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Today's christian book club ArticleWriting Resources: 7 Books For Improving Your Manuscript
Whether a crawling novice or polished professional, writers from every walk of life have room for improvement in their work. An endless array of rules and techniques must be kept in mind when writing ? punctuation, grammar, transition, show don?t tell, etc. As a result, it?s extremely important to have a firm grasp on the fundamentals. By stressing the fundamentals, coaches and trainers have transformed individuals of modest talent into world class competitors. Why should writing be any different? Focus on the fundamentals and success will follow.
Below is a list of seven books I believe every writer should read and re-read. Some of these books focus on writing fiction. But even if your exclusive domain is as a nonfiction writer, you can benefit enormously from the tips in these books. Remember, the best writers show instead of tell. And there?s no better way to paint a vivid picture in the mind of a reader than by employing some of the basic principles of fiction writing. So keep an open mind. And if you long to improve your writing skills, devour these books with the utmost enthusiasm.
The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
A classic moving into its eighth decade, The Elements of Style should be second only to the dictionary in the life of a writer. In a clear and concise manner, it spells out the rules of usage, explains the principles of composition, provides commentary on matters of form, and gives twenty-one ground rules for creating written words that harbor universal appeal.
The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman
Written by a successful literary agent, The First Five Pages speaks directly to writers aspiring to see their words appear in print. The author stresses the importance of not only the first five pages, but the first five words. The book teaches writers how to refine a manuscript so that it?s an instant attention-grabber ? one that hooks not only agents and editors, but the end reader himself.
The Plot Thickens by Noah Lukeman
Lukeman?s follow-up book, The Plot Thickens promises ?8 ways to bring fiction to life?. And if you follow the rules in this book, your fiction writing will improve dramatically. Lukeman explains that great fiction is more than just a good storyline. Great fiction stems from well-developed characters, motivations, suspense, and conflict.
How to Write a Damn Good Novel by James Frey
A classic bestseller that caters to the aspiring fiction writer, How to Write a Damn Good Novel delivers on its promise to provide ?a step-by-step no nonsense guide to dramatic storytelling?. Author James Frey creates an A-to-Z, easy-to-follow roadmap for success in fiction by stressing the fundamentals of excellent writing.
On Writing by Stephen King
Written more as ?a memoir of the craft? than a ?how to? book, Stephen King?s On Writing provides readers with a unique glimpse into the mind and work habits of one of the bestselling writers of all-time. How many ?how to? books can do that? Trust me on this one, you?re bound to find a few tips you can apply to your own writing.
Stein on Writing by Sol Stein
As editor to some of the most successful authors of the 20th Century, and a bestselling author himself, Sol Stein provides valuable insight into the secrets of the trade. Each chapter is a brief lesson on how to improve at least one aspect of your work. Stein even provides a chapter titled ?Using the Techniques of Fiction to Enhance Nonfiction?. This is an excellent resource for writers.
How to Grow a Novel by Sol Stein
In this book, Stein focuses more on the fiction writer and the specific process of writing a novel. But writers from every walk of life can benefit as Stein explores common mistakes of writers and offers a blueprint for bringing a story to life.
Commit to memory the principles espoused in these books, and your writing skills will improve by leaps and bounds. You?ll experience success in almost every area of your life due to your improved ability to communicate. So what are you waiting for? Start reading now!
About the Author: Britt Gillette educates others on the numerous benefits of Goji Juice. You can find more articles like this one at Britt?s Writing Corner.
Featured christian book club ItemsWe're Back!: A Dinosaur's Story
We're Back!: A Dinosaur's Story
Customer Review: Awesome Movie
For those of you who are adults and read way to much into this movie YOU SUCK!!!! This is a great movie for children and for children to enjoy it you parents have to get off your bum and teach them the differences between fiction and reality. Children will fall in love with the dinosaurs and their friends. It is a great way to show children that having an imagination is okay in the real world.
Customer Review: An Overlooked Treasure
I thank my father for introducing me to this film, at the tender age of seven or eight, because ever since watching it for the first few times, I have yet to hear mention of it again, which is an awful shame, seeing as this 1993 Amblimation classic is of considerably higher crust (and flavor) than much of what's animated nowadays. Call it contemporary '90s entertainment, but that's what's you want when you're looking for animated blockbusters.
Very loosely based on the Hudson Talbott children's book of the same name, "We're Back!" embraces quality animation and a once-in-a-lifetime voice cast (including not only John Goodman and Martin Short, but also Jay Leno and Walter Cronkite) to tell a somewhat basic story of friendship, self-sacrifice, and (to a lesser extent) overcoming one's fears by way of a dinosauric romp through New York City. Solidly constructed, the tale of smartened-up dinoes Rex, Elsa, Dweeb, and Woog lives by enthusiastic appeal that has the ability to overshadow some of the more simplistic aspects of the film, and, if nothing more, remind you why these kinds of films used to be fun.
These simplistic aspects are the film's drawbacks: the plot moves forth at a pace that's almost too leisurely and undeterred, the characters experience minimal development, and the antagonist is overcome with minimal difficulty. Whether or not the viewer is able to embrace these simplicities is what is sure to make or break the film to the individual viewer; if you're able to identify the simple points of the film as nonetheless solid supports of the story, there's a good chance you'll enjoy it. Make no mistake, this is a child's film, but truly one for children of all ages.
The Easi-Reader Bookstand
The Easi-Reader Bookstand
Holds reading material in a comfortable position for hands-free reading. Made of chrome-plated steel, this item folds away easily for storage.
Customer Review: Great for hardbacks, textbooks
Very simple and cheap, but not much is needed from a book stand. Some reviewers complain that it doesn't hold paperbacks, but one can easily see from looking at it that it wouldn't be good for that, so I didn't knock it.
I use this stand to hold my textbooks up while I'm reading and taking notes, which is really nice to keep from having to hunch over a book to read it flat on a table. Also it allows the book to take up less desk space, which is nice when reading and using a computer at the same time. Since it's light and collapsable, it's also very useful to take along to classes and have the same benefits in the classroom as well.
Customer Review: Grandmom says, Wonderful gadget!
This stand proved to be better that I expected. It holds large, heavy (read coffee table) books easily and is so portable as to be a pleasure. Folds very thin and can slip in the smallest tote or brief case. Also great for the morning paper (don't want to gump up your paper while you're buttering your bagel!); but if you are only a paperback reader, I'd give this one a pass. For the price, what's not to like!
Sport Fish of Florida
Sport Fish of Florida
This full color 256-page book from long-time fishing legend and Florida Sportsman Magazine Sr.Editor Vic Dunaway features his 50-plus years of fishing knowledge. Each of the 231 species is illustrated with original full-color artwork from renowned marine artist Kevin R. Brant. The book answers many common questions, providing specific information about the type of fish, its range and habitat, identifying features, whether or not it is good to eat, the average and record size of each fish and the best fishing methods to catch them.
Customer Review: Overall Great Book
I think the book is pretty good. The pictures are detailed and colorful, then it gives the basic lowdown on all the fish, and I really like that it gives you at least an idea of edibility. I also liked that they included a section for freshwater fish. I kind of wish it could have talked more about typical methods to catch the different fish, but I guess the book can't have everything..Overall a great book.
Customer Review: gr8
nice pictures,
great descriptions
Cake Decorating Course 1: Discover Cake Decorating
Cake Decorating Course 1: Discover Cake Decorating
Student guide for Wilton's cake decorating course 1: Discover Cake Decorating. .
48 pages, softcover.
Intended for participants in Wilton's cake decorating course 1 classes, but may also be used as a self-study guide.
Customer Review: A must have for the novice
If you have never decorated then this is a must have book. It shows you how to make frosting, fill pastry bags, and talks about the decorating tips you will need. It is very easy to understand for someone who have never decorated a cake. This is the perfect book to get your decorating hands going.
Customer Review: take the course with it, prepare to shell out more $$ for tools
I just begin a Wilton cake decorating class #1 at Michael's, and this book comes FREE with the class which is $18 (instructor says these course books should retail about $3-5 at most).
You should take the class in addition to read this book, the experience of live teaching by an experienced instructor is invaluable. During this class, you will learn the beginner cake decoration techniques. It's a lot of fun, and if you don't want to proceed onto course II or III, it should be fine with just decorating your average cupcake, cookies and basic cakes. [[though most people love it so much that they do advance on..]]
however, I do have to caution that the course I tool kit you can buy ($19.99 @ Michael's) is only the bare minimum, it does not have all the things you will need for the first class. so be prepared to develop this hobby and pay more (~$20-40 depending on what you want) for other tool/tips/bags....
Ratatouille
Ratatouille
One key point: if you can get over the natural gag reflex of seeing hundreds of rodents swarming over a restaurant kitchen, you will be free to enjoy the glory of Ratatouille, a delectable Pixar hit. Our hero is Remy, a French rat (voiced by Patton Oswalt) with a cultivated palate, who rises from his humble beginnings to become head chef at a Paris restaurant. How this happens is the stuff of Pixar magic, that ineffable blend of headlong comedy, seamless technology, and wonder (in the latter department, this movie's views of nighttime Paris are on a par with French cinema at its most lyrical). Director Brad Bird (The Incredibles) doesn't quite keep all his spinning plates in the air, but the gags are great and the animation amazingly expressive--Remy's shrugs and nods are nimbler than many flesh-and-blood actors can manage. Refreshingly, the movie's characters aren't celebrity-reliant, with the most recognizable voice coming from Peter O'Toole's snide food critic. (This fellow provides the film's sole sour note--an oddly pointed slap at critics, those craven souls who have done nothing but rave about Pixar's movies over the years.) Brad Bird's style is more quick-hit and less resonant than the approach of Pixar honcho John Lasseter, but it's hard to complain about a movie that cooks up such bountiful pleasure. --Robert Horton
Customer Review: A gustatory journey through Paris
Ratatouille, from Pixar and Brad Bird (The Incredibles (Two-Disc Collector's Edition), The Iron Giant (Special Edition)), is a rat's-eye view of the gastronomic delights of fine cuisine (the name itself is a pun on the classic French roast vegetable dish ratatouille). Remy is a young rat who discovers that he has a heightened sense of taste and smell, and becomes inspired by the late television chef Auguste Gusteau (Brad Garrett), whose motto "anyone can cook" now extends to rats, too. Remy begins to experiment with combining classic combinations of flavor and texture, herbs, and other ingredients, until his clan is forced to flee their country safehouse.
During the traumatic escape, Remy is separated from his family. The ghost of Chef Gusteau appears to Remy when he is discouraged, inspiring him to cook at Gusteau's formerly-five star restaurant. The acid restaurant critic Anton Ego (Peter O'Toole) made it his personal mission to write a scathing review of Gusteau's that stripped it of one of its Michelin stars, consigning it to the tourist trade. Now, the restaurant is under the iron fist of the shady, domineering Head Chef Skinner (Ian Holm). Remy befriends the bumbling, couldn't-boil-water-if-his-life-depended-on-it Alfredo Linguini, whom Skinner grudgingly adopted as the new garbage boy, and Remy and Linguini team up to create culinary delights that astound the normally staid French restaurant critics. Remy controls Linguini by hiding under his chef's toque and tugging on two strands of hair (the scenes of Remy perfecting his technique with a blindfolded Linguini wielding dangerous tools and messy ingredients are priceless). Toss in a handful of intrigue, kitchen highjinks, father-son bonding, a dash of romance with the formidable chef Colette, and plenty of culinary delights, and you have Ratatouille.
The 3D animation is photorealistic, and 360 shots of nighttime Paris entrance. Small touches really capture the Bohemian feel of the Montmartre district, and the soundtrack features (brief) snippets of La Marseillaise, light and airy French themes, and French-language vocals by Camille (the standalone soundtrack Ratatouille is available for purchase). As with The Incredibles, there's lots to keep kids engaged (although the scene with the window full of dead rats might be traumatic for very young kids), and a whole other layer of adult humor bubbling under the surface, so mom and dad will be able to enjoy Ratatouille with gusto.
Customer Review: Good But Deep
Take a rat, add lots of wild and dangerous chase scenes, add a few recipes, finish off with a message that may be too deep for children and you might wind up with this film. This film is somewhere in the middle of Pixar's output. It is not the best but not the worst.
Our rat is unusual. He does not like the standard rat diet of garbage. He has a refined palette which his family exploits to check for poison. But he is unhappy. A violent episode lands him in Paris where he finds the restaurant of his chef hero. Here he has adventures with avoiding the staff and trying to cook. Add two villains (yes, two), the restaurant's current owner and a food critic and our rat's life gets very complicated.
This is a long film with much of it taken up by chase scenes. The cooking scenes are fun and clever. But in the middle we have the lone rat who does not fit in with other rats or with people as he keeps trying to be what he is not in order to please others. It is only in the end when he finds a way to be true to himself that things begin to go well. Great message but a little out there for the kids. The understood the message in Cars and The Incredibles but they didn't quite get this one as it a more adult problem. Still, it has plenty of the tings kids like while being intelligent enough for adults. Check it out.
Honda Civic 2001-2004 & CR-V 2002-2004 (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)
Honda Civic 2001-2004 & CR-V 2002-2004 (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)
Honda Civic (2001 - 2004) and CR-V (2002 -2004) Repair Manual
Customer Review: You could do it but still depending on your knowledge
1. The price of this manual is reasonable.
2. Some out-of-date information about procedures and parts.
3. Too technical which is not suitable for car owner (who has little knowledge about car) to do maintenance trouble-free.
4. Car owner could do approximately 25% out of 100% procedures of the whole manual. Please remember it depends on your car knowledge.
5. Haynes publisher do not care to respond their customer's e-mail and phone call for asking more information in the book as they promised to do so.
Customer Review: Haynes Auto Repair Manual
The Repair book tells you all you need to know about the car in an understandable way. Made replacing my head lights a lot easier.
Coco
Coco
Singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat is one of the most celebrated artists to emerge from the growing talent pool of digitally-savvy self-launched artists, whose rise to prominence as the #1 unsigned artist on the popular myspace site has been largely due to her refreshing sense of understatement.
With no marketing push and only the power of the music behind her, Caillat became a sensation on the social networking site. Rolling Stone highlighted her as one of the top female artists on myspace. Ultimately, her number of friends swelled to more than 100,000. Her profile has been visited over 3 million times, and she has more than l0 million plays. She's currently averaging 50,000 + a day.
The songs on Caillat's debut album COCO mirror the Malibu-born Caillat's low-key, refreshing style. Armed with her acoustic guitar and her dusky vocals, she evokes the same gentle, yet spirited style of her musical influences John Mayer, Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill and The Weepies. The laid-back tempo of Hawaii, where she spent twice annual family vacations, is echoed in the music.
"She's the real thing," stated Monte Lipman, President of Universal Republic Records. "From her unique songwriting skills to her powerful but understated presence, Colbie has connected to millions of music lovers simply through the power of her music.
Customer Review: Dissapointed
I have really tried to like this album but I get bored every time I listen to it. Ms. Calliat's songs are as forgettable as her voice. I'm not sure why so many people are so crazy about her.
Customer Review: A lot better than I was expecting
I got this CD for my wife, thinking that it would be a safe pop album, like the songs you hear from it on the radio. It was that, and much more. It is more interesting and complex musically than most albums by rock bands. The apparent influences of this album vary from reggae to big band, even rock. The songs are all unique (something surprising in a "pop" album). The last song, Capri, is a little odd, but that is the case on many contemporary rock albums. If you like pop, buy this album. If you like contemporary adult rock, buy this album. If you like heavier rock and, like me, are reading this review to see if this CD is worth buying for someone else, buy, give it a good listen, download the good songs (legally of course) and then pass it on. It's really great.
Speck MacBook Pro 15" See-Thru Hard Case - CLEAR - Fits all versions of 15" MacBooks
Speck MacBook Pro 15" See-Thru Hard Case - CLEAR - Fits all versions of 15" MacBooks
Accent the sleek look of your 15.4-inch MacBook Pro notebook. Get great hard case protection, a hint of color and a massive dose of shine. SeeThru MacBook cases are made of translucent hard plastic to beautify and protect.
Customer Review: completely satisfied
the product was great and was delivered very quickly. i am very satisfied with my purchase
Customer Review: Works as advertised
I know many people have commented about problems on this product. I had none of the issues many have described.
I use my MacBook Pro ALL day. I haven't seen any heat problems, not edge abrasiveness nor any issues putting it on.
It makes my Mac look pretty cool and its easily distinguished.
I was even able to wipe off all the finger prints on the casing with the palm of my hand. Pretty cool, I'd say.
Just a note, when you put the bottom on, I would recommend putting the rear part of the laptop in first and then the front. There are some hooks that go on easier that way.
Other than that, it's a great product and I'm glad I purchased it.
Current christian book club NewsArlington Catholic Women’s Club begins 67th year (The Arlington Advocate)Thu, 11 Sep 2008 21:14:31 GMT
On Wednesday evening, September 17, past presidents of the Arlington Catholic Women’s Club will be honored at its first fall meeting, a tradition that began many years ago.
Up Next, Recaps & Links (CBS News)Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:30:03 GMT
Stories, links and the place to get more information on stories on CBS News Sunday Morning .
Molina, Schoeffler, Swenson and More Will Join Maroulis in Rock of Ages (Playbill)Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:05:10 GMT
Complete casting has been announced for the new Off-Broadway musical Rock of Ages, which is scheduled to begin previews at Off-Broadway's New World Stages Oct. 1 with an official opening Oct. 16.
Labels: book buy | cooking books | used book
Today's christian book club ArticleWriting Resources: 7 Books For Improving Your Manuscript
Whether a crawling novice or polished professional, writers from every walk of life have room for improvement in their work. An endless array of rules and techniques must be kept in mind when writing ? punctuation, grammar, transition, show don?t tell, etc. As a result, it?s extremely important to have a firm grasp on the fundamentals. By stressing the fundamentals, coaches and trainers have transformed individuals of modest talent into world class competitors. Why should writing be any different? Focus on the fundamentals and success will follow.
Below is a list of seven books I believe every writer should read and re-read. Some of these books focus on writing fiction. But even if your exclusive domain is as a nonfiction writer, you can benefit enormously from the tips in these books. Remember, the best writers show instead of tell. And there?s no better way to paint a vivid picture in the mind of a reader than by employing some of the basic principles of fiction writing. So keep an open mind. And if you long to improve your writing skills, devour these books with the utmost enthusiasm.
The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
A classic moving into its eighth decade, The Elements of Style should be second only to the dictionary in the life of a writer. In a clear and concise manner, it spells out the rules of usage, explains the principles of composition, provides commentary on matters of form, and gives twenty-one ground rules for creating written words that harbor universal appeal.
The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman
Written by a successful literary agent, The First Five Pages speaks directly to writers aspiring to see their words appear in print. The author stresses the importance of not only the first five pages, but the first five words. The book teaches writers how to refine a manuscript so that it?s an instant attention-grabber ? one that hooks not only agents and editors, but the end reader himself.
The Plot Thickens by Noah Lukeman
Lukeman?s follow-up book, The Plot Thickens promises ?8 ways to bring fiction to life?. And if you follow the rules in this book, your fiction writing will improve dramatically. Lukeman explains that great fiction is more than just a good storyline. Great fiction stems from well-developed characters, motivations, suspense, and conflict.
How to Write a Damn Good Novel by James Frey
A classic bestseller that caters to the aspiring fiction writer, How to Write a Damn Good Novel delivers on its promise to provide ?a step-by-step no nonsense guide to dramatic storytelling?. Author James Frey creates an A-to-Z, easy-to-follow roadmap for success in fiction by stressing the fundamentals of excellent writing.
On Writing by Stephen King
Written more as ?a memoir of the craft? than a ?how to? book, Stephen King?s On Writing provides readers with a unique glimpse into the mind and work habits of one of the bestselling writers of all-time. How many ?how to? books can do that? Trust me on this one, you?re bound to find a few tips you can apply to your own writing.
Stein on Writing by Sol Stein
As editor to some of the most successful authors of the 20th Century, and a bestselling author himself, Sol Stein provides valuable insight into the secrets of the trade. Each chapter is a brief lesson on how to improve at least one aspect of your work. Stein even provides a chapter titled ?Using the Techniques of Fiction to Enhance Nonfiction?. This is an excellent resource for writers.
How to Grow a Novel by Sol Stein
In this book, Stein focuses more on the fiction writer and the specific process of writing a novel. But writers from every walk of life can benefit as Stein explores common mistakes of writers and offers a blueprint for bringing a story to life.
Commit to memory the principles espoused in these books, and your writing skills will improve by leaps and bounds. You?ll experience success in almost every area of your life due to your improved ability to communicate. So what are you waiting for? Start reading now!
About the Author: Britt Gillette educates others on the numerous benefits of Goji Juice. You can find more articles like this one at Britt?s Writing Corner.
Featured christian book club ItemsWe're Back!: A Dinosaur's Story
We're Back!: A Dinosaur's Story
Customer Review: Awesome Movie
For those of you who are adults and read way to much into this movie YOU SUCK!!!! This is a great movie for children and for children to enjoy it you parents have to get off your bum and teach them the differences between fiction and reality. Children will fall in love with the dinosaurs and their friends. It is a great way to show children that having an imagination is okay in the real world.
Customer Review: An Overlooked Treasure
I thank my father for introducing me to this film, at the tender age of seven or eight, because ever since watching it for the first few times, I have yet to hear mention of it again, which is an awful shame, seeing as this 1993 Amblimation classic is of considerably higher crust (and flavor) than much of what's animated nowadays. Call it contemporary '90s entertainment, but that's what's you want when you're looking for animated blockbusters.
Very loosely based on the Hudson Talbott children's book of the same name, "We're Back!" embraces quality animation and a once-in-a-lifetime voice cast (including not only John Goodman and Martin Short, but also Jay Leno and Walter Cronkite) to tell a somewhat basic story of friendship, self-sacrifice, and (to a lesser extent) overcoming one's fears by way of a dinosauric romp through New York City. Solidly constructed, the tale of smartened-up dinoes Rex, Elsa, Dweeb, and Woog lives by enthusiastic appeal that has the ability to overshadow some of the more simplistic aspects of the film, and, if nothing more, remind you why these kinds of films used to be fun.
These simplistic aspects are the film's drawbacks: the plot moves forth at a pace that's almost too leisurely and undeterred, the characters experience minimal development, and the antagonist is overcome with minimal difficulty. Whether or not the viewer is able to embrace these simplicities is what is sure to make or break the film to the individual viewer; if you're able to identify the simple points of the film as nonetheless solid supports of the story, there's a good chance you'll enjoy it. Make no mistake, this is a child's film, but truly one for children of all ages.
The Easi-Reader Bookstand
The Easi-Reader Bookstand
Holds reading material in a comfortable position for hands-free reading. Made of chrome-plated steel, this item folds away easily for storage.
Customer Review: Great for hardbacks, textbooks
Very simple and cheap, but not much is needed from a book stand. Some reviewers complain that it doesn't hold paperbacks, but one can easily see from looking at it that it wouldn't be good for that, so I didn't knock it.
I use this stand to hold my textbooks up while I'm reading and taking notes, which is really nice to keep from having to hunch over a book to read it flat on a table. Also it allows the book to take up less desk space, which is nice when reading and using a computer at the same time. Since it's light and collapsable, it's also very useful to take along to classes and have the same benefits in the classroom as well.
Customer Review: Grandmom says, Wonderful gadget!
This stand proved to be better that I expected. It holds large, heavy (read coffee table) books easily and is so portable as to be a pleasure. Folds very thin and can slip in the smallest tote or brief case. Also great for the morning paper (don't want to gump up your paper while you're buttering your bagel!); but if you are only a paperback reader, I'd give this one a pass. For the price, what's not to like!
Sport Fish of Florida
Sport Fish of Florida
This full color 256-page book from long-time fishing legend and Florida Sportsman Magazine Sr.Editor Vic Dunaway features his 50-plus years of fishing knowledge. Each of the 231 species is illustrated with original full-color artwork from renowned marine artist Kevin R. Brant. The book answers many common questions, providing specific information about the type of fish, its range and habitat, identifying features, whether or not it is good to eat, the average and record size of each fish and the best fishing methods to catch them.
Customer Review: Overall Great Book
I think the book is pretty good. The pictures are detailed and colorful, then it gives the basic lowdown on all the fish, and I really like that it gives you at least an idea of edibility. I also liked that they included a section for freshwater fish. I kind of wish it could have talked more about typical methods to catch the different fish, but I guess the book can't have everything..Overall a great book.
Customer Review: gr8
nice pictures,
great descriptions
Cake Decorating Course 1: Discover Cake Decorating
Cake Decorating Course 1: Discover Cake Decorating
Student guide for Wilton's cake decorating course 1: Discover Cake Decorating. .
48 pages, softcover.
Intended for participants in Wilton's cake decorating course 1 classes, but may also be used as a self-study guide.
Customer Review: A must have for the novice
If you have never decorated then this is a must have book. It shows you how to make frosting, fill pastry bags, and talks about the decorating tips you will need. It is very easy to understand for someone who have never decorated a cake. This is the perfect book to get your decorating hands going.
Customer Review: take the course with it, prepare to shell out more $$ for tools
I just begin a Wilton cake decorating class #1 at Michael's, and this book comes FREE with the class which is $18 (instructor says these course books should retail about $3-5 at most).
You should take the class in addition to read this book, the experience of live teaching by an experienced instructor is invaluable. During this class, you will learn the beginner cake decoration techniques. It's a lot of fun, and if you don't want to proceed onto course II or III, it should be fine with just decorating your average cupcake, cookies and basic cakes. [[though most people love it so much that they do advance on..]]
however, I do have to caution that the course I tool kit you can buy ($19.99 @ Michael's) is only the bare minimum, it does not have all the things you will need for the first class. so be prepared to develop this hobby and pay more (~$20-40 depending on what you want) for other tool/tips/bags....
Ratatouille
Ratatouille
One key point: if you can get over the natural gag reflex of seeing hundreds of rodents swarming over a restaurant kitchen, you will be free to enjoy the glory of Ratatouille, a delectable Pixar hit. Our hero is Remy, a French rat (voiced by Patton Oswalt) with a cultivated palate, who rises from his humble beginnings to become head chef at a Paris restaurant. How this happens is the stuff of Pixar magic, that ineffable blend of headlong comedy, seamless technology, and wonder (in the latter department, this movie's views of nighttime Paris are on a par with French cinema at its most lyrical). Director Brad Bird (The Incredibles) doesn't quite keep all his spinning plates in the air, but the gags are great and the animation amazingly expressive--Remy's shrugs and nods are nimbler than many flesh-and-blood actors can manage. Refreshingly, the movie's characters aren't celebrity-reliant, with the most recognizable voice coming from Peter O'Toole's snide food critic. (This fellow provides the film's sole sour note--an oddly pointed slap at critics, those craven souls who have done nothing but rave about Pixar's movies over the years.) Brad Bird's style is more quick-hit and less resonant than the approach of Pixar honcho John Lasseter, but it's hard to complain about a movie that cooks up such bountiful pleasure. --Robert Horton
Customer Review: A gustatory journey through Paris
Ratatouille, from Pixar and Brad Bird (The Incredibles (Two-Disc Collector's Edition), The Iron Giant (Special Edition)), is a rat's-eye view of the gastronomic delights of fine cuisine (the name itself is a pun on the classic French roast vegetable dish ratatouille). Remy is a young rat who discovers that he has a heightened sense of taste and smell, and becomes inspired by the late television chef Auguste Gusteau (Brad Garrett), whose motto "anyone can cook" now extends to rats, too. Remy begins to experiment with combining classic combinations of flavor and texture, herbs, and other ingredients, until his clan is forced to flee their country safehouse.
During the traumatic escape, Remy is separated from his family. The ghost of Chef Gusteau appears to Remy when he is discouraged, inspiring him to cook at Gusteau's formerly-five star restaurant. The acid restaurant critic Anton Ego (Peter O'Toole) made it his personal mission to write a scathing review of Gusteau's that stripped it of one of its Michelin stars, consigning it to the tourist trade. Now, the restaurant is under the iron fist of the shady, domineering Head Chef Skinner (Ian Holm). Remy befriends the bumbling, couldn't-boil-water-if-his-life-depended-on-it Alfredo Linguini, whom Skinner grudgingly adopted as the new garbage boy, and Remy and Linguini team up to create culinary delights that astound the normally staid French restaurant critics. Remy controls Linguini by hiding under his chef's toque and tugging on two strands of hair (the scenes of Remy perfecting his technique with a blindfolded Linguini wielding dangerous tools and messy ingredients are priceless). Toss in a handful of intrigue, kitchen highjinks, father-son bonding, a dash of romance with the formidable chef Colette, and plenty of culinary delights, and you have Ratatouille.
The 3D animation is photorealistic, and 360 shots of nighttime Paris entrance. Small touches really capture the Bohemian feel of the Montmartre district, and the soundtrack features (brief) snippets of La Marseillaise, light and airy French themes, and French-language vocals by Camille (the standalone soundtrack Ratatouille is available for purchase). As with The Incredibles, there's lots to keep kids engaged (although the scene with the window full of dead rats might be traumatic for very young kids), and a whole other layer of adult humor bubbling under the surface, so mom and dad will be able to enjoy Ratatouille with gusto.
Customer Review: Good But Deep
Take a rat, add lots of wild and dangerous chase scenes, add a few recipes, finish off with a message that may be too deep for children and you might wind up with this film. This film is somewhere in the middle of Pixar's output. It is not the best but not the worst.
Our rat is unusual. He does not like the standard rat diet of garbage. He has a refined palette which his family exploits to check for poison. But he is unhappy. A violent episode lands him in Paris where he finds the restaurant of his chef hero. Here he has adventures with avoiding the staff and trying to cook. Add two villains (yes, two), the restaurant's current owner and a food critic and our rat's life gets very complicated.
This is a long film with much of it taken up by chase scenes. The cooking scenes are fun and clever. But in the middle we have the lone rat who does not fit in with other rats or with people as he keeps trying to be what he is not in order to please others. It is only in the end when he finds a way to be true to himself that things begin to go well. Great message but a little out there for the kids. The understood the message in Cars and The Incredibles but they didn't quite get this one as it a more adult problem. Still, it has plenty of the tings kids like while being intelligent enough for adults. Check it out.
Honda Civic 2001-2004 & CR-V 2002-2004 (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)
Honda Civic 2001-2004 & CR-V 2002-2004 (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)
Honda Civic (2001 - 2004) and CR-V (2002 -2004) Repair Manual
Customer Review: You could do it but still depending on your knowledge
1. The price of this manual is reasonable.
2. Some out-of-date information about procedures and parts.
3. Too technical which is not suitable for car owner (who has little knowledge about car) to do maintenance trouble-free.
4. Car owner could do approximately 25% out of 100% procedures of the whole manual. Please remember it depends on your car knowledge.
5. Haynes publisher do not care to respond their customer's e-mail and phone call for asking more information in the book as they promised to do so.
Customer Review: Haynes Auto Repair Manual
The Repair book tells you all you need to know about the car in an understandable way. Made replacing my head lights a lot easier.
Coco
Coco
Singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat is one of the most celebrated artists to emerge from the growing talent pool of digitally-savvy self-launched artists, whose rise to prominence as the #1 unsigned artist on the popular myspace site has been largely due to her refreshing sense of understatement.
With no marketing push and only the power of the music behind her, Caillat became a sensation on the social networking site. Rolling Stone highlighted her as one of the top female artists on myspace. Ultimately, her number of friends swelled to more than 100,000. Her profile has been visited over 3 million times, and she has more than l0 million plays. She's currently averaging 50,000 + a day.
The songs on Caillat's debut album COCO mirror the Malibu-born Caillat's low-key, refreshing style. Armed with her acoustic guitar and her dusky vocals, she evokes the same gentle, yet spirited style of her musical influences John Mayer, Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill and The Weepies. The laid-back tempo of Hawaii, where she spent twice annual family vacations, is echoed in the music.
"She's the real thing," stated Monte Lipman, President of Universal Republic Records. "From her unique songwriting skills to her powerful but understated presence, Colbie has connected to millions of music lovers simply through the power of her music.
Customer Review: Dissapointed
I have really tried to like this album but I get bored every time I listen to it. Ms. Calliat's songs are as forgettable as her voice. I'm not sure why so many people are so crazy about her.
Customer Review: A lot better than I was expecting
I got this CD for my wife, thinking that it would be a safe pop album, like the songs you hear from it on the radio. It was that, and much more. It is more interesting and complex musically than most albums by rock bands. The apparent influences of this album vary from reggae to big band, even rock. The songs are all unique (something surprising in a "pop" album). The last song, Capri, is a little odd, but that is the case on many contemporary rock albums. If you like pop, buy this album. If you like contemporary adult rock, buy this album. If you like heavier rock and, like me, are reading this review to see if this CD is worth buying for someone else, buy, give it a good listen, download the good songs (legally of course) and then pass it on. It's really great.
Speck MacBook Pro 15" See-Thru Hard Case - CLEAR - Fits all versions of 15" MacBooks
Speck MacBook Pro 15" See-Thru Hard Case - CLEAR - Fits all versions of 15" MacBooks
Accent the sleek look of your 15.4-inch MacBook Pro notebook. Get great hard case protection, a hint of color and a massive dose of shine. SeeThru MacBook cases are made of translucent hard plastic to beautify and protect.
Customer Review: completely satisfied
the product was great and was delivered very quickly. i am very satisfied with my purchase
Customer Review: Works as advertised
I know many people have commented about problems on this product. I had none of the issues many have described.
I use my MacBook Pro ALL day. I haven't seen any heat problems, not edge abrasiveness nor any issues putting it on.
It makes my Mac look pretty cool and its easily distinguished.
I was even able to wipe off all the finger prints on the casing with the palm of my hand. Pretty cool, I'd say.
Just a note, when you put the bottom on, I would recommend putting the rear part of the laptop in first and then the front. There are some hooks that go on easier that way.
Other than that, it's a great product and I'm glad I purchased it.
Current christian book club NewsArlington Catholic Women’s Club begins 67th year (The Arlington Advocate)Thu, 11 Sep 2008 21:14:31 GMT
On Wednesday evening, September 17, past presidents of the Arlington Catholic Women’s Club will be honored at its first fall meeting, a tradition that began many years ago.
Up Next, Recaps & Links (CBS News)Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:30:03 GMT
Stories, links and the place to get more information on stories on CBS News Sunday Morning .
Molina, Schoeffler, Swenson and More Will Join Maroulis in Rock of Ages (Playbill)Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:05:10 GMT
Complete casting has been announced for the new Off-Broadway musical Rock of Ages, which is scheduled to begin previews at Off-Broadway's New World Stages Oct. 1 with an official opening Oct. 16.
Labels: book buy | cooking books | used book
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