Book Description
Not since the last spasm of mass extinctions swept this planet some 65 million years ago--the result of natural forces--have so many species, dinvidual animals and plants been threatened and obliterated. Michael Tobias' "Voices from the Underground" speaks directly from the trenches of that heart-breaking and preventable assault, painting a riveting picture of the crisis of human abuse, exploitation and cruelty towards animals. While documenting that human trespass, and the many legal loopholes and cultural blinders which have perpetuated it, Tobias' primary focus is the profiling of several heroic people who have devoted most of their lives to stopping cruelty and working with great courage and tenacity to persuade others of their ethical convictions. We follow the incredible exploits of such people as Gene and Lorri Bauston, the deeply sensitive and tenacious founders of Farm Animal Sanctuary; of Ingrid Newkirk and Alex Pacheco, ecolical and ethical visionaries ! who founded and currently run the organization known as PETA--People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals; Christine Stevens, a maverick on Capitol Hill whose Animal Welfare Institute has worked untiringly to improve the status of animals; and Rod Coronado, a Native American jailed for his animal liberation activities. This lean, eloquent volume chronicles a vast, but as yet woefully incomplete, wake-up call to all human beings, asking only for kindness, empathy and restraint. Tobias assesses the consumer trends and behavioral choices which have devastated billions of other lives, destroyed habitat and biodiversity throughout the world and thoughtlessly consigned one animal after another--whether mountain gorillas or the rural family cows and chickens--to mass, unmarked graves. In revealing some of the key figures who have helped slow down or halt society's crimes against nature, Tobias has laid the groundwork for a tenable path of truce and reconciliation.
Customer Reviews:
nobody reviewed this book ????.......2004-02-14
Hard to believe!
such a thoroughly wonderful book!
I'm / was a starry-eyed volunteer at the roadside breeding "zoo"
Voices from the Underground provided me with a practical side of dealing with some sad situations.
I was thrilled to find out that the author loves (I assume) Father Teilhard De Chardin - Love of my life!
I wish I could contact the author - any idea how can he be reached?
Read this book!!!
To sweeten your life - I recommend reading "Dakar, A Wolf's Adventure" by Louis Dorfman who was my "starting point" and my inspiration in my involvement with wild animals.
Book Description
Knitting is a relatively simple process requiring a minimal set of tools – two needles and a ball of yarn. Its basic structure of interlocking loops couldn't be less complicated. Yet the possibilities for design and pattern innovation seem endless. Now is a great time to learn to knit. Never before have you had so many lovely and imaginative yarns from which to choose and so many stylish and sophisticated patterns to work with.
Sure, grandmothers knit, but so do movie stars, football players, doctors, and lawyers. They know what our grandmothers do: Knitting does more than just provide you with warm and cozy things to wear. Knitting also
- Stirs your creativity
- Gives you an ongoing sense of purpose
- Teaches patience
- Soothes the soul from the stresses of everyday life
Practice and perfect your knitting skills with Knitting For Dummies. This friendly, hands-on guide will lead you through the following topics and more:
- Mastering the four elemental moves of knitting
- Deciphering knitting patterns
- Fixing common knitting mistakes
- Getting started with simple projects
- Expanding your horizons with stripes and details
- Relaxing stiff shoulders and fingers
Every chapter explaining a specific knitting technique includes a Knitting Notebook of sample patterns to show you some of the different ways it can be used and a section of Practice Projects that gives step-by-step instructions for simple and attractive knitted accessories nearly al of which are features on the pages of the color insert. Most projects end with a list of project variations – ways to expand on your understanding of how to craft and design projects on your own.
Customer Reviews:
The author needs to put herself in the shoes of a REAL knitting dummy!.......2007-06-25
I am always reminded of the Gary Larson cartoon when reading a book like this, where a huge math problem is written on the board, and just before the solution it says "And then a miracle happens"! I feel like a lot of starter knitting books are like that. They give fairly good instructions at first, but then seem to jump suddenly ahead and leave you far behind. For example, I tried today to use the book to help me try to do a fairly basic knitting move, a yarn over (YO) I found the instructions here were totally confusing, and despite all my effort, I just couldn't do it. They seem to leave out steps and assume that you will get what they mean.
The book also jumps back and forth. I wonder why knitting instruction books go on and on about gauge and converting gauges and so on in the first few chapters of a book. I KNOW it's important when you start making things like sweaters, but for most of us beginners, we will be starting with garter stitch scarves that will probably be full of holes, and reading about how important a gauge swatch is doesn't get you too excited about knitting.
The projects also seem a bit ambitious. I think this book would be for getting started, and you would probably consult another book when you got into complex projects, so I don't need to learn how to make sweaters or socks from this one! I long for a book that REALLY covers the basics. Spend 4 pages on a yarn over if you have to! Make the casting on simpler! Give some VERY simple stitch patterns and walk the new knitter right through making something with them---even if, God forbid, you don't use standard knitting notation!
One thing this book WAS good at was making me excited about knitting. It's obvious that the author loves to knit, and she writes like she does. And through bits and pieces of info here and there, I did learn a bit from it. But please, potential future authors, remember how it feels when you FIRST start knitting!
New Knitter.......2007-05-09
This book was an excellent resource. The step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow. The small patterns included in the book made it easy to try your newly learned skills without shopping for additional patterns.
fantastic resource.......2007-04-19
I can't say that I've ever liked the whole "Dummies" idea but this book is nothing short of wonderful. I've taught knitting for many years and have often given this book as a gift to those just starting. The illustrations and descriptions are as clear and as helpful as you can get. And for people who have been knitting for a while and just need a good resource guide to brush up on things -- or for when they just get stuck on something, the book is great for that too. I especially like how it doesn't assume anything and just provides accessible and thorough explanations. Highly recommended.
Knitting for Dummies.......2007-04-11
I learned to knit when I was a child but found crocheting easier and faster. I have now found more time on my hands and have started knitting again. This book has helped me with the basics and given me the confidence to try harder things. This book is full of great information for knitters of all ages and levels.
Excellent for beginners.......2007-02-24
The book is excellent for beginners or intermediaries as it gives various basic techniques and tips on knitting. if you are one go for it !!
However, if you are looking for various pattern and stitch variations try a book that focuses more on that aspect.
Product Description
This book has great projects for people who have no idea how to knit or crochet. With easy to read instructions, anyone can pick up knitting and crocheting, and make some fun projects, even as a beginner.
Customer Reviews:
The Basics...but Nothing Beyond.......2006-12-31
I bought this book as a person with some crocheting experience and no knitting experience who wanted to learn more of both. I liked that it included the essentials--needles, stitch markers, point protectors, little scissors, etc; and it showed the absolute basics of both. I found the illustrations and steps to follow very clear and easy, but whenever I wanted to do more than just those basics, I was lost and needed to purchase additional books. I think this book is good for people who want to try a little of knitting and crocheting and decide which they want to learn more about, but not to depend on as a tool to learn any techniques.
If it doesn't teach a beginner the basics, how good can it be?.......2006-07-11
We decided to take up knitting. (I spend entirely too much time watching baseball games; I should at least do something with my hands.) So we picked up Knitting & Crocheting for Dummies at a local craft store. I should have kept walking, instead.
The package includes two sets of needles and a crochet hook. Unfortunately, that's the only justification for this book.
The major criticism is that this book hasn't taught either of us to knit. I flipped through the pictures and the text, and somehow didn't feel inspired to try. My husband sat down with the full intention of learning the skill -- and he still couldn't figure it out. (This is a guy who has taught himself woodworking and software programming skills from books, so it sure isn't his weakness.) There are a few drawings, but not enough, and they aren't very clear. He did manage to knit 20 stitches before he gave up on the instructions, but the exercise was accompanied with lots of cussing.
I took two books out of the library on knitting basics, and both of them -- accompanied with plenty of photos -- are significantly better than this purchase.
Book Description
Knit designs from head to toe and beyond
From sweaters and slippers to pillows and purses — create classic, beautiful knits with ease
Looking for great knitting projects? This fun, friendly guide is chock-full of simple instructions and easy-to-follow patterns to help you create a wide range of knitted items for the whole family, from clothing and accessories to household items and gift ideas. Plus, you get full-color photos and fantastic projects perfect for beginners or those who want to stretch their knitting skills!
- Choose the right yarn and needles
-
Measure your gauge, read a pattern, and understand garment sizing
-
Work with common stitches and pattern shapes
-
Create different textures and add color
-
Care for completed knits
Customer Reviews:
Impressive.......2007-10-03
I'm not a knitter, but I've seen Kristi's work, and every thing she's designed has been colorful, creative and fun.
Product Description
Pocketbook edition. Understanding knitting basics with this easy-to-follow guide. From casting on and off to performing beginning stitches, this guide helps you discover the joys of knitting and create hand-knit items.
Book Description
The indispensable new reference book for every gardener
With their immense diversity of color, shape, size, scent, flowers and berries, shrubs provide the gardener with an inexhaustible range of plants to suit every site, whatever its aspect or soil.
Here is a uniquely comprehensive guide to more than 1900 shrubs, in stunning full-color photographs, many showing specimens growing in gardens or in the wild. The plants are arranged according to their flowering season, from winter through to autumn, and the authoritative text describes each plant's origin, important characteristics and the growing conditions that suit it.
Also included is a list of gardens open to the public and a guide to nurseries.
Customer Reviews:
Photos great.......2007-04-24
Perhaps this is aimed at a novice landscaper or plant enthusiast, but as I botanist....I LOVE it. The photos are great and unrivaled. There are photos for identifying plants in any season (leaves, bark, flower, fruit). There is also a companion in my collection for TREES. I recommend them both for the same reasons. Some times a botanical key is not enough to jog my memory.
Random House Book of Shrubs.......2005-09-03
I love this series! The photos are awesome, and anyone serious about gardening should have the books!
Beautiful book with British bias.......2002-06-15
This is a beautifully produced reference book with extensive color photos. Its size gives it the illusion of being comprehensive. However, it only includes plants that will grow "somewhere in the British Isles". It omits a number of species which are U.S. natives (e.g., no Rhododendron catawbiensis, although the author offers a whole section on Asian rhododendrons). It also misses species cultivated in the Southern US (e.g., no gardenias). List of cultivars circa 1989 is getting dated. I would also hope that the next edition would alphabetize the order in which species are presented within the sections. If you don't mind its limitations, it's a bargain; buy it for the photos.
Great information.......1999-12-15
I found that it had a lot of information and great colored photos to help with identification. Glad I got the book.
This book took my breath away, I could not put it down!.......1999-03-09
This volume is the most gorgeous and comprehensive overview of shrubs I have seen to date. The information contained, although not exhaustive, is concise and useful. The breadth of plants covered is truly amazing and the photography excellent. The only disappointment is lack of information on how to obtain these plants. I reach for this book so often, it seems to live on my desktop (Along with the other Random House Plant Books), not the reference shelf!
Book Description
The best-selling series of parenting handbooks for new dads is now available in a two-volume boxed set.
An ideal gift for the birth of a child, these books skillfully and with humor guide men through the daunting experience of being a new father, from birth through the toddler years. The first volume, The New Father: A Dad's Guide to the First Year, answers hundreds of questions, such as, How can you become an effective, involved father when you see your baby for only half an hour after work every day? and What is the best way to start saving for your child's college education? Author Armin Brott charts the physical, intellectual, verbal, and emotional changes the child is going through, and examines the emotional and psychological developments the father may be experiencing. He suggests activities appropriate to each month and covers such parenting issues as finding quality child care and understanding changes in the relationship with one's partner.
The second volume, The New Father: A Dad's Guide to the Toddler Years, devotes a chapter to every three months of the second and third years, addressing such questions as, At what age should you introduce your child to computers? and what guidelines should you follow when choosing a preschool? Following the format of the previous volume, this book examines a multitude of topics, including dealing with the baby's fears, choosing play activities, developing a parenting style, toilet training, and teaching kids about money.
Incorporating the author's and other fathers' personal experiences, as well as the advice of top researchers in the field, the books are illustrated with delightful cartoons that will make even the most anxious father chuckle.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent resource for new dad's.......2007-08-15
Excellent book, well written, easy to read, wealth of useful information presented in an interesting and funny manner.
An excellent book for first time fathers.......2007-07-20
I've been giving this book to all of my friends who are having kids. I found it to cover a broad range of relevant topics in a brief but "complete enough for me" manner. My wife (a physician) found it to be a little superficial in some areas, but I thought the coverage was perfect. A couple of things: 1) I found that it's best to read the chapter for your child's age just before they turn that age so that it's fresh 2) Some of the milestones listed in the book are aggressive - don't feel bad if your child starts crawling, walking or talking after the dates the book provides. PS I also thought the What's Going On in There book by Lise Eliot was good if you want a deep book on child development. It discusses the neurological development of an infant through toddler in layman's terms.
all Dads should read.......2007-02-07
Just like moms have What to expect when your expecting well this is the same for Dads in a form they will understand ( very Manly)
Great book for people who do not read.......2007-01-23
I love this series of books because they read fast and are humorous. My husband enjoyed the first book so much I got him this second one and many times there were things that my parenting books did not have. He enjoyed the humor and the fact that you can pick up and put these books down any time.
Great for 1st time dads.......2007-01-10
I had read several other books on babies and their first year before this one. I liked this one because it was tailored to the father. It gives easy to understand information about the baby, the baby's development, what your wife is going through (physically and emotionally), as well as yourself for each month of the baby up to 1 year.
Customer Reviews:
The "best" collection for expecting Dad's and beyond. .......2007-09-07
With its sophisticated "New Yorker" style comics and light hearted, realistic approach. I enjoyed reading these much more than my "What to Expect" books, which I still consider invaluable resources.
I loved how these books covered practical issues, such as college savings and some relationship issues that the Mom geared books don't touch. It supplies advice about weathering Moody Moms and creative ways to offer support. It gives enough relevant information to the Dad to understand and relate to the wife's stages of pregnancy, infant health and development and charts toddlers moods and stages without bogging down with a lot of potentially superfluous detail. These books even have some special "Dad" recipes, like making pretzels in the oven, that are supposed to be fun for Dad and Toddler. (I think that is pretty neat.)
In short these are great books, geared towards Dads, covering some things that the more technical books don't have room for, AND they didn't set off my "sexist" alarms. Let me tell you, my alarms are sensitive. I loved reading these. -The Mom (Oh, and my husband liked them too!)
Books:
- Whittemore's Science and Practice of Pig Production
- Whittemore's Science and Practice of Pig Production
- Wine Country Cats
- You and Your Puppy: Training and Health Care for Your Puppy's First Year (Howell Reference Books)
- Your First Ferret
- Your First Parakeet
- A Celebration of the Working Collie
- A Horse of Your Own: A Rider-Owner's Complete Guide
- A New Owner's Guide to African Grey Parrots (New Owners Guide)
- A New Owner's Guide to Rottweilers (JG Dog)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Shadow Baby
- Light His Fire: How to Keep Your Man Passionately and Hopelessly in Love With You
- Excel for Chemists: A Comprehensive Guide
- Moon Tiger
- Linnea in Monet's Garden
- Islam: A Short History
- Modern Analytical Methodologies in Fat- and Water-Soluble Vitamins
- Art and Life in Renaissance Venice
- Getting Started in Airbrush
- The wildlife photographs of Laurie Campbell
General
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
Animal Liberation
Free the Animals : The Story of the Animal Liberation Front
The Pig Who Sang to the Moon: The Emotional World of Farm Animals
For the Prevention of Cruelty: The History and Legacy of Animal Rights Activism in the United States
Meat Market: Animals, Ethics, and Money
