Book Description
Set amid the chaos of West Africas civil wars, Emmanuel Dongalas striking new novel tells the story of two teenagers growing up while rival ethnic groups fight for control of their country. One young narrator, Johnny Mad Dog, is a member of the Death Dealers, a rebel faction bent on seizing power in war-torn Congo. The other, Laokol, dreams of becoming an engineer, but as rogue militias sack the city, she is forced to leave homeand then finds herself running from the likes of Johnny.
Customer Reviews:
The cruel exploitation of Africa's youth........2007-02-24
The novel depicts the horrendous effects of despotic governments on children,forcing the beasts out of them.
But despite this cruel exploitation,the goodness in many of these African children prevails.
Intense Fear Made Palatable.......2007-02-15
The book was neither "We wish to inform you that tomorrow we will be killed with our families" nor was it "Mortals" but it did manage to capture the ease with which people drift into mindless violence. The author appeared to believe that lack of education is a pre-requisite for senseless mayhem, apparently distinguishing senseless mayhem from sensible mayhem. Being such, it trotted out the usual examples of severed limbs, murderous over-reactions and bodies set alight. As in most cases, and possibly actual reality, whites and Europeans were generally exempted from the worst, although they were no doubt frightened out of their wits. For the reader its a footrace between fear and disgust but undoutedly these things happed and needless to say they must be chronicled in some fashion.
Like CSI, there was so much blood and guts that one became innured to it early on. it became a little predicatble, Africans gone wild killing each other while whites helicopter in for a photo shoot. As such it lacked much of the simmering outrage against Western Aid of "Capetown to Cairo". Are we to belive that all Amero-Europeans are superficial gawkers in swell transport while all Africans are helpless victims of both their own violence and the West's desire for entertainment?
That being said, the book did keep one's attention is sort of a movie-like way and even though the various outcomes were predictable, one could not wait for his worst fears regarding the main charaters to be realizied, but in a palatable form. Maybe literature is generally devolving into a screenplay; this book seemed to be
Engrossing and educating........2005-11-08
This book really brought home some of what it must feel like to live unprotected in a war ravaged country, a country where citzens are just meat. I felt completely compelled and scared for our heroine, a family strong child trapped within her own country. I was repelled by the brilliantly written villian - a boy who is the worst kind of stupid, a boy who thinks he is a smart man.
Be warned - it is brutal.
This book will break your heart.......2005-08-14
Dongala's fictionalized account of an African civil war will make the suffering of the innocent deeply personal. He creates affection and concern for his characters, and then inflicts the pains of war on those characters... and on the reader as well.
The story is told by two of his characters, the teenage girl who is trying to protect her loved ones and the slightly-older teenage boy who is one of the fighters. In alternating chapters, the events of the war are related by these two. As their paths cross several times during the events, two versions are presented for a number of incidents. The boy's arrogant amoral role borders on criminal insanity, but Dongala makes him believable.
Dongala has created a "page-turner" here. Johnny Mad Dog is compelling and deeply disturbing.
A bitter struggle.......2005-05-08
This book graphically portrays the horrific ordeal of innocents caught in the crossfire of rebel factions in civil war-torn West Africa. Hordes of people leave their homes and are relentlessly pursued by the rebels, in this case a group called Mata Mata, the cause narrated by 16-year old Johnny Mad Dog. While marching his "men" from place to place and killing so-called traitors indiscriminately, the young men loot and rape with impunity, proud of their manly prowess and totally oblivious to those they destroy.
With youthful hubris, Johnny Mad Dog considers himself an intellectual, but his arrogance far exceeds his native intelligence, as brutal a character as any seasoned veteran. He rationalizes his actions, spouting policy in rejecting "the previous government and its leader, enemies of the people and democracy, a genocidal regime... I think that's what we'd been told to say."
In sharp contrast, the 16-year old Laokole leaves her shabby hut with her brother and legless mother in a wheelbarrow, the children taking turns pushing. Along the way, the brother, Fofo is separated from his sister and mother. The mother's legs are a casualty of the last rebel rampage, when her husband was shot. Laokole thinks about the futility of their plight, danger at every turn, even "why a woman should limit the number of her own children: because the fewer children you had, the more easily you could flee in times of war and looting." Nowhere is safe in this chaotic world, turned upside-down by the rebels, soldiers, bandits, all interchangeable, young and old pursued, "for no one is too old to flee death". Everyone carries their most prized possessions, for Laokole and Fofo it is their mother.
By contrasting the lives of the two teenagers, Johnny Mad Dog and Laokole, the author paints a stunning picture of depravity vs. courage. Laokole is the voice of humanity, while Johnny Mad Dog is corrupted by power, depraved by senseless murders, excusing his own brutality: "I know, I know, my kind heart is going to get me in serious trouble." In alternating chapters, the girl and the young man maneuver through the unremitting violence that is total chaos. The carnage is everywhere, death stalking the streets with each fetish-wearing youth with a rifle in his hands.
The refugees look for their story to be told on the television, but nothing is mentioned on American TV. The European stations have some coverage, "images I've seen a thousand times on programs about Rwanda, Angola, Sierra Leone, Liberia, the Central African Republic and eastern Zaire". Africa is seen on the screen as a vast refugee camp, "the ragged, wandering hordes." This painful, but important novel gives voice to the massacre of innocents, over 10, 000 deaths, half a million displaced persons and refugees, a humanitarian catastrophe. "How can you have hope in a country when the road to power is littered with corpses?" The haunting voice of this young woman tells the story of millions, abandoned to their fate. When will the world respond to this genocidal nightmare? Luan Gaines/2005.
Average customer rating:
- Again - enjoy
- Great book
- Excellent, gripping conclusion
- Beautifully done
- Great Reading
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The Malloreon, Vol. 2 (Books 4 & 5): Sorceress of Darshiva, The Seeress of Kell
David Eddings
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Book of Kells | Bible & Other Sacred Texts | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Eddings, David | ( E ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
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Belgarath the Sorcerer
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Polgara the Sorceress (Malloreon (Paperback Random House))
ASIN: 0345483871
Release Date: 2005-08-30 |
Book Description
Here is the epic conclusion of David Eddings’s enthralling series The Malloreon–two magnificent novels in one volume. This monumental fantasy follows the story of two age-old opposing destinies locked in a seven-thousand-year war for control of the world, its gods, and its men. Indeed the victor will determine nothing less than the fate of all creation.
Troubles mount as King Garion, Belgarath, and Polgara pursue Zandramas, the Child of Dark, across the known world. The wicked creature has abducted the King’s infant son for sinister purposes. If Garion and his companions cannot reach the Place Which Is No More, as the Seeress of Kell has warned, then Zandramas will use Garion’s son in a rite that will raise the Dark Prophecy to eternal dominion over the universe. Only the Seeress of Kell can reveal the mysterious locale, but first Garion and Polgara must fulfill an ancient prophecy in the mountain fastness of the Seers. Although Kell is closed to Zandramas, her dark magic can forcefully extract the intelligence she needs from one of Garion’s party. Setting traps and dispatching her foul minions, she is determined to claim the world for the Dark Prophecy. But Garion will let nothing stand between himself and his son. . . .
Customer Reviews:
Again - enjoy.......2007-09-25
Eddings writes mindless drivel, but it is ENTERTAINING mindless drivel - great for telling the world to go soak its head and just sitting back and having a good time.
p.s. The good guys win.
Great book.......2007-08-04
This is a wonderful book to read. You should read the first 8 books in this series to completely understand it. Once you starting reading these books you just can't stop.
Excellent, gripping conclusion.......2007-05-15
The Malloreon took a little getting used to - new characters, and most of the ones from the Bellgariad weren't allowed on this trip. All in all a good read that made me have to purchase the Belgarath and Polgara books to prolong the wonder the Eddings created.
Beautifully done.......2007-03-09
In the Mallorean Mr. and Mrs. Eddings continue and close the wonderful story they began in the Belgariad. The combination of high adventure and wonderful wit are a joy to read. With characters you will never forget (and probably notice traces of in your own friends!) these books are a must have for any fantasy library.
Great Reading.......2006-11-13
I was introduced to this series a couple of years ago and I've been in love with it ever since. I can't believe I never came across it sooner. Of course now that I've read it I come across it in book stores all the time now. This series is a beautiful series for all readers. I wouldn't limit it to fantasy lovers because it is simply a terrific series. It has everything you can ever want to read in a book - humour, fear, action and satisfaction that good does indeed have a say in what goes on in the world. The characters come alive in your head without even trying, the storyline is addictive so it's best to either buy all the books in the series from the start or make plans to get it as soon as you can.
It was great to get these books in 4 books instead of 10. I still re-read this series and I've recently bought them as christmas presents. It's an excellant buy for any avid reader or even for those you might want to encourage to read. For all those who do buy this series, check out Belgarath and Polgara - the companion editions.
Book Description
As the bestselling THE Mallorean series contnues, Garion is pursuing Zandramas, in the form of a great dragon flying over them, across the known world. With the forces of evil threatening on both sides, Garion still had to get to the Place Which Is No More, as the Seeress of Kell had warned, but they had no idea where that might be....
Customer Reviews:
Eddings strikes again.......2006-06-29
I am surprised that there are still so many complaints about repetition and and slow plot by the fourth book, if you dislike this kind of writing you might have stopped at the second or third.
Eddings makes it very clear in the beginning exactly how long the quest is going to be, how many characters will die, and even whether or not the heroes will succeed (at least in reaching their destination). I've never seen another author manage to do that and still keep a grip on his readers.
There is definitely a sense of humour in how he lets things happen over and over again in opportune moments. Even those who complain about the repetition probably haven't noticed half the things in the book that ties back and forth and even across to other series. Noting some of these is really quite fun.
Thirdly, this is obviously not a book about gory battles of demons and clashing armies. All of us enjoy those books at times, but we also need something to read under lamplight just before sleep. Eddings usually keeps me awake for hours.
If there is one complaint I have to make, it is that Eddings needs to work on his olde English, it's not very convincing.
Just When You Thought It Would Never End, It Doesn't.......2005-07-14
[wry smile] By this point you are either an Eddings fan or you aren't. I like him because of the things that often irritate other readers. He doesn't create continuous flows of action, but uses a picaresque style that leads the reader back and forth across a continent on a quest that is going to take exactly as long as it is supposed to, no matter how you feel about it. Edding's solution to writing a series that covers a nine month effort is to make it feel like it has been nine months. If you don't like a perpetual stream of distractions you aren't going to like this book.
This time the questers are following Zandramas through Melcena. With and without Zakath, harried by demons and grolim, and generally perplexed by the mystery of finding a place that 'is no more.' This book rises and falls on the banter between the characters as they alternatively criticize themselves and the people around them. There are plenty of moments of humor and a few plot twists, but, like the third volume of the Belgariad, this is where the story bogs down.
My theory is that Eddings always overwrites by one full volume. He loves quests and he wrings every detail out of them. It is only when he realizes that his characters have begun to parody themselves that he changes pace and finally heads for a conclusion. This is an admitted flaw in a writer whose imagination I generally appreciate. Parts of what he has done have extended the epic genre, and his decision to use approachable and even weak characters has made fantasy more appealing to those of use who are put off by flowery language.
If you've gotten here, you have read eight full volumes of the author's work. You are considering to reading the ninth, and I promise you that nothing much is going to change. If you like Eddings you will have fun reading that, if not, you won't. But if you don't read it, you will miss Ziss's pregnancy and Vella's teasing.
Just say NO to Eddings.......2004-12-14
When I was given this book for my Fantasy Literature class I had no idea what I was getting into. Here I was geared up for another exciting reading adventure, I had my game face on, the thinking cap was in place, blast-off in 3, 2, 1-- Oh no! it looks like Eddings took a crap right in the engine. Honestly, it really represented something like taking candy from a stranger in a car: the initial sensation was exciting, but the following events left me scarred for life.
Maybe I had just been spoiled by the wonderful worlds of Tolkein and Le Guinn, but it just seemed to me that Eddings has made it so I'll never be able to completely trust a fantasy author again. All the dialogue in his book just serves to reveal the crazy little quirks about the characters, and at the same time, makes you want to jump in a volcano. The quirks aren't crazy, and the characters are not interesting! Moreover, every woman in the novel is either a. making a snide comment, b. being angry, or c. being cute. That's it folks, nothing else, according to Eddings women have no depth at all; and the really scary part is that Eddings' wife helps him with his writing. Well, atleast from this book I was able to discover something revealing and inciteful from the story, right? Well yes, actually. First, that evil people are generally bad, and good people tend to fight bad people (however, the heroes are so stupid I wish they would just die); and secondly, and most imortantly, when anybody comes and offers you some tempting David Eddings fantasy literature, JUST SAY NO!
finally nearing the conclusion.......2004-03-27
Book 4 of the Mallorean
Have you heard the expression "The more things change, the more they stay the same"? That expression is perhaps a good analogy for Eddings' Mallorean. Belgarion, Polgara, Belgarath and company are hot on the heels of Zandramas, the sorceress who kidnapped Belgarion's infant son way back in Book 1 "Guardians of the West". Now the group is only a couple of days behind, but more than just finding Zandramas they have to follow the prophecy which is gearing up between a final (truly final) meeting between the Child of Light and the Child of Dark. This story takes place on the continent of Mallorea, and another character is added to Belgarion's group as they follow the clues laid out by prophecy. While it may feel at times that the story will never end and that Belgarion is not truly getting closer to finding his son, this novel does give the sense that there is a true resolution that is going to happen if we just wait for it.
Neither this review nor this book is capable of changing your mind about whether or not you like David Eddings or his work. If you like Eddings, the "Belgariad" or the first three books in this series, then you will certainly like this one. It is more of the same. If you don't like Eddings...you won't like this one because it is still more of the same. Every character is witty and makes jokes at the others expense, but in a good natured way because they all like each other. They are the same jokes and side comments that have run through 8 previous novels set in this world. On one hand the jokes are amusing, but on the other hand, we've been reading the same jokes and comments for eight novels. This series (along with "The Belgariad") is one which hooked me on the fantasy genre when I was a young teenager, so I will always have a certain fondness for the series. In terms of overall quality, it is not one of the best you will read but it has always been enjoyable to read.
The end is near.......2003-09-02
Who is Zandramas? Well this book is a lot about her and where she comes from. Garion must hurry to meet her at the correct time and place to stop her from becoming a new Torak. Can he do it. This book only took me two days to read it which says a lot because I am a very busy person. I think you will finish it just as fast.
Customer Reviews:
At least as good as The Belgariad!.......2000-01-14
But then again - this is David Eddings, and this man IS the best! These books are absolutely fantastic - funny and well written. Everything David Eddings writes - Belgariad & Malloreon + prequels, Elinium and Tamuli - it's just perfect.
PS. I know I've written this once, but this time it'll link to my user-site.
Typical Eddings: Awesome!.......1999-12-09
I have found myself reading and re-reading David Eddings work with great frequency. He writes about believable characters that bicker, pout, and get along much like my friends with whom I grew up. This is not Tolkein. The heroes aren't perfect. Belgarath is about as flawed as they come and is perfectly contrasted by his prudish daughter Polgara. Poor Belgarion is caught in the middle with the way he was raised and egged on by his little queen. This makes for a great comedy. The adventure is almost secondary to the story or as Alfred Hitchcock would put it, the McGuffin; a simple plot device.
David Eddings is one of the best writers there is.
This is best!.......1999-12-03
This is better! then the 5 star Belgarion serie. The characters are so lively. It's more comedy than in a real comedy but also excitement. If you haven't read this do it!
But a tip read the Belgarion serie first. For you that have read the Belgarion I just want to say that this is more comedy and less excitement. But at my opinion it is better.
Top-Notch Fantasy.......1999-11-08
If you enjoy Fantasy, you will love both the Belgariad and the Mallorian. I've read them so many times, I've lost count. So have both my kids. What makes Eddings' books so good is his ability to bring his characters to life. They become more than just fictional constructs - in fact, they become friends.
At least as good as The Belgariad!.......1999-10-23
But then again - this is David Eddings, and this man IS the best! These books are absolutely fantastic - funny and well written. Everything David Eddings writes - Belgariad & Malloreon + prequels, Elinium and Tamuli - it's just perfect.
Product Description
3 hardbacks
Product Description
Malloreon Series (5 Books) By David Eddings - Guardians of the West, King of the Murgos, Demon Lord of Karanda, Sorceress of Darshiva, The Seeress of Kell.
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Sorceress of Darshiva
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books | Adventure | Alternate History | Anthologies | General | Graphic Novels | High Tech | History & Criticism | Series | Short Stories | Space Opera
ASIN: 9995802821 |
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Sorceress Of Darshiva (Book Four Of The Malloreon)
David Eddings
Manufacturer: Corgi Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books | Alternate History | Anthologies | Arthurian | Contemporary | Epic | General | Historical | History & Criticism | Magic & Wizards | Series
ASIN: 0552130206 |
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G Gundam, Book 1
Hajime Yatate & Yoshiyuki Tomino , and
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- Brothers in Arms
- And now for something 'different'
- The Outpost at Last...
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The Last Outpost, Book 1 (Mobile Suit Gundam G-Unit)
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ASIN: 193151481X |
Customer Reviews:
Brothers in Arms.......2007-08-18
From manga publishing monster TOKYOPOP comes yet another entry in the Gundam frachise, the "Last Outpost" manga by Koichi Tokita. On a side note, it should be noted that Hajime Yatate and Yoshiyuki Tomino didn't write this manga (as written on the cover); they're always credited for the "Mobile Suit Gundam" TV series. Originally titled "Gundam Wing Dual Story: G-UNIT," this 12-volume manga has been released in 3 volumes for your convenience. It's an original story set in the same timeline as the "Gundam Wing" series. While the five Gundam pilots declare war on the Earth, the neutral MO-V asteroid colony secretly develops the G-Unit, an experimental mobile suit that can be modified for combat in any environment. Enter the Bernett brothers-the reckless Odin and the levelheaded Odel-who not only get to test drive this baby, but also join their colony in the independence movement started by the shadowy organization OZ. But the citizens of MO-V are in for a rude awakening when the elite "OZ Prize" unit attacks. When Odel, the colony's top MS pilot, gets shot down, Odin must master the G-Unit in order to protect his home.
While "The Last Outpost" is unlike anything seen in "Gundam Wing", throwing in a whole new setting, cast of characters, and mecha-the manga merely proves the adage: the more things change, the more they stay the same. You still have the same robot-on-robot action, the same high stakes, and at least one character from the TV series makes a cameo appearance. Also, like on the show, characters that get caught in explosions miraculously survive with minor injuries. On the plus side, character development and relationships both seem to be better focused here than in "Gundam Wing," as the trials that befall Odin force him to reevaluate his priorities. While it's too early to tell, "The Last Outpost" is sure to tickle the fancy of Gundam fan and average reader alike. As a bonus, Tokita includes "Go for It, Domon! Gundam Party," a series of four-panel cartoons featuring super deformed (Chibi) versions of your favorite Gundam characters.
This comic is rated Y for Youth: Violence.
And now for something 'different'.......2006-04-08
Those who've watched and are familiar with the Gundam Wing plot would find no evidence of the happenings in this volume (I still have yet to read the 2nd and 3rd book) in the series or in anywhere else. It might as well be completely disconnected. G-Unit has a few ties here and there with the apearance of Lady Une and Nicol, but it seems to be off in its own little universe that you don't really even have to know what's going on in the series to be able to enjoy reading this.
The story itself starts off pretty well with this first volume, but it lacks the 'feel' of the After Colony (Gundam Wing) universe - that's not bad per say, it's just different. In thus saying, it's not a definite must have, but it's still a good read; It's a "should" get for Wing fans, at the very least.
The Outpost at Last..........2005-07-04
Released at roughly the same time as Endless Waltz in Japan, 'The Last Outpost' is a side-story to the popular Gundam Wing series. Recent legal issues meant that the title had to be changed from the original of "G-UNIT", but just about everything else has remained the same. The storyline picks up as OZ make their move to secure the colonies allegiance by claiming to want peace and equality. As Lady Une spreads this message across the stars, research is being conducted at the far off colony of MO-V on what could be the most powerful MS humanity has ever seen. Called G-Units, they resemble the infamous five Gundams in looks and armour but have a few tricks of their own... Test piloting the two prototype Geminass G-Units are brothers Odel and Odin Bernett. Older sibling Odel is a mobile suit ace whilst teenage Odin has fire in his eyes but not yet the skill to match it. Even the backwater MO-V colony can't resist the lures of OZ and the colonies leader soon eagerly signs his people up believing he is securing their future. But when the G-Units attract the attention of OZ's elite Prize unit, MO-V becomes a hunting ground and no treaty will save Bernett brothers, their G-Units or the other inhabitants of MO-V from the carnage which awaits...
G-UNIT is an interesting story from the After Colony world. For starters, Tokita pulls in inspiration from the ever popular UC. Whilst this is usually a cause for groans from fans as the same ideas continue to be rehashed over and over in the Gundam franchise, Tokita serves to use these inspirations only as slight homage and manages to keep the story feeling like it belongs in the AC timeline whilst inserting his own appealing and fresh ideas. Even Tokita's love for G Gundam's Allenby gets a nod (Prize pilot Kratz's custom Leo is clearly based on the infamous Nobel Gundam). About the only time this drawing on older works fails to work is for a certain character design- Prize pilot Broom Brooks is very clearly based on the look of G Gundam's Argo. This minor annoyance isn't enough to really spoil enjoyment however.
As a sidestory, very few of the characters viewers will know from the Wing animated works appear. Lady Une and Lt Nichol appear briefly to set up why the events of this series were never mentioned in the show and a brief mention of the Gundam pilots and their aims are given to inspire Odin into what direction he will take with the conflict. Speaking of which, Odin is a decent character. He's slightly cliche' but alot more realistic and easy to warm to then the 5 Wing boys. Odel is a mentor to his brother, loving but not afraid to let his brother learn things the hard way as is some times the best in life. The rest of the MO-V 'family' consists of leader Roga Herman, his assistant/Odel's girlfriend Tricia, chief engineer and G-Unit designer Dr Berg, head mechanic Dick and his 'apprentice'/Odin's ocassional caretaker of sorts Lucille. On the reverse side of things we are introduced to another part of the mysterious OZ group in the shape of OZ Prize, a group of the finest OZ soldiers who receive their orders directly from Duke Dermail. Led by three bishounen pilots known as the Stardust Knights, Prize flaunt their advantage over MO-V and make a game of harassing the citizens and fighting the G-Units. The idea of Prize is a logical one and an interesting element to see played out.
The UC influence on the story can be seen most clearly in the mecha designs. The Gundam Geminass G-Units are based on the Gundam Mk IIs from Zeta Gundam and their upgraded flight forms on the GP-01Fb from 0083. Prize also have some eyecatching designs in the form of the Stardust Knights' custom Leos, which have extra armour, weapons and various cosmetic details such as feminine frames and capes. They fit well with OZ's theatrical style and seem like exactly the MS you'd expect the elite wing of such a group to use.
The first of three books in total, the book ends on a cliffhanger. But beyond that there's a treat in the form of more of Tokita's ever popular SD comics covering G Gundam, Gundam Wing, Gundam X, Endless Waltz and G-Unit itself. With just 4 panels at a time, Tokita manages to take some witty stabs at the show and his own work as well as humorous ideas which see the various casts interact. The fact that Tokita is welling to take shots at himself and his work makes the main story itself all the more enjoyable as you can see this is a man aware of the possible faults and that ultimately it's just entertainment.
For a first volume, this book does pretty well. The book manages to draw you in and make you eagerly await the next two volumes. Whilst fans of the Wing world will definetly appreciate it, the story told here is perhaps richer which opens it up to a wider audience. Reccomended.
Book Description
The secrets and mysteries of the four televised Gundam sagas from 1979. The book guides the reader through a maze of character bios, Gundam technologies, truths and legends that continue to perplex and mesmerize viewers all over the world.
Customer Reviews:
DISORIENTING BOOK.......2006-03-16
THIS BOOK IS NOT WHAT I EXPECTED. THERE ARE FEW QUESTIONS FOR EACH GUNDAM SERIE AND THE ANSWERS ARE NOT ALWAYS VERY CLEAR.
THIS IS NOT A PRODUCT FOR DEMANDING GUNDAM FANS.
For new fans of gundam.......2005-10-18
This book really isn't for anyone who's been a fan of the series for a long time. They discuss basic elements of the series and don't reveal any mysteries or secrets to the longtime fans of gundam. However, i do suggest this book for the newbies of gundam as it gives a very straight to the point appraoch and is extremely easy to read. The only real dissappointment in this book is it's misleading title. It should rather be an introduction to the series rather than a "mysteries and secrets revealed!"
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- ArmX The Road To Betrayal Review
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Universal War ARM X: The Road to Betrayal
Peter W. Smorynski
Manufacturer: Trafford Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Action & Adventure
| Genre Fiction
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Fantasy
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1412011477
Release Date: 2006-07-06 |
Book Description
Prepare yourself for an anime-infused sci-fi action-drama! ARM X is an all-new, original novel in the tradition of the Japanese Mecha Genre!
Customer Reviews:
ArmX The Road To Betrayal Review.......2007-07-26
I have owned this book from about the first week it has come out. After reading it a couple of times I can honestly say it is a well written book. If you like Sci-fi then you will absolutely LOVE this book. The author has a unique style of writing that after a few chapters, keeps you hooked on the book. Can not wait for the sequel.
Book Description
With its origins in ancient India, Buddhism is a system of thought that has enriched the religious lives of billions--and in more recent times, swept through the Western world as well. Now anyone who wants to learn more about Buddhism can go directly to the source, with this collection of original documents--edited, with commentary, by a Cornell University professor of philosophy.
Customer Reviews:
Good Intro To The Ideas of a Great Thinker---Mr. Buddha.......2007-08-26
This is one of the "original" "self-help books" written by a great thinker. You will benefit by reading this book. Recommended. boland7214@aol.
A Superb Introduction.......2002-01-12
Originally published in 1955, E. A. Burtt's "Teachings of the Compassionate Buddha" remains in print nearly half a century later for a very simple reason - it is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Buddhist thought.
The book is divided into two sections:
Book One - The Early Scriptures of Buddhism
Book Two - Buddhist Thought Through Later Centuries
Book one includes basic doctrines such as the sermon at Benares (in which Gautama Buddha expounds for the first time upon the "Four Noble Truths" and the "Eightfold Path") and selections from the treasure that is "The Dhammapada" ("Way of the Truth").
The remaining thirty odd pages of this section contain material from the Therevada (or "Lesser Vehicle") school of Buddhism, which claims to follow the uncorrupted tradition of Buddha himself, focusing upon clearing of the mind and attainment of Nirvana.
Book two concerns itself with the Mahayana (or "Greater Vehicle") ideal, the core of which holds that since "all are one", universal salvation is the goal of Buddhist practice - as opposed to the Therevada notion of individual pursuit of Nirvana. Among other things, you will find here materials from the Chinese and Japanese Pure Land and Meditation (Zen) schools.
Both sections consist of translations (Burtt used the best he could find at the time) of actual Buddhist texts (such as the above mentioned "Dhammapada", "The Lotus Sutra", various philosophical and devotional treaties, etc.) so that the reader is receiving information more or less directly from the source. Also included is a helpful and illuminating introduction by Mr. Burtt in which he provides an analysis of the religious impulse in general and an overview of the Indian traditions from which Buddhism sprang and which it altered. In fact, Mr. Burtt provides commentary throughout the book, clarifying the distinctions between the Therevada and Mahayana schools and generally shining an erudite light on the various texts.
As an introduction to Buddhism this collection is ideal. As a refresher or reference for those already acquainted with Buddhist thought, this book is a valuable addition to any would be arhat's or bhikshu's library.
~"What the world thinks of as life is really death"~.......2001-04-14
This is a comprehensive primer on Buddhist thought. Simple, but informative. Burtt begins with an excellent synopsis on the nature of religion and religious thought in general. It covers the two main branches of Buddhism- Hinayana (or Theravada) and Mahayana. It seems to be that the Theravadins are the followers of more conventional Buddhism with an orthodox canon, whereas the Mahaynas are more universal in their ideas and use later basic writings.Using the Tathagata's words, other things are argued e.g. taking on the life of a monk. The parables are very helfpful, and the one sticking to me most is the one about the acceptance of death. (mustard seed) There is less coverage pertaining to the Theravada school. These ideas of the Mahayanans I find more attracted to, except in some work from the later centuries where they start to argue for things like subjective idealism. The Mahayana religious ideal I do advocate however [pp. 124] 'The central idea in Buddhist teaching is the gospel of universal salvation based on the idea of the fundamental oneness of all beings."
great summary of Theravada and Mahayana differences.......1998-12-01
hey, i'm the first reviewer! ahem, imho, this book helps buddhists to understand the reasons for the Mahayana 'split' from the Theravada tradition. This is the best brief popular-level discussion of this i have seen yet. prof Burtt divides the book evenly into selections from Theravada and Mahayana and has an essay in the middle on the causes and motivations for the split. Someone familiar with Theravadan sources looking for an introduction to Mahayana sources would benefit from this book, as well as vice versa. Too often, contemporary Buddhist books tend to blur the distinction and beginners cant be sure which tradition references come from. Anyway, many key selections are included in this book, from the Dhammapada to the Lotus Sutra. It would make a nice source book for group study, as well as being a good source for devotional study. namaste!
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The Teachings of the Compassionate Buddha
E.A. Burtt
Manufacturer: Mentor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Buddhism
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Buddha
| Buddhism
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Dhammapada
| Buddhism
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
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ASIN: B000MTTO5Q |
Product Description
Early Discourses, The Dhammapada, and Later Basic Writings.
Books:
- Kalki (Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics)
- Koolaids: The Art of War
- Logan's Storm: A Novel
- Lydia Bailey
- Making Waves #4: Thrill
- Mala Onda/bad Vibes (Punto de Lectura)
- Modern Korean Fiction: An Anthology
- Nellcott Is My Darling
- Never Too Late: A Novel
- Nights of Musk: Stories from Old Nubia
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