Book Description
An evocative parable, The Giving Tree-the story of a lifelong relationship between a boy and the tree who happily responds to the boy's every need -is retold in Latin in Arbor alma. This edition features the original artwork of Shel Silverstein and a translation in a style that echoes the spirit of The Giving Tree.
The Giving Tree is Shel Silverstein's simple yet profound telling of a lifelong relationship between a boy and a nurturing tree. The boy becomes an old man, and, from branches to trunk, diminishes the tree's stature with his requests-or does he? This tender tale has invited generations of readers, young and old, to ponder what it means to give and what, to receive.
The Giving Tree is here rendered in exquisite Latin, a language whose own simple grandeur complements that of Silverstein's original story and illustrations. Arbor Alma adds one more dimension to this multifaceted classic. This Latin-language edition is a welcome, all-occasion gift, a delightful way to revisit a treasured tale, and an enjoyable way to refresh your high school Latin.
*originally published in English by HarperCollins Publishers, New York, 1964.
Special Features
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exquisite Latin translation in a style that echoes the spirit of the original
Original artwork of Shel Silverstein
Latin-to-English vocabulary
Note on the translation and the translators
Customer Reviews:
Exactly what kind of "tree" are we discussing here?.......2006-05-28
A female martyr figure allows herself to be literallty chopped limb from limb by a brutally self-centered male who relentlessly victimizes her, without so much as a "thank you", from boyhood through old age. Am I the only reader who is seriously creeped out by this?
I have never understood how anyone could possibly consider this sick allegory "touching". In my opinion, anyone who gives this book to a child -- especially as a purported life lession -- needs to have their heads examined.
A great teaching tool for someone of any age.......2005-02-20
I bought this book to help myself learn some new Latin vocab (a lot of these words just don't show up in Virgil, you know?) and ended up lending it out to a number of people. Everyone recognizes the title, and it is one of those books that everyone has read, so that makes it easy and fun to read in another language. There is a very helpful list of words in the back of the book so that you don't have to sit with your 800-page Latin dictionary in order to read it. I would recommend it to any student of Latin!
The Giving Tree.......2003-12-19
I think that this book is a good book because it is short and sweet. In a way it kinda relates to life. The Giving Tree is a easy and fun to read.
Erat quondam arbor..........2003-11-03
Shel Silverstein's 'The Giving Tree' has become a classic parable of modern times. Like good parables, it has a multivalent quality toward interpretation. Some people love it, and some people hate it. The story is simple, as is the vocabulary and grammar. There is a tree, who loved a boy, and gave the boy whatever he needed that was within her power to give. When the boy was hungry, she gave apples. When the boy was tired, she gave shade. When the boy, now grown, needed a home, she gave lumber. Over the course of the story, the tree gets reduced to a stump from having given and given (give 'till it hurts?). The boy, typical of humans, is never-ending request of needs. The tree, typical of nature, perhaps typical of parents, perhaps typical of God (one never knows if Silverstein had an intended metaphor here), gives and gives without complaint and without counting the cost. The boy likewise doesn't count the cost. But what is the real cost, and isn't it worth it?
The publishers Bolchazy-Carducci, of Wauconda, Illinois, have devoted efforts toward an enterprise to publishing modern classics into Latin - and who ever said it was a dead language? There are many titles to be had, but few as well known at Silverstein's 'The Giving Tree'.
This is a book of few words, the better to make it a book for teaching reading to young children. Similarly, the plot is not complicated -- the sentences are simple constructions and the action fairly standard. This helps those who might use this text to learn or re-learn Latin, too, as the vocabulary required is small -- all the words needed can be found in the glossary at the end, consisting of fewer than four pages.
The translators note that there are a few stylistic differences. While keeping to Silverstein's basic informal style, they have varied the text more (in English, Silverstein uses a repetitive pattern that the Tunbergs have opted to change now and then, as Latin texts would be more likely to do so). This is not a word-for-word translation, but rather 'an interpretative translation, not a mere verbal image of the original text.' (postscript, About the Text)
While this is not a Latin grammar, and the construction of verbs, noun endings, etc. are not explicated, still one can begin to pick up the basics of Latin grammatical construction from texts like 'Arbor Alma'. Jennifer Tunberg (Ph.D., Oxford) and Terence Tunberg (Ph.D., Toronto) are both educators, and thus have a care for the reader learning something from the text in addition to gaining enjoyment from it. While one could easily see the translation of a book such as 'The Giving Tree' into Latin as a purely academic exercise, in fact the book serves several purposes, including teaching (or re-teaching) Latin to students, and introducing the language to people who might not otherwise be exposed to it. Books like 'The Giving Tree' and Dr. Seuss (another of the translation projects of the Tunbergs) eliminate somewhat the 'intimidation factor' that Latin has for some, particularly when presented with Caesar or Cicero in long-winded passages.
This is a wonderfully fun book, a good gift for those who have everything, a good offering to the budding or the latent Latin scholar, and an interesting conversation piece even for those who have no Latin background at all. The classic line-art drawings of the boy, the tree, the apples, and more, are kept here intact. At first glance, one might think this was the 'real' thing -- looking more closely, one discovers that the mystery of Silverstein's parable becomes yet more paradoxical in the Latin language.
And the tree was happy.
Rendered in an exquisite Latin.......2003-02-08
Arbor Alma/The Giving Tree In Latin by Shel Silverstein is the profound and simple story of a lifelong relationship between a boy and a tree who happily responds to the boys's every need. As the boy grows to become an old man and, (from branches to trunk) diminishes the tree's stature with his continuing requests, both the human and the tree find themselves transformed -- yet the tree remains happy. An evocative and engaging parable, The Giving Tree is rendered in an exquisite Latin which wonderfully complements Shel Silverstein's original story and illustrations, adding an unexpected and very welcome dimension to a multifaceted classic with its ageless and timeless appeal.
Book Description
New York Times bestselling author Cathy Maxwell delivers another passionate romance that is sure to delight her dedicated fans and increase her readership.
Frustrated by the constant line of fortune–hunting suitors outside her door, and fed up with her title–hungry father, beautiful heiress Olivia Harrell runs off to Scotland in the hope of learning more about her Scottish roots. But what she finds is not quite so thrilling as what finds her or, rather, who: Ian Campion, a powerful soldier–turned–mercenary sent by her father to track her down.
Though Ian fools himself into believing it is the reward he is after, he soon learns that Olivia may be the only one who can tear down the walls built around his heart – at the same time teaching her what it truly means to know passion .
Download Description
"
She was determined to marry for love, never expecting that her adventures would lead her to a lifetime of passion.
The Runaway Heiress
Like many a Regency miss, Lyssa Harrell longs for love, but knows her duty lies in marriage. Still, when her father promises her hand to a dissolute but well-connected lord, she does the unthinkable ... she flees to Scotland. Not to Gretna Green, but to her family -- and to the castle where her mother once had been so happy. In this romantic land she will discover her heart's desire.
A Man Seeking His Fortune
But she doesn't count on Ian Campion. The ruggedly handsome man has his orders: fetch the runaway daughter home! Ian has a price on his head and a dire need for the reward Lyssa's father offers. Tracking Lyssa down is easy enough, convincing her to return is difficult ... and not seducing her is impossible.
And Their Scandalous Adventures
Soon, Lyssa is on the adventure of a lifetime. She has to sleep in the great outdoors, and flee from mysterious attempts on her life. She knows she's ruined in the eyes of society, but she is willing to face true ruin -- and risk everything for the unimaginable passion she finds in Ian's strong arms. And when they return to civilization, the two must confront the most perilous adventure of all ... admitting their unanticipated love.
"
Customer Reviews:
A charming tale that historical romance fans will enjoy.......2007-04-05
Adventures of a Scottish Heiress is a pleasant adventure tale, featuring Maxwell's trademark exuberance and bright optimism.
Rather than marry the pompous, frigid older man her father has chosen, heiress Lyssa Harrell runs away from London, heading for her deceased mother's family seat in the Scottish Highlands. Although Lyssa's family is wealthy, their money comes from trade, and Lyssa has always felt like an outsider in snobbish English society. She hopes to find herself by returning to her roots.
Irishman Ian Campion is desperate to provide for his widowed sisters and their children. Feeling guilty because a dark event in his past caused the loss of his family's property and later the death of his brothers-in-law, Ian is more than happy to accept the offer of Lyssa's father: find Lyssa and bring her back to London. An outcast with a price on his head, Ian must gain the freedom that only this lucrative job can provide.
But Ian had not anticipated how stubborn the fiery Lyssa would be nor that as soon as he found her, they would have to flee mysterious blackguards intent on murdering Lyssa. As Lyssa and Ian hurry away from the assassins and toward Lyssa's Scottish relatives, they have a number of exciting adventures. And even though they both know that they can never be together, Lyssa and Ian fall in love.
What awaits them in Scotland is the last thing they would have expected, and when they escape near death and finally return to London, it seems that despite their love, they will be separated forever. Or will they?
Maxwell's characters are very likeable and realistic. Her plot is exciting, full of interesting twists and turns. Adventures of a Scottish Heiress is a charming tale that historical romance fans will enjoy.
Vast improvement from "The Lady is Tempted.".......2006-04-29
I liked this book - very much. The hero was a sexy, rough, fist-fighting Irishman. The heroine was feisty and adorably flawed.
I wish for a little more struggle between the hero and heroine before they get together. This was more of an "Us Against Them" storyline. It was still a quick, fun read.
Definitely recommended.
Fun But Beware. ** Grade: B- **.......2005-01-18
In ADVENTURES OF A SCOTTISH HEIRESS, Cathy Maxwell has penned a light and easy `Road Romance'. Generally,`Road Romances' are storylines filled with countless, entertaining, and varied escapades highlighted with occasional danger and excitement. For a romance setting, it allows the hero and heroine to be alone, giving them ample time to get to know each other. Cathy Maxwell's ADVENTURES OF A SCOTTISH HEIRESS does not stray from the `Road' criteria, therefore, the story pivots into a light and generally fun-filled romp.
ADVENTURES OF A SCOTTISH HEIRESS tells of the adventures and misadventures of Lyssa Harrell and her traveling companion, Ian Campion.
Lyssa Harrell is the spoiled, rich daughter of Dunmore Harrell. "Pirate" Harrell is a man who has made his fortune and name in trade through hard work and exceptional investments, a man who wants to be accepted in the highest circles of the upper class. To further gain that acceptance, Dunmore Harrell decides to purchase a titled lord for his daughter - much to her chagrin. So angry is Lyssa Harrell, to be matched and paired, with the insufferable Robert, Viscount Grossett, she runs away and joins a Gypsy caravan. Gleefully, Lyssa Harrell flees north to Scotland, the birth place of her mother.
Ian Campion is Irish, Catholic, educated, tall, good looking and dirt-poor. This once-promising barrister will do almost anything for money - money he uses to feed his loving and devoted family. Dunmore Harrell commissions, with the lure of heavy cash, Ian Campion to find his wayward daughter and to return her to her titled betrothed.
Cathy Maxwell's writing style is smooth and the story moves along at a good pace. But beware, the author does fill her narrative with small moral seeds - the Catholic / Protestant plight - the English / Irish issue -- and these turbulent challenges do break in and disrupt the light, humorous feel of the book. Moreover, the sensual flare is a problem; disappointingly, the sparse passion scenes feel little more than added window dressing. Still, Maxwell's style is skillful and her story is still charming. Grade: B-
Reviewer for: www.romancedesigns.com
An adventure I can do without.......2004-06-13
Cathy Maxwell seems to be one of those authors who runs either hot or col. This one falls into the cold territory.
Lyssa is spoiled, immature, and annoying. Ian is much too good for her. He's the best part of this novel, and his struggles against the prejudices of his Irish heritage ring true without beating the reader over the head with it (most of the time).
Most of Lyssa's adventures result from her selfish immaturity, thus making them senseless and rather annoying for the adult reader. A disappointment.
Just couldn't get into it..........2004-02-19
I really enjoy Cathy Maxwell's books, but for some reason just had a difficult time getting into this book. It seems that many other liked it, but I just found the story obvious and a tad boring. Just my opinion though.
Product Description
Dismayed by her father's insistence that she marry a nobleman, and by the fortune-hunting suitors who plague her, beautiful heiress Olivia Harell flees to Scotland. But her freedom is short lived, for her father sends a mercenary to bring her home-willing or not. With a price on his head and a dire need for the reward he's been promised, Ian Campion has no trouble tracking Lyssa down. Convincing her to return is more difficult...and resisting the urge to seduce her is impossible. It isn't long before the two find themselves facing the most perilous adventure of all-a forbidden love, and the consequences.
Amazon.com
The energy and invention that made Sherman and Schwartz's previous Spock outing, Vulcan's Forge, so fascinating is fully in evidence in this even more ambitious follow-up. This time, the duo have added a satisfyingly complex level of political sophistication that makes the interstellar intrigues ring with a truly authentic note. Acting as a diplomat for the United Federation of Planets, Spock reluctantly undertakes a bonding with Commander Saavik. This betrothal-style rite is attended by Spock's father--along with an unconfident young Starfleet lieutenant. The latter is one of the book's many felicitous strokes, for the novice is no other than Jean-Luc Picard. Of the many attempts to meld the two Star Trek universes, this is one of the best integrated and most successful. As the narrative leaps forward many years, and Ambassador Spock is forced to travel incognito to Romulus to prevent catastrophe from descending on the entire quadrant, he has two pursuers: Saavik and Picard. As before, the narrative moves with real gusto, casually throwing in some impressive world-building. But what of Spock himself? One can only hope that Sherman and Schwartz are custodians of the legacy for quite some time, since they are adroit at creating a thoroughly rounded, conflicted, and sympathetic portrait of our favorite Vulcan. --Barry Forshaw, Amazon.co.uk
Book Description
2239. Now a diplomat for the United Federation of Planets, Spock agrees to a bonding with Saavik, his former protégé and an accomplished Starfleet officer in her own right. More than a betrothal but less than a wedding, the sacred Vulcan rite is attended by both Spock's father, Sarek, and a nervous young Starfleet officer named Jean-Luc Picard.
Plans for the consummation of the pair's union are thrown off course when Spock receives a top-secret communication that lures him into the heart of the Romulan empire. Enmeshed in the treacherous political intrigues of the Romulan capital, undone by a fire that grows ever hotter within his blood, Spock must use all his logic and experience to survive a crisis that will ultimately determine the fate of empires!
Customer Reviews:
is worth reading.......2007-05-14
Having read the Vulcan Soul series, this was a worthwhile read.
Spock fans will not be disappointed.
Exodus: Vulcan's Soul Trilogy, Book 1 (Star Trek)
Vulcan's Soul Trilogy Book Two: Exiles (Star Trek)
Vulcan's Soul Trilogy Book Three Epiphany (Star Trek: the Original Series)
Cowboy diplomacy, massacre, Romulan power transfer, and a Vulcan marriage.......2007-03-26
1. Spock is betrothed to Saavik by T'Pau on the planet Vulcan reciting the words: "Parted from me and never parted..." and "Never and always touched."
2. Reunification: Ambassador Spock, son of Sarek. "Revisiting my request of 2342 that a research team be assembled with the long-term goal of evaluating the potential benefits and philosophical challenge of reunification with the sundered, I wise to observe that a study of Romulan linguistics does, indeed, point to a closer link between the Sundered and those of Vulcan than the Department of Xenolinguistics initially believed." The response, Vulcan Science Academy was solid, "Request denied" and reprimand that Spock's course was illogical in the extreme. Saavik would remind Spock that the Romulans had never withdrawn capital charges of treason against him. Oh well, Spock is determined to prove his cowboy diplomacy works and reunite beyond the balance of power between the Romulans and Federation. Secretly, since Khitomer, Spock had maintained communications with Pardek, but Pardek had faded from power and Parkek's populist views too blantant.
3. In 2296, Ruanek, of Obsidain, had proven for Spock, a honorable Romulan connection. Ruanek would provide the means to change the political power head.
4. Charvanek, Commander of the Romulan Star Empire had fallen in love with Spock and Spock under orders from Jim had betrayed her, saving the Enterprise. Charvanek kept the honor blade at her side. Spock betrayal did not destroy Charvanek's career, nor did the honor blade. What saved Charvanek was her kin line, the emperor's blood line. Charvanek no longer hated Spock, "he'd done only what he must do, in all honor, for his sworn allies."
5. Ruanek reveals to Spock an encoded message describing "something dangerous and underhanded is definitely being planned by the leader", Praetor Dralath. Praetor Dralath had built and designed a giant bird of prey, three times regular size. The weapon design was for offense to create a war and was a danger to the federation. The Romulan underground cooperated with Spock to save guard both empires from destruction. Dralath had become increasingly unpopular with the people. Dralath rules the military and so he rules the empire. "Once to be a ruler was to serve the people, once to be a Romulan was a matter of pride, of knowing that one's word was good, one's ways was pure, one's heart and soul were sharep and clean as the edge of a blade.'
6. On Ki Baratan, Spock was identified as Symakhos, First Academician of Bardat."
7. Spock found Charvanek pleased to see and realized she had been barely touched by the years. "The past is just the past." Spock combated Romulan emotions which could overpower Vulcan control, if caught off guard.
8. Captain Uhura contacts Saavik and tells her about Spocks defection, Saavik replies, "I assume that you wish me to extricate him", find Spock and bring him home. Uhura tells Saavik that Praetor Dralath has a condition known as T'Shevat's syndrome which involves green blood cell deterioration, increasingly debilitating and painful. Saavik will offer new medical research that suggests using RNA splicing and ribosome transfusions to force the syndrome into submission." That will be the ticket in and her betrothal with Spock, the ticket out.
9. Jean Luc Picard, captain of the StarGlazer will take Saavik into Romulan space using a small ship, a fast runner.
10. Saavik presents her information to Dralath. Dralath invites Saavik to his quarters. Spock comes under the influence of Pon Farr and provide no aid for Saavik and must mediate to control intense passionate outbursts. "Fingers steepled, Spock turned his mind and will inward, seeking the center, seeking control...down though levels of flame...down to the center...cool, logic at the center." Saavik gets Dralath to reveal an surprise attack plan on the Klingon colony of Narendra III and then to be followed by an attack on the Federation, Melville Colony. Dralath plans to use seven of the new war bird models. The new war birds can fire under cloak. Saavik nerve pinches Dralath and Spock and her reprogram his mind through mind control.
11. Charvanek says, "There are almost no warriors in the output, nothing but women, children, helpless elders-Dralath cannot possibly be unaware of that. Even for him such an attack would be obscene!" Dralath plans on war even at the cost of dishonor.
12. Saavik escapes back to Vulcan and warns the federation of the attack. The warning will not stop the massacre, as the Romulans overpower resistence and kill innocent men, women, and children. Captain Garret would listen to Saavik report of attack, intercept the Romulan invasion, engage in a brief fight, be defeat, transport of the enterprise prior to self-destruct, and become Romulan prisoners. One of the federation prisoners is Yasha Yar.
13. Saavik will not live without Spock. Spock must escape with Ruanek and reunite with Saavik in marriage before she or he dies for the pressures of Pon Farr.
14. Spock meets Narviat. Narviat will rise to power and become the new Pradeor after Dralath demise. After the massacre, Narviat speaks to the people revealing Dralath's treachery charging him with the destruction of four warbirds and their crew. Narviat's proof of the treachery is the testimony of Commander Charvanek. The people revolted against Darlath and put Narviat in power. The underground warriors attack Darlath and his guards and capture him and Narviat takes possession of Darlath. Narviat promises Justice, "I shall not stain my administration with murder, that-that is Dralath way. There shall be an honorable trial of criminal Dralath in accordance with our sacred customs." Dralath manages to escape by transported code sequence given verbally by himself.
15. The Klingon outpost Narendra III is attack without warning. Narendra III was destroyed. Charvanek attempts a fight with the Romulans aiding the federation, but is defeated in the space battle and taken prisoner back to Romulus. "In war, all men were women's enemies". Tasha must consent to the Romulans to save her crew. Vokskiar tells Tasha about Charvanek's defeat telling her, "This time, the old emperor won't be able to protect her, and you shall watch her punishment with me, and know how I have risen in importance."
16. Spock arrives at Vulcan. Sarek mindmelts with Ruanek and pronounces him clean and a non Romulan weapon. Spock and Saavik are married. Logical thinking would be impossible without emotion. Spock proves he can not exist without emotion. Love is the most powerful emotion and without it, existence is impossible.
Bravo, about covers it, IMHO..........2006-04-12
(and about TIME too, geeze...)
Just an FYI, from all accounts a romance between Spock and Saavik was planned from the get go, but for some reason the plotline was dropped after ST3. From the beginning I saw this one coming and I was quite pleased that they were going there once I got a good look at Saavik.
I must admit I much prefer Kristie Ally's incarnation of the character to Robin Curtis's but in so far as the character is concerned I have nothing but affection.
I have enjoyed her appearences in other sanctioned books, and in this series in particular.
To those who decry the relationship as inappropriate may I point out the fact that during the time Saavik was growing up Spock was not acting as a parent per se, but more as a mentor. Most of the novels that have explored her history clearly indicate that she was reaching maturity during the time that Spock was still serving in Starfleet, on the Enterprise as Kirk's first officer.
No offense, but being a military brat myself I can tell you that attempting to parent a child while serving on a long term missions isn't really logical.
Saavik in ST3 stated that she had never previously been to Vulcan, but she does seem well known by Spock's family and it's implied that Spock's mother Amanda in particular is fond of her.
And that too is "logical" given that Sarek is a diplomat who has probably spent more time on Earth since his son's birth than not.
Spock may have been Saavik's legal guardian, but that doesn't make him her father.
From what we have seen a more likely conclusion would be that Spock took some time off to get her settled, probably with his folks who were likely living mainly on Earth at the time, and then returned to his duties on the Enterprise, keeping in touch as much as possible, and visiting when he could.
The Savvik Spock found on Hellgard wasn't an "innocent." Not even really still a child. She was an uncivilized savage who would do almost anything to survive. That she stole, lied, perhaps even killed to survive is likely as she DID survive in a place that even a devil would hesitate to call home.
She was most likely the product of rape, and she knew what that meant in terms of her joining Vulcan society. While they might shelter her and give her all she needed, being a half-breed, the likely result of an act of violence would put her at the fringes of Vulcan society, would be awkward, at least at first.
That she did not automatically lay a claim on being "Vulcan" that she instead chose to be her own person, to admit to being BOTH Romulan and Vulcan, says a lot about her. She could have chosen adoption into a Vulcan clan and completely disowned her Romulan half and perhaps in time married etc, but instead she chose to go to Earth, to find herself, and eventually to adopt the Vulcan way as something she wanted for HERSELF.
Probably she originally did that because she wanted to follow Spock's example, but in the end she was her own woman, and clearly much admired by those who encountered her.
When you think about it aiding Spock with his Pon Far on the Genesis world must have been horribly awkward for her, but she did it, to save him. To save him, as he had once saved HER.
That the act was likely to bring them together in a new way, that someday Spock might remember and that they would have to deal with being more than teacher and student, friend, that is a risk she must have considered immense but worthy of taking.
It is not logical to assume that Spock would remain unbonded for the rest of his life. Finally putting attempts at a more religious life behind him, Kohlinar, he like any other of his race, would therefore have to carry on with the matter of acquiring a mate at some point or another.
Sarek might have (as was custom) arranged it?
But I do think Saavik was SPOCK'S choice.
and I think Spock was SAAVIK'S choice.
I think Sarek realized it and being the ultimate dimplomat suggested the match to make it less awkward for both of them.
They are in a word "perfect" mates.
Who can understand Spock's struggles with his dual-heritage better than Saavik?
Who else but Spock can accept and understand her struggle to understand and to be herself?
I have often thought Spock's desire to unite the two people, Romulan and Vulcan must have started with his relationship with Saavik.
"It seemed the logical thing to do..."
That is what Sarek once said to his son about why he married his first human wife.
If you ask me that statement also applies to Spock and Saavik.
:)
Basic Plot Flaw.......2006-02-02
As a couple of other reviewers have noted Spock and Saavik were introduced as teacher and student. She was his ward. The Pandora Principle did a beautiful job of telling that story. If you are going to change the nature of their relationship that dramatically you better do some darn good writing that explains how it happened. There was not one word in that book that explained this major role reversal. Quite frankly I felt the authors were demonstrating that they either didn't have the ability or didn't have the guts to tackle that very difficult and touchy issue. How and why does someone go from being a persons surrogate father to husband? Very disappointing book on many levels but this was the most egregious as far as I was concerned.
You are cordially invited to the wedding of Spock and Saavik.......2005-04-29
so if you area Spock fan this book is already in the star range, if you are a Spock/Saavik 'shipper' then this must be an automatic 5 plus plus, so why only a three from someone who has been a Spock fan for four decades? It is nothing against the premise, I am also a Spock/Saavik fan. The plot elements are all there, and are all consistent with 'canon' (the original shows/movies), the established characters are handled well, again consistent with 'canon', there are 'tie-ins' to both TOS and TNG episodes that are done well but still the best this long-time fan could give this is 3 stars.
The problem is this overall quality of the writing which is surprising since this same writing team also wrote the much better VULCAN'S FORGE. VULCAN'S HEART reads as if it was assigned, that the writers were given a list of plot elements to cover and told to turn them into a novel. The end result needed a good editor to take out the redundancies (we are familiar with pon farr), clean up the punctuation (how many exclamation points does a novel need?) and get some rewrites on a few sections that seemed forced or weak. Also this would have been a better book if it were shorter.
If you are a fan - and who else would read one of these novels? - especially if you are a Spock fan then this is a must read but too bad such a great premise wasn't handled better.
Average customer rating:
- One of the better Trek books in quite awhile...BUT...
- I waited a long time for this to be printed on CDs
|
Vulcan's Heart (Star Trek (Unnumbered Audio))
Josepha Sherman , and
Susan Shwartz
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD
 Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Sherman, Josepha
| ( S )
| Authors, A-Z
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
Shwartz, Susan
| ( S )
| Authors, A-Z
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Fantasy
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Star Trek
| Media
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
Fantasy
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Books on CD
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Books on CD
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
General
| Books on CD
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
( S )
| Authors, A-Z
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Fantasy
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Star Trek
| Media
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
The Eugenics Wars Vol. 2: The Rise and Fall of Khan Noonien Singh (Star Trek)
-
Star Trek: The Last Roundup (Star Trek (Unnumbered Audio))
-
Star Trek: Captain's Peril
-
Star Trek: The Next Generation: I,Q
-
The Genesis Wave, Book Three (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
ASIN: 0743533011 |
Book Description
2239. Now a diplomat for the United Federation of Planets, Spock agrees to a bonding with Saavik. Plans for the consummation of the pair's union are thrown off course when Spock receives a top-secret communication that lures him into the heart of the Romulan empire. Enmeshed in the treacherous political intrigues of the Romulan capital, Spock must use all his logic and experience to survive a crisis that will ultimately determine the fate of empires!
Customer Reviews:
One of the better Trek books in quite awhile...BUT..........2007-06-16
I found this to be one of the better Trek books in quite awhile and certainly MUCH better than Vulcan's Forge. Tim Russ does an excellent job with the reading and really gives distinction to the various characters.
My couple of complaints with the book aren't so much with the story as the format. For one, this book REALLY, REALLY points out how uncohesive the world of Trek books is. For instance, didn't T'Pau (sp?) die in "Spock's World", a novel that this one is supposed to be "in the tradition" of? Yet, here she is again. And since this story takes place about a year after Generations, doesn't that make her older than God? I know it's nitpicky, but she just seemed terribly out of place. Especially since she IS later replaced by T'Lar whom I expected to see in the first place.
Also, this reading is an EXCELLENT example of how the trimming for an audio book can go horribly wrong. Not to spoil the plot, but in a major point of interest to me was the revelation that the Enterprise C picks up Saavik just prior to it's destruction at Nerendra (sp?) III. She is adamant that the Enterprise NOT divert to drop her off but go immediately to the rescue of the Klingons on the outpost. And they do. Leaving the reader to assume that Saavik is on the Enterprise when it is destroyed (or captured, depending on who's story you believe). However, she turns up at the end of the book having evidently been dropped off at a starbase prior to the battle. This scene is omitted (I presume) and really throws the reader for a loop since you assume she was lost (or captured) with the Enterprise and that this is a major revelation in the story of the end of the Enterprise C. I even "re-listened" to the relevant parts to make sure I hadn't missed it, but no I hadn't. She's aboard the Enterprise right up through to the battle and later on Vulcan having been dropped off prior to the battle. It's jarring and annoying to say the least.
Other than that, not a bad book. Certainly worth a listen.
I waited a long time for this to be printed on CDs.......2007-03-13
A good listen. Some boring chapters and some points are repeated too often. It could've used multiple readers to liven it up.
Product Description
This Audiofy audiobook chip packs a full four hour reading of "Vulcan's Heart," narrated by Tim Russ ("Tuvok"), on a tiny memory card. A single Audiofy audiobook chip, hardly larger than a stamp, holds a complete digital audiobook, and saves the last listening position automatically, unlike CDs. With an SD memory card slot or low-cost adapter - like those for digital cameras - this Audiofy audiobook chip can be played on Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh desktop computers or laptops (Microsoft Windows XP/2000/Me/98, or Apple Mac OS X 10.3.9 and above) or transferred to Apple iPod media players. Audiobook chips also move seamlessly to most Palm OS and Pocket PC handheld PDAs with SD expansion slots, as well as Treo and Windows Mobile "smartphones" (Palm OS 5.2 or Windows Mobile 2002 and above)... 2239. Now a diplomat for the United Federation of Planets, Spock agrees to a bonding with Saavik. Plans for the consummation of the pair's union are thrown off course when Spock receives a top-secret communication that lures him into the heart of the Romulan empire. Enmeshed in the treacherous political intrigues of the Romulan capital, Spock must use all his logic and experience to survive a crisis that will ultimately determine the fate of empires!
Average customer rating:
|
Vulcan's Heart (Star Trek: The Original)
Josepha Sherman , and
Susan Shwartz
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette
Sherman, Josepha
| ( S )
| Authors, A-Z
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
Shwartz, Susan
| ( S )
| Authors, A-Z
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Star Trek
| Media
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Books on Cassette
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
General
| Books on Cassette
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
ASIN: 0671033670 |
Download Description
Captain Spock has left Starfleet to become Ambassador Spock, and has been bonded in a Vulcan engagement ceremony to the beautiful Commander Saavik. A call from an old enemy, now a friend, sends him off on a dangerous mission to the planet Romulus, where society is facing collapse unless Spock and Saavik can put aside their mating drives long enough to warn the Klingons of a sneak attack on the outpost at Narrendra III. Meanwhile, Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the U.S.S. Stargazer is sent to recover Spock and Saavik. But is his out to aid them, or to stop them from completing a mission which has put the peace of the galaxy at risk?
Product Description
great reading for the star trek lovers
Average customer rating:
|
VULCAN'S HEART (STAR TREK)
SHERMAN / SHWARTZ
Manufacturer: Pocket Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Star Trek
| Media
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: B000S6SF1W |
Book Description
Today, Lin Jensen is a Zen master. But before that, he had to get through a difficult childhood and a difficult life. Bad Dog! is Jensen's sometimes quirky, sometimes poignant telling of the long path he took to inner peace. In over 40 short, interlocking pieces, Jensen uncovers his personal history, starting with his early life on a struggling farm in the dusty, quiet Midwest. Jensen eventually reaches college where he encounters a new world and a new passion, poetry, before entering into a marriage that is destined to fail. The one constant throughout Jensen's life is the search for meaning, — a search that leads him to finally awaken to his calling in Zen. Always engaging, Jensen's quiet stories subtly reflect on the currents of love, beauty, and redemption that run through all lives. His simple prose rings with insight at just the right moments, making Bad Dog! a book that will appeal to anyone who's ever looked for life's little bright spots.
Customer Reviews:
One of the most beautiful books I've read.......2006-07-30
I'm a fan of really good writing as well as Buddhism. I read this book several months ago and always meant to write a review about it. So today I finally got around to it and browsed the reviews written before me to see that all the superlatives had been already taken.
Gut-wrenching, beautiful,powerful.
This book touched me as very few have. It is a must-read regardless of its subject matter because of the quality of the writing alone. I could feel this kid's life. His loneliness, alienation and neediness.
Like many great books it can be read on different levels. As a personal memoir of growing up in a particular time and place with a particular type of upbringing. As a lay Buddhist book; essentially a primer of how to step away from a world of samsara and build for yourself, step by step, act by act, a life of peace, love and compassion.
What a journey he's had. How amazing that he shared it with us.
It's an elegant, lyrical, deceptively "deep" book which really deserves a much wider audience.(Read it and imagine that it's Number One on the N.Y. Times bestseller list and see if you feel just a little more hopeful).
Brilliant........2006-06-09
Stark, and beautiful.
Many people, like the author's father, assert that the best response to tough times is to be cold and tough in our actions. But throughout his lifetime, in the shadow of the Great Depression and his cruel father, the author stayed true to his own inner desire for compassion.
And he has lived to tell us about it.
Redemption redux.......2006-01-15
The first story "Bad Dog" evokes the recurring theme of the entire collection: Redemption in a world of sorrow. It spans the author's life through more than fifty years in a mere six pages. An essence of humilty is evident as you try and understand the hardness of his father's will. The adage of he did the best he knew how plays a familiar tune to most of us raised by depression era parents. The resentment melts away with Jensen's tender acts of mercy towards his father nearing the end of his life. A tender act few if any of us would be able to muster up...
It's a recommended read for everyone hoping to understand how to see into the darkness and not be afraid.
Life's lessons are all around us.......2005-09-21
Lin Jenson has the grace to reflect on profound moments in his life in a non-judgemental way, regardless of the circumstances. It is refreshing to read the work of a person that has the gift of self reflection and can communicate the experience as well as this Zen teacher has been able to do. One can only hope to be able to learn as much from their own life's experiences.
Books:
- At Home in Thrush Green
- Authentic Faith: The Power of a Fire-Tested Life
- Banishing Verona: A Novel
- Before She Met Me (Picador Books)
- Bendiceme Ultima
- Bestial Noise: The Tin House Fiction Reader
- Beyond Illusions : A Novel
- Blood on the Leaves
- Blues for Mister Charlie: A Play
- Canaan's Tongue
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Differential and Integral Calculus
- Twinkie, Deconstructed: My Journey to Discover How the Ingredients Found in Processed Foods Are Grow
- The Bar Sinister, Pride and Prejudice Continues
- Step Wars: Overcoming the Perils and Making Peace in Adult Stepfamilies
- The Films of Akira Kurosawa, Third Edition, Expanded and Updated
- The Nature of Consciousness : The Structure of Reality: Theory of Everything Equation Revealed : Sci
- The Song of the Dodo: Island Biogeography in an Age of Extinction
- The Hot Empire of Chile
- Remaking China's Public Management
- Dictionary of e-Business: A Definitive Guide to Technology and Business Terms
Cattus Petasatus: The Cat in the Hat in Latin
Winnie Ille Pu
Quomodo Invidiosulus Nomine Grinchus Christi Natalem Abrogaverit: How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Latin
Fairy Tales in Latin: Fabulae Mirabiles (Language Instruction)
Regulus (Latin)
