5 comments about The Treehouse: Eccentric Wisdom from My Father on How to Live, Love, and See.

1. Who better than Naomi Wolf, already a famous author, to tell tehstory of the life of her father, the gifted poet and novelist Leonard Wolf? It seems that, at forty, Naomi was undergoing a troubled latch in her life, though it's soort of cloudy why she suddenly felt so disengaged on the one hand and, on the other, so concerned and doubtful about the life choices she had already made. Someone looking at her would think she had it all! And yet inside, she was deeply miserable.
   
   So she decides to try to get some elder wisdom from her dad. He, Leonard Wolf, is not to be confused with Leonard Woolf with two oo's, the one who married Virginia Woolf. But I expect plenty of people mixed them up. In one wellknown story, the novelist E M Forster made an American tour after World War II, and he was inveigled to UC Berkeley, where he snubbed the faculty and the dean and instead had tea with a group of student poets led by Leonard Wolf. Perhaps Forster thought they had already met? That would tie in with his Mr. Magoo persona. As Naomi Wolf relates, Wolf was in the very center of the so-called Berkeley Renaissance, a short-lived poetic movement of great distinction that centered around the English Department but was distinctly separate from it. Wolf and other poets, including Robert Duncan, Mary Fabilli, Jack Spicer, Thomas Parkinson, Landis Everson and Robin Blaser, sought to change the face of poetry and to yank its still beating heart from the purlieux of New York, Paris and London and consecrate it at Berkeley.
   
   Wolf's beautiful, shiksa wife Pat, an extremely talented writer herself, was part of the mix. Leonard and Patricia later separated in the mid 1950s, and he married Naomi's mother. Naomi frames her story in the lessons Leonard taught her. Each chapter is like a little sermon in which Naomi takes the Leonardine text and expounds on it, and how it fits into her own writing, her own life, her teaching practice, her children and the circle of young female writers and activists she is committed to encouraging. Leonard must be over eighty by now, still hale and hearty and filled with great wisdom. Besides being one of the United States' most criminally ignored poets, whose very first book HAMADRYAD HUNTED is a classic of postwar literature, he is an expert on DRACULA and Francis Ford Coppola used his expertise as a consultant when he made the film version of Dracula with Keanu Reeves and Winona Ryder.



2. The Treehouse is one of eight books of the thousands published in 2005 to receive a Books for a Better Life award in a ceremony like an "Academy Awards" for books. Hurrah to Larry McMurtry, who won an Oscar for Brokeback Mountain and reminded the audience of the importance of books. The seven other winners in this amazing prize-winning list are: The Tender Bar (J.R. Moehringer), The Glass Castle (Jeannette Walls), Undoing Perpetual Stress (Richard O'Connor), The Sociopath Next Door (Martha Stout), Perfect Love, Imperfect Relationships (John Welwood), Unattended Sorrow (Stephen Levine), and Jim Cramer's Real Money.



3. Have always appreciated Naomi Wolf's works and this book gives the reader a peek inside the home that helped make her the woman that she is. The only issue I have with her writing style in this books is how she goes back and forth from calling her Dad by his first name and then simply referring to him a Dad.
   
   Loved reading about the different periods on both coasts that she have live in, which gives the reader a glimpse into the life of a well traveled woman, who also lived a unique life that was very much life the places she happened to be living in.
   
   Loved reading about her 'nearly derelict house in the midst of a desolate meadow that was dense with thorns' in New York State. And the tid bits about the state of the house as they set about to make it livable, the daffodils poking out in the midst of nowhere.
   
   The various lessons she writes about are: Be Still and Listen, Use Your Imagination, Destroy the Box, Speak in Your Own Voice, Identify Your Hearts Desire, Do Nothing Without Passion, Be Disciplined With Your Gift, Pay Attention to the Details, Your Only Wage Will Be Joy, Mistakes Are Part of the Draft, Frame Your Work, Sign It and Let It Go.



4. This book contains some gems for writers. Throughout the book, Wolf and her father are building a treehouse for her daughter. Leonard Wolf has a series of key points that he regularly teaches. "Be disciplined," Leonard said, again looking up from his class notes. "Do you want to know how to become a writer? It is not romantic." Then he glared from under his white brows and almost harshly said, as much about life, it seems, as about writing, "There is no revising a blank page. Keep going."..."Even when you do not feel like it-especially then-GO ON."
   
   "Writer's block," he said, "comes about when you let yourself yield to two false notions about your task. The first is that writing is a profound occupation, important as a means of expressing the self, some truth about life, or about the universe. This is all nonsense."
   
   "The second false notion is that writing must at every moment be perfect. No one objects to perfection eventually, but the idea of it does nothing to help you get started." (p. 176-177)
   
   Many people will gain truth from reading these stories.



5. Naomi Wolf presents to us the lessons her father, poet Leonard Wolf, gave his students throughout his teaching career. The portrait she presents is that of a character that just about everyone would wish to have known or to have had in their lives. The wisdom and light in his words provide windows on an enchanted world, the world as filtered through his unique spirit.
   
   The writer presents his "12 lessons", which are lessons of life more than of writing, while simultaneously telling the story of how he helped her build a treehouse for her daughter in the years before he passed away. How his lessons could be applied is demonstrated through past and present situations from his life, that of the author, and various people in their lives.
   
   She writes of where Leonard comes from, his background in Romania and his Jewish family, the story of their immigration to the United States, the strife and hardship of his childhood, and how "his mother used her imagination to survive poverty" and how he, too, followed her example, whereby "reading saved him", and "stories and poetry made reality bearable" and how all that contributed to his belief that "everyone is here on earth as an artist".
   
   Leonard believed in the magical power of art. To him, racism, fascism, etc were all "failures of the imagination". He believed that artists were more important than politicians. He believed that a person should disregard their work's "marketability" and follow their passion, as the joy of the work itself is the biggest reward. He believed that "being true to the inner light is absolute".
   
   A commendable effort on the part of Naomi Wolf to transmit his lessons to us before he was no longer there.
   
   However, this work would have been even better had she managed to contact some of his former students and get some of their memories of him. Since he taught creative writing for many decades at a college in California, surely, it would not have been difficult to track them through the alumni office. I am sure that anyone who had a teacher like Leonard in their lives would remember him, and, since they were writers (or aspiring-writers), they'd have had no problem in articulating their memories and experiences. Even a few such testimonies would have enriched the book considerably.
   
   The reasons why I'm not giving this book five stars is because of a "slight ethical blunder" on the part of the author, in one of the parts where she describes characters from her present life, to show Leonard's influence on them, and how he helped them get to a place where they could see their inner light and act upon it.
   
   However, while the author stated at the beginning of the book that she's changing her friends' names to protect their privacy, one particular character was singled out for what would probably make his identification extremely easy, even if his name has been changed. He was the partner of a friend of the author, who made that friend "very unhappy". When Wolf wrote about him, she went into great lengths to enumerate details about his background and parents, details such as the exact district of London they lived in, the specific jobs they held, what they were known for in their communities, etc. etc., details whose sole purpose seemed to make that person identifiable. Nowhere in the book did the author relegate such meticulous detail to the entire family of one of her friends.
   
   Anne Lamott wrote of the issue of "revenge" in writing, in her book "Bird by Bird" in a lengthy and amusing way, she stressed, however, the imperativeness of camouflage of whoever the author wishes to settle scores with. "Revenge" has been acknowledged as a possible motivation for writing, BUT, there is a very clear rule about where to draw the line, making "the target" unidentifiable. In this book, the author crossed that line, and I, as a reader, felt somewhat ambushed, used, and extremely dismayed. She was responding to an unfortunate desire to jab the person involved, using, or, more accurately, abusing, her power as a published writer.
   
   Interestingly, the author also wrote of how her friend, once she broke up with the gentleman in question, had two relationships, one in which she, more or less, lavished in utter sensual delight, but "that was all there was to it" (great sex, basically), and the other, where she found what seemed to be the perfect partner, her soul-mate, the whole package. One can't help but wonder, wasn't that "revenge" enough?
   
   The lofty world created by the memory of Leonard got tainted by this apparently irresistible and petty urge to get back at that person. And while his identification might have satisfied that urge, it did little service to the author's ethical credentials in my book.
   
   From her portrayal of Leonard, I doubt if he'd have approved of that vendetta stunt either.
   
   Vendetta stunts notwithstanding, this book is definitely worth reading, for the chance to bask in Leonard Wolf's views on life.

1 comments about Return to Wonder.

1. A tonic against and perhaps a respite from the "everyday" world around us, adding a hope that "everyday" could have the magical qualities that Gordon hearkens us to. The short chapters were an easy 'one a night' read. So engaging, some nights, that one was not enough. Never as heart wrenching as "Chicken Soup for the Soul", a more compact gentler soul-stirring. A reminder to take another look, don't expect greatness, because simplicity is a great reward. To look at something as basic and taken for granted as our alphabet and see the wonder in it evokes a feeling of awe. A light burned a little brighter after reading that chapter. Reading these stories makes me want to sit down and explore my past to see what wonderous moments flickered their lights in my life and of those close to me.

4 comments about The Everything Self-Esteem Book: Boost Your Confidence, Achieve Inner Strength, and Learn to Love Yourself (Everything Series).

1. i'm embarassed to say i bought this book but it really helped me get my self-esteem back. I'm sure some of you people feel the same way.
   
   if you do EXACTLY what the book says to do: this will help. self-esteem has gotten a bad reputation lately.
   
   But this book explains how self-esteem is based on accomplishments, not unproved sayings or chants. the best thing to do is to read this book and learn from it. this book helped me tremendously.



2. This book is quite incredible. It goes over the details of a low self esteem and really is the perfect self-help book. I got out of a bad relationship not to long ago and finally recognized something about myself. This books has helped me recognize some demons that I have to rid of and it is truly an amazing book. It is very easy to read and understand.



3. This is an amazing book. Sherfield covers everything from helping others, to being true to yourself, to making your new positive thinking habits persistent. I found it to be inspiring and truly motivational and this book will find a permanent place on the bookshelf next to my bed (where I keep the books that I go back to again and again and again.)
   
   I hope this book finds its way to many, many people. If I had only known some of these things when I was younger, I could without a doubt have had a much happier and more fulfilling life. But as he says, it is NEVER too late. Thank you, Mr. Sherfield.



4. This book is so helpful and insightful. It is quick and easy reading. I definitely recommend it!!!

4 comments about Universal Beauty: The MISS UNIVERSE Guide to Beauty.

1. If you want only one 'beauty bible' filled with color and insights, it should come from an authority - and UNIVERSAL BEAUTY; THE MISS UNIVERSE GUIDE TO BEAUTY doesn't get any more authoritative. Contributions come from the former Miss Universe titleholders and pair advice from beauty writer Cara Birnbaum with the experts' insights. From choosing beauty products and understanding labeling to beauty secrets that helped win the crown, UNIVERSAL BEAUTY comes packed with expertise and plenty of color photos.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



2. This would be a really great book if you loved pageants. It's got a lot of good tips, but nothing that you haven't already heard in numerous beauty/fashion magazines. It also has lots of photos and information on pageant contestants too. If you're really into that...then go for it. But if you're looking for some real beauty "secrets," then I wouldn't bother.



3. You'll love it! If you were in the Miss USA pageant, Miss Teen USA, Miss Universe you will love this book... Especially if you're a winner. Since it's one big celebration of these pageants or any pageant by Donald Trump complete with him giving a bragging opening ''foreward'', pictures of all the girls, them on the back giving fab reviews for it and talking all about themselves in it with only minor beauty information. Stuff everyone basically already knows- but if you want a guide with some beauty pageant contestants/winners this is it... Other than that don't expect too much.



4. I didn't expect too much from this book so I wasn't disappointed. It doesn't give any beauty "secrets" but seeing all these beautiful girls and how they've aged gracefully by taking care of themselves is always inspiring.

5 comments about Healing Words for the Body, Mind and Spirit: 101 Words to Inspire and Affirm.

1. This book has renewed a piece of my spirit that has, through a series of tragedies and crisis, been sadly damaged. Inspiration comes in many forms and none more lovely, welcome and effective than this God-send of a book. The light your words shed on my shadowed soul prompted me to send a copy to my daughter in Scotland who was also battling health and life issues. We have regained some peace of mind and are healing - mind, body and spirit. Thank you, Ms. Goldman, for your healing words.



2. While living in Scotland, far away from my support sytem of family and friends, and struggling with a myriad of physical, emotional and spiritual difficulties, I received this book from my mother. Words to describe what a blessing this book has been elude me - so I'll borrow some of yours... All I can say is I have "Gratitude", "Peace" and "Optimism" for the first time in a very long time. Your words, Ms. Goldman, and message "Comfort" me and, I'm sure, many others. May we all have "Laughter", "Joy" and "Play" while we "Heal" and have "Wellness" on our "Journey". Thank you for sharing your "Wisdom" and "Spirit" with us.



3. Life seems to be one continuous gift, even in times of great darkness. I am at such a critical place in my own life now, grateful that darkness holds the promise of great discovery and healing.
   These healing words; these remarkable stories not only bring me much solace, but also the necessary loving nudge to dare me to continue to live in the tension of the questions before me.



4. I was able to use this book with my student's to assist them in their own understanding of death, forgiveness, grief, as well as trust, joy, and courage. I was able to use the stories, and then discuss them with the children, many of whom have witnessed the death of a parent, friend, and who are either in the child welfare system or with the corrections facility. With these stories, I am able to assist them in resolving their conflicts.



5. This was given to me during the middle of chemotherapy, when I was quite discouraged. This book is a wonderful resource - it does not confuse healing with a medical cure, but uses a broader definition of healing.

   I have given four copies of this book to friends who have either been diagnosed with chronic illnesses (cancer, diabetes) or who have undergone wrenching life changes. All have called or written with stories of how this book has helped them have a new perspective, and to see hope.

   The essays are also short enough that someone who has very little energy can read the book. Although some of the book is faith-based, it is not faith-specific. It was written after the author and her family underwent a dreadful series of diseases and disasters, and calls on their experiences and faith for some of the illustrations.

   Affirmation books are generally wishy-washy. I find "new age" stuff to be full of pabulum. This book pulls no punches, and the writing carries an honesty and vigor that is refreshing. This is an excellent book, in every meaning of the phrase.

   Buy it, for there shall surely come a time that you will either need it immediately, or will need to give it with little warning.

No comments about The Best of Loretta LaRoche.

1 comments about Sopa de pollo para el alma latina/ Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul (Sopa De Pollo).

1. I am one of the 70 plus contributors to the award-winning anthology, CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE LATINO SOUL (Second Place, Best Self-Help Book in English, Eight International Latino Book Awards, 2006). As I traveled the country promoting the book, consumers kept asking if a Spanish language version was available. I am thrilled to see that the book has been excellently translated by Ruben Heredia and is now available under the title, SOPA DE POLLO PARA EL ALMA LATINA. The book's message of hope and inspiration will be well-received by Spanish speakers. And the book in English continues to be a gem for both Latino and non-Latino audiences alike. Because, as I love to say, you don't have to be Latino to have a Latino soul.

5 comments about Effortless Style.

1. It's great!! I'm one of those people who wears very traditional clothes, though I do love getting fancy. I don't get too fancy because, honestly, morning and night I'm out running or at the gym teaching or training. This has helped me redesign how I do things and get in shape out of the gym.



2. This book is horrible. I was expecting a lot, having heard wonderful things about June Ambrose. As I read, I was sorely disappointed. "Effortless Style" does nothing more than brag about Ambrose's many celebrity clients, and advocate for the adoption of every last awful fashion trend. Style is not about following every fashion fad. It's about figuring out what styles work for your body, investing in standout pieces that really fit, and picking and choosing trends as the come along so that you only wear what is truly flattering for YOU. Ms. Ambrose spends very little time discussing how to discern what shapes and cuts work for certain body types. I think the only tip worthy of note was that short women should not wear jeans tucked into knee high boots, because doing so only makes your legs appear shorter. If you really want to learn more about style, I suggest Kendall Farr's "The Pocket Stylist." It is far superior to this trash. I'm sorry I wasted my money on it.



3. June Ambrose puts together a good book on how to dress well. While this book isn't a complete authority on style, it does give much basic information. I liked that she starts out in an early chapter what essentials you really need to have, and then suggestions for what to build around this basic wardrobe. This basic wardrobe isn't one that you will have to toss out every season, but rather one that will transition you through all seasons.
   
   She gives many tips based on body shape, which is helpful. Now there aren't tons and tons of these suggestions, but there are many there. I also like that she gives tips on things like how to hide panty lines, and other basic issues that all women have. She also spends a good amount of time on the subjects of shoes, purses, and other accessories. In fact, she emphasizes the importance of accessorizing what you wear for maximum impact.
   
   Effortless Style is a good book that does provide you with basic information on how to look better. She gives tips on a basic wardrobe that will carry you though multiple seasons. Tips are given on what to wear with certain body styles, as well as tips on basic problems we all have. Accessories are given attention, and advice is given on what to look for in purses, what types of shoes are essential, and much more is addressed in this book. While this may not be a comprehensive guide on personal style, you can definitely upgrade your look after reading this book.



4. Boring, Boring, Boring!! As much as I love June, I could not get into this book. Lloyd Boston's fashion book is so much better.



5. June Ambrose jumps off the page in this straightforward how-to book. I hate books and magazines that make me feel like I need a while new wardrobe to look great. After reading her book, I felt like I could shop my own closet for a more flattering look.

No comments about MEDITACIONES PARA MUJERES QUE AMAN DEMASIADO.

4 comments about A Woman Who Hurts, A God Who Heals: Discovering Unconditional Love.

1. Clearly, Elsa Kok has walked through some fires herself, and has a real, down-to-earth way of talking to people who are wounded. Her books help people, especially women, heal...because she will tell you about God's absolute crazy love for YOU. And it feels like you're sitting down talking to a friend.



2. As a women's Bible study teacher and speaker, I have found this book to be invaluable to me personally as I filter through hurts of my past. It has also equipped me to be sensitive to other women who may be struggling with past guilt or shame. The reader will find this study to be firmly based in scripture which will lead them right to the heart of God, the God who heals both the heart and mind.



3. A Woman Who Hurts, A God Who Heals is a balm for the many hurts women have to deal with, whether once in a lifetime or on a daily basis. I read this book initially on my own. Quite frankly, it changed my life. Even more, it changed how I experience Jesus. I think I finally understood His amazing love for me for the first time. What an awesome thing, to discover in my 50's that Jesus really, truly does love me. I just had to share Elsa's book with other women who were hurting. As a Bible Study facilitator, I was able to do just that with a precious group of women who have all been through the wringer. Each of us had been through a different wringer, but Elsa's book spoke to each of us right where we needed it. Through tears and laughter and prayer and scripture, we each found the healing we needed from the Great Physician AND the unconditional love of our Father in Heaven. Will this book cure everything that ails you? No. Only our Lord has that power. Will it set you on the right path to His healing power? A resounding YES! Will it change your life? Read it and find out.



4. I bought this book after reading many helpful reviews by fellow readers. When I first thumbed through the book I was skeptical, it almost seemed "too easy" to read and I wondered how it could affect me. A couple devotions in, I found myself weeping from seeing myself in these stories of women, and reading the "Love Letters from God" through out. I had always feared God so much I was very afraid of him, always thinking of him as too judging and revengeful to love someone like me. After reading this I have come to experience his deepest love for me for the first time.