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Review Date: 11/7/2012
I loved this book (no pun intended). These 5 languages can be applied to nearly any interpersonal relationship you have, not just the one you have with a life partner, married or not. Chapman explores each language thoroughly, and gives ideas at the end of each explanation to practice this in daily life (especially helpful if you want to "experiment" and see what that someone responds to best). Just the personal exploration you can do on your own with learning these languages is rewarding.
As a bonus, what I appreciated about these languages was how they can tell you about how others around you have a "primary love language" they receive, and one they tend to give.
As a bonus, what I appreciated about these languages was how they can tell you about how others around you have a "primary love language" they receive, and one they tend to give.
Review Date: 11/7/2012
Excellent play. May be a bit hard to read for some, but once it's grasped it becomes much easier.
The theory that Salieri had something to do with the untimely death of the composer Mozart is explored, while at the same time revealing uncomfortable truths we all face as human beings. Through his illustration of clashing character personalities, the placing of music, and the human desire to succeed, Shaffer confronts the frustration we face when we feel our efforts are overlooked in spite of any sacrifices we have made to accomplish our goals and achievements.
I personally have not seen this performed on stage, but he did write the screenplay for the film version, which is a unified work of art.
The theory that Salieri had something to do with the untimely death of the composer Mozart is explored, while at the same time revealing uncomfortable truths we all face as human beings. Through his illustration of clashing character personalities, the placing of music, and the human desire to succeed, Shaffer confronts the frustration we face when we feel our efforts are overlooked in spite of any sacrifices we have made to accomplish our goals and achievements.
I personally have not seen this performed on stage, but he did write the screenplay for the film version, which is a unified work of art.
Review Date: 11/7/2012
Very enjoyable read! What I appreciate about Gist is her attention to detail, and her pick of not very obvious or often-written-about time periods. Before reading this book, I didn't know much about the lumberjacks in the Northern states. Also, when it comes to romance, her characters (not just this book, but other titles of hers I've read) deal with real issues, not just the cliche of they-love-me-they-love-me-not. The hero and heroine in this book deal with the reality of love and acceptance of self, and what sacrifice for a loved one entails.
My only complaint? While all the characters were enjoyable (I appreciate how she writes the children's dialogue), the Joe and Anna seemed too perfect, moreso physically--then again, it could be her way of writing this observation from how they viewed each other.
Despite that, I enjoyed this book very much. Whenever I finished a chapter, two words of Anna's came to mind: "Good heavens." :)
My only complaint? While all the characters were enjoyable (I appreciate how she writes the children's dialogue), the Joe and Anna seemed too perfect, moreso physically--then again, it could be her way of writing this observation from how they viewed each other.
Despite that, I enjoyed this book very much. Whenever I finished a chapter, two words of Anna's came to mind: "Good heavens." :)
Review Date: 10/3/2015
This book definitely has its pros and cons. In short, the author writes with good-natured authority: she knows what she's talking about, but none of the information feels overwhelming. It's an easy read, and can be a quick read, too, perfectly suited for thumbing through again later.
Some pros:
-size: easily fits into a purse/handbag, or in a travel bag if you're reading it on-the-go
-inspiring: within the first chapter I was ready to take on the world and try most of the tips written. Needless to say I spent hours on Pinterest and Google looking up the sources and terms she gives
-organized: this makes for both a quick read and an easy reference to come back to. Most of the info is to-the-point, and most can be searched via internet if more is desired
-although this is geared towards women, there are enough tips in here for the readers to relay information to the men in their life (if you're willing, take a looksy for gift or just-because ideas for your lady)
-if the book doesn't satisfy, the website is chock full of information. That website could get overwhelming if you're in front of the computer screen for too long, so proceed with caution
And...some cons:
-outdated. When I made a list of the resources and websites she gives plenty of throughout, I found many of these websites gone (not even Google could find them), outdated (lack of update information), or even lacking. Maybe I had high hopes when I finished the book, but I'd advise you to make your own list and go through it. (I'd post mine but I'm still searching through some of the sites and such. I'll find somewhere to post when I'm through). That's not to say you may not make a fortunate discovery in the process!
-as mentioned above, it's easy to get lost on the website. It advertises a youtube channel, but last I looked, it was in severe need of an update or a re-do of some videos (some of the audio was difficult to make out on a couple videos)
However, if green-living tips or the lifestyle appeals to you or piques your curiosity, give this book a try! I still enjoyed it and learned from it!
Some pros:
-size: easily fits into a purse/handbag, or in a travel bag if you're reading it on-the-go
-inspiring: within the first chapter I was ready to take on the world and try most of the tips written. Needless to say I spent hours on Pinterest and Google looking up the sources and terms she gives
-organized: this makes for both a quick read and an easy reference to come back to. Most of the info is to-the-point, and most can be searched via internet if more is desired
-although this is geared towards women, there are enough tips in here for the readers to relay information to the men in their life (if you're willing, take a looksy for gift or just-because ideas for your lady)
-if the book doesn't satisfy, the website is chock full of information. That website could get overwhelming if you're in front of the computer screen for too long, so proceed with caution
And...some cons:
-outdated. When I made a list of the resources and websites she gives plenty of throughout, I found many of these websites gone (not even Google could find them), outdated (lack of update information), or even lacking. Maybe I had high hopes when I finished the book, but I'd advise you to make your own list and go through it. (I'd post mine but I'm still searching through some of the sites and such. I'll find somewhere to post when I'm through). That's not to say you may not make a fortunate discovery in the process!
-as mentioned above, it's easy to get lost on the website. It advertises a youtube channel, but last I looked, it was in severe need of an update or a re-do of some videos (some of the audio was difficult to make out on a couple videos)
However, if green-living tips or the lifestyle appeals to you or piques your curiosity, give this book a try! I still enjoyed it and learned from it!
The Kind Diet: A Simple Guide to Feeling Great, Losing Weight, and Saving the Planet
Author:
Book Type: Paperback
12
Author:
Book Type: Paperback
12
Review Date: 11/7/2012
Detailed (or at least long) review:
Highlights:
-Alicia starts with her story and journey to veganism, which I think helped me better understand where she was coming from as the book went on. Plus, it always helps to get a personal testimony when presenting something that can be controversial.
-quick read. I would normally say "easy read", but I'll admit a few parts involving animals was not so easy to read. However, I understand that this is part of understanding a drastically new diet, and I didn't see it as a way of "guilting" you into getting rid of animal products from your diet or lifestyle. The book is nicely organized and easy to pace yourself with. There are plenty of sub-headings in chapters for breaks. It is apparent she has done her research without it reading like a journal article or using complex vocabulary.
-recipes. It's a comfort to have a springboard or at least something to experiment with. However, look through these recipes carefully. Depending on several factors (availability, where you live, etc.), some ingredients may be hard to find and/or expensive. Also keep in mind that reading through these recipes may give you an idea of which ones to start with. I have found that some of these are not to my taste (part of experimenting, I know, but for those who are cautious about trying new recipes, beware).
-shopping. She does offer a chart and some descriptions of what she dubs "kind" foods. Proved to be very helpful when seeing what was available in my area when I was out and about, how many substitutions there really are, and a good starting point of what to explore.
Some cons:
-binding. A very minor issue, but a spiral binding or even binder appearance might be more helpful to be able to lay the book flat when trying out the recipes.
-depictions. This depends on the sensitivity of the reader. Some may be very upset by the brief (yet still difficult to read) descriptions of what occurs in the factory farming industry. As a general note, just proceed with caution. If anything, you may feel a bit more educated with what happens to your food before it becomes just that.
-dietary concerns. I've had to look elsewhere as far as what foods are valued in calcium, vitamins, etc. I found the Organic Food Shopper's Guide to be very helpful in that regard (he lists foods according to food groups, and part of their description includes what supplements are found in it).
-some skepticism. Honestly, I feel that this is a work from the heart, however, I did feel a bit skeptical about some points. In one of her recipes, she encourages the use of miso, but especially barley miso because it's the most medicinal. No citation to back that up, and that type of miso is also the most expensive. There are also a few passages I recognize nearly word for word from other books I checked out on her recommended reading list at the end of the book--but with no credit or citation reference to where she got this information (not that I recall).
-website. thekindlife.com is a good place to check out and click around to see if you're still interested in reading her book (no, there aren't any chapters on the website, though a few recipes have escaped from the book). The website itself has changed over the years, so it's hard for me to give an objective point on it, especially since I don't visit it as often as I used to).
My impression? I became vegan soon after reading this book (for about 2 years as I now follow a more pescetarian, yet still very plant-based diet), though I would recommend other titles (many of them are listed in her book as recommended reading, or you can always look for the highly rated books on amazon) to be thorough. This book is a good start for those curious about veganism, or even being a flexitarian (occasional consumption of animal products), but it shouldn't be the only book read regarding this subject.
Highlights:
-Alicia starts with her story and journey to veganism, which I think helped me better understand where she was coming from as the book went on. Plus, it always helps to get a personal testimony when presenting something that can be controversial.
-quick read. I would normally say "easy read", but I'll admit a few parts involving animals was not so easy to read. However, I understand that this is part of understanding a drastically new diet, and I didn't see it as a way of "guilting" you into getting rid of animal products from your diet or lifestyle. The book is nicely organized and easy to pace yourself with. There are plenty of sub-headings in chapters for breaks. It is apparent she has done her research without it reading like a journal article or using complex vocabulary.
-recipes. It's a comfort to have a springboard or at least something to experiment with. However, look through these recipes carefully. Depending on several factors (availability, where you live, etc.), some ingredients may be hard to find and/or expensive. Also keep in mind that reading through these recipes may give you an idea of which ones to start with. I have found that some of these are not to my taste (part of experimenting, I know, but for those who are cautious about trying new recipes, beware).
-shopping. She does offer a chart and some descriptions of what she dubs "kind" foods. Proved to be very helpful when seeing what was available in my area when I was out and about, how many substitutions there really are, and a good starting point of what to explore.
Some cons:
-binding. A very minor issue, but a spiral binding or even binder appearance might be more helpful to be able to lay the book flat when trying out the recipes.
-depictions. This depends on the sensitivity of the reader. Some may be very upset by the brief (yet still difficult to read) descriptions of what occurs in the factory farming industry. As a general note, just proceed with caution. If anything, you may feel a bit more educated with what happens to your food before it becomes just that.
-dietary concerns. I've had to look elsewhere as far as what foods are valued in calcium, vitamins, etc. I found the Organic Food Shopper's Guide to be very helpful in that regard (he lists foods according to food groups, and part of their description includes what supplements are found in it).
-some skepticism. Honestly, I feel that this is a work from the heart, however, I did feel a bit skeptical about some points. In one of her recipes, she encourages the use of miso, but especially barley miso because it's the most medicinal. No citation to back that up, and that type of miso is also the most expensive. There are also a few passages I recognize nearly word for word from other books I checked out on her recommended reading list at the end of the book--but with no credit or citation reference to where she got this information (not that I recall).
-website. thekindlife.com is a good place to check out and click around to see if you're still interested in reading her book (no, there aren't any chapters on the website, though a few recipes have escaped from the book). The website itself has changed over the years, so it's hard for me to give an objective point on it, especially since I don't visit it as often as I used to).
My impression? I became vegan soon after reading this book (for about 2 years as I now follow a more pescetarian, yet still very plant-based diet), though I would recommend other titles (many of them are listed in her book as recommended reading, or you can always look for the highly rated books on amazon) to be thorough. This book is a good start for those curious about veganism, or even being a flexitarian (occasional consumption of animal products), but it shouldn't be the only book read regarding this subject.
Review Date: 5/5/2014
One of my favorite plays to date! Easy to read and fantastic to see performed! The plot centers around an archivist whose marriage is falling apart as he is trying to save a dying dialect (whose remaining speakers only bicker during their recording sessions) and is oblivious to his assistant's love. The themes of communication and "speaking" as well as understanding each others "languages" are beautifully portrayed. I happened to see this performed right around the time I was reading Gary Chapman's 5 love languages, so that served as an unexpected complement. Also a great source if you are in need of monologue or 2-person scene material (men or women).
Review Date: 11/7/2012
First had to read portions of this as a college class requirement, but I read it through after I graduated. Long story (or review) short, Miller uses his obvious stabs at humor (I did laugh aloud at times) mixed with his insight into the perception of Christianity: is it really as formulaic as believed? or is there more to it? is there really validation to our human behavior that ties in with the love we all seek?
There were a few POVs of his on certain Scripture passages I really liked, such as his own thoughts on Adam and Eve. I also appreciated that he didn't try to make his arguments "pretty" or ambiguous--I found him to be honest in his essays. I haven't read his more well-known title, Blue Like Jazz, but I'm interested after reading this.
There were a few POVs of his on certain Scripture passages I really liked, such as his own thoughts on Adam and Eve. I also appreciated that he didn't try to make his arguments "pretty" or ambiguous--I found him to be honest in his essays. I haven't read his more well-known title, Blue Like Jazz, but I'm interested after reading this.
Review Date: 11/7/2012
For actors, a wealth of scene and monologue material is to be found. This is such a script that reinforces the importance that an actor does not use the excuse of (in character), "I want to leave the room. I don't want to be here." Once the actor explores why these characters stick around does the script continue to resonate.
As for audiences, it may at first seem like a whirlwind of emotions or a rollercoaster relationship, among other possible interpretations. I saw it as a love story, and the characters confront truths about themselves and each other that they must decide to accept or run away from.
As for audiences, it may at first seem like a whirlwind of emotions or a rollercoaster relationship, among other possible interpretations. I saw it as a love story, and the characters confront truths about themselves and each other that they must decide to accept or run away from.
Review Date: 11/7/2012
What a find! I discovered this author while browsing the Christian fiction for a new author, and this had my attention once I found it took place in ancient times. Not many Christian novels I have found take place in ancient times aside from Jesus or other well-known Bible characters (nothing against them, but this made it stand out).
I am so glad I picked this up. Higley has cleverly used Tessa's situation that many of us can find a way to relate: wanting to break free of something that imprisons us, whatever it may be, and that the most frightening step for us to take is to let God take control. And, I'll admit, there were a couple twists I didn't expect, and I tend to pride myself on spotting subtleties ;) definitely recommended! can't wait for her to finish the rest of the 7 wonders!
I am so glad I picked this up. Higley has cleverly used Tessa's situation that many of us can find a way to relate: wanting to break free of something that imprisons us, whatever it may be, and that the most frightening step for us to take is to let God take control. And, I'll admit, there were a couple twists I didn't expect, and I tend to pride myself on spotting subtleties ;) definitely recommended! can't wait for her to finish the rest of the 7 wonders!
Review Date: 11/7/2012
Thought-provoking play. Labute once again explores society's obsession with outward appearance and beauty. Interesting characters, and I honestly didn't expect the gasp moment once everything falls into place. Definitely a discussion starter for theatre and even art classes confronting old questions of: what is art? can anything be made into art? how far is too far in creating a work of art?
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