Psychology

Product description

There is no such thing as a light, perfunctory revision of David Myers' Psychology. Each new edition is a fresh opportunity to communicate psychology's enduring principles and pivotal research in terms that captivate students and connect with their lives.

But even by Myers' standards, Psychology, Ninth Edition, is truly exceptional. This exhaustive update of the bestselling textbook for introductory psychology incorporates the largest number of new research citations of any revision to date, as well as new inquiry-based pedagogy, a reconceptualized art program, and the next generation of media and supplements. Yet, edition after edition, David Myers demonstrates an uncanny ability to communicate the science of psychology in a uniquely engaging, accessible way.

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Editorial reviews

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Reviews
This review is from: Psychology

I approached the book with scepticism but to my surprise and to the credit of the author and the profession of psychology, they don't proclaim to know it all. The limits of science and psychology are acknowledged and talked about which I think was well needed, like the rest of us they are only human too. You can see that a lot of time and energy has gone in to making this book what it is. Psychology and all the terminology that goes with it make it appear to the laymen as being quite arcane and only for academics and those interested in university courses. This book brings it all out and explains it in a way that not only makes the subject matter interesting but easier to grasp than if presented in a book of lesser quality. The content matter helps you to see the human condition from a logical and thoroughly researched angle and is certainly of college quality as that is what the book was originally intended for.

If you are considering studying psychology or would just like to know what it is all about then certainly buy this book the content is comprehensive with information and chapters to do with learning, sensation, the developing person, states of consciousness, emotion, memory, personality, psychological disorders and many more with too much to detail here.

The sections of the text that explain the scientific method are interesting and could be applied to most areas of life. As I learnt we tend to make errors of judgments all of the time in relation to other countries, cultures, people, and just about everything else. That is one of this books best points and also one of it's main themes and that is that it's all about thinking smarter, thinking outside the box, avoiding assumptions and the overuse of heuristics, examining matters in a more methodical and careful way and developing the ability to see events and issues from another perspective and more objectively. In short and as is stated in the book "Don't believe everything you think".

To gain a good understanding of the concepts presented in the book requires concentration and quite a lot of time spent reading because the text is so comprehensive.

Just a few snippets of the information that I found interesting were&#59;

1. Psychology had its roots in philosophy

2. Everything psychological is biological, we are a mind embodied.

3. Sleep deprivation and how our sleep debt can accumulate for up to two weeks.

4. The differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.

5. Theory X vs. Theory Y workplace managers.

6. Howard Gardner's theory that intelligence is divided into 8 categories words, music, numbers, space, self, people, body/movement, nature.

7. Self reliant individualism vs. socially connected collectivism with the pros and cons of both.

8. Operant conditioning and classical conditioning and how cognition plays it's part.

9. The different parenting styles such as Authoritative, Authoritarian, and just plain old destructive indifference.

10. The fundamental attribution error (This is one that everyone should know)

Because this book is 700+ pages, interesting illustrations and photographs add to the overall quality of the book and assist the reader to understand the text, though the web site that accompanies the book helps you to reinforce what you have already read and learnt. The Psychsim 5 online tutorials were I thought very good with animations, flash cards, and various other online activities that all combine to make for some very interesting, interactive learning.

The bottom line: The book presents you with a foison of facts and an extraordinary amount of knowledge that you can use in your every day life as-well to understand yourself and others better or prepare and use for a university course, it also goes a long way to blowing popular and often wrong and ill informed bubble gum psychology out of the water. Psychology with this book is fun and you will get a lot out of it, well worth the money even with the US dollar converted to Australian.

Here's a thought, it wouldn't hurt to see some of this material about psychology taught in schools and the workplace to up people's emotional intelligence, and more to the point why is it not common practice already?

Jeremy "Jeremy" (Cairns, Australia)

This review is from: Psychology

For anyone with a general interest in human behavior, I can't think of a better book to read.

I took a psychology course during my undergraduate years in the late 1980's and though both of my parent have doctorates in psychology, before reading this book, which is the assigned text for a psych class I'm currently taking, I never really had a very good appreciation for the science of psychology. I credit this enlightenment as much to the authors ability to bring the subject matter alive and present it in a very interesting, organized manner, as to the inherent curiosity I have for why people do the things they do combined with the necessity to complete a psychology requirement for the current degree I am seeking.

The abundant pedagogical features include concise previews beginning each major section and reviews following, definitions of important terms in the margins, breaking chapters into manageable sized sections, providing copious references to research that serves to make abstract concepts relevant and real, and including so many visual aids ( illuminating tables, graphics, charts, and photos ) into the text that you'd be hard pressed to find consecutive pages without one. These pluses, combined with a casual conversation style that makes it a joy to read, makes this a text worth every penny. I enjoyed this book so much that most of this semester, since the lectures paled in comparison, I skipped class altogether and just read the book.

Chris Haynes (Stone Mountain, GA USA)

This review is from: Psychology

Heads up all buyers! This paperback edition is not the text book that you are looking for. The description does not mention the paperback is just a study guide! If you need the text book buy the hardback!

M. Elaine Greene (Cleveland, TN United States)

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The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists: Coping with the One-Way Relationship in Work, Love, and Family

Product description

Every day headlines are filled with examples of narcissistic individuals in positions of power who are nothing more than impostors plundering and wrecking havoc on the lives of others. From the financial barons of Wall Street to our elected officials in government, we are confronted daily with narcissists and the self-serving systems that enable them. Helping people reclaim their lives from this sinister exploitative force is the mission behind Payson's book, The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists: Coping with the One-Way Relationship in Work, Love, and Family. Using simple metaphors from the American classic, The Wizard of Oz, Payson illustrates how Dorothy's journey captures all the seductive illusions and challenges that occur when we encounter the narcissist. Empowering the reader with the ABCs of unhealthy narcissism and the unique problems that occur when a person becomes involved with the narcissist, Payson gives step-by-step practical tools to identify, protect, and heal from these destructive relationships. Largely un-addressed in the psychology and self-help literature, this ground breaking book offers hope and help to those who have been drawn into these devastating relationships. She includes illuminating case studies that identify the problems that occur in the different types of relationships, from co-workers, to friends, to parents, to lovers. Readers employing these insights and skills will find new abilities to identify and protect against the narcissist's manipulations and take back control of their lives.

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Editorial reviews

Review

"For Some Time I have looked for a very readable book on living with narcissism that also had clarity about addiction and codependency. Eleanor Payson has written an easy to understand guide to navigate one's way out of the labyrinth that narcissism makes...Four stars for a readable, useful book therapists can give their patients." Patrick J. Carnes, Ph.D. author of Out of the Shadows --Patrick J. Carnes, Ph.D. author of Out of the Shadows

"You will recognize the narcissistic personality disorder so well described by Payson as an all too common affliction among those who wield great political and corporate power in contemporary society. This book is a useful guide to recognizing and confronting the reality, which is a first step toward nullifying the power and influence of the afflicted over our lives." David C. Korten, Ph.D. author of The Great Turning: From Empire to Earth Community and When Corporations Rule the World --David C. Korten, Ph.D. author of The Great Turning: From Empire to Earth Community and When Corporations Rule the World

Reviews
This review is from: The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists: Coping with the One-Way Relationship in Work, Love, and Family

As a 48 year old guy who has been working his way out of narcissistic codependence for about 15 years, this book clarified several issues I wasn't even aware of. Specifically, Ms. Payson deals squarely with the lack of self-esteem that a narcissist will imbue in a codependent's life. (The narcissist says, "I'm OK, you've got a long way to go and you'll never get there anyway.) Another thing is the insidious, clandestine way in which NPD's work their sordid magic. An NPD is someone with narcissistic personality disorder. The author goes through a 9 item list of the pitfalls and traps that keep a codependent codependent. Ms. Payson also explains in depth how being in a relationship with an NPD can happen in your love life, your work life, and your family life. Often these adult situations are a reliving of the same type of relationship from one's childhood. So much is clearer now and I feel much steadfast in my resolve to overcome this disorder. I have reassessed many of my friendships and old situations only to realize that I was unwittingly reliving my past.

Mrs. Payson's language is clear, warm-hearted, and exact. She uses examples based on experiences of clients from her practice. All in all, I highly recommend this book to those who suffer from narcissistic co-dependence and those who know someone who does.

John B. Collins "John Collins the Architect" (Denver, CO USA)

This review is from: The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists: Coping with the One-Way Relationship in Work, Love, and Family

Since discovering the roots of narcissism in my world one year ago, I have read a great deal on the subject. This is, hands down, the most helpful book I have read to date. Most books on the market focus on identification of narcissism, or validation of those individuals left in their wake (both important concepts). But after that, we need real help! This book offers the most realistic and cogent look at what can actually be done after the damage is done. As the child and ex-spouse of narcissists, I appreciated the author gently leading me to examine my own culpability and enabling behaviors, the fallout in my life, and most importantly, how to begin undoing the damage and move on.

A Customer

This review is from: The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists: Coping with the One-Way Relationship in Work, Love, and Family

This reviewer is delighted to offer appreciation for a most comprehensive coverage of the interpersonal impact of narcissim on relationships. Ms. Payson directed her book toward the lay person, who has struggled in relationship with the narcissist. Yet as a therapist, I believe it should be mandatory reading for my professional colleagues. The book is well organized and cleverly structured with the Wizard of Oz theme.It covers the subject in depth, yet it is easy to understand.The author offers the reader perspective on a variety of relationships(spouse, adult child, employee, friend) and clearly describes how this prevalent character disorder can have an injurious impact. She leaves the reader with hope, providing concrete suggestions for protection of the self and for minimizing the wounding that can arise from the narcissitic relationship. Everyone I know who has read this book has sung its praises.

carolyn daitch,ph.d (Detroit)

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On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

Product description

The good news is that most soldiers are loath to kill. But armies have developed sophisticated ways of overcoming this instinctive aversion. And contemporary civilian society, particularly the media, replicates the army's conditioning techniques, and, according to Lt. Col. Dave Grossman's thesis, is responsible for our rising rate of murder among the young.

Upon its initial publication, ON KILLING was hailed as a landmark study of the techniques the military uses to overcome the powerful reluctance to kill, of how killing affects soldiers, and of the societal implications of escalating violence. Now, Grossman has updated this classic work to include information on 21st-century military conflicts, recent trends in crime, suicide bombings, school shootings, and more. The result is a work certain to be relevant and important for decades to come.

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Editorial reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Drawing on interviews, published personal accounts and academic studies, Grossman investigates the psychology of killing in combat. Stressing that human beings have a powerful, innate resistance to the taking of life, he examines the techniques developed by the military to overcome that aversion. His provocative study focuses in particular on the Vietnam war, revealing how the American soldier was "enabled to kill to a far greater degree than any other soldier in history." Grossman argues that the breakdown of American society, combined with the pervasive violence in the media and interactive video games, is conditioning our children to kill in a manner siimilar to the army's conditioning of soldiers: "We are reaching that stage of desensitization at which the infliction of pain and suffering has become a source of entertainment: vicarious pleasure rather than revulsion. We are learning to kill, and we are learning to like it." Grossman, a professor of military science at Arkansas State University, has written a study of relevance to a society of escalating violence.

Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Library Journal

Grossman (psychology, West Point) presents three important hypotheses: 1) That humans possess the reluctance to kill their own kind&#59; 2) that this reluctance can be systematically broken down by use of standard conditioning techniques&#59; and 3) that the reaction of "normal" (e.g., non-psychopathic) soliders to having killed in close combat can be best understood as a series of "stages" similar to the ubiquitous Kubler-Ross stages of reaction to life-threatening disease. While some of the evidence to support his theories have been previously presented by military historians (most notably, John Keegan), this systematic examination of the individual soldier's behavior, like all good scientific theory making, leads to a series of useful explanations for a variety of phenomena, such as the high rate of post traumatic stress disorders among Vietnam veterans, why the rate of aggravated assault continues to climb, and why civilian populations that have endured heavy bombing in warfare do not have high incidents of mental illness. This important book deserves a wide readership. Essential for all libraries serving military personnel or veterans, including most public libraries.

Mary Ann Hughes, Neill P.L., Pullman, Wash.

Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Booklist

What makes soldiers kill--or not--animates this intriguing survey by a psychologist and former U.S. Army officer. Grossman reveals that only a fraction of soldiers kill during warfare (and feel revulsion when they do)&#59; the rest (about 85 percent in World War II) resist by missing the target or refusing to fire. With an eye to the military command's imperative of overcoming that innate resistance, Grossman quotes numerous anecdotes that exemplify the phenomenon and studies that examine it. With such knowledge, the military has implemented training that gets firing rates up to 90 percent of soldiers, but the psychic cost of blazing away for real is heavy. Individually, a killer goes through thrill-remorse-rationalization stages&#59; socially, the killer needs reassurance and if it is not received, will suffer post-traumatic stress syndrome, characteristic of Vietnam veterans. Grossman concludes his findings of "enabling factors" in killing by identifying them at work in the rampant violence afflicting American society. A book that requires some steely fortitude to finish, but once done, On Killing delivers insights on human nature that are both gratifying and repelling. Gilbert Taylor --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Reviews
This review is from: On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

ON KILLING is the study of what author Lt. Col. Dave Grossman has termed "killology". This odd term describes, not killing between nations, but the exact circumstances involved when one individual ends the life of another individual, with the primary focus being on combat situations. I've sometimes wondered how I (someone who has never been anywhere near armed conflict) would fare on the frontlines, as killing another human being seems like an almost impossible psychological task. As Grossman casts an eye over historical reports of combat, he found that, apparently, I wasn't alone in thinking that. During the First and Second World Wars, officers estimated that only 15-20 percent of their frontline soldiers actually fired their weapons, and there is evidence to suggest that most of those who did fire aimed their rifles harmless above the heads of their enemy.

Grossman's argument is carefully researched and methodically laid out. He begins by filling in some historical details, discussing the statistics for shots fired per soldier killed for the World Wars and the American Civil War. It's a refreshing and enlightening look at war that dispels a lot of misconceptions. An average solder in those wars was extremely reluctant to take arms against fellow humans, even in cases where his own life (or the lives of his companions) was threatened. Not to say that any of these people are cowards&#59; in fact, many would engage in brave acts such as rescuing their comrades from behind enemy lines or standing in harm's way while helping a fellow to reload. But the ability to stare down the length of a gun barrel and make a conscious effort to end a life is a quality that is happily rare.

The book continues on then, detailing what steps the US Army took to increase the percentage that they could get to actually fire upon their enemy. By studying precisely what the soldier's ordinary reactions were, the officers were able to change the scenario of war in order to avoid the most stressful of situations. The soldier found up-close killing to be abhorrent, so the emphasis was countered by inserting machinery (preferably one manned by multiple soldiers) between the killer and the enemy to increase the physical and emotional distance. Every effort is made to dehumanize the act of killing.

Grossman spends a great deal of time discussing the trauma that the solder who kills faces when he returns to civilian life. Nowhere is this more apparent than in those veterans who returned from Vietnam. Those soldiers had been psychologically trained to kill in a way that no previous army had gone through, and there was no counteragent working to heal their psychological wounds. Grossman takes great pains to discuss how horrifying the act of killing is, and points out how detrimental it is to one's mental health. When the Vietnam veterans returned home to no counseling and the spit and bile of anti-war protestors, the emotional effect was astounding. Most of Grossman's thesis is supported by in-depth interviews and psychological profiles, but it is the story of the Vietnam veterans that comes across as the most disturbing.

Much of the chatter about this book seems to revolve around the final section, the discussion about our own civilian society. While this is understandable, I actually preferred reading the earlier portions, simply because they opened my eyes to a lot about the military that I had been previously ignorant of. I think it would be a mistake to concentrate solely on the argument's conclusion as it rests heavily on the case that has been building. In any event, the book eventually develops its final conclusion: the methods that the military uses to desensitize its soldiers to killing are also being used in our media, but without the proper command structure that keeps people from killing indiscriminately. In a military situation, firing a weapon without proper authorization or instruction is a very serious offense, and this is drilled into the mind at the same time as the desensitization. Without this safety, there is nothing to hold back the killing instinct, and this is one of the main reasons why the homicide rate has increased so dramatically.

Now, I'll say right off the bat that I was partial to this line of argument before I read the book&#59; I think that children repeatedly exposed to such images would almost certainly become blasé towards extreme violence. But Grossman's book gave me so much more to think about. It isn't just a Pavlovian force at work here&#59; Grossman points out many reasons (both stemming from society and the changing family structure) for why young people of today seem much more able to kill than their parents and grandparents were.

I was honestly surprised at how strong of a writer Grossman is. He manages to put forth his argument without boring the reader. By its very nature, a lot of what he discusses is repetitive and disturbing, but the subject matter is so compelling that I didn't mind. Grossman is very logical in his approach and his argument is a powerful one. I highly recommend this book, especially for people like myself who have never experienced war at close quarters. The summary I (and others here) have given is simply not nearly adequate to capture all of Grossman's thorough contentions. ON KILLING made me think harder about a subject that I hadn't given a lot of thought too before. The information and research here is invaluable.

Andrew McCaffrey "The Grumpy Young Man" (Satellite of Love, Maryland)

This review is from: On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

Dave Grossman has written perhaps one of the most insightful books on what motivates men in combat since S.LA. Marshall's "Men Against Fire". Grossman combines the thoroughness of an learned psychologist with the practical viewpoint of a lifetime dedicated to military service. He provides us with a unique and truly fascinating look into the dark and often terribly painful mental process that brings a man to pull the trigger and kill his fellow man. As an officer in the Army, I consider this book an essential read for anyone who may someday bear the burden of leading men in combat. We often get such a distorted view of remorseless killing from the popular media that most of us are shocked to discover that the act of killing a man at close range is something that very few soldiers are capable of. In a similar fashion to S.L.A. Marshall, Grossman demonstrates with overwhelming evidence how the vast majority of soldiers are tremendously reluctant to kill, frequently prefering to risk their own death instead. The book offers such a profound and important perspective on the nature of warfare at the human level that I suspect it will some day be part a curriculum for training officers and non-commissioned officers on combat leadership. Although the book's primary focus is on the nature of killing in warfare, his conclusions have relevance for anyone concerned with the problem of violence in society. One of Grossman's most useful conclusions is the suggestion that virtual reality video games allow their users to overcome the natural reluctance to kill by gradually desensitizing the mind to violence. This erosion then makes it easier for those who are pre-disposed to aggressive violence to act on their desires in a violent way. With the recent string of high school shootings, Grossman's hypothesis has immediate relevance to current social issues. In fact, he has been a frequent commentator on these tragedies with several national news networks. In summary, Grossman's book peers cautiously into the darker side of man's nature to understand what drives him to kill in combat. What he finds there is vastly different from what we are taught to expect- simply that the vast majority of people are unable to look a fellow man in the eye and kill him even if his own life may be at stake. The forces that allow him to overcome that reluctance in the heat of battle include peer pressure, leadership, training, and physical distance and are examined in great detail.

A Customer

This review is from: On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

As a police officer we spend many hours in various forms of training. Some of this training is dedicated to the rules surrounding the use of our department issued firearms. Some of this training is dedicated to the physical skill of firing this weapon. None of the training is dedicated to what you go through after having actualy used this weapon against another human being in self defense. The extent of my departments response was...absolutely no critical incident debriefing and my appointment with the department phycologist occured 9 days after the shooting. The evaluation by the physcologist last 23 minutes total. At that point I knew that my well being was up to me to provide for. After some research I located this series of books by Dave Grossman. Purchasing these books was the best thing I could have done for myself. The information within these pages helped me understand all the stages of emotion that I was, and still am, going through. I would recommend these books to anyone in the military or in lawenforcement (or any family memeber there-of). They may very well have saved my sanity.

R. Mclatcher

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Emotional Intelligence 2.0

Product description

FOREWORD BY PATRICK LENCIONI, BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF THE FIVE DYSFUNCTIONS OF A TEAM.

Emotional Intelligence 2.0 is a book with a single purpose-increasing your EQ. Here's what people are saying about it:

"Emotional Intelligence 2.0 succinctly explains how to deal with emotions creatively and employ our intelligence in a beneficial way."

-THE DALAI LAMA

"A fast read with compelling anecdotes and good context in which to understand and improve."

-NEWSWEEK

"Gives abundant, practical findings and insights with emphasis on how to develop EQ."

-STEPHEN R. COVEY

"This book can drastically change the way you think about success…read it twice."

-PATRICK LENCIONI

In today's fast-paced world of competitive workplaces and turbulent economic conditions, each of us is searching for effective tools that can help us to manage, adapt, and strike out ahead of the pack.

By now, emotional intelligence (EQ) needs little introduction-it's no secret that EQ is critical to your success. But knowing what EQ is and knowing how to use it to improve your life are two very different things.

Emotional Intelligence 2.0 delivers a step-by-step program for increasing your EQ via four, core EQ skills that enable you to achieve your fullest potential:

1) Self-Awareness

2) Self-Management

3) Social Awareness

4) Relationship Management

From the Inside Flap

For the first time ever in a book, Drs. Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves unveil TalentSmart's revolutionary program to help people identify their EQ skills, build these skills into strengths, and enjoy consistent performance in the pursuit of important life objectives.

The book contains proven strategies from a decade-long effort to accurately measure and increase emotional intelligence. Trusted by upper-echelon leaders inside companies worldwide, these strategies will enable you to capitalize on the skills responsible for 58% of performance in all types of jobs.

The new, enhanced online edition of the world's bestselling emotional intelligence test, the Emotional Intelligence Appraisal®, will show you where your EQ stands today and what you can do to begin maximizing it immediately.

Rooted in sound research involving more than 500,000 responses, this new edition of the test will:

-Pinpoint which of the book's 66 emotional intelligence strategies will increase your EQ the most.

-Reveal the specific behaviors responsible for your EQ scores.

-Allow you to test yourself a second time to measure how much your EQ has increased from your efforts.

The book's smooth narrative style turns rigorous research into memorable stories and practical strategies that anyone can use to his or her advantage.

With 90% of top performers high in EQ, and EQ twice as important as IQ in getting where you want to go in life, who can afford to ignore it?

From the Back Cover

"Surveys of 500,000 people on the role of emotions in daily life have enabled the authors to hone EQ assessment to a 28-question online survey that can be completed in seven minutes."

-The Washington Post

"Read worthy strategies for improving emotional intelligence skills make this our how-to book of the week. It's nice to know that average IQ doesn't limit a person to average performance. And who can resist an online quiz with instant feedback?"

-Newsday

"Emotional intelligence is an extremely important skill for personal and professional success. This book is excellent and the learning included in the free online test is cutting-edge. I strongly recommend it."

-Ken Blanchard, bestselling business book author of all time&#59; coauthor The One Minute Manager®.

"My clients tend to be very successful and incredibly busy. This book delivers valuable insights without wasting time! My coaches and I have done powerful work aided by this book and the emotional intelligence test that comes with it. A fantastic combination for learning the skills that are critical to high job performance."

-Marshall Goldsmith, bestselling author of What Got You Here Won't Get You There, and premier executive educator as ranked by The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Harvard Business Review, and Fast Company.

"At last a book that gives how to's rather than just what to's. We need no more convincing that emotional intelligence is at the core of life success. What we need are practical ways of improving it. Bradberry and Greaves brilliant new book is a godsend. It will change your life."

-Joseph Grenny, New York Times bestselling coauthor of Crucial Conversations

"This book is filled with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice, rooted in groundbreaking research. The authors' positive strategies are immensely powerful and will change the way you look at your life, your work, and the world."

-Captain D. Michael Abrashoff, author of the bestseller It's Your Ship

"I distributed the book to my entire team. We found it very helpful in our dealings with each other and our internal customers. With all the new buzzwords over the past few years, the heart and soul of a company's culture is how they support and promote emotional intelligence. Those with foresight see that emotional intelligence will separate the good companies from the great ones. This book is a wonderful tool for a grass roots approach. If your desire is to be a truly resonate leader that people will trust and follow, this is an opportunity that cannot only change your professional career, but also your personal relationships."

-Regina Sacha, vice president, human resources, FedEx Custom Critical

"In the fast lane of business life today, people spend more time on computer keyboards, blackberries and conference calls than they do in face-to-face communication. We're expected to piece together broken conversations, cryptic voicemails, and abbreviated text messages to figure out how to proceed. In this increasingly complex web, emotional intelligence is more important than ever before. This book is filled with invaluable insights and information that no one can afford to ignore."

-Rajeev Peshawaria, executive director, Goldman Sachs International

"Drs. Bradberry and Greaves have created a gem that is powerful and easy to read. This book provides a captivating look at the things that matter most in life. Succeeding in Hollywood is as tough as any business, and emotional intelligence skills are essential. I highly recommend this book."

-Matt Olmstead, executive producer, Prison Break and NYPD Blue

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Drs. Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves are award-winning authors and the cofounders of TalentSmart®, a global think tank and consultancy that serves more than 75% of Fortune 500 companies and is the world's leading provider of emotional intelligence tests and training.

Their best selling Emotional Intelligence Quick Book has been translated into 23 languages, and is sold in more than 150 countries. Drs. Bradberry and Greaves have written for, or been covered by: Newsweek, BusinessWeek, Fortune, Forbes, Fast Company, Inc., US News & World Report, Newsday, The Washington
Post, and The Harvard Business Review.

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Editorial reviews

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Reviews
This review is from: Emotional Intelligence 2.0

I was very impressed with this book. It's the first I've seen that actually shows you how to increase your emotional intelligence, rather than just explaining what emotional intelligence is. It's filled with strategies to increase each of the four emotional intelligence skills: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. I found the strategies very helpful, particularly because the books gives access to an online test that (based upon your results) tells you which strategies will increase your EQ the most.

The authors use excellent anecdotes to illustrate various concepts, and their research is compelling and original. Some of the information on emotional intelligence and job title (e.g. CEOs have the lowest EQs in the workforce, on average), is very revealing. My favorite anecdote in the book is the riveting story of a surfer who survives a run in with a 5,000 pound great white, by using his emotional intelligence.

All in all, an outstanding read that's a great value at $13!

Matthew J. Baier

This review is from: Emotional Intelligence 2.0

"Emotional Intelligence 2.0" is the second edition of a soft skills/career development book. Your EQ (emotional quotient) is the foundation for a large number of soft skills including flexibility, time management, trust, anger management and change tolerance. The book focuses on four areas: self awareness, self management, social awareness and relationship management. Each is illustrated with a scenario showing a good and bad example.

The book comes with an online test. It was basically two pages of questions asking you to rate yourself in various areas. I found it accurate in terms of what I know about my own soft skills strengths and weaknesses.

Some other things I liked about the book

1) It's small enough to fit in a large purse - making reading convenient.

2) The grouping of techniques and tips by area.

3) A large number of concrete things you can do to improve your soft skills.

4) The fact that each technique is only 2-3 pages - making it something you can read in the morning while having breakfast and focus on for the day.

5) The book was quite up to date - the Hudson River miracle plane landing in NYC (of only a few months ago) was one of the examples.

6) Emotion being listed as a sixth sense.

Jeanne Boyarsky (New York, NY)

This review is from: Emotional Intelligence 2.0

The book gives specifics on how to recognize and manage your emotions. Emotions are not viewed as good or bad. They serve a purpose and this book helps you raise your emotional intelligence so as to reach your full potential in life. Unlike IQ, EQ (emotional intelligence) can be increased. I found it interesting that high IQ people can be unsuccessful in life because they have low EQ's. It's hard to put this book down - insight after insight!

Vivian D'Agostino

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Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires

Product description

Ask and It Is Given, by Esther and Jerry Hicks, which presents the teachings of the nonphysical entity Abraham, will help you learn how to manifest your desires so that youÂ're living the joyous and fulfilling life you deserve.

As you read, youÂ'll come to understand how your relationships, health issues, finances, career concerns, and more are influenced by the Universal laws that govern your time/space reality - and youÂ'll discover powerful processes that will help you go with the positive flow of life.

ItÂ's your birthright to live a life filled with everything that is goodÂ-and this book will show you how to make it so in every way!

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Editorial reviews

Amazon.com Review

For almost 20 years Jerry and Esther Hicks have been presenting workshops, producing tapes and writing books to help people create the life they desire. And desire is no small word in this agenda. According to the teachings of "Abraham"--a collective name for the spiritual entities that are channeled through Esther--desire is a good and natural force within us. In fact, we are all here to fulfill our desires, according to Abraham. Yet the reason so much of us feel frustrated, is that we have difficulty knowing how to ask and receive whatever we want to be, do or have.

Although Jerry and Esther are listed as the authors, Ask and It Is Given is actually a collection of channeled messages from Abraham. Fans of Abraham and the Hicks may not find new information, but will probably be delighted to have an inspiring, updated book that speaks to the familiar conversation of attracting the life we want. Newcomers may also be intrigued by this excellent, in-depth discussion on how to change one's life by matching the vibrational energy of one's desires--taking the power of positive thinking to a whole new level.

Because this material is channeled, it often reads like The Power of Now or A Course in Miracles--not a fast food book to be devoured in one sitting. Rather, this is a book to be read in passages, with a soothing gestation period in between. It includes much advice on working with energy and emotions as well as specific chapters on increasing prosperity, reclaiming health, working with meditation, and clearing clutter for clarity. For those who are onboard with the "Laws of Attraction" and the "Art of Receiving" that Abraham speaks of, this could be one of those deliciously mysterious books that you can open to any page and it seems to offer the exact advice or insight you need right now.--Gail Hudson

Review

"This is, plain and simply, one of the most powerful books I have ever read. One's entire life can change because of what is found here." - Neale Donald Walsch&#59; "This is a great book! My wife and I have enjoyed these profound and extremely practical Abraham teachings for several years" - John Gray --Unknown

Reviews
This review is from: Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires

I'll be honest -- I don't know what to think of the claim that Esther Hicks is channelling non-physical entities. I initially resisted buying this book because I am cautious around such claims of supernatural inspiration. But I respect Wayne Dyer and other great thinkers who praised this book, so I decided to give it a try. I'm glad that I did.

This is one of the most powerful books on manifesting your dreams that I've ever read. Every paragraph contains deep truths that just feel intuitively right. This book is especially effective in showing how our emotions are the key to understanding whether we are on the road to success or failure in manifesting our desires. The exercises are both fun and deeply practical. I particularly like the exercises involving the "Magical Creation Box" and "The Prosperity Game." They make you feel young again -- your imagination is activated and everything suddenly feels possible.

I don't know whether the origin of this book is supernatural, nor do I care. The message is true and the exercises work. Try it for yourself. It will change your life.

Kamran Pasha (Los Angeles, CA United States)

This review is from: Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires

The Hicks along with Abraham put it all together in this book. Most books (on any given topic, not just abundance) give you ideas and inspiration, but are not easy to figure out how to implement. In other words, many how-to books don't truly show you how-to.

This one does. It gives you IMMEDIATELY USABLE and USEFUL INSTRUCTIONS. The last part of the book lists 22 processes that you can use to attract what you want, explaining EXACTLY when to use them, and how. There's something for any situation you may find yourself in.

I would trade ALL of the other manifestation books in my library for just this one. It's that good, that easy, and that useful!

Burton Kent "lifehacker" (Naperville, IL)

This review is from: Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires

This is the first time I have ever read a book by Esther and Jerry Hicks, and the Abraham teachings, and I have to applaud them for bringing humanity such a profound book that will definitely uplift your consciousness and your life. This book is extremely well written, easy to understand and apply, and will surely bring you wonderful results. It shows how we are all connected to Divine Source, at every moment of our lives to co-create, and manifest all we truly desire and deserve. It is truly a must read, and a must share with others. Thank you Esther and Jerry for your wonderful contribution to humanity!

Barbara Rose, Ph.D. author of If God Was Like Man, Stop Being the String Along, and Know Yourself

Barbara Rose (BornToInspire.com)

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Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure

Product description

A powerful call for a paradigm shift in heart disease therapy.

Based on the groundbreaking results of a twenty-year nutritional study by Dr. Esselstyn, a preeminent researcher and clinician, this book illustrates that a plant-based, oil-free diet can not only prevent and stop the progression of heart disease but can also reverse its effects. The proof lies in the incredible outcomes for patients who have followed Dr. Esselstyn's program, including a number of patients in his original study who had been told by their cardiologists that they had less than a year to live. Within months of starting the program, Dr. Esselstyn's patients began to improve dramatically, and twenty years later, they remain free of symptoms.

Complete with more than 150 delicious recipes, this book explains the science behind the simple plan that has drastically changed the lives of Dr. Esselstyn's patients forever. It will empower readers to take control of their heart health.

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Editorial reviews

Review

"Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr., proved that changes in diet (and that alone) causes radical changes in the age and disease of your arteries-and that you can make your arteries much younger."

-Michael F. Roizen, M.D. coauthor of YOU: The Owner's Manual

Reviews
This review is from: Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure

Dr. Esselstyn's brand new book, Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease, delivers just what the title promises. 21 years ago, Dr. Esselstyn took 17 people who were very sick. They had had heart attacks, bypass operations, angioplasty, pills, you name it. These people had by and large been sent home to die by their cardiologists, their heart disease so severe nothing further could be done. Doctors told several they would be dead in "less than a year."

But they didn't die. Instead, each agreed to become part of Dr. Esselstyn's study, and adopted a low-fat plant-based diet as their medicine. 12 years later every one of these patients was alive, free of heart disease, and living full, active lives. Even those originally given a death sentence of "one year to live" are alive today 21 years later&#59; and all thank Dr. Esselstyn for giving them knowledge, inspiration -- and recipes -- to save their lives. Their experiences as well as the many in his ongoing counseling, are documented in this amazing, highly readable book and backed up by 20 years of rock hard, peer reviewed science.

This is not a book just for people with heart disease (one out of every two Americans will die of heart disease). This is a book for anyone wanting to regain or preserve their health, anyone wanting to enjoy great health throughout their entire life.

The infomation in Dr. Esselstyn's book can save your life, and the recipes alone make it a must-have.

Lionel Derby "LD" "5ofusca" (Malibu, California USA)

This review is from: Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure

My cousin turned me on the Esselstyn lifestyle. Her husband, who has suffered from genetically high cholesterol, had seen many male family members die before their time due to heart disease. When vegetarianism and then veganism didn't solve his problem, they went hardcore into the Esselstyn lifestyle.

In 5 short months, my cousin (average size 12 American female) lost almost 30 pounds, much of it by foregoing the core of their vegan diet: olive oil, nuts, avocados, etc. Her husband also lost weight&#59; better yet, his high cholesterol finally responded and is now in the excellent range.

My cousin then recommended the Esselstyn book to me, as my husband's cholesterol has stubbornly remained above 200, and he, too, has a history of heart disease in his immediate family. Though we believed we were already eating a healthy diet, several hours of reading through Esselstyn's findings soon proved we were wrong. We made a pact to try the diet for just 1 month and evaluate where we stood.

Well, 1 short month convinced us that this is the way to eat for life! We've now been following the program for 37 days, and the changes are already obvious. My husband has lost about 12 pounds and 3" in his waistline. He feels "lighter" and less bloated, and is "completely satisfied" (his words) by the wide variety of natural and delicious foods we eat.

As for me, I have lost about 9 pounds and a total of 12"&#59; I will soon need new jeans! My mid-afternoon cravings are miraculously gone. And no one was more surprised than I to discover that we do not miss eating the staples of our previous diet, such as grilled salmon, eggs, olive oil, fat-free dairy products, dark chocolate, and an occasional 96% Laura's Lean sirloinburger. Another side benefit is that we are spending less at the grocery store!

If you're on the fence about this one, do what we did... try it for just 1 month (but be sure to give it 100%) and then make your decision.

MyRedSandals

This review is from: Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure

After searching for books on reversing cardiovascular disease I came across this one. He makes an excellent case for reversing heart disease and provides before & after angiogram pictures as well. I have no argument with the science. I also have a bone to pick with experts that don't like this doctor because he is not a heart specialist. Since when do all things correct have to come from only specialists? This guy treats patients that cardiologists have given up on when their invasive treatements fail. Angioplasty & bypass only relieve symptoms & do not cure the disease. My father found that out! After seeing what he was like after bypass surgery perhaps we need to do nearly anything to avoid that like the plague.

While the science is very compelling, and I believe it is right, the diet itself is extremly hard to follow unless you really love eating beans & vegetables, some fruit, and grains (no white bread or white pasta). The basis of his recommendations are no dairy at all, no meat, no fish, no eggs (not even egg whites), no cheese, no oil of any kind, no high-fat vegetable sources like nuts & avocado. Pretty sparce eating to me.

The author says that eating any oil at all, whether in animal or vegetable form, affects the arteries in a negative way & in at least one patient contributed to his angina. That statement ups the ante and leads you to believe that oil is not just undesireable but extremely dangerous. I find that eating out is nearly impossible as just about all food not prepared on your own is cooked in oil or has oil as part of the food....refried beans, soup, bread, crackers, tortillas, etc. Wanna eat out? You are pretty limited to steamed vegetables & some fruit, maybe rice (no sauces unless they are totally fat-free, and who can know if the marinara sauce has soybean oil in it?). Thinking that eating salad will solve your problems? Naw, not unless you like to eat it naked or carry around your own homemade dressing. Commercial fat-free salad dressing is NOT fat-free, and ANY vegetable oil at all is not allowed.

Sticking to this diet has been a huge struggle, but I've only been on the diet for 14 days. The hardest part is finding prepared foods, like bread, that have no fat at all in them. So far I've only found one manufacturer and the loaf costs $4.00. Can't even find tortillas that meet that criteria, and you really have to pay attention to labels. Fats go under other names like glycerin, mono & diglicerides, lethecin.

Do I sound frustrated? Yeah, I am. Most of the positive reviews I've read are written by folks with blocked arteries who welcome anything to keep them out of surgery, and having had a parent who had quadruple bypass surgery I totally get that. My dad's mother died of a heart attack, and so did her father. So, despite my frustration I'm going to adhere to this diet because I am convinced the author is right & I hope to avoid the fate of my relatives.

I have cooked many of the recipies in the book and did not like the majority of them. I don't like vegetables very much, and therein is my struggle. Try them anyway........

Do I like the book? Yes, it's very thorough. Do I like the diet it recommends? Nope, but I'm going to do it anyway.

Anna Katerine "oracle1" (Denver, CO)

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It’s Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God’s Favor

Product description

Get your hopes up. Raise your expectations. Your best days are in front of you.

In challenging times, it may be hard to see better days ahead. You may feel as though your struggles will never end, that things won't ever turn around for you.

This is exactly the moment to put your faith into action and expect God's blessings.

It's your time to declare your faith, to look for God's favor, and to give control of your life to Him so that you can find fulfillment in His plans for you!

It's Your Time to believe.

It's not easy to always be optimistic. Life can be difficult, and in hard economic times it's not just your finances that suffer. Your relationships can be strained. Your health can be stressed. Bad habits can return and negative thoughts can take over.

When one part of your life after another takes a bad turn, you can feel like there is no end in sight, no way out. The truth is, maybe you don't have an answer. But God does! Maybe you don't have the strength. But God does!

It's Your Time for favor.

In It's Your Time, bestselling author Joel Osteen, pastor of the nation's largest church, offers the inspirational truth that no matter where you stand in life, you are never alone. He reminds you also that the bigger your burden, the greater your blessings to come.

You may have neglected God, but He has not abandoned you. He has already released good things into your future. As long as you're breathing, you can still reclaim His favor by renewing your faith and accepting His plans for you.

It's Your Time for restoration.

In these pages, Joel offers assurances that God does not want you to merely survive challenging times, He wants you to thrive. When you give your life over to Him, God will send opportunities your way so that you can soar to new heights of fulfillment.

History has shown that the most difficult times can serve as catalysts for creativity, innovation, and accomplishment. If you hold on to your faith, ask for God's favor, and don't give in to depression or discouragement, you will emerge not bitter but better, not a victim but a victor.

It's Your Time to trust.

God already is working in your life to arrange the right people, the right skills, and the right opportunities to give you the tools you need to fulfill and exceed your dreams.

Drawing from Joel's experiences and those of people around the world, It's Your Time offers messages of faith, hope, and strength to help you rise above any circumstance so that you can fulfill God's best plan for your life.

It's Your Time to stretch.

Joel has filled this book with bold new prayers, inspiring stories, and practical tools for moving forward in faith. You will find inspiration from others who have overcome adversity and achieved their dreams. You will find proven methods for not just picking up the pieces but for building a new life better than you'd imagined.

The hopeful messages and warm encouragements in this book will push you to expand your horizons beyond what you thought you were capable of doing so that you might go even farther than you'd ever dreamed of going.

It's Your Time!

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Editorial reviews

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Reviews
This review is from: It’s Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God’s Favor

I really like Joel Osteen. Since I started watching him on TV years ago, alot of what he speaks to makes sense to me, and he has enriched my life in many ways. I read his first book, and enjoyed it. Then I read his second book, and noticed he borrowed some material from his first book. I had very high hopes for this new release, and thought this time the book would contain all new material. Maybe my hopes were too high.

After reading this book, I came to the conclusion that this time around he is just phoning it in. Most of "It's Your Time" is comprised of recycled anecdotes and passages from his previous two books, as well as transcriptions of a few TV sermons. How many times do we need to hear how he met his wife? We get it already....you bought a cheap watch. Or his deal with the Compaq Center(I don't think we'll ever hear the end of that one), or the story about the exploding can of biscuits, and about 50 other passages that made me stop and check the book jacket to see if I was reading his "new" book or one of his previous books. Anyone else notice this too?

There was a smattering of new paragraphs, but not enough to justify 300 pages.....a pamphlet maybe. I hope the next time around will not be as disappointing. So in the meantime, I will stay in faith, and pray for some new material. Amen.

high-rollah

This review is from: It’s Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God’s Favor

I like Joel Osteen, and watch his sermons weekly either on TV or via podcast. This is not a review of Joel Osteen&#59; it is a review of the book.

I purchased this book on kindle when it first came out, and I haven't finished reading it yet -- and doubt that I will. This is not a real book, but more of a collection of sermons he has given over the years. In fact, I watched a sermon after I started reading the book -- and though when reading the book it seemed familiar, when I saw the TV show I was surprised to hear not just the "theme" but the actual story I had read. Same joke, same anecdote, same lesson, almost verbatim.

If you have already watched Joel on TV or podcast, then no need to buy this book to learn another facet -- it is just a repackage of sermons he has already given.

However, if you don't mind reading what you've already heard/seen, then perhaps buying this book will reinforce what you've already been told by Joel. I wish I had known the content before I bought this book -- I probably would have waited.

Krykie

This review is from: It’s Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God’s Favor

I've purchased all of Joel Osteen's previous books (and Victoria's book as well) and I've found all of them to be helpful, inspiring and uplifting. Since there have been several recent books and because of some negative reviews on this site, I almost didn't purchase It's Your Time. Fortunately I took the chance based on my past experience with his books and I'm glad I did. I truly disagree with the negative reviews that state "it's a rehash" or that the book was "phoned in" rather than being written with care and dedication. Yes there are references to previous books and previous anecdotes. But the majority of the stories, examples and anecdotes are new. Osteen makes numerous references to the current economic situation and how to weather the storms. His concrete suggestions for dealing with adversity would be helpful even to an atheist, much more to a believer.

I realize he's seen as sort of an unsophisticated "Bible thumper" but he has a great way to demonstrating how adversity can be turned into a blessing and our enemies can inspire us to greatness. As he commented in the book, if not for Goliath, David would probably have lived and died a simple shepherd boy. It took adversity, a challenge and risk for the world to recognize David's talent and greatness.

My thoughts regarding the negative reviews is that some people a) resent Osteen's success and b) think that religious teachings need to focus on punishment and sacrifice to be credible. In all fairness, if you are a Biblical scholar, the Osteen books are probably not your cup of tea. But for the many millions of people who are mired in self doubt and afraid to act, I think they will find some insight and inspiration from It's Your Time.

Blessedbybooks "Blessedbybooks" (Portland, Oregon USA)

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The Baby Whisperer Solves All Your Problems: Sleeping, Feeding, and Behavior–Beyond the Basics from Infancy Through Toddlerhood

Product description

The third book in the bestselling Baby Whisperer series -- the most comprehensive, up-close, and personal to date!

Thousands of parents have asked the Baby Whisperer to help them solve their problems. With this book you too can take advantage of the advice, insights, and parenting techniques from beloved child expert Tracy Hogg. "A problem is nothing more than a situation calling for a creative solution," she reminds us. "Ask the right questions and you'll come up with the right answers."

Once you learn how to translate banguage, the "baby-language" your infant uses to communicate needs, feelings, and opinions, you can see your child for who he or she really is -- an understanding that will serve you well as your child blossoms into the toddler years. By helping you establish a daily routine and tailor your parenting strategies according to your child's unique personality and stage of development, Tracy will teach you how to:

• Ask the Twelve Essential Questions to recognize potential problems and employ the Twelve Principles of Problem Solving -- simple troubleshooting techniques for everyday situations

• Avoid, or remedy, accidental parenting -- inadvertent adult behavior that often leads to such common parenting challenges as sleep problems, poor eating habits, separation anxiety, and tantrums

• Be a P.C. parent -- patient and conscious -- who knows how to detect prime times -- windows of opportunity for teaching babies how to get to sleep on their own, introducing bottles to breast-fed babies, toilet training, and other growth issues

• Inhibit runaway emotions and foster his or her emotional fitness -- the ability to understand and manage feelings

...and so much more. For Tracy's fans, this book will be a welcome addition to the Hogg library&#59; for readers unfamiliar with her philosophy of care, it will open a new world of understanding and insight.

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Editorial reviews

Review

"The high-spirited Hogg is humorous yet relentless in her quest to help parents find out why their baby acts a certain way.... [her] followers will no doubt be delighted."

-- Publishers Weekly

Reviews
This review is from: The Baby Whisperer Solves All Your Problems: Sleeping, Feeding, and Behavior–Beyond the Basics from Infancy Through Toddlerhood

GENERAL COMMENT: Like every baby book I read, I try to keep an open mind. You will NOT find a book that will work for ALL babies but this book worked for mine, who I think is a text book baby.

SITUATION: I was going back to work and my baby was super needy at 6 weeks-- wanted to be helded all the time. He won't nap if I wasn't holding him. And at night, I would rock him to sleep and put him into his crib very very gently when he has fallen into DEEP sleep. Otherwise, he would CRY. But that was my fault because I HELD him alot. This would be fine if I was a stay at home mom...but if even I was, I think it would have taken it's toll on me at some point.

LIKE: I like this book because it helped with getting my baby on a good routine, nap longer, sleep on his own, and sleep longer through the night. I made my own version of the EASY plan, customize it to my baby and what worked for me...this book afterall is not the BIBLE.

RESULTS: By about 8-10 weeks, he was sleeping from 7:30-8 pm to about 4:30 am (with 1 dream feed). Now at 5 months, he sleeps from 8pm to about 7am (with 1 dream feed). He use to nap about 30 minutes at a time. After the plan, he started napping for 2 hours (slightly shorter now since he is older). He LIKES his crib and falls to sleep in about 20-30 minutes of laying down...without ANY fuss. And he is a happy healthy little boy who is 50% for weight and 80% for height.

TRANSITION PERIOD: This didn't happen overnight. I would try for a week or two and revisit the book about a thousand time to make sure I wasn't doing it wrong. He would progess and go back to his old self and progress some more. After about 2 weeks, I customize the plan. You WILL be glad to get some time for yourself and hubby when the baby goes down to sleep in the evening instead of at night. He sleeping pattern gradually falls into place. I don't believe in cry it out so the SHH/PAT worked for me. It was hard and I gave up several times. But it worked before you know it. Just give it your best try and be PATIENT AND CONSISTENT. Even now when he takes a little longer to get to sleep, I still PAT/SHH and he is out.

DON'T LIKE: The tone of the author can be a bit annoying (KNOW IT ALL) but after all, she is a super nanny and have worked with THOUSANDS of babies. This book made me PARANOID as a parent--thinking that I would just ruin my child if I made any wrong moves. But we all turned out okay and our parents didn't have this book.

CONCLUSION: Your instinct as a mom is truly the best guide but sometimes, it does get you into situations that are difficult to overcome. This book helped me better manage my baby's sleep/eating which are the biggest parts of his life. Life is so much less HECTIC for MOM, BABY and DAD.

Hanh Richards (Akron, Ohio USA)

This review is from: The Baby Whisperer Solves All Your Problems: Sleeping, Feeding, and Behavior–Beyond the Basics from Infancy Through Toddlerhood

Most baby parenting books fall into one of two categories: the old-school, "get the baby on a schedule" philosophy or the pro-co-sleeping, child-led "attachment parenting" philosophy.

This book is clearly in the former category, and I think it's the best of its kind. Tracy Hogg is a big believer in getting your baby on a schedule as soon as possible, but she clearly loves babies and advocates for doing so gently, paying attention to your baby's needs and cues.

Her tone can be bit unforgiving (e.g. you kind of feel like a failure if you don't have your five-month-old in a consistent routine) and I disagree with some of her suggestions (e.g. her "Pick Up/Put Down" soothing method just upset my baby further) but, overall, I found the book to be full of helpful suggestions and information.

In particular, the detailed charts of what quantity and types of foods babies should eat at various stages and sample routines and schedules were invaluable. (A few women I know bought the book just to have those charts!) Even though I didn't follow them exactly, it helped to have detailed, specific examples rather than the vague suggestions that most baby books offer.

Bottom line: if you are opposed to the idea of getting your baby on a schedule and directing her routine (as many of the people who gave it a low rating seem to be), you will not enjoy this book. If, however, you're open to that philosophy, this book is a must-have.

Jennifer "BTDTMom.com" (Austin, TX)

This review is from: The Baby Whisperer Solves All Your Problems: Sleeping, Feeding, and Behavior–Beyond the Basics from Infancy Through Toddlerhood

I purchased this book before my baby was born (based on reviews I'd read on this site). So only fair I post my own review for everyone else.

I found this book really really helpful. My daughter is nearly 11 months and I'm still reading sections on eating etc.

There is a brilliant page entitled 'an average day for a 4 week old baby'. I copied this page and put it on my fridge! If you're a first time mum (or dad) and want some no nonsense advice then get this book.

I also found her Eat-Activity-Sleep-Time for You (EASY) routine good.

I found the advice on sleeping really good. My baby was sleeping through the night by about 3 months.

I did her recommended 'dream feed' (the last feed at between 10-11pm) until around 6 or 7 months old.

She talks about different personality types and I think I have an 'angel' baby ... but I have to take some credit and certainly thank this book for giving me the confidence to relax and be a great mum.

Just one word of warning ... if you're the sort of person that likes the idea of co-sleeping, demand feeding, cuddling your baby off to sleep etc then don't buy this book.

Diane Hannay "KiwiScot" (New Zealand)

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Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears

Product description

In this book Pema Chödrön shows us how to break free of destructive patterns in our lives and experience a new sense of freedom and happiness. Drawing on the Buddhist concept of shenpa, she helps us to see how certain habits of mind tend to "hook" us and get us stuck in states of anger, blame, self-hatred, and addiction. The good news is that once we start to see these patterns, we can begin to change our lives for the better.

The key is learning a new way of facing the inevitable difficulties and insecurities of our daily lives: we must learn how to stay present and open our hearts. "This path entails uncovering three basic human qualities," explains Pema. "These qualities have always been with us but perhaps have gotten buried and almost forgotten. They are natural intelligence, natural warmth, and natural openness. Everyone, everywhere, all over the globe, has these qualities and can call on them to help themselves and others."

This book gives us the insights and practices we can immediately put to use in our lives to awaken these essential qualities. In her friendly and encouraging style, Pema Chödrön helps us to take a bold leap toward a new way of living-one that will bring about positive transformation for ourselves and for our troubled world.

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Editorial reviews

From Publishers Weekly

This gently encouraging book by popular teacher Chödrön (When Things Fall Apart&#59; The Places That Scare You) applies Buddhist wisdom to the problems of deeply ingrained reactions. An American Buddhist nun in the lineage of Tibetan master Chogyam Trungpa, she writes that we already have what we need to change and heal. Chödrön focuses on the preverbal moment-called shenpa in Tibetan-in which individuals are hooked into harmful stories, emotions and actions within the flux of their experiences. Clear descriptions of how this process works are accompanied by simple techniques to begin to break the cycle. Her suggestions can be easily practiced by anyone at any time without meditation training, although she presents the benefits of sitting meditation. With anecdotes from her teachers and examples from her own and others' lives, Chödrön demonstrates that people can stop their suffering and access their natural intelligence, warmth and openness. Throughout, she emphasizes the global implications of personal change. Among her strengths are compassion for the difficulty of human existence and her willingness to acknowledge her own failings. This short guide provides valuable tools for change in uncertain times. (Sept. 8)

Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Review

"This gently encouraging book by popular teacher Chödrön applies Buddhist wisdom to the problems of deeply ingrained reactions. Among her strengths are compassion for the difficulty of human existence and her willingness to acknowledge her own failings. This short guide provides valuable tools for change in uncertain times."-Publishers Weekly

"Straightforward and personal, Taking the Leap is a fine addition to Chödrön's work."-BellaOnline.com

"You don't have to be a Buddhist to benefit from reading Chödrön's book, you just have to be willing to approach new ideas with an open mind."-The Lindsay Post (Canada)

"Taking the Leap seems to speak directly to the angst we are currently facing and she is spot on with her teachings. Chödrön is effective not because she coddles the reader, but because we get the sense that she understands exactly what this pain feels like."-LA Yoga

Reviews
This review is from: Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears

I have long admired the writings of Pema Chodron, and I think she has done it again with this book. She excels at making teachings from the Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhist tradition of her root teacher Chogyam Trungpa accessible to anyone and relevant to daily life. In this book she presents teachings on 'shenpa', which is often translated as 'attachment' but which she suggests might better be understood as "what it feels like to get hooked." As she puts it:

"Somebody says a harsh word and something in you tightens: instantly you're hooked. That tightness quickly spirals into blaming the person or denigrating yourself. The chain reaction of speaking or acting or obsessing happens fast. Maybe if you have strong addictions, you go right for your addiction to cover over the uncomfortable feelings."

The focus of Taking the Leap is how we can learn to recognize when we are hooked, and how we can work with and transform the energy generated when this occurs. Instead of judging or battling within ourselves, we can learn to see each occurrence of shenpa as an opportunity - an opportunity for awakening. This process is about more than just our personal happiness, for shenpa is the source of bigotry and violence in our world. Ani Pema says:

"Each of us can be an active participant in creating a nonviolent future simply by how we work with shenpa when it arises. How individuals like you and I relate to being hooked, these days, has global implications."

The key to working with shenpa in a different way is to remain open and even curious about the energy that arises when we are 'hooked', instead of acting out or seeking to distract ourselves. Pema Chodron references a Tibetan metaphor of a peacock, whose feathers become more brilliant and glowing when it eats certain plants that are poisonous to other animals. If we can learn to simply accept the energies that arise in us, without judgment, we can explore them, and ultimately transmute them. This is the true essence of the Tantric Buddhist approach.

Pema Chodron always keep her writings straightforward and personal, referencing stories from her own life and those of people she has known. One particularly powerful story for me was about a Jewish couple who befriend an elderly Ku Klux Clan member who has been harassing them, and transform the situation, the man, and themselves in the process. She describes several specific techniques for working with shenpa, including some sitting meditations, but an individual certainly does not need to be Buddhist or even be familiar with Buddhist writings to understand this book. In fact, if I have any criticism (and it's not really a criticism) it's that I find her writings are always deceptively simple - they are so digestible it's easy to underestimate the transformative power of the teachings within them.

So I highly recommend Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears, and suggest working with it for some time. It is a small book, and appropriate for both non-Buddhists and Buddhists of any lineage.

L. Erickson "Mommy Mystic" (Los Angeles, CA)

This review is from: Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears

This is another important book by Pema. I have heard the story of the two wolves before and always find it moving: A Native American grandfather and his grandson talk of two wolves fighting in our hearts, one is vengeful, hateful and angry, the other is kind, understanding and compassionate. The grandson asks "who will win the fight"? .... and grandfather answers "the one that we feed" . Clearly Pema's message is that we have a choice in how we live, we have a choice in which wolf we feed. We can honesty face what's happening in our lives "by looking compassionately and honestly at our own minds". Time to stop blaming others and look into our own habitual thoughts. Pema talks of "shempa" or "being hooked" similar to Tolle and the "pain body" and states "how we relate moment to moment is all there really is" . "Can we learn to drop those limiting story lines and narrow perspectives and see what is happening with new clarity, wisdom and compassion"? This book, and others by Pema, teach that this is day to day, hour by hour training. It doesn't end once we step off the meditation cushion -

I am a big fan of Pema and her teachings. I have had a couple of similar experiences she discusses in this book and undoubtedly that's made her someone I closely relate to. One being the death of her mother, for me it was the death of an Aunt. All these possessions we treasure .... will be just boxes of "stuff" to someone else one day. Similarly as Pema states, "all the labels, judgments, values, likes and dislikes we hold so tightly are - all much to do about nothing... and we suffer from it".

I highly recommend this book -

JMazz (Chicago IL)

This review is from: Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears

Like the reviewer above, I have long admired Pema Chodron's books. She has the ability of using simple language to explain profound meanings of Buddhism. A lot of Buddhism books are poetic or translations which requires one's own interpretations and sometimes loses the precision. This is a short and kinda expensive book which focuses on the work of oneself, the first step to walk on the Buddha path. A general term of Buddhims like attachment is reworded to 'hooked' or 'stuck'. I like her views and writing from a western's point of view, a more mondern approach to the religion that is ancient. BTW, a person with some psychology background like me will find it very psychological and insightful. It writes about self blind spot, feeling for others begins with acceptance of ourselves without deception and etc! I love the fact that she's the author offers to a borader audience than just Buddhists. Congrats Pema! I am waiting for you next book already! May Buddha be with you!

J. Chang (USA)

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Betty Crocker’s Diabetes Cookbook: Everyday Meals, Easy as 1-2-3

Product description

At last! This special cookbook puts flavor and choice back on the menu for people with diabetes and their families

Betty Crocker, America's most trusted friend in the kitchen, has teamed up with the International Diabetes Center (IDC)--one of the leading medical centers--to create an indispensable source of easy-to-make recipes and up-to-the-minute food and nutrition information for the growing numbers of people who have diabetes, more than 15 million of them.

Here is the first cookbook to include recipes featuring Carbohydrate Choices--the new, simplified approach to meal planning recommended by the American Diabetes Association. For people who find diet exchanges too hard, too limiting or too much work, this new method is a real breakthrough. Each of the book's 140 recipes shows the number of Carbohydrate Choices per serving, so that planning the rest of the meal is easy. From Old-Time Beef and Vegetable Stew to Creamy Vanilla-Caramel Cheesecake, the recipes are made with everyday ingredients, including sugar. No food groups or ingredients are left out, so there's no need for anyone to feel deprived or restricted to a special diet. Food exchanges are also included, making it easy for those who still count calories.

Betty Crocker's Diabetes Cookbook is also packed with expert medical and nutrition tips from Dr. Richard Bergenstal, an endocrinologist and diabetes doctor, and two registered nurses--invaluable for the newly diagnosed as well as for those who have been coping with diabetes for years. Throughout the book, real-life advice from people who have diabetes offers inspiration and great ideas on dealing with this chronic disease. When it comes to eating and living with diabetes, people need guidance and advice they can trust.

From the Inside Flap

No matter what type of diabetes you have, the diagnosis can feel overwhelming. You may have questions about what you can or should eat and whether there are some foods you have to give up altogether-that's where this book can help. Betty Crocker, teamed with diabetes experts from the International Diabetes Center, has created an all-in-one diabetes resource, filled with delicious recipes and up-to-the-minute medical and nutrition information.

Here's great news about diabetes: The best-kept secret of diabetes food planning is that it's good for everyone. You may think that people with diabetes need special foods prepared special ways, but as you look through this book, you'll find a wide variety of delicious and satisfying foods that you can eat-and that the whole family will enjoy.

This book is designed to make meals easy. It's our first cookbook to count Carbohydrate Choices for every recipe, following the latest guidelines of the American Diabetes Association.

You'll also turn to this book for its easy-to-follow health information, from an explanation of the types of diabetes to a nutrition primer and a medical resource guide. The section "Diabetes Care: It's in Your Hands" empowers you to understand your care process. The goal is to help you feel in control of your diabetes, instead of letting diabetes control you.

Throughout, you'll find plenty of encouragement. There's real-life advice from people with diabetes, as well as parents of kids with diabetes and other caregivers who deal with diabetes day in, day out.

Finally, you'll find a week's worth of delicious menus, complete with breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack ideas, followed by a glossary of medical, nutrition and other diabetes terms.

As a source for recipes and so much more, Betty Crocker's Diabetes Cookbook will become your all-in-one diabetes resource.

From the Back Cover

"I wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone with diabetes. The authors, leading experts in diabetes care, have integrated good nutrition with practical tips on all aspects of diabetes."

-Christopher D. Saudek, M.D.

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Immediate Past President, American Diabetes Association

Delicious Meals Are as Easy as 1-2-3 with Carbohydrate Choices!

A portion of the profits from this book will be donated to diabetes research and education

If you have diabetes, you don't have to give up the meals you love or food that tastes great! Betty Crocker and the International Diabetes Center have teamed up to create this book to help you eat well and feel your best.

You'll find:

140 delicious recipes created using the most current diabetes guidelines, including Italian Shrimp Stir-Fry, Cranberry-Orange Scones, Fettuccine with Asparagus and Key Lime Bars

Real-life advice from people with diabetes who deal with diabetes day in, day out and share their great ideas on planning, preparing and enjoying these recipes

Diabetes care: it's in your hands, a simple guide to diabetes care from Dr. Bergenstal to use for quick reference anytime

Seven-day menu plan for a week's worth of healthy meals and snacks

Carbohydrate Choices for every recipe, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association-the easier way to plan your meals throughout the day

Nutrition information with every recipe, including food exchanges if you use them to plan your meals

Diabetes resource guide and medical glossary

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Editorial reviews

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Reviews
This review is from: Betty Crocker’s Diabetes Cookbook: Everyday Meals, Easy as 1-2-3

I am completely baffled by this book and the reviews it has received! After only a few pages I was aghast and realized I had thrown my money away.

I am not a medical professional or scientist but all of my own personal research into diabetes and related blood disorders strongly recommend avoiding refined carbohydrates. This book is full of recipes using highly refined carbohydrates: white sugar and white flour.

I also found recipes containing an uncomfortably high percentage of calories from fat. I expected recipes emphasizing whole, low glycemic foods prepared in as close to their natural state as possible - foods that had as much of their beneficial properties (such as nutrients and fiber) intact. I was extremely disappointed by what this book had to offer and am sorry I bought it.

LB Williams (The Golden State)

This review is from: Betty Crocker’s Diabetes Cookbook: Everyday Meals, Easy as 1-2-3

I received the double-whammy 3-4 weeks back...my fasting blood sugar level was in the pre-diabetes range and my cholesterol was moderately high. The doctor wanted me to attend classes on both, and also suggested that weight loss and exercise would help. I have already attended the cholesterol class, and I felt I could bring the blood sugar level down by cutting out sodas, exercising, eating healthy food, and learning more about diabetes! My first stop was the ADA web site, and my second stop was Amazon.com... More than a decade ago, I had purchsed the Betty Crocker "New American Cooking" cookbook (low fat, low cholesterol recipes), and I love that book!!! And, I remembered seeing that they had published a diabetes cookbook. This book contains some GREAT recipes that are healthy AND tasty, enabling the whole family to enjoy them. The introduction to the book also explains diabetes, counting carbs, and "do's and don't" about eating healthy to control diabetes. So far, I don't miss those nasty things I was eating before, and I feel I even have more energy. I would recommend this book to anyone with concerns about diabetes and folks just interested in eating healthier!

A Customer

This review is from: Betty Crocker’s Diabetes Cookbook: Everyday Meals, Easy as 1-2-3

The folks at Betty Crocker have done it again: given us mere mortals great, easy recipes my whole family can enjoy. The best thing about this book is that the recipes aren't made from weird food you have to hunt for&#59; they are made from items already in your kitchen. And they are recipes anyone can eat for good health. So, if one member of your family has diabetes, the whole family can eat this food and love it.

The recipes are great, especially the desserts. And you thought you couldn't eat dessert with diabetes! The Carbohydrate Choices is a great counting device. I've never seen it in any other cookbook and I find it much easier to use than exchanges. Plus, it's not just a cookbook. There's doctor's advice and management plans inside. This book is very uplifting and practical.

GET THIS BOOK! IT'S THE BEST DIABETES COOKBOOK, hands down.

A Customer

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