Teacher, Teacher, I Declare!: And Other Little Tattle Tales

Book Description

A collection of twenty stylistically different stories revolving around teachers at various stages in their careers. Each story is dominated by a central character trying to cope with a simple situation that turns complex with unexpected endings. Not all classroom stories, they all deal with grownups on the edge of something risky. The tales don't shrink from sex or violence, and yet there is a good dose of sardonic humor. An especially good read for teachers, past and present and future.

Customer Reviews:

Enthusiastically recommended reading for student teachers.......2001-05-21

In Teacher, Teacher, I Declare And Other Little Tattle Tales, Royce Adams (Emeritus Professor of English, Santa Barbara City College) has assembled twenty stories thematically related in that they all have to do with teachers. Not just classroom stories, these stories are divided into the beginnings, middles, and endings of various teachers' careers and reflect education styles ranging from the mainstream traditional to the avant garde experimental. Teacher, Teacher, I Declare is enthusiastically recommended reading for student teachers and anyone else with an interest in teaching as a career, a lifestyle, or a calling.

Carrying Tales.......2000-11-30

By the time I had finished reading "Bouillabaise" in "Teacher, Teacher I Declare!" I realized that I was in the presence of some very satisfying fictional art. Not just stories, or tales carried out of school (which they are), but artistic renderings of the sadness that goes with living. Not the sadness of terrible tragedy, war, or hideous crimes, but the smaller sadness of broken dreams, unself-confidence, missed opportunities, frustration, failure. Like many of the other stories in the book, "Bouillabaise" was perversely amusing at the same time, when you thought about it. And that's life. . . kind of funny when you think about it. Kind of sad. But worth it, after all, and gratifying to contemplate. W. Royce Adams is a stylish, professional author, as evidenced by his long string of published books, and it's good that he turned his attention to a fiction subject that he knows well - teachers, having been one for many years. To their students' surprise, they have lives outside of school and get into the same emotionally chaotic predicaments that the rest of us do. We watch Adams' characters struggle with unraveling marriage, drug experimentation, sexual longing, death in the family, personal betrayal, fear. . . It's excellent reading to see the world through Adams' eyes.

Teacher, Teacher I Declare!.......2000-11-29

Book Description

On a quiet fall evening in the small, peaceful town of Mill Valley, California, Dr. Miles Bennell discovered an insidious, horrifying plot. Silently, subtly, almost imperceptibly, alien life-forms were taking over the bodies and minds of his neighbors, his friends, his family, the woman he loved -- the world as he knew it.

First published in 1955, this classic thriller of the ultimate alien invasion and the triumph of the human spirit over an invisible enemy inspired three major motion pictures.

Customer Reviews:

Attacked by Tranquil Vegetables?.......2007-09-11

This was first published as a short story in 1954 'Collier's' magazine, then expanded into a novel in 1955. This is the 1978 version. It was made into a film in 1956, 1978, and in 2007. A good story bears repeating, like those 'James Bond' films.

Dr. Miles Bennell, M.D. practices in Mill Valley California. His father has a successful practice in this town. Late at night Becky Driscoll asks him to talk to her cousin Wilma, who believes her Uncle Ira is somehow "different". Becky was his teenage girlfriend. Miles was married and divorced at age 28. Doctor Miles can see nothing strange in retired Ira Lentz. But Wilma, a middle-aged spinster, is convinced he is an impostor. Dr. Miles tells Wilma it is impossible for two people to look exactly alike, even identical twins can be identified by close friends. Wilma's belief must be wrong. Wilma says the difference is in the emotions. Aunt Aleda has also changed. Dr. Miles suggests a psychiatrist.

The next morning Dr. Miles has a patient who ways her husband was somehow different. Over the next couple of days five more patients arrive with the same complaint. He learns another doctor has patients with the same complaint. How can nine people suddenly and simultaneously acquire identical delusions? Then Dr. Miles makes a house call. There is a strange object on a table in the basement! [The title gives away the secret.] Even if you think you know how it turns out you'll still find this novel very interesting. You can compare this novel to the filmed versions. Chapter Seven has a lesson on mass hysteria, or the unreliability of eyewitnesses. (You may figure out the reasons behind this lecture!) Chapter Eight warns about believing in strange stories printed in a newspaper. [They had weekly tabloids in those days.]

There are some false notes. People living in a rural area would likely have a dog; their keen sense of smell might detect differences in a person. People would have firearms handy. A small-town doctor who was divorced would be an oddity in 1955. Can a telephone call to Washington solve a local problem? One big problem is disposing of the bodies of the replaced people. That is always a problem in the real world. It would also be unusual for a doctor to have a separate office from his home in the 1950s. The most difficult problem is the physical impossibility of a vegetable to become an ambulatory animal. H.G. Wells' "War of the Worlds" had a better ending. This novel would be better if the aliens were damaged by the pollution in the air, water, and earth. "It's only a story."

Entertaining Sci-Fi classic.......2007-07-02

A small town doctor Miles Bennell receives a surge of neurotic patients with the same delusion: their relatives are not their relatives. Referring the patients to a local psychiatrist, he soon begins to wonder if something MORE might be happening. Teaming up with a local girl, Becky, the two and another couple soon are on the run from a strange menace which has infiltrated their small town.

I really enjoyed "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." I remember only snatches of the film, and the book goes into much more detail, including more details about the alien, Dr. Miles' relationship with Becky, and the reactions of the town.

Entertaining without being gory. 5 stars.

Classic 1950's Sci-Fi.......2006-08-14

This is a great one, born amidst the tail-fin laden anxiety of the 1950's. Thanks to multiple movie adaptations, and the descriptive title, the storyline here is probably familiar to most. Strange aliens invade small town and slowly and systematically take over the bodies of the unsuspecting inhabitants. The invasion is methodical, deliberate, and non-violent. Our protagonist and his delicious love-interest trip across the invasion, and become mankind's last hope of resistance before a complete invasion of the world is inevitable.

The overriding sense of suspicion, doubt and anxiety that was typical of Cold War fantasy literature pervades this book. Also, Finney, speaking in the first person through the voice of a Mill Valley family physician, wrote with a rye sense of humor. The plot itself is a bit absurd, from the improbable contained invasion of Marin County's jewel town to the ease with which our heroes turn back the invasion. It is hard to understand how our chief protagonist can remain such a horny SOB during civilization's darkest hour. There are gaps in the plot too - like what exactly happens to the 'old' human body when the alien duplicate body takes over?

Be advised, the book bears little resemblance to the 'modern' movie version with Donald Sutherland. That makes reading the book more worthwhile. Give it a try.

Invasion of Our Nightmares.......2005-02-19

Miles is beckoned to his friend's house after several cases of people reporting their friends' family and loved ones are not themselves. As it turns out what was originally thought to be a possible case of mass hysteria turns out to be an invasion of a sleepy town by pod-like aliens who then take over the populace's appearances and identities.

Admittedly other reviewers summed this book up better than I, which I attribute partly to my not wanting to give any plot away (for those Amazonians that have not had the pleasure of reading this book yet), and partly because as one reviewer pointed out the alien invasion plot was hardly original even at the time of this title's publication. Writers of Finney's era seemed to thrive on metaphorically writing about the "red" threat of communism.

Finney may not have been the first or last to write on the theme but he did an exceptional job re-visiting other author's alien plots and using his unique style and imagination to write perhaps the seminal novel on the subject. From the opening pages I was scared. Reading each paragraph with a mounting sense of dread as Finney did an excellent job pacing his novel.

Certain scenes jumped out in this relatively thin tome(compared to some horror novels Body Snatchers is almost a novella with an economy of words to do the job of scaring readers) placed within the story for maximum effect. When Miles, and Jack discovered the "blank" slate of a body in Jack's basement I thought "oh sh*t" presumably as Finney intended I should.

As stated this isn't longest horror novel ever and there was no need for it to have been. Finney uses the perfect amount of words to tell his open ended tale of alien takeover elegently and with such an influx of paranoia in the text I reflected upone completion "they sure don't write them like that anymore but I wish they did."

In summation a classic in the genre in the purest sense of the phrase.

Invasion!.......2005-02-06

Everyone knows about the movie adaptation of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" -- pod people, creepy takeover, lots of suspense. While the movie was good, the original novel is perhaps a more enjoyable story -- a creepy, tense novel that raises some intriguing questions about human nature.

Dr. Miles Bennell receives an odd patient from his old ex-girlfriend Becky: Her cousin Wilma is making bizarre claims about her relatives. She claims that while they look, talk, dress and act just like Uncle Ira and Aunt Aleda, they are fakes. Miles talks with Wilma, but she doesn't show any typical signs of insanity. What's more, other people are insisting similar things about their friends and family -- that they seem just the same, but that they aren't themselves.

Then things get more complicated. Miles's pal Jack and his wife Theodora have an "unfinished" person in their basement, a never-been-alive-and-not-living-now human being that is slowly turning into a duplicate of the real person. Growing out of alien pods that have migrated to our planet, the pod people are slowly and seductively working over the town -- and they will soon have the entire world.

This now-classic SF book was published in the 1950s, before the advent of space opera and Star Wars. (It also has a noteworthy resemblance to Robert Heinlein's "Puppet Masters," a similar book published four years before) Finney's book can be a bit dated in places -- for example the female characters are kind of wimpy -- they tend to get hysterical and follow the level-headed manly men. Fortunately these flaws are few and far between.

The writing and dialogue are solid, not outstanding, but pretty good. It does raise some interesting questions about human nature: In one scene, Miles is offered a life without strife by the pod people, and quickly turns it around to reveal that not only would a world of pod people be doomed, but also would have no drive, no enjoyment, no real living as we know it. It would all be bland, with no suffering but also no pleasure. Finney's writing is probably at its peak there, especially given the cold, pleasant attitude of the pod people -- no mustache-twirling and cackling for these villains.

As with many first-person narrators, Miles is not a fantastic character, but he does develop a certain strength and intelligence as the story goes on. Writer pal Jack is a bit more interesting -- I wonder if he was a sort of alter ego for Finney. Becky and Theodora have secondary roles, but are nevetherless fairly good. All other supporting characters, unfortunately, are pretty forgettable.

Though the movie deviated strongly from the book, fans of that film might want to check the origjnal story out anyway. Interesting and pretty well-written, especially for fans of horror/SF.

Average customer rating:

The Invasion of the Body Snatchers

Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000HHU312

Average customer rating:

Didn't Live Up
I never wanted it to end!! Fabulous!
An all-star cast of my generation! I swooned over Rod Taylor and Robert Culp!
WONDERFUL cast, beautifully performed, an EXCITING thrilling journey you won't forget!
"Hard Rock Lovers".....Beautifully done!!

Hard Rock Lovers
Paul Kyriazi
Manufacturer: Ronin Audio Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

Product Description

Computer programmer Alan Bartlet takes his new girlfriend to Las Vegas. There he meets Medusa, a backup singer for the now dead rock star Shane. She hints that Shane might be alive. In flashback, we see the rise and fall of Shane. Alan pursues Medusa and descends into a world of mystery, lust and murder to find out: Is Shane Alive?

Customer Reviews:

Didn't Live Up.......2007-07-03

I absolutely love "The James Bond Lifestyle Seminar," but this audiobook fell short. The plot was decent, but nothing better than you'd expect based on the synopsis. The main character is supposed to be 33 years old, yet his voice sounds like an old man. He sounds very unsure of himself. Also, a lot more could have been done with the sound effects. They did not immerse me in the scenes, as another reviewer claimed.

I never wanted it to end!! Fabulous!.......2007-01-16

Mr Kyriazi's production of Hard Rock Lovers was just fantastic! I was on the edge of my seat on a daily basis! I put the audio book on my iPod and listened while I jogged. I gotta say it motivated me to get out there and I am so sad it is over! I cannot wait for his next Audio production!

The story is fantastic, gripping and sexy. I absolutely loved it!

Bravo!!!!

An all-star cast of my generation! I swooned over Rod Taylor and Robert Culp!.......2006-05-22

Wow! My sister pointed me to this audio book and I couldn't believe my ears. I just relaxed on my bed to listen and was absolutely delighted with the movie-quality of the sound effects. Not only is this a masterful, well-written plot, it's also a quality production. The best I've heard.

And those stars that the magnificent author/director Paul Kyriazi lined up for this special version of his book!!! Well, all I can say is that I remember swooning each time I saw any of them on the big screen. (I hope my hubby doesn't read this.) But when I saw Rod Taylor--who narrates this story, with such a come-hither voice--starring in The Birds with that gorgeous Tippi Hedren, I almost fainted. Yes, he was that much of a hunk ... and still is, according to my sister!

Incidentally, people used to say I looked like Tippi. Ah-hhh, memories ... But getting back to this audio book, I loved it to pieces.

Keep up the excellent work, Mr. K. You're terrific, and almost as handsome as the great Rod! Ciao, baby ...

WONDERFUL cast, beautifully performed, an EXCITING thrilling journey you won't forget!.......2006-03-15

From the moment Hard Rock Lovers comes on ... it takes you by the hand and mind, and immediately draws you into this intriquing story, narrated by the imcomparable Rod Taylor, of revenge, love, lust, cold reality and spiritual enlightenment.

Robert Culp kept me laughing with his perfect low-life agent performance, always the best! James Darren was the perfect rock star, mean, talented but sad, his performance was # 1. Ishtar Uhvana was great as Medusa, she added the sweetness to keep some reality in the rock world and her ending dialoque brought tears to my eyes. Loved Russ Tamblyn, George Chakiris was brilliant as the evil Reynaldo, and Nefta Perry as Connie played the perfect Rosie Perez.

The ending gives you hope and leaves you with happy feelings. You will want to play it again and again; it only gets better each time you listen.

Paul Kyriazi is my hero. I am his BIGGEST fan.

Thank you Paul for the fun and exciting adventure!

"Hard Rock Lovers".....Beautifully done!!.......2006-03-14

The "Hard Rock Lovers" audio book was not at all what I expected, but what a wonderful surprise! It's a twisted, tangled web of events played out by a handful of multi-leveled, intertwined characters. The story is well written, beautifully told and convincingly enacted centering on the heights of a successful rock star and the terrible costs that are paid when that success is abused. People and events are manipulated by all the characters to satisfy their own needs and agenda.

"Good" and "evil" are blurred. "Life" and "death" are blurred. Relationships are blurred, but the irony of fate is boldly presented and it's made abundantly clear that our "next" existence offers another chance to hopefully do better. The inevitability of change, the subtle and sometimes dramatic interrelationships between cause and effect as well as the ever-present, ever-looming scales of divine and poetic justice are persistent threads. A beautiful blending of drama and melodrama are used to develop both the story and the characters. The audio presentation is top-notch entertainment, particularly when you consider that all acting is accomplished solely through vocal artistry. The actors do a fantastic job of inviting the listener into their world and moving you effortlessly through the story.

I really enjoyed listening to this audio book. It is wonderful from start to finish and my congratulations go out to all involved. It's a winner on all levels.

Average customer rating:

Invasion of the Body Snatchers

Manufacturer: Warner Books Inc (Mm)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0897520033

Invasion of the Body Snatchers: A Tribute

Average customer rating:

Invasion of the Body Snatchers: A Tribute

Manufacturer: Stark House Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

History & Criticism | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1933586079

Product Description

Invasion of the Body Snatchers starring Kevin McCarthy and Dana Wynter is one of the most revered films in international film history. For many critics it began the serious cycle of science fictions films that now include "Alien" and "Blade Runner." Thanks to the novel by Jack Finney, the screenplay by Daniel Mainwaring and especially the direction of Don Siegel, "Invasion" runs on television somewhere virtually every day. This original book brings together interviews with Kevin McCarthy and Dana Wynter and also includes pieces by Dean Koontz (introduction), Stephen King (an essay); and interviews with Philip Kaufman, who directed the 1978 remake; Robert H. Solo, who produced the remake; W. D. Richter, who wrote the remake; and Abel Ferrara, who directed the 1997 remake. Packed with insights into the production of a classic film, filled with moments of humor and a few moments of angst, and as entertaining as a "behind the scenes" look at the movie business--this is a tribute to Invasion of the Body Snatchers.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (Rutgers Films in Print)

Average customer rating:

about the 1st review (tommys)
Very Good

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (Rutgers Films in Print)
Al Lavalley
Manufacturer: Rutgers University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

History & Criticism | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Screenplays | Movies | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Foreign Languages | Reference | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0813514614

Customer Reviews:

about the 1st review (tommys).......2005-05-24

I dont know why you said "if you like the 1978 version of the film you'll love this book" when this book is the script for the 1956 version, directed by Don Siegal (who later directed "Dirty Harry"). By the way, the original 1950s version was only about 95% better than the re-make, which is why i had a problem with the comment. Thank You

Very Good.......2001-07-31

If you liked the 1978 version of Invasion of the body snatchers, than you'll love this book! I was at the edge of my seat reading this. It took me all day but it was worth it. I recomend buying this book because then you can let all your friends borrow it!

Average customer rating:

The Invasion Of The Body Snatchers
Jack Finney
Manufacturer: Award
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000GQGHPA

Average customer rating:

Invasion of the Body Snatchers
Jack Finney
Manufacturer: Recorded Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette
ASIN: 078876327X

Average customer rating:

Invasion Of The Body Snatchers
FOTONOVEL (Jack Finney)
Manufacturer: Fotonovel
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000GGUZ6W

Average customer rating:

Invasion of the Body Snatchers
Jack Finney
Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000GRCN52

Average customer rating:

Important Reading

Millennial Hospitality II: The World We Knew
Charles James Hall
Manufacturer: 1st Books Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Millennial Hospitality III: The Road Home

Millennial Hospitality

The Keepers: An Alien Message for the Human Race

Hunt for the Skinwalker: Science Confronts the Unexplained at a Remote Ranch in Utah

Hidden Truth: Forbidden Knowledge

ASIN: 1403392048

Customer Reviews:

Important Reading.......2004-07-16

I have met the author, and looked into his eyes as he talked to me about this book. I feel it is important reading, for any of us open-minded enough to realize that we cannot possibly be the only life in all of this vast universe. There is a simple thread of truth that runs through his story, trusting each other is what will save us all from each other...humans and aliens alike. I, for one, felt his eyes were not lying. This book truly touched me. To survive in the universe, we will have to trust other beings, as well as ourselves.

Book Description

Part of a series on Indian gods and goddesses

Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is easily the most recognizable and loveable of Hindu deities. But pinpointing his various attributes is not quite so simple. He is at once the portly, merry, childlike god and the sage, complex philosopher. He is the presiding deity of material wealth and the lord of spirituality. He removes all impediments for his devotees but creates all manner of difficulties for the transgressors, man or god. And associated with every aspect of Ganesha -- be it his extraordinary birth, his elephant head, his broken tusk, his vehicle (the mouse), his appetite, his anger -- are scores of myths, each more colorful than the other.

Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is easily the most recognizable and loveable of Hindu deities. But pinpointing his various attributes is not quite so simple. He is at once the portly, merry, childlike god and the sage, complex philosopher. He is the presiding deity of material wealth and the lord of spirituality. He removes all impediments for his devotees but creates all manner of difficulties for the transgressors, man or god. And associated with every aspect of Ganesha-be it his extraordinary birth, his elephant head, his broken tusk, his vehicle (the mouse), his appetite, his anger-are scores of myths, each more colourful than the other. In this thoroughly researched and delightfully narrated book, Royina Grewal gives us the many stories of Ganesha, exploring their significance and how they reflect the times and the cultures during which they originated.

Customer Reviews:

my favorite in this series..........2007-08-09

a great introduction to Ganesha, this small book is packed with great stories and subtle detail. the author's presentation of Ganesha's journey from a primitive concept to his current grand stature is tremendous. his journey also provides a small window into the continuous flux that is the Hindu spiritual path. the retelling of Ganesha's many myths are well written and wonderfully entertaining. i have already suggested this book to others and will continue to do so.

Fun, Informative and easy to read.......2004-04-26

This book was a nice easy read. It is well written and flows. My knowledge of hinduism is fairly limited. This book was a good start on learning more about Ganesha, his role in the religion and worship. This book is perfect for someone who does not know much about Ganesha and would like an intro to his stories. I only wish the books in this series were available in paperback.

Great British Book Collectors and their Libraries (Bookcollecting & Bibliomania)

Average customer rating:

Great British Book Collectors and their Libraries (Bookcollecting & Bibliomania)

Manufacturer: Thoemmes Continuum
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Books | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

General | Publishing & Books | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1855065274

Book Description

It was Dibdin who gave us the word bibliomania, and so it is fitting to build this collection around him. His Bibliomania, here reprinted from a revised edition, is an affectionate personal history of book-collecting through the ages. Bibliographical descriptions are complemented and expanded in The Library Companion, a book full of detail designed to bring out the book-collector in every educated person. Merryweather, Burton, Elton, Fletcher and Hazlitt relate their own and other collectors' passions through the ages, both in Britain and abroad. Together they form an extraordinary biographical dictionary of pioneers in the accumulation of culture and learning. Without these book-collectors' devotion of time, money, knowledge and taste, and the subsequent wholesale bequest or sale of their collections, public libraries as we know them would be greatly impoverished.

--Informative accounts of British bibliophiles
--Valuable biographical and bibliographical documentation on the British book trade

Average customer rating:

Great introduction!
Great book!
Review by a 5 year old
Great book, my daughter loves it, but not 100% authentic
A wonderful collection of classic Indian stories

How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head
Harish Johari , and Vatsala Sperling
Manufacturer: Bear Cub Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Eastern | Religions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1591430216
Release Date: 2003-11-30

Book Description

The magical story of how Ganesh, the son of Shiva and Parvati, was brought back to life with the head of an elephant

• The story of one of the most beloved characters in Indian lore, made accessible for Western children ages 6 to 9

• Illustrated throughout with paintings from the classic Indian tradition

Any Indian child can tell you how the beloved god Ganesh got his elephant’s head--now American children can know as well. For centuries Indian children have grown up hearing Ganesh’s story--how his mother, Parvati (an incarnation of the great mother goddess), created a small boy from sandalwood soap and commanded that he guard the palace against all intruders while she took her bath. How her husband, Shiva (the fearsome god of destruction), didn’t take kindly to being barred from his own home. How Shiva beheaded the boy during the cosmic war that followed, but then, when he realized that the balance of the entire universe was at stake, brought the boy back to life by grafting an elephant’s head onto his body and made him the people’s intercessor against the powers of destruction.

Ganesh’s timeless story teaches children about the steadfast power of dedication to duty, the awe-inspiring power of a mother’s love for her child, and the gentle power of compassion, which holds the world together. Accompanied by rich, color illustrations prepared according to the traditional Hindu canon, How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head will transport children to a magical world filled with ancient wisdom.

Customer Reviews:

Great introduction!.......2007-09-22

This is a great introduction to (or addition to a collection) centered around Ganesh. The story is brilliantly illustrated and the text is great. I was very happy with the purchase.

Great book!.......2007-08-17

Beautifully illustrated, wonderful story told in an interesting style for children (and adults).
Highly recommend for anyone interested in Hindu culture.

Review by a 5 year old.......2005-07-24

My son loves the book How Ganesh Got his Elephant Head! I have read it to him and his friends at least a hundred times! Although the author's choice of vocabulary is complicated for a five year old, my son has learned many new words and their meaning.
He says, "I like the pictures and learning about each of the Gods is fun. My favorite part is matching each God with his or her vehicle. How come Ganesh does not squish the mouse his rides?"

Great book, my daughter loves it, but not 100% authentic.......2004-10-30

My daughter who is four loves this book. I was a little surprised that she liked it so much, since it is a little advanced for her. The only reason that I do not give it five stars is that the story has been altered slightly to be more palatable to today's kids. For instance, the Gods ask permission from an elephant mother before taking her son's head and putting it on Ganesh's body. This was not in the original story, and since we are talking about a religous text, this is the equivalent of telling children that Jesus drank grape juice instead of wine. Still a great book, but the story has been slightly sugar coated.

A wonderful collection of classic Indian stories.......2004-05-19

Kids ages 6-9 who are sampling multicultural folklore will relish How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head, a wonderful collection of classic Indian stories. Pieter Weltevrede's bright full-page color drawings enhances these Indian classic folk tales, which should be part of any serious picturebook multicultural collection.

The Broken Tusk: Stories of the Hindu God Ganesha

Average customer rating:

Ganesh
Fun and interesting for adults too
Delightful book
More Than Just a Children's Book
Excellent introduction to Ganesh and Indian mythology.

The Broken Tusk: Stories of the Hindu God Ganesha
Uma Krishnaswami
Manufacturer: August House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Eastern | Religions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0874838061

Book Description

This collection of Hindu folktales for middle readers features stories about the god, Ganesha, who is easily recognized because of his elephant head. Krishnaswami introduces the stories by recalling her own introduction to Ganesha and goes on to offer a mythological context for the tales. Included among the tales are Ganesha's Head, The Broken Tusk, and 'Why Ganesha Never Married. Most of the stories come from Hindu legend; one comes from Mongolia, where Ganesha made his way into the Buddhist tradition. The pen-and-ink illustrations have child appeal, and readers will be aided by the pronunciation guide and glossary.

Customer Reviews:

Ganesh.......2005-04-09

As we all know How old is our Hindu Religeon ! If you see the Lord Ganesha or children say's elephant trunk god with a big belly..Do you relaize that The science was developed at that time as well as surgery too.Lord Shiva was a Doctor ( Master of Surgon) and he cloned the elephant head witha human body ? Do you believe it..Yes you have to be !

Fun and interesting for adults too.......2004-11-18

I bought this book for my niece and nephew, but before I gave it to them I read it too. It brought back the stories of Ganesha I had been told in childhood, and made me smile at them again. It may not have the pictures of "How Ganesha got his elephant head", which I bought for another child, but the it has more stories of this altogether charming lovable god.

Delightful book.......2002-10-22

The Broken Tusk tells seventeen different stories of Ganesha in easy reader format for second grade and up. The stories also lend themselves well to the read-aloud format for younger children. Many of my old favorites are here including the ones about how Ganesha got his elephant head and about how he made a "pradakshina" around his parents, into a trip around the world. Some might find the versions of certain stories here to be different from what they know. That is understandable considering how many of these have been passed along strictly through oral tradition. There are also some rarer stories here including one borrowed from Buddhist folklore.

Krishnaswami has done a thorough professional job with this one. She has prefaced the book with a brief introduction to Hindu mythology and to the god Ganesha himself. Also complementing the stories are a glossary of terms, a list of characters (kids would appreciate that!), a list of other names for Ganesha, and a pronunciation guide.

Krishnaswami finishes every story she narrates with a line or two that ties the legend to modern day reality. For example, after the story about Ganesha's head, Krishnaswami explains that in Indian (especially South Indian) temples today, sometimes elephants are fed and maintained reverentially. These acts, Krishnaswami explains, probably acknowledge the sacrifice made by the elephant in the original story. Small explanations like these place the stories in context, a service that I think is especially useful. The last word belongs to the wonderful old-world illustrations by Maniam Selven that complement the stories wonderfully.

With this book, Krishnaswami demonstrates that she is not only a gifted storyteller, she is also a thorough one. The Broken Tusk will get an enthusiastic nod not only from the young reading set but also from their grateful parents. This book is as charming as the elephant god himself!

More Than Just a Children's Book.......2002-08-03

This book was written to be a children's book, but in fact it is probably the best collection of storytelling about the mythology of Ganesha that that I have ever found. The Hindu parthenon's mythology has always been passed along from generation to generation by tales of the Deity in it's various forms. This exquisite book has all the well-known tales of Ganesh as well as some obscure stories and some tales from other lands and religions. I don't have kids but do delight in the simple stories that bring the attributes of Ganesha into light in simple, vivid parables of joy. If you love Ganesh like I love Ganesh, then this is a 'must have.' If you are a storyteller, this is the book that will be a Ganesh guide. If you just want a book that you can read story's in occasionally just to smile and search for meaning in, again, here'tis. This is a delightful exposing of this beloved Deity into Western civilization in our time. GAM.

Excellent introduction to Ganesh and Indian mythology........1998-10-09

A well written and highly readable book for children and adults alike, "The Broken Tusk" allows children to get to know Indian mythological figures as they really are - with godlike qualities and human frailties. Gods, demons and humans all take on a certain lovableness in this book. The author has presented popular versions of Ganesh stories, without sermonizing about good and evil, leaving the reader to draw the obvious conclusions. Children who are interested in different cultures are sure to enjoy this one, especially young Americans of Indian descent. My 8 year old, a real nature lover, who is fascinated with the multifaceted aspects of Indian mythological figures and their oneness with animals and nature, found it an eminently attractive book to read and to own. Clean, clear illustrations which take on a life of their own also add to the charm of this book. A handsome addition to any library, I recommend it highly.

Average customer rating:

A beautiful match of authenticity & contemporary sensibility
Stunning watercolor artwork with gold leaf highlights

Elephant Prince: The Story of Ganesh
Amy Novesky , and Belgin K. Wedman
Manufacturer: Mandala Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Eastern | Religions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Religions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1886069166

Book Description

Elephant-headed and big-bellied, mischievous and sweet, the god Ganesh is one of the most familiar faces in the world. But why does he have the head of an elephant? Set in the Himalayas in a time of gods and goddesses, Elephant Prince tells the story of a remarkable bond between a mother and her son, a remorseful god, a generous elephant and the boy who became Ganesh. Belgin K. Wedman's jewel-toned illustrations, reminiscent of classical Indian miniatures, complement this poetic story of one of the most beloved gods of all.

Customer Reviews:

A beautiful match of authenticity & contemporary sensibility.......2005-06-19

I have been searching for children's books that present the Hindu gods and goddesses and this is by far the best of all that I have found. This is a beautiful book that matches authenticity with contemporary sensibilities. My four year old appreciates this one as much as I do. I have found that with many books retelling stories from Hindu texts, the story is often presented in a way that is inaccessible to young children. Here the story has been retold beautifully. In this version, it is not Shiva who cuts off Ganesh's head but Shani's gaze that turns the head to ashes. While this is not the most popular version, and may be a disappointment to some, it is 'authentic' and the source is cited. I think this makes the story a better read for my young daughter. Additionally, I really like the way that Parvati is presented as a goddess, a princess and "also just a girl." Beyond the story, the art is wonderful. Take one of your best children's books and imagine how it would look with a Hindu flare and that is what you will get here. The art is engaging and the images are detailed enough to keep a child's eye but not overly complicated. The authenticity of the presentation is very respectful. I would highly recommend this book as an introduction to one of the children's favourite Hindu gods, Ganesh, and as an excellent children's book for anyone interested in plurality and multiculturalism. I hope that the authors will collaborate again for more tales of the gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon.

Stunning watercolor artwork with gold leaf highlights.......2005-04-11

Elephant Prince: The Story Of Ganesh will serve to entertainingly introduce the elephant headed Hindu god to young readers ages 4 to 8. Belgin K. Wedman's superb illustrations are a perfect story-telling showcase to talented children's author Amy Novesky's story set in the Himalayas during a time of gods and goddesses. Elephant Prince does not recount the commonest version of Ganesh's origin, in which Parvati creates a child from earth and her husband Shiva is so surprised by the stranger he cuts the boy's head off; instead, Elephant Prince draws upon a classic Indian text entitled "Brahma Vaivarta Purana" to present a version in which Parvati wishes for a child and to her delight has her wish granted, yet tragedy strikes when the god Shani (Saturn) accidentally destroys the child's head, for whatever powerful Shani gazes upon is instantly obliterated. The merciful god Vishnu brings the boy back to life with the aid of a wise old elephant, who chooses to sacrifice himself so that the child may be restored. And so Ganesh lives again with the head of an elephant, and becomes skilled at writing down stories. The elephant will live forever, and Ganesh lives and is loved by all - especially his mother. The stunning watercolor artwork with gold leaf highlights was deliberately created in style of the Kangra school of painting, developed in India during the 16th century. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Lord Ganesha's Feast of Laughter
Meera Uberoi
Manufacturer: Penguin Global
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

The British Book Trade In The 18th And 19th Centuries

Average customer rating:

The British Book Trade In The 18th And 19th Centuries
Thoemmes Press
Manufacturer: Thoemmes Continuum
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Publishing & Books | Reference | Subjects | Books

Reference | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Reference | Subjects | Books

Social History | Historical Study | History | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1855064960

Book Description

This set gives a comprehensive insight into all aspects of the British Book trade during a time which saw great advances in printing techniques as well as an increasingly literate public. Booksellers and publishers are biographically represented in both anecdotal and historical form. Featured are various memoirs, including those of William Bowyer and James Lackington, one of the most celebrated and successful booksellers of the eighteenth century.

Chinese-English Dictionary of the Vernacular or Spoken Language of Amoy: With the Principal Variations of the Chang-chew and Chin-chew Dialects (Ganesha - Western Linguists and The Languages of China)

Average customer rating:

Chinese-English Dictionary of the Vernacular or Spoken Language of Amoy: With the Principal Variations of the Chang-chew and Chin-chew Dialects (Ganesha - Western Linguists and The Languages of China)
Carstairs Douglas
Manufacturer: Ganesha Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

English (All) | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books

Science | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books

Linguistics | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1862100683

Average customer rating:

Ganesha
Jyoti Ganapathi
Manufacturer: Unisun Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Average customer rating:

Ganesha Goes.. Colouring Book
Tania Sironic
Manufacturer: Books Faith,India
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books