tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-145671992024-02-20T02:51:52.851-08:00Swamy's ReviewsThis blog is to hold all my reviews.
I will post the review here and also at the more specific blogs and other sites.S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-82747709772131718092010-09-09T22:27:00.000-07:002010-09-09T22:27:14.706-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I apologize to all the authors and publicists for my present inability to focus and clear the backlog of books pending for review. Other pressing matters and ill health have made it impossible for me to read any book with focus and I am not clear at this point of time when I can get back on track and take up the pending books. I sincerely apologize to my readers, authors and publishers / publicists for this mess up.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Swamy</b></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-7390388561790287932010-05-01T21:55:00.000-07:002010-05-08T06:28:07.516-07:00Title: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Plus-Sized Yoga</span><br />
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Sub-Title: Beginners Yoga for People of All Sizes<br />
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Author: Donald Keith Stanley<br />
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Publisher: DK Creative<br />
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ISBN: 978-0-9825449-9-0<br />
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Genre: Non-Fiction / Health / Yoga / Self-Help<br />
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Presentation: Soft Cover, Landscape mode (size 8 1/2" x 11")<br />
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The book attracts your attention with its size, in tune with its title. It is a plus-sized book but is quite readable. It is not meant to be carried around in your coat pocket or purse but can be comfortably read at home. Almost all the exercises (Asanas, Mudras etc. ) are meant for practicing at home.<br />
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The book has 225 pages and has three main parts. Part One - In a Class by Yourself has 64 pages and has two meanings, one that each of us is unique and it is always good to remember that when we feel too much stereotyped and also because at home in the privacy of your room, you are indeed in a class of your own, with the author preferring to communicate in spirit and through the book! The first part has an Introduction, the Benefits of Kundalini Yoga, Terms to learn, Practicing Kundalini Yoga at Home, Mudras, The Body Locks, Breathing, Mantras, How to Meditate, The Importance of Relaxation and Tuning In - Connecting to the Teacher Within.<br />
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Part Two has some postures (Asanas), Kriyas (Breathing Exercises), Meditations and an interesting topic, "I don't have time to meditate" Meditations etc.<br />
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Part Three is titled, Be Happier Now! and deals with physical and psychological issues of being Plus-Sized, issues of Self-Judgment, dealing with judgment of others etc.<br />
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All in all, it is a very interesting book and will be useful if you are interested in Yoga, Meditation, Breathing Exercises etc. The system presented in this book is attributed to Yogi Bhajan (the author is a student of that Yogi). While I am familiar with many of the concepts presented here, I hasten to add that I am not a follower of this or for that matter any system of Yoga that deals with physical Asanas, Mudras etc. I am a follower of Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion) and am a Reiki Master / Spiritual Healer etc. I only use breathing techniques for relaxation and if needed for energy improvement. Thus, I have not tried and tested the specific techniques given in this book but as the author mentions in his acknowledgement the techniques have indeed been tried and tested by quite a few people mentioned by name.<br />
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If you are looking for a safe and effective method for improvement of health (physical and more importantly emotional), this book may appeal to you. I suggest that you check it out at a near by book store.<br />
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I would have preferred this book to be half its size so that it can be carried to a class if needed or some of the Mudras and breathing techniques could be used while travelling. I also suggest that such books are malso made available in electronic form (esp. suited for a mobile phone) so that you have access to the information on the move.S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-20069189065154509362010-04-25T07:29:00.000-07:002010-04-25T07:29:06.580-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Title: Mikey Helps Toot-Toot<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Sub-Title: Personal Development for Children Series - Positive Thinking - With supporting notes for parents / teachers and children</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Authors: Amal & Santa Simothy, Hitul & Seema Thobani</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Illustrator: Anca Budeanu</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">ISBN: 978-0-9563260-0-3<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Publisher: Kidz4mation</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Genre: Fiction / Children</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Presentation: Soft cover, illustrated and plastic coated<br />
<br />
This booklet is one of the six booklets and deals with the power of positive thinking. Mikey wants to play with his friend Toot-Toot (the baby elephant) but Toot-Toot is sad and depressed. When asked for the reason, he says he does not know. "I don't know Mikey. I just feel sad," said Toot-toot. "I want to be happy, but how can I?"<br />
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Mikey's friend Genie comes as usual for help. He suggests to Toot-Toot to think of something that makes him happy. Toot-Toot loves his ground nuts (pea nuts) and follows Genie's advice.<br />
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Mikey was happy that he had helped Toot-Toot.<br />
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This booklet and two more titles, "Mikey Aces His Test" and "Mikey Says 'I Can Do It'" are closely inter-related and talk of the power of positive thoughts, positive attitude etc. To the children, of course, the different stories help in reinforcing the concepts but the parents and caregivers may be forgiven if they feel confused about the need for three booklets on one idea.<br />
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The printing and the illustrations are on par with the remaining booklets in the series (very good). The booklet is recommended alone or as a part of the whole series published by the same team. </div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-2372986823477737562010-04-25T06:37:00.000-07:002010-04-25T06:44:59.037-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Title: Mikey Says 'I Can Do It'<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Sub-Title: Personal Development for Children Series - Overcoming Limiting Beliefs - With supporting notes for parents / teachers and children</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Authors: Amal & Santa Simothy, Hitul & Seema Thobani</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Illustrator: Anca Budeanu</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">ISBN: 978-0-9563260-2-7<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Publisher: Kidz4mation</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Genre: Fiction / Children</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Presentation: Soft cover, illustrated and plastic coated</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">In this booklet, Mikey overcomes his fears and doubts about climbing to and playing on the top branches of his friend Tiggle, where his other friends Jake and Louie. Mikey wants to follow them but is afraid and overcome with self doubts. His friend Genie comes as usual to Mikey's rescue and teaches Mikey the power of thoughts and beliefs and how negative thoughts can be overcome by positive beliefs. Here is a short excerpt from that booklet:</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">"So Genie, are you saying that it would help me if I told myself that I could climb to Tiggle's top even if I felt that I couldn't?" asked Mikey.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">"Yes Mikey!" replied the Genie. "When you do that, you will feel happy. That's when the magic inside you starts to happen!" JUST FEEL THE MAGIC AND TELL YOURSELF YOU CAN DO IT!" </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Well, as expected Mikey believes in his friend Genie and through the positive affirmations, starts feeling better and climbs to the top of Tiggle to join and play with his friends. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">The printing and the illustrations are of the same standard as the other booklets in the series. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">I was wondering about the need for this particular booklet and how it is different from the other booklets "Mikey Helps Toot-Toot" and "Mikey Aces His Test" since those booklets also deals with self doubts and the power of positive thinking and positive affirmations. To the children, of course, it is another story and helps reinforce the concept. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Recommended for children and their care givers. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"></div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-12296941981908949242010-04-19T07:04:00.000-07:002010-04-25T06:38:24.465-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Title: Mikey Takes a Moment<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Sub-Title: Personal Development for Children Series - Meditation and Relaxation - With supporting notes for parents / teachers and children</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Authors: Amal & Santa Simothy, Hitul & Seema Thobani</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Illustrator: Anca Budeanu</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">ISBN: 978-0-9563260-4-1<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Publisher: Kidz4mation</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Genre: Fiction / Children</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Presentation: Soft cover, illustrated and plastic coated</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">In this delightful and in my view, most useful of the series booklet, Mikey and his friends are taught a technique to relax and be calm through music and visualization. Pari, the Peacock is known for keeping calm amidst all the chaos of the modern world and at the request of class teacher, Mr.Nutwell, the Owl, she shares her techniques for meditation and relaxation with the children. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Restlessness and stress are known to reduce the efficiency of learning and working. Meditation, visualization etc. esp. when accompanied by soothing, relaxing music are known to be very effective in helping people, including young children calm and stress free. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Breathing plays an important role in stress reduction and the authors could have covered that too. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">The illustrations and printing are as usual good. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">The booklet and in fact, the whole series (of 6 booklets) make excellent reading for children and their caretakers. </div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-74290796462065647632010-04-19T06:02:00.000-07:002010-04-25T06:39:26.787-07:00<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Title: Mikey Aces His Test<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Sub-Title: Personal Development for Children Series - Positive Attituide - With supporting notes for parents / teachers and children</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Authors: Amal & Santa Simothy, Hitul & Seema Thobani</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Illustrator: Anca Budeanu</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">ISBN: 978-0-9563260-3-4<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Presentation: Soft cover, illustrated and plastic coated</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">In this booklet, Mikey prepares well for his school test on the subject of forest history, but is worried that he won’t be able to remember what he read. Thus he is anxious and is unable to relax and play with his tree friend Tiggle. His friend Genie comes as usual to his help and advises his young friend to practice the principles of positive affirmations. He suggests that Mikey write down a piece of paper that he is going to remember all that he studied. He also advises Mikey to imagine that he has done well in his test and that he has passed the test! Mikey does as suggested by Genie and thanks to the power of suggestion, affirmations, positive thinking etc., does very well in the test. <o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Mikey is very happy and suggests to his friend Toot-Toot to follow a similar technique for his future tests. </div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">I felt that he could have shared the secret before the test and saved Toot-Toot the bother of a reexamination but then I realized that boys would be boys!<o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">The power of positive affirmations is nicely brought out in this delightful story. However, the authors could have cautioned the parents and the children that these work only when the preparatory effort has been put into any work or test and not otherwise! As presented, it gives an impression to the child that there is some sort of a magic formula available to ensure success, while the truth is that the magic lies in hard work and self belief. <o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Another great booklet for young children and their caregivers. </div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-42469551844287042362010-04-19T05:54:00.000-07:002010-04-25T06:40:09.102-07:00<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Title: Chik-Chick's Cap</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Sub-Title: Personal Development for Children Series - Raising Self Esteem - With supporting notes for parents/teachers and children</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Authors: Amal & Santa Simothy, Hitul & Seema Thobani<br />
<br />
Illustrator: Anca Delia Budeanu<br />
<br />
Publisher: Kidz4mation</span> <br />
ISBN: 978-0-9563260-5-8</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Presentation: Soft cover, illustrated and plastic coated<br />
<br />
This particular booklet is on the theme of accepting oneself, having a good self image and raising one's self esteem where needed. Chik-Chik the rabbit has one ear missing and felt that she was ugly and tried to hide her problem by wearing a cap. However, Pari, the peacock, school friend Mikey, the monkey and Tiggle the tree help her accept herself by accepting her as their friend. </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The printing is excellent - colorful, eye catching, on good art paper, plastic coated to withstand little grimy hands! The illustrations are good. Contrast between the background illustrations and the text could be better (through a different selection of shades and colors probably). </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The authors rightly bring out the importance of having a good self image and the need for self acceptance. The book helps children and parents, friends etc. to appreciate how they can help raise the self esteem and thus help those in need. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Recommended for children and their care givers. </span></div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-79218041811704104982010-04-19T05:46:00.000-07:002010-04-25T06:41:09.047-07:00<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Title: Tiggle Takes off</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Sub-Title: Personal Development for Children Series - Gratitude - With supporting notes for parents/teachers and children<br />
<br />
Authors: Amal & Santa Simothy, Hitul & Seema Thobani<br />
<br />
Illustrator: Anca Delia Budeanu<br />
<br />
Publisher: Kidz4mation<br />
<br />
ISBN: 978-0-9563260-1-0<br />
<br />
Genre: Fiction / Children<br />
<br />
Presentation: Soft Cover colorfully illustrated and plastic coated</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">This particular booklet is on the theme of being thankful, gratitude. Mikey (the monkey child) goes daily to play with his favorite tree Tiggle, but does not think any time of thanking his friend. One day, this gets to Tiggle and Tiggle starts weeping at the way he is being ignored by his friend. His friend Genie agrees to have a talk with Mikey and instead of preaching the morals and thus putting off his friend Mikey, Genie adopts a rather novel, practical approach to bring home the lessons of being thankful, being grateful, not to take one's blessings for granted etc. Needless to say, the story ends on a happy note and both the friends Mikey and Tiggle are very happy.</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The printing is excellent - colorful, eye catching, on good art paper, plastic coated to withstand little grimy hands! The illustrations are good. However, I could not but help noticing something interesting - both Mikey and Tiggle are very happy but they forget to thank their friend the Genie! This just goes to show the difficulty in being thankful all the time!</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The authors rightly bring out the importance of being thankful for all the blessings in our life in their note at the end. But the real power of gratitude comes out when we start being grateful for everything around us, the good, the bad, the beautiful and the ugly... May be they could revise their advice in the next edition. </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The booklet will make excellent reading for children and their caregivers. </span></div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-18595162520332701632010-03-21T01:49:00.000-07:002010-03-21T01:49:04.201-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Title: The Skinny on Credit Cards<br />
<br />
Sub-title: How to master the credit card game<br />
<br />
Author: Jim Randel<br />
<br />
Illustration: Malinda Nass<br />
<br />
Publisher: Rand Publishing / www.theskinnyon.com<br />
<br />
ISBN: 978-0-9818935-4-9<br />
<br />
Genre: Non-Fiction / Personal Finance / Self Help<br />
<br />
Presentation: Soft cover<br />
<br />
Recommended for: All of us who want to know about and manage our credit cards<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Do you have a credit card? Did you ever feel like having one? Were you approached by credit card marketers with attractive offers? Were you harassed by the credit card companies and or their collection agents? Do you know the difference between a credit card and a debit card? What is a charge card? What is a Balance transfer card? What is Credit rating? How does credit rating affect your ability to raise a loan from a different bank? Why rolling over the outstanding loans is not such a good idea?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Those and many more questions are answered in an interesting, easy-to-read style. If you have about 2 hours time (I needed less actually, just about an hour and ten minutes), you can read this book and get your knowledge updated. If you are struggling with the debt of credit cards throwing your life out of gear, you will find excellent advice from Jim Randel, the author on the steps that you can take to reduce your card debt. For example, the question about the problem with rolling over (carrying a balance forward to the next cycle) is explained on Panel 77:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry, Beth, but there is one more point that I need to make.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">When you carry a balance on your credit cards, there is no longer an interest-free period between the date of purchase and the date your payment is due. In other words, you start paying interest <b><i>the day</i></b> a new purchase is made. I am sorry to say Billy, that you are already paying interest on that new motorcycle jacket you bought this morning.” Almost every panel is accompanied by an interesting visual. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Beth and Billy are the two characters (wife and husband) and Jim Randell is the advisor, who becomes a family friend.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">As can be seen, it is explained in an interesting and easy to understand manner. There are no page numbers, but panels and each page has 2 panels like the frames of a power point presentation.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The book thus follows a very interesting, innovative approach to communicate with the reader and gives information that is accurate and up-to-date in an easy to read manner.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The author and the publisher deserve our congratulations and appreciation. </div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-60900074780934248122010-03-06T08:19:00.000-08:002010-03-06T08:19:16.194-08:00Title: Riley's Lost Tooth<br />
<br />
Author: Dianne Cantrell<br />
<br />
Illustrator: Heather Castles<br />
<br />
Publisher: Brown Books Publishing Group<br />
<br />
ISBN: 978-1933651620<br />
<br />
Genre: Fiction / Children<br />
<br />
<br />
Presentation: Hard Cover with Dust Jacket<br />
<br />
I had the opportunity to review Dianne's earlier book, "Good Bye Baby Max" and when the author asked me whether I would be interested in reviewing the present book, I was very happy.<br />
<br />
<br />
The book is colorfully illustrated and the story is simple but delightful. Riley, a small girl of about 5 years loses her first tooth. When she shares that news with her grandma, the pups in the house get worried and start searching for the lost tooth. A tooth fairy appears and assures them that it is a natural process and Riley will in fact get a regular, permanent tooth in its place.<br />
<br />
The story is told in simple sentences and it would be a pleasure for the child to read or for the parents to read. One sample:<br />
<br />
“We must find her tooth.<br />
She was here earlier today,<br />
maybe she lost it<br />
when we all went out to play.”<br />
<br />
One more excerpt:<br />
<br />
No, really,” she said,<br />
“all children lose their teeth.<br />
Permanent ones then grow in<br />
if they don’t eat too many sweets.”<br />
<br />
<br />
The book is well written and the illustrations are beautiful. The book will definitely appeal to all children (including children at heart like this reviewer) and their parents / grandparents / elder siblings and other care givers.<br />
<br />
Strongly recommended as an educational gift.S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-35895945965089677612010-01-17T05:34:00.001-08:002010-01-17T05:34:18.071-08:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Title: Weight Loss Success!<br />
<br />
Sub-Title: How I Lost Weight and Kept It Off for Over 30 Years and How You Can Do It, Too!<br />
<br />
Author: Joan Marie Verba<br />
<br />
Publisher: FTL Publications (www.ftlpublications.com)<br />
<br />
ISBN: 9780982523216<br />
<br />
Genre: Non-Fiction / Self-Help<br />
<br />
Presentation: E-Book, Paper back etc.<br />
<br />
This is a short book of just 32 pages but short is sweet in this case and is packed with very interesting and useful advice. The author herself has successfully gone through a program and more importantly could stay on that and keep her weight from increasing again! So, the book is in that sense very authentic and her sincerity comes through.<br />
<br />
She stresses that any weight loss program has to be so designed that you can stick to it for the rest of your life. She stresses on the obvious but often overlooked fact that one cannot go back to their earlier life style after successfully losing weight if one wants to keep it that way!<br />
<br />
The style is highly readable and you can read it in one sitting.<br />
<br />
Highly recommended for all weight and health conscious people or their friends who want to gift the book.</span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-47117030335402052122010-01-15T20:57:00.000-08:002010-01-15T20:57:15.560-08:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;">Title: The Magical Adventures of Krishna<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Sub-title: How a Mischief Maker Saved the World<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Author: Vatsala Sperling<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Illustrated by: Pieter Weltevrede<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Publisher: Bear Club Books (www.innertraditions.com)<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />ISBN: 978-159143110-7<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Genre: Mythology / Folklore / Hinduism<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Presentation: Hard bound with beautifully illustrated dust jacket<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Recommended for: Children of all ages who can read or are willing to listen<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />When an opportunity arose for reviewing this book, I was pretty excited to see how a well known mythological / historical tale will be presented to the western world by the Indian author (from her name I knew that Vatsala is from India or has absorbed all the Indian traditions and values). I received the book in India, from USA. Reminds me that the earth is round!<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Since the book is short, it could be read in just one sitting of less than an hour. The main story of Krishna's birth and His killing of His demon uncle Kamsa (the author spells it as Kansa, both sound similar though Kamsa comes closer to the original Sanskrit sound), is told in about 25 pages including beautiful color illustrations. Children, who can read will love the text and the colorful illustrations and younger chidren would love to sit in the lap of the adult and watch the colorful figrures while the story is being read and explained to them!<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Krishna's birth and His exploits in killing the many demons that were sent by His uncle Kamsa to kill Him are narrated well by Vatsala. Her style is simple and at the same time she holds the reader's attention. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />The illustrations by Pieter Weltevrede add great value to the excellent narration. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />The result is an excellent introduction to Krishna Tatva and Krishna Consciousness to those not yet exposed. To others, it would be one more opportunity to enjoy the nectar of Krishna's love for the whole creation. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />I have the following observations and comments. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Nanda, the husband of Yashoda is conspicuous by his absence. Probably Vatsala thought he has no role in the story, but I felt that he deserved a place and for the sake of completion of the story. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Another character that I would have liked to see in this book is that of Puthana (Poothana if you prefer that spelling), a she demon, who came in disguise to kill baby Krishna by feeding him her breast milk laced with poison painted on the nipples. Krishna, of course knew all about her and killed her by sucking her milk and her prana (life force). Why the author left that story is not known. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />What she did not mention is that He gave salvation to all the demons that He killed. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />Vatsala mentions in the book that Radha is an incarnation of Lakshmi, the consort of Narayana, Vishnu. I have not come across that interpretation and on the other hand, I have read that Lakshmi is an amsa (part) of Radha, who is Feminine Aspect of the Supreme Deity, Krishna being the Masculine Aspect and they reside in Goloka. Their partial aspects are seen as Brahma, Vishnu / Narayana and Siva with their respective consorts etc. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />These are not of course important and don't interfere with the reading and enjoyment of the book. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />In any case, this beautiful book will probably whet your appetite to read more about Krishna. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />I have great pleasure in recommending this book to children and parents, teachers, other elders and care takers of children. <br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" /></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-84693798545785253742009-12-18T19:14:00.000-08:002009-12-18T19:15:54.197-08:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, 'Times New Roman', Courier, 'Courier New'; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(0, 51, 102); font-weight: 800; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><div class="post-body">Title: Calm Amid Chaos - An Executive Guide To Reducing Stress Through Meditation<br /><br /></div><div class="post-body">Author: Charles Graybar<br /><br />Publisher: Serenity Hill Press</div><div class="post-body"><br /></div><div class="post-body">ISBN: 0-9740265-6-5<br /><br />Category: Non-fiction / Management / Self Help<br /><br /><br />"Calm Amid Chaos - An Executive Guide To Reducing Stress Through Meditation" is a practical guide to meditation by Charles Graybar. The book is authentic in that it is written by a man who himself has been a successful business executive and who thus understands the pressures and pains of the average American Business Executive / Leader. That he failed several times to meditate and finally succeeded should give all of us who fail to meditate (including this reviewer), the perseverence to persist and succeed.<br /><br />Most of the meditation practices described by Charles Graybar (Chuck to his friends) are based on eastern approaches. But they don't demand any change in the religious beliefs of the meditators and thus the book should be acceptable to people of all faiths.<br /><br />The book's editing left a lot to be desired. Fortunately, the author's message comes through with little distortion.<br /><br />If you have been looking for a simple, practical guide to help you learn meditation, this is for you.</div><div class="post-body"> </div></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-29170031021531745712009-11-24T10:44:00.000-08:002009-11-26T17:34:58.395-08:00<p class="MsoNormal">Title: Centaury for Virgo, Rock Rose for Pisces</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Sub-Title: More than 400 Flower Essences for your Zodiac Path – The Complete Home Reference</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Author: Debbie Sellwood</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Publisher: Polair Publishing (www.polairpublishing.co.uk)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">ISBN: 978-1-905398-13-3</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Genre: Self-Help / Health / Mind/ Body/ Spirit</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Presentation: Soft cover</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I received this book for review nearly 6 months ago and it was not getting read due to various reasons. When I took it up recently, I found it interesting because of its connection to astrology and health. Having a little knowledge of astrology and numerology and having a fairly good knowledge of Bach Flower Remedies / Essences, I read the book with interest. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I found Debbie’s approach to astrology quite good and she has brought out the characteristics of people born under different sun signs quite well. In practice, one’s character and mental / physical health are governed by many more factors including moon’s position in the natal horoscope, the effect of various aspects and transits etc. So, while the classification of the flower essences into the 12 zodiacal signs is OK, a personal horoscope should be cast and read to get a more accurate picture. That may also give a good indication of the right healing system to be used at a given time.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am familiar with Bach Flower Essences and found Debbie’s recommendations quite in tune with Bach’s own teachings. Dr. Edward Bach did not suggest combining his flower remedies or selecting them based on astrology, numerology, palmistry or any other occult sciences. He stressed on helping the patient select his or her own remedy or combination and emphasized the simplicity of his system so that if needed, the patient could select the remedy. </p><p class="MsoNormal">He also declared that his system of treatment based on the 38 flower essences and Rescue Remedy is self sufficient and covers all mental states. But many others mystics developed their own plant, flower, gem, crystal and animal essences. A similar trend is seen in Reiki where hundreds of variations of Reiki have been developed. It is like art where simple line drawings have given way to complex combinations of colors. </p><p class="MsoNormal">By including a large variety of nearly 400 essences (the words remedy and essence are used interchangeably), the author has no doubt opened a good resource to those adventurous enough and willing to explore new vistas. However, self-treatment (which was the aim of Dr. Bach) becomes very difficult for a lay person in such a scenario. Even a practitioner would find it difficult to select the most appropriate Essence from that variety and one problem would be that the client would end up with a cupboard full of essences! </p><p class="MsoNormal">The index of emotions given at the end of the book should hopefully guide the patient and the practitioner better! </p><p class="MsoNormal">If you are comfortable with the extra variety (the book covers more than 400 essences), this book would definitely be a good addition to your personal library.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The reviewer is a holistic / spiritual healer with exposure to astrology, numerology, homeopathy, tissue remedies, Bach Flowers, Reiki etc. </p>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-38127425855676484682009-11-16T09:37:00.000-08:002009-11-16T09:40:35.663-08:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><div class="articleText" style="line-height: 18px; margin-top: 15px; "><p style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; "><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13px; ">Title: Enjoy Your Money!<br /><br />Sub-Title: How to Make It, Save It, Invest It and Give It<br /><br />Author: J. Steve Miller<br /><br />Publisher: Wisdom Creek Press<br /><br />ISBN: 978-0981875675<br /><br />Genre: Non-Fiction / Money / Self-help<br /><br />Review:<br /><br />Many years ago, working as a Quality Control Engineer, I read "The Goal" by Eliyahu Goldratt & Michael C.Gray. I loved their approach – teaching complicated management concepts in a novel format. I used to devour a novel a day those days!<br /><br />Later, I reviewed a similar business novel on Lean Manufacturing (see my review of that at <a target="_blank" href="http://swamyreviews.blogspot.com/search?q=Lean+Strategies" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(30, 102, 174); font-family: Verdana; ">http://swamyreviews .blogspot. com/search? q=Lean+Strategies</a> ). It did a great job of explaining the concepts of "lean" and the benefits of "lean" to business enterprises. So, when an opportunity arose to review the present book, I was quite enthusiastic. I am happy to report that my enthusiasm was not misplaced!<br /><br />Many years ago, I read and enjoyed The Only Investment Guide You Will Ever Need by Andrew Tobias and greatly appreciated its wisdom. I have been a lazy investor and thus in a way protected myself from the bull and bear cycles of Indian Stock Market over the years and thus felt somewhat vindicated by the strategies that Miller recommends. If I could go back and relive my life, I would follow many of Millers' recommendations beautifully brought out by his main character, an older school teacher named Mrs. Kramer. Her wisdom applies across borders and across cultures.<br /><br />Enjoy Your Money is one of the best and most complete resources for money management at the personal level. Yet, the concepts are equally applicable to any business of any scale. The book is divided into four parts: Investing Money, Saving Money, Making Money and Enjoying Money (including giving it away to causes that you believe in). You need to make money, save money and invest today's money for a secure future. Then, you need to find the right value systems in life (money is not the end; it is a means for the end). That message comes through quite lucidly.<br /><br />I loved the movie script or play format! It worked for this book, transforming a large amount of research into an entertaining and easy read. The characterization of the participants is quite good and the style is very good, holding the reader's attention quite well. The book is well edited and nicely printed with just a couple of errors that won't affect your enjoyment or understanding. The Epilogue is quite surprising! I won't spoil your own enjoyment by revealing it.<br /><br />The book gives many other useful resources (websites, other books etc.) and thus points you in the right direction if you want to explore further. The biographical sketches (from Warren Buffett to Sam Walton to Led Zeppelin) are informative and inspiring.<br /><br />In summary, this is one of the best books on money management that I've ever read. I strongly recommend it to one and all.<br /></span></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia;font-size:100%;color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div></div></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-21497012719107592872009-11-07T07:22:00.000-08:002009-11-13T21:30:13.434-08:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(71, 75, 78); line-height: 16px; font-family:monospace;font-size:14px;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; ">Title: Coconut Water for health and healing<br /><br />Author: Dr. Bruce Fife<br /><br />Publisher: Piccadilly Books, Ltd.<br /><br />ISBN: 978-0-941599- 66-5<br /><br />Genre: Non-Fiction / Health<br /><br />Presentation - Soft Cover<br /><br />The water of a tender (green) coconut is a natural electrolyte, rich in potassium and other minerals needed. It is thus a natural sports drink. I knew that much before I accepted this book for review and was curious how a book could be written about that!<br /><br />I was in for a pleasant surprise when I received this beautifully printed book with a colorful cover and found it well edited, printed well with a good collection of photos to drive the points home.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In 10 chapters, a few appendixes and 223 pages, the author succeeds in educating us about all the health benefits of coconut water. Did you know that Coconut water cured the cataract of eyes of a person? Well, I did not know that! Did you know that coconut water is a good way of detoxing without many problems associated with plain water fast and fruit juice fasts? </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><br />There are many more uses of tender coconut water and many of the same benefits are obtained from packaged coconut water too. Coconut milk is not to be confused with coconut water. Dr. Fife has given several recipes at the end of this book that use coconut water, coconut milk or desiccated coconut etc. Fresh tender and mature coconuts are of course available in many parts of the world and can be used. <br /><br />All in all, this is a highly readable book on the several health benefits of coconut water. I am lucky to be in a country where tender coconuts are sold roadside and also packed coconut water is available in departmental stores just in case, I need to travel to places where fresh coconuts may not be available.<br /><br />Bruce Fife, N.D. is the author of 18 books including The Coconut Oil Miracle (formerly titled The Healing Miracles of Coconut Oil), Coconut Lover's Cookbook, and Eat Fat, Look Thin, The Detox Book, Saturated Fat May Save Your Life, and Health Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation etc. He is the director of the Southern Colorado chapter of the Weston A. Price Foundation and serves as the editor of the Healthy Ways Newsletter. <br /><br />I am glad to recommend this book for all interested in health of themselves and or their family members, friends etc. <br /></span></span></div></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-21970907105324219112009-11-03T03:15:00.000-08:002009-11-05T00:02:09.104-08:00<p class="MsoNormal">Title: Southcrop Forest</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Author: Lorne Rothman</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Publisher: iUniverse</p> <p class="MsoNormal">ISBN: 978-0595-49588-7</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Genre: Fiction / Children / Science / Ecology</p> <p class="MsoNormal">This book is presented as a novel but is in fact a good introduction to the interdependence of various life systems in our world. The story is set in Canada and involves many trees and a colony of crawlers with a single intelligence (soul). The Colony of crawlers (caterpillars) calls itself Fur and is able to communicate with the trees, starting with Auja, a young Oak and then through her with others. Fur is persuaded by the trees to leave Southcrop, go to Riverside Farm, collect some mysterious fungal spores, cross Oak River and carry the spores to the forests of Deep Sky. The journey of Fur through the forest, the many problems faced by Fur and how Fur pushes itself against its own impulses to give up makes good reading. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Through the interesting and fairly readable medium of the story, the author presents an interesting account of the various trees, birds, animals and insects that inhabit the forests. He brings out the danger to the ecology that human greed is bringing and succeeds in his message for a more holistic approach from us towards the environment. The story ends with a startling discovery by Fur but that is best left for you, the reader to find out. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">It is an interesting concept and the author has succeeded in making a readable book. The book is recommended for children in high schools and their educators, parents etc. </p>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-32220295315798671692009-10-02T21:57:00.000-07:002009-10-02T21:58:39.593-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px; ">Title: The World's Easiest Astronomy Book<br /><br />Author: Hitoshi Nakagawa<br /><br />Publisher: One Peace Books<br /><br />ISBN: 978-0-9785084-4-9<br /><br />Genre: Non-Fiction / Popular Science / Astronomy<br /><br />Presentation: Paper Back<br /><br /><br />The book certainly lives up to it's title. It is simple to read and holds the reader's interest well. It is a small book and can be read while waiting for a flight or while travelling to the office etc.<br /><br />You may find it useful when your children or grandchildren come to you with questions about space, solar system, moon and stars etc. Of course it is a good gift for giving to children to read at their own pace.<br /><br />It is well printed and is strongly recommended to individual homes and schools.<br /><br />The author is a Japanese Aerospace Development Specialist turned high school teacher. The reviewer is a physicist with interests in many fields including astronomy. </span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-65763294825240553892009-10-02T20:35:00.000-07:002009-10-02T20:38:01.296-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px; ">Title: Overpower Pain<br /><br />Sub-title: Strength-Training Program that Stops Pain without Drugs or Surgery<br /><br />Author: Mitchell T. Yass, PT<br /><br />Publisher: Sentient Publications<br /><br />ISBN: 978-1-59181-075-9<br /><br />Genre: Non-Fiction / Health <br /><br /><br />The author is a physiotherapist (physical therapist) and personal trainer. He has helped thousands of patients avoid unnecessary surgery and drugs through strength training. In this book (and through several articles and lectures) he shares his approach to pain relief by physical therapy, strength training (of muscles). <br /><br />The book is well illustrated with photographs of various exercises that he recommends to overcome specific problems. <br /><br />When I had a fall in 2006 I was unable to put my weight on my left leg and had to be hospitalised for about 10 days. After x-ray tests established that there was no fracture and after drugs helped with the initial pain management, I had the benefit of seeing first hand how a good physiotherapist can help in rebuilding the range of muscle movements through exercises of the affected muscles. When I was reading this book, I could thus relate very well with the explanations of the author in Chapter <br />3. <br /><br />The approach is quite technical at places and some readers may not be able to follow the same but the main part of the book in Chapter 5 that covers the work out sessions (and which is well illustrated) will certainly hold the attention well. <br /><br />In any case, it is imperative that any such exercise program should be taken up after a thorough evaluation by a physiotherapist (physical therapist) and a qualified training instructor.<br /><br />The book is a welcome addition to the growing literature on pain management. Readers of this review may also check out<br /><br />"The Journey to a pain relief - A hands on guide to breakthroughs in pain treatment" by Phyllis Berger <br /><br />(<a href="http://swamyreviews.blogspot.com/search?q=Phyllis" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.2em; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(0, 51, 153); outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; ">http://swamyreviews.blogspot.com/search?q=Phyllis</a>) and<br /><br />"Painfree 1-2-3" by Dr. Teitelbaum (it disucsses many approaches to pain management). <br /><br /><br />Contents of the book:<br /><br />Preface<br /><br />Introduction<br /><br />Chapter 1 - Weight Lifting isn't just for Bodybuilders<br /><br />Chapter 2 - Be Safe, Be Effective, and gain Muscle Strength<br /><br />Chapter 3 - What it means when you are in pain <br /><br />The Neck, The Lower Back, The Shoulder, The Elbow, The Wrist, The Hip, The Knee, The Ankle, The Foot are covered in separate sections<br /><br />Chapter 4 - The golden rules of weight training<br /><br />Chapter 5 - Enough talk - Let's get to work<br /><br />Under this he covers The Chest, The Abdominal Group, The Back, Upper Back, Lower Back, Entire Back, Biceps, Forearms, The Thigh, The Calf, The Shoulders, The Triceps<br /><br />Chapter 6 - Stretch, Don't Strain<br /><br />Chapter 7 - A workout schedule that works for you<br /><br />Conclusion<br /><br />Acknowledgements<br /><br />Glossary<br /><br />Appendix A<br /><br />Appendix B<br /><br />Notes<br /><br />About the Author <br /><br /></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-12252803089227760612009-10-02T19:50:00.000-07:002009-10-02T19:55:03.877-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px; "><div>Title: The Hunt for Planet X</div><div><br /></div><div>Sub-Title: New Worlds and the Fate of Pluto</div><div><br /></div><div>Author: Govert Schilling</div><div><br /></div><div>Publisher: Copernicus Books (An Imprint of Springer Science + Business</div><div>Media)</div><div><br /></div><div>ISBN: 978-0-387-77804-4</div><div><br /></div><div>Genre: Non-Fiction / Popular Science / Astronomy</div><div><br /></div><div>Presentation - Hard Cover with dust jacket</div><div><br /></div><div>This book is an excellent, highly readable account of the discovery of trans-Saturnian Planets of our Solar System, especially Pluto and the Planet X. X stands for ten as well as unknown. When Pluto was discovered in 1930, it was not the tenth planet but was the mysterious unknown planet that was theorized to exist based on the orbital fluctuations of Uranus (Neptune was discovered earlier but even after taking into account its effects, Uranus had orbital fluctuations suggesting the existence of one or more planets beyond). Later observations showed that Pluto was not alone but was a member of a group of bodies collectively named Kuiper Belt. In 2006, Pluto was demoted as a regular Planet, in the face of opposition from many astronomers. You should read the book to know more about all the debate and the factors that weighed with the astronomers. </div><div><br /></div><div>The science and the human drama (the fierce competition, the national pride, the hunger for credit etc.) have been nicely brought out by Govert and the illustrations and photographs add a lot of value to the book.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have no hesitation in recommending this book strongly to all lovers of science in general and astronomy in particular.</div><div><br /></div><div>Govert Schilling is an internationally acclaimed freelance writer on astronomy from Netherlands. </div><div><br /></div><div>The reviewer is a physicist and a metallurgist, with interests in astronomy and other sciences. He is an author and editor besides being an avid reader and reviewer of books. </div></span>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-12531707373444062232009-08-17T22:59:00.000-07:002009-08-22T02:17:32.210-07:00Title: Yoga in America<div>Editors: Deborah S. Bernstein & Bob Weisenberg</div><div>Publisher: www.lulu.com</div><div>ISBN: 978-0-557-04633-1</div><div>Genre: Non-Fiction / Yoga</div><div><br /></div><div>The book is a collection of articles on Yoga, written by various experts and edited by Deborah and Bob. The content and style of the articles is so variable (especially since each contributor was given full freedom) that the editors had their task cut out to bring some semblance of continuity in the book. Even after their best efforts, the result is a little disconcerting to the reader. But if you persist and finish the book, you are sure to get a really wide perspective of the state of Yoga in America. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you are already into Yoga, you may find confirmation of what you are doing and also fresh perspectives of the other systems of Yoga practices. If you are new to Yoga, you will get a sort of guided tour and you can pick the style that appeals to you. </div><div><br /></div><div>I would have edited the book a little differently at some places and there are a couple of errors that slipped the keen eyes of the editors, but overall, they have done a very good job of keeping errors out. </div><div><br /></div><div>I recommend this book to you in either case. You may also like to take a look at the three other books on Yoga that I reviewed, viz. "The Hatha Yoga Pradipika", "The Gheranda Samhita" and "Music as Yoga" </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-66740400155021840902009-08-04T09:34:00.000-07:002009-08-04T09:57:28.048-07:00<div>Title: The green Green Pear</div><div>Author: Manjula Narayanan</div><div>Publisher: Authorhouse</div><div>ISBN:978-1-4389-6957-2</div><div>Genre: Fiction / Children</div><div>Presentation: Paperback</div><div><br /></div><div>The green Green Pear is on the face of it a colorfully printed story book for children, but it has a very deep message for all the children of the world including the children lurking behind the adult facades in many of us. Self image psycholgy, the need for self acceptance and the need for being one self are brought out beautifully by the author. </div><div><br /></div><div>One brief excerpt:</div><div><br /></div><div>"So in a similar manner the green Green Pear went about wishing he could be many different things. He wished he could smell like a flower. Or feel like silk. Or taste like candy. Could he look like a butterfly? Or sing like a bird? He wondered..." </div><div><br /></div><div>The page had nice illustrations of a flower, silk, candy, butterfly and a bird. The total effect is really pleasant. </div><div><br /></div><div>For the children there is of course an added bonus of learning colors, shapes, flowers, fruits, animals and sounds. Thus education goes along with entertainment. It is excellent as a gift to the child for exploring by oneself or for reading to a child. </div><div><br /></div><div>The book is designed and printed well on acid free non-glossy paper. The illustrations by the author are eye catching in a pleasant way. </div><div><br /></div><div>A short note to the parents and to the teachers and a little biography about the author would have added value to the book. I am giving a brief biographical note from the material sent by the publicist. </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:-webkit-monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; font-family:-webkit-monospace;">Manjula Naraynan is a writer and illustrator living in Chennai, Southern India. She has a degree in corporate secretaryship from the University of Madras. She plans to follow The green Green Pear with two more titles in her Color Trilogy for children.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; font-family:-webkit-monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia;">Since the story is meant for little children (the book does not specify but I would think 5 to 8 years would be the ideal age group for this type of book), it could have been brought out as an audio book or a video book or a DVD could be produced and added as a bonus (at a slightly higher retail price of course). </span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>I am happy to say the child in me enjoyed the short and sweet story in the book. </div><div><br /></div><div>I strongly recommend this to teachers, parents and other care givers of children. </div>S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-80596911788017864622009-06-12T06:51:00.000-07:002009-06-18T19:04:09.042-07:00Title: Customer Service Pocketbook – 2nd Edition<br />Authors: Tony Newby & Sean McManus<br />Publisher: Management Pocketboooks “Words that speak volumes”<br />Publisher’s website: www.pocketbook.co.uk<br />ISBN: 9781903776001<br />Presentation: Softcover, pocketbook, landscape mode<br /><br />The first edition of this book was authored by Tony Newby in 1991 and became a very popular guide for customer service. After his death, the book was revised by Sean McManus and the 2nd edition was published in 2002.<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.sean.co.uk/books/customerservice/index.shtm">Download a free chapter of The Customer Service Pocketbook at Sean's website.</a><br /><br /><br /><br />The cartoon on the front cover catches your eye (the lady bending over backwards for providing customer service with the Customer 1st slogan prominently displayed in the background). There are more inside to add a light touch and to bring home the message. The print design is very attractive and you will feel like reading and re-reading the book. In the space of about 100 pages, the book manages to highlight the importance of customer service. <br /><br />The topics covered include: <br />- Why Customer Service Matters<br />- What’s Different About Good Service? <br />- Effective Customer Communications<br />- Turning Complaints Into Opportunities<br />- Empowering Great Customer Service<br />- Measuring Customer Service<br />- Personal Action Planning<br />- Appendix: Notes for Trainers<br />- Recommended Further Reading<br /><br />The subject is dealt well, concisely and at the same time, not leaving any essential topic. The book reads like a mini-seminar on the subject and of course the Notes for Trainers gives specific and helpful hints how to structure the one day training programme based on this book. <br /><br />The graph on page 7 could have done better (the x-axis has no scale and does not show any particular parameter). The book is otherwise edited well and the print quality is excellent.<br /><br />It will be a good addition to the personal library of managers at all levels and will also be a good candidate as a handout / introduction to the subject.S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-81891634357600724622009-04-18T23:46:00.000-07:002009-04-19T09:48:56.426-07:00Title: Tarantula Tide<br />Author: Sharon Tregenza<br />Publisher: Floris Books<br />ISBN: 978-086315-673-1<br />Genre: Fiction / Children / Mystery<br />Presentation: Soft Cover<br /><br />The title is a mystery and the story is also a mystery involving two children Jack and Izzie (Isabel) set in Shetland, a group of islands off Scotland. The theme is animal smuggling and the story starts with Jack and Izzie discovering a tarantula whome Izzie calls Octavia. Though the main characters don’t realize who the culprit is, the readers can guess by the middle of the book and it is satisfying to know that one’s surmise is correct. The real mystery in the book is about Jack’s dad and that comes as a surprise. The story has a happy ending with Jack and his photographer mother vowing to come back to the enchanted place. <br /><br />The story is well written and is not too fast nor too slow. The style is good and the book is generally well edited. However, some sections slipped through the editor’s watchful eyes and I will be sharing the same with the author for correction in future editions.<br /><br />All in all, a good read.S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14567199.post-56181635901819236292009-04-17T04:23:00.000-07:002009-04-17T04:27:09.149-07:00Title: Children from the sea<br />Author: Lookman<br />Publisher: Nightingale Books<br />ISBN: 9781903491638<br />Genre: Fiction / Children / Fantasy/ Adventure<br /><br />The cover photograph is rather odd and the story is odd too. It is a fantasy of children being converted to dolphins, staying in the sea for a few hundred years and getting reconverted into children thanks to a kiss from an adolescent girl, Katie.<br /><br />Katie is forced to relocate from England to a small village in Spain because of her father’s business. What she thought would be a boring life turned out to be quite an adventure thanks to the dolphins / children, the eldest being a little elder to her. It would not be fair to reveal what happens after they get transformed into children and the ending is rather interesting. <br /> <br />Lookman was born in Surrey in 1950, a time when children roamed freely and adventurously and made their own entertainment (not having so many gadgets to distract them as now). His interest in Sufism led to his use of the pseudonym Lookman, after the wise sage in Qur’an. The Sufi leanings of the author come through in the story and if you are a fundamentalist in any religion (something alien to Sufism), you may not relate to the story. <br /><br />The story is interesting enough to keep reader’s interest and the style is good enough to keep you going. Some passages in the story are moving and the account of religious persecution strikes a chord even today!<br /><br />Though the book is meant for children (I would say the suggested age group is 10 to 15), it may appeal to elders too, especially those whose inner child is still alive and active. Give it a try and decide whether it is for you. I would rate it GOOD.S.V.Swamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690762812031172350noreply@blogger.com0