ESL Teacher Textbook Review - The Oxford Picture Dictionary

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If you are an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher looking for the ultimate textbook to teach your students vocabulary, then you are going to love the Oxford Picture Dictionary (Monolingual English). This textbook is perfect for any ESL student and any ESL teacher. It can be used by students of all levels, and contains important English words or vocabulary. We use this book at our ESL school, Hawaii Literacy's Drop In Center, because it can be used with any level of student. As long as the student has learned their basic ABCs and basics of English reading, they can learn from it effectively.

To understand the amazing adaptability of this ESL textbook, I will discuss a little more about how it is used in our school. The Drop-In Center is a free ESL school for the local immigrant community of Hawaii, hence student attendance is not consistent. Students are free to come and go and thus it is difficult to have a traditional lesson plan structure. In addition, since the school is mostly run by volunteers, there are often not enough ESL teachers to divide students into different levels.

The Oxford Picture Dictionary offers many advantages for us:

1) It has relevant vocabulary for all levels of students (you can check out the table of contents on Amazon.com).
2) Students and ESL teachers can begin on any page at any time (so new students will not feel like they are behind the class).
3) Pictures can be understood even if the student has a very minimal level of English.
4) All levels of students find the book useful and engaging.
5) The teacher's manual and workbooks are excellent and make teaching and learning much easier.
6) It is inexpensive for most students (about $17)

Of course, even with these many advantages, the book is a reference book...a picture dictionary. Therefore, in order to make it interesting to students, the ESL teacher will need to integrate it into an effective classroom experience.

For my class, I usually use the Teacher's Manual, which already has ready made sample dialogues, lists of sentences for dictation, discussion questions, related vocabulary and other suggested activities. I might throw in a quiz or two to help the students check their comprehension.

Then I have them go home and review the vocabulary on their own at ESL teacher http://www.eslteacherguide.blogspot.com/, a blog I created with the corresponding video lessons. We have the students work on only one page of the book a week, so that they have the opportunity to go home and absorb the words effectively. Some of the other ESL teachers at our school integrate the vocabulary into their grammar practices, or into their own self-created activities. Whatever your classroom focus is or what methods you use, the Oxford Picture Dictionary is by far the best textbook for American English vocabulary building.

Meylysa Tseng,
ESL Teacher (Resources for Students Learning English, Resources for the ESL Teacher), http://www.eslteacherguide.blogspot.com/

The American Skyscraper 1850-1940 - A Celebration of Height is Great Tour of America!

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Skyscraper

By day the skyscraper looms in the smoke and sun and has a soul.
Prairie and valley, streets of the city, pour people into it and they
Mingle among its twenty floors...
It is the men and women, boys and girls so poured in and out all day
That give the building a soul of dreams and thoughts and memories...

--Carl Sandburg's Chicago's Poems (p. 325)

Sheer serendipity brought me into the formal facilities planning and management activities I directed for many years. However, in many ways, it merged with an instinctual love of the architectural form in all of its beauty. Thus, for me, Joseph Korom's The American Skyscraper, will become much more--a "coffee-table" book to be picked up and read again and again.

In reality, however, it is a complete text on the history of America's creation and use of Skyscrapers with in-depth information and over 300 images highlighting buildings across the United States. It includes over 60 pages for the bibliography, index, footnotes, and tabular presentations of celebrated skyscrapers! The author notes, "Between its covers are the stories of 287 American skyscrapers which were, or still are, located in seventy-one cities and towns..." (p. 21) Reflections of exterior details or interior shots, as well as architects' personal pictures, create a significant historical contribution for the libraries of both students and professionals in the fields of architectural and engineering, as well as all those who, like myself, are awed with the majesty and beauty of structures.

Architect Joseph Korom earned a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he also served as mentor. He is an accomplished artist whose paintings are represented in many private collections and is a freelance writer, architectural critic, and photographer. He is a member of the Society of Architectural Historians, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Milwaukee Art Museum. Joseph Korom, who has also authored Look Up Milwaukee (1979) and Milwaukee Architecture A Guide to Notable Buildings (1995.

"Very tall buildings, those now known as "skyscrapers," were invented here-in America.... Humans built tall for many reasons: to do so was communally satisfying, personally fulfilling and perhaps most of all it was a celebratory act-for everyone. To build tall was defiant, it was risky and it was scary but inherent in these anxieties was the conquering of height itself, to pierce the sky with a manmade object while still tethered to the ground was simply irresistible..." (pps. 14-15) Korom thus introduces his impressive text with a brief historical perspective of the brave men who began to build high and chronicles "this country's unique contribution to architecture..." (p. 16).

Presenting Chicago's Sear Tower as his first picture, he notes that it "is the ultimate expression of skyscraper technology and is the embodiment of vertical manifest destiny. It stands 110 floors, 1,454 feet tall, and is North America's tallest skyscraper." The author includes interesting factual information such as when he notes, "When the sun sets, pedestrians at the Sears Tower's base are plunged into shade. But due to the curvature of the earth, shade covers the tower's floors from bottom moving upward at the rate of one floor per second. Consequently, those at the building's top enjoy approximately two more minutes of sunlight..." (p. 21)

When I explored the buildings on the West Virginia University campus, working to better manage the utilization of those facilities and then plan what was needed to meet future needs, it was always the older buildings that I found more intriguing. Exploring Woodburn Hall all the way up into the clock tower, or walking through Chitwood and Martin Halls, prior to their being gutted and renovated, I thrilled at the basic beauty we wanted to retain, while at the same time, create updated classrooms, offices, and teaching laboratories that were needed for our School of Journalism and many departments within our College of Arts and Sciences.

Thus, as I read through A Celebration of Height, it was not surprising that I eagerly studied the buildings with the older styles that were used during the "courageous beginnings" starting in 1850. (p. 22). Zachary Taylor was president "during the planning and erection of the famed Jayne Building in Philadelphia. Knowing that "Old Rough and Ready" was in charge helps place the birth of the American skyscraper in historical context." (p. 23)

The following buildings included in the Celebration are just a few of those particularly enjoyed by this former Facilities professional/reviewer! I am sure others will choose those more modern.

? The Palmer House Hotel in Chicago; built 1872, by the "first merchant prince of Chicago, Potter Palmer, at the cost of $200,000. (pps. 49-50)
? Madison Square Garden Tower, 16 floors, 304 feet, New York. (P. 158)
? Women's Temple, Chicago, 1892, home of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. (p. 166)
? Columbus Memorial Building, topped by a giant bronze status of Christopher Columbus, built in 1893. "In an utterly wanton act, this delightful skyscraper was demolished in 1959." (p. 179)
? Trinity Church, New York City. Its steeple once ranked it the tallest structure on Manhattan Island. (p. 190)
? The Carson Pirie Scott Store's main entrance is marked by a most robust example of foliage This twisting m?lange was executed in iron then painted a forest green. This building, completed in 1904, immediately was propelled into the annals of architectural immortality. The Chicago Loop was now home to a large department store, rising twelve stories, 168 feet. The building featured some of the most compelling ornamentation anywhere. (pps. 231-232)
? City Investing Building, New York City, 1908, 487 feet, and containing one-half million square feet, making it the world's largest office building. "If ever there was a skyscraper that evoked romance, historicism, capitalism, and the optimism of the early twentieth century the City Investing Building was it. Here was a tower that drew upon inspiration from French Baroque sources, and in so doing, cut a delightful profile on New York's skyline. (p. 271)
? Bromo-Seltzer Tower, Baltimore, 1911, 15 floors, 280 feet tall, with a facsimile of the original Bromo-Seltzer bottle atop its tower! (pps. 294-295)
? Peter Cooper first manufactured structural beam for the Cooper Union Building in New York, thus setting the stage for skeleton construction and ultimately the skyscraper. (p. 25). Also in New York, the mid-19th century marked the age of cast iron architecture and is still concentrated in the "Cast Iron District, as a living museum, near the Greenwich Village. (p. 28)
? And, of course, the history of the skyscraper must also include the invention of the elevator. Manhattan's Haughwout Building was the first commercial building to employ a passenger elevator. "It was capable of lifting one-half ton at the rate of forty feed per minute and it was the first of its kind anywhere" when it was installed in 1857. Any facilities professional will not be surprised to hear that Elisha Graves Otis who eventually founded the Otis Elevator Company installed it. (pps. 28-29)

In addition to detailed facilities information, I also enjoyed the smaller details Korom added for interest, such as "Probably for the first time unrelated men and women worked side-by-side for eight or more hours in the same one or two rooms...skyscrapers, probably from their very inception, were places where 'advantages were acted upon' or there were rumors of such behavior..." (p. 137) and the various interior shots of those men and women dressed as they were at that time. Truly, The American Skyscraper 1850-1940: A Celebration of Height is a book that is highly recommended to all those interested in America's history!

By his buildings great in influence and power...
His philosophy where, in "Form Follows function"
Sullivan has earned his place as one of the greatest
Architectural forces in America...

--Memorial Mark to Louis Henri Sullivan (p. 195)

The American Skyscraper 1850-1940:
A Celebration of Height
By Joseph J. Korom, Jr.
Branden Books 2008
540 Pages
ISBN: 13: 978-0-8283-2188-4

G. A. Bixler is co-owner of an online review site of Independent Professional Book Reviewers. She has over 40 years experience in educational administration and publishing. New or well-known, self-published, or small press authors are all welcomed! Compare our prices to other professional book review sites!

http://www.bookreviewers.org/

12 Excellent Reference Books for Collecting Vintage Costume Jewellery in the UK

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You have a thirst for knowledge and want to know more about the vintage costume jewellery in your collection. But which book to buy if you are living in the UK?

There are hundreds of reference books to choose from and most have been written in the US by authors who have a collection based in the US. How specific is that to us in the UK?

So here's a brief guide of 12 books to give a good over view of knowledge from Victorian through to the eighties and beyond. Actually there are more than 12 books here, because some authors have written more than one book that is useful.

This guide should cover general unsigned pieces and some signed pieces of jewellery. However there are no specific books ever written for the majority of the mass produced signed costume jewellery made by UK companies or made for the UK market apart from Wilson and Butler.

1. Costume Jewellery: A Collectors Guide by Caroline Behr (Miller's) (ISBN 1-84000-373-1)

A good place to start with a general over view and time line from Victorian, Art Deco, Arts and Crafts, 1950s, Czech, Austrian and some designers. Easy to read and has good photographs. Hand bag size and ideal to read on the train

2. Vintage Costume Jewellery: A Passion for fabulous Fakes by Carol Tanenbaum (ISBN 1-85149-511-8)

A must to buy and has the time line with expanded information. Includes Art Nouveau, Birmingham silver, machine, intro to Bakelite and plastic and a glossary. Loads of good photographs but none of the backs (a must for identification but rarely included in any book)

3. Secrets To Collecting Jewelry: How to BUY MORE for less! by Leigh Leshner (ISBN 0-89689-180-1)

Again a time line and over view through history but an absolute gem of a book because it has shows the backs and mechanism or findings that are essential to dating jewellery. This book looks at style and materials with specific photographs. Prom jewellery, art plastic, retro, manufacturing methods, Scandinavian, cameos. Mostly brief information but a very good visual guide. US book with $ price guide (2005). Another fabulous book to read on the bus or train as fits into your bag.

4. Jewels and Jewellery Clare Phillips (V & A) (ISBN 978-1-85177-535-4) or Jewellery: The Decorative Arts Library edited by Janet Swarbrick (ISBN 1-902328-13-2)

Could not decide which of these UK books was the most informative. So have I have included both

Jewels and Jewellery contains materials, a chronology of styles and manufacturing and distribution. Photographs of museum and pieces. Includes silver filigree, Berlin Iron, pearls, glass and enamel. Faith jewellery, cut steel, mourning and love jewellery not just jet or bog oak. Lalique, Ashbee, Liberty Cymric, Wilson, Gaskins and a time line pre Victorian to the 2000s.

Jewellery is a visual celebration of the world's great jewellery making techniques. From the ancient world until 1989. Full of information and photographs with more specific references to Jewellery in the UK.

5. Popular Jewelry of the '60s, '70s & '80s by Roseann Ettinger (ISBN 0-7643-2470-5)

Three decades of jewellery showing fashion and political trends that influenced the designs. US book with $ price guide (2006) The majority of vintage jewellery found is from this period and so makes this book invaluable to read. Well illustrated with pieces that are recognizable here in the UK. Including Mod jewellery, eastern influence, Pop Art, novelty, revival pieces, love beads, Art Metal, jade, plastic, wood and pave. The author has produced other reference books on other decades which are well worth investing in.

6. Collecting Art Plastic Jewelry by Leigh Leshner (ISBN 0-87349-954-9)

Bakelite is rare to find in jewellery in such quantities and variety as in the States. It is useful to recognize and see the variety of designs plastic has been used or with other materials. Celluloid, Lucite, thermoset, thermoplastic, laminated, reverse carved are more commonly found here in the UK and easily over looked. This book does make you look at plastic accessories in a whole new light. Does not contain enough information on galalith, the early plastic type that is more common in the UK. For this read books on Jakob Bengel.

7. Collecting Costume Jewelry 303: The flip side Exploring costume jewelry from the back by Julia C Carroll. (ISBN 978-1-57432-626-0)

This is the book that gets to the basics must have knowledge of vintage costume jewellery. The different components including the stones and cabochons that can be invaluable in dating and hardware clues that can be missed. Cameos, rhinestones, signed jewellery and photographs of the signatures, art glass, pin backs and so much more. I look at this book and always find something that I have not noticed before. One of my most valuable books in terms of knowledge. Also has a section of designers including Jonette Jewelry Co (JJ) that are not always found in other books. US book with $ price guides (2010)

Julia Carroll has produced other books including Costume Jewelry 101 and 202 in this serious. Both books are well worth having for reference as well.

8. Baubles, Buttons and Beads: The Heritage of Bohemia by Sibelle Jargstorf (ISBN 0-88740-467-7)

This is another gem of a book; as we had an abundance of vintage jewellery imported into this country from Bohemia up until the Second World War and then in smaller quantities after. Still available to find and collect but prices are rising. Sections on buttons, filigree, glass beads, plastic and glass cameos, 1930s, enamel and more importantly the history. After reading this book it has helped me date and identify cameos, filigree brooches and brightly coloured rhinestone jewellery of the 1920s and 30s. Hand finished and machine made dress clips and the different finishes used.

Sibylle Jargstorf has produced other books on beads and glass that are invaluable.

9. Cameos: A Pocket Guide by Monica Lynn Clements and Patricia Rosser Clements (ISBN 0-7643-1728-8)

Although there are many books on cameos, this small packet guide is full of cameos in materials other than shell. Shell is the most collected cameo jewellery type but for me it did not have an appeal. I wanted to know more about the glass, plastic, metal and gemstone cameos that I was finding. How to identify the materials used and when were they made. This book has an abundance of photographs covering a huge amount of cameos in these materials and more importantly recognizable for the UK market. US book with $ price guide (2003) For more in depth information on cameo jewellery then obtain any of the editions of Cameos: Old and New by Anna M Miller.

10. Victorian Jewellery by Margaret Flowers (No ISBN)

Not a book on vintage but antique jewellery that is now out of print but still available in several editions. First published in 1951 but well worth reading. Insight into the Victorian influences and seen in revival pieces. Birmingham's role in mass produced jewellery. This book is often sited in later books as being influential. Has the Victorian period in 3 parts and each section has the most used motifs of that period. Did make me laugh at the sheer snobbish attitude of the author at times but well worth reading. Few photographs and mostly in black and white that are not that clear.

11. Scottish Jewellery: A Victorian Passion by Diana Scarisbrick

Scottish jewellery is found in abundance in the UK. From the mid nineteenth century with the rise in popularity, had factories in Scotland and England churning out designs and pieces in the thousands. This continued into the late twentieth century mostly in Birmingham. This book is a good introduction. Not as in depth as could have been and do not expect information on vintage Scottish souvenir jewellery from Miracle, The Ward Brothers, Exquisite or Hollywood. Pages of photographs of agate and silver brooches and bracelets. But complicated by the photo guide at the end of the book. A good starter book to recognize Scottish motifs.

12. Warman's Jewelry: Fine & Costume Jewelry 4Th Edition by Kathy Flood (ISBN 1-4402-0801-8)

This is the 4Th edition of the Warman's Jewelry Identification and Price Guide. So 3 other books to obtain and read. In this edition two centuries are covered with pearls, figural, cameos, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and plastic. The difference between Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian jewellery. Again page after page of jewellery photographs. Good mix of fresh antique, vintage and modern jewellery. A mix of world wide designs hat I found applicable to the UK. US book with $ price guide (2010)

This is just a brief reference of general books for vintage jewellery that will change as more books come onto the market or I discover out of print books. Then there are more specific books on Bengal, Avon, Sarah Coventry, Egyptian Revival jewellery, Haskell, D & E, Wilson & Butler and so many more to read

Even with this amount of information I still feel that I have just skimmed the surface. As said previously there is a lack of information on jewellery from Ciro Pearls, Sphinx, Exquisite, Miracle, Hollywood, Thomas Le Mott and many other companies that mass produced jewellery in this country in the twentieth century, which is now very collectible world wide.

Sue Weaver Jewels and Finery
Part Owned of Jewels and Finery. Novice vintage costume jeweler and passionate about UK mass produced jewellery pre 1980s.
More information is available on our website below

http://www.jewelsandfinery.co.uk/

And follow my blog at http://blog.jewelsandfinery.co.uk/ for regular updates on dating and identifying second hand jewellery.

Book Review: How to Tell A Great Story, by Aneeta Sundararaj

For several years, Aneeta Sundararaj has been helping writers through her website with countless articles, reviews and interviews. Now, she has compiled all her experience and expertise in her new book for beginner writers, "How to Tell a Great Story".

After a brief introduction, Sundararaj takes beginners through all the steps necessary to become a great storyteller, from vital preparation, to understanding themes, to the reasons for telling a great story, to painting your setting and much more. At the end of the book there are five appendixes: on planning and analyzing your research material, information for market research, character profiling, copyright issues for storytellers, and a sample storyline.

Written in an engaging, yet thoughtful style, and combining quotes and written material from other authors, "How to Tell a Great Story" makes a helpful, information-laden reference book for any aspiring storyteller. What I really like about this book, though, is the new angle the author brings into it: the importance of storytelling not only for writing stories, but for other aspects of our lives. For example, knowing how to tell a great story can be helpful in the workplace if you work in marketing and publicity and must give a presentation. A story connects people in a way that a simple explanation or demonstration cannot.
Sundararaj points out the importance of timing and intonation; in other words, often it isn't just the story that's vital but how you tell it. It is a talent some people are born with but it is also a skill that can be learned and improved. The same logic works for writing. You may have a great story idea, but how you write it and execute it is what counts. The author's advice works for aspiring short stories writers, novelists, and anyone who would like to get better at storytelling for everyday use. Reading this book was informative and interesting and I look forward to more of Sundararaj's work in the future.

Aneeta Sundararaj grew up in a small town in Malaysia called 'Alor Star'. She went to university to read law and also practised for a few years. Then, she decided to follow her dream of writing. She self-published her first novel, (The Banana Leaf Men) and, thereafter, created and developed a dynamic website called, "How To Tell A Great Story". She continues to write full time and now lives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Title: How To Tell A Great Story
Author: Aneeta Sundararaj
Publisher: Bookshaker
Publication date: 4 July 2011
ISBN 10: 1907498575
ISBN 13: 978-1907498572
Format: Paperback
Number of pages: 172
Price: US18.00
Genre: Non-fiction

Reviewers' secrets revealed in Reviewers Talk about Their Craft, PLUS receive the first lesson of my Slippery Art of Book Reviewing Workshop. Both FREE at http://www.mayracalvani.com/.

Book Review of "Kiss My Math: Showing Pre-Algebra Who's Boss" by Danica McKellar

Kiss My Math: Showing Pre-Algebra Who's Boss [Soft cover]

by Danica McKellar

352 pages, $24.95

ISBN-10: 1594630496

Nonfiction

At the end of the 80s, the network ABC blessed America with an endearing drama entitled "The Wonder Years." A youthful Fred Savage navigated the unrest of maturing in the 60's, a period of American history fraught with turbulence. In this family sitcom, his co-star, Danica McKellar, was his winsome, on-and-off-again girlfriend, Winnie. Struggling with math concepts was probably too mundane a plot to be aired on this amicable television show.

Ms. McKellar decided to take a break from acting to attend UCLA where she earned a BS in Mathematics-even helping to author original research proving an original math theorem. During that course of study, she had an epiphany: mathematics does not have to be the bane of young females. Opting not to stay in the lofty towers of mathematics academe, she wrote Math Doesn't Suck, a book specifically aimed at young females to help those struggling with math anxiety.

Kiss My Math builds upon the content of Math Doesn't Suck, to take its readership to a higher understanding of pre-algebraic concepts. Having taught math in high school, this writer cannot find fault with the demonstration of math principles presented. One of the benefits of studying math, or even teaching math, is the fact that, in the end - math problems can have only one right answer. Math anxiety arises when a student realizes that math is an exacting study...one that cannot be achieved through a bluffing process.

Prepubescent girls will appreciate the efforts to provide dating tips and glimpses from Danica's personal experiences as she navigated adolescence. McKellar is to be commended for including testimonials from professional women that illustrate the study of mathematics can be helpful in even glamorous feminine careers, such as fashion merchandising.

It is hard to take some of the illustrations seriously, however. For instance, to teach the difference between positive and negative integers, McKellar calls them "mint-egers" instead. A good tasting mint is a positive integer and a bad tasting trifle is a negative integer. If you have a negative taste in your mouth, like -6, you can combine it with a positive integer to get 0. She calls this a "lint-eger" since it's so bland.

Know a young female who's struggling with math? This book could help, but keep it away from her dad; he will laugh himself silly over the rest of it.

Review by Steven King, MBA, MEd

Get Your Writing Fighting Fit - A Review

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Systemize! Strip it down! Eliminate! Accentuate!

It sounds like a college cheer. Rah! Rah! Rah-Rah-Rah!

Actually, it's a lot more than a college cheer. It is the way professional editors polish writing. Even Asimov and Hemmingway had editors. In fact, without their editors, they wouldn't be the acclaimed writers that they are.

I wouldn't presume to be a polished writer myself, but I know that I see so much lousy writing on the web that I wish everyone had Audrey Own at their elbow, forcing them to write better.

Although we can't all capture Audrey's time, we can review the editing techniques that she so generously shares with us in "Get Your Writing Fighting Fit". In eleven snappy chapters she takes us from sloppy to sublime. It's part of her editing philosophy to keep it snappy: "Lean, mean writing keeps your readers keen" (p.6).

First Audrey examines the elements that editors look for when they do their editing task. Things like words, sentences, paragraphs and chapters - all the good, the bad and the truly ugly.

Then she shares her seven step Quick Assessment Process. Here is how you and I can create writing that flows with a zing. We are to take only two pages of our project, and we set a timer to limit us. Then, with a swirl of circles and X's, looking for very specific items, our writing emerges with strength and vitality. And it's all done in a matter of a few minutes.

For instance, one of her steps to writing success is to read just the first sentence of each paragraph. Reading just that much, does the writing convey the general idea? It should. The first sentence is that important. If it does not, that is an area of your writing that needs attention.

One of Audrey's editing techniques is to give variety to sentence and paragraph length and structure. Mix it up, she calls it.

Like here.

This is a great editing system. It is clear, direct, fast, and very doable for most writers.

Keep in mind that "editing" is not "writing". "Editing" is what enhances our "writing". Before editing can do you a blimey bit of good, you need to start with solid writing. Your idea needs to be there, composed in reasonable sentences and paragraphs.

Then put your own writing through Audrey's great seven step editing process and Bingo! You've got a great piece of prose.

Pick up your copy of "Get Your Writing Fighting Fit" at http://www.writershelper.com/gywffsales.html . It's worth every penny of the $29.00 cost. And while you are at Audrey's website, take a look around. You'll discover slews of more great ideas too.

MaryAnn Shank has been writing for the business world for over 20 years. She is the force behind http://www.businessplanmaster.com/ and http://www.yournetworkmarketingcoach.com/ . As a business plan editor/reviewer, she has seen more awful writing than she cares to think about, and considers Audrey Owen's book and website a very welcome corner of the web world.

Reference Books

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Education, in today's scenario has become a necessity of life. No matter what field you are into, you need to have thorough knowledge of your work. In order to stay ahead from other, you should have profound knowledge. For that, Reference books can become your guide. Reference books contain facts, figures, biographical information, or other such information, so as to make it a valuable tool for answering reference questions. It's a book meant for consulting when reliable information is required. You can get reference books for numerous topics. These may include catalogs, concordances, dictionaries, directories, discographies and bibliographies, encyclopedias, glossaries, handbooks, indexes, manuals, research guides, union lists, yearbooks, etc.

One of the important reference books is Dictionary. It's a wonderful reference book having collection of words listed alphabetically in any particular language, with all possible description, pronunciations, synonyms, antonyms, related and contrasted words. It can also be used for language translation. For example, English to Spanish or Spanish to English and many more. Some of noteworthy features of a Dictionary are:

(1) It is been primed for some or the other purposes;
(2) It holds the data that has been chosen for the idea of fulfilling those functions; and
(3) Is designed to ascertain associations between the data so as to meet the requirements of user.

Another useful reference book is Thesaurus. It is a reference book containing synonyms and at times antonyms too. Thesauruses are mainly intended to draw distinction between analogous words and helps in choosing accurately the most appropriate word. All the entries in Thesaurus are arranged alphabetically and structured properly so that existing relationships between perceptions are made clear.

Encyclopedia is another resourceful reference book. It contains information on almost all the twigs of topics. Encyclopedias cover each of the subjects in the form of articles, which are typically ordered alphabetically by article name. The purpose of having an encyclopedia is to gather information dispersed all around the sphere; to bring forward its facts to us and convey it to those who will come after us. General encyclopedias are mostly a guide on "how to do" topics of various things, along with an entrenched dictionary. Apart from that there are lots of other encyclopedias available which cover numerous topics on different cultures and ethnic which nationalized perceptions.

You can get a wide range of Informative reference books on http://www.office-supplies.us.com/ at the most reasonable prices. They are the National wide Distributor of all General office supplies, printer paper, labels, printer supplies and custom printing, teaching supplies and lot more.

Jaishree

The Best and the Worst Language Dictionaries - for Turkish-English

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A native Turkish-language site visitor, studying English as a foreign language in the UK, wrote us a while back asking advice about which dictionary he should use while studying for his English-language proficiency exam. He indicated his personal preference for the Redhouse Dictionaries -- the B?y?k El S?zl??? in particular. But then, to our surprise, he told us that his foreign-language examiner thought the Redhouse Dictionaries too Americanized.

That rang my bell, and I replied...

Quote>

I'm sorry, but your foreign-language examiner is mistaken. The Redhouse Dictionaries go out of there way to include current British language usage. I quote, "The dictionary reflects the American point of view of its editors; however British usages in vocabulary, meanings, spelling and pronunciation have usually been noted."

And anyway, the Redhouse Dictionaries are by far the best of all the available ones on the market. I especially recommend the large 2-volume set, simply titled Redhouse S?zl???. It's the next step up from the B?y?k El S?zl???. Find more detail about the 2-volume set on our 'Best Books for Turkish' page.

Nothing else even comes close to the Redhouse Dictionaries. My Redhouse Dictionary CD Edition is so useful that I leave it in one of my computer's CD-bays all the time.

Our friend John Ma, who got his Ancient Civilizations Doctorate from Oxford University, explained it quite well when he said, "I wish the world-famous Oxford University Library had more copies of the Redhouse Dictionaries. The students are always using them. And the Oxford Turkish-English-Turkish Dictionary just gathers dust."

But I'll go a bit further than John...

The first Turkish-English-Turkish dictionary I ever owned was the "Concise Oxford Turkish-English Dictionary" by A.D. Alderson and Fahir Iz, published 1959 and reprinted several times up through 1985. And, I can't think of a worse foreign language dictionary.

I tried using it for years as I struggled unsuccessfully to get a handle on the Turkish-language. (I bought my first copy of the Oxford Dictionary for my work-area in Ankara in 1976 and my second copy for my bedside in 1987 -- also in Ankara.) And, except for my being able to express and understand the standard 'amenities', I was absolutely befuddled by Turkish-language during the entire time.

I only began to successfully understand and use Turkish-language after I dropped the Oxford Dictionary and began using the various editions of the Redhouse, the Langenscheidt, and selected local-specialty dictionaries -- like the Commercial and Technical Dictionaries published by FONO. So I'm afraid I disagree with your foreign-language examiner. Deeply.

But, the largest Langenscheidt Dictionary is a passable second choice if your foreign-language examiner won't let you use the Redhouse Dictionaries. Still, the Langenscheidt Dictionary is curiously weak in places. And in comparison with the large 2-volume Redhouse Dictionary Set (which has 160,000 entries in each book), the Langenscheidt Dictionary is small (with only 80,000 entries total).

Nontheless... whatever you do, avoid the above-mentioned "Concise Oxford Turkish Language Dictionary". It's terrible.

[Click following to access a fully illustrated HTML version of Worst and Best Dictionaries.]

Jim and Perihan Masters are a husband and wife team, living on the Aegean Coast of Turkey just 50 miles south of Izmir. Jim was born in Shanghai, China -- of American military parentage. Peri was born on the Black Sea coast of Turkey near Trabzon, of Turkish military parentage...Enticed by a Financial Times advertisement, Jim joined a NATO sponsored enterprise in Ankara in 1974 where he met the beautiful and brainy Perihan, a rising young Turkish banking executive. Settled now in the heart of what was once the ancient Ionian Empire -- the couple live an idyllic life by the sea.. writing, drawing and painting, teaching English, and providing computing service support to local businesses. They also sponsor the MSNBC award-winning Learning Practical Turkish Website which has built an enthusiastic international following of devoted Turkophiles and inquisitive language students of all ages.

Chess Books For Christmas

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AppId is over the quota

If you're looking for a Christmas gift (or birthday or other holiday gift) for a chess-playing friend or relative, you can hardly go wrong in giving him or her a good chess book. The aspiring chess master is always looking for additional sources of education and inspiration to improve his game.

You should discretely find out what books your chess-lover already has. This should be fairly easy, as devoted chess players are generally proud of their libraries and anxious to show them off. You might as what books they need to fill in the gaps of their library. The missing volume of an opening series or a particularly coveted book on tactics will be sure to please.

If you want some recommendations, here are some of the old tried and true chess books that have stood the test of time.

Openings

The ideas Behind the Chess Openings, by Reuben Fine. Fine was one of the strongest American masters from the middle of the 20th century, and was considered a likely contender for the world championship in the 1940's. His book on the openings is a classic. And while it does not have the extensive analysis of modern opening "encyclopedias," it has useful treatments of the broad ideas behind the major opening systems.

For the latest on opening theory, most tournament players will want to have the 15th edition of Modern Chess Openings, by Nick DeFirmian. "MCO-15" is a modern (published 2008) and more extensive treatment than Fine's Ideas. While no book can cover every opening line, this one covers most of the important ones, and has extensive footnote references.

Tactics

There are two classic works on tactics that every amateur chess player should have: 1001 Winning Chess Sacrifices and Combinations, and its companion volume, 1001 Brilliant Ways to Checkmate, both by Fred Reinfeld. Many of today's masters have learned their tactics from these books.

Endings

Another of Reuben Fine's great works is his book on the endings, Basic Chess Endings. this is a fairly comprehensive work on the endings. The book has been criticized for its inaccuracies, but these are mostly minor. It is still extremely valuable for Fine's teaching of the principles of endgame play.

Another great book on the endings is A Guide To Chess Endings, by former world champion Max Euwe and David Hooper. This book focuses on practical endings with pawns. As such it is extremely valuable for the practical tournament player.

These are just a few of the many good books available on the game of chess; enjoy looking around to find just the right book for your chess-playing friend.

Steve Coffee has been playing chess for over 5 decades, and has loved every minute of it.

Visit Steve's website about chess strategies for chess players of beginning and intermediate skill levels.

Two Books on Writing Fiction You MUST Have!

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AppId is over the quota

I've been writing for well over 15 years and have read a lot of books on the craft. Some are lifesavers, other have a few pearls of wisdom, while a few aren't worth the time or money. There are even books on writing that leave you feeling defeated and wanting to throw your computer, along with your dreams of becoming a successful writer, out the window.

I won't talk about books that cover the basics, such as The Elements of Style. I will assume you know the essential mechanics of writing and know how to form cohesive sentences. The following books, my two absolute favorites, will give you the shot of adrenaline you may be in desperate need of to keep going, keep pursuing, and keep following your writing dreams!

On Writing by Stephen King - This has got to be my number one book on writing. The first half is an autobiography. I found his writing to be very real and from the heart. I laughed and even felt a bit saddened at times. You read about his childhood, his first attempts at publishing when he was in grade school, and all of the hard work, long hours and dedication he put into his writing career. This in itself gave me hope that I could someday be a successful author as well!

The second half of the book is a no bull, no fluff guide to writing. What I like most about it is that he doesn't bog you down with rule after rule, and strict organization. Forget outlines and note cards and character sketches! He recommends that you just sit down at your computer, go with your muse and see where he/she takes you. He tells you what you need to know from idea to sale, as well as a few simple considerations and rules. He uses examples of his own work and that of others to show what's good prose and what's not. He offers some exercises as well.

My writing has flourished because of this book. It's spontaneous and real. When I sit down at the computer I don't even know what the next scene will entail, but I'm always amazed to see what my inner self can come up with once I get out of my own way.

Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury - Be prepared! Ray Bradbury will take you by the hand and leave you breathless in this little book. I can honestly say that I've never felt more exhilarated or had more ideas popping into my mind than after reading this book. He advises you to stay drunk on writing because it saves us from reality, to write at least a thousand words a day every day, to write from real life, and much more. What I liked most about this book is the way I felt after reading it. Zen in the Art of Writing is like having Ray Bradbury right there with you, guiding you, cheering you on, and urging you to stop creeping and start flying!

Much in the same vein as Stephen King's book, this gem is not about rules that fence you in and leave you no room to breathe, but in letting loose the inner writer. It draws that fine line between genius and insanity. I loved it!

My creativity has soared because of these books. I highly recommend them.

Deciding to become a full time freelancer was both a matter of choice and necessity. Simply put, I enjoy writing and helping others to succeed. Being a web writer has helped me to do just that.

In my two decades of writing I've...

* Ghostwritten several nonfiction books that have become best-sellers
* Written articles that ranked #1 on the 1st page of Google within hours
* Helped website owners increase their web traffic
* Written the Health and Wellness column for a major magazine
* Authored several best selling novels
* Been the marketing director and radio manager for a publishing company
* Penned thousands of articles on a wide variety of subjects

KellyWallace-Romance Author

Making It In Hollywood, By: Bryan Hidalgo and Gail O'Donnell

Bryan Hidalgo and Gail O'Donnell have amassed a collection of over 100 interviews of Hollywood's top contemporary talent from the acting community, along with screenwriters and directors. Each interview is structured with a head shot of the person, their short bio, and a dozen or so revealing questions asking what factors have contributed towards their success in their profession. Their answers are soberly articulated both humbly and modestly, but a common thread exists - it takes hard work and never giving up!

Hidalgo and O'Donnell queried professionals from both sides of the camera lens. The common question first asked was always, "How did your career begin?" For screenwriter Wesley Strick, he began writing as a rock critic and journalist in Berkeley. Many actors such as: James Rebhorn, Marcia Cross, David Paymer, Alex O'Loughlin, Michael Emerson and scores of others studied acting in school. For Joe Penny "It just happened," as he went to pick up a friend taking an acting class and sat down to watch what was going on, thinking "I can do that." Elizabeth Perkins was at a barbecue in Chicago when someone asked her, "What do you do?" "I'm an actor," she replied, thinking to herself that's what she'd like to be; allowing the self-actualization of the candid remark to then pull her into her career. My favorite was David Zayas, best known for his role as a cop, actually was a cop.

In a fashion reminiscent of James Lipton's famous interviews from Inside the Actors Studio, Bryan Hidalgo and Gail O'Donnell each follow their structured guideline; allowing the commonality of the questions to paint an even backdrop for their readers, thus allowing the nuances of the replies to be easily perceived. "It's a tough profession," actor Joe Mantegna points out. "There are 140,000 members of SAG and less than 1 percent make a decent living," Mantegna continued. You have to love the journey, as in his case, "I was a fifteen-year overnight success..." Auditions, for example, are either loved or hated, but nobody treats them with disregard. Jason Alexander said, "Most actors think auditions are hell, I love them. To me they are a one-night-only performance of a role I think I can do better than anyone else."

In a way, Making It in Hollywood is like squeezing People Magazine into a 400 word periodical; the "espresso press of just the thoughts" of the entertainment industry's contemporary finest, sans hype and advertising. My surprising observation was although I only recognized many actors from their professional characterizations, each of their personal interviews were riveting. I found myself glued to the book, turning pages and going from actor to screenwriter to director seamlessly, realizing the symbiotic relationship they all have towards one another.

Making It in Hollywood is a must read for all those taking acting classes, or aspiring to "get tape" in the industry. It's a great gift as a graduation present to those that like to be on the receiving side of the lights, as well as those more comfortable writing or making movies. It's a book that crosses genres from reference to philosophy, from self help to anecdotal humor. This is an invaluable book for not only people seeking work in the entrainment industry but for fans of the magic of Hollywood. This book is easy to read, filled with actual stories of those who've found success and is literally a blueprint on how to build your career. It can best be summed up with the song lyrics from New York, New York, "If you can make it there, you can make it... anywhere."

Reviewed by: Gary R. Sorkin

Gary R. Sorkin is the Senior Editor for Pacific Book Review. Please visit Pacific Book Review at: http://www.pacificbookreview.com/

The Renegade Writer - A Totally Unconventional Guide to Freelance Writing Success

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AppId is over the quota

"The Renegade Writer: A Totally Unconventional Guide to Freelance Writing Success" by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell is a motivating book about breaking the traditional "rules" of freelance writing to prosper and do it your own way.

Both authors are freelance writers and they share examples of how they broke the traditional "rules" of freelance writing to gain more assignment and make more money in a career they are passionate about. The 200 page plus book is easy to read and contains many tips for the aspiring freelancer as well as the seasoned pro.

There are chapters on breaking into the business, generating ideas, sending queries without fear, contracts, how to find information, doing interviews, breaking grammar rules, getting paid, and your renegade attitude and how to thrive and not just survive. There are also some good references in the Appendices.

A number of the chapters concluded with a profile of a freelance writer who shared some of their renegade strategies that had worked for them. A couple of these writers were Melody Warnick, Jennifer Lawler, and Kelly James-Enger. Hearing the perspective of these other writers was not only informative, but also motivational and inspiriting. This would especially be true for the new writer.

There are nuts and bolts about the writing business that are not covered in this book, but that was not the author's purpose. It would be good for an aspiring writer to read some of the nuts and bolts and traditional rules type books, but then read this to realize that often rules are made to be broken, and when you do break them it is not the end of the world, but sometimes the beginning to bigger and better things.

I've recently started to increase the freelance work I do, and I'm glad I read this book. There are some great ideas and examples for any freelance writer. So, all you need to do is read the book and become a Renegade Writer today.

Alain Burrese, J.D. is a performance and personal development expert who teaches how to live, take action, and get things done through the Warrior's Edge. Alain combines his military, martial art, and Asian experiences with his business, law, and conflict resolution education into a powerful way of living with balance, honor, and integrity. He teaches how to use the Warrior's Edge to Take Action and Achieve Remarkable Results. Alain is the author of Hard-Won Wisdom From The School Of Hard Knocks, the DVDs Hapkido Hoshinsul, Streetfighting Essentials, Hapkido Cane, the Lock On Joint Locking series, and numerous articles and reviews. You can read more articles, over 100 reviews, and see clips of his DVDs as well as much more at http://www.burrese.com/

Book Reviewed - "The Compass in Your Nose" Marc McCutcheon

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AppId is over the quota

Below you will find 10 odd facts that I found recently while poking around my bookshelf.

They were contained in a neat book titled "The Compass in Your Nose", author Marc McCutcheon, 1989 published by Jeffrey Tarcher.

1 - In almost every language on earth, the word for MOTHER starts with an "m" sound. This could be due to the fact that "m" is the first consonant they learn, and almost always the easiest and first sound they make.

2 - An estimated 80% of Europeans have hair that whorls in a counterclockwise motion at the back of the head, while most Japanese hair whorls in the opposite direction.

3 - When we hear ourselves speak, the sound is conducted by our bones. This slightly alters the timbre of our voices. This explains why many of us can not recognize our own voice on a recording, but our friends can. The tape recorder, like our friends, hear the sound through air conduction alone.

4 - African Bushmen show no appreciable hearing loss at age 60. 60% of your average college students already suffer some amount of high frequency hearing loss. This is due to the fact that African Bushman live in a quiet environment, and college kids live in anything but. Even fetuses are at risk. A Japanese study shows that a fetus that is exposed to high frequency noise while in the mother's womb matures more slowly, and emerges at a lower body weight than average.

5 - The odor-causing odoriferous amines that give flatulence its usually horrific smell, indole and skatole, are also used in the production of perfumes, especially violet-scented varieties.

6 - The average American consumes the following quantities in his or her lifetime : 8,000 pounds of beef, 8,000 pounds of potatoes, and 8,000 pounds of fresh veggies, 20,000 eggs, 100,000 slices of bread, 7,000 pounds of sugar and 18,000 beers.

7 - Death. People fear death more from ages 45 to 54, and fear it the least when it is more likely to occur, from ages 65 to 74. 80% of all deaths in America occur in the hospital. The Japanese cremate 93 per cent of their dead, the U.S. only 12%. 70% of Americans who die every year are 65 or older, and only 5% die before age 5.

8 - Your bone tissue is not everlasting. It is constantly dying and being replaced. Every 7 years your body grows what is the equivalent of an entirely whole skeleton.

9 - Chocolate contains the same chemical, phenylethylamine, that the brain produces when we fall in love.
It produces a dreamy, pleasant feeling, and may explain why we gorge ourselves on chocolate on Valentine's Day.

10 - Your eye muscles get the biggest workout of all your body's musculature. They move 100,000 times in any 24 hour period. One would have to walk 50 miles to exercise your legs to the same extent.

The 193 page book is packed with amazing gems and weird research. Anyone that enjoys learning how the body ticks, and mind works will truly enjoy the amazing knowledge contained within.

The book starts out with a section on Human Chronology, and continues in 4 sections covering Population, Our Senses, Our Bodies, and Our Existence.

Even the brainiest brainiac will discover much useful information in this treasure trove of trivia.

I hope you have enjoyed these weird, inane, crazy facts. If you would like to know how you can free up your time to research such trivia, instead of answering to your boss' beck and call, contact me below.

Information On an Old Encyclopedia

Pliny the Elder
Encyclopedias have remained on this earth since 2000 years. The oldest is Naturalis Historia written by Pliny the Elder in Roman times. It spreads over 37 sections covering art and structural design, natural history, medicine, geography, geology and every other facet that was present near to him. The facts were compiled from 2000 different works of 200 authors, but he wasn't able to proof read the entries. It got published in AD 77-79. Earlier, the works by Marcus Terentius Varro were already there, but became lost in time.

Middle ages
The Etymologiae (around 630) became known as the first encyclopedia of Middle Ages compiled by Saint Isidore of Seville, a great scholar of Middle Ages. This encyclopedia spreads over 448 chapters in 20 volumes with quotes and excerpts from the work of other authors.

The High Middle ages saw reference to mostly Bartholomeus Anglicus' De proprietatibus rerum (1240).
Vincent of Beauvais's Speculum Majus (1260) was pretty progressive with over 3 million words in the late-medieval period.

The Suda is one huge encyclopedia of the Byzantine times of ancient Mediterranean world. It's written in Greek lexicon style containing 30,000 entries.

17th-19th centuries
The modern idea of a printed encyclopedia, that could be extensively circulated for general use, came with Chambers' Cyclopaedia (1728) and the Encyclop?die of Diderot and D'Alembert (1751 onwards), as well as Encyclopedia and the Conversations-Lexikon. These included comprehensive topics that had a wide scope and were in-depth and organized. The Chamber's dictionary perhaps followed the lead of john Harris' Lexicon Technicum.

Sir Thomas Browne, renowned English scholar and physician used the word encyclopedia in 1646 in his vulgar errors, where common errors of his times were refuted. This encyclopedia was structured on the proven scheme of Renaissance or 'scale of creation'. It goes up the hierarchical tree starting from mineral, vegetable, animal, human, and planetary till cosmological worlds.

John Harris is given credence now for the alphabetic format he introduced in 1704 with his Lexicon Technicum: A Universal English Dictionary of Arts and Sciences: Explaining not only the Terms of Art, but the Arts Themselves". It emphasized science as in the understanding of the 18th-century, still its topics extended beyond science to include humanities and fine arts like law, commerce, music, and heraldry.

20th century
In the early 1920's, Harmsworth's Universal Encyclopedia and the Children's Encyclopedia became popular and affordable resources. In the US, the 50's and 60's saw several large editions being introduced and gaining popularity. They were sold through installments. WorldBook and Funk and Wagnalls came out the best.

In the second half, several encyclopedias were published. Their work was notable as they synthesized important topics from particular fields, gained through new researches. The Encyclopedia of Philosophy and Elsevier's Handbooks In Economics were 2 such books. Most academic disciplines are covered in one dedicated volume including even narrow topics like bioethics and African American history.

Author search for different old encyclopedias, from different years, and compare definitions of the same words. Sometimes this research allows to see, how our knowledges were changed over the time. you can also see some parts of old encyclopedias online at http://knolik.com/.

Why eBooks?

Books have always been interesting to people, as they provided people with essential information on many different subjects. Aside from this, a lot of books are also used to make people laugh, make them cry or make them think about the meaning of life, for instance. In the last decade or so, books have been almost replaced with an alternative to turning the pages with your hands - this alternative is an eBook.

There are many different benefits to using eBooks, but it appears that people have not yet accepted this idea completely. Most people still think of books made out of paper as the only real books and don't even consider giving eBooks a chance. Still, eBooks have become very popular throughout the world. The reasons why eBooks have become immensely popular are numerous, and here you will be given useful advice on why eBooks should always be taken into consideration.

Differences between Regular Books and eBooks

The truth is that there really are no differences between these two, except for the obvious one - you cannot hold an eBook in your hands. Aside from this, both of these types of books are simply books. eBooks have all the same features as regular books do - they have pages, words, footnotes and everything else found in regular books. eBooks are informative; they are used in the same way as regular books and for the same purposes, too. Also, even though not many people are aware of this, you can find any book you want in the form of an eBook. Whether you are looking for a technical book or a guide of any kind, or you just want to read a novel you read during your high school years - you can get an eBook and enjoy its many benefits.

Why eBooks Come Highly Recommended

Owing to the fact that people do not have enough time to sit and enjoy a good book as they are always in a hurry eBooks have become the perfect way for them to catch up on their reading. The fact is that the modern way of life has made us addicted to computer screens, and this is something that could have completely ruined the beautiful habit of reading a good book every now and then. Therefore, eBooks have been conveniently put in front of our noses, right on our computer screens. Aside from this, eBooks are far better for the environment than regular books will ever be. Namely, every book is made out of paper, usually not the recycled kind, and every book will eventually have to be destroyed - all of which is bad for the environment. On the other hand, this is not the case with eBooks as they are digital. Also, eBooks are cheaper for both the seller and the buyer, as they can be produced for less money, which makes them more affordable than standard books.

One of the most important benefits of buying eBooks is their practicality. For instance, you can go from deciding you need an eBook to actually reading it in just a few minutes. There is no need to wait for the book to be delivered for days or even weeks, and there is certainly no additional cost for the shipment. All you need to do is do some online research, find an eBook you are interested in and download it in matter of seconds.

Taking into consideration all the benefits of eBooks and all the reasons why eBooks are a great choice, you should have no further doubts related to whether to go for eBooks or not - as there are literally no downsides to them.

For further information regarding Ebooks, please visit MyReviewsNow Online Shopping.

Chronic Bronchitis And Emphysema Handbook - Assisting You For A Healthier Life

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AppId is over the quota

The Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis Handbook were penned by Sheila Sperber Haas and Francois Haas. Both writers are scientists also they are compassionate people.

This book is the bestseller as it guides patients who are suffering from bronchitis and emphysema. Thus, expansion and revision were done to give the latest information. These disorders are discussed in such a way so that patients may easily understand. Nice care of emphysema and bronchitis are posted too. Through this kind of handbook, patients might restore their vitality and enhance the relationship with other people.

Tips are given on getting the best physician. The treatment options that are very much important to people are discussed thoroughly. You would never worry about the HMO's as the guidelines on dealing them are provided too. Companies which provide supplemental oxygen are enlisted. Even very new techniques for surgery are posted for giving the patients nice options on ways of technological advances which can help to treat their disorders.

Stress and Anxiety management are in such that patients won't lose hope. By preventing the symptoms of emphysema and bronchitis are included for improving the quality of the patient's life. The accessibility of the wide resources using the web or the phone is very easy. You may also read letters from many experts that would keep you informed about the latest developments related with emphysema and bronchitis.

However, before purchasing it, it's better to have a look at some consumer reviews. By this way, you would have an idea about how effective and useful it is.

- Some find this very repulsive. It has frightening and grim illustrations. Hence the wicked line sketches of "pink puffer" and "blue bloater" looks like depicting the dark ages regarding the hell. People having COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder) never deny the fact that they're going to die younger than the cohorts.

- Those who're more than 55 years old might feel that hopes are away from them. This handbook has failed to arouse them for leading worthy lives. Instead they're suggesting to study "courage books" having stories of dignity, hope and, capability to cope.

- A licensed psychotherapist read the entire book and hasn't recommended it. Some contents linked with facing the depression and anxiety might damage these patients psychologically.

- Some physicians find this handbook as a useful tool. It's because COPD is discussed in normal English. In fact, the sufferers might easily learn and get the facts about the disorder. This is correct for COPD dummies.

- Some have given the testimonials showing how this handbook helps them very much. One reviewer told that the respiratory exercises got in this particular handbook helped his father who had serious emphysema. His father's heart fails due to function such that the doctors let him to breathe through oxygen tank to keep the heart from fibulation. However after doing such exercises, his condition becomes better till oxygen isn't needed anymore.

Living with COPD might be overwhelming and very exhausting. Patients and their caretakers might continuously live in fear running out of air, their abilities dwindle prematurely, and they struggle in fragility.

Some people who're close with folk with emphysema and bronchitis are usually angry, frightened and depressed. However, doctors treat their COPD patients, the best way they can. But the fact is that many doctors focus on medical aspects of treatment COPD better than giving rehabilitations.

The Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis Handbook might help people having COPD and their families to have a very realistic perspective of the disorder. This might allow them to survive confidently and calmly although they've emphysema or chronic bronchitis.

Abhishek is an ex-bronchitis sufferer and he has got some great tips for Bronchitis Treatment! Download his FREE 100 Pages Ebook, "How To Win Your War Against Bronchitis" from his website http://www.Health-Whiz.com/797/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

Paramedic Books

Books have been a fundamental learning device for knowledge. They become an essential part of learning and it is the common source of knowledge for everyone. Often times, books can be seen on school libraries and frequently use among students.

In medical school, there a thousands of book as a resource material of every medical students and this include paramedics. Among medical field paramedicine is very interesting course because it takes a lot of actual action. In general, paramedics main responsibility is to save people's live in an emergency situation. The job entails unpredictable accidents and health conditions of the possible patient or victim, thus, in requires skills and quick minds to respond emergency situation.

In all paramedic school within the states, all paramedic books offer an up-to-date information on emergency cardiac care guidelines in adherence to US Department of Transportation standard curriculum. The important books that are commonly used by school and universities consists of anatomy, physiology and other emergency medical topics. Some books are focused on the appropriate procedure of handling patient's or victim's trauma and other emotional coping mechanism that may help patient to feel comfortable.

Additionally, by using books student will understand the difficult concepts and principles of paramedics. In all states, paramedic school also provide each student's paramedic book module as a guide for their specific subjects to study. At times, states require paramedic students to purchase books such as ECG interpretation, medical life support, anatomy, emergency solutions and others. By obtaining the book you can always buy it online or in any available bookstore at your convenience.

To get the latest update of Paramedic Training just visit Paramedictrainingpro.com - a good resource of Paramedics.

Practical English Level 365 Volume 1 - Author - Kaakyire Akosomo Nyantaki - Book Review

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AppId is over the quota

We all have heard the old adage "Never judge a book by its cover," but let's face it, we all make snap judgments about everything, everyone, all of the time. The way someone dresses, their hairstyle, mannerisms or the way they speak makes us think highly, or perhaps not so highly of that person. It is very important you make a lasting impression on people, and "Practical English Level 365 Volume 1 (Day 1 - Day 200)," by Kaakyire Akosomo Nyantakyi gives us the essential skills to communicate and write more effectively. Furthermore, it provides lessons for substantially increasing your vocabulary.

Mr. Nyantakyi stresses from the very beginning of his book one has to be consistent about studying the English language and work hard in order to see results. Homework is necessary and a fundamental aspect of knowledge acquisition. The famous phrase "No pain, no gain" is made clear in his book.

"Practical English" is not an in depth study of grammar, but rather a highly practical overview of grammar, punctuation and usage. It starts from basic sentence structures to verbs, nouns then moves on to punctuation, dialogue and more advanced writing skills. Many of the topics covered are those one encounters when writing, making "Practical English Level 365" extremely useful. Frequent and common errors are identified and discussed, clarifying the reasoning behind such rules. Examples are given of both incorrect and correct writing styles in a clear and non-judgmental fashion. In some sections, the formal and informal methods are demonstrated, both of which are correct, depending upon the context.

Reading the "Instructional Dialogue" examples followed by the "Workshop" wonderfully illustrates the techniques of writing. The reader is not just told, but also shown, how to use these skills. Moreover, the practice exercises are both realistic and designed to test your understanding of what you have read, insuring a higher level of retaining what you have learned. The book is paced so that each day you are given a different exercise to study with two reading and writing assignments. I envision the exercises to be an easy and intuitive way for people learning English, perhaps as a second language (ESL), to acquaint themselves with the basic fundamentals of grammar without feeling overwhelmed.

As an editor, I often find in other people's work frequent misuse of certain words, punctuation, tense and sentence structure. Proper use of English was taught in grade school, but many people forgot or simply are in need of a refresher course. I would encourage anyone, at any skill level, to read each exercise as instructed, as "Practical English" can be used as a resource to enhance your writing skills. "Practical English Level 365 Volume 1 (Day 1-Day 200)" is easy to read, logically organized and the approach is just right! I highly recommend this book to students, adults and anyone who would like to review the nuances of the English language. Simply put, it is an invaluable tool to enhance the reader's skill level.

Nicole Sorkin is the Managing Editor for Pacific Book Review. Please visit Pacific Book Review at: http://www.pacificbookreview.com/