5 comments about Monster Manual II (Dungeons & Dragons d20 3.0 Fantasy Roleplaying Supplement).

1. A good book for its time, but DMs should take note that this book is dated. Monster description blocks are not 3.5 compliant. This means that the monster's Base Attack Bonus is not clearly listed, nor is the Grapple bonus (although most Swallow Whole descriptions define this variable). Also, Damage Reduction has changed significantly, so be prepared to make some on-the-fly adjustments. Otherwise I would say that this book is very usable at all levels.



2. Some interesting new entries in the D20 universe such as the infamous gem dragons :) but the format is still 3.0e and starting to show its age, very difficult to use any of the LA's PC possible entries...

   Save this purchase for last for the completisits out there after you have the MM, MMIII, and fiend folio in your collection. Actually after that I would probably recomend others still before the MMII, notably the advanced bestiary from green ronin which contains more interesting and up to date material than the aged MMII here.




3. When I first got the book in the mail I was a TINY bit disappointed in the size, expecting a book the size of the Monster Manual 1, but when I looked through I was presently surprised. It has some very interesting new creatures (Dinosaurs, Gem Dragons, and Phoenix caught by eye when fist browsing over the Table of Contents) and the layout is great. A perfect amount of tables, neat spacing, and beautiful pictures make the book easy and fun to pick out monsters or look through when your bored. Though it does pull slightly away from the "old school" fantasy setting of goblins, orcs, knolls etcetera, it's a great book for DMs that want to make campaigns more interesting and for players intrigued by cool new monsters.



4. this book is very god because it has creative monsters in it. And also a lot of templents. Well worth the price.



5. As with most Monster Manuals, the larger more creatures you have at your finger tips, the easier it is to keep your players challenged and keep the game fun with a variety of opponents.

2 comments about Mensa Big Book of Acrostics (Mensa).

1. this was just the right of challenge, very hard but with a minimum of frustration. I have found this best of these books that I have had and I have had many! Thank you so much for getting me through a broken back and pneumonia! Shane



2. Great book - quite informative, but (and not to say "gotcha!")
   found an error in puzzle #44. Let's see if you can find it. [...] if you've missed it.
   
   Jim Leeds
   Much-Published
   Crossword Constructor

5 comments about Kid Talk: Conversation Cards (Tabletalk Conversation Cards).

1. I bought this so we would spend some quality time at the table and boy did it work.My husband works alot of hours and is so used to eating and jumping up from the table. These cards really go all of us talking and the kids have been eating more and not bouncing around at the table.Even my 2yr old likes to listen to our answers and has been much more behaved at dinner!



2. A little disappointing. Our family has to skim through a few cards before we find one that seems fun.



3. We were looking for a way to increase our family communication during dinner and to allow each child in the family to have equal "floor time" for their comments. The cards contain great topics, are creative, and enhance spontaneous discussion. Great buy!



4. I bought these for my godsons (4 & 9). They both really enjoyed them, as did the adults!



5. I bought these to use with my kids, but found that they didn't find the ideas at all interesting. Personal interest varies, of course. It seems to me that we have more interesting conversations than the ones suggested in the deck on a regular basis. My main issue with these cards, however, is that many of the "facts" listed on the cards are completely incorrect. Don't beleive everything you read, and particularly with this card deck- find out if the "fact" it lists is truly a "fact". One could take this in an entirely different educational direction than it was intended, but a research project wasn't what I was looking for.

5 comments about Aerobics of the Mind Cards: 100 Exercises for a Healthy Brain.

1. The 100 exercises for a healthy mind which are mental fitness cards developed by the Attainment Company,Inc. are a very good means of helping each person address the growth of brain functioning. These are divided into twelve categories such as (1)wake up your brain, (2) creative problem solving, (3)art and imagination, (4)brainstorming (5)double mind and seven other similar and helpful categories. The hundred versions of activities in themselves are an incentive to action and can be used in any order so that a monotonous routine may be changed to a desireable action. The steady use of this approach will help form the concept of keeping abreast of the expansion of knowledge and reduce obsolesence to the same degree that the entire population faces. This text should stimulate many people in the middle age and the elderly to reconsider their life style in order to move with knowledge expansion in a very constructive manner and to live a more composed life.



2. I just love the Brain exercise cards. I wish I had known about this product sooner. I use these cards with my mother who is showing early signs of dementia. The cards are fun and enhance the time my mother and I spend together.



3. I've been usingthese cards with one on one conversations with the elderly people in my church and it's opened up avenues of good conversation. I've used them in a couple of small groups I lead and you can almost hear their brains working as they reflect on the questions, work the puzzles. In fact they have "aha" experiences as they solve the puzzles and cry out "Amazing, I did it!" with great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Several in one group want to get the cards for themselves.



4. I work with seniors and used these cards with one who had stayed sharp and wanted to continue that way. Was able to pick out the ones she could handle more easily re declining sight and arthritic hands, and we had plenty to work with. She found them both fun and challenging, as did I -- despite the fact that I'm in my early 50's and she's in her late 90's!!



5. I had brain surgery two years ago and have had slight memory problems since then. I ordered these cards after seeing a PBS show on brain plasticity and thinking that I might improve my memory with exercise (not just doing the same type of brain game over and over). These cards give you all kinds of ideas to work different parts of your brain, in groups or by yourself. I not only have improved my memory, but also my focus and mental alertness. I have receommended them to many other friends and and we're just in our fifties!

5 comments about Blackjack For Blood: The Card-Counters' Bible, and Complete Winning Guide.

1. Blackjack For Blood is the best book on blackjack I have ever read -- and I have read just about all of them. According to all the experts, Carlson's Advanced Omega II System (included in the book) is much stronger than Hi-Lo or K-O, and I have found it surprisingly easy to master. It definitely gets the money; that's for sure. I also like the author's writing style. He explains things very well, and he intersperses the hardcore stuff with entertaining stories about his high-rolling experiences in various casinos around the world. All in all, a terrific book on how to beat casino blackjack. I highly recommend it.



2. The bind quality of this book is not up to standard, appon reading a couple of the pages just came loose.
   The content however is far more substantial and makes one a believer in his Omega II system.
   Not a especially easy system due to the necessity of the ace side count (not ace reconed) it is more powerful than most systems in simulations.



3. EXCELENTE LIBRO DE FACIL COMPRENSION PARA PERSONAS QUE NO HABLAN EL INGLES, EL ENVIO RAPIDO LLGA EN BUENAS CONDICIONES Y SIN PROBLEMA ALGUNO EN LA COIMPRA DESCAHO Y RECEPCION



4. As a book, this is a great read. Bryce highlights the Omega II count system, and also tells a great series of stories along the way. There are sections on cover, what to do when backed off a table, and alternative advantage methods.
   
   I don't know if this is the best system, from a pure card counting standpoint. It's a level 2, with an ace tracking component, which is a bit of brain work. On the other hand, if you are a serious blackjack player, this book is a great resource on many levels.



5. This book gives an excellent overview of the game of blackjack and an explanation of how to use a powerful counting system, including many index numbers. I've used this system for single-deck games for several years and, for someone who truly knows what they're doing (if you are at all uncertain as to whether or not you fit into this category, you are not in it) this book is literally worth its weight in gold. Make that platinum.
   
   Several of the reviews posted here may lead a person to believe that card counting is easy money. I would caution anyone that it is not as simple as reading a book on a flight to Vegas. Blackjack just doesn't work that way. There is a lot more to consistently beating the game than reading one book, or even ten books. Counting is the easy part, getting away with it in casinos over the long term is a whole different ball game.

5 comments about Hopscotch, Hangman, Hot Potato, & Ha Ha Ha: A Rulebook of Children's Games.

1. The best one book for playing games with elementary students. New games, old games, cooperative games, competitive games, variations on games- it's all here. The best money I've spent on a game book- and I've bought four!



2. I LOVE this book and I'm not a teacher NOR do I have children (just lots of nieces and nephews)! I've always been a board game fan and this book brings back memories of all the fun we used to have as kids. This is a great book for parents to get kids away from video games and get outside and have fun while being active. It covers almost any children's game you can think of in a manner that touches on all the detail I've forgotten over time. It's divided into chapters such as: Indoor Games; Games to Play on Grass and Playgrounds; Games to play on Pavement, Steps and Stoops; Games in Water; Party Games and Travel Games.
   
   There are games I played that I didn't remember the names or the rules...they're all here. Card games like Old Maid, Fish and Hearts; Paper games like Hangman, Boxes (where you make the dots and connect the lines to form boxes) and String games like Cat's Cradle. There was even the game that you folded the paper and wrote stuff on the inside and you sliped the paper box thing over your fingers to answer the other person's questions. Here it's called Cootie Catcher but I can guarantee we didn't call it that! LOL
   
   Writing this review makes me want to go play some hopscotch! See ya' later.



3. What a great book, I teach P.E. and do afterscool care, I use this book all the time. It has great games for indoor and outdoors. Get it you won't regret it.



4. This book was a big hit for our family and my 7 year old son really had fun playing some of the indoor games..great new creative ideas and also a great refresher for games I had played when I was young but couldn't quite remember all the rules! Well written, easy to read format - would definitely recommend!



5. This book got so much use when I was a girl scout leader and with the neighborhood kids, especially parties! Has great games that I loved to play in the days before computers, playstations, cable TV, etc.

5 comments about The Pointe Book: Shoes, Training & Technique Second Edition.

1. I have found this book very interesting to read, and somewhat helpful. The book is American based which means that not all the information is relevant to an Australian reader such as myself. The second half of the book presents detailed pointe classes which are very helpful, but if you are not familiar with all the terminology you will need a ballet dictionary to use the information. Over all I have found this book interesting and helpful from a student point of view but also think it would be a good read for anyone who loves ballet.



2. Now in a new and expanded second edition, The Pointe Book: Shoes, Training, & Technique is a remarkable manual and examination of ballet dancing pointe shoes, and the methodologies used by professionals. Choreographic experts Barringer and Schlesinger apply their years of knowledge and personal experience in the world of fitting and training with pointe shoes to matter-of-factly present how dedicated and athletic individuals achieve remarkable feats of grace and balance. Packed with detail, The Pointe Book is as comprehensive as can be covering everything from different types of shoes to the hazards of learning to walk on one's toes to resources for help with pointe-related injuries and much more. Highly recommended for anyone with a professional or casual interest in the world of ballet.



3. A really thorough guide to every pointe shoe there is out there, a great history of the technique, and lots of advice on pointe work. A great purchase for anyone interested in pointe work, but there's perhaps so much information on different shoes that it could be confusing for beginners.



4. The Pointe Book: Shoes, Training & Technique Second Edition
   
   I purchased this book because I am getting back into ballet after several years out due to non-ballet related injuries. I found a lot of useful information, but there were a lot of things that I also wished that the book had included, or had talked more about.
   
   If you have absolutely no experience in ballet, or are not taking any training or don't have an experienced ballerina handy to answer questions, this book is going to be a bit confusing. It is excellent for giving you contact information and company and product reviews for ballet gear providers. However, I did notice that the information contained in the book on some of the companies and their products, particularly regarding pointe shoe sizing, differed markedly from the information provided by the company/manufacturer on their on websites. I would not rely only on the information contained in this book if you are going to purchase pointe shoes using this information. If you are going to order via the internet or mail order, please take the time to either visit a store for a personal fitting, or else contact the manufacturer via telephone, e-mail, or look over their website. Just by chance, I had recently purchased a new pair of pointe shoes by one of the makers listed, and had I used the book's size guide, I would have purchased shoes that were no where near the correct size.
   
   It is an excellent resource for those that are taking class and have instructors to turn to for further explanation, or those that have some degree of en pointe experience. I do wish that the dance sequence sections had been a little more detailed; that section was a big disappointment as I found it was not anywhere near as marvelous as it had been billed.
   
   Overall, there's just no real substitute for an en pointe class with a real, live, knowledgeable instructor in front of you to answer questions. Yet, I wouldn't just write this book off, and I don't think it was a waste to purchase it. It does highlight some good points and information, but it could be a whole lot better--and more complete.



5. This is a great book for teachers or pre-pointe or pointe dancers. Causes you to slow down and really think about what you are teaching and when a dance should go on pointe. My Moms always ask when their daughter will be "ready" Now I have some recommended reading when the simple answers I give are not quite enough for some dancers and parents.

1 comments about Munchkin 6: Demented Dungeons (Steve Jackson Games).

1. Great set of cards, delivered on time and for much less than what i would pay at a game shop.

5 comments about Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles.

1. Entertaining Mathematical Problems by Martin Gardner is a great book for all ages. This book has over 100 problems in sections ranging from topology to games. Some of the problems are simple to many, but there are some that require thought to do. Answers are included on the back. Any math lover will surely enjoy this book.
   Paul Raff (Northwestern_Wildcat@ibm.net




2. I give this book five stars. Though the problems and puzzles were created several years ago, it introduces or, at least, reintroduces the reader to humorous and thought-provoking examples highlighting how intuitive and counterintuitive processes can collide into one another.

   Martin Gardner's witty writing style makes this book a pleasant pathway to the realms of logic. Neat and concise with its stories and challenges throughout and with solutions at the very end, the book is a very ideal read, especially if you are a passenger with a very long trip ahead and who needs good quality entertainment that is also educational.




3. Nothing very exciting. Lot more books that are better value in this category on Amazon



4. As most of Martin Gardner's books, this is an enchanting
   collection of puzzles. No author has done a better job at popularizing and illustrating the beauty of mathematics.



5. "Entertaining mathematical puzzles" by Martin Gartner is collection of rather easy math puzzles of diverse mathematical topics. Only an elementary knowledge of math and the will to resist looking up the answers before completing the problems.
   
   Clear and concise comments at the beginning of each section explain the nature and importance of the math needed to solve each puzzle. A carefully explained solution follows each problem. In many cases, all that is needed to solve a problem is the ability to think logically and clearly, to be on the alert for surprising angles or hidden factors.
   
   Here is an example of what you can find inside this book:
   
   "If three cats catch three rats in three minutes, how many cats will catch 100 rats in 100 minutes?"
   
   If you like more challenging pure mathematical teasers and puzzles, you may want to try "Challenging mathematical teasers" by J. A. H. Hunter.

5 comments about Viva Pinata: Prima Official Game Guide (Prima Official Game Guides).

1. I don't usually get game guides because they spoil the fun, but sometimes you just want to know what kind of fertalizer to use, and this one tells you everything. It's a good reference for those who don't want to take notes on a game that is purely for fun.



2. One can get quite far in the game by just paying attention, experimenting and luck; however, sometimes it's nice to have a reference when you want to attract a particular Pinata or produce a particular variation. While a lot of this information is freely available on the web, I find having a book to flip through, more practical while playing the game.



3. I will keep this review short and sweet. Many have covered the basics.
   
   Viva Pinata is not new. My son has been playing it for a while now and the progress has been steady, but slow. I felt that he is starting to loose interest or at least, I'm starting to feel useless.
   So i decided to get this guide. The first ever guide i get for any game (I'm 36 and i've been gaming since i was 6).
   
   Man did it change his life. I was blown away by how much of this game is revealed, new challenged uncovered and objectives to look forward to.
   
   And Unlike the reviewer who thought this came out late. I think all Strategy Guides should come out a year or more post game release. It will add so much more replay value, renew interest in a game, almost removing a shroud. Interest in a game would be prolonged...
   
   And, as a bonus, my kid is actually forcing himself to read through the book, page by page.
   
   That alone is worth 5*s



4. But found that this game is fun for all ages. It has it's childish moments, it's bright colors, cute little pinatas running around and funny noises; but there really is no substitute to the kind of gaming enjoyment this game will provide. It's kind of a SIMS crossed with the original cartoon. You control the pets, take care of them and protect them from the bad pinatas in hopes of creating secret pets and luring newer and better pets in to your gardens. The features and pretty abundant and all add to the variety of game play allowed. I wouldn't feel bad recommending this game to my friends or allowing my 5 year old child to play.
   
   The only thing I would like to warn the parents about that may be thinking about giving this to their kids is the pets are able to reproduce and create little pinatas that are delivered as eggs to the loving parent pinatas. Basically two pinatas are looking for love, you get them together, play a mini game. Upon successful completion of the mini game the pinatas do a dance...literally. A cut scene shows the pinatas do a variety of world dances to the appropriate music. I only mention this because I don't want parents complaining that no one warned them that the game may cause little Timmy or Janie to ask questions about where babies come from. Regardless of that, I'd recommend this game for all ages.



5. As far as game guides go this is one of the most complete I have encountered. It makes a great book to have handy when you are sitting there and playing. It's not laid out as a walkthrough, but rather as an encyclopedia of sorts. Because Viva Piñata is so open-ended, it makes this layout the best method. You can easily glance through the book and if you see a piñata you like, you can see all the prerequisites that go into attracting it and getting them to stay, plus any of the extra color variations of them you can obtain. The book also makes it a whole lot easier to go buy items when you can look right in the book and know the cost and variations before you even head to the village to shop. Some guide books can ruin the experience of a game by providing you every step that you should be taking, this book on the other hand becomes that ultimate game manual that you never had. So grab yourself the Piñata bible and go out there and get gardening!