2 comments about Water Polo.

1. I play water polo on the high school level and this book helped me to understand the game...Even if you don't play you can always check it out.



2. A lot of spelling error sin the book and I don't feel that I gained much about the game, like how many players are there supposed to be?

1 comments about Poles and Gridwork (Threshold Picture Guide).

1. Helped my dau-in-law build and set up the best jumps for her students. Very nice directions and drawings. Lots of pictures to explain even to the youngest child. The entire series is well done. Recommended.

4 comments about Masculinities: Football, Polo and the Tango in Argentina (Global Issues Series).

1. E Archetti, an Argentinean professor of Social Anthropology at the University of Oslo, Norway, presents in this book, his reasearch into the concepts of nationalism, masculinity, cultural popular symbols and the elaborated culture of "performing bodies".

   Through thorough readings of historical texts differing in nature from nationalist writings of early 20th century's authors, to the essential sports magazines such as "el Grafico", an image is created of both intellectual reflection and popular understanding of the emerging of football and polo, seen in relation to the immense immigration to Argentina that took place especially from the latter part of the 1800's until the Second World War.

   The hybridisation of male perfomers is at the core of Archetti's study, as he explains how the new forms of established practices on the sports field were shaped, and how these performers became bearers and images of what was defined as the Argentinean culture.

   Archetti's method in constructing the image on how the new hybridised forms came to be essential to Argentina, in what he conceptualises as a national gallery of male symbols, is very purposeful and rewarding, leaving the reader with a very good comprehension of the matter.

   The book is not an indepth psychologically founded study of masculinity. The individual mental constructs that are closely regarded in other studies on the matter of masculinity, is perhaps outside the realm of this book. The research is primarily textual, and concerning the issue of the tango, one should not expect a passionately written account about neither the choreography or sensuous subtleness of the dance. Again, Archetti is concerning himself with the moralities and sexual politics in the tango lyrics from the era of the tango-cancion, making the presentation and the comprehension of this phenomenon primarily one based on textual analysis, and conversations with informants, reproducing and analysing their narratives.

   Thoroughly enjoyable throughout, not at all overly academical in style, and a good foundation and pathfinder for anyone who has a general interest in the Argentinean cultural symbols, gender studies or construction of national essence.




2. In his book, Eduardo P. Archetti uncovers how the national identity of Argentina is displayed through males participating in football, polo, and the tango. Archetti, along with being a native of Argentina, is an anthropologist. He chose to search out the answers to all of his questions simply by asking them to other Argentinean males. Archetti then puts this book together using the material he gained from the interviews he conducted. Besides piecing together the book by placing many of the actual interviews in it, he includes the histories of football, polo, and the tango, as well as a biographical account of Maradona, a former player on the Argentina national football team.
   The book contains an introduction and two sections. Each of the three sections are divided up into approximately four parts. The introduction discusses the framework and the perspectives of the book. The first section focuses on how hybridization plays a key role in determining the national identity of Argentina. Archetti unveils in the later chapters of this first section the history of Argentinean football and polo. He then tells of how hybridity evolved within the realm of Argentinean sport and helped with the development of style and national image. The second section of the book is dedicated to the issue of masculinities and moralities in Argentinean football and the tango. Archetti talks about how the tango allowed for women to "step out" of their traditional roles, and how the lyrics of the tango express Argentina's national character. He finally tells of how Maradona, "the most famous contemporary Argentinean football star", had masculine tendencies and morals that depicted the ultimate Argentinean pibe (182).
   Archetti's book was full of detail and quite interesting. However, he could have gone about presenting his material differently. He asked questions and did not answer them until further on into the book. As a reader, I found this method quite confusing. At the conclusion of the book, it was unclear to me if several of his questions were even answered. He should have answered his questions in a more orderly manner. Archetti did do a fabulous job explaining how the tango has evolved over time and has, in a sense, been a script for how Argentineans are feeling and what they are dealing with. This issue can therefore be further explored, and it can be discovered how the tango is currently evolving and how it continues to help shape the identity of Argentina.



3. This book examines the historical role of the male in Argentina, a country of tradition and immigration, the combination of which Archetti terms "hybridization." Filtering these themes through the examples of the man-man relationship in football, the man-horse relationship in polo, and the man-woman relationship in the tango, he tries to find the national identity of the Argentine man and establish his place on the international stage.
   Archetti first introduces the idea of hybridization, tracing modern Argentine social makeup from the Spanish conquest in the early 16th century, which created the traditional Creole culture, through the European immigration of the early to mid 20th century, the environment in which football, polo, and the tango were all hybridized into something distinctly Argentine in style. Examining first football, he traces the "Argentine style" of creativity, especially dribbling, to the barrios, or small neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, where boys learn the game on the streets. This style matured into the individualistic football of the Argentinean national team, which came to be a world power, exportable to Europe. Polo, the game of the elite, is reviewed in similar terms. Archetti notes the importance of the Gaucho, the Argenine cowboy, in the development of polo jockeys and ponies. He then develops the idea of masculine moralitites in Argentine society, and ties them into the male-female relationship displayed in the tango, which developed in the early 20th century in Buenos Aires cabarets. Returning to football, the most important aspect of masculinity and nationalism in the book, Archetti looks at the male pride in the national team, especially their style and aesthetics inplay, and illustrates the individual's reaction to team performance. Using the example of Maradona, Argentina's most famous footballer, he asserts that the ideal male is a pibe, a boy, who through exceptional football skill, need never grow up on the field or off.
   The book is the product of years of careful research, aided by several close "informants." Its focus on primary sources, with which the reader will not necessarily be familiar, and its insistence on quoting these sources at length, make for a sometimes dry read. Archetti succeeds in creating a better understanding of the male in football, polo, and the tango, as they developed in a country of hybridization and strong nationalism. The book is a success, then, in its academic aims, and excellent as a source for intense research, but tough to grasp and thick to wade through as a casual reader.



4. Eduardo Archetti's book, Masculinities: Football, Polo, and the Tango in Argentina, is the anthropological study of generalizations in Argentine society and how those are used to build a nationality. The theme of hybridization runs throughout his book as he examines how through the mixing of different cultures, a unique identity could be formed. He looks at sporting as an example of this.
   His conclusion is that through each activity Argentina was able to give something to the world or to themselves. Through Football Argentineans created their own style; In Polo, they were able to export their ponies; and through the poetry of the Tango they were able to embody the Argentine man's moralities.
   The bulk of his research was done through conversations with informants and historical references such as newspapers and men's magazines. He desires to focus on the masculinities of the nation, but does not draw any concrete conclusions to the questions he asks. Overall, one gets a sense of nationalism and Argentinean identity through the book

1 comments about Polo: The Nomadic Tribe.

1. Many important and famous polo personalities have written a comment, but wait just a comment! 123 words preface my idol Adolfo Cambiaso, in which he says more or less just that in his life and his career he is doing what he loves, polo, nice. An introduction by Patrick Guerrand-Hermes, which at this moment was the very controversial FIP president, now he resigned.
   It continues with a long history of polo in India, Jaipur, and elephant polo, polo in the UK by Mr Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, HPA president and chairman, Pakistan, USA Adam Snow, one of the few Not-Argentine's who ever reached + 10 handicap, at least in the USA.
   Marcos Uranga and Alberto Pedro Heguy try to describe the magic of the Argentine Polo.
   Then it goes to the roots and I think more to the title of the book polo in Mongolia; than Lionel Macaire, who in his time "best" and probably for all time at least, legendary French polo player, writes about polo in France.
   Already bored?
   Not to mention Morocco, Snow Polo in the Alps, Dubai and Mexico.
   
   The oversize makes it a bit difficult. Of course, interesting pictures from around the world to see, but there was no picture here of what I was impresed by the action or otherwise. Then it is also a matter of taste, but for my personal feelings in Yellow Pages-press-style are crammed with 19 small photos (page 21) and 48 photos on a double page (40/41) is an absolute sensory overload for my eyes. There are quite a few! Well at least I think I know a lot of people in the scene, but small picture comments would haave made me even happier, and the book a bit more informative.
   
   Finally, I would observe, however, the "Nomadic Tribe" it describes it quite well. Basically, polo fanatics are somehow nomads. During the season they travel weekend getaway from tournament to tournament, and weather in the winter break always folowing the sun and the polo events afterwards, either to the Argentine Open or maybe slightly more exclusive Palm Beach, Florida, the family vacation is already booked for years but only after Polo options , that's really polo life!
   
   As expected from the FIP (Federation of International Polo), otherwise it is a colorful mix of old, partially almost historical images, when Queen Elizabeth was just so young? or when Juan Carlos Harriot and the Heguy sen. played together? and newer material. So you'll see faded black-and-white photographs and current photographs side by side.
   
   A little bit too big, a little big too much pics on a page, a little bit few words.

2 comments about 101 Offensive Water Polo Drills.

1. I am a relatively new coach, and this book is making my job a lot easier. The drills are easy to understand and useful and the book is very well organized. I always consult it when planning practice. I'm ordering the defensive book right now.



2. Great book. It outlines excellent drills, and the reasons for doing them. I would recommend it for all coaches and/or players looking to improve their game.

No comments about 101 Water Polo Defensive and Conditioning Drills.

2 comments about Darkness Beckons: The History and Development of Cave Diving.

1. Farr tells the complete story of cave diving in England's caves (often sumps), and then describes all major explorations worldwide (up until the beginning of the nineties). The book is not centered on Florida's caves so american cave divers might be somewhat disappointed. There are many pictures and drawings, the account is always accurate and detailed. It is a very interesting lecture and reference for any cave diver, not very much so for an open water diver. Cave divers are explorers that always pursue the extreme: deeper or longer into a cave; this will probably fascinate most adventure seeking people.



2. Martin Farr's book is by far the best book on the subject of history and development of cave diving. It is really exciting as you follow the development of the sport over the years from before the war to the latest trimix dives, scooter etc... Geographically it concentrates on the UK (about 1/3 of the book) and then Europe, USA and the rest of the world. Mandatory for anyone involved in cave diving and recommended for all interested in adventure stories.

5 comments about Dandelion, The Extraordinary Life of a Misfit.

1. A great uplifting story. It shows that perseverance brings its own rewards. I loved it!



2. I really don't think this book is cheesy as some reviewer has suggested. On the contrary, it's a very sweet story about a horse that wasn't as 'beautiful' as the others in the Irish farm where he's growing up; much like the Ugly Duckling. Dandelion's (the horse) unbreakable spirit and his discovery that his thoughts have the power to lead him to wherever he wishes to go in life enable him to eventually find his place in the world. And though sometimes hard to maintain, his faith in that 'something' grand is awaiting him keeps him going even during the toughest of times. The ending was so moving I couldn't stop the tears ... poignant & inspiring! I read it over 4 years ago and I still think of Dandelion sometimes when I might need a little inspiration. Overall, the uplifting tale plus the author's brilliant use of the Irish lingo, make this book a delightful read for anyone -child or adult.



3. I purchased this little book based on the advertising and preview - an impulse purchase.
   It was a quick read. I would consider it best suited for young adult (ages 10 - 13)
   readers (I'm several decades beyond young adult!). The "message" is all about
   struggle against the odds, self esteem, self awareness, life's lessons and
   the positive outcome - but told through the narrative of a horse growing up - that's Dandelion.
   Again, young readers might enjoy the "message" from Dandelion's perspective.



4. What a wonderful story....I simply loved it and didn't wait long to reread it and share it with another! Everyone needs to read it and become their own 'Dandelion'!



5. I bought this book for my Mom for Christmas after seeing great reviews on the [...] website and the comments on the Amazon website. My Mom loved it! She continues to use some expressions from the book to illustrate things that have happened in her life and her commitment to pursue her dreams. She is 70+ and was totally inspired! I am going to read it next -

5 comments about Fishing in Oregon: The Complete Oregon Fishing Guide.

1. Excellent and up to date info on fishing in Oregon! Everything you need to know!



2. I have bought every revision of this book since the seventh. Why? The updated information it provides can be priceless. This fishing bible is not limited simply to what fish are biting and where. You'll find this reference book filled with random tips on what species are most common in different areas of your destination, what to catch them with throughout different seasons, if payment is required to park at certain places, accessible roadside parking, new changes to laws in the areas, where private property may border waterways, the latest state records and individualized tips to help you venture forth and catch your next trophy or meal. The information is endless and the maps are very useful as they show docks, roads, trails, put-ins and take-outs. Coming from an Oregon native and avid fisherman, this book is well worth its weight in gold. One thing to keep in mind is the information in this book is not designed for fly anglers seeking information on hatches and casting techniques. It is a general resource to help you plan for your next trip sufficiently and what to expect when you get there.



3. My husband was very satisfied with the book. He has an old one and when I say old, I mean OLD, I'm sure he will have the new one for many years too.
   
   We got the book quickly and in excellent shape. Thanks. If we ever need another book of any kind we will look to you.



4. As an Oregon native, I'm pretty familiar with the state and use this guide frequently to find new fishing holes within an hour's drive or so from my house. My one concern which keeps me from giving this a five star review is that the book really needs some sort of statewide reference map or even a reference map which is broken down for each region. When we're traveling, sometimes I just want to find a fishing hole along the highway, but since the lakes and ponds are organized alphabetically by name in each region, it's not always easy to find a spot along the route you're driving unless you either already know the name of the fishing spot or you're driving along a highway featured on one of the supplemental maps. If the regional maps were more comprehensive in showing all the lakes listed in the listings, I would use this more when traveling. Otherwise, this book is excellent. The tips for each fishing hole have been very productive for me.



5. Darn near tells you what rock to stand on and when to stand on it.
   My second copy. Great for fly or traditional gear fisherman.

5 comments about Pafko at the Wall: A Novella.

1. First things first - this is a brilliantly-evoked account of the Giants/Dodgers playoff game that ended with the "Shot Heard Round the World". It is also the opening section of DeLillo's novel Underworld. Like most of the other reviewers of this book, my main beef is "Why should one bother to buy this extract?" In context, this is only the beginning of a long exploration of American history in the 50 years that separate us from that game - particularly the Cold War, which could be said to begin on that day with news of the Soviet Union's atomic test reaching the US. The historic baseball goes weaving from hand to hand binding the stories together. If you're a DeLillo fan, then, don't buy it for yourself. If you want a taster of his work, perhaps buy it as an entry-level sample but be prepared to fork out for it all over again if you decide you need to read the full novel. Best of all, buy it as a gift for someone who's unlikely to be a DeLillo reader, now or in future, but is a fan of baseball and/of 50s Americana. It's great stuff, but its appeal in this format is just pretty limited.



2. And I really believe that. This is the opening section of *Underworld* (1997), and it originally appeared in Harpers--so, when I saw it in stores, I thought "why re-release this as a BOOK?"

   Then, I read it. It stands on its own as a novella--and it's not *just* about baseball, either, so don't let that mislead you or put you off. It's about *everything*. Maybe you don't wish to read the lengthy *Underworld* (though the themes and characters and plotlines here run through the entire novel)--but at LEAST read THIS.

   And while I own the novel, I'm pleased to own this, too--and if you like DeLillo and wish to turn others on to his work, this is what you give them. I've given copies to several people, and use this brilliant work in my "Writing a Novella" Creative Writing class. I don't test the students, or ask them to try to emulate the work--I just ask them to read it.

   Their jaws drop open every time, just as mine did--and does.




3. Who cares about Underworld? I didn't go near it. Separating this classic from that tome was the best marketing move anyone's ever done. This book should be in the public domain anyway. Imagine taking a baseball game, exploding it into one of the world's greatest historical events as seen from various characters' points of view, and at the same time encapsulating the dawning of a new moment in world history. Every sentence is sharp and detailed, anticipating the next. And then when Thomson hits the home run, Delillo freeze frames each second like you're in a car crash, making sure you're aware of everything that's going on. It's one of the best books ever written.



4. I do not like baseball so this was boring and it was very hard for me to stay interested to read it.



5. I never got the book so how would I know. Needed it for a college class and ended up having to buy underworld at a different store. Thanks for nothing!