5 comments about Diaries 1969-1979: The Python Years.

1. What a fruitful and stimulating period for Michael Palin from 1969 through 1979! The trajectory runs from the young man and his colleagues trying to find their way as barely-known humorists and performers in England to huge worldwide stars with a portfolio that remains strong to this day.
   
   The diary shows a wonderful family man of wit, personality, sensitivity, talent and various other positive attributes. A book with only that would of course be rather dull eventually, and Palin freely admits his errors, worries, and somewhat edgy remarks about others. One can't help but wonder what was trimmed in the massive editing job, whether it was mostly day-to-day stuff or whether we lost some naughty bits and rougher comments. My guess is that we saw enough personality of the author that there was only modest need to excise nasty or regrettable words.
   
   One of the better aspects is, in fact, that Palin paints quite human portraits of the other Pythons, some warts and all. There's John Cleese, often stand-offish and wanting to move on. There's Eric Idle, moody and worried about money. There's Graham Chapman, struggling with booze, and Terry Jones, who is closest to Palin, trying to find his way. Naturally, there are many positive remarks about the boys, too, and I particularly liked the behind-the-scenes stories during the making of the films and their writing sessions. How little money they made! To the Pythons' good fortune, the BBC gave up the non-UK rights to video.
   
   Other highlights were Palin on Saturday Night Live, his first publicity tour to America and the subsequent rise of the Python shows on public TV, the decline and death of his father, and the general realization that he was becoming quite famous and the burden of celebrity was not always welcome. Quite a few famous people appear, with a fine example being George Harrison (a big "Lumberjack Song" fan). Palin is at first intimidated by Harrison, and eventually they became friends. It's a testament to Palin's charm, friendliness and interest in so many subjects (he reads constantly in the diary) that he has countless friends and contacts, and must be an excellent companion.
   
   If you want to dip into the book for a sample, try February, 1975. Palin says, "Good news from New York - Python is top of the PBS Channel 13 ratings" on Feb 4. He complains, "I am so sick of being Python odd-job man, and yet the alternative is to not know what's going on in your name - which is infinitely more dangerous." There are family news, socializing with others, and thoughts of a future project, and on Feb 22, "I suppose this could be said to be the day on which Python finally died."
   
   The author is clearly a pretty smart guy, and some predictions about the future and lamentations about the loss of scale in human development were spot on. I had to smile at one exception, when he thought Keith Richards wouldn't last long. But, hey, that's ok, you were far from alone!
   
   Don't read the book looking to laugh throughout. "Amusing" and "funny" are more appropriate, and I actually laughed rarely. I can't see much of an audience beyond people with a positive view of Python, as the best bits certainly work far better for people with an appreciation of the material and (ideally) a recollection of the 1970s.



2. I have been a fan of Python for years, so I was delighted to learn of this book. I truly enjoyed it. It was very entertaining to read of the beginnings of Python, and the stories of Palin's other projects were also well told. His entries about his family made him seem accessible. He definitely tried to balance his family life with his professional career that became more successful as the years went by.



3. Short, terse, but enjoyable odyssey through some of the most transformative years of the life of Michael Palin; who just happened to be one of the core members of a silly group of brits which changed the course of comedy.
   Silly is the word. Palin's the name.



4. Like so many others, I was, am, and forever will be thrilled, inspired, and utterly in love with the wonderfully weird magic that is "Monty Pythons Flying Circus". The quirky and altogether strange world of the Pythons have provided me with many laugh induced bellyaches and watery eyes. It was, in a word, brilliant.
   
   And, although I'm not happy about 'taking sides', as it were, I guess Michael Palin has always been my favourite. So it was a great pleasure to find this book on the shelf at my local bookpusher.
   
   In it, Palin gives a very interesting, very candid, and (critically) not silly view of the lives and times of the Python group. We get a fine description of the other members of the group as well as Palins family, a subject not often explored. One of the marvelous aspects of this volume is, that while it describes the 'Python Years", it dosen't hang on the 'normal' points of interest that every other book and interview about the pythons, to this day, seems to find so absolutely necessary to repeat to death. It gives the reader so many apt and recherché descriptions of the small things behind the scene, that it truly ads a new and original dimension to Python legacy. Indeed not a small feat.
   
   Any python fan would appreciate this wonderful book. I'm absolutely sure of it. Highest possible recommendation.



5. Michael Palin writes as he speaks, without pretension, and with a great deal of humor. These are his diaries, not initially meant for publication and thus full of honest, blunt observations regarding films, books, his own performances and the foibles of his fellow Pythons. Nobody escapes unscathed here, though I doubt anyone that Mr. Palin wrote about would dispute his conclusions.
   
   The years 1969-1979 are some of the most amazing in Python history; they begin as the Monty Python starts filming its first television series, and concludes as Life of Brian is released and there is backlash from the religious folks who don't understand the premise (and many of whom proudly state that they haven't even bothered to see the film they're condemning). Between these two seminal events are discussions of filming on other projects, the need and the attempt to write, and a man's deep and abiding love for his wife, children and parents. Reading the passages about Palin's father weakening was moving in the extreme, and his pain was palpable as the roles between father and son slowly reverse themselves.
   
   This is a hernia farm of a book at over 600 pages hardcover, exclusive of introductions and index, but you soon forget your aching arms as the pages fly. The life that Michael Palin has built for himself and his family is so layered, rich and interesting (while still being fairly "normal") that you only want the best for him and can't wait to read what happens next. I understand that the next segment of diaries will be released in September 2009, and I'm very excited to read about that next decade in my favorite Python's life.
   
   Despite copious footnotes explaining the backgrounds of the people mentioned, those who are not familiar with British comedy and culture may find the narrative a little hard to follow, at least initially. Because I've been living in London for a year or so, the people that Palin encounters (and then writes about) have become more familiar to me. Even more interesting were his mentions of favorite bookshops, restaurants and London haunts which he enjoyed with his children (and, in some cases, continues to enjoy to this day). In that respect, the Diaries became a bit of a travelogue for my future travels around my new hometown.

5 comments about The Pursuit of Happyness.

1. If Chris Gardner had any morals I'm sure they wouldn't have come out in this book as he goes to great lengths to tell you every sexual exploit he's made in his lost, disgusting, immoral life. I couldn't finish it. Talk about all his sexual escapades! ...and his inability to keep his d**k in his pants, and worse still, his inability to keep a wife because of it! He's a moral black hole taking thousands of susceptible people with him into the depths of crude, rude, disgusting, immoral, sex addiction-type behavior. There's nothing HAPPY about this book!
   
   I just threw mine away. If it would have fit in the toilet I would have flushed it. I'm sure it would have gotten stuck in the u-bend causing me even more misery to add to the misery I felt reading this life-sucking black hole of a book.



2. If you're interested in reading the book because you saw and loved the movie, you should be forewarned that you will find the effect of the movie somewhat diluted here, and also that the movie's version of events matches in very few particulars the actual events of his life as recorded in his autobiography.
   
   That said, the book provides much more background about Chris Gardner's life, and it is a fascinating and ultimately triumphant story--and, in the latter part of the story, his commitment to his son does shine through.
   
   His idol-worshipping meeting with Nelson Mandela at the end is a bit much, but otherwise Gardner's story is told with admirable sincerity and intelligence. And best of all, he's completely unapologetic about pursuing material wealth and prosperity, and saying that these are part of his pursuit of happiness. People who've been dirt poor are typically more honest about things like that than the self-righteous idiots who've been comfortable all their lives and never really had to work and then tell us sanctimoniously that "money can't buy happiness"--true, it can't, but it sure helps.
   
   And Chris Gardner's story is well worth the money.



3. I have read a few reviews that where readers preferred the Disneyfied movie to the strong and honest look at a real human life that Chris Gardner exposits in his book. That's a bit sad. I find his honesty refreshing and courageous in a world where many look askance on the rougher edges of our humanness while ignoring the courage it takes to reveal warts.
   
   This book inspired me and is about to change my life. It is the portrait of a man who never succumbed to self pity in spite of many odds stacked against him. He did not give in to bitterness either. He blamed no one for his plight, simply pushed forward and found solutions to each crisis he faced. He has set an example for the many people of all races recovering from abusive childhoods.
   
   It is not so easy to get the demons of low self worth and self pity out of your head when they have been placed there by parental figures and communities either convinced of their own moral superiority or simply exercising their own brand of ignorance over a childhood span of 18 years. It is a struggle, daily, until it is rebuilt and often times depends solely on the kindness of strangers who may or may not be from the polished set.
   
   The fact that he prevailed from sheer dogged determination and a refusal to accept the labels others applied to him is a wondrous and beautiful thing and should spark hope into the hearts of those who know his story all too well from personal experience.
   
   If you prefer the pristine bubble of a Disneyified existence, stick to the movie. If you are not afraid of the grit of human life and are not easily offended, read the book. It is far superior and much more satisfying.



4. This book was very motivational and taught me a great lesson in humility, perserverace, and hope. I would recommend to everyone!



5. I have to read this book for class, but it's sooo good I don't even mind it. Great story

5 comments about Touch and Go: A Memoir.

1. I enjoyed the book. It brought back memories of times past, I love Chicago. While not as liberal as Studs, I appreciate his passion, kindness and thoughtfullness for those less fortunate. Studs has always been fun and so interesting. I always feel enriched, after reading his books.



2. Fans of Studs Terkel will love this book. His radio voice leaps off the page: the same rhythms, the same w ay of telling a story. Readers who don't know Studs will be treated to an account of the twentieth century that is at once highly personal and local and at the same time universal in its subject matter. Highly recommended!



3. This is a stream of consciousness book and not particularly easy reading, but the experiences and stories and recounting of history contained in it is priceless. Studs laments how easily seminal people are forgotten and he has made it his business to let the forgotten ones know that he remembers them and knows of their importance in our country's story.
   
   Anyone who reads this book will be richer for doing so and will be better able to tackle the current election and issues we face.



4. Studs is a national treasure. That he's a great listener anyone who is familiar with his "Working," "Hard Times," "Race," etc. already knows. His story telling skills haven't diminished a bit as he approaches the century mark. The only thing that I found disappointing was that it ended so soon. I felt like I was paying a visit to a great friend & I had to leave too early. Still, any time spent with Studs is a treat.
   
   His observations, especially in some of the later chapters "And nobody laughed" and "Einstein and the rest of us" remind us that the madness that we're currently experiencing has roots that are both recent and back over half a century. His observations also, to the annoyance of many, refuse to be clouded by the hype from all quarters that we're constantly bombarded with. That Ronald Reagan and his administration's devastating policies still haven't been discovered by the very citizens whose lives have been (adversely) effected the most ("What's the matter with Kansas"), as we currently have presidential candidates falling all over themselves to "out Reagan" each other, don't cease to amaze. The selective amnesia that infests our society doesn't just border on the surreal, but has crossed the line with plenty to spare.
   
   If you frequently find yourself having that uneasy feeling as if you were stuck in a dreamscape conjured up by Salvador Dali during a fit of madness, or perhaps find yourself carrying one of those Bush Countdown Clocks around to remind yourself that maybe there will be a beginning to an end one day, then a strong dose of Studs might offer hope that reality might still exist.



5. As is my habit, I have been running through the oral histories collected by the recently departed Studs Terkel, the premier interviewer of his age. When I latch onto a writer I want to delve into I tend to read whatever comes into my hands as soon as I get them rather than systematically or chronologically. Thus, I have just gotten my hands on a copy of Terkel's "Touch and Go", a memoir of sorts but more properly a series of connected vignettes (with a little off-hand celebrity name dropping along the way), that goes a long way to filling in some blanks in the life story of one Louis "Studs" Terkel (including information on the source of the nickname "Studs" - from the 1930's Chicago-based trilogy "Studs Lonigan" by James T. Farrell, another author who will be reviewed here in the future). For those unfamiliar with Terkel's work this little book acts as glue to understanding a long life committed to social justice, giving "voice" to ordinary people and expanding our knowledge of various musical traditions like jazz, folk music and the blues. Nice work, right?
   
   And what of that life? The more famous second half of it is fairly well-known in Studs role as the ubiquitous interviewer and oral historian. That part is extensively covered through the materials in his various books such as "Working", "The Good War" and others that I have or will review elsewhere in this space and therefore will not spend much time on here. The less familiar first half of his life forms a fairly well-trodden exemplar of a life story from the early part of the 20th century but which today's readers would find hard to comphrehend. Naturally enough, for an early 20th century American story, it begins with immigration of Studs parents to America, New York City as the first port of call, from the Jewish ghettoes of Eastern Europe. Then, later, the also familiar internal migration to Chicago in search of more promising prospects and, ultimately, assimilation of Studs (and his two brothers) into the life of the heartland including the old traditions of hard work, hard striving and hard inquisitiveness.
   
   Studs, like many of the members of his generation, was formed, permanently it would seen, by the hardships and cruelties of the Great Depression that, as exemplified by his oral histories of the times, notably "Hard Times", are his special contributions to the history of that period. I do not believe that those of us from later generations can get a full sense of that history without Studs' work as a companion to the academic histories. That was a time, as a glance at today's' current dire economic and social events may be foreshadowing, where one was forced to get by one's wits, cleverness and sheer "guts".
   
   After a stint at law school Studs did odd jobs around the theater trying catch on a performer. But not just any theater and not just any kind of a performer. This is the period of the Theater Guild and of the WPA which gave cultural workers or those who aspired to such a chance. In short, an engaged and leftist political theater. Needless to say Studs got caught up with the international politics of the period. The struggle against fascism as a "pre-mature" anti-fascist, the fight to save the Spanish Republic and at home the struggle to aid those who were decimated by the Depression. Name a progressive social cause, he was there.
   
   For his efforts, then and later, Studs had some success in his career as a performer first in the ubiquitous field of radio that formed the mass consciousness of the so-called "greatest generation" as a disc jockey and interviewer of various musical figures like Billie Holiday on his shows, the Wax Museum and the Eclectic Disc Jockey. Later, after truncated service in the Air Force in World II, Studs got in on the ground floor of television with the local Chicago success of Studs' Place.
   
   Then the roof caved in as the `'red scare' hit home and hit home hard. This was not a good period for those "pre-mature" anti-fascists like Studs mentioned in the last paragraph. In any case Studs survived by "doing the best he could" and by one means or another got hooked onto his career as an interviewer that one really should get a taste of first hand by reading one of the dozen or so books of his dedicated to that art form.
   
   I have not mentioned thus far much about the specifics of Studs' politics. I believe that he was formed, and ultimately was stuck in, that `progressive' (and capitalism-saving) politics that came to life with President Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal and was given highest expression by former FDR Vice-President Henry Wallace's Progressive Party run for the presidency in 1948. A perusal of Studs later works, including comments in this memoir only confirm my impression that his worldview, formed in the 1930's, remained about the same to the end.
   
   That, however, is not why Studs has an honored place in the halls of of the allies of the working class. His commitment to the "good fight" throughout a long life was commendable. We are always in need of those are willing to sign something, to speak to some pressing social issue and who do not squawk about it. No movement can survive without those kinds of publicists. The real tribune to Studs, however, will come when those myriad working class people that he interviewed, those downtrodden Chicago people, those poor white mountain people, those poor black migrants from the South get the society they desire and NEED. Kudos, Brother Terkel.

5 comments about Through Painted Deserts: Light, God, and Beauty on the Open Road.

1. This is a good book. The humor between Donald and Paul reminds me of Bill Bryson's in A Walk in the Woods. No super deep spiritual findings here but some familiar questions for anyone who's been a Christian for any length of time. It's good to read honesty written without reservations. I'm currently reading Blue Like Jazz and TPD reads more like a narrative than BLJ. My guess is if you like the thought process of BLJ you will like this book. Great book about a road trip to read on a road trip. Recommended.



2. This book is by the popular author Donald Miller. I read his book "Blue Like Jazz" and enjoyed it. I was going to stop with that book, but a fellow blogger noted that this was his favorite of the Miller books. I am not sure I share the same sentiments, but I certainly did enjoy the book. As Donald travels and reflects on his life with God, I seem to join him in reflecting on my own life. I guess there is a part of all of us that desires to travel with the Lord. This is why it seems that people enjoy taking mission trips to various parts of the world and nation. There is an excitement that follows as one journeys with the Lord. I guess I can relate because I traveled a lot with the Lord. Also, I would have enjoyed this book more if I read it in college while I was single. The open road is not the same with two small children crying in the back seat. Nevertheless, the book was good, not so much for the spiritual insight, but for the adventure, the friendships, and the trip. As you travel with Donald, you cannot help but travel through your own life too.



3. I bought this audio CD because I love Donald Miller's "Blue Like Jazz" and think he's got some profound things to say. It's so centered on a young man's quest/non-quest/quest to find out whether there's anything to quest for that it didn't speak to this 40ish woman the way his other books have. However, I still got something out of it and recommend it highly. I think it would speak loudest to kids in their late teens. Good stuff.



4. I love this book -- not only is it stunningly written, it's a story that resonates with almost everyone. It reassured me that it's okay to doubt, to not know and to question.
   
   But beware -- once you read this book, your restlessness will kick into high gear and you might want to move to Oregon. :)



5. I appreciated the conclusions drawn by Don and Paul, but got tired listening to the long, overly descriptive narratives about the Volkswagen van. The book seemed a bit scattered and I kept thinking to myself, just get to the point. It would probably be a good read, but the narrator was boring to listen to. There was only just enough adventure to keep my attention to the end.

5 comments about How to Rig an Election: Confessions of a Republican Operative.

1. This is a great book for the lover of politics. It makes you realize just how evil the Republicans truly can be (I'm an independent). He tells tales of dirty politics and even their own infighting. Fascinating reading.



2. This guy obviously burned some bridges when this book came out, but it makes for a fascinating view inside the world of high-stakes politics.



3. The more people who read insider confessions like this, I hope, the more likely that electoral abuses will lessen. This is a breezy, credible and amusing book. It reads like a light novel, told in the first person. We get a real sense of a bright rascal who ignored ethics, not to mention foundational principles of democracy and a couple of laws, to build a career. So what if Allen Raymond seems still to be a bit of a wise guy? His arrogance and cynicism are probably symptomatic of most people who serve either major political party, and so is an important part of our understanding. He spares us the mawkish repentance and pandering that sweeten too many insider accounts. Allen Raymond's unflattering portrayal of an unethical Republican party apparatus corroborates what we have read countless times elsewhere, but Republican faithful can read this book without steeping in any unwelcome suggestion that the Democratic Party is any better. A pox on both their houses, but at least we can enjoy our reading here. Raymond apparently picked a good co-author, Ian Spiegelman, whose background as journalist and novelist serves the reader well. But it needs an index.



4. I appreciate that Mr. Raymond is repentant for his actions that are basically voter disenfranchisement. But, at the risk of spoiling the ending, you can't but help but think that if things had worked out better for him as a political operative, he'd be trucking away.
   
   But no need to judge - between this book and the recent Frontline special on Lee Atwater, you really get a good sense of how the Republican machine worked so well for so many years to make sure that one party stayed in office. Unbelievable as it may seem today in light of the 2008 elections, one can almost understand why Karl Rove thought he could engineer a permanent Republican majority.
   
   All in all, a well-written, very readable book.



5. I think that it is horrible that this criminal now seeks to profit from his crime. I thought that there were laws that prevented that.

5 comments about The Legend of Saint Nicholas.

1. Sometimes the best way to be more specific about a story beyond saying that it is "wonderful with beautiful pictures" is to quote what it says on the jacket cover that I can confirm from having read the book. I believe that this statement is very accurate - I couldn't have said it better myself: "In THE LEGEND OF SAINT NICHOLAS, Demi describes pivotal events in the history and life of the saint, weaving a rich tapestry of luminous imagery into the story of his connection with Christmas and our modern day Santa Claus. Demi's gilded artwork brings Nicholas to life in a way sure to mesmerize readers new to the story of this fascinating and important historical figure." I am not new to his story. I first learned about Saint Nicholas when I was a 5 year old child in Germany. I continue to celebrate Saint Nicholas day on his feast day, December 6 with whoever is near me. In the process I have explained again and again who he was and continue to have the highest respect for this historical figure, hoping that I can show some of his love for others. One thing that I realized in reading this book is that he was a bishop in the area of what is now part of what is considered to be that of the Orthodox or Eastern Catholic tradition rather than the Roman Catholic tradition. This is realized from the first time that you look at the cover of the book through the first couple of pages that show artwork of Orthodox orthodox churches and continued in "Middle East" scenery and Orthodox artwork. These pictures are present on every page of the book. As Bishop Nicholas lived in what is now Turkey this is most appropriate. A fun addition to this book is that the inside of the front and back covers have pictures of Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus as they are appropriately shown in costumes of various cultures throughout the world - Russian, Chinese, Egyptian, Native American, Mexican, German, Irish etc.. One can spend quite a while just looking at these pages they are so fascinating.



2. We got this book for our son's first Christmas and we love the richness of the story and the wonderful pictures. We look forward to reading it every Christmass season!



3. This Book is inviting and beautiful. Demi's artwork is so well done and inspirational. In some ways the pictures tell the story and the words just carry it along. Charlotte Demi Hunt tells this story with reverence and some humor along the way. Look at her inventive end papers and you will see Santa's from around the world. Little details like Nicholas's donkey, a red stocking, darling dutch children holding wooden shoes offer a light humor to a very straight forward telling of the life of Saint Nicholas and how he became Santa Claus. Yet Demi never goes above childrens heads. Her writing is simple and straight forward and the stories of Nicholas's compassion and faith capture your heart. The best is that of the nobleman and his three daughters and how Nicholas saved the girls from slavery with a gift of gold in a stocking. The whole book is a delight and perfect for reading to children.



4. This book is our most cherished Christmas book. The pictures are absolutely lovely and the story is compelling. The book is truly a work of art.



5. This is basically an illustrated, Cliff's notes of St. Nicholas' biography. It has nice illustrations and has a lot of information, dates, and locations of events surrounding St. Nic's life. There are aspects of the biography that I just don't believe to be fact, but more lore, such as no toddler would really refuse to eat or drink milk preferring to pray all Holy Saint's Day. There are also some rather graphic images, such as whips, the mention of him being tortured, and the story of 3 young boys being killed then salted in a tub of brine to be served as food. I know this is part of St. Nicholas' life, but for a kid's book it could have been "lightened" up a bit and still get the point across. But this is coming from a Buddhist (I was raised Christian) who wanted a book to teach my son who "Santa Claus" really is and why everyone gives each other presents for Christmas. It will serve it's purpose, but I will have to either skip a few pages when I read it to him or reword several parts of the story so he doesn't have nightmares about being tortured, enslaved, salted and/or eaten!

5 comments about Rachel's Tears: The Spiritual Journey of Columbine Martyr Rachel Scott.

1. i was so blessed by the words of faith that your little girl has shared.Its very rare to see such faith in anyone.Thank You for sharing her story. It has really blessed me.



2. This young lady was a beautiful soul. It is a sad story but one of hope as well.
   Her parents did a wonderful job describing the tragic story.
   Anyone interested in the Columbine event should read this.
   Excellent.



3. Rachel's Tears Amazon Book Review
   
   
   Rachel's Tears is a very emotional book. Rachel's Tears is a Biography written by Rachel Scott's parents Beth Nimmo and Darrell Scott. This story tells the spiritual journey of Columbine Martyr Rachel Joy Scott. Rachel's Tears features excerpts from Rachel's private journals. This tragic and true story explains how Rachel knew that her and twelve others would die. Out of the thirteen people that died one of them was a teacher and twelve of them were students that attended Columbine High School. Among the thirteen people that died nearly two dozen more were injured. And hundreds more were traumatized by the sights and sounds of that day. This horror was caused by two troubled teens who were overcome with hatred and desire for revenge, so they lashed out at the people at Columbine High School. Columbine High School is located in Littleton, Colorado. Littleton is located eight miles Southwest of Denver. Colorado. After this event occurred the two teens committed suicide. This makes the total death count at fifteen people. Rachel Scott was the first one who died on April 20, 1999. So when Beth and Darrell found out that their daughter was one of those thirteen people who died that day their lives changed forever! In Rachel's private journal's she writes and draws about God, and how Rachel is not going to live a lot longer. On page 111, there is a letter to God from Rachel. The opening statement says "why do I feel dry in your spirit?" This passage is only one out of many passages that has to do with Rachel and God. The authors purpose of the story is to explain how Rachel's relationship with God was one that he sent her messages explaining that something bad was going to happen. I would highly recommend this book to anyone in middle school and above. After the murders Rachel's friends and family started a program called Rachel's challenge to find out more on this program go to [...]



4. If you are looking to find more of the story beyond the cold, hard details of the Columbine school shootings, and you don't mind poor writing and structure, this book provides a somewhat sacred and voyeuristic look behind the tragedy.



5. "These hands belong to Rachel Joy Scott and will someday touch millions of people's hearts"
   (in one of Rachel's drawings)
   
   Interestingly, I got to know about the Columbine Massacre when I was in the polytechnic (in Singapore). In a particular lecture, a friend of mine beside me was reading FHM and I noticed to my surprise, there was a feature about it.
   
   Fast forward to end-2005. I don't remember exactly how, but I bumped into an article on Wikipedia about that fatal event. It piqued my interest and soon I was visiting every outgoing link from that encyclopedia entry. It was then that I found out who Rachel Joy Scott was.
   
   She was the first victim of the shooting.
   
   A beautiful, 17-year-old with a bright future ahead of her was slain as a result of two boys' murderous rage. A pity it seems; on the contrary, her kin and close friends, who should be the most shaken from the disaster, claimed otherwise.
   
   It tickled my curiosity and fired up my research into her intriguing life story--one of faith, hope and love--one of inspiration and vision--even one exemplary to the awesome greatness of God. These things were evident in her intimate writings--she recorded volumes in her diary, and if you don't know what that is, it's a private and retrogressive version of what we call a "blog" today.
   
   The sequence of events leading up to her death and her amazing testimony was compiled by her parents into this book. And I highly recommend it because it will change your perception of Christianity. Hers is a modern day example of what a true saint is.
   
   What inspired me the most was how mature her thoughts and faith was for her age. Her genuine heart of wanting to help others and be a blessing unto them radiates in her actions.
   
   The book also mentions the uncertainties and difficulties she faced--the things we all meet and can relate to--and how she submitted them to God. I remember an account of a lesson she learned while working in Subway, where she passed an opportunity to help a poor person. She eventually realized every failure to exercise the divine appointment God has given her will simply be given to another who is willing, and the heavenly reward will be theirs. This instantly changed my approach towards serving others.
   
   She even convinced me to start writing a journal.
   
   I lent my copy of the book to a friend, and I never saw it again. The book was passed on and around. I guess that shows how good the book was.
   
   Rachel's legacy lives on, not through her life, but her death. She had a vision to touch millions of lives and I am one of them. God bless her soul, and glory be to God!

5 comments about Laughing Without an Accent: Adventures of an Iranian American, at Home and Abroad.

1. I heard the author on NPR and immediately wanted to read her book. She did not disappoint. She provided a much-needed antidote to the current stereotype of people from Iran. She is smart, sensible, and very amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about how her family has successfully adjusted to living in the United States.



2. While not laugh-out-loud funny it is amusing, enjoyable book. So many of us can see pieces of our own family dynamics in her stories of gifts that you pretend to like, food you serve they won't eat, and those incidents you laugh at only in hind-sight. Her last chapter where she spends time with one of the Americans held hostage in Iran for 444 days is wonderfully poignant.



3. One needn't have read Mrs. Dumas' first book, Funny In Farsi, to enjoy this take on the ethnic translation into American culture, but it would certainly help to get you into the mood. Knowing a bit of the family and its ways means you can start smiling, even chuckling, before the stories unfold. An occasional outburst of pure laughter also happen. Mrs. Dumas, in this sequel, shifts the terrain a bit, with a heavier focus on Iranian ethnic life amidst the bits and pieces of American life. An occasional downward spin on some of our habits and mores is fair game, but doesn't spoil this never-ending story of confused Iranians coping with the "New World." After all, this "New World" is now Mrs. Dumas' as well.



4. Laughing Without an Accent is Fizooreh Dumas' follow-up to her first book, Funny in Farsi. Both serve as anecdotal memoirs of situations Dumas faced as an Iranian growing up in the United States and eventually marrying a Frenchman. The book covers a vast time period; the youngest story is from when she was a six-year-old girl living in Iran, the oldest from events which probably took place mere months before the book was published. The stories are in no particular order; some reference events that took place in others.
   
   The vignettes are curious glimpses into a culture that is foreign to most Americans. For example, the first chapter of the book deals with Dumas' attempts to have her book translated into Persian (the major language in Iran). The author was passionate about those in her home country reading her works as they were written, so she went about seeking her own translator rather than relying on the lowest common denominator. She recounts the roadblocks that were thrown in front of her, as well as how well the book was received once it was actually published in Iran. It's a wonderful beginning to establishing a relationship with a foreign culture, rather than fearing and vilifying it.
   
   Some of the anecdotes are not so foreign, such as parents buying gifts for their children that the children abhor. Through these stories, Dumas illustrates that while she is from a different culture, the distinctions aren't as numerous as the similarities. That is what is important about this book, and why it is crucial that Americans read it: understanding is the beginning of acceptance. In the book, Dumas describes her family's reaction to and treatment during the Iranian hostage crisis. She speaks of their horror at the situation and her subsequent friendship with one of the hostages. In some ways, Dumas is brave; in her own way, she is standing up for the normal, everyday Iranians who only want to live their lives in peace. At the same time, by insisting her books be published in Iran, she is showing them that Americans aren't a people to fear. It is a phenomenal thing for one woman to do, and she does it incredibly well.
   
   Perhaps the best element of Dumas' work is her sense of humor. It is apparent that most of the anecdotes are intended to be humorous; she fully expects the reader to laugh along with her about the nuances of her culture. However, it is not a malicious laughter - Dumas respects and loves her background, and she is not trying to make fun of it. It is charming and affectionate, full of love and life. Both Laughing Without an Accent and Funny in Farsi are funny and sentimental without being cheesy. The vignette style makes them incredibly easy to read, and the message is equally relevant in today's tense atmosphere: we are all different, yet we are the same.



5. I don't remember the last time I read a book that made me laugh out loud. As I read this book, I laughed often as I recognized myself and my family within the pages.
   
   In this collection of essays, Dumas describes her experiences while growing up in Iran and her life in the U.S. Dumas' writing is honest, light, and laced with humor. Her stories are simple, yet powerful. This book is a fabulous reminder that our similarities far outweigh our differences- regardless of our cultural background. I can't wait to read "Funny in Farsi."

5 comments about Eisenhower: Soldier and President (The Renowned One-Volume Life).

1. Informative and easy to read.
   He looks at the subject from many angles and delivers a complete picture of the realities in IKE's world. I personally learned a lot not only about Eisenhower but about WWII, about the times at which he served and about the Cold War. A great book.



2. Unless John McCain wins in November, it will be too long before we have our next military hero turned president. They used to all be this way, especially following the Civil War---Democrat and Republican.
   
   Not sure about those reviewers who deemed this a hagiogrpahy or the writing "pedestrian"; the book is thorough, balanced and erudite. I commend the late Mr. Ambrose for such a wonderful portrait of one of America's great leaders in the two most important places: the battlefields and the Oval Office. They surely don't make 'em like Ike anymore (Barack H. Obama?).
   
   The book is long but not exhaustingly long, goes through his humble heartland childhood, early military life, wartime commands, presidency and beyond. Ambrose looks deep into Ike with letters and meetings never read or seen before. What more can one ask for, especially for me as a military historian? Even the descriptions of battles in WW2 are dead on.
   
   I also admire Ambrose for dedicating this book "TO THE MEN OF D-DAY." Again, if even a professor alive today could scribe so eloquently, these losers would be more likely to dedicate a book to Malcolm X or some Hollywood leftist who fought for "the rights of the oppressed." No respect for America or the military, but I digress...
   
   Read the book. It's objective, analytical and important. I will pass it on to my friends and family, so they can better understand our world and thus make the correct judgments and decisions down the road.
   
   Some Americans like to forget history. Shame on them. As Peggy Noonan said of Sen. Obama recently:
   
   America is Mr. Obama's problem. He has been tagged as a snooty lefty, as the glamorous, ambivalent candidate from Men's Vogue, the candidate who loves America because of the great progress it has made in terms of racial fairness. Fine, good. But has he ever gotten misty-eyed over . . . the Wright Brothers and what kind of country allowed them to go off on their own and change everything? How about D-Day, or George Washington, or Henry Ford, or the losers and brigands who flocked to Sutter's Mill, who pushed their way west because there was gold in them thar hills? There's gold in that history.



3. This is a very good biography of one of our greatest generals and our 34th president. It begins with Dwight Eisenhower's upbringing in turn-of-the-century Kansas. Ike attended West Point, but did not see combat in World War I. His commanding officers in the Army during the interwar years saw that he had great talent, and Eisenhower was ultimately given command of the Allied forces in World War II. The sense of confidence and optimism that Ike was able to engender in those he commanded helped make D-Day a success.
   
   After the war, he became president of Columbia University. He was elected president in 1952, and gained an armistice in the Korean War six months after he took office. While he was in the White House, Ike presided over many years of peace and prosperity, maintaining a growing economy while avoiding budget deficits and inflation. He instituted the Interstate Highway System, but did not act as strongly as he could have on civil rights. Ambrose believed that Eisenhower's caution was an asset in foreign policy but was problematic for his domestic policy.
   
   The book relates that after he left the presidency, Eisenhower was hawkish on Vietnam and advised LBJ to be more aggressive in his attempts to win the war.
   
   Ambrose made no secret of the fact that he was an Eisenhower admirer, but managed to cover pretty fairly both the strengths and weaknesses of Ike's service as general and president. Americans should be grateful for Eisenhower's hand in ending the sinister Nazi regime and for keeping America safe and prosperous during a decade, the Fifties, that was far more dangerous than most members of Generations X and Y realize.



4. This is a great biography on an underrated president, and a very easy read. Ambrose is wonderful in being able to pick out the key incidents and describe the Ike's policies without delving into the everyday details that bog down Robert Caro's biographies. Also, while Ambrose doesn't hide his admiration for Ike, he does reflect critically upon his subject, particularly his slow reaction to civil rights and McCarthy, and his inability to stem the arms race.
   
   Part of Ike's genius was projecting a reassuring calm, while acting to keep all of his options open. For example, he never ruled out using atomic weapons against China in the Korean War or Quemoy Island dispute, but because he kept this option open the Chinese backed down. He was tough, but always left a way out for opponents to back down and save face. Some have wondered whether he truly ranks as a great president because he had no major crisis to face, but I believe Ambrose is right when he says preventing war and managing crises well is perhaps an even greater achievement. I have read many presidential biographies, but have rarely felt that any other president matches the maturity and self-confidence of Ike (George H.W. Bush is another president I think had Ike's maturity in managing the presidency). The difference between Ike in Ambrose's book and the childish pronouncements and discussions of the current Bush administration is startling.
   
   Having said that, I would have been interested in a bit of a longer biography, particularly more details on Ike's use of the CIA in Iran (very relevant today). This has been a very controversial aspect of his presidency and seems somewhat out of character for someone who opposed Israel and Britain during the Suez Canal crisis. Also, we get very little of the cabinet, perhaps because Ike relied on them less than other presidents did - even John Foster Dulles is discussed only where necessary. Ike seems to largely have used his cabinet to give him information, not make decisions. (can you imagine a book about Johnson without a central role for McNamara or Nixon without Kissinger?)
   
   Overall, this is a great book, and will hopeful get more Americans to ponder the presidency and whom we want to sit in the Oval Office.



5. Ambrose's 'Eisenhower' is a very popular book, if the reviews here are anything to do by. I would seem to be a lone voice of dissent, in that I was not impressed by this tome. Oh, it's not a bad *book* - Ambrose writes well and vividly - it's just a bad BIOGRAPHY. Ambrose himself admits in the first couple of pages that he has immense respect for Ike as a great and good man. Oh dear. That is *never* a good start, to admit that you have strong feelings for your biographic subject one way or the other. What follows is little more than a polished and well-constructed whitewash. Eisenhower's not particularly glorious record as Allied Supreme Commander is transformed into a near-triumph. His poor grasp of tactics (allied to an over-focus on grand strategy), his unbelievably stupid decision to let the Russians beat the US-UK forces to Berlin, and his grave weakness as regards tolerating the idiocy and arrogance of his colleages (Patton, Montgomery) do not seem to matter much to Ambrose.
   
   When we move on to his time as President, things settle down to this chronically slanted norm. With almost the sole exception of his two undisputed triumphs - his ending of the Korean War and his unflinching opposition to the UK-French-Israeli aggression against Egypt three years later - the whitewash brush gets a workout. Ike's mistakes were almost always the fault of others, "it was a different time" (tell that to the survivors of Treblinka, Steve; see what they say back), moral cowardice and inertia is a strength etc. The almost amusingly cynical way Ike was put up as a candidate by the Republicans like some sort of medal-strewn tailors' dummy - with the odious Dick Nixon there in the background to make sure the not overly bright old soldier stayed on-message - is sidelined and barely dealt with. Ambrose agonises over how to present Ike's appalling cowardice on 'too hard' (for him) moral issues - his fence sitting as regards Joe McCarthy's repulsive witch-hunting, and the festering sore of civil rights - as some kind of "he was too nice" virtue. Doesn't fly with me, and I'm amazed it did with others. Where we get into true Whitewash Country is earlier, in the truly pathetic downplaying of Eisenhower's notorious affair with his wartime secretary. We are told that nothing happened, even though everyone and and his dog knows very well that things most certainly did. Ambrose then back-pedals, and admits the affair he claims never happened *did* happen...but it wasn't *actually* an affair, because the one time the secretary and Ike tried to make love he couldn't raise the flag, so to speak. Riiiight. I'm sure Mamie would have appreciated this sterling demonstration of his complete fidelity towards her. My point is not in truth any sort of sniffy outrage at Ike repeatedly cheating on his wife with another woman, but rather amazement at how Ambrose simply refuses to allow *the truth* to get in the way of elevating the man to demi-godhood.
   
   Part of Ambrose's intent in this book is to combat the popular image of Ike as an icon of stagnation in 50s America. The writer succeeds admirably in proving what is surely Ike's best legacy...he presided over a time of massive economic prosperity in America and, for the times, relative military stability. Other than that, this book is a one-note, biased, hagiographic lovesong to a man who had many fine qualities but was flawed as any other of his fellow mortals. You won't see many of those flaws in this book, which renders Dwight D. Eisenhower a disservice. The man himself knew his limitations, the mark of a wise person, but Ambrose refuses to admit that most of those flaws and limits even existed.

5 comments about The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin.

1. This, without doubt, must be considered as one of the finest and most thorough work done with regards to paying full tribute to the biography of Benjamin Franklin. You may learn many things you didn't know about this remarkable man as well as being refreshed on the things you had partially forgotten since history classes of your school days. He was to be considered a Founding Father of our Country, but his influence began long before the seeds of Revolution began to form, and his bright and steady, surefooted approach to diplomacy without submission or compromise of principals was nothing short of the genius we knew he possessed.
   
   His humble beginnings, which he was never ashamed of, did not hamper him, but rather enriched his understanding of the human condition in his continual search for truth, justice, science extraordinaire; and a philantropic desire to further higher education for youthful successors. Feet of clay, he undoubtedly had, as do we all; but they were lovable feet from start to finish. We have heard it all before about this most famous of our first citizens, but it is well to begin again to pay tribute to him, especially in this age of uncertainty, bizarre political events, the lack of leadership.
   
   Perhaps the most amazing element about Franklin was the apparent lack of ego. He did not do things for personal gain but rather for the overall good of the people, a goal he genuinely seemed to embrace above all else. His sense of humor was also unique for such a man; his penchant for penning controversial ideas under the guise of pen names was nothing short of genius in itself. It was a safety valve attached to a desire to effect change - you tentatively "test the mood" before admitting authorship. Waiting a decade for public opinion to soften is often soon enough if the ideas are sound enough to claim later as your own! Let the seed be sown, to rise not during the winter chill, but later, afterward - when the spring sun warms the soil and brings it to life under more suitable conditions.
   
   Moreover, not only were his covertly penned arguments gems of far-reaching vision, but this most excellent, prudent strategy was developed at the age of.....of....16!
   
   We need him to come again to the service of this country, which will always be his; but I fear there was only one of him made. Thankfully, we were able to have such a man in the right place at the right time, especially at the end of his career, when he was such heartwarming support for our Revolutionists as they "committed with their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor".



2. Hands down, one of the best books I've ever read. This book is wonderfully detailed without getting lost in the minutia. It was the first book I read on this era and has compelled me to read everything I can get my hands on about the founding fathers.



3. This is perhaps the best biography I have ever read for the following reasons:
   The author has the wit, ironic tone, and command of the language that is worthy of Ben Franklin the writer.
   The prose is beautiful and is seamlessly interwoven with quotes from letters, articles, contemporary commentaries, and Ben's own memoirs.
   This book reads like a novel, tells a great story about a brilliant, admired, and patriotic man who lived an incredible life. He was a true renaissance man whom Brands has captured in all his many facets.



4. The reading of this biography of Benjamin Franklin is well worth the investment. It is important to understand where we have come from and the life of Franklin is as much about the United States as it is about the life of one man. It is very well written. My only criticism is that its snippets of John Adams seem unbalanced against David McCullough's John Adams. I believe that although Adams was very critical and suspicious of Franklin early on, he did come to greatly respect him in the end. If this was my only exposure to Adams, I would not value him as a founding father as I do. Having said that, I still give this book 5 stars.



5. H.W. Brands does a fantastic job of portraying Benjamin Franklin as the Renaissance Man that he was. From the first page, you meet someone who understands the world, people, and his own place in it. Brands does not skimp on material, going back to the setting before Franklin's birth all the way to his last day. Every page is worth the time as this biography is both readable, interesting, and packed with relevant contextual information. No matter your nationality, you'll find Franklin a character not only of great sensibility but humility and kindness as well. These are rare traits in people who found countries, supervise revolutions, and leave a legacy of inventions. Nonetheless, Brands shows us that Franklin was the rarest of people.