Dangerous Angels: The Weetzie Bat Books

Amazon.com

Lanky lizards! The slinkster-cool novels in Francesca Lia Block's Weetzie Bat series have finally been compiled into one delicious volume. All of the ethereal, mesmerizing titles are here--Weetzie Bat, Witch Baby, Cherokee Bat and the Goat Guys, Missing Angel Juan, and Baby Be-Bop--together like the big, beautiful family described on their pages. Block's unique, poetic style immediately draws readers into an intoxicating magical-realist world populated by empathetic, original characters (as well as a few ghosts, fairies, and genies): "He kissed her. A kiss about apple pie à la mode with the vanilla creaminess melting in the pie heat. A kiss about chocolate, when you haven't eaten chocolate in a year. A kiss about palm trees speeding by, trailing pink clouds when you drive down the Strip sizzling with champagne. A kiss about spotlights fanning the sky and the swollen sea spilling like tears all over your legs."

We cheer for these young women and men as they struggle with the universal trials of growing up, finding love, and letting go--all within the vivid, glittering, urban embrace of Los Angeles. Block's stories about finding yourself, being true to your dreams, and believing in what might seem impossible will inspire teens and adults alike with the resounding messages of hope and the transformative power of love. --Brangien Davis

Book Description

Francesca Lia Block's luminous, postmodern fairy tales chronicle the thin line between fear and desire, pain and pleasure, cutting loose and holding on in a world where everyone is vulnerable to the most beautiful and dangerous angel of all: love.

Customer Reviews:

LOVE!.......2007-08-11

All five novels are truly exceptional. Francesca Lia Block has a wonderful mind and a very unique writing style that is so welcome in this world of the normal traditional authors of today. I recommend the Wheetzie Bat books to anyone who wants to read something captivating and perhaps even a bit 'out there' (but in the best of ways.)

Magical writing that brings to life characters in search of love and personal identity. Very highly recommend to all readers.......2007-08-11

Generations of young women and their lovers and friends grow up surrounded by genies, by love, and by the magical world of urban Los Angeles. Dangerous Angels is a compilation of the original Weetzie Bat book series, five novels that make up stories two generations--their love stories, deaths, births, and artistic adventures. The text is vivid, rich with sensual description and the hipster-cool slang that surrounds Weetzie's family. The magical-realist style intertwines angels, genies, and spirits with real-world issues of finding and nurturing love, having sex, creating identity and independence, being gay, and coping with death. The result is a remarkably engrossing, readable, and magical writing style that brings to life both Los Angeles and the characters, and deals with difficult, even controversial issues, that are rarely found in other young-adult books. I very highly recommend it.

It is difficult to do a plot summary of the Dangerous Angels books because the compilation contains so many books and the plot of each book is secondary to all the other factors that make up the text. In one story, Weetzie finds love for herself and for her best friend when a genie grants her wishes. In others, Weetzie's daughters struggle with their own identity and the power and music of their group of friends. In another, Weetzie's best friend comes to terms with his homosexuality. The plots are important, but what matters more is what character growth they prompt, what issues they deal with, and what text surrounds them.

The primary theme of the book is love--the most beautiful and most dangerous angel. Love, however, is mixed in with themes of personal identity, family, independence, and sexuality. The author does not skate over difficult and controversial issues, but neither does she subject them to lengthy angsting. Instead, life difficulties, like its genies, are presented as facts and are treated with the same open acceptance. In my opinion, this makes the book a wonderful and eye-opening read for young adults that is still relevant to grown-ups.

Finally, the delight of Dangerous Angels is the writing style. It is urban magical-realistic and richly, sensually detailed. Action, both of the characters and of the overall plot, is presented in short direct sentences. Description is also presented in short direct sentences. But in both cases, characters act and the world appears in ways that are distinctly magical. The end effect is a quickly-paced, no-nonsense style that nonetheless makes the books sing with lush description and very real magic. It makes very little sense to discuss the style when it so easy to simply quote it. One example: "Fifi's house was a Hollywood cottage with one of those fairy-tale roofs that looked like someone has spilled silly sand. There were roses and lemon trees in the garden and two bedrooms inside the house--one painted rose and the other aqua. The house was filled with plaster Jesus statues, glass butterfly ashtrays, paintings of clowns, and may kinds of coasters. Weetzie and Dirk had always loved the house." The writing style is a joy to read and sweeps the reader into the magical world of Weetzie and her family, bringing to life their stories and their challenges. It is unlike any other book you'll read, and I highly recommend it to all readers of all age groups.

These stories changed my life!.......2007-05-22

I first picked up Witch Baby when was thirteen..then promptly devoured the rest. Weetzie Bat, Goat Guys, Baby Be-Bop, Missing Angel Juan..... The stories transport you to a modern fairytale land. When I was growing up, these stories inspired me to pursue my fairytale dreams in this midst of harsh realities.

My favorites change as I travel through different phases of my life...Angel Juan is one of the best breakup stories ever! Goat Guys addresses the problems of being swept up in the material world and finding balance. Baby Be-Bop is about discovering your true self through your family. Weetzie and Witch Baby give two different perspectives...having a boyfriend/having babies, or being an outcast/finding where you belong.

Block transport her readers into a sensual world where genies and angels mix and mingle with the "real" people. She ask us to see the beauty beyond the hurt and ugliness of their lives. She lovingly paints a picture of modern day Los Angeles, all the while reminding us that the common denominator in our daily lives is love.

I can understand who some people might find these stories trite...Block goes off on fantasmagoric verbal riffing on every other page. She rhapsodizes about food, music, flowers, colors. If you enjoy Angela Carter or Colette, anyone who uses words like rich paint on a canvas...then you will find these stories satisfying as a Oki Dog Burrito.

apple pie a la mode indeed!!.......2007-04-24

i can't even begin to describe how much i love this book. i read it when i was about 15 or 16. i was trolling through the public library and saw all the weetzie bat books but they were all individual. i fell in love. some time later i went back and i found them in one big, fat collection and i was completely thrilled.

there's such a wonderful dreaminess to this book. the writing is so beautifully detailed. even now, almost 8 years later, i'm still constantly reading it. this book has a permanent place in my heart.

Young adults deserve better (so do adults).......2007-01-27

The characters and the story are shallow, totally lacking in depth. The writer seems to free associate and wanders from page to page. It was like reading a comic book plot or worse.I read books for my teens before they read them. This book was a huge disappointment. It is not appropriate in other ways either. I do not recommend it at all.

MitzvahChic: How to Host a Meaningful, Fun, Drop-Dead Gorgeous Bar or Bat Mitzvah

Average customer rating:

can get all this info on their website for free
Getting back to the Ritual
Spiritual Meaning to your Mitzvah
Absolutely essential!
Indispensible

MitzvahChic: How to Host a Meaningful, Fun, Drop-Dead Gorgeous Bar or Bat Mitzvah
Gail Anthony Greenberg
Manufacturer: Fireside
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Party Planning | Special Occasions | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0743284925

Book Description

An indispensable, modern-day guide to planning the perfect bar or bat mitzvah, celebrating substance and style

There used to be only two approaches to the bar or bat mitzvah party -- a low-key event that reflects the solemnity of this sacred rite of passage or a big bash that has no connection to the religious service. For many, it was an impossible dilemma. Will a big bash trivialize and overshadow the bar or bat mitzvah experience? Will too much spirituality suck the life out of an otherwise fabulous party?

MitzvahChic is the first book that proves that if you want a truly amazing experience, you can and must have it all! Blending meaningful Jewish elements with high-style contemporary party planning, this inspiring and useful guide will show you how to have the ultimate bar or bat mitzvah -- a profoundly moving service followed by an unforgettable party. The MitzvahChic approach also shows how to honor your child in a big way, rather than reducing him or her to an overused pop culture theme or a single cliché: He's into baseball! She loves horses!

This must-have guide gives advice on the major decisions, the basics of the service, and the party details that really matter. It also features:

A complete guide to the Torah, including dates and summaries of the portions and supplementary materials

Eight complete, themed parties, including party favors, decorations, and photographs of sample tables

A time line to help plan the bar or bat mitzvah up to two years ahead

Instructions for being MitzvahChic on a budget

Advice on how to include non-Jewish friends and family members in the ceremony

A practical guide to all things mitzvah from the Torah to the tablecloth, MitzvahChic will help create a beautiful, powerful, resonant, and unforgettable rite of passage.

Customer Reviews:

can get all this info on their website for free.......2007-10-08

I was disappointed with this book. The author makes a lot of suggestions but does not give concrete information for most of them. The section on decorating for a party was ridiculous. She tells you how she had three parties for her son for the price of one big party...to me it sounded like she spent as much on each party as I want to spend on just one party for my daughter. She seems a bit out of touch with reality. One thing that was unique and interesting about this book is that she describes the torah readings and gives you the dates that they will be read each year. With this information, you can try to schedule your child's bar or bat mitzvah around a torah portion that you find interesting. That is the main reason I gave this book 3 stars instead of 2. Save your money tho, all of this info can be had for free at [...]

Getting back to the Ritual.......2007-09-22

This was a great book. I don't feel so pressured now to have to put on such an elaborate show. We will make the Oneg a bit nicer than a typical oneg and have a Simcha Quilt(instead of candlelighting) during the oneg. Kids party at grandma's house with fun activities just for the Bar Mitzvah boy and his friends.

Spiritual Meaning to your Mitzvah.......2007-03-22

I loved this book!! As I started to plan this Bar Mitzvah I knew that I needed some guidance. I never imagined I would find so much perfect information in one book. The ideas on combining a truly a spiritual occasion with a terrific party were perfect. The way the ideas are presented makes so much sense. You'll love the easy to follow guidelines and suggestions. I can't tell you how many of the ideas actually made me get a lump in my throat! The book gives you a sense of confidence that even if you have never planned a party before - you can do this and really do it with meaning and fun. A must read!

Absolutely essential!.......2007-03-13

I'm so sorry that another reviewer didn't find this book helpful, because to me it was essential. It was the first B'nai Mitzvah book I bought and I was so glad I did. It opened my eyes to a lot of options that I wasn't aware of, and will, in the end, make our Bat Mitzvah so much more meaningful. I was unaware that you could select your mitzvah date based on Torah parsha. When I was younger, you were just given a date close to your birthday. The author of this book categorizes and explains each Torah portion for you. After reading them, I handed the book over to my daughter and said, "Find something that is meaningful to you." She read each section and picked one that she connected most with. We let her select her Bat Mitzvah date, and as a result, she is more aware and involved than most kids are at this point, and we are still at the very beginning of planning. She intends to carry the theme of her parsha into her mitzvah project, her D'var Torah, and her party. Did you know that you could twin with a child of the holocaust and honor him/her at your child's B'nai Mitzvah? Did you know that you could support a Jewish family in Ethiopia for one month, just by buying a tallit bag that they embroider? This is the kind of thing that is detailed in this book. Be forewarned: although this book does touch (briefly) on day vs. night affairs and selecting a venue, this is not a "how to make a hockey stick entrance way for my kid's hockey-theme Bar Mitzvah" book. MitzvahChic transcends that and looks deeper into the messages of the ceremony and how it fits in with your child's jewish coming-of-age. It then takes those messages and ultimately carries them through to themes and centerpieces, etc. for the party. Our copy of MitzvahChic has been lovingly highlighted, dog-eared and is always close at hand. I am so glad I found this valuable resource and feel that although we still have some time to go, that this book has already elevated my daughter's Bat Mitzvah into something very special.

Indispensible.......2007-02-20

I've been a committed and identified Jew all my life, and have raised my children joyfully in the tradition. Yet MitzvahChic taught me things I had never known -- about the ceremony itself and about our heritage. Even for people who are not planning a bar or bat mitzvah, this is a wonderful resource. Compact synopses of the Torah portions, suggestions for all kinds of mitzvot you can do, and even a section helping the non-Jewish family members feel welcome and up the learning curve. In fact, that last section has been a good one for many of my Jewish friends who didn't know much about Judaism's history or practices. This is a gem!

Bat Boy Lives!: The WEEKLY WORLD NEWS Guide to Politics, Culture, Celebrities, Alien Abductions, and the Mutant Freaks that Shape Our World

Average customer rating:

If you have seen Men in Black . . .
So funny
set your faces to stun
Weekly Word News Lives on in this WONDERFUL book.
A zany presentation

Bat Boy Lives!: The WEEKLY WORLD NEWS Guide to Politics, Culture, Celebrities, Alien Abductions, and the Mutant Freaks that Shape Our World
Editors of Weekly World News , and David Perel
Manufacturer: Sterling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Humor, Comics & Pop Culture | Bargain Books | Stores | Books

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ASIN: 1402728239

Book Description

All the news that's not fit to print! Browse through this fascinating compendium of the best of the Weekly World News and you'll never look at the world the same way again.

Admit it. You've sneaked a peek at the supermarket checkout. Where else could you find the scoop on which senators are aliens, or Saddam and Osama's torrid love affair? Serious newshounds know the Weekly World News (which counts over a million beings as readers) broke the story that Elvis still lives, but it also has exclusives on what kind of pizza was served at Jesus' last supper, who's the father of the Loch Ness monster's baby, and (of course) the various escapades of Bat Boy, the half man/half bat found in a West Virginia cave almost 15 years ago. For the dedicated follower of the fantastic, and for the uninitiated too, Bat Boy Lives! contains all these vital dispatches and much more. Because the truth...is in here.

Customer Reviews:

If you have seen Men in Black . . ........2007-10-07

. . . then you understand why this coffee-table size book is a must have for your reference library, especially since the Weekly World News recently quit publishing. This thing would be hilarious, if it weren't so true. My only disappointment was that, while the book includes the excellent article explaining that Abe Lincoln was female (yes folks, "Babe" Lincoln), the editors neglected to include a related and one of my all time favorite WWN articles: "Woman Gives Birth to Abe Lincoln" (that is WITH beard). You'll enjoy this.

So funny.......2007-09-06

My dad loved this book...he used to collect the newspapers to get his students interested in reading something...anything!

set your faces to stun.......2007-08-09

This and the Holy Bible are the only two books you need.

I continue to be baffled why folks believe The New York Times but not the Weekly World News. The WWN has *never* had to print a retraction or correction. It is the journalistic standard to which the Columbia Review of Journalism should benchmark.

Modern documentation off what Old Scratch is up to.

You may want to get a copy of "Let's Pave the Stupid Rainforest and Give Teachers Stun Guns."

Weekly Word News Lives on in this WONDERFUL book. .......2007-07-30

Heard the Weekly World News isn't going to be publishing it's funny newspaper anymore. Was so sorry to hear this. Always loved reading the headlines as I waited in the grocery store line. Maybe should have purchased the paper every time I laughed at a headline and they'd still be in business. This book brings all the top of the tops in Weekly World News back. VERY well produced and all the articles will make you laugh out loud.

From President Clinton's 3 breasted intern to blobs from space eating farmer's trucks it's all here.

HIGHLY recommended.

A zany presentation.......2007-01-07

It's hard to easily categorize BAT BOY LIVES!: it's a humor title which also is based on the Weekly World News gossip publication's impossible, sensationalist headlines - and it provides tongue-in-cheek commentary on celebrities, culture, politics, alien abductions and more within its pages of 'impossible events'. Black and white photos blend with 'truths' to make for a zany presentation indeed.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Average customer rating:

Stokes Guide to Bat
cute little leathery mammal guys
Excellent Bat Book!

Stokes Beginner's Guide to Bats
Kim Williams , Rob Mies , Donald Stokes , and Lillian Stokes
Manufacturer: Little, Brown and Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mammals | Field Guides | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0316816582

Book Description

The Stokes Beginners Guides, intended for beginning nature lovers of all ages, offer a wealth of identification and behavior information in a portable pocket-sized format. Illustrated throughout with full-color photographs and range maps, each Beginners Guide is organized according to the Stokes easy-to-use and popular color-tab system. Acclaimed bird and nature authorities, Donald and Lillian Stokes have written more than 22 books. They divide their time between Carlisle, Massachusetts, and Sanibel, Florida.

Customer Reviews:

Stokes Guide to Bat.......2007-04-05

Never realized just how many bats there are. I bought this along with the Bat Builder's Handbook for my grand daughers. We can't wait to have some bats move in.

cute little leathery mammal guys.......2006-07-02

The fact that you're reading this review indicates that you already know that bats are good guys, not bad guys. 'Nuff said.

Next thing, you'd probably like to have a bunch (they only come in quantities) in your yard. OK, then start with this Stokes guide.

It's bedecked with stunning photos and a cool set of symbols that tell you about migrational (with apologies to Monty Python) patterns, roosting preference, how they fly, and what the little guys like to munch on.

The Stokes Guide will also tell you how to make a bat house so they have a decent place to crash, but you might just as well buy one inexpensively at your local quality birding shop.

You can't go wrong with this attractively presented Beginner's Guide to Bats.

Excellent Bat Book!.......2003-11-27

Last Christmas I got a Bat Detector (from Bat Conservation International). The instructions with it were very poor so I asked a local naturalist if she knew of any good bat books and specifically any that would indicate what frequency to tune the bat detector in to for our local bats. She recommended this book and its terrific! There's a short section up front that talks about bats and how they echolocate as well as the frequencies that they do it at so this was perfect for me and my bat detector (boy is it cool!). The real meat of the book is an id guide with great pictures and interesting information about each ofthe different species of bats - similar to a bird id book. Since bats are genenerally out at dusk and they fly so fast I haven't been able to make use of the pictures and actually id the bats but I've narrowed it down by where we live and what we're likely to see so its fun to have a reference to read about them more specifically. Excellent excellent book and a must have if you've just gotten a bat detector and need to know what frequency to tune into. Highly recommended!

The Ultimate Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebration Book: A Guide to Inspiring Ceremonies and Joyous Festivities

Average customer rating:

The Best Bar Mitzvah Guide I've Seen
Soup to nuts guide
A truly useful guide to an "authentic" celebration
A Must-Have for Planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah!
Wish I had read this before the Bar Mitzvah!

The Ultimate Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebration Book: A Guide to Inspiring Ceremonies and Joyous Festivities
Jayne Cohen , and Lori Weinrott
Manufacturer: Clarkson Potter
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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"This one's for you": Poems for the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Candle Lighting Ceremony

ASIN: 060980992X
Release Date: 2004-03-30

Book Description

More than ever, Jewish parents are looking for imaginative ways to blend traditional and personal values into their child’s bar or bat mitzvah, creating a stirring ceremony and a truly joyous party. Now, this refreshingly contemporary guide shows them how.

A bar or bat mitzvah can be a magnificent occasion, but all too often parents are baffled about how to make their celebration meaningful, beautiful, and fun--all at the same time. In The Ultimate Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebration Book, Jewish food and culture writer Jayne Cohen and event planner Lori Weinrott explain how parents can create a celebration that truly reflects their traditions and their child's personality. Cohen and Weinrott use their expertise to demystify every aspect of planning the big day--from synagogue facilities, Torah portions, and the timing of the ceremony to working with a tutor and special "mitzvah projects." For the festivities that follow, they make the traditions come alive, with details on everything from a do-it-yourself "Coat of Many Colors" party to a dinner dance inspired by Exodus. Essential information includes:

•Tips on tasteful motifs and how to carry them throughout a celebration
•Expert advice on menu planning and hiring a caterer
•Ideas for dazzling decorations and breathtaking seasonal flowers
•A fresh look at candlelighting and other customs
•Kid-pleasing entertainment that fits the spirit of the occasion
•Scrumptious recipes, sample timelines,and budget guidelines

Filled with stories that showcase the wide world of bar and bat mitzvah possibilities, this inspiring book is an essential guide for families beginning the bar/bat mitzvah journey.

Customer Reviews:

The Best Bar Mitzvah Guide I've Seen.......2004-05-19

My parents were kind enough to send me this wonderful book on Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations! I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate the book -- in particular, it's ability to retain a focus on what the event is all about. My husband and I have always believed that this is an event that comes with its own theme and we've been working very hard on planning a day that celebrates our daughter and her accomplishments, and that feels grounded in Judaism. My copy of the book is already tabbed on many pages with ideas that will help us to do just that.

Soup to nuts guide.......2004-05-08

The book is exquisitely detailed as a guide.Additionally historical and religious considerations of the meaning of the celebration are intertwined in the text.The authors have been involved in food and catering and include recipes.

A truly useful guide to an "authentic" celebration.......2004-05-04

We're an interfaith couple with children now 9 and 11 so we have two bar mitzvah's coming up. We've been to many bar/bat mitzvahs we've found uninspiring from a spiritual perspective, although certainly not lacking in glitz and expense.
This "guide" brings a refreshingly thoughtful and inspiring approach to creating a truly authentic celebration for one's family and friends.
It has helped us focus on what's important and reduced the anxiety level around the planning tremendously. Visit the website: http://ultimatebarbatmitzvah.com/

A Must-Have for Planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah!.......2004-04-28

What an unbelievable resource for the bar/bat mitzvah planner. I am so lucky to have this book 2 years in advance of my daughter's big day. This book is so much more than an organization tool; it helps frame the occasion, with ideas for personalizing and bringing meaning to this incredibly joyous day. The book gives detailed ideas for mitzvah projects, decor and themes that reflect your family's values, and more. This book will allow me to create a one-of-a-kind, deeply meaningful bar or bat mitzvah -- and not one of those cookie-cutter events.

Wish I had read this before the Bar Mitzvah!.......2004-04-24

Having just finished the ordeal of another Bar Mitzvah, I couldn't help but pick this book up to take a look. Boy, do I wish someone had told me to buy the book before the Bar MItzvah. After this last nerve-splitting experience, it's really refreshing to read a book by someone who really seems to understand not only the true essence of Bar and Bat Mitzvah, but how to make it a truly joyful experience. If you are planning a Bar Mitzvah or you will be doing so any time in the not-too-distant future, this book is a MUST buy!

Beastly Abodes: Homes for Birds, Bats, Butterflies & Other Backyard Wildlife

Average customer rating:

Excellent, informative, and fun!
Best book I've seen on houses for wildlife.
This book is very informative and clearly written.
This is a great book w/good basic instructions.

Beastly Abodes: Homes for Birds, Bats, Butterflies & Other Backyard Wildlife
Bobbe Needham
Manufacturer: Sterling Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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The Bat House Builder's Handbook, Completely Revised and Updated

ASIN: 0806931698

Customer Reviews:

Excellent, informative, and fun!.......1999-11-07

This is one of the most enjoyable books I have ever had. There are lots of fun projects with detailed instructions. If you enjoy your animal neighbors, you should get this book.

Best book I've seen on houses for wildlife........1998-09-11

The most complete and innovative book on bird houses I've seen yet. Not only that, it has houses and other structures for bats, butterflies, squirrels, bees and toads. I especially like the variety and creativity of the "abodes" -- natural looking, not cutesy. The section on what each type of wildlife needs is especially welcome. I read this book in the library and had to make it part of my permanent collection.

This book is very informative and clearly written........1998-09-06

This book provides serveral varieties of houses for different animals. The instructions are well written and easy to do. Also, the book provides information about where to place the completed houses and why the houses will attract animals.

This is a great book w/good basic instructions........1998-07-08

This book has good, clear instructions for many projects, from bird houses to toad houses, from woodworking to working with gourds and reeds. It also has helpful information about placement of houses and the ecology of selected species. We've already made 4 houses from it, all of which we were able to build quickly and successfully. There were one or two places where the directions lacked certain details, but in general the instructions had the right amount of specificity. The book has beautiful pictures of every project, and has inspired us to do more to attract backyard wildlife.

Average customer rating:

Humorous and Informative

The Bar/Bat Mitzvah Survival Guide
Randi Reisfeld
Manufacturer: Replica Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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The Bar/Bat Mitzvah Planbook, Revised Edition
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ASIN: 073510106X

Customer Reviews:

Humorous and Informative.......2001-03-06

This book has loads of information and is very easy to read. The author uses humor to emphasize pertinent information. You will enjoy reading the entire book, even the sections that don't pertain to the Bar Mitzvah you are planning. Well worth the time to read.

Bats in Question: The Smithsonian Answer Book

Average customer rating:

In depth bat education

Bats in Question: The Smithsonian Answer Book
Don E. Wilson
Manufacturer: Smithsonian Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Endangered Species | Conservation | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

Mammals | Field Guides | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

Reference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1560987383

Customer Reviews:

In depth bat education.......2000-06-27

This is the most informative bat book that I've picked up so far. Lots of great information if you love bats and want to know more about them, or fear bats and are interested in learning to love them. Lots of great photos, but not a picture book at all. Probably too wordy for little kids, but great for adults.

Average customer rating:

Bats
Diane Ackerman
Manufacturer: Knopf Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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'The Moon by Whale Light: And Other Adventures Among Bats, Penguins, Crocodilians, and Whales

ASIN: 0517709198
Release Date: 1997-07-22

Book Description

Best-selling author (A Natural History of the Senses) and naturalist Diane Ackerman takes a beguiling look at the complex world of the bat--one of the most varied and mysterious of animals. Ackerman describes a visit, with distinguished photographer and bat expert Merlin Tuttle, to the Big Bend national park area of Texas where she observes the nightly emergence of over 20 million bats from Bracken Cave and helps track them for study. In addition to conveying the experience of observing, handling, and studying bats firsthand, Ackerman relates information on a variety of bat species, as well as feeding and reproduction habits, the remarkable sonar they use to navigate and hunt, their migration and hibernation patterns, and their role in the ecosystems they inhabit. More than 50 spectacular color photographs enliven this distinctive, informative, and accessible addition to the natural history shelf.

Pool Cues, Beer Bottles, And Baseball Bats: Animal's Guide To Improvised Weapons For Self-Defense

Average customer rating:

Outstanding and comprehensive
Realistic and practical advice
Blunt, Honest, and to the Point. Score Another One for Animal!
I agree with all the positive reviews.
On improvised weapons and awareness

Pool Cues, Beer Bottles, And Baseball Bats: Animal's Guide To Improvised Weapons For Self-Defense
Marc Animal MacYoung
Manufacturer: Paladin Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Safety & First Aid | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Science | Subjects | Books

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
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Knives, Knife Fighting, And Related Hassles: How To Survive A Real Knife Fight
Cheap Shots, Ambushes, And Other Lessons: A Down And Dirty Book On Streetfighting & Survival
Floor Fighting: Stompings, Maimings, And Other Things To Avoid When A Fight Goes To The Ground
Street E & E: Evading, Escaping, And Other Ways To Save Your Ass When Things Get Ugly
Fists, Wits, And A Wicked Right: Surviving On The Wild Side Of The Street

ASIN: 0873645456

Book Description

Would you admit to getting your ass kicked with a hairbrush? Animal would, because as a seasoned veteran of streetfighting, he knows it can happen. Learn to pick up damn near anything and use it to survive.

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding and comprehensive.......2007-06-14

A comprehensive look at improvised weapons you might encounter on the street such as beer bottles, pool cues, baseball bats, brass knuckles, fighting rings, saps, chains, shovels, bricks, and the like. Even hairbrushes and orange juice, two of the more unusual things the author has actually been assaulted with, are covered along with solid principles of how to spot, utilize, and defend yourself from these potentially deadly objects. Importantly, the book also delves into awareness, covering in depth some of the subtle and not-so-subtle cues that people tend to give when preparing to attack as well as patterns of trouble, diversions, distractions, and other things to look out for.

The author is the real deal. Growing up on gang-infested streets not only gave MacYoung his street name "Animal," but also extensive firsthand experience about what does and does not work for self-defense. Over the years, he has held a number of dangerous occupations including director of a correctional institute, bodyguard, and bouncer. He was first shot at when he was 15 years old and has since survived multiple attempts on his life, including professional contracts. He has studied a variety of martial arts since childhood, teaching experience-based self-defense to police, military, civilians, and martial artists around the world. Clearly a guy worth listening to.

Lawrence Kane
Author of Surviving Armed Assaults and Martial Arts Instruction; co-author of The Way of Kata and The Way to Black Belt

Realistic and practical advice .......2006-11-02

This is a good book on using improvised weapons for self defense. On the positive side, MacYoung appears to have a wide range of experience and speaks with an air of authenticity. Buried deep in his stories and use of slang, you will find a person who has combined some formal training with street smarts and the school of hard knocks to create a very realistic view of the world and how to survive in difficult situations. For most people, those situations will never have the opportunity to present themselves because they will avoid the venue. For those who choose to frequent biker bars, rowdy night clubs and pool halls, this book will have more value.

Realistic and practical advice that can have applications in any environment. Exploring the self defense potential of common items is a great exercise and can keep you from getting locked into the mindset that if you are not "armed" then you are defenseless. It's a message that needs a wider audience, unfortunately due to the tone of his writing; this book will not appeal to that larger group.

Blunt, Honest, and to the Point. Score Another One for Animal!.......2006-10-25

Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Marc "Animal" MacYoung's, "Pool Cues, Beer Bottles, and Baseball Bats."

As you may well know from my previous reviews of Marc's books, one of the things that I absolutely love about his style of writing, is his no-holds barred direct approach to getting his point across. There is never any sugarcoating or politically correct terminology is his books. He simply tells it like it is, whether you like it or not. Marc's method of writing reminds me of the comical rants of George Carlin. You may be offended by what he says, but by golly it's the truth. And yes, sometimes the truth hurts.

Once again, Marc gives you a no-holds barred look at the reality of fighting and surviving on the street. This book focuses on the most common types of weapons you are likely to encounter during an altercation on the street. For the most part, Marc leaves out the two most common ones, guns and knives. The reason for this is because these two are deserving of book all of their own. One of which I know Marc has addressed, as that particular book is on my "To Do" list.

In the preface, Marc discusses the intent of his book, which is for you the reader to use the knowledge contained within to keep yourself safe and out of trouble. It is not intended nor implied for you to go out and start causing it. As I was making notes to do this review, it occurred to me that what Marc and others like him are trying to teach you is similar to what the late Steve "The Crocodile Hunter" Irwin was trying to teach all of us that watched him work with animals.

First, that these are wild animals (violent and unpredictable individuals) and need to be treated with respect. Secondly, if you know the "ins and outs" (what to look for when dealing with this type of person) of the animal, then you will be able to identify and avoid a possible dangerous confrontation.

This last part is strictly Marc's and others like him, and is not Irwin's by any stretch of the imagination.

And finally, when unable to avoid a confrontation, what options you have to inflict as much damage upon your opponent as you can while sustaining minimal damage to yourself.

In the first chapter, Marc talks about the vital importance of awareness not only of your surroundings, but also of yourself. He teaches you some of the subtle and not-so-subtle cues that people tend to give off when preparing to attack. He also goes into patterns of trouble, which are a series of events that seem to always follow one after another on a one way course to trouble. With you usually right in the middle of it. One of the ways to avoid these things is to be aware of it. Hence, the lesson to be learned in this section, taking the time to work on your awareness.

The next chapter deals with long range weapons you are likely to encounter. Things such as pool cues, staffs or poles, shovels, etc. The remaining chapters in this book are broken down into various sections that focus on a wide variety of weapons, such as swords, sticks. Marc also goes into quite a bit of detail on impact weapons such as; wrist pins, brass knuckles, rings, saps, etc. Marc even has a chapter dealing with flexible weapons such as chains and ropes. As with all of his books, and this one is no exception, Marc gives you a real good understanding of the principles behind the techniques that he discusses and demonstrates in his books.

Marc's final chapter in this book deals with diversions and distractions that you are likely to encounter during a street altercation. Some of them are obvious, while others are not so obvious. As Marc is fond of saying (and completely right) awareness is the key to survival. Buy Marc's books, read them, study them, learn from them, and then use that knowledge to stay safe and live longer.

I agree with all the positive reviews........2006-09-03

This is a good book on improvised weapons. It is easy to understand, and the illustrations are easy to understand. it is written like many of Marc Macyoung's other books, he includes stories and lessons from his life and then teaches you how to use them for yourself.

the book is, like the title says, on improvised weapons, in the book he covers pool cues, baseball bats, beer bottles, and a few others i believe. and it covers them in good detail, while it may be basic,which is all that you will ever effectually get out of a book, there isn't really a good way to learn complex fighting techniques thought a book, you'd need to get a good instructor for that. But the basic stuff is were you'll want to start.The choice of improvised weapons really comes from his background, he chooses stuff that many would see in bars, like the pool cues, poll balls and beer bottles, as this is were he comes from. But it is a limited choice, but not a bad one.

overall this is a good book on the subject of improvised weapons and would recommend it for anyone.

If you like this book, please check out black medicine 2, weapons at hand.

On improvised weapons and awareness.......2004-07-09

This book concentrates on using improvised weapons for self defence. The author divides virtually everything you can use into four categories, and devotes a chapter for each weapon type. MacYoung starts with the basics, explaining also the physics and principles behind every weapon category.

The text is very easy to read, and there are several stories from real life used to spice up the text. As with all books by MacYoung, there is lots of humour in the text. This time, however, the stories and humour is less macho, compared to other books by MacYoung I have read. The text is richly illustrated, with very clear line drawings, making it very easy to understand what the author is saying.

I think you don't need much experience with martial arts to fully understand the techniques and principles presented in the book. That's unlike most similar books I have read, but then the techniques presented here are very basic, with very little nuances. In addition to the techniques, the book teaches you to continuously look for "self defence potential" of each item you run across. That not only teaches you to spot the best items for self defence, it increases your total awareness of your surroundings, as well.

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