Book Description
The Challenge of the Disciplined Life explores the three great ethical themes crucial to people of faith living faithfully. Drawing upon practical examples, Richard J. Foster guides the reader in day-to-day ethical decision making while helping each of us determine "the proper place in Christian life of money, sex, and power."
Customer Reviews:
simple and yet profound..........2006-02-10
This book has been a blessing to read. Foster came through as simple, and yet profound in his writing style; there was ample references to scripture, and Foster brings modern times into perspective with long held biblical spirituality; I plan to reread this book over again.
Straightforward overview of the common challenges.......2004-02-09
I have read the Chinese translation of the book. In fact, the translation is sold in a set of three different books. I have read them at different times. It provides direct and biblical insights into how Christians should view money, sex and power. Richard's writing is succinct. If you want to dive further into a topic, a rather extensive bibliography is provided.
The Big Three!.......2004-02-04
PLOT: Money, Sex, & Power, these are the three big temptations of church leadership. The early monks battled these with vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Protestants today are more likely to use the tools of simplicity, fidelity, and servanthood. Foster does an excellent job exploring these three dangerous areas.
POSITIVES: Foster draws from Scripture, other authors, and his own excellent understanding of theology. This is a book I find myself coming back to again and again.
PROBLEMS: Foster is given to strong statements. I didn't agree with all of them. I found myself highlighting certain passages and writing notes of praise. I found myself highlighting other passages and disagreeing with them. This is not a problem for me. I often interact with the books I read and sometimes go back years later and interact with my own notes as I wrestle with myself. But this could be a problem with some readers, who either feel they have a handle on theology or are threatened by ideas they disagree with. Let the buyer beware.
How to Live in Today's World.......2000-09-08
I think this is one of the best books on the difficulty of living in a society driven by money, power, consumerism, sex and continual change.
Foster has a compassionate, realistic view of what life is really like and how to deal with it. His opening chapter, Money, Sex and Power in Christian Perspective lays out the focus of the book - it is difficult to walk the walk. He isn't focusing on the external morality of ethical behavior, but on the social implications. He offers historical views of attitudes on money, sex and power, and divides the books into sections that focus on each issue.
In a small section titled "When Good Things Go Bad," he says, "There is, of course, a proper place in Christian life and experience for money, sex, and power. When properly placed and effectively functioning, they have the ability as nothing else does to enhance and bless life." He goes on to identify what the problem is in each area -the demon in money is greed; the demon in sex is lust; the demon in power is pride. And he tells us that these really are not matters we can be neutral about in hopes that they will disappear - if we ignore them, we will be dominated by them.
How do we avoid be controlled by our own desires, instead of controlling them to our own advantage? In the Power area, Foster suggests that we face the demons within, instead of projecting them on others. In addition, he suggests that we stop trying to manage and control others, and focus on our own spiritual powers.
Foster manages to be 'proper' without being unrealistically 'prim.' Whether read by fundamentalist Christians, small "c" christians, or Buddhists, this book gives food for thought. Agnostics, athiests and many free spirits will be turned off by references to the Bible and the focus on Jesus.
I used to think you had to agree with everything you read in a book, to find it of any use. There are parts of this book I don't agree with, but I took what was helpful, and left the rest. Those who keep an open mind will find that this is not a dogmatic, preaching book, but one that will make you think.
Dr. Malcolm Hutchinson Ed.D.......1999-12-21
I first read this book in 1988 it has guided me often from then until now. Its clear ethics will give valueable insight to all who will apply its ageless principals regardless of their personal faith practice. Foster's blending of practical reality linked with bibical concepts leaves one thinking in new (old) ways that still make since in a world who's ethics seem to be changing daily; humanism like marxism will be soon forgotten, yet the insights exponded by Foster will continue to make a profound positive impact. Having taught Business ethics and philosophy I have found no better book to read.
Amazon.com
If the title of this book sounds about as silly as a headline from Mademoiselle or Cosmopolitan, rest assured: author Gretchen Craft Rubin has highbrow credentials. An adjunct professor at Yale University and former editor in chief of The Yale Law Journal, she was also a clerk for the U.S. Supreme Court under Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and served as counsel to Federal Communications Commission chairman Reed Hundt. The book's references are highbrow, too, with Rubin quoting and alluding to everyone from Machiavelli and Sun Tzu to Plutarch, Shakespeare, and Edith Wharton.
That said, the book is still rather, well, silly, albeit more fun and dishy than the average book on getting ahead. It's sort of what you'd expect if People magazine or US Weekly were to put out career guides. Here we learn all sorts of traits that mark the powerful (Ronald Reagan reinstated much of the pomp of the presidency after it was clear the public hadn't gone for President Carter's "common man" approach); the rich (Christina Onassis had her 10-seater airplane fly between France and New York once a week to ship her 100 bottles of Diet Coke, which wasn't available in France); the very famous (Madonna's bodyguards forbad the staff of a hotel where she was staying to speak her name, talk to, or so much as directly look at her); and the sexy (Marilyn Monroe was reputed to have cut a quarter-inch off the heel of one shoe to achieve her legendary "wiggling" walk).
Unfortunately, the book is more effective in relating these anecdotes--what people have done once they've achieved power, wealth, fame, or sexiness (which, of course, involves varying amounts of the prior three characteristics, depending on whom one is trying to attract), or what we, humble readers, might do ourselves once we arrive--than it is in telling us how to get there ourselves. It's a bit like a title it even mentions once, the early 1980s hit The Official Preppy Handbook. That little item also purported to be a how-to, but its delineation of a clearly inbred, elitist lifestyle was meant to be laughed at as much as it was to be taken seriously. Not that you won't learn anything here--far from it: Power Money Fame Sex is astute on every page. It's simply that the thing appears designed to entertain more than to actually edify poor slobs like the rest of us. --Timothy Murphy
Book Description
Learn from Michael Jordan, Robert Moses, Machiavelli, and Madonna -- here at last is the guide for using power, money, fame, and sex that describes what actually works, rather than what ought to work.
Instructive, ruthless,
subversive, and entertaining,
Power Money Fame Sex reveals the mysteries of office politics and personal posturing. Whether you're gunning for a promotion at work, a trophy wife, the cover of Time, or a very early retirement, you'll find the secrets laid bare in this indispensable guide.
What magazines should adorn your coffee table? Why does your boss flaunt a string of identical blond girlfriends? How can you create a bidding war -- for yourself? Here you'll find clear explanations with illustrations, tips, and quizzes, ready to use Monday morning. Lurking beneath this blunt advice is a piercing social critique -- why we would choose to become a self-promoter, a bully, or a tease.
Rubin deciphers the strategies of Warren Buffett, Muhammad Ali, Gwyneth Paltrow, Richard Nixon, and Princess Diana. Vital new concepts emerge, such as the principle of dis-expectation (think of a CEO in shorts and a T-shirt), the platinum rule ("to whom much is given, more is given"), and fame frottage (to get fame, rub up against somebody famous). And if you don't have time to study the classics by Plutarch, Sun-tzu, and Casanova, read on for a synthesis of their most important ideas. Once you understand the tactics found here, it's up to you to decide how to use them or abuse them.
Whether the intricate code exposed in Power Money Fame Sex inspires or infuriates you, remember: if these rules aren't working for you, they're working against you.
Customer Reviews:
commentary more than manual.......2007-03-12
This book serves as an interesting and sometimes eye-opening look at how power, money, fame, and sex are gained and used. More a look at how those with PMF and S (appeal) use and increase it, rather than a guide of how someone with none can get started. I like the author's style, though I am not able to describe it well. Read a sample page, perhaps? I recommend this book for those who might just want an interesting few hours read and want an offbeat way to look at power, money, fame, or sex (mostly how it is used, rather than the in and outs, so to speak).
PMFS Edifies and Entertains.......2007-01-10
Each page of this gem is jammed with both trivia and wisdom, and I devoured it like a guilty pleasure. But the book is more than that. Like any good satire, this book operates and succeeds on many levels.
I came to Rubin's writing through her current work on The Happiness Project, of which I am a committed reader. Rubin's blog (........) -- where she reports on her experiments to bring more happiness into her life -- is brimming with earnestness. So when I started Power, Money, I was expecting more of that sweet, earnest voice. Instead, I saw her brilliantness and wit. Rubin obviously has the ability to pitch her voice perfectly to each project.
Now, I'm off to tackle her "Forty Ways," books. If anyone could get me excited to read about political machinations, it's Rubin.
A brilliant and comprehensive view into human behavior.......2005-11-05
From reading the 22 previous reviews of Ms. Rubin's PMFS to date, it appears that people either loved it or hated it. To those who hated it, I would suggest that they are reacting to her words as if they were prescriptions, rather than the unjudgemental description of human behavior that I believe the book to be. Ms. Rubin is not advocating for anything here. She is merely describing how people act with one another in modern society. If someone finds what Ms. Rubin has written to be shocking, I'd suggest that this is only because she portrays human conduct so accurately. I'm don't believe that Ms. Rubin is saying anything new. What is new, is that she has compiled an extensive, well-organized catalog of human behavior as it relates to PMF and S. Further, she provides the answer to the moral qualms on the last two pages.
I thought so much of her cold wisdom that I put the book in the mail to my son at college today, in the hope that Ms. Rubin's insights will help him weather life's storms a little better. First Corinthians this is not, but neither should it be. That kind of wisdom is available elsewhere. Ms. Rubin's kind of wisdom is harder to come by.
Ms. Rubin's facts are astonishly abundant, and clearly illustrate her points ("true facts"...I think is how she puts it.) It would be interesting if the book had been footnoted rather than just a selected bibliography, but perhaps that would be gilding the lily. Maybe, I just want to know where she found all this out.
I am rapidly becoming an enormous fan of Ms. Rubin's works, and regret that she is not making a tour to promote her newest work about JFK. I would pay good money to sit for an evening and listen to what Ms Rubin has to say.
sad, cold, without a soul.......2004-05-15
I found this book very cold: maybe that was exactly the desired effect, very much a la Machiavelli.
The seemingly infinite list of tricks and tactics to acquire fame, power, money and sex left me with a bitter aftertaste: I was probably expecting something different from this book, something a little deeper.
HUMOROUS BOOK - tons of fun to read.......2002-02-14
I bought this book after stumbling across it in the sociology section at Borders. I flipped through it and found some humorous and insightful comments and decided to buy it to lighten up my reading, as I primarily read Peter Drucker, other management books and some philosophy. I thought the book would be some light-hearted humor and I wasn't disappointed!
The author, Gretchen Craft Rubin, is an extremely witty woman. While her background is law the book has tons of comments from famous historical figures such as Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, Plutarch, Shakespeare, and Edith Wharton.
The book is segmented, as expected, into the 4 sections described in the title (POWER MONEY FAME SEX).
Each section provides some unique insight into human behavior, some examples in recent history and tons of witty comments from historical figures
Here are just some of the examples but, just so you know, the book is not in quotation form.
"People believe, and research proves, that high-status men attract more women easily than low-status men."
"The sex that accompanies your success is a nice perk for all your hard work - a pleasant, convenient way to demonstrate the status you've achieved."
"They envy the pleasures they imagine you've won. Perception drives reality, and your status swells accordingly. "
Playboy Donald Trump "When we walk into a restaurant, I watch grown men weep." He was watching other men's reaction to his date, not his date herself.
Jack Kennedy reported "once I get a woman, I'm not interested in carrying on, for the most part." He was pursuing conquests, not relationships.
LBJ "Goddamn it, I had more women by accident than he ever had by design." - he maintained a nookie room" in the capital for his illicit liaisons
"The more money, fame and power you have the more easily you can have casual sex."
Anyways, I can go on and on about the book but I will not. BUY THE BOOK, enjoy it as it is fairly easy reading and, at 270 pages well worth the price of the insights and humor delivered.
Book Description
In 1959, twenty-nine-year-old Berry Gordy, who had already given up on his dream to be a champion boxer, borrowed eight hundred dollars from his family and started a record company. A run-down bungalow sandwiched between a funeral home and a beauty shop in a poor Detroit neighborhood served as his headquarters. The building’s entrance was adorned with a large sign that improbably boasted “Hitsville U.S.A.” The kitchen served as the control room, the garage became the two-track studio, the living room was reserved for bookkeeping, and sales were handled in the dining room. Soon word spread that any youngster with a streak of talent should visit the only record label that Detroit had seen in years. The company’s name was Motown.
Motown cuts through decades of unsubstantiated rumors and speculation to tell the true behind-the-scenes narrative of America’s most exciting musical dynasty. It follows the company and its amazing roster of stars from the tumultuous growth years in Detroit, to the drama and intrigue of Hollywood in the 1970s, to resurgence in 2002.
Set against the civil rights movement, the decay of America’s northern industrial cities, and the social upheaval of the 1960s, Motown is a tale of the incredible entrepreneurship of Berry Gordy. But it also features the moving stories of kids from Detroit’s inner-city projects who achieved remarkable success and then, in many cases, found themselves fighting the demons that so often come with stardom—drugs, jealousy, sexual indulgence, greed, and uncontrollable ambition.
Motown features an extraordinary cast of characters, including Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, and Stevie Wonder. They are presented as they lived and worked: a clan of friends, lovers, competitors, and sometimes vicious foes. Motown reveals how the hopes and dreams of each affected the lives of the others and illustrates why this singular story is a made-in-America Greek tragedy, the rise and fall of a supremely talented yet completely dysfunctional extended family.
Based on numerous original interviews and extensive documentation, Motown benefits particularly from the thousands of pages of files crammed into the basement of downtown Detroit’s Wayne County Courthouse. Those court records provide the unofficial—and hitherto largely untold—history of Motown and its stars, since almost every relationship between departing singers, songwriters, producers, and the label ended up in litigation.
From its peaks in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when Motown controlled the pop charts and its stars were sought after even by the Beatles, through the inexorable slide caused by their failure to handle their stardom, Motown is a riveting and troubling look inside a music label that provided the unofficial soundtrack to an entire generation.
Download Description
Is there any truth to the rumor that the Mafia grabbed control of Motown after Berry Gordy ran afoul of violent loan sharks? Which Motown star had a violent fight with Gordy on the day JFK was assassinated?
Here is the book that answers these and other questions about the Motown nobody knows:
- Which Motown diva was almost run down by a station wagon after a blowout with a rival?
- How did Hollywood and the film industry sink Motown's film business after the tremendous promise of Lady Sings the Blues?
- What famous star hid from Gordy that he was the father of her first child?
- What was the secret scheme one former executive says the company developed to steal millions of dollars in "suitcases of cash" from artists and songwriters?
- Was the death of the Temptations' Paul Williams by a single gunshot a suicide, as ruled by coroners, or a murder to silence him, as suspected by some colleagues?
Customer Reviews:
Thank God I didn't buy this for myself!.......2007-07-24
This book was nothing more than a collection of excerpts from other peoples (auto)biographies.That's it. Since he was unable to obtain interviews with any of the subjects,perhaps the author thought that putting in court documents would give the book some credibility....uh, no!
I'm happy that I didn't spend the money to buy it in its Hardcover edition(it was a gift), though I have to live with it collecting dust in my cellar!
Well written and informative.......2007-06-23
I see from a number of reviewers for this book that one of the complaints is that this book is a rehash of the same information available elsewhere - ie. legal documents, books from other authors, etc.
Well, many of the books cited as reference are no longer available. Legal documents might be available for public viewing - if you have the time and resources to do your own investigation. I think the author did an excellent job of compiling the information and presenting it in an enjoyable to read format.
I read this book and "The Motown Music Machine" at the same time. Though the other book might be considered more authoritative based on the authors personal experience within Motown, I don't believe that it tells the full story. Afterall, how can one man know all about the business and employees? He can't, which makes Mr Posner's book that much more interesting. It's told from an overall perspective with input from many sources.
Many readers have seen the information in this book in other books or articles. Well I haven't and I enjoyed reading about it in one handy, convenient place.
Concise chronological account.......2005-12-04
For someone who has not read any other book on Motown, this book is provides a tremendous insight into the mega corporation: it's rise, power, entertainers, unsavory practices, lawsuits, legalities and the end of Motown.
Chronological timeframe
What you get here is a complete timeframe from the "Hitsville" building, the upstart of performers, the maintenance, the drugs, alcohol, bickering of performers and executive staff. There is an insight and understanding how the music industry works, how songs are selected for "hits"; We are educated on the distribution of records and its practices. It seems clear that if a record company was not gypping entertainers, something was not done right.
Lawsuits, battles, downfalls
Also explained is how and when entertainers and staff deflected to other companies. We are given a clear explanation of the struggles within the Supremes and the birth of the supergroup, The Jackson 5, the rise and fall of Marvin Gaye, success of Stevie Wonder, Berry Gordy's bond with Smokey Robinson of the Miracles, infighting, lawsuits, etc., etc.
Much is written about the love affair of Diana Ross and Berry Gordy, and her bitter relationship with other Motown performers.
The book also details the trials and tribulations of the 25th Anniversary Television show, where Michael Jackson performed the moon walk and made history.
Motown movies
It's clear that when Berry Gordy had a quest for the movie business, it would ultimately lead to neglecting the music business.
What about the SOUND of Motown
I did have one question: The Funk Brothers - the sound of Motown! There is almost nothing on the Funk Brothers.
Although receiving negative reviews for what readers called "many mistakes", I don't care if so and so had this hit first before such and such hit, or so and so went to bed with so and so instead of so and so.... I don't care if details aren't precise! A hundred years from now, I won't remember anyhow, better make that 5 minutes from now.
What mattered is that I was given a complete and chonological timeframe about the legacy of Motown. I had not read another book, and may not read another book. Simple as that!...MzRizz
A Clip Job.......2005-10-29
Mostly compiled from the work of other writers, this Motown history is notable for Posner's use of old legal files to detail the many lawsuits against Berry Gordy and the Motown label by stars who later became disgruntled. A better writer when he takes on assassinations (JFK and MLK), Posner is out of his depth when writing about music. He lacks a certain appreciation for how these songs changed American pop culture. Still, the book is useful if you haven't read any others, and could be revelatory for the younger generation unfamiliar with the various Motown stars and their early days.
I have read this before!!!!!!.......2005-04-14
I say that as a title because while reading the book I felt like I was re-reading other books that I have read before on Motown. It was almost quoted word for word in many stories which made it difficult to keep my interest. I enjoyed parts of it because I am always interested in new information that I didn't know which is what I though the book would reveal. I love finding out information on business practices and how a company became successful. The section on the royalties, sales and payments was by far the most interesting to me. Overall Gerald Posner didn't do a bad job, I just think that the story has been told so many times by so many people that it is really hard to come up with anything new or original without referencing previously published material. From a die hard Motown fan and I would dare to call myself a self proclaimed Motown historian the book also had questionable facts. However, someone else who doesn't know the history of the company as much as I do may find it good reading. Before you take it at face value I suggest you do some cross referencing and basically do your homework regarding the facts in this book.
Average customer rating:
- Packs a punch, but poorly written
- A GOOD READ BUT WANTED MORE
- Prime Time's Years of Slime Time
- My Review on Deion's Book....
- Deion has always been a class act
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Power, Money & Sex
Deion Sanders
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
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ASIN: 0849937760 |
Book Description
Superstar Deion Sanders tells his powerful life story and reveals how power, money and sex could not satisfy the void in his life-a void ultimately satisfied by his relationship with Christ. A photo section included in this national best-seller.
Customer Reviews:
Packs a punch, but poorly written.......2006-09-02
I was wandering around a Gold Beach, Oregon book store last week and just happened to pick up Deion Sanders' book. I vaguely knew who he was. For some strange reason, I purchased it. Although, riddled with grammatical and spelling errors, I found his message very compelling. I am just new to the world of Jesus and have had many folks in my life talk to me about living a Christian life, but I have to say that Deion's book really TALKED to me about this issue. More than anyone else. He just broke it down in plain terms and related his story in a way that spoke to me loud and clear. Thanks Deion.
A GOOD READ BUT WANTED MORE.......2004-08-08
I FOUND THIS BOOK TO BE QUITE INTERESTING AND WRITTEN WITH HONESTY. DEION HAS ALWAYS BEEN FLASHY AND FLAMBOYANT. HE PRESENTED HIMSELF AS BEING THIS WAY ALL THE TIME. HIS "PRIME TIME" PERSONALITY IS NOT WHAT I CONSIDER TO BE A MODEL CITIZEN ON HOW TO PRESENT YOURSELF. HE SAYS UNDERNEATH HE IS A CHRISTIAN AND HUMBLE, I HOPE HE IS. I HAD HOPED HE WOULD HAVE GIVEN MORE DETAIL TO HIS CAREER. THIS IS WORTH READING AND ENJOYABLE. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK DEION AND PLEASE WRITE ANOTHER BOOK WITH MORE DETAIL AND INSIGHT INTO HOW TO LIVE LIFE.
Prime Time's Years of Slime Time.......2003-12-17
Let me start off by saying I like Deion Sanders, otherwise I never would have purchased his book. And I admire the fact that the man has come a LONG way and overcome many obstacles to accept Christ into his life.
However, I do have a major complaint - well, two to be totally honest.
One, Deion seems to blame all his past problems on others. Even though Deion admits he was hell on wheels and self destructive for a time, he still doesn't take responsibility for many of his actions in this book. The time in Cincinnati, when he played for the Reds, when he got into an altercation with a security guard while he was riding around in a golf cart. Everyone knows Deion made that situation worse than it ever could have been, but in Deion's retelling of the story, the security guard provoked him. There are several more stories like this one, where Deion was involved in something that escalated because the other party in the dispute was out to "get him". I'm not going to say that everything that has happened to Deion is his fault, but let's be real - a lot of it is. I'm surprised, as a christian, that Deion hasn't stepped up to the plate and taken a little more responsibility for his past actions. I'm not judging Deion, but I must admit my disappointment.
The other problem I had with the book, and this is most likely not Deion's fault but rather the authors, is that his "escapades" are glamourized, instead of downplayed. I've read several biographies written by famous people - athletes, politicians, actors, etc - and they all are guilty of this. I understand the risk you take as a writer, explaining the past deed and attempting to unfold what happened, but doing so in a manor that is interesting to the reader. When this happens, it's every easy to glamourize the story, instead of exposing it for the bad thing that it was.
Overall, an entertaining read, albeit somewhat short to my surprise.
My Review on Deion's Book...........2001-06-20
Overall, I really enjoy Deion and I was looking forward to reading his autobiography, but I have to say I was somewhat disappointed. It wasn't as 'thorough' as I thought - and his cockiness and self-centeredness really showed. I still enjoy him, and I wish him the best on his journey with Jesus.. I just pray that he's sincere.
Deion has always been a class act.......2000-04-09
I've always dug Deion Sanders.To Me he has been the Most Complete Athlete of His Time.cuz He is a Good Baseball Player&A Great Football Player.but More Importantly The Brother is Very Honest with Himself&His Surroundings.he has come full circle&has Inner Peace.this is a Great Book.
Average customer rating:
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Love, Sex and Money
Sharleen Cooper Cohen
Manufacturer: Trafford Publishing
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ASIN: 1412009332
Release Date: 2006-07-06 |
Product Description
Three women, three dreams, three destinies, three reasons to make it to the top, but can any one woman have it all?
Book Description
Celebrity Life and Hollywood magic. It's what seduces us to lose ourselves in movies and music videos. Celebrity Mental Health Therapist Terence McPhaul reveals how those in the public eye can become victims of supreme luxury and excess.
Media is quick to make assessments regarding celebrity behavior, and often these sources are well off target when it comes to the "real reason" stars act as they do.
Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, Oprah Winfrey, Halle Berry, Martha Stewart, Jennifer Lopez, Michael Jackson, Bill Gates and John F. Kennedy, Jr. are just a few of the personalities surveyed in this enlightening piece of work.
Customer Reviews:
Eye-Opener.......2003-10-02
My hat is off to Dr. McPhaul. I used to work in the business of entertainment as a personal assistant, so everything struck me deeply. I picked up the book because it was pretty, and the picture layout inside was just beautiful. The book was supposed to be for decoration. When I started reading the book I couldn't put it down, and I learned so much about myself in the chapter on personal assistants. This book is small, but it packs so much power! The most shocking part of the book was Dr. McPhaul's part about the American Idol Show, because it looks as if no one ever considered the true feelings of the people who stand before the public to get humiliated for the sake of our amusement. Before reading this book, I never considered the emotions of those who get hurt trying to pursue their dreams in the context of American Idol. Me and my friends just laughed along with the rest of the public when someone's feelings were hurt. Who knew the experience could cause more serious problems? Also, Dr. McPhaul writes about Adjustment Disorder, and looking back on my days as a personal assistant to entertainment figures, now I realize I had it, but did not know what it was. Knowing then could have made my life easier, and better.
Not For The Faint Hearted.......2003-09-30
This is the perfect book for anybody who has ever wondered why any, any famous rapper, athlete, movie star, politician, fashion model, or any famous person acts the way they do. As an up and coming rapper myself I could read the book and know what to do, and what to not do.
BasicInstinct
Sierra.......2003-09-29
The Celebrity Psyche is one of the best books to hit the market. Being a huge fan of Oprah Winfrey, I was really mad when first reading what the author had to say about her. But like many I was in "denial" about some of Oprah's personality traits. The book was down right funny, and educational. My purchase was made right before boarding a flight from New York to Los Angeles, and I was able to finish the whole book before getting to L.A. This is even while I was answering questions of other passengers interested in the book, and its beautiful pictures.
Reading about John F. Kennedy, Jr. broke my heart and opened my eyes at the same time. The author delves into the psychology of John John, and what part he played in his own death because he believed he was "invincible," which the author says most celebrities are guilty of without having a conscious knowledge of it. The author has taught me a lot about emotional issues while keeping me entertained.
The book is an "honest" look at celebrities and the things that influence them. The author's explanation of Halle Berry's role in Monster's Ball, that bought her the Oscar, was one of the most enlightening sections in the entire book. It gave me a more intimate outline of The Academy Awards and the behind the scenes dysfunction that shapes the whole awards process.
The book is like People Magazine and New York Times meets the UCLA Psychology Department. A very good read!!!!!
Celebrity Watcher.......2003-09-22
I was absolutely amazed when I read this book because the author explained so much about celebrity behavior that many people wonder about, and he did it in an easily understandable way! The author was so ahead of the curve regarding Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, and this was in June, months before their wedding that was called off. We get a real inside look at what is "driving" Jennifer. The psychological look at John F. Kennedy, Jr., Halle Berry, Oprah Winfrey, Gwyneth Paltrow, Martha Stewart, Mike Tyson, Bill Gates, Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, and too many others to name was off the charts in terms of information and excitement. It just never occurred to me, as with other people, that so much was going on inside the minds and hearts of our favorite stars. Before reading The Celebrity Psyche, I really thought I had heard everything there was to hear about Michael Jackson. Boy, was I wrong! The information about Mike Tyson's upbringing was a real surprise, and two months after this book enlightened me, Tyson confirmed information about his tortured past never before revealed by Tyson. What's really good about the book is that the author actually walks through some of the psychological conditions that large amounts of celebrities deal with, and I learned a lot about depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bi-polar disorder and personality disorders. In college psychology was difficult, but this book was easy to grasp. Being a fan of Entertainment Tonight, E!News Live, People and Us Weekly Magazines, MTV and Vh1, it blew my mind to think that whenever a celebrity does something that may seem unusual, or just strange, that just journalists are commenting on the behavior instead of a person who would really know what causes the celebrity to act the way he/she does. We all want the "Scoop." The Celebrity Psyche gives it to us. I'm ready for the author's TV show!
Book Description
From one of the most influential women in the country and bestselling author of Revolution from Within comes a collection of provocative, entertaining, mind-changing essays. The six pieces, three of which have never been published before, explode common assumptions and propose radical new ways of looking at human possibilities.
Customer Reviews:
Incredible Book!.......2002-09-05
Gloria Steinem challenges us all to redefine our views in her groundbreaking work entitled "Moving Beyond Words--Breaking the Boundaries of Gender." Since reading this novel, I was able break the boundaries of my gender and I'm now an ageless, emotionally-tempered, frigid, weak, poor, out-of-shape eunich. Because I'm moving beyond words you'll have to read the rest of my review telepathically.
Rediscover Steinem.......2001-11-05
When one of my closest friends who found inspiration in Steinem's work handed me a copy of Moving Beyond Words, my first reaction was skepticism. In spite of my respect for my friend's taste in authors, I doubted that I would find anything of value in reading essays by an aging feminist. I was pleasantly surprised when I found that Steinem's essays offer affirmation through example, anecdote, explanation, as well as sharp poignancy and wit. A new phase of my life had me seriously questioning whether or not my sanity was intact; my emotional response to the ending of my 20 year marriage which had been running on empty a long time, my breaking from a 16 year affiliation with my church because of its refusal to recognize blatant discrimination, and accepting my daughter's independence as she left the nest seemed inappropriate; I wondered why I felt a surge of strength and renewal after severing each of these ties when the socially acceptable responses should have been guilt, regret and sadness.
This Steinem "refresher course" with a new twist provided the answer to my question through essays of the past introduced with reflective insights into that which inspired them and their relevance to now. Steinem's book offered me reassurance and validation as well as provided an impetus for continued growth and change.
Steinem tackles her primary subjects-- men, money and media-with spirit and candor. "The Strongest Woman in the World" is a striking essay in which Steinem beautifully illustrates the metaphoric physical versus inner strength. Women of Steinem's era--and mine-- never had a chance to express power. As Steinem points out through her example of bodybuilder Bev Francis's refusal to conform to the feminine stereotype and thus failed to be recognized for her athleticism, those who excelled were rewarded because of the image they portrayed, not the accomplishments they achieved. Steinem reminds us that the strong muscles rippling under the skin of dancers and gymnists were trained to perpetuate the illusion of fragile, weightless grace of society's view of femininity, much like the intellect hidden beneath carefully styled hair.
"Doing Sixty"--the reason the book was given to me-- is a timeless reminder that we must always be challenged to to radical and a bit outrageous. This chapter has undertones of Jenny Jones' classic poem "Warning" that has given birth to the red hat/purple dress symbol of freedom in the 2000's; in fact, Steinem's "original" poem in this chapter is almost a copy. The Steinem voice, however, is recaptured when she speaks of marriage avoidance as "death of choice," yet a more appropriate view based on her observations would be "death by choice" especially if women remain in the comfort zone of a marriage that lost its "fit" years ago. I find truth in Steinem's observation that men become more conservative with age as women become more radical, and she makes a valid case for change when she points out that "hanging on to the past brings more destruction than any other single cause." Each woman must face Steinem's "next third" of life by either accepting the challenge to emerge from the comfort zone or becoming incapacitated by the illusion of warmth under what may become a suffocating blanket.
Steinem's brief but powerful allusion to country and religion is even more relevant after 9-11 as the wave of nationalism crests. Steinem states that we must resist the destructive fiction of nationalism that becomes even more dangerous when it joins with religion. She compares the United States to a giant cupcake in the midst of starvation, and our unrealistic perception of country must be examined. Her duel message is clear; we must also examine our unrealistic views of ourselves if we are to discover--or rediscover-- our roots.
The weakness of Steinem's book lies not in the truth she reveals but in her continuing inability--or reluctance- to reach beyond a small audience. Steinem speaks directly to minorities of race, sexual orientation, and women who recognize that they have been vicimized; however, still now, as in the past, she tends to alienate those who are the strongest adversaries of feminism-- those women whose passive attitudes perpetuate sexism and discrimination. In addition, young people who are emerging into adulthood now could learn much from her rich web of experience, her intellect, and her challenge to be radical; however, her most recent books tend to hang on to the past, the antithesis of her advice to others.
The wisdom obtained from a life dedicated to overcoming the seemingly insurmountable barriers of sexism is conveyed effectively; however, I find it disappointingly ironic that the image of Gloria's ageless self graces the cover, an enviable glamor shot of sixty that is more intimidating than attractive to already insecure women like myself who are dealing with the havoc that ageism plays on the face, body, and spirit.
Steinem does do a remarkable job of setting the pace for the graying revolutionary. After reading this book, I see that the obligation of feminists of age is to cast a pebble and see how far the rings extend, and this book is a valuable tool for doing so. This seems to be Steinem's challenge to her reader-- whether "doing" sixty or sixteen.
Outstanding, Hilarious, Heartening. A Must Read!.......2000-10-09
This is a fabulous collection; a must read! Her insights and perspectives on all six topics entertain you, educate you, challenge you, and empower you! I'd grown up hearing bits and pieces about this "feminist," never understanding (or pursuing) a clearer picture of who she is, what she offers. She is an incredible woman whom I've come to admire, respect and feel tremendous gratitude towards. I've enjoyed all of her books, and especially her audio books, read in her own voice. This book should also be a high school/college reader for young women AND young men! Very enlightening and thought-provoking.
The "Freud as a woman" chapter is priceless!.......1997-04-26
This book's first, long chapter is one of the best things I've read. Now, I didn't care much for Gloria Steinem before I read this, but maybe that's because what I knew about her was just hearsay. Anyway, this chapter turns the whole stupid Freudian psychology on its head: Freud is a woman. It is hilarious, and it reveals just how ludicrous and misogynistic Freud was. I heartily recommend it. Even if one hasn't studied Freud much, so much of him has been popularized (and he's taken credit for much of what was previously common knowledge) that one can keep up pretty easily. Plus, there are plenty of explanatory footnoes for those who want more information on specific things that are being satirized. Later in the book, there's also a very good chapter on women, money, and power
Book Description
MONEYSEXPOWER. These three "word-concepts" conjure up all kinds of images, experiences, and in a few unfortunate cases, abysmal failures, not only "out there" in sin-soaked secular society, but right inside the church! MONEY PROBLEMSSEX PROBLEMSPOWER PROBLEMS. Frustrated, disillusioned secularists and saints alike want to know-and know now: WHAT'S THE ANSWER? Ironically yet hopefully, the heart of the solution lies right at the heart of the problem: SPIRITUAL STEWARDSHIP. With keen biblical insight and sanctified common sense, the author firmly but gently leads the reader in a down-to-earth discussion (sometimes disturbing, yet always positive and redemptive) of such crucial issues as: How to get rich slow The most accepted sin in the church Anatomy of adultery How to protect yourself from sexual sin Can a homosexual be cured? Male spirituality Three sure-fire ways to fall into sin Accountability
Product Description
Sex, money and power are the three most discussed topics of our time. These compelling words can either build you up or destroy you. This book features the shocking revelations of Psychic Top Expert Stephen Piperno. His spirit guides have revealed to him the truth about sex, money and power. He has been given specific instruction to share them with the world. This book will allow you to get into the mind of a psychic and see how prophesy is revealed. Will it break you or destroy you? You be the judge.
Customer Reviews:
Clever and Historical.......2006-07-07
I found that this book has a lot of history in it. It was nice to read about psychic Stephen's views. I am a firm believer in being open minded and this psychic book made me feel more open minded then ever. I clearly wanted to get a taste of psychic science in a nut shell and I did. This was the 3rd psychic book that I have read and I found it to be different and somewhat entertaining. I loved the fact that psychic piperno is from NY and I am from there as well. Psychic Stephen seems to know what he is talking about. I thought that it was so brave of him to share so much of his story about his family and his psychic life in general. This man is very blessed. His views are shared by so many people that I have spoken to. I think that more psychics should stand up and write about what they believe to be true. This book is both enjoyable to read and a wonderful teaching tool!
Sensational Book.......2006-07-03
This takes you back into the 90's as well as other decades. Piperno Prophet tells it like it is in this psychic book. I hold many of the same philosophies as psychic Stephen does. I have always been Christian my whole life, but became a psychic when I turned 25. Psychic Stephen has put my spirit at ease because I have always been guilty. I feel like I should not be a psychic if I am a Christian, but I am looking at things differently now thanks to this psychic. God bless!
Happy to Have Read.......2006-07-03
Hey, just wanted to drop a note to say that this book is written by spirit. I can see the way that it is written to give credit to God. I love the fact that this book has many lessons to learn from. I would recommend this book to anyone that feels like they need help from a good psychic friend. In life, we all have to meet someone that we feel we are compatable with. I am not going to search for love anymore. I am instead going to look at life in a different way. I can relate to psychic Stephen's story because I to had a father that died of alcoholism. It brought back some memories, but I was happy to read that it didn't effect your psychic gift. Good book overall.
Life is a long journey.......2006-07-03
Life is a long journey when you really look at it. You never know what is going to happen next. As I read this book, I realized that I was not doing the right thing in regards to sex, money and power. I feel like I need to change some of my ways. I do think that this book gave me new insights on how to deal with myself and all of the hardships that I have had to endure always. My spirit is very happy when I am around people, but at times I do feel alone. This book helped me not to fall into the trap of lonliness without a mate and it has also brought me back to church. I am amazed at how much insight this book has. It's a great psychic book.
Very Detailed.......2006-06-29
It was a privelege to read this book because this psychic shares his views about money, sex and power. He tells you about his life and shares insights about his family, his relationship with his father and he offers insightful information about what it is to be psychic. The book is more than just the title. It was different. This author may have come up with a new concept "Christian Psychic." I have never heard of this before, but I was very excited to read the book. He clearly believes in Jesus and is highly prophetic as well. I would say that this book has definetely given me new insight into looking at things.
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