International Reviews

Christians have used various spiritual methods and disciplines since the birth of Christianity. Unfortunately, many modern churches don't teach these methods to laypersons. One answer: the Spiritual Formation Bible. This Bible contains descriptions of spiritual methods and articles on how those methods can help nurture one's relationship with the Almighty. Each page contains a suggested technique for use with the scripture from that page. The NRSV is an excellent, scholarly translation (the widely popular NIV is also available) and the fonts and print size are attractive. Some of the described methods are ancient monastic disciplines, but they can aid in viewing the scriptures in a fresh, exciting way.

If you are looking for a study Bible, look elsewhere. This one is more for the heart than the mind. If you are looking for a Bible that will help you draw closer to God, this may be the one.

This is the Bible I've been seeking my whole life--even though I didn't know it. I received this as a gift (in more ways than one). This is NOT a study bible and probably not the best place to begin for those unfamiliar with the Bible. It is a wonderful devotional book for contemplative/meditative reading done in beautiful type and an easy-to-read single column format with wide margins. (A BIG plus--this is an "easy-on-the eyes" reading Bible.) Each page has (in the margin) a brief reflection that enhances and draws you into the reading. There are several articles that serve as useful introduction to reading devotionally and help you apply your reading--personally and in the wider world. Several "Meeting God in" articles (in "Prayer", "Worship", etc.) enhance the reading experience. Beautiful glossy plates with quotes from the spiritual seekers that marched before are sprinkled throughout. A wonderful edition, available in both the NRSV and NIV. Unfortunately, it is not available in genuine leather, but the quality of the bonded seems adequate. It's hard to see how anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual life could go wrong with The Spiritual Formation Bible.

Recently I attended a class in which the leader used this bible. It was a wonderful reference for the lesson we were studying on finding God where you are. The references and side notes in this bible help draw you into the wonder presence of God, to know Him in his creation, in the church, in other people, etc.

This journal is one of the better training logs out there today. For the price and the amount of pages it contains, it's a terrific value for the serious lifter. Male or females who want to make gains and break thru plateaus will find this log an asset. Though, since I'm almost done with my first copy, a couple peeves are: the spiral binding could be a little stronger, and maybe thicker pages so they don't rip. But who can really complain at the price of 10.95.

Great workout log!! Plenty of pages and room for many sets of each exercise. Also space for cardio workouts and personal information (weight, measurements, etc.) in the back of the book.
When I fill up the first one I will be ordering another!

The training log is very straight-forward and does not include all kinds of stuff you don't need. It's not a daily planner. It seems to be holding up pretty well. (I've used about a fourth of the log.) The photos are somewhat inspirational but not overdone. The pages sometimes curl and could probably stand to be a little thicker, however, it returns to its normal shape after the workout.

I found this book to be quite helpful.

Unresolved inner-conflicts can produce states of anxiety, depression, indecision, inertia, detachments, and so on. Essentially, every neurotic symptom points to an underlying inner-conflict.

Karen Horney describes in detail the many false and artificial attempts the person will employ to rid himself of his inner conflicts. Instead of resolving his conflicts, however, he will merely evade them. He will repress his conflicts and deny them in ways that will only intensify his anxiety and other neurotic symptoms.

Ultimately, she explains, that the neurosis will only be relieved when the person comes to understand his inner-conflicts and works to resolve them. Karen Horney is very thorough in her writings. Although this book was written for psychiatrists and psychoanalysts, it is accessible and helpful to anyone suffering from anxiety, depression, and inertia.

After reading this book, you will certainly come away with a better understanding of yourself as well as a better understanding of others.

You've read the above reviews, and I second them all, so I will not repeat them. Let me just add that you will want a pencil and highlighter, because you will be underlining, circling, and making notes to yourself in the margin. This is an irreplaceable tool if you're into self-cultivation. A giant step UP from the abundant new-age spiritual soul-candy out there. It is not a book on spirituality, but identifying and correcting our OWN inner conflicts is the cornerstone of spiritual practice; therefore I highly recommend it for seekers and cerebrals alike. Everyone has heard the saying "Know Thyself"; this book will help you do it.

...and traces, not just the "pathways" of inner conflict, but their intertwinings, demonstrating with case examples how problems in one area of one's life put roots into many areas.

This book is a well-researched masterpiece of historical fiction. Pereira skillfully brings to life a diverse cast of characters and weaves their disparate lives and circumstances together across time and place. The author deftly draws the characters together, building suspense page by page. The novel picks up speed and intensity until the gripping climax explodes off the final pages. Each individual's story is well-written and engaging, and although neither the Catholic church nor Nazi war criminals are typically topics I seek out, the plot easily sustained my interest. In particular, trying to anticipate the links among the various characters and subplots before they were revealed kept me focused throughout the book. Enjoy!

I didn't know what to expect from this book by a new author. But once I began Papal Reich, I found that I couldn't put it down. Each time I thought I had figured out the plot, there was a twist or a turn that compelled me to keep turning those pages! Although this is a work of fiction, the tale is nightmarishly plausible due to Pereira's careful interweaving of historical facts. The author's painstaking research and documentation provide interesting and thought-provoking information about the Nazi regime and Catholicism that is, in itself, worth the read! But, the value of this book goes well beyond a history lesson and a good story. Pereira provided this reader with much to think about regarding her own willingness to 'go along with' the leadership and influences of established institutions, which of course are headed by human beings whose passions and egos and motives can be less than pure. To me, the book encourages intelligent people to question everything in order to find the Truth that protects the essence of what institutions are supposed to stand for. This is perhaps something that cannot be underestimated in today's world.

Rather a unique blend of fact and fiction against the backdrop of the papacy, Nazi Germany and post World War II intrigues. The glitter of Da Vinci's colorful Swiss Guards compells admiration-but there are disturbing shadows in the murky corners of the magnificent splendors of the Vatican. Hold your breath as you move from one awful surprise to another incredible revelation.
Altogether a spellbinding story.

"Prescription for Success" not only reviews the industry of network marketing itself, but it spotlights the industry's leading frontrunner: the preventative healthcare/natural medicines division of the well-known original Rexall Drug Corporation, Rexall Showcase International.

This is a great "behind the scenes" look by an unbiased, well-informed and savvy observer of both the industry and what it is that makes a network marketing company GREAT. The testimonies are captivating and the success-track of the company is portrayed in a story-like, yet business-oriented fashion.

The information is factual and down-to-earth, and makes the book an easy read. I thought I already well-understood Rexall Showcase International's background and strengths, since I'm an "insider" of sorts, leading (with my husband) one of the fastest growing RSI independent distributor organizations in the country--so I expected to be a bit bored. However, I was delightfully surprised and continually fascinated by what I learned from this book. If you want to understand the industry and the mechanics of what may end up to be the most successful MLM of all time, don't pass this one up--whether or not you are a current distributor, or care to become one.

Mr. Robinson gives a peek inside one particular company in the industry called network marketing. His experienced comments combined with those of several leaders in Rexall Showcase Intn'l. combine to really let one see what goes on, how it's done, and why. I found it to be a portrait of a group of very diverse individuals who have discovered a common way to do more good than they could have, by branching out into this type of business. The enthusiasm revealed is similar to that in the autobiograhical book by Mary Kay Ash.

This is a well written account of the rise of Rexall Showcase International and the vision of the people who made it work. Distributors stories are inspiring and encouraging and reveal that with the available tools and support, it's up to each individual to determine how far up the ladder he wants to go. Robinson presents some pros - and some cons - of network marketing in general and the entepreneural opportunity of Rexall Showcase International in specific.

If there are 10 management books you must read, this has to be part of the list. Once in 5 years come books like 'Competing for the Future' and 'The Innovators Dilema' that completely change strategic thought and lay open fresh paths to explore. The Quest for Global Dominance is one such book.

Globalisation is clearly going to be the most important item on the agenda for every corporate for the next decade. Every manager is going to face serious challenges in this front. This book prepares you to prepare for these challenges and win the globalisation game. Too good to be missed.

If you're looking for a detailed book on globalization that has the qualities, depth, and approach of a college textbook, here it is. The book was written by two professors who met, and discovered a synergy for writing, while they were students at Harvard. They've developed a style that presents their points in a well-organized fashion, with sufficient illustration and documentation to validate the authors' points. The examples they use are well-known companies that have achieved global dominance; now we know how they did it-with plenty of information and understanding between two covers of a modern book.

The book is organized into nine chapters, each strong enough to be a stand-alone publication on its own. We start with Rising Up to the Global Challenge and then move into Building Global Presence. Appetites whetted, we now get a comprehensive case study: Lessons from Wal-Mart's Globalization. Exploiting Global Presence comes next, followed by a chapter on Cultivating a Global Mindset. This is primary theme of the book; it's a mindset that enables dominance.

Chapter 6 gets into some how-to: Building a Global Knowledge Machine, sharing vital information and understanding across national boundaries and cultural divides. The authors then concentrate on the Dynamics of Global Business Teams and Changing the Rules of the Global Game. The final chapter is Globalization in the Digital Age, keeping us right up-to-date and reminding the reader that this topic is real and "present" in today's organizations. A bibliography and two indices follow the footnotes section.

The ordinary lay reader will have trouble with this book. It is an academic work. However, for senior executives, marketing professionals, and students of globalization, this book will be a treasure. Those involved with graduate education in business should not miss this book. It will be valuable reading for self-growing executives engaged in executive MBA programs, giving them solid knowledge and insight to apply in their real world of global growth and dominance.

The authors do a magnificient job of laying out in detail what is means to be a global company. Most organizations talk about the importance of Globalization and how important Globalization is for their firm. However few truly understand and face upto the real challenges of Globalization.
The book is unique in that it provides a complete picture beginning with formulation of the strategy(Do we really need to be Global) to the execution of the strategy.
Kudos to the authors for giving us this book.

I previously owned Zondervan's Student Bible which is an excellent version for people who don't know things like "Why did the Apostles wash Jesus' feet?" and so on. Hence, I sort of outgrew this Bible.

But this version, after much research, was exactly what I needed. About 5" x 8", it is light enough for me to shove into my bag, as I do a lot of travelling. The cross references in the middle column are extremely useful and thorough. Plus it has a flap to close over the book so the pages don't get torn. The perfect match for me.

What I really like about this Bible is the feel of it in my hand. You feel like you can have the Bible with you at all times. It's so light and convenient. It makes reading the Bible easy and you can carry it anywhere. You don't feel like you're lugging something around. I just stick it in my jacket pocket and it's not a burden to carry in your hand. I've had other larger Bibles, but I never read them. I always go for this compact reference Bible even at home. The small print is still easy to read and my eyesight isn't as good as it used to be.

This Bible is probably the most thorough compact Bible you're going to find. I found that the maps, concordance, and the historical/literary introduction with a summary at the beginning of each book to be the most helpful. (I don't know why they don't stress the latter on the front of the cover box.) It's also the smallest (width- and lengthwise) I encountered with both the NT and OT (I went to several bookstores). Yes, the print is small, but it's the biggest print you'll find among compact Bibles-- I haven't had trouble reading it, and I think it manages to keep a reasonably-sized print by having more pages (it's a little thicker than most-- about an inch thick.) It's also durable. One word of advice: more than likely you're getting a compact Bible because you want to cram it (for lack of a better term) in your purse, backpack, pocket, or whatever and carry it around. I have the leatherbound kind with no flap, and although it's still in one piece after 2 years, all the pages keep getting crinkled and squashed. I love this little thing, but if I were to buy another, I'd get the one with the flap. (IBN 0-310-90810-8.) As for the edition itself, it's great!

During the height of the Vietnam war, I was a junior high/senior high school student and never really understood what was the purpose of the war. I have read many books since and have a fairly good understanding of the how's and why's of the war. However, reading Nixon's book was a real eye opener. He lucidates very well how the US got involved in Vietnam; the major mistakes the Kennedy and Johnson administrations made in running the war; the smear campaigns by the media against the Presidents and their policies; why Nixon bombed Vietnam in 1972 and mined Haiphong harbor; how the peace protestors played into Uncle Ho's hands. I was stunned to learn this information. Nixon was, by far, an exceptional and gifted statesman and writer. He even stated that the next threat to world peace and to the US will come from terrorism (this was written in 1985!). Nixon states that the "civilized world must develop a unified policy for dealing with terrorism" and that terrorists "may be deterred once they realize that by using terror they will spark the wrath of all nations that do not want to exist in a world riven by a tiny minority who have resorted to violence...." If you want to understand the current problems in Afghanistan with Al-Qaeda and O. bin Laden, Nixon's book has fascinating parallels from the Vietnam War to learn from. A book certainly worth reading!

"Conventional wisdom" dictates that the Vietnam war was a mistake, a clossal blunder from day one. It was not only a war America lost, but a war that was "unwinable." America was brutally opposing a peaceful peasant revolution that wanted nothing more than freedom and independence after years of foreign rule. This message has been constantly re-enforced by the mass media, through award-winning motion pictures, songs, plays, novels, and poems. The Vietnam war, or more specifically the war's alleged "injustice" in fighting it, has become an American cultural icon of epic proportions. And yet, as Richard Nixon so eloquently points out in this book, almost every single piece of "conventional wisdom" on the war is in fact blatantly wrong.

Nixon goes through a lists of myths about the war one-by-one, catagorically dismissing the lies that have been spread by left-wing educators and Hollywood directors.

He dismisses the myth of Ho Chi Minh as a benevolent "Vietnamese George Washington," and exposes him as the Stalinist thug he really was. Similarly, he defends President Diem of South Vietnam, acknowledging his faults, but at the same time giving him credit for being a true leader of an independent Vietnam, instead of trying to mold the country into a foreign totalitarian model, like Ho. He explains how the Vietnam war was never a mere "civil war" led by South Vietnamese uprisings against Diem, but instead a carefully calculated campaign of brutal terrorism, led by Ho Chi Minh's proxy agents stationed in the south.

Most importantly of all, Nixon also puts to rest the long-held leftist myth that the US and South Vietnam refused to hold scheduled elections to unite the country, as mandated by the Geneva convention. He explains that not only were these "scheduled elections" never even agreed upon by either of the Vietnams in the first place, it was the North, and not the South that actually provided the biggest resistance for this impractical pipe-dream to ever be implemented.

Nixon was a politician as partisan as they come, yet for the most part in this book he puts his political beliefs aside to defend a war that was tackled by presidents of both parties. Nixon defends Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson, and their actions, dismissing the critics claims that these men were "war criminals" or worse. He is a bit harsh on Kennedy at times, and regards the Kennedy-backed coup against Diem as a colassal blunder. But even then he is quick to paint Kennedy and other Democrats as gullible victims of the loud and intimidating anti-war movement.

The final chapter of the book is excellent, as Nixon carefully explains the strategic and moral importance of preserving the freedom and independence of "third world" nations. Though at the time he was talking about Communist subversion, his lessons can just as easily be applied to the current war on terror. Just as the United States fought for years to prevent the third world from falling under Soviet influence, so now must the United States fight to prevent the arab world from being exploited by terror networks in Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The Vietnam war failed, Nixon argues, because the various presidents failed to accurately make the case for war. That is an important lesson to be learned, and hopefully the current president will be careful to never let the American people lose sight of the reason for the war in Iraq.

Nixon was one of America's most brilliant presidents. It is a shame his personal failings brought down an administration with such truly noble goals for the world.

I'm a student and this book was a required reading. Easily the best required reading I've ever had to do. I had never fully understood Vietnam. Why we were there, what we did while there and why we left. This book was an excellent asset in understanding Vietnam and I recommend it especially to students since it can be easily read in 2 to 3 days. :)

I bought this book because I was offended by the hype on the dust cover, which presented it as another Kennedy Court History in which the Cuban Missile Crisis is made to sound even more scary than it really was. It was a pleasant surprise to read a balanced account of Soviet submarine operations during the Crisis, which refutes many of the exaggerated claims still being made about the possibility of unauthorized use of tactical nukes. We learn that Soviet nuclear torpedos were escorted by armed KGB officers who actually slept on top of the weapons, and the Rules of Engagement were so onerous that a sub would have to be actually sinking before one could be fired. Just to be safe, the sub crews were given no training on the nukes and were kept ignorant of their capabilities. This isn't too surprising when one considers that a military coup was always the secret nightmare of communist govenments. If the tactical nukes assigned to Soviet Army units in Cuba were under similar restrictions, it is hard to see how they could ever have been fired -- the nightmare scenario still being cited by Robert MacNamara to justify the Kennedys' secret treaty with Khrushchev.
Another revelation is the very poor mechanical performance of the Soviet subs which suffered an appalling series of engine breakdowns. From the limited details given in this book, it appears that many of these failures were due to mistakes by poorly trained engineering personnel. (Fatigue due to the intense tropical heat and humidity may be a factor also.) Since these subs had specially selected crews and were just out of refit, the mind boggles at what the average Soviet diesel boat must have been like in 1962. Had Khrushchev actually proceeded with his plan to base Golf-class missile subs permanently in Cuba, the result could only have been utter disaster. The more we learn about the Soviet side of the Missile Crisis, the more it looks like the most badly planned and implemented military operation of all time.

Finally, a wonderful account of the United States Navy in action during the Cuban missle crisis....... I was aboard the U.S.S. Lowry DD770 during this time, and the author caught the excitement of those times. It was the U.S.S. Lowry DD770 who identified one of the Russian subs and steamed side by side with her for three days attempting to make verbal contact with their crew. We played dixie land music. A band brought over from the U.S.S. Randolph. Several interpreters were also brought over in our attempts at contact, to no success.

How wonderful to read such an exciting story. Well done Mr. Huchthausen!

All of us are aware, or so I would hope, of how close the Cuban Missle Crisis was to nuclear war. This book tells the story from those who were there - Americans and Russians. Chilling reminder of how fragile we are and a sad testimonial to our ability to produce weapons that could make us all extinct.

Here you go! If you crave the enticing secrecy of the New World Order and all its entanglements - - - let the pages flow. For here Mr. Wardner gives excellent back-up material, historical facts, and a terrific chapter on a coming `media blackout' which I found superbly accurate.

This is a MUST READ for those who are still perplexed as to the simplicity & redundantcy of our current media broadcasting industry.

No other book that I have read comes even close to this straight forward book ! It is a MUST READ FOR EVERY TRUE AMERICAN ! It will shock you, educate you, and wake you up fast ! I have read it several times, and it's a book that will never get out of date ! It took a lot of guts to write this book ! I'm so thankful that this author had so much courage. We all should ! IF you really want your eyes opened, read this little book ! This is not a child's book, so I don't know why it's listed as such.

This book is easy to read, full of quotations, and it is well documented. Everything he writes about is backed up. The book's best point is the documentation. I thought the author could have commented more on the documentation and how this effects us. The book is about 70% documentation and 30% comments. It is a good book for those who know little on the subject. I also liked the list at the end of the book that lists sources of information to keep you up to date on the New World Order. A book I recommend for those who want a more in depth view is Hope of the Wicked by Ted Flynn. It's 490 pages and was published this year.