Daughters of the Dust

Book Description

Inspired by her Sundance Festival award-winning film "Daughters of the Dust," Julie Dash has put her cinematic vision on the page, penning a rich, magical new novel which extends her story of a family of complex, independent African-American women. Set in the 1920s in the Sea Islands off the Carolina coast where the Gullah people have preserved much of their African heritage and language, Daughters Of The Dust chronicles the lives of the Peazants, a large, proud family who trace their origins to the Ibo, who were enslaved and brought to the islands more than one hundred years before. Native New Yorker Amelia Peazant returns to her mother's home to trace her family's history. From her multigenerational clan she gathers colorful stories, learning about "the first man and woman," the slaves who walked across the water back home to Africa, the ways men and women need each other, and the intermingling of African and Native-American cultures. Through her experiences, Amelia comes to treasure her family traditions and her relationship with her fiercely independent cousin Elizabeth. Daughters of the Dust is ultimately a story of homecoming and the reclaiming of family and cultural heritage.

Customer Reviews:

The Gullahs.......2007-06-26

I thoroughly enjoyed having a fictional, birdseye view into the world of the Gullahs of the Sea Islands of South Carolina. They are a distinct patch in the African American journey. Ms. Dash allows each character to tell their story.

The collective stories are like quilt patches, they are worthless until they are pieced together to make a beautiful quilt. We must tell our own stories in our on words. When you allow someone else to tell your story, they will tell it from an outsider's point of view, with their prejudices and biases.

The Gullahs are a fascinating branch of the African American tree. I am encouraged to read more about them. Their culture and lifestyle is quickly fading. We must capture as much as we can before all the old folks pass on to glory and the developers completely take the land.

AWESOME!.......2004-09-20

I arrived late to this book. It is more than ten years old and I feel as if I just missed a friend who had waited for me as long as they could, but had to leave. I've always been curious about the surviving tribes of Afrika (I chose to spell it that way)that live off the coast of South Carolina. I've often wondered what sets them apart from the rest of us. What made them so different? Now, I know. The book was fascinating. The story was beautifully written and I was entertained as well as educated. I loved the "old" ceremonies and the "lies" (which I believe)that actually gives Afrikan people living in this country a look into their history. Our people have always had strong belief systems and these have survived. They are alive and well today. I would encourage anyone that has read this book to follow up with other books that will let us see the history of our people without judgement and the ability to live and survive independently of outside factions. A triumphant and informative work of literature.

Wow...the "Geechees". I'll be seeing you soon.

Can we truly learn more about ourselves through the past?.......2003-09-11

Daughters of the Dust is set on the Sea Island. The story follows the lives of the Peazants. In one sense, it is historical fiction in that the plot refers to the slave trade in explaining how the residents arrived on the island. The author also interspersed some of the history of the Africans and Native Americans in explaining the characters. Finally, she also uses the oral tradition of Africans to further allow the reader to see into the heritage of the characters.

Amelia grew up with her father, mother and maternal grandmother. The dynamics of the household are disturbing to Amelia. Her grandmother, Hagar, is bitter and runs the household with an iron fist. Her father spends much of his time at the family business. Both her grandmother and father tend to verbally abuse or ignore her mother who just seems to suffer through it all. Amelia is the only bright spot in her mother's days. Amelia vaguely remembers trips to the "island" and her mother's family. She has a lot of curiosity about this facet of her family. Neither her father or grandmother has anything nice to say about the island but her mother seems to long for the island. Amelia decides to go to the island to "study" her family with her mother's blessing and against her father & grandmother's wishes.

On the island, Elizabeth befriends Amelia. Elizabeth is the one who has ventured away from the island and furthered her education. She routinely works for two older white women on the "mainland" as well as teaching on the island. Elizabeth is Amelia's guide to not only life on the island but their family's history. Elizabeth, like Amelia, must chose between staying with family or following her dreams.

The supporting characters in Daughters of the Dust are colorful and endearing to say the least. There are children, teenagers, elders, newlyweds, hopes & dreams realized and lost in the lives of the supporting characters: they each have a tale to tell. Ms. Dash does a great job of telling a "story" with strong African-American women of character. I would recommend this book to anyone that is curious about the history of Africans in America and enjoy reading about the challenges of family life.

Leanna Bailey
R.E.A.L. Reviewers

MOVING.......2002-12-04

Daughters of the Dust is a very moving, mystical journey full of haunting imagery and simple pleasures. It is the story of Amelia, an anthropology student, who has to decided to study the people of Dawtah Island as her thesis. Dawtah Island has been a mystery to her for as long as she can remember. Her mother and grandmother were born on the island. Her grandmother seems to despise everything about the island especially the people and their ignorant and backwards customs. In direct contrast her mother's fondest memories are of her life on the island, she remembers being truly happy there. Amelia has only visited the island once and was in awe of the simplicity of life there.

It is decided that Amelia will live with Eula and Eli, her aunt and uncle, while she studies the culture and customs of the island. Initially she finds the residents of the island reluctant to talk to her. They consider her an outsider and fear she will not understand them. As the islanders become more familiar with Ameila they begin to open up and share their stories with her. Through their stories she realizes their culture is rich in customs; they live in harmony with the animals and elements. They live a simple life but they control their own destiny and revel in life's simple pleasures. Their stories also tell of the joys of love and heartaches of lost or unrequited loves.

Reserve a couple weeks to read this one, it's a "ponderers" delight.

Is there a daughters of the dust part 2.......2000-02-29

This was such a well written book. The way Julia Dash developed the characters and described the scenery of the Gullah Islands caused me to want to visit South Carolina myself. I recommend this book to anyone.

Daughters of the Dust: The Making of an African American Woman's Film

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a good book about a fascinating movie

Daughters of the Dust: The Making of an African American Woman's Film
Julie Dash
Manufacturer: New Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Daughters of the Dust
Daughters of the Dust: A Novel
Black Film As a Signifying Practice: Cinema, Narration and the African American Aesthetic Tradition
Breath, Eyes, Memory (Oprah's Book Club)
Why We Make Movies: Black Filmmakers Talk About the Magic of Cinema

ASIN: 1565840305

Book Description

In the winter of 1992, nearly one hundred years after motion pictures were invented, the first nationally distributed feature by an African American woman was released in the United States. The film tells the story of an African American sea-island family preparing to come to the mainland at the turn of the century. In her richly textured, highly visual, lyrical portrayal of the day of the departure, Julie Dash evokes the details of a persisting African culture and the tensions between tradition and assimilation. Daughters of the Dust: The Making of an African American Woman's Film, which includes Dash's complete screenplay, describes the story of her extraordinary sixteen-year struggle to complete the project.

Customer Reviews:

a good book about a fascinating movie.......2001-10-24

Daughters of the Dust was a fascinating movie about the struggles of a female-headed, multigenerational family moving to the American mainland. It was made in fits and starts due to continual fundraising for the movie that Dash had to do. This book documents getting the movie made. It has a good section in which Dash and cultural critic bell hooks discuss the symbolisms in the film. Given that even Spike Lee has trouble raising money for his films, it is essential that incipient black filmmakers get advice on what they'r getting into. In that way, this book is an important first tool. Those majoring in film studies, feminist studies, or Afro-American studies will want to have this book.

The Gold Dust Letters (Investigators of the Unknown, Book 1)

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10 year old reviewer
It's Magical
Gorgeous
It was a great book
amazing!

The Gold Dust Letters (Investigators of the Unknown, Book 1)
Janet Taylor Lisle
Manufacturer: Orchard Books (NY)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding

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

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ASIN: 0531086801

Book Description

Angela and her friends Georgina and Poco are mystified by the strange messages that appear on the mantelpiece in Angels's house during the night. They're written on beautiful paper in purple ink and signed The Gray-Eyed Faerie. When opened, they send clouds of gold dust floating into the air. The letters speak of magic and wonders beyond belief -- and the loneliness of a fairy who longs to communicate with humans. No one will ever believe the girls unless they get some proof. And when the Investigators of the Unknown plan a sleepover tofind out more, they discover that there really is magic in this world, and it can touch anyone who believes.

Customer Reviews:

10 year old reviewer.......2003-04-12

I loved this book! It was magical! Whenever Angela was happy, I was happy, and I understood her feelings.

It's Magical.......2001-05-10

The Gold Dust Letters is a very exciting and magical book. Palaria, the main character, is a fairy and leaves golden dust on letters that she writes to three girls. The girls try to see her during their sleepovers. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

Gorgeous.......2000-02-06

This was such a good book, I couldn't put it down. The blend of magic and reality was so awesome. When nine-year-old Angela felt so happy when she "saw" Pilaria, I almost felt the same way. My favorite scene in this magical book was the banquet in the kitchen, it was sooooo beautiful and mystical, even though it seemed the kitchen had transformed when it was really decorated, it didn't matter for that night. If you love magic stuff, get this book!

It was a great book.......1999-10-14

It was an amazing book. I thought that it was a good topic and that it had some upsetting parts. I think that kids and teachers should read that book.

amazing!.......1999-04-22

this book is a book for people who like reading, like me! I think it suits people who like fairies. i always wanted to read the next chapter. it's about a girl who writes to a grey-eyed fairy and all of this cool stuff happens. you should definatly read it, maybe it's in your library!

African American Review (African American Review, 29)

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African American Review (African American Review, 29)

Manufacturer: Indiana State University
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000HMRNW4

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Daughter of Wolf House
Bell Margaret E
Manufacturer: William Morrow & Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000K5TQVY

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Red Dust Daughter
Gail Taylor
Manufacturer: Pretty Kitty Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 0967510503

Book Description

This debut collection of poetry from a young African-American journalist, photographer and social critic, explores the mystery of feminine healing energy, complex romantic relationships, and life lived on one's own terms.

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Rooms of Dust
Sarah Pat O'Brien
Manufacturer: Pocket Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Irish | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1416502556

Book Description

Sarah Pat O'Brien's father walks out of her life when she is seven years old. All that remain are dreams of where he might be and when he will return to rescue the family from the poverty, disease, and discrimination they suffer. But he doesn't come back; and with the promise of a better life, they leave Dublin for England, like so many in the 1950s. Years on, when Sarah Pat has children of her own, her shadowy memories drive her to trace her father. A long and painful search reveals he was a soldier, a boxer, a poet, and a bigamist. New life, new wife, new son. Who was the real Patrick O'Brien—philanderer, liar, and bully, or loving, sophisticated, indulgent father? Looking through the eyes of a child bewildered and betrayed, Sarah Pat O'Brien tells the story of her quest for her father—and for herself.

Visions of a Daughter, Foretold (Light & Dust Books)

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Visions of a Daughter, Foretold (Light & Dust Books)
Jessica Hagedorn , and Paloma H. Woo
Manufacturer: Membrane Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 087924061X

Book Description

a collaborative chapbook by mother & daughter

When the Fairy Dust Settles: A Mother and Her Daughter Discuss What Really Matters

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Mother-Daughter Love Letters About Life
Moving, Beautiful, & Profound Truth

When the Fairy Dust Settles: A Mother and Her Daughter Discuss What Really Matters
Janet Parshall , and Sarah Parshall Perry
Manufacturer: FaithWords
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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Traveling a Pilgrim's Path: Preparing Your Child to Navigate the Journey of Faith (Focus on the Family)

ASIN: 0446693170

Book Description

The host of a daily, conservative radio show teams up with her daughter to answer common questions germane to daily Christian living. Each day, for over a decade, Janet Parshall speaks to millions on her nationally syndicated radio program. As a voice of reason and authority on Christian values in modern times, she is trusted by a devoted following. As a result, Parshall has received thousands of questions from listeners about life in today's culture. Now she teams up with her daughter, Sarah, to provide clear-cut answers to modern dilemmas as informed by the Scriptures.Offering fresh takes (or respectfully disagreeing), mother and daughter candidly discuss Ann Landers-style everything from extramarital affairs and money woes to plastic surgery and body piercing, among other topics. Entertaining and engaging, WHEN THE FAIRY DUST SETTLES is an enlightening guide to living a Christian life in an often complicated world.

Customer Reviews:

Mother-Daughter Love Letters About Life.......2005-04-25

"When the Fairy Dust Settles" reads like a modern-day book of Proverbs, this one written as a mother-daughter conversation. As Solomon in Proverbs shares his real-life wisdom with his son, so Janet Parshall dialogues with her adult daughter Sarah Parshall Perry about reconciling childhood dreams with reality--living with adventurous integrity when the fairy dust settles.

The book of Proverbs brilliantly and practically addresses issues that many parents blush to discuss with their children. Likewise, mother Janet and daughter Sarah discuss five core issues that really matter: beauty, self-worth, relationships, sex, and treasures (money and materialism). What makes the book so powerful is the way these relevant topics are presented--conversationally in story form. The authors beautifully weave together the biblical narrative, the narrative of beloved fairy tales, and the narrative of modern life.

Unlike some Christian books on the topic, "When the Fairy Dust Settles" does not settle for a fairy tale view of life. Listen to their heart-felt summary: "As young girls we all believed in fairy tales. We dreamed of happily-ever-afters, sure that our futures were blessed. And had to deal with the real world and what happens when the fairy dust settles."

A Pollyanna philosophy of life says, "This life's a fairy tale." An Existentialist life philosophy says, "This life is all there is, and it is cruel and harsh." A Christian theology of life, as cogently presented by Parshall and Perry, says, "This life is not all there is. Face what happens when the fairy dust settles in light of the eternally true tale of a King who sent His Prince to pursue, woe, win, and renew His princess."

Each of the five sections contain three chapters with each chapter offering an exchange of love letters interacting about topics that every mother and daughter wish they could discuss. But don't let that "love letter" stuff fool you. They don't always agree, but they do always disagree respectfully. And they always write with thought-provoking poignancy.

If you're a mother of a daughter, buy two copies. Read them together. Then write your own proverbial love letters to each other, sharing honestly about living after the fairy dust settles.

If you're a husband and the father of a daughter, buy three copies. The one you read could help you to understand the women in your life better than you could ever imagine.

After you buy the book, and read the fifteen chapters, be sure not to miss the conclusion: "The Final Fairy Tale." Without understanding the final fairy tale, you really can't understand how Janet and Sarah interpret the reality we call "life."

Reviewer: Dr. Robert W. Kellemen is the author of "Soul Physicians" and "Spiritual Friends." Bob is also a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a seminary professor and department chair, and a public high school wrestling coach. Oh, he also happens to be a husband and the father of a daughter and a son, and the owner of three copies of "When the Fairy Dust Settles."

Moving, Beautiful, & Profound Truth.......2004-06-26

When the Fairy Dust Settles is the most moving and beautiful set of love letters from a mom to her daughter and from her daughter to her mom that I've ever read.

This beautifully crafted and written book is a must read book for all mothers and their precious girls. Mrs. Parshall and Mrs. Perry touch on pertinent topics that all women need to discuss, and they do it with humor, love and profound Scriptural truth.

Reading this book is like sitting underneath the warm wing of a mama bird, nestled closely to the heart of a mom who loves Christ Jesus. And reading the letters from the daughter is like seeing those often-unasked questions verbalized from the hearts of this younger generation, with a sincere, intelligent wisdom.

Perry and Parshall have beautifully crafted the love story of a King towards His precious princesses, through the use of fairy tales and as you read this, you can't help but feel the warm soothing love of the One who adores you more than anyone else.

I laughed and cried through this whole book and couldn't put it down until the very last page. And the ending just left me in tears because it was so wonderful. You have to get this book for yourself and for anyone else you love because, dreams really do come true; for you are truly loved by One who calls you His own.

Fashioning the body [as] politic in Julie Dash's Daughters of the Dust.(Critical Essay): An article from: African American Review
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Fashioning the body [as] politic in Julie Dash's Daughters of the Dust.(Critical Essay): An article from: African American Review
Angeletta K.M. Gourdine
Manufacturer: African American Review
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

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ASIN: B000974ZYG
Release Date: 2006-07-14

Book Description

This digital document is an article from African American Review, published by African American Review on September 22, 2004. The length of the article is 8568 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Fashioning the body [as] politic in Julie Dash's Daughters of the Dust.(Critical Essay)
Author: Angeletta K.M. Gourdine
Publication: African American Review (Refereed)
Date: September 22, 2004
Publisher: African American Review
Volume: 38 Issue: 3 Page: 499(13)

Article Type: Critical Essay

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A Little Night-Music: Discoveries in the Exploitation of an Art
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A Little Night-Music: Discoveries in the Exploitation of an Art
Gerald W. Johnson
Manufacturer: Harper & Brothers Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000O6FFUK

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A Little Night-Music: Discoveries in the Exploitation of an Art
Gerald W Johnson
Manufacturer: Harper & Brothers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000ONQ692

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A Little Night-music: Discoveries in the Exploitation of an Art
Gerald White Johnson
Manufacturer: Greenwood Press Reprint
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0837137330

A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC: DISCOVERIES IN THE EXPLOITATION OF AN ART. (Drawings by Richard Q. Yardley).
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A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC: DISCOVERIES IN THE EXPLOITATION OF AN ART. (Drawings by Richard Q. Yardley).
Gerald W. Johnson
Manufacturer: NY, Harper, 1937 (2nd ed.). 126 pp., illus. Fine copy in dust jacket.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000UDUX68

Beginning Backgammon: Strategy and Tactics for Winning Play
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Beginning Backgammon: Strategy and Tactics for Winning Play
J. du C. Vere Molyneux
Manufacturer: The Lyons Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The perfect primer for novice backgammon players.

The Encyclopedia of Games: Rules and Strategies for More than 250 Indoor and Outdoor Games, from Darts to Backgammon

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The Encyclopedia of Games: Rules and Strategies for More than 250 Indoor and Outdoor Games, from Darts to Backgammon
Brian Burns , and Brian Burns (ed)
Manufacturer: Metrobooks
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Rules Of The Game: The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of All the Sports of the World

ASIN: 1586630962

Book Description

It's a source of endless entertainment and enjoyment, an absolute necessity for every family's bookshelf. With more than 250 games for both kids and adults, from solitaire to party diversions for large groups, along with 300 photographs that show how to play, this is a true compendium of fun. Some demand skill; others require a little luck to win. Of course, there are many of the familiar favorites, including poker, gin rummy, Monopoly®, chess, checkers, craps, cribbage, whist, battleships, and twenty questions. Others are less well known, but just as satisfying, such as Wolf & Goats, played on a checkers board; kriegspiel, a variant of chess that rewards detective work, reasoning, and intuition; and winking, an exciting game filled with tension where one player becomes "the murderer." There's something perfect for any occasion.

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Luck does come in Streaks
Where did these guys come from?
I never heard of Plakoto or Moultezim before
New exciting games on the Backgammon Board
More Games on the same old Backgammon board!!

Backgammon Games and Strategies
Nicolaos Tzannes
Manufacturer: iUniverse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0595005373

Book Description

Backgammon is experiencing a revival, rapidly becoming one of the most popular table games in the world— internet included. Backgammon is not just a game; it is an obsession. In some countries of Southern Europe and the Middle East, it is a way of life. A typical game of backgammon lasts 6-8minutes if it is "Hit" or Gioul, and double that if it is Plakoto or Moultezim. These are the fastest, most absorbing minutes in a player's lifetime. The game moves in lightening speed and requires total concentration. The mixture of chance and skill are perfectly balanced in "Hit"— the other games leaning heavier on skill. There is hardly a moment of boredom when you play backgammon. Even when the game seems hopelessly lost, there is still a finite probability of a turnaround. The suspense is always there, the tension is never ending. What more would you want for an evening of . . . relaxation?

This book is written to fill a void— the almost total absence of information on backgammon games, other than basic "Hit"— usually called backgammon in the West. The authors find it incredible that Gioul, Plakoto and Moultezim still remain a well-kept secret among backgammon connoisseurs. Gioul is the most fun-filled game played on the board— every dice throw a surprise. Plakoto is without doubt the king of Backgammon games. Moultezim is a serious game for the purist, the consummate space strategist. Players who are unaware of these games are not really fulfilled.

This book, illustrated with more than 300 diagrams, illustrations and exercises, aims to change all that, and turn all casual players into full-fledged backgammon experts.

Customer Reviews:

Luck does come in Streaks.......2003-03-28

Though a chronic gambler, I am a newcomer to backgammon games. I found this book intructive and pleasant to read. Unlike another reviewer here, I thought the advice was sound, even the one warning of "streaks of bad luck". Anyone playing games of chance is painfully aware of that.
I especially enjoyed the section on Probability Theory and how it bears on the games.

Where did these guys come from?.......2001-07-12

This book claims there are actually three games played on a backgammon board and insists on calling the modern game "Hit."

It gives quite a bit of really bad advice in my opinion. Some of it is very bad "Pay attention to which way the dice are going that day." etc.

So much irritating stuff I really couldn't stomach the book at all.

-Dashro

I never heard of Plakoto or Moultezim before.......2001-03-29

but now I play them and enjoy the new challenges, thanks to this book. They are definetely more complex to learn than normal Backgammon but more interesting, also, and skill usually wins over luck. I recommend this book highly for those growing tired of backgammon.

New exciting games on the Backgammon Board.......2001-03-29

I bought this on an impulse and found it rewarding. The two games (Plakoto, Moultezim) that the authors describe are indeed more complicated and challenging than regular backgammon, just like they promised.

The book covers also regular backgammon as played in the US, adequately, but not as thoroughly as other books. But if you want a change of pace, this is it!

More Games on the same old Backgammon board!!.......2001-03-07

This book is not actually a Backgammon book, at least not the way we intend Backgammon in Europe or in the US. The two brothers have decided to write about the various games played on the BG board which of course includes a section on the so called portes (doors) or backgammon in our understanding but is more specific on other games strategies. I found it extremely interesting!!

Lasker's Combination: The Tactician's Handbook

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For it's purpose, this book is excellent. But...
When it comes to thinking out of the box, consider Charushin.

Lasker's Combination: The Tactician's Handbook
Victor Charushin
Manufacturer: Pickard and Son Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1886846138

Book Description

Lasker's Combination is the sacrifice of both Bishops, a destructive assault upon the enemy King's castled position. Few tactical motifs impress so powerfully as this legacy of the 2nd world champion. Indeed, when Lasker used his Bishops like a wrecking-ball to demolish Bauer's Kingside in their famous encounter, this stunning double sacrifice was thought to be a magical accident, or one-of-a-kind wizardry only gods might perform. Yet here, in volume four of The Tactician's Handbook, we discover that the Aunlucky- Bauer merely succumbed to the iron laws of chess. Here Charushin demonstrates that Lasker's Combination is simply another technique, an element of tactical play - and one that can be mastered! Game after game reveal the inner workings of this remarkable attacking method, classified and richly annotated in Charushin's inimitable style.

The Tactician's Handbook offers a solid foundation of knowledge about the tactics of chess, the basis for a higher understanding of chess combinations. Now players can examine the separate building blocks of combinational play (the mechanics of attack!) in short, focused steps. Each volume is devoted to a single and memorable pattern, illustrated by hundreds of real-world examples. Readers can immediately apply the skills learned here, mixing and matching these A tactical templates into their own games. For example, note how often Alekhine's Block (volume one) is seen as part of Lasker's two-Bishop sacrifice! Lasker's Combination establishes Charushin as an original and thought-provoking teacher, and The Tactician's Handbook as a practical, common sense battle plan for the middlegame in chess.

The Tactician's Handbook Series:

Alekhine's Block, Combination Cross, Mitrofanov's Deflection, Lasker's Combination

Customer Reviews:

For it's purpose, this book is excellent. But..........2006-02-06

Charushin wrote this book to give examples of, and to analyze, the double-bishop sacrifice which he names Lasker's Combination after this motif's most famous game. IN THIS CONTEXT the book is excellent: he examines "Canonical" Combinations (1.Bxh7+! Kxh7 2.Qh5+ Kg8 3.Bxg7!!, etc.). "Shortened" Combinations (1.Bxh7+! Kxh7 2.Bxg7!!, etc.), "Lengthened" Combinations (1.Bxh7+! Kxh7 2._____ 3._____ 4.Bxg7!!), etc. I think you get the idea.

Clearly, this is not a book for a beginner (I am a Class "A" player). Also, this certainly should not be your one-volume attacking guide! It is a specialized work, and examines a combination that admittedly does not appear very often.

Especially if you play systems such as the Colle-Zukertort with White (with one bishop on the a1-h8 diagonal, and the other on the b1-h7 diagonal) or similar set-ups as Black, this may be quite a good purchase. I recommend it anyway because it adds one more arrow to your attacking quiver.

When it comes to thinking out of the box, consider Charushin........2005-08-19

I have studied all five of Charushin's Tactician's Handbooks and this one is my favorite. In the introduction, there's a quote from Saviely Tartakower that alludes to the concept of, "What you've learned is safe is, in fact, not safe, so you still have to keep your guard up" (my words). This book does a wonderful job of teaching Lasker's Combination and you should also look at it as Lasker's Principle. You do have to practice it through actual play over the board. I've noticed that more experienced players tend to fianchetto when they see the King's Bishop getting posted, but you have to remember this is a strong attack being set up. I have won a few games using this tactic (of which you do have to know cold the certain nuances) and have enjoyed watching the expression of my opponent go from consternation to great concern as he tries to buckle down and plan a winning counter. To be honest, I have also lost quite a few games in attempting this tactic; you must practice it. However, losses notwithstanding, the training you undergo as you proceed through this book really gets you to think in such a different way even if your opponent becomes successful in making you do someting else. Lasker's Combination is an attack that, in most cases, has to be set up specifically, but there are very jaw-dropping alternatives that come from seeing Lasker's Principle (my words).

I also just love how Charushin shares with the reader his own story of chess in his life at the beginning of the book. This book has the most "over-the-shoulder" training from Charushin compared to his other books. It is a veritable eye-opener that makes you think outside the box.

Average customer rating:

Excellent reading for improve the skill.

Backgammon: Winning Strategies
Robin A. Clay
Manufacturer: Trans-Atlantic Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0330349813

Customer Reviews:

Excellent reading for improve the skill........2000-02-11

The book is a fantastic help to improve the skill against common playing situations. My game has improved a lot after reading it. Some difficult situations seems now kids' stuff.

Average customer rating:

Back-Gammon for Blood

Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 0380411377

A backgammon playing program (Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Thesis. 1977. B.S)

Average customer rating:

A backgammon playing program (Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Thesis. 1977. B.S)
AndreÌ Maxim Gold
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0007ARLFU

Backgammon: The optimal strategy for the pure running game

Average customer rating:

Backgammon: The optimal strategy for the pure running game
Edward O Thorp
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0007260GO

Proper raising points in a generalization of backgammon (P)

Average customer rating:

Proper raising points in a generalization of backgammon (P)
Emmett B Keeler
Manufacturer: Rand Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

Book Description

So you have a business and you have a Web site. Bravo! You’re doing all the right things to be successful. But wait — the information on your Web site needs to be updated, and your customers need to know. Good heavens, didn’t you spend half of last week doing that? There’s got to be a quicker, easier way to keep your clientele informed, and while we’re at it, how about building your business too?

RSS can come to your rescue, but first you need to know what it is and how to use it. Syndicating Web Sites With RSS Feeds For Dummies has what you need to know to get up and running fast—and with today’s flood of constantly-changing information, “fast” is a top priority.

Here, in plain English, you’ll find out how to:

Use RSS to drive traffic to your Web site and build brand awareness
Choose and install the right software, set up RSS feeds, and decide on the format that meets your needs
Create RSS feeds from scratch, or put a news reader on your Web site
Improve your site’s ranking in search engines and build customer loyalty
Enable your customers to choose when and how they receive updated information
Tailor information for your audience and publish all your updates quickly and easily
Promote your RSS feed and explain to your customers how to use it
Provide added value for your customers

Making the most of RSS can make life easier for both you and those who do business with you. Syndicating Web Sites With RSS Feeds For Dummies will help you maintain fresh content for your Web site, blog, or e-zine, promote your site and establish links to it, and even update vital documents like employee guides, price lists, and procedures manuals, quickly and easily.

Download Description

Here, in plain English, you’ll find out how to:

Use RSS to drive traffic to your Web site and build brand awareness
Choose and install the right software, set up RSS feeds, and decide on the format that meets your needs
Create RSS feeds from scratch, or put a news reader on your Web site
Improve your site’s ranking in search engines and build customer loyalty
Enable your customers to choose when and how they receive updated information
Tailor information for your audience and publish all your updates quickly and easily
Promote your RSS feed and explain to your customers how to use it
Provide added value for your customers

Customer Reviews:

Dr. Gwen reviews RSS Feeds for Dummies.......2007-06-08

The best part about this resource is that it assumes nothing. It takes a complete novice and explains that RSS means really simple syndication. Then it goes into the value of having changing content, the need to choose an RSS that is not only compatible with your content, but will add ever-changing, relevant content. I am using the resource to be sure that I have an accurate understanding of what it is, who it helps, how it helps, when to use one, and how to subscribe to an RSS Feed.

The perfect foundation.......2007-01-11

I love this book, it has broaden my horizons. I didn't know anything abour rss until i read this book, I'm now well on my way. If you are looking for a book that will teach you the basics of rss and that will get you started on your rss project, this is the book. Because of the vast amount of information in this book, you will actually be more confident in any rss project you start, even if you are just looking to buy another book on a related topic. This is the perfect book to start working on syndicating websites and rss, or just to understand why it works.

Very good, very helpful.......2006-06-10

I should be finished this book in about two days. It has been very helpful and specific and a vast improvement on some others in the Dummies series. Ellen Finkelsrtein has done a good job and crafted a good book. I particularly like the wayu she says: go to this web site and do this this, So I go to the webiste and bookmark ans I find it very valuable.
feedvalidator.org was one such site. I went and it complained soem of my taigs.com blog was not properly validated: litle things like a ">" i na closing tag omitted. So I fixed them. Without this book, they would still be broken. The little things add up in this game.

Another thing: she does not waste time explaining irrelevant basics. She sticks to her topic and does not squander time telling you how to install this, that or the other. She also divides up the programming bit from the take it and go bit. There is an acompanying site which gives you the code to write your own feeds. All in all, I concur with the earlier reviews and give it top marks.

A "Must-Have" Introduction to New Web Communication Tool.......2005-10-29

I just finished reading Ellen's book. For a year or more, I have seen webfeeds on some websites, and those little XML and RSS buttons showing up everywhere. For the life of me (and I'm pretty technosavvy), I just couldn't put it all in context. This book lays it out concisely and makes a compelling case that news and webfeeds are the next communication phenomenon, likely to be as ubiquitous as faxes and email.

I'm not always a "Dummies" fan, but this one rocks! My website will have a feed very soon and I'm already thinking of many ways to use this new technology in creative marketing efforts and to deliver content in a more useful way to our clients.

Colorado divorce and family mediator, Lawrence King, J.D.
Divorce Resolutions, Colorado Center for Divorce Mediation

Great introductory book to RSS.......2005-08-02

Being a sometime web developer, it is important to keep up with the latest web technologies. If you have never heard of RSS or are not that familiar with it, I recommend this book as a great introduction to what RSS is, and how you might use it in a website.
It is not expensive, and is a good foundation in that it explains the basics of news feeders and how they are used, but doesn't go into a lot of technical/code information. In other words, if you want to code your own newsreader, find another book. On the other hand, the author does explain how to syndicate any item you want for RSS.

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