5 comments about I'm Chocolate, You're Vanilla: Raising Healthy Black and Biracial Children in a Race-Conscious World.

1. I have read a lot of these types of books since we are white and my son is African American. Great book for people preparing to adopt transracially. Gives you a lot to think about and prepare for. I think it's the best of these books.
   
   I have also read the very popular "Inside Transracial Adoption" and this book takes a much more positive spin. I found the other one to be somewhat depressing. This book is much more hopeful and helpful. I consider it a must read if you are considering adopting a child of a race different than your own.



2. This book was one of the worst I have read. As a transracially adopted person, a parent with a white partner and multi-racial kids, a teacher, and a diversity director, this book is misleading. It gives teachers of young children an excuse to not talk about race. This attitude silences children. It also gives them a message that there is something wrong with race. Do we not talk about gender at an early age, hair color, eyes. Let's get all these "researchers" to live, be in and run a classroom over time. There is where your research is. White parents, don't be fooled by this book. She is making money off of your need for eduacation.



3. We are adopting kids from Ethiopia, so I got this for my wife to read. She absolutely loved it. Not sure if it was due to our situation or if she would have loved it anyway. Brings up interesting points about inter-racial adoptions. She is recommending it to our friends and family as an good read.



4. Wow, the title alone is a turn off for me. As a biracial individual, I am little offended at the simplification of racial-identity as ice cream flavors. There are no how-to's for white parents raising Black children. It's complex and often painful, and that's what white parents need to know going into this.



5. Althought this book is titled and covered as a black/white book, it actually helps parents understand any child of a race different than white. We have an adopted Chinese daughter and it has enlightened me in many ways.

5 comments about Use What You Have Decorating : Transform Your Home in One Hour With Ten Simple Design Principles -- Using the Space You Have, the Things You Like, the Budget You Choose.

1. ...and yet I only give it 4 stars. Why? Because first of all, there is very little advice that applies beyond the living room, and that's a formal living area - not the family gathering and watching TV area. I would love to see a book of hers that will address other areas in the house.
   
   Beyond that though, I love this book. I'm a down to earth person, always looking for a quick and cheap way to re-do things. This book taught me decorating principles that were easy to put into practice. I like the before and after pics, explanations and the occassional room layouts. After studying this book a few times, it took me less than an hour to re-arrange my living room. It's so much more inviting and comfortable now, that I don't want to leave it! As for color vs. black and white photos, of course I'd prefer color. But I can live with it, because the content is so helpful. I have the older version too that has a middle insert of color photos as well.
   
   This book will be helpful if you already have a house of furniture or maybe suffer from TMS syndrome (too much stuff) and if you enjoy being creative with what you have. If not, then this book will probably frustrate you.



2. This is a good book for people who have no experience or formal training with decorating. I found the top 10 tips for avoiding design disaster to be helpful and easy to understand. The pictures in the book are very outdated, but made me feel like I might have a fighting chance with my own space.



3. I am a professional interior designer and I found this book great because it provides great information in a easy to read format. I read more than half the book in one evening. Some people have stated that even though they love the book they wished it was in color. I love the book in black and white because the emphasis really is on the placement and not so much the color. I find that when items are related in color it is easy for the eye to make the "connection" and ignore the real placement of the items. When the pictures are in black and white, it forces the eye to look at where and how the items are placed. This is a great book and I would recommend it to the novice, lay person, or professional designer/decorator looking to add an additional service that they can offer their clients. I give it two thumbs up!



4. I give the book a 4 star rating. Would have been good if we had some colour photos and show some living rooms that do not have the fire place a the focal point of the room but some other feature. Also how do you decorate a room with steep dormer features, that create angles. I like Lauri's books though I have Home Therapy.



5. Laurie Ward has hit on a great idea here - redecorating with your own stuff. And she does give some great advice in this book about creating a conversation area situated around a focal point, and about how high to hang art. I have been "tweaking" my house ever since I read the book and for the most part her suggestions are very helpful. I also enjoyed the "before" and "after" photos of real peoples' homes. But a couple things bothered me about this book. The first two-thirds of the book are basically paraphrased repetitions of this idea: create a U-shaped conversation area around a focal point. By the fifth or sixth example, you're thinking "gee, I wonder what genius furniture arrangement she'll come up with this time...SURPRISE! U-shaped conversation area!" She gives only a little information on how to re-arrange a dining room, bedroom, bathroom, or ANY OTHER room in the house (and what about those of us with open floor plans? throw me a bone here!), and what few suggestions she does give seem to have been added as an afterthought. The other thing I did not like is a matter of taste more than anything else: I thought some of her advice was a bit old-school (and not in a good way), in particular her advice about how to arrange and group art and other decorative objects (i.e., "don't mix media"), but also her advice against using fridge magnets and patterned paper towels comes off as a bit snobby. However, overall I do recommend the book if you need some help rearranging your living room.

5 comments about Legal Aspects of Architecture, Engineering, and the Construction Process.

1. This is probably the most comprehensive construction law book I have ever read. It is an absolute must for a law student taking construction law.



2. First, I am not a lawyer, but a praticing design/ contruction professional. I have used this book for years. I find it very well written and easy to use. I have loaned it to so many lawyers when thing get tight that I don't remember all of them. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has to deal with contracts and construction. When things start to go sour, its a great resource for all parties involved.



3. Excellent Book, It a wealth of Materials and mandatory reading for Construction Management program at the University Of Washington Master Program in Civil and Construction.. The material is spot on for Construction management



4. We used this book for our senior level construction law class and it was a fantastic textbook. I feel that the reading was very thorough when presenting topics and the homework problems really reinforced the reading. This is a great text to own, especially when dealing with a professor who likes to throw a whole lot of back and forth debate with the class. *A must for anyone entering the construction insutry* -M.



5. I recieved my book and there are pages missing. Page 518-551 are gone. I have called your company three time to have this issue resolved but everytime I am told the computers are down and that they cannot look at my account. This has been the worst buying experience. I am trying to take a class and missing these pages is really messing me up. I expect somone to fix this error. I find it hard to believe that the computers at a dot com company are down everytime I call!!!!!!

5 comments about Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House: Bringing Your Home into Harmony with Nature (Natural Home & Garden).

1. I could not put this book down. It answers all of my questions and concerns as I begin to contemplate the large undertaking of creating a healthy, eco-friendly home for our family. Very thorough, creative and well-written... I only wish I could hire these women directly. Just enough information to cover all of the key considerations, with plenty of guidance on how to dig deeper if necessary. Should be required reading for every builder on the planet!



2. And I am glad I did! I am even gladder to know that more people are waking up to the idea of natural remodeling. I am not sure whether it alone will save our earth but it's a good start. If enough people do it, it will certainly raise the level of our appreciation of nature to a higher level.
   
   We're in the process of buying a house. Having been brainwashed by the mainstream culture and the media, I had grand dreams of huge expansion with piles of the latest and the biggest "goods" we're all programmed to consume - things like an all powerful over sized profession stainless oven even though I would never use it. But I now have a completely different mind set after reading this book.
   
   We've decided to go small and practical and recycle, reuse as much as possible. Let mother Nature live so that we can too!



3. There were many good ideas in this book. Some more expensive than the average person could afford. I read Building Green: A Complete How-To Guide to Alternative Building Methods Earth Plaster * Straw Bale * Cordwood * Cob * Living Roofs; By: Clarke Snell (Author), Tim Callahan (Author). Which was very comprehensive and enjoyable. While Snell and Callahan focus on building from scratch I was more interested at this moment in remodeling. I wouldn't dismiss this book, but I would identify what your needs are first.



4. This is an outstanding book on remodeling your home to blend in with nature, and to avoid introducing toxic products into your home. Great ideas and photos.



5. I've been teaching at a community college for 16 years on the topic of energy efficiency, Passive solar, Building Science, green building, healthy home and alternative structures. These fields have evolved over this period of time. During the past 5 years there have been many good books on new construction, but few on Remodeling.
   
   Since remodeling would recycle a whole building, it is "greener" than new construction, especially in Suburbia or rural agricultural land. I would like to emphasize Remodeling in community colleges and think this would be the best textbook on the subject. The photographs alone are worthwhile. I also own the book, "Green Remodeling" by David Johnston and would use it as a secondary reference.
   
   I would also recommend Natural Remodeling for homeowners.

No comments about Christmas with Southern Living 2008: Great Recipes - Easy Entertaining - Festive Decorations - Gift Ideas (Christmas With Southern Living).

5 comments about Haley's Hints.

1. I've had this book for over 2 years now and have used it intermittently (gardening and storage tips, mainly). Unfortunately, I often forget it's in the house and use expensive, store-bought solutions. Today, however, my bathroom sink was clogged and I have a sick child so didn't want to run to the store for Liquid Plumber (my first instinct). I remembered the book, tried the baking soda/vinegar/boiling water solution and it worked great! So, not only did I save the $5+, I used something much 'greener' than chemicals (one of my new year's resolutions). I'm going to have to look at the contents of the book again and store it in a more handy area so I don't forget about it again!



2. I have used this for years. Now I give it as a bridal shower gift everytime I am invited to one.



3. Haley's hints is a great book to go to for finding how-to information. It has been very helpful when I know there's a better way to clean something when the over-the-counter products are not performing, or when I don't have them on-hand. This book will save you time and money and you'll go to it often.



4. I HAVE BEEN REDUCED TO BUYING WHITE VINEGAR, SODA, AND BORAX--- AND I AM SO THANKFUL FOR THE AWAKENING!!! NO MORE HIGH PRICED UNNECESSARY STUFF IN MY CABINETS. THANKS SO MUCH



5. I grew up when my folks did most of this stuff as everyday practise. I subscribe to a newsletter that has some of these hints. However, this book is still worth money, and more. It's partly about saving money, recycling stuff giving it a second chance before hitting the garbage. Mainly for me, I hate running out to get something when there is something laying around the house that would do just as well. Whatever your angle for following these hints, money, the environment, or just wanting to save a bit of time; this is the book. Besides I like having a book in my hand instead of running to the computer every time something needs doing. Somethings I would never think of looking up. Like we have five cats, one have chewed through several of my headphone wires. The hint is to rub the cord with soap, cats don't like the taste. Now that saved me some money.

5 comments about Ugly's Electrical References 2008.

1. My husband had me purhase this for him for work. He is an Electrial Maintance Mechanic. He says this is a quick way to figure out problems at work. A must have.



2. To much information to even start. It has many, many tables, charts, examples, general information, math, trigonometry, NEC exception references and of course stuff like derating factors, conduit fill, device fill, electrode conductor size ohms law, Henry's law, Kirchoff's law on and on and on.
   
   Let's put it this way, it takes up less space than the NEC and has almost the same amount of info that is not normally used (conduit fill and conductor properties for example).



3. Good manual not for beginners, but it could help for some. Very thorough and planned out.



4. My husband just graduated and starting new job - he wanted this for reference book. Book in great condition and shipped in a timely manner.



5. The best and toughest little electrician's pocket reference that I've seen. I've been through three of them during the past 15 years. The "spiral" plastic sheet binder tended to break after extended abuse over time, so I spot glued the binder ring laps on this new book with E-6000 glue.

5 comments about Design Directory of Window Treatments, The.

1. This is a great source for interior designers, decorators or for Professional Workrooms. Any window treatment imaginable is available for the customer to view. Definitely a good investment.



2. Fast and simple, my title says it all. The book is well worth the cost, with wonderful sketches and terrific organization.



3. Fabulous! Most comprhensive in the window covering industry. Which does make it large and heavy. Highly recommend this book



4. I am an interior designer with a start up company. The Design Directory of Window Treatments is an absolute much- this is an invaluable tool to someone who really needs assistance with window treatments. The CD is also a great tool. I could not be happier with my purchase!



5. Clear illustrations. I think about every type of window treatment is covered. Can help maximize sales with customers. A must have for all Drapery Professionals and Designers. No more misunderstandings between customer and designers. Can hardly wait for Jackie's NEW bedcovering book to come out next year. I will be one of the first to buy it.

5 comments about Vinegar: Over 400 Various, Versatile, and Very Good Uses You've Probably Never Thought Of.

1. To heck with "going green" - Manmade Global Warming is utter nonsense (or explain why the icecaps on Mars are melting, too...) I use the shower-head cleaning technique to make sure I am getting the maximum force out of my environmentally hostile pulsating showers. This is a fun book, and you will be amazed at how versatile the product is. We're fans of apple cider vinegar, by the way.



2. A very interresting compilation of recipes. I have tried several already and i was extremly pleased with the result.



3. I just love this book. So easy to read and find stuff your looking for. I had no idea vinegar was so awesome. After reading this I became a vinegar addict and use it for all sorts of stuff. Well worth the money, especially if you are interested in cleaning without using harsh chemicals.



4. I don't know who has all the time it takes to figure out all these great uses for vinegar but better them then me! If you want to be an organic or green cleaner, this is a must have book. I bought this and the book about Baking Soda. I'm happy to add this to my home green cleaning book collection.



5. Most people would be surprised at the number of uses for vinegar and this book helps by providing many. From marinades to drain opener to insect stings to fabric softener, this book is a great reference work that should be included in any household library.
   
   Vicky Lansky's other publication, Baking Soda: Over 500 Fabulous, Fun & Frugal Uses You've Probably Never Thought Of is another book that offers great suggestions and makes a wonderful companion book to this one.

5 comments about Building a Shed: Siting and Planning a Shed, Building Shed Foundations, Adding Custom Details (Build Like a Pro Series).

1. After reading through this book, I had the confidence to build my own 10 by 10 outdoor shed.
   
   This book does not contain blueprints for building sheds form start to finish. However, it does have a lot of pictures and informative tips to get you started. Often times I was able to simply look at the pictures to see how they did things.
   
   It contains good step-by-step instructions for setting up various types of bases, and the section on roofing really helped me out.
   
   Overall, I would recommend it if you need some ideas or some tips on how to get started or what to watch out for.



2. Having ordered 3 books on sheds based on the on-line reviews, this book along with Barns, Sheds and Outbuildings: Plan, Design, Build (Ultimate Guide To... [Paperback] The Ultimate Guide to Yard and Garden Sheds: Plan, Design, Build.... this is the only book you will need. The other two, while they show up under, "Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought..." pale in comparison to the information contained in this book. In addition, the two I listed above are almost identical in content, same photos, diagrams etc. I have reviewed a couple of other offerings while at Home Depot and Lowes and while they may be good for ideas on style this book is all you need for construction. Enjoy it.



3. This book has far exceeded my expectations! I feel confident that I can plan and build my own shed (suited to my needs and budget) and do it for far less money than a chintzy pre-fab one from a DIY store. This book has a great format and loads of helpful information, things only someone who builds sheds for a living would know. I can't wait for the ground to dry a bit so I can get started building!



4. The shed on the cover is the best one. If you want that specific one buy it, but if your looking for ideas find another book.



5. Glad I bought this one. I had a customer looking for a shed that didn't look 'prefab' and was rustic, but "cute" (her term). I showed her the cover of the book and, with a few modifications, she was sold.
   
   I've never built a shed but I do have some framing knowledge The info on roofing is very helpful to me. I was also psyched the section for the shed on the cover had measured drawings for the trim boards and keystone pieces for the gable ends and over the windows. Should make life a little easier for me.