Learning to Fly: Reflections on Fear, Trust, and the Joy of Letting Go
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Part memoir, part metaphor.
  • Part memoir, part metaphor.
  • Inspiration, courage and vitality
  • Life Lessons
  • I'm Buying This Book for Everyone on My Christmas List
Learning to Fly: Reflections on Fear, Trust, and the Joy of Letting Go
Sam Keen
Manufacturer: Broadway
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0767901770
Release Date: 2000-09-05

Amazon.com

For as far back as he could remember, Sam Keen had dreamed of flying. And so just before his 62nd birthday, Keen enrolled in a trapeze class at the San Francisco School of Circus Arts, thus becoming "the oldest student at the circus." In this richly written memoir, Keen uses the details of trapeze training to frame his spiritual understanding of the world. Not surprisingly, the flight metaphors work--giving room for chapters titled "Leap of Faith," "A Fledgling Among the Eagles," and "On the Wings of Spirit."

As a graduate of Harvard Divinity School, Keen is a fine memoirist--able to step outside himself to tell a good story and willing to share his humiliations and inner fears as he became a student of flight. "My failures have taught me there is always a second chance.... Failing gives fallible human beings a chance to start over. And that is why every man, woman, and society needs a safety net." He now leads an "Upward Bound" trapeze program for abused women, drug addicts, and inner-city school children. --Gail Hudson

Book Description

The acclaimed author of Fire in the Belly presents an exhilarating memoir of his late-blooming love affair with the flying trapeze--and a provocative look at the potential it offers for growth, transformation, and overcoming deeply rooted fears.

An unprecedented adventure of the soul and psyche, Learning to Fly teaches us to soar on the wings of possibility as we watch Sam Keen and his students progress through breathtaking exercises on the trapeze which they use as a vehicle for exploring the challenges and dilemmas of life. As he describes takeoffs, knee hangs, and thrilling midair catches, Keen imparts moving revelations about risk-taking, trust, bravado, living more passionately, true strength, falling, and letting go. Guiding us on a remarkable inner journey through the "circus of the mind," Learning to Fly reveals the grace of ascending in body and spirit--and living with levity.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Part memoir, part metaphor........2000-12-03

At age 62, Sam Keen learned to fly. In 1993, he started training on the flying trapeze at the San Francisco School of Circus Arts. The fact that he was the oldest student at the school did not deter Keen from pursuing his "strange passion" (p. 15) for the flying trapeze. "Over the years," he writes, "I have discovered that it is hazardous to ignore passing fantasies and emerging passions. To begin with, in the degree that I cease to pursue my deepest passions, I will be gradually controlled by my deepest fears. When passion no longer waters and nourishes the psyche, fears spring up like weeds on the depleted soil of abandoned fields. I suspect the major cause of depression and despair and the appetite for violence in modern life is the result of the masses of people who are enslaved by an economic order that rewards them for laboring at jobs that do not engage their passion for creativity and meaning" (pp. 16-17).

Part memoir, part metaphor, Keen's book is filled with inspirational leaps, midair turns, somersaults and catches. From his six-year love affair with the trapeze, he derives insights into fear, trust, letting go, and living a meaningful life. For Keen, the trapeze has been a good teacher. If we learn to experience our life as a "ten-ring circus," he observes, in a "world ruled by enchantment--where magic existed before morality, wonder before worship, pleasure before piety, and amazement before practicality" (p. 24), then we will be "transformed, changed back into children whose horizons are open" (p. 25).

LEARNING TO FLY is inspirational and insightful. Although it did not inpsire me to join the circus, or attempt a midair triple somersault, it did encourage me to discover the flying trapeze in my own life, and then to practice it, because "practice is perfect."

G. Merritt

4 out of 5 stars Part memoir, part metaphor........2000-11-29

At age 62, Sam Keen learned to fly. In 1993, he started his training on the flying trapeze at the San Francisco School of Circus Arts. The fact that he was the oldest student at the school did not deter Keen from pursuing his "strange passion" (p. 15). "Over the years," he observes," I have discovered that it is hazardous to ignore passing fantasies and emerging passions. To begin with, in the degree that I cease to pursue my deepest passions, I will gradually be controlled by my deepest fears. When passion no longer waters and nurtures the psyche, fears spring up like weeds on the depleted soil of abandoned fields. I suspect the major cause of depression and despair and the appetite for violence in modern life is the result of the masses of people who are enslaved by an economic order that rewards them for laboring at jobs that do not engage their passion for creativity and meaning" (pp. 16-17).

Part memoir, part metaphor, Keen's book is filled with daring leaps, midair turns, somersaults, and catches. For Keen, the trapeze is a good teacher. From his six-year love affair with the trapeze, he derives insights into fear, trust, letting go, and what it means to live life passionately. If we learn to live life as a "ten-ring circus," he writes, in "a world ruled by enchantment--where magic existed before morality, wonder before worship, pleasure before piety, and amazement before practicality" (p. 24), then we will be "transformed, changed back into children whose horizons are open" (p. 25). "The Great Path is a spiral journey," Keen notes. "Every day we begin again, knowing that danger and death may be lurking, that we will be fearful and will need to cultivate courage. We will need to keep our balance and discern when it is time to wait and when to act. We will take leaps of faith, fall, and rise again. If we are diligent in our practice, there will be unexpected moments of grace and joy and a gradual growth of mastery in fashioning our lives into something of beauty" (p. 241).

Keen's LEARNING TO FLY is inspirational and insightful. Although reading it did not inspire me to attempt a triple somersault, it did encourage me to find a flying trapeze in my own life, and then to practice it, knowing that "practice is perfect" (p. 237).

G. Merritt

5 out of 5 stars Inspiration, courage and vitality.......2000-05-21

Everyone who reads Keen knows he writes very well and from the heart. But in this book his very soul flies through the air with his words. When Sam reviewed my book, PRIMAL AWARENESS, he said it was an adventurous search for the lost ark. LEARNING TO FLY is about finding the lost ark.

5 out of 5 stars Life Lessons.......2000-03-29

I read a passage from the book at my daughter's wedding and then I wished them wings and flight. I found this book to be absolutely fascinating and, at age 57 myself, found inspiration to try new ideas. Learning to Fly is never boring. I found the chapter-beginning drawings helpful as I tried to follow Sam Keen in flight, literally as well as figuratively. A real winner!

5 out of 5 stars I'm Buying This Book for Everyone on My Christmas List.......1999-12-01

I read Sam Keen's "Learning to Fly" out loud with my husband over the course of a few road trips. It was a truly amazing experience for us. Sam Keen shares his experiences of life and trapeze in a philosophical way, but avoids being pedantic or condescending with his message about simultaneously taking hold and letting go. I've been thinking about what Sam Keen has to say ever since I finished the book.
Learning To Fly - Trapeze - Reflections On Fear, Trust, And The Joy Of Letting Go
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Learning To Fly - Trapeze - Reflections On Fear, Trust, And The Joy Of Letting Go
    Sam; Illustrations by Worden, Jon Keen
    Manufacturer: Broadway Books
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover
    ASIN: B000JZO8TK
    Learning to Fly, Trapeze - Reflections on Fear, Trust, & the Joy of Letting Go
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Learning to Fly, Trapeze - Reflections on Fear, Trust, & the Joy of Letting Go
      Sam, Illustrated by Worden, Jon Keen
      Manufacturer: New York: Broadway Books, 1999
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover
      ASIN: B000NX8RZ4

      After the Bear Pit
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        After the Bear Pit
        Mark James
        Manufacturer: Virgin Books
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

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        ASIN: 0753508893
        After the Bear Pit
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          After the Bear Pit
          Mark James
          Manufacturer: Virgin Books
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback
          ASIN: B000K70JRW

          Unlikely Angel : The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero
          Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
          • Unlikely the Whole Story
          • I don't know that I could have stood in her shoes.
          • What an inspiration
          • Incredible story of courage & faith
          • Great read
          Unlikely Angel : The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero
          Ashley Smith , and Stacy Mattingly
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Hardcover

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          ASIN: B000EBFMBW

          Book Description

          The untold story of Ashley Smith, the Atlanta hostage who miraculously talked her way out of the hands of alleged courthouse killer Brian Nichols — a newsmaking tale of courage, survival, salvation, and faith that goes beyond the headlines.

          Customer Reviews:

          2 out of 5 stars Unlikely the Whole Story.......2007-07-27

          Initially, I'd said that I'd NEVER read this story, but I was able to buy the book for a $1, so . . . IF Ashley's encounter with Brian Nichols is what it took to get her off drugs, make her a better mom to Paige, and strengthen her faith in God, then God bless her. I'm not judging, but I do have an opinion: Every story has three sides; this was Ashley's. We haven't really heard Brian's, and then . . .there's the truth. The story was probably great therapy for Ashley, but I think this is her version. I read it; it was ok, but I'm convinced that Ashley and Brian knew each other and a lot more happened in that apartment than what she wrote in the book. I wish the best for her and Paige . .. and Brian. He's guilty of killing three people, but there are probably some other folks out here who should feel some guilt for what happened. What he did was an act of a desperate man. Book - ok! Buy it somewhere for a $1.

          5 out of 5 stars I don't know that I could have stood in her shoes. .......2007-05-31

          I wasn't sure that when I started reading Unlikely Angel: The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero, by Ashley Smith, that I was going to be able to stay with it. Sticking with a book for more than a page or two wasn't something I normally could do these days. But once I started reading it, looked at some of the pictures that are in the book also. I began to get close to the character, get drawn into her life. Once the situation turned bad you were going through everything with her to the very end. At one point I even went to my computer and looked up her interview on a famous news network and watched her talk about being taken hostage. There isn't anyway she could have come through it without God beside her each step of the way. It's truly an inspiring book,and teenagers,young girls going off to college especially, should have to read Ashley Smiths " Unlikely Angel". It would really make an impression on them.

          5 out of 5 stars What an inspiration.......2007-02-16

          Ashley, I loved reading your book. Your story is compelling. I appreciate your honesty in sharing with us, the readers, what was going on in your mind during such a trying time. It's great to see how your faith in God helped keep you focused, even though you admit that your daily life wasn't completely on track the way you would have preferred. The most important lesson I believe your book leaves with the reader is that it isn't where you are in life that is most important, but the direction in which you are headed.

          Good luck with your future, and that of your daughter.

          -- RuthAnn

          5 out of 5 stars Incredible story of courage & faith.......2007-02-02

          I picked this book up at our church library and could not put it down. Ashley is a living example of how no matter how deep you are in the muck and mire of life, ours is a loving and forgiving God, and He will see you through anything you get into if only you have the courage to ask!

          5 out of 5 stars Great read.......2007-01-27

          I couldn't put this book down! This book hasn't been promoted enough I don't think. I heard about it at work from someone reading it. The title is definately a good one for this book. Ashley's testimony is a great one to show how God really does work in your life.
          By Angels Driven: The Films of Derek Jarman (Contributions to the Study of Popular Culture , No 58)
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            By Angels Driven: The Films of Derek Jarman (Contributions to the Study of Popular Culture , No 58)

            Manufacturer: Praeger Paperback
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Paperback

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            ASIN: 0275957659

            Book Description

            Derek Jarman was one of the most innovative British filmmakers of his generation. Working largely outside the British film establishment and within tight budgetary constraints, he produced a series of features and shorter films that are highly personal and yet responsive to major issues of our time. For Jarman, the most compelling of these was undoubtedly the celebration of gay culture and the battle for gay rights--in which he was prominent until his death. This book brings together seven new essays on Jarman's work, one of the director's last interviews, and supporting filmography and bibliography. The contributions examine the full range of his output from Sebastiane (1976) to Blue (1993), and include discussion of his approach to narration, his role as gay activist, his commitment to English artistic traditions and fascination with the age of Shakespeare, and the changing aesthetic preferences of his last films.
            By Angels Driven: The Films of Derek Jarman
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              By Angels Driven: The Films of Derek Jarman
              Chris Lippard
              Manufacturer: Praeger Paperback
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Paperback
              ASIN: B000ORFKTK

              Dr. Knowledge Presents: Strange & Fascinating Facts About Famous Brands (Knowledge in a Nutshell)
              Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
              • Hard to put down, you just read on and on and on and ...
              Dr. Knowledge Presents: Strange & Fascinating Facts About Famous Brands (Knowledge in a Nutshell)
              Charles Reichblum
              Manufacturer: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers
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              ASIN: 1579123562

              Book Description

              Heinz 57. Brawny. Brillo. Charlie the Tuna. Morris the Cat. How did our beloved brands--their names, logos, looks--come to be? The facts behind the foods and wares are often amazing and always interesting. This little book explores the unknowns behind well-known pop-culture icons through lively anecdotes written and illustrated in a fun, page-turning style. And though the facts are often outlandish, each one is well-researched and aimed to impart real knowledge along with entertainment.

              Customer Reviews:

              5 out of 5 stars Hard to put down, you just read on and on and on and ..........2005-06-09

              Have you ever wondered how different brands got their names? Now you can get the answer and the often fascinating story behind each brand name. Kellog, Post, Jell-O, Alka-Seltzer, and dozens of other brands are detailed as to how they started, how they got their name, competitors, mistakes, and successes. A fascinating read, it only takes a minute or two to read about each of the brands. But you will find yourself reading several at a time if you can put it down at all before you are done. Strange & Fascinating Facts About Famous Brands is highly recommended, educational, and fun.

              Yesterday's Toys: 750 Tin and Celluloid Amusements from Days Gone By
              Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
              • Kitahara Grabbag is Visual Feast
              • a visual plethora of toys from then to now
              Yesterday's Toys: 750 Tin and Celluloid Amusements from Days Gone By
              Teruhisa Kitahara
              Manufacturer: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Hardcover

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              ASIN: 1884822959

              Book Description

              In a book that will enchant collectors, nostalgia buffs, and anyone who's ever been a kid. Robby Space Patrol, Buck Rogers, Jolly Skipper, Betty Boop, and hundreds of other cherished dolls and toys come to life again in glorious full-color photographs and short profiles of how and where they were produced.

              Customer Reviews:

              4 out of 5 stars Kitahara Grabbag is Visual Feast.......2002-02-06

              As an introduction to Teruhisa Kitahara's magnificent toy collection, this book is lavish and enchanting. The large-sized, hardback coffee table book edition consists almost entirely of gorgeous, color photographs of toys from the past, which are visually interesting and require little comment. What comment there is, however, is sometimes wrong. That's not a big downside, because toy hobbyists don't read Kitahara so much to learn about their hobby, as to gaze at the wonderful treasures in his collection.

              This book is compiled from three previous Kitahara books covering, respectively, "dolls, clowns and animals"; "planes, trains, boats and cars";" and "robots, spaceships and monsters." Someone interested in one of those categories isn't necessarily interested in all three. I, for one, find myself mostly drawn to the third category of robots and spaceships.

              Other visually lavish and not-too expensive books in that category include "Vintage Toys: Robots and Space Toys" by Bunte, Hallman and Mueller. "Marx Toys: Robots, Space, Comic, Disney and TV Characters" by Maxine Pinksy includes lots of old robots because many of them were imported through Marx or its subsidiaries. "Baby Boomer Toys and Collectibles" by Carol Turpen is also fascinating in this regard. One recent book I very much like is "Space Toys of the '60s," by James Gillam, which concentrates exclusively on three toy lines: Zeroid robots from Ideal, Mattel's Major Matt Mason, and Colorforms' Outer Space Men. Along with many color and black and white photos, this inexpensive oversize paperback provides a fascinating history and personal discussion of these toy lines.

              "Toys of the 'Sixties" by Bill Bruegman is slighty harder to find, but this large paperback by the editor of "Toy Scouts" is filled with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the history of toys, and chock-full of black and white drawings and pictures. Finally, "Boy's Toys of the Fifties and Sixties" and its companion volume, "Girl's Toys..." is a fascinating collection of actual pages from the Sears Christmas Wishbooks from 1950-1969 (something everyone wishes they had kept). Those enchanted by the visual feast of Kitahara's book might want to peruse further in some of these other inexpensive volumes.

              5 out of 5 stars a visual plethora of toys from then to now.......2000-04-28

              This a wonderful book if you love to look at the history of toys. the photos are wonderful and colorful. I am a graphic design student and my class bought this for our teacher who is always looking for photo of toys resource book. It has it all and its fun to look at.

              3ds max 7 Fundamentals and Beyond Courseware (Discreet 3ds Max)
              Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
              • Great reference, but not inspiring at all!
              • This book will guide you step by step
              • 3ds max 7 Fundamentals and Beyond Courseware
              • 3d studio max review
              • Easy to Read and Learn from
              3ds max 7 Fundamentals and Beyond Courseware (Discreet 3ds Max)
              Discreet
              Manufacturer: Focal Press
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Paperback

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              ASIN: 0240807391

              Book Description

              Welcome to the Discreet Official Training Courseware for 3ds max 7 software! Consider this book an all-access pass to the production and training experience of Discreet developers and training experts. Written for self-paced learning or instructor-led classroom training, the manual will teach you the fundamentals of using 3ds max 7. The book is organized into sections dedicated to animation, modeling, materials, lighting and rendering. Each section covers basic theory, and then includes exercises for hands-on demonstration of the concept. By the end of the book, you will have mastered the basics and moved on to full-length projects. Flexibility is built in, so that you can complete the tutorials in the way that works best for you. Complete the book and you will be a seasoned 3ds max pro, ready to work confidently in a production environment.

              * For beginners or those new to 3ds max
              * Tutorials and exercises designed for flexibility
              * CD contains 3ds max support models, materials, textures, and animations for completing the exercises.

              Download Description

              This screenshot-packed book, part of Discreet's Official Training Courseware, clearly lays out the basics and beyond for this popular 3D animation software. 3ds max is used to create high-quality film effects in major Hollywood features such as The Matrix Reloaded, X-Men, and The Ring. It is equally popular among game developers, who use it to create stunning visuals in the top games. This book is intended for the beginner and works equally well for individual learning or as part of a course. Flexible in its design, the manual comprises six modules with a good balance of theory and hands-on lab work. The theory chapters introduce basic animation concepts, and are followed by lab chapters that demonstrate a practical application of the theory.

              Customer Reviews:

              3 out of 5 stars Great reference, but not inspiring at all!.......2006-08-11

              I bought this book with another book in mind, Alias' book on their program Maya. That book is a project-based heap of tutorials on their software. And since this book is also written by the people behind the program, i thought it would be as inspiring, but i was proven wrong. Don't be put off by this though; if you want a thick book for reference of all the basic functions, go for it. If on the other hand you're easily put off by excessive technical details and just want to get your hands dirty ASAP (like me) you should consider another book. Regarding the lack of inspiration, i would like to inform you about the structure of things. The book doesn't really have you model a lot on your own, but rather refers to tutorial files on the cd and use them to explain basic functions. I can't say it too many times, the whole book should be based around an interesting project where each chapter introduces you to the basic functions while you actually feel like you're doing something useful, e.g. making a part of the project. A plus to the book though is that you are free to read/do the modules in any order you'd like, and the book is made for the ease of doing so.

              5 out of 5 stars This book will guide you step by step.......2005-11-12

              This book is really good. I always wanted to learn about 3dsmax, but it was like using a program written in Chinese. This book will help any beginner start with the right foot.

              5 out of 5 stars 3ds max 7 Fundamentals and Beyond Courseware .......2005-10-02

              This book is great learnd so much and esy to follow. Amazon sent exactly what I orderd and in a timely manner. All in All compleatly satisfied.

              4 out of 5 stars 3d studio max review.......2005-09-16

              The book is setup like a textbook with a cd. The book goes step by step through diffrent features.This makes the book very simple. I strongly recommend it.

              5 out of 5 stars Easy to Read and Learn from.......2005-09-08

              This book is a great beginner introduction not only to 3ds Max but also to the terminology and concepts of general 3d animation.
              3ds Max 7 Fundamentals And Beyond Courseware.
              Average customer rating: Not rated
                3ds Max 7 Fundamentals And Beyond Courseware.
                Not Available
                Manufacturer: Focal Press
                ProductGroup: Book
                Binding: Paperback
                ASIN: B000OPY22S

                The Greenhill Napoleonic Wars Data Book
                Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
                • Useful reference despite some faults
                • An Impressive Achievement
                • Good, not Great
                • Indispensible, but not definitive
                • Fills a niche long needed
                The Greenhill Napoleonic Wars Data Book
                Digby Smith
                Manufacturer: Greenhill Books
                ProductGroup: Book
                Binding: Hardcover

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                Similar Items:
                1. Napoleon's Regiments: Battle Histories of the Regiments of the French Army, 1792-1815 Napoleon's Regiments: Battle Histories of the Regiments of the French Army, 1792-1815
                2. An Illustrated Encyclopedia: Uniforms of the Napoleonic Wars: campaign maps; Provides an unrivalled source of visual information on the fighting men of the period (Illustrated Encyclopedia) An Illustrated Encyclopedia: Uniforms of the Napoleonic Wars: campaign maps; Provides an unrivalled source of visual information on the fighting men of the period (Illustrated Encyclopedia)
                3. The Campaigns of Napoleon The Campaigns of Napoleon
                4. 1814, THE CAMPAIGN OF FRANCE (Great Battles of the First Empire) 1814, THE CAMPAIGN OF FRANCE (Great Battles of the First Empire)

                ASIN: 1853672769

                Customer Reviews:

                4 out of 5 stars Useful reference despite some faults.......2001-11-17

                I found this book very useful just because it gives a lot of information on the whole Napoleonic wars, and its very handy to have basic data on all battles or clashes of the period in one volume.
                The book contains so much information that its no wonder some mistakes with spellig, numbers and other facts crept in. But at last Digby Smith tried to cure the typical "illness" of British historians of the Napoleonic wars with their obscession with Wellington. Sure British participation in the conflict is fully highlighted, but I was delighted to see mentions of other conflicts, for example Russo-Sweden war of 1808-09 and Russo-Turkish war. They are mentioned very briefly and absolutely insufficiently, many battles of big masses of troops with great casualty lists are missed out(while many clashes of minor importance at the Peninsular are listed), nevertheless, author at last gives some general idea about this two wars to the Western readers, who know nothing about it. Great improvement in comparison to the Chandler's "Dictionary of the Napoleonic wars", where there is an entry to a Wellington's battle in India (and what relationship with Napoleonic wars in that?), but many really Napoleonic great battles are ignored.
                One weak point of Mr Digby Smith's coverage of battles is that he too often flatly describe some action as a victory/defeat. There were many rearguared actions with the task to hold enemy for several hours, and if after hard fighting the defending units, having completed this mission, finally give ground and retreat it hardly can be described as a defeat. I think much more actions should be placed in the "draw match" category.
                And one more thing. If the book is ever reprinted I'll recommend to do it in smaller letters, the present edition I beleive is rather big.

                4 out of 5 stars An Impressive Achievement.......2001-04-14

                This book takes on the daunting and rather thankless task of compiling the losses throughut the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars and presenting them systematically. For the most part, it achieves this goal.

                The chronological order of the book makes it easy to find particular engagements. However the author also provides links from battles to battle, so that you can follow the path of a campaign. When I bought this book I thought I would use it strictly as an occasional reference tool. Instead, I now find myself browsing through it, following a campaign's ebb and flow. Of course the major battles are here, but the real gems are the small skirmishes and engagements; struggles where men bled, suffered, and died 200 years ago, but long since rolled over by history.

                One can always criticize the accuracy of some of the book's sources. However, given that era's lack of record keeping, as well as the inflated (or delated) casualty claims after battles, in total this book's accuracy is commendable. The author points out the unreliability of the source data in the introduction, which is a refreshing contrast to other authors who believe their sources are the be-all-and-end-all.

                My only complaint about this book is I wish the data was presented more consistently. The differing amounts of available data make this impossible throughout the book, but even when consistent data is available the information is occasionally presented differently. For example, the Anglo-Allied and Prussian losses at Waterloo are given by battalion, brigade, and division. However, the Prussian losses have a grand total, the Anglo-Allied losses do not. While one can easily add the Anglo-Allied numbers to arrive at the total losses, the reader should not have to do this in a work this detailed and ambitious.

                But this is a quibble. Overall, this is an impressive achievement and should be part of any Napoleonic library.

                3 out of 5 stars Good, not Great.......2000-07-03

                I have a love/hate relationship with this book. I really wanted to get it and use it, as well as have it on hand, but I don't fully trust it. It is exhaustive, has a veritable treasure trove of information in it, but it isn't that easy to use, and at times is a little confusing.

                Arranged by year and date, the battles, sieges, actions, and combats are arranged so that it is relatively easy to look up, but the information doesn't always agree with standard works on the period.

                For, example, Durenstein is listed as an allied victory in 1805, and elsewhere it is called a French one; Davout's victory over Bagration in 1812, a rather significant one, isn't even listed. Bottom line, in my opinion, there needs to be a revision, and soon.

                This book is recommended, and it is very useful; however, it is not the Holy Grail, and it is definitely not a definitive work.

                3 out of 5 stars Indispensible, but not definitive.......1999-04-28

                Indispensible as a listing of dates and places of battles. Aside from correctness and completeness, the challenge is to get place names which vary with language and country and have changed over time sufficiently identified to be located on a map. This has been done with care in the entry, but overreliance on German sources leaves things like "Schewardino" for Shevardino. Also noticed "La Moskwa" as the French name for Borodino. While not footnoted, sources are listed for every entry, although a check of the Russian campaign revealed Millers (and von Millers), Foord, Stein, Holzhausen, and (the correct book of) Vaudoncourt unreferenced in the bibliography. The OBs (or whatever you want to call them - I don't understand the fuss) and losses are simply not amenable to complilation. Bowden and Andolenko have produced big books on small pieces of the puzzle, so it is no suprise to find errors, but the regimental names are presented with little consistency in spelling and a certain amount of real clinkers have slipped through. A laudable and important contribution, with room for improvement in the execution.

                4 out of 5 stars Fills a niche long needed.......1999-04-21

                Having read the other reviews I find it astonishing that the book is criticised for relying on english language secondary sources when a quick look at the book (sources are listed for each action) will tell you otherwise. I cannot speak for the unit listings (Mr Smith points out they are not OBs), I spotted a couple of errors in one and the author was pleased to take them on board.

                You will not find as much reference material on Napoleonic combats in any other single reference source I know of. It is invaluable for hobbyists.

                Road to Disappearance: A History of the Creek Indians (Civilization of the American Indian)
                Average customer rating: Not rated
                  Road to Disappearance: A History of the Creek Indians (Civilization of the American Indian)
                  Angie Debo
                  Manufacturer: University of Oklahoma Press
                  ProductGroup: Book
                  Binding: Paperback

                  GeneralGeneral | Native American | Americas | History | Subjects | Books
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                  1. Creek Country: The Creek Indians and Their World, 1796-1816 Creek Country: The Creek Indians and Their World, 1796-1816
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                  ASIN: 0806115327

                  Ancient Science: 40 Time-Traveling, World-Exploring, History-Making Activities for Kids
                  Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
                  • Great Way to Correlate World History With Science
                  • Great way to teach hands-on science to children
                  Ancient Science: 40 Time-Traveling, World-Exploring, History-Making Activities for Kids
                  Jim Wiese
                  Manufacturer: Jossey-Bass
                  ProductGroup: Book
                  Binding: Paperback

                  GeneralGeneral | Science | Subjects | Books
                  History of TechnologyHistory of Technology | Technology | Science | Subjects | Books
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                  4. Science in Ancient Mesopotamia Science in Ancient Mesopotamia
                  5. The Golden Goblet (Newbery Library, Puffin) The Golden Goblet (Newbery Library, Puffin)

                  ASIN: 0471215953

                  Book Description

                  Dig into the science of ancient times and unearth amazing discoveries!

                  If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, then Ancient Science is for you! From Greek lighthouses and Roman bridges to Chinese kites and Mesopotamian soap, you'll investigate some of the greatest scientific discoveries and the people who introduced them to the world. Dozens of fun-packed activities help you see for yourself how the earliest humans cultivated plants, why instruments make different sounds, how fireworks get their explosive power, and much more. All of the projects are safe and easy to do, and all you need is everyday stuff from around the house. So step back in time and take an amazing journey with Ancient Science!

                  Download Description

                  Fascinating activities that help kids discover the science of the ancient world

                  How did Mayan astronomers know when it was the first day of spring? How did the Greeks tell time with water? When did the Chinese pass on the secret of paper-making? Find the answers to these and many other intriguing questions in the pages of Ancient Science. Science author Jim Wiese helps kids understand the science behind the innovations and discoveries of the past with numerous activities that show kids how to do everything from making soap the way the ancients did, to building a "diving bell," to navigating by the North Star. In addition to these exciting activities and experiments, the book includes Ancient Science in Action sidebars, fascinating facts about the past, and tips on how to turn an experiment into a science fair project.

                  Customer Reviews:

                  5 out of 5 stars Great Way to Correlate World History With Science.......2007-04-14

                  I purchased this book to utilize with our homeschooling curriculum "Introduction to World History." Ancient Science covers science from pre historic time to the discovery of the Americas. Each section covers a particular period in history with experiments to compliment the historical setting. We are planning to use Ancient Science, Usborne Book of World History and Usborne Time Traveler for our science and history curriculum this coming fall.

                  3 out of 5 stars Great way to teach hands-on science to children.......2006-05-26

                  I love the projects in this book. As a homeschool mom, I like to teach about the "history" of subjects and not just the usual science basics. I want my kids to know how science was started, and who helped develop some of the modern day advancements in science that we use today. This book is great for teaching the beginnings of science. Measure the earth with Erastothenes, find out just what it was that made Archimedes cry "Eureka!". This is definitely worth owning if you'd like to help your children "see" what the ancient scientists saw.

                  Migration and Mobility: The European Context
                  Average customer rating: Not rated
                    Migration and Mobility: The European Context
                    Anne Showstack Sassoon
                    Manufacturer: Palgrave Macmillan
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Hardcover

                    Economic Policy & DevelopmentEconomic Policy & Development | Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
                    Natural ResourcesNatural Resources | Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
                    Emigration & ImmigrationEmigration & Immigration | Administrative Law | Law | Subjects | Books
                    Emigration & ImmigrationEmigration & Immigration | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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                    ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
                    ASIN: 0333920368

                    Book Description

                    The impact of migration on the individuals concerned, their families, the countries they leave, and the societies they join raises issues that are hotly contested by academics, policy makers, and politicians. By using a wide variety of analytical approaches the contributors to this book reveal the complexity and significance of this increasingly important phenomenon in Western European countries, which links these societies to the wider world. They engage directly with the challenge which human mobility represents by examining the reasons for migration, the contribution and needs of those migrating, and the ways in which public debate about migration may be manipulated for political reasons.
                    Migration and Mobility: The European Context
                    Average customer rating: Not rated
                      Migration and Mobility: The European Context
                      Anne Showstack; Subrata, Ghatak Sassoon
                      Manufacturer: Palgrave Macmillan
                      ProductGroup: Book
                      Binding: Paperback
                      ASIN: B000OV0JQ0

                      Books:

                      1. Lessons from the Big Guys: What I Learned from Servant Leaders Jack Eckerd, Bill Lee, Hugh McColl, and Adolph Rupp (Education Titles)
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                      4. Luncheonette: A Memoir
                      5. Mining in Chile's Norte Chico: Journal of Charles Lambert, 1825-1830 (Dellplain Latin American Studies)
                      6. My Experiences in War and Business: One Man's Story of Success in America
                      7. My Life With IBM
                      8. Ninety-Six and Too Busy to Die: A Life Beyond the Age of Dying
                      9. No Boundaries: UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS VIGNETTES
                      10. Not Just Your Average Joe

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