5 comments about Just Can't Get Enough: Toys, Games, and Other Stuff from the 80s that Rocked.

1. I bought this book before Thanksgiving this year and after reading it through myself, I had to take it back home with me for the holiday. My cousins and I sat around reading out loud many of the hilarious comments about all the toys we loved growing up and laughing at all the ridiculous (or should I say redonkulous?) toys from our youths. The book jogged our memories on all the toys we couldn't remember on our own now and really made us long for the silliness of the toys of the 80s. It's a hilarious book and really fun to sit around with friends and just remember the good times with the redonkulous toys of the 80s. (and for the record, I STILL want the U.S.S. Flag!!)



2. I am a big 80's fan and this book seemed interesting so I figured that I would give it a shot. I am soo glad that I did. I love the writers sarcasm and memories about the toys mentioned in this book. The book is like a trapper keeper, with the opening on the side. There are 32 toys mentioned in this book. I think I'm a little to young to remember some of them , but I know most of them. I showed the book to my brother who just flipping through it was laughing. It was so fun to talk about the toys.



3. After buying this book for my brother for Christmas (which he loved too btw) I Got this book yesterday for myself and read it all last night:):):) it's exactly what I was looking for a great nostalgia filled trip down memory lane....I thought I was a complete 80's geek but some stuff in this book I hadn't even heard of.....even though it's written by two guys and has a lot of "boy" toys....there were still all the major "girl" toys in there too....and I loved the candid stories they shared especially the babysitters club and punky brewster doll (sorry action figure) too cute:):):)it is nicely set out and presented really well.....a great gift for 80's children everywhere:):)I hope they will do another one from the 80's tv shows/fads etc.....and even the 90's too:):):)good job guys:):)



4. There's a certain innocence about the 80's that seems very transparent by today's standards. But in the 80's... we all thought that we were living a revolution of cutting edge pop culture. Little did we know that those years would pale in comparison to the childhood trends of the 90's & 2000's. I really believed that I had dismissed from my mind most of the decade and rightly so, it seemed so 20 something years ago. But honestly this book made me really appreciate what I had forgotten. Being a kid of the Reagan Era, I lived through the 90's thumbing my nose at most of these pop culture icons (and listening to grudge rock). I bought "Just Can't Get Enough" as a passing fancy (being a follower of vintage toys), not knowing that the personal stories and memories of the authors would be the gems within.
   
   The Book Itself - It's pretty neat really. The chapters are each a certain 80's icon, divided into small subsections with titles like, "The Story" or "The Products" or "What Does It All Mean?" All of this wrapped up in a suedo-Trapper Keeper style cover with a velcro clasp. When reading the chapters, you begin to appreciate how much time and effort was put into this book. With chapters devoted to Transformers, He-Man, Madballs, Scratch N' Sniff stickers, Garbage Pail Kids, etc., the book gives equal focus, regardless of obscurity. I particularly liked the toys that I remembered fondly from childhood, but also enjoyed the great details about toys I never knew - i.e. Pogo Ball or "Pogo Bal" as the writers note humorously. The authors treat us to most of the usual suspects of the decade, but there are a few rarely honored candidates such as Crossbows And Catapults, Choose Your Own Adventure books, and Hit-Stix among others. Also, there are some obvious misses such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, Gremlins, Get Along Gang, Shirt Tales, Smurfs, Pound Puppies, etc. Hopefully these oversights make way for a follow-up volume. But what you do get makes up for anything not included. First thing you will notice is the great writing style. I particularly like the sarcastic overtone that seems to permeate from every page, pure "Gen X" humor at its best. These authors go to great lengths to make each chapter witty and nostalgic. In fact, if you are unable to feel an overwhelming sense of nostalgia after reading this book, then you most likely were born after Operation Desert Shield... or during the hay days of Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. Whether you relive the 80's regularly or haven't looked back since 1990 - this book is going to trigger fond memories... or at least jar something loose from the painfully hidden recesses of the mind.
   
   My Personal Reaction - I found myself on several occasions laughing out loud. My girlfriend seemed frustrated with me continually interrupting her TV watching by loudly exclaiming, "listen to this" as I read aloud large passages time and time again. Finally she picked up the book, which was a big mistake for me... since it took me quite a while to get it back. She appreciated different sections (the My Little Pony, Strawberry Shortcake, Rainbow Brite). It was like going to Toys 'R Us from your childhood; you either were in the boys section or over in the pink section if you were a girl - no matter which, it was fun. So I can say, there is something for everyone, boys and girls alike. Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by my fascination with chapters like the game Guess Who?, which I actually hated as a child. The more ridiculous the idea the funnier the commentary became as the authors put it all in perspective. And when I say perspective, I mean being a 20 something or 30 something adult. There is some crude humor in here that is not at all pointed to the young kids we once were. But honestly, do we expect any children today to even bother reading this? I can plainly put that to rest - kids today would never "get" what this book is about. Once you start reading, remember this isn't just a book about the items; it's a book about how they all relate to us - the children of the 80's. So don't get caught up expecting a long treatise on the history of everything 1980's, that's not what it's about.
   
   Final Thoughts - I read this only wanting more. The only fix for your "jonesing" would be to share this with others. If you buy this book, then don't forget to invite your other Gen X friends or siblings or whoevers to a fun filled day in the way-back machine. I highly recommend this book as a fan of humor and 80's pop culture. But, if you only want to see details of 80's toys - minus the nifty sarcasm, then check out Action Figures of the 1980s (Schiffer Book for Collectors) - it's loaded with great pictures. But be warned, that book doesn't have a one-tenth the laughs of "Just Can't Get Enough." If the authors do nothing else, then this book is still a masterpiece in its own right and worthy of a notable writing career. I hope this isn't the end though; there are plenty of unvisited pop culture products still lurking in our memories for "Just Can't Get Enough"... Volume 2.



5. great purchase for any kid at heart who grew up in th 80's. could've been more inclusive. may i suggest a part 2?

5 comments about Paleo-indian Artifacts: Identification & Value Guide.

1. This is a BEAUTIFUL book, and well-worth the relatively low Amazon price. However, there are some flaws in it, which might make its usefulness a tad questionable to serious students of Paleo-Indian artifact values and identities. Several pictures are incorrectly ID'ed (see page 6 and 7...the same picture is used for a fluted point and a clovis point. The same thing happens on page 97. This is probably the result of carelessness on the part of the type/image setter, not the author, but it does make one wonder. The images are spectacular (and I'd give my eye-teeth to find any ONE of them), so ignore my carping and purchase this book. It is huge and loaded with full-color photos of points and tools that will make your mouth water. I want to go to Ohio and hunt for artifacts!



2. As previous critiquer noted there is an error in the book RIGHT OFF THE BAT! Could ANYONE have proofread this and missed it? It made me not trust the rest of the book, valid as it might be.



3. Once the reader is able to get by the occasional editorial oversight, any serious student, artifact collector or just someone interested in Paleo-Indian/Native American artifacts will find this book an excellent and most enjoyable resource. It is both easy to read as well as full of pictures of these hard to find artifacts. Beautifully photographed...that in itself makes it worth sitting down and enjoying.



4. I was completely dissapointed in this book. On the pro side: it has a lot of pretty pictures and is hardbound. That is about it. It has no technical merit, nor is there any organization to it. It is simply a mosaic of photographs many of which are subjective as to whether they are truley paleo or not, and they do not represent all paleo tools equally. You will have to work to find examples of redstones here. It may be suitable as a coffee table nicknack, but as a reference or good read....Zzzzzz.



5. Being a collector of Indian artifacts and coming from a family of the same, I think this book is awesome. It is informative and, with the pictures and values given, makes a great resource for the information I was looking for. I had great fun looking up and matching the pictures to the artifacts that I had found in our area of Wyoming. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in artifacts.

No comments about The Art Economy: An Investor's Guide to the Art Market.

5 comments about The Complete Guide to Shirley Temple Dolls And Collectibles: Identification & Value Guide (Identification & Values (Collector Books)).

1. This is the best ever book about Shirley Temple dolls. It is amazing. Filled with information and tips. This book could easily sell for double the price.



2. I have two other Shirley Temple Price guides and I think book is just the most comprehensive. It has lots of pictures and includes all different Shirley Collectibles. It has pictures of a lot of rare Shirley Dresses and compo. Shirley's that were made in Germany, Australia, Great Britain. It is a nice large book and is a great reference guide. Love it!



3. I found this book to be very helpfull in finding what I needed to know on the dolls and clothes



4. 
   This book is one of the best books on the subject of the Shirley Temple dolls (& other S.Temple Collectibles).
   Written on quality paper with excellent photos



5. Great pics of Shirley Temple Dolls & memorabilia organized by years-very thorough and helpful since I am a Shirley collector. Additionally, great tips on improving the looks of the dolls. Well done.

2 comments about Fenton Art Glass: A Centennial of Glass Making 1907 to 2007 (Schiffer Book for Collectors).

1. The book is beautiful and exactly what I was looking for! Fast shipping, too......very pleased. Thank you and Happy Holidays!



2. Any collector of Fenton art glass and many a collection catering to glass collectors will find this an invaluable review, offering glass from all of Fenton's decades of production under one cover - some 100 years of glassmaking history. 3,000 pieces are profiled in over 600 color photos, along with their latest values and examples of changing styles. It's a 'must' for any serious collector's specialty collection, especially those of glassware collectors.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch

3 comments about The DCC Guide.

1. The DCC Guide by Don Fiehmann is an outstanding publication for anyone new to DCC! The author presents a very comprehensive approach to the subject and is accompanied with excellent graphics. I have purchased various publications on the subject, but The DCC Guide is truly the best guide for the non technical model railroader.



2. Certainly helped me choose which equipment to buy. Well worthwhile buying, especially for a beginner.



3. Although I'm not done reading this book and being a Virgin to DCC it has been very helpful so far and when I finally purchase I am sure it will come in handy then also.

No comments about Star Trek The Collectibles.

1 comments about Standard Catalog of Modern World Gold Coins 1801-present: 1801-present (Standard Catalogs).

1. PLUS:
   Excellent guide, good value. One of the essential numismatic guidebooks.
   
   Easy to use and well organized. Is an updated version of the venerable Krause Standard Catalog of World Gold Coins (hardcover), except is missing the 1500's, 1600's, & 1700's.
   
   MINUS:
   Pictures are all in B&W, some pictures are poor quality, available only in paperback.
   
   
   Numismatics is a hobby as any other do not expect a handsome return on your investment, at least not a monetary one. Have fun. Good luck.

5 comments about Ancient Egyptian Costumes Paper Dolls (History of Costume).

1. Amazing, two dolls, a dozen or more plates of beautifully draw clothing, how can you go wrong? If you love egypt, this is the paperdoll book for you.



2. We used this book of paper dolls as inspiration for dance costuming representing Ancient Egypt in a presentation at our local zoo's fundraiser "Caravan through Ancient Egypt". Beautiful paper dolls and costumes...excellent quality!



3. I purchased these to "decorate" an ancient Egypt report for my daughter. The artwork is beautiful but I did have to censure a few of the outfits (not quiet suitable for elementary school).



4. I can't believe no other reviewer has mentioned that the girl paperdoll is topless! In a couple of the costumes, she has nothing on top (sure it's covered by props, but not well) and since when do paperdolls have DD cups? I got this for my daughter for Christmas, but there's NO WAY I would ever let her play with this type of paperdoll. Is it too hard to actually make something that's appropriate for children? Definitely not G rated IMO!



5. The drawings and costumes are exquisite, like most of Tom Tierny books are. The explanation of each type of costume is well-done and easy to understand. My only exception to the product is the near nudity--tastefully done and, I'm sure, just done to show authenticity, but it may be something to consider if you are buying this for a child. This particular book has a lot of the near nudity, but I guess that was ancient Egypt for you.

3 comments about The Complete Guide to Corning Ware & Visions Cookware.

1. The brown and raspberry glass is so seventies and they were created POST seventies. They came in these giant boxes in the stores and they seemed a good idea so people bought them ... for other people as well as for themselves. Well, that's why you see with regularity Visions cookware for sale on ebay (at affordable prices) and sometimes NIP i.e. New in Package. LOL.
   
   The problem with this cookware is that it heats up very quickly and whatever you are cooking very easily burns so you end up with a hard to clean black crust on the bottom. I've heard that the nonstick version is worse because it chips off. *shudder*
   
   Now that I have a dishwasher, I love them because they are good enough that I don't have to go on the torture trail after Le Creuset and the other likely suspects. I use them all the time in addition to a thin metal wok. I like what other people liked about them - that you could see into the pot - but for most people that was not enough to stick with a pretty annoying cooking experience.
   
   The best piece of Visions cookware is the stockpot on the cover of this book. I never need to buy a designated popper or a microwave because with this stockpot all I need do is coat the bottom with olive oil, sprinkle a layer of kernels, lid on and watch them go. I don't get burned kernels and only one or two unpopped kernels. It's deep enough to steam a pyrex bowl of rice and a platter of some savory. It's also the best looking of the set. I also use all the different sizes as mixing bowls with long handles. They are great.



2. Kyle Coroneos has written a lovely, informative book that I find myself using constantly. I originally purchased this large paperback just so I could identify my mother's Corning Ware pieces, in the hopes that I could fill in her pattern set (once I realized Corning Ware was no longer being made!).
   
   Soon, I found myself purusing eBay, book in hand, wondering if I should start my own collection. Now, whenever I visit thrift or garage sales, I leapt upon the Corning Ware items I see, eager to take them home and check them against the pictures and information in the book. Then I sell them myself on eBay!
   
   This book has become my Corning Ware Bible. Not only an almost complete list of every product Corning made through the 20th century, but each item is accompanied by great photos, making it a simple task to identify pieces and match patterns and casserole sets. Furthermore, Coroneos did a through job of giving a history, not only of the Corning Works company, but also of the items made, so that you're learning all those technical, nitty gritty details about an item that adds value to it. He even bothers to translate one pattern's french words, just in case you can't be bothered to look up one online yourself.
   
   Most importantly, a section on how to clean your Corning Ware is in the back, and the book was worth the $15 just for that information alone! I've been saving many scorched pans with Coroneos' tips. Whether you are a collector or a seller of Corning Ware, if you don't have this book, you are losing out.



3. This is a very nice starting place for review of Corning Ware pieces with lots of photos. It seems there is a lot more research to be done on this product line however. From items I have seen out there, there are many pieces that did not get covered. Includes a very nice history.The book is worth the price.