. It wasn't set in LA or NY, didn't involve a single screenwriter, and absolutely no crystal meth was snorted by any character. A pleasant change of pace from most of the gay books I've read recently.

Review of Frontiers by Cheri
Frontiers, by Michael Jensen, is an historical novel filled with adventure, suspense, steamy sex, beautifully described scenery, note-worthy characters to both love and hate...all woven together to tell a rich and interesting story. A riveting tale, Frontiers is told in the first person through the eyes of John Chapman, a young man with a strong sense of moral values, an endearing love of animals, and, despite all the hardships he has endured, compassion for his fellow man.

Using colorful language, Jensen paints a realistic picture of how difficult life was in the late 1700's for a sensitive young gay man, who has had so much grief and tumult in his life, that he wants nothing more than to settle down. Barely escaping death, Chapman runs for his life. He escapes the men who killed his lover; there was zero tolerance for "sodomites" in 1797. In his haste to avoid being killed or flogged, Chapman escapes without money, supplies, or a horse. Starving, and near frozen to death, he is rescued by Daniel McQuay, who offers him food and shelter, but not necessarily out of the goodness of his heart. Chapman manages to survive the long, cold winter, sharing a cabin with McQuay, but he senses something is not kosher with this moody, alcoholic man. As soon as he's able to escape, Chapman is on the run again.

History repeats itself. He is rescued from starvation and death, this time by a kind Indian woman, Gwennie. She deposits him in a new settlement, Franklin. Being welcomed into this new settlement represents a brand new beginning for Chapman.

Frontiers takes place at a time when settlers were stealing land, left and right, from Native Americans. John feels compassion for the "Indians," and feels the other settlers wouldn't be any happier knowing he preferred men, sexually, than they would if they knew he had an Indian friend. He is indebted to Gwennie for saving him and giving him a real chance at happiness, and hopefully, permanence in his life

Jensen uses flashbacks of John's youth to recall events in his life. I thought this was an excellent touch. It allows the reader to understand John, and helps define his personality. We see why John becomes a wanderer-running away from problems instead of facing them head-on. John is tired of running; he just wants to settle down, be left alone and live his life as he sees fit. He is perfectly willing to give up personal relationships with men in order to avoid further trouble in his life.

Then he meets Palmer, a young man who shows interest in something more than simple friendship. John cannot deny a strong attraction to Palmer, and once again attempts to escape from his natural instincts. Can he avoid temptation or will he give in to love and desire? You simply must read this book.



What I liked best about Frontiers, was how it grabbed me, enticing me to keep reading...I could not put the book down. The sexual tension in the beginning, between John and Daniel, was only appeased by reading further into the story. Jensen relieved the pressure so eloquently and completely, that the first love scene was not just memorable, it was HOT! I was pleasantly surprised when there were more erotic scenes further along in the story. Frontiers had me on the edge of my seat on more than one occasion and I couldn't read quickly enough to get to the outcome.

My only criticism, but I take it back now that I've finished the book, is that the first half of the book was peppered with so many metaphors and similes, that I actually started counting them. They're distracting, but by the second half of the book, I forgot all about them. Not that the similes weren't good; it made me wonder if that was the way people spoke in the 1700's, or if Jensen got carried away. (The author has since told me that more colorful language was used at the time the novel is set in.) Don't get me wrong about the first half, despite my mentioning the similes; Frontiers is incredible and exciting, with elements of fear, longing, hardship, and danger. The whole book is great, and if you like suspense and romance set in historic times, I cannot recommend enough that you should not miss this gem of a novel. I could easily see Frontiers as a new generation major motion picture, in the Gay/Western genre. Move over John Wayne-here comes John Chapman, Palmer, Gwennie and their story of how the west was won.

Compelling & Wonderful Tale of the Highest Order
John Chapman, a 24 year old town-dweller who is hiding that he is homosexual, ends up on the run in November 1797. He?s had an affair with a Major in the British Army and been found out. From the unexpected violence of the opening pages to his journey?first in Lower Canada, then Pennsylvania and onward as he travels West?it is clear that Chapman is an innocent. He has no frontier skills, no horse, no weapons, and some serious doubts about his courage, most of which were implanted by his abusive father. But he does have determination to try to make it to free land in the West to stake his claim or die trying. If he can make it to the Warren Outpost and get free supplies and a parcel of his own land, he thinks his troubles will be over.

Despite the snow and ice, he manages to cross the Allegheny Plateau, but is lost, physically spent, and out of food. Days?perhaps hours?from death, he comes upon a cabin in the wilderness where he is reluctantly taken in by the threatening and mysterious Daniel McQuay.

From this point on, the characters he meets (Daniel, George Chase in Franklin, the solitary Indian woman Gwennie, and the charmingly handsome Palmer Baxter) all have a huge impact on his life. Over the long winter, Daniel teaches him survival skills, but he wants something and eventually scares Chapman away. George Chase then lets him stay in a vacant cabin, but he wants something. Chapman doesn?t know what Gwennie wants. It?s clear Palmer wants Chapman, but our hero isn?t about to succumb to the kind of love and attraction that has already gotten him in trouble and cost a man his life. Despite the fact that Chapman manages to resist Palmer?s charms initially, he still has to deal with small-mindedness, sexism, racism, the ignorant swath of compassionless ?Christians,? bad weather, and new enemies. And old enemies. Lurking in the midst of Chapman?s seemingly safe world is an evil enemy who has the capacity to turn his world upside down and who, of course, does just that. Injuries, deaths, and intrigue ensue, and I was at the proverbial edge of my seat through most of the last half of the book.

The tale is wonderfully told. Jensen?s dialogue is fresh and realistic, giving an accurate flavor of late 18th century while not overwhelming the reader with colloquialisms. Chapman has a sense of humor, especially about his failure to be a tough, he-man type.He displays a gentleness and humanity many of the settlers lack that made me identify with and love him. His narrative of the weather and environment is balanced perfectly as in this lovely description: ?Lightning flashed against the darkening sky, giving me an excuse to turn away. Already dark clouds the color of ugly bruises and hateful intentions were closer, bearing down on us as surely as winter on autumn. Occasional gusts of wind rumbled own the valley rippling through the treetops, their leaves trembling suddenly in the sunlight like a million green-winged birds in flight? (p. 263).

Jensen has crafted a compelling story the likes of which I have never read before. I am not aware of any historical drama/adventure/romance based upon such a well-rounded and mesmerizing gay character. John Chapman?s first person account is riveting. This is bildungsroman of the highest order, a story of love, lust, greed, and striving set against the unforgiving American frontier. I can?t recommend it highly enough! ~Lori L. Lake, author of lesbian fiction and freelance reviewer for Midwest Book Review, Golden Crown Literary Society?s 'The Crown,' The Independent Gay Writer, and Just About Write.
... Read more

Isbn: 0671027204
Sales Rank: 80075
Subjects:  1. 1774-1845    2. American First Novelists    3. Appleseed, Johnny,    4. Fiction    5. Fiction - Historical    6. Frontier and pioneer life    7. Gay    8. Gay men    9. Historical - General    10. Appleseed, Johnny    11. Fiction / General   

Treasures of the Baseball Hall of Fame : The Official Companion to the Collection at Cooperstown
by Villard
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (19 May, 1998)
list price: $39.95
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Editorial Review

The Hall of Fame is baseball's mecca; every true fan should make the pilgrimage to Cooperstown at least once in a lifetime. And while Treasures, officially sanctioned by the National Baseball Hall of Fame, can't replace the real thing, it can certainly whet appetites, rekindle memories, and fire up imaginations. Large in size and packed with illustrations, it is great show-and-tell; scores of beautifully photographed artifacts are on display with accompanying text to explain their significance. Flip the pages and you'll find Ruth's and Mantle's locker, Cobb's spikes, Shoeless Joe's shoes, Mays's glove, Aaron's bat--and that barely scratches the horsehide. Besides batracks of expected (and unexpected) Major League memorabilia, other treasures include relics from the Negro Leagues, the minor leagues, and the All-American Girls Baseball League as well as momentos from the press box, the library, the movies, and the art gallery. Sweeping from the mythic Doubleday ball to the present--Treasures would have benefitted from some more recent remembrances--it celebrates the game with affection and bravura, and through its very celebration, offers tangible insight into the National Pastime's firm grip on the national consciousness. --Jeff Silverman ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Baseball Masterpiece
John Thorn is one of our great baseball writers and his skills make this book the best of its kind.It is loaded with fascinating anecdotes that I've seen nowhere else.In addition, the illustrations are outstanding."Treasures ..." will give you the most enjoyable history lesson you'll ever find.

Well, I Can't Make It There...
This will serve until I get a chance to go there.Being far from any major metropolitan canter, getting there requires a great deal of effort.This is a great book which shares some of the riches of the hall.A musthave book for all baseball lovers.

Excellent choice for any baseball collection.
This volume should be considered an excellent addition to any baseball library.Every fan of the game will find something new and interesting.While the text is excellent, the large number of intensely detailedphotographs provide a fascinating insight into the history of the game.There is no other such collection available for the fan or scholar toenjoy.This volume is highly recommended. ... Read more

Isbn: 0375501436
Subjects:  1. Baseball    2. Baseball - Coaching    3. Baseball - General    4. Baseball - History    5. Catalogs    6. Equipment and Supplies    7. History    8. National Baseball Hall of Fame    9. Sports    10. Sports & Recreation    11. United States    12. Sports & Recreation / Baseball / History   

People of the Dancing Sky: The Iroquois Way
by Thomas Dunne Books
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 December, 2000)
list price: $35.00
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Reviews (1)

People of the Dancing Sky
While the photos are nice, I would rather have seen more of a focused narrative rather than the scattered glimpses of these people.It is a shame that the photographer fell into the Curtis style of posing people in inauthentic contexts, such as the little boys playing lacrosse in their gustowehs.Teachers using this book are forwarned to read carefully the preface explaining the differences in traditional Iroquoian dress styles and the pow wow dresses or contemporary modern dance costumes shown in this book.It was otherwise fun to see so many people I know.I hope to see more books written by, photographed by, Native Peoples.I would still recommend it, but use it carefully if you are an educator. ... Read more

Isbn: 0312265328
Sales Rank: 928720
Subjects:  1. Collections Of Photographs    2. Ethnic Studies - Native American Studies - Tribes    3. History    4. Native American    5. Native American Sociology    6. Photo Essays    7. Photoessays & Documentaries    8. Photography   

Reclaiming Your Life: The Gay Man's Guide to Love, Self-Acceptance, and Trust
by Alyson Books
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 June, 1997)
list price: $12.95
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Reviews (8)

Good first chapter
I thought the first chapter was very beneficial. The rest of the book was alright but didn't really apply to me because I wasn't abused (thankfully).

As a therapist, I found this book to be helpful
No matter what kind of family you grew up in, you will find yourself in this book. All of our families are dysfunctional to some degree, and as gay men, we have to overcome our own homophobia and resulting shame. Rik Isensee writes in a style that is so readable and relevant, every gay/bi man can take something with him.

I am now well on my way to reclaiming my life....
On my journey of self discovery, I have read several gay self help books over the years. Whilst they have all had their individual merit, none have touched my life so deeply as 'Reclaiming your life'. This is indeed one very special book.

The book basically takes you on a self discovery tour of looking inside yourself to not only understand why and how homophobia has effected your life, it also gives wonderful insights on how to deal with your issues and to eventually heal.

Split into 2 parts, the first half of the book describes homophobia and growing up in a homophobic culture and it's effect on you. Absorption of others' homophobia can have such a profound effect on our ability to accept ourselves and lead happy, meaningful lives, so to understand where homophobia comes from and the effect it can have is the first part of the journey.

The second half of the book describes the healing process and recovery from self hate and abuse. Learning to deal effectively with your emotions and developing stragies for overcoming self destructive behaviour is extensively detailed.

A helpful bonus is the end-of-chapter sections 'Relating these ideas to your own experience' - an exercise encouraging detailed thought about your own experiences and analysing them with the knowledge contained in this book. A hugely successful inclusion and more effective than having practical exercises which may be difficult if they don't relate to your particular circumstances.

The book is very detailed and quite a read. With high level of readability the author is very detailed in his writing and I often found my thoughts wondering to my own situation rather than reading what was on the page. However I consider this to be a bonus - immediately I was thinking about my own situation and applying the knowledge within the book. So it seems the book was written to encourage our thought processes and it works brilliantly.

As a gay man, I gained the knowledge that I am homophobic. Quite a realisation for a gay man - we spend our entire lives having to deal with it, but I am one of them. Now I can deal with it effectively by considering the influences in my life, looking inside myself and dealing with my emotions.

To gain the maximum effect from this book, one must be a dedicated reader and willing to open oneself up to dealing with your emotions, but the results are worth it. I feel as though I have reach a major turning point in my life and from this point on I can only become better. ... Read more

Isbn: 1555834221
Sales Rank: 48367
Subjects:  1. Adult children of dysfunctional families    2. Family Relationships    3. Gay Studies    4. Gay men    5. Gay/Lesbian Nonfiction    6. Homosexuality    7. Male sexual abuse victims    8. Men's Studies - Masculinity    9. Psychology    10. Psychology Of Homosexuality    11. Social Science    12. Sociology    13. United States   

Mr. Right Is Out There: The Gay Man's Guide to Finding and Maintaining Love
by Alyson Publications
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 April, 2000)
list price: $13.95 -- our price: $10.46
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Editorial Review

This practical and accessible guide to gay romance aims to help men surrender the "Prince Charming fantasy" and learn to find and attract Mr. Right. For men who haven't examined their pasts or the ways in which they typically choose partners, the book may be as good as six months of therapy. The author provides case scenarios and "assignments" to help bring new ideas home. At the core of the suggested strategies are self-knowledge and self-esteem. "We do not consciously pick lovers who are wrong for us," writes Kenneth George. "Invariably, there is a good reason for our selection--an emotional process to be completed, a discovery to be made, a psychological process to be worked through." Chapters like "Being Emotionally Intimate" and "Negotiating and Resolving Differences" may even be of interest to established couples, particularly the discussion of when to seek counseling and a list of ways to get through a difficult breakup. Less useful is a perfunctory chapter devoted to rekindling passion in a long-term relationship. Whipped cream is really best left for pie. --Regina Marler ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Excellent Book!
Great book... who knew most gay men suffered from internalized homophobia??? It reinforces some of things from Joe Korts (Ten Smart Things Gay Men Can Do To Improve Their Life) It's definatley worth reading!

This book is masterful
As a MFT in California I have found that the information contained in this book is the most encompassing collection of good useful advice that I have ever found.He touches on so many things that are important to gay male relationships.His advice is helpful and complete.I found the checklists and exercises easy and helpful.This book can really orient you to successful relationships.

This book is not very helpful
I threw this book away in annoyance after reading it.The reading level of this book is at the 4th grade level.The point shouldn't be to talk down to the reader.In addition, the wedding vows that the author and his significant other recited were really cloying: "I want to play in your sandbox".This book doesn't reflect very well on the field of psychology. ... Read more

Isbn: 1555835066
Subjects:  1. Family & Relationships    2. Family Relationships    3. Gay Studies    4. Gay couples    5. Gay/Lesbian Nonfiction    6. General    7. Interpersonal Relations    8. Love & Romance    9. Love / Sex / Marriage   

Male Erotic Massage: A Guide to Sex and Spirit
by Secret Garden Publishing
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 October, 1999)
list price: $17.95 -- our price: $15.26
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (5)

Zero on a five star scale
This is a useless book. There are far more informative books on the art of the various massage techniques than this book even mentions and books by the likes of Herb Ritts and Tom Bianchi and others for photographs of beautiful male bodies.

I could hardly believe that the author supposedly has published 10 books on massage and sexuality. Some people get a quite far by having no other skill than the sheer ability to talk about the big taboo's in life as if they were "oh so normal". This author should stick to the practice of his craft rather than attempting to teach it via books.He may very well be an authentically good instructor and masseur - but he's not an author and his editor and publisher completely failed him.

As a certified massage therapist (CMT) with over 1000 hrs of training and an admitted ex-hooker of 10 years (um,... the training was in massage!) I actually have some experience in the practicalities of massage techniques (sexual and non-sexual) and straight out physical sex between men. Yes, I'm a guy and although I limited my hooking to men, I have had dozens of female massage clients with which I developed quite personal andintimate massage relationships over several years.

So what's my past got to do with this book?I just wanted to save you a few bucks. This book is the author's pet project but not a valuable guide. The models are not attractive, and are probably friends of the author. The technique information is insubstantial and in most cases incomplete.

Buy a book on non-sexual sweedish massage and you'll learn a lot more about what will really turn on your man. And get the latest "Firemen of City X" calendar or one of Tom Bianchi's books for really sexy pictures.

Changed my Life!
Not only has this book taught me how to please my man in erotic steamy ways.But I have been able to build a reputable guild on Fennin Ro by offering erotic male massage in exchange for guild apps!

Here's a real description
Including the sexual and the spiritual, Male Erotic Massage teaches about touching men. Over 200 photographs reveal both the how-to and the beauty of the male body embracing the male body. This book presents step-by-step massage techniques that hundreds have learned and enjoyed. The strength, the joy, the gentleness, the ardency, the tenderness, the equanimity, the pleasure-these are all a part. Discover new pleasures, both subtle and profound, as you enter the realm of the senses where the massage is the message. Kenneth Ray Stubbs, Ph.D., draws from over two decades of teaching and writing about erotic massage and meditation for both the general public and sexologists. ... Read more

Isbn: 0939263165
Sales Rank: 334429
Subjects:  1. Gay Studies    2. Gay/Lesbian Nonfiction    3. Health & Fitness    4. Love / Sex / Marriage    5. Massage & Reflexotherapy    6. Sexual Instruction    7. Sexuality   

Gay Sex: A Manual for Men Who Love Men
by Alyson Publications
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 October, 1998)
list price: $17.95 -- our price: $12.21
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

We live in a world obsessed with (and appalled by) sex. Open any magazine--certainly any gay male magazine--and you will find it clogged with sexualized images. But a fundamental, hardcore American puritanism still prevents open, honest, and useful discussions of sexuality. While this is true for heterosexuality, it is even more so for gay men and lesbians. Jack Hart's Gay Sex is a fine, witty, and eminently reasonable guide to being a sexually active gay man in the world today. Like Felice Picano and Charles Silverstein's The New Joy of Gay Sex (a classic in the field), Hart's book is an all-purpose guide to living a sexually energetic and fulfilling life. Gay Sex gives gay men all they need to know, from tips on how to meet men (in bars, on the Net, in the street) to negotiating safe sex (from talking to finding the right condom) to dealing with relationships (be it sex-buddy or monogamous). There are also discussions on the mental-health aspects of masturbation, fantasy, dating, bondage, S/M, recreational drugs, role-playing, and general physical well-being. Hart's writing is clear, concise, and informative; he never overloads the reader with too much scientific information or confusing detail and never adopts a patronizing or moralizing tone. By treating sex as a vital and exhilarating aspect of everyday life, he manages to both introduce these topics to the novice in unthreatening and helpful ways and inform and enlighten those who have been out and about for years. --Michael Bronski ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Its a dictionary
This book i guess is a manual... but i would discribe it more as a dictionary. It summariz'z a word like testicals in one sentance and then talks about it in a few paragraphs. In my opinion Ultimate Gay Sex is a lot better than this book. Plus UGS has actuall photography to help get a better ideas, this book has some hand drawn pictures. Hope this helps.

Very informative, helped me break out my shell
I highly recommend this book, not only because of the great illustrations but also because of the timely and relevant relationship advice. I used to have reservations about this aspect of my life but now I'm proud to stand up for who I am.Thanks!

Happy Day !
Before reading this book, I thought my embarrasing problem would not go away. Then I tried a technique described and ended up having the best night of sex in the world. Not all information in the book will be useful to everyone, but it is definately worth looking at. ... Read more

Isbn: 155583468X
Subjects:  1. Gay Studies    2. Gay/Lesbian Nonfiction    3. Homosexuality, Male    4. Love / Sex / Marriage    5. Sex instruction for gay men    6. Sexual Instruction    7. Social Science   

The Ins and Outs of Gay Sex
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (18 May, 1999)
list price: $13.95 -- our price: $11.16
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (11)

Informative and fun
All things considered, I expected this to be a somewhat dull read, a little too technical because it was penned by an MD.I couldn't have been more wrong.Not only is this book very informative and up to date, but it's written in a hugely entertaining and, yes, erotic, style.Sex manuals are very helpful when you have a date, but sometimes they can also be good company on those lonely nights when you don't have a man.This book is one of the best gay sex manauls available.

What you need to know - and probably more than you want to..
The guy's a doctor -- so,with excrutiating fascination and enthusiastic detail he spells it all out.I agree that it is enough to put you off sex entirely,but sometimes what you need to know is more than what you want to know.It's damn tough being the grownup sometimes....

(...) is a much better general guide
Since 'In's and Out's'' is one of the best selling guides online currently I probably would have just purchased it had I not taken a 'browsing' trip to a local bookstore. It's an extremely detailed compendium of VD's and skin conditions including illustrations of various lesions for easy identification. Now, other manuals (gay, straight or whatever) have a chapter for these things too but this book spends an inordinate amount of time on them at the expense of other areas which is why I think some other reviewers here note that the book at times seems to be more about the (un)joy of gay sex than the joy of. I certainly find it hard to imagine a 'straight' sex guide of this brevity spending such large chunks of space on VD's at the expense of, well, sex. There's certainly little that really conveys the 'Joy of Sex' here or any spiritual, holistic aspects of it. The book appears to have been written with the promiscuous person in mind (and I don't mean to be in any way judgementmal here), recommending scrubbing oneself down in the shower after each sexual 'encounter' (not too romantic) and pretty much treating VD's as a fact of life that you probably WILL encounter. It's also full of a lot of comments from the author based upon personal sentiments (such as that it's terrible for men to go out with facial stubble cause it's 'rough') that would have been better left out since not everyone share's Goldstone's taste.

(...) ... Read more

Isbn: 0440508460
Sales Rank: 241191
Subjects:  1. Gay Studies    2. Gay men    3. Gay/Lesbian Nonfiction    4. Handbooks & Manuals    5. Handbooks, manuals, etc    6. Health Services For Special Classes    7. Health and hygiene    8. Homosexuality    9. Love / Sex / Marriage    10. Reference    11. Safe sex in AIDS prevention    12. Sex instruction for gay men    13. Sexuality    14. Social Science / Gay Studies   

Finding True Love in a Man-Eat-Man World : The Intelligent Guide to Gay Dating, Sex. Romance, and Eternal Love
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 January, 1996)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.47
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (22)

Trite, shallow, and aged
If there were fines for mis-leading titles, the one assessed for this title would be greater by several-fold over any other.I am new to the gay world, not yet 'out' and uncertain how to move from interest to action.Little comfort or guidance was provided by this author when he wrote, "If I think I may want to see someone again, I always try to get his number, wait a day or two, take a deep breath, and make that call."The book is replete with such nonsense.

The author talks endlessly of his many, many gay experiences, relationships, and break-ups.The book assumes that ALL readers have had similar experiences...in both number and depth.(I, for one, have not.)I am looking for a book (which the title led me to believe this was) which tells me how to get a FIRST date.

The age of the book is apparent (copyright 1996) by its almost in-passing discussion of computer matching and AOL hook-ups.An entire chapter could now be written on what works, what doesn't work, where the risks and possibilities are in this near-decade old match medium.To quote, "If you've got a computer and a modem (duh!), there's a whole new way to meet guys: through computer bulletin boards." Page 63 of this useless tome goes on to say, "One of the most popular new ways to meet guys is via phone sex." It is?Maybe when this book was written.

Not mentioned, but certainly prevalent in big cities is buying a date, as in an escort.There are pluses and minuses here that should be detailed in the book.

Finally, assuming that you have hooked-up and are serious, there is great advice on staying together: "Give 200 percent of yourself, and remember that your other half thinks he's doing the same."

Save your money and go to a bad movie.You'll feel better for it.

Make your own opinion about the book; I do not recomend it.
There are a few good tips scattered within the book here and there (but they are just that, tips nothing motivational or really deep).The author gives himself too much credit for things he knows very little about.For instance he claims that he has read a vast amount of books relating to dating, etc... Yet some of his advice seems very narrow, shallow and at times uninteligent!At one point in the book he advices you to go to a gay art gallery to meet men and then comments on the fact that the free cheese and wine should be great conversation starters, well I suppose the artwork itself is not worth striking a conversation!
Just to be fair though; in the book he mentions that there are 3 types of guys, The incompetent, the craftsman and the artist (I could be wrong on the 2nd one here but I think you will get the general idea). The incompetent is the person whom you can not have a relationship with, well, because he's incompetent (no big mistery there).The craftsman does all the right things and tries yet lacks passion, no spark, etc.And the artist is the one who keeps the dating interesting, the creative one that sweeps you off your feet, etc!There you go!This was the best part of the book for me yet I think most people could have found this out on their own!
Sorry Mr. Nelson, nothing personal and congratulations on getting this far with your book but you seem like the craftsman to me.It's interesting to mention as well that Mr. Nelson has had a string of long term realtionships one of which lasted 12 yrs, yet it seems that he is more interested in the thrill of the chase rather than a LIFETIME RELATIONSHIP! READ A BETTY BERZON BOOK INSTEAD!

A Must Buy To Find True Love!
I bought, I read and I fell in love with this book.It's shockingly real true to life connections to any gay man.I bought 2 other copies for Birthday and Christmas gifts.I must share the love and information indicated in this book.I'm sure if WE ALL FOLLOW, UNDERSTAND AND STUDY THIS BOOK that sooner or later, We'll find Mr. "almost" Right - that we can enjoy our life with.Happy Reading and Buy this book!This is the BEST FINDING GAY LOVE RELATIONSHIP I HAVE READ!.... ... Read more

Isbn: 0440506891
Sales Rank: 202551
Subjects:  1. Etiquette for men    2. Gay Studies    3. Gay men    4. Gay/Lesbian Nonfiction    5. General    6. Love / Sex / Marriage    7. Men's Studies - Masculinity    8. Sexual behavior    9. Social Science    10. Social conditions    11. United States    12. Self-Help / General   

Because of the many rules that apply to the proper use of the unit (see themanufacturer's instructions, and read the scope's manual carefully), it's bestnot to hand it over to kids younger than 8 years, especially without adultsupervision. --Diane Beall ... Read more

Features

• Magnification: 1
• Objective Diameter: 25 Millimeters
• Weight: 8 Ounces
• Dimension 1: 4 Inches
• Dimension 2: 2 Inches

Asin: B00005NN5K
Subjects:  1. Outdoor Play    2. Camping   

Carruth Studio 596 Dragonfly Diner, Birdfeeder
by Carruth Studio
Average Customer Review:
Lawn & Patio
list price: $50.00 -- our price: $28.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Designed with the same delightful wit that you find in all ofCarruth Studios décor pieces, the Dragonfly Diner is a charmingway to introduce character to your garden or porch. Intricatedragonflies soar through cattails and over a pond, invitingbutterflies, birds, and other creatures to stop for a drink from thebowl. Cast from an original Carruth design, the stone concreteconversation piece is ready to hang from a hook inlaid on the back. Theplaque/water bowl was crafted with great detail, from the ripples inthe pond to the tiny ladybugs on the top and underside of the bowl. Theplaque measures 9-1/4 inches long, 3-1/2 inches wide, and 7-1/2 incheshigh. It weighs 4-1/2 pounds. ... Read more

Features

• Cast from an original design by Carruth Studio
• Made of sturdy stone concrete for outdoor usage
• Crafted with whimsical pinpoint detail
• Attracts butterflies, birds, and other creatures to stop for a drink
• Measures 9 1/4 inches long, 3 1/2 inches wide, and 7 1/2 inches high

Reviews (1)

Dainty and sweet bird feeder...
This bird feeder is petite, but it has a lot of character.It can probably hold 1 1/2 cups of bird seed.The "water" effect is great and I love the two little lady bugs crawling along.Another great Carruth addition to my garden. ... Read more

Asin: B00005V55Q