Book Description

Gain new perspective of Harper Lee's coming-of-age story set in a racially divided Southern town with CliffsNotes on To Kill a Mockingbird! With this study guide, you'll get to know Atticus Finch, Boo Radley, and Scout, the 6-year-old tomboy on the verge of a life-altering event. CliffsNotes on To Kill a Mockingbird also provides you with expert commentary, a character map, and a critical essay. What's more, you'll get background information about Harper Lee as well as suggestions as to why, after winning a Pulitzer Prize, this was to be her one and only novel. ... Read more

Reviews (1234)

To Kill a Mockingbird
This is one of my all time favorite book as well as my favorite movie. I think that those of us who have read the book love the fact that narrator as well as one of the main characters is a little girl named Scout. The story is seen through her eyes and this makes the book more enjoyable as well as easy to understand. Sometimes she's funny and witty, other times she's very intelligent and through out the story she's just trying to understand the world around her. Atticus Finch, Scouts father, is a wonderful character because he shows his love and respect for his children as well as for everyone else. He shows he has moral values rather than social ones when he defends a black man being accused of having raped a white women. This shows that no matter how bad or how wrong things are, there is always someone willing to stand up for what they believe, and that there are good people in the world. This took alot of courage on Atticus's part considering they lived in the South. And although he loves both his children dearly, he seems to have a special bond with Scout. He teaches her that a person doesn't really understand someone else until they've walked in their shoes. That is excellent advice no matter who you are or how old. What is also highly interesting, and very original to this story, is the mystery behind Boo Radley. He's one of the main characters in the story yet he never really appears in person. In the first half of the story the children talk so much about him that they make jokes and at some points make him sound like a monster, not knowing that in the end he's the one who saves the day. I believe that what I love the most of this story is that it isn't a love story or an action/adventure kind of story, but one that tells the experiences that all of us can learn from. They're experiences we see happen sometime in our lives. Justice and injustice, prejudice in the society we live in, and courage and respect for other human beings. Anyone and everyone can relate and learn from this story, this is why it's a wonderful story for anyone to enjoy.

I thought this book would be boring--WAS I EVER WRONG!
For years, my friends had pestered me to read this book. Every time I would look at them and say "It looks so boring, though!" It wasn't until this year for a school assignment, that I read it. I could have killed myself for not reading it earlier. This book is anything but boring. It is a fantastic novel that I will read over and over. Jeremy(Jem) and Jean Louise(Scout) Finch are brother and sister and they live in the county of Maycomb in Alabama. The story takes place in the 1930s. At this time, there was a lot of discrimination towards black people. People also discriminate poor whites, to whom they reffered to as white trash. One family that was considered white trash was the Ewell family. Bob Ewell was the father of 8 children. Since thy had no mother, 19-year-old Mayella Violet Ewell, the oldest child, served as a mother. A black man named Tom Robinson, who worked in fields near the Ewell household, had to pass by the house every day. Being lonely, Mayella started making advances towards Tom. This was totally against all code. It was unimaginable for a white and black to do anything with each other. Ashamed of what she had done, Mayella went to the court and accused Tom of molesting her. Atticus Finch, the father of Jem and Scout, is the lawyer who defends Tom. Every one is against him because of this. Sure enough, Tom and Atticus lose the trial. But Bob Ewell is planning revenge on Atticus anyway, because Atticus had exposed him as a liar in the courtroom. What Bob ends up doing is extremely scary. This book touched me very much. In my opinion, i would say Atticus is my favorite character. The lessons he teaches to Scout and Jem about right and wrong, and how peaceful and kind he is to everyone is just amazing. Atticus is a great man, and I respect him very much even though he is make-believe. I have only one more thing to say. If your first opinion about this book is bad, please put it aside and read it. I will say that the beginning is boring, but look beyond it into the true meaning of this book. READ IT.

To Kill a Mockingbird
Only growing up in the south would enable Harper Lee to capture the vicious sweetness that pervails there. Not only to capture it but then be able to transfer that on to the reader. You can smell the sweetness of the talcum through the sticky of the hot summer days. Sickly sweet. The church group women are vicious in their sweetness. Ardently praying for the savages in Africa while embracing the savage mores of the south. And in the midst of all of this she tells one of the greatest coming of age stories ever written. Fabulous. One I read every summer.

What Is There To Say. A MASTER WORK!
Everyone knows this story or should. I'll get right to the point. YOU MUST READ "TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD"!!! You simply must!

Great Book
THIS BOOK WAS VERY RELAXING...AND I LOVED IT. IT HAD QUITE A PEACEFUL SETTING, DISTURBED BY THE HARSH REALITY OF RACISM, EVIL, AND PREJUDICE. I LOVED HOW IT WAS TOLD FROM A CHILD'S POINT OF VIEW. ALSO, HOW ALL THE EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE CONCLUSION REALLY SUMMED UP WHAT THE CHILD (SCOUT) LEARNED. AT THE END, SHE LEARNED ABOUT COMPASSION, FAIRNESS, EQUALITY, AND KINDNESS. EVERY SO OFTEN, THIS BOOK HAD SOME SURPRISES AND IT REALLY DISGUSTED ME HOW MUCH HATRED THAT HUMANS HAD. I THOUGHT THE TITLE WAS EXCELLENT, AND THE ENDING WAS SPECTACULAR. I QUITE LIKED THE BOOK BETTER THAN THE MOVIE. I WOULD RECOMMEND THE OUTSIDERS AS WELL, AS IT IS ALSO ABOUT CONFLICT BETWEEN TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF PEOPLE. THE ENDING OF TKAM REALLY SUMMED UP THE STORY AMAZINGLY, AND THIS WAS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE NOVELS. ... Read more

Book Description

Considered by many to be the most influential African writer of his generation, Achebe's works have been translated into more than 45 languages. This story paints a sweeping picture of Nigeria, informing the world of the dense riches of the country and culture. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

the best
a book for anyone. things fall apart needs to be read by an open minded person...seeking to learn, share and understand. those who aren't open cannot hope to grasp its depth.

Life as he knew it, was not to be
Achebe comes across as a prolofic and impartial writer who meticulously documents the Igbo lifestyle in a western traditional realist genre. His sketches evoke a sense of pride yet displeasure at the Igbo 'rituals' and values which we seet through Okonkwo's and Nwoye's eyes, respectively. People who have lost their identity and are in search of their roots will find this book enlightening. The lesson I have gleaned from 'Things Fall Apart' is nothing in life is permanent and therefore whilst I try to cling on to what I have now, I must be open to new ideas and influences which I could learn to adapt to.

"Things Fall Apart", is an ok book, it is very elaberant
I recommend this book for Sophmores in High School, I read it in the 7th grade ... Read more

Book Description

A comprehensive review guide to help you refresh your study. This guide is particularly useful for midterms and final exams, condensing a semester's worth of information into one concise volume. ... Read more

Book Description

When it comes to pinpointing the stuff you really need to know, nobody does it better than CliffsNotes. This fast, effective tutorial helps you master core biology concepts – from cellular functions, genetics, and evolution to anatomy, ecology, and reproduction – and get the best possible grade.

At CliffsNotes, we're dedicated to helping you do your best, no matter how challenging the subject. Our authors are veteran teachers and talented writers who know how to cut to the chase – and zero in on the essential information you need to succeed. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good supplement
This is a good supplement for those taking a biology class. Explains things in a nice, condensed version. Reinforces knowledge in an easy, concise manner.
Recommend to parents helping their children with their high school biology class.

great for those with a decent background in biology
I purchased this book for the purpose of touching up my biology knowledge for a standarized test. I had already taken an AP Biology class in high school and a physiology course in college. This book was very effective in condensing an entire semester long course into a short 200 or so pages. It truly mentions ONLY the very fundamental concepts of biology. I would recommend this book to those who wish to review a biology course that they have already taken. This book is entirely too brief for those with no previous background information in the area. For certain topics that my high school and college courses failed to cover, I needed to rely on more thorough text books for further detailed explanations. Some aspects of biology are just too in-depth for these short cliff notes to cover. In conclusion, this book is a great resource if you are looking for a quick, to-the-point review!

GREAT!
WOW this book is so short, yet so great! it is just like my bio book (close to 800 pages) but only, its 208 pages and it is just facts, none of the needless filler. The TOC is also just like the one in my bio textbook, but agian, the info it leads to is MUCH MUCH MUCH quicker to grasp! ... Read more

Book Description

Who is John Galt? This famous rhetorical question rings through Ayn Rand's best-selling novel as the people's anthem of despair in depressed economic times. Set in the future, the novel follows capitalist magnates as they battle looters, strikers, and the impending ruin of the United States' economy. The romantic and intellectual relationship between Dagny Taggart, the heroine, and John Galt, whose identity as the leader of the strike is eventually revealed, carries the novel to its climax.

This novel, controversial when it first appeared in 1957, purports Rand's objectivist philosophy that the individual is free to pursue his or her own happiness without bowing to God or society. Objectivism in action upholds full laissez-faire capitalism as the only philosophy that can protect humankind's freedom to think, to be inventive, and to live productively. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Bernstein - right choice for Cliff note on Atlas
Like Rand, Bernstein is a philosopher and novelist. His extensive study of Rand's thought is evident in this masterful recapitulation of Rand's great novel. He understands Rand's ideas and characters, leading to a sympathetic treatment. However, he avoids being an overbearing propagandist. For those of us who were riveted by the action the first time we read Atlas, this will serve as a discussion with a 'friend' as we recall the events and characters. Enjoy.

GREAT TOOL TO HAVE!
I've pushed my way through many years of school without buying a single Cliffsnotes. I found it funny that my first purchase would be for a book I choose to read on my own accord. Rand's novel can't be praised enough, but I also have to give the Cliffnotes for the novel their fair due. This little book was a great help in gaining a better understanding of this massive novel. I really enjoyed the in depth character analysis, the tight summary of the book, and the critical essays offered at the end. If I were to write a paper on the book, I would definitely gain from having these notes. More importantly, by reading the book chapter by chapter, then going to the Cliffnotes and reading along to cover what I had just read, I was able to get through a work that covers a TREMENDOUS amount of ground, with a huge scope, and not get lost. After gaining as much as I did from using the Cliffnotes as a study tool while reading this novel, I made sure to pick up the Cliffnotes for "Fountainhead" so I could do the same for that book. I will definitely give consideration to purchasing Cliffnotes for my longer, more challenging future reads.

A Great Supplement
If the value of CliffsNotes was only to help readers discover with clarity what a particular author meant to convey in their novels, this book on _Atlas Shrugged_ would be trash. The reason is that Ayn Rand, more than any other author, wrote perfectly lucid novels about which no clarification is needed.

However, these books (of which I've only read a few) do offer another value that makes this one especially, not trash, but a book to be treasured. What they offer is this: the CliffsNotes books condense often-lengthy, important works of art so that they can be grasped--and remembered--with ease. And, as _Atlas Shrugged_ comprises some thousand plus pages with enough action and subplots to rival any novel by Hugo or Dumas, this value can perhaps never be more evident than with this new addition to the CliffsNotes series by Andrew Bernstein.

Cognizant of the task at hand, Dr. Bernstein condenses the entire book in a solid nine pages. From there, he lays down who the characters in the book are--as well as their relation to one another. And, after that, the reader is given a host of "critical commentaries" on each of the books thirty chapters which summarize what happened, pose questions to the reader that will be answered later, and reveal a number of instances where Miss Rand's overall theme can be seen.

Any person who is reading _Atlas_ for the first or second time ought to find these commentaries very helpful in understanding and appreciating the book. Unfortunately, as someone who has read the novel many times, I had to read many of the author's observations with a bitter-sweet sense of joy. ("Bitter" because I wish such a book was around when I first started reading Rand's novels and "sweet" because one finally is.)

Complete, undiluted happiness did not have to wait long however. Immediately after the "critical commentaries" is a section on the most important characters giving a detailed analysis of each. Then, at the end of the book, are two magnificent essays--one on the overall theme of _Atlas Shrugged_ and another on Miss Rand's portrayal of the common man which tells why the book's main "common man" (Eddie Willers) has an unresolved fate at the end. These two essays were a nice finishing touch for the book, making even a self-titled "veteran" reader like myself glad to have read it.

Taken all together, from the brief biography of Miss Rand at the beginning to the quizzes and projects to stimulate learning at the end, this book proves that Dr. Bernstein was the right man to pick for the job. And so, my gratitude goes out to the author and this last word of advice goes out to you, the person reading the words I've written here: "get this book whether you are reading _Atlas_ for the first time or not--as a supplement to Miss Rand's magnum opus there's nothing better on the market."

Generally useful.
Well, this is such a long book you'll need the Cliff's Notes to keep track of everything-especially if you're like me and read it, put it down and wait a while to pick it back up. It's the best way to remember where I left off.

Sometimes it could go into better summaries, I think it leaves out important points, though. But generally, it's good. Just don't rely on this for your test (you should never do that, though!)

A Writer Obviously In Love With His Subject Matter
This is a terrific condensation of Ayn Rand's masterpiece on the morality of capitalism, and it glows with author affection. Dr. Andrew Bernstein is sometimes called an "Ayn Rand evangelist," but he prefers to describe his activities using a more sober expression, "rational proselytization." His Cliffs distillation accurately captures the gist of Atlas Shrugged, the plot and the philosophy, and his post-chapter analyses offer the sort of illumination that comes only from deep knowledge of, and unbridled enthusiasm for, the subject matter.

Atlas Shrugged is, for many, a difficult book to get into; I know people who say they've attempted to start it five or six times. Given that Atlas is vastly richer than the Cliffs Notes version, my recommendation is for the reader to explore the Cliffs Notes and Atlas Shrugged simultaneously, chapter by chapter, first reading a condensed chapter and then the real thing.

And if you ever get the chance to see Dr. Bernstein in person, go for it. He's a captivating and witty speaker, a genuinely inspiring Ayn Rand evangelist. ... Read more

Book Description

Your complete guide to a higher score on the Officer Candidate Tests

Why CliffsTestPrep Guides?

Go with the name you know and trust
Get the information you need–fast!
Written by test prep specialists

About the contents:

Introduction:

• Careers and specialties in the U.S. Armed Forces
• Officer qualifications, training, and advancement
• Format of the AFOQT, ASVAB, and ASTB exams

Part I:Getting up to speed with…

• Successful strategies for all three exams and every subject area
• Reviews of verbal and reading skills, mathematics, and mechanical comprehension
• Practice questions, answers, and explanations in each chapter

Parts II and III:Six Full-Length Practice Tests–2 AFOQT, 2 ASVAB, 2 ASTB–with Answers and Explanations ... Read more

Book Description

Set out on the grand adventure of Homer with CliffsNotes on The Odyssey. This epic poem unfurls the story of Odysseus' triumph over Troy and arduous journey home to reclaim his kingdom. At 2,500 years old, it is one of the finest books ever written; as poetry, it sets the standard for comparison; and it serves as one of the foundations of the Western world's cultural heritage. Keep track of all of the fantastic characters and daring encounters in The Odyssey with character maps, commentary, and plot synopses from CliffsNotes. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

TURNED "ROCKET SCIENCE" to Reading Ease
Homer's The Odyessey is a drudgery to read not to mention understand. This book took the pain and bordom of that and shortned it to a 1 hour (45 if your a fast reader) book that keeps all the details (for your reading pleasure) and explains the importance of each section in relations to High School which actually helps a ton. (pulled my grade on this from the usual B to A thanks to this book).

Cliffnotes
This is a great way to help you better understand the book. While it does not take the place of the book it is a really good learning tool, ... Read more

Book Description

Develop a sense of Shakespeare's rose of a romance with CliffsNotes on Romeo and Juliet —a study guide that can help your understanding (and grades) blossom into the sweet smell of success! Find out all the who, what, when, and wherefores about the famous star-crossed lovers and the family feud between the Montagues and Capulets. Plus, you'll get plenty of background on the life and times of William Shakespeare, and insight into the play's themes and literary devices. CliffsNotes on Romeo and Juliet is the classroom companion you can count on as tackle your reading assignments with confidence. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

DONT BUY THIS BOOK
This book is not as great as it is made out to be. It is neither clear, nor good, and is no help in studying!!!

Excellent for Students
It is very easy to understand when compared to the original text on Romeo & Juliet. Great to use for studying for exams and help with essays. What else can i say it's fantastic! ... Read more

Book Description

When it comes to pinpointing the stuff you really need to know, nobody does it better than CliffsNotes. This fast, effective tutorial helps you master core management concepts – from the systems approach and decision making to organizational design and human resource planning – and get the best possible grade.

At CliffsNotes, we're dedicated to helping you do your best, no matter how challenging the subject. Our authors are veteran teachers and talented writers who know how to cut to the chase – and zero in on the essential information you need to succeed. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Perfect for CLEP
I have a background in Quality and Project Management, but had limited knowlege of HR and motivational theories. I bought this book the week before, and passed the CLEP yesterday with a 76 out of a possible 80. This is literally the only book you'll need to pass the exam, and you can read it in a day or so. Spend special attention to theories and pioneers of management.

Four hours latter, I'm an expert
I sat down with this book for four hours, two days before taking the management CLEP. I read it once through, went to the CLEP, and passed with a comfortable margin to spare. Of course, it's not the most difficult test in the world, but this book lays out a lot of specifics that you have to "know," and can't just lie your way through. It is well written and reads clearly. Of course, it's kind of like taking an overview class in college. You're bored, unsatisfied, and have more questions than answers, but it was enough to get me through the test with basic knowledge of management principals.
Happy reading ... Read more

Book Description

This review of the myths from seven different cultures provides an overview of the stories that we live by, from ancient times to the present. The gods and their stories depict all the relationships in life and present a moral code of human conduct. These stories are also a map to understanding history.

This CliffsNotes guide covers Egyptian, Babylonian, Indian, Greek, Roman, and Norse mythologies, as well as the Arthurian legends.

The major topics discussed in this book are as follows:

• Egyptian Mythology: Some Principal Gods, The Creation, Osiris

• Babylonian Mythology: The Major Gods, The Creation, The Flood, Gilgamesh

• Indian Mythology: The Main Vedic Gods, Indra and the Dragon, Hindu Gods and Concepts, Bhrigu and the Three Gods, Rama and Sita, Buddha

• Greek Mythology: The Titans, Other Primordial Deities, The Olympian Gods, Other Gods, Mythical Greek Geography, The Beginnings (Creation, Prometheus and Man, and more), The Heroes, The Tragic Dynasties, The Trojan War, Other Myths

• Roman Mythology: The Roman Gods, Patriotic Legends, Love Tales

• Norse Mythology: Supernatural Races, The Major Norse Gods, Creation and Catastrophe, Odin, Thor, Balder, Frey, Freya, Loki, Beowulf, The Volsungs, Sigurd

• Arthurian Legends: Merlin, King Arthur, Gawain, Launcelot, Geraint, Tristam, Percivale, The Grail Quest, The Passing of Arthur's Realm

Reviews (2)

A comprehensive look at much more than Classical Mythology
Do not be fooled by the face on the cover of Zeus (a.k.a. Jupiter), because James Weigel, Jr. looks at much more than "Classical" (i.e., Greco-Roman) mythology in this Cliffs Notes. Before we ever get to the best-known mythological figures Weigel covers Egyptian Mythology (Principal Gods, the Creation and Osiris), Babylonian Mythology (Major Gods, the Creation, the Flood and Gilgamesh) and Indian Mythology (Main Vedic Gods, Indra and the Dragon, Hindu Gods and Concepts, Bhrigu and the Three Gods, Rama and Sita, and Buddha). Consequently, both the Near East and Far East and adequately covered in this volume. Of course, Greek Mythology ends up receiving the most attention, from the Primordial Deities, Titans and Olympians to the Great Heroes (e.g., Heracles, Jason), the Tragic Dynasties (e.g., House of Atreus), and the Trojan War, along with Brief Summaries of Other Myths (e.g., Midas, Sisyphus). The Roman Mythology section focuses on the few gods the Romans added to the classical pantheon along with Patriotic Legends (Aeneas, Romulus & Remus) and Love Tales (e.g., Pyramus and Thisbe, Pygmalion). Continuing the chronological progression, Weigel then covers Norse Mythology and the Arthurian Legends. Throughout there is the traditional Summary/Commentary breakdown you expect from Cliffs Notes. However, because so much ground is covered you do not get a lot of depth to either, and if there are notes available on specific works (e.g., "Iliad," "Aeneid") you will want to avail yourself of them if that is what you are teaching/reading. But what this volume lacks in depth it more than makes up for with breadth. The volume also includes Bibliographical Essay, Review Questions, Recommended Readings and very useful Genealogical Tables. Hopefully access to this book will inspire getting beyond the Classical Mythology that is usually all students receive in class.

This book is incredible!
When I was in 6th grade I did a project on Greek mythology, and the first and only book I looked in was this mythology book. It was so full of information about all the Greek gods (and other kinds of gods too, like Roman, Egyptian, and Indian) that I didn't have any trouble with my project. If you are interested in mythology, this is the book to read, and answer all your questions with. ... Read more

Book Description

Like many of Steinbeck's novels, Of Mice and Men takes place in the world of migrant workers in California. Let CliffsNotes on Of Mice and Men introduce you drifters Lennie and George, and recount their peculiar difficulties and unusual bond. The CliffsNotes Resource Center, commentaries, summaries, and character analysis will show you why this sweet, sad, and moving American story is considered to be one of Steinbeck's greatest works. Don't settle for just getting by in your literature courses when you can achieve excellence with CliffsNotes by your side! ... Read more

Book Description

This is a deeply moving story of one woman's search for love in this world. Although narrated by Hurston, the first and last chapters are "framed" around two long-lost friends who meet on a back porch. The book is a journey through the South and a testament to the hunger and fulfillment that love provides for each of us.

This concise supplement to Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God helps students understand the overall structure of the work, actions and motivations of the characters, and the social and cultural perspectives of the author. ... Read more

Book Description

This concise supplement to O'Brien's The Things They Carried helps students understand the overall structure of the work, actions and motivations of the characters, and the social and cultural perspectives of the author. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Jill Colella
I would like to publicly state that Jill Colella is a total babe.

Great study aid
Cliff's notes once again delivers as a fantastic study aid. By no means should you use this as a replacement for the book. O'Brien has emerged as one of the greatest modern writers on the subject of war, and it would be a pity to overlook his writing. But if you are looking for help to write a paper on the topic, or just curious to discover more about the underlying meaning of the novel, don't hesitate to buy Cliff's Notes. ... Read more

Book Description

The importance of The Holy Bible, whether as a master work of literature or religious canon, can hardly be overestimated. This comprehensive study guide provides a unique approach to reading The Holy Bible and helps readers dive deep into the New Testament to analyze the teachings of Jesus through poetry and parable. The guide also leads readers through the Old Testament, the foundation for both Judaism and Christianity and the moral and political beacon for many nations of the Western world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Finally a reprieve for the unremitting boredom
Wow, I really have to say--this is one Cliffs Notes that I can appreciate. It actually has a purpose. This is the perfect book for those of us who are forced by parents and sunday school teachers to read the Bible on penalty of everlasting suffering and torment. I wish this was available when I was growing up...it is the perfect tool to decieve those that would try to force us to read the incomphrensible gibberish that is the Bible. And frankly rounding out at just under 100 pages, I can say that this is about as much of the Bible that I can bear. Easy to read and understand and without the mind-altering, brainwashing side affects. A+, highly recommended!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Jazz up your papers and essays on F. Scott Fitzgerald's seminal novel of triumph and tragedy in the 1920s with CliffsNotes on The Great Gatsby. This study guide enables you to peek into the social circles of post-World War I American affluence, with detailed studies of the characters of that classic love triangle: Daisy Buchannan, Nick Carraway, and Jay Gatsby. You'll also discover important information about the novel's plot points in the expert commentaries, as well as insight into Fitzgerald himself and his views on the novel's many social themes, including greed, justice, power, betrayal, and pursuit of the American dream. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

What are you thinking?!
Stop right now. Do NOT buy this. Buy the actual book instead! I know, I know, crazy idea in this day and age, but Cliffs Notes are exactly what is wrong with the world of literature these days: too many people reading the Reader's Digest version, and not enough actually reading great literature! I mean, come on people, the book is less than 200 pages long. You can read it in one sitting. And it's not even that difficult to understand--the prose is limpid and the plot engrossing. Don't cheat; don't take the easy way out. Do the right thing. Read the book, not the Cliffs Notes.

Very helpful.
"Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby (Cliffs Notes)" is a great way to help you understand what you're reading, if you're having difficulties. If you're not having a problem reading "The Great Gatsby," this will give you questions to test your knowledge of the book. Of course, you should read the Cliffs Notes AFTER you read "The Great Gatsby," not instead of. I recommend.

Pathetic
I am not a student. I wanted to read The Great Gatsby but I had no one with whom I could discuss the story. I decided in a momentary lapse of judgment to supplement my reading with the Cliffs Notes. Unfortunately, it was full of grammatical errors and what I found to be very superficial commentaries.

The Great Lifesaver
Reading the cliffnotes of Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby definately got me out of big trouble in an american lit class i've been in. They are great study guides and can help you review more than they can get you through the test. Most teachers read the cliffnotes and come up with questions that were not included in the cliffnotes version. However! This does give you much better understanding of the book as the themes and characters are explained in an easy table of contents. You could slide with a B by just reading these cliffnotes, it all depends on how you use what knowledge the book gives you ... Read more

Book Description

Wealth, happiness, and the valuable lessons of life envelop a varied collection of characters in Dickens' Great Expectations. Told from an orphaned boy's take on the world around him, this first-person perspective gives readers a detailed look at Victorian England – with its view of virtues and economic change. Travel back with CliffsNotes on Great Expectations to those times as you freshen up your understanding of Charles Dickens' best work with insights into themes of good and evil, plots that twist and turn, and people who want for means to make sense of their lives. Get into English literature – and the good graces of your teachers – with a classroom companion that can meet all your expectations! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great Cliffsnotes!
These Cliffsnotes have definitely helped me as a student to understand the book. It can get hard to read if you're a younger person who doesn't know much about the language Charles Dickens used.

very good
I thought this was a great book. It was a really good summery on great expectations. I know how some people get really confused when reading books like this because it is sometimes hard to understand the language. So I highy reccomend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

CliffsNotes on Lord of the Flies takes you on an exploration of William Golding's novel to the dark side of humanity, the savagery that underlies even the most civilized human beings. Follow Golding's group of young boys from hope to disaster and watch as they attempt to survive their uncivilized, unsupervised, and isolated environment. You can rely on CliffsNotes on Lord of the Flies for character analyses, insightful essays, and chapter-by-chapter commentaries to ensure your safe passage through the rich symbolism of this novel. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

It Complements The Novel, But Doesn't Substitute For It
Few students in America can get out of high school without having to read Lord Of The Flies in English class sometime during the four years that they are there. The story is fairly easy to understand on a superficial level, but the real purpose of this novel is to understand symbolism and foreshadowing. Items in the novel like Piggy's glasses and the conch shell have a "deeper" meaning that may not be obvious to every reader. If the reader is keen, he'll be able to realize that the author tells the reader what is going to happen in a subliminal way prior to actually coming out and saying it. That's called foreshadowing, and it may also be difficult for some readers to comprehend. For these reasons, these Cliffs Notes are extremely useful. The reader will gain a better understanding and appreciation of the novel by using this supplement while reading the actual novel. With these notes, the reader is given the added benefit of reading commentary written by someone who has already read the book, and is capable of breaking down the significant parts of every chapter.

One drawback to having these notes (as is the drawback to having ANY Cliffs Notes) is the temptation to substitute the notes for the actual novel. While this substitution may work for other novels, it isn't a good idea to think it unnecessary to read the book just because you've read the notes. I tried that, and it didn't work. Besides, the Cliffs Notes are just about as long as the actual book, so you might as well read the real thing.

The bottom line is that these notes are a good investment if you want to gain a good understand of the novel, and insight into what your English teacher might think is important. I recommend these notes.

Great for decoding the symbolism...
The "Lord of the Flies" Cliffs' Notes were invaluable to me when it came to interpreting all of the symbolic language contained in the novel. I always enjoy reading Cliff Notes along with a story because it helps me appreciate the plot more when I can pick up on things that I might have missed when I was reading. If you're going to read "Lord of the Flies" as a school assignment, I would definitely recommend investing in the Cliff Notes. Not only does it improve test scores, but it can also turn an otherwise drab reading assignment into an enlightening adventure into the world of classic literature a la William Golding.

Childhood Experience Relation...
I chose this book because of the many recommendations I have heard through many mouths. This novel is a very adventurous story filled with drama and action. It is based on these plane-wrecked children who get stranded on a pig population island. These boys are different from each individual and each has its own position as a team. They first try to get themselves out by trying to resucue themselves from this island. They cause many atrractions and try many times to get out but fail. So they finally except the fact that they are stranded and they do everything they can to survive. There are leaders and failures in this bunch of boys that help this group survive through the wild. They use what they have brought with them as useful tools in surviving. From the characters, three stand out from the rest which are Jack, Piggy, and Ralph. This story is basically like the saying, "Who let the dogs out," because the kids were savages trying to live their lives through this tropical island. Golding represents these characters as individuals that can learn how to adapt to new surroundings quickly and actually survive. If your looking for an adverturous book, I recommend this to you....

A New View
As I was reading the novel i understood the story, but did not understand the symbolism contained in Golding's work. The Cliff Notes explain the imagery through character analysis and comments on each chapter making the novel very understandable. It was very interesting in how the book pulled together showing a parallel of modern society, not just an adventure story of boys on an island, that Golding so ingeniously created.

its a good book
its a really good book to read ... Read more

Book Description

CliffsQuickReview™ U.S. History II is an excellent resource for students preparing for quizzes, mid-terms, and finals. This book is designed to be used as a supplement to class lectures and textbook reading. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

U.S. History II Quick Review : Sample Practice Exam (Cliffs
The book is a nice, quick way to cram all this information dealing with the AP american history exam. Its very much too the point, and doesn't add superfulous information. I would definatly buy it! ... Read more

Book Description

Unravel the threads of Nathaniel Hawthorne's classic novel with CliffsNotes on The Scarlet Letter. This piece of American literature takes you to Salem, Massachusetts, and introduces you to Hester Prynne. She is pregnant, has been found guilty of adultery, and is sentenced to wear the scarlet letter A embroidered on her dress as a sign of shame. Find out more about Hester, her mysterious daughter Pearl, and the two men in her life – Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale and Roger Chillingsworth – as the novel unfolds. You'll appreciate this story on multiple levels thanks to character analyses, critical essays, and chapter-by-chapter commentaries from CliffsNotes. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

The Scarlet Letter
I downloaded this e-doc for my son, but I can't figure out how to give it to him. What is the name of the file, so I can copy it for him, so he can do his homework on his computer?

Assuming he can read it -- hopefully, tonight, before his test Monday -- it seems like a good product. We really need to find the name of the file, however.

Excellent aid for students of all abilities
Not to sound pretentious, but I had no trouble understanding "The Scarlet Letter," but I still found immense value in this companion text from Cliffs. It helped me by confirming what I myself had thought about the book and giving me interesting ideas for the term paper I was writing. Its usefulness comes from the ease of reading and the volume and quality of its contents. Of further value to the student is the rapidity with which the Cliffs Notes are read, making it indispensable for last minute paper-writing!

One closing comment: Cliffs Notes, however useful, are an aid for the reading of the full text and are no substitute for it.

Very Useful
Since the Bible is not taught in most schools, this Cliffsnotes is quite handy. There are so many biblical references and ideas driving the theme of Hawthorne's splendid novel, that without this guide, few teachers would understand the full context of Hawthorne's book.

Oh, students will find it helpful as well!

I fully recommend "Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter (Cliffs Notes)."

Anthony Trendl

The heartstaking emotion
Once, we were impressed by the characters and conversations. But, you will soon find out thatis not important. I know it is easier for a Christian to feel how painstaking to cencede. We are living in a sinful world with our erring nature. Death should be our eternity. But, Mr. Dimmesdale strived to win and be respected. He knows what is wrong and make the very decision to admit his error. He is brave, with no fear of death or punishment. A love lasts for seven years. Connecting our innermost desire for love, it touch every reader. I cannot move, feeling sorry after reading the ending. I hope no one will miss it.

Saved my English Grade
This book made what was an incredably difficult book to follow easy to understand. I had to read the Scarlet Letter for my Honors english class. Highly Recomended. ... Read more

Book Description

Go behind the German front lines with a group of young soldiers in All Quiet on the Western Front, by Erich Maria Remarque. Narrator Paul Baumer tells the story of several schoolmates whose youth is snatched away by the dehumanization of World War I's trench warfare. Find out why the German government banned and often burned this novel, and explore the present day implications of Remarque's bitter novel. All you need are the detailed character map, plot summaries, critical commentaries, and more from CliffsNotes on All Quiet on the Western Front. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Review of Cliffs Notes on All Quiet on the Western Front
I have to admit that I read the Cliff Notes after I read the book twice and saw all three movies. However, the notes are still helped with understanding points that were not previously stresses. Knowing more about the Author helps in see why he chose the perspective. Keep in mind that any conclusions drawn in the notes are those of Sudan Van Kirk. After reading this supplement you may want to re read the book. The notes include:

. Life and Background of the Author
. Genera; Plot summary

. Remarque's Introductory Note
. Critical Commentaries
. Remarque's Style
. Remarque as a Social Critic
. Character Analyses
. Questions for Review

"He fell in October 1918, on a day that was so quiet and still on the whole front, that the army report confined itself to the single sentence: All quiet on the western Front." ... Read more