5 comments about Where to Draw the Line: How to Set Healthy Boundaries Every Day.

1. I was very excited at the prospect of learning more about setting boundaries. However,this book was so low level and inane that I ended up just throwing the book into the trash. If anything, this book should have been titled "Intro to Boundaries if you have never heard of boundary setting."



2. This book is very well-written in easy-to-understand language. After reading this, I have a very clear idea of healthy boundaries and am now able to discern when boundaries are being violated. Definitely worth reading.



3. I never received the book and don`t know how to deal with it. So, I never got to read it. Will not order from you again as I wasted my money.



4. This helped me to understand what the idea of personal boundaries means and why it is important. It turned a cliche into a useful tool. I enjoyed the direct and unadorned language. Highly recommended for all, especially those who want to know how to help themselves along the journey of recovery.



5. This book offers easy to understand theoretically based information on setting appropriate boundaries is most areas of everyday life. Anne Katherine has provided an excellent resource for clinicians and clients. Her clarity and relevance has been a hit with clients in my private mental health practice as well as with counselors I supervise. Kudos.

5 comments about We Can Work It Out: How to Solve Conflicts, Save Your Marriage.

1. This book has changed my life! It was a very emotional read for me, I read so many examples of relationship communication problems I had throughout my life. I closed up or withdrew when relationship problems surfaced. I was afraid to talk and held everything inside. The book explains communication difficulties, it tells you how to effectively work through them and also how to prevent it from happening in the future. The book relates to any relationship you're in, whether you're married or dating. I wish I found this book years ago, I didn't seek help until it was too late. I recently dated someone for a little over two years, we broke up once and got back together, but we had the same problems, poor communication. If I knew about this book sooner, I know my outcome would have changed! Don't make the same mistake I did and think it'll get better, read this book now to become a better person and learn how to effectively communicate with your mate.



2. My husband and I separated after years and years of the same problems that we couldn't resolve. Realizing that perhaps it's not just what we are saying to each other but HOW we are saying it, I bought 6 books on communication. This was hands down the best one.
   
   The first part of this book is a little slow, as it deals with research on couples and commonalities among happy and unhappy couples, blah, blah, blah. The 2nd and 3rd part of the book are the real meat of it. This book is excellent at not only helping you identfy the dysfunctional communication patterns you and your partner use, but also to determine WHY you use them. Most importantly, once you understand what NOT to do, this book tells you exactly what to DO in order to have successful communications with your partner. This book was an absolute eye-opener and my perception of my husband and his perspective has done a complete 180.
   
   Now don't get me wrong, this book isn't going to do the work for you. You still have to commit to being open-minded enough to see YOUR faults in communication, not just be looking for everything wrong with your mate. However, I did see a lot of my mate in this book but instead of giving me ammo against him, this book really helped me understand him better. Also, this plan will be work. Changing old habits is ALWAYS hard work. But, my gosh...isn't it worth it? I can't stress enough though the importance of taking a hard look at yourself first. You have to be willing to consider that your partner has been just as hurt in your relationship as you have...and that you have caused as much destruction as you feel your partner has caused.
   
   I have asked my husband to read the book. I don't know if he will. If he does, this book may very well save our marriage. Either way, I'm going to implement what I've learned into my own every day life. Because, if things don't work out with my husband, I need to be a healthier partner for any future relationships...and I need to be healthier for ME. I do have to say though, that reading this book has given me real hope that my marriage can be saved. Sadly, it shows me how unnecessary a lot of our pain has been. Every therapist tells you to talk about it but no one ever teaches you HOW to talk about it. You will be amazed how much HOW you talk is really what's going on in your relationship conflicts.
   
   Every couple should have to read and discuss this book before they are allowed to get married. In fact, I may make this book my standard wedding gift from now on. In the end, where did all of those china place-settings ever get anyone? This book would be a real gift! I can not recommend this book more highly. If you are searching for books on this subject, than you need this book. Buy it now. Read it with an open heart. Share it with your mate. Good luck.
   
   (Also, another great book to read to just better understand the many dynamics of all communication is Messages by McKay, Davis & Fanning...this book was also very helpful and I recommend it as a companion to We Can Work It Out. If you are dealing with an affair, "Not Just Friends" was the best of the several I read. That one deals with emotional affairs (which was my situation), not just sexual affairs.)



3. This book is easy to read, easy to understand, and offers a lot of hope. It gives you real tools to use. I wish it had focused just a tiny bit more on how you can only take care of yourself and your own point of view and emotions - or perhaps it would have been nice if they recommended a companion book on that subject - since it is such a large factor in relating. But overall I'd say it's a great buy for anyone looking to find ways to start improving their communication with anyone, right away.



4. This book is based upon an innovative, revolutionary twenty-year study. It is a simple-to-understand and clearly-worded guide that provides you with straightforward, scientifically demonstrated techniques that can help you make your relationship work.
   
   At the heart of the concepts presented by authors Clifford Notarius, Ph.D., and Howard Markman, Ph.D., is their "Better Talk" program. This program is unique among communication improvement practices. Better Talk builds upon the foundation set up in the introduction of the book. It permits couples to understand how to communicate using respect and shared understanding, especially when having conversations of a problem-solving nature. Instead of arguing with one another, couples discover how to work together to tackle their problems. Couples learn how to work on the same team, and to use constructive interaction instead of anger.
   
   What truly stands out about this book is that instead of focusing on what makes a relationship fail, We Can Work It Out instead looks at what makes a couple succeed. To determine what the key elements of successful relationships actually are, the authors dedicated 20 years to studying relationships and what makes them work. Their key finding: A happy and successful relationship is based upon the couple's capacity to work through their differences, not actually on the individuals themselves.
   
   By using diagnostic questionnaires, examples, and easy-to-understand explanations, We Can Work It Out very practically and realistically helps you to identify your problem areas and patterns, and to use the techniques outlined in the book in your own unique situation and relationship.
   
   Though this book does tend to feel as though it is dating itself on occasion. The authors frequently refers to their findings and writing in the early 1990's. However, the lessons here are in no way obsolete. The findings of We Can Work It Out remain just as accurate, relevant, and current as they were when they were first printed.
   
   This book provides you with a useable, optimistic, and realistic management approach for dealing with the issues troubling your relationship. It provides a levelheaded, sensible way to find your way back to the happiness you were once able to enjoy when your relationship was better fulfilling your needs.



5. After being with my husband for 7 years, we seem to row over the silliest and smallest thing. I knew my relationship is not going well. Having found this book on the internet, I decided to give it a try.
   
   I have to say this book is purely based on research on what makes couples happy or unhappy. Communication is very important and I liked the "relationship bank account", which I found very true. I have applied the knowledge and recommendation and even after a week, my marriage has turned around for the best and we are enjoying a very fruitful relationship now.
   
   It is a very good book for couples and I think it should be mandatory to people prior to marriage. I will certainly highly recommend it to friends and family.
   
   Another good book : Joseph Bailey "Slowing down to the speed of love".

5 comments about Ten Things I Wish I'd Known Before I Went Out into the Real World.

1. Maria did have some excellent points. The majority of the book is just an autobiography, though, and I skimmed through those parts. My advice would be to stop by the book store and look at the table of contents and then the very end where she gives a list of some other things she wishes she knew, because they explain themselves. A lot of her things I already knew, and she points out that she's not trying to help us avoid those things, just let us know we're not alone. If the great, talented Maria could get through life, then we can too! That was sarcasm.



2. I bought Maria's book "What's Heaven" for my Granddaughter when her Grandmother (my mother) died 6 years ago. Now my Granddaughter will graduate from high school next year and Maria has followed her to college, with her last 2 books. Next I will buy my Granddaughter the Marlo Thomas books. As a Grandmother I believe it does take a Village. My Granddaughter will take 2 real good role models with her to college and now we have to set her free.



3. I am 56 and had I had this book to read in 1968 when I graduated high school I might have had the tools to do things a little better through my 20's and 30's. She gives you a rundown on what realistically to expect out of live, love, career and everything in between. I may have even been able to avoid my ex-husband!!!
   
   This is a must gift for any young person, maybe even younger than a high school graduate. It could actually put a kids expectations into the realm of reality without putting a damper on any of the joys of life. This is not a book that a conservative religious advocate would have to avoid. It contains simple comman sense about life and how it differs from what kids would often see on TV, movies, or any other media they would encounter. It doesn't tell you what belief system is best, just what life is most apt to hand you on any given day.
   
   It is easy reading and not very beefy, so even non-readers would benefit. They could use it as a reference book for a specific situation.
   
   Great Birthday or Graduation or Holiday gift and reasonable priced, too.



4. This book would make a wonderful graduation gift. I wish I would've read it back when I was eighteen-years-old. Although I purchased this book over three years ago, I still come back to it from time to time. She offers so much insight and wisdom, but she also humanizes herself as a woman and teaches her readers that even she has experienced self-doubt and has strived to reach 'perfection' (something she teaches you not to do). She writes about how important it is to start at the bottom because it's where you learn the most and gain character. I especially liked reading about her husband and children. She and her family are so much more normal than anyone would ever think.



5. This book talks about the problems and difficulties you face when you hit adulthood. It also tells you things that might help you get through it all.
   
   I liked this book for several reasons. I liked it because I thought it was very educating. Also because I believe this book can help people start preparing for their future. Ten Things I Wish I'd Known-Before I Went Out into the Real World is a book that I think can help people on their way and to understand the point or meaning of life.
   
   In the end it's a very good book altogether and I recommend it to anyone and everyone who has troubles with preparing their future

5 comments about Coping with Anxiety: 10 Simple Ways to Relieve Anxiety, Fear & Worry.

1. I've been an anxiety sufferer for a few years now. I've had PTSD (from active combat in the army), OCD and panic attacks. Bournes two books (this book and his workbook) help manage the anxiety, but don't fix it. This book may be good for a psychologists repeat business, but is little use for a person who suffers from anxiety. Bourne was the leader in anxiety related problems about ten years ago, but hasn't moved on with the new discoveries that have been made. For my anxiety problems I found The Linden Method or Panic Away method to be greatly superior. Neither of these concepts are even covered in this book, so I would not recommend it.



2. It's conscise, but offers practical suggestions. It dosent really go into depth with any one topic, but gives enough information so you can have something to work with.



3. I haven't finished reading this yet, but overall my first impression is good. It is straight forward and quick to read through. Recommend for anyone working through anxiety issues or helping someone else work through them.



4. This is a very good book. It gives you everything you need to know and do in 10 easy steps. I have read many books on anxiety and all the advice boils down to what is written in this book. I believe it to be the most valuable book that I have gotten on anxiety so far. It does not replace what one on one therapy provides because people with anxiety always want to know how they got their problems to begin with. Once that is answered with the aid of a therapist, this book will help you on the road to recovery.



5. Like the title says its great if you want to look at your anxiety in general but its not for a specific anxiety disorder

5 comments about Becoming a Millionaire God's Way: Getting Money to You, Not from You.

1. Imagine a farmer who had seed to plant, but decided to use all of his grain to make loaves of bread for his family to eat instead of saving some on the side to plant for another harvest. Crazy right?! Well, if you (like we were) are living paycheck to paycheck... you (like us) aren't saving any grain to plant either!
   
   This book offers practical straight talk about how to appropriately use and distribute finances as laid out plainly by God in His Word. This book doesn't cry out "PROSPERITY! PROSPERITY!" and then leave you hanging... no this book shows the reader how to gain and keep prosperity and then use it.
   
   Highly Recommended A+++



2. THIS BOOK IS A MUST HAVE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE SERIOUS ABOUT BECOMING WEALTHY GOD'S WAY! THIS BOOK UNDERMINES THE WAY WE WERE RAISED TO THINK ABOUT MONEY AND RICH PEOPLE. THIS BOOK SHOWS AND PROVES THAT GOD WANTS HIS CHILDREN BLESSED IN ALL AREAS IN THERE LIFE INCLUDING OUR FINANCES! IT SHOWS US THAT GOD DOES NOT WANT US TO BE A SLAVE TO MONEY BUT MASTERS OF IT. IT'S ABOUT TIME A CHRISTIAN HAS THE HEART TO SPEAK OUT ON THE SUBJECT OF MONEY WITHOUT HOLDING ANY PUNCHES!!!!



3. The book is great, but I do agree with other critics as far as details. I think the message is good, but needed detailed information on how to become wealthy. In my opinion I think the book was designed to be a starting point on how the rich think. Many chapters stated it was a process of changing your thinking, and the reader's responsiblitiy being able to find ways to gain wealth.



4. Becoming a Millionaire God's Way: Getting Money to You, Not from YouJust what I needed to understand to move to the next level of millionaire status God's way



5. To label this book as inspiring and fantastic would be an understatement. It is simply phenomenal and challenges the reader to develop a different mentality regarding prosperity. I have never in my wildest dreams imagined that the God of the universe, in whose image we are created, would rather His children live in mediocrity and suffer throughout life. It always seemed contrary to me. Although we do encounter tribulation, it is never meant to be a life long struggle.
   
   He discuses several points but not limited to the following: Money is good for the good that it can do; and we are to be good stewards of the money that God allows us to receive and not simply squander it all away, although Anderson maintains that God would love to have us enjoy the wealth. He also maintains that we must give in order to partake in increase.
   
   This book resonated with the very depths of my soul, as if God Himself was speaking through each page. What strengthens his book further is the fact that he includes copious amounts of scriptural references for validation. If you are looking for a refreshing idea regarding prosperity, then this book is for you. I only wish I could have given more stars.

5 comments about The Color Code: A New Way to See Yourself, Your Relationships, and Life.

1. I was resistent to the whole idea at first. Then we took it with us on a trip and had so much fun figuring out who everyone was going to be and then taking the test to find out if we were right. I recommend it for a great way to get meaningful conversations going. This won't take the place of any real therapy but I found it helpful in clarifying a few things.



2. This book really helped to open my eyes. I understand why people do the things that they do. it helped me to understand myself and why I feel the way that I do sometimes. I have a whole new "people" outlook!



3. The color code is not founded on anything but theory. No tests, no experiments, no psychological research other than Dr. Hartman's personal observations. The information in this book is useless and repetitive. You will be confined to a core motive, and will be stuck with all the flaws and strengths of that color. The book mentions but does not explain how different core motives make a person, and how to overcome personality flaws. Go ask any psychologist and you will find out The Color Code is really Color Crap.



4. I am amazed by this book. As I read the chapter on my personality color, I couldn't believe that the author had me figured out down to the very nuances of my behavior. This book has helped me view others with more understanding and forgiveness. You will never look at people the same way again. Every person I know who has read this book can't stop talking about it. It goes down as one of my favorite books ever. Your relationships will improve as a result. This book is a must read for all and a perfect wedding gift.



5. I am a Registered Nurse and I was working at a hospital as a "quality assurance utilization manager" when a co-worker gave me this book. I was in the 13th year of my career and had always received great annual reviews from supervisors regarding the quality of my work. After working in this new administrative job for a year I got one of the lowest evaluations of my entire working life - after I had put more time, energy and passion into this new job than I had in any of my previous positions!
   After I read this excellent book (back in 1991) I immediately understood the problem: My boss was a "Red" and "Yellow" personality, driven by power and craving focused attention. My personality is "White" and "Blue" so I seek peace and intimacy. Trust me - it was not a good fit! Thankfully I was able to quit my job and become a full-time parent to my two sweet children.
   
   Fast forward seventeen years.....
   My children are now 21 and 22 years old and attending college. They have been raised on the "Color Code" concepts and it has dramatically improved the quality of their interactions with family, friends, teachers and other acquaintances. My daughter has an intense "blue & yellow" personality (like my husband) and my son is "white and yellow" - which must be the most laid back personality on the planet! I am not exaggerating when I say that I use the concepts in this book every single day.
   
   Thank you Taylor Hartman for your most excellent book!

5 comments about Armed Response: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Firearms for Self-Defense.

1. Well written, easy to understand great presentation of the depth and breadth of what you are into when you carry a gun. Should be a must read before you buy a gun and then re-read it after you make your purchase.



2. If your looking for a great book that addresses the use of lethal force than this is it. A great place to start be it a beginner or old timer this is a must read. David Kenik not only wrote well but put it in a format that is understandable. Well thought out! This is a must have book for anyone who wants to understand what is needed to justify an armed response. It does not replace personal training or what can be learned in a class (interaction). It does however build a great foundation for what is needed to to understand in responding with lethal force. If you own a firearm for personal protection than you need to own this book.



3. I didn't know what to expect when I opened this book, but was pleased to find it packed with non-nonsense advice and information on the responsibilities and consequences of owning and gun and using it for self-protection. Of all the books I have read on the subject, this one provided me with more information and food for thought that anything I have encountered to date. I highly recommend this book as a primer to anyone who has a gun in their home and believes they have a right to defend themselves and their family. Knowing the facts about legal, psychological, and tactical issues surrounding the use of firearms is absolutely essential if you hope to survive a shooting incident in your home, both during and after the event. A must read!



4. This books clearly discusses the use of firearms for self defense without any agenda trying to convince you one way or another. It includes many aspects including types of handguns, clothing, legal responsibilities, and many more important things one might not consider at first.
   
   You might pick of the information from this book by taking several defense classes, reading articles and forums online for hundreds of hours, and discussing it with many, many people. Read this book to learn things correctly the first time.



5. While reading this book I could help but think this is the book Massad Ayoob would have wrote if he were writing "in the gravest extreme" today. This book covers many aspects and techniques. Worth the price.

5 comments about Overcoming Fears.

1. she is an angel on earth her books fill my shelves this cd will make you see life from a different light, it will show you the light within she makes you feel calm just listening to her voice, the affimations, truely work helps you feel better about your life,
   a book the calling of your true self also made me look at life in a new way both uplifting and inspiring helps you understand what we can change with our thoughts by sending them out



2. What ever you do don't listen to this while you drive! It will put you right to sleep. It did not speak to me at all. This was not useful. I prefered the what the bleep do we know.



3. I found this to be somewhat of a duplicate of some of her other works.



4. Thank you for sending the CD so promptly. I really appreciate the price.
   Sincerely,
   
   Lynn



5. I listen to this CD at least once a week, especially when old issues come up. It's always astounding to me how the media and even friends and family can perpetuate the Fear Factor, but like Louise would probably say, When an issue arises, it's there to be released. Thought is power and we can create a safe place in the world by changing our thoughts (which then change our actions). We can create our world. We are safe, secure and protected by love at all times. Blessed be!

5 comments about Turning the Mind Into an Ally.

1. This is a beautiful book that presents the fundamentals of Buddhism and meditation for the beginner without the weight of ritual and history. It simply delves to the core meaning of the practice and communicates the many benefits to the reader in a refreshingly simple and thought-provoking way. Highly recommended.



2. Sayong Mipham has produced an easy to digest book involving the basic principles of meditation. At the risk of being overly simplistic, "Turning the Mind into an Ally" involves removing the clutter that crowds the mind. To employ Mipham's own metaphor, our minds often run wild like a horse which needs to be corraled and trained. Even through simple techniques that only involve breathing, one can focus the mind. Yet Mipand's instruction does not stop here as he takes the reader through further levels. I am hesistant to summarize the book further as Mipham states his case much better than I ever could for him.
   
   Although I am a Christian, I have long been interested in Buddhism and the principles of meditation. As Thomas Merton explored in his lifetime, Buddhism has more parallels with Christianity than one might think. In reality, this book is written for a wide audience and can appeal to divergent people including those with only the most basic knowledge of Buddhism.



3. This book was a pleasure to read. The message was awesome and the metaphorical teachings are a work of art! This author transcends Buddhism. He is not trying to sell Buddhism as a religion. He teaches the readers how to calm the mind chatter to reach a level of abiding peace and to become leaders, helping others to reach a stage of enlightenment. The goal of all of this is happiness and it deals with changing ones focus from self-centeredness and seeking bliss from external things to serving others and learning what is real and what truly brings lasting joy.
   
   The author uses a clever horse analogy throughout the book and brings it all together with an extraordinary and delightfully skilled culmination. I had to stop and take a deep breath and contemplate on how much thought went into weaving this teaching and metaphor summarizing the lesson with a beautiful mind picture in less than two paragraphs.
   
   I have read and reviewed many great books on Mindfulness meditation. This book takes that meditation to another level of Shamatha and Contemplative meditations for "Turning the Mind Into an Ally," discovering truth, appreciating life and becoming an example for others to emulate.
   
   It is by far worth much more than a 5-star review! Buy it now. You will be glad you did!



4. Some people go to a chiropractor for a spinal adjustment; I turn to this book time and again when I'm in need of a mental and emotional adjustment. And even aside from the meditation itself, when I'm stressing too much over things I can't control, or spending too much time thinking about what or who is frustrating me, the teachings in this book have given me the tools to put things in perspective, not as I might wish them to be but as they are and that is a GREAT thing! It would not be overstated to say this book has changed my life in the three years since I first read it.
   
   Multi-tasking with work, kids, home, etc., I began to notice my memory failing me more and more often. Though I probably don't meditate long enough or often enough, I am so uplifted afterward. When I meditate in the morning, my whole day is better for it. There is something about fucusing on the breath that makes it easier to focus on anything better. Whenever I find my thoughts wandering, I narrow things down to the breath and the thing I'm actually doing and everything else falls away. I've learned something about the discipline that's necessary to pay attention to the here and now and thus, my memory is improved because I'm now paying attention in the moment and everything has a better quality to it. It's really that simple.
   
   Like other reviewers, I go through my phases of reading this book before bed. It's soothing and calming and I feel more optimistic. the philosophy is so well laid out here and accessable and useful to anyone, even if you don't practice the meditation - but I hope you will... I am so grateful to have stumbled upon this one!



5. This is a great book, I've gone back to it many times. It is not the definitive text on Buddhism, and does not try to be. It is an easy to read, thought provoking and wonderful piece. Strongly recommended for those who are beginning their meditation practice, and who want to learn more about Buddhism through meditation.

5 comments about Getting to 'I Do'.

1. For some it is hard to submit to the fact that male's and female's really are different! But this book puts you in your place. If you want to make sure your marriage will last once those vows are said than read this book! If you keep wondering "why me" why cant I ever just have a functional relationship, read this book! This book kind of teaches you that there is a difference between "old fashioned" and "Narcistic" It will help you out for sure! It helped me, and I am now married and happier than I've ever been!



2. I was given this book as a present after a break up along with several other self help relationship books. They all said the same stuff. However, this one was different. VERY DIFFERENT. It actually infuriated me. I felt it was backwards, silly, and frustrating to the point that I shared my feelings with my therapist. Her reaction was if it got me going, I probably needed to read it again because it had struck a chord. I did, and it did. I googled Pat Allen and went to see her speak. I was amazed. She is brilliant, get's it, and can make us laugh at the things that seem like common sense when it's happening to other people. I'm so thankful for this gift, her gifts, and the lightbulb moment this book gave me!



3. This book was recommended to me by an acquaintance. I really wish this acquaintance luck in relationships because she absolutely loved this book. I can't place my finger on specifics, but while reading the book, I got a bad, sinking feeling. I understand the whole female & male energies, yes, but I feel that what the author tells "feminine" women to do is inauthentic. A lot of the examples and stories rang false and I was taken aback. I thought, "Really? that's what she considers narcisistic or female or male? Wow." Nothing jived with common sense. I wouldn't recommend this book to anybody.



4. As hard some of the concepts are to swallow (some of it does seem very Ward & June Cleaver) I found the information reaffirming. In particular, making a practice of tuning into and expressing one's feelings, and staying true to them, i.e., not participating in things that go against one's feelings, is a good reminder. Dr. Allen emphasizes the right of the "feminine style" person has to their feelings, and the importance of honoring them. Who among us has not gone down the wrong road by blowing past our internal, "NO?"
   
   I also liked how it underscored respect and giving a man space to figure things out. Especially for, "old school," men, I think this is useful.
   
   The rest of it is what you already know but don't want to: if you are the "feminine style" type, keep yourself up, go out looking attractive, and don't put out until you have an agreement.
   
   If you are old enough to have lived through, or been raised in, the 1970s, you may balk at this book, but why not try it out, anyway? The results will give you the answer.



5. It's amazing, this book really does work. It worked for me, it worked for my sister... I recommend this to any woman who'd like to be married within a year of dating.
   
   Good luck!