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Author : J.K. Rowling
Number of Pages : 652
Release Date : 2006-07-25
Publisher : Scholastic Paperbacks
Company : SCHOLASTIC BOOKS (TRADE)
List Price : $12.99
Amazon Price : $5.99
Used Price : $3.99 |
Product Description The war against Voldemort is not going well; even the Muggles have been affected. Dumbledore is absent from Hogwarts for long stretches of time, and the Order of the Phoenix has already suffered losses. And yet . . . As with all wars, life goes on. Sixth-year students learn to Apparate. Teenagers flirt and fight and fall in love. Harry receives some extraordinary help in Potions from the mysterious Half-Blood Prince. And with Dumbledore's guidance, he seeks out the full, complex story of the boy who became Lord Voldemort -- and thus finds what may be his only vulnerability. Customer reviews perfect.  by .. Alicia M. Pucci (los angeles, ca)
got my item on time just as i ordered it. no surprises. i would purchase from this seller again.
Suspenseful sixth by .. Jeremy A. Cacho (USA)
The Half-Blood Prince is somewhat of a build up to The Deathly Hallows. There is a great deal of suspense throughout the book, making the book a very fast read. From the beginning, this thrilling adventure entangles you and never lets you go until the very last page. Also in this book, unexpected events conclude with one of my favorite characters dieing making the ending have a very sad tone.
Anyone who likes suspense and action should read this book (and the series)!
Brilliant Novel, Yet the Darkest Harry Potter Book Thus Far by .. Tom L. (Nashville, TN USA)
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince follows 16-year-old Harry Potter through his sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The book is darker than any of the prequels.
The book begins on a serious note. The new Minister of Magic, Rufus Scrimgeour warns the muggle Prime Minister of Voldemort's return. Voldemort is ready to kill on impulse and should be avoided by both members of the magic community and members of the muggle community. The number one target, of course, is the protagonist, Harry Potter. Harry has survived several former attacks by Voldemort and is prophesied to be the "chosen one" to kill him.
At Hogwarts, life is grimmer than it has ever been. Professor Snape replaces Professor Umbridge as Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. This was the one job that Dumbledore refused to give him in the past because of his former connections to Lord Voldemort. Snape has gained Dumbledore's trust in recent years and accepts the job. Professor Slughorn, a former teacher at the school, obtains Snape's former position as Potions Teacher. Slughorn is immediately fond like to any student with supreme magical abilities and invites them to his parties. Harry, Hermione, and Ginny are included in this group. In addition, Dumbledore returns to the school with a charred, shrunken hand. He refuses to tell anyone why this has happened. Lastly, Malfoy is bestowed an important task by Lord Voldemort, which Harry overhears in the Hogwarts Express. Harry has no idea what the task is, but is convinced that he needs to stop him by any means possible.
On a lighter note, Harry is enjoying his sixth year at Hogwarts. He finds a used potions book with written in tips and spells on how to make the best potions in the quickest amount of time. The person who previously owned the book, the "Half-Blood Prince" remains an important mystery in the novel. He receives high marks in this class for the first time, sealing his position as Slughorn's favorite student. On the Quidditch team, Harry continues his position as seeker and Ron becomes the new keeper. Harry also begins his first serious relationship with a girl. Also, Dumbledore gives private lessons on Harry on how to defeat the Dark Lord. They continuously use the Pensieve as a means to discover who Lord Voldemort was as a child and how he came to be the evil man that he is now. This is probably the biggest highlight of the school year for Harry.
As usual, J.K. Rowling has written a world-class novel: a mix of action, adventure, romance, and deceit, but has given this novel a scarier twist. The reader can easily decipher the story and follow the characters as they grow emotionally. Instead of solving mysteries set forth by previous novels, this one presents several new questions. What is Malfoy's task? Can Snape be trusted? Why is Dumbledore's hand charred and shrunken? What will learning about Voldemort's childhood do to help Harry defeat him? And, finally, who is the "Half-Blood Prince"? Read this novel to find out the answers to these questions, you will be in for a surprise. I recommend this novel 100%.
An incredible novel by .. Evan Wearne (Lincoln, NE United States)
With every Harry Potter installment, I find myself saying the new installment is my favorite of the series so far. Book 6 is no exception, and I think it is a credit to the author. The hopelessness and despair have increased in order for the readers to feel the plight of the characters. Starting with this book and continuing into the next, the reader feels the despair that afflicts the good wizard community. It has some similarities to World War II Germany. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, even if it was a bit gloomy.
Riddled With Riddles About Riddle by .. Franklin the Mouse (Gorham, ME USA)
Ms. Rowling has created another well-crafted adventure/mystery to the Harry Potter series. The reader will come to understand why and how Lord Voldemort became the evil, obsessed antagonist of the wizardry world. The author did a fine job of depicting the main teenage characters in an age-appropriate manner. Just like many 16-year-olds of this difficult age, some of Harry's, Ron's, and Hermoine's decisions are completely self-serving, unethical and, dare I say, meanspirited. Also, their puerile mood swings are very convincing and believable. A few new colorful characters are introduced as well as the enmity between Potter/Snape grows deeper and darker. There are smatterings of happy and funny moments, but for the most this book is pretty gloomy. Ms. Rowling has crafted a cliffhanger that easily will propel me into reading the last installment.
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Author : C. S. Lewis
Number of Pages : 256
Release Date : 1994-07-01
Publisher : HarperCollins
List Price : $6.99
Amazon Price : $0.25
Used Price : $0.01 |
Product Description The four Pevensies help Caspian battle Miraz and ascend his rightful throne. Customer reviews Amazing Movie: Better Than The First!! by .. Aekero ()
I remember trying to read the book as a kid, and could not finish it for lack of interest! As an adult, this was a wonderful, magical, story! I enjoyed it even more than the Lion Witch and Wardrobe!!
A great addition to Narnia by .. SF Review (Vancouver, BC Canada)
It was a very enjoyable read! I didn't want to put the book down. I would have liked to have seen a little more interaction between Caspian and Peter, and a more detailed battle sequence at the end.
Great action  by .. Anna del C. Dye (Utah, USA)
Prince Caspian is one of the tales of The Chronicles of Narnia. It takes place after Peter, the high king and his siblings left the kingdom many years before. They returned to find animosity between the realms of prince Caspian and the magical creatures. A knight called Reepicheep that is a talking mouse, a dwarf and the cast off prince find themselves on the same side as the high king Peter and his siblings. After they learn to trust each other, they unite to bring peace to all races and the throne to his rightful heir. A great tale full of action.
Anna del C.
Author of "The Elf and the Princess"
The Elf and The Princess: The Silent Warrior Trilogy - Book One (The Silent Warrior Trilogy)
A Story That Makes Me Kind Of Sad by .. Joy (United States)
I saw the movie first, and I believe that was a mistake. Because once I sat down to read this book, I was expecting the movie to follow the book. I was, of course, wrong.
To read this book, I believe you got to have somewhat of an open mind and be imaginative. The Kings and Queens come back, and they come back many years later. The last time they left Narnia, they were much older...like young adults, and they come back in this book as children again. Narnia has changed and has changed for the worse. But the children, Prince Caspian, and the other Narnians fight to set things right.
Aslan is not throughout the book, but shows up just in time. But I must admit that I was sad to read that Peter and Susan could not come back because they were too old, and the same time, I completely understood why.
Overall, this was an excellent read, and C.S. Lewis writing is such a treasure. But this one was the book I liked the least out of all the books in the series. I guess the movie did ruin it for me.
Thanks.
Back to Narnia by .. E. A Solinas (MD USA)
Imagine if you once saved a magical other world... only to return later and find that centuries had passed, and everything had changed.
Well, since the movie adaptation of "Prince Caspian" is about to come out, it seems appropriate to revisit C.S. Lewis's classic novel, the sequel to his even more classic "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe." While it has some drippily allegorical moments near the end, Lewis does a pretty good job with what must have been a difficult sequel.
When his aunt gives birth to a baby boy, young Prince Caspian finds himself on the run from his usurping uncle Miraz -- and in the hands of Narnia's secret army of dwarves, centaurs, talking animals and nature spirits. Soon Caspian has an army backing his claim to the throne, but in a moment of desperation, he is forced to blow the magic horn of the legendary Queen Susan -- and subsequently pulls the Pevensies back into Narnia.
But while only a year has passed on Earth, centuries have passed in Narnia, and the kids find that it's no longer the place they left -- they and Aslan are distant memories, and their castle lies in ruins. And as they are led by a very skeptical dwarf to help Caspian, Lucy keeps glimpsing Aslan along the way -- a sign that things are about to change drastically in Narnia, both for the human and magical inhabitants...
The Chronicles of Narnia were probably the first books to feature what is now standard in the fantasy genre -- an ordinary person gets dragged into another world. Just take a look at successful, unique authors like Diana Wynne Jones and Garth Nix to get an example of how Lewis' stories have influenced the entire genre.
If you don't like allegory (religious or otherwise), then steer clear of "Prince Caspian," especially the second half. While Lewis's beliefs are presented in a more complicated and subtle manner in his other fictional works, here the parallels to basic Christian beliefs are very obvious. Reportedly even Tolkien, one of Lewis's best pals, found the allegory annoying.
But if you can get past the slightly ham-handed treatment, it's a lovely little read. Lewis interweaves mythical elements -- dwarves, nymphs, talking animals, witches -- with the chatty, slightly precious style of traditional British storytelling. But this one is a bit darker and more action-packed than "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe," with some unexpected twists in the middle of it all. The scene with a strange witch and a werewolf is downright chilling, in fact.
But Lewis' plotting does sag near the end, during a drippy scene where Aslan wanders around fixing life for Narnian subjects. Fortunately after that, he gets back to a mystery that hangs over the whole book -- just where did all these humans come from, if they were such a rarity in the previous adventure?
Peter seems a bit more jaded than before and Edmund a bit more mature, but sadly the girls don't get enough to do this time around. But Caspian is a likable and believable prepubescent king-in-waiting, and surrounded by a bunch of unique Narnians -- a gentle yet fierce badger, a hostile dwarf, a fiery mouse, and the delightfully skeptical Trumpkin, who doesn't believe in lions.
Despite a few rough spots, "Prince Caspian" is a slightly darker, more intricate story, and its finale marks a turning point in the Chronicles of Narnia. Definitely give it a read before you see the movie.
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Author : Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Number of Pages : 150
Publisher : Gallimard
List Price : $32.95
Used Price : $75.88 |
Product Description In 2000 Harcourt proudly reissued Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's masterpiece, The Little Prince, in a sparkling new format. Newly translated by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Richard Howard, this timeless classic was embraced by critics and readers across the country for its purity and beauty of expression. And Saint-Exupéry's beloved artwork was restored and remastered to present his work in its original and vibrant colors. Now Harcourt is issuing uniform full-color foreign language editions. The restored artwork glows like never before. These affordable and beautiful editions are sure to delight an entire new generation of readers, students, children, and adults for whom Saint-Exupéry's story will open the door to a new understanding of life. Customer reviews a lovely story by .. ryan (US)
This is a great book. It is very helpful for the French student--not too difficult as to be beyond the intermediate level, but also with enough themes to keep a more advanced student interested. I loved the story. The only thing is that the version I had for school had a nice introduction and info about Saint Exupéry that this version lacks.
AMAZING by .. Tyler L. Kollman ()
I'm not gonna write a paragraph about this literature, but i will say this...
I cried and laughed and at the end i felt overwhelmed with this book..its all there and i think everyone should read it. the best book ever. Ive read a lot. This one has my heart.
Incroyable! by .. S. Kelly (IL)
This is probably one of the best books I have ever read. We read it in my fourth year french class, right before graduation. It is such a simple tale wherein lies a deep and meaningful message. It is open for interpretation, which is part of what makes it so great. You really have to think in order to gather the entire message. I hope to purchase the french version soon.
great book by .. Angela (New York, NY USA)
this is a classic book -- a wonderful read. i bought this copy for some friends in Burkina Faso who don't get a lot of books. i figured that they might as well have the best.
Great Condition, Fast Delivery, Excellent Price by .. K. Vulakovich (Pittsburgh, PA USA)
I originally went into Borders to purchase this book, it was double the price. Not only was the amazon purchase priced better, but i recieved free delivery! One couldn't ask for more....
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Author : Niccolo Machiavelli
Number of Pages : 90
Publisher : Prometheus Books
List Price : $12.98
Amazon Price : $0.99
Used Price : $1.23 |
Product Description "The Prince" has long been both praised and reviled for its message of moral relativism, and political expediency. Although a large part is devoted to the mechanics of gaining and staying in power, Machiavelli's end purpose is to maintain a just and stable government. He is not ambiguous in stating his belief that committing a small cruelty to avert a larger is not only justifiable, but required of a just ruler. Machiavelli gives a vivid portrayal of his world in the chaos and tumult of early 16th century Florence, Italy and Europe. He uses both his contemporary political situation, and that of the classical period to illustrate his precepts of statecraft. Customer reviews Hard to follow  by .. Michael Bryden (Trinidad & Tobago)
Always heard about the man and the book but it was difficult trying to follow and understand. Gave up three quarters of the way through. Did learn a little something though.
The Giant of the Self-Help Genre by .. Mitchell Marubayashi ()
Forget about Covey and the habits of highly effective people and any other book you have ever glanced at to try to pick yourself up and guide yourself out of the rat race and have a look at the greatest specimen ever conceived of the self-help genre. The Prince is a mysterious, multi-layered magnum opus with shocking and provocative insights into politics, psychology, religion, and life. Not for the lazy or shallow reader.
A Poor Translation by .. D. Green (Boston, MA)
This review was submitted on the web page presenting Mansfield's translation.
I have been using Wootton's translation of The Prince in a university program where the texts are set by the faculty. This year we changed to the Mansfield translation and I've requested that we return to Wootton's.
In his attempt to provide an "accurate" translation of the Italian, Mansfield made the mistake of many translators in overlooking the clarity of his English prose.
For example, where Wootton writes, "he increased the strength of one of the most powerful Italian states," Mansfield writes, "he . . . increased the power of a power in Italy." (15) There are other odd uses of diction in Mansfield, for example, where Wootton speaks of a "founder," Mansfield uses the word "introducer." (23) And though concise in places, Mansfield has a tendency to write long sentences, perhaps in imitation of the Italian, where Wootton is more to the point.
If you're still not convinced, compare the following passages:
Wootton: "So, too, with those who, having been private citizens, were made emperors of Rome because they had corrupted the soldiers. Such rulers are entirely dependent on the goodwill and good fortune of whoever has given them power. Good will and good fortune are totally unreliable and capricious."
Mansfield: ". . . as also those emperors were made who from private individual [sic] attained the empire through corrupting soldiers. These persons rest simply on the will and fortune of whoever has given a state to them, which are two very inconstant and unstable things."
mc review by .. student 13 (chicago. IL)
I ordered this book for a college class. It arrived on time and in great condition.
The Recipe of the American Corporate State by .. Mark Watterson ()
Machiavelli's "The Prince" is a guide of morality-void techniques for acquiring and maintaining political power and ultimately, political fortune. Written nearly 500 years ago, this blueprint for tyranny is just as relevant today. As his compass, Machiavelli uses history, both ancient and contemporary. In 500 years, no one has proven him wrong. Here's a flavor for you innocents out there: "For, in truth, there is no sure way of holding other than by destroying, and whoever becomes master of a City accustomed to live in freedom and does not destroy it, may reckon on being destoyed by it". War is Machiavelli's wet dream: "A Prince, therefore, should have no care or thought but for war, and for the regulations and training it requires, and should apply himself exclusively to this as his peculiar province; for war is the sole art looked for in one who rules". Espousing the virtues of the noble lie, Machiavelli follows up with, "men are so simple, and governed so absolutely by their present needs, that he who wishes to deceive will never fail in finding willing dupes". And with this quote, I now challenge anyone to dispute the Machiavellian nature of the American Corporate State as written about in Don't Weep for Me, America: How Democracy in America Became the Prince (While We Slept). All the parallels are brought to light, always through the eyes of George Orwell. Get informed. Your city (country) is being destroyed...
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Author : Edith H. Tarcov
Number of Pages : 40
Publisher : Cartwheel
List Price : $3.99
Amazon Price : $0.01
Used Price : $0.01 |
Product Description Angry at being forced to keep her promise to a frog, the princess finally resorts to violent action, with unexpected results. Customer reviews Excuse me?  by .. NPH (Ridgewood, NJ USA)
I was reading this to my child for the first time and actually had to ad lib a new ending, the one in the book is so atrocious. What kind of bratty self indulgent behavior does this teach? In the original story didn't the princess see past the frog's ugliness and kiss him and then find out he was a prince? In this version the princess throws the frog violently against the wall and poof he becomes a prince and marries her. I promptly placed the book in the recycling pile after making up a new ending for our first and only reading.
Cute introduction to the story  by .. Emily J. Taylor (Utah)
What an incredibly cute story! I have always loved this fairy tale in all its various forms (usually cleaned up from Grimm's version) but what really put the icing on the cake here was the absolutely hilarious illustrations that put beuatiful princesses and handsome cursed princes into the cutest, silliest, drawings ever seen. The book is a healthy length, and divided into introductory chapters--perfect for young readers. This is a great beginning into Frog Prince lore.
I like the Frog Prince by .. Leslie ()
I liked this version of the Frog Prince. The standard line is that the Princess agrees to take a less than wonderful partner in exchange for an act which she is not allowed to do (retrieve the golden ball). Then the price must be paid. All standard stuff. HOWEVER, the princess has a bit too much when required to share her bed with this loathsome item. At that point, she slams the frog against the wall and he is magically transformed into a more pleasant alternative. Perhaps girl children should learn that it is necessary to stand up and smack the fellow to get him to step into line. I like this version of the story very much.
The worst child book I have ever read by .. Silvana Rosenzwaig ()
How does a prince propose marriage to a nasty princess who throws him against the wall after enduring her abuse from the very moment they met, is beyond my comprehension. Why does the princess accepts this offer after so much repulsion toward the frog can only be explained by the prince's new looks after the spell is broken. This book teaches children that beauty is better than values or character and that violence is the solution to problems. I am surprised Scholastic is even publishing this book. Stay away from this book!
I would not read this book to my child by .. Charles Ashbacher (Marion, Iowa United States(cashbacher@yahoo.com))
This modification of the classic tale of the ugly frog turned into a handsome prince lacks the charm of the original tale. It is true that the frog is eventually turned into a handsome prince by the actions of a princess and they live happily ever after. However, the princess made a promise to the frog when he retrieved her golden ball and she had to be commanded to keep that promise. In a fit of frustration she hurls the frog against the wall and it is this action that turns him into a prince.
In my opinion, this renders the story inappropriate for children. They are so impressionable that it is not out of the realm of possibility that some child may try the same thing. Also, the princess is a mean person, refusing to even thank the frog for retrieving her golden ball. I would not read this book to my child.
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Author : Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Number of Pages : 12
Publisher : Harcourt Children's Books
List Price : $12.95
Amazon Price : $6.88
Used Price : $6.88 |
Product Description The Little Prince lives alone on a small, strange planet, where he tends volcanoes, cares for a special rose, and watches sunsets. Meet this beloved character and learn about his adventures in four winsome board books-- I Am the Little Prince/Je Suis Le Petit Prince, A Day with the Little Prince, Friends of the Little Prince, and Counting with the Little Prince--inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's enduring tale of friendship. Customer reviews A Poor "Introduction." by .. KP (Miami, FL United States)
Don't waste your money on this one. I am a big fan of "The Little Prince," and this fails to satisfy my expectations. I have a small child and I wanted her to be able to hear a simple version of this book. The story is way to simple and the pictures don't "grab" a young audience (an audience that would require board books in the first place). The compilation of books is haphazard in nature. I don't know who will be the audience for this book. Fans of The Little Prince will find this selection disappointing and new audiences will wonder what the fuss is over the story, and that would be a real shame. There is no message in this selection of simple books. The box is beautiful and the books appear to be well made. It will make a pretty "literary" accessory on my child's bookshelf...but sadly...that is about it.
little prince by .. angelita (Manila, Philippines)
Its really a great book because it deals how a man should treat another by being nice and kind to it.We are all born equal and we may not understand at first but we can try to learn how others may think by putting ourselves on their situation.
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Author : R. Scott Bakker
Number of Pages : 608
Publisher : Overlook TP
List Price : $15.95
Amazon Price : $4.65
Used Price : $2.37 |
Customer reviews This book is not worth the time. by .. G. Smit ()
This book was really slow with the author going into a very complex history and seeming to figure out just what the character's powers are and how exactly magic is going to work in this novel. I don't understand the names the author chose. I don't need character names like Bob, but the last thing I want is to spend time trying to sound out 20 letter names, and then try to distinguish them from other similar names.
The last quarter of this book really picked up and got me to buy the second book, that was a giant mistake. The second book is one of the only books I have ever stopped reading 1/2 way through. I put it down for one of George RR Maritn's Wild Card Books.
A writer's writer: an apologia for R. Scott Bakker by .. Zachary D. Dettwyler ()
This man is daring.
His work hinges very heavily on the use of specific literary techniques, most commonly "in media res" scene-framing. He changes the kind of writing here and there in the book, jumping from a poetic prologue worthy of a creation myth; to stirring intrigues and action sequences; to a sort of world-narrative in which he describes events from a history book's perspective in lieu of a narrative protagonist.
His liberal use of the Byzantine Empire and other historical events (especially the First Crusade, of course) is very hard to miss; while reading, I actually found myself thinking of Larry Gonick's comic dramatization of the Crusades in his "Cartoon History of the Universe" series.
I have to admit, Bakker could stand to tie his work together a little bit more; the prologue is, what, a thousand years before Chapter One? And Chapter Two is the first of several POV-switches, which would be confusing if they didn't all distantly connect, at least in their associations. The Holy War, thankfully, lashes them together a second time over, ensuring that every chapter is a different perspective on world events.
The man is a fantastic writer, getting into the meat of his characters' fears, passions, and thought patterns in a way that feels effortless. Characters are deeply motivated, with as much pride and self-importance as the most conceited despot; they are easy to relate to, but full of nuance and detail.
To address a couple of criticisms I've seen repeated on these message boards: the darkness issue and the women issue.
Yes, come to think of it, Bakker has about as many roles for women as a Frank Miller comic (i.e. nearly zero). But the difference is crucial: they feel like real people, with concerns and complicatedness that far surpasses the sort of flatness and pulp-comic stereotyping seen in the vast, VAST majority of both science fiction and American writing in general.
As far as darkness is concerned, I'm claiming the historical fiction defense! Bakker has the same level of obsession with the Crusades that George Martin has for the War of the Roses; and anyone who studies history long enough will know just how horrible and demented civilizations can be, especially when their interests conflict. Personally, I think there are times when such dark material as this (though Martin is worse, no question) needs to be set down so I can go watch cartoons and clear my head, but this is a far cry from, say, "Johnny the Homicidal Maniac". Few of the characters take anything like pure pleasure from the terrible things they do, as much of the book consists of people talking out their dilemmas and convincing themselves that they have no other options.
Case in point: before the battle between the People of War and the Empire, the People of War's best chieftains spend several pages debating strategy, cultural myth, and personal honor, as it relates to the timing of their attack on the Imperial forces. These are not Frank Miller monsters, who gleefully hack apart their foes; these are human beings who see the violence they commit as either their duty (civic or religious; it varies) or the only option afforded them.
As for the women, well, history has not been kind to women, either.
All in all, Bakker is a fantastic, if sometimes slightly unfocused, writer; he seeks veracity in his work without making it depressingly (or obsessively) dark and deadly; and his head is so filled with details for this world he's created that one can't help but wonder if Earwa is a place he's visited in some sci-fi parallel dimension.
A new age is upon us! by .. Robert Browne (Mankato, MN)
I am a picky fantasy reader. I like George R.R. Martin, and that's about it. A lot of the other fantasy I've looked at is so fake and unbelievable that it's just pointless to read, in my opinion. Bakker on the other hand, Bakker writes with logic and philosophical insight! This book requires intelligence to appreciate. One can't pick this up and read it over a weekend to truly appreciate the novel and series.
Overall, this series has just become my favorite, and this reader is anxiously awaiting the release of "The Judging Eye" to see what happens in the realm of the Three Seas.
"The Logos is without beginning or end."
"Truth shines"
Cumbersome. Frustrating. Awful portrayal of female characters. by .. elyse1483 (chicago, il)
This book came so highly recommended by so many fantasy fans that I REALLY wanted to like it and felt compelled to finish the whole thing. I regret doing so. There is very little about this book that I enjoyed.
The writing style is quite good, but the prose did not move me enough to make up for the shortcomings in the storytelling. I find it difficult to understand why the author choose to tell a story in the convoluted way R. Scott Bakker has. He shifts the point of view often, and we hear the story from the perspective of characters whom we don't know, and don't care about, who are mulling over events, conflicts, and people we don't know and/or don't care about. He drops characters & story threads for large portions of the book. He gives you information on page 500 that you needed on page 30. 400 pages in and he's still introducing new characters - this would all be okay if went some where with it, or tied it all together in the end in a way that makes you think - "holy moly! that's genius" but he simply does not. The story has no climax, no twists, and the political conflicts are uninteresting.
I am a fan of Sci-fi and fantasy, so I am used to authors sometimes dropping you into a world and leaving you to spend awhile in the dark figuring out the people, cultures and geography on your own. Some other reviewers call his novel "challenging", but in my opinion, it is muddled and needs a major overhaul in the editing room. I also cannot understand the prevalent comparisons to my favorite authors like GRR Martin, Frank Herbert, and Tolkien. I don't think this book puts Bakker close to being within their ranks.
Finally, the terrible portrayal of the female characters - weak, pining, silly, stupid - every single one of them. I found it to be quite disturbing. The strongest female character is an erratic, gold digging, harpy-shrew. All of the female characters are slaves, whores, or one of many wives - property to beaten and raped by the male characters. And they are. Often. I understand that Bakker is trying to portray a brutal world, but just because the women in his world are vicitimized does not mean they ought to be weak-willed, silly, or girlish. I find it ironic that he dedicated this book to a woman.
I really wanted to like this book, and I'm sad that my opinion clashes so strongly with my fellow fantasy and Sci-fi fans, but hey as Wash would say "some people juggle geese."
Half GRRM, Half Erikson, Half Baked from Bakker by .. R. Guerrero (New York)
I just finished the series, and I must say that it leaves me unsatisfied. For those who haven't read George R.R. Martin or Steven Erikson, I would have to say that this review is not for you, as I will be referring to both series since they are the standards of fantasy literature.
The series approaches the complexity of the George R.R. Martin's characters, dozens of complicated individuals, each with his or her own convictions and views of the world. Initially, one cannot tell who is right and who is wrong, as every person's view of the world has always been the right view. As I progress through the novels, the characters mature and evolve. However, unlike Martin's amazing character development, Bakker's is left half-baked. Kellhus. The all-knowing Kellhus is the asteroid that wipes out the evolution of Bakker's characters. It's so frustrating to see what could have been great multi-faceted characters like Proyas, Esmenet, Cnaur, and others obliterated into two-sided paper figures whose only conviction is to believe or not believe the greatness of Kellhus. Even more frustrating is most of the main characters: the great names, knights and thanes, serve no purpose but to die. Like clockwork, someone with a name must die in every battle. When one of George R.R. Martin's character die, it creates a shudder through the storyline - not only because it often so unexpected, but because one feels so much for the character, whether it's admiration or hate, of things left unaccomplished. Death leaves a hollow space in GRRM's world.
The Prince of Nothing also bears great similarity with Erikson's Malazan series, particularly Coltaine's long march from Seven Cities. The desperation and hopelessness of that retreat is so palpable that it left the taste of gritty desert sand in my mouth. In some ways this novel is very similar, although Inrithi's armies are attacking, not retreating. The toll of the battle road is comparable in both books. However, while Erikson's story progresses smoothly, Bakker's journey suffer innumerable rest stops. Every chapter is inundated with, as another reviewer wrote, "unending explanations of the greatness of Kellhus". By the third book, I actually found myself skipping sections of "the greatness of Kellhus", something unthinkable in a GRRM or Erikson book lest you miss an important part integral to the plot. After reading "the greatness of Kellhus" dozens and dozens of times, I find that it is not necessary, there was nothing that was not already stated.
Thus, I find Bakker's book somewhat combination of both GRRM and Erikson. It aspires to Martin's characterization and Erikson's plot progression, but falls short in both. However, since GRRM is taking decades between books, and Erikson's latest is not out yet, I recommend this series as a decent substitute to satisfy some of your cravings. Just be warned, it will not leave you hungering for more bread from Bakker's bakery. RG
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Author : Michelle M. Pillow
Number of Pages : 204
Publisher : New Concepts Publishing
List Price : $11.99
Amazon Price : $13.99
Used Price : $5.70 |
Product Description The four Qurilixian Princes have no problem with commitment. In one night, using the power they were born with, they will meet and choose their life mate in a simplistic ceremony involving the removing of masks and the crushing of crystals. With very few words spoken and the shortest, most bizarre courtship in history, they will bond to their women forever. And once bonded, these men don’t let go.... A Perfect Escape… Nadja Aleksander has everything she could ever want in life, except her freedom. Skipping out on her engagement, to a man her controlling father has chosen for her, Nadja books passage on the first spaceship she can find. Bound for a planet of primitive humanoid males, Nadja plans on finding a simple, hard working man who will allow her to live out her days in total obscurity. A Perfect Mistake… Prince Olek of Draig, royal ambassador, is pleased with his refined and blushing bride. When she chooses him to be her life mate, appearing happy in her decision, his heart soars—until the next morning when his new little Princess wants nothing to do with him. Olek doesn’t know what he’s done to upset his alluring bride, but he is determined to reignite the spark that burned the night they met. Customer reviews Another Prince brother, another hot read! by .. Heather Watkins (Chapel Hill, TN USA)
Dragon Lords: The Perfect Prince (Book 2)
After the breeding ceremony, the Prince brother found his perfect wife. Yet the wife is uncertain she can hide from her harmful father. The scenes in this book are as well hot and steamy. Man I wised I could become part of the Qurilixian planet in the palace of the Draig!
The Perfect Prince by .. Cin Dee (Texas)
Very enjoyable book. The 1st book in the series was my least favorite but this book & the rest in this series have been really good. I've also enjoyed the other series of books about the Var who are cat shapeshifters that rule the other half of the planet. I really like the series on the Var a little bit more.
Excellent. by .. J. Jackson (Sacramento)
I loved this book and all of the Dragon Lord books. As well as the Lords of Var books. Michelle Pillow is a wonderful writer and I highly recommend anything she writes. This is a great series.
Exotic, Erotic - Great curl up in a chair book by .. Donna J. Sigle ()
Really out of this world characters that grab you the minute you open the book.
Dragon Lords Series by Michelle M. Pillow by .. Alison G. Rush (Hanover, PA USA)
the whole series is GREAT !
looking forward to reading the Lords of VAR the the next set of this series
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Author : Antoine de Saint Exupery
Edition : 25th Anniversary
Number of Pages : 93
Publisher : Harcourt Brace Jovanovich
List Price : $7.50
Used Price : $2.85 |
Product Description An aviator whose plane is forced down in the Sahara Desert encounters a little man from a small planet who describes his adventures in the universe seeking the secret of what is really important in life. Customer reviews Buy the Katherine Woods translation only by .. sandym (SUMMERVILLE, SC United States)
To get the most enjoyment from this beautiful book, buy the original Katherine Woods translation.
Katherine Woods - The name to remember by .. Marynna L. Kerce ()
Katherine Woods' translation is the only English-language version of The Little Prince which captures the beauty, simplicity, clarity, and profundity of the Antoine de St. Exupery's classic, penned in French.
(The newer translation is appallingly horrid and bland, mistaken, and frankly perplexing.)
This is really not a children's book, although older children will appreciate it.
Don't measure the value by the thickness of the book. De St. Exupery, himself a WWI pilot, writes with a great economy yet produces here the most beautiful poetry with a delightful playfulness and childlike innocence -- a fresh vision which thus sees clearly and does not obscure the profound.
Mr. Fred Rogers used to quote from de St. Exupery, whose image and illustrations once graced the 20-franc note (in the days before the euro).
There simply is no other work like this one. It is an exceptionally rare treasure, a masterpiece.
Be sure to read Katherine Woods' translation. Read it privately, when you have time to savor each word. And keep a box of tissues nearby.
Little Prince speaks to the child in me by .. Irini ()
I was an adult when i read this book, and i really appreciated the lessons in life that Saint-Exupery shares through the Little Prince.
A great book, full of beautiful illustrations, easy to read, while fun and sad at the same time.
I personally read it as if Exupery is sharing with us the conversations he has with his own inner child, in the image of the Little Prince. That is why the Little Prince would ask many questions, but rarely answer the ones he was asked. Like all our inner children he's been hidden inside and kept silent for a long long time, and now that he was given his chance, he will speak. And we better listen, for he is an integral part of our psyche, who will take us through the most unbelievable adventures.
a teacher by .. Andrew L. Pavelek (Ravenna, OH)
This is a wonderful story and a great book I was able to share with my students. The only drawback with the book is that the pages are not in color, but the extremely low price allowed me to purchase the books for my students out of my own pocket.
The Little Prince by .. Tami (Gold Coast, Australia)
The Little Prince has often been heralded as a youthful book, required reading in elementary and high schools alike. In delivering it this way I think The Little Prince is missed by the only audience that is likely to truly appreciate it, that is adults. It is not an uncommon misconception that this is a children's book. Indeed, I keep the pictures stored on my computer, and am often asked where they came from. I reply that they are from one of my favourite books, and without fail the response is along the lines of, 'I don't mean to be rude but is that a children's book?'. 'No', I explain, 'it is not'.
The Little Prince is most needed, I think, by adults. It is easy to be caught up in, as De Saint-Exupery describes it, 'matters of consequence' and forget that it is not these matters which bring meaning to life. By pointing out the futility of professions practised endlessly and in isolation of other people, it becomes clear that the Little Prince, with his rose, is the only character with a life of consequence.
This book is beautifully written and translated by Katherine Woods. It speaks volumes through its simple tale, strange though it seems that matters such as these only become clear when they are somewhat removed from reality. Matters such as love, innocence, imagination and priorities. The Little Prince is a gentle and stirring reminder to never forget to see the boa constrictor from the hat.
Related Search : 25th anniversary , little prince , edition  |
Format : Large Print
Author : Christine Feehan
Edition : 1
Number of Pages : 472
Publisher : Wheeler Publishing
List Price : $29.95
Used Price : $250.00 |
Product Description A New York Times Bestselling Author Prince of the Night. He came to her in the night, a predator - strength and power chiseled his features. The seduction was deep and elemental; he affected her soul. She craved the dangerous force of his body - and he had only touched her with his mind. Lady of the Light. She came to him at dawn, his bleakest hour. As the beast raged inside him, threatening to consume him, he vented his centuries-old despair and she answered, a ray of light, piercing his darkness. Customer reviews Classic Vampire Story by .. Chelsea Marie Spencer ()
This is book one in Christine Feehan's epic "Dark" series. Not the best of the bunch, not the worst, it gives us a little taste of Feehan's immense universe as well a whole lot of romance.
The Plot:
Mikhail is the prince of a dieing race known as the Carpathians, a people with an endless array of magical abilities who drink human blood to survive. Carpathian males are charged with the protection of their race, both from human slayers and vampires. Vampires are Carpathian men who have lost their souls and turned evil. This happens because over the many years of their lives, the men loose color and emotion and become cold and disconnected unless they can find their one true love, their lifemate. Mikhail is shocked to find that his lifemate is in fact a human woman with psychic abilities, Raven--who has no awareness of his race's existance.
The Best Parts:
As previously stated, this book has a classic feel to it. It's simple and uncomplicated. I choose to say this rather then call it predictable, because in this case, knowing what's coming does not make the fall out any less beautiful. The romance between Mikhail and Raven is a true fairy tale.
The world that Feehan has built is truly unique and intricate. This first book only offers a peak at the wide scope of her ideas, but it's enough to keep you entertained.
Why it Lost a Star:
Raven is pretty much the standard damsel in distress for the most part. Yes, she has an inner strength about her, but nonetheless much of the conflict involves her being rescued by Mikhail. If you like that sort of thing, then it's not a negative, but I would have preferred a stronger heroine.
This series is vast and overgrowing. It has it's ups and downs. I consider Dark Prince to be the necessary exposition to a much greater saga. I highly recommend it to paranormal fans.
Could Barely Finish it... by .. Tegan Kosters (Prior Lake, MN)
I just finished reading this book for the second time and I'm amazed that I was able to get through it the first time. The book is about the prince of a dying race of humans called Carpathians and how only one woman can save him from the darkness inside him. Mikhail and Raven seem like the perfect couple at first but the thrill of the chase ends as soon as they sleep together and Mikhail binds Raven to him. After that the pages are filled with Mikhail's show of dominance over Raven, her fight to try to deny what she's feeling, and sex. Only towards the end does any true plot develop with the appearance of a vampire out to do the couple harm. During the last couple chapters they track him, fight him, get hurt, etc. More time is spent developing Gregori's character of healer than on the original couple themselves.
If you are interested in this series I would start a couple books down the line. I really enjoyed Dark Fire, Dark Symphony and Dark Celebration. You might not understand some of the character relationship without the background of the rest of the series but they stand on their as books as well.
Highly sensual, but bad editing! by .. R. McFeeters (Kansas City, MO)
I read one of the last installments (Dark Possession) of this series by mistake really, just picked it up cause it looked like a fun quick read for the weekend, it was highly erotic and enjoyable so I was pleased. I grab this first one (Dark Prince) to understand some of the plot from the later installment. I can see why the story line is intriguing to most Vampire novel lovers, its chalked full of possession, obsession, lust, need, passion and aggression. What it is lacking is a real story line outside of the sex, don't get me wrong Christine Freehan knows her way around erotica I will give her that, but the plot is a bit reaching.
It reminds me of Branstoker's Dracula a bit, but only in the since that the male Carpathian Vampire themselves are in great need for what she calls a lifemate, if they do not find there one and only mate they become Vampire (soulless creatures with unending blood lust) or they can walk into the sun and end there life. Freehan writes of the Carpathians in that typical Dracula way, they originate from Romania, they can become mist, or shape shift into various animals (Rats, owls, bats, wolfs), they sleep during the day (preferably in the dirt), and they can be killed thru means of steak to the heart and chopped off head. Not that original really, but Freehan does make you feel a real genuine liking for the charters in this book.
Her dark hero is the head "Prince" of the Carpathians, its set in modern day - her vixen is Raven a murder investigator of sorts that helps the police find serial killers by means of telepathy. She is a born physic - she travels to Romania for vacation and happens across the Prince by means of telepathy on accident. The Prince is instantly astounded by her talents, especially considering the fact that she is human, they banter back and forth thru telepathic commutation until he grows wary of this seeks her out at the local inn. He pretty much abducts her and then they begin a tit for tat bantering that last for a few chapters until he can't control himself much longer and just takes her for himself. He has little control over his feelings, he is convinced that she is his lifemate, because of his unyielding lust and the emotions he now feels. He was dangerously close to becoming Vampire before he came across her. Desperate to keep her with him and save himself from a horrific fate he binds her to him in a series of sexual blood letting acts that prevents her from ever leaving his side or it would mean her death as well.
Meanwhile a clan of Vampire hunters are on the loose looking to kill any Carpathian or Vampire they can get there hands on...the marauding Vampire hunters take a back seat to the love story between Raven and her Prince who are consumed by passion and desire for one another.
If you like Vampire Erotica it's a good read, but yes the editing is not that great unfortunately - I recommend the other installments of this Carpathian Series though, her later books are even better written and editing is not a issue. Like a fine wine this series gets better with age. The first book is a must read though if you have read the others.
I am hooked! by .. Movado32k1 (Fl, USA)
I picked this book at random and I must say that I absolutely love this book. I am totally hooked to the entire series. If you love vampires and romance you will love this book. She is a very discriptive author so it really pulls you in if you have a vivid imagination. I must however say that if you are a femanist you will probably be annoyed with her heroines. However I dont think that her heroines are that different from the women in any other romance novel or women in real life so......I think that if people were honest with themselves they would not be so critical about the women in the stories. Also she does make it a point to reiterate the premise behind the Carpathian race (vampires) in each book. So, that if you read say book 12 first you will understand what is going on without having to refer to the first book in the series to get the background. (Some people are annoyed by this). Anyway all I can say is that I am totally rivited and engrossed once I start any one of these books and I now have a hard time finding other authors that match her skill when it comes to vampire romance. I think that Dark Prince is an excellent place to start, if you love it you will love the rest of the series. I finished the whole series in a few weeks and am anxiously awaiting the next installment. Ms. Feehan cannot write them fast enough for me.
Gag me by .. S. Dore (USA)
I picked up this book after having it suggested to me by a friend. I'm not an avid fan of the genre, but I do enjoy a good romance every now and then. Although I've heard that this series gets better as you go, I ended up getting so frustrated with this book that I didn't even finish the last couple of chapters.
I must say that this book was so ridiculously repetitive that it was hard to even care about the plot or the characters. If I hear the words "velvet" or "silk" one more time, I'm just going to have to throw up! Everything you can possibly imagine is compared to these two materials. Seriously, is velvet really so sexy that it must be compared to anything and everything? I, personally, don't think so. Every other sentence refers to "his black velvet voice," "his velvet muscles," "her hair was black silk," "her silken mouth." Enough already! Let's find some new adjectives, shall we? I think if you took those two words out of this book, you'd have about 50 pages left, but at least it might not feel like you're reading the same paragraph over and over.
I also have a serious beef with the so-called "heroine." I think the author meant to portray a feminist type character who can think for herself but instead gives us a disgrace to women everywhere. There is a big difference between being strong-willed and just plain stupid. She runs off and gets herself in trouble constantly just because she can? Also, when the Carpathian "hero" forces his sexual thoughts on her during their first mental conversation, she just sits there and takes it! She doesn't even demand an apology! She just falls in love with him anyway! Hardly the strong, intelligent female we are constantly told she is.
Interesting concept, but very poorly executed.
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