7 Strategies to Improve Your Bottom Line: The Healthcare Executive's Guide (Management Series (Ann Arbor, Mich.).)

Book Description

Are your margins thinning out faster than your COO's hair? If so, you should consider investing in Preston Gee's most recent book, 7 Strategies to Improve Your Bottom Line. Gee's conversational writing style and unique perspective provide a hands-on, reader-friendly guide to innovative strategies for increasing any hospital's financial performance.

The book presents definitive how-to lists on initiatives such as: prioritizing the most profitable product lines, maximizing the economic return of the Internet, and integrating complementary medicine into the organization's portfolio. Along with the lists are examples of organizations that have practiced these profitable techniques-within and outside of the healthcare industry.

Gee is one of the most widely known authors in the field, having written six books on health care strategy. After a few pages, you'll readily discover why Dr. Arnold Relman, former editor of The New England Journal of Medicine, calls Gee's style "breezy and entertaining." And you'll quickly ascertain why this was the first external publication endorsed by the prestigious Advisory Board Company out of Washington D.C.

Noted industry futurist, Russell Coile, calls this book "the new unconventional wisdom for healthcare organizations to grow their markets and boost their bottom lines." Given today's political uncertainty and volatile economic environment, this book just might be one of the best investments a healthcare executive can make.

Book Description

Read it in just 2 hours!

A Warren Bennis Executive Briefing Series Book

With this book, two distinguished experts present a proven five-phase process for making an organization leaner, more responsive, and more aware of it's customers' needs. Drawing on real-life change iniatives undertaken at Motorola, General Electric, Hewlett-Packard and other industry leaders, Bennis and Mische demystify the process of reinventing a company and address many questions critical to the success of comprehensive change efforts. Through trAnd analysis, case study examples, and facts lists--all presented in an easy-to-absorb SuperReading format--The 21st Century Organization examines the economic, quality control, and productivity issues associated with organizational restructuring and demonstrates how each will impact a company's ability to compete in the growing global marketplace.

Customer Reviews:

Too Much like a "Job Aid".......2006-07-03

There are some very good ideas in this book, but like the other reviewers I found it lacked depth. Also, it is EXCESSIVLY ORAGNIZED. Too many:
* Bulleted Lists
1.1 Number Lists
At least one list on every page! Lists have their place, but the excessive structure got in the way of content.

The first chapter or two were actually quite interesting and seem to contain most, if not all, the main ideas of the book. Unfortunately, the book rapidly digresses into something that looks more like a job aid than a book. (A richly commented listing of the steps involved in reengineering a company) From the organization/content of the material, the bulk of the book appears to either have been written for, or at least from the perspective of consultant/client, rather than author/reader. Unfortunately, while a "roadmap" style may work great in that world, it doesn't translate into a very readable book. (Honestly--I burned out about half way through, but the rest appears to be more of the same.)

Overall, the first few chapters aren't bad and I'm glad I read them. If you are planning on implementing a re-engineering project, then the remainder of the book is definitely a great resource, but as a general book to introduce re-engineering I wouldn't recommend it.

Oversimplified.......2000-08-06

This book came up repeatedly under various search engines for "leadership." I would say it is probably a far more valuable resource for private-sector business folks. The book misses the mark on "leadership" analysis, but could probably be a McDonald's drive-thru success for the business world. I am not a student of business, but it appeared to wildly over-simplify a complex topic. I noted the author's doomsday-ish tone, particularly in sentences such as: "The choice is clear; Reengineer and flourish, or fail to reengineer and perish." The book was not one of the resources in the "leadership" arena that appealed to me.

Easily comprehensible, though too simplified.......2000-03-27

The book gives a simple, hands-on overview about basic steps of one of the many so-much-talked-about management methods - Business Reengineering. The book uses outline method in describing the main steps to be taken in reengineering process. Therefore it may sometimes lack detailed reasoning of the background. However, with the help of handful of examples and illustrations, Bennis and Mische succeeded quite well in bringing such a complicated subject to wider public. In my view, it would be most useful for CEO-s who are under the time stress for it may be read through in just a couple of hours. I strongly recommend!

Book Description

According to conventional wisdom, our genes and lifestyles are the most important causes of cancer, heart disease, and other killer ailments today. Conventional wisdom is wrong. In this bold, visionary book, biologist Paul W. Ewald argues that these serious illnesses are caused by a virtual plague of chronic infections. Acute infections give the sufferer symptoms almost immediately; the flu, cholera, even Ebola are all well-known and easy-to-identify examples of acute illnesses. Chronic infections, however, are stealthy predators that may not produce any symptoms for decades, and so remain almost undetectable, but eventually they ruin the sufferer's life. The netherworld of stealth infections is now opening before us. In Plague Time, Ewald puts forth an astonishing and profound argument that challenges our modern beliefs about disease: it is germs -- not genes -- that mold our lives and cause our deaths. Building on the recently recognized infectious origins of ulcers, miscarriages, and cancers, he draws together a startling collection of discoveries that now implicate infection in the most destructive chronic diseases of our time, such as heart disease, Alzheimer's, and schizophrenia. Acclaimed for years as one of the most important thinkers alive today on the genesis of disease, Ewald now explodes conventional medical thinking with a new comprehensive view of what germs do. Some people worry about dangerous germs "going global." In most cases it is already too late. The most dangerous germs among us have already been disseminated globally. Ewald explains how evolution in this worldwide environment makes some germs turn nasty while some become harmless. Most importantly, he shows how we can work together to master our modern infectious plagues by controlling disease evolution. He reveals that we live in an ecosystem of microbes, and we must understand them to avoid their deadly damage.

Customer Reviews:

Persuasive eye opener.......2006-05-12

Professor Ewald lays out a very interesting and persuasive case for the potential involvement of infectious agents as the cause of many "non-infectious" diseases. This book offered a fascinating account into the history of disease and makes plausible predictions about future discoveries. I read this book several months ago and have since been keen to periodic news reports concerning recent discoveries linking infection as a possible cause for various chronic aliments. I believe Professor Ewald may be ahead of his time.

I'm not a medical professional, just an interested layman. Mr. Ewald's book is an easy read for a non-professional. If you're interested in the topic this book will not disappoint.

Nice book. For the real science see the book on microcompetition.......2006-04-05

Ewald's idea is great, and the general public should definitely read his book and think about its basic premise. However, as an answer to the review by Douglas Turnbull, for the real science and the proof that an infection with a latent virus is indeed the cause of many chronic diseases, see Dr. Polansky's book on microcompetition. In his book, Dr. Polansky explains how foreign DNA modifies the production of cellular proteins, and how these changes translate into clinical symptoms. However, readers beware. Dr. Polansky's book is heavy reading, and is targeted towards the professional scientist, not the recreational reader (a simple explanation of the microcompetition discovery is available at www.causeofcancer.org)

Being at the point of the spear is not easy..........2004-04-27

If you categorize your self as an early adopter, I think you will appreciate the words written by Paul W. Ewald concerning the strong possibility of infectious agents (germs) causing the medical conditions of heart disease, cancers, HIV and Alzheimer's. He suggests many other diseases as well may be caused by germs.
There was a time not long ago (1980's) when the cause of peptic ulcers were clearly and almost universally accepted to include stress, genetic disposition and emotional anguish. Today, as a result of the acceptance that ulcers of this type are caused by germs, are successfully treated with antibiotics.
To my knowledge, the author is one of the early advocates of this theory that germs are the cause of many of the diseases not presently associated with being caused by them. As a result, he is often subject to harsh critical review from the present generation of medical experts.
I especially appreciated his suggestion for the creation of a data base made up of anecdotal reports of unexpected positive results of the application of vaccines on chronic diseases. The data base could supply direction for future research studies to explore.
Although I have no medical expertise, I found reading the book manageable but not an especially easy read. Even so, I found the time spent was very rewarding and left me feeling as though I was getting a pretty clear view of where the future of medicine is headed.

Credibly incredible!.......2003-11-04

Dr. Ewald makes some outstanding points and raises questions that should have been raised 50 years ago. The idea that all (or most) cancers are microbes is old news, however. There was a group of doctors during the 1920's that isolated the virus in a microscope and were able to destroy the microbe using a radio frequency. People with cancer were being cured because these doctors were destroying the microbes with their radio frequency machine. These doctors' findings and the invention of their microscope were common knowledge and their success against the cancer microbe was published. But the growing medical establishment prevented its treatment from becoming mainstream and eventually destroyed their work. I recommend reading "The Cancer Cure That Worked: 50 Years of Suppression" by Barry Lynes to learn the story.

The world needs more insightful doctors like Paul Ewald. I highly recommend this book to learn about how viruses and other pathogens are causing so many of our health problems!

Hard to read but worth the effort.......2001-11-09

Plague Time provides important and fascinating information about diseases, how they are acquired, their evolution, and their consequences. Professor Ewald contends that many chronic diseases such as several types of cancer, arteriosclerosis, schizophrenia, several types of arthritis, bipolar disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or even many symptoms of aging are the result of infections. The explanations of how these infections are acquired, and situations where the infectious agents are likely to be especially virulent are of great practical value.

Dr. Ewald's thesis is that infectious agents quickly evolve to maximize their reproductive success. Their virulence and the nature of the acute or chronic symptoms they cause are a function of how they are transmitted. The discussions of microbe evolution deepened my understanding of biology and evolution. There are many examples presented.

Book Description

The BIG, STRONG man isnt afraid of anything. He knows he can win every fight, climb any hill, and overcome any obstacle in his way. But when he decides to stay the night in a mysterious deserted mansion on a hill, the BIG, STRONG man finds out that perhaps he isnt the BRAVEST man around.Grounded in the oral tradition, this spooky tale will delight readers and begs to be read aloud.

Customer Reviews:

Bring It On!.......2007-08-06

I remember reading this book to grade school classes when I was a media specialist. The children loved it and I liked it because I didn't get bored reading it nine times to different classes. This indicates a solid book open to fresh oral rephrasing - in other words "A good read-aloud". And yes, it's just scary enough to liven up library hour. If your child is fright-sensitive make a decision beforehand, but for most kids bring it on!

Not appropriate for under 10..........2005-10-12

I can't believe the reviews that I see on this book. I just read this book to my 4 year old after checking it out from the picture book section of the library. I should have reviewed it first! I liked the repetition in the story but the cats in the story who "ate the coals in the fireplace" were far to scary for the ages recommended for this book (5-9). My son had nightmares last night about the cats. I'm a third grade teacher, and I can't even imagine reading it to that age group. I just felt it was not appropriate for young children.

A Great Spooky Book.......2001-10-01

I bought this book last year for my then 3-yr-old and it was the first book that he absolutely loved. He still consistently chooses this one for a bed-time story. Why? Maybe it's the easy cadence and repetition of the words which allow him to "read" certain parts. Maybe it's the exceptional illustrations that keep us looking even a year later (see how many cat images you can find in the house). And he still laughs at the joke at the end. (I, too, like another reviewer, like the fact that a person of color takes the starring role, yet his race is irrelevant to the storyline. "He was a big man, he was a strong man" but there's no mention of the obvious fact that he's also a black man.)

A great scary read aloud!.......2001-04-26

My 5 year old daughter has just learned to read and adores this story. She loves the repetition of "He was a big man, he was a strong man" and the pictures greatly complement the text. She and I loved the ending the best. A great scary read aloud that your children will want to hear over and over throughout the years.

Great for learning and scary!.......2000-09-29

This is a wonderful book! It's great to see people of color in a book that doesn't really have anything to do with race! Kids will be scared out of their socks but there is a great lesson in these pages. This is a wonderful buy for children between the ages of 4 and 10.

Average customer rating:

5,000 Animals

Manufacturer: Overlook Hardcover
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical Fiction | History & Historical Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1590200012
Release Date: 2008-01-10

Book Description

This book and accompanying four CD-ROMS contain 5,000 stunning 19th century engravings of animals of every stripe -- from the lowly mollusk to the rampaging buffalo -- for use by design professionals and amateurs alike. All of these images have been carefully selected for their quality and compositional beauty and are ready for use. All of the illustrations are stored in high-resolution format on the CD-ROMs and are ready to use for professional quality printed media and web page design. The desktop doodler can use the engravings to produce postcards, decorate letters, flyers . . . anything at all. They can be imported directly from the CD into most design, image-manipulation, illustration, word-processing and e-mail programs -- no installation is required. And the images can be used free of charge, up to a maximum of ten images per application. This is the largest collection of animal engravings ever assembled.

Average customer rating:

Europe by Bike 1991 edition

Qualms

Take the book and bike!

Basis for 2 months cycling across Europe

Europe by Bike: 18 Tours Geared for Discovery (By Bike)
Karen Whitehill , and Terry Whitehill
Manufacturer: Mountaineers Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Cycling | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books
General | Sports | Subjects | Books
General | Europe | Travel | Subjects | Books
Guidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books
General | Travel | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Cycle Europe: 20 Tours, 20 Countries

Italy by Bike: 105 Tours from the Alps to Sicily (Dolce Vita)

Bicycle Touring Holland: With Excursions Into Neighboring Belgium And Germany

Cycling the Rhine Route: Bicycle Touring Along the Historic Rhine River

The Danube Cycleway: Donaueschingen to Budapest

ASIN: 0898863171

Customer Reviews:

Europe by Bike 1991 edition.......2005-08-03

I used the 1991 book to plan my 2002 solo biking trip from Salzburg, Austria to Budapest, Hungary. 11 years later I found their directions were still quite accurate. That trip was an absolute delight.

I am now planning another solo bike trip in September 2006 that will follow the Whitehill's route from Brussels Belgium to Versailles, France to Angers, France and back to Versailles.

Qualms.......2003-07-05

I found the book to be quite informative, however there is one problem that I found. The reader/rider can only do the tour in the direction in which the tours take place in the book due to the fact that the directions are given one way. I just finished a tour using this book and thought that I may be able to maneuver from the end of a tour and go toward the beginning with the help of some good maps. If I had a one Euro cent for every time I got lost I would have been Trump by the end of the trip. I did a tour in the U.S. with maps and directions that went both directions... north AS WELL AS south and east AS WELL AS west. The directions are impossible to follow unless you are going in the Whitehill's prescribed direction. Aside from that, information regarding campgrounds and distances is extremely on target and helpful.

Take the book and bike!.......2002-02-12

I used their first edition for my first bike trip in 1991, and can't recommend it enough. I really didn't have any other bike book then, and this one got me across Italy, through part of France, and across Germany. I used the same edition a couple years later, and it was still helpful.

The advice was all clear, particular the directions--what to look for, where to turn. Maps were good. I've had time over the years to compare it to a couple other bike touring books, and this was clearly the best. Roads change, of course, and I hope to see new editions.

Basis for 2 months cycling across Europe.......2001-07-29

I used this book for a 2 month sabbatical cycling 2,000 miles thru 12 countries in '96. I had never toured before and I give it credit for making the trip a hugh success.

Now I am planning a second trip thru Scandinavia and I only wish it included more of Eastern Europe (I can't seem to find an alternate source).

Book Description

Syriac is the Aramaic dialect of Edessa in Mesopotamia. Today it is the classical tongue of the Nestorians and Chaldeans of Iran and Iraq and the liturgical language of the Jacobites of Eastern Anatolia and the Maronites of Greater Syria. Syriac is also the language of the Church of St, Thomas on the Malabar Coast of India. Syriac belongs to the Levantine group of the central branch of the West Semitic languages. Syriac literature flourished from the third century on and boasts of writers like Ephraem Syrus, Aphraates, Jacob of Sarug, John of Ephesus, Jacob of Edessa, and Barhebraeus. After the Arab con-quests, Syriac became the language of a tolerated but disenfranchised and diminishing community and began a long, slow decline both as a spoken tongue and as a literary medium in favor of Arabic. Syriac played an important role as the intermediary through which Greek learning passed to the Islamic world. Syriac translations also preserve much Middle Iranian wisdom literature that has been lost in the original. Here, the language is presented both in the Syriac script and in transcription, which is given so that the pronunciation of individual words and the structure of the language may be represented as clearly as possible. The majority of the sentences in the exercises-and all of the readings in later lessons-are taken directly from the P'itta, the Syriac translation of the Bible. Most students learn Syriac as an ad-junct to biblical or theological studies and will be interested primarily in this text. Biblical passages also have the advantage of being familiar, to some degree or other, to most English-speaking students. For many of those whose interest in Syriac stems from Biblical studies or from the history of Eastern Christianity, Syriac may be their first Semitic language. Every effort has been made in the presentation of the grammar to keep the Semitic structure of the language in the forefront and as clear as possible for those who have no previous experience with languages of that family. Syriac is structurally perhaps the simplest of all the Semitic languages. A chart of correspondences among Arabic, Hebrew, and Syriac is given.

Customer Reviews:

Syriac pass by pass........2007-01-11

A very good grammar about syriac language. We can learn it pass by pass with clearing and objectivity.

A nice introduction to Syriac.......2006-03-23

I found this book to be an excellent introduction to Syriac. For the most part, it is adequate for self-taught students. I worked through the lessons on my own in two months (though I suppose I should add that I have some knowledge of Hebrew and Arabic, and considerable experience in numerous non-Semitic languages, so this was far from my first introduction to a foreign language). The points are presented in an order that is useful to a learner and at a manageable rate. The earlier lessons are rather short, which is helpful as one gets started with a new language. The lessons get longer as the student gains greater familiarity with the language and can assimilate more at a time.

A great strength of the book is its introduction of the perfect form of the verb starting in the first lesson. The presentation of the full paradigm of the perfect in Lesson 2 allows English-speaking students, who will not be used to gender distinctions in verbs, to get accustomed to this feature quickly.

The Estrangelo font used in the book leaves something to be desired. In particular, it is exceedingly difficult to distinguish the letter _het_ from the two-letter sequence _nun-yod_. That said, though, I think that Thackston's use of the unpointed consonantal script with transliteration is a great service to the student. The constant use of transliteration is particularly good for helping the student to see which consonants are doubled and which are not. This is a feature that is not marked in any way Theodor Noldeke's _Compendious Syriac Grammar_ or J. Payne Smith's _A Compendious Syriac Dictionary_.

Some reviewers have lamented the fact that Thackston does not regularly mark _rukkaka_ (spirantization of stops). However, such marking is, in fact, rarely necessary. If one learns the simple rules for spirantization that Thackston gives in section II of "Preliminary Matters," it is only necessary to see exceptions marked, which Thackston does. I far prefer this to the constant marking of _qushshaya_ (non-spirantization) and _rukkaka_ which is done by Takamitsu Muraoka in his _Classical Syriac_. The dots for qushshaya and rukkaka in this latter work, in combination with the dots he uses to indicate the East Syriac vowels, make for a very "busy" orthography that slows down my reading rate.

In spite of the merits of Thackston's work, I have found a few points on which it was necessary to consult the other works, namely, the ones already mentioned above: Noldeke, Smith and Muraoka. For example, in the vocabulary for Lesson 9, Thackston gives the various forms of the adjective _hdet / hdat_, but he does not specify the spirantization of the various d's and t's, which is unclear due to the interaction of ordinary spirantization rules, the general rule that in all _-ta_ feminine suffixes the t is spirantized, and the adjacency of d and t in some forms. I found the forms unambiguously transcribed in Muraoka. One point left unclear, though, was the correct vowel for the masculine singular absolute form of this adjective, which I have transcribed above as _hdet / hdat_. The vowel given is _e_ in Thackston Lesson 9 and in the _Compendious Syriac Dictionary_. However, _a_ is used by Thackston in the vocabulary at the end of his book, and it is also the vowel used by Muroaka.

In some cases, I have found that a point in question is dealt with by Thackston after the place where the student first needs an explanation. For example, in the "Translate into Syriac" exercise at the end of Lesson 7, for item 3 the student is to translate "The sons of this man killed the enemy..." However, the spelling of the verb form for "killed" with the requisite direct object suffix is not given until the next lesson.

There are a number of typos in both English and Syriac, but I do not consider the quantity overwhelming. The most lamentable, I think, is the omission of the last part of item 17 and the first part of 18 in the key to Exercise 1 at the end of the book. The beginning student needs reinforcement in his or her first steps in the language and this omission, along with the incorrect numbering of the remaining items in the key, creates confusion.

The vocabulary at the end of the book is missing a few items that are in the vocabularies of the individual lessons, and also a considerable number of words used in the readings that follow the lessons. Some items in the final vocabulary are also out of alphabetical order.

At least one previous reviewer mentioned the lack of an English-Syriac vocabulary, so I simply made my own as I went. It proved occasionally useful, especially as I got well along in the book and couldn't immediately recall every word needed for the English to Syriac exercises. However, I think the main benefit of compiling the reverse glossary has been to reinforce the vocabulary items in my memory. It has also provided useful practice for my Syriac penmanship, as thus far I have kept it entirely in handwritten form. When the entries under an individual letter exceed the space available, I just recopy all the entries for that letter on more pages, leaving space for additional entries. This mnemonic reinforcement has proved very valuable. (Since I first wrote this review, a new book has been published: _Introduction to Syriac: Key to Exercises & English-Syriac Vocabulary_ [ISBN 1588140458], by Daniel M. Gurtner, who worked in collaboration with Dr. Thackston. It even includes a few additions to the Syriac-English vocabulary, but far from the large number needed.)

The book's index is moderately useful, but I would like to see more detail. Also, a more "open" format would make it easier to read. Specifically, subentries are set off by being in boldface type, but I would prefer each subentry to start on a separate line, even without boldface.

In general, I recommend this book to those who would like to learn Syriac on their own. However, I recommend that you have at least Muraoka at hand as a study aid. If you have never studied any foreign language before, you might find Thackston hard going. However, I know of nothing better currently available. (If you want details of my notes on Thackston, click on my profile for contact information.)

A First Grammar.......2006-02-17

Dr. Thackston has done us a service in this primer, however, there is an organizational disconnect with those who wish to use Syriac versus those who wish to pass an introductory course in its grammatical detail. This book is more a semi-organized "spattering" of grammatical artifacts than a sytematic introduction to the Syriac language. For instance, once would not ordinarily "hide" the peal as an assumed primary form. Also, one would linguistically not follow a discussion on Tense with a section on Pronouns, nor would one insert a discussion on Adjectival forms in the midst of a discussion of verbal forms. A model for a truly fine "readers grammar" of a semitic language would be Kyle M. Yates "Beginners Grammar of the Hebrew Old Testament". Had Dr. Thackston followed this pragmatic model his grammar would surely have been a greater success. Maybe we can look for a rendition in the near future? With all of this being said, and with reservations, I do modestly recommend this book until a better readers intro grammar prevails.

It's not Greek to me..........2004-07-17

Many Westerners see the historical split between East and West in Christendom in 1054 as creating a monlithic 'East'; whereas the Western church split into a myriad of sects, from the Western perspective, the East seemed fairly uniform. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth, as increasing attention in history, culture, and language studies complement the study of religion in the Eastern realms. Thackston's book on Syriac is one such study that helps to broaden the understanding of Christian history and the cultural diversity of the East.

If you've never heard of Syriac, you are not alone. Syriac literature flourished in the third century C.E. forward, primarily around the major city of Edessa, which was one of the trading centres of the Eastern Roman Empire, so important as a crossroads that evidence exists as far afield as Iceland and China, Ethiopia and northern Russia of traders who made the trek for goods from (or to trade their goods in) Edessa. Ephraim, one of only a handful of saints beyond the apostles to be acknowledged by practically every branch of the church, was from Edessa; his hymns were carried back with the travellers along the trade routes.

Syriac played a crucial role in the preservation of Greek literature in the Islamic times, which later was reintroduced to Europe prior to the Renaissance. Syriac continues as the the liturgical language of some churches, such as the Malabar Church of St. Thomas in India, and the Jacobites and Maronites in the Near East; it is also the classical language of the Nestorians and the Chaldeans. The Mongol language script is a derivative of Syriac.

Syriac is related to various Aramaic strands (Babylonia, Palestinian, Samaritan) and Canaanite (Ugaritic, Hebrew, Phoenician). More distantly related are languages such as Arabic, Ethiopic and Akkadian.

This is a fast-moving book, well-organised and formatted. Despite the occasional typographical error and one or two minor issues, it is a great text. In twenty lessons, a solid introduction to the Syriac language is covered -- for the motivated student, this could be done in one semester. The book presents Syriac in transliteration as well as Syriac script throughout. The tranliterations assist in vocalisation, as Syriac, like many related languages, tends to leave part of the words unwritten.

Prior to the twenty lessons are ten preliminary matters -- if each of these is viewed as an additional lesson, the book would make a good two-semester text of 30 weeks or so. These preliminary matters involve alphabet, vocalisation and syllabification (yes, that is a word), numbers, and some linguistic comparisons.

Thackston, knowing his primary audience, uses the Psitta, the standard Syriac translation of the Bible, as the primary text from which sentences and words are used in the lessons. This is also a recognition of the influence the Bible had on the development of Syriac language. Thackston also recognises that the student might not be familiar with Hebrew, Arabic or other Semitic languages prior to undertaking the study of Syriac, and thus keeps grammar issues at the forefront. In fact, Syriac makes an excellent introductory Semitic language for study prior to the more difficult Hebrew or Arabic.

Recognising that students might not have a ready supply of Syriac documents upon which to practice, there is a 'reader' of sorts, 40 pages of Syriac writings as an appendix. There is also a Syriac-English vocabulary (the point of this text is reading knowledge, rather than construction, so there is no English-Syriac list).

Overall, Thackston's book is an excellent language study.

Please--a second edition!.......2003-03-20

This is a difficult review to write. On the negative side, there are simply an unacceptable number of typographical errors--including some baffling errors/ editorial decisions(????) in the chrestomathy. This text book is in dire need of a second edition to correct the numerous publication errors that have found their way into the text.

That being said...

This is arranged and set up as a VERY nice introduction to the Syriac language. In organization and grammatical treatment, it does indeed represent a large step forward from Robinson's grammar. It presupposes no prior knowledge of Semitic language, is clear in its presentation of grammatical concepts, and does a very good job of balancing vocalized forms (in transliteration) with their (as will almsot always be encountered) unvocalized forms in Syriac script.

I fully recommend the use of this grammar--however, because of the fact that numerous errors have crept into the published version, it should only be used in a class taught by an individual with a good knowledge of Aramaic and Semitic verbal morphology.

Customer Reviews:

expensive, interesting, not all Diana.......2000-11-19

Some interesting material presented here, would've been nice had Diana lived to write a forward for it. Anyone buying this book with the idea of getting a lot of Diana material will see some of that. You will also be getting, as the title says, a lot of autobiographical material about Ms. Walker. No scandalous stories,many good photos, not all of them of the Princess. I personally think someone wanted to boost the sales by emphasizing the Diana link.

FANTASTIC!.......1999-07-14

I happened upon this book one afternoon on my lunch hour. How I missed it's release I will never know. I went back that night and read it cover to cover and then bought it. It is perhaps the definitive book about the inside details about Diana's life, but also about Catherine Walker's as well. The book was clearly not meant to be another glossy "Diana" book rehashing all of the same old information. It was a guide to life with pictures and sketches. I laughed, I cried, I still read it about once a week. It is inspirational. If you are looking to read a book about Diana that has nothing new to say, do not read this book. If, however, you are a serious follower of the world of coture (and Catherine Walker) this book is a must. You will finish it and feel as if you were there during the fittings. BRAVO!

Exquisite eyes/heart glimpse into a marvelous woman!.......1999-02-26

This is an amazing illustration and revelation of one of our world's most talented designers who also happened to be one of Princess Diana's most astounding friends and helpers in that wondrous world called royalty. I found the tale of Catherine Walker so informative yet I was still left with numerous questions as to some of the details surrounding her life before and after she became famous. The photographs are gorgeous and reveal some interesting examples of a lady who truly fits the description designer. Catherine Walker will always be one of the world's most gifted dress makers but I'm still curious as to how one would go about actually seeing her shop or, imagine this, buying one of her creations. Undoubtedly she deals with only the rich & famous while all the time remaining in the background. This is one among many of my Princess Diana books I cherish because of its detail and marvelous focus on a multitude of gowns and their intricate pieces. Catherine Walker is an amazing woman who has truly lived a life from tragedy to fairy tale status. I am an avid admirer. This book is far more than pages/pictures between covers; it's a gift of for the eyes and heart! Wonderful!

A wealth of couture and life.......1998-12-11

The night the book arrived from London, I read it cover to cover. It offered me a glimpse into the elegant world of fashion and royalty. Ms Walker provided her view of her world with a very human, caring all the while impassioned tone. This is an inspirational book to be read by afficionados of the late Princess Diana and the world of couture. A success story, not stymied by tragedy. The perfect gift for any occasion.

Catherine Walker reveals fashion secrets.......1998-10-01

i have always been interested in princess diana. her most fabulous clothes always seemed to be designed by catherine walker, always a name without a face. now we can learn about the tragedy that turned this woman into one of the greatest designers of our time. catherine walker has carved out a place for herself in fashion history. an interesting story with beautiful photographs. a must have for all princess diana fans as well as fashion fans.

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