Books

Holiday in Death
Gatekeeper (Joe Gunther Mysteries (Paperback))
Evans Above
Hot Water
Southern Cross
Evan Help Us
Dead Angler
Giotto's Hand (Art History Mysteries)
Certain Prey
Shell Game (Kathleen Mallory Novels (Paperback))
Dead Water (Mysteries & Horror)
Seduction in Death
Blue Plate Special (Sunny Childs Mysteries)
Certifiably Insane
Evan Can Wait (Constable Evans Mysteries (Paperback))
A Murder of Honor
Reunion in Death (Eve Dallas Mysteries (Paperback))
Murder on Washington Square
The Titian Committee (Jonathan Argyll Mysteries)
Dark Woods
Blue Knight
The Choirboys
The New Centurians
Mission Flats
A Season for the Dead

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The series really "LAUNCHES" here....
Holiday in Death
A Great Read!
Eve wins
Robb and Eve Dallas rock again

Holiday in Death (In Death)
J.D. Robb , and Nora Roberts
Manufacturer: Berkley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Accessories:

philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer

ASIN: 0425163717

Amazon.com

In the seventh of J.D. Robb's futuristic romance thrillers, NYPD Lieutenant Eve Dallas is on the trail of a serial killer terrorizing the city during the holidays. The only link between the victims--all are patrons of an exclusive dating service, Personally Yours. Working with her aide Officer Peabody, Peabody's nemesis Ian McNab, and her own intriguing husband, Roarke, Eve uncovers secrets that link the victims: secrets that involve both the owners and the clients of Personally Yours and which might be worth killing for. Whether she's writing as Nora Roberts or as J.D. Robb, Roberts weaves a taut and powerful story with lush sensuality and masterful characterization. This murder mystery combines elements of romance, science fiction, and police procedural genres in an entertaining mix that will keep readers turning the pages. --Lisa Wanttaja

Book Description

Futuristic cop Eve Dallas is back on the job. This time it's Christmas in New York, and all the lonely hearts are easy pickings for a serial killer spreading death through a dating service.

Download Description

Lieutenant Eve Dallas returns in this futuristic novel of police suspense on the trail of a ritualistic serial killer whose every victim can be traced to Personally Yours, a posh New York dating service

Customer Reviews:

The series really "LAUNCHES" here...........2007-04-10

I've read most of the books in this series and I have to tell you that this one really made the series take off! The reader is welcomed into the lives of these characters with more depth and meaning than ever before. The story itself (The dating service and the serial killer) lends to enough suspense to keep the reader on the edge of the seat, but when one of "our own" (Peabody) goes undercover, you feel the fear akin to one of your own loved ones putting herself at risk.

An excellent story with quite an unexpected ending. I would recommend this series HIGHLY!

Holiday in Death.......2007-01-06

J. D. Robb's "In Death" series is one of the best that I have read and listened to. Susan Ericksen is fantastic as the narrator. Her individual characterizations for Eve, Roarke, Peabody, Finney, etc., makes the audio rendition of this series a must-buy and a collection keeper. Though the audio series started midway through the book series, having Susan Ericksen as the narrator throughout the audio editions means that there is very little deviation in the individual characterizations. Instead, the character consistencies make for a more enjoyable "listen" especially if done consecutively. I have all of the unabridged audios and listen to them often! (jsiobhanlei - 1/5/07)

A Great Read!.......2006-10-23

Book #7 in the In Death Series.
In this book there is a serial killer out there who dresses like Santa and kills people while leaving a gift representing one of the 12 days of Christmas and a tattoo that says their his true love.
This is a creepy Christmas tale. The love hate relationship between Peabody and McNab heats up as they are forced to work together undercover in a dating service. An interesting and different murder mystery with some surprisingly heroic moments from all the characters.
Peabody gives a jerk a bloody nose. As always there's a whole lot of comedy and romance mixed in.

Eve wins.......2006-03-12

Another great installment of J. D. Robb's "...In Death " series of homicide Lieutenant Eve Dallas. She collects the evidence, arrests the guilty party and maintains her position as Roarke's wife. She is amazing. Book is well written. I have or am getting the entire series.

Robb and Eve Dallas rock again.......2006-03-06

I find this book to be interesting, and captivating. All of the characters are evolving and maturing. I love this series and l;ook forward to reading the next.

Average customer rating:

Interesting Characters
Surprisingly profound, recommended for middle schoolers
Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life.
Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life-Wendy Mass
Jeremny Fink and the meaning of life review

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life
Wendy Mass
Manufacturer: Little, Brown Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0316058297

Book Description

In one month Jeremy Fink will turn thirteen. But does he have what it takes to be a teenager? He collects mutant candy, he won't go more than four blocks from home if possible, and he definitely doesn't like surprises. On the other hand, his best friend, Lizzy, isn't afraid of anything, even if that means trouble now and then.

Jeremy's summer takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious box arrives. According to the writing on the box, it holds the meaning of life! Jeremy is supposed to open it on his birthday, but the keys are missing, and only the keys can open the box without destroying what's inside. Jeremy and Lizzy set off to find the keys, but when one of their efforts goes very wrong, Jeremy starts to think he'll never be able to open the box. But what he doesn't know is that there just might be other ways to find out the meaning of life.

Lively characters, surprising twists, and thought-provoking ideas make Wendy Mass's latest novel an unforgettable read.

Customer Reviews:

Interesting Characters.......2007-06-12

Reviewed by Frank Deaton (age 16) for Reader Views (6/07)

"Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life," by Wendy Mass, is a story about a boy who goes on an adventure to find the meaning of life. Jeremy Fink is 12-years old and is about to turn 13. His father died five years ago, and all of a sudden a month before Jeremy's birthday, a box arrives in the mail from one of his father's friends. The box is engraved with "THE MEANING OF LIFE: FOR JEREMY FINK TO OPEN ON HIS 13TH BIRTHDAY." Jeremy immediately recognizes the engraving to be of his father's craftsmanship. The box is wooden and has four keyholes in it for the keys to open it and can't be pried open. The whole book is about Jeremy and his best friend Lizzy getting into trouble trying to find the four keys to open the box before his birthday happens. They try everything, like looking in flea markets and all around his neighborhood. After a bit, the two try to sneak into the old abandoned office of the friend that sent the box to see if the keys are there. They end up getting caught by the security and get sent to do community service for an old man named Mr. Oswald. He sends the two on delivery runs to return items to certain people before he moves away and they meet many interesting people all with their own meanings of life.

The whole book is a great read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Jeremy Fink was an interesting character to read about and I thought of him to a nerd in a sense and could connect with him. The only thing I have a problem with "Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life" is that I think it is intended more towards younger kids; yet there are things in there that only people 16 and older would really understand. I really liked the book and recommend it.

Surprisingly profound, recommended for middle schoolers.......2007-06-04

On the first day of summer vacation, the summer that Jeremy Fink is due to turn thirteen, Jeremy receives an unexpected gift from the father who died when Jeremy was eight. Opening a package from an unknown lawyer's office, he finds a smooth wooden box, with four keyholes, engraved with the words THE MEANING OF LIFE: FOR JEREMY FINK TO OPEN ON HIS 13TH BIRTHDAY. Unfortunately, the lawyer has misplaced the keys to the box, four different keys, all of which are needed to open the box.

Jeremy and his best friend Lizzy (no, they aren't secretly in love with each other, they're just lifelong best friends) spend the summer on a quest to find the keys that will open the box. The quest takes them to unexpected places, and encounters with interesting people. Jeremy and Lizzy both grow and learn along the way, and find surprises at the end of the quest.

Wendy Mass's characterization is strong, especially in reference to Jeremy (portrayed in the first person). Jeremy collects unusual candies, and lives primarily on skittles and peanut butter sandwiches. He's fairly cautious for his age, nervous about traveling around New York City without an adult to accompany him. The scenes where Jeremy and Lizzy learn about Metro-cards to get into the subway are priceless. Jeremy bears the emotional scars of a kid who has lost a parent. Though enough time has passed that it's not a gaping wound, he still carries with him the knowledge that the worst can happen at any time. He also, despite his early protestations of not having anything romantic going on with Lizzy, struggles a bit with the transition to young adulthood, and the fact that Lizzy is female. It's awkwardness, not sexual interest, which I found a refreshingly realistic approach.

Here are a few of the many passages that I flagged, to give you a feel for Mass's writing, and Jeremy's personality:

"As the limo heads into parts unknown, we amuse ourselves by pressing the buttons to open and close the partition. Then we look outside to count how many people turn their heads as the limo passes them. Once that gets old, I wrap the box in the bubble wrap, and I can't help popping the bubbles. Lizzy jumps every time." (Chapter 9)

"It's great watching someone who loves what he does. Dad was like that, at the comics store. Mom loves the library, and Lizzy's dad loves the post office. I wonder if I'll ever find something I love as much." (Chapter 14)

"Maybe this is why people go to church. For a sense of belonging, of escaping the everyday routine where people don't generally burst into group song. I've only been here ten minutes, and I feel it already. I also feel Lizzy tugging on my shirt. It takes only a second to realize I'm the only one still standing. I hurriedly sit down." (Chapter 15)

"I inhale deeply. Funnel cake. Cotton candy. Fudge. Corn dogs. This is what Heaven must smell like. I stop short as we pass a booth that is new this year. A man in a red apron is dipping a Twinkie on a stick into the fried dough that they use to make the funnel cakes. It's a fried dough Twinkie! My mouth waters. I have to wipe the drool off with my shirt." (Chapter 18)

It's a masterful mix of profound, adult thoughts and kid-like interests. My favorite scene is one in which Jeremy and Lizzy have to give false names to get into a building in New York.

"Lizzy signs the clipboard and pushes it over to me. She signed in as Tia Castaway, the name of the little girl in our favorite Disney movie when we were little, Escape to Witch Mountain. She gives me a little kick on the shin, and since we're supposed to be brother and sister, I carefully write Tony Castaway and push the clipboard back to the man." (Chapter 6)

OK, I just like that one because Escape to Witch Mountain is still my favorite Disney movie. But I liked the whimsy/pop cultural reference to the whole thing. I feel a kinship to Wendy Mass, because she thought of referring to Tony and Tia Castaway.

I do have a couple of criticisms. I thought that the book was a little bit long - the story dragged for me a bit in the middle, and it took me a while to get through the book. I also felt somewhat manipulated by the ending, though I will admit that it made some questionable things more clear. Even as I was feeling manipulated, I couldn't resist the ending, either, and spent a lot of time thinking about it once I had closed the book. Thinking about the meaning of my life. And people could do a lot worse than read a book that makes them think like that. Recommended for middle school readers, especially those with a philosophical or questioning bent, or those fond of treasure hunts.

A slightly longer version of this book review was originally published on my blog, Jen Robinson's Book Page, on June 3, 2007.

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life........2007-05-14

I would recommend this book to any one who is looking for a book you just can't put down. It is full of adventure and many what will happen next questions. I truly think it is a great book. I think all pre and teens should read this book because you do learn a lot even though it is only a book. Things happen for a reason in life and you can learn this from reading this book. Everything in life has a meaning weather you realize it or not. Some things happpen for the good and some things happen to teach us a lesson, even though it may be a hard lesson to learn and sometimes bad things happen along the way it all happened for a reason This book will show you why things happen for the beter it is a cheer you up book at times. A must read.

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life-Wendy Mass.......2007-04-25

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life is a about a young boy who is on a mission to find 4 keys to open a box that has "the meaning of life" inside of it. Along the way he meets many different people that give him their ideas about what the meaning of life is.
When Lizzy (Jeremys best friend) gives Jeremy the last key for his birthday. He was so down in the dumps because he thought he wouldnt be able to open it on his birthday like it was intended. [...]
I would definetly recommend this book. It is very interesting and as soon as I got into it I couldnt put it down. There are so many things going on that it keeps you interested. Once you think that Jeremy might find the keys theres another twist. And the characters are ery interesting each of them has their own story. The Author gives all the details about them.

Jeremny Fink and the meaning of life review.......2007-03-31

The book I read was Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass. The book was about Jeremy Fink and his friend Lizzy trying to find the keys to this box. The box was given to Jeremy for his thirteenth birthday from his dead father. His father had saved it for him and had told his mother to give it to him on his thirteenth birthday, whether his father was alive or not. They looked everywhere for the keys and eventually found them and opened the box. The box contained what Jeremy's dad thought the meaning of life was.
I liked the book very much. I liked it because it was always exciting and I was always on the edge of my seat. It was always a mystery, where would the keys be, who had them, how would Jeremy find them? There were so many questions that were always unanswered until the climax and the end. It was a mysterious story that was very exciting. I also liked the book, because the book's ending was satisfying. They explained the whole trick behind it all, how everything was planned, and they answered all the questions that popped up in my head while I was reading. Another reason why I liked the book was that the main conflict interested me. I wanted to know what was in that box as much as they did. I wanted to know what the meaning of life is, even though everyone has a different view of what the meaning of life is; it changes for everyone.
The author's writing style had unique characteristics. The writing was very creative and realistic. All the ideas she came up with to make the story flow were very creative. The characters were also very realistic. Any kid I know would jump at the chance to find out the meaning of life, just like they did. The dialogue was also very realistic and was also very well written.
I recommend this book to people who like mystery and fiction books. I would recommend this book to them, because there is a mystery going on throughout the book, but it's all fictional so it's kind of nice reading about some imaginary character's life. I rate this book pretty high with the books I have read. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I was always excited, enough said. If a book can do that, then it's a good book, in my opinion.
I enjoyed the book very much, so much that I think it should come out with a sequel. It wasn't really a cliffhanger, but the characters in the story were nice and I'm sure other readers would want to hear more about their adventures. I, for one, would love to read more about them. Maybe the next book could be titled Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Death, certainly would be a good follow up to the meaning of life.

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J.D. Robb Collection 3: Holiday in Death, Conspiracy in Death, and Loyalty in Death (In Death)
J.D. Robb
Manufacturer: Brilliance Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette

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J.D. Robb Collection 6: Portrait in Death, Imitation in Death, and Divided in Death (In Death)
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ASIN: 1593554125
Release Date: 2004-06-10

Book Description

Holiday in Death

No one likes to be alone during the holidays. For New York's most posh dating service, Personally Yours, it is the season to bring lonely hearts together. But Lt. Eve Dallas, on the trail of a ritualistic serial killer, has made a disturbing discovery: all of the victims have been traced to Personally Yours.

Conspiracy in Death

With the precision of a surgeon, a serial killer preys on the most vulnerable souls of the world's city streets. The first victim: a sidewalk sleeper, found dead in New York City. No bruises, no signs of struggle. Just a laser-perfect, fist-sized hole where his heart had once been. Lieutenant Eve Dallas is assigned to investigate. But in the heat of a cat-and-mouse game with the killer, Dallas's job is suddenly on the line.

Loyalty in Death

An unknown bomber is stalking New York City. He is sending Eve Dallas taunting letters promising to wreak mass terror and destruction among the "corrupt masses." And when his cruel web of deceit and destruction threatens those she cares for most, Eve fights back. It's her city . . .it's her job . . . and it's hitting too close to home. Now, in a race against a ticking clock, Eve must make the pieces fit - before the city falls.

The Undoing of Death: Sermons for Holy Week and Easter

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Outstanding!

The Undoing of Death: Sermons for Holy Week and Easter
Fleming Rutledge
Manufacturer: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Seven Last Words from the Cross
The Bible and the New York Times
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ASIN: 080283969X

Book Description

Heralded by congregations and peers alike as one of today's most compelling Christian voices, Fleming Rutledge here offers a profound, touching vision of the cross and resurrection. Divided into seven sections that progress from Palm Sunday to Good Friday to Easter and on through Eastertide, these sermons display Rutledge's startling ability to bridge the message of the ancient biblical texts with the distinct needs of modern people.

Intellectually engaging, pastorally wise, and beautifully written, "The Undoing of Death" is accented throughout with thirty-three artistic masterpieces depicting the events of Holy Week, making it a feast for the eye as well as the soul.

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding!.......2006-04-28

Reverend Fleming Rutledge offers thorough and profound Spirit-filled preaching on the cross and the resurrection directly in the Word of God, the Bible. Elements of her work are on par with such leaders as Lewis and Bonhoeffer. Rutledge is at her best when she is least polite, yet eloquent, when articulating the astonishing, even shocking, truths of Christian orthodoxy. This work is, in fact, a call for a return to orthodoxy: Live in the cross; live in the ressurrection. I spent this Holy and Easter week with these sermons, and the Spirit blessed me mightily. In addition, I love the beautiful sacred art and commentary. Reverend Rutledge offers the very best that the Episcopal and Anglican tradition hold. This is surprising and encouraging, considering that the Episcopal church (America) has begun to abandon Biblical truth and orthodox Christianity. I offer Reverend Ruthledge every encouragement: Come, Lord Jesus, breathe your Holy Spirit into our dry bones through your powerful daughter, Fleming!

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Alfie and the Birthday Surprise
good book about death (and alfie)
Another wonderful Alfie story
Wonderful Children's Author

Alfie and the Birthday Surprise
Shirley Hughes
Manufacturer: HarperCollins Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0688151876

Book Description

Birthday parties always make people happy, and Alfie's neighbor, Mr. MacNally, really does need cheering up. Alfie thinks a party might be just the thing, and there's an extra special surprise in store for Mr. MacNally! Will Alfie manage to keep it a secret?

Customer Reviews:

Alfie and the Birthday Surprise.......2005-09-06

Anything Shirley Hughes writes is worth reading! She writes about everyday situations with which my 3 year old and I can relate (and we laugh, cry or feel whatever other emotion she provokes) and always enjoy!. She both writes and illustrates her books - and do so beautifully!

good book about death (and alfie).......2003-10-30

I am fond of this book because it incorporates death as part of a continuum of events in a child's life, instead of placing it front and center in a "the-moral-of-the-story-is" type of typical children's story.

Alfie's neighbor loves his old cat, the cat dies, the neighbor is very sad, the neighbor stays sad, and Alfie and friends and family decide to plan a surprise birthday party for the neighbor. Then there are lots of details about the party, including the purchase of presents, the making of the cake, and even getting a new kitten for the neighbor. Then, ta-dum, everybody yells SURPRISE! And the neighbor is happier, and the kitten turns out to be pretty cool, and the party is fun, and even though everybody remembers the old cat fondly, the new cat becomes a part of their life.

I like this approach and so, apparently, do my kids. I've been trying to find good books for kids about death, and this has turned out to be a favorite. And the pictures are *adorable,* I just wanted to reach right in and pinch Alfie's red cheeks.

Another wonderful Alfie story.......2000-02-15

We (my 3-year old son and 2-year old daughter and I) loved Hughes' "All About Alfie," and her story "Dogger," and this book is a wonderful next step for us, especially my son. There's a bit more text per page, and more mature subject matter (the death of a neighbor's pet) which helps ensure it will grow with him. (I was worried that he'd lose the wonderful role model he has in Alfie!) The only negative is that since the stories so completely capture Alfie's point of view, Annie Rose is a little flat, and my daughter is not as engaged by her. Alfie stories are a great example of how to be caring toward your siblings. The illustrations showing a happy family without a spotless house (it looks comfy and lived in!) make me want to give Hughes a hug!

Wonderful Children's Author.......1998-12-31

Shirley Hughes is a wonderful author who uses beautiful illustrations and a quiet writing style in her children's books. My toddler loves her book, Chatting, as well as other Hughes titles. I highly recommend sharing Alfie with your children.

The Empty Chair: Handling Grief on Holidays and Special Occasions

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Very Helpful After Losing A Loved One
Help for anyone who has had a loved one die.
The book is very misleading!
Help for the Holidays
Ritualizing Loss

The Empty Chair: Handling Grief on Holidays and Special Occasions
Susan J. Zonnebelt-Smeenge , and Robert C. De Vries
Manufacturer: Baker Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0801063779
Release Date: 2001-09-01

Book Description

Losing a loved one-whether a spouse, parent, child, sibling, or friend-leaves people feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. Holidays and other special occasions seem to intensify the pain. Whether the occasion is Christmas or Easter, a birthday or anniversary, these celebrations force the bereaved to again face the reality of a loved one's absence. Susan Zonnebelt-Smeenge and Robert C. De Vries know firsthand the sorrow of bereavement: Both lost a spouse. Yet as they faced their pain and gleaned insights from their professions-Susan is a psychologist, Robert, a minister-they found renewed richness on special days that once brought heartache. In The Empty Chair, the authors share a comforting blend of emotional support, spiritual guidance, and personal experience to help readers honor their loved one on important days. Those who support the bereaved-mental-health professionals, pastors, funeral home staff, and others-will also appreciate this book for its reflective yet practical approach.

Customer Reviews:

Very Helpful After Losing A Loved One.......2006-03-30

I found this book very helpful after losing a loved one. I particularly liked the format of this book. The authors give excellent ideas and suggestions as well as inspiring meditations. I highly recommend "The Empty Chair" to anyone who has experienced a death of someone close to them.

Help for anyone who has had a loved one die........2006-03-15

What a great book! In tackling a sometimes difficult topic, the authors did a splendid job in addressing holidays and other occasions and how to handle them after losing a loved one. I have enjoyed this book so much that I've recommended it to several friends.

The book is very misleading!.......2005-12-04

First of all, this book has handling grief on holidays and special occasions right in the title but it barely touches on that!!!! I have seen other books do a much better job helping survivors honor their loved one, acknowledge their grief, etc than this one does. If you are looking for help on how to handle the holidays, this one will not give you much help.
Second, I did not realize how Christian this book is when I bought it. The Christian meditations are nice for those of you who are. It should at least say that in the title or cover or something! It does not. If you are Christian, you may like the meditations. They are thoughtful and inspiring if you follow this faith. I am sure you will draw comfort from it. If you are not Christian, you probably won't and you will be skipping a lot of pages! While I understand that death and spirituality overlap, I have a problem with the fact that this book is Christian but does not advertise itself as such.
As for rituals and such to honor your loved one, there are other books that do a much better job than this one in that department.
While I do not doubt the qualifications of the authors, I do not think this book does a good job in addressing the subject because it barely touches on the sublect at all!! I would pass this one up if you are specifically looking for holiday help. It may help you if you are a Christian who needs guidance with grief from the death of a loved one, but since this book is so general, it will leave you searching for more help.

Help for the Holidays.......2004-08-10

This is a wonderful easy read that helped me through a difficult time. I thought that I had completed the grieving process for my father, but realized that during the Holidays I would get really down. After reading The Empty Chair, I realized that what I was going through was normal, and needed to deal with those emotions. Since reading this book, I have learned how to enjoy the Holidays and remember the good times with my father instead of resenting and grieving that he is not there to share those special times.

If you know of anyone who just lost someone close to them this is an excellent gift.

Ritualizing Loss.......2002-10-28

This book is an excellent tool for ritualizing loss in any situation, especially during the holidays. It offers an effective format to simply state what you may be holding back while sitting around the holiday dinner table or gathering around the Christmas tree or at a family reunion. It is often hard to spontaneously say that we miss the person who is no longer there, whether it be from death or divorce, that there is an empty spot in our hearts. You may get choked up while going through the suggested format, but it can be extremely healing.

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Based on a real tree in Lam Tsuen, Hong Kong
A deftly woven and lovely picturebook story
Story based on Chinese custom

The Wishing Tree
Roseanne Thong
Manufacturer: Shen's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1885008260

Book Description

Ming and his grandmother visit a wishing tree every Lunar New Year. As Ming grows from a little boy to a young man, the tree's presence remains an important figure in his life. When he is forced to overcome a tragedy, he develops a new relationship with t

Customer Reviews:

Based on a real tree in Lam Tsuen, Hong Kong .......2005-06-12

I absolutely love that this story is based upon a real Banyan "Wishing Tree" in a small village called Lam Tsuen in Hong Kong, and that there are other smaller ones among Hong Kong's countryside.

As if the story wasn't beautiful enough, the author took a lot of time explaining about wishing trees and how they are either banyan or camphor trees because these kinds of trees because they have aerial roots that curve & twist into unsual shapes that seem to look magical! She then goes on to tell her reader tells us that people come all though out the year to toss their wishes onto the wishing trees branches, but the majority of the people come during their Lunar New Year. She also speaks of the Ng Bo Dip which means "5 Treasures Piles" in Cantonese that the wishes are written. The brightly colored red & gold papers are then tied to a Mandarin Orange and thrown high into the branches of the wishing tree. I bet it's a beautiful sight! The author also includes a directions on how to make your very own Ng Bo Dip and also includes a black & white copy for the reader to photocopy, color and cut out!

A definate treasure to have in your home library!

A deftly woven and lovely picturebook story .......2005-01-03

Young readers ages 4-10 will find Wishing Tree by Roseanne Thong to be a deftly woven and lovely picturebook story set in modern Hong Kong and telling of a young boy and his grandmother who visit a rural temple's Wishing Tree every lunar New Year. Connie McLennan's realistic drawings enhances a story which tells how a wishing tree helps a youngster solve common problems in life.

Story based on Chinese custom.......2004-11-29

The boy Ming is disappointed in the wishing tree introduced to him by his grandmother when the tree fails to give him his wish that his aged grandmother survive her illness. But after a time when he does not go to it anymore, he comes near it again when a group of friends invite him to go with them. In talking with his friends and a nearby vendor, Ming realizes that the tree granted his grandmother's greatest wish for him--that he be happy. The simple tale is based on a real tree in a village in Hong Kong. The author Thong with bright pictures by McLennan describe how the Chinese write their wishes on pieces of paper, and toss these into the branches of the tree. Following the tale, the author gives directions on how young readers can follow this practice for themselves with their own wishing tree.

Skulls to the Living, Bread to the Dead: The Day of the Dead in Mexico and Beyond

Average customer rating:

Skulls to the Living, Bread to the Dead: The Day of the Dead in Mexico and Beyond
Stanley H. Brandes
Manufacturer: Blackwell Publishing Limited
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1405152486

Death Never Takes a Holiday (Ghostwriter Mystery)

Average customer rating:

A great mystery romp in the Big Apple
Interesting premise, but ghost is a good description
Another fun romp through Manhattan with Jake
Takes you into the world of "ghosts"

Death Never Takes a Holiday (Ghostwriter Mystery)
Noreen Wald
Manufacturer: Berkley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0425177440
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Book Description

The Crime Writers' Conference kicks off on St. Patrick's Day in New York. But when green beer leaves two writers permanently green around the gills, ghostwriter Jake O'Hara must rewrite the murderer's plot.

"[Wald] writes with a light touch."-New York Daily News

• 3rd in the Ghostwriter mystery series

Customer Reviews:

A great mystery romp in the Big Apple.......2001-02-14

In the third of the Ghostwriter series, the author keeps us turning those pages and waiting for the next installment. As the main character, Jake O'Hara, and her coterie of colorful fellow ghostwriters and extended family lead us up and down Manhattan in the chase for the murderer, we get to eat, drink and be merry with a witty and fun group. Enough plot for any mystery devotee. Enjoy!

Interesting premise, but ghost is a good description.......2001-01-08

I enjoyed much of this mystery. The mystery itself was interesting and hard to figure out. The main character was the only one who really didn't come to life. I finished the book without a really clear picture of her. I found myself not really caring about her lovelife. Ben appears to be a non-entity, which makes me wonder what she sees in him. He doesn't seem to even really get involved in the murder investigation, and lets face it, a movie star and a senator are dead--unrealistic!

Another fun romp through Manhattan with Jake.......2000-11-28

Noreen Wald's Ghost Writer series is full of fun, witty and imaginative characters as well as simple but twisted plots. All in all, these books are great fun for series mystery readers looking to take a holiday.

Death Never Takes a Holiday plunges Jake O'Hara, a ghost writer of mysteries, back into crime solving along with her fellow Ghost Writers. When attending the Crime Writer's Conference with her mother, Maura, and Gypsy Rose as well as her on again off again paramour Dennis Kim, Jake witnesses two murders.

Former movie star Holly Halligan and Senator Charles Fiure's deaths cast suspicion on everyone especially the third panelist, cat burglar turned bestseller, Rickie Romero. Jake must discover who killed the Senator and the Star and if and how their lives were linked. Once again the reader gets to follow Jake's pals Modesty, Too Tall Tom and the always intriguing Ben Rubin (Jake's other love interest).

As they search the streets of Manhattan and the alley-ways of the past - Jake discovers more than she has bargained for. Jake also learns to deal with her mother's upcoming wedding, her feelings for both Dennis and Ben as well as the possibility that Modesty may have met the love of her life. Will Jake succeed in unmasking the murderer before meeting an untimely end?

Takes you into the world of "ghosts".......2000-11-08

Jake O'Hare wants to be a writer, but since living in Manhattan is so expensive, she mostly ghost writes for "real" authors. Jake resides with her mother in their inherited condo. Since ghosting is traumatic, Jake and some associates have formed Ghosts Anonymous to enable them to accept their roles in life. When she is not ghosting, Jake seems to always work a homicide investigation, but death is far from her mind today.

Jake intends to enjoy the St. Patrick's Day festivities starting with the parade. Following that event, she plans to attend the Greater New York Crime Writer's Conference that is being given at the Plaza Hotel. At the opening panel, former movie star Holly Halligan, Senator Charles Fiume, and former cat burglar Rickie Romero lead a discussion on "Turning Your Career into Murder." Before they begin, a leprechaun places a pitcher of green beer on the table. Following a toast, the three panelists drink. Two of them convulse and die. Only Romero, a recovering alcoholic failed to actually imbibe the green suds. Jake, her fellow ghosts, and the rest of her motley crew begin to nvestigate the double murders.

DEATH NEVER TAKES A HOLIDAY is an amusing amateur sleuth mystery that gives readers keen insight into the role ghost writers play in the publishing world. However, the tale is laced with too many characters involved in too many subplots, leaving bewildered readers struggling to follow the action. Noreen Wald shows her talent that sub-genre fans will appreciate, but hopefully she will save some of her subplots for future novels starring the delightful Jake.

Harriet Klausner

Death Makes a Holiday: A Cultural History of Halloween

Average customer rating:

Pleasant Discussion on the Different Aspects of Hallowe'en
Unofficial and Uncontrolled
Not bad!
Fun and Insightful
Emphasis on the 'cultural'.

Death Makes a Holiday: A Cultural History of Halloween
David J. Skal
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 158234230X

Book Description

From acclaimed cultural critic David J. Skal, an in-depth look at one of the most popular-and perplexing-holidays in America.

Using a mix of personal anecdotes and brilliant social analysis, Skal examines the amazing phenomenon of Halloween, exploring its dark Celtic history and illuminating why it has evolved-in the course of a few short generations-from a quaint, small-scale celebration into the largest seasonal marketing event outside of Christmas.

Traveling the country, Skal profiles a wide cross-section of America-hard-nosed business men who see Halloween in terms of money; fundamentalists who think it is blasphemous; practicing witches who view it as sacred; and more ordinary men and women who go to extraordinary lengths, on this one night only, to transform themselves and their surroundings into elaborate fantasies. Firmly rooted in a deeper cultural and historical analysis, these interviews seek to understand what the various rituals and traditions associated with the holiday have to say about our national psyche.

Customer Reviews:

Pleasant Discussion on the Different Aspects of Hallowe'en.......2006-10-10

I've never been much of a Hallowe'en lover, but I did enjoy this look at the different cultural aspects of the holiday, from the origins of the holiday to the haunted house industry, even the look at the John Carpenter movies, which I've never seen and don't intend to. The look at Salem's "witch industry" is fascinating. Skal doesn't make any great conclusions or add anything new to the mix, but it's an interesting take on the various ways Hallowe'en has been celebrated--and vilified--over the years.

Unofficial and Uncontrolled.......2006-09-18

"Halloween, the one major holiday that was unofficial, and therefore uncontrolled, was ... [a] holiday ripe for new myths and rituals."

It's the new "myths and rituals" that are the main focus of David J. Skal's "Death Make a Holiday - a Cultural History of Halloween." Other reviewers have commented on the relative lack of "history" in this book and, in some ways, that's a fair observation. The history of Halloween is covered in the first chapter (The Halloween Machine) but from there the book becomes a contemporary view of the modern celebration, in all its permutations. This isn't an historical review as much as an invitation to join the author on a fascinating journey across this peculiarly American holiday's landscape. The metaphor of traveling cross-country could be particularly apt as several chapters focus on the regional aspects of Halloween.

For example, "The Witch's Teat" examines Salem, the city where it's Halloween 24/7 and 365. This is a city where the police drive cars emblazoned with witches and wear them on their shoulders! Having visited Salem in the early `90's (and no where near October 31st) I can tell you from first hand experience that this is a municipality that's turned the tragedy of the witch trials into a ne0-goth theme park and is reaping a healthy return on investment.

For some, this detailed description of Salem's fascination is too much - it somehow distracts from the genuine history of Halloween (whatever that is). For me, as a long-time fan of David's work, it's what I've come to expect. David's attention to detail is legendary and, often, exhaustive. If you haven't read "Hollywood Gothic" it's a pluperfect recounting of everything (and I do mean everything) Dracula related. If anything, I was a little surprised that David relented when he did to move on to other topics.

Similarly, David takes us to Castro Street and San Francisco's often over-the-top Halloween parades and practices. Frequently not ready for primetime, this is new territory for much of America, certainly for me. (Google up "exotic erotic ball" and you'll see what I mean. Don't do it at work!) David handles the exotic and the erotic with a deft hand, addressing everything from the claiming of Halloween as a "gay high holy day" to the often disturbingly aggressive response of civic authority and televangelists determined to save the event's bohemian practitioners from themselves or an eternity in hell.

And that leads me to another delicate topic that often arises in critiques of Mr. Skal's work: his supposed "gay perspective." Depending on the reviewer this is either so over-the-top that it detracts from the topic at hand, or so minimal as to be non-existent.

I'm hetero and politically conservative and I've never felt that David was stridently pushing any personal gay agenda, or, conversely, ignoring the obvious facts of its existence and influence on society. This is purely my opinion, but in David Skal I read a man who's come to see his orientation as a fact and, just maybe, a blessing. He's certainly made peace with it himself and, I think, invites others to do so as well.

Personally, I've never been offended or felt put upon and I think he does justice to the notion that there will come a time when being gay or straight is no more remarkable, or remarked upon, than the color of one's tie or whether or not one chooses to drive a hummer versus a hybrid. It will just "be." I encourage readers to put aside any consideration of sexual dynamics or politics and just read the words as they're written on the page. Your consideration of them will be more rewarding if you don't waste time mentally debating whether the author is advocating (or ignoring) any particular agenda. But enough; let's move on.

Another critique is David's review of the Hollywood take on Halloween. Some think this also detracts from the "pure" aspects of the Halloween holiday and, again, I'm not sure there is such a thing. But consider: film horror is definitely David's forte, so could he have honestly bypassed the medium that's been so instrumental in forming our current concept of what Halloween was and is?

In the chapter "Halloween on Screen," David does more than just review John Carpenter's "Halloween" and instead points out the many references to the holiday in everything from "The Wizard of Oz" to "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!" (Concerning "Halloween" here's an amusing bit of trivia -the now-famous mask worn my Michael Myers was a soft-vinyl mask of William Shatner as "Star Trek's" Captain Kirk with the face painted white and the brown hair retained! Personally, I'll never look at "Star Trek" the same way again...)

The one criticism I do have of the book is that it could have made more frequent use of footnotes. There's a healthy (and interesting) "Notes" section at the end, broken down by chapters; I would have liked it if this had been integrated into the text, so as to see where a particular reference was being used. But that's a minor suggestion and one I understand many readers would find distracting.

All-in-all, David's book is an excellent and enjoyable read for a holiday that's, relatively, new. I heartily recommend it and predict that it will someday be recognized as a seminal and authentic account of the rise of the holiday that eclipses Christmas.

Not bad!.......2005-08-09

As a student of the folklore of calendar customs, I eagerly picked up Death Makes a Holiday. And it was worth it! It is not a standard history; instead, the book is "episodic" in that each chapter covers a completely different subject than the previous ones, making this less a unified book and more a collection of interesting essays.

Each essay *is* interesting, though of varying strength. The chapter on the history of Halloween is the best, especially when Skal is showing off his in-depth collection of primary sources. The film chapter is almost *too* detailed, with a rapid-fire pace that one would expect from an expert on horror films, but that leaves the reader winded. The chapter on witches is the weakest, less about Halloween's adoption of the witch than it is about Salem's exploitation of it.

All in all, Skal's book is a welcome addition to the scholarly Halloween shelf.

Fun and Insightful.......2004-10-30

An overview of the history and changing perceptions of All Hallow's Eve and related (sometimes assimilated) holidays. The focus is primarily on Halloween in the 20th Century, with chapters on Halloween and Holywood, Halloween after 9/11, and Halloween and the gay rights movement.

Enjoyable and educational, the author's personal love of this holiday clearly shines through. A refreshing look at an uniquely American holiday (however loosely related to ancient Celtic festivals).

Emphasis on the 'cultural'........2004-10-24

I found that David Skal's book delt more on the cultural and less on the historical aspects of America's Halloween, and this is probably why it's a cultural history as opposed to a history. It's a fascinating overview about this prodominately American holiday as it skims through many parts of All Hallow's Eve. It would have been nice if he had added a bit more about monsters and the like (hence the rating) but overall this book is entertaining and worth the read.

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