International Reviews

This is a most enjoyable book, covering the highways and byways of the food of Italy. It is not a cook book. It is a book about a culture, or rather the agglomeration of cultures that is Italian food. Highly recommended to the armchair or the actual traveller, and the lover of Italian life and culture.

Root's The Food of France is a highly entertaining classic. The Food of Italy is slightly less so.

As with The Food of France, Root gives us here a survey of the food of an entire country. The country here is, of course, Italy. The book details the varieties and specialities of each region in Italy, which each make up a chapter in the book.

As with The Food of France, Root examines not only the specialities and food of a particular region, he discusses also what it is in terms of taste, ingredients and cooking methods that makes a particular dish distinctly of that region. Beyond that, he also examines the history, geography and native food resources of a region in considering what it is that has gone into making the food of that region distinctly so. He studs each examination with charming details and anecdotes. And he does this all with methodical meticulousness.

In each chapter, Root will start with examining the history, geography and available food resources of the region. Each chapter is divided roughly into the various major cities and districts that comprise the particular region being discussed. The food of each city and district is then discussed, starting with the savoury dishes and ending the sweet. Each chapter finishes off with a discussion of the wine and alcoholic beverages of that region.

Mostly, he tells it with inimitable style. However, unlike The Food of France, there were times with The Food of Italy when I felt it a bit of a slog to read. Quite literally from time to time I just felt like I was wading through a listing of descriptions of different types of food. In the chapter on Liguria, for example, Root discusses x number of dishes in a section headed antipasti and entrées, then x number of dishes in a section headed soups, and so on through sections on fish, meat, poultry, game, vegetables, and finally, desserts.

However, you can't argue though with the immensity of his knowledge, and the book deserves 5 stars alone just for that. Ultimately, if you are interested at all interested in reading about food, your collection would not be complete without this, and his other classic: The Food of France.

My Personal Rating Scale:
5 stars: Engaging, well-written, highly entertaining or informative, thought provoking, pushes the envelope in one or more ways, a classic.
4 stars: Engaging, well-written, highly entertaining or informative. Book that delivers well in terms of its specific genre or type, but does not do more than that.
3 stars: Competent. Does what it sets out to do competently, either on its own terms on within the genre, but is nothing special. May be clichéd but is still entertaining.
2 stars: Fails to deliver in various respects. Significantly clichéd. Writing is poor or pedestrian. Failed to hold my attention.
1 star: Abysmal. Fails in all respects.

Imagine eating delicious meals in every region of Italy, at someone else's expense, for years on end. That's pretty much what Waverly Root did in his long career as a journalist. And the result is a classic work about Italian food.

There are maps showing the food specialties of every Italian region and the best cities to visit for great eating. Each city is rated on a map, so you can easily create your own travel itinerary.

And there's a long chapter for each region, describing it special food and wine. Just the thing to feed daydreams.

Fools Errand is an extraordinary account of failed attempts at "nation building" during the Clinton Administration. Gary Dempsey's expertise is evident as guides the reader through a maze of disturbingly flawed policy, astonishing bureaucracy, arrogance and stupidity that doomed nation building attempts to failure. Dempsey's analysis is brilliant, and he relates complex events with remarkable clarity.

Dempsey's Fool's Errands is brilliant. He methodically recounts the pitfalls of an indiscriminate nation building policy. Anyone who is serious about shaping or understanding America's foreign policy should read this.

A long time fan of Mr. Dempsey's work for his clarity of vision and ability to recount history that reverberates with political savvy. First hand insight with time on the ground in the region well prepares Dempsey for the chore of 'piecing' together Balkan politics. Great job -- I look forward to more!

Before reading Foundations of Corporate Empire I was not aware of the other book Birth of the Multinational: 2000 Years of Ancient Business History--From Ashur to Augustus, now I still think do I have to buy that one too? For me it is a fascinating book which is the outcome of a detailed investigation and work.

By the way, I would be pleased if they put more stress on the Roman Empire, Ottoman Empire and also South East Asia, Inkas, Azteks etc.

But I can recommend this book as a guideline of historical evolution of the modern business organizations and cultures.

From the Report on Business, Globe and Mail Newspaper, Canada's National Newspaper
By BRIAN MILNER
Friday, December 28, 2001 - Print Edition, Page 91FOUNDATIONS OF CORPORATE EMPIRE: Is History Repeating Itself? by Karl Moore and David Lewis (Financial Times/Prentice Hall, $...) Foundations of Corporate Empire is a dreary title for a business book that turns out to be anything but. It is in fact a sweeping, yet remarkably readable, history of globalization that marshals impressive evidence to prove something we should have learned by now: There is simply nothing new under the sun, and anyone who thinks business just discovered the joys of free trade and global markets yesterday has a lot to learn.Doing the teaching here are two Canadian academics: Karl Moore, a professor of strategic management at McGill University, and David Lewis, a historian with a wide range of interests, including ancient Mesopotamia. That, in fact, is where the authors start, tracing the development of business cultures from the Bronze Age and the "first recorded multinational"--a family trading business in Assyria nearly 4,000 years ago--up to the internet age and America's globe-spanning technology giants.Unfortunately, this book was finished before the tech bubble burst, making some of its conclusions as obsolete as those Assyrian traders. But this does nothing to detract from its main points--that today's economic and corporate structures are the product of generations of evolution and that each nation favours the model best suited to its own culture, institutions and history."Many of today's economic structures existed in prototype form several thousand years ago," the authors note early on, and then set out to prove it. They make connections between the business leaders of Mesopotamia and modern German corporations, between classical Athens and Britain at its height, between ancient and modern China, and between the mighty Roman and even mightier American empires. Some of the links are obvious, such as the mass production and technological developments stemming from the military requirements of both ancient Rome and the United States. Others seem more of a stretch.What is particularly refreshing is that this is no apologia for the current wave of globalization or its apparent American character. The authors make a convincing case that merely because the American model has been overwhelmingly dominant, it does not mean every country will inevitably have to fall into line. Any attempt to impose the American way "in its entirety...is bound not only to fail but also to generate a very unpleasant backlash."

A novel and intriguing look at the history of modern civilization and the corporate underpinnings that have pervaded throughout. Somewhat general but nonetheless both accurate and interesting. Original and entertaining. Great Book

Irwin's book, together with Bhagwati's Free Trade today,
makes a strong case for free trade. The argument is clear and
the book is easy to read and full of evidence supporting
free trade. Among other topics, the author discusses
the harmful effects of protection on developing/
developed economies, trade and the environment
and the role of WTO. Irwin's book is non-technical
and more historical than Bhagwati's. The latter
is more theoretical, at least in some parts, but also
a great read. For arguments against free trade using
economic theory see "trade warriors" by Marc Busch or " global Trade and Conflicting National Interests"
by Ralph E. Gomory, William J. Baumol

Doesnt it always seem that your friends subscribe to the wrong views, and you to the right one? Well, at least for me it is. Whether your pals are from the anarchist wing or the Pat Buchanan camp, or even deviate just a little from your (correct) free trade stance, you should read this book. And even if you believe in the unholy stance of skepticism of free trade , you should read it too, for "The Economist" said that if this book doesnt convince anti-free traders, nothing will; so go ahead and test your faithfulness.

I am not an economist, and I hate reading economics text books filled with useless jargon. Before reading some great books, economics was as complicated as chemistry, physics or calculas to me. But after reading a few books, "Lexus and the Olive Tree", "Mystery of Capital" and "Peddling Prosperty", I realized that it isn't that complicated, its just the economists who create this aura of an esoteric subject.

This book is written in simple language, but when it does use phrases that regular people don't understand, he does something rare - he explains their meaning.

This is an excellent book, but only after reading The Lexus and the Olive Tree. Tom Friedman's book is the main weapon in my debating arsenal, and "Free Trade Under Fire" book gives me a large cache of ammunition, as do Peddling Prospery (or anything else by Paul Krugman like Pop Internationalism, another MUST read), and Henrando de Soto's masterpiece "The Mystery of Capital"(dont even look at his "Other Path", it is simplified and better argued in this "Mystery").

Highly Recommended

I have had the honor of having the author of this book as a professor in college. Not surprisingly he teaches classes dealing with international trade. All I can say is that he is an economist of the highest order and that he is capable of taking some extrodinarily difficult concepts and explaining them with a level of clarity that make them seem obvious. He takes this teaching approach to his book, making it both intelligent and approachable. If you ever actually wanted to know anything about international trade and even be able to discuss in a relevant manner the points at hand, read this book. You will be smarter for having done so.

This book is wonderful! The recipes are tasty and are not difficult to follow. We used several for our Thanksgiving feast this year. The pumpkin pie and berry crisp are delicious! I also have enjoyed some of the less traditional treats, however, and I look forward to trying food from the Portuguese chapter.

From Apple Pie to Pad Thai is also interesting to read. As someone who grew up on Boston's North Shore, I really enjoyed reading about familiar places and events. The chef profiles help bring the book to life. And I loved the tips in each chapter on local ethnic markets and restaurants.

This is my favorite kind of cookbook- not only are the recipes good, the sidebars and background information are fascinating. I particularly enjoyed the biographies of various Boston North Shore cooks, and I think this project really captures the essence of American cuisine and its continual evolution. This is a great book if you enjoy cooking, history, or just a good read.

The best thing about this book is the recipes really work! I haven't been dissapointed yet! The word of mouth is getting out about this wonderful cookbook. My favorite recipe is the fried chicken (crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside). I also recommend the Peanut Soup. The history and biographies of the cooks capture the true history of the North Shore of Boston. I highly recommend this cookbook to anyone who enjoy food or enjoy a good read. Its also a good tourguide for foodies because it tells all about the ethnic fairs. Hope you enjoy!

I TOTALLY enjoyed this book because it was written in a way that made me feel as if I was actually in New York City on September 11, 2001. The descriptions of the events of those first few days were extremely vivid and easy to imagine. The story moved at a quick pace, just as did the actual events of that horrible day. And, just as none of us could take our eyes off the television on that day, I couldn't stop reading this book until I read the very last page. And, what an ending! Even the strongest will find a patriotic lump forming in their throat.

I believe any person that takes pride in America will find themselves quickly cheering on the two main characters, and then, just as quickly, crying with them out of sheer frustration. The author has a unique and lovely talent for bringing you deeply into the story and making you feel as if you have known the two main characters for years and years. They become your friends!

This is the first and only book I've found that actually tells a story about the 9-11 events, rather than simply a collection of pictures, news headlines and quotations by famous or affected people. It is a refreshing change from the depression and terror we have come to relate to that day. This story, without losing the true panic, fright and terror of the day, somehow makes us smile and feel hopeful about the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center towers.

I loved the book and would venture to say that it will become a part of the mounting pieces of national historical documentation of September 11, 2001. If this isn't on Oprah's book club list, it should be!

Finally, the book is appropriate for high school readers and above. It is a short book at only 126 pages and is written in simple and brief statements. No long and meandering descriptions or theories. Just action, action and action. It is a FUN book about a very sad and tragic topic.

I'd say to every American...buy this book and you will feel your patriotism swell and flourish!

Thank you for reading my review.

On September 11, 2001, tragedies of unspeakable horrors occurred in the United States. Two Midwesterners, on vacation, were in New York City when the Twin Towers were attacked. This book will take you to the day of the attack and the days following, as they tried to return home to Wisconsin.

The writing style will keep you engaged and you will cheer, along with the writer, at each successful milestone during this adventure. You will meet real people along the way and revel in their acts of kindness.

This is a book you won't want to put down until you finish it. It has a wonderful ending that is guaranteed to touch your heart.

This book is about two people who were in New York, and were about to go home, on September 11. The book tells how the terrible tragedy of September 11 affected the lives of average travelers.

I liked the book because it is about ordinary people and what happened to them; what these women experienced could have happened to anyone. The best part about this book is that it makes you feel like you were there. You are able to experience what it would have been like to go through the frustration and fear and isolation that surrounded people on September 11 and the days that followed. You meet real New Yorkers who helped others when they themselves were not sure what was happening in their own city.

The author does a good job of describing what happened without being maudlin or overly dramatic. I especially liked the ending.

We've heard a lot about what happened at Ground Zero on 9-11. This is a good book for people who want to know what happened in places other than Ground Zero on this tragic day.

Five stars plus for this young mans insight, interpretation, and brilliant display of history. I like many other readers were turned off by the boring history books we read in school. Lambers captures the true spirit of history! Because of the excitement this book ignites; this book has the potential to change the course of how history is viewed and studied. This book is a MUST READ for everyone. This book would make a great gift not only for teachers and history buffs, but also the person who hungers for knowledge. (The study guide is an added bonus to treasure) BRAVO!

I read the book first, and it was interesting to realize that the peaceful relations with Britain that we now take for granted were nonexistent and took hard work to accomplish. And the Study Guide is very good, and is surprisingly loaded with historical facts and fun word searches. I wish I had studied with this kind of material instead of boring history books that made me "hate" history for many years. Now I love it!

This book is early American history in a "capsule," full of important events describing the conflicts between America and Britain, yet imagines the ordinary citizen's feelings about the wars in an interesting blend of fiction and history. Young people especially should read it.

Wow, I bought this book at a library booksale, and read it probably 1 year later. I was very interested in meditation, peaceful resolution and such. This book is amazing, so full of absoloute wisdom and radically true assesments. I'm a college student and I have been copying this book and giving it away at school functions. Everyone who has children should read this book to find out how the world will end up without a positive personality to lead us through.

This little book is a gem! It explains in concise, understandable language the seven key steps to making a positive contribution to the world. The beauty of the book, besides its simplicity and readability, is its practical suggestions for steps that we, as individuals, can take starting today! Focussing on: 1) selfless service; 2) right and fair labor; 3) nonviolence; 4) conciliation; 5) sharing in government; 6) re-education and 7) the sharing of resources, De Mallac skillfully maps out Gandhi's steps to global change. The book also contains a very practical action guide on what we can do immediately to make a difference in these seven areas, including suggestions such as volunteering for groups like the American Friends Service Committe (selfless service) and "not letting a single day go by without practicing some form of giving" (sharing of resources). The Book is filled with pearls of wisdom and resources. It also contains Suggested Readings, a Gandhi Chronology, Goals for Contemporary American Personal and Political Action, and a Declaration of Interdependence - a statement reflecting Gandian values. I'm surprised that this book is not more widely circulated or used as a college text on Gandhian values and nonviolent activism. It should be required reading for anyone seeking to make the world a better, more peaceful place to live.

It is a small book but easily the single most important text I have ever read. A concise, clear depiction of the principles which motivated to Gandhi, and Dr. King like him, to commit their lives to peace. Unlike most books, De Mallac's appendix offers concrete ways in which to apply these principles and lists organziation devoted to non-violence. Every human should read it and integrate into their world view. NOW.

The Russian Revolution brought an end to the great slaughter we call World War I. It wasn't alone. Not only was Russia not alone, but the new Council Republic it established served as an inspiring model to the oppressed and exploited around the world.

Just a year later, the second largest imperialist power, Germany, underwent a similar revolution by the workers. Although the German Revolution represents a giant page in history, history classes in capitalist countries overlook it. How the German and Chinese Revolutions arose and how could they have kept power was -- and remains -- a major issue among those who seek to abolish oppression and exploitation once and for all.

This book is the second in a series named The Communist International in Lenin's Time.

The background to The German Revolution and the Debate on Soviet Power is the revolt that erupted in Germany as a consequence of the terrible suffering among workers and farmers during World War I. This culminated (as a similar process did in Russia the year before against the Tsar) in the overthrow of the German Kaiser in November 1918. Immediately millions of people of all social classes found themselves confronting profound political choices as to what kind of new government would best advance their interests.
The majority of leaders of the trade union and socialist movements came out in support of a coalition government with liberal elements of the capitalists. A minority of workers, looking to the Spartacist group led by Rosa Luxemburg, Karl Leibknecht and others influenced by the example of the Russian Revolution, advocated a course of fighting for a government of workers and farmers.
The revolutionary-minded workers trying to forge a new organization in the heat of this struggle made errors that ultimately contributed to their being crushed in blood--with profound consequences for decades to follow. The second part of this book shows how this debate became international in character as workers all around the world were inspired by the workers uprising in Germany and sought to contribute to their deliberations as well as understand the lessons of their fight.
The underlying differences were over reform vs. revolution. The book documents this in the exciting form of excerpts from workers' newspapers, political debates and resolutions from all sides and positions allowing the reader to make up their own mind as the historical events unfold.
It's obvious that Pathfinder's editors went to great efforts of original research, outstanding translation work, map making, preparation of enlightening photos and other editorial aids in publishing this book because they want to make this material attractive and accessible to thinking workers who want to reknit the historical continuity of our class. They certainly succeeded as far as I'm concerned. At the same time, Pathfinder demonstrates a high degree of respect and confidence in its readers' abilities to make up our own minds and draw the necessary conclusions in the objective way they present all sides of this vital debate for our consideration.

Lenin and his Bolsheviks showed the way for a modern socialist revolution in 1917 in Russia. Sadly, the questions Lenin and the Bolsheviks asked were answered negatively in Germany in 1918-1919, when the German working masses overthrew the Kaiser and set about to take power into their hands. This discussion between the leaders of both revolutions is one of the most important in modern history. The stakes are no less than that of the survival of capitalism in the advanced countries of Europe, Japan, and North America!

The absence of a trained revolutionary party, the absence of a party with a set of democratic demands to defend the rights of Germany's peasants, and the confusions marked by the attempts to build a party in the middle of revolution itself, the conflicting changing banners of different parties, and grouping put before the working class, spelled defeat for the German workers, even though they had some of the greatest leaders in the history of our class in Karl Leibneckt and Rosa Luxemburg.
In this well noted, exquisitely glossaried, scholarly edition, the debates on strategy and tactics, on party building, and on the meaning of the struggle for power among the Bolsheviks, German Revolutionists, and the international movement are collected.

This is truly a fascinating study about globalization. As told by Marquardt "two years ago, a large consulting firm that helps companies go global gave me a list of the ten most common questions its clients had about globalization :

1. How do you create a global culture?

2. What are the key components of globalization?

3. How do you create a global mind-set?

4. What kinds of skills should we look for in global managers?

5. Why do some people fail when going overseas?

6. How do we establish a global training program?

7. What experiences should we give our future leaders?

8. Should everyone in the organization become globalized?

9. Is there an order or process in which a company should go global?

10. Where can we go for help as we work toward globalization?

This list inspired me to write this book, for I realized that these questions had no easy answers and that only a handful of companies had resolved even of these issues."

In this context, after defining six components of his "GlobalSuccess" model, Marquardt explores and illustrates these six components, namely corporate culture, human resources, strategies, operations, structure and learning with best practices of more than forty successful global companies, such as : GE, Whirlpool, Colgate-Palmolive, Shell, Coca-Cola, Xerox, FedEx and HP.

I highly recommend this study. As proclaimed by Jack Welch " companies either globalize or they die."

Wonderful array of best practices of the top global companies

Excellent overview as well as best practices in globalizatio