Ford Reviews

I purchased this two years ago for my mentor, a terrific woman. She raved about this book to me and even took on one of the quotes to use in her many speaches to various mentoring causes. She said it was about time someone spoke about the importance of a mentor and how much societies need them.

Susan Ford Wiltshire walks the reader through the appearances of Athena in Homer's Odyssey. Athena takes on the appearance of close friends, family members, and strangers in her efforts to guide Odysseus home and help Telemachus into manhood. The word "mentor" comes from Athena's disguise as Mentor the old family friend and trusted advisor.

Mentoring has become a hot word for our time. Organizations have set up mentoring programs. Companies have set up mentoring program to offer larger companies. Accepting mentoring is accepting the fact that more can be accomplished through collaboration.

Many mentoring programs, however fall short. They have the skills, the knowledge, the time, the motivation but fail because the Mentor and the Mentee do not connect. As Susan F. Wiltshire began her studies and her career she watched the horizon for a mentor. Being on of the first women to enter the University setting as a professor, she longed for a mentor to help her along the rocky path that was ahead. She was well into her thirties when she read the Odyssey with new insight. She writes, "It was an important moment in my life when I finally came to see that the first mentor was a woman after all. Equipped with this story, I began to see mentors all around." (p. xiv)

Mentors are all around us, in our homes, our towns, our schools, our workplace, in politics, in chance encounters. Each adding to our life, marking the pathway before us, or pointing in a direction we had not previously considered. While this view of mentoring is very different from the many programs available, it is the view of the mentee. It is the humble realization of how many people have influenced your life.

Athena's Disguises was a very insightful book, in both my roles of a mentor and a mentee. As a mentee, I was humbled and grateful to the many people who have helped make me who I am today. As a mentor I saw how Athena never stepped in and took over, never gave strict advice but gently guided. As Wiltshire described Athena's role,

"She offers the right words in the right place at the right time, thereby empowering her companions to do for themselves whatever it is they uniquely must do. She helps people become themselves." (p. 131)

As I continue on my own life's journey I will encounter more "mentors" and will have the opportunity to be a mentor to those around me. This is a book that can be read again and again. With each new story, I was reminded of a similar incident in my own life. My role as a mentor has changed, as I have tried to do as Athena, and "help [others to] become [their] best self." (p. 132)

I am truly grateful that this book found its way into my library. As a student in a Depth Psychology program, I am required to do a community service summer project. For me, an obvious choice was to participate in the mentoring program at the middle school where I teach. In addition to on-site contact hours, I had to submit a research paper to summarize my experience and academic findings on the topic of mentoring. Having read three books on service and one on mentoring, I had tons of information but still no idea how to focus my paper until I found Athena's Disguises. Its appearance is rather deceptive. The beautiful cover jacket, the quality of the paper, and the slim size belied the impact the material would have on me.Through the use of stories, from the Odyssey to the author's recalling of personal tales that have affected her life, the historical and cultural importance of the goddess Athena's role in establishing the classical mentor model is explained in detail. This model is compared and contrasted to the more formal instrumental model often found in businesses and institutions.We traditionally think of a mentor as a wise and respected elder. Susan Ford Wiltshire points out that mentors not only come in all ages, but also in unexpected ways. She also takes the myth of the rugged individualist, who has made a go of it alone, and gently insists that no one's life is their own. Everyone is a reflection of someone else's influence. If we follow in Athena's footsteps, mentors will guide, inspire, and encourage the individual to realize their potential rather than to become duplicates of the mentor.Wiltshire references The Gift by Lewis Hyde when she suggests that, the task of finding one's gifts was considered a labor by the ancient Greeks. My labors this summer have been richly rewarded already through reading this book. I recommend it to anyone who is considering mentoring or sees themselves as an advocate. It would be an excellent present to a favorite teacher or other person who has enriched your life.

Boardroom Basics: A Pocket Guide for Directors, by Roger H. Ford, Ph.D. (Harrisonburg, VA: Bear Mountain Books, 1998), answers the prayers of every director who has rifled through back issues of Director's Monthly in search of a past "Private Company Boards" column by this prominent consultant to family businesses. It can also benefit directors not yet acquainted with Ford, Showker Professor of Entrepreneurship and Professor of Management at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Basics offers practical guidance on a full range of topics, divided into six sections:

· "Introduction" contains articles defining the term "private company board" and defines the role of the board in such an entity. · "Board-Building" explores why, when, and how to build a board in a privately held firm, and what qualifications to seek in a director. · "The Director's Corner" asks and answers " What's in it for me?" and "How can I be an effective director?" · "Success and Failure in the Boardroom Battlefield" presents cases of interest to private-company directors. · "Special Cases" contains articles on start-up, family, and international boards. · "The Bottom Line" offers advice on evaluating the CEO-always a challenge when the CEO is also the chief owner of the company.

Cases abound in the "Battlefield" section, where Ford and coauthors present studies in takeover contrast. Tyson Foods failed to take over WLR Foods, a newly public company, because WLR had accumulated loyalty from its constituencies during its long years as a private firm. By contrast, raider Edward Lamb's easily gained control of the old Seiberling Rubber Company, a family business in Akron, Ohio, that had somehow lost its identity soon after going public. Basics also features a first-hand account on "relinquishing the helm" by Warren L. Braun, PE, retired chairman of ComSonics, Inc., a firm in Ford's home town of Harrisonburg.

Written in an engagingly personal style, this is the ideal "fireside chat" for directors.

Simply stated, anyone who serves on a board will benefit from reading this insightful and practical guide to the multitude of issues facing owners and directors of privately-owned companies. This book is filled with great examples and useful information in an easy to read format that can help boards perform optimally in taking their organizations to the next level of success. A must read and future reference guide for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and board members.

With its combination of descriptive instructions and candid experiences, Boardroom Basics is an excellent primer for current and aspiring board members. Additionally, this book brings to light the value of a well-organized board to smaller enterprises and as such is a must read for entrepreneurs and family business leaders. Formatted as a series of articles, Boardroom Basics wisely highlights key points on boardroom preparation and conduct. This clever layout allows for quick and effective reference. Board members of any size firm will find the book instructive and enjoyable.

I have used WinZip for a number of years but I never knew that it could do 1/2 the stuff that this book points out. For example, WinZip can create files that can actually unzip themselves. It can also protect your ZIP files with passwords and even test file integrity to make sure your ZIP files are not corrupt. One thing I really like is that it turns out you can set up your anti-virus program to scan the contents of ZIP files to make sure that they do not contain any viruses before you open them. On top of that the author does a really good job of keeping things short and sweet and yet making sure that everything is explained as much as it needs to be. I'll give this one 2 thumbs up!

Zip files can be easily opened and organized by those who understand the basics of managing them, and this covers the standard WinZip software which is usually used in the process. Beginners as well as those already familiar with WinZip will find Jerry Lee Ford's Book Of WinZip to be an invaluable guide to the program's useful, often hidden features; from file compression types and upgrading to modifying archives or printing a contents list. An invaluable guide to a popular, much-used program.

Ever have to send someone several files and rather than send them one at a time you want to send them as one complete file? You think that some sort of compression utility would be the answer but are not sure of which one. Well after 13 years and trying just about all of them I found WinZip to be the best and this book is an extremely helpful resource to making sure you are using WinZip to the maximum potential.

With only 160 pages you might think that everything you need to know couldn't possibly be in this book, think again. As the pages unfold you'll be amazed as to how much and how much detail is actually included.

With a starting point of the basics of WinZip you begin to find out what exactly can be done. Then comes the wizard, either the classic mode or the wizard mode to you the choice of how to handle the files you are working with.

From there you'll find out how to work with virus software, setting passwords and for those still in the DOS age you to have the option to work on the command line. The book has included a number of keyboard shortcuts that should make things easier for everyone.

I like the outline at the beginning of each chapter to let you know what is being covered. I also was pleasantly surprised and pleased with the step-by-step instructions with screen shots to help you along the easy. Overall this may be the one go to reference for all of the WinZip questions you have.

This book would make a lovely gift for a mom-to-be, a book to be savored during the nine months of pregnancy and beyond. It's kind of like a crash course in motherhood for new moms, overflowing with thought-provoking readings on what it means to be a mother, but putting it that way makes it sound boring, which it is not at all. It's an amazingly poetic and beautifully designed book.

This book is the ideal gift for any mother-to-be. It features thought-provoking mini-essays about how pregnancy transforms you, and the text is liberally sprinkled with quotations from literature, interesting cultural facts, and eye-catching photos and illustrations. It's kind of a cross between The Pregnant Woman's Comfort Book by Jennifer Louden and The Pregnancy Journal by A. Christine Harris -- two other books that I love. Celebrating Motherhood is a very special book indeed. I intend to include in the list of recommended readings for future editions of my books The Mother of All Pregnancy Books and The Mother of All Baby Books. Highly recommended.

If you don't need information on the medical aspects of pregnancy or if you're like me and have a full shelf of expert opinions on motherhood and pregnancy, this might just be the book for you. It's short reading selections from a variety of sources and traditions, meant to keep you sane and centered during pregnancy and motherhood. I purchased it at about 7 months and feel like I will keep reading it after baby arrives. It's also a good gift idea for a pregnant friend who already has enough bouncy seats, pacifiers, diapers, baby doo-dads, and other "necessities."

Read this book and recharge your Mommy batteries.

"Classic Modern Homes of the Thirties" is an unabridged reprint of a book first published in 1940, and thus serves as a valuable historic document. But this introduction to the "modern" style of architecture is not just a book for historians: it is visually stunning achievement that will be appreciated by all who have a passion for the art and science of home architecture.

The book introduces the reader to 62 marvelous houses which exemplify the modern style. Architects represented include Gregory Ain, George Howe, Richard J. Neustra, Raphael S. Soriano, and many more. Detailed floor plans, exterior and interior photographs, and details of construction are included. The houses range in size from modest 1- or 2-bedroom homes to expansive, luxurious mansions.

This book is a spectacular introduction to the vocabulary of the modern period in architecture. The photographs and floor plans capture the bold interplay of geometric shapes, the experimentation with glass and other materials, the profusion of balconies and terraces, and above all, the concern with functionality that motivated the masters of the modern.

Co-authors James Ford and Katherine Morrow Ford have included a interesting introduction. Also included is a collection of brief statements by many of the featured architects.

This is a great book for those interested in American cultural history, interior design, home photography, and other subjects. But at its core this book is an excellent record of and tribute to one of the most remarkable movements in the history of home architecture.

This is a wonderful book combining insight into "modern" residential home architecture of the 30's with a view into the lives of those who designed and lived in them. Like all Dover books, this title is remarkable well printed which allows the reader to easily see all the floorplans, pictures and other images of these homes. The text tells the reader about the family the house was built for, their lifestyle and needs, the layout and construcion details and decorating details of their home. What is remarkable is how fresh many of these homes look today and how much recent modern architecture owes the pioneers who designed these homes. Very enjoyable... anyone who appreciates architecture and history will love this book.

I am so glad to find a reprint of this book! It has been impossible to return the one I have on loan. Some less known but notable architects like Pietro Belluschi are included along with the big names. Details such as floor plans and original cost per square foot are a bonus.

Disaster in Dearborn: The Story of the Edsel by Thomas Bonsall is easily the best piece of automobile journalism I have ever read. If you are interested in the Edsel, or just cars of this era in general, Bonsall will simply have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Not only will you come away with a thorough understanding of the Edsel itself, the author artfully puts the whole Edsel saga into context with what was happening with the rest of the American auto industry during time before, during, and after the Edsel's brief lifespan. I honestly could not put this book down once I started it as Bonsall truly lets you feel the anticipation and excitement surrounding Edsel's conception, design, and launch. Quite simply everything about the Edsel and the people who created it is covered in this book. In closing Bonsall impartially takes you through all the theories on why the Edsel failed and brings the book to a very satisfying and thoughtful conclusion. And although primarily not a picture book, you'll find gathered here a small but exciting group of Edsel prototype photos and sketches I have never seen in print anywhere else before. A terrific book for anyone interested in auto history in general and an absolute must for anyone fascinated with the Edsel.

I've been fascinated by Edsels since childhood, and while I've never been able to own one, I've collected lots of literature about the most famous flop in automotive history. Although there was familiar material in Mr. Bonsall's work, (the arrival of a new full-sized car just as the first import craze was beginning was the product of a decade-long lead time to launch the new make), there was also much I've never seen in print anywhere before--such as Robert McNamara's statement that the decision to discontinue the Edsel had been made even before its formal introduction! From the company's internal politics, to the design process, to the challenges of setting up the dealer network, no aspect of the Edsel's history is omitted. This is an absolute must for Edsel lovers, and should be worthwhile to anyone interested in the Ford Motor Company or automotive history in general.

Bonsall's treatment of the Edsel story is unique in that he first sets the historical stage and market conditions under which the Edsel program was conceived and executed. He does an excellent job of describing the reasons Ford needed the Edsel program, and why the program missed its mark. As Bonsall methodically moves the Edsel story forward, the reader is filled with a sense of impending doom, much like reading about the maiden voyage of the Titanic. Bonsall does an excellent job of drawing together the many disparate influences and elements that together charted the fateful course of the Edsel.

All i have to say is that the book speaks for itself ,you have to read the book ,,it is so down to earth, i want to congratulate Cythia for all her doings. Keep it up ..God Bless You

Manny

Doorways to Freedom has a meaning to everyone who picks it up. If you are looking for self-help or trying to help a friend or relative, Doorways to Freedom is an excellent resource. Readers will definitely benefit from Cynthia's courageous story of survival, 100 Affirmations and listings of numerous organizations including her own training seminar, that are out there to help!

Congratulations to Cynthia for having the strength to share her experience and knowledge of Domestic Violence. A job well done!

I am very proud of Cyn, she has come a very long way since those years of Domestic Violence. This book lets it all out and she doesn't hold back, that is what is Great about this book. She tells the truth and there are not many people out there that know the truth but now they all do. It is Great that someone has finally spoken out about this. Between her book and the Seminars there is a bunch of information out there to help anyone in need.

Best of Luck with the sale and the launch of DOORWAYS!!!

I've owned a copy of this book for over 25 years, purchasing it in the early 1970's. As an owner of a Model A Ford, I wanted more information about the car and its history. This book has an amazing amount of information about the Model A and its birth, changes over the 4 year production run, and great original factory photographs and charts.

The thing that amazes me most about this book is that, even today after almost 30 years after its original publication, the accuracy of what the authors wrote when the book was first published is outstanding! These 3 fellows REALLY did their homework.

If you only own 1 book on the Model A Ford, I recommend this one.

Best Model A book around. Lots of photos and information not found anywhere else. Got a copy on loan from the library, and would buy a new copy to keep if it was still in print.

I need informatio

...It's VERY worthwhile buying seeing that it tells you EVERYTHING about your car, and how to repair them inc. sensors, brakes, lights, replacing transmission gears, head gaskets ect...

It's the only book you need. I have one for my Sunbird, Topaz GS, Topaz L and my 2001 Malibu LS

the book is great, I bought the book,and left it on the table, when i got back, my wife had the car in pieces, and starting to put it back together, she fixed it, and I didnt have to get greasy,

This book provides a comprehensive look at Henry Ford's life that is both entertaining and educational. It covers basically everything, his personal affairs, all the little side ventures he took part in in addition to his car company, even relationships with other notable people of his time, namely Thomas Edison, Dodge brothers, etc. It is overall an interesting read and at times I find it quite humorous. Highly recommended.

"Ford: The Men and the Machine" is the most definitive and complete book about the life and happenings of automotive's greatest man, Henry Ford. His accomplishments as cited cannot compare to any other single figure in automobile history (or even business itself).

The book is nothing short of epic: over 800 pages and 36 chapters, plus appendices. It starts off with the author's assessment of Ford's total contribution to life, starting at Dearborn Michigan in 1831. The details are all-inclusive and mind boggling, right down to Henry's Sister's comments about his early days repairing watches. The book moves slowly and steadily through Part One, "The Rise of Henry Ford" to Parts Two and Three, "Glory Days" and "Grass-Roots Hero." Here the reader is given the unbiased account of even the thoughts of young Henry, and how he became so fascinated with what was then the latest thing: the gasoline engine, which he saw in 1877 from a trip to Machinery Hall in Philadelphia. We are given the full story behind Ford's rise to power over other prominent automotive men of his time, such as the Duryea and the Dodge Bros., and particularly Henry Selden. I found it exciting to read about how Ford didn't give in to a greedy, money-hungry individual like Selden who had no real engineering talent, but wanted only to rake in the royalties from his so-called gasoline engine that he patented in 1895 (it didn't even work as illustrated in his diagram, and Selden didn't even have a working model in an automobile until 1904--it went five yards and died!). Ford held out through more than 10 years of court battles over the legal implications of the Selden patent, and won. After that, there was no doubt that Ford had firmly established himself as a "man for the people." The victory over the Selden patent allowed ALL automobile manufacturers to keep their prices affordable.

Part Four, "Henry and Edsel" describes the business relationship with his firstborn son, and their occasional public disputes over company policies and overall business strategies. Henry bitterly opposed automoible financing, for example, but Edsel was all for it. Edsel was right, too, it was the only way to sell cars to lower-income buyers. Of course, the whole story behind the biggest flop in automotive history, the Edsel car itself, is revealed. What happened? How much money was lost? What were the shortcomings of the Edsel that ultimately was its demise? "...The Men and the Machine" will tell you, without room for doubts.

In fact, as part of the research I'm doing for an automotive book of my own, I noticed at least three other authors in my bibliography that referenced this same book, perhaps Lacey's greatest achievement.

Parts 5 and 6, "Henry II" and "Henry and Lee" gradually move more away from the business side of the Ford Machine--but not altogether away--and gradually reveal personal aspects of later Ford generations and their family relationships. Discussed are the development and marketing plans of the Mustang and Pinto which, ironically, were diametrically opposed to each other as complete success and utter failure.

This book is worth double the money. Sometimes I am amazed at the length Lacey went to get his sources, over 50 pages of specific and varied references. I feel fortunate to have a copy that is in good shape. Every time I open the pages, I learn something new. Each page informs, educates and increases depth of thinking, in that sometimes what appears to be a single invention is only a hub to other spokes of development. "...the men and the Machine" actually helps me to think better overall. I can then apply the underlying techniques to all situations in life; consider that one thing leads to another, and if this happens, then it will affect that and that, and so on. If you have even the slightest interest in automotive development, automobile history, American Culture or the person of Henry Ford himself, do not be without this book. Buy it today. My highest recommendation for all readers over 14 (reading level).

For those who want the dish on one of the most dominant yet dysfunctional American family businesses, Robert Lacey's profile of the Ford Motor Company is a must. It's plot is pure Movie-Of-The-Week - a country boy inspired to build a cheap car for the masses, accrues wealth and fame, then has to deal with the giant he created. His lone son, the second generation gives his life for the company, a casualty of the tug of war between a patriarch and his ego. Just as the company is about to crash in corruption and incompetence, the grandson, Henry II enters and saves the day, building the infrastructure of a modern corporation. But, eventually Henry's hat changes from white to shades of grey - the pitfalls of arrogance from never ending riches and successes. It's 650 pages of American history and soap opera, and it was so interesting it could have been longer. A great book for those who appreciate American motoring history. - Leila Dunbar, Mobilia.com