Arts Administration and Management: A Guide for Administrators and Their Staffs

Book Description

The primary function of Professor Shore's practical handbook is to help arts administrators create conditions for successful collaboration by integrating management know-how with the special needs and values of an arts organization. Designed for maximum user convenience, the book presents numerous examples, graphic aids, and anecdotes that help the reader understand and retain important principles and methods.

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If you're already well versed in Bat-trivia, you probably won't find The Ultimate Guide to the Dark Knight anywhere near ultimate enough. But as a broad history of Batman's friends, foes, and high-tech hardware and hideouts, this oversized, illustration-filled DK guide just can't be beat.

Just as DK did with the people and paraphernalia of Star Wars in Star Wars: Episode I: Incredible Cross-Sections and Star Wars: Episode I: Visual Dictionary, this guide pulls apart and pokes at the many gadgets and backdrops found in the Dark Knight's world. Exploded diagrams reveal the innards of the new and old Batcaves, and stat-packed tags and captions spell out everything from how the Bat-Signal works to where Catwoman stashes her bullwhip. Batman scholar Scott Beatty has compiled hundreds of excellent panels and covers from the original comic, and he displays commanding knowledge cataloging Gotham's most colorful characters in big, splashy spreads. (And no doubt future historians will appreciate his capsulized, 1939-on Batman timeline as an uncanny window into American pop consciousness.)

Die-hard fans will find much lacking here, though, like the near-omission of Frank Miller's genius Dark Knight Returns series and not even a passing reference to Batman's poignant love-hate relationship with the Man of Steel. But what DK's Ultimate Guide does, it does well--examining neat Bat-minutiae and providing a primer on the post-no-man's-land comic continuity. --Paul Hughes

Book Description

With unparalleled access to the archives of DC Comics, Batman: the Ultimate Guide to the Dark Knight provides spectacular illustrations reveal the secret workings of key installations and equipment such as the Batcave, the Batmobile, Batman's suit, and the weaponry contained in his Utility Belt. Panoramic views of Gotham City and Arkham Asylum with its villainous inmates, allow readers to enter into Batman's world. Crucial events and characters of the Batman legend are illustrated with drawings from the original DC comic books.

Customer Reviews:

LIVES UP TO ITS GRAND TITLE!.......2006-05-10

Despite being around for over 65 years, Batman's popularity never seems to wane. The blockbuster Batman film in 2005 once again generated enormous interest in the character. "Batman: The Ultimate Guide to the Dark Knight" has been updated right up through 2005 to ride this crest of popularity. The book is really geared towards the more casual or new Batman fans, as old-timers will already be familiar with much of the material inside the 144 page, hardcover book. Still, the book moves the reader on a rapid fire history of the character beginning with his origin and creation by Bob Kane way back in 1939.

Techie fans will love the intense coverage of all of the "wonderful toys" that Batman uses. His utility belt includes such items as tear gas pellets, an acetylene torch, a palm top communicator, grappling hook, and more. The book also presents a look at each of the Batmobiles and how the style has changed over the years from a rather modest sedan to today's sleek, armored road-killer packed with the latest cutting-edge technology. There's also a look at the various other "bat vehicles" including the Bat-plane, Bat-sub, Bat-Copter, etc...There is also a nicely diagrammed, cut-away view of the Bat-cave.

Most of the major characters in Batman lore are featured including allies such as Commissioner Gordon, the various Robins, Batgirl, Oracle, loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth, and Azrael. Then there are the Batman romantic interests: Vicky Vale, Silver St. Cloud, Talia Al Ghul, and Julie Madison. But what would any Batman book that calls itself "Ultimate" be without a rundown of the caped crusaders rogues gallery of villains. Batman's villains are almost as famous as he is and have played a huge role in the character's long-lasting popularity. They are all here: The Joker, Riddler, Penguin, Catwoman, Bane, Mr. Freeze, Scarecrow, Mad-Hatter, Two-Face, and many more. All with brief sections noting their real name and first comic book appearance.

The book covers some of the more well-known storylines in Batman history such as the Death in the Family storyline where the Jason Todd Robin was killed by the Joker. Unfortunately the book fails to mention that this gimmick storyline hinged on a fan vote via phone call to determine if Robin lived or died. Another notable storyline mentioned is Frank Miller's landmark mini-series The Dark Knight Returns.

Finally, there is a fantastic look at the Golden Age Batman as well as a timeline noting important events and stories in Bat-history along with the issue number where it took place. If I do have one nit about the book it's that issue numbers are not provided for some of these noted storylines although you can find most of them in the timeline section. The book features incredible artwork from the host of artists who have worked on the various Batman titles over the years including: Neal Adams, Jim Aparo, Brian Bolland, Paul Gulacy, P. Craig Russell, Dick Giordano, and many, many more.

All in all, "Batman: The Ultimate Guide to the Dark Knight" definitely lives up to its grand title!

Reviewed by Tim Janson

Batcool.......2005-05-08

In the press materials, DK Publishing claimed "unprecedented access to DC Comics' archives" to produce this coffeetable title. The author works in the comic-book industry, and the book hits all the high notes: origin of Batman, origin of Robin, first meeting with Ra's al-Ghul, death of Jason Todd, crippling of Barbara Gordon (known, of course, as "The Killing Joke" and the most disturbing Batmoment to this fan!), Bane's crippling of Batman and Frank Miller's "The Dark Knight Returns."

The pages are lush and full-color throughout, and there are page-spreads on Batman's suit, weapons, Batcave (nice diagram), Wayne Manor, Batmobile and other vehicles. Gotham City is profiled, as is every major character. This book is not comic reprints; it's a who's-who and what's-what in the Batlegend. I enjoyed it.

A Celebration of the Modern-Day Caped Crusader.......2004-02-10

This book is a blast to read. I wished this book had come out sooner when I was just finding my way around the modern Batman comics. Nevertheless, better late than never.

A word of caution. If you are looking for the DEFINITIVE guide to everything Batman, I wouldn't recommend this book to you. Les Daniels' book on Batman is by far the most comprehensive treatment on the whole history of the Batman from his pre-conception in the 1930s up till the recent stuff (including his incarnations outside the comicbook - TV, toys, cinema, etc.). Also, if you're interested in analyzing Batman as a pop-culture icon, you should check out Will Brookner's "Batman Unmasked" book. Finally, if you're interested in reading a one-volume collection of the definitive Batman - I'd recommend Frank Miller's "Dark Knight Returns" and/or "Year One" along with the "The Greatest Batman Stories Ever Told".

What then is this book by Scott Beatty about? It's about the modern day Batman. THIS Batman is as different from the classic Bob Kane/Bill Finger creation as the Tim Burton movies are from the Adam West TV show. For your information, THIS Batman is the one from Frank Miller's "Year One" (1986) and it includes the later revisions by Dennis O'Neil and Chuck Dixon up to today. In other words, this is the Batman of "Knightfall", "Contagion", "Cataclysm" and "No Man's Land". And in my opinion, this is the most exciting and rich version of the Batman since his conception in 1939. This book is not so much a guide but more a celebration of this modern-day Dark Knight of the comicbooks.

The book is neatly divided into sections. The first section is about Batman/Bruce Wayne and Gotham City. The second section covers his allies and loves (Alfred, Gordon, Nightwing, Oracle, Robin II, Robin III, etc.). The third section focuses on the many colorful villains in the Bat-mythos. Finally, there's also a foreword by Chuck Dixon, the man who, under the editorial-eye of Dennis O'Neil, pretty much shaped the direction of the Bat-books throughout the 1990s. Note: Dixon also teamed up with the author Scott Beatty on some other great works like the recent "Robin: Year One" and "Batgirl: Year One".

Answered a lot of my questions.......2004-01-22

I bought this book because I am new to the Batman world and I wanted to know about the people around him and his most famous adversaries. The graphics in the book are great. If you are looking for a primer on the major players in the Batman world (friends and foes), then this book is for you.

Not just for kids!!!!.......2003-11-04

This is the sort of guide I would like to see for all DC and Marvel characters. At first glimpse I thought it was a kid's book but it proved to be an invaluable aid for me to catch up on some of the plotlines I had missed.

Book Description

This book contains 9 of William Sanders' best Nativa American-themed short stories, including "The Undiscovered," (Sidewise Award-winner for Best Alternate History Story, as well as a finalist for both the Hugo and Nebula Awards.)

Customer Reviews:

Well, I certainly did........2003-02-20

I've been a fan of Sanders' work for a long time, ever since I read his first two (terrific) novels, JOURNEY TO FUSANG and THE WILD BLUE AND GREY; but I was blissfully unaware of most of his short fiction until I read this collection. There's some alternate history here, most notably "The Undiscovered," perhaps his best-known short story, but the variety is wider than that: erotica, humor, a nasty little yarn about cockroaches and vengeance, all with Indian themes and not a loser in the bunch. Sanders is a terrific storyteller, and I can't recommend this book highly enough.

Are We Having Fun Yet?: The 16 Secrets of Happy Parenting

Average customer rating:

Best parenting advice I've received yet.
Stuff you know, but good to hear again
The Title Says It All
NOT About How To Raise Your Kids
Everyone, not just parents, should read this book

Are We Having Fun Yet?: The 16 Secrets of Happy Parenting
Kay Willis , and Maryann Bucknum Brinley
Manufacturer: Grand Central Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Business Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Parenting Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

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Accessories:

ASIN: 0446673455

Customer Reviews:

Best parenting advice I've received yet........2003-08-29

I read this book when I was really stressed from having three teenage daughters and a newborn. I found her wit and honesty refreshing. Just goes to show you dont have to be perfect to be a great mom. The greatest lesson was to enjoy the experience of childhood and not to stress about the things in life. Great read for ANY parent.

Stuff you know, but good to hear again.......2003-01-14

I almost didn't make it through this book because it starts off by telling you to take time for yourself and the author explains how her mom paid for her to have a sitter in the afternoons so she could sit at a girlfriend's and decompress, or how her husband would bathe the kids every night. I liked the later chapters better, but didn't hit any epiphanies. Maybe my expectations are too high for these books.

The Title Says It All.......2002-02-19

With a sense of humor and openness that only an experienced mother can portray, Kay Willis makes this parenting book fun to read. She's been there, done that, and somehow makes a reader feel that it's something she'd do again (parent another child) if given the opportunity.

I read it at a low time in my relationship with my teens and immediately felt lifted--that the things we deal with are universal to raising of kids. She really empowered me as a mother to feel that I'm doing well and that despite my best efforts life will not always be rosey. We must just keep plugging away and that sometimes what we think as a tough situation can be better handled with a different persective. I only wish she had a "Dear Kay" column!

NOT About How To Raise Your Kids.......2000-07-11

I thought this was a wonderful book, I enjoyed it very much. What set it apart for me is that it's a book about BEING a parent, not how to parent. It doesn't tell you how to raise your kids. It's about how parents feel and how we can feel better. It was one of the few parenting books I've read that is more likely to relieve guilt than create it.

This book has no preachy advice; the author is truly respectful of individual differences and, having raised 10 kids herself, she's nothing if not realistic. She talks a lot about "attitude and atmosphere" and how the way we feel as parents affects those things. Along that central theme the book is filled with encouragement and food for thought. She really tries to uplift parents, encourage them to enjoy the ride and offers frequent reminders of the rewards of the job.

The text is broken up by anecdotes from the author, her children and others, and quotes borrowed from everything from the Farmer's Almanac to Confucius. I pick the book up often for a shot in the arm of inspiration. The anecdotes alone could be read "Chicken Soup" style.

Best of all, perhaps, the book is an easy read. It is written in a light tone. It's short, direct, and formatted for brief reading sessions (which is all most parents really get!).

Everyone, not just parents, should read this book.......1999-02-24

The author, Kay Willis, has 10 kids (yes, 10). It reads like Erma Bombeck and has wonderful advice in a non-lecturing way, makes you happy that you have kid(s). My husband is now worried that I will want lots more.

This is the best parenting book I've ever read, period. I keep it with me and read it in the car during rush hour delays, and I arrive home completely jazzed and not guilty. As a nursing mom, I also read it while expressing milk at work; it's a really uplifting book. It's essential for parents who ever feel stressed, unsure of themselves, worn down by work and kid demands, and short on romantic or even friendly thoughts.

Some examples that enticed me to actually finish the book (like most parents, I can't say that about most books these days):

* It's not too thick!!

* It was so entertaining and well-written I finished it before I knew it, and actually wished it wasn't over!

* Kay reminds parents that if they are bored or not having fun, their kids feel the same, and urges parents not to serve leftover versions of themselves. Having fun, protecting your own sense of worth and happiness are essential to a healthy family. "Having fun is an important parenting skill - if you're overcommitted and exhausted you're not much fun to be around"

* "Let the chores go and have fun with your kids" I always love to hear that.

* Kay became Fisher Price's spokesperson for a new camera toy, by betting the president of Fisher Price that she could sell more toys than their camera "expert."

* She's upbeat and crazy and shares a lot of common sense

* She relishes life.

* Kay formed a group called "Mothers Matter" to help parents network and learn, because "Motherhood is like a secret society. You don't really find out all about it until after you've been initiated."

Customer Reviews:

Title Change.......2003-01-15

As the other reviews show this is a fantastic book with a lot of good information, that is out of print. However, the book has been re-released in paperback as "The Sex You Want: A Lovers' Guide to Women's Sexual Pleasure" So check it out. The art work alone is worth the price of the book.

Finally,a guide by intelligent women.......2001-04-23

The strength of this book is its sociological perspective. This isn't just a recipe book. Marshall McLuhan once said, "I don't know who it was that discovered water, but it certainly wasn't a fish." The Douglasses have stepped outside their world to look back at what our expectations are and how the male perspective has shaped them. Fortunately, we may leave the male perspective in its fish bowl and adventure into a world free of patriarchal dicta. Brava, mujeres, y muchas gracias!

This book rocks!.......2001-04-18

The authors have a refreshing collective voice, and it's so great to finally be encouraged, rather than be told the usual statistic, 'only 30% of women have orgasms-- you should just be content as you are.' I am so thankful that I found this book by chance; I'm buying copies for friends already.

Tired of Cosmo?.......2000-01-12

Not for everyone - but for the right ones. If you've read the sex columns in different magazines, they often focus on "wild things". Sex in the air, at sea or on the road. This book changes all that. It deals directly with what's stopping us in bed, and deals with "the male perspective" on sex. Being a man myself, I found that this book revealed more than magazines could ever do. And doing so in a way that made me want to try it out, instead of feeling inadequate as a lover. I passed it on to my girlfriend - and she likes it too! To me it opened up to the fact that we're not supposed to change our partner to our own liking, but stop and think about the concept of "pleasure". Why do anything in bed when it doesn't feel good? This book won't give you an orgasm as soon as you put it down. What it can do is take away the "Cosmo"-filter that's, frankly, not helping anyone. Why read about "wild" sexual confessions when we can't open up to the pleasure of giving and receiving good sex?

Even though I've considered myself happy with my sex life, I've also had this nagging thought that everyone's doing it better, hotter, more daringly. Not anymore. The authors have given me a basic knowledge to work from, from a female perspective. And you know what? I like it.

A must for every woman.......1999-03-04

Excellent book. This book contains information not easily accessable and what most people do not want to discuss, even the family physician. If young women read this book before starting on their sexual journey it would prevent a lot of ignorance and pain, and if the advice is followed, bring them much pleasure. The author is supposed to be bringing out a book on sex for teens - I would love to hear when it will be out.

Average customer rating:

Bushmiller Time
non-sequiter humor at its most profound
THE CLOWN IS GOOD.

Are We Having Fun Yet
Bill Griffith
Manufacturer: Fantagraphics Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1560971495

Customer Reviews:

Bushmiller Time.......2007-09-11

While strolling through Bushmiller country one day, I came across a copy of "Are We Having Fun Yet?" As I pondered the three rocks in Ernie's yard, I realized, in a Fruit-Loops-inspired deja-vu, that I had owned this book before, but it had vanished from my life, like a memory of Loni Anderson's hair.

Where else can you find postmodern irony laced with Zen hot sauce, accompanied by a large helping of neo-dada ratatouille simmered in post-existential angst? Zippy will be your waiter this evening.

non-sequiter humor at its most profound.......2005-01-07

For awhile I just didn't get Zippy but once I did...this collection of Zippy comics is one of my all time favorites!

THE CLOWN IS GOOD........2000-04-02

ZIPPY is THE most original and greatest comic in mainstream press today. It's art is fantastic; the writing sublime (and sometimes just plain stupid--but in a good way). Bill Griffith CARES about his craft. This comic is not out to just be "topical" or just deliver a daily "gag" (too many strips deliver gags--and not the good kind). ZIPPY is a comic about the love of cartooning and writing and observation. Try it--you maynot get it at first but if you stay with it it gets you!

Are We Having Fun Yet?: Enjoying the Outdoors With Partners, Families, and Groups

Average customer rating:

Comments From a Canoeing Instructor

Are We Having Fun Yet?: Enjoying the Outdoors With Partners, Families, and Groups
Brian N. Baird
Manufacturer: Mountaineers Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Parenting | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

Instructional | Hiking & Camping | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

General | Mountaineering | Sports | Subjects | Books

Mountain Climbing | Mountaineering | Sports | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0898864496

Customer Reviews:

Comments From a Canoeing Instructor.......2001-01-29

I have been enjoying outdoor activities for over 30 years (hiking, hunting, camping, paddling). I have canoed for 28 years and taught canoeing (flatwater, moving water, handicapped, and Becoming an Outdoors-Woman classes) for 19 years. What a boon it would have been to have had this book in the beginning.

If you are going to participate in outdoor activities with your spouse, your children or with friends, this book has much valuable information. Dr. Baird, a psychologist and highly experienced outdoorsman explains his ten relationship essentials: self-awareness, flexibility, curiosity & desire to learn, patience, cooperation, sensitivity, trust, communication, humor, love & respect for nature.

He carefully spells out the planning process for a successful adventure. This is not merely a checklist for gear but an evaluation of the people involved, their personalities, their skill levels, their expectations, and much more. Understanding these characteristics and making accommodations for them can go a long way towards having a harmonious and rewarding outing.

The author deciphers how the differences between men and women such as communication styles, physical abilities, anatomy, etc., affects their approach to outdoors activities. It is fascinating to learn how different personality types approach outdoor experiences and how they affect the dynamics of a group. If you wish to avoid the interpersonal conflicts that can dampen your experience and threaten relationships, this book is for you.

Some of the most important information of all is in the chapter on communication. The reader learns how to appropriately and effectively talk and LISTEN to the other members of a group so that the group can successfully solve problems and enjoy each others company in the process. The ultimate goal is to have a splendid experience in the great outdoors. (P.S. This info has significance in everyday activities, not just in an outdoor setting.)

My own book is filled with yellow highlighting throughout so I can quickly review the most helpful points. I also enjoy the clever cartoons by David Horsey that introduce each chapter.

Average customer rating:
2 litle parenting isn't for coward, Are we having fun yet
kay willis , and Dr. james c. dobson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000U2KE7W

Product Description

two parenting books * parenting isn't for cowards.dealing confidently with the frustrations of child- rearing. *Are we having fun yet? the 16 secrets of happy parenting.

Average customer rating:

Are We Having Fun Yet

Manufacturer: Pocket Book
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 067102485X

Product Description

Summer Activities Inspired by Nickelodeon Magazine. Puzzles/ Quizes/Fill In/ Jokes- great for those summer trips. Ages 8-12

Are We Having Fun Yet (A Young Christian Book for Boys)

Average customer rating:

Are We Having Fun Yet (A Young Christian Book for Boys)
David Allen Sorensen
Manufacturer: Augsburg Fortress Pub
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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

ARE WE HAVING FUN YET ACTIVITIES INSPIRED BY NICKELODEON MAGAZINE (Nickelodeon)

Average customer rating:

It waz cool to read the book ;it waz like nick mag.

ARE WE HAVING FUN YET ACTIVITIES INSPIRED BY NICKELODEON MAGAZINE (Nickelodeon)
Carmen Morais
Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0671016822

Customer Reviews:

It waz cool to read the book ;it waz like nick mag........1999-04-30

it waz a fun summer book . not the best but ok.you might enjoy it if you like nick mag you will like it

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