Book Description

Thomas Hardy once said that America had two great attractions: the skyscraper and the poetry of Edna St. Vincent Millay. The most famous poet of the Jazz Age, Millay captivated the nation: She smoked in public, took many lovers (men and women, single and married), flouted convention sensationally, and became the embodiment of the New Woman.

Thirty years after her landmark biography of Zelda Fitzgerald, Nancy Milford returns with an iconic portrait of this passionate, fearless woman who obsessed America even as she tormented herself. Chosen by USA Today as one of the top ten books of the year, Savage Beauty is a triumph in the art of biography. Millay was an American original—one of those rare characters, like Sylvia Plath and Ernest Hemingway, whose lives were even more dramatic than their art. ... Read more

Reviews (42)

A book as intoxicating as its subject
A phenomenon when she burst onto the literary scene in the Twenties, Edna Millay, I believe, would herself be pleased with this phenomenal biography. I discovered Millay's poetry when I was in high school in Kansas in the Fifties, the Beatnik era, but in Kansas, I certainly knew no Beatniks. Millay became my muse, the poetic string connecting me to another world beyond the endless fields of corn and wheat. I visited her home in Greenwich Village, read all of her poetry, and can still quote long passages from memory.
Savage Beauty, a large book, does ample justice to the large personality of Millay, chronicling her life and lifestyle, both of which were 'unconventional,' in every sense of the word. Such was the impact of this genius, this 'force of nature,' that she willfully created her persona, in the process lifting herself and her dependent family out of poverty and onto the front pages.
The intensity of her poetic works is mirrored in the intensity with which she lived her life. Her short signature poem 'I burn my candle at both ends; it will not last the night. But ah my foes and oh my friends, it gives a lovely light' became a slogan for an era - and even more, a definition of her own life, at the end of which she did, indeed, flame out in an excess of living.

Renascence woman
"Renascence" has always been one of my favorite poems. Did you know Millay wrote it when she was only twenty? Milford includes other interesting little tidbits, as well as a detailed analysis of the woman who burned her candle at both ends. Yes, she died young, a drug addict and an alcoholic. Milford also includes her affairs with men and women, her problems with money, and her health problems, but I found the family relationships most interesting (Lots of pictures).
Millay's mother kicked her feckless husband out of the house, as did her grandmother (who was killed by a runaway horse)hers; all three of the Millay sisters were poets (Norma, the least ambitious of the three, writes a sonnet to rival Edna's best towards the end of the book). The youngest sister, Kathleen, was a sad case. Although she published a couple of novels and several books of poetry, she was jealous of Edna, hounded her for money, and did her level best to embarrass her in print. Millay's mother was the true inspiration for Edna. She read the girls poetry, wrote some of her own (publishing toward the end of her life). She validates B.F. Skinner's theory on parental inspiration and Edna gave her credit.
We also see the writer as performance artist. Edna wins a contest and is invited to read for literary societies in her home town, during which time she wins the support of a woman who sponsors her application to Vassar. According to Milford, Millay was an electrifying reader and became famous largely because of her book tours. She even did radio during a time when poetry was given its due.
Millay also wrote plays and even a book for an opera, all of which did well. She was a true Renascence woman.

A fantastic read!
This is one of the best books I have read in several years. It is magical, provocative,and educational - a true treasure. I've never been interested in reading biographies, but after reading this, I've realized what I've been missing.

I also disagree with one reviewer that Edna St. Vincent Millay is "obscure" to most living Americans. I think many easily recognize her name - and even if they don't, this book is a fabulous way to learn about an otherwise unfamiliar individual.

Promiscuity and tenderness
The first poem of Millay's I read was "The Spring and the Fall", shown to me by a jr. high school friend. Edna St. Vincent Millay has always somehow been with me since then, especially since I began teaching her poems in my English classes more than a decade ago.

What really motivated me to buy this book were student questions about Millay's life that I couldn't answer based on the meager materials I had at hand; for example, 'Why did Millay's mother ask Millay's father to leave the family?' and 'How could Millay write such tender poetry when she was so promiscuous?'

I'm glad to say that this book provided answers to these and many other questions I'd never have thought to ask. Milford's work helps the reader begin to know the very complex personality behind the poetic genius and tenderness - as well as the nymphomania and utter self-centeredness. Millay had electrifying charm, and it probably is very difficult not to use this to personal advantage when one has it.

Milford also delves into some of the origins underlying Millay's life choices by describing her family life and relationships in considerable detail. Since a very young age, Millay had to be the strong one who held things together in her family, and she was perhaps never able to find someone strong enough to look after *her* in the same way - she held the upper hand in almost every relationship she had, and this paved the way for abuse of her formidable personal power.

Millay was so indulged by the world and herself that she must have felt either invincible or simply fatalistic as she slid ever more deeply into what could only be called debauchery, and later serious chemical dependence.

The side biographies interwoven into the book are fascinating as well - how Millay's husband Eugen consciously chose to indulge and put up with Millay as a path to his own self-realization, which he built on the excitement of being near the vortex of Millay's poetic and emotional tempests. There are George Slocombe and George Dillon, two men who succeeded in truly captivating Millay for extended periods of time. And then there's the ongoing comic relief provided by descriptions of the author's interactions with Millay's one surviving (at the time of the writing) sister Norma, who in spite of a disinclination to write otherwise once penned a quite brilliant sonnet in a desperate - and successful - attempt to get Edna's attention when Edna was largely ignoring her. Norma later expressed anger at 'what it took' just to get Edna to answer her letters. And then there's the different levels of competition among the four Millay women, Edna, her mother Cora, who also aspired to being a poet, Norma, who reluctantly provided the author with access to Edna's papers, and the youngest sister Kathleen, who wrote very good poetry that came at the wrong moment from the wrong family.

This book is exhilarating. It's just the kind the more mundane among us read to find out about lives we will never and would never ourselves live.

Amazing
I had no idea Ms. Millay had led such a fascinating and tumultuous life. This is wonderfully written and not at all dry like you'd expect. ... Read more

Book Description

She fought the prejudice. She fought the stereotype. Then she fought the greatest force of all-- fire.

When the San Francisco Fire Department broke their all-male rule to hire women, Caroline Paul never thought she'd be chosen. She had already enrolled in film school. And Caroline, a strikingly beautiful Stanford graduate, didn't fit anyone's idea of a fireman. Except her own.

Even though she loved testing her limits on white water rivers or Alpine mountains, plunging into a flame-engulfed building would be different than anything she had ever done. Now, in hard-edged prose as crackling as a four-alarm fire, she tells her amazing story. From her fight to match her colleagues physically and mentally, to her silent determination to face her fears, she tells of infernos, heroism, and heartbreaking tragedy. And with a will forged by fire, she reveals one woman's realization of a dream burning in her soul.
... Read more

Reviews (36)

wow wow WOW
I did not expect to like this book but it was thrust into my hands by a friend who demanded: Read this. I dreaded a long technical discourse on fire trucks and the mechanics of fire but i instead got an eminently readable book about how a young woman matures under trying but exciting circumstances. Caroline Paul is in the beginning a likeable but arrogant, affluent preppie who, fearing the inevitable "trajectory" her life is taking towards a corporate desk job, falls into the blue collar world of firefighting. There she learns that life is much more complicated - and more poignant - than she had ever imagined. We follow her as she sees her first dead body, understands for the first time in her life what it is to be an "outsider" (and rather philosophically claims that it is good for her!), and goes into the deep, hot, black of a fire building. I cried when the babies died, laughed as the firehouse culture leapt from the page, and in the end rooted for the narrator to come to terms with herself. I stayed up all night reading it and I recommend it (with a loud guffaw and a hearty slap on the back)to all non-firefighters!

Couldn't put the book down.
Caroline Paul did a terrific job at explaining what it is like to be a female fire fighter in this day and age. Coming from another female fire fighter, i thought that her stories and descriptions were well written and heart felt. Paul's contribution to the fire service has not gone unnoticed and it is women like Paul that have made my entrance into this wonderful profession so much easier. Anyone who is interested in learning about what it is really like to be a female fire fighter should read this book!

Excellent Look Into SFFD's Darker Side
Caroline Paul did an excellent job on this book! I will admit that when my uncle first sent it to me for christmas, I couldn't help but wonder, "WHAT WERE YOU THINKING!?!?!" However, I gave it a shot and got swallowed up into the book itself, reading over half of it in a little less than 8 hours!

When I first got this book, I was just beginning to get into the fire service...Now, three years later I stand an 18 year old firefighter/emt, continuously enthusiastic to learn about my career's heritage and history!

I got the opportunity to meet Ms. Paul on a vacation to San Francisco with my family and was fortunate enough to get my book signed! She is a very kind and intelligent young woman and someone whom I look forward to more books from!

This is a must read for anyone, fire service or not! If you are looking to get into a truly great career, get started by reading this book...The imagery alone will keep your adrenaline pumping and you won't want to put this great book down!

Intelligent and challenging
Caroline Paul gives not only very interesting and thoughtful insights into the world of firefighting and rescue-work but has also written an intelligent and challenging comment about her difficulties of adapting to a "men's world" without loosing her independance of spirit. I liked especially her well- balanced approach to this problem, the realistic and often gripping tales from her work as a FF and her clear and appealing way of writing.
I've read that book three times ....

FF/EMT in MN
I wasn't overly impressed with this book. I am an Firefighter and EMT and thought there was to much complaining about it being tougher on women. If you can pull your weight and do your job respectively, you gain the respect of your colleagues. Normally I keep all my books regarding firefighting. I gave this one away because I knew I wouldn't read it again. ... Read more

Book Description

Jackie is known throughout the world as the best female athlete ever - the winner of six Olympic medals, three of them gold; the current world-record holder in the heptathlon (the women's version of the male decathlon); the one-time world-record holder in the long jump; and an All-America basketball player. She grew up in East St. Louis in a house "little more than wallpaper and sticks". Her parents were poor teenagers when they married. She made her first long-jump pit in her backyard from borrowed playground sand. One of her first performances went unrecorded because of the color of her skin. Yet Jackie not only had an innate ability to conquer speed and distance, but possessed an irrepressible personality and a deep, unshakable love of sport. As she harnessed her talents, Jackie began an amazing string of multisport successes. In the midst of it all, she would try to hold her family together after her mother's tragic early death (Mary was only 37), and face her own devastating grief. As she climbed the dizzying heights of international and Olympic competition, she would face relentless media attention that escalated when she married Bob Kersee, her enormously successful - and controversial - coach. As she reached her profession's peak, she would battle life-threatening asthma, unfounded accusations of drug-induced performance enhancement, and recurring injuries. Ultimately, she would unite her experience and determination to achieve the most meaningful victories of all - those that shape and build lives beyond the field. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A Heart-filled Story of Triumph
Jackie Joyner-Kersee elaborately describes the struggles and obstacles that she had to overcome to become a successful and outstanding athlete and person. Her book is filled with emotions that the reader can intially relate to. Her life was filled with adversity and proves that a strong and self-determined person can triumph regardless of depressing and self-destructing obstacles that may stand in your way. Jackie, who is portrayed through the media to be "Superwoman" is really more human and down to the earth than most of the world. Life for Jackie was not always "peaches and cream." She was born and raised in East St. Louis, which was not known as a very safe place at the time. A reporter once suggested to Jackie that she should not tell people where she was from cause it might destroy her image. This event, however, made Jackie appreciate her hometown even more. You cannot put into words why this woman is thought of as superb. She went from rock bottom to soaring to the unlimited top. With the help of this book, Jackie's title as "The World's Greatest Female Athlete" has been justified.

~TOTALLY AN INSPIRATION, PERFECT ROLE MODEL~
A Kind of Grace is an excellent book. I think everyone should read it. It gave me a whole new look on life and how to appreciate everything I have. It also gave me inspiration to work hard at track. Now I have the heart and determination to train, lift weights, and practice, practice, practice. So everyone please buy and read this wonderful book, A Kind of Grace.

well-written, entertaining, and deeply moving
Jackie Joyner-Kersee's autobiography is everything a biography should be, well-written, entertaining, and deeply moving. Unlike many celebrity bios that center around events, primarily ones that reflect well on the author, Jackie's book is people-centered and equally honest about her struggles as well as her triumphs. She writes with love and admiration about many people who have touched her life both in big and small ways. It is not hard to see why Jackie became the woman and athlete that she is. This book could have just as easily been titled "The World's Greatest Role Model for Young People."

AN ENCOURAGING BOOK
This book was an excellent book to read. I really enjoyed this book. I, myself am a runner and this book pushed me to run like I never ran before. This book gives you so much energy, because it gives you encouragement, and you will believe that any thing is possible.

This is an extremely inspirational book.
"A Kind of Grace", the autobiography of Jackie Joyner Kersee, is quite an inspirational book. It starts out telling about her parents' lives before she was born and goes on to describe the hardships she had to overcome as a child to be the success she is today. She tells about growing up in a lower-class community in East St Louis. She tells of how she had to run on an odd-shaped track, through the halls of her school, and around the neighborgood instead of training an a real track. This book covers everything from her first track team tryouts all the way through her many victories in the Olympic Games.

This book could easily be used as a motivational tool. To see a young girl hit with so many obstacles, only to overcome them and become even stronger, is enough to inspire anyone. She speaks of the role-models who inspired her. Now she is and extremely influential role-model herself. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Injustice to title
I am glad that I bought this book at a thrift store. I was disappointed in the content. The title should have been more closely associated to the content. I believe that the author was merely trying to ride on the sensationalism of the trial, contrary to his written statements within the book. Although I can sympatize with the author's anguish, while associated with the trial, a different title should have been chosen. As an adjunct professor,of Criminal Justice, I may make a passing comment in class about the content of the book. However, I certainly would not recommend it to my students.

A juror's view of sequestration
Kudos is due Tracy and Judith Kennedy for making the content of "Mistrial of the Century" more substantial than the title.The O.J. Simpson case is the nominal subject matter of this book, but theKennedys do not simply toss another empty tome upon the already excessivepile of books that express outrage that Simpson was acquitted or framed,depending on the author's point of view.Rather, the Kennedys discuss thesequestration process and its horrific effects on him (leading him to asuicide attempt) and, necessarily, on her.

The Kennedys' descriptions offormer juror Tracy's ordeal are frightening as they describe the nearlycomplete absence of rights the jurors were forced to undergo.Kennedydescribes random searches of all his belongings, monitoring of his phonecalls, and other indignities that even the accused did not have to suffer. The book seems brave and honest, particularly in the description of TracyKennedy's suicide attempt.

At the same time, the reader should becautious about drawing the conclusions the authors obviously intend. First, the book mentions possible criminal action against Tracy Kennedy forvarious offenses, and any book by an accused, honest though it may be, mustbe viewed in light of the accusations (or, in this case, possibleaccusations, though time has suggested that none will be forthcoming). Second, and more important, the book is an attempt to bring to light aperceived injustice in the jury system.The O.J. Simpson case, however,was an anomaly among anomalies.Sequestration is itself used in only aminority of cases, and almost never for as long as was the case in theSimpson trial.The problems described are almost certainly not typical. That being said, the Kennedys' book makes it clear that, regardless ofone's view of the correctness of the jurors' verdict, they were mistreated,sometimes by each other, but mainly by the forces that gave them theirpositions as jurors.

Very Enlighting Book
This book was not what I expected.This book is not about the O.J. Simpson Trial.These book goes into the way jurors are treated in our Judicical system, how jurrors are guarded and have the same rights as a person in jail.This book should be mandatory reading for all judges,prosecutors and defense attorneys who will have to select a jury that willbe sequestered.

Great Book
This book is not necessarily about the O.J. Simpson trial.It is about how the Justice System treats the people that are assigned to be on a jury.I think this book should be mandatory reading for every trial attorney andtrial judge.I realize that this trial had more press converage than anyother trial, but I would think twice about being on a jury and subjectingmy family to that kind of torture.

Americans should not have to endure this type of treatment.
It seems as if the judicial system has ground to a stop.The jurors inthis book were the last to be given any respect.The treatment wasinhumane ..and for Judge Ito to not provide some type of psychologicalinput was gross neglect. No wonder we are not getting a jury of ourpeers, if this is any indication of how jurors are being treated.I don'tknow if the Simpson Trial was an aboration or if what Mr. Kennedy wentthrough is just the tip of the iceberg. The entire episode of investigatingthe jurors even after they were seated is preposterous! One couldput thisbook down and say to himself, "I'll never serve on a jury" or"I want to make a difference and serve".I think that is whatMr. Kennedy would have wanted.Good book. ... Read more

Book Description

The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio introduces Evelyn Ryan, an enterprising woman who kept poverty at bay with wit, poetry, and perfect prose during the "contest era" of the 1950s and 1960s.

Stepping back into a time when fledgling advertising agencies were active partners with consumers, Terry Ryan tells how her mother kept the family afloat by writing jingles and contest entries. Mom's winning ways defied the church, her alcoholic husband, and antiquated views of housewives. To her, flouting convention was a small price to pay when it come to securing a happy home for her six sons and four daughters. Evelyn, who would surely be a Madison Avenue executive if she were working today, composed her jingles not in the boardroom, but at the ironing board.

Evelyn Ryan won every appliance her family ever owned by entering contests. It wasn't just the winning that was miraculous; it was the timing. If a toaster died, one was sure to arrive in the mail from a forgotten contest. Graced with a rare appreciation for life's inherent hilarity, Evelyn turned every financial challenge into an opportunity for fun and profit.

From her frenetic supermarket shopping spree -- worth $3,000 today -- to her clever entries worthy of Erma Bombeck, Dorothy Parker, and Ogden Nash, Evelyn Ryan's story shows how a winning spirit will triumph over the poverty of circumstance. ... Read more

Reviews (85)

This book is a real crowd pleaser and tear teaser!
I listened(book on cd to the travails of the Contest Queen as I made my way on a long car journey. It was perfect fare. I'm not sure how the prose holds up in book form, but as recorded narrative it was exceptionally entertaining. I marveled at the cheerful modes of survival this whole family employed and at their resistance to broad-siding their dad's sodden noggin' with a 2" x 4" during what I calculated to be a long series of justified, but missed, opportunities. The story is a commemorative work of appreciation of a mom-Extraordinaire, and a de-facto accounting of a family's unbridled resilience. Tuff's (Ms. Ryan's) mom would be so pleased!

Nice wholesome story
This is the story of how a woman with ten kids and an alcoholic husband, made ends meet by entering various contests. Luckily she had a gift with words and therefore won a lot of big and small prizes, plus some cash. She kept a positive attitude all the time which is reflected throughout the book in her kids' actions and attitudes.
This book is set in a small mid-western town in the fifties and takes you back to the way people were back then, lending a hand to a troubled neighbor, etc.
I enjoyed this story the only thing I found a bit annoying was that it seemed that every single contest entry, even those that didn't win prizes were printed on pages and pages of this book.

Proud of my grandmother
Well I don't read many books but since Dortha is my grandmother I guess I had to.It was quite good and interesting.Growing up around Dortha I use to think as a kid she was so lucky.She would win all kinds of free stuff!Truth is she and Mrs. Ryan have a talent for catch phrases.Now the movie is on the way!Keep an eye out for it next year sometime.Buy the book!

An absolute joy to read!
This is one of the best memoirs I've ever read! It is charming, humorous and filled to the brim with inspiration! Evelyn Ryan was a homemaker during the 1950's and 60's with ten children and an alcoholic, sometimes abusive husband. She loved to write and was gifted with a marvelous talent for writing short, witty verse. Using this talent she was able to keep her large family fed and clothed over the years by entering contests of skill, which were very popular at the time. Often she would win just a dollar here and there but her winnings also included two automobiles, thousands of dollars in cash ( once a large enough sum to move her family from their two bedroom home to a much larger one) suitcases, watches, a supermarket shopping spree and the list goes on and on. Evelyn was a true competitor with a great sense of humor and a very positive outlook on life. Even when she did not win a prize she never let it get her down but instead just tried harder at the next one.

This book will also appeal to anyone who might have grown up in a large family during the fifties and sixties. A time when people were more reluctant to get into any sort of debt or to let anyone, even their own relatives, know the financial difficulties they might be experiencing. The Ryans went through some very tough times but their mother's attitude usually turned around even the most difficult situation. I can't recommend this book highly enough. It includes many photos of the Ryan family and samples of Ms. Ryan's contest entries. You will be delighted when you read them! I was fortunate to find this book in hardback on a sale table at my local bookstore and didn't realize until I started reading it what a treasure I'd found!

An uplifting and courageous tribute
I have a confession to make. When one of the girls in my bookclub recommended this book for our September read, I silently groaned. I thought this was another one of those books that would be dry and witless ~~ and a waste of my money (not to mention, my time!). I am very very happy to report that I was indeed wrong about this book. This is definitely one of the best reads I've read this summer. (I know, I know, I keep saying that lately with all of my books, but honestly, this is really one of the best reads ever!)

Terry Ryan writes with humor and prose about her mother raising ten children in the little midwestern town, called, Defiance, in Ohio. Evelyn is not your typical mother. She doesn't stay home and bake cakes all the time. No, this is one woman who really defines the word "mother" in all its best definitions. Evelyn is a woman of bravery and wit who, in the face of daunting circumstances, decides to enter contests to earn a little money on the side to support her ever-growing family. She hides the food in the dryer and forgets they're there too ~~ that is just one of many humorous incidents in the Ryan household. She writes rhymes for contests and poetry. She thinks of ways to earn an extra dollar that her husband's job doesn't cover.

There are some dark spots in this book ~~ Evelyn is married to an alcoholic who squanders away most of his paycheck on drink. There have been a few abusive incidents reported in the book ~~ not to garner self-pity, but as a fact of life in the Ryan household. Evelyn shows her strength and courage in the way she deals with her children, the adversity in their lives and always with grace and love. She meets up with other women who love to enter contests as well and this is a loving tribute from a daughter to her mother.

Ryan writes convincingly and beautifully. This is a story that tells of a by-gone era that I am not even familiar with. My husband, on the other hand, is very familiar with the contests and can say some of the sayings from memory. This book is a journey down memory lane as well. Defiance is not the same town as it was back in the 50s and 60s. It was nice reading about the streets that have become very familiar to me and it gives the reader a nice sense of history in "Everytown, USA" ~~ when downtown was the main hub of activity before the urban sprawl came along and took the businesses out of the downtown.

This is a story I highly recommend everyone to read ~~ mothers, daughters, sons, fathers ~~ everyone. It's a great piece of history and a wonderful tribute to a woman who never gave up hope even in the midst of troubling times. This is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year!

7-30-04 ... Read more

Book Description

How much do you know about the women of the Old Testament? Have you ever heard the inspirational tales of these often forgotten Jewish maidens and mothers whose courage testifies to the need to foster hope amidst adversity? How can these fearless females from generations long past deepen our faith today? In what ways can they motivate us to renew our commitment to serve the Lord, no matter what the cost? Now you finally get to know these wonderful Jewish women - amazing role models for Catholics to stand up for their beliefs with bold conviction and passion.

Practical Lessons for Life

In this new three-tape (or CD) series, Around the Campfire: Stories of Women in the Old Testament, Bob Fishman - a Jewish convert to Roman Catholicism - invites you to attentively listen to vivid tales of the great (and one not so great) women of the Bible. With great devotion, he carefully chronicles how these remarkable paradigms of faith faced adversity, accepted astonishing challenges and courageously risked their very lives to manifest unshakable faith in Yahweh. Though most were ordinary people, you will soon discover that the women of the Old Testament made critical choices that led to extraordinary outcomes.

Renowned Storyteller

A lay brother in the Franciscan Community of the Brothers and Sisters of Charity, Bob Fishman is a renowned storyteller who speaks from a rich backdrop of personal and pastoral experience, as well as intense study and reflection. Steeped in his Hebrew tradition and a rich Biblical background, Br. Bob Fishman has the uncanny ability to recreate the cultural context and provide the necessary Scriptural connections, to gradually unfold a tapestry of truth. As you listen to the inspired Old Testament passages, the daring deeds of Judith, Ruth, Esther, Deborah, and Miriam are magnificently revealed. You will also be introduced to Jezebel - a negative example of someone who worshiped false gods. What you may have thought to be "dusty old stories" come alive when presented in a lively fashion and in a uniquely Semitic perspective.

The six "fireside" chats recorded in this set are certain to warm your heart and stimulate your soul. Bob has a special gift to retell stories in an exciting fashion so that the divine mysteries and inspiring messages they contain emerge through the vivid images and intimate details. You will be amazed as these ancient accounts unfurl to reveal no-nonsense wisdom - practical lessons for life - that speaks to every age and sheds insight to practically all situations.

Listen and Learn in a Unique Way

In these difficult and confusing times, let these age-old Biblical narratives kindle new fire into your faith. As you listen to these inspiring stories of godly women of the Old Testament, you will be moved to deepen your trust in God to face any and all opposition. Purchase your copy of Around the Campfire for yourself and invite your loved ones to take note. This special series provides a simple method to spend quality family time together as you listen and learn in a truly unique manner. Let Br. Bob Fishman introduce you to some powerful women that can completely change the way you view Christianity. Rekindle your faith by rediscovering your holy heritage.

In This Series You’ll Discover:

The true nature of oral tradition in relationship to the Bible
How women were treated in Old Testament times
Why storytelling is an effective way to evangelize others
How Judith's example of deep prayer, careful plotting and unshakable courage can be a source of inspiration for believers
Why the story of Ruth was one of the favorites of Benjamin Franklin
What one should do when facing adversity and even serious oppression
How Queen Esther used her extraordinary wisdom, courage and inner beauty to save her people
Why the Judges were used to distinguish godly wisdom and to settle disputes
How we are called to "look out" for the ones we love- ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Stories for young and old.Very entertaining.
Bro. Bob has been featured on E.W.T.N., P.B.S.and various videos and tapes. I have atteneded many of his presentations.These tapes and c.d.s capture the oral tradition that Bro. Bob is famous for.It is very simple with no flash or gimmicks, just old fashioned story telling.By the time the stories are over you feel as if you are actually around the campfire.In this day and age where people don't use their imaginations often, it was good to listen to these stories and escape into the Old Testament.Very entertaining.5 stars!

An entertaining way to learn stories from the Old Testament!
Brother Bob is truly astoryteller for all ages.He relays the stories about characters from the Old Testament is a way that is factual but exciting.Listening to these true tales will stimulate your interest in the Old Testament as well as the New and you will never look at the bible the same way again.Children from 6 to 86 will long remember these stories after hearing them told in the style of Brother Bob. ... Read more

Book Description

Shy and sheltered as a young woman, Kathleen Norris wasn'tprepared for the sex, drugs, and bohemianism of Bennington College in the late 1960s-and when she moved to New York City after graduation, it was a case of out of the frying pan and into the fire. In this chronicle, Norris remembers the education she received, both formal and fortuitous; the influence of her mentor Betty Kray, who shunned the spotlight while serving as a guiding force in the poetry world of the late 20th century; her encounters with such figures as James Merrill, Jim Carroll, Denise Levertov, Stanley Kunitz, Patti Smith, and Erica Jong; and her eventual decision to leave Manhattan for the less-crowded landscape she described so memorably in Dakota. This account of the making of a young writer will resonate with anyone who has stumbled bravely into a bigger world and found the poetry that lurks on rooftops and in railroad apartments-and with anyone who has enjoyed the blessings of inspiring teachers and great friends.

"Norris's engaging memoir describes her coming-of-age as a college student in Vermont, and her subsequent immersion in the vibrant, often incestuous poetry world of Manhattan in the early 70's--a milieu that proved to be both suffocating and inspiring for the young poet...As Norris shares the lessons she learned in her younger years--among them, that boorishness and emotional suffering are not useful in becoming a poet--she offers valuable, practical advice on the art of writing." (Newsday) ... Read more

Reviews (19)

A great biography of Betty Kray
If you're looking for a juicy read, this isn't it. If you're looking for more about the author Kathleen Norris, this will provide you with new information about her, but only about five percent of the material in the book covers her life at Bennington, and maybe 15 percent more covers her life in the '60s. The rest is an excellent biography about Betty Kray and her work at the Academy of American Poets. The book gives great incite into the workings of the Academy and its important contribution to poetry in the United States. Norris gives glimpses of the lives of various poets popular in the '60s.
Don't expect a spiritual revelation from this book. Do expect to learn a great deal about Betty Kray.

A flawed, but illuminating memoir
Good people should not write memoirs. In The Virgin of Bennington, Kathleen Norris recalls Elizabeth Kray, long time doyen of the Manhattan poetry world. Norris serves as tour guide through the glittering world of arts and literature as the baby boom generation was coming of age. In a milieu of sex, drugs and rampant psychoses, Kray and the Academy of American Poets provided a stable and sober structure for the dissemination of poetry and the sustenance of poets. Norris, as an employee of the Academy, a poet, and friend and companion of Kray, takes us on a bus tour of the Manhattan arts scene during this era. The problem is that Norris' basic decency works against the narrative. In abiding by the maxim "If you can't say anything good about a person, just mention their name" Norris brings us to a party and points out all the glitterati in the room, but doesn't introduce us to them.

Beyond the name-dropping, there is much to be gotten from this book. Norris gives us a good look at the passion for poetry that was the core of Elizabeth Kray's being. She introduces us to the idea that poetry is to be heard, not read. Norris also shows us how poetry, good poetry, that is, is not genteel and delicate. It is hard-edged and difficult. It is passionate. Maybe this is why the only poetry that most contemporary Americans are exposed to is in songs. Maybe it also explains the (to me) incomprehensible popularity of hip-hop.

In sum, The Virgin of Bennington is not about virginity, nor is it (except for the brief introductory chapter) about Bennington. It is about an extraordinary person, Betty Kray, and her exceptional creativity and energy in the service of poetry. It is also, indirectly, a story about the love that one gifted artist has for her mentor.

Was the title picked by someone who had read the book?
A valuable history of several decades of poetry and "poetry politics" in the United States. As many other reviewers have noted, the title has little connection, however, to the contents. This fact was annoying to me, and perhaps detracted from my appreciation of the book's contents.

An honest. .
. . . with a somewhat misleading title, autobiographical "look back" at the influences which shaped the life of the author, poet Nathleen Norris.

From her extremely sheltered background to the crazed culture of drugs and sex at Bennington in the late 1960's through her own personal conversion experience, this book traces the life -- and loves -- of an extraordinary 20th century American woman.

The book will not satisfy all. The ultra-conservative will be uncomfortable with the sexual honesty expressed by the author; the far-left will be equally uncomfortable with the author's spiritual awakening and personal conversion. Those persons either too young to remember or too old to have been quite so involved in the whirlwind which "was" the late '60's and early '70's in the United States will be uncomfortable with the author's honesty about her own activities, both positive and negative.

Nevertheless, the story is in the journey -- and the journey is told with depth, with clarity, and with honesty.

Recommended.

False Advertising - but some good moments
I picked up this book at the airport bookstore coming home from a vacation in the Bahamas. I was starved for something reasonably meaty to read having failed to bring enough books with me and having forgotten that they don't have Borders in Freeport. I hadn't read anything by Kathleen Norris but this book looked like an interesting, thoughtful coming of age story from the era during which I went to college.

It seemed to start out that way. The first few chapters were an enjoyable retelling of the author's experience at Bennington where she was the proverbial "fish out of water". Those chapters were well written and fun to read.

Then she went on to tell of her time as a young woman in New York City. Here the book derailed into more of a biography (hagiography might be a better description) of her mentor. If I were into the politics of the small world of modern poets, this might have been interesting. Instead, I found it laborious and not very interesting reading. Since I work in the publishing industry (although not in New York) and have occassionally been involved in business with some of the bigger publishing companies, it might have been fun to read about the politics of the publishing world. But this book was too narrow for that.

The were parts though from time to time that were interesting, and I did enjoy the first chapter. I think this book sets the reader up for disappointed by its title and what it seems to promise on the cover. But I think if the book were more appropriately described its audience would be very small. ... Read more

Book Description

In their own voices, the women of the Beat Generation tell of their lives and work, providing a unique glimpse into the Beat Movement. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Women Writers Rule!
Yes, there were women writing as well, and doing all the other cool stuff at the time. Many of them are still writing or continued to write long after their affair with the "beat" generation. This book is a great introduction to these writers. It's very informative, has just enough of the good gossip and lots of really great writing.

Beautiful!
For a group that is now remembered as a progressive voice in the ultra-conformist wilderness of the 1950s, the Beats were a surprisingly chauvinistic bunch of guys, all too ordinary for their time. That unfortunate fact helps explain the relative obscurity of most of the women who ran with, influenced and, in some cases, loved them. (You probably know that William S. Burroughs accidentally murdered his common-law wife while playing William Tell, but do you know her name?) This wonderful volume goes a long way towards correcting that oversight. Featuring previously unpublished letters, rare pictures and - best of all - a generous sampling of creative works, it's a near-perfect survey of the Beats' female contemporaries, lovers and even a few of their precursors.

Although most of the women profiled here published at least one work in their own right at some point, many of those are not currently in print anywhere else. Additionally, some of the poems and stories here are previously unpublished, and in the case of many of the wives and lovers (referred to as "The Muses"), the works presented here are by far the most intimate look at their lives published thus far. In short, there's something here for everyone: a good starting point for newcomers to the Beats as well as a good supplementary piece for even the most serious students of women's literature.

Never enough Beat
This a good addition to the true beat fan's bookshelf. The histories of the women who took part in the beat movement and the excellent photos are worth the price alone. But you may find yourself surprised by the quality of some of the work. I ended up reading "Door Wide Open" by Joyce Johnson after finishing this book and enjoyed it immensely. The section on Denise Levertov is great as well.
The most enjoyable part of the book for me was the section on Elise Cowan. Cowan represents what Beat really is. She never produced a large, lasting amount of work, but she was a street soldier on the scene, down in the dirt, living the beat dream. Cowan was a lover to Allen Ginsberg, a friend to Joyce Johnson, a fling to Jack Kerouac, and a beautifully tragic figure of the time. If you want to dig deep in the beat and explore all of the characters, then invest in this book.

Excellent insight into the beat generation
This book is very interesting from both an historic and literary view. When I first started reading books from authors like Jack Kerouac and others, the Beat Generation seemed to be male dominated. But by reading this book one can see just how important the women really were. I recommend this book very much. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Wonderful reminiscence of a poor English child circa 1918
This will warm the hearts of all with ties to England ... Read more

Reviews (5)

THIS is the Marilyn I love
Having recently read the axe-grinding Marilyn Monroe "biography" by Ted Jordan, finding this gem by Gloria Steinem (with beautiful photograhps by George Barris) was such a relief.Whether kind or unkind, most Marilyn biographers are men;it makes sense that a woman (and a feminist) would have a much different understanding of her.Steinem pays much attention to the remaining Norma Jeane personality in the grown Marilyn, a little girl who was abandoned, abused, shuffled between the orphanage and foster homes, and married off at 16.This, Steinem writes, explains much of Marilyn's troublesome behavior:she still had the insecurities of Norma Jeane, but tried to get the love she needed by being the sex symbol Marilyn.

This larger sized paperback is split into chapters, for example:"Norma Jeane," about her childhood and background, and "Work and Money, Sex and Politics" about Marilyn's battles with the Studio, her marriages, and her affairs with powerful men.Each chapter is a complete essay unto itself.And the accompanying photographs, most taken by George Barris the month before her death, show a natural, cavorting, and thoughtful Marilyn at 36 years old.

I strongly recommend this book to anyone curious about the REAL Marilyn Monroe.In truth, she had many realities, but I think that Gloria Steinem captures the most important one.

i loved the pictures of marilyn
i loved this book "marilyn " because of the most beautiful pictures of marilyn, these pictures were the last pictures ever taken of marilyn and they show the real true beautiful person and that is norma jeane and the glamor beautiful star marilyn monroe. these pictures show two people one the shy , beautiful, loveable, true, norma jeane and the funny , glamor, beautiful, free, loving marilyn monroe, but it really shows the true norma jeane in these pictures. this book is for the marilyn fans like me, but i am more than a fan of marilyn's , marilyn is my idol my icon and she is real .i reccomened this book to whoever loves marilyn. this is a collectible. what i did not like about this book is the author gloria she says marilyn had killed herself, which i DO NOT BELIEVE , which i beleive is not true, but i ignored that , but the pictures are amazing.

Marilyn - (Abridged)
This is a beautiful photo expose' of Marilyn just six short weeks of her tragic and untimely death. As the first reader/reviewer has stated, this book was written with references to the stars' sexual abuse and family history, which lead to her emotional problems dating from adolescence. Gloria Steinem wrote this work without any 'bias' to this movie legend. I found her writing to be sensitive and understanding throughout. George Barris' photographs are as beautiful and will forever be timeless images of this very remarkable screen star of the 20th century throughout the next millenium. This book should be considered a "must have" for the Monroe fan and collector.

Insightful & reverent
Gloria Steinem explores Marilyn's life through an empathic and feminist perspective in one of my favorite Monroe biographies. Ms. Steinem respectfully addresses the Marilyn's life within the context of her era and retrospectively. She also addresses the impact of Marilyn's childhood sexual abuse and family history on her functioning. Marilyn would likely be proud of thisintelligent, compassionate, historical and cultural treatment. I place this book in league with biographies by Carl Rollyson, Graham McCann and Fred Lawrence Guiles. Of course, thetimeless photographic images by George Barris accompanying thebrilliant text are refreshing, delightful and touching. Steinem truly strives to understand Marilyn, celebrate her strengths and re-evaluate her for our times. Marilyn seems "to speak" through Steinem's insights and in Barris' photographs.

Last photos of Marilyn
Inside is a jewel of pictures by George Barris who was the last photographer to take the last pictures of Marilyn and they capture her innocence. The climax is definitely the colored pictures of Marilyn. We seethe last faze of Marilyn's life in the book but evidently she looked veryhappy. Obviously, something had to give and it was Marilyn. The book islike a last tribute to Marilyn showing her pictures and describing herchildhood and life. ... Read more

Book Description

In "Behind The Scenes", Elizabeth Keckley tells of the 30 years she spent in slavery, how she gained her freedom and of her remarkable friendship with Mary Todd Lincoln for whom she worked as a seamstress in the Lincoln White House. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Elozabeth Keckley's Diary
I really had a hard time reading this. It's one of the worst diary writings I have ever read. I can understand why a publisher would think this book would be important.
However, even if a book is someone as interesting as Mary Todd. Some things quiet honestly should never be published.
There were a few interesting moments about Mary and Abraham Lincoln in the diary. That is really the only reason why I gave it two stars.
The person who published this book. Makes it seems like there is more info on the Lincoln's then there acutely is.
It's more about the hard times of slavery. I don't have a problem reading about such things. However, there are a lot better books out there written about the subject.
If your really new to learning about the Civil War, slavery, and the Lincoln family. Then this book would be relatively of help to you.
But for any long time Civil War book. skip this.

Beautifully Written!
I got a copy of this book from a book fair not on purpose. As a non-native English learner, what strikes me is the ability of Keckley to express rich emotions in very simple words and sentences. I always like reading first person narratives, fictions or true stories, but seldom find one as captivating as this. A five-star from me and it's a pity she didn't seem
to have written other books.

LOUSY !!!!!!!!!!!
This book was VERY,VERY DISAPPOINTING!It had only 2 chapters on 30yrs.of being a SLAVE(if you can believe that!) and 13 CHAPTERS
on 4 yrs. in the White House!!
GO FIGURE!!!!! I am SO SORRY I had my daughter get this book for me for Mother's DAY!

Intersting...
The story/diary it self I found wasn't written very good.However I found Ms.Keckley's relationship with Mrs.Mary Todd Lincoln and her family intersting.
She gave some insightfll thoughts about Mary and Abraham that was quite a treat to read.

Stepping back in time
I was enthralled by every page of this book. I couldn't put it down and was disappointed when it ended. As I was reading the book, I felt like I was stepping back in time witnessing the ordinary, human, day-to-day life behind the historical events we studied in school.

The story was simple and yet it presented a very intimate glimpse into the genuine personalities of Abraham and Mary and the life the author shared with them. Elizabeth Keckley was not writing to impress anyone with her "insider" position in the White House, she was just sharing her story.

The stories about her life as a slave also offered the reader an opportunity to experience slavery through the eyes and heart of a slave.

How lucky we are that she wrote this book. ... Read more

Book Description

When a rare optic condition strikes Jacquelin Gorman, colors one by one vanish from her spectrum, and her vision begins to falter. She finds herself in a race against the encroaching darkness, frantically studying family photos, the faces of her daughter and husband, and the geography of her home, committing them to the realm of memory. Once her world fades to black, she relives moments from her childhood--and memories of her autistic brother, Robin--in nightly Technicolor dreams.During her siege of blindness, Gorman finds innocence and courage in her brother's brief, tragic life--and a pure, unquestioning love that illuminates her darkness with the healing, eternal light of love. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

splendidly touching
As the parent of an autistic child this book touched every nerve in my body, from the mother who is tormented to the children (siblings) who don't understand, to the grandfather who says Robin must go to an institution to save the rest of the family. For a short time, the author goes blind (of course, when and if her sight returns is not known while she is struggling through this terrifying bout of blindness). While she is trying to navigate her own new world with her family, she dreams of her brother. While her world is black and white, she dreams in color and has vivid recollections of growing up with an autistic brother in a time when nothing was known about autism. I have had people tell me they cried at the end of the book from an overwhelming sense of sadness. But, I felt oddly at peace that this sister was able to develop a full blown appreciation for her brother and now, as an adult, has a tender memory of him and for his place in the family.

The Seeing Glass: A Memoir
Jacquelin Gorman was born in a special family; her grandfather had been one of the world's best eye doctors, she has one brother and three sisters, all of the children on her family have watery blue eyes, and her brother, Robin, was [mentally handicapped]. This book is consisted of how Jacquelin recovered her eyesight and of valuable memories that has to do with Robin. Jacquelin had been scared of the dark ever since she was a little girl. After she lost her eyesight, Jacquelin went crazy. She had first tasted how it feels to be isolated. In the total darkness, she followed the footsteps of Robin's childhood by dreaming things that happened to Robin. She experienced several heart-breaking and heart-warming events that brought hope and light into her darkness.
I don't really understand some of the feelings that the author described in this book, but I am sort of touched by some of the scenes that came up in her memory. Through these scenes, I can see a little bit of how [mentally handicapped] people are treated in real life. They are despised, treated unfairly, and always seem to be the target for bullying. But, I can also see how people can still be so passionate and nice even when they are [mentally handicapped]. I learned that being [mentally handicapped] is simply having to learn slower than most other people. Being [mentally handicapped] doesn't mean that one loses his or her ability to care and love other people. It also doesn't mean that a [mentally handicapped] person doesn't need to be loved and cared for.
I think the best part in this book is when Jacquelin recalled a memory of Robin being taken away into Rosewood, a mental hospital. One time, Jacquelin witnessed the way Robin was brought into Rosewood hospital. At first, her mom drove Robin to the entrance of the hospital. Then Robin started to scream, trying to show how much he hated this place, but after a while, he calmed down. After he got out of the car, he said to Jacquelin, "I love you." But right before they entered the hospital, Robin screamed once again and ran back to the car. He told Jacquelin to unlock the door so he could get in, but her mom told her to keep Robin outside. Just when Jacquelin was about to open the door for him, two men came of the hospital and wrapped Robin in a big, white jacket; then they poked a big needle into his arm, which caused him to stop his struggling. Jacquelin didn't have the chance to tell him that she loves him too. ... Read more

Book Description

In her first book, Nobody Nowhere, Donna Williams gave readers an incredible and unprecedented guided tour of the world of autism--a mysterious and little-understood condition.From her earliest years, Donna's world was dominated by disembodied patterns, sound, color, and movement.Cut off from her emotions and unable to make any true connections with other people, Donna lived largely in isolation, avoiding the incomprehensible actions of others yet yearning to be normal.After she endured twenty-five years of imprisonment, a diagnosis of autism enabled her to take the first steps toward freedom, to begin the arduous trek from her "world under glass" to the real world.

Somebody Somewhere chronicles the four years since Donna's diagnosis and continues the journey she began in Nobody Nowhere.Certain that she can no longer survive by straddling two opposing worlds, Donna vows to abandon entirely the comforting isolation of her universe of one.The decision has brought both agonies and rewards.She describes her trial by fire as she abandons the two alternate identities she used to hide behind, Carol and Willie, and goes forth nakedly as Donna alone.She recounts her intensive sessions with her therapist, where she learns devastating truths behind her misconceptions of the real world.She overcomes the prejudice of teachers and classmates in her quest to obtain a degree in education and recounts her breakthrough working with autistic children.She comes to terms with the unwelcome --and for someone with autism, the particularly horrifying--demands of instant celebrity when her first book becomes an international bestseller.She describes the pain and joy of recognizing for the first time her own emotions.She learns to own her self and to love the person she discovers in the mirror.Most poignantly of all, she learns she can at last reach out to others for friendship and finds the pleasure of a "special-ship" with a kindred soul.

Once again, Donna Williams proves herself a gifted gatekeeper, that rare individual who can illuminate a shadow world that continues to be deeply misunderstood, who can shatter the myths of autism and rise above its greatest challenges.Donna's journey is far from over, but readers will cheer her tenacity, eloquence, and courage. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The sequel I was waiting for...
The first book was an amazing journey for me, and to read the second book was just as wonderful as the first. It left me wondering if there was a third book. A must read!

There is always more to know.
Have you read her first book? You'll be happy to read this one too, and share her experience. Learn more about autism, conquering it, and dealing with it.

Should be A prescribed Text ............
Donna Williams book 'Somebody Somewhere' is one of those books that opens your mind - and makes you want to stand up and applaud human courage. My personal interests include psychology, child development, communication, extra sensory perception psychic ability, and Metaphysics. Donna Williams sharing of her 'world' inadvertently embraced all these subjects, and made me highly aware - not of 'differences' but of 'similarities'. Our human need to be understood, to be treated with dignity, and to be accepted in our individuality.

Donna Williams is truly an Expert on the world of Autism, way beyond the usual sets of clinical observations, and range of treatments designed to 'normalise'. We 'normals' do have to rethink the term 'dis-abled'!

Just what I need to know as I am studing Autism..
I am teaching autistic children and Donna Williams has given me so much information and insite. My students are so much better because of her honisty. Thanks Ms. Williams. I understand you did an interview with Connie Chung on 20/20 in 1994. I can not find it and if there is anyway you can help me I would be very greatful. Thanks again. God bless you. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent Primer on Hildegard of Bingen's life and times
I recently purchased this tape in the hopes in increasing my knowledge of women leaders and role models, especially from medieval and renaissance times. The tape is excellent. Fierro's grasp of Hildegard's life is inspiring. She weaves the story of Hildegard's life as a woman religious and a woman searching for creative and spiritual development in a world that would just as soon she didn't exist. In my search for materials on Hildegard, including a trip to Bingen, I found numerous books on her life and vast array of talents, most in German, unfortunately, and very few that focus on her music. Fierro's tape provides a wonderful bridge from the scholarly world to everyday life. Her voice resonated through my car speakers as did the beautiful and haunting flute music based on Hildegard's writings. I would recommend this tape to everyone interested in learning about Hildegard of Bingen, especially those who are time stressed. My only complaint about the tape would be that it wasn't long enough, but I suppose Part II is being worked on as we speak. Great tape!!!

An Inspired Life is Brought to Life for Us
The extraordinary life of 12th century German nun Hildegard of Bingen, virtually unknown until recently, is presented by Nancy Fierro with clarity and a sense of expansive generosity. Hildegard was a gifted woman, a nulti-dimentional artist, whose mystical visions became manifest in a vast body of work that encompassed music, writing, medicine, art, and spiritual leadership. Fierro, whose research into Hildegard's legacy has obviously been extensive and detailed, invites the contemporary listener to not only learn intriguing details about this amazing visionary, but more significantly, to be magnetized to that field of ongoing contemplative insight which was Hildegard's true home. Colorful, inspired, and decisive, Fierro's fluid, engaging presentation reflects both scholarship and a vibrant reverence for her subject. For those seeking a comprehensive overview of the life of Hildegard of Bingen, this is an excellent resource.

Complex material made clear an easily understandable
I have practically worn out this tape listening to it over an over again. It gave me a great deal of information about Hildegard and made me hungry to know more about this medieval phenomenon. I like the way the author presents what could be very complex material in an easy and understandable way. Her voice is unobtrusive and lets me concentrate on the content. Flute interludes put me in a relaxed state of mind. I would without question recommend this tape to anyone who wants a basic introduction to Hildegard, and her world. ... Read more

Book Description

Claudia J. Kennedy retired as the Army's first female three-star general and the highest-ranking woman ever in that branch, overseeing 45,000 soldiers worldwide. During her 32-year career she witnessed the dramatic advances made by military women, and she was a long-time champion for fairness and equality in the Army. As she recountsher experiences in a male-dominated profession, beginning as a young Women's Army Corps officer in 1969, moving through her Pentagon service as a three-star general, and ending with her retirement in 2000, General Kennedy charts the struggles and triumphs in her inspiring life and career. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Disappointed
As an Army Intel Officer, I hoped to learn something about my chosen profession from an officer who was at the peak of the Intel world. Instead I found myself skimming ever forward to find something new. Given the 5 pages of explanations of Army terms at the back of the book it should have been no surprise that General Kennedy wrote to a general audience, not a military one. I think she missed the mark. Most of her "management" lessons have been given elsewhere and better. Most of her military leadership lessons have been too. Her stories of her early days and the transition from WAC to regular army were good and I wish she had continued. She could have related her views on the change from the Army Security Agency (ASA) to the current INSCOM as someone who was part of ASA and then Commanded INSCOM. Where were the stories of the growth and then near death of tactical SIGINT? I had hoped for a book about an Intelligence professional, and Army Officer and a Female soldier. Instead General Kennedy wrote the reverse emphasis with far more about being a female than an intelligence professional. I was also disappointed that General Kennedy glossed over so many difficulties. She speaks of the "myth" of female soldiers getting pregnant to avoid deployment yet one check of the medical stats at Ft Hood during Desert Storm would dispel the thought that it is a myth. Why not show that just as many male soldiers suffered sudden lower back problems or other ailments that made them non-deployable too. Avoiding deployment is equal opportunity but pregnancy is not so why pretend it doesnt happen? She also missed the opportunity to take to task women like Lt. Kelly Flinn and the Army officer who insisted on breast-feeding at work. Her silence gives the impression of support. Maybe t