Book Description
Domesticated cats were the bulwark of western society's' defense against rodents and the many diseases they carry, including typhus and the bubonic plague. Cats were alsoimportant religious symbols for the goddess Artemis of the Greeks, Diana of the Romans and the Greco-Egyptian goddess, Isis. In this beautifully illustrated book, Donald Engels traces the history and significance of the cat from ancient Egypt to the middle ages, exploring such phenomena as the worship of the Egyptian cat goddess Bastet, the infamous cat massacres and witch hunts of the eleventh century and their role in combating disease and starvation. Classical Cats presents a unique and entertaining view of cat history.
Customer Reviews:
Problems with compilation and focus, but interesting info.......2003-05-11
This book describes the evolution of the domestic cat, and its history through Egyptian, Greek, and Roman classical periods, as well a brief foray into early Medieval times. It provides a comprehensive review of these periods, with many footnotes.
However, it never quite fulfills the criteria for either a good popular or academic book. The writing style is rather dense for a popular book, and it can meander rather incoherently at times. For an academic treatise, it jumps to conclusions, without clearly supporting them in the text. It can be quite windy and repetitive, like an undergraduate trying to stretch to fill a word quota on a term paper. It also includes topics rather far afield from the stated focus of the book, seeming to include random unrelated tidbits the author found during his research. Some of them are interesting in their own right, but again seem like filler. Also, some of these discussions appear to have an unfortunate tone of anti-Catholic polemics.
That said, the book will be of interest to cat lovers, if you can get past the writing style to the collection of data unlikely to be found in such a comprehensive collection elsewhere.
excellent reference about classical cats.......2000-12-19
A domestic animal, the cat has always been an essential part of modern society and culture. The author of this great book offers a completely comprehensive background - religious and mythical - of the feline's importance in Ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman times. With few illustrations, this is a book that is most interesting for its content and most useful for its extensive research and information.
Customer Reviews:
Sharpening Reference.......2007-05-13
This is an excellent book that delves into the foundational knowledge that supports the techniques it illustrates for sharpening tools. I was fascinated by the exploration in the topics when bringing the techniques into practice sharpening my chisels and plane blades. It addresses many different types of tools and is a great reference for learning and continuing to learn how to sharpen tools, especially as they apply to woodworking.
Excellent sharpening manual.......2007-05-12
I've been using tools most of my life but never knew how to sharpen or the importance of it. This book will teach you everything there is to know about sharpening and it's easy to read. Very informative and highly recommended.
Best overall sharpening book on the market.......2007-04-11
Covers all the basics of sharpening tools in depth and detail. Starts with the basic concepts of sharpening steel - then goes into a very detailed coverage of the different types of abrasives ( diamond hones / wet stones / oil stones / natural stones / etc ) with their advantages & disadvantages.
Finishes with thorough techniques for sharpening the various types of tools 1 by 1 - including jigs.
As far as one book that covers everything - this one has about everything you can ask for. There are probably soem specialty sharpening books that could expand on one topic but this one covers most that's out there.
The only thing lacking was scary sharp sandpaper method which wasn't covered much in the book. I use sandpaper primarily b/c it's inexpensive - but having read this book - I no longer question what to use for sharpening handtools - what grits to use - or - why?
Excellent Reference.......2007-02-05
This is the book to buy if you want to know the in's and out's of sharpening just about anything. I am truly glad I picked this book up before I tried sharpening some of my tools around the house.
Sharpening Complete.......2007-01-16
This is by far the best text on the subject that I have seen. It takes a scientific approach to the subject, starting with methods to identify the compsition of the steel, and identifying those methods of sharpening one should not use as well as those best suited to the material. I have sent this book to a number of friends who I consider to be experts, and they have been universally impressed.
Book Description
Like its predecessor, Taunton's Complete Illustrated Guide to Woodworking-containing Finishing, Sharpening, and Using Woodworking Tools-is a broad, general reference for shop practices and proven know-how. With over 2,400 photographs, it is a complete resource that will appeal to all woodworkers.
Customer Reviews:
Lots of information.......2007-01-26
Taunton has a knack of putting a lot of information in a nice format. These books are NOT for taking to the shop and following along but they are good books for reference in the shop.
Book Description
As a toolmaker, Tom Lie-Nielsen brings a special perspective to the subject of sharpening. In this must-have reference, the author covers all types of sharpening equipment and methods of sharpening hand tools. Over 700 color photographs and illustrations are included, along with information on sharpening power tool blades and bits.
Customer Reviews:
An almost complete guide to sharpening........2007-01-12
After an introduction to the basics of sharpening, the author take you step by step through the process of sharpening all the different kind of tools you can think of.
The author start by exposing the different method of sharpening from using sand paper to using expensive ceramic stone. It is up to you to decide which one is for you based on your budget and taste.
I would have given it a 5 stars if the picture don't always illustrate the point properly and because I would have liked more information on using a wet sharpener which as become quite popular nowaday.
Lie-Neilsen Guide to Sharpening.......2006-03-23
This is a very practical book on sharpening well illustrated which covers almost any sharp tool used in woodworking that has an iron cutting edge (not carbide). Unfortunately I got a defective copy (with some pages misplaced) which Amazon promptly replaced at no charge.
Falls Short.......2005-08-07
I have two books on sharpening. Which is a lot when you consider that sharpening is more of a chore than anything else. But it is a very important chore (second only to sweeping up), and one that can make woodworking a pleasure or a great pain. Until you develop good, disciplined sharpening techniques your work will be spotty at best. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a hand tool purist. But one of the reasons I have so many power planes, routers, and shapers is that, for a long time I was a very mediocre sharpener.
Thomas Lie-Nielson makes some of the finest planes in the world. I have three, and each has proved out its value repeatedly. Much of the reason I bought this book was to see what he had to say, even though my copy of Leonard Lee's 'Complete Guide to Sharpening' has stood me in good stead. Unfortunately, Lie-Nielsen is a much better toolmaker than he is a writer. His presentation is quite dry, and not as detailed as I would have liked. And for some strange reason the photographer managed to 'miss' the action or make it difficult to puzzle out what was happening.
In spite of this, Lie-Nielsen manages to explain somethings that Leonard Lee left out. He also offers more discussion on shaping the steel as well as sharpening it. His section on sharpening axes is a classic of straightforward clarity and brevity, for example. But While I am a fan of Taunton's 'Complete Illustrated' series, this time their offering falls short. Lee's book is half the price and every bit as useful
Not worth the money- get something else........2005-05-10
Although the book has great illustrations, it just doesn't give much information. Yes, the author discusses the sharpening of virtually every cutting instrument, but usually only using a certain jig that you probably don't have. There is little depth to this book; it's like a vast ocean that is only an inch deep. The book is a better review of sharpening tools and jigs on the market than it is about sharpening, and if you have these tools, you don't need the book to tell you how to use them.
I would have liked to see in-depth sharpening information- what a tool that is sharp looks like and how to get it there with basic tools. The book rarely achieves this.
a great disappointment.......2005-04-02
Although I have a great deal of respect for both the author and the publisher, I was forced to give this book a negative rating. This is due to the fact that the book offers no real recommendation as to which system to use for sharpening or real advantages and disadvantages for each method. I bought this book because I don't know a lot about sharpening other than woodturning tools. The author briefly discusses the various systems, waterstones, oilstones, grinders, sandpaper, etc. But I was not able to make an informed decision as to which was preferable and why.
The chapter on sharpening woodturning tools only briefly discussed the various ways to sharpen each of the major types of turning tools without going into detail. No discussion of the carious grinds to put on a bowl gouge, for example. So I was forced to assume that the other chapters were unnecessarily brief as well.
The book is beautiful and the color photos were well done. But if you are going to buy this book because you are a rank beginner at sharpening, I think you will be disappointed as to how little information is in here and will look in vain for recommendations.
The author builds some of the best hand tools out there today. I know because I own some. Other books and magazines published by Taunton are well thought out and beautifully presented. But this book lacked the detail I expected.
Average customer rating:
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Sharpening: The Complete Guide (Complete Guides)
Jim Kingshott
Manufacturer: Sterling Pub Co Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
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Hand Tools
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The Complete Guide to Sharpening
ASIN: 0946819483 |
Customer Reviews:
Highly technical and informative........2000-10-19
This book, beyond a doubt, has all of the information the serious bonsai artist needs to know. A friend gave me this book when I first expressed an interest in bonsai, and it succeeded in intimidating me. The authors provide very thorough details about creating bonsai, and take it to the level of science rather than art. However, it is because of this high degree of detail that I was struck with how serious the art really can be. I find it unfortunate that it is currently out of print, since it does cover bonsai in such detail. I would tend to recommend Japanese Art of Miniature Trees and Landscapes to the person who is quite dedicated to pursuing the art, and would not recommend it to a person with a more casual interest.
Excellent bonsai book.......2000-03-31
This is one of the best bonsai books. It should be in every seriuos hobbyst's library. It contains all the information needed to get started on bonsai. It has an apendix for tools, equipment and soil, and another one very helpfull, with plant names in Chinese-Japanese Characters. Yoshimora is a truly great Bonsai master. The disvantages are that the B&w photos are not of very good quality and the text can be a little tedious to read
Average customer rating:
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Bonsai-saikei;: The art of Japanese miniature trees, gardens, and landscapes,
Toshio Kawamoto
Manufacturer: Nippon Saikei Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
Gardening & Horticulture
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
| By Climate
| By Plant
| English Gardens
| Essays
| Flowers
| Fruit
| Garden Design
| Garden Furnishings
| General
| Greenhouses
| Herbs
| House Plants
| Japanese Gardens
| Landscape
| Lawns
| Organic
| Ornamental Plants
| Outdoor & Recreational Areas
| Reference
| Regional
| Shade
| Shrubs
| Soil
| Techniques
| Trees
| Vegetables
| Weed & Pest Control
| Wild Plants
ASIN: B0007IWQT8 |
Customer Reviews:
Best Of Best.......2005-06-11
In reviewing the authors second smaller book, this volume is a far better and more extensive. I find it a real joy and a valuable volume for anyone who really is into saikai.
It should have ALL the answers for design and cultivation. I now have 2 in my collection and highly prize them like I do my first edition, signed, slipcased Bonsai Techiniques I & II and My Halford and Yoshimura signed first edition hardbound.
If it ever comes up again, as this was limited to only 500 copies, you should buy it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Steve E, Yorba linda, California
Customer Reviews:
Not That Impressed..........2006-06-23
I, by no means am a literary critic. I am just your average spiritual mom, who does believe in the Indigo phenomenon. My personal review of this book is as follows: I'm not really sure if this book is Ms. Condron's story telling anecdotes to reminisce about the past or to publicly brag about her supposed "Indigo" child. Most children are brillant and special. They see life through eyes that are untainted and of course they will have thier own unique point of view, as we all did when we were young. Other than attempting to wordsmith our parenting skills, I found nothing of significant value in this book that I didn't already know. As parents, it is our job to develop our social and mental skills around each of our children's unique personalities, it is necessary for our children to grow and develop a mutual respect for parents and all who enter thier lives. Although research and book reading on Indigo children is nice to know and have, I don't think this book is one of the "essentials" for your collection.
Ritalin is NOT the answer ... nurturing their brilliance is!.......2005-11-20
Interesting how if Winston Churchill were a child today he would be a prime candidate for Ritalin or Concerta or Strattera ... or whatever ADHD drug is out there. So would the likes of Werner Von Braun, Richard Branson, Charles Schwab, Thomas Edison, John F. Kennedy, and all sorts of brilliant men who made their mark on the world.
The increase in drugging children for being "out of the normal template" is a crime and tragedy. Indigo children are especially prone to being poisoned because of their inner authority, independance, and innate intuitive instinct for deception they are more than willing to speak out against. The only difference between a prescription and a poison is dosage. Younger and younger children are being drugged because their parents blindly believe a doctor. Medical intervention is a neccessity but no drug is a cure all magic pill. A prescription is just one line of defense is treating a condition. Cognitive therapy and other psychological methods can address what a drug cannot. It is a multi-line of defense.
This book is a wonderful tool for parents who want to know the alternative to a drug. I can't sing its praises enough. Drugging a child is a mask for emotional problems that are the root of problem behavior. And really ... it's a parent's duty to fight for their child. I recommend this book for all the mothers and fathers who want to do all they can to bring out the best for the son or daughter who needs them.
The next time someone says a child is difficult ... try to see the other side. Brilliance has its beauty and its rambucious side.
Amazing!.......2005-02-06
I read this book and got the feeling that this woman lives in my house! This is my child and it is so wonderful to know that there are others out there who carry hope that the public school system does not. Truely inspiring!!! And thanks!!!!
The 10 Essential Life Skills are posted in my Classroom.......2004-09-27
I am a parent as well as a visual art teacher for grades 1-8 at a public school in Colorado. I have observed many unique qualities and characteristics among the wide range of children I teach. The common theme is that a new profile of child is emerging into our world and traditional ways of educating them are outdated. The Indigo Child is unique in that they are alive, fresh and unincumbered by rules, regulations and fitting into a package that is not them. However, Indigo's desire guidelines and respect and have a keen sense of receiving authenticity and sincerity. Dr. Condron's book focuses on the need to teach reasoning skills and goes beyond by detailing how it can be taught. Her voice outlines the process using multidimesional techniques which are what the Indigo's reach for. I have not found a comprable process elswhere. Dr. Condron's book elevates our consciuosness to be more purpose driven in the how's and why's of educating our children. You'll discover this in the 10 Essential Life Skills she details in How to Raise An Indigo Child. It's a must read for potential parents as well as educators. My parenting and teaching skills have expanded to be more thought and purpose centered. Thanks for your years of dedication, research and service.
With gratitude,
Capucine Chapman
Teacher/Littelton, CO
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- Collecting Marine Tropicals (Creating the Marine Environment)
- Complete Introduction to Turtles and Terrapins (Complete Introduction)
- Cow horses n' quarter horses
- Dinosaur Atlas: An Amazing Journey Through a Lost World
- Discus As a Hobby: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started (Save-Our-Planet Book)
- Doc Halligan's What Every Pet Owner Should Know: Prescriptions for Happy, Healthy Cats and Dogs
- Doggie Days Love Guide: German Shepherd (Doggie Days Love Guide)
- Don't Look Now or Ever
- Dr.Ackerman's Book of Dalmatians (BB Dog)
- Dr. Ackerman's Book of the Shar-Pei (BB Dog)
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