Girl Walking Backwards
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Okay...
  • shameful
  • like it
  • Eh, ok.
  • Good book with one caveat
Girl Walking Backwards
Bett Williams
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0312194560

Amazon.com

Although the protagonist of Girl Walking Backwards is a young, more-or-less "out" lesbian, this not a lesbian novel so much as a classic, post-Catcher in the Rye roman à clef, closely observed and skillfully written. Skye has even fewer illusions than Holden Caulfield, but she manages to be cynical without being world-weary. She signs up for volleyball at her new high school only because the girls on the team are beautiful, then shrinks from making the first move toward them: "Making friends is such a formal thing," she reflects. "It would have been so convenient if we all drank. Puking is great bonding, holding your friend's head over the toilet seat is kind of an intimate act. Puking friends come and go, though, at least that was my experience in junior high." When she catches sight of the doomed, black-clad Jessica, Skye thinks she has found a soulmate, but Jessica turns out to be a murky reflection of Skye's mother--unhappy and unstable, feeling cheated by life. To what extent Skye will be pulled down into others' trouble is the issue beneath the more pressing questions of whom she will love, and who will love her. A first novel of unusual distinction. --Regina Marler

Book Description

Skye wants what all teenagers want--to survive high school. She lives in Southern California, though, which is making that difficult. Her mother has fallen victim to the pseudo-New Age culture and insists on dragging her to consciousness-raising workshops and hypnotists. As if this weren't difficult enough, Skye falls in love with Jessica, a troubled gothic punk girl who cuts herself regularly with sharp objects. When she finds her boyfriend having sex with Jessica in a bathroom stall at a rave, her romantic illusions collapse and she has to face the fact that she's been running away from her mother's insanity. Right when things look their worst though, Skye is helped by Mol, a pagan who becomes her true friend, and Lorri, a graceful volelyball player with whom she finds real love. From them she learns how to feel authentic emotions in a culture of poseurs and New Age charlatans. In this anti-coming-of-age novel, where growing up is irrelevant, this is the best gift of all.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Okay..........2007-09-24

After having read many novels from this genre, I just wasn't that impressed. There are many pros and cons to this story...

Pros: It did keep my attention, and I found the imagery between Jessica and Lorri as polar opposites interesting. It also exposes cutting as a real issue.

Cons: The blatant drug usage didn't really appeal to me. What I like about this genre is the actual realness of characters and I found the idea of this everyday usage being normal a bit out there. There wasn't very much development of the Skye/Lorri relationship and I thought the mother was just a bit too extreme.

So, in the end, it's nothing compared to the greats of this genre--Annie on my Mind, Empress of the World, etc., but it's not terrible either. Just not great for realists...

1 out of 5 stars shameful.......2007-07-23

I wish I could give this even fewer stars. It is despicable that there are authors peddling books to our children that encourage not only premarital sexual behavior, but perverse behavior at that. Shame on Bett Williams.

4 out of 5 stars like it.......2007-04-11

im currently reading the book and i rele like it..the author is very intriguing in how she expresses the character's through sex and stuff...its just very interesting

3 out of 5 stars Eh, ok........2007-03-16

I liked this book more towards the beginning. After a while, it became tedious and a bit sloppy. It was sort of depressing, but the problem is that it's depressive nature was not artistic, nor did it lead to any sort of greater understanding. It was just dim. I'd suggest that you just buy the book used or borrow it, if you're intent on reading it.

4 out of 5 stars Good book with one caveat.......2007-02-06

I really enjoyed this book and thought the character of Skye was very fleshed out and real. However, I was a little disappointed by the character of Jessica, a goth girl who self-mutilates. I thought Jessica was a fascinating character, but I took issue with the fact that all of her self-mutilation behavior was described very stereotypically, in a way that shows that the author has limited knowledge of the subject. Jessica cuts herself for attention, to stand out, and to look tough. Her self-mutilation also works as a tool to show that she is ultimately self-destructive. The issue I have with this is that most people who cut are not doing it for attention, are trying very hard NOT to be self-destructive, and don't want people to know about their self-mutilating behaviors. It's a topic that I am somewhat sensitive about, and I was a little peeved at the author's stereotypical characterization of the subject. Other than that, I really loved this book and would reccommend it to anyone, teens or adults, as a beautiful, difficult coming of age story.
Girl Walking Backwards
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Girl Walking Backwards
    Bett Williams
    Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback
    ASIN: B000OTF2F0

    Five Star First Edition Mystery - What The Hyena Knows (Five Star First Edition Mystery)
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • interesting private investigative tale
    Five Star First Edition Mystery - What The Hyena Knows (Five Star First Edition Mystery)
    Thomas J. Keevers
    Manufacturer: Five Star
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

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    1. Five Star First Edition Mystery - Music Across The Wall (Five Star First Edition Mystery) Five Star First Edition Mystery - Music Across The Wall (Five Star First Edition Mystery)

    ASIN: 1594144419

    Book Description

    You might think that P.I. Mike Duncavan, disgraced ex-cop and disbarred lawyer, would have little pride left - but pride was one of the deadly sins that brought him down in the first place. So when his friend, criminal lawyer Stanley Janda, asks Mike for help in defending an accused child killer, he has some serious qualms. Janda's client, Justin Ambertoe, a gay freelance photographer, was seen loitering near the scene of the crime, an abandoned building in a Chicago ghetto, about the time the little boy was murdered. Out of loyalty to his friend, Mike takes the case, but as the investigation proceeds, the State's evidence against Ambertoe mounts, and so do Mike's own doubts about his client. Maybe Ambertoe really is the killer. But if pride has been Mike's downfall, persistence is his strength. Doggedly following a few feeble leads, he eventually uncovers a scheme so bizarre, so diabolical, that no one - not the police, not the prosecutor, not even his own ex-partner - will believe him. The sweep of Mike's investigation takes him through Chicago's seedy back streets, to a west Texas game ranch where African animals are bred for "hunting," to a South African village where witchcraft flourishes and ritual sacrifice is routine. In a deadly cat-and-mouse game, Mike becomes as much quarry as hunter, and wonders whether the forces he's battling might even be supernatural.

    A Chicago native, Thomas J. Keevers is a trial lawyer and former homicide detective with the Chicago Police Department.

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars interesting private investigative tale.......2005-12-31

    He was a Chicago cop who was fired after he was shot by the husband of the woman he was sleeping with. He became a lawyer who was disbarred by the Illinois legal board when he attacked a judge and an opponent for calling him a liar. When he continued to womanize his wife finally left him. Mike Duncavan is trying to regain what his pride cost him starting with his professional life and he hopes one day his first spouse. He works as a legal investigator taking whatever crumbs lawyers sends his way.

    Attorney Stanley Janda, a former cop who met Mike in night school, hires him to find evidence that will exonerate his client photographer Justin Ambertoe, accused of abducting five year old Reggie Brookin. Mike wonders why a gay white man would be in the ghetto even to take pictures of abandoned property. As he interviews the neighbors, he realizes that Stanley's client is hiding something and may be lying beyond the omission, but for some reason believes the man is innocent. When he learns about the African David Akiby, he begins finding loose strings that tie together including seeing a hyena in the park to the Mesquite Bend Ranch in Texas, but the min question remains unanswered: why the kidnapping and probable murder of a child?

    If it was not for Mike's uncanny skills to recognize animals this sleuth tale would be a typical sub-genre tale of a rising superstar falling down to the lowest rung and trying to make it back. In Many ways Mike is a flawed Shakespearean tragic figure whose flaws lead to his downfall. The who-done-it is fun to follow though the ties between Chicago, Texas, and Africa seem nebulous at best but his ex explains his abilities so that the link seems plausible. Fans of interesting private investigative tale will want to learn WHAT THE HYENA KNOWS.

    Harriet Klausner

    Squire's Blood (Squire Trilogy, Book 2)
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • Underrated
    • The boy who would be squire
    • Only So-So
    Squire's Blood (Squire Trilogy, Book 2)
    Peter Telep
    Manufacturer: Harpercollins (Mm)
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

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    ASIN: 006105478X

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Underrated.......2001-08-01

    What a shame that this book is now out of print. Peter Telep's first book of the trilogy was not nearly as impressive as this second installment. Yes, there is some lackluster copyediting and Telep's scene descriptions are not always compelling, but overall the good points far outweigh the bad. This novel is filled with painfully flawed characters who are easy to like -- even the "villains." I am looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy, as Telep left not only the action of the plot to look forward to, but also the lives of each of his characters; and that is something that too many multi-volume epics ignore.

    5 out of 5 stars The boy who would be squire.......2001-01-14

    The Book was vary hard to put down right from the start the plot was great from boy to teenager from a sadel makers son to Squier to the king going through all his life from the day he was born till the end of well the first book I can't wait till I get the other two books I hope thay are as great as the first one ( Squire )

    3 out of 5 stars Only So-So.......2000-03-29

    This book was not that great. Let me start by saying that. For those who only wish to read absolutely wonderful literature, you can stop right now. Squire's Blood is the second book in the Squire Trilogy by Peter Telep. It follows the story of a young man named Christopher of Shores, who by luck and hard work has become squire to King Arthur himself. But the job is not an easy one, for the Saxon tide waxes strong, and the time may soon come when they destroy all England, unless Christopher can stop them. But Christopher hides a dark past, for at one point he was a soldier in a saxon army as well. Now he must wage an inner war against his own feelings, and his desperate attempt to find peace for his two peoples is failing. Add to this mix a jealous varlot trying to kill him, two women vying for his love, and one newborn son, and you have Telep's tale of war and treachoury. This book had the potential to be truly great. It was well-researched, had excellent characters, and a good plot. However, something seems to be missing. The writing style is bland, and I find myself having little sympathy for the characters. At what is supposed to be a tragic death, all I can think is "Oh well, there go's another one." This tale is dark and twisted to be sure, and could have been on the caliber of Edgar Allen Poe, but something must have gone wrong. Quite frankly, the dull writing makes this fast-paced tale boring, and I had to put this book down many times before I went to sleep. Still, it does deserve credit as a saga of epic proportions, with some well thought out characters. I would only read it if I was out of interesting books.
    Squire's Blood
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Squire's Blood
      Peter Telep
      Manufacturer: Harpercollins
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Mass Market Paperback
      ASIN: B000S5PGUG

      Opening the Energy Gates of Your Body: Chi Gung for Lifelong Health (Tao of Energy Enhancement)
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • Athletes, Martial Artists, Dancers, Movement Therapists take notice!
      • Definitely one of the top books out there to start with
      • Engaging material, but the method did not work for me.
      • Wonderful Book
      • Still the best book on qigong (neigong) around
      Opening the Energy Gates of Your Body: Chi Gung for Lifelong Health (Tao of Energy Enhancement)
      Bruce Frantzis
      Manufacturer: Blue Snake Books
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      GeneralGeneral | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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      ASIN: 1583941460
      Release Date: 2005-12-23

      Book Description

      Opening the Energy Gates of Your Body introduces the key concepts of chi gung in a manner both accessible and understandable to Westerners. With fascinating insights gained from years of training in Asia as a warrior, healer, and priest, Bruce Frantzis demystifies the concept of "chi," the body's vital energy life force, and shows why this 3000-year-old system of self-healing works. The book provides a set of enjoyable, low impact exercises that readers can learn on their own, including standing chi gung, a core exercise that effectively boosts performance for martial artists, athletes, business people, and others. Body alignments and Taoist breathing, fundamentals that are the foundation of all Taoist energy practices, are also taught, with special alignments that benefit those who must sit for long periods of time. The book also reveals how chi gung can enhance other forms of exercise, from yoga and Pilates to golf and basketball.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Athletes, Martial Artists, Dancers, Movement Therapists take notice!.......2007-08-19

      If your life revolves around movement you must learn what Bruce Frantzis writes about in this book. Studying and practicing the knowledge presented in this work will most definitely improve and enhance your ability "to move" and if necessary, rehabilitate your physical and energetic bodies. Outward movement begins inside and this book explains the how and why. I have been a practitioner of the internal arts for thirty years and know that if you haven't had exposure to Bruce's teachings, you are short-changing yourself. Study this book and be amazed!

      5 out of 5 stars Definitely one of the top books out there to start with .......2007-08-15

      It seems that many reviewers consider this book, and Master Lam's "Way of Energy", to be two great starting points in learning Qigong, and specifically the various Zhang Zhuang forms of "still standing" or "standing like a tree". I have to say that I fully agree.

      I was very, very impressed with the extent of BK Frantzis' writing in this book. He seemed to find the perfect balance of anecdotes, history of the form, explanations and diagrams of forms & postures, discussions of Qi, meridians...and especially what goes on internally during the standing process.

      I had practiced Tai Chi and Kenpo karate when I was a kid, and thought I therefore had some idea of what to expect. Wrong! I was bowled over by how demanding these seemingly "simple" standing exercises were, both physically, but even moreso mentally. Being an experienced meditator in a variety of techniques, I found these postures were the perfect challenge for me: a way to make me take things I had learned on my own or through other traditions, and combine them with the way BK Frantzis offers. I knew the power the mind had to achieve internal peacefulness, help achieve goals, and improve general health...but I had absolutely no idea it could affect the physical body like it has using these postures.

      Some positive effects after studying and practicing the Opening Gates and Lam's Way of Energy materials:

      --Back pain and tightness about 75% lessened; feels like I've received a professional massage after each standing meditation.

      --Hypertension and other symptoms of anxiety almost completely erased, especially an over-sweating problem I had for a long while.

      --Better control over my breath; changing my entire breathing around, especially just normally when not doing exercises, from the belly/tantien/diaphram instead of from the chest was one of the best changes I've made in my life.

      --More self confidence, energy and positive emotions then I've had in years.

      --Peace of mind easier to attain.

      --My other meditation practices have deepened to huge extents after applying some of Frantzis' Zhang Zhuang/Qigong techniques of visualization and control of Chi energy to my earlier practice.

      --Better sense and awareness of my own body, particularly aches, muscles, pains, and especially stress...and how to go about making them feel better.

      --No need to drink caffeine to wake me up in the morning anymore...Qigong does the trick!

      I'm also impressed with the depth of Frantzis' writing; he supplies numerous anecdotes, pictures, diagrams, and extremely detailed explanations for every possible thing you could want to know about beginning this practice. All in all, this combined with Lam's book are two of the best books that I've ever brought into my life. No dollar amount can be put on both the physical relief and internal peace of mind I've experienced since working with these exercises. Fabulous book, highly recommended.

      3 out of 5 stars Engaging material, but the method did not work for me. .......2007-04-29

      To his credit, the author writes very well about his experiences with chi kung, martial arts, and healing; and the method and motivation behind each exercise are detailed and thorough. But I tried his exercises diligently every day for well over a year (supplemented with a VHS of the same material demonstrated and taught by Frantzis), with no appreciable benefit in stress reduction, health promotion or chi development. I came to the conclusion that Frantzis might talk a good fight, but I needed a different approach to reach my goals for fitness, health and vitality.

      Fortunately, Stewart Alve Olson's Tai Chi Chi Kung method, which I learned from Olson himself, turned out to be exactly what I needed at the time, and later experiences with Flying Phoenix and 18 Buddha Hands helped me even more. So you can count me as a believer in the efficacy of chi kung, but I think you need to learn this stuff directly from the teacher at some point in order to truly benefit, and in any case, there are better methods and teachers out there.

      I am sure that many people will find the book (and Frantzis' other materials) of great benefit; it's also possible that live instruction from the man himself would make the material more effective; but it just wasn't right for my needs.

      5 out of 5 stars Wonderful Book.......2006-08-06

      I have several books on Chi Gung and this book compliments the rest. There is always more to learn and I did. The author writes beautifully and with enthusiasm. My Brother is a doctor of Chinese medicine, acupunture and also teachers Chi Gung and Tai Chi. I sent a copy to Shanghai for him to read, he said it is a great addition to his library.

      5 out of 5 stars Still the best book on qigong (neigong) around.......2006-05-21

      Most people will not have the discipline and patience to work through this workbook on qigong, but for those who do, this is absolutely the finest presentation around. Even more advanced practioners will want to refer to this fundamental book again and again.

      This book works through the physical alignments and beginning standing-dissolving practice as foundation for all advanced work in healing, martial, and meditative qigong/neigong.

      The old edition was excellent, but the new revised edition is even better, adding a step-by-step chapter on Taoist breathing which is a very welcome addition, and one which is a stand-alone practice in its own right.
      A Complete Guide to Chi-Gung
      Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
      • Excellent and responsible introduction to chi gung.
      • Excellent book for beginners, very concise and explanatory.
      • Born-again chi-gung
      A Complete Guide to Chi-Gung
      Daniel Reid
      Manufacturer: Shambhala
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

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      ASIN: 1570625433
      Release Date: 2000-03-07

      Book Description

      Chi-gung, which literally means "energy work," is a system of cultivating health, vitality, and longevity that is based on the fundamental principles of Taoism and the laws of nature. Practiced by the Chinese for thousands of years, chi-gung works with the energy found in all living things to help rid the body of the imbalances that sap our strength and give rise to disease. The simple, meditative movements, breathing exercises, and massage techniques that are the basis of chi-gung can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age or physical fitness.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Excellent and responsible introduction to chi gung........2002-02-24

      I was introduced to the practice of chi gung through the writings of Daniel Reid--this book and another on traditional Chinese medicine.

      The descriptions of the exercises are the best of any of the books I have read since (about 8), and the practice routine he includes is extremely well-structured and beneficial. I have been doing this routine daily for about 6 months, and have enjoyed numerous substantial benefits from it. No other author I have found has provided such a complete workout routine. I have continued to use it as a basis for additional material I have learned from other sources.

      I am most grateful that Mr. Reid, among others, has been willing to make this information available to us in print.

      5 out of 5 stars Excellent book for beginners, very concise and explanatory........2002-02-12

      For those of you starting to learn Chi Kung, this book will give you thorough information about the whole history, the different practices and forms, and the relation body to universal chi. It?ll also give you explanations about the benefits of practicing Chi Kung for yourself as preventive healthcare as well as how it is used to heal others. It covers the various ways of working with Chi, best locations, best time and environment, and a few sets of daily practices.
      This book is excellent for beginners wanting to know what they are dealing with or for curious people to get a good knowledge of Chi Kung. Highly recommended.

      1 out of 5 stars Born-again chi-gung.......2001-10-25

      I am about half way through this book and am straining not to put it down. It is full of rhetoric reminiscent of born-again literature, which makes me question some validity. Full of fantastical stories and not one reference as to where the information comes from. As far as his allopathic understanding of physiology/biology, it is hashed, at times incorrect and simply doesn't make sense. Another book just to turn a buck. Save yourself the time a read a better book!
      Chi Gung: Chinese Healing, Energy and Natural Magick
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • More new age than anything
      • "Who wants to be a Superhero" for Real
      • A book of great depth.
      • Chi Gung, taught as it should be
      • Interesting Read.
      Chi Gung: Chinese Healing, Energy and Natural Magick
      L.V. Carnie
      Manufacturer: Llewellyn Publications
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

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      ASIN: 1567181139

      Customer Reviews:

      1 out of 5 stars More new age than anything.......2007-06-17

      Frankly, if you're looking for a real book on qigong, look elsewhere. While this book does have plenty of techniques, it is full of new age bullshit rather than true source material on the matter. Many of the things noted are quite vague, and no sources are used throughout. I've also noted countless errors in this book. If you're a beginner, start with something such as "The Healing Promise of Qi" by Jahnke for a much better introductory text to the material. This book seems to be getting quite a few positive reviews by inexperienced practitioners at best, but in reality it does well explaining some concepts though is far from decent in explaining most. She even goes against quite a few of the alchemic rules from core source material.

      5 out of 5 stars "Who wants to be a Superhero" for Real .......2006-09-16

      "Who wants to be a Superhero" was broadcast recently on the Sci-Fi channel and got me thinking about Superheroes and their powers. Feedback, the winning character, had the ability to absorb the powers and abilities of the video games he plays which reminded me of the part in Lily Carnie's book where she talks about using video games to enhance your Chi Gung skills. In re-reading her book, I was struck by the way the practice of Chi Gung folds into the training and abilities that have long been associated with the Superhero.

      The entire second part of her book is devoted to the various ways you can train in Chi Gung. When she talked about increasing healing speed, taking snow baths, tracking animals and training in high altitude locations it reminded me of the Marvel Superhero Wolverine and the way he often retreats into the Canadian wilderness. Captain America embodies her discussion on Self Confidence and Positive Thinking. When she talked about projecting and absorbing Chi, I thought of various X-Men like Cyclops projecting Chi from his eyes or Gambit charging items with Chi to make them explosive or Rogue who can absorb the Chi from another person gaining their memories and skills.

      Ms Carnie's entire section on sensory training and the ways you can enhance your sense of touch, smell, hearing and taste is exactly how Daredevil operates on a daily basis. The way she talks about using intuition to guide and direct ones actions and understanding of a situation is exactly like Spiderman's Spider-Sense.

      Despite their enhanced abilities, many Superheroes like Daredevil, Captain America, or the X-men, are dedicated to training to master their abilities and utilize them to the fullest. Each day, regardless of the battles won, they return to their gym, headquarters or Danger Room to continue their training. Captain America was shown teaching Chi Gung to Spiderman in the first issue of the comic "Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman" to help him focus his Chi and accomplish things he never thought he could do before. This parallels Lily Carnie's own approach to Chi Gung training as something that can always be refined, enhanced and taken to the next level.

      Her book is a valuable training manual for cultivating your Chi Gung skills. With imagination, dedication, and focus, even you can become a real Superhero.

      5 out of 5 stars A book of great depth........2006-09-15

      I have been amazed at the discordance of the reviews posted here. I've noticed that those who like Lily of the Valley Carnie's book write reviews in which they talk about the applications of the book's ideas, exercises or activities in their lives and the positive effect it's had. They enjoy its genuine and flexible approach to Chi Gung.

      Those who write disapproving reviews also follow a basic pattern. They note that Ms Carnie's presentation of Chi Gung isn't like the way they've experienced Chi Gung from books by other authors and they don't seem to understand the depth of her presentation of the material.

      I really enjoy Lily of the Valley's book because in it she captures the most important lesson of any Martial Art or Chi Gung practice, namely that the point of training is to move beyond the practice and be able apply it to all parts of your life. The way Ms Carnie invites and guides you to explore Chi Gung in a hundred different applications is the goal of anyone who seeks to be a Master. A simple approach that can lead to great understanding.

      So I find it interesting that the open, flexible and eclectic approach that bothers some reviewers is actually its greatest strength and I highly encourage you to read her book and experience it for yourself.

      5 out of 5 stars Chi Gung, taught as it should be.......2004-12-02

      I find this book to be superb. I am particularly attacted to its flexibility, which fits in with the fact that the form of Chi Gung which Ms. Carnie practices is "The Flowing".
      Lily Carnie is a skilled teacher unlike many who know *how* to do something but don't know how to pass on that ability. The Olympic coach Laurence E.Morehouse found that an extremely ineffective way to teach someone how to use their body is to tell them what to do with the various parts of their body. What works is to give them an IMAGE to hold in their mind. Ms. Carnie in her section on breathing, "... the most important skill you will learn in practicing this ancient art.", shows her awareness of this principle: "Imagine you are inhaling a delicate silk thread and if you breathe too harshly, quickly, or spasmodically, it will break."
      What motivated me to write this review was the "Astonishing bad" review of Kenneth Robinson. I found his review "helpful" in recommending anything on Chi Gung by Lam Kam Chuen or B. K. Frantzis. I have to assume that, in sharp contrast to the flexibility of Lily Carnie, their works would exhibit the rigidity so dramatically displayed by Mr. Robinson.
      But to return to "Life as it Should be" as we say in Maine, L.V.Carnie's "Chi Gung" will broaden the vistas of your life.

      4 out of 5 stars Interesting Read........2002-12-15

      This is the only book I have read on the subject so I cannot compare it to other ones. It was not written for someone who wants to learn how to use Chi for fighting, it's more for healing, and well being. If you are not sure what to think by all the different reviews, get your library to order it in for you. Then if you like it buy it.
      Chi Gung
      Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
      • Good on practice, poor on theory
      Chi Gung
      Daniel P. Reid
      Manufacturer: Simon Schuster Trade
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      GeneralGeneral | Alternative Medicine | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Medicine | Subjects | Books
      ASIN: 0684821257

      Customer Reviews:

      3 out of 5 stars Good on practice, poor on theory.......2004-09-27

      Although the author says that practice is more important than theory, he spends roughly half the book (all the first 40% and about 10% of the remainder) on theory. And I'm afraid I can't follow his advice not to question or doubt the teaching, because some of it is hoary old myths that I know are untrue. For example:

      1. Christianity used to teach reincarnation, but this teaching was suppressed by church authorities (in the ninth century, he says - which given the number of extant manuscripts we have from earlier centuries is just absurd).

      2. We only use 10% of our brain. Would anyone seriously claim "We only use 10% of our liver"?

      3. Semen contains cerebrospinal fluid. This is an ancient Roman belief based on a superficial resemblance between the two.

      Not questioning the teaching (of Hippocrates, Galen and Aristotle) was what held back Western medicine and science for 2000 years.

      So I'm inclined to suspect that anything I see in this book that sounds like it's nonsense (like "Wearing green will help with stomach troubles") actually is nonsense.

      Also, while he makes a large number of assertions about chi gung, quotes other writers, and mentions a number of "studies" which show the medical effectiveness of chi gung practice, he has no references or bibliography, so it's impossible to check the sources. I'd like to know who did the studies, when, where, and where the results were published so that I could look at the raw data and see if Reid's view of the conclusions is supported by the study; but he doesn't enable me to do so.

      I gave it three stars, though, because the practical bit is good. The exercises are well explained both in text and diagrams. And since this is what I was reading the book for, it was worth reading; I just had to wade through a lot of dubious theory first.
      Chi-Gung ( Qi Gong). Nutzen Sie die Kraft des Universums.
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Chi-Gung ( Qi Gong). Nutzen Sie die Kraft des Universums.
        Daniel Reid
        Manufacturer: Econ Tb.
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

        Tai Chi & Qi GongTai Chi & Qi Gong | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
        GermanGerman | Foreign Language Nonfiction | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
        Health, Mind & BodyHealth, Mind & Body | German | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
        NonfictionNonfiction | German | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
        All German BooksAll German Books | German | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
        ASIN: 3548740375
        Chi Gung : Cura Chinesa, Energia e Magia Natural
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Chi Gung : Cura Chinesa, Energia e Magia Natural

          Manufacturer: Pensamento
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          PortuguesePortuguese | Foreign Language Books | Specialty Stores | Books
          ASIN: 8531511240
          Chi Gung: Chinese Healing, Energy, and Natural Magick
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Chi Gung: Chinese Healing, Energy, and Natural Magick
            L.V. Carnie
            Manufacturer: Llewellyn Publications
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Paperback
            ASIN: B000K1MTTY
            Tao of creativity: The inner journey of Chi gung, meditation, visualization, writing, and art
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              Tao of creativity: The inner journey of Chi gung, meditation, visualization, writing, and art
              Kaleo Ching
              Manufacturer: Kaleo Ching, POB 8456 ;
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Unknown Binding

              MeditationsMeditations | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
              Tai Chi & Qi GongTai Chi & Qi Gong | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
              Accessories:
              1. Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

              ASIN: B0006RG88A

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